User blog:Abriella Laterose/Maid's Quest

K, so this is my first ever fanfic! I hope you enjoy it. It's still a work in progress so it may be changing periodically and I hope it doesn't drive any one crazy but since I am doing this in my spare time it may take a week or two before it's updated so bear with me ;) Also, I apologize in advance if their are any similarities in ideas or names other people have used... I haven't yet had the privilege of reading any one else's stories so I promise it wasn't on purpose if you see any! I would greatly appreciate any constructive feedback! If you don't like my story then let me know how I can better it!

Thanks! And I hope you enjoy :) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

''“The wind’s icy breath, cries o’er the land of silent death.

''Who goes there? None but the brave..''

‘Cross heaving depths and ominous wave

''Where silence rings and leviathans wait... the place that marks ships’ graves''

Lies a land known to some, and the castle of Itaris.

A maiden was chosen from thy abbey, to embark on this treacherous quest.

She alone must restore to the throne, the Silverfanged heir."

The maid who chose to walk the warrior's path,

Shall not tread this place alone.

Within stone walls cold as ice,

The savage king she will dethrone.''

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

'Book One: Itaris'

'Prologue'

A full crystalline moon hung low over the north coasts. Stars glittered like tiny slivers of ice in the sable night sky as storm clouds moved to reveal the soft light of the moon, causing the sea to take on a silver glow. The beauty was lost in the bitter cold. The northlands, a place made fierce and desolate by lack of food and arctic temperatures… eternally in the clutch of winter’s dark grasp. The frozen wind moaned and snaked through stunted pine forests and against barren cliffs. It cried fitfully to a guttering fire high up on the cliff face, hidden slightly within the entrance of a sizable cave.

A large creature, the like of which had never before been seen in Mossflower country sat at the cave's entrance, his fierce eyes reflecting the pale moonlight.

Nazar the wolf was deep in thought.

He was an awesome sight. Nazar was taller, broader and more muscular than any of the others in his clan. He was a grey wolf of impressive size with a savage glint to his golden eyes and long, milk white fangs that showed slightly beneth his lip, even when his mouth was closed. The molted grey fur was daubed thick in blue and black war paint and markings that gave him an eerie sheen in the firelight. A black cloak fell down his back and silver armor plated his chest while a massive broadsword rested beside him, only a creature of his stature and capacity could lift it.

Despite the wolf's personal strength and power he was troubled.

Once his kind had numbered nearly a thousand, now, they were less than two hundred... a shadow had fallen over the north, an evil that had driven them to the brink of existance. No creature could stand against this pernicous force, his grandsire had tried, and failed... Their enemies outnumbered them six to two and fought with a ferocity that was beyond anything they had ever experianced. Not only had they been forced from their home and he denied his rightful heirship to the Itaris throne, but their huntig grounds had been cut off and they were now forced to scavenge or starve. The wolves had fought feircely, being warriors at heart but they were outnumbered by overwhelming odds. Any resistance was quickly cut down, being delt with ruthless savagery and causing the clan to scatter. By sheer determination Nazar had rallied as many of the smaller clans as he could but their numbers were too few and now he alone was forced to come up with a solution.

Frustrated he turned to his Seer. "What of thy visions, Prophet?"

Prophet, an aged white wolf tipped with silver raised his gaze from the dancing flames of the fire. "I fear my visions have been dark of late, lord. The stone remains silent."

"Mayhap your visions are growing dim because the stone has selected a new Seer."

Nazar growled at the smaller wolf who had spoken "What are you inferring, Izzan?"

Izzan was not a big wolf but he still held a comanding presance. His coat was as winter white as the snow outside and his black eyes were like shards of obsidian ice. He lowered his head non-chalantly "Only that the silence of the Diviners Stone may be a sign that it is seeking a new carrier... A stronger Seer who can bring to light it's true potential."

The big wolf grunted "Do not pretend to know more than my Seer Izzan, you may have the blood of a Soothsayer but your voice is not the one I seek. Prophet's powers may be diminishing but his abilities as a Seer are stronger than thine!"

Izzan's black eyes glinted in the firelight.

Nazar turned back to his old Seer who had remained silent the whole time. The aged wolf was holding and staring into the surface of a semi transluesent stone, he swayed slightly as the flames danced across it's surface. Nazar made no move, he had seen Prophet like that before. He was in a trance.

When Prophet finally spoke his voice was clear and strong, having no tremble to it as before.

“Seek ye bells and a silver sword,''

forged from a fallen star by a badger lord.

It’s blade is deadly as midwinter’s ice, the pommel is red as blood.

It alone possesses the power, to destroy thy enemies and reclaim thy land,

''seek it now in the southern land... - ”

The old Seer's voice faded. After a moment Prophet set aside the stone and shivered slightly in the bitter night wind. He looked exhausted. “Lord, I fear my visions are dark beyond this… I feel certain their is more but... it is hidden from my view.” he looked strangely past Nazar and then turned his gaze back to his chieftan.

Nazar's eyes shone with an ardent light. The light of new hope.

"A sword?" Izzan scoffed incredulousley, "A weapon that can defeat our enemies... ? If you are seeking help lord, you cannot expect it to come from dead prophecies."

Nazar was not listening "Where do we find this weapon? Tell me!"

The old Seer lowered his head “There is only one place where bells are found in the south. Redwall Abbey!”

A black wolf in the back looked up as others began murmuring doubts amongst themselves.

“Redwall Abbey? Are you sure?”

“But that’s in the far south!”

“No one’s ever been that far south.”

“I thought such a place was only a myth?”

“Does it even exist?”

“Don’t look at me, I’ve certainly never heard of it.”

“Why are we searching for a mythical place and a legendary sword if they’re not real?”

Prophet had to raise his voice to be head, “Jaden Nightlance's grandfather, Vortigern spoke of it, he claimed such a place does exist.”

Nazar rose to his feet “Then we will travel for Redwall, at first light!”

Izzan shook his head dubiously, "Who's to say how far this place is? How will you recognize this weapon once you reach your destination?"

Nazar's golden eyes shone as he replied "Distance and perils mean nothing to my clan, my warriors are capable of overcoming any obstacles in our path. As for the the sword, it must be of magnificante craft and easily recognizable.” The sound faded as the clan went silent and Nazar adrressed them.

“Warriors of Itaris, listen! Once, we were a mighty nation; banded together under one ruler. My grandfather, the true ruler of the Itaris throne! You all know how our enemies envaded in the night, oppresing and slaughtering all in their way. My grandfather was slain fighting against overwhelming odds and we were forced to disband into clans... is this naught cause enough to fight for our own defense and freedom? Why should we be forced to scavenge and hunt where there is no food while our young ones starve? We are not helpless against over whelming odds, we’re warriors! We’ll fight! Prophet’s vision has shown a glimmer of hope and a sure chance of victory! Who will fight for his freedom and his fellow warriors? Who’s with me!”

A howling cheer arose from the clan at their leaders rousing words.

“We will find this sword, destroy our enemies, drive them out and slay anybeast who dare stands in our way!” The howls became deafening.

No one noticed as the black wolf slipped out.

Nazar smiled in satisfaction, then turning he barked out orders. “Faelan, Maccon, put out that fire! Bardalph, Ulric, Hunter! You three will scout ahead and find a good course for the others to take along the cliffs, take Jaden Nightlance and Gurn with you... Trine, I will leave two score warriors and two other healers with you to care for the wounded. Those who are too young or feeble to make the journey will remain behind as well. The rest of you make ready to travel!”

Maccon a grey brown furred wolf approached Nazar, averting his eyes from the chieftain’s intense gaze “Jaden Nightlance is missing, along with the Diviner’s Stone.”

__________________________________________________________________________________

Chapter 1: Deepening Snows

The gathering dark and oncoming storm created almost an ethereal serenity inside the silent grounds

Snow was falling; floating down in thick, soft flakes through the still darkness of night. Webs of it clung like ivy to the ancient stones of Redwall Abbey. The fine powder blanketed the lawns and orchards. Beneath an impenetrable layer of ice, the pond lay frozen over within the outer walls.

Drifting gently onto the windowsill of an upper dormitory room where frost had formed on the transparent rock-crystal glass of the window. Like delicate workings of lace the tiny water crystals sparkled dimly in the diminishing lamplight on the window ledge. A small island of light against the enveloping shades of storm and nightfall, a single lantern burned from within. The squirrelmaid Rosabel, sat watching the large snowflakes dance and swirl outside and sighed as she turned back to her parchment and quill.

Extract taken from the Diaries of Sister Rosabel, Official Abbey Recorder in Mossflower Country:

''It does not feel like spring, let alone mid-spring! It feels as though we are still in the clutches of mid-winter. In our orchards the trees should be crowned in blossoms, the gardens full of flowers and tiny veggitabale starts growing, the air warm and full of joy for the renewal of life! Instead, you gaze around and all is bare... Snow is everywhere. Winter came on hard this year and refuses to relinquish its hold even now.

''Brother Gordale has been unable to do any planting outdoors this season; being forced to bring what seedlings we could to be planted in small containers indoors. He fears that our crops will be meager if this weather holds up. Abbess Mhera has twice had to forestall the Abbey's nameday feast (which is held at the start of each new season... being as winter seems determined not to allow spring to come.) However, the cold and dark have done little to dampen the spirits of our good creatures as there is much to be thankful for! For instance this beautiful Abbey which we are blessed to call home, were all can live in peace and harmony, surrounded by family and entrusted with the gift of true friendship! With plenty of good food and all the necessities of life provided by mother nature... What more can a creature ask for?''

''A couple of our dear ones from the past have passed on, Old Hoarg the Gatekeeper is one of those who have gone to the quite woods and sunny valleys were never again they will have to worry about deep snows and icy winters... but alas, that is a part of life.

''War and bloodshed have not touched our walls in many a long season thanks to our Abbey warrior Deyna. The days have been long and prosperous for those who dwell within these walls. For this I am grateful as peace is precious, however, I am surprised to say that not all would so readily agree... My dear friend, Kya, longs for adventure. She yearns for excitement and the ways of our Abbey are not always thus, but who knows, maybe someday she will find it? I would love to go with her, traveling to far off lands, searching for treasures and fighting off evil to be mentioned with the brave! Oh it does sound exciting does it not!? But alas, it is not to be... for I am a simple Abbeymaid and a recorder, no, my place is here... at Redwall Abbey.

Rosabel's pen scratched as a loud knocking sounded on the door outside her bedchamber, setting it down she glared irately at the squiggily mark she'd just made on the page as a result of a broken consentration. The rapping sounded again followed by a voice "Rosabel, have you dozed off? What are you doing in there?"

Smiling to herself, Rosabel made her way to the door "I should've guessed that was you Kya, no one else can pound my door to splinters with so few knocks."

Kya chuckled "You're mistaken there Rose, my dad or brother could've knocked it down in one blow!" the young recorder nodded knowingly as she opened the door "True yes, now, what brings you to my humble headcourters?"

Kya smiled sheepishly as she noticed the ink on Rosabel's paws "I didn't disturb your work did I?" The squirrelmaid shook her head "No, infact I had just finished when you came to the door."

"Oh good, you've been cooped up in that room so long you missed the dinnerbell!"

Rosabel closed the door quickly and followed her friend down the stairs crying "Why didn't you say so! Hurry, before that hare eats everything!"

___________*

Grinj was lost.

The rat had been wondering all night, stumbling through the dense woodlands and he had found himself in a part of the country that was completely unfamiliar to him. Mossflower could be a foreboding, eerie place in the dark, pre-dawn hours. The moon could still be seen through the towering, swaying cover of trees that were unusually bare for this time of year. Spring still clung grimly to winter’s last snows, not wanting to relinquish her white cover that carpeted the earth beneath in a frozen cloak.

Starring upward at the groaning, creaking trees of Mossflower and walking backwards Grinj tripped over a hidden log and fell into a snowdrift. Shivering he pushed himself up and continued forward, his frayed brown tunic and thin cloak held little warmth against the cold. With his breathe misting before him, he glanced back at the lone set of tracks trailing off northward he had left in the new snow. “Vhrrrrr!” Grinj shivered uncontrollably as a brisk wind blew through his thin clothing and froze him to the core. Looking up the rat sighed with relief as he saw what he’d been looking for; above the distant tree tops the spiral of a large stone building could be seen.

Pulling his ragged cloak tighter about his thin shoulders he started towards the place with a renewed determination.

__________*

A golden dawn rose slowly, streaked with pale pink and violet. Mhera stood over the main threshold on the battlements starring out at the frosty, dew kissed flatlands and the misty woods surrounding her beloved abbey. Mhera breathed deeply in the crisp morning air, taking in the silence and beauty dawn brought with it. Somewhere a lark trilled as the light grey drizzle and mist began to clear. It was a beautiful morning to be alive and there would be much to do for this evening’s feast.

“Brrrr hurr, you’m freeze e’ tail off’n Muther h’Abbess if’n e’ stay oop ‘ere furr long!”

Mhera turned to see her good molefreind Gundil trundling up with two cups of steaming hot cordial. She smiled warmly at him and accepted the mug gratefully.

“Forgive me my friend, I just got lost in the beauty of the morning. I hardly noticed the cold… Oh Gundil, just look at it! Isn’t it splendid?”

“Hurr, that et is miz Mher’, but io dearly wishes et wiould ‘urry oop an turn spring! Io don’t know ‘ow abbesses can take all ee gurt snow!” Gundil said, blowing on his drink before taking a sip.

Suddenly a movement caught Mhera’s eye and the abbess turned towards the woodlands on the north side of the path, a lone creature was staggering towards the gate. It was a thin grey rat wearing a ragged cloak and shivering uncontrollably. He stumbled forward and tripped, falling heavily against the path.

Mhera immediately set down her cordial and leaned over the wall, concern etched on her face as she starred at the fallen beast.

“Hurr, what you’m gonna’ do Mher’?” Gundil whispered.

The rat caught sight of the two creatures atop the wall and raised a pitiful whine “Please ‘elp me!”

Gundil saw the sympathetic look in Mhera’s eyes and shook his head “Zur Deyna, won’t loik this…”

Mhera began heading for the stairs “I can’t very well leave him out there to freeze to death! My brother will have to deal with it. Drogg, open the gate will you!”

The old hedgehog set down the tray of food he'd been taking to the Gatehouse and hurried to obey, curious at his abbess’ urgency. Drogg Spearback and old brother Hoben who had been sitting comfortably in the gatehouse only moments ago shuffled quickly behind, following Mhera and Gundil out onto the path.

The four stopped a few paces from the fallen rat, who whined piteously “Please, I beg yer good beasts, be merciful! ‘elp a poor, unfortunate beast. I ‘aven’t eaten in days an’ what rations I ‘ad was stolen by an ‘eartless weasel. Tis’ ice cold an’ I’ve nowhere to go… please, show mercy!” the wretched creature broke into pathetic sobs.

Drogg leaned over, whispering quietly to Drogg “Scruffy, flea bitten wretch ain’t e’?”

Old Hoben nodded.

Mhera stepped forward, quickly consoling the heartbroken rat. “Here now, stop this. Of course we’ll feed you and you’re welcome to- !”

Before she could finish the rat had taken a vise-like grip on her paw and was shaking it warmly, “Oh, bless yer! Good, kind, loverrrly otterly lady. Bless yer, bless yer!”

Mhera practically had to pry her paw from his grasp. “You can call me Mother Abbess.”

“Mother,” the rat said almost dreamily “I like that, wish I ‘ad a mother… least one that I could recall… ” the woeful creature almost burst into a fresh flood of tears.

“Get him inside quickly!” the young abbess commanded.

Gundil and Drogg leant a paw to the bedraggled rat, “Yurr zur, oop you’m cumz. An’ stop all ‘e cryin’, bain’t good for ‘e… doan’t worry, uz’ll get ‘e warmed an’ fed.” The good mole assured.

“Deyna’s going to love this.” Drogg muttered under his breath, trying not to turn away from the stench.

Grinj smiled through his tears, “Bless yer, good beast’s all, bless yer!”

________*

Nimbalo and Deyna sat talking in the kitchens, both turned at the sound of somebeast’s approach. Mhera entered, followed by a large grey rat who was holding onto Gundil. Nimbalo immediately leapt up, his paw reaching for a kitchen knife as he shouted out a warning “Mhera, look out! There’s a rat behind you!”

The ottermaid stepped boldly in front of the rat, stopping Nimbalo from leaping upon him “Put that knife down. The rat is a guest.”

The harvest mouse lowered the knife in bewilderment “You mean to say he ‘aint holdin’ you an’ Gundil ‘ostige?”

Mhera shook her head “No, he isn’t… he’ll be staying with us a while, at least until he’s fit to travel.”

Deyna, who had held his peace until then stood slowly, his eyes directed at the vermin who was now standing in his abbey. Voice low, Deyna spoke to his sister “Mhera, may I have a word with you. In private?”

The rat quelled under the big otter’s gaze.

Mhera obliged, stepping out of the room with him.

Deyna turned solemnly to face her “Mhera what is going on?”

“The rat was cold and hungry, I simply brought him in to feed and clothe him, nothing more.”

“I know you feel what you’re doing is right and I will not reprimand your decision as Abbess, but as Abbey defender and as your brother I must voice my opinion… I do not think this is a wise decision.”

The abbess sighed “What would you have had me do? Leave him outside the gate?”

Deyna looked at her, answering frankly. “Yes. I would have.”

Mhera frowned “Redwall is famed for its hospitality. How can we uphold its name if we won’t uphold its most patent principle? Our rule that all who come in peace are welcome within our walls?”

“Mhera, I think that we can exclude vermin from this- ”

“The Abbey’s saying is ‘ALL those who come in peace are welcome!’ that doesn’t just stand for woodlanders.”

Deyna tried to reason with her “Mhera, you don’t know that he came here with peace on his mind… if he had he would be the first… you don’t understand the thoughts and intensions of vermin. I do. They’re cunning and dangerous, blood, cruelty and plunder are all that they know.”

Seeing the crestfallen look on his sister’s face Deyna’s voice softened “You can still insert peace and uphold Redwall’s name without endangering those you love. You could have sent out food and a warm cloak… That’s what I would have done.”

Mhera felt deflated, she knew her brother was right. She sighed again “I’m not very good at this am I? You’re right of course. They say that wisdom comes with age but I don’t feel like I’ve gotten any wiser over the seasons… ”

Deyna smiled, throwing a paw about her shoulders and winking to lighten the mood “I’d say wisdom comes more with experience than age… I’ve met a few old uns who were fools.”

She chuckled, pushing him playfully “How’d you come to be oh so wise little brother?”

“Living on your own and fending for yourself for so long you learn a thing or two. Don’t go cutting yourself down Mhera, you’re new at this and haven’t had the experiences of a seasoned Abbess yet, but it will come and I think you’re doing a great job… huh, if I had been abbot- ”

“Woe to my poor Abbey!” Mhera laughed at the thought.

Deyna grinned “I guess it’s a good thing I was never cut out to be an abbot and someone with some sense had already filled the position… I mean, think if Nimbalo had- ”

“Don’t EVEN go there!” Mhera cried out. Holding up her paws she admitted “Ok, I get it. I’m glad I’m the abbess now that you bring that up and I’m glad that I can learn from my mistakes but what do I tell the rat?”

“You leave him to me.” ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Chapter 2: Dreams & Fools

Silverfang slept fitfully, the young wolf was resentful at not having been chosen by his father as one of those sent after the traitorous deserter. Having lost mother and sister Silverfang was the next and only heir to the Itaris throne after his father and Nazar was very protective of him. Sometimes a little too protective. Seeing seventeen winters the hot-headed, rebellious pup thought he was ready to take on the challenge of being a leader despite the fact that he still had much to learn; Silverfang did not appreciate the fact that he was supposed to have a bodyguard with him wherever he went.

After several restless hours and finally managing to fall into a semi-peaceful slumber Silverfang was awakened by something. A sound in the cave or maybe just a premonition that something or someone was in the room with him. He was surprised he had wakened at all being a deep sleeper but something was definitely off. Laying awake for several minutes and straining his eyes and ears but not being able to perceive anything in the inky darkness he began to dismiss the feeling and brush it off as just being startled by a sound from further in the cavern were several of the clan slept. Silverfang began to drift back to sleep when a grey fog started to fill the room and a figure materialized out of the haze. Unsure whether he was dreaming or seeing an apparition the young wolf was shocked to see his great grandfather standing over him. Wearing the armor that was now his father's and carrying the sword that had been passed down to Nazar the old wolf appeared as full of life and ready for action as Silverfang remembered him.

A voice seemed to resonate from the fog, deep and full of urgency. "Why do you sleep grandson while the enemy gets further away with the symbol of thy power and birthright? Should not you go after him?"

Surprised, Silverfang answered, his tones slightly subdued in shame "I was not chosen."

"Only the rightful heir and his seer may hold the Diviners Stone... If you allow the traitor to take it you are giving up your only security to the throne! All the clans will rally to he who wields the stone and to him give their full loyalty."

"I know but- "

"You were chosen Silverfang, this is your Vision Quest... You must track down the traitor and retrieve the stone. Only then will your father and the clan see that you truly are a leader worth following and the heir to my throne!" Enraptured by this thought Silverfang sat up with a start "But what about the others who were sent ahead? How will I find Nightlance before them?"

Bhaltair his great grandfather raised the mighty battle sword to point south west "The others have taken a path that will lead them down the coastline whereas Jaden has taken a rout to the south east, through the forests. The trail Nightlance has taken is quicker and will get him there two days before the others if he does not slow his pace... you will follow the same path and reach him before the five trackers, but you must leave now!"

Feeling the weight of urgency in the air, Silverfang nodded, reaching for his sword. A much lighter and smaller weapon than the one his great grandfather held he mentally noted, much less of a true warriors weapon.

Bhaltair had one last warning to offer "This is a dangerous quest and as my great grandson I feel I must warn you... Nightlance is a trained fighter and will not hesitate to kill you! You must not honor the code by being the first to strike, only when your enemy is dead can you be safe to take what is rightfully yours."

"Where is Jaden going?" Silverfang wondered

"To the red stone Abbey in Mossflower. Remember the path I have told thee and heed my warning! The Diviners Stone must not remain in the traitor's keep... you...... must........... retrieve........" Slowly the figure began to retreat into the swirling grey fog and disappear.

Silverfang sat there for several more moments, marveling that he had finally received his Vision Quest! And what an important mission it was! Being delivered by non other than his great grandfather.

Silently he grabbed his sword, slid his black and blue doublet over his head, buckled the snakeskin belt about his waist and found a cloak and travel pack before sneaking silently from his chamber and out of the large cave his clan had used as a refuge. Quietly, heading for the trees he began his quest to reclaim the Diviners Stone!

After the young wolf had gone a shadow slid silently from the chamber, leaving behind a small cloak clasp pendant shaped like two fighting dragons with red stone eyes...

________________________________*______________________________

"So, you want to stay in our Abbey?" paws on hips Deyna glared down at the hapless rat. Grinj gulped, staring up at the big male otter towering over him. Too frightened to speak he could only manage a small nod.

Nimbalo leaned over, whispering gruffly "Don't trust 'im mate! I say we kill 'im now an' sling 'is flea bitten carcass outside afore Mhera knows what 'appened to 'im!"

Deyna ignored him, not taking his eyes off the quaking rodent. When he spoke his voice was flat "What's your name rat?"

"G- Grinj yer 'iness!" Grinj squeaked.

"Well Grinj, if you want to stay you have to make yourself useful! You'll work for your keep; I won't allow idle paws inside this Abbey, do you understand?"

The rat nodded vigorously "Oh yes, yes! Bless yer kind si- "

"I wasn't finished," Deyna cut in "You'll work hard just like any other creature, no slacking or lousy, half done jobs. The rules are quite simple, you don't work, you don't eat. Further more, you will wake at a decent hour and you will behave yourself completely! You will be watched at all times and if you make one wrong move it's back out in the snow!"

Grinj gulped again "Yer too kind fer words, lordship"

Deyna nodded approval "Good, I will allow Mhera to fill you in on our rules and then we will get started!"

_______*

Shocked at finding himself still alive after his encounter with the big otter and the fierce little mouse known as the slayer, Grinj allowed himself to be led down to the kitchens.

He was completely in awe at the enormity and vastness of the huge building. Passing Great Hall Grinj starred at the marvelous tapestry and the likeness of Martin The Warrior before being whisked to the kitchens. Upon entering the kitchens Grinj was met by the most delicious, mouth-watering scents that wafted over him, immediately sending his saliva glands and rumbling gut into overdrive!

The kitchens were bustling! Everyone was hurrying about, preparing for that evenings feast. New pies and hot, golden breads were being pulled from ovens. Scones were set out to cool, soups were steaming, cakes, crumbles and puddings were created. Salads were being prepared and cheeses were being rolled in from the cellars. All was in merry chaos.

An old, stooping otter mum paused from her work to approach, followed by a male squirrel. "What can I do for you son?" the otter mum asked, whipping her paws on her apron and smiling with delightful surprise.

Deyna returned her smile "Nothing momma, just trying to find a job for our new guest."

Filorn squinted at the strange creature for a moment, then brushing him off as a large, unkept mouse. She smiled warmly at Grinj "Well I'm sure we can find you something! Here, come with me."

"Those grimy paws aren't getting anywhere near the food!" the male squirrel interrupted. Friar Broggle the head cook stepped forward, sizing up the new-comer "We could use some good pot scourers," he finally offered "but our... uh, guest will have to wash up first."

Grinj looked horrified "Wash! What fer?! I did only three seasons back!"

"Well that explains a couple things!" Nimbalo coughed

"I hope he's joking" Broggle commented, nose crinkled in disgust.

"I wish you were right," Deyna said "Alright, come on Grinj."

The rat nearly choked "You were serious!?"

______*

Trembling Grinj starred into the basin of steaming water. "No, I can't do it."

"Yes you can."

Grinj watched the steam swirl a moment longer before shaking his head decisively "No, I won't! You can't make me! I promised never agin'!"

Patients running dangerously thin Deyna grabbed the rat by the scruff of the neck and frog marched him toward the water basin "You can either get in or I'll push you! Which do you prefer?"

Grinj yelped in panic "No! Please yer eminence, I beg yer don- yargh!" With a cry and a splash the unfortunate creature was dropped into the barrel, struggling wildly Grinj screeched in terror "Whaaag! I'm drownin'!!! 'elp! I'm- glug!"

"Be still ya' filthy wretch or I'll drown you myself!" Nimbalo barked fishing around in the now murky water with a long pole to help the rat back to the surface. He was very much enjoying himself.

"Glllblargh! Waaa! Yer got soap in me eye!"

Now dressed in a fresh, warm habit Grinj sat at a stool in the kitchens scrubbing furiously at a large pot under Deyna's watchful eye.

Sister Alkanet, a prim, severe little mouse passed by remarking airily "Vermin inside our Abbey, I never heard of- "

"He's being well watched." Deyna reassured the old mouse.

She paused, starring demurely down her nose at the otter seated in front of her "See that he is!" Sniffing at the air her whiskers twitched in disgust "Uhhh! What is that foul stench?!"

Birrel a young mousemaid cutting carrots giggled "It's lemon verbena!"

"It's what?"

"The rat is wearing lemon verbena! After his bath he still stank so bad Fwirl and I couldn't get near him with his new habit so I doused him in my new lemon verbena perfume! It took almost half the bottle to get him smelling this good!" she broke into fits of laughter and Sister Alkanet shook her head "I don't see what's so funny, wasting so much good perfume and now the rat smells... of lemon verbena!"

Birrel nearly fell off her chair laughing "Hehehe! You should have smelt him before Sister and you wouldn't be complaining! Hahahaha!"

"Really," Alkanet scolded "This is not mature!"

Rivertam, Deyna's wife came to Birrel's defense "Is that a new wine Sister?"

Alkanet turned to her, smiling faintly "It is, would you like to try some? Drogg says he's not sure what it needs, maybe you can help me out?"

The pretty otter had a kind and gentle spirit, she was always smiling and ready to help and was liked by everyone. Happily she took the bottle "Thank you Alkanet, I'd be obliged!" before she could remove the cork Boorab, Redwall's resident hare and second in command in the kitchens called across to her "Don't do it pretty one! That vile stuff would poison you for sure!"

Alkanet glared frostily at him "You're one to talk Mr. Boorab, wasn't it only last week that three of our creatures came up with terrible stomach aches because of your 'experimental soup'?"

Boorab sniffed officiously "A small accident marm, could've happened to any good cook!"

Removing the cork and taking a sip Rivertam swished the liquid around for a moment and stopped her face a mask of disgust. Slowly, with effort she swallowed and coughed, trying to smile "Whew! It uh, it... ahem... it has a strong flavor."

Ignoring the hare Alkanet turned back to her, replying "Yes, isn't it delicious? It's my own invention."

Trying to hold back the tears the otter wife asked politely "What's in it dear?"

"Oh, just a couple added ingredients... Parsley, some sage and a little dried fennel."

Rivertam was taken by a fit of coughing, the old mouse patted her back in concern "Tam, what's wrong? Did you swallow a big piece of fennel?"

Choking the otter exclaimed "No, I'll be fine! Thank you Alkanet."

Alkanet took her arm sternly, leading her toward the dormitory stairs "You should go to the infirmary. I don't like the sound of that cough, you may be coming down with something!"

"Really, I'm fine!" Rivertam objected, pulling away "I have work to do."

A young mouse rushed into the kitchen calling to Deyna and his wife "Tide's here along with a couple of hares!"

Rivertam handed the bottle of elderberry wine back to the sister and ran after him crying "Deyna, our son is home!"

Broggle groaned "More hares. One is bad enough and now... How do they always know when we're about to have a feast?"

Filorn the ottermum shrugged and turned to Deyna "You go and welcome your son Deyna, Broggle and I can keep an eye on our guest."

"Two eyes," Broggle commented "You go ahead, your mum and I can manage things here."

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Chapter 3: Thief In The Night

Smoky tendrils of mist swirled through the dense woodlands. Jaden Nightlance paused, his keen ears picking up movement from behind. Someone was following him through the undergrowth.

Standing still he continued to listen for several moments without turning around, whoever was coming towards him was clumsy and making enough noise to wake the dead. They were now close enough he could hear them mumbling in agitation.

Casually Jaden stepped off the small trail and hid behind a large sycamore trunk, drawing his dagger and patiently waiting for the other creature to reveal itself. He didn't have to wait long; Silverfang stumbled out of the foliage, cursing darkly as a hawthorn branch slapped him in the face. The young wolf picked up the sword he had dropped and continued on, more wary than before.

Jaden didn't have to guess why he was here, quietly he waited until Silverfang was passing his tree.

Before Silverfang could turn fully around or raise his own weapon Jaden grabbed him by the cloak and the shoulder of his tunic; dust rose as the young wolf's back slammed against the ground.

Completely startled at having been caught off guard by his quarry Silverfang's ears flattened against his skull as he snarled "Go on! Kill me! It'll be the last thing you ever do Jaden!"

Slowly Jaden removed the dagger from the younger wolf's throat and growled "If I was planning to kill you, you'd be dead already! Now, why are you following me?"

Silverfang glared up at his captor "You stole the Diviner's Stone! I came to get it back!"

Jaden cocked an eyebrow, sheathing his weapon "I didn't think your father would send you out with the others... Where are they now?"

Recovering significantly from his initial shock Silverfang's confidence bolstered and he barred his fangs at the black wolf "Bardalph, Ulric and Hunter are hiding in the brush and trees just down the trail, waiting for my command!"

Seeing through Silverfang's bluff Jaden nodded and stood, surveying the tree line. "I see," he said "then why aren't they coming to your rescue?" Jaden looked down at him declaring "You're alone aren't you?"

Silverfang looked down, not answering.

Nightlance nodded understandingly "Your father doesn't know you're here either, does he?"

"No." The young wolf admitted glumly

Jaden reached towards him, Silverfang flinched but instead of trying to harm him the black wolf helped him to his feet remarking "I'm sorry I tripped you."

Silverfang scrutinized the black furred wolf closely. Jaden was average height but he had jet black fur and a lean, well muscled and toned body. His eyes, that had never quite changed to the natural brown or gold in the wolves had somehow retained their deep, baby blue all wolf pups are born with. Those deep blue eyes were resonating sincerity. Deeply confused Silverfang leaned back against a large boulder "I don't understand." He whispered, brow furrowed in consternation.

"Don't understand what?" Jaden asked

Ignoring the question the younger creature stared at him and demanded "Why did you steal the Diviners Stone?"

"You wouldn't understand my reasons even if I explained them to you." Jaden replied levelly

Silverfang pressed further "Then why didn't you kill me when you had the chance?"

"I hardly think following someone is a crime punishable by death." Jaden shrugged, unconcerned.

Glowering Silverfang snapped "But you must have known I was coming after the Stone, and you saw that I was armed so why didn't you strike first?"

The older wolf snorted "Even if you were older and more skilled I wouldn't see you as much of a threat... you're not exactly a trained killer."

Silverfang scowled "Why are you going to Redwall?"

Sighing in exasperation Jaden replied briskly "It's a long story... If you want your questions answered you'd best keep up." Without waiting for an answer he turned from the agitated teen and continued down the trail.

Curiosity overtook the young wolf and hesitantly he followed Jaden. Determined he'd take the Diviners Stone once he got his answers.

_______*

Mhera and Brother Hoben met the four creatures out on the path in front of the Abbey. The Abbess smiled warmly, welcoming her guests. "Sargent Sandwud, Lieutenant Hawkthorn! What a pleasant surprise!"

Hawkthorn bowed stiffly "Tis' an honor marm."

Sargent Sandwud gave a smart salute adding "Indeed tis'! And we're at your service Mother Abbess!"

"Thank you Sandwud!" Mhera turned to her nephew, her smile broadening "Tide! You look fit and well, we heard you weren't coming home for another two weeks though! My, this is a day for surprises!"

"It certainly is Mother Abbess!" Tide replied cheerfully

Mhera gave his ear a slight tweak "Don't be so formal young rip, it's Aunt Mhera to you!"

Tide chuckled.

"What brings you to Redwall Abbey?" the Abbess inquired of the three hares.

"Lady Rosalaun asked us to stop in and make sure everything's top hole, wot!"

Mhera's face brightened with pleasure "How kind of Rosalaun! By the way, how is your Lady? And Lord Russano? It's been several seasons since they last visited here."

"Lord Russano has gone off on a voyage; chasing some searat warlord or other... Groggyspike or whatever they call him." Sandwud responded.

"Grogspit" Hawkthorn corrected.

"Ah yes, that was it! Grogspit!" the Sargent's whiskers twitched in annoyance "Daft funny names those blighters come up with, eh wot? Hmmph! Not much originality is there? It's no wonder they're stupid... poor mites aren't given much of a chance with names like that, indeed not!" suddenly remembering the earlier question he coughed politely and continued "Ahem, yes. And Lady Rosalaun is doing fine, keeping everything at the mountain in check while her husband's away."

"That's wonderful news!" Mhere exclaimed, "And I'm happy to inform you that everything is running smoothly here at the Abbey, everyone seems to be in good spirits and health... though I'm sorry you've traveled so far to find we don't need any assistance."

Sandwud winked at her "That's the best news of all! Now if you don't mind Mother Abbess, lead on to that famous Redwall grub!"

The Abbess hid a smile "Why certainly friend."

"Oh, what bally good luck! Did you hear that Tide? She mentioned grub!"

Tide hid a smile at his friend's enthusiastic cry, the young hare who had been his traveling companion. His eyes lit up however as he saw his mother rushing towards him "Tide, oh Tide! It's so good to see you son!" In a flurry of tears Rivertam clasped her son affectionately.

"It's good to be home momma!" Tide exclaimed. He looked up to see his father standing a few paces away, gently releasing his mother Tide went to greet him.

"You've grown another inch" Deyna observed matter-of-factly.

Tide smirked "Are you sure it wasn't you who shrunk in my absence, you old riverdog?"

Deyna grinned widely, pulling his son into a fierce embrace "Get over here you young rip!"

Laughing heartily Tide introduced his parents to the young hare standing to the side.

"I'm pleased to meet you and it's so good to have you back Tide!" Tide hugged his mother fondly a second time, glancing over her shoulder as he inquired "Where's Kya? She's always here to greet me?"

Deyna looked around "Yes, where is Kya? I haven't seen her all morning?"

Rivertam sighed "She's probably out in the woods again, she was up before dawn so she could help me and her grandmother finish baking the honeyed oatcakes for breakfast but left as soon as we were finished, taking a few with her."

Deyna shook his head disapprovingly "She shouldn't be out there by herself... what does she do out there all day anyways? She's made herself far too scarce these days."

Tide exchanged a look with his mother and nodded knowingly "I think I have an idea."

_________*

Ssssssthhhtk!!! A long, blue-feathered arrow stood quivering in the center of the makeshift target. An ivy wreath hung on an elm trunk. A tall, lithe figure in a tunic of cream and sky blue with golden trim and a grey cloak stood at the other side of the clearing, a fearsome longbow in her grip, and a look of grim satisfaction on her face. Suddenly a voice called out from the undergrowth, "Hawhaw! What a shot! You certainly weren't kidding when you said she could shoot, wouldn't want to cross her on a dark night, wot!"

Kya whirled around, another shaft already on her bowstring. "Who's there!" she demanded, shocked that someone had snuck up on her so easily.

"Steady on gel," the voice replied "put that frog sticker down, we're friends not foes!"

Kya tightened her string, drawing it taught as she spoke "Show yourselves then for friends don't linger in the shadows!" a creature could never be too careful in Mossflower Woods. Most who lived here were friendly and harmless woodlanders that would sooner bid you a good morning than bid you farewell, but vermin were also known to lurk about. Cautiously she kept the bowstring taught, eyeing straight down the shaft, tilting the angle just a bit higher than the two forms drifting through the foliage. However, she recognized one of them and immediately lowered her aim, regretting her suspicion.

“Kya!” cried the handsome otter that approached her.

A sudden excitement filled the ottermaid and Kya set her bow and quiver down in a deep snow drift, running to meet her brother. “Tide! They said you wouldn't be home for another two weeks?”

Sweeping her up into his strong paws Tide laughed "What? And miss mama's fine cooking and a chance to pester that hare at the feast tonight?"

She smiled with a sly twist of suspicion. “How did you know we were having a feast?”

He chuckled "Oh, news travels fast in Mossflower. That and I had a hare with me who wouldn't keep quite about it... luckily we didn't have to walk such a long ways on the return journey."

Kya crinkled her nose "What do you mean by that?

"I'll tell you later, lets head back to the Abbey... Oh! I almost forgot, you haven't met my traveling companion"

Kya glanced past her brother at the strange figure at the edge of the clearing whom she had noted standing there the whole time; the unmistakable lanky form of a hare.

Tide indicated the hare "This famine faced stomach on legs is Percival Lancejack Obrathon Ragglewaithe... Otherwise known as Percy, who is non other than the nephew of our infamous second in command cook!"

The hare made an elegant leg and bowed, tripping on his cloak hem. Stumbling a few steps he righted himself, coughed and continued "Ahem, pleased ta meetcha' I'm sure!"

Kya chuckled at the gangly creature "Your Boorab's nephew?"

"That I am! Speaking of uncle Boorab, how's the old fellow getting on?"

"He's doing quite well as you can imagine for any hare approved to the lofty position of second in charge cook!" Kya laughed.

Percival nodded whole heartedly "Wish it was me to tell you the truth but I'll have to mourn about my position later, right now there's a big plate of food back at the Abbey with my name on it!"

Kya chuckled "Alright, we'll head back. I just have to grab my bow!"

Tide and Percival followed; Percival commenting "That was quite a shot you know! Your brother told me you were a skilled archer but that was an incredible shot!"

The ottermaid shrugged modestly "I'm sure any good archer could have done it just as easily."

"That's quite a distance Kya," Tide reminded her "You're an excellent marksman!"

Kya brushed it off "How could I miss with the new bow you made me?" She chuckled, turning to Percy "So, what else has my brother told you about me?"

"Quite a bit actually!" Percy informed her.

"I'm sure he has." Kya grinned mischievously at her brother

Percy continued "Hearing so much about you I thought you sounded just like him but now that I see the two of you together I can tell you're not alike at all!"

"Oh, how come?" Kya asked curiously

"You're much prettier than him!"

The three friends burst into laughter.

Retrieving her bow and quiver Kya and Percy turned to leave. Tide paused, lingering back a moment "Here Kya, I got this for you."

Kya's eyes gleamed as her brother handed her a beautiful, peach-pink cockle shell. He opened it to reveal a perfect, small white pearl attached to a delicate silver chain.

She gasped with wonder as she lifted the little necklace from its holder, exclaiming "Oh, it's beautiful! Tide, did you make it?"

He shook his head "I found the pearl but Lord Russano fashioned the chain for me."

Kya's eyes lit up "You didn't say you were going to the Fire Mountain... what was it like?!"

The big otter smiled "It was amazing, absolutely incredible! The fire mountain was everything I've ever imagined it to be but the thing that caught me at once was it's size; it's huge! It has grand halls, a mighty forge, a beautiful dining room and a view of the sea that will take your breath away, not to mention the towering creature who rules there!"

Kya felt her heart swell with excitement "Oh, how I long to go there! I've always dreamed of the sea," her wistful thoughts faded and she laughed, shoving her brother playfully "And you have no idea how jealous I am that you got to visit Salamandastron without me!"

"Well then, I'll have to take you with me this summer." Tide exclaimed, giving her a light nudge back

The ottermaid's countenance fell as she sat on a large rock at the edge of the path "Father would never allow it."

Her older brother sat next to her, trying to read her expression "Perhaps he'll change his mind? After all, you're almost an adult."

Kya sighed longingly "I don't think so... I've tried before, you know how stubborn he gets when he sets his mind to something." Tide nodded "I know."

They sat in silence a moment before a voice cut in "Hey! You two can sit there like sour apples all season but I hear there's going to be a feast tonight at Redwall Abbey and I for one don't want to miss it!"

Shrugging off the gloom Kya laughed good naturedly and stood up "Percival's right, we should probably head back."

"Try again, Kya. He may change his mind." Her brother whispered.

"I don't think it will do much good but I guess I can try" she said, shrugging it off "Let's get back to the Abbey though. I promised momma I'd help with the cooking for tonight."

_________*