21st of Septimus, 1669 AV

The third axe blow drives Hugo to his knees, blood seeping from the corner of his mouth. Isabela readies herself to again try pulling the large man to safety, but the detective roars a nearly incoherent challenge and charges across the room.

“PASSAVANT LI MEILLOR!”

Grabbing the green crystal shard as he passes Alex’s prone form, the Montaigne man throws himself at the great iron doors, the glowing fragment leading the way. The impact is deafening as the already weakened portal creaks briefly before flying open with a flare of red-black energy. His impressive momentum spent, Hugo drops to the stone dais, the green crystal clattering to the steps.

Beyond the portal, a roiling mass of black-red mist momentarily remains contained on the other side. The crystal has bounced a second time when the fog bursts outward, accompanied by a hideous, screaming laughter. As the wave of energy passes over Francisco, the glowing dagger flares blindingly bright then winks out as he doubles over and retches, overcome by waves of fear and nausea – a response mirrored by Isabela as the cloud rolls outward down the passage. As the mist touches the minotaurs, they instantly crumble into piles of glass-like shards. Within seconds, the mist has disappeared down the passageway, horrific laughter echoing from the distance.

Deeper, more resonant mirth sounds from the portal as a massive horned figure steps through, looking like a larger and more twisted version of the Magog from beneath Athena’s shrine. The paradoxical vision of the massive creature emerging from an opening too small to fit sends more waves of nausea through Francisco and Isabela. The creature reaches down and grabs Hugo by the ankle, effortless lifting the large man to dangle before its face.

You have opened the portal early, gluttonous one. Allow me to offer you a reward.

Hugo screams as the monstrosity lifts him high above its gaping, tooth-filled maw. The screams continue for a disturbingly long time as the writhing lump slowly worms its way down the creature’s gullet and into its belly. The demonic being raises one of its huge black swords, about to swing at Francisco and Alex when its gaze falls on Captain Mason.

Mammon, my old friend. I should have known you would have succeeded in finding weak-willed fools to serve your purpose. I shall leave you to destroy these worthless worms while I make preparations for The Host.

The massive being collapses into a column of red-black mist that snakes its way out of the passageway, disappearing into the darkness. Moments later, the sound of booted feet approaching from the hallway causes George and Isabela to ready themselves even as Francisco begins frantically working to staunch Alex’s bleeding. Keman, Juan and Josephine emerge from the darkness, wary fear replaced by relief upon seeing their friends. Sighs of relief and expressions of confusion are cut short by the young Montaigne woman’s question.

“Mon Dieu! Where is my uncle?”

Silence drops over the room, broken only by the rapid clicking of the stone clock set into the dais floor.

2nd of Octavus, 1669 AV

A column of steam rises from the steel bar as Keman plunges it into the water. The searing heat of the forge and vapours go unnoticed as the Castillian man focuses on the partly completed blade. Helmut grunts and shakes his head, having long since given up warning the younger man to be careful with the hot metal and superheated water. The boy never flinched from the heat of the forge, even on the worst days of the summer.

“Das is good”, grunts the master smith. “You learn quickly, boy. Soon you vill have ze skill to tackle ze finer work of firearms.”

Keman’s reply is preempted by a commotion as the door from the main smithy is thrown open. Francisco’s manservant Juan stands in the portal, his filthy clothing and muddied face giving him the appearance of a wild man.

“Master Keman! We need you immediately! I fear something terrible has happened to Master Francisco and the others!”

Keman looks at the mulatto man for a moment, the steel bar nearly forgotten in his hand. Helmut steps over, taking the tongs from the younger man’s grasp.

“Zis man seems very distressed about ze fate of your friends. You should attend to zis matter. I will finish here.”

Keman nods absently and follows Juan through the smithy and out to the street where Hugo’s niece sits astride a horse, holding several more by the reins. The dark-skinned servant’s hasty explanation concludes as they begin to mount.

“…entered and left the lady and I to watch the animals and supplies. It was only an hour later that the ground shook and darkness erupted from the pyramid’s entrance. We waited a full two days with no sign of the others. Lady Josephine wanted to go in immediately, but I convinced her that we should seek help before trying to confront whatever the others had found inside.

“We left most of the supplies, but brought the animals back. It’s over a week’s ride north of here. We must hurry.”

20th of Corantine, 1669 AV

Francisco continues to stare at the large saddlebags, frustrated by the limited space.

How can this be a proper expedition if I don’t even have room for a basic library and instruments?

Trying to once again stuff his copy of Tacitus into the bag, the young scholar finally notices the Governor standing in the doorway. He hastily drops the book and gives the young woman a bow.

“Governor Sandoval. My apologies, I didn’t realize you were there.”

The young woman steps through the portal and closes the door. “You are almost ready to leave.”

Francisco looks down at the mess laid out on the table. “It’s for the best. We beat him this time, but Hargrove will be back. The consequences may be less harsh if Alex, Keman and Isabela are not here.”

Maria nods absently as she moves around the table to stand before the young man. Francisco involuntarily flinches as the young woman steps within slapping range.

“I didn’t have a chance to say thank you for bring Salma back safely.”

Francisco shrugs, “It was the least that I could do, given….”

The scholar stops in shock as the young woman rises up on her toes and kisses his cheek.

“Thank you. Be safe on your trip.”

15th of Corantine, 1669 AV

“If you wish to learn from me, you will have to work very hard.”

“Yes, uncle.”

“This will not be a walk in L’Enfant’s gardens, with roses and blossoms and sunshine.”

“No, uncle.”

“You will be expected to pull your weight and look after yourself.”

“Yes, uncle.”

“There will be no tears or complaining or foolish girl antics.”

“No, uncle.”

“It will take many years for you to even begin to scratch the surface of understanding my brilliance.”

“Yes, uncle.”

“Very good, Josephine. You may accompany us on the expedition. Now go bake some more of these delightful pastries before I wither away to nothing.”

“Or course, uncle.”

14th of Corantine, 1669 AV

George closes the door softly, careful not to let it slam. The marine captain had learned the hard way that waking the baby was a good way to earn Mary Margaret’s wrath. It had been the first, but not the last, time he had regretted the magic that repaired his hearing.

Entering the kitchen, the Avalonian man finds his wife seated at the table, baby Michael in a bassinet on the floor. Copies of the two ancient maps, the stone carving, and the sailor’s journal lay scattered on the wooden surface. George smiles at the look of intense concentration on the young woman’s face, her red hair rumpled from the day’s work.

Looking up from her study, Mary Margaret’s eyes remain unfocused for a second before she recognizes her husband’s presence.

“Oh! You’re home! What time is it?! Oh lordy, I haven’t even started dinner!”

George enfolds the flustered woman in a warm hug, kissing her gently. “Hush, dear. You’ll wake the baby. I can help you with the meal.” Looking down at the clutter on the table, he sighs, “Do you have any ideas about these bloody things?”

Her gaze drops to the maps and other paraphernalia, and she tilts her head to one side. “Most of the items listed on the top are described, or at least mentioned in the journal. And it’s possible to figure out what the phases of the moon were during those events. What if the carving were some sort of coded legend to allow you to trace the correct path on the map? Only someone who had the journal, or knew the events in detail, could guess at the correct reference points.”

The discussion is interrupted by Michael’s wailing as the baby begins fussing in his bassinet. Mary Margaret hurries off to deal with the child, leaving George to further contemplate the maps.

12th of Corantine, 1669 AV

Maria stands behind the makeshift council table, nodding to the assembled advisors.

“That’s settled then. We’ll petition Governor Ramsbottom for the loan of some troops to defend against any attack, and hope that he doesn’t demand too much in return.

“We have several other matters to discuss, including the sad duty of filling a gap in our own ranks. Lady Olinda has petitioned for the right to step into Casamiro’s role, and I am inclined to acquiese to this request, unless there are any strong objections. But this leaves us in need of a new Treasurer. Olinda has suggested Lady Isabela as a candidate, but I would like to hear if there are other suggestions.

“And, of course, we need to continue to expand as we can here in Santa Marina. I am also open to options for building.”

General Mondalvo immediately jumps to his feet, glaring across the table at Alex and Keman before speaking. “Recent decisions have highlighted the need for military defenses. If we are going to put our people in danger by allowing witchcraft, we will need some way to protect them. We need at least a Barracks to allow up to begin training our own troops, and possibly Walls or a Watchtower.”

Clearing his throat, Francisco stands and waits for the angry murmuring to die down before speaking.

“Governor Santiago”, he says, avoiding eye contact. “There is a clear danger to the people of Santa Marina, and a clear source of that problem. Several of us have decided that the best course of action would be to leave the colony and remove a large part of the reason for the Bishop-Major’s wrath. We expect this will allow him to spare the rest of the settlement, or at least treat you leniently.”

Maria’s face pales in shock as multiple voices erupt in anger or agreement. Fabiano and Olinda immediately raise objections, while Mondalvo exclaims in happy surprise. It takes several minutes for the tumult to die down enough for Maria to speak, the slight tremor in her voice belying her attempt to look regal and aloof.

“If so much of our council were to leave, the disruption could be catastrophic. We might not survive long enough for the inquisitor to forgive anyone.”

Francisco bows, still unable to look the young woman in the eye. “We’ll remain to see to the defense of the town, and as much a possible to ensure a smooth transition in leadership. Other pressing matters call, and lightening the load on the souls of Santa Marina is too important to ignore.”

Several more minutes of arguing are again interrupted by the Governor.

“I can see that all of you are set on this course. Very well. We shall see to the defense of the town, search for new council members amidst the people, and make the best of a difficult situation.”

“That is all.”

After the last of the colony leaders leave the makeshift council chamber, Maria slumps in her chair and buries her face in her hands.

30th day of Julius, 1669 AV

Isabela smiles at the men surrounding her, “It seems the rather large man over there is not so good at holding his drink. He is somewhat arrogant, isn’t he?”

Hugo is dragged off his chair by 3 burly men, he swings wildly with his wine bottle, hits one in the head who lets go and Hugo drops to the floor again.

“Men do so like their amusements”, Isabela looks around at the men who’d been buying her drinks and notice their attention is focusing more on the fight than on her, “Oh off with you then, I see you are hesitant to miss joining in on the amusements.” She ignores the men having fun and walks around the disturbance.

---

Isabela looks out at the shore as the Queen Mary ties up to a wooden post at Santa Marina. She sees in the small gathering Olinda dressed in black standing next to an older man in a military uniform. Olinda seems to see someone on board she recognizes, dabs at her eyes with a handkerchief and walks forward escorting the gentleman at her side. Isabela rushes down the gangway towards Olinda but she seems to catch her by surprise. Olinda seems to recognize her at last.

“I’m so sorry for your loss”, Olinda says before they are in each other’s arms crying.

A few minutes later, the man behind Olinda says, “My dear, we really should clear the way and leave the men to their unloading.”

“Very well”, as Olinda and the others walk away from the ship, “Dear, may I present to you the late Casimiro’s youngest sister Isabela. Isabela, this here is Commandante Mondalvo the new General of Santa Marina.” She turns to the Commandante, “I fear you must excuse my absence. I must show Isabela around Santa Marina and let her get settled and I fear you must see to matters with the Captain.”

Once Olinda and Isabela are on their own walking back towards the small village, Olinda looks at Isabela, “I’m so sorry I didn’t recognize you at first, I was desperately looking to see Miro on board the ship even though Brother Keman had already told me he had died a week ago. Also I’ve never seen you in anything but a dress or riding gear. You look much different in armor and you’ve grown.”

---

“So as you can see, we’re still only a small village but we’re growing all the time with each new ship that ports.”

“Why did Miro decide to stay?”

“Well he liked the wilderness, the freedom, the exploration and the people. He also liked uncovering secrets. Later I’ll show you his notes, maps and letters. He had been appointed as spy master of the colony and although he currently didn’t have any spies, he was gathering as much information as he could about the settlements in the New World. And here we are at the current residence of our leader Gobernadora Maria Francesca de Sandoval y Vega. I’ll see if she is available to see you.”

Olinda knocks on the door, speaks briefly with an elven woman and they are permitted entrance. The elven woman goes through a separate door and comes back with a lady dressed in a fancy formal dress.

“Greetings Gobernadora”, Isabella bows since she hadn’t had a chance to change into her dress, “Please forgive my attire but I have just got off the Queen Mary.”

“Gobernadora, if I may present the late Casimiro’s youngest sister Isabella.”

“My condolences.”

“I’d be honored to serve the colony in any manner for which you’d have the need. I have 1300 pesos that I can offer to aid in paying the ransom for you sister. She was in good spirits and may I say the slap she gave Francisco was perfect. I’m sure there is a history there of which I know not but the expression of surprise on Francisco face was priceless.”

26th day of Julius, 1669 AV

“Pardonez moi, monsieur. Could you direct me to an inn?”

Josephine smiles at the Avalonian man as he turns around. The crew of Mercurio drops her trunk on the gravel and returns to the task on unloading the merchant vessel. The middle aged man returns her smile, and answers in broken Montaigne.

“Very few travel here, miss. There is no inn.”

The young woman’s face clouds over. “A boarding house? Hotel? Hostel?” As she continues receive negative responses, her voice climbs and becomes slightly whining. “I’ve come to work with my uncle, but how am I to find him if I don’t have anywhere to stay?”

“Who is your uncle, miss? And why is a young woman traveling alone in such a dangerous part of the world?”

“I did have an escort, one of my mother’s servants. But she took sick on the voyage and did not recover.” Josephine’s face brightens. “But my uncle is none other than the world’s most famous detective, Hugo de la Plume! I’ve come to learn from him and assist him in his work. Someday, I hope to be as skilled and famous as he.”

The man’s eyes widen at the name, and his non-committal smile widens greatly.

“Well, dear lady, you are very lucky. Not only do I know who you mean, but I am well known to several of his close friends here. I would be happy to make sure you reach him, and insist that you stay with me until then.”

The young woman looks uncertain. “But sir, I’m not sure it would be proper for me…”

“No, no, I insist. My wife would be most upset if I allowed you to spend the night without a safe bed.”

“Oh! You’re married. Well, in that case, I’d be happy to accept your offer.”

“Then it is settled. Come along, miss. I shall send someone back for your things.”

The girl accepts the older man’s arm and begins to stroll down the unpaved street. “My name is Josephine. Josephine de la Croix.”

The man bows and smiles. “A true pleasure to meet you Josephine. Archibald Shea.”

“But most just call me Shea."

24th day of Julius, 1669 AV

Maria signs the letter, placing her personal seal upon the envelope before setting the message on the desk before her. She stares at the small slip of paper for a long moment, the flickering of the candle casting ominous shadows around the otherwise innocuous item.

“You don’t even know if this is necessary”, says Siobhan from her spot on the window-sill.

Maria looks up at the elven servant and takes a deep breath. “I can’t let poor Salma rot in a den of cut-throat vermin for longer than absolutely necessary. Or worse, allow them to kill her or sell her into slavery because of the stubborn foolishness of men. Besides, Olinda was clear that they’ve asked for ransom, and they’ll not care where the silver comes from.”

The graceful tattooed woman steps down from her perch and crosses to stand behind the governor’s chair, placing her slim hands on Maria’s shoulders and squeezing gently. “This will change many things, florecita. You came her to be away from those burdens. You should be with the others exploring the shrine.”

The Castillian woman sighs, partly in relaxation, partly in frustration. “I can’t abandon my responsibilities to chase a hobby. It is Francisco’s right as Catedrático to lead the expedition and I must be content with learning what he has discovered second-hand. Rulership is what I have spent my life learning, and I will perform my duty even when I would prefer something else.” She reaches up and grabs the slim tattooed hands, tilting her head back to gaze up at the elf. “The change will affect you the most. I will release you from your service before then.”

Siobhan smiles sadly, leaning down to kiss the dark-haired woman on the forehead. “I would serve another three generations before I would see you give up your dreams.”

23rd day of Julius, 1669 AV

Isabela wakens suddenly, a feeling of loss and anxiety overcoming her. Whether a dream, a premonition, or the results of another of the cook’s unsavory concoctions she could not say, but her heart pounds wildly within her chest. Even as she wills herself back to calm, a ghostly apparition materializes at the foot of the small bed. Instantly, a slim dagger appears in her hand, drawn from its hiding place beneath the pillow.

The ghostly woman is clad in ancient looking armor, Hellenic in design, holding a long spear in her hand. Her other arm reaches out to the courtesan, more a gesture of greeting and welcome than one of danger.

I bear great but ill news, honoured sister. Your brother Theseus has fallen in glorious battle and will be revered through the ages. Tales will be told of his exploits and his bravery, but his sacrifice must be recognized. It shall fall to you to take up his mantle and continue as champion. Tell me what you would ask as a boon and if it is within my power it will be yours.

Confusion reigns at the spirit’s proclamation. Brother Theseus? The statement made no sense, yet the sense of foreboding that had woken her began to grow. Miro? Has something happened to Miro? And what ‘boon’ was this woman talking about? She is talking of Theseus, her armor is Hellenic, is this… no it can’t be…

“Athena? …my… my brother is dead?”, Isabela wipes a tear from her eye as Athena nods, “I will avenge him.” Isabela looks down. What started out as a simple statement fueled by anger turns into a dedication of purpose, a destiny revealed.

“I pledge my life to your service, Athena. Though I don’t know how I can be of service. I know something of combat, I have sparred with…”, Isabela wipes away another tear, “I have sparred with Theseus, my Miro, but I am no warrior. If you accept my pledge then as a boon, I ask that you grant me the power to stand up to your enemies and have them fall before me.” Isabella looks back up at Athena, the tears running from her eyes ignored.

Athena moves forward, opens her arms and hugs Isabela comforting her.

Honoured sister, I accept you as my champion.

---

Isabela wakes up the next morning on the floor of the cabin to the sound of Bron’s snoring. The feeling of loss and the vision of the ghostly Athena coming back to her. She starts crying again and is startled by the sound of a loud thud coming from Bron. She turns and sees him rubbing his head where he bumped it on the roof of the cabin when he tried to get up from the top bunk.

“What is it girl?”, Bron says as he sees the tears.

“I fear my brother Miro is dead.”, Isabela says as she wipes her face dry. Isabela is sure she sees a look pass over Bron’s face but he quickly covers his head with both his arms.

“Damn ships, they make them sized for women and children.”, Bron eases down from the bunk, “I’m sure its nothing girl. But how could you have gotten any news while on this stinking ship?”

Isabela explains about the ghostly apparition, “And I can’t believe it but I think I kissed her.”%, she continues quickly with the startled look on Bron’s face, “Well she was just so… hot.”

“Silly girl, are you sure you didn’t bump your head too and dream this all up?”, Bron asks as Isabela stands. “Girl… I mean…”, Bron’s mouth drops wide open, “Woman, you can’t possibly have changed that much over night.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Look down. You’ve gotten bigger, 2 inches taller, 20 lbs heavier, 10 lbs of muscle, and bigger… ummm… how you say… tits?”

“In polite company, you’d say nothing of the sort.”, Isabela looks down and blushes while smiling.

She turns to the netting where she had stored her few meager possessions, looking for a brush for her hair. On the floor right in front of the netting stood a spear, a suit of chainmail and a shield emblazoned with the symbol of an owl.

Isabela reaches over and grabs the shield, “Explain this then will you?”