Blood of the Abyss

blood of the abyss Part 7

Chapter 7

The Road to Adramel

Lysandra

I couldn't sleep, of course. Caspian danced through my mind all night long. The words he whispered kept repeating in my mind. I know you. I groaned in frustration before pulling the pillow over my face and screaming into it. I had hoped that Caspian's hold on my heart had somewhat faded after three years without him, but even with him unaware of who I was, his grip was tighter than ever. Sleep would not welcome me into it's embrace tonight, so I began to mull over the knowledge about the abyss. Merrilora had stated it clearly that it was home to a multitude of demons, and Caspian believed its taint was making the humans mad. I knew for fact that the taint was killing the orchard, and I could only guess what would happen if it spread. Sighing, I got up from my bed and moved to the tiny desk in the corner. Curling into the chair, my thoughts wild with memories of Caspian, I slipped into sleep.

I didn't wake until someone shook my shoulder. Drool had dried on the corner of my mouth and my neck had a horrible pain from sleeping in such an awkward position. I groaned as I unfolded myself from the chair and looked up to see Illine, her hand still on my shoulder.

"It's midday, Lys. Merrilora was starting to worry and sent me to get you. We are all in her hut. I'll let you get ready." She gave me a half-smile and exited my hut. I massaged my neck, trying to get the knot to go away to no avail. Giving up, I stood and brushed out the knots in my hair, dressed in a fresh set of clothes, and headed to Merrilora's hut.

Caspian, Illine, Thelran, Alwine, and myself were all crowded inside of Merrilora's hut.

"I sent word to Alwine that you all would need his assistance." Merrilora gave a slight nod toward the dwarf who grunted in return.

"I know you wanted Illine and Thelran involved," I started, "but why Alwine?"

"Because, Mistress Merrilora believes I can help. Don't know what gave her that dimwitted idea. I've been drunk for three days and it hasn't started clearin' up yet." Alwine's voice was slurred and he did smell like a brewery.

"I brought him here because he has been to the place I am sending you all."

"And where exactly is that?" Caspian asked. He seemed frustrated and how slow Merrilora was explaining everything. That was familiar as Caspian was always very impatient.

"Adramel, in a town called Limminium." She answered. "It's about a three day journey from here."

"What is in Adramel that can help us with the orchard," I noticed Caspian's look and added, "and, the humans?"

"There is a sorceress there. Her magic is very powerful and she has knowledge that even I don't have. She will be able to tell you more details about the abyss, possibly how to close it or at least lead you to someone who can. All I know is that the abyss must be closed in order to prevent further taint spreading. I would go myself if the village didn't count on me to be a voice of reason when they all panic."

"How do we find this sorceress?" Caspian and I asked at the same time. I suddenly felt my cheeks redden as his eyes fell on me. Ignoring the moment, Merrilora took a deep breath.

"She lives in a hovel at the edge of Limminium. My understanding is that most people in Adramel have visited her before. If all else fails, ask around, you'll find her eventually. Meanwhile, I will keep the peace here and I'll attempt to help any humans I can. I suggest you hurry though." Merrilora stood and opened the door so we could exit. "Pack the essentials. I'll meet you at the edge of the orchard in an hour."

After grabbing the essentials, wrapping my cloak around me, and slinging my quiver and bow on my back, I met up with Illine and Thelran as we walked toward the orchard.