The Nightblade Epic Volume Two: A Book of Underrealm, page 85
Babo was somewhat skeptical. After so many months of searching, he doubted that Toba’s finding could be as ideal as she described. But he nevertheless arranged an expedition, leading it himself in a long journey west. Toba came with him, guiding him through the cleft in the land and the valley beyond. And when he beheld the mountain, Babo knew his search was over.
For her efforts, Babo placed Toba at his right hand in all the family’s dealings. And he gave her a task at once: to find the best stonemasons and crafters from all across Feldemar, and hire them to turn the mountain into the stronghold he had long desired. This she did as quickly as she could, though of course it was still a job of many years.
Babo took his seat in the heart of the mountain only three years before the end of his life, naming it Yewamba, which means “Sky Home” in the ancient tongue of Feldemar. And when he died, Toba took his place as the family’s new Patron. From this new position of strength and secrecy, the Patrons of Yerrin grew their trade of magestones (and their reserves of gold) until their wealth and power was unmatched. The family grew in number commensurate to their status, and soon their soldiers in Yewamba were near enough to a standing army, though they were loath to engage in warfare.
After the Dark Wars, when magestones were banned and the Yerrins had to conduct their trade in secret, Yewamba grew less and less necessary. The Yerrins were playing at politics now, and though they had not yet made overtures towards a throne, that desire seemed to be growing in their Patrons. With their increased presence in the courts of the nine kingdoms, Yewamba’s remote and inaccessible location—once its most valuable asset—was now a detriment.
So it was that between the eleventh and twelfth centuries of Underrealm, Yewamba was slowly emptied. The Patron retreated there less and less, and fewer and fewer Yerrins lived there. Now they were spread throughout all the nine kingdoms, and their holdings in Dahab were held to be the most important—that, and the holdings they had always kept on the High King’s Seat since it was built.
By the time Loren of the family Nelda came to clash with the family Yerrin, and eventually followed Damaris to Yewamba, the fortress had been abandoned for more than a century. Only the Patron and some of the family’s highest scions, such as Damaris, even knew of its existence. Damaris was forced to populate it in haste after Loren thwarted her in Selvan, and it was not properly guarded or supplied when Loren and her party of Mystics infiltrated it in the Year of Underrealm 1313. But what role it would play in the rest of the war between the Necromancer and the Lifemage, not even Damaris could have guessed.
DANFON
The city of Danfon is the oldest in the kingdom of Dorsea and its current capital—but that has not always been the case.
Renna the Sunmane ordered the building of the city during the years that she guided the settling of Dorsea and Selvan. Some people of Feldemar, which was newly under Roth’s rule, joined the settling process, but it was mostly Roth’s people who came to live there. Feldemarians tended to travel farther south to Selvan, where the land was more bountiful, and there were forests that reminded them of home—more so than the arid lands of northern Dorsea, at any rate.
Thus the first people to settle Dorsea were, in the main, Roth’s people. This is one reason that Dorseans and the Dulmish, as people of Dulmun are sometimes called, bear such a resemblance to each other, while looking quite different from the people of Feldemar, who are darker of skin, or the people of Selvan, who took on a great deal of Hedgemond blood and so are quite pale.
But the culture of Dorsea became sundered from that of Dulmun, and this came about far more quickly than one would have expected from their common origin. This split was brought about by Underrealm’s first civil war—which, depending on who told the tale, was referred to as the Sunmane Rebellion or the Scourging of the Blackheart, and was by scholars referred to more neutrally as the War of Roth’s Kin.
When Renna slew her father Roth on the docks of Kingsmouth and earned the name Blackheart, Sunmane declared war upon her at once. But even shadowed by grief and rage, Sunmane’s wisdom and strategy were without peer. Therefore she removed herself from the city of Garsec in Selvan, which was far too vulnerable to attack via the Great Bay, and relocated to the city of Danfon. There was a palace there already, in anticipation of Roth’s naming a new king to rule the kingdom, and now Sunmane made her home there.
Thus, even as she prepared for war against her niece, she governed the city’s layout and growth, so that it was a more well-ordered and thoughtfully laid out than it otherwise might have been. Too, she gave charge of the city’s construction to the best crafters she could find. Many of these were Feldemarians, and from them Sunmane’s people learned the making of tile roofs and plaster walls, which better resisted the wildly changing temperature and sometimes-torrential rains of the area. But these were refined by Dulmish aesthetics, so that the tiles were often colored a brilliant red, and the walls a pure white, a strikingly beautiful combination that became a Dorsean trademark. The roofs were often pointed at the corners and curved up slightly, allowing them to be adorned with all manner of beautiful decoration—as well as, centuries later, providing a better foothold for those like Loren of the family Nelda, who spent a great deal of time on rooftops.
As the war raged on, the Sunmane was hard put to keep her holdings in Selvan and Dorsea—which, at that time, was a kingdom with no name, for more pressing matters concerned her. Garsec, as Sunmane had guessed, often fell prey to Blackheart’s attacks, and while Sunmane always cast her back, the city suffered much in those years. But Sunmane did not cease in the mission Roth had given her, and she sent parties of explorers to range ever further west. Before the war was won, they had already found the Western Sea, and learned that the Greatrocks trailed to their end far south, giving birth to the Dragon’s Tail River. These lands were settled methodically, if slowly, and they brought wealth to Sunmane’s armies that would help to turn the tide of the great conflict. And as they had in Feldemar, the family Yerrin would play a large part in the resolution of that war—but so, too, would the family Drayden, who had not before that time entered very far into the politics of Underrealm. But more about this will be said elsewhere.
Much has been recorded about the War of Roth’s Kin, about how the Sunmane at last defeated the Blackheart and claimed her place as Underrealm’s High King. As one of her first actions after taking the throne, she at last gave the new kingdom a name: Dorsea, for it now bordered all three oceans of Underrealm. Selvan’s rule was given to her daughter, Silvin, while Dorsea was given to Silvin’s father, Bahati, once a lord of Feldemar, who had become one of Sunmane’s most esteemed generals during the war. Bahati ruled in Danfon for the rest of his days, though it was often said that he missed his homeland to the north, and only remained out of his sense of duty and love towards Sunmane. After his passing, his body was taken back to Feldemar and buried in the village where he was born.
Centuries later, a Dorsean Wizard King attempted the murder of the High King in order to take his place. But the murder was foiled, and in the ensuing war, the High King brought all the other kingdoms against Dorsea. Indeed, this is why the nine kingdoms were established the way they were. If any king thought to betray the High King, the other lands could be rallied to subdue the rebels. The king of Feldemar was instrumental in the High King’s victory, and she herself led the charge over the walls of Danfon that eventually took the city.
For the Feldemarian king’s service, the High King granted her all the northeastern lands of Dorsea, and they were part of Feldemar for hundreds of years. But the Feldemarian kings never took up residence in Danfon, preferring to rule from their capital in Dahab.
Then, near the end of the Dark Wars, this situation played out in reverse. King Nayala of Feldemar resisted the Fearless Decree and spurned Andriana the Fearless. In the end her forces were defeated, though Nayala herself was never captured or killed, and her name became one of terror across Underrealm for many years—a campfire story to frighten children. But this time it was Dorsea who provided a great service in overthrowing the rebels in Feldemar, and Danfon was recaptured by Dorseans. When the Dark Wars finally ceased, Danfon and all the northeastern lands were made part of Dorsea again. There has the Dorsean king ruled ever since.
THE FALL OF JORDEL OF THE FAMILY ADAIR
What sorrow chills the heart of we
Who mourning raise our weary hands
To tragic farewell bid to he
Who watchful guarded nine the lands
O stranger here, will not you weep
Know not you he who fell from high
His bed a cairn and there to sleep
And ages now to pass him by
Know not you Jordel of Adair
Who restless walked the miles long
His arm of might, his silver hair
His blade that shone, his armor strong
For none could know a heart so bold
Or kindness in such measure great
But weep to see him lying cold
Forever master of his fate
For though he saw along his trail
And well knew he the fate that loomed
With head held high, in shining mail
Jordel rode on to meet his doom
And so your weeping bring to close
Let courage firm your tears allay
Jordel his bier in shadow chose
To bring us all through night to day
This song was heard by Loren’s party just south of the Birchwood, as they pursued Damaris after their time in Danfon. A woman sang it in a tavern where Loren had stopped for the night. As soon as they heard Jordel’s name, they all stopped to stare at the singer, transfixed. Gem’s eyes shone with wonder.
“That is Albern’s song,” he said.
Loren frowned at him. “Do not be stupid, Gem. Of course it is not Albern’s song.”
“It is,” insisted Gem. “I heard him sing. I heard him talk. Those are his words.”
Annis cocked her head as she regarded him. “It does sound like something Albern might have sung—stirring, if a bit plain-spoken. But Gem … in Northwood …”
“I know what happened in Northwood,” said Gem, his nostrils flaring. “I was there. But still I say that is Albern’s song.”
“Gem, it cannot be,” said Loren. “He … he fell.”
“Then he wrote it before Northwood was attacked,” said Gem, his hands balling to fists. Tears filled his eyes, threatening to spill. “I am telling you that Albern wrote that song, and I will not be called a—”
His words cut off as Loren pulled him into an embrace. Now that no one could see his face, Gem let himself weep, clutching Loren’s shirt.
“You are right,” said Loren quietly. “It is Albern’s song. It is.”
After some time, Gem went to the woman in the corner and learned the words from her, and Loren would often hear him humming the tune upon the road. He always insisted Albern wrote it. Gem was both right and wrong in his guess, but none of them would learn that for a long time yet.
LETTERS CONCERNING THE BATTLE OF WELLMONT
Year of Underrealm 1312
28 Septis
Captain Trisken,
I saw something today here in Wellmont that I cannot explain. I do not know if it is important or not, but you said to inform you of any development, no matter how small it may seem.
It happened during another attack by the Dorseans. They stormed the southern wall as they have done before. But this time the city had a sortie ready, and they met the Dorseans on the plains south of the city.
I was stationed on the walls (you will remember that I am placed in Wellmont’s city guard). I saw the Dorseans fall upon the Selvan soldiers and divide them up.
One group of Selvans seemed pinned against a ridge in the land by a small party of Dorsean horsemen. I thought them doomed and turned my attention away. But a few moments later, there was a flash of light—blinding even from where I stood on the wall. I turned back.
The Selvans had somehow repelled the Dorseans, all of whom lay dead or stunned. But only two Selvan soldiers had survived. I saw them stumbling back towards the walls, one supporting the other, who seemed injured.
I did not know the two figures, but they were clearly mercenaries. What is strange is that I did not think the mercenaries in Wellmont had any wizards among their ranks. Yet the flash I saw was akin to magelight, though I have never seen it shine so bright.
I have been unable to learn the names of these two mercenaries, but I will continue to search unless I receive word from you to abandon this matter. Forgive me if this is any trouble—I know you and my brethren have enough to do in the Greatrocks.
Your faithful servant,
Rorik of the family Heln
* * *
28 Septis
Chancellor Endil,
Captain Jordel rode from the city today, taking with him a half dozen of our brothers, including Vivien. The Captain did not tell us where he was going, though he said he would be back. He rode off with an urchin boy behind him on the saddle, oddly enough.
Our order’s position at Wellmont remains secure. The Dorseans show no indication of interest in us beyond our location in the city, and I will of course inform you if that situation should change in any regard.
A small aside, if you will forgive me. Something odd happened during today’s battle. It seems a wizard has been hiding in the ranks of the mercenaries hired by the mayor. They were among the sortie that fought the Dorseans outside the walls, and a party of them became separated and surrounded. There was a flash of what I am sure was magelight—more powerful than any I have ever seen—and the Dorseans were struck down. It must have been mentalism, for I could see no burns or other signs of elementalism.
Only two of the mercenaries escaped, and so I think one of them must be the wizard. I do not know why they would have concealed their gift, for of course wizards fetch a much higher price than simple soldiers.
In any case, I am sure you wonder why I would write you about this, for while unusual, it hardly seems noteworthy. But when the mercenaries returned to the city, I spotted that one of them had the mark of the family Drayden upon his forearm. He was injured, though it did not seem life-threatening. I could not tell, of course, whether it was he or his companion who was the wizard—though if I had to guess, I would say it was the Drayden, for he is slimmer of build and more bookish looking, if you take me. His companion is a brawny woman who I am quite sure would be able to lift me above her head. She carries a sword that seems much too fine for a common footsoldier in a mercenary army.
An unknown Drayden wizard was just odd enough, I thought, to warrant mentioning.
I hope Feldemar is treating you well, though I do not envy your presence there during the heat of this summer.
Only in watchfulness lies safety.
Vella of the family Persin
Knight of the Mystic Order
* * *
29 Septis
Chancellor Endil,
I am sorry to send another letter so quickly, but something has happened. Vivien returned to Wellmont badly injured, burned by darkfire. She reported that the wizard Xain is an eater of magestones. All the Mystics in her company were slain trying to bring Xain down—all but Jordel, who she says joined Xain and now rides at his side. This is hard for me to believe, but Vivien has no reason to lie, and has always been a fiercely loyal servant of our order.
I fear the chancellor here means to throw Jordel out of our order. Doubtless word of this would have reached you in time, but I wanted to send a letter as quickly as I could.
Only in watchfulness lies safety.
Vella of the family Persin
Knight of the Mystic Order
* * *
30 Septis
Chancellor Endil,
I must apologize again most profusely for the frequency of my messages to you. I hope you will understand that I would not bother you so unless I thought it was important.
I mentioned two mercenaries in my letter of two days ago. They left Wellmont just this morning. From what I have been able to gather, they purchased supplies (at an exorbitant price, for all goods are more expensive due to the invaders) and also hired two lovers from a guild here in the city. They then set out from Wellmont, though I am unable to find out how they did so, since the gates are barred. It is possible they snuck out through the west rivergate, which is not yet fully repaired after that wizard Xain blasted it open. Or mayhap they escaped over the wall. We know that one of them is a wizard, and mayhap they have some clever spell beyond my knowledge. But they headed southeast, and were spotted by city guards shortly before they were out of sight. I cannot say why, but this has troubled me ever since I learned of it.
In any case, I hope my letters have been no trouble and that the information is useful.
Only in watchfulness lies safety.
Vella of the family Persin
Knight of the Mystic Order
* * *
30 Septis
Dearest Matron Mangas,
I hope this letter reaches you before you require it. With the battle here in Wellmont, the roads are fraught.
Two of my lovers were hired for a journey. Their names are Cara of the family Eldun and Ombi of the family Unde. Cara is dark and well muscled, and her hair juts a few fingers from her head. Ombi is fair of skin with dark brown hair and blue eyes.
The customers were named Oris and Filip, though the second one goes by Flip. They are mercenaries who fought here in Wellmont—or I should say they were, since they have left the city. Oris is tall and broad. The sun has browned her skin and lightened her hair, which she often wears in a little tail. She wore a blue vest and carried an exquisite sword. Filip wears fine clothing—a purple jacket when last I saw him—and has hair to his shoulders. Though he tried very hard to hide it, he is a Drayden.
