Charis stood, arms folded waiting for the wolf daughter to say her good-byes. A good thing, demonstrating the creature cared about others even if expected with her own family.

Charis furrowed her brow considering if she should ask one more question and then began opening her mouth.

The Wolf Pack Leader noticed Charis’ hesitation. “Do you have another question Charis, Mistress of the Daughters of the Duchess?”

She knew this question could be misunderstood as impolite, still if you don’t ask, you don’t know. “It seems clear to me now you are more adept, unfortunately your daughters aren’t.”

The Wolf Pack Leader returned a quizzical look, trying to comprehend Charis’ statement and given past behaviour, resigned to wait for this youth’s next guess.

“I have seen pale-yellow skin before and intrigued I wondered if the second tell could be found and revealed. I focused upon your daughter’s eyes during her sultry performance and I am convinced, in the main her face is actually hers, except for the eyes. She constantly battles to make them appear typical. Know where I recognise the differences from?”

“No, but I am sure you can’t wait to tell me about your latest guess.”

“I believe you and Goblins are from the same stock or you would have been a Goblin except for the fact you aren’t, your fate chose left instead of right. How is that for a guess?”

“You … well you … are wrong.”

Charis ignored the flustered response and ploughed on ahead with her guess, heedless of the possible consequences, proudly theorising aloud. “The Goblins I speak of have been fed meat, such generous portions a human would be hard pressed to consume at a single sitting, doing so most of Death Season. Apart from adding flesh to their bones, straitening the spine and adding muscle they lost all their Goblin facial features bar one, a fold of skin above their eyes and underwent a change in skin colour, to a very feint pale yellow. The feint pale yellow skin your daughter favours and the fold of skin above the eyes, her more often than you. You only slip when utterly surprised, like now in fact. You are one and the same except the Goblins don’t get to change their shape and form like you or enjoy the amount of meat you must consume running with a Wolf Pack in Birth and Growing Seasons.”

The Wolf Pack Leader advanced upon Charis, hardly containing her indignation. “We are not Goblin, we are the blessed of Bella, Goddess of Change. Continue your heretical accusations and our agreement ends before it begins.”

“Then perhaps its best if our agreement ends before it begins, although I would request, if Zoe wishes, she is released from her oath to you.”

“We leave then, your foolhardy youth has proven your bane, Mistress Charis, destroying the possibility of a strong alliance and Zoe’s oath is one of keeping a secret not one of service foolish child.”

The two wolf daughters disappeared without a trace, while Charis caught a last fleeting sight of the Wolf Pack Leader, and unable to resist shouted into the forest a final guess.

“In that case I can reveal I know you must be able to transform into a Winter Wolf shape and a Black Bear shape, so I will confess these truths to Zoe so she can be forever released from her oath.”

Several moments later an angry crashing charged towards Charis in the form of a huge Black Bear, on each side, pony sized Winter Wolves. Charis held her ground, to run or not made no difference, if they wished her slain, she wouldn’t be able to resist for long.

The muzzle of the bear drooled and frothed while the eye lids over the deep black eyes blinked furiously. Charis reasoned the Wolf Pack Leader expected Charis to flee and slaying a coward easier on the conscience, explainable and justified, before and after, while slaying a defenceless yet brave or possibly foolhardy enemy of evil standing at the ready to be slaughtered a little more difficult to justify and later assuage away.

Nevertheless, a gamble and Charis’ furiously beating heart agreed, under no illusions as morality and retribution warred within the Wolf Pack Leader and which ever won would determine Charis’ fate.

The change began gradually, the huge bear shrinking and morphing, losing the coarse hair of a beast and gaining the shape and size of an athletic human female. The Wolf Pack Leader retaining the pale-yellow complexion and her natural eyes, unashamed of her nakedness and true appearance.

“I would demand you swear a blood oath to keep our secret Charis the Young.” Each word ground out, demanding, while trying for the pretence of an invitation.

“Which one?” replied Charis.

The Wolf Pack Leader folded her arms across her naked breasts. “There is only one, the Blessed of Bella are shape changers.”

“So, you still deny your shared lineage?”

Cocking her head while grinding her teeth the Wolf Pack Leader brought her anger under control. Charis considered clapping in recognition of the amount of self-control demonstrated and quickly reconsidered.

“We the Blessed of Bella are shape changers, there is no other secret.” Her last word punctuated by straight arming both fists by her sides.

Charis waited a moment to see if the Wolf Pack Leader would stomp her feet, disappointed Charis, replied, “I decline.”

The Winter Wolves sort of ‘fell out’ of their shape, Charis hopeful the clumsiness a reaction to her reply. The two wolf daughters ended up sprawling upon the ground on bare hands and feet. The Wolf Pack Leader opened her mouth for a moment.

“I swear as long as I live, I will never reveal your secret and as an assurance I offer this explanation. Knowing some of the fools in the Duchy they would dedicate their lives to prove the rumour true and evil would be alerted to your existence in the Duchy, either to hunt you also or make allowances in their plans to account for your abilities. Neither of which serve my purpose. I am fighting to thwart evil, not assist, so your secret is safe with me, and Zoe for that matter.”

The Wolf Pack Leader paced back and forth and then back again. “Fine words, which I am forced to accept, as the Blessing of Bella is within me, I sense the Blessing of Saph and Mara within you and while reassuring, conflicts with all known lore as The Foretold is usually Blessed by Judge.” She folded her arms and broadly smiled. “Oh good, finally a victory, I see by your reaction you didn’t know. What did you think we were doing when we circled you? Being dazzled by your hair?”

Charis to her shame stuttered. “I … well … yes. My hair’s uniqueness has been a bane of mine all my life and I am used to people examining, gawking, ridiculing me because of it.”

“Well perhaps we have a secret about each other to ensure neither of us breach the trust. I would warn you though, without exception the Dukes of this Duchy have always, and I mean through each and every generation, hunted down and destroyed each and every Foretold as soon as possible only regretting a handful who have escaped.”

“W … why?”

The Wolf Pack Leader cocked her head. “Stability. The Foretold marches off into the East with a significant portion of the peasantry never to return, years of famine and unrest follow, with occasional peasant revolts by the sons of the dead to depose the Duke. Each successive Duke also fears retaliation from whomever rules in the East. Within the borders of the Duchy there is no conflict, no large-scale wars between Barons or Earls, at worst a few political assassinations and each Duke upon coronation has upheld the peace by any means possible and one of the easiest targets is The Foretold. So, I will watch your future with interest although excuse me if I observe from afar.”

“Why offer to allow one of your daughters to join us?”

“Interest, pure and simple, looking for an ally or at least a friend and I am confident in my daughter’s skills to escape any trap if it comes to that.”

The Wolf Pack Leader turned to go. Charis asked one more question.

“Why is the current Duke not conceiving any heirs?”

Charis’ surprised look still a treasure worthy of further payment, therefore the Wolf Pack Leader decided to answer the foolish girl. “Occasionally a Duke believes as long as there are none to follow him, he will live for successive reins, twenty-one years, forty-two years and so on. Unfortunately, they are mortal. When a Duke exhibits this, erm behaviour the Healers of Ure are duty bound to ensure an heir is born. How they do this is unknown, although all heirs are tested as their blood must unlock a vault. I would assume a vault of their secrets passed down through their many generations. This is the last surviving Duchy of Men, over two thousand years old, Charis, Mistress of the Daughters of the Duchess and the Blessed of Saph and Mara, The Foretold. Don’t you see the irony in your known title and your hidden blessing? I would think there will come a time when the Duchess will order you to follow up any rumours concerning the return of The Foretold, requiring you to hunt for yourself. My advice, distance yourself from anything to do with Judge, his Temples, Priests and Judge Knights of all rankings, most of which are political appointments anyway.”

Charis plopped down on her bottom trying to digest the Wolf Pack Leader’s revelations as the woman and her two wolf daughters faded from view.

---

Ismene squatted on the stool like a spider in the middle of a web. On the floor to her right a jug and tankard of water respectfully, on the left a large plate with her small ration of dried meat. Before her the Birth Season parade marched down Gate Road, the one-way glass of the second story Watch Room the perfect location to spy upon each and every person, and thing.

People dressed in bright coloured clothes, playing instruments. Farmers with preserved produced on the back of hand drawn carts, destined to contribute to the market at the end of the parade. Each of the Temples, their Priests, Acolytes and Novices escorted by Temple Guards encouraging faith in the Gods due to surviving another Death Season. The assembled clergy would preside over the coming of age ceremony at the middle of day blessing in the Amphitheatre. The dead having already been honoured at dawn in their respective Temples, either cremation or more often burial although the sons and daughters of particularly important citizens would be taken to their family crypts as either an embalmed body or small casket of ashes.

The day glorious; bright sun and blue sky, truly a Birth Season day, the first of the Season thought Ismene. All discretely ignoring the fact yesterday equally glorious, although the streets remained deserted unless you desperately needed to run an errand or complete a task. The last day of Death Season passed without incident yesterday.

Clymene gazed upon their Provedore, the once noble now relishing a parade like a child, cupping her eyes with her hands for a better view, pointing out particular people or perhaps wagons to no one in particular and clapping her hands, excited. Forgetting her actual purpose for finding Ismene, Clymene drew up a second stool and joined in on the simple fun.

While scrutinising a particular passer-by herself, Ismene shouldered her Sister playfully.

“You don’t need to tell me Mistress Charis is riding home, many have told me, grinning behind my back in anticipation perhaps. Their anticipation pales into comparison to the itch of need my arse has been holding onto for weeks.”

Clymene opened her mouth to reply, closing with a smile instead, after all each to their own.

+++

“Do I need come and fetch you Mistress?” sent Helice.

“No, my shadow, I am close.”

“Did your trap catch what you wanted?”

Charis sighed. Unfortunately, more than she predicted, although to be forewarned is to be forearmed. “Yes, a great deal of food for thought.”

Middle of the day and Charis entered their overnight camp with two more rabbits. Dione and her stallion nowhere to be seen. Zoe’s horse still picketed, although no Zoe.

“Calm Mistress they are at purpose.”

“And, where are you?”

“Following orders of course.”

Charis held up the two rabbits, showing them off. “You will need to hunt for yourself if you continue being obtuse …”

“No, I am safe, for Zoe returns now with three rabbits and my, my one of them is fat and hopefully juicy.”

Charis looked past the horses to witness Zoe shaking three rabbits in her direction, obviously misunderstanding her Mistress’ actions nevertheless proving Helice’s report true.

“You setup me up.”

“Who I Mistress? I didn’t tell you to wave your pitiful catch in the air …”

Charis needed to consider that of course, although … how well did Helice know and therefore be able to predict Charis’ reactions or possible actions she wondered.

Charis and Zoe gathered around the embers of the campfire and began preparing their catches.

“I met the Wolf Pack Leader and through some deduction and facts I confronted her with the truth of your oath. The upshot being I know the Wolf Pack Leader can shape change between human and winter wolf.”

Zoe burst into tears, bawling. Charis dropped her knife, disarmed Zoe and hugged her to within a finger width of her life.

“I am …”

“Hush Sister, you aren’t to blame, no one is, except perhaps your Mistress. I wasn’t certain of the Wolf Pack Leader’s influence over you, my questioning harsh perhaps when I probably could have simply explained myself and deduced the knowledge I required to guess accurately.”

Zoe hitched her chest and sniffed. “I am no longer a virgin Mistress, the Wolf Pack Leader has a male human form, which is well equipped and her skill very adept …”

Charis tried to guess where this conversation would go, certainly not there Charis thought when she first commenced.

“You don’t need to be a virgin to remain a Daughter, if that is your concern.”

Zoe lightly struggled until their faces met. “I will miss him her Mistress …”

“Oh Zoe, she will return next Death Season and find you.”

Is this young love or young infatuation thought Charis?

“Can you heal my scars?”

Charis released Zoe, somewhat taken aback. “Healed until removed as if never there?”

“Yes Mistress, when she finds me next, I wish our relationship to start as equals, not a former oath taker subservient.”

Her Mistress nodded and Zoe exposed the scars upon her chest. Conscious of her healing affect, Charis traced her finger along each scar meticulously until erased trying to minimise any collateral desire. Charis believed Zoe found love in the mysterious stranger, although considering the age and responsibilities of the Wolf Pack Leader Charis more inclined to believe Zoe seduced. Afterall while her excuse about her daughter included some truth and she probably did command skills to aid her in escape, Charis recalled the forward preparation, a bag of clothes handy, and the keenness with which the wolf daughter was offered up.

Dione rode back to the camp from downwind, no smoke from their campfire reached her nose, so perhaps only Helice remained on watch. Fortunately, her Stallion’s sense of smell stronger than hers.

“Boss mare and blood mare in camp.”

Dione patted her stallion’s neck and slid from the saddle. Asking her stallion to remain, she picked her way silently and undercover towards their camp in time to witness Charis and Zoe rekindle their relationship to the point where Charis healed Zoe’s oath scars. Dione withdrew behind a tree, her body needing support, eventually giving up and sliding down until her bottom met the ground, like her heart ache. Dione wished to return to the days of the Lady Three, the shared love and laughter, dresses made, arrogant men taught lessons, before the days Charis became Mistress or more importantly The Foretold.

“You no longer wish to be Boss Mare?”

Dione sensed her stallion’s confusion, loyal to a fault, without question her only true companion now and yet she wanted more, she wanted to return to the past. Her emotions triggered by memory and regret, weeping alone and in silence, fists angrily wiping away tears.

A twig snapped.

Dione wiped her tears once more and drew her dagger, easing her body into a standing position, her back against the tree. Peering through the foliage, Dione shook her head and looked again.

“Welcome back to camp Sister,” said Helice, handing the stallion’s reins to Dione, knowing full well the action not required, needing the symbolism, nevertheless.

“Thank-you Sister, I must have misplaced my stallion by accident.”

Helice used her thumbs to wipe the last of the tears away from Dione’s cheeks. Probably known by Dione after the event, her stallion fetched Helice, the trigger for such action a mystery to Helice.

“Remember your most recent happiest moment.”

Dione blinked at the question and then decided to think. After mentioning a couple both rejected by Helice a third sprung to mind.

“When Zoe and I discovered the secret of bathing the Items in sunlight. I rode my stallion, naked, the freedom, wind through my crap hair … and across my loins, exhilarating and total bliss. Well?”

Dione expectant and waiting, Helice tapping her chin with a finger. The finger shooting out and resting over Dione’s heart.

“Exactly the right one, let me hold your clothes then.”

Dione’s eyes looked Helice up and down as if a monster appeared before her. “Now?”

“Why not? The forest isn’t too thick to build up to a trot along a game trail and Charis deliberately set the camp down in a big clearing, expecting guests you understand, who might I add never arrived and she needed to visit them, which will allow you to complete a couple of laps at least.”

The stallion nudged Dione, more for Helice benefit, demonstrating his support. Dione unbuckled her belt and handed belt and dagger to Helice to try the idea on. Then cloak, hanging the well-worn piece of garb out, Helice needing to reach to collect. Then the idea took hold and in short order Dione stood naked and before Helice could fully appreciate her Sister, Dione mounted her stallion leaning against his neck winding their way back to a game trail.

Helice dashed back to their camp, hopeful, she needed to arrive before Dione and appreciate the spectacle.

Finished, Charis now inspected her healing, face close enough wisps of warm breath brushed against Zoe’s flesh and not requiring a great deal of encouragement, her nipples harden. A beating of hooves marching closer saved her from pulling Charis into her bosom. Both Sisters looking up and quickly standing, daggers to hand.

“Helice who approaches?” Charis immediately on alert when her Seer Sister didn’t answer.

Charis dropped her dagger, stunned. Dione, legs splayed across the length of her saddle balanced with ease, utterly naked while her stallion trotted into camp and began to widely circle around the campfire, her riotous laughter echoing throughout the trees. Zoe’s body turning in line, her hands clapping ignoring her breasts working their way to freedom while she shouted encouragement.

Helice enjoyed the show to the point her belly ached from laughter and her eyes teared with joy. Charis wrapped an arm along Zoe’s shoulder and the huntress reciprocated and as a pair they kicked up their heels turning to face their naked sister riding horseback. Shortly Helice joined them and as a united circle of three they twirled about yelping until exhausted. Their collapse a signal for Dione to summersault off her stallion and lightly plant her feet to land nearby.

The three, with a final effort all rose to embrace her, surrounding their small Sister, now the centre of their circle. The sun broke through the tree canopy and basked them in bright sunlight and eyes closed they looked up to absorb the offered blessing.

---

The parade trickled to an end, street urchins picking up discarded scraps of food and whispers, Ismene actually recognising one or two of the scamps, residents of the Top Cavern. Leaving, Clymene kissed Ismene on the forehead, the Provedore demanding more, searching out and passionately assaulting Clymene’s rosebud lips as few paid her any attention believing a paddle to the bum is all she required when sexing. When in fact that is what she required from an authority figure such as Charis, from other partners more common entertainments would suffice.

Suddenly Clymene pushed Ismene away. Ismene almost falling off her stool, managing to grab at Clymene’s robe and surprisingly the Seer not protesting.

With her face pressed against the one-way mirror Clymene suddenly swore. “Ismene fetch Astera, now! Now I say, I will contact Seers to ask if they are next to her.”

Her head turned to check and seeing Ismene still stunned as a statue, she screamed at her again.

The Adept Seeress formed several Seer Link tendrils at once, each unerringly finding their destination, Thais, Alexa, Alexis, Zosime and Niobe.

“Seers is Mistress Astera next to you or nearby, if so, she needs to rush to the second floor Watch Room. I share my vision with you all, although don’t fail to find our Mistress!”

Clymene turned her gaze upon the road below not knowing what to make of the second parade. As the Seer Sisters reported back without any sightings, Clymene contemplated Seer Linking to Charis. Erring on the side of caution she decided to choose Helice.

“Helice is Mistress Charis … receptive?”

“Possibly for the right emergency, although her first question will be why aren’t you discussing whatever with Astera first.”

A sprinting ruckus charged up the Circular Stairs, settling the matter.

“Astera has arrived, thank-you Sister.”

Clymene pointed out the one-way mirror. “Mistress, what does this mean.”

Astera looked peering her head forward and then once her brain caught up to the shock in her eyes, she placed both hands flat against the wall either side of the mirror for support. A quarter of a bell passed before she slumped back onto a nearby stool her blank expression meeting Clymene’s.

+++

Dione let out a burst of laughter surprising the Sisters in their saddles beside her, although to be fair her general mood since the naked ride, one of delight.

“I remember riding hard to this stream, amorous Seer Twins Alcmene and Clymene newly awaken to their Seer Skill sexually ravenous, following, after I yelled at them for seducing me, when the danger too great.”

Charis patted her horse. “A dangerous time, our Seer Twins not realising the Lord of the Northern Watch wanted me.”

“Well then not much has changed, they do like their play,” quipped Helice.

Riding the back of The Spur the four Sister began their descent to deliberately find the stream. Refilling water skins and watering the horses and themselves on fresh cool water. Once done they rode down the slopes of The Spur to the rolling plains below narrowly avoiding Oxrest by choice making camp along the way late at night as required. Another day’s ride and nothing could have prepared Charis for the sight which greeted her a bell before dusk.

Where before Charis could walk her horse into the Main Cavern a stone curtain wall, the Northern Wall blocked her passage. Her Sisters, including the Seers failing to update her on every single change during her absence.

“Declare yourself.” Came a shout from the wall, a single figure staring them down from a distance.

Charis sort out Helice and tried to swat the mischievous miscreant, the challenge obviously a tease.

“Don’t you recognise your Mistress!” yelled Charis.

“Why didn’t you say? Walk your horses forward, slowly.”

As the four riders approached the Wall, Sisters gathered around the Sister on duty an excitement building. Dione slid from the saddle and continued to walk to the Wall, upon reaching the edge, a section opened up, Sister and stallion continued. Zoe next, followed by Helice and finally Charis. In all the excitement none forgot to replace the Wall Section or tether the horses to rings embedded in the cliff side stone and thereby fail in their duty under the eyes of their Mistress.

Alexis the first to hug Charis. “Your return is well overdue Mistress, welcome home.”

Dirce, Drosis and Agape boiled out of the Cavern Blind fully armed and armoured reacting to the noise charging into Charis to embrace and bid her welcome. As the mob passed through the Main Cavern Door, the Goblin Sisters climbed down, one side, furthest away from the evil melded together as one solid door. The other side completed, although yet to be melded into a single slab of stone. The Goblin Sisters didn’t stand on ceremony or hesitate each grabbing and hugging and passing Charis on to the next Sister until done, broadly smiling. They also hugged Helice, Dione and Zoe, although with more control, to their relief.

In the end those who knew Charis welcomed her back openly while those who didn’t, recognised her arrival as important and introduced themselves. Helice advised Niobe and Clymene of Mistress Charis’ pending arrival to allow Astera time to ready herself and welcome Charis home. The impromptu escort of Sisters bubbling up through the Caverns and passageways until arriving in the House Kitchen and Training Room with their honoured arrivals.

Astera stepped forward, Thyia on her right and Niobe on her left. Charis and Astera ignored the hubbub surrounding them and embraced. They separated when a calm descended upon the Kitchen, explained by the absence of Evening Shift, who could be present before their shift and now doing their duty. The Day Shift though would arrive shortly, now relieved. Charis greeted and hugged Sisters as she stood beside Astera in the House in front of the Kitchen table. They needed to talk, for now satisfied with idle chit chat and harmless catch up.

Charis chuckled as Zoe presented Clymene with several prepared rabbits for the stewing pot, including some wild root vegetables the huntress managed to recognise and dig up. The Adept Seer trying not to appear annoyed, clearly interrupted on her way to join Astera and Charis and having to wrangle and prepare Zoe’s offering. When Zosime and Alexis arrived and greeted Charis, Clymene summoned them to cooking duty only to find Astera and Charis gone.

Astera and Charis climbed the Circular Stairs to Charis’ room. Helice and Thyia remaining outside with Niobe hovering in the hallway, chewing on a fingernail, fielding a Seer Link from Clymene.

“They entered Charis’ Room and asked not to be disturbed, Sister,” sent Niobe to Clymene.

Charis observed the changes made to her room and raised a questioning eyebrow toward Astera.

“One of my preparations for your return … I expect … many complaints and this will allow Sisters to visit you, erm discreetly from the Training Room across the hallway.”

Charis didn’t reply or comment choosing to endorse the setup, sturdy round table, five wooden chairs comfortably fitting around the circumference, casual and inviting. Nearby a cupboard or sideboard, which Charis hoped would be stocked as requested, as the side table near the bed stood cleared.

Inviting Astera to the table, Charis needed to shake her head and point to direct her to the chair Mistress Astera deserved. Inquisitive and hopeful Charis peered into the sideboard and found what she asked Ismene for, silently thanking her.

Charis poured a watered wine for Astera and then herself. Astera raising her eyebrows, assuming tea would still be their Mistress’ drink of choice. Once both settled around the table, positioned side by side and both with an excellent view of the door, Astera began.

“It seems your friend, Magistrate of Judge, Apelles, son of Apellicon has got religion in a bad way. He marched out of Hillperch a few days ago at the head of at least half, if not more Judge Knights of all ranks from the Hillperch Temple of Judge. Destination unknown although East. Rumoured to be Judge’s Blessed Foretold.”

Charis returned an oh crap look and placed her head in her hands.

“My thoughts exactly and to add to our woes Agatha in Bircharbor reports a similar mustering of Judge Knights in Bircharbor,” she continued.

Charis shared with Astera the information the Wolf Pack Leader revealed, specifically about Foretold.

Astera took a sip of her wine. “These events seem fortuitous then, or am I missing a bigger picture?”

Charis didn’t immediately respond; in truth she didn’t know. Where did the mysterious East beyond the forest actually lead to?

Sighing, Charis postulated. “At least three outcomes. They are slaughtered, they return triumphant or they trigger a counter invasion. History says the first is most likely, the second impossible and the third, possibly long overdue given these are professional warriors whereas previously only peasants with pitchforks formed the army.”

“I would’ve suggested you talk Apelles out of this madness, yet I think he is beyond logical thought given what I witnessed during the marching out parade. The sunlight shone upon them, the entire march, I kid you not. His eyes especially, full of purpose a divine light radiating out, the sunlight seemingly energising them beyond normal. Their baggage train long and the attendants equally inspired.”

Charis tapped a finger on the table, troubled. “We need to neutralise or destroy our evil guest urgently then, because in a counter invasion Hillperch will be a natural refuge and every Cavern, possibly the construction of new Caverns will need to be filled with food stores in case of siege. These will be useless if the evil escapes as he will certainly return to wreak his vengeance.”

Astera placed a steady hand upon Charis. “Zosime has injured him, with the Judge Blessed weapons after Nysa’s Ordination and he has been quite ever since, although given the female Vampire and the power she acquired, it would be difficult to believe she didn’t share with her Master.”

Then Charis remembered. The Judge Knight armour, appeared to be plate steel, invariably hardened and lacquered leather unless the Knight or his family could afford the real thing and in all the time spent in Hillperch, not once did she observe the Knights practice fighting as a troop or even manoeuvre and charge as one. Momentarily distracted in her own thoughts, Charis leant back on her chair and paid full attention to Astera as she reported. A slight smile gracing her lips as Astera read from parchment.

Astera covered off each week in an almost diary like fashion, critiquing her own performance, usually brutally in an interposing summary, sometimes every two weeks, occasionally three. Charis didn’t comment satisfied to listen.

When finally finished Astera’s face emerged red with emotion from distress and shame. The Mistress Astera naming her greatest failures as not being brave enough to call Dione back from the chase and the trust she placed in the Apprentice Seer and her Vampire Spirit servant.

“I have decided that given my failings I am no longer fit to hold the position of Mistress and given the lack of confidence my Sisters would now have in me, I believe I must resign from the Daughters of the Duchess and your service.”

Charis instinctively knew when Astera spoke the words; well-practiced and possibly rehearsed a hundred times, they lacked feeling when spoken, although after, Astera’s chin quivered and who knows what the hands were doing under the table, probably scratching the wood back.

Charis looked Astera in the eye. “No.”

“Mistress! I have been a failure … there is no other possible assessment.”

Charis pushed back her chair and grabbed Astera’s head into her arms and brought her face to nestle against her bosom. “Who is to stay I would have done any better? Or any other Sister for that matter. We act on the situation and the best information and judgement we have at hand. As for your first thing, my journey back with Dione has enlightened her somewhat so expect a conversation with her. The second thing is a shared pile of horse manure and of all involved, you had the least expertise and relied most upon others to advise you, in particular an Adept Seer and acted on the information provided.”

“But I am …”

“Hush, I am Mistress and I have determined you are blameless and as is your way, always strived to put the interests of the Daughters of the Duchess first and foremost and I will not hear you doubt yourself again. You can feel like crud on the inside but hold it to yourself and once you make your decision hold to it unless new information comes to light, facts which cause you to reassess. You hear me on this?”

The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

Astera nodded her head while being held in Charis’ loving embrace.

“Will still need to hunt the Dark Priest, although perhaps Apelles will do our job for us?” suggested Astera.

Before Charis could comment a very insistent knock on the door commenced and she release Astera so they could prepare to receive a visitor or perhaps more. Helice and Thyia apologetic as Ismene, sharing withering looks with each, brushed passed them. Not waiting for either Mistress to acknowledge her entrance the Provedore stormed up to the table, each hand on the back of a vacant chair and eyed them both. Helice and Thyia decided on a change. Helice stayed while Thyia drew the door closed behind her, quickly retreating to the safety of the hallway.

Ismene’s passionate voice assailed both Mistresses. “No more Sisters of any kind, no more mouths to feed, we don’t have the coin to support this many without additional income. I assume with Birth Season upon us we will be doing favours for Temples and the like? Well these are all good for reputation, but they do no good for coin balance. You must listen to me when I say this or face ruin.”

Charis and Astera noticed their Provedore adjust her ledger under the wing of her arm, readying the documentary proof if either Mistress wish to take up the challenge to dispute her advice, although both felt well and truly berated and put in their place. Glancing briefing at each other Charis swallowed and volunteered to speak first.

“I apologise to you Sister as you have always tried to look out for us, and we continually make your task all the more difficult. Is there anything other than not recruiting any more Sisters, we can help you with?”

Seeing the “cogs” turn in Ismene’s head, Charis instantly regretted the open-ended offer. Ismene for her part decided to take advantage of the apologetic mood of her Mistresses seizing upon the golden opportunity.

“Since I cannot be everywhere at once and we have an excess of Sisters, perhaps one who would rather fight amongst coins, than the outside world be assigned to be my assistant or paired partner and no I don’t mean Agape, she has well and truly outgrown me and has made her own way.”

Charis took a small sip of her wine, to collect her thoughts and respond. “Helice can you send to the Seers and see if any of them would like such a challenge and if they would be kind enough to pass the message on to non-Seers. Ismene is there anything else?”

“Yes, Mistress Charis and Mistress Astera, we need to either start sending the armour to the City to sell or escort it ourselves as we will need the coin from the sale. We also need to contact a certain Lord to see if our investment in him and his demesne has turned any profit or just further loss as I mentioned previously, we have no other income at present.”

“We agree. What is the best way to organise both?” Charis asked.

“We should control both Mistress. Use a wagon to transport three sets of armour to the City, with some Sisters remaining there to sell them, while other Sisters travel on to Southreach to personally visit the Lord. With luck the armour will be sold by the time the Lord’s visit is satisfactorily completed.”

Charis relaxed back into her chair, wine in one hand. “Well I see none better than yourself to lead this expedition as I know you will ensure a satisfactory price is obtained for the armour and you know this Lord well enough and certainly courtly behaviour and negotiation.”

Ismene grimaced. Charis betting on a decline and then the dark clouds cleared and Ismene nodded.

“I accept Mistress. Am I allowed to select my companions?”

“Let us say nominations to be confirmed by Mistress Astera,” Charis said.

“Agreed.” She clapped her hands together in excitement and hurried to the door, then stopped, turned around and bowed. “Thank-you Mistress Charis and Mistress Astera.” Helice hustled to open the door and Ismene hurried away, Thyia quickly pulling the door closed.

Astera leant forward and positioned herself over the table and front side on to Charis. “Won’t two Mistress’ confuse our Sisters and won’t they like children ask both parents for an answer until they get the one, they want?”

Charis stole a kiss from Astera before replying, with Helice’s disapproval ringing in her head afterwards. “Perhaps, but I have a possible solution, we will have separate areas of responsibility, although I’m not sure of what yet, my dreams grew ideas but didn’t always solve the how. Although call me superstitious I am actually looking for a third Mistress and before you ask, I don’t know what duties she will have.”

---

Charis stared as the three Goblin Sisters struggled to fit through the door, they did get in each other’s way a little, this didn’t diminish the fact three powerful women now stood in front of their Mistresses. With Helice standing beside them Charis noticed she maintained a slim height advantage, which wasn’t as impressive as their build. Gone, the skinny boned creatures offered up for sacrificed, before Charis and Astera stood strong and thankfully, respectful Sisters. They bowed deeply before Charis and Astera with Sweetears stepping slightly forward.

“Mistresses we wish to contribute more. We have grown very strong as you permitted us to eat meat and working with stone has grown our muscles.”

Flexing them unnecessary thought Charis although further emphasising the obvious, the confines of the room and Charis sitting magnifying everything about them.

“Now we wish to learn to use weapons like the other Sisters.”

Astera leant forward slightly, realising she subconsciously retreated after being confronted by the wall of muscle before her. “I apologise to you all. It is my fault for requesting the stonework be completed above all else. So yes, you will be trained, would Spear, Shield and Sling be satisfactory.”

They looked at each other, eyes trying to avoid Mistress Astera until Prettynose spoke up.

“Mistresses it would seem we have acquired some weapon skills such as dagger and short bow, so if acceptable could we train in Spear, Shield and Short Bow?”

Charis just laughed and smiled warmly. Astera throwing a disapproving look her way, before answering.

“Sisters, given you have used your initiative to acquire weapons skills it seems folly not to further develop them. Your request is granted.”

Charis stood and skirted around the table to hug each of them warmly. The elder, the first to recognise their hidden potential regardless of their race and their poor condition. She almost regretted the hugging by the time Sweetears released her. Their strength amazing now and she wondered how strong compared to a man and did they have any further potential. Also, with some assassin disguise techniques they could pass for human, if a little exotic. A question for Korinna later, perhaps.

Helice and Thyia decided to organise the visits after the first two. Helice contacted the Seers, who would inform any non-Seers nearby audiences with the Mistresses were being conducted. Niobe would remain in the hallway, Thyia would operate the door to control access and Helice would remain in the room and inform Niobe when the next appointment could enter.

The next to appear surprised Charis, and upon presenting herself before Charis and Astera, Lysisa dropped to a knee and bowed her head. She held her pose until Astera twigged and gave her permission to stand.

“Mistress Charis please forgive an Apprentice Seer who presumed too much, believing her Seer Skill could subdue an evil spirit to loyal service. I don’t wish to leave the Daughters of the Duchess and will accept any punishment you deem appropriate to make amends so I can stay.”

Charis steepled her fingers. This being her first good look at their most recent Initiate or one more mouth to feed as far as Ismene is concerned. “I believe you swore your oath to Mistress Astera, so you need ask her.”

Lysisa didn’t know about this game, after asking other Sisters they assured her, with Charis’ return she would be the Mistress to petition. Resigned to follow through for Sweetears and her sakes she directed her request to Mistress Astera as instructed who replied immediately.

“I acknowledge the perceived loss of your virginity would have had a devastating impact upon you and while I thought to support you, you found your own support and kept busy contributing to the whole.” Astera’s eyes softened. “Well done Initiate.”

Astera placed her hands upon the table interlacing her fingers. “As for the other, the failure not yours to bare alone given you shared your secret. It would seem the benefits of your new servant blinded many to the danger, all more accomplished than you. Since all have lessons to learn, there will be no punishment.”

“Thank-you Mistress.” She stood, released a held breath and bowed slightly.

“Why did you think you would be asked to leave?” asked Charis.

Unsure if she should answer, Lysisa darted a look to Astera, who nodded. “I made a mistake at the Temple and exiled, I thought …”

“Do you wish your wine stain mark healed?”

Lysisa hesitated, mouth open, her brain trying to comprehend such a thing could be done and why would such a miracle be offered to a lowly Initiate.

“No thank you Mistress I have an admirer who treasures my wine stain as a beauty mark, and she has stood by me always.”

“Would I be too forward in asking you to reveal your wine stain?”

Lysisa thought quickly, the words of Sweetears ringing in her ears, ‘grow stronger’.

“Perhaps a dalliance later would be to our mutual benefit Mistress?”

Charis leant back in her chair and laughed. “Perhaps I will come calling, although … Sweetears is it … she isn’t likely to break me half, is she?”

Lysisa smiled demurely. “Only if I ask her to perhaps.”

“Perhaps it is best if you visit me then.”

“As you wish Mistress.” Lysisa’s curtsy sultry in the extreme.

Charis coughed, thankful for further conversation. “There is one more question and I will not insist, so please answer freely. Would you like to present yourself as a Single Seer at the Temple of Saph?”

The emotional change hit the Initiate. Lysisa caught the tear forming, by blinking. She didn’t secure her Letter of Release due to exile and wondered about the consequences of returning escorted by Mistress Charis and the Daughters of the Duchess.

Noticing her deliberations, Charis added, “You don’t have to decide now Sister.”

“Would your reputation or the Daughters of the Duchess reputation suffer with me in your ranks unreleased or when presented being thrown out of the Temple of Saph?”

Helice scoffed, mumbling, “Stuck up prunes …”

“Helice!” Charis admonished.

“Apologies Mistress for my disparaging response.” She bowed and winked at Lysisa as she straitened.

“Reputation will suffer or not for many things, this is about your choice.”

“I would like to secure my Letter of Release Mistress. After many years of service, I would like to believe I deserve at least that. My expulsion for the death of the Seer wasn’t my … entirely my fault. The Seer insisted in travelling in the dead cold of night without warm clothes. I could have physically restrained her … I didn’t, afraid I would lose my position, and, in the end, she threatened with that same consequence if I didn’t do as she said.”

“Whenever the Seers of Saph get annoyed with me I say to them, the Daughters of the Duchess is the place for new starts and sometimes tidying up the past helps with that, so we will see.”

“Thank-you Mistress.” Lysisa bowed to both Mistresses and calmly retired from the room much relieved about many things.

A parade marched through the door next, including Nysa, Kyra, Zoe, Zosime, Alexis and finally Dione. Under the table Charis quickly squeezed and released Astera’s hand. The five Sisters arranged themselves further into Charis’ room slightly beyond the table, which allowed Dione to face either them or the Mistresses without presenting her back to either.

Dione took to one knee and then rose needing to take a couple of deep breaths. “Mistress Astera and Mistress Charis I wish to confess my guilt and express my remorse to you and my Sisters and ask for your forgiveness in the hope with your guidance I will never repeat the same mistakes.”

Dione’s voice broke slightly as tears began to escape uncontrolled as she continued.

“I admit I barely obeyed your commands in your presence, when you ordered us to rest before the pursuit and I openly talked about my annoyance. I admit, although I have tried to convince myself otherwise, that if you would have called off the pursuit I would have continued, by myself if necessary and by committing such a deed been labelled an oath breaker. Somehow you didn’t test me, and I am sincerely grateful, even though I know you would have been deeply concerned for the lives of the Sisters with me.”

Dione swivelled slightly and faced her Sisters.

“Sisters I apologise I led you selfishly, I allowed you to believe I had the right to lead because of my association with Charis from the early days, when we were the Ladies Three. We were and still are all equals, the only one who isn’t, being above us is the Mistress of the Daughters of the Duchess, which in my blindness to destroy the Dark Priest, I forgot, which only by a miracle, we survived.”

Dione then dropped to her knees and bowed her head to utter her apology.

“To all in this room I treasure your love and can see no other place in this world for me other than being your Sister, so I humbly ask your forgiveness and accept any punishment.”

An extended silence, occasionally broken with sniffling and sobs dominated Charis’ room, no one willing to be first and set the punishment or announce forgiveness. After all the Sister before them could have caused all their deaths but for a fortunate rescue by a stranger. Nysa and Kyra the exceptions keeping an eye upon Astera while the other Sisters focused upon Dione.

Zoe remembered the Dione of the past few days and tried to believe in her heart that would be the version of Dione going forward. Shifting a foot forward, the eyes of several Sisters fell upon her. Bravely she continued, someone needed to be first or Dione would leave bereft of forgiveness and the possibility of rediscovering love for and from her Sisters.

“In our recent journey from Lonely Keep I observed a new Dione and I am hopeful she is the future Dione and for that reason only I forgive you and offer my love.” Zoe urged Dione to stand and hugged her, the flow of tears strong, the endless silence avoided and therefore not becoming a portent of none offering her forgiveness. Zoe stepped back into her position in the line.

Zosime and Alexis approached next and simply placed their foreheads upon Dione’s in turn and spoke the word ‘forgiven’ and stepped back.

Nysa and Kyra finally looked upon Dione.

“I am a Judge Knight and I see it as my duty to destroy evil. I followed your lead because we both wanted the same thing but more importantly, I followed your lead because I thought our Mistress commanded you.”

Nysa folded her arms. “Your admissions are appreciated, and for that reason alone I grant you my forgiveness, although I will never again follow you or accept your companionship on any other mission, duty or quest.”

Nysa stepped back, while Dione comprehended the Judge Knight’s last sentence and the hollowness growing in her stomach as a consequence.

Kyra looked upon the sorrowful soul before her and found some sympathy. “I am slightly older, although perhaps not much wiser than Nysa. Even so I will not condemn you to forever as I believe the Daughters of the Duchess is a company where new starts are encouraged and where veterans if led or lead themselves astray endangering others should have the chance at redemption. So, to you Dione I offer no forgiveness, what I do offer is an opportunity to win back my trust.”

With that said, Kyra stepped back into the line, remembering her own delivery from a Dark Priest and false company, welcomed into the Daughters and finally renewal, now Judge Knight Initiate.

“I thank you for your forgiveness or second chance and I will work to prove my worth to earn your trust.”

Dione then turned to Astera; head bowed. “I await your judgement Mistress as it is also you, I have aggrieved most cruelly.”

“As your Sisters, who were most in danger have forgiven you or granted you a second chance, I can do no less. But I do heed Nysa’s comment, a Sister needs to be formally declared in charge when on mission and subject to her Mistress’ orders. All of our lives are precious and if we cannot defeat evil today, as long as we survive, we can defeat evil the next day. Therefore, approach me Warrior Sister Dione daughter of Charis and we will embrace, and all will be forgiven.”

As they embraced Charis and Helice joined in, no others. Thyia opened the door and the Sisters filed out, Dione last. After a brief pause and upon confirmation from Niobe, Thyia opened the door again for the next appointment.

Latona and Jocasta presented themselves and bowed. Latona glanced at Helice who returned a reassuring smile, the former captive’s fingers dancing before her unsettled stomach until Jocasta bumped her gently with a hip.

“Mistress Astera we both know, the numbers of Sisters remaining to guard the Cavern dropped to a desperate level during the pursuit and absence of Mistress Charis.” She released a breath.

“Fortunately, I guarded the Main Cavern and with Lysisa’s persistence she trained both Jocasta and I in Spear and Shield. Firstly, we would like to praise Lysisa and if appropriate suggest she is rewarded. Secondly, when Sisters join, they need to be trained as a priority … Mistress.”

Jocasta leant forward. “You can’t have your guard piss their pants while holding their spear, now can you?” she quipped.

Astera glanced at Charis and jumped in. “Lysisa has punishments and rewards as appropriate, although we have acknowledged her selfless contribution. As for new Sisters joining, we need to fix our training as you suggest and arrange proper armour for that matter. Thank-you for seeking an audience with us.”

“Yes Mistress, thank you Mistress, we were so uncertain if we could approach you.” They both ran to Astera and hugged her. They hesitated a moment and then hugged Charis as well who smiled as they left.

“How do you feel Mistress Astera?” Charis asked.

“Better Mistress, some of my failures weren’t really failures, just lessons from which we survived and can learn from.”

“Have you given any thought as to who would make a third Mistress?”

“No, but I assume we would both agree that Ismene should be given the Title Steward so she will have some authority to command, especially where finances are concerned.”

“Agreed. I would have thought you would at least speak against making a Seer a Mistress, given recent events.”

Astera appreciated Charis’ sly grin, a taunt if ever there was. “I would hope the circumstances … unique.”

Charis shook her head. “No Sister, I believe Vampires and Spirts will be our greater enemy, while we dodge the equally deadly quagmire of the Duke and his Duchy.”

A silence fell as the spoken words solidified guess and inuendo into reality. Helice shifted from one foot to the other and remembered another enemy.

“Mistresses we also need some eyes on the Dark Priest, a scouting mission or ask your new Goblin Warrior friend perhaps? And if Apelles has gone East, then perhaps some helpers in the Inn of the Scarred Lady wouldn’t go amiss.”

Charis looked up from the table, Helice rolled her eyes recognising the birth of a new idea about to be unleashed upon her and Astera and hopefully no further.

“With the number of Seer Sisters, I wonder if could station one in each Town so we will know what is going on there or alternatively a travelling troupe gathering information.”

Under her breath Helice said, “Like establishing a Seer Temple in each Town …”

“I heard that bodyguard, ears cut, not deaf.”

Astera laughed before offering peace. “Perhaps we should ask Otonia to visit, given her experience with travelling troupes?”

“I am not sure the experience exactly pleasant,” offered Charis, shaking her head.

Ignoring Charis’s feigned reluctance and not waiting to be asked, Helice confirmed Otonia would be arriving shortly.

While waiting, Astera talked about the training routine she, Clymene and Alcmene agreed upon and Charis lamented the waste of Death Season just passed. They also needed to plan for strangers visiting the cavern, who to greet them and possible reactions to the surprise addition of the curtain walls at each end, the waggoneers in particular, although they shouldn’t come calling unless their sons pick up the trade. They both believed and hoped the visits would be weeks away, most likely in Spirit Month like last year.

Thyia ushered Otonia into Charis’ room who immediately pulled up the available chair opposite Charis and Astera, a quizzical look upon her face.

Charis poured Otonia a wine. “What?” said Charis. Otonia shrugged and took a sip.

Lowering her body slightly, stretching forward across the table Charis announced her idea. “We want to ask about Travelling Troupes. We were looking at setting one up as a disguise of sorts so we could source information, comings and goings and the like. So, what are some costs, are they good sources of information. What can you tell us?”

Otonia relaxed back in the chair, smiled broadly and barely resisted the urge to laugh out loud.

“Mistress it is a poor idea.”

Charis dragged herself back up into her chair.

“We would need to hire in strangers to provide the entertainment variety these troupes require, even if by some miracle we find several Sisters with interesting skills, no one would attend an all-female troupe. You would be better being a Bard and frequenting Inns, if you could survive the trails.”

“Yes, I know such a Bard and he seems to survive although he lives a precarious life in the main,” said Charis wistfully.

“Well we are left with a Seer Sister in each town as our next best solution,” Astera said.

Otonia tilted her head briefly. “That the alternative? No Mistress, the Seer Sister would be lonely as they crave physical contact now, and you would hear from them constantly. Rhea can call on Elpis if she is lonely, while Agatha has a whole Temple to talk with. The rest are all close and cosy together here, so I don’t think they will want to scatter willingly even if they say yes to your face.”

“Yes, unfortunately I think you are so very correct, the recent Seer desperation over an Apprentice Seer’s trick spirit an example,” Astera added.

Resigned to defeat, Charis said, “Yes thank-you Sister.”

“Charis, I have a small favour to ask while we are all here.”

Lifting her eyes locking onto Otonia’s she glimpsed hope and fear. “If I can, I will try but depends upon the favour.”

“As you know I have two knives. I am aware you also have two knives and I would like to carry four if I could. I know one is particularly sacred to you, but perhaps if it tasted the blood of evil it could be sated.” Otonia ran off the last words very quickly as Charis’ face darkened.

Feelings returned, unwelcomed. Guilt beginning to stir in Charis’ stomach, while she desperately tried to force down the lump in her throat. Gripping the edge of the table Charis force herself to stand and began talking logical, determined to avoid the emotion.

“You are correct … it is a weapon and remaining in a trunk is probably not the best place for it.”

She stepped away from the table without falling. “I am just not sure if either of them can be thrown.”

Flipping the lid of the trunk back, facing the past, she took a breath. “When you see them, you can possibly judge for yourself?”

Charis retrieved the precious backpack, the blades clinking together reminding her of their fall upon a stone castle floor so long ago. Slumping on the edge of her bed she reached for one, as it turned out the easy one, without his blood and placed the weapon beside her. A relief washed over her and then dread as the second one would need to be retrieved.

“I can fetch them Mistress,” sent Helice, the Seer needing to force her way into Charis’ mind, success due to the mush of emotional turmoil, which currently dominated any reasoning.

Helice didn’t receive an intelligent response, more a determination to finish.

Quickly before Charis could think anymore, the second knife appeared in her hand somehow, which she slammed onto the bed beside her and the other one. That over she placed the backpack lovingly in the trunk, patted down, returned to its place and reaching over closed the lid to the trunk quietly.

None of the traumatic performance escaped the notice of her Sisters, no other sound or movement initiated, their attention fully consumed due to concern.

Charis gathered up the knives in one hand, a glance to locate them and still the blood stain pierced her heart, faltering, her closed hand around the knives seeking support from her bed, until steadying. Clearing her throat, Charis marched to the table and unlocked her hand. The knives fell, Otonia catching both quick as thinking to prevent them from kissing. Then wiping both clean, the action informing her of their unbalanced weight and removing any unique identification.

Helice welcomed her Mistress’ intense gaze, a distraction from naturally looking at the tabletop. With a pained expression Charis needed to look; two knives became four knives and she forced a smile and her Sisters smiled politely in return.

Otonia arranged the knives upon the table side by side to easily compare them, her set definitely thinner and a matched set lengthways. Charis’ knives similar although tapering thicker and matched.

His blood gone. Charis didn’t know how she felt now as the four knives shined back under the weak lantern light. His blood gone. The four knives now belonged to Otonia and she would make good use of them as weapons. His blood gone. The last of Halius’ presence free of her, she free of him.

“How clumsy Mistress …”

Helice’s arms and warmth surrounded Charis, holding her upright. “You left us for a moment Mistress, but I caught you and all is well,” sent Helice, relieved the Seer Link readily accepted and normal.

Helice urged her Sisters, flicking her head and mouthing the words, ‘talk’.

Astera spoke up first. “Yes Otonia, your right, the pieces are like a puzzle, look Mistress …”

Astera leant forward and pushed the two sets of knives closer, ends on ends.

“I thought similar, yet these are perfectly matched, what do you reckon Mistress?” asked Otonia.

Charis blinked. She looked down at the tabletop. Didn’t she do this already? Yes, she thought, matched. Two though thicker at the hilt and slowly tapering, while the other two continued without significant tapering. The first two would be impossible for Otonia to throw, how unfortunate as Charis looked into Otonia’s eyes mistaking concern for disappointment.

Otonia removed any doubt as she pushed them together, the fit perfect and confirming the four pieces sundered from the one, the one taking the obvious shape of a longsword. The odd handles on Charis’ knives actually halves of the sword’s tang.

Charis couldn’t understand the delay. “Helice send for Nysa and Kyra please.”

When Otonia and Astera stared at her, Charis shrugged. Both not concerned about the instruction, more about the sudden return of their authoritative confident Mistress as if the past half a bell of strangeness wiped from all memory.

“While we sort of know swords, those two, especially Kyra dreams and live swords,” Charis added.

Neither Otonia nor Astera could dispute the statement, although still gobsmacked by the change and instant recovery, Astera first.

“Would it be useful to fetch the Goblin Tribute? Ismene will know where.”

“Why Sister?”

“The Goblin Tributes contained this metal, or what appears to be this metal, so useful to confirm and be absolutely sure.”

Otonia drifted into the chat, semi-dreaming. “Wonder if there is enough to make another knife somehow?”

“Helice please summon Ismene as well,” Charis asked, although already knowing the answer, done as soon as her name was mentioned.

Ismene, the first to arrive looked questioningly at the four Sisters staring at her expectantly.

“Ismene, where is the Goblin Tribute metal like this?” Charis pointing to the knives, somehow reconciled with the one, which she could no longer identify.

“Mistress, upstairs Storeroom, across the hallway, third shelf. A simple request if required immediately.”

“Fetch every piece and lump please.”

Ismene left immediately. Nysa and Kyra entered shortly after and at Charis’ invitation grabbed another chair each to sit on either side of Otonia, eyes fixated on the obvious, jaws suspended in disbelief.

“What say you Sisters?”

Kyra craned her neck forward scrutinising every piece. “Definitely a sword blade sundered into four separate pieces. The bottom two pieces forming reasonable throwing knives, although I now truly appreciate your skill Sister. While possible to throw them, to do so accurately a masterful accomplishment. The top two pieces are daggers at best as the tang does allow each to be gripped.”

Otonia added, “Given how hard and ever sharp they are, I am amazed the weapon has been broken this way.”

Being so intent on studying the pieces before them no one heard Ismene enter until she shuffled a little. At Charis’ invitation she emptied the pouch of all the metal pieces from the Goblin Tribute.

Otonia clapped in celebration. “There is easily enough there make another knife, possibly two, if only we knew how to work the metal.”

The Sisters sorted through the pieces and lumps, placing them beside a normal dagger trying to compare and then create a pile equivalent of special metal and once satisfied declaring the lump one dagger. The investigation completed a second time until interruption.

“Sisters!” yelled Nysa.

They all turned to look, her hand waving frantically at the other end of the table. Greeted with knitted eyebrows and generally wondering faces, she needed to point again.

Otonia the first to realise, anguish escaping her lips, followed by the rest, including Ismene. The four pieces now one, the joining beyond six surfaces minutely matched. Speechless the Sisters then took in a breath as Nysa picked up the sword by the tang.

Several heartbeats and her face drained, eyes wide, flinging the sword back upon the table as if her hand bitten. When all eyes turned to her she spoke.

“I heard a voice.” Her face stilled, caught in a moment of complete surprise. Kyra reach to her before anyone else, hands on her shoulders, quietly questioning.

“Did anyone else hear it?” She looked around quickly from face to face. “I don’t think I am going mad.”

Kyra picked up the sword and in slow motion Nysa held her palms out shaking her hands. The warning unheeded and unneeded, after a few heartbeats, Kyra placed the weapon back on the table.

“I am sorry Warrior Three Sister, no voice for me.”

Gritting her teeth Nysa approached the sword, setting her stance determined not to move again. Once again, she reached for the sword by the tang. Eyes going wide, lips curling back slightly she tightened her grip exposing white knuckles.

A couple of bells past by quickly for Nysa, although her Sisters looked upon her standing figure for perhaps a quarter of a bell. Nysa’s face relaxed and the attached body moved with purpose. Removing the hilt from her sword expediently by swinging the new sword down and achieving a precise cut just beyond the hilt. Throwing the hilt between her boots to stand upright, the new sword parted the two sides of the grip off the cut tang. She then assembled the pieces onto the tang of her new sword and waited.

Those in the room relaxed a little when she stopped, especially Kyra. Sensing they were waiting for an explanation Nysa spoke.

“The sword told me it felt incomplete and demanded to be made complete, instructing me how, in fact.” She said the words as if obvious.

Charis wondered if Nysa remained Nysa after the plain words. Then she remembered the Holy Book of Judge, perhaps the lone tome contained some answers.

“Ismene did Dione hand you a book when we returned?”

“Yes Mistress, it is in the Storeroom. I will fetch it now.”

“Mistress, several voices in the sword competed to talk to me, they agreed the sword being incomplete unacceptable and between the many shouting instructions I understood. They’re arguing about a single voice now and at least doing it elsewhere, wherever that is, so I am getting some peace.”

“You are not possessed then?”

Nysa instantly smiled back at the comment. “No Mistress I don’t believe so.”

“While I am happy for you Sister, we are, in certain ways defenceless without my special knives and a special burden is now yours Nysa.”

“Well perhaps the strangers will carry more?” said Charis.

“I have a feeling they will all end up like the one Nysa now wields Mistress.”

“What can be made from the pieces the Goblins paid in tribute?” asked Kyra.

Ismene returned with the Holy Book handing the treasure to Charis. She passed the tome to Nysa who looked at it strangely turning it over and opening the book from the ‘back’.

“You couldn’t read the book as I handed it to you?”

“No Mistress, you handed the book to me upside down, back cover up, most odd.”

“Hand it back to me, as it looks right to you.” As Nysa did so Charis waved it back.

“It was upside down and back cover for me, it must change depending upon the reader. So, I wonder how the Village Priest looks at the book. Like you Sister or like me perhaps and I don’t know how if there is another way. These Holy Books are so more valuable than I first thought.”

“It will take some time for me to read even a portion of this Holy Book Mistress.”

“Out of interest, hand the book to Kyra.”

“It is correct way up for me Mistress, also I can read it.”

Charis chuckled, graduating shortly into a loud belly laugh, which drew all their looks.

“I planned to copy the Holy Books one at a time as we exchanged them with the Village Priest and now probably impossible. Why do the Gods make themselves so difficult to serve?”

“It will be possible Mistress if your wish.”

They all looked to Ismene, who at once felt everyone’s eyes upon her and the sudden need to explain herself.

“It will take some time. The reader can read aloud while a scribe writes down what is being said. It is probably better for several scribes to write at once so multiple copies can be made as I sense that was your original purpose. If there is any magic within the words, they won’t be scribed of course but it will still be a reasonable copy and probably better than any revered partial fragments and ripped pages in use now.”

Charis hugged Ismene in celebration, lifting the Provedore momentarily off her feet.

“When can you start this Sister?”

“I will need to see which Sisters have quick and accurate scribe skills as a start. But warn you Mistress while sooner to start sooner to finish applies, we will need months, so a few weeks will be meaningless to ensure we have the best preparation for the best result.”

“Yes, I leave this to you as you see fit.”

“Thank you for the trust you place in me Mistress.”

Kyra ran her fingers through the pile of strange metal, the vibrance in the sword missing and wondered yet again. “What do we do with the Goblin Tribute metal?”

Timidly Ismene spoke again.

“Sorry to talk again Mistress, but I have noticed the metal gathers. The many smaller pieces after first tribute have joined and now there are fewer and on my oath, none have been lost or misplaced Mistress. What if we deposited the metal into a mould in the shape of a dagger? If this metal is Judge’s metal, then I would expect Birth Season the best time for the desired result.”

All the Sisters; either sat back in their chairs or rested back on their heels if standing as the quiet voice spoke and made so much sense.

“Perhaps we could craft a mould using stone. A question for our Goblin Sisters perhaps. Failing there we could commission a mould from a Blacksmith,” added Astera.

Otonia jumped to her feet and embraced Ismene and kissed her without shame or control.

“You have saved me Sister. I don’t mind admitting I did wonder what would become of me without my special knives.”

“I am sorry Sister it is not a certainty, but I am hopeful.”

“Some hope is better than none, so I still thank you,” said Otonia.

“Let us surprise Alcmene and Clymene and see if there is anything to eat at this late time?” said Charis.

“I have eaten Mistress so I will attend to my business,” replied Ismene demurely eyeing Otonia.

“Mistress I must decline as well,” said Nysa suddenly distracted.

Kyra grasped her arm and studied her face.

“Mistress, the voices in the sword belong to past Judge Knights, they don’t join Judge upon death they continue to serve and advise!”

Nysa dropped to her knees, praying, Kyra joining her.

Helice recognised Charis’ oh crap look instantly.

+++

Lysisa grunted in disapproval, no longer a Temple Guard and therefore unable to wield a two-handed spear, instead a pathetic looking sheathed dagger hung off a belt around her waist. Oddly the large shield on her back acceptable and yet a shield bash bludgeoning your head could stun and on occasion kill. Mistress Astera for the past bell assembled various pieces of armour from various Sisters until Lysisa would be able to present to the Temple as a proper Initiate of the Daughters of the Duchess, including the cloak. Appearance counted Astera advised her and swishing about to test the completed set of armour Lysisa agreed, brimming with confidence.

“You do look the part.” The voice light and youthful.

Lysisa swivelled about, surprised. Raisa giggled instead of laughed, mature mind in a teenager’s body. She matched Lysisa’s swish with one of her own, Daughters of the Duchess robe flying wide for a moment before fluttering back, an all-encompassing, modest piece of attire. Astera ensuring Raisa wore a loin cloth, breast wrap and underclothe underneath, after all a teenager would be an innocent.

Charis followed by Helice swept into the Meeting Room assessing and admiring the latest Single Seers to be presented to the Temple of Saph.

“Lysisa, be prepared for rejection, possibly immediate removal from the Temple. Don’t under any circumstances react emotionally until we return to the House,” said Charis.

“Where you can swear and curse, I probably have a few you don’t know,” offered Helice.

Charis stared Helice to silence.

“I spent time in the men’s barracks, I believe I could educate her,” quipped Lysisa.

Charis inspected Raisa. “You need to act your youth and you have practiced your story on Astera, yes? I will try to speak for you if permitted to or the circumstances allow.”

“Yes Mistress, I don’t expect any complications, my story simple after all, the Daughters found me lost in the snow, separated from my twin. I can read and write, although my Seer Skills have deserted me or never were.”

Charis nodded and turned towards the door as Astera entered the room, resplendent in her armour and cloak, drawing admiration from not only her Mistress. Thyia following supporting her partner.

“Good, I will lead, Astera on my right shoulder, Thyia on my left, Lysisa immediately behind, not so obvious to try and sneak you up on them and then Raisa. Don’t stop for anything when we are outside, if in doubt scream my name. The Townsfolk have just lived through Death Season and we could encounter some excitable behaviour.”

Exiting the elder’s door, Charis led them onto Gate Road and then directly to Temple Row. Middle of the afternoon a surprise, apparently, as a smaller than usual crowd gathered and followed. Striding into Temple Courtyard, the Shrine of Saph a dominating centre piece Charis now understood why. The crowd well trained, dispensing with following and now running ahead to the destination. A swell of humanity waited on the Temple of Saph steps, the Temple Guards eyeing them, hands grasping and re-grasping their spears and although they spotted Charis approaching none made a move to clear a path. Slowing, Charis at a loss and contemplated returning to the House, baffled by the level of interest.

“Clear the way! Clear the way! If you have seen Charis the Young once, you have seen her a hundred times!”

On either side of Charis, a row of Town Guard jogged into position.

Shaking his head at Charis, the Gate Captain whispered, “You do create a fuss.” He then stepped forward to lead the Daughters through the crowd and into the Temple.

“You can thank our urchins for the timely warning Mistress, religion is in the air, the Judge Knights assembling, Charis the Young visiting the Temple of Saph and none wishing to miss the excitement,” sent Helice, loitering with a view of the Temple Courtyard, disguised as an interested Merchant’s daughter, or at least that is what Korinna claimed when touching up her handiwork.

Charis didn’t need this much attention, especially if everything didn’t go to plan.

With the fuss Charis, Astera, Thyia, Lysisa and Raisa swept through the Temple Doors into the Main Temple, with the Temple Guards closing the doors behind them seeking the same refuge. Charis knew the way, well assumed the way, the Temple Guard on the door ushering Charis and her Sisters into the presence of three Mother Superiors perched behind a large, finely engraved wooden table, solid and immobile. Each visit to the Temple of Saph invariably involved a different welcoming committee she thought. How many Mother Superiors oversaw a Temple? In the back of her mind the number seven, the reply. Which meant, being paired they could contact each of the other six Towns and the City. Within the City the “seventh” would be the High Mother Superior?

“Mother Superiors I thank you once again for allowing me and my Daughters to enter and be received.”

“Charis the Young we are gladdened to see you again after such a long absence. We did appreciate Mistress Astera’s attendance who presented several single Seers to us recently,” said the centre Mother Superior.

“We have two to present, both without Letters of Release and yet deserving of presentation.”

“Most unusual, please present them,” said the left Mother Superior.

Waving Lysisa forward, Charis petitioned upon her behalf. “This Single Seer has suffered much and seeks new purpose with the Daughters of the Duchess, a wiping away of the past …”

“Never!” shouted the centre Mother Superior, who violently stood, knocking over her high back chair, which clattered upon the smooth marble floor.

Lysisa knelt before the table, with effort holding back her tears, instead taking on Helice’s advice and think of the hags as old bitches.

The left Mother Superior leant behind the centre Mother Superior for clarification from the right Mother Superior, whispering and nodding, a backdrop to the glaring centre Mother Superior, her withering gaze reserved for Lysisa initially and then turning on Charis.

“You offend us Charis the Young.” The Mother Superior pointing an accusing finger directly at Lysisa. “This vile scum failed in her duty resulting in the death of a Seer and creation of a Single Seer, both abhorrent to the Goddess.”

“What of the Seer? Does she have to answer for her folly, her insistence against the advice of her Guard to expose herself to the cold?”

“Dedication you mean! A missive from the Duchess to her Daughters, to you Mistress Charis.”

Charis shook her head, anger of little benefit in another’s home. “She tried to impress perhaps, either the Temple here or the Duchess in the City. The message carried to us at the cost of her life unreadable and her heroic foolishness a waste. Those who followed her dressed appropriately, so I ask why the urgency, how could the Daughters act any sooner than the weather permitted?”

“We serve at the pleasure of the Duke and the Duchess and you must never forget that absolute truth Charis the Young and …”

A ripping anguished scream reverberated around the huge hall. A guttural voice unleashed. “Let me be! I wish to confront my Sister’s murderer.”

The sight pitiful, a Seer now in a non-descript grey woollen robe, hair wild and matted, eyes red from crying and nose running, grieving. Chasing her, two Seers, who until moments ago awkwardly tried to hold the disturbed waif without sustaining any extraneous bodily fluids upon their person or their garb.

The Mother Superior held up her palm and the two Seers suspended their chase. As the distraught Single Seer made a beeline for Lysisa the Mother Superior said, “This is the consequence of your failure former Temple Guard.”

Lysisa stood, half catching the Single Seer and in silence allowed the grief to vent. Small fists pounded Lysisa’s chest and when the Single Seer realised the futility, she slapped Lysisa across her face again and again, frustrated as the wine stain camouflaged the assault. Exhausted she collapsed at Lysisa’s feet.

Charis not distracted by the situation observed the reactions of the Mother Superiors. The outburst causing the left and right Mother Superior’s to cringe, clasped hands upon their chests, ‘so frightful’ Charis imagined their thoughts. A momentary smirk snuck out from the centre Mother Superior and Charis awaited a predictable doom, mentally preparing for Ismene to berate her.

“Given the Single Seer has fallen at your feet and your actions responsible for her condition, Lysisa, daughter of Charis I hereby declare you will care for the poor broken creature as a condition of granting your Letter of Release. Your record in the Histories of this Temple will be amended to reflect the acceptance of your folly and your penance will be the care of the surviving Single Seer.”

Life suddenly restored to the Single Seer. “You can’t toss me to my sister’s murderer, you can’t. I will be good. Yes, I will listen and recover, no more fits or screaming …” Feebly wiping her eyes and nose on the sleeve of her robe and then hanging on to the table, pleading with each Mother Superior and as one they all turned their faces away. Discarded the Single Seer fell away from the table, lost and wishing for nothing less than cracking her head on the marble floor and spilling her blood as a final dramatic ending.

Instead she fell into Lysisa arms, who stared down at each Mother Superior in turn. She then hefted the Single Seer into a princess carry and returned to her position behind Charis.

The two Seers who escorted or chased her, ran from the chamber, their terrible duty finally no more.

The three Mother Superiors shook and adjusted their robes until prim and proper. A high back chair returned to position and as if nothing happened the three prepared to receive the second of Charis the Young’s Single Seers.

“We know little, except to confirm she was a Seer. Abandon in the snow she called for her sister to no avail. She has no Letter of Release because she has no known past. I would ask you enter her name into the Histories of this Temple in the hope a miracle will occur, and her Seer Sister having survived, will search for her and find her name here.”

The centre Mother Superior leant forward, hands clasped wearing a kindly face. “Child your name will be added to our History and we will ask at other Temples.”

Charis nodded and Raisa turned and ran into her arms. Releasing the hug Charis led the Sisters from the Temple. Once on the street the expectant crowd surged forward asking questions about the future, did the Seers impart any wisdom and the like. The Town Guard keeping order, making a clear way for the Daughters of the Duchess to escape the Temple Courtyard. The mob didn’t follow, they weren’t interested in Charis the Young in particular, any visitor would do, to ask them questions. Surely the Gods would know? Their world suddenly uncertain, the Dukedom unsettled and therefore they thirsted for answers.

Charis decided she would confess the “extra mouth to feed” to Ismene first, Helice suddenly hungry, remaining in the Kitchen, the coward. When done though, her next visit would be to the elder, typical of her to avoid the hubbub Charis thought, although Charis determined to share her first coming home cup of tea with the venerable lady. Her call to a scared and lonely child many months ago, the difference between life and death for Charis and forever cherished.