TarasRhapsody

Tara's Rhapsody

The last place in Iamoore I desired to be was in the forested territory of Pointain. The rural region boasted of few towns, let alone any large cities. Not the best location for one in my chosen profession.

Unfortunately, I discovered that the town of Lazoic was controlled by a rather strict thieves guild, only after completing a successful robbery of a prominent jewel merchant. The head of the guild was a most unreasonable fellow, who felt ignorance was not an acceptable excuse.

Fearing for my life, I fled across the haunted moors of northern Sidanthra into Pointain, hoping to lose myself in the thick-forested region then make my way south to the Archeon-held territory of Weston. The only flaw was in my haste I was unable to obtain any provisions. Spending most of my time in cities, and having little in the way knowledge concerning wilderness survival, soon found myself in desperate straights.

All seemed lost till I stumbled upon a campsite with a small fire, occupied by a single individual, a rather slight looking slip of a girl. Normally, pilfering a campsite is beneath one of my proficiency but as I said, my situation was dire.

Reaching for her pack, I could see the shadows of the flickering flames dancing off her sleeping form. Her face was oval with rosy cheeks, like those of a young girl. Stirring slightly, she absently brushed a stray lock of her light brown hair away from her eyes.

Suddenly, she awoke with a start, as I began to undo the fastener on the pack. The young girl sat up her wide doe brown eyes filled with fear, clutching the blanket to her breasts.

"Don't scream," I ordered unsheathing my blade, pointing it in her direction. She was a lovely young thing and if I had been a less honorable rogue, would have been sorely tempted to take advantage of this opportunity.

"Please," she entreated in a soft young voice. "I beg you sir to spare me."

"I have no desire to hurt you," I assured her. " I only wish to acquire some supplies and I'll be off."

"But then I'll have nothing to eat," she complained.

"I shall leave you some," I promised, having no desire to strand such a helpless young thing alone in this desolate area with no provisions.

The young girl began to hum a tune. " What are you doing?" I asked scrounging through her pack finding very little in the way of food.

"It's a song my mother taught me," she replied." I always sing it when I am nervous. Would you like to hear it?"

"There is no reason to fear, but if you must sing to soothe your jangled nerves then by all means please do."

Nodding her head, the girl began to sing one of the most beautiful ballads I had heard in many cycles. Her voice was like that of an avatar of Velia, goddess of justice, defender of the light. However, as I attempted to continue my search I found my arms would no longer respond to my command. I tried to move my feet but they also refused to obey.

Still singing, the young girl wrapped the blanket around her petite body. Rising from her bed, she strolled over to me prying my rebellious fingers off my sword.

She ran the tip of the sword along my arm. Lifting it to her eyes, she examined the edge, then tossed it casually aside. Reaching down for her items, she retrieved a lyre with glistening silver strings and began to strum. I cursed my by poor luck realizing the woman was a bard, one who uses music to weave the vibrations of manna to create magik.

"That's better," she said pleasantly. "It takes time to get the proper pitch transposed from voice to instrument." To my despair, she had found the proper tone.

"My name is Tara Songsmith," she continued. "Do you like the name? I chose it myself, I believe it has just the right ring to it." She remarked with a grin. "Perhaps you have heard of me?" I had not, but lacked a voice to reply.

"Anyway, I was performing in a few of the local logging camps when word came that there was something amiss in the forest," she said, still playing her lyre. "I figured I would investigate for them, having nothing better to do. Then after I determined the cause of the strange phenomena would immediately return and fetch some strapping warrior to take care of any problems. Then you happened by. I must say this is most fortuitous, for now I see no need to return since you should be more then capable of handling whatever is wrong. What do you say?"

She waited me to reply, even though I was still incapable of speech." Oh how forgetful of me," she laughed and stopped her playing. Still straining to break free, I toppled over into the moist ground.

"I fear you are mistaken," I explained returning to my feet. "I am no warrior merely a thief."

"A thief," Tara remarked. "I would have thought one of that profession would possess much more stealth."

"I am considered one of the best of my profession," I told her with a touch of pride.

"My apologies," Tara snickered. "Tell me do you have a name?"

"Sedric."

"Well thief Sedric you still give the impression of being much more refined than those loggers back at the camp."

"I was the son of a nobleman till Archeon took possession of Weston annexing, our lands. Since then, I've been forced to live as best I can, acquiring the skills of a thief."

"A displaced noble," she muttered," even better."

"For what?"

"A hero," she replied matter of factly.

"I told you I am a thief," I reiterated, retrieving my sword. "I have no desire to be a hero."

"As you wish," she relented, "but I have learned this thick pine forest is infested with servants of Malice. I have no doubt we may run into a few before we make our way out."

"You wish to travel together?"

"Why not?" Tara said shrugging her shoulders. "It will be much safer for both of us. For now, please help yourself to something to eat."

Deciding there was wisdom in her words, I agreed to the arrangement. After filling my stomach, I rested comfortably basking in the soft glow of her fire.

The next morning, I awoke to find my new companion already dressed in a light lavender gown with a scooped neck accentuating her firm young breasts. The left side of her gown had a slit almost to her hip revealing her well-toned leg. The woman truly was a vision.

"Its about time you awoke," Tara said smiling, donning a silver vest studded with sparkling gems. "I was afraid you were going to sleep the day away."

"Sorry," I apologized. "It has been sometime since I've been able to rest."

"No problem," She said slinging the lyre over her back, "I made something to break your fast. It's not much I fear, cooking was never a skill I mastered." Tara strapped a slender belt around her lithe waist. On her right hip, she had a flute in a sheath, like one might carry a dagger, while on the left hung a small hand drum. "Well I am ready when you are," she said, adjusting her belt. She noticed me staring in awe at her." Is something wrong? She asked examing her body for anything that might be amiss.

"You're beautiful," I said unable to avert my eyes.

"I know," she said with a wide grin. "But thank you for the compliment. Appearances are very important in my profession."

"Excuse me," I continued, attempting to choke down the repast she had prepared. Tara definitely lacked training in the domestic arts. "Where is your sword?"

"Sword?" She repeated with a note of disdain. "I never carry a weapon of any kind."

"I thought bards are usually armed."

"Those of less skill perhaps, " she replied in disgust. "I personally find the use weapons to be gauche, not to mention messy. Now if you are done I think we should best be on our way."

"I don't think you two will be going anywhere," a deep menacing voice cackled. Spinning about I spotted three men dressed in black chain, their tunics emblazoned with the red hand of Malice.

"We are leaving the forest," I said as they approached, their weapons drawn. Tara began tapping nervously on the small hand drum on her side.

"To bad you didn't leave sooner," he sneered. "We are in need of a sacrifice to the dark lady and your wench should more then suffice. "Tell you what? Let us have her and you can go free."

"There is no other way?" I inquired.

"None," the apparent leader said with an evil leer.

"Then," I sighed, drawing my sword. "Those terms are not acceptable."

"Don't be a hero, dog."

"That is the furthest thing from my mind. However, I won't allow you to take a lady under my protection for some foul ritual."

The warriors rushed towards me as I positioned my body between Tara and our antagonist. The men were almost upon us as Tara increased the volume of her rhythm. Suddenly, two of the guards dropped their blades grasping their ears in pain, collapsing to the ground.

The leader continued the assault, slashing his blade downwards. Fortunately, he was so unnerved by the circumstances of his men. I was able to dodge his attack. Before he could recover, I buried my own sword to the hilt in his chest.

I'd barely been able to tear my sword free, when one of his men freed themselves from the spell charging me. I ducked as he rushed forward letting him fly over. Spinning around, I slashed the man across the back before he could return to his feet.

Then last man apparently shook off the affects of the enchantment. I began to suspect this was perhaps, too convenient. However, rather then continue the onslaught, this one opted to retreat.

Tara increased the tempo of her drum. The man screeched as blood spurted from his ears and nose. The poor fellow dropped twitching to the ground. "A pity," Tara observed," ceasing her playing.

"You could have killed them all," I accused.

"Most likely," Tara replied in that deceptively sweet young voice of hers.

"Then why did you allow the leader to attack? Why did you free his men from your spell?"

"You seemed so intent on being my defender," she explained, leaning down to examine the man I had slashed across the back. "I saw no reason to disappoint you. A most commendable job, incidentally."

"I assure you I would not have been disappointed if their heads had exploded." I stated, joining her on the ground as she turned over the man.

The man was barely alive having but a few minutes left to live. Still, he managed to glare at us with hate filled eyes. "Who the dragperg are you people?" He demanded weakly.

"I am Tara Songsmith, "she proclaimed with a note of pride. "No doubt you have heard of me."

"No I haven't wench," he spat defiantly.

"It doesn't matter," Tara continued. "The one undeniable fact is you are dying. Perhaps you can atone for a few of your evil deeds by confessing to us what the followers of the evil goddess Malice are doing prowling through these woodlands?"

"I have no desire to atone for anything," he declared. "Soon I will feel the embrace of the dark goddess herself and nothing you say will change that."

Tara smiled knowingly at the shadow warrior such as they are called. She began a sad chant of remorse and regret. My new companion took her lyre in hand, adding its melody to her song.

To my surprise, the defiant man soon broke out in tears. "I am dying," he sobbed. "I've led such a terrible life. I want my mother," the man cried. "Mother, please forgive me."

Tara nodded towards the man with a wink. I assumed she wanted me to ask the question of him again. I had no desire to become embroiled in this matter further, but found it difficult to deny the beautiful bard any request.

"You can correct some of it," I said hesitantly. "Tell us why you are out here."

"It's because of Grisella," he blubbered. "She wants to obtain the sacred scroll of Renail. With it, she can release the fury of the shadow beings upon the land. Please," he begged grabbing my arm, "I don't want to die."

I looked down with pity at the poor wretch. Despite the horrible things, he had no doubt been responsible for; my heart was filled with sympathy for him. Slowly Tara changed her song to a sweet lullaby. The man closed his eyes, a contented smile appearing on his lips. She continued the song till the man had expired.

"You allowed him to pass from the plane in peace," I commented amazed at her show of compassion."

"There was no need to cause him further pain," she replied. "We have the information we need."

"That you need," I corrected her. "I am not getting involved in any of this.

"He who has the scroll of Renail has control over shadow horrible beings. Do you really want that sort of thing in the hands of followers of Malice?"

"It would be terrible," I agreed. "However, taking on the likes of a priestess of Malice is far too risky."

"The scroll is also worth a hefty sum," she added brushing off her gown. "A truly great thief would hardly turn down the chance to make such a profit."

"Profit?" I queried having my curiosity piqued.

"Of course," she explained, "any mage would pay his weight in gold for such an artifact. Let alone, many sages and scholars. Besides, the entire venture is completely risk free."

"No risk?"

"We find the scroll before the priestess does," she continued," and purloin the item."

"What about traps?" I asked suspiciously. "Such great relics usually have more than their share of protective traps."

"You said you were a great thief," Tara chided, " surely a few moldy traps would hardly dissuade you from such a prize."

I sighed in frustration the bard had an answer for any argument I could present. She had also challenged my abilities as well. To refuse would be a sign I lacked faith in my talents. "What if the priestess gets the scroll before us?" I demanded.

"She wont," Tara assured. "However if that should occur I vow we will escape to the south as fast we can. I have no desire to be near one of her ilk with such an item."

I was about to ask how she was certain we could reach the scroll's location before Grisella, then thought better of it. It was obvious Tara already had formulated a plan to accomplish her goal. There was far more to this young thing then one might guess.

Tara continued to glance up into the trees as we wandered about with no perceptible purpose, through the thick pine forests. Eventually, she unsheathed her flute and began to play. I was about to inquire if that was wise decision, considering our last encounter with the shadows warriors when several large scarlet birds flew down beside her. Next, a small masked tree rat scurried up joining them. Tara altered her song with short bursts. The creatures appeared to listen intently. She lowered the volume as the birds began to chirp in response followed by the chittering of the tree rat.

The exchange took place for several more minutes. I could only stand their scratching my head in wonder. Never, in all my born days had I seen such a thing. I had heard rumors that followers of Silvanus were capable of such things, but never imagined a bard would be able to. Eventually, she ended the song with an upsweep, thanking the animals for their help who then hurried back to the safety of their woodland home.

"This is trickier then we thought," she remarked grimly.

"Is there nothing you can't do?" I blurted in awe at what just transpired.

"Cook," She admitted her brows knitted deep in thought.

"You are correct there," I laughed in spite of myself remembering the dismal meal."

"Then next time you do it," she snapped a twinge of annoyance in her voice.

"My apologies," I stated hurriedly. "What did you learn that disturbed you so?"

"No apologies needed," she said smiling sweetly patting my hand. "Though I fear we may need to alter our plan somewhat."

"Your plan," I amended, "and why is that?"

"The scroll is in the ruins of an old tower," she answered. "The only problem is a rather nasty mage is already there with a small contingent intent on locating the scroll. According to the rat he is very close to finding it."

"Then this is the end of it," I replied breathing a deep sigh of relief. I was certain even the likes of Tara would balk at going against a full fledge mage.

"If you were going to steal something," she continued, ignoring my comment," and it was heavily guarded how would you handle it?"

"Well," I explained, "one would need to find some sort of diversion to distract the guards."

"Exactly." She exclaimed her eyes suddenly lighting up with excitement. "A brilliant plan Sedric," she complimented me, placing a quick peck on my cheek. The touch of her lips was as exquisite as I had imagined it would be.

"So what is my great plan," I stammered recovering from the sensation, trailing behind her as she forged onward.

"Diversion." She replied simply.

"I hardly see where that applies here," I countered. "We would need a large distraction to succeed."

"Exactly," she said pressing purposefully forward glancing about.

She moved so rapidly that I was unable to inquire further, barely able to keep up with her purposeful pace. Suddenly, we found ourselves surrounded by several shadow warriors. Apparently, we had blundered into their camp.

"It's about time you people showed up," Tara exclaimed angrily. "I nearly entered your camp unchallenged. I am sure Grisella would be most displeased with such a abysmal
Performance."

"I don't know who you are girl or your friend," but no one enters in the presence of the priestess without first being invited."

"I am Tara Songsmith."

"Never heard of you," the man with the insignia of a captain sneered. I chose to remain silent, uncertain what Tara was scheming.

"Really," Tara said incredulously, "Oh, well Nevermind. "I suggest you obtain us an invitation immediately."

"You are in no position to make demands," the captain shot back. "I see no reason why we shouldn't kill the two of you right here."

"You could," Tara admitted much to my alarm. The bard apparently loved to play close to the edge. "Then your priestess would really be angry. She wants the scroll? We know where it is."

"Tell us."

"Not likely," Tara replied, with a wry smile. She had them where she wanted. "I talk only to Grisella. Now do you take us to see her, or do you kill us? Either way please make up your minds." She concluded tapping her foot impatiently.

The warrior relented escorting us to the camp. Tara allowed herself a smug smile of satisfaction on her perfect lips as they led us to the priestess.

"Would you care to tell me what you are doing?" I whispered in her ear."

"It's your plan," she whispered back playfully.

"Then explain so I can make sure you have it right," I replied, grinding my teeth in frustration. I was starting to see why most folks did not trust bards.

"All in good time," she replied squeezing my hand assuredly. May Crimon god of thieves help me I truly believe I was becoming enraptured with this girl.

We entered a small clearing with several tents and more warriors milling about. Most of the tents were the small two-manned traveling variety. The one in the center though was much larger then the others and dyed a deep black, with elegant designs decorating the flap. One of the guards stationed next to the entrance tapped respectfully upon the flap as our escorts placed us directly in front of the opening.

A dark skinned woman, hailing from the mysterious Great Kingdoms emerged. She was garbed in the traditional form fitting black gown of her order, her nails and lips painted a deep black. She had a cold cruel smile on her as her eyes beheld us.

"So what do we have here?" She queried pleasantly, accepting a goblet from one of the warriors, taking a sip.

"This lady claims she knows where the scroll is," the warrior in front of us informed her.

"Really," Grisella replied with a note of interest. "And such a pretty thing too," she added brushing Tara's cheek with her long tapered nail. To her credit, Tara didn't flinch at the touch of the woman, maintaining her defiant stance. "What is your name lovely one?"

"I am Tara Songsmith," she stated, "perhaps you have heard of me, a bard of great skill."

"I regret to admit I have not," Grisella replied eyeing her up and down appreciatively. "So you know where the scroll is?"

"Yes," Tara replied smiling sweetly, "I will be more then happy to lead you to it."

"And what do you want?"

"A pittance," Tara answered pleasantly," a mere one hundred triones. The scroll is worth much more then that."

"I see," the priestess contemplated circling Tara like a predator sizing up its prey. "Why don't I just torture you and get the information, or perhaps threaten to kill your friend here," she said pointing at me.

"If you torture me," there will be no guarantee I will tell you the truth," Tara answered. "As to my friend if you kill him it will matter little, he is my bodyguard nothing more, a lady can't be too careful." My heart sank at her last comment, fearful that she might allow these foul persons to slay me.

"That is very true," Grisella laughed.

"Though I would be placed in severe discomfort if he should be killed and my mood less congenial. Good help is extremely hard to find."

"I must agree," the priestess giggled. "One must make do though."

"I thought perhaps we would rest here till morning then I will show you where the tower is located."

"It would be nice to have the company of another woman," Grisella agreed, " and you can share a few of your songs and stories."

"It would be an honor," noble priestess," Tara bowed

"Good," Grisella said with a nod," you may be my guest for dinner tonight."

"I would love to," Tara smiled, "first let me make sure the needs of my guard are taken care of. Unless you have decided to eliminate him." Tara stated frowning slightly.

"That wont be necessary," Grisella said, leering at Tara," I see no reason to put you in such dire straights, as you mentioned good help is hard to find."

"Good, I shall join you shortly, "Tara promised herding me towards the outer perimeter of the camp.

"What are you doing?" I asked fearfully, dreading her answer.

"I will inform Grisella I wish you kept separated from the rest for my own reasons," Tara explained in a hush voice. "Later, you need to sneak out of camp and head in that direction," she continued pointing ahead of us.

"For what purpose may I ask?"

"According to the birds that will lead you directly to the tower and the mage."

"The mage!" I exclaimed raising my voice understanding what she was leading up to."

"A little louder please," Tara scolded, " I don't think Grisella heard you in the tent. And yes, the mage I want you to tell him that a priestess and her followers are on their way to attack him."

"You are mad," I stated standing my ground. "Raiding a tower is one thing. Talking to a mage, especially one that may be touched with manna madness is another matter entirely."

"Have you ever heard of the fourth level of pleasure?" Tara cooed smiling seductively.

"Yes," I said gulping hard. I had heard of such a rare indulgence rumored to fill one with unimagined rapture.

"I have experienced this and know how to bring one to that level," she whispered stroking my arm.

"You expect me to risk my life for a few hours of pleasure?" I declared attempting to remain firm.

"Who said anything about hours," she added coyly. "Just imagine what it would be like if a talented bard were to add a song of ecstasy during the act. Even I shudder to think of the passion unleashed," she sighed looking at me with those deceptively innocent eyes.

"You are certain he is in that direction," I replied with a sigh, realizing further resistance was futile. Tara did have a way of getting what she wanted.

"Yes," she answered. "Tell him there is a bard with him. Mages seem to have disdain for those of my profession." I could only nod in agreement, as she departed with a sly wink for the tent of the priestess. What occurred there, I am fearful to even contemplate.

Later that evening as most of the camp slept, I slipped silently off into the night in the direction she had indicated. It did not take me long to reach the ruined tower.

The towers dark gray stonewalls loomed ominously among the trees, its ancient scarred wall covered with vines and other forms of vegetation.

The mage in question had established his camp directly in front of the entrance. Apparently, wisely determining it best not risk residing in the ancient building for fear of accidentally triggering any traps.

Keeping to the shadows, I made my way to the encampment. I estimated there were approximately ten or more mercenaries in the employ of the mage. Spotting a large tent trimmed with gold, I determined it must belong to the mage. The only quandary was how to reach my objective without being detected. I suppose I could use Tara's ploy, allowing myself to be captured, but the mercenaries were more likely to kill me outright, rather then engage in any sort of discussion.

Watching the guards, I noticed there was a short period where one might reach the tent unhindered. After that, an alarm would be raised, but by then the mage would have either heard me out or, slain me. May the gods help me. I was becoming as insane as the bard.

Taking a deep breath, I sprinted for the tent leaping through the entrance. I could hear the shouts from behind me. The mage garbed in red spun about his hands crackling with arcane energy.

"I bring you important news," I blurted dropping my sword and throwing myself at his feet. I closed my eyes anticipating a sudden fiery death. I could hear the men rushing to the aid of their employer drawing their swords.

"Wait," the mage commanded in a dry cracked voice. "I would hear what this fool as to say first." I took a deep breath knowing I would live for at least a few more minutes. "Arise," he ordered. "What is so important you would risk your life, warrior."

Rising to my feet I could see by his blood shot eyes and mottled skin the mage was infected with the manna poison, a malady that was one of the possible hazards of his calling. "I am a body guard under the employ of the bard, Tara Songsmith," I began.

"A bard," the mage sniffed disgustedly. "One of those prima donnas who toy with magik, not appreciating the true power. For that alone I should kill you."

"I understand most noble one," I paused slightly.

" My name is Marqel," he stated. "I warn you my patience is wearing thin."

Yes, noble Marqel," I continued bowing subserviently. This seemed to put him more at ease. "This bard has joined a priestess of Malice to obtain the scroll for the glory of their order. The bard knows the location of temple."

"Why are you betraying your employer?"

"I would much rather someone of your wisdom receive the scroll then the followers of the mistress of evil," I explained. "Now that you are aware of their approach, you may set up an ambush and destroy them all."

"And what of you?" he inquired.

"I shall return to the camp so no one will suspect our arrangement and later if you feel my services deserves a reward I will be most grateful."

The mage cackled at my last comment, his voice sounded as if someone was crushing up a dried parchment. "You will betray a bard for a few coins? Now that I can appreciate."

"Yes sir," I responded obediently. "So may I assume we have a bargain?"

"We do," he replied. "When they arrive I shall have a surprise awaiting them and if all goes well a reward for you."

"You are too kind noble Marqel," I said kneeling before him.

"Go now," he pronounced with a dramatic gesture, "before you are missed and they guess that something is amiss."

"As you wish wise Marqel," I answered, bowing as I backed out of the tent.

Once out I raced back to the encampment still recovering from amazement that I still lived. Upon reaching my roll, I removed the bundles I had stashed for decoys and attempted to get a few moments rest.

No sooner had I closed my eyes then two delicate sculptured hands shook me gently. "Did you find the mage?" Tara whispered.

"Yes," I replied, turning around gazing into her perfect face. "The mage will be waiting for us. You were correct the idea a bard was here angered him to no end."

"Thought it might," she smiled. "Did you mention my name to him?"

"As a matter of fact yes I did," I informed her. "I told him you were my employer.

"What did he say when you told him I was here?"

"Actually, I continued, sitting up rubbing my eyes," he didn't appear to recognize your name."

"I have played palaces in Sidanthra," Tara fumed. "I've even had a command performance in the capitol city of Archeon and no one in this backwoods region as ever heard of me."

"I am sorry to see it distresses you so," I replied rising from my roll uncertain how to respond."

"Oh well it doesn't matter," she smiled. "After this day they will have heard of me."

"What do you mean?"

"I will tell you later, she promised rising to her feet. For now you need to secure your bedroll and prepare to leave."

"So how was your evening," I asked hesitatingly.

"Not bad," she replied pausing slightly. "She really was quite pleasant company for a sadistic fiend."

After the priestess had risen, we quickly began making our way for the tower, Tara and me leading the way. We were nearing the tower when a burst of white flame struck the first rank of shadow warriors, engulfing them in flame."

"It's an ambush!" One of the shadow warriors shouted even as the mage charged with his men. Grisella was quick to respond hurling black beams of energy at Marqel who deflected them with a shield of spidery energy.

"So a lackey of Malice dares to challenge me!" Marqel scoffed.

"Watch your blasphemous tongue," Grisella shot back. "Or I will cut it out hedge mage."

Marqel roared in rage at the insult as the casters clashed in a magikal conflict while their forces engaged each other. During the ensuing chaos, Tara and I slipped away heading for the now unprotected door to the keep.

Once inside, I could see why the mage had opted to camp outside of the tower. The walls were crumbling, eroded by the encroaching vegetation as were the stone stairs leading to the next level. The slightest misstep could send the entire structure crashing down upon our heads.

"The tree rat informed me, the scroll is hidden in a secret alcove on the far left wall," Tara said.

"What will you be doing?"

"Someone must guard the entrance," she informed me. "Since I am not a thief that task should fall to me." Once again, I found it difficult to argue with her reasoning.

After careful examination, I discovered a small door, which opened into a tiny alcove, barely big enough to crawl through. Using my elbows to propel me forward, I inched down the passage reaching a small chamber. Prior to exiting, I analyzed the exit, locating a trip wire. Inhaling a deep breath, I attempted to disarm the trap prior to proceeding. Having removed the trigger, I entered the chamber.

The chamber appeared to be little more then a glorified root cellar with earthen walls and floor. Glancing about I spotted the scroll of Renail sitting upon a common worktable. I would have imagined the item would have been guarded more zealously. Perhaps, long ago the scroll was not the treasured item of power it was now.

Making my way to the table however, soon discovered the error in my judgement. The floor dropped beneath my feet, barely giving me time to grab the edge of the pit to prevent myself from plummeting onto the spikes below. Slowly, I began to drag my body out of the pit, grabbing the leg of the table to aid me in this endeavor.

Suddenly, there was a loud explosion as the scroll was jarred from its position, setting over an explosive guard rune. Fortunately, I managed to keep hold of the leg, which landed directly across the pit permitting me to escape. Snatching the scroll off the floor where it had landed, I hastily departed the room fearing further possible traps.

No sooner had I stuck my head out when I felt a cold sharp metal edge pressed against my exposed neck."

"So thought you would run off with the scroll, "an all to familiar raspy voice mocked."

Where was Tara? She was supposed to warn me if any problem aroused. Unless, she was already dead, facing the fury of a mage I doubt even she could have managed to escape.

"Come out of the alcove slowly," Marqel ordered. Having little choice, I complied with his demands. The mage tore the scroll from my hands the instant I was out and placed under heavy guard by two of his men.

"So you and that bard thought you could thwart me," Marqel stated, slapping me across the face with his deformed hand. "Did you think a mere priestess even one of the goddess of evil herself could defeat a mage?"

"What have you done with Tara?" I demanded

"Nothing," Marqel chortled, "your little co-conspirator ran off once I had defeated the priestess. Serves you right for throwing in with a bard."

My heart sank at his words. Tara had deserted me leaving me at the mercy of this depraved fiend. Why had I allowed myself to be coerced by this seductive siren on a mission that I could see was fraught with peril?

"So I suppose you intend on killing me?" I sighed, crestfallen at the sudden turn of events.

"Not at all," He cackled triumphantly as his guards prodded me forward. "The denizens released from the shadow realms must destroy a person body and soul upon release to be sated and thus controlled. You my good thief should serve quite well."

My mind went numb at this sudden revelation. I was to be the first victim of the demented mages scheme, whatever that might be. I could not blame Tara for escaping when she had the chance.

The mage methodically prepared his brazier for the incantation, while his two remaining guards stood at either side of me to prevent any possible escape. The flames leaped up in the air as he signaled the guards to drag me forward.

"Soon," Marqel laughed, "you will be instrumental in releasing the shadow beings on the world once more."

"Why do you wish to release the beasts?" I asked, attempting to delay my demise as long as possible.

"Why not?" He shrugged. "With the shadow beasts I can conquer Sidanthra itself, even Archeon."

"But you said the creatures need souls to survive?"

"It matters not," he replied with an evil leer, "common people behave like cattle, no reason they shouldn't be treated as such. But I weary of this useless chatter, it is time for the gate to be opened once again."

I kneeled helpless before the brazier as he unrolled the scroll and began to mouth the words that would release the fiends upon Iamoore.

Suddenly, I heard an oddly lyrical wispy sound. A sudden gust of wind sprang up from out of nowhere.

"The scroll!" Marqel exclaimed as a powerful blast of wind ripped it out of his hands. The scroll danced through the air keeping just out of the mage's grasp. The artifact ended its flight teetering upon the edge of the brazier.

"That would be most unwise," a young female voice warned as he reached for the scroll. The mage's bloodshot eyes bulged with rage as Tara stepped out from the bush she had used for concealment, strumming her lyre.

"You bard!" Marqel exclaimed, his hands crackling with magikal energy.

"I would be careful," Tara remarked calmly at his sudden display of power. "At this time, I am the only one preventing your dreams of glory from going up in flames." The mage's hands cease to crackle with energy as he stood glaring at Tara.

"What do you want bard?" He asked between clenched teeth.

"First you may call me Tara," she continued in that same cool manner. "Bard sounds so cold and informal. I wont ask if you are traveled enough to have heard of me."

"And the second ba-," he paused as she struck a few off notes, the scroll teetering closer to the flame. "I mean Tara," he amended.

"The second, you will release my companion and send him over to me. After that, I will give you back your little scrap of parchment." Marqel grudgingly nodded his head, signifying his men to release me. Scrambling to my feet, I rushed over to Tara's side.

"I thought you had deserted me."

"Desert my hero?" she exclaimed, "Never. I realized I couldn't defeat a mage in pitch combat, so I needed to wait until the proper time to make an appearance. Incidentally," she criticized Marqel, "it took you long enough to ready that brazier, I nearly developed a cramp waiting in the bushes for you."

"I kept my word," Marqel stated," now give me back the scroll."

"True you did," Tara commented with a sly smile. In response the lovely bard ceased playing, allowing the scroll to drop into brazier.

"I did what you asked!" The mage shouted. "You promised you would give me the scroll."

"True," Tara admitted smiling sweetly. "I lied."

Before Tara could strike another note, Marqel cast a blue globe about her. "Let's see how clever you are with no sound." Marqel crowed triumphantly.

I rushed forward to intercept the mage as he walked towards the now helpless girl. Marqel waved his hand in my direction, freezing me in mid-stride.

Tara hung her head in utter defeat, dropping to her knees holding out her precious lyre.

"You will pay for your insolence bard," Marqel jeered approaching her. I attempted to leap to her defense only to find myself unable to move. "Though first my lovely one," the mage said lustfully, "we will make use of that delectable body of yours."

I struggled with all my strength against the mage's spell to no avail as he reached out a gnarled hand for her. Tara suddenly jumped to her feet, bashing the mage across the face with her lyre. Strips of flesh where the strings had hit began to smolder and burn. The mage fell to the ground clawing at his smoldering face. Taking a slender stiletto hidden on her belt, Tara plunged it into the neck of Marqel.

Upon seeing their employer fall dead to the ground the two mercenaries charged us to exact revenge. Freed from the mage's spell upon his death I jumped in front of the bard, my sword at the ready. Tara began to sing a stirring hymn filling my body with strength and vigor.

I met my foes, easily parrying their attempts with childish ease. Before they could react, I drove my sword into the abdomen of one while tucking beneath the others attack. I flung the body into the other attacker, causing him to stumble backwards. Using a backward slash, I severed his head from the torso.

"Well done," Tara approved clapping.

"It was magik not my skill that won the day," I explained, recovering from the sudden rush of energy that had engulfed me.

"You don't give yourself enough credit Sedric," she remarked. "That song only enhances what is already there, nothing more." I paused taken back at her revelation. "For the most part, the courage and skill were your own." She continued retrieving her silver strings. "A pity about the lyre," she added with a twinge of regret. " At least I still have the strings comprised of singing silver. I doubt I will have chance to replace the lyre though, till we leave this uncivilized land."

"We?"

"Of course," Tara said with a sly wink. "I still have a promise to keep. That means we must find an Inn with a nice room and plenty of privacy."

"I won't hold you to that," I informed her. My body ached for this woman, but I was not about to take her under the guise of obligation.

"I know," Tara said giving me a peck on the cheek, "and that is sweet. I choose what promises I keep."

"Incidentally," I observed attempting to gain some control. "I thought you never carried a weapon."

"Oh that," she remarked off-handedly, "well a good performer always keeps a few surprises to catch the audience off-guard."

"I see," I said considering her comments, "and the scroll?"

"More trouble then its worth, better ending anyway," she added. "Now do you want to keep talking or reach an Inn? I want to lie in a nice soft bed. Besides, I have an epic ballad to compose," she paused slightly. "Sedric the noble thief, or perhaps Sedric the honorable thief. What do you think?"

"I don't want to be a hero," I protested.

"Nonsense," Tara replied, "everyone wants to be a hero."

"Then you be the hero."

"Me?!" Tara exclaimed in surprise. "I am but a humble bard,"

"Humble?"

"All things considered," she said indignantly," I think I am very humble. Now lets see," she rambled on as we left the haunted tower. "Of course, I will need to change the ending slightly, perhaps you in a deadly struggle with the mad mage, yes I think that will work." I continued to present my objections realizing they would only be ignored. She was after all, Tara Songsmith.

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