"Seven Jade Doors" -- Act II

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"Seven Jade Doors" is copyright 2010 by Charles Shaver. All rights reserved.

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BROKEN HEARTS: Wherein Alecto Attempts to Take Her Life; Stavros and Comet Fox Argue; Old Friends Go Separate Ways

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Part 1

Darkness, sorrow and despair filled the heart of young Alecto. She lay, trying to sleep amidst the friends and the night, covered in a blanket of fleece. Eloqua lay snoring next to her. Alecto's eyes found the moon and watched its path beneath Kalavata. She pricked up her head, looking about. Everyone was asleep, even Stavros who was to be on guard for enemies. The rat sat leaning with his back against a cypress, his head bobbing with wear. When at last his head rested low and did not come up, Alecto removed her blanket and stood to creep away from the others.

Every move she made created some noise. She feared every step. Yet she moved onward, away from the camp and unseen. She wandered, heart weak with worry, until she came to the side of a creek. She bent low to watch the moon's reflection there and caught a glimpse of her own. She asked of her mirrored self, "Why must so much death rule the world? Why must my mother hate me and wish me dead like my father?"

Tears flowed from her heart, out her eyes and cascaded through the cold night air to land, rippling in the waters of the creek. She could not look at herself, her eyes darting from her reflection. Laying on the ground nearby was a short length of a fallen branch from a cypress tree. It's end came to a long and jagged point and she thought it might make a fine spear. She leaned forward, grabbed at the branch and picked it up in both her hands. She eyed the branch, wondered at its fall, then turned it round so that the broken point was directed at her own stomach. She weeped quietly, desiring her own death. Thought she that were she already dead, her mother might end her reign of terror and the others would not need flee with such effort.

A small sound startled her and she turned, afraid.

Came a voice, "Are you well, Little Empress?" It was Stavros who had seen Alecto slip from the campground.

Alecto hid the branch up her sleeve and answered with cracked voice, "Y-yes."

"I know lies," said Stavros as he stepped from the shadows. He drew near and sat by the creek's edge, beside the kneeling Alecto.

"I've no reason to lie," lied Alecto.

"Oh?" Stavros considered his reflection in the creek's water. "Once I was a small rat, did you know that, Little Empress?"

Alecto shook her head.

"It's true. I was but a mere mortal rat, a common pest no one wanted near. Yet here I am," Stavros leaned closer to the waters to consider himself, "a Blessed One that has witnessed much adventure, much death, much agony, I've had many good friendships and witnessed many triumphs - my own and those of others."

Stavros looked to Alecto and said, "There are times I wonder why I was chosen by the Misty Hands of the Cosmos to become what I am now. And yet, I chose to bite off that bit of the Jewel of Zingtai that made me what I am as I sit by your side now. I was so very hungry then and didn't understand what the jewel was. I had hoped it was food. It wasn't, of course. And my fate as I sit here now very much confuses me. I am blessed. I am cursed. I am Stavros the Red. Once I was little Garu, friend to Doku. Now I am Stavros, friend to Comet Fox and the Ruska Roma. What a marvelous and frightening life I've lived and it is far from over."

Alecto said, "You are truly blessed. You should not consider the events of your life a curse. They are as they need to be and you will act upon those events as you need to react. Your life is truly wonderful."

Stavros smiled at this. He gazed deeply at Alecto and spoke, "And you should do the same. There is no other Little Empress. You are now witness to many tragedies, but your triumphs will come due and your friends - myself included should you wish - will be there at your side."

Alecto could not fight the tears upon hearing this. She threw herself into the arms of the rat.

Said Stavros into her ear, "Allow me the branch, Little Empress."

Alecto drew away from him, afraid to learn he had guessed at her thoughts and actions. Somewhat ashamed, frightened, but comforted by the gentle nature of Stavros she admitted to her desires by producing the branch from her sleeve and handing it over to Stavros.

Stavros took the branch, floated it in the creek and let it go to sail with the flow of water. He looked to Alecto again and said, "Give us a chance to make matters right."

At this, Alecto determined to remain alive. She said, "Thank you, friend Stavros."

Together they returned to the others. Stavros covered Alecto with the fleece blanket to keep her warm and sat at her side while she fell asleep. Before she slipped away, she asked, "Stavros, do you think that one day all this suffering will end?"

The question confused Stavros. He was uncertain if the Little Empress meant all the suffering in the world or merely her own suffering. He searched for a proper response and, finding a way to answer both possible questions, said, "I can only hope."

He stayed by her side through the night. He did not wake Comet Fox in the small hours when the moon fades into Kalavata's wings and before Etain crests the horizon. When Comet Fox scolded Stavros for this upon his waking, Stavros explained, "I could not sleep, friend, therefore I allowed you to rest while I remained awake."

Comet Fox sighed, saying, "Did anything happen to keep you awake?"

Stavros told a half-truth, "No, my own thoughts were keeping me awake."

Soon the entire gather band was awake, stretching with the morning sun. They were all startled when they heard the crashing sound of someone running through the wooded areas where they had slept. Came to them, by chance, Balin Pop and his young wife Jasmyn, refugees running for their lives and from their home in the small town of Caerraul near the river Ursk. When Balin Pop saw Comet Fox and the others, he gasped with fright, fearing they may well be in league with the demon Ketsueki Sato.

"Stay away from us!" he cried, placing his wife behind him so as to protect her.

"Who are you?" Comet Fox demanded.

Balin Pop stood, his wife peering from behind him, amidst the cypress trees, eying the Comet Fox and his band. "We will not go with you," warned Balin Pop. "We will not be tortured by your master Ketsueki Sato. You've destroyed our homes, you'll not lay another hand upon us!"

Comet Fox approached Balin Pop and Jasmyn slowly.

Balin Pop looked to the ground, found a large fallen branch and picked it from the ground. He waved it menacingly at Comet Fox, "Stay back fiend!"

"You do not understand," answered Comet Fox. "We are not in league with the demon. We are in flight from him as you appear to be. Tell me, what has he done to your people?"

Balin Pop, having run all night with his wife, gasped for air. He struggled to speak.

Jasmyn tugged at her husband's dark robe now torn from the efforts of their flight. She whispered into his ear, "I believe this to be the one called Comet Fox. He is a friendly spirit and son to Coyote."

Balin Pop eyed Comet Fox. "What are you called, demon?" he asked.

"I am called Comet Fox," came the answer, "but I am no demon. I am a god."

Balin Pop lowered the branch to the ground. He said, "Is this true? Do gods run from the demons now? I thought gods and demons stood against one another."

Comet Fox nodded, "Most often that may be true, but we've mortals in our midst and they cannot stand against demons, so we run."

Balin Pop heaved with effort, trying desperately to breathe.

Yele Prin Prin brought forth two skins of water and handed them to Balin Pop and Jasmyn. The two refugees took them hesitantly, then drank deeply from them.

"Thank you," said Balin Pop once he had nearly emptied the skin.

Jasmyn considered Yele Prin Prin, her dark skin and feathered wings. She smiled at her and said, "You are quite beautiful."

Yele Prin Prin blushed and thanked Jasmyn for the fine compliment.

Comet Fox drew nearer Balin Pop. He said, "Tell me what Ketsueki has done to you."

"He killed a family in our town of Caerraul, then set every building ablaze with his angry fire. We fled into the night, leaving everything behind," explained Balin Pop.

Stavros came to Comet Fox and said, "The demon's anger must lash out. A demon must destroy. Since we are keeping ahead of him, I suspect he's destroying everything else in his path along the way in frustration."

"Ketsueki's murdering because he cannot face us, is that what you mean to say?" asked Comet Fox.

Stavros nodded.

"Would one of you happen to be Xiao-tep?" asked Balin Pop.

Comet Fox's ears pricked up at this. He said, "What of Xiao-tep?"

"The demon called for Xiao-tep. He said if Xiao-tep does not appear before him to fight, he will continue to destroy and murder throughout world."

Comet Fox sighed at this.

"Am I to assume none of you are Xiao-tep, then?" asked Balin Pop.

Comet Fox shook his head. "Xiao-tep knows of Ketsueki Sato's presence in the world, but he will not face him."

"Then we have to face him," said Stavros. "We must make a stand and fight Ketsueki."

Comet Fox looked to Alecto. He said, "No, we cannot."

"Then the demon will continue his wrath," Stavros spat.

"Alecto and Eloqua cannot fight!" argued Comet Fox.

"I have been teaching Eloqua the use of weapons. She may not have our skills yet but she can help more than hinder at this point in her training," said Stavros. "We must fight the demon or let the world continue to suffer!"

"And what of Alecto?" asked Comet Fox.

"We will find for her a good hiding place before the fight."

"And should Ketsueki find her?"

"We will not allow that!"

Comet Fox shook his head, "You know as well as I that all the preparation in the world cannot truly bring us to the foot of battle. Every detail in a fight must be scrutinize as the fight unfolds and when a weakness is found, it must be exploited. Ketsueki is an old and wise demon, a demon that once had tricked me into being his slave. He will know the course of battle as much as we and we cannot control every detail. He will also be looking for weaknesses and he will be looking, most of all, for Alecto."

"Listen to this man," Stavros pointed at Balin Pop, "the demon's mind is clouded with thoughts of Xiao-tep! He'll not want Alecto!"

"But what if he should find Alecto?" asked Comet Fox.

"He won't!"

Comet Fox stepped closer to the rat and said gently, "But what if he does?"

Stavros sighed. Said he, "We both know what would happen."

Comet Fox nodded. "My task from the first day has been to protect the Little Empress. I will not stray from that path, Stavros."

"Then, perhaps," Stavros' words came slowly, thoughtfully, "we should part ways. You should take Alecto to safety while the rest of us remain behind to fight."

Comet Fox sighed with frustration. "And where would you go? What would you do?"

Stavros asked of Balin Pop, "Where is the nearest town?"

Balin Pop pointed to the south and west and said, "Liu-wal. It is, I could guess, a half day's travel on foot. We were going there at first, but then thought better of it. If the demon Ketsueki is traveling the merchant paths from town to town, Liu-wal shall be his next destination, so we steered ourselves north to these woods and now here we are."

"Will Ketsueki have made it there yet?" asked the rat.

Balin Pop shook his head. "He came slowly into our town and left the same way. I suspect he's taking his time, reveling in his destruction. I would suppose you could make it to Liu-wal before the demon."

Stavros looked to Comet Fox. "I will meet Ketsueki in Liu-wal and there lay a trap for him. When he comes to burn the town, I shall strike him down."

"You speak with a fool's tongue," said Comet Fox. "Once I fought Ketsueki Sato. I alone could not have defeated him. It took the combined efforts of myself, Wu Chan Chu, Xiao-tep and many others to bring down the demon. Though he has a new form, we cannot expect him to be any weaker. Stavros... friend," Comet Fox spoke these words pleadingly, "you alone cannot stand against him. You cannot defeat ketsueki Sato."

Stavros eyed the fox-god. His hand went to the hilt of his sword. He felt the weapon a moment before saying, "I cannot continue to run. I cannot allow Ketsueki to continue his reign of terror. I was born to fight. This may be my destiny."

"But you cannot defeat the demon!" Comet Fox cried out.

"Then that, too," answered Stavros, "may be my destiny."

"I would go with you," spoke Faryad. "I tire of the pursuit, as well. Not only is the demon hounding my trail, but Sharif follows. I wish to make a stand, as well."

"I will stay at Faryad's side," added Yele Prin Prin.

Comet Fox considered the three that desired the fight. He said, "I agree that we must fight at some point, that the infernal Ketsueki Sato must be put down... but not at this time. Alecto's safety must be our priority. And then we can turn our attentions towards the demon."

"Your promise to Alecto is that," said Stavros, "it is your promise, not ours. Though I doubt any of us would argue your heart's nobleness, we cannot allow more lives to be sacrificed for hers."

"I wish I had killed myself last night!" Alecto screamed at Stavros. "I wish you'd not stopped me!"

Eloqua wrapped her arms about Alecto as she fell to the ground, weeping without end.

Comet Fox cocked his head at Stavros. "What happened last night?"

"It is true, the Little Empress wished to take her own life last night," sighed Stavros.

"And what did you do?"

"I simply spoke with her. She gave up the branch she was going to use on her belly willingly."

"I hate my mother!" cried Alecto. "I hate myself! I no longer wish life! I wish the demon would come here and take my life and end it all! Ketsueki Sato! Be my savior! End my life!"

Alecto's words echoed throughout the woods. Eloqua clasped her hand over Alecto's mouth to silence her.

The gathered band looked about, listening, watching, waiting to see if Ketsueki had heard, waiting to see if the demon would come.

"We can only pray the infernal did not hear," said Balin Pop and Jasmyn nodded in agreement.

"Comet Fox," said Stavros in a low voice, "Alecto is badly hurt. Her heart yearns for an end to this. Take her in your arms and carry her to the Peony without the rest of us. Those of us that wish to make a stand will do so at Liu-wal. This should give you enough time to get her to the safety of Wu Chan Chu's care."

"Wish that I could know you three were enough to defeat the demon," answered Comet Fox. "But I cannot say. I beg you all to reconsider. I beg you to remain with me as I travel to the Peony Teahouse to find Wu Chan Chu. She is the greatest fighter I've ever seen. Her fists and knees would be of great help to us."

"All this fighting discourages me," complained Sarut as he flew to rest atop Faryad's shoulder.

"Stay quiet," warned Faryad.

"Why should I? They yell so that the Many Gods Within the Many Heavens should hear. Why should I remain silent?"

Upon hearing Sarut's small voice, Stavros snapped at him, "Quiet, little bug, or I'll squash you as you perch upon Faryad. And I could do so without rustling a single hair on his face."

"Bring any harm onto Sarut," warned Faryad, "and I'll shatter both you and your sword into many pieces."

Stavros' pride willed him to say, "I would cut you in twain, first."

"Do not snap at the bug, Stavros. Attacking the weaker is far beneath you. I've never seen you do this before," scolded Comet Fox.

"Do not look down upon Stavros," urged Faryad. "Sarut has a way with his mouth that causes anger. It is not a flaw in Stavros, but in Sarut."

"How dare you!" cried Sarut. "First you kill my family, now you insult me! Were I larger I would strike you down!"

"I have apologized for what I have done to you and your family, Sarut. I fear I cannot do much more. I've brought you with me so that I may care for you, to repay my debt I owe to you. I will not, however, kowtow to your every whim for every whim that you may have may not always be righteous. What good would it do to promise obeisance if you are to have me conduct ill? As I am trying to live a righteous life and repay my debts of the past, I will hold you in the same regard."

"Do you suggest to command me?" defied Sarut. "Those are very many pretty words, Faryad the Exploding Sword, but do not think me ignorant. I know you've given a poetic flair to telling me to shut my mouth!"

"In essence, perhaps-"

"No more with your lies and flair!" Sarut interrupted Faryad. "Perhaps the rat is right. I think our parting is imminent. I would not stay it's arrival. Fare well to you, Faryad. May the demons of the Many Hells pursue you to death and beyond!"

Sarut took to flight. Comet Fox lifted into the air after him and gave chase, calling him, "Sarut! Wait! Talk with me!"

Comet Fox followed Sarut some ways through the cypress woods, his comet's tail streaking behind, Sarut fly with desperation and anger. Finally Sarut landed on the back of a needle-like leaf of a cypress and Comet Fox passed him by, having lost sight of the small ladybug. When Comet Fox returned to the others, Sarut slipped from behind the cypress leaf and flew from the woods unseen.

"I've lost him," said Comet Fox to the others.

"It may be best he's not with us at the moment," said Faryad, "though I feel horrible for I know from whence his anger comes."

"Do not consider yourself the source of all anger," soothed Yele Prin Prin. "Sarut has the right to be angry with you, but at some point he has chosen anger over forgiveness, pain over pleasure. You have made the attempt to help him and you can do nothing more."

"Take the Little Empress," said Stavros to Comet Fox, "remove her from this place. Get her as far away from here as possible."

Comet Fox nodded. "I do not agree with our parting ways," he said, "but I agree I can fly with Alecto in my arms more swiftly than if we remain grounded and running."

"Get her to the protection of Wu Chan Chu," agreed Stavros.

"What of me?" asked Eloqua.

"I cannot carry you both and maintain my flight for long," admitted Comet Fox. "I may be a god, but my strength is not as apt as my guile."

"Than I must stay behind," Eloqua realized. "You would trust your own life with this Wu Chan Chu?"

"I would," answered Comet Fox, "and I have."

"Then I also trust her. Take Alecto to her side. I will remain and, if I have to, I will join the fight."

Snow Fox stepped forward. He said, "Brother, I do not wish to part with you, but I cannot follow."

"I will return as swiftly as I can," answered Comet Fox.

Comet Fox gather the sobbing Alecto up in his arms. Eloqua stroked the small mustache at his maw and kissed his nose. She struggled with words and her emotions at the moment of parting. All she could say was, "Please..."

Comet Fox nodded. "With my life, I will protect her."

He then looked at Stavros and said, "Once she is safely with Wu Chan Chu, I will fly as fast as I can to Liu-wal and meet you there before the fight begins."

Stavros nodded.

The fox-god took to the air and was soon flying northward towards the Peony Teahouse, the others watching him go.

Stavros then turned to Balin Pop and said, "I assume we also will part?"

Balin Pop nodded. "I think that would be best."

Jasmyn tugged at her husband's tattered robe and said, "Balin, perhaps we should accompany them."

"What is this? Why would you want to face the demon again?" her husband asked.

"For all we know we may be the last of our people, the last of Caerraul. I would assume that if we could get away, however, others did as well. But we've no children, no home, we've barely the clothes we wear. If anyone is to bring honor and glory to our little town, let it be the two of us. Let us join these people in their fight against the demon that would destroy us."

"Glory and honor are not good reasons to fight," said Stavros. "One should fight only when it is the right thing to do."

"But you go to fight, correct?" asked Jasmyn.

Stavros nodded.

"Because it is the right thing to do?"

Again Stavros nodded.

"Then we should join you."

"If we were going to fight, dear Jasmyn," said the frustrated and fearful Balin Pop, "then why didn't we last night? Why did we spend the night running for our lives?"

"Because we were afraid," answered Jasmyn. "And maybe because it was the right thing to do. It allowed us to cross paths with gods."

"There was only one god here," corrected Stavros, "and he left."

"We still crossed his path and the paths of Blessed Ones," said Jasmyn.

Balin Pop sighed. He looked to Stavros, Yele Prin Prin, Faryad and Eloqua. He said, "I suppose being in your company would be a good thing. Jasmyn and I can always run again if we need to. Dear wife, are you certain about this?"

"As certain as the day I married you, dear husband," answered Jasmyn.

"Climb on the horse Gullnir with Eloqua, then," Stavros instructed Jasmyn, then asked of Balin Pop, "Will you be able to keep up?"

"I will do my best," said Balin Pop.

Stavros bowed slightly. He introduced himself, "I am Stavros the Red. Follow me."

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Part 2

Lei-zi came to Taleisin amidst a field of butterflies. She was in awe of the layers of colors they created throughout the Mountain That Lives in the Sky and the air around it. She stood upon the soft grass watching the flitting and fluttering of the thousands and thousands of butterflies. She held out a cupped hand and guided a Rhetenor Blue Morpho named Zyanya closer to her. The butterfly landed on her hand and crested her first finger to look at the goddess.

"Little one," said Lei-zi, "are there always so many butterflies in Taleisin?"

"No," said Zyanya. "We have come here recently, fleeing for our lives."

"Why do you flee? What would have you so frightened?"

"A demon has come into the world," said Zyanya. "And he means to destroy all life. Now we fear being here and are discussing flight to a new land. A mere day ago the demon called for the blood of Xiao-tep, Taleisin's caretaker. Taleisin is no longer safe."

Lei-zi considered this. "What is the name of this demon?"

"Ketsueki Sato. Xiao-tep has faced him once before and defeated him. Now the demon seeks his vengeance against the fish-god."

"Where might I find Xiao-tep?" asked Lei-zi.

Zyanya hesitated. She asked, "You are not in league with the demon, are you? I would not deliver death unto Xiao-tep."

"No," Lei-zi shook her head vigorously. "I am Lei-zi, Xiao-tep's mother."

Zyanya thought this over, then said, "He is atop the mountain where he communes with the dove Aglina."

"Thank you, little one."

Lei-zi released Zyanya and the butterfly joined the many layers of flying colors swirling about Taleisin. The goddess then ascended the mountain.

Xiao-tep was the first to notice her coming. He stood from where he was sitting next to Aglina's nest as they spoke and ate fruit. He watched his mother coming carefully and welcomed her with a hug and kiss when she drew near.

"Mother!" cried Xiao-tep with a smile.

"Hello, son," Lei-zi smiled in return. They embraced and Lei-zi touched lightly the ankh now glowing golden upon his head. She said, "You've undergone a change."

"Yes, mother, I have."

"Has it been a good change?"

"I believe so."

Lei-zi smiled at this.

"Mother, this is Aglina the Dove. She resides here upon Taleisin and is a dear friend. Won't you join us for a lunch of fruits?"

"I would like that," answered Lei-zi.

Together they sat, eating fruits and chatting idly about Taleisin. Xiao-tep told a few of his tales to his mother as he broke apart a mango and fed bits of it to Aglina.

"Have you spoken with father?" Xiap-tep uneasily asked.

"I have," said Lei-zi. "And recently."

"Is he well?" asked Xiao-tep.

This question surprised Lei-zi. She folded her hands upon her lap and eyed her son. She swallowed a bit of pomegranate and asked, "Xiao-tep, please forgive me, but how is it that you would care about a father that would have you dead? he still desires your death, you know."

Xiao-tep sighed at this. He merely said, "It is his way, mother."

Lei-zi thought this over. She asked, "Xiao-tep, what ha become of you? A murderous father like Hapi would surely create a child of woe and anger. Where is your anger? What has become of Xiao-tep the Ankh-fish of 100,000 Sorrows?"

Xiao-tep looked down upon the plain at the foot of the mountain. He said, "It was there, mother, below us that I took my last life. I killed Fei Li Mi upon Taleisin and struggled with the killing for some time. But then the world opened up for me and became as a beacon, a light and - as I sit before you I swear this to you - it was as though I could see the very Hands of the Cosmos themselves and their intended destiny. My vision has since become muddy, but the feeling I got that day remains. I cannot say I know the truth in all things, but I know murder can no longer be a part of my path. I must instead love the world. And why shouldn't I? It is a glorious world, even when it is ruled or stained by ugliness. As a demon must be demonic, so my father must desire my death. I cannot say he truly hates me and that eases my pain. He does not know me. True hatred cannot be bred through ignorance, though often hatred is the child of ignorance. This is the case for my father. he does not know me. He cannot hate nor love me. But to be angry and afraid that I am alive is in him. He has much to lose if my existence becomes known to the many gods."

"But Xiao-tep," said his mother, "the gods know."

Xiao-tep looked at his mother. "Do they? How?"

"Freyr had discovered the truth of your being and when he came to me with the obvious questions, I could not lie to him. A council within the Courtyard of the Seven Jade Doors was held and it was decided your presence is requested within the same courtyard to be introduced to the many gods."

Xiao-tep looked over the world, then to his mother again. "What effect will this have on my father?"

"He is angry," Lei-zi could not lie, "and he is not in general favor with the gods, but he will deal with this as he must."

"Is that why you've come to Taleisin? To retrieve me for this meeting of the gods?"

Lei-zi nodded, "And to visit with my beloved child."

Xiao-tep smiled at this.

"Tell me more of your adventures. And please tell me of your friends!" urged Lei-zi as she ate another bit of pomegranate.

Xiao-tep smiled. "I have been blessed, mother. My friends are many. Did you know I've a half-sister? I am fortunate to be able to call her friend."

"Oh?" asked Lei-zi.

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Part 3

Comet Fox came streaking across the sky above the Peony Teahouse. He circled once then landed. Alecto had fallen asleep, exhausted from emotion, in his arms on the way to the teahouse. Comet Fox woke her and said, "Dear Little Empress, we are safely here. We have come to the Peony Teahouse."

He set Alecto on the ground. A few passersby eyed them, though not for long.

Alecto wiped at her face and looked up at the glorious teahouse. "It's beautiful," she said.

"It is not as it seems," Comet Fox informed her. "It can be quite the den of ill-will."

"Where would we find Wu Chan Chu?"

"If she is here she will be the house champion. We will go inside to find her."

"House champion?"

Comet Fox nodded. "Remain close to me and do not speak to anyone."

Alecto felt a sense of danger and wonder at once.

Together the two entered the Peony Teahouse.

Comet Fox quickly found Sal Igo and questioned him of Wu Chan Chu's whereabouts.

"What do you mean she's not here?" demanded Comet Fox.

"She left," explained Sal Igo. "We have a new champion, one called Iron Shirt. His skills are far superior to Wu Chan Chu's and he will not run out on me on any little whim. So when Wu Chan Chu came here looking for her old position I turned her away."

Comet Fox shook his head. "That was a stupid thing to do."

"Why? Should I feel threatened by the mighty and powerful frog?" Sal Igo mocked.

"No, because she is a great draw and your losing money every day she's not your house champion."

"Only if she remained here, but her history with the Peony shows she cannot be trusted to do so. She comes and goes and then I have periods wherein my profits are slack. Iron Shirt is a constant and steady money-maker. He may not be quite the draw, but he more than makes up for it in the long run."

"Where did Wu Chan Chu go?" demanded Comet Fox.

Sal Igo shrugged. "Can anyone say? That dastardly frog goes where she will and when she will. She could be in Taleisin for all I know."

"How long ago did you last see her?"

"Three, maybe four days ago. I cannot remember. Her presence here was so unimportant to me."

Comet Fox grabbed up Sal Igo by his robes and said, "Listen to my words, profiteer: When next you see Wu Chan Chu tell her Comet Fox seeks here. It is a matter od dire importance."

Afraid, Sal Igo raised his hands and said, "I will convey the message."

Comet Fox let go of the Peony's proprietor.

Said Sal Igo, "Now, unless you wish to make a bet on the next fight or be in the fight yourself, go away from me. I've business to conduct."

Comet Fox glowered at Sal Igo, grabbed Alecto's hand and lead her out of the Peony. They stood side-by-side outside the teahouse's doors. Comet Fox looked in every direction, wondering which way Wu Chan Chu might have gone.

"Where do we go now?" asked Alecto.

Comet Fox sighed. He said, "I suppose our only option is to return to Liu-wal to meet up with Stavros and the others. Or, I suppose I could try to find Balori in Ife and leave you with him, but I'm uncertain where exactly in Ife he is and I'm not familiar with his country."

"Does that mean we're returning to Eloqua and the others?"

"I'm afraid so," said Comet Fox.

"Oh," said Alecto. "Can't we look for Wu Chan Chu?"

"I do not know where else she could be. I cannot search the world over looking for her. If she is not here, she could be anywhere."

Comet Fox gathered up Alecto in his arms once more and flew from the Peony Teahouse.

"What about Xiao-tep? Could you take me to him?"

"No. Ketsueki wants both of you and Xiao-tep now refuses to fight. Taking you to Taleisin would be most dangerous."

"Oh," said Alecto.

As they traveled, streaking across the sky, Alecto asked of Comet Fox, "Do you ever wonder why the Cosmos made us, Comet Fox?"

"There have been times when I've questioned my purpose," admitted Comet Fox.

They traveled on some ways more before Comet Fox asked, "Did you truly intend to kill yourself?"

Alecto nodded. "I did."

"How did Stavros stop you?"

"He merely came to my side and spoke with me. He asked for the branch I was going to use to impale myself and I handed it over. He then covered me again and made sure I was warm to go back to sleep." She then mused, "He is a good person."

Comet Fox agreed, "He is also a good friend. It hurts me that he and I argued."

"Perhaps you should speak with him on the matter," suggested Alecto. "Apologize for yelling at him."

"I am not sorry for trying to get you to safety," said Comet Fox.

"Oh."

"But I am sorry I yelled at my friend," he added.

"Speak with him, Comet Fox. Speaking with him made me feel better and made me give up the branch."

Again they were silent for a while. Then Alecto asked, "This fight with Ketsueki is going to be bloody, isn't it?"

Comet Fox reluctantly nodded. "Fights with demons are always bloody."

"Will you hide me, as Stavros suggested, then go to fight?"

"I will."

Alecto fought against tears. She asked, "What if Ketsueki does find me?"

"I will protect you," said Comet Fox. "With my life... remember?"

Alecto smiled. She gave the fox-god a small kiss, then nuzzled her head into his shoulder.

Comet Fox flew through the sky, his tail streaking with mad brilliance.

**********

Hope you enjoyed! Check back next week for Act III!

"Broken Steel" -- Act V

So, I'm a liar. I thought last week was the finale of "Broken Steel". I was wrong. I realized that many elements of the next tale could be far more easily dealt with as another act in "Broken Steel".

Here now, then, is the FIFTH and final act of "Broken Steel"!

Enjoy!

~ Charles

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"Broken Steel" copyright 2009 by Charles Shaver. All rights reserved.

ACT V

RUNNING ON THE WIND: Wherein Jupkishi and the Butterflies Enter Taleisin; Comet Fox Seeks out Xiao-tep; Xiao-tep Shares with Comet Fox his Tale of the Broken Spear of Sorrows; A Band of Dark Hearts is Formed

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PART 1

Came to Taleisin in large droves clouds of butterflies of every kind, of every color. Came they to Taleisin on winds of rumors of demons. Came they to seek council with the passing Zingtai. Came they to carry to the world word of what they saw.

Xiao-tep flowed down the mountain to the vast plains flowing gold and purple, blue and white, bright orange and grays with the flickings, flutterings of thousands upon thousands of butterflies. He drew near one that flew higher than all the rest, saying, "Welcome, friends. Welcome to Taleisin. Have you come here for some great purpose? Or is this a simple visit? I can make tea. I'll mow down grass or nuture flowers into bloom as you wish. Welcome, welcome to Taleisin."

"Thank you, friend," spoke the butterfly. "By the glory of your colors, by your kindness, may I guess you are the one called Xiao-tep?"

"I am indeed," answered Xiao-tep.

"I am Jupkishi, Elder Butterfly of All the World. I am Zingtai's great-great-grandfather and have lead my people here for her council and, perhaps, for yours."

"What can I do for you, Jupkishi?" offered Xiao-tep.

"There comes to me word of a mighty demon crossing the face of all the many lands. With him follows death like a stallion running wild upon a plain. Everything the demon touches does not merely die, it withers first in agony and pain, is tortured and then is mercilessly left so life may bleed out. Many of my people, we that live upon the lands like no other, suffer because of this. Flowers wilt and dry. Branches are too weak to hold even the smallest of our cocoons. We are desperate and though I dare not admit it to my people, I had to grant them the wisdom that I am lost at the moment. I know not how to purge the world of the demon or reclaim our lands. Many of my people have already died, withering as I have said, their bodies turning to dust like that which graces the underside of our wings.

"I seek council, friend Xiao-tep. I seek your aide."

Xiao-tep's heart grew heavy for the butterflies. He said, "I will help you the best I can. Until you find the answers you seek, you may remain here on Taleisin as my guests. You are most safe here."

"Thank you, friend Xiao-tep."

That night Jupkishi flew near his great-great-granddaughter and told her his tale of desperation, of woe, of death, of the demon. Xiao-tep flew with them. So horrible was the news Jupkishi shared, Zingtai could not help but cry.

"What is the name of the demon?" asked Xiao-tep.

"He has many names and has been called many foul things, all of which I will not share but I would not argue with, either. The name I've most often heard, however, is Ketsueki Sato. He is a demon of wood resembling a demon of the Many Hells."

"Ketsueki Sato?" cried out Xiao-tep. "Are you certain of this name? Think with every wit, Jupkishi, is this demon truly named Ketsueki Sato?"

Confused by Xiao-tep's reaction, Jupkishi cautiously put forth, "It is as I have said. His name is Ketsueki Sato."

"What's the matter, Xiao-tep?" asked Zingtai.

"I know this demon."

"Do you?" asked Zingtai.

Xiao-tep nodded. His eyes grew wet with the distance of memory. As stars glimmered overhead, he remembered the Cottonwood Chamber, his fights with Wu Chan Chu and Comet Fox, the battle for their freedom. He nodded again and said, "I have fought him once before."

"Did you defeat him?" asked Jupkishi.

"I did, with the aid of my sister and many friends."

"Bless the gods!" exclaimed Jupkishi. "Then we are saved! You can go forth and defeat him once more!"

Xiao-tep was once more awash with memory. Tears formed in his eyes. He shook his head violently, shaped his fins into clenched fists and said, "I cannot! And you cannot ask me to do this thing! I shall never fight again!"

At this Xiao-tep broke from their side and returned to Taleisin.

"What has happened?" asked Juokishi. "I meant no offense."

"You did not offend him, Great-Great-Grandfather," explained Zingtai. "You simply must not have heard that our dear Xiao-tep recently killed another fish like himself. So wracked was he with sorrow he has sworn off fighting for good. He has destroyed his famous Spear of Sorrows."

"I did not know," was all Jupkishi said.

Jupkishi returned to his people. He lead them in prayer to the gods, asking they rid the world of the demon. He then silently asked for help with Xiao-tep. He begged the gods for him to find peace and, if it be within his character to do so, to convince him to fight once more, just once more.

The butterflies slept upon the plains of Taleisin.

Xiao-tep spent the rest of the night perched near the edge of the mountain, his fins dangling over the edge as he gazed upon the sleeping world. Otti the Firefly came to him, saying, "It is not safe to be so close to the edge. Please remember the tale of Momoki's Fall."

"I know the tale well," answered Xiao-tep.

Otti landed on a blade of grass nearby and spent the night with Xiao-tep.

Xiao-tep mulled over many things in his mind. He realized how much fear, how much sorrow had plagued him for so long. And though much of it was well-suited to him as much of his sorrow was not brought on by his own actions, he realized the sorrow and fear remained with him because he allowed it. Xiao-tep closed his eyes for meditation. He controlled his breathing. He breathed in, then out, then in and held his breath, then out and held his breath and repeated this pattern until he could feel the beat of his heart. Slowly, slowly, silently Xiao-tep released the sorrows, released the pain, released the hatred for his father and fear of having to fight again.

Etain's head rose over the far horizon. The new day touched Xiao-tep's face with fingers of light. His scales glimmered brilliantly. His eyes opened. He rose from the edge of the mountain to greet the new day. He looked down upon the world; gazed upon the handiwork of the Cosmos; witnessed the clouds of the world and knew of Aowe, a boy, a mortal child and his wish for flight; he gazed upon Etain, turned to look over his shoulder at the tails of Kalavata and Zingtai. Every bit of this world he lived in, every bit of his world was alive and connected and each minute thing served its purpose. He felt the world as one, he felt all the interconnectedness of every living thing - he felt everything. He gazed into the distance and saw at the farthest reaches of all existence the Misty Hands of the Cosmos. He felt the world moving far below Taleisin, he felt Taleisin breathing and smiling at the butterflies, he heard songs in the wind, laughter in the air, life living everywhere.

His white scales grew shiny, more pearlescent. They glowed of themselves. The violet ankh upon his forehead shifted into gold and shone with a light of its own, shone like a jewel from Zingtai's wings.

He did not hate, he understood. He did not fear, he accepted death and failure. More than anything, he loved. Xiao-tep saw all things at once and, with his new understanding, he loved. Should death ever come for him, he would die. Should hatred ever mock him, he would laugh. Should anyone ever cast him out, he would hold them near.

Xiao-tep found his path, his purpose. He would not fight, could not fight, would never raise a hand or weapon again in anger or emotion or with logic. He would not allow the illness sorrow to infect him again, he would make himself too busy chasing smiles like a child chasing butterflies across an open plain.

The Heavens on high were moved, the many gods took notice.

All of Taleisin gazed upon Xiao-tep as he turned to gaze upon them. Not a single creature spoke, except little Otti who said, "By the gods, he's beautiful."

In the distance Xiao-tep saw the familiar form of Comet Fox break from a cloud, flying towards Taleisin. He went about preparing to receive his old friend.

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PART 2

Comet Fox came to Taleisin on swift wind and sparkling white light of a comet's tail. He flew hurriedly, eying the Mountain That Lives in the Sky, seeking out Xiao-tep. When he found his old friend, he landed softly near him.

"It is good to see you once more, old friend," said Xiao-tep.

Comet Fox cocked his head sideways with wonder. He studied Xiao-tep a moment, questioning his newly golden ankh, his whitened scales.

"A change has come to you," said Comet Fox, the quickly added, "I'm sorry, Xiao-tep. I forgot my greetings. It is good to see you once more, as well."

The two embraced as brothers might after years apart.

"Would you have tea with me?" asked Xiao-tep.

"I would, but I cannot stall too long," Comet Fox looked about at the mass of collected butterflies. "There are so many butterflies here. Is it always this way on Taleisin? I think I could get dizzy with all their flutterings."

"They seek the refuge of Taleisin," said Xiao-tep as he sat upon a stone and pour hot tea for first Comet Fox, then himself.

Comet Fox took the tea and nodded a thanks to Xiao-tep. "Refuge from what?"

"From the demon Ketsueki Sato," Xiao-tep explained.

Comet Fox ceased sipping at his tea. He set the cup down on the ground. He asked, "What do you mean by this? We killed Ketsueki Sato long ago."

"That I do not know, but these butterflies are here for that very reason. They seek refuge from Ketsueki Sato."

"Could he have been resurrected?" asked Comet Fox. "Could we have failed in putting him down before we fled the Cottonwood Chamber?"

"Perhaps, but anything I tell you would be speculation. I just learned of this myself the day before today."

They sat in silence a moment. At last Comet Fox said, "Those were dark days for me. I was sick with drunkenness at every hour and the demon's willing pawn as long as he fed me him enchanted fruits and wines."

"It was dark times for me, as well. I had just learned of my father's hatred and hatred filled me," Xiao-tep let memories flash across his mind. "It seems an age ago now, the day we met."

"The day we fought," added Comet Fox.

Xiao-tep smiled. "I am glad you became a friend instead of remaining an enemy."

"I am glad for it, also. And I come to you to ask for your aid, friend."

"What is it?" asked Xiao-tep. "You may ask anything of me."

"As we speak, the Eternal Empress is committing dastardly acts. She hunts her own daughter, murder is the intent. Alecto has come of age and the Eternal Empress will not have another challenge her throne, even her own daughter, though Alecto has yet to formally challenge it."

"The Eternal Empress' actions, it would seem, are destined to be foul."

"Indeed."

"How can I aid in this?"

"I have taken Alecto as my charge, I am her guardian. But the Empress' men are many. We have defeated them once, but I am uncertain if it can be done again and again. Our flight takes it toll on the mortal Alecto and her handmaiden. Truly, it takes it toll on us all. If I can but have you at her side, when the fight comes once more, I would rest well in the knowledge you are there with your Spear of Sorrows."

Xiao-tep eyed Comet Fox. He stood, asking, "Would you follow me a ways?"

Comet Fox agreed to do so. They crossed the plain of Taleisin, the massed butterflies fluttering madly and parting before them, taking flight around them, speaking to one another on how blessed they were to have gods walking amongst them.

"I think we should have put down the Eternal Empress long ago," said Comet Fox as they walked.

"Perhaps," was all that Xiao-tep gave.

When they came beneath a cherry tree, Xiao-tep looked down, gracefully waved a hand at the thirteen pieces of the Spear of Sorrows laying amidst the grass.

Comet Fox looked on. He bent low, asking, "Is it truly the Spear of Sorrows?"

"It is," confirmed Xiao-tep. "It was last used to kill Fei Li Mi when he came here with rage in his heart. His was such a sad tale. I could not let his passing go without being felt. He was, after all, as my darker self. Ii ripped from my waist my willow branch and felt the full effect of his demise, every bit of it. SO horrible was it that I determined to never fight again and thus broke the spear in its current thirteen pieces against this cherry blossom. Aleis was freed by this and I have left the pieces. I cannot bring myself to pick them up yet."

Comet Fox reached out to touch the legendary spear. One of its four blades pricked his fingertip and he bled. "Though broken," he said, "it is as sharp as ever."

Comet Fox stood. He eyed Xiao-tep. "Does this explain your change in appearance?"

"To a degree. They are all symptoms of a far greater change."

Comet Fox looked at the broken spear once more, then to Xiao-tep, saying, "You won't help me, will you?"

Xiao-tep sighed. "If I were to aid you in your present task, I would most certainly be placed into situations where I would be forced to fight." His eyes leveled and he peered into Comet Fox's eyes. "I will never fight again, dear friend."

"The Little Empress needs you, I need you. Great injustices will occur unto her if something is not done."

"I understand the possibilities in all things, in every choice. I wish to help you, but I cannot."

"Then at least let me bring her here, to Taleisin."

Xiao-tep shook his head, "I cannot allow that, either."

"But this land is pure and safe and you've always kept Taleisin's borders open for refugees! You've thousands of them flitting about currently! Why not Alecto?"

"For I intend to keep this land pure and safe. If you were to bring her here, her mother, I know, would chase after her. Armies of wicked men would find ways to climb to and conquer Taleisin."

"Perhaps I'll bring her here despite you," Comet Fox growled.

Xiao-tep sighed. "I will not stop you, though it would displease me."

Comet Fox was angry with his friend, but felt Xiao-tep was on some new path he simply could not yet understand. He knew Xiao-tep to be good and wise and caring. He also knew Xiao-tep would not dissuade him from doing anything unless he truly felt it the right thing to do.

"I trust in you," said Comet Fox, "though I do not understand you."

"Thank you, Comet Fox."

"I suppose I should be leaving. I'll need to return to Alecto's side as swiftly as I can."

"Can you wait a moment longer so that I may prepare for you a satchel of supplies?"

Comet Fox thought it over. "We could certainly use a few supplies," he agreed.

Xiao-tep called upon all the creatures of Taleisin to gather items for Comet Fox. Bark was peeled from trees and stamped down into cloth to make the satchel. Vines were dried and braided to make rope to tie the satchel and for other various uses. Foods were brought forth. Xiao-tep harvest many teas and vegetables. When the satchel was made and filled, Xiao-tep handed it to Comet Fox.

"I love you, Comet Fox. You are as a brother to me," said Xiao-tep as Comet Fox took the satchel.

These words surprised and confused Comet Fox, though he felt they were spoken with truth. He searched within himself and there found words and feelings to express to Xiao-tep, "Whatever my words may be worth, I love you as a brother, as well, Xiao-tep."

They embraced.

"Be careful, Comet Fox."

Comet Fox nodded and said his thanks to everyone. He then added, "Momoki once said we should stick to our paths. I urge that to you now. I know not what happens with you, Xiao-tep, but whatever it may be, may it be peaceful and good."

"Thank you," Xiao-tep bow low at the waist.

Comet Fox pulled the satchel on over his shoulder. He lifted to the sky and flew away. All of Taleisin watched him go and waved goodbye, wishing him luck and blessings.

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PART 3

Comet Fox had left Alecto and the others under Stavros' watchful near a small, flowing stream. Yele Prin Prin and Alecto sat in the stream, the water caressing their legs as Yele braided the young lady's hair. Gullnir drank deeply from the stream as Faryad and Snow Fox both lounged in the sun, enjoying the warmth of the day. Stavros sat in the shade of a large oak, Eloqua nearby. She eyed the rat, wondering. He caught her watching him and said, "What is it? I've had people stare at me many times before, I know when someone wants something from me."

Eloqua was startled by Stavros' accurate read of her. She said, "It is your sword. It's quite the deadly-looking weapon. Has it killed before?"

"Many times before," he said, then warning, "And it will again if I continue to be pestered."

Eloqua ignored the threat. She said, "Have you taught others to fight?"

This questions surprised Stavros for it was not a thing he had ever been asked. "No, I haven't."

"Would you?"

"Why do you ask this? Are you interested in learning how to fight?"

Eloqua moved closer so that she could speak without being heard by anyone but Stavros. She said, "Every day for more than a week now we have been on the run from Alecto's mother. The other day these good people that now surround us, along with your friend Comet Fox, had to fight the Empress' men. On that occasion Alecto and I were fortunate enough to have been hidden prior to the fight, but I fear more fights to come and there may be a time when we cannot hide. I feel I must learn how to fight for the sake of Alecto. If I do not and should be surrounded, if I do not and we should be challenged, then doom will wash over us. To learn to fight would give us a greater chance at surviving the Eternal Empress' wrath."

"And you would have me teach you?"

Eloqua nodded. "The others have many great tales of battles they've had and won. But Comet Fox, the one I trust most, trusts you most. He said your sword and friendship can be trusted. If that be so, then I wish to learn to fight from you."

Stavros breathed deep. He considered the handmaiden before him.

Snow Fox eyed the sky overhead. He was the first to see the streaking tail of his brother. "Here comes Comet Fox!" he heralded.

Everyone stood, waiting, as Comet Fox landed near them, a new satchel of supplies about his form.

"Well?" advanced Eloqua. "Will the fish-god Xiao-tep help us? What news do you bring?"

Comet Fox sighed. He said, "I bring supplies and nothing more."

"What? Where is Xiao-tep?" asked Stavros.

Comet Fox stored the satchel across Gullnir's back, thanking him for carrying the heavy loads without complaint. He then turned to Stavros and explained, "He will not come. He cannot help us."

"Why? What reason has he given you for turning his back on a helpless girl?" demanded Stavros.

"He says he can no longer fight and he knows our task will force him to do so."

"He is a coward, our Xiao-tep? After the blades I've seen lashing out upon his spear, creating lightning in the sky, fighting like no other, our friend is a coward?" Stavros was angry by the possibility.

"No, Stavros," Comet Fox soothed. "Xiao-tep is many things, but he is no coward. What he does, what he needs to do now, is a righteous thing, I feel. But cowardice, fear, lethargy have nothing to do with this. He simply cannot help us at this time."

Stavros spat. "To the Many Hells with him! When you brought him forth, I was going to let you run off with him and return to my village. But if he will not, then I will stand in his spot."

"I thank you, Stavros. We could use your sword and your company, but I say again: Xiao-tep is no coward."

"If the fish-god will not help," questioned Eloqua, "then who will? Where do we go to from here?"

"Balori!" cried out Alecto as she rose from the stream. "I have said from the very beginning that he would help us. We must seek him out."

"I agree, Little Empress, that Balori would be a strong ally, but he is as yet far off. After the Battle for the Plain of Adoration, he remained with Xiao-tep a time before leaving for Ife and Ife is yet too far," Comet Fox did his best to calm the young lady.

"Then what do we do?" cried out Eloqua. "Woe, mercy upon us!"

Comet Fox turned to Stavros. He judged his thoughts against his friend. "We will be fighting once more. It is safe to assume the Empress will soon dispatch a new band of men after us and these new men, perhaps, will be far more fierce, far hungrier for death than the first."

Stavros nodded in agreement. "She will find a man so hungry for battle he will lay to waste all that he touches from her land of Bizo to us."

"He would be a wicked man," added Eloqua. "A man with a wickedness to match her own."

This made Comet Fox think upon Xiao-tep's mention of Ketsueki Sato. "And what's more, Xiao-tep has told me of a demon that has entered the world, a demon he and I fought once before. Thought we he to be dead."

"Let us pray the demon is not the one the Empress recruits to hunt us," said Eloqua as she grasped Alecto and hugged her closely.

Comet Fox shook his head. "I doubt that to happen. I know this demon and Ketsueki Sato is not one to enter into the service of another," he let his thoughts wander on the matter a bit before adding, "Though I would not be surprised by a union between the two, himself and the Eternal Empress."

"Comet Fox," Snow Fox approached to stand by his brother.

"Yes, little brother?"

"What will we do then? We've traveled this far to find Stavros and then Xiao-tep. Now that we've done so and Xiao-tep will not help us, where do we go from here?"

"I still say we must go to Balori," spoke out Alecto.

"Quiet, girl," scolded Eloqua. "We know your feelings on the matter."

Again Comet Fox looked to Stavros, to have him confirm the validity of his thoughts as he spoke them, "It would be wise to assume we will be fighting again, perhaps many more times. We did well against the Empress' firs group of men, but as we've determines she will most likely send fiercer fighters after us. Our options, then, as I see them are thus: we disband and I carry on with the Little Empress to some safe hiding place while the rest of you remain behind to deter the oncoming fighters. Or, alternatively, we can remain together, but not only remain together, but grow our numbers with fighters of our own."

"We could build our own small army," said Stavros, "we did once before against the demon-dog Yaska Selith, we can do so against the Eternal Empress."

Comet Fox nodded in agreement.

The small group gathered closer, each thinking over the options, each remaining silent for a brief moment.

It was Snow Fox that spoke first. "I, for one, would not leave. I've come this far to see my brother, I would enjoy more time with him, even if in that time we are under duress. Perhaps that is selfish of me, but as long as my brother is dedicated to the life of our Alecto here, then so is my life dedicated to her."

Alecto smiled, looked at her feet. She said, "Thank you, Snow Fox."

Faryad and Yele looked to one another. Faryad then said, "We would like to right the injustice being done here. We will stay with you, if you'll have us."

"I suppose that means I'll have to be going along, as well," grumbled Sarut.

"And you already know you've my sword," said Stavros.

Comet Fox nodded. "Then we will remain together and find others to help us."

"But who?" asked Alecto.

"There is another and, the last I heard, she is closer. She is perhaps a day's ride from here. She is quite possibly the best fighter in all the world and will most likely be sitting upon the throne of championship at the Peony Teahouse.

"She is Wu Chan Chu the Frog Demi-goddess, sister to Xiao-tep. And we will go to her."

All were in agreement on this. They stalled not another moment longer. Eloqua and Alecto mounted Gullnir, the others gathered their things. Soon they were heading north towards the Peony Teahouse.

Stavros came to walk beside Gullnir. He said, "Eloqua, if you still wish to be trained, I will teach you all that I can."

Eloqua thanked him.

On they went, across plains and farmers' fields, over hills and through both day and night. They rested where they could, begged for food at many homes. They were met with much kindness. And as they went across the world, as they traveled, they quietly feared the coming of the Eternal Empress, they each were secretly dismayed by the presence of Ketsueki Sato in the world.

On went Faryad and Yele Prin Prin, both hunted by Sharif.

On went Sarut, ladybug without a home or family.

On went Stavros, leaving behind once more his beloved village.

On went Comet Fox and Snow Fox, brothers desperately trying to enjoy their brotherhood.

On went Eloqua and Gullnir, afraid for Alecto's life.

On went Alecto, hunted by her own mother.

And as they went; as they begged for food and were met with kindness; as people greeted them, spoke with them, learned of their harrowing trials, people spoke of them to one another. People spoke of their lives, of their curses, of their frantic flight. People watched for them, wishing to help. And as the small group traveled across the world the people called them Dark Hearts, for here was a band that knew sorrow, that knew betrayal, that was fighting against great and desperate odds for justice, righteousness.

To the east, an empress chose a murderous madman for her general.

To the south, a demon entered the home of a family to terrorize and slay them all, drinking their blood to grow stronger.

And on ran the band of Dark Hearts.

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All right, folks! There was your fifth and final act of "Broken Steel"! I hope you enjoyed it. Check back next week for Act I of "Tournament at the Peony"!

"Broken Steel" -- Act IV

Here is the fourth and final act of "Broken Steel". I'll be taking next week off from writing this latest The Children of Gods novel, but an all new story will be started right here on my blog on July 17th.

Enjoy this week's installment.

~ Charles

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"Broken Steel" copyright 2009 by Charles Shaver. All rights reserved.

ACT IV

OLD WINDS BLOW HARSHLY: Wherein Aowe Makes a Kite; Sharif Hunts Faryad; Comet Fox Faces the Imperial Soldiers; Stavros Emerges from Yuki Once More

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PART 1

Long before Comet Fox came into the lands, when the Misty Hands of the Cosmos made the world, as Momoki the Marmoset yet sat as ruler and caretaker for Taleisin, there lived a small boy named Aowe. Aowe was a gentle child. He did not like to roughhouse as other boys his age did, but was not a fearful child, either. He was the son of two textile makers and learned a love for cloth.

Once, when Aowe was helping his mother hang her newly dyed cloth, he feel in love with the way the wind was caught beneath the cloth and lifted into the air. He desired to fly, to soar above the plains his family lived upon, to capture the wind like a gull and float gently upon its currents above his home, above the world, to visit Taleisin.

But he was a mere mortal child.

Then came a time when Aowe's mother had done a particularly poor job of dyeing her fabrics. She was using a dye she had not yet ever used before and was not proficient with it enough. She practiced with a new dye on a small bit of cloth and when it came out poor, she threw the cloth aside.

"What is this, mother?" asked Aowe of the discarded cloth.

"That cloth? It is trash to be buried or used to wrap fish. I am not yet used to this new dye and it turned out poorly."

"May I have it?" Aowe asked.

His mother thought nothing of the cloth and saw no reason the boy should not have it. "Take it if you wish," she said.

So Aowe found himself the possessor of a new bit of cloth. Though unwanted, he thought it was beautiful. He would spend hours with his cloth, running through the open plains of his homeland, lifting the cloth above his head like wings and listening to the cloth flap, flowing behind him. He smiled and laughed and giggled and played with the cloth.

At one particular moment, Aowe nearly lost his cloth when a strong wind plucked it from his hands and blew it away from him so that he had to chase it down. Aowe ran frantically. Luckily, a tender sapling Aowe often sat under while resting from a day's work helping his parents or after a day filled with playing with his cloth reached out with its thin branches and grasped the cloth. Aowe was very thankful for this and he began thinking on the matter. He decided to tether the cloth to himself with a think bit of string.

He went to his father and asked, "Father, have you any bits of string I can have?"

As the father was masterful at making strings and attaching them to cloth as ties for clothing, he had much string he had made himself. "How long of a string would you like?" Aowe's father asked of him.

Aowe said, "Long enough to reach into the Heavens!"

His father smiled. "Do we plan on capturing a god?"

"No," replied Aowe. "Merely the wind."

SO Aowe was granted a long, strong bit of string. Aowe tied it to his cloth and wrapped the other end round his hand. Soon he was running across the plains again, dragging his cloth on string behind him. But it wasn't the same as holding the cloth fast in his hands.

"The cloth flaps like a wing when i stretch it out," said Aowe. "I must stretch out this cloth."

So Aowe set about figuring a way to stretch out the cloth as a wing. He soon found himself approaching the young sapling he so loved and asking, "Dear friend, may I take a few of your thin branches from you? I need them to stretch out my cloth."

The sapling simply bowed, offering its branches.

Aowe smiled and took two long branches. He cut these two in two so that he had four pieces in all. He fastened the cloth to them securely and tied the string to the wooden frame he had made.

Soon Aowe was running across the plains once again. Behind him, towed by him, the first kite the world had ever seen lifted into the air and flew gracefully, chasing playfully after him.

Once more Aowe smiled and laughed and giggled and played. Aowe had finally figured a way to fly.

Then one night came a great fire to the plains. It burned nearly everything on the plains, including the dirt of the plains itself. Homes and many lives were lost. When the fire came swiftly to little Aowe's home, carried by wicked winds, it consumed his home swiftly. His mother and father trapped, dying, Aowe could think of nothing to do but save himself and his kite. He ran from his home, afraid, sorrow filling him for his dying parents. Flames lit the night as the sun in the day. Heat scorched the vegetation of the land, causing Aowe's beloved sapling to curled, dry and die under its weight. Flames jumped in every direction, burning everywhere, cutting off every path of escape for little Aowe.

The child, afraid, in pain from flames and the death of his parents, lay down with his kite and was overrun by the fire. Smoke lifted from his body, from his kite and intermingled as one, forming, shaping, becoming thick. The smoke lifted. So angry was Aowe that even in death his will caused the smoke to float high overhead and cry as he would have cried with tears from his eyes.

Aowe's tears fell from smoke as the world's first rain. So fierce was the crying it put out the hungry fire. And so strong was Aowe's will that the smoke remained, becoming pure white like the cotton his mother sometimes worked with or sometimes black as smoke and filled with tears that fell upon the land, expanding to make new smoke, becoming the clouds of the world.

Aowe was at last able to soar above the world and visit Taleisin. And when sorrow filled the land, people were often heard speaking Aowe's name as expression.

******************************

PART 2

Rains fell harshly upon Comet Fox and his companions as they continued their flight at night.

"Aowe," said Comet Fox as he stopped Gullnir from the day's long, hard ride. lecto was asleep on the horse' back and Eloqua struggling to remain awake.

"Each day we lose ground before the pursuing guards," said Comet Fox.

"Our little one needs her rest," explained Eloqua.

"And food. I fear we may not be able to keep up this pace much longer."

"But we must. What would happen to her if she is caught? I can only guess and my mind is not as foul as her mothers, nor as creative. We cannot let her be captured."

"I know," nodded Comet Fox. "We must allow her capture. But we must find food and supplies. And if we continue losing ground, I fear a fight comes."

"With the guards?"

"Of course."

This sent a shock of nerves through Eloqua that chased away her exhaustion. "I do not know how to fight."

"I didn't say you would fight," replied Comet Fox. "But if I'm to fight, I'll need rest and food, as well."

Eloqua eyed him. "You look well. Were it not for my knowledge of your mutual exhaustion, I would guess you're fit for anything."

Comet Fox yawned. He twisted his long, tail-like mustache with his fingers as he thought.

"Oh, to have the strength of a god," pined Eloqua.

"If I could grant it, you and our Little Empress would have mine. I have decided, we will need to sneak into the next town we come across and find some food."

The four of them rested all night as Aowe cried. By the morning, the rains were gone and the day was bright. Everyone had rested a little and they soon set off once more.

They traveled all day through groves of trees, afraid of being seen. Tension and worry was their way of life an had been for many days. When at last they spied the outline of the town of Gortys nearby it was devised Eloqua would go into the town as a woman on pilgrimage and she would beg for food. Eloqua did so and returned to her companions' side in the early evening with many foods. They ate, regained their strength and despite themselves further rested.

Much to Comet Fox's suspicions, the Empress' guards drew nearer, as did Snow Fox and his companions.

Unbeknownst to Faryad, Sharif had followed him to the mainland, had discovered he had been in the village of Tokerau and was now chasing after him. He then came to Li and discovered Faryad had picked up a companion in a wicked little, evil fox-god -- or so said the prefec t Silver Wind. By chance Sharif happened upon the soldiers of the Empress. Sharif stood in a beaten path he suspected Faryad had taken.

"Out of our way, fool!" cried one of the soldiers clad in golden armor. "We seek a fox-god and will not allow you our hindrance. Stand aside or you will taste our steel!"

"With apologies," said Sharif. "Am I to understand you seek a fox-god?"

"This is what I have already said!"

"I seek his companion, a murderer, ad must bring this foul person to justice."

"A companion, eh? A murderous companion?" smiled the soldier. He thought of Eloqua, wondered what the woman had done and did not understand Sharif was seeking a different fox-god and a different companion. "A murderous companion? Perhaps we can mutually aide one another. We could use a fresh mind."

The soldier turned around to eye his men. He chose the one he thought was most weak from their travels. The soldier drew his sword and cut down the weak man who fell from his horse, dead.

The soldier turned back round. "I'll give you a moment to don the armor and mount the steed. You will now ride with us."

Sharif, not wanting to become a soldier with this league of men yet afraid to refuse, did as he was instructed. He donned the armor and mounted the horse.

"Follow me in every respect or I will cut you in half," warned the soldier.

They rode off together, Sharif and the soldiers seeking two different fox-gods, two different companions.

******************************

PART 3

A cloud made of dust lifted into the air in the east. Comet Fox stood as the day ended, straining to see the cloud at dusk.

Eloqua came to his side. She looked where he was looking and asked, "What is it?"

"Dust kicked up by horses," he turned to her and said, "They've come for us."

Alecto drew near. She was dirty and tired, looking nothing like a young inheritor to a throne. "What shall we do?" she asked.

"We can run no longer, I fear," said Comet Fox. "We must find shelter and hide you in the town."

"What of you? Will you also hide with us?" asked Alecto.

"I will hide. They know of me and will hunt for me, as well. But I will hide elsewhere in the town, separate from you in case they find me. I can then fight them off."

From the east, Comet Fox and his companions entered the town of Gortys. They left Gullnir tied to a tree in a grove of trees, fearing such a fine horse would be too recognizable and too difficult to hide.

From the south, Snow Fox and his companions entered the town of Gortys, unaware of Comet Fox's proximity.

On the horizon came a roiling cloud of dust. With it came a band of soldiers.

The gold-clad warriors entered the town in a fury, kicking up dust and startling livestock and children. They grabbed at a nearby townsman and lifted him from the ground by his arm, asking, "Where is the fox-god? Have you seen him?"

"I'm right here," came a voice. But it was not Comet Fox's. Standing center of the main road in the town was little Snow Fox, his fur ruddy and browning. His hands worked knives. Behind him stood Faryad, his guitar strapped to his back and his fists clenching, and Yele Prin Prin, her violin tied at her waist and her talons ticking against one another nervously.

"Who seeks me?" asked Snow Fox.

The lead soldier approached on horseback. He leaned out, eying Snow Fox. "Are you the one known as Comet Fox?"

"No," answered Snow Fox. He craned his neck to look up at the soldier. He feared telling him Comet Fox was his brother.

He said nothing further.

"Then there are two fox-gods?" the soldier asked, shocked.

Comet Fox had stowed Alecto and Eloqua away with a family in their underground cellar. He was seeking a hiding place of his own when he bore witness to the exchange occurring in the middle of town.

"Who are you?" demanded the soldier.

"I am Snow Fox, son of Nyavatalii the Frost Giantess and Coyote!"

Comet Fox pricked up his ears at this.

"Bah! This is not the one we seek!" said the soldier to the others.

Sharif drew near, removed his helmet and pointed at Faryad, "Perhaps not, but he is the one I seek!"

"Sharif!" Faryad gasped.

"It would seem we are companions without reason," said the lead soldier.

"Or, perhaps with reason," Sharif then quoted a common curse, "'How wicked the ways of the Cosmos.'"

"How wicked, indeed," came Comet Fox. He stepped out into the center of town to stand before the soldiers.

"Brother!" cried Snow Fox.

"Are you truly my brother?"

"My father is Coyote. I have heard of you often and came to find you, to meet you!"

"You are a fox as am I, therefore your claim makes sense. If you be my brother: well met, young one."

"A family reunion!" the lead soldier mocked. "How adorable!"

"Shut you mouth, foul one!" demanded Comet Fox. "I know why you're here and I'll not hand her over!"

The soldiers, including Sharif, dismounted. They each gathered up their weapon of choice. The lead soldier carried an am arbir. Sharif had been outfitted with a machete with a long, curved blade looking like a fat belly.

"Do not run, Faryad," Sharif warned. "Come with me. Return to Ayiti and you will have a fair trial."

"I killed Bleddyn! You let us go once before, why have you come for me now?"

"I know of Bleddyn's ways, of his tyranny and treachery. I could not abide by it. But I still have a job and I have been tasked by our warlord to find you. If I did not come for you, I would have lost my head. I did not wish to find you, truly, but knew I must try nonetheless. If nothing more, I have granted you a few more days of living. Be grateful for that and, I beg of you, come with me."

"We'll not return to Aytit," said Yele, "perhaps ever."

"Come to me, Comet Fox," called the soldiers, their leader stepping slowly closer towards the fox-god. "Do not fight. Let us have the girl and you may go. You've no charge in this, no benefit is to be gained for you. Come to us and tell us where the girl is at."

Snow Fox stepped to Comet Fox's side. "I'll not let you further advance on my brother!"

The lead soldier lunged, his spear biting air, streaking out at Snow Fox.

Snow Fox leaped backward and threw one of his knives in one motion. The knife struck, deflected by the thick golden armor.

The soldier laughed.

Comet Fox drew his ulus from out of the sash at his waist.

The soldier arced the spear wide, bring it round at Comet Fox.

Comet Fox lifted off the ground, flying high over the spear.

Snow Fox threw another another. Once again it was deflected by the heavy armor. He eyed the soldier, searching for weaknesses in his armor.

Comet Fox flew down at the soldier.

Snow Fox saw the soldier's boots were mere black leather. He threw a third knife. The blade dug into the boot and split open the soldier's big toe.

The soldier cried out in pain.

Comet Fox struck, arcing his arm around to bring his fist up under the soldier's chin, an ulu passing under his helmet, the blade cutting deep and wide the throat of the soldier.

Comet Fox landed to one side.

Blood spewed from the soldier's wound, blood raining down on the small Snow Fox until he was more crimson than any other color.

The soldier fell dead to the ground.

Comet Fox eyed his and said, "I know of one other like you, one that enjoys bathing in blood."

"I didn't much enjoy this," admitted Snow Fox. "In fact, it's rather foul."

Sharif approached Faryad.

"You know what I can do with my fists," warned Faryad.

"I also know you're no killer. You won't attack me unless I press you. I won't press you, but urge you once more to come with me."

Three soldiers surrounded Comet Fox and Snow Fox. Three more knives were flung out by the smaller fox-god, three more feet were wounded until the soldiers were sent howling away.

One soldier, a young and ambitious soldier, made a final charge at Comet Fox with a spear of his own. Comet Fox let him slip close in his mad rush, sidestepping the spear. he merely held out his ulu at the right height. The young soldier's own momentum, own weight pressed his neck into the sharp moon-like blade until he was spewing blood as his leader once had until he fell to the ground, writhing until he was dead.

The rest of the soldiers ran in terror, except one. This one had been wounded by one of Snow Fox's blades. Snow Fox wriggled the knife free from the soldier's foot and the soldier cried out in agony.

Snow Fox went about picking up his knives except for the two that remained in the feet of soldiers now running away.

Comet Fox neared the soldier with the wounded foot. He knelt low, put his arms around the soldier and lifted him up onto a horse. He spoke softly to the mounted soldier.

"Ride. Ride fiercely to the east. Ride into the rising day, staring only at Etain's belly. Do not look back here lest you find my chasing after you. Ride until you have returned to your beloved Empress' side and deliver unto her this message: tell her Alecto is now under the care of Comet Fox; tell what you witnessed here today, telling her every detail; tell her if she continues her hunt, I will do to her what I did to her captain. Deliver this message, understand?"

The soldier shook his head nervously.

Comet Fox nipped at the horse, forcing the animal to ride wildly into the east where the soldiers had come from.

Sharif was still slowly advancing on Faryad. Faryad's fists were raised, trembling. Neither had seen the soldiers leave. Both were concentrating only on one another.

"Faryad," whispered little Sarut.

"Not now," said Faryad.

"But you must look! We have the advantage."

Faryad looked about to find only Sharif and the fallen remained. He straightened, lowering his fists.

"I think you'll be wanting to let us go," he told Sharif.

Sharif looked, saw Comet Fox slowly approaching, saw Snow Fox tending to his knives. He, too, straightened and lowered his sword. He looked upon Faryad and Yele. He spoke, "I suppose now would be my demise."

"If you attack us it would be," said Yele.

"Yet if I return to Ayiti, that too would be my demise."

"Then what say you?" asked Faryad. "Have you further words for us? Further hostilities? How would this day end? It is of your choosing."

Sharif sighed. "I'll do nothing more to you at this time. But know this, wherever you may go, I'll be fast on your trail."

Yele thought it over a moment. As Sharif turned to walk away, she called to him. "Sharif! Why not join us?"

Sharif looked back over his shoulder at her. "And become an outlaw? A criminal? There is such a thing as justice and I'll have it until my end days. I will be smart about it, but I'll have it."

"And what of the wars on Ayiti?" called Faryad. "They choke and starve the people. They long for a better life. How is that not injustice?"

"You are correct, there is no justice in our warlords, including the one I currently serve. That is the purpose behind my station as a hand of justice on Ayiti, to make certain justice exists in at least some small way amongst the ugliness of all that war."

"And your hunt for us is just? I was right to kill Bleddyn!" defended Faryad.

"Indeed you were, as I will be in the right to kill you. Bleddyn's death was just. He was a tyrant that needed to be put down, hot steel that needed tempering. You did that, but to the extant of murder. You have become despicable. Now justice must be meted out."

Faryad eyed Sharif. He had never heard the man speak so deeply on the matter of his station.

"Be warned, Faryad, though you are a good man, justice will come for you."

"You mean to say you will continue your chase for me."

"That I will, but whether justice comes for you at my hands, from the tip of my blade or if it comes from another remains for the Cosmos to shape. Until then, I bid you fare well. And I give you fair warning: wherever you roam across this world, the eyes you feel resting upon your back, the eyes that raise the hairs of your neck, shall be my eyes."

Sharif turned back round and left the town of Gortys.

"What now, brother?" asked Snow Fox of Comet Fox.

Comet Fox looked down on him. "I do not know for the likes of you and your friends, but I've an Empress-to-be to protect. I must take my leave. Under other circumstances, I would have spent time with you. But I was happy to have you here for this fight. I thank you."

"You're leaving me behind? But we just met! Please allow me to come with you?" begged Snow Fox.

Comet Fox shook his head. "I know not a thing about you, though I feel I can trust your identity as my little brother. I've an incredible task at hand now and must see it through to the end. When I've delivered the Little Empress to safety, then I will return to you."

"You said yourself just now you trust I am your brother. And you know I can fight. If there's more fighting to be done, perhaps you'll need me? Please, allow me to accompany you!"

Snow Fox knelt to the ground, his arms outstretched and his hands clasped together in pleading.

Faryad watched this all from a short distance. At last he said, "This little fox has been through much and has served as friend to Yele and I. And, truth be told, if I'm to have Sharif after me, though I would not wish to burden you with my woes, your company would ease my mind. Perhaps we can do the same in return?"

Comet Fox considered all things. He knew it foolish to trust so quickly, knew more people would mean slower and less conspicuous travel, knew the benefits of having others for posted watches. And, he quietly admitted, Snow Fox was good with his throwing blades and that could be useful. And, once more he admitted to himself, he wished to know more about this little one claiming to be his brother.

Comet Fox breathed deep. He said at last, "Wait here, then. I'll return in a moment with my charge, then we'll go to the grove to retrieve a horse."

Snow Fox leaped from his knees in joy.

Yele and Faryad smiled.

Sarut grumbled incoherently.

Comet Fox introduced and explained who Alecto was and why they were currently on the run as they retrieve Gullnir.

"And those soldiers were your mothers?" asked Yele.

"Yes, indeed."

"You poor girl."

Alecto immediately loved Yele Prin Prin for her beauty and kindness and, other than her own mother and Eloqua and the occasional child commanded to play with her, Yele was the first woman she had ever met.

"I love your wings. They're so beautiful!"

Yele blushed. "Thank you."

They traveled through the night, gazing at stars and chatting. Comet Fox listened to all the tales his little brother had to tell, laughed when he heard about the little fox stumbling over himself trying to use an axe, how he came into the rest of the world. He enjoyed most knowing someone else shared with him his father.

Comet Fox then in turn told Snow Fox, and indeed all of them, about his escaping the Cottonwood Chamber, the Battle for the Plain of Adoration, about Balori -- Alecto's favorite tales involved Balor -- and Xiao-tep and Wu Chan Chu.

"We should find this Xiao-tep," suggested Snow Fox. "He sounds as though he may help."

"I would, but we draw near another dear friend's home. He is well trusted, perhaps my most trusted friend in all the world besides Xiao-tep."

"Who is this that you speak of?" asked Snow Fox, wishing some day Comet Fox would speak of him that same way.

"Stavros the Red."

"How far is he?"

"Not far at all now, I believe. In fact, you could probably rest here while I fly to his village and seek him out."

"Oh, please don't leave!" cried Alecto.

Comet Fox grabbed the young lady's hand. He sighed. "As I've promise, I'll not leave. But what of Snow Fox and Faryad? How would it be if I sent them?"

This was agreed upon.

"How will we know him?" asked Faryad.

"You'll know him," said Comet Fox. "I believe he told me the village is beyond that crest of hills there. Follow due north and I'm certain you'll find it."

Faryad nodded.

Snow Fox checked his knives one last time.

Sarut flew to Faryad and climbed into his pocket.

"Ready for another adventure, Sarut?" asked Faryad.

"Adventure I can handle. I need rest and, well, I trust you to let me sleep in here."

Faryad smiled. "Thank you for trusting me, Sarut."

The three set off for the hills.

******************************

PART 4

It was a joyous night in Yuki village. Several of the younger villagers played musical instruments they had made themselves or, a few, had traded for. A great meal had been prepared all day. Now, at night, food filled bellies, alcohol infected minds and music filled the air.

It was Elsa's twenty-fourth birthday.

Young Petru danced near Stavros and Elsa who lounged together near a blazing bonfire, singing drunkenly at the night sky with the music that played. Stavros was fat now in the belly and a little slower than he once had been.

Stavros smiled at the boy not yet seven years old. He sat up and called to Petru, who came to his side at once.

"Are you enjoying the festivities?" asked Stavros.

Petru nodded frantically, smiling wide. "Oh, do I!"

"Good, good. Would you like to hear more of my tales of battle?"

"Always!" cried Petru.

So Stavros told of his fight against the Brothers Jackyl and soon a small crowd gathered round him to listen in. Elsa listened attentively, too, though she had heard the tale many times before.

The story complete, those gathered clapped happily at Stavros.

Petru looked up at him and asked, "Can I have my own adventures?"

Stavros laughed. "Maybe one day."

"I want to fight with swords like you, Stavros!"

Again Stavros laughed. He said, "Go forth, child, and find me two strong pieces of fallen poplar."

As Petru did this, Stavros asked Elsa to retrieve for him his sword from their hut. Her family was dead now. Only she and Stavros remained in the hut.

Both brought to him the things he had requested.

Stavros quaffed another swallow of tzuika he had taught himself to make. As he did so, he thought briefly on Comet Fox, his old friend, and wished that he was with him this night.

Stavros used his sword to carve and whittle the two pieces of poplar. He then sent Petru forth to find him some twine and when he returned with it, Stavros fastened the two small pieces of wood together with the twine to make a wooden sword big enough for Petru to play with.

"Thanks, Stavros!"

"Now for your first quest, young man: go forth and patrol the perimeter of the village. Make certain no one comes or goes without your seeing them first."

Petru saluted like a soldier and ran off to patrol the outside of the village.

Stavros laughed uproariously at this. Elsa leaned near him and placed a gentle kiss upon his maw. He nuzzled his muzzle into her neck, saying, "I love you, dear Elsa."

"And this whole village loves you, dear Stavros. We are so much happier now that you've returned to us."

On the outskirts of the village, Petru patrolled. The nighttime sky twickled down on him with stars. he had never known a world without stars and for that the villagers were happy and thanked Stavros constantly for his part in returning the stars to the Heavens above.

Petru marched along until he spied movement, two figures drawing nearer. Petru froze. He had not truly expected to find anyone, yet here came two figures -- a man and some creature. He thought about what to do. Stavros had told him not to let anyone pass without speaking to him first, so he determined to do just that.

The little mock soldier stepped forward before Faryad and Snow Fox, thrusting out his small wooden sword menacingly and saying, "Halt! Who wishes passage to Yuki village?"

Stunned, Snow Fox and Faryad stared at the small child a moment. Then Faryad said, "We've come looking for one called Stavros the Red. Is this Yuki village? Would he be here?"

"Yes, he would be here," said Petru. "And who might want to know?"

The weight of the dense poplar made the boy's sword falter.

"I am called Faryad the Exploding Sword. My companion is Snow Fox."

Petru stood in silence a moment. Stavros hadn't told him what to do beyond finding out who came or wen from the village. He thought it over and decided he should escort them to Stavros as prisoners.

"Come with me!" he commanded. "And I'll not tolerate any foul play!"

Faryad shook his head and put his hands up in a gesture to signify he meant no harm.

"Of course not," smiled Faryad.

Petru lead them towards the village. He continued to think matters over and slowed his pace when he came to a realization.

"You've come to take Stavros away, haven't you?"

"We don't want to take him away so much as we'd like him to accompany us," explained Snow Fox.

"Will it be dangerous?"

Snow Fox nodded.

Petru frowned. "Stavros told us of how he left the village once before. The people were so unhappy then. But when he returned he taught the people to sing and play music and make wines and enjoy their lives. They say if he's taken away again, he may never come back."

Petru stopped. "I don't want him to go."

Snow Fox cocked his head, pricked his ears. "I understand. If it were not a most dire situation, I would turn back now and let you keep him."

Petru sighed. "I suppose all I can do is lead you to him."

"Thank you,: said Snow Fox.

Petru lead the two through the celebrating village. As they went, people stopped to stare at Snow Fox. Many whispered of horrible things, of Stavros leaving them once more. Others spoke of gods and men, of Blessed one and demons and the Brothers Jackyl.

"Sir!" said Petru as he came before Stavros. "I've brought these two before you, sir! They came to our village looking for you."

Stavros stood, his crooked back making him small next to Faryad, yet still far larger than Snow Fox.

Petru looked up at Stavros with wide, sad eyes and said, "Please don't go, Stavros."

Stavros eyed both the newcomers, especially Snow Fox. He told Petru, "Go retrieve some tzuika for me and our guests."

Petru ran off.

Stavros invited the two into him hut. Elsa watched them go. When Petru had come with the tzuika and left again, they sat at a table while Stavros poured them cups of the wine and asked, "What brings you here?"

"My brother Comet Fox sent me here," said Snow Fox.

"Brother?" Stavros said, then nodded. "You share a father, then?"

"Indeed. I am Snow Fox. This is Faryad the Exploding Sword."

Stavros smiled. "What trouble has that drunkard gotten himself into?"

Faryad and Snow Fox looked to one another. Snow Fox said, "He lends aid to a young empress-to-be whose mother hunts her. He would like your help in delivering her to a safe place."

"And what safe place would that be?"

"She seems to want to go to Ife," said Faryad. "But he desires to reason out a way to get her to Taleisin."

Stavros nodded. "Balori or Xiao-tep. It's a difficult decision. I would think Comet Fox could fly to Xiao-tep quicker, but then I'm not one for flight. But, how does he need my help?"

"He asks you come see him. He awaits some ways outside the village."

"Comet Fox is here?" this excited Stavros. "Why does he not merely come here?"

"We have fought off several soldiers this night," said Snow Fox, "but he fears more will be on the way. He did not want to lead them into your village."

"It's a kind gesture."

"Come with us. Speak with him," urged Snow Fox. "He speaks of you as a brother."

Stavros considered matters. He looked out the door of his hut and watched the now quieted village. He looked back at Snow Fox and said, "No. I cannot. I have given up fighting and the skills he calls upon me to use. I am fat now, I can lift my sword, but cannot swing it with any ferocity."

Snow Fox and Faryad were shocked to hear Stavros turn them away.

"But he needs your help," said Faryad. "He desperately needs your help."

"And I am truly sorry I cannot give it to him," said Stavros. "Please, leave. If you would like I'll have a few supplies packed and sent with you."

Snow Fox spat. "We need nothing from you."

Snow Fox and Faryad left the hut. Stavros stood in the doorway, watching them leave. Elsa came to his side.

"What did they want?" she asked.

"Nothing," he lied.

"Tell me, Stavros. Tell me the truth."

Stavros sighed. He did not desire to lie to his beloved. He said, "Have I ever told you of Comet Fox?"

Elsa Smiled. "Yes, many times. Is he coming?"

Stavros shook his head. "No. He wanted me to come to him."

Stavros turned and entered the hut.

Elsa followed after him. She asked, "Is he near?"

Stavros nodded. He took his sword she had retrieved for him and put it away under a pile of linens.

"Why didn't he come here? I thought you extended an invitation to him. You did invite him, didn't you?"

Yes, but he needs my help now. I would have to leave Yuki. And I refuse to leave Yuki anymore."

Elsa sighed. She sat on the edge of their bed. She asked, "Why do you refuse?"

He eyed her with confusion. "This is my home now, my life. I've grown older and softer. What he needs me for is my sword, but I'll not aband-" Stavros caught himself in a moment of passionate fury. He calmed himself and said, "I'll not leave Yuki ever again."

A long silence hung between them. It was shared by those gathered outside that waited to hear news from Stavros about the visitors.

"You want to go, though," Elsa said at last.

"Of course I do. Comet Fox is like a brother to me. I can truly say I love that fox-god."

Elsa stood. She walked to Stavros' side and said, "Then go."

"What? I cannot go! I won't go!"

Stavros walked out of the hut and demanded, "Play music! Celebrate! It's Elsa's birthday!"

The people of Yuki simply stared at him.

Elsa stepped out of the hut. She said softly, "Stavros, this is who you are. This is what you are. When the world needs you, it calls upon you and you must leave our little village. It is how it must be."

"Lies! It doesn't have to be that way!"

Stavros' rage scared a few of the villagers.

"Tell me, what will you do then? As I age and die, what will you do? Remain in Yuki and watch me slip from you? Everyone here but you will come and go."

Stavros hung his head. "That's why I must stay. I want as much time with you as the Cosmos will allow, Elsa."

Elsa stepped to him and embraced him. "And I thank you for that. But now the Cosmos will not have you here. You are needed elsewhere. Live your life, live the destiny that has been chosen for you."

Stavros, tears in his eyes, looked at Elsa. "And what destiny might that be?"

"I cannot say," she shook her head. "Only you can find it."

Stavros sighed. He hung his head. He stood in silence a long time.

Quietly, Elsa said, "Would you have me get your sword?"

Stavros did not look up, did not speak. He merely nodded.

Elsa retrieved his sword once more.

A few of the villages began to pack a bag of supplies for Stavros. His accordion was brought to him as were his gourds freshly filled with tzuika. When he was prepared, the villagers gathered round him and prayed for him.

Elsa gave him a final kiss and said, "Yuki is proud to have you as their son. Return as swiftly as you can."

"I will," Stavros nodded.

He turned and ran from the village, calling out for Snow Fox and Faryad who heard him and stopped to wait for him.

As the three walked together, Stavros spied a fourth member of their group. He spied Sarut peeking from Faryad's pocket at him.

"A ruby bug?" asked Stavros.

"I wish he were ruby! He is Sarut, a friend."

"Hello, little Sarut."

"Well met," called Sarut.

Then Stavros spied a fifth member of the group. He stopped, stared into teh shadows of a tree and called out, "Petru?"

Petru stepped from the shadows and said, "I'm coming with you."

Stavros smiled. He knelt to Petru. "I cannot have you come along."

"Why not? I have a weapon! You made it yourself so it must be in good order."

"I know, but the villagers need you while I'm gone. If we're both gone, who's to protect Yuki?"

Petru gasped. "I almost fouled up Yuki's chances for survival!"

Stavros chuckled. "Indeed you did. Here are your orders: Every night I want you patrol the village as you did this night. And every night I want you to keep a small fire kindled for me so I can find my way home. Understood, little soldier?"

"Understood, sir!" Petru saluted.

Stavros kissed the boy's forehead and sent him off, back towards the village.

Stavros eyed his new companions. He looked to Snow Fox, "You're Comet Fox's little brother, eh? You poor bastard!"

"What's that supposed to mean?" asked Snow Fox.

Stavros laughed.

The three left Yuki village far behind.

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That's it for "Broken Steel"!!! Thanks for reading!!!