Protectors of Penwick E-Book

F. P. Spirit

• Herausgeber: F. P. Spirit
• Kategorie: Fantasy und Science-Fiction
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2021

Beschreibung

A horde of demons from the Abyss. A dread master of the undead. A choice between saving a single city versus the entire world.

The tower in the mists has been wrested from the Empress of the Damned and her undead army. Yet demons still hold the tower in the mountains and are using it to summon more of their kind.

The problem is demons are not your normal monsters. Weapons of great power are needed to defeat them, demon slaying weapons like those of legend.

At the same time, Penwick has come under attack from the inside. Creatures of the night have infiltrated the city and people are disappearing at an alarming rate. Even more terrifying, these vampires might be heralds of the dread Undead Thrall Master.

With all Arinthar at stake, can the companions protect Penwick and still find the magic they so sorely need before demons overrun their entire world?
 

Leseprobe

Protectors of Penwick

Rise of the Thrall Lord

Book 2

F.P. Spirit

Copyright @ 2021 F. P. Spirit

Cover Art by Jackson Tjota

Cover Typography by Amalia Chitulescu

Interior Design by Designs by Shannon

Edited by Sandra Nguyen

ISBN-13: 978-1-7364377-2-8

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system, copied in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise transmitted without written permission from the publisher. You must not circulate this book in any format.

Thanks to Tim for creating the world of Thac, and to Daniel, Eric, Jeff, John, Mark, and Matt for their roles in bringing the characters to life. Also, thanks to the rest of my friends and family who gave their time and support in the creation of this book.

Other Books in this Series

City of Tears

Protectors of Penwick

Contents

Map of Arinthar

1. Welcome to Penwick

2. Lunch with the In-Laws

3. Auric Priestess

4. Stealle Academy of The Sword

5. Dark Treasures

6. Seeking Council

7. Duchess to Be

8. Double Talk

9. Mind Games

10. The Lion’s Share

11. Inn of the Three Sisters

12. I Dream of Genie

13. Objects of Power

14. Best Smith in Town

15. Fame and Fortune

16. Grand Opening

17. Missing Persons

18. The Old Watchtower

19. Grave Matters

20. Into the Crypts

21. Protector of Penwick

22. Devils in the Dark

23. Eye of Amon

24. Fork in the Road

25. Raiders of the Dark Coast

26. The Lost Village

27. Worshippers of the Golem Master

28. Stone Dragons

29. Sphere of Darkness

30. Plane of Shadows

31. Dancing with the Vampires

32. True Mistress

Story Continues

Also by F.P.Spirit

About the Author

Penwick has suffered three invasions in the last one hundred and fifty years. The first to invade the city were the armies of the Golem Master during the time of the Thrall Wars. The second invaders were the Parthians, who occupied Penwick during the War of Ash. The last invasion occurred only twenty years ago when the Clans of the Coast, led by the Warlord Eboneye, raided the city. During each occupation, the invaders seemed to be seeking some hidden treasure, in or around Penwick. Many such legends exist, the city itself having been built upon older cities of unknown origin. To this day, whatever they were searching for remains a secret, along with Penwick’s mysterious past…

- Lady Lara Stealle, High Wizard of Penwick

1

Welcome to Penwick

This huge group had just teleported into the very heart of Penwick!

It was late morning in the Lord’s Square, and the sun had nearly reached its zenith in the pale blue skies overhead. The heat emanating from the golden orb beat down on the white cobblestones of the wide plaza and the reddish-brown rooftops of the large halls that encircled it. To the east, beyond a high wall of gray stone, the bright summer rays glinted off the tall alabaster spires of Avernos Keep.

The sights, sounds, and smells of city life assailed the senses of the small group that popped into its midst from out of nowhere. Numerous folks bustled about, intermingled with riders and horse-drawn carriages. The aroma of various foods wafted across the expansive square from numerous carts set up around its edges. A cacophony of voices, hoofbeats, whistles, and other noises surrounded them on all sides.

Lloyd Stealle drank in the familiar sight with a combination of surprise and relief. It had only been a few months since he left home, but it felt more like years. So much had happened in that short amount of time that he was not the same green youth who had left this bustling city behind.

Case in point—he and his friends had just wrested the Marsh Tower, and the powerful crystal held therein, from an army of undead. It had been no small feat, but an even greater task now lay before them. A second tower and its crystal had fallen to a horde of demons, and they needed to be stopped before their numbers swelled into a full-blown invasion of Thac.

Lloyd felt a delicate touch on his arm. He turned to see a pair of electric-blue eyes staring up at him. “Are we in Penwick?”

Andrella Avernos was a striking young woman with a keen intelligence and the wit to match. The daughter of former Baron and Baroness of Ravenford, Andrella also happened to be Lloyd’s newly promised fiancée.

Lloyd felt suddenly foolish. He should have realized the others wouldn’t necessarily recognize the city. A sheepish grin spread across his lips, his free hand going to the back of his neck. “Well, yeah.”

“It would appear Elistra doesn’t quite know her own strength,” a familiar voice murmured behind them. Lloyd glanced over Andrella’s head toward a tall elf in pale purple robes. Glolindir wore a bemused expression, though Lloyd could see a trace of pain in his eyes.

Glo’s love, the psychic Elistra, had used the incredible power of the tower crystal to teleport them here. Unfortunately, Elistra had stayed behind to master the crystal—a necessary precaution if they were to keep that tower from also falling into the demons’ hands.

Seth folded his arms across his chest, the halfling’s tone practically dripping with sarcasm. “So, are we just going to stand here all day, or what?”

“Well, since we’re here, we might as well try and talk to the Penwick Council, to see if we can get their support,” Aksel surmised, the little gnome cleric as pragmatic as ever.

“From what I’ve heard, I don’t think that’s going to be all that easy, even if Lloyd’s parents are members,” Elladan chimed in, a half-smile adorning the elven bard’s handsome face.

Lloyd let out a heavy sigh. Elladan was not wrong. Murky politics divided the governing body of Penwick. Even though the Baron had final say, he was not a strong leader. Thus the smooth-tongued words of those who opposed Lloyd’s parents tended to sway his opinion.

“Speaking of your mother and father, when do I get to meet them?” Lloyd peered down to see Andrella gazing up at him expectantly.

“Um, now?” Lloyd responded after a moment, sounding perhaps a bit more surprised than he intended.

“Well then, let’s go!” Bubbling with enthusiasm, Andrella ignored his momentary lapse. She laced her arm through his and started off across the plaza, only to stop short when confronted with the crowd that had formed around them.

Lloyd followed the crowd’s gaze back toward the group that had teleported here with them. His eyes swept over Glo, Aksel, Elladan, Donatello, Cyclone, Kara, Ves, Ruka, Sir Renardo, and Sir Stolay, until they finally settled on the large dragon, Calipherous.

Lloyd slapped himself on the forehead. Of course they were drawing a crowd. This huge group had just teleported into the very heart of Penwick! The city had magical wards in place to protect against such things, but Elistra’s use of the tower crystal must have overpowered them.

Well, as my mother would say, first things first, Lloyd thought to himself. Calipherous’ sizable horned head stuck out like a sore thumb above the others. Warm coppery scales covered most of his body, speckled here and there with small spots of teal blue. The large bat-like wings that sprang from his back remained folded close to his muscular body, tapering down almost to the tip of his long, sinuous tail.

Unlike the dragon sisters, Ves and Ruka, Cal had never learned to shapeshift into human form. Ves, being the sensible one of her sisters, approached the copper dragon and placed a gentle hand on his snout. “Cal, maybe you should meet us at the temple?”

The Temple of the Ralnai lay on the other side of the Penderbun River, just past Castle Avernos. The huge walled-in complex would be the perfect place for a large dragon to avoid the crowds.

“Yes, I believe you are right,” Cal rumbled in his deep voice. Without another word he spread his wings. The graceful wedge-shaped appendages stretched to a width greater than Cal himself. The crowd backed away as those wings began to slowly beat, stirring up the dust from the square around them.

The large dragon rose about a dozen yards into the air, then deftly swiveled toward the east. With a single great beat of his wings, he took off like a shot toward the keep and then past it.

Whew, Lloyd let out a sigh of relief. That was one problem solved. Now they needed to extricate themselves from this crowd before the town guards arrived. Lloyd would explain the situation to his mother and she would square things away with the city.

A wan smile crossed Lloyd’s lips as he yelled to his friends over the din, “We should probably get going! Follow me and I’ll take you to an inn where you all can get some rooms!”

“Sounds good to me,” Kara exclaimed, the tall lady warrior wiping the dust off her dark armor. “I could use a good hot bath.”

Lloyd half expected a flirtatious remark from Donnie, but the sandy-haired elf remained uncharacteristically silent. He had been in a dark mood since their last battle, where he had been forced to kill their old friend Alana. She had been turned into a vampire, leaving him little choice. Though they were all saddened by the tragic event, Donnie had taken it extra hard.

Lloyd exhaled a deep breath. They’d all been through so much already and the gods only knew what the future held for them. A sudden squeeze of his arm brought Lloyd’s attention back to Andrella. The bright smile that lit up her face warmed him to his very soul.

Feeling invigorated, Lloyd began pushing his way through the crowd. “This way, everyone.”

Vestiralana ta Yatharia Greymantle had never felt fear before—well, at least not for herself. She had always been willing to do anything and risk everything for those she loved.

Ves had not been scared by the petty little Princess of Lanfor’s attempts at mind control. Nor had she been afraid to face Theraxia, the huge red dragon who could have snapped her in half. She hadn’t even batted an eye at battling the undead dragon that couldn’t be killed.

Yet now she knew there were things worse than death. What Theramon had done to her frightened Ves to her very core. Even now, despite the ejection of his dark seed, she still felt as if a shadow hung over her soul.

Mired in thought, the young lady dragon followed along, absently twisting the ends of her long golden hair as Lloyd led them through the streets of Penwick. She barely noticed as they passed the tall white towers of Avernos Keep. She paid little heed as they crossed the arched stone bridge over the wide, azure waters of the Penderbun River. She hardly blinked at the stark grey tower that rose above the Hault School of Magic and Wizardry.

None of these sights phased Ves until the golden-capped spires of the Temple of the Ralnai came into view. The temple itself was set back into a wide complex surrounded by a tall outer wall.

As soon as Ves saw the temple grounds, she halted in her tracks.

“What are you stopping for?” a gruff voice sounded behind her.

Cyclone stood with his arms folded, staring impatiently at her. She had initially been leery of this rugged human—after all, he hunted her kind. Nevertheless, he had proven to be a valiant, if unlikely, ally. In fact, Cyclone had put his own life on the line in their bitter struggle with an undead dragon.

“My apologies,” Ves responded, politely moving out of his way.

Ruka stepped out of the line with her. “What’s wrong, Ves?”

Ves looked over the young teen as she debated how to answer. Even with her sandy hair and emerald green eyes, one could easily see the resemblance between them. Yet their temperaments were vastly different. Where Ves did her best to be calm and diplomatic, Ruka seemed to revel in being irritable and sarcastic.

The young lady wanted so desperately to talk to someone, but she couldn’t bring herself to burden her sister. Aside from their differences, Ves was the oldest and thus responsible for both of her sisters. She had to be strong; she couldn’t show weakness in front of either one of them. “Nothing. I… was just wondering if Thea would be at the temple.”

Thea Stealle was a Priestess of Arenor, the Ralnain God of Light. She had been the one to discover the dark seed implanted within Ves. All things considered, she might be the best person for Ves to confide in.

“My sister lives in the rectory these days. You’ll most likely find her there or in the temple.”

Ves gazed toward the front of the line to see Lloyd peering at her. The rest of the companions had stopped behind him and were now staring her way. Ves wrung her hands together, suddenly feeling quite self-conscious. “Please don’t wait on my account. I’m going to stop here at the temple for a while.”

“I think I’ll join you,” Aksel chimed in.

“Us, as well,” the holy knights Stolay and Renardo agreed.

Ves hadn’t expected any company on this side journey of hers. Now that she had made up her mind, she wanted to talk to Thea alone. Still, she couldn’t be rude to these people who had been so good to her and her family.

A wan smile crossed Ves’ lips. “That would be nice.”

Lloyd gave them directions to the inn, then started off with the others in tow. Ruka lagged behind, eyeing her sister intently. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“I’m fine,” Ves lied. “Now go.”

Ruka eyed her a moment more, then shrugged and headed off after the others.

While Ves had been talking to the others, Aksel and the knights had already started toward the entrance to the temple grounds. What she hadn’t expected to see was Cyclone leaning against the outer wall, his muscular arms folded across his chest.

The hunter stared at her with those keen blue eyes as if he could see into her very soul. “Sure you are.”

Ves was taken aback. This human never showed emotions other than anger. What could he possibly know about how she felt? “What makes you say that?”

“Hmph,” Cyclone huffed. “I ain’t blind.”

Ves arched an eyebrow. Perhaps she had misjudged this human. Maybe there was more depth to him than people gave him credit for. After a moments debate, she decided to let her guard down just a bit. “I need to be stronger.”

“Why?” Cyclone asked brusquely.

The question was so simple that it caught Ves off guard. She struggled with how to answer this exceedingly direct human when he surprised her yet again.

“Let me guess. It has to do with that Theramon creep.”

“Yes.” Ves nodded, her eyes dropping to the ground. She felt so ashamed, but she couldn’t seem to shake this feeling of dread that hung over her.

“Tsk,” Cyclone clicked his tongue. “Ain’t nothing to be embarrassed about. That jerk’s unnatural.”

Something about the hunter’s words made Ves feel better. He was right; this Theramon wasn’t normal. She lifted her gaze, the trace of a smile spreading across her lips. “Perhaps you’re right.”

“I usually am.” Cyclone laughed as he pushed off the wall. He now stood very close to her.

Strangely, Ves found she didn’t mind. This human was different from the rest. “So what do you suggest?”

Cyclone shrugged. “We could train together.”

Ves mulled over the idea. The hunter was strong. He also exhibited dragon-like qualities at times—bronze dragon, specifically, just like her and her sisters. Perhaps it could work.

She met his gaze evenly. “I accept.”

“Good,” Cyclone agreed. “I’ll search for a place outside of town where we can train away from prying eyes.” He strode away without another word.

Ves felt oddly better as she watched him go. Something about his self-assuredness resonated with her. She wanted to be more like that.

Ves let out a deep sigh, then strode up to the temple gate and into the grounds beyond.

Althea Kitren Stealle felt at peace for the first time in a very long time. Her life had changed dramatically after the tragedy on Thorn Isle. Thea had lost all her childhood friends, as well as her innocence, but in turn found Arenor. Joining the clergy, she threw herself into the study of the divine.

The road had not been an easy one, but Thea was no stranger to hard work. Furthermore, her studies in the art of the spiritblade had opened her awareness to life beyond the veil. Thus, in four short but demanding years, Thea earned the coveted title of Auric Priestess. Having just recently passed the tests, she now devoted much of her time to contemplation in the Chapel of Arenor.

Situated behind the Temple of the Ralnai, the chapel was easily the size of a small-town temple. A life-sized statue of Arenor stood in the alcove above the main altar. Two vestibules opened up on either side, the one opposite from Thea dedicated to Phobas, the original God of Light. The one in which Thea currently prayed was dedicated to Arenor in his earlier role as the Hand of Light.

As Thea knelt before the small altar, communing with the light about her new standing and responsibilities, she heard someone whisper her name.

“Thea.”

Just a few feet behind her stood Vestiralana Greymantle. Garbed in a shimmering silk bronze dress, the young lady waited for her with a quiet poise that belied the terrible deed that had recently been forced upon her.

Her prayers all but forgotten, Thea sprang up and grasped each of the young lady’s hands. Despite the long, golden-blonde hair and blue-green eyes, the resemblance between Ves and Ruka caught her off guard. A sudden chill went up Thea’s spine as a vivid flashback of the events on Thorn Isle played through her mind.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you.” Ves sounded mortified.

Mentally chiding herself, Thea forced the vision away and gave the young lady the warmest smile she could muster. “That’s alright. I’m glad to see you. How are you feeling?”

“It’s gone,” Ves murmured in a voice so soft that Thea could barely hear her.

“Gone?” Thea repeated, not sure she had heard correctly.

Using her spirit vision, Thea peered beyond the veil and into the next plane. Though enveloped by a huge aura, Thea could indeed find no trace of the dark seedling that had been implanted in the midst of Ves’ energetic body. Pulling her vision back, however, she did note a darkness hanging just at the edges of the young lady’s aura.

Sweeping her gaze around the small chamber, Thea noted they were alone. She pulled Ves down into the nearest pew and said in a hushed tone, “Tell me everything.”

Thea listened with rapt attention to Ves’ explanation. The Empress had used the tower crystal to create a dark version of Ves. In doing so, she had unintentionally pulled the seed out of her. In the end, Ves had slain her dark doppelganger.

“I suppose I should feel better,” Ves paused a moment as mixed emotions played across her face, “but I still feel violated.” That last word was said so softly that again Thea could barely hear it.

Thea’s heart went out to this brave young woman. She herself had nearly been violated four years ago on Thorn Isle. It had been a horrific experience, one she barely escaped. Despite that, she couldn’t imagine what to say to help this tortured soul. So she prayed.

The answer came to her immediately as clear as if Arenor were standing right next to her. This is what you trained for, Thea—to help souls in need just like this.

It was exactly the phrase she needed to hear. With a silent thank you, she resumed her discussion with Ves, hoping to help the tormented woman lift the darkness that hung over her soul.

Andrella Avernos felt mixed emotions as she waited in the foyer of the Lucky Heroes Inn. She hadn’t realized what a sheltered life she’d led back in Ravenford. Andrella had experienced so many new things in the short time since she left, both terrible and wonderful.

Andrella felt horrible for Donnie, having to slay his former love Alana like that. She couldn’t begin to imagine what he was going through. Andrella was also worried for Ves. What Theramon had done to her was unforgivable. She fervently hoped that Ves found whatever answers she sought at the Temple of the Ralnai.

Still, despite her concerns, Andrella could not help but feel excited. She was engaged, after all, and about to meet Lloyd’s parents. Yet beneath her excitement lurked more than just a touch of nerves. What if his parents don’t like me?

The young lady looked anxiously over her outfit, a golden-laced scarlet dress with matching bodice and boots. Known as a Regalia of the Phoenix, the magical artifact boosted her fire spells and granted her immunity to fire. Although quite handy for adventuring, it wasn’t exactly what she imagined herself wearing to meet Lloyd’s parents.

Lifting her gaze, Andrella spied Lloyd at the front desk congenially chatting up the innkeeper. A warm smile spread across her lips, her anxiousness momentarily forgotten. His tousled brown hair, youthful face, and well-muscled physique presented an extremely attractive package. Moreover, though a dynamo on the battlefield, he was actually quite the gentleman.

Andrella found this all very appealing – even more so that he appeared to be growing out of his shell. He had all the markings of being a fine ruler someday, someone she could trust to govern by her side.

“Copper piece for your thoughts?”

Roused from her musings, Andrella found Glo standing beside her. The young lady gave him a feeble smile. “Not sure they’re worth that. Just daydreaming is all.”

Glo matched her expression. “I know the feeling. I’m afraid I’ll be doing a lot of that until I can see Elistra again.”

A keen wave of sympathy washed over the young lady. Circumstances and misguided intentions had separated the couple once before. Glo and Elistra had just managed to patch things up when events forced them apart again.

Andrella placed a tentative hand on Glo’s arm. “I think it would do you good to concentrate on something else.” A sudden idea struck her. “I know, why don’t you come with us?”

Glo arched a single eyebrow at her. “Come with you to meet Lloyd’s parents? Wouldn’t I just be in the way?”

Before she could answer, Lloyd came striding across the room toward them. “Well everyone’s got a room now. Are you ready to go?”

Andrella nudged her head toward Glo. “Will you please tell him that it’s okay if he comes with us?”

A frown crossed Lloyd’s brow, but his eyes lit up as he peered at Glo. “Oh yes, of course. My mom would love to meet a fellow wizard, especially one who’s seen all the things that you have.”

Glo eyed his friend with skepticism. “Are you certain?”

Andrella squeezed Glo’s arm. “I insist.”

Glo gazed from her to Lloyd and back again, then shrugged. “Very well.”

The three of them started toward the door when Andrella remembered her dress. She grabbed her skirt and exclaimed, “Oh no. I can’t meet your parents looking like this!”

Lloyd placed a strong arm around her shoulders. “What are you talking about? You look beautiful.”

Andrella almost melted then and there. She touched his face ever so gently. “You are definitely getting better at this,” she peered back down at her dress, “but honestly, it’s my first time seeing your parents. I need to make a good impression.”

“I think I can help with that,” Glo interrupted them.

Andrella narrowed an eye at the wizard. “You can? How?”

In answer, Glo traced his hands through the air in a vaguely familiar pattern. She felt a slight amount of mana build up until he released it with two soft words. “Mutare speciem.”

Andrella felt the magic encircle her and watched with fascination as her clothes changed appearance. When the spell finished, she found herself garbed in the same fine emerald gown she had worn when she first met Lloyd and the others.

Andrella looked herself over from every angle she could manage. When she was done, she gave the wizard a grateful smile. “This will do very nicely.”

The corner of Glo’s mouth lifted ever so slightly. “Glad you like it.”

Lloyd wore a puzzled expression. “What happened to her phoenix dress?”

Andrella exchanged a glance with Glo and laughed. “Oh, I’m still wearing it. Glo just changed its appearance is all.”

Lloyd cocked his head to one side. “Oh, I get it. It’s like a disguise spell, but you only used it on her clothes.”

Glo touched the side of his nose with his finger. “Exactly.”

Grinning from ear to ear, Andrella laced her arms through Lloyd’s and Glo’s. “Very well then. Let’s get going.”

The trio marched off together down the road and toward the gate that led out of the city.

2

Lunch with the In-Laws

“Let me guess—she’s up in her lab.”

“So what’s your home like?” Andrella asked, her voice tinged with just a touch of nervousness.

Lloyd shrugged. “It’s a typical ranch. There’s the main house, a couple of barns…”

Glolindir half-listened to the conversation as the trio rode up the coast. The lush green trees of a small forest paralleled the road along the one side, while the steep drop-off of a tall cliff ran along the other. The sound of crashing waves drifted up from far below, the azure waters of the sea stretching out to meet the horizon.

Given the choice, Glo would have preferred to walk, basking in the sun and the beauty of nature along the way. Unfortunately, Lloyd’s home lay two miles up the road, and Andrella refused to accumulate “road dust” on the way. Thankfully, a stable sat just outside the city gates and they were able to hire out some horses for the day.

Andrella let out a low whistle as Lloyd finished describing his home. “That’s a typical ranch? It sounds more like an estate.” Her expression turned wistful. “It must have been fun growing up there.”

Lloyd rubbed the back of his neck. “Sort of. I mean, it was at times, but it’s a lot of work keeping a ranch running. Not that we did it all ourselves—my parents employ a ton of ranch hands. Once I started training with my dad, though, I had almost no time to myself.”

Glo attempted to follow the conversation, but try as he might, his thoughts continued to wander elsewhere. Their success at the Marsh Tower in the City of Tears had come at a cost. The deaths of Alana and Sir Craven had been a blow to them all, but Glo couldn’t even begin to imagine what Donnie was going through. He wondered if his friend would ever be the same.

Furthermore, Ves didn’t seem right. Glo thought being rid of Theramon’s influence would have made her whole again. Yet, he could still see a trace of darkness hanging over her just beyond plain sight.

Andrella’s brow knit into a frown. “I thought you liked being a spiritblade?”

Lloyd gave her a sheepish smile. “Oh, I do, but trust me, it can be exhausting.”

Andrella’s eyes danced with amusement as her lips formed into a wry smile. “Most things are that are worth it.”

Lloyd’s choking roused Glo from his somber thoughts. The young man’s cheeks had turned a bright shade of scarlet.

“Sorry.” Andrella giggled, her entire face lit with mirth. She reached over, their eyes meeting as she grabbed her fiancé by the hand.

Glo could almost feel the electricity pass between the two. It immediately made him think of Elistra.

Parting from the seeress again had been extremely difficult for the young elf. Their recent reconciliation had healed a part of him that he didn’t even realize was broken. Yet now it felt as if a piece of him had been ripped away.

Still, Elistra had not made the choice lightly. The very survival of Arinthar hung in the balance. Glo only recently discovered just how much his immortal love had sacrificed for their world. He had promised her that from then they would be in this together. Thus he supported her decision and even offered to stay with her at the tower in the marshes. Unfortunately, Elistra had seen a different path for him, one equally as critical to their success.

“There it is!”

Lloyd’s excited cry stirred Glo from his solemn musings. They had reached a summit in the road. Spread out below them lay an immense plot of fenced-in land.

“Oh my,” Andrella’s breath caught in her throat. “That has to be at least ten times the area of Ravenford Keep.”

Lloyd grinned back at her. “It’s pretty big for around here, but I’ve heard there are much bigger ranches on the mainland.”

Andrella exchanged a knowing glance with Glo. Lloyd didn’t have a vain bone in his body. He never let compliments go to his head, always pointing out someone or something better than himself.

“Well I, for one, can't wait to see it,” Andrella assured her unassuming fiancé.

The three of them spurred on their horses and trotted down the road toward the Stealle estate. The road split at the bottom of the rise, one branch continuing up the coast while the other headed directly for Lloyd’s home. They followed the latter, eventually coming to a tall, framed gate that spanned their path. Across the top beam hung a sign that read, Chateau De Stealle.

Lloyd wore a wistful expression as they rode through the open gate. “Home sweet home.”

Glo empathized with his friend. Nearly half a year had passed since the young elf left home. Sometimes Glo wished he could go back, if only for a brief visit. Cairthrellon, however, lay halfway across Thac, and much still needed to be done here in the outside world.

The main buildings of the Stealle estate stood far back from the gate. The trio set forth, barely making it half the distance when another rider trotted out to meet them.

A lean, muscular man sat tall in the saddle of a beautiful brown and white paint. The rider wore a bright scarlet uniform indicative of the armed forces of Penwick.

“Father!” Lloyd cried in excitement, spurring his horse forward.

Glo could not help but smile at his friend’s reaction. The young man had no qualms about showing his emotions. Glo traded a mirthful glance with Andrella before the two of them followed suit.

Reaching his father first, Lloyd reined his mount in and practically leapt from his saddle. Lloyd’s father did the same, the two men rushing into a fierce embrace.

Kratos Stealle stood even in height with his towering son. The resemblance between the two was uncanny, but where Lloyd had brown hair, Kratos’ was jet black. Though still youthful in appearance, Glo noted a trace of grey in the older man’s temples.

Kratos grabbed Lloyd by the shoulders, his eyes narrowing as he looked his son over. “Lloyd, my boy, you’ve grown. Not in height, mind you,” a subtle laugh escaped his lips, “but I can definitely see a change in you.”

An embarrassed smile spread across Lloyd’s face. “Well, a lot has happened since I left.”

Kratos pressed his lips together and nodded. “So I’ve heard.”

As Glo and Andrella dismounted, the elder Stealle shifted his attention to them. “And these are a couple of your new companions, I trust?”

Lloyd nudged his head toward Glo. “This is my friend Glolindir, Father. He is a wizard from the lost city of Cairthrellon.”

Glo found Lloyd’s choice of the term ‘lost’ quite amusing. The city was actually hidden away behind magical barriers from the rest of the world. Still, he wasn’t the type to correct his friend.

“Well met,” Glo said, extending his hand to Lloyd’s father. He immediately regretted it. Kratos’ grip was as vicelike as Lloyd’s.

Thankfully, Kratos failed to notice his discomfort, instead appearing impressed. “An elven wizard from Cairthrellon? My wife is definitely going to want to meet you.”

“And who is this ravishing young lady?” Kratos said, turning his attention to Andrella.

Lloyd took Andrella by the hand and presented her to Kratos. “This is the Lady Andrella Avernos, Father,” he paused for an instant before adding, “my fiancée.”

Caught off guard, Kratos was rendered momentarily speechless.

Andrella, ever the diplomat, filled the void in the conversation with a perfect curtsey. “It is a pleasure to meet you, sir.”

Kratos’ face exploded into a wide grin. “Sir will just not do. You may call me Father, my dear.” He stepped forward and embraced the young lady.

Andrella practically melted in his arms. “Thank you… Father.”

Kratos stepped back and beamed at the couple. “My, my, our little Lloyd is engaged. Just wait until your mother finds out.”

The elder Stealle abruptly slapped himself on the forehead. “Where are my manners! Please follow me back to the house. Lara will want to meet you both, and while we’re at it you can join us for lunch.”

“That would be very nice, Father,” Andrella responded politely.

“We do have a lot to tell you,” Lloyd added.

They all remounted and followed Kratos back to their ranch home.

Andrella felt as if there were butterflies in her stomach. She had been somewhat apprehensive to meet Lloyd’s dad, the celebrated Hero of Penwick, Admiral of the Penwick Navy, founder of the Stealle Academy of the Sword, and a member of the city council. Kratos, however, turned out to be absolutely charming. Now came the hard part, though—meeting Lloyd’s mom.

Lara Stealle was no less accomplished than her husband. She not only held the title of High Wizard of Penwick, but had formed the Hault School of Magic and Wizardry, and also sat on the city council. Andrella worried that someone like Lara would want an accomplished spouse for her son, yet Andrella had no such achievements to her name.

The Chateau de Stealle did little to calm her nerves. A sprawling u-shaped grey stone structure, the center section of the main house stood three stories tall. A pair of short towers rose on either side of the front entrance, with a steep-dormered roof that swept upward from the first floor. A two-story wing jutted out on either side of the main house, forming a small courtyard out front. While certainly not the size of Ravenford Keep, it appeared to be a very luxurious estate.

The inside of the house proved equally impressive. The entrance opened into a large foyer with a vaulted ceiling and a rich marble-tiled floor. A circular stairwell rose up along one wall to an open hallway on the second floor.

Kratos led them across the house to an expansive room with a deep mahogany-grained décor. Multiple couches and chairs lay spread across the room. Some faced a huge open hearth, while others sat opposite a bank of windowed doors with a breathtaking view of the surrounding lands.

Kratos bade them to make themselves comfortable. “If you don’t mind waiting here, I’ll go get Lara.”

The corner of Lloyd’s mouth lifted slightly. “Let me guess—she’s up in her lab.”

Kratos responded with an ironic smile to match his son’s. “Where else would she be?”

Unable to stop fidgeting, Andrella went to peer out the back doors. A lush carpet of green grass spread out in all directions. Groves of tall trees stood interspersed throughout the landscape. A range of purple mountains rose off in the distance against a background of deep blue sky.

Andrella breathed a deep sigh. It really is beautiful here.

A pair of strong arms wrapped themselves around her waist. She peered over her shoulder to see Lloyd grinning down at her. “This used to be my favorite place to sit when I was a kid.”

Andrella tapped him on the chin with her finger. “Somehow I can’t imagine young Lloyd ever sitting.”

“Touché,” Lloyd responded with a laugh.

Andrella’s nerves had just begun to settle when a new voice called out from behind them. “Lloyd!”

Andrella whirled around to see a woman in fine royal blue robes standing in the doorway. While the top of her head barely reached to her husband’s nose, Lara Stealle nonetheless presented an imposing figure. Time had not detracted a bit from this woman’s beauty. Her skin showed a rose-colored complexion with just the hint of freckles. Long, straight light-brown hair draped down over her shoulders, and her piercing blue eyes sparkled with a keen intelligence.

Andrella felt quite self-conscious as Lloyd rushed across the room to greet her. The two of them briefly embraced, then Lara laced her arm through Lloyd’s. They crossed over to Andrella, stopping a few feet from the now absolutely nervous young lady.

Lara held her gaze for a moment, although to Andrella it felt more like an eternity. She was certain those piercing blue eyes would see through to the fraud she was underneath—a totally vapid young woman with no true substance to speak of.

Finally, a warm smile spread across Lara’s lips. “Lloyd, who is this absolutely stunning young lady?”

Lloyd grinned as he took Andrella by the hand. “Mom, I’d like you to meet my fiancée, the Lady Andrella Avernos.”

“Pleased to meet you…”

Before Andrella cold finish, Lara stepped forward and embraced her wholeheartedly. “Welcome to the family, my dear.”

All the nervousness Andrella had previously felt melted away in that moment. Lara laced her arm through hers and leveled a stare at her husband and son. “It will be so nice to have another daughter in this house full of men.”

Almost as if choreographed, both father and son peered at the ground. An embarrassed smile crossed their faces as they rubbed the back of their necks in unison.

Andrella did her best to suppress a laugh. Like father, like son.

“And who is this fine young elf?” Lara’s attention quickly shifted.

In her anxious state, Andrella had nearly forgotten about Glo. The tall elf had also drifted across the room and stood at one of the back doors.

A now thoroughly embarrassed Lloyd swiftly introduced their elven friend.

“Elen sila lumenn omentilmo,” Lara addressed Glo in a formal voice.

Andrella immediately recognized the language as elvish. Though not certain of the full meaning, she caught the words star, shine, and meeting.

Apparently impressed, Glo responded in an equally formal tone. “Saesa omentien lle.”

Andrella knew that one. It meant a pleasure meeting you.

Lara pressed her lips together. “So you are from the lost city of Cairthrellon? I will definitely need to pick your brain, young sir.”

Glo gave her a slight smile and a nod. “It would be my pleasure, Lady Stealle.”

Without warning, a grumbling sound emanated from Lloyd’s abdomen. Lara peered at her son and laughed gaily. “I see some things never change.”

She patted Andrella on the arm. “Come on, my dear. We better feed these gentlemen before they starve to death.”

Glolindir found himself absolutely mesmerized by the natural splendor of the Stealle estate. While not set in the midst of a forest like his home, the surrounding grasslands and intermittent groves held a beauty all their own.

Kratos and Lara also proved to be quite interesting. Though both had larger-than-life reputations, neither came across as pretentious. On the contrary, they seemed quite friendly and down to earth. Glo supposed he shouldn’t have been surprised considering Lloyd’s good nature and tendency to treat everyone as equals.

Kratos leaned close to Glo as they followed Lara into the kitchen. “I’d like to thank you for watching out for our Lloyd. I have to admit, we were a bit worried when he headed out all on his own.”

A soft chuckle escaped Glo’s lips. “To be honest, Lloyd watched after us as much as we did him.”

“As it should be with all good friends.” Kratos nodded approvingly.

The kitchen at Chateau de Stealle proved to be as impressive as the rest of the house. Foremost, it was quite large. Long counters and tall cabinets spanned the walls around a huge cooking hearth. A wide oak-topped island sat in the middle of the area with a number of tall chairs lined up on one side. Across the room stood a large oval oak table with seating for six.

Bright sunlight filtered through a wide window and another windowed door. All in all, the kitchen had a very homey feel.

Lara bade the men to sit down while she and Andrella prepared lunch. Glo immediately noted how uncomfortable the young lady appeared. Truth be told, in all their time on the road, Glo had never seen Andrella cook.

Kratos must have read his mind. He whispered under his breath, “Not to worry. Lara is not exactly a cook, either.”

Lloyd placed a hand to the side of his mouth and added in a hushed voice, “It’s usually a crap-shoot with mom. When Pallas or Thea are home, they won’t let her anywhere near the kitchen.”

At that same moment, Lara dumped something into a cooking pot hanging in the hearth. Whatever it was, the pot responded with a loud poof.

“Behave yourself,” Lara scolded the lifeless pot with a wag of her finger.

Glo did his very best to suppress a laugh.

“Speaking of Pallas, where is he?” Lloyd asked his father.

“He’s filling in for me as temporary head of the fleet,” Kratos explained. “When Hightower warned us about those Dunwynn ships headed south, we sent some ships of our own up to Colossus Point—just in case they decided to cross the treaty line.”

Glo winced at the mention of the Dunwynn ships. They had not gone further south, but instead turned upriver and ended up at the docks in Vermoorden. The companions had rushed there prepared for a fight, but managed to resolve things through a combination of diplomacy and intimidation.

“The Duke is greedy,” Lloyd agreed, “but I don’t think he’d cross the line and start an all-out war with Penwick.”

“Perhaps this union between you and Andrella can further curb his expansionist tendencies,” Kratos noted with an ironic smile.

Lloyd folded his arms and scoffed. “I’m not holding my breath.”

Kratos cast a quick glance at Andrella, but the young lady seemed quite preoccupied wrestling with a knife and a bunch of carrots. “Hightower also kept us apprised of the events surrounding Gryswold and Gracelynn.”

Lloyd sat back in his seat and grimaced. “Yeah, things were a bit touch-and-go there for a while.”

Kratos placed a reassuring hand on his son’s shoulder. “What counts is that you saved them both. Honestly, your mother and I couldn’t be prouder.”

Lloyd’s face reddened with embarrassment. “Thanks, Dad,” he mumbled.

Despite one or two more kitchen mishaps, Lara and Andrella served up a hearty stew. They all adjourned to the kitchen table, where Andrella filled up everyone’s bowl. Glo noted a mild burning smell, but ate it anyway, gulping down the overdone pieces. When offered seconds, however, he held up his hand. “That was really quite—filling.”

Kratos, his expression neutral, managed a covert wink in Glo’s direction. Lloyd, on the other hand, accepted both seconds and thirds. Glo finally understood where the young man had developed his cast-iron stomach.

During lunch, the trio recapped their efforts in the City of Tears. They also related all they knew about the towers and the impending demon invasion.

Lara gently tapped her chin, her brow deeply furrowed. “So there are six of these towers still standing, each housing one of these powerful cruex crystals?”

“Yes.” Glo gave her a solemn nod. “The seventh tower is said to have sunk with the Isle of Namlon.”

Lara chewed on her lower lip. “And these crystals are fueled by the power of living souls?”

“That’s what we were told,” Lloyd affirmed with thinly veiled anger.

“That’s barbaric!” Kratos exclaimed, slamming his hands down on the table.

Lara clucked her tongue at her husband. “Now Kratos, the Naradon Empire was not exactly known for its gentle approach to conquest.”

“But the emperor’s letters to the empress did seem to indicate he had a change of heart in the end,” Andrella countered hopefully.

Lara pressed her lips together and slowly nodded. “Perhaps. Perhaps he even had a hand in the destruction of the seventh tower—which would explain why we’re all still alive today.”

Kratos rose and began to pace around the kitchen. “That won’t last if these demons spread to the rest of the towers.”

Lara got up as well and went over to him. She placed a hand on his arm to stop him from pacing. “This Elistra appears to have the one tower protected for now.”

She peered over at Glo. “Isn’t that right?”

“Indeed,” Glo agreed with a heavy sigh.

Lara let go of Kratos and strode over to the door. Her expression grew thoughtful as she peered out the paned glass into the distance. “And I’d have to imagine these other towers have safeguards in place or they’d have already been taken.”

Glo exchanged a subtle nod with Andrella, who in turn answered for them. “We believe so. However, the demons are using their tower and its crystal to grow their numbers…”

“…and once their forces are great enough, you fear they’ll attack the other towers,” Kratos finished for her.

“Yes,” Andrella affirmed with a grim nod.

“Which is why we need to know more about them,” Glo quickly added. “Is there really a tunnel network connecting the towers, and if so, what is this purple worm the empress seemed to be so afraid of?”

Lloyd stood and placed his hands firmly on the table. “It’s also why we need to talk to the city council. We need to work fast if we’re going to find weapons that can stop the demons.”

Lara wheeled around to face them, her chin firm with resolve. “The Hault School has the most in-depth library this side of Palt”—she swept her gaze from Glo to Andrella—“but you have to be a member.”

“Mom…” Lloyd began with clear exasperation.

She cut him off with a wry smile before he could finish. “…which is luckily something I can offer you, being Head Mistress of the school.”

Glo and Andrella exchanged a grateful glance before replying in unison, “Thank you, Lady Stealle.”

“As for the council, there is a meeting tonight,” Kratos addressed Lloyd’s point. “I’m certain we can get you in, but I’m not sure how willing they will be to help.”

Lloyd looked down and shook his head as he slammed his fist into his other hand. “I know, but we have to at least try.”

Lara and Kratos exchanged an approving glance. Lloyd had definitely grown in his understanding of politics.

Lara strode back to the table and swept her eyes over the trio. “I think this calls for a bit of prep work. Perhaps we should meet with your entire group and fill you in on what you are up against.”

“I think that’s a wonderful idea!” Andrella exclaimed.

Kratos steepled his hands together. “I have some business to attend to at the academy first. If you can inform your companions, we’ll meet them at the inn where you’re staying afterwards.”

Lloyd cast a curious glance at Kratos. “What business, Father?”

Kratos sighed. “Nothing out of the ordinary. Just another young blade who wants to test their mettle against the original ‘Protector of Penwick.” The elder Stealle suddenly raised a brow. “I have an idea, Lloyd. Why don’t you fill in for me? That way I can see what you’ve learned these last few months.”

Lloyd beamed with pride. “I’d be honored, Father.”

Andrella clasped her hands together. “Can I come as well?”

Kratos smiled at the young lady’s enthusiasm. “Certainly, my dear.”

“I’d be interested as well, if you don’t mind,” Glo added, curious to see this academy he’d heard so much about.

Kratos reached out and clasped the elf on his shoulder. “Absolutely. Any friend of Lloyd’s is always welcome at the academy.”

Glo felt truly touched by the gesture. In fact, the support these two seemed willing to offer was just shy of amazing. Glo found himself suddenly envious of Lloyd. While his own mother had always been supportive, his father had been the exact opposite.

After helping clean up the kitchen, the travelers gathered their things and reconvened in the foyer. Just before they left, Lara pulled Andrella aside.

“I’d like you to come back and stay with us as long as you’re in town, dear.”

The offer caught Andrella by surprise. “I—couldn’t possibly impose like that.”

“Now don’t be silly,” Lara insisted. “You can have one of the guest rooms in the east wing.”

Andrella’s face lit up with a radiant smile. “How could I possibly resist such a generous offer? Thank you, Lady Stealle…”

Lara placed a finger over Andrella’s lips before she could say another word. “That’s Mom, dear.”

“Mom,” Andrella corrected herself. She threw her arms around the older woman, both positively glowing as they embraced like mother and daughter.

3

Auric Priestess

Such priests and priestesses carried the light of Arenor inside them

The Temple of the Ralnai proved to be equally impressive on the inside. Nearly three dozen rows of seating spanned the long aisle that led to the altar. Tall, ornate, golden columns stretched upward at regular intervals to the vaulted ceiling in shades of blue that curved overhead. Two more levels rose up on either side, with further seating that reached back to the outer walls. Midday light filtered in through a myriad of tall, arched stained-glass windows, each in turn depicting one or more of the Ralnain gods in all their glory.

The altar stood on a raised semi-circular dais, surrounded on both sides with seating for clergy and choir members. A short, intricately carved railing traced the edges of the entire platform. Another aisle circled around the back of the dais, the entrance to a half-dozen small chapels radiating out from it. Inset into the wall above each chapel stood a life-sized statue of a Ralnai god.

Directly behind the altar, on a level higher than all the others, stood a statue of Arenor, the God of Light. A doorway opened just beneath the holy effigy, leading to the main chapel.

Despite having practically grown up in the Temple of the Soldenar back in Caprizon, Aksel had never seen such a vast and extravagant place of worship. Even so, there was no denying the feeling of divine power that saturated the space between these expansive walls.

Unable to resist, Aksel visited each of the smaller chapels in turn. Each one held a few rows of seats facing a portrait of a Ralnain god. An array of colored candles lay spread just beneath each portrait. Aksel lit a candle in each, then sat and communed with the Ralnai in the name of the Soldenar. Once done, he passed beneath the statue of Arenor and entered into the main chapel.

There the little cleric paused. Before him lay an area the size of a typical town temple. About a dozen rows of seating stretched before him, leading to a wide alcove. In that alcove stood an altar with another life-sized statue of Arenor above it.

Off to one side, Aksel spied a shrine dedicated to the Phobas. The original God of Light “disappeared” nearly six thousand years ago, around the end of the Third Demon War. Strangely enough, none of his followers lost faith or their divine power. Still, when Arenor rose to take his place, Phobas was slowly forgotten by the masses.

“Cleric Aksel?”

The young gnome whirled about to find Ves staring intently down at him. At just over five feet, she nonetheless towered over his diminutive frame.

Beside Ves stood a woman in pristine white robes, perhaps a full head taller than the lady dragon. The woman had an almost angelic air about her, her porcelain skin with a trace of freckles only adding to that impression. Her pale blue eyes danced with amusement as she noted the reverence on Aksel’s face. “It is rather impressive, isn’t it?”

Ves cleared her throat and gestured toward her new companion. “Aksel, I’d like you to meet Thea Stealle, Lloyd’s sister. Thea, this is Aksel Alabaster from the city of Caprizon.”

Thea pressed her hands together in front of her chest and executed a slight bow. “Well met, fellow cleric.”

As she did so, Aksel's attention was drawn to the symbol emblazoned on her chest—a golden hand surrounded by a circle with six rays spreading outward. The little cleric bowed in kind. “Well met, good priestess.”

That symbol identified Thea as an Auric Priestess of Arenor, a special devotee to the God of Light. Such priests and priestesses carried the light of Arenor inside them and could expend that power to defend against the darkness. Thus, while they made excellent healers, they were also scourges of evil, especially the undead.

Thea straightened herself, her eyes still dancing as she brushed the ends of her long, wavy black hair off her shoulders. “I see that you are well-versed in theology. I can also tell from your robes that you are a disciple of the Soldenar.”

Aksel pressed his lips together, his brow rising. “I can see that you are also well-versed. I’ve not met many outside of Caprizon who are familiar with gnomish deities.”

Thea’s cheeks grew rosy. “Well, I believe it’s important to study the gods and goddesses of all the pantheons, be it elvish, gnomish, human, or otherwise.”

Aksel was truly impressed. Thea seemed to be as equally open-minded as her brother. “Now I know for certain that you’re Lloyd’s sister.”

An ironic laugh escaped Thea’s lips. “Ah yes. Well, we both suffer from many years of Stealle indoctrination.”

It was Aksel’s turn to laugh. “I think this world could use a bit more of that.”

The little cleric had taken an immediate liking to this woman. Not only was she intelligent and fair-minded, but she also had a wry sense of humor.

“Speaking of Lloyd,” Thea artfully redirected the subject, “I just received a message from my mother. My father and brother are headed over to the academy and would like us to meet them there.”

“Any idea why?” Aksel asked, his curiosity piqued.

A thin smirk graced Thea’s lips. “Apparently, someone challenged my father and Lloyd is standing in for him.”

Aksel arched a single eyebrow. Lloyd standing in for his father? That I have to see.

“You two go ahead,” Ves urged them in a soft voice. “I’m going to stay here and pray for a bit longer.”

Aksel noticed a slight pallor to Ves’ normally well-tanned skin. Despite having thrown off Theramon’s influence, she still didn’t seem quite right.

Thea apparently noticed as well. She placed a hand on Ves’ shoulder. “I think that’s a good idea.”

Aksel and Thea exchanged a wordless glance as they left their troubled friend behind. Aksel prayed that Ves could find the solace she so sorely needed somewhere within the vast walls of the temple.

Elladan Narmolanya swiftly settled into his room at the Lucky Heroes. The elven bard had traveled all over central Thac, including the great capital city of Lymerdia. Thus, the quick change in surroundings and the busy streets of Penwick hardly fazed him.

On the contrary, Elladan was far more worried about Donnie. The slight elf had been unusually quiet since the death of Alana. The two had been so close that Elladan couldn’t even to begin to imagine the pain his friend was going through. Still, in all the time he had known him, Donnie had never been one to talk about his feelings. Instead, he was far more likely to soothe his problems with women and drink.

Yet this time was different. Donnie had withdrawn into himself. Elladan couldn’t even get the normally gregarious elf to join him for lunch in the common room. In fact, everyone seemed preoccupied except for Seth.

Aksel and Ves had stopped at the temple. Glo had gone with Lloyd and Andrella. Cyclone and Xellos went to investigate the countryside. Kara left to message her order.

Even Ruka had declined to join them. The teen seemed more edgy than usual, since her attempt to comfort Donnie resulted in him pushing her away.

Not long after lunch, Elladan received word to meet Glo at the Stealle Academy. Someone had challenged Lloyd’s father, and Lloyd was going to fight in his stead. That news roused even Donnie from his self-imposed confinement. A short while later, Elladan, Donnie, Ruka, and Seth all stood outside the school.

Ruka let out a low whistle. “Get a load of this place.”

“Overcompensating much?” Seth added with a derisive snort.

These two tended to pick everything apart, but this time Elladan had to agree. The huge brownstone building that housed the Stealle Academy of the Sword took up an entire city block. Mostly a single-story structure, a tall clock tower rose high above the front entrance. A wide flight of stone stairs climbed from street level to a pair of iron-bound doors.

Glo stared down at them from the open doorway with an arched eyebrow. “Trouble finding the place?”

This time Ruka responded with a loud snort. “Finding it wasn’t exactly the problem.”

“The problem is that this building goes on and on forever,” Seth finished for her, stretching his arms as wide as they would go.

“That’s because it’s more than just a glorified training hall,” an unfamiliar voice stated behind them.

Aksel ascended the steps toward them with a tall woman in cleric’s robes by his side. The bard’s gaze was immediately drawn to the soft curve of her heart-shaped face and the glint of mirth in her pale blue eyes.