Crows Murder

Part 1 – Return to innocence

Near the Sardar mountains a young girl stopped before her mother. “Mummy, why does that man have no name ?” she asked her mother while she pointed to the man that had been working the plough for almost an entire day. The mother brushed the girls hair out of her face and smiled “I do not know, sweetheart.” She admitted while she eventually turned her attention to the man. Her own belly was growing with child and the man had become a big help on their farm.

He had arrived several hands ago, without anything but some rags to his body. He had knocked to their door and at first her companion had been very weary of him. He was a stranger and for all they knew it could have been a man with less honourable intentions. When he had suggested to work for a meal, her companion had eventually let him in. They had agreed that he would work for them on their small farm.

“Sweetheart, can you fetch a bucket with fresh water and bring it to him ?” she suggested to the child that for some reason seemed to be quite intrigued by the man. The girl had beamed and before any word was added, the girl rushed away to do as she was asked. The woman pondered on why the man worked that hard for so little. She brushed her hands to her skirts and headed back to the farm to see to other chores she was still able to do.

The girl stumbled with the filled bucket before him “Greetings, Sir. I have some fresh water. My mummy said you might need some.” She gave him that dazzling smile while she plopped down on the ground in tailor sit. She rested her little face in both hands while she rested her elbows on her knees. “Sir, why do you have not a name ?” she asked while her cheeks flush of excitement of being so near him. She wasn’t able to explain it, but the man held a certain aura that made him an adventure.

The man released the leather straps from his shoulder and lets the plough rest in the field, before he turned his attention to the girl that looked at him with puppy eyes of expectations. “Fresh water and nice conversation ?” he said while he whipped the sweat from his face and torso. He positioned himself before the bucket and cupped some of the water to drink and clean his face. “Ahhh… this is very refreshing, Taleni. I guess you hurried from the spring to here, didn’t you ?” he praised her with a playful wink. The girl nearly bounced of joy but persisted “Your name, Sir. It is odd not to have a name.”

He took position next to her and tugged her hair “I guess it is, but didn’t they tell you to be cautious with whom you give your name ?” he asked her. “Some say that if you speak your name in the presence of a magician you turn into a turtle. Ever seen those ?” he asks while he noted her eyes grow large of disbelieve.

“Nooo!” she called out “You are pulling my leg.” but then noted his serious expression “Aren’t you ?” she asked further, becoming less sure of him jesting. The man shook his head “I am not jesting, Taleni. Now I never saw it happening, but I know that others belief it to be true. And who am I to question it ?” he asks while he pulled her leg “Now, I am pulling your leg, missy.” With it he laughed and the girl followed suit.

“Can I give you a name ?” she asked him after their laughter had settled. “Of course you can.” He replied with some curiosity as to what name she would come. The girl clearly pondered on it “I can’t call you, Marcus or anything like that. It would need to be something special, like Spring, but that is a girls name.”

In all the girls innocence that had been refreshing the mentioning of Spring seemed to cast a shadow over his face. The girl missed it and continued to call names but most were dismissed because they were either to plain, to outrageous or more meant for a woman.

The hour grew darker and eventually the girl gave up her quest of giving him a name “I will find one though.” She promised when he had suggested they both return to the farm. “Perhaps one day I will share my secret name.” he said while he took her tiny hand in his large one.

Anyone that might see them, would think they were related. A man holding hands with his daughter after a day of hard labour, while walking back. Little did all of them know what was in the mind of the stranger that had come to this family with nothing.

Part 2 – Voice of the Storm

The rain had made the land hard to work, crops would be lost if they wouldn’t be harvested in the next few days. The farmer sat on the table his hands in his hair as if he was trying to find answers in his head.  He suddenly looked up when the man took a seat on the same table. The stranger had slowly reached the trust of the peasants and after the first hands they no longer asked him for his reasons, his name or where he had come from.  The farmer looked at him, waiting for him to speak but all there was, was this silence.  As if the man had not come to him with answers or words, but simply showed him that he was there. A form of mental support or reassurance.

“I am afraid we might not have the meals you were getting used to.” He said with a deep sigh “The crops out there, will be lost if I can’t find the hands to get them out. In this rain none are offering.” He placed his both hands on the corners of the table as if he was king of it and gave space for the other to speak. “How many hands do you need ?” the stranger simply said. There was no mockery or more questions. Just that one.  “In these conditions, I need at least 8.” The stranger nodded and pushed him up to stand. He took one of the large baskets that were near the door and strapped it to his back. The farmer looked at him in surprise “What are you doing ?”he asks as if it was some rhetorical question.  “In the time you give all of this thought and find that solution I can start.” He simply stated and with it pushed the door open. The rain and sharp wind brutally entered the room, but before the farmer could speak the man had gone and closed the door.

The woman had felt the wind penetrate the farm and rushed to the kitchen where her companion was still looking at the door. “What happened?” she asks while she followed his gaze to the door. “I am unsure.” Her companion answered “But that new help is out there harvesting our crops while I was still trying to figure out how to get hands to help us with it. In this weather it is nearly impossible.” The woman brushed her hands to the small apron she was wearing “he is out there ? You let him go ?” she asks him, while she took the other seat next to him at the table. “He gave me no chance to object, woman.” The farmer said and shook his head “I guess he will be back within the ahn. None can work in these conditions.”

They both sat there, waiting on him to return when Taleni entered the room and crawled into her father’s lap. “Are we waiting on something, daddy ?” she asks while her small arms snaked around his neck to pull herself closer to him in that hug. The farmer buried his face in the locks of her hair, the girl his only born was the most precious thing he owned and with it all his worries seemed to vanish to make room for the girl with her large eyes that always seemed to be in wonder.  “I guess so, my precious.” He answered her. “Your big friend has gone out to harvest, but I am sure he will return shortly. The weather is making harvesting impossible.”  The girl looked and started to laugh at her father’s reply.  Her parents both watched her in curiosity as they both weren’t aware of the jest in all of it.

The girl snuggled closer to her father “I think he won’t return, until every crop is harvested father.” She said in her innocence. Still there was this conviction in what she said. “I am sure that he will not return any sooner than that.” She added.  The farmer looked at the girl somewhat aghast “Why would you think so ?” he asks her, perhaps trying to see reason in her statement.  “He told me, father. He told me that when life has given you a challenge you should not run from it, but face it with your head strong into the wind. If you have something you really wish, you can endure the whipping rain.” She nodded vehemently. The farmer looked at his daughter with disbelief and turned to his companion. “Dammit …. How is it that I did not see and she does ?” he asked himself while he gave the child to his companion.  The girl adjusted to cozy up to her mother and looked up to her father who now readied himself to go out. “I think I have found a name for him.” She tells them both. “I think we should call him Storm.” She suggested as if this man had become a treasured pet or toy that had deserved to be named.

The farmer laughed and ensured the basket on his back. He didn’t look forward to facing the storm outside, but with the name of their help the word Storm had gotten a pleasant meaning aswell. “I will tell him, Taleni.” He promised before he opened the door and with it allowed the storm of wind and rain to enter.

Part 3 – Shadows in Silence

“Storm !” the farmer called out when he eventually came to the crops. The rain whipped in his face and the wind tried to rip his clothes while he had to use all physical force not to stumble.  Even in this weather the name his daughter had given the man, seemed to bring him to that smile.  It was in little ehn that he found himself wet and cold to the bones. “Storm !” he called again, until he saw the shadow that seemed to be on the other side of the land. “How fast can a man go.” He muttered under his breath as he understood that the man had already done two rows.  He tried to move closer to him, but it was hard in these conditions.

The farmer bend down and started on the next row of crops as he would meet the man half way so he knew he wasn’t alone.  The ground that had been dry a hand ago, was like this pool of mud that made it hard to keep standing. He worked with  his hands while his feet slipped and soaked in the mud. The farmer collected the crops, but he hardly was as quick as the man was. He had done less than half the row when the man came to a stop next to him. He stretched himself from bending forward to face the man.  “Taleni named you, Storm.” He said while he studied the man that looked as if he had been rolling down in the mud. Only his green eyes were evidence of the man he had grown to trust.

“Storm it will be.” The man replied with a smile before he wanted to bend down again to collect the crops that were ahead of him. The farmer reached out and placed a hand on the man’s shoulder and instantly felt the man tense under that touch. He took his hand back in shock when he noted the man lift himself to his full height again “How is it possible for a man as yourself to work that fast ?” the farmer asked, perhaps to disguise the shock he had felt.  Even in this weather he could see the eyes of the man, sharp and keen. He wondered what secrets were behind them. He was certain there were enough. He didn’t believe that a man with no secrets would have wandered to his farm offering all of his hard work for only a meal.

“Focus.” Storm replied. “Think there is nothing else but that crops and yourself. Do not let the rain, the wind, your own desires taint it. Just focus.” He stated matter of factly. The farmer frowned and nodded, even if he tried to ponder on the truth of the words. Would it be so simple ? He tried to reason. “I fear I can never repay you for all you have done, Storm.” He tells him when he noted him resume his harvesting. Storm lifted himself up again “That is what I mean.” He replied “Focus, do not fret over what you owe me or anyone else. Only those crops and yourself.” With that the man bend down and continued, not waiting for the farmers reply he was on his way again.

The farmer continued his row with harvesting and gave thought to the words of the man.  What did he know of him ? Why was it that this man hardly spoke and when he did, it all made sense ?  He tried to rid himself of thoughts and focussed on the crops. He tried to ignore the rain that brutally tried to taunt him to lose focus.  At times it won of him and then he felt his body ache for rest, made him curse the weather and his poor life.  He could see how quick Storm moved over the land as if the weather had no effect on him.  He looked up and blinked as the rain was so tense. The darkness of the storm seemed to increase of the lack of daylight because of the hour of day.

“We should rest !” he called out to the shadow of Storm that had nearly finished four rows while he was still struggling with his second one. “Have some food too.” He suggested while he had to shout as the wind seemed to make talking impossible. The shadow simply worked on, without responding. It was as if he wasn’t heard or Storm had decided to ignore it.  The farmer grew frustrated, which angered him. How could he get mad while Storm ensured that his crops wouldn’t be ruined ? Why was it that the man worked so much faster than he did, while it was his farm, his crops and his life ? If anyone should be motivated it was him and yet he couldn’t work in the same pace as Storm did.

The farmer noted that Storm had again emptied his basket in the crate to continue with harvesting and he called again. Now this time Storm seemed to pay attention and approached. His hair sticked to his face and they both had no spot that wasn’t wet of rain. “I called earlier.” The farmer said still a little fuelled up by his frustration. Storm regarded him keenly and smiled easy “I was focussed. I have not heard it.” He shared with the farmer.  “It seems you are angry. Anger never makes a man work faster in the long run.” Storm jested.

When they both returned to the farm for that meal they both rid themselves of the wet clothes and dried up near the fire. The farmer watched the man warm himself at the fire and with it Storm turned to him as if he had felt to be under his observation. “You are a man of riddles, Storm.” He said while he seated himself next to him. “You never said as to where you came from or where you are heading.” The farmer looked into the fire as to make it sound casual while it was clear that his curiosity had grown.

“I never said, since I do not know.” Storm admitted while his eyes remain on the farmer. “You could be a thief, an outlaw or someone they are looking for.” The farmer said while his companion handed them both a bowl of hot stew.  Storm laughed “I could be all of it and yet I know I am not.” The farmer shook his head “I didn’t think you are, but you sleep in my barn, eat my meals, work the lands even harder than I am able to do and yet I know nothing of you.”

Both men ate silent when the Taleni entered the kitchen with a big smile “Did you learn your name ?” she instantly asked Storm “I think there is no better name.” she said proudly. Storm laughed “The name is a hard one to live up too.” He replied to her “But I like it.” He quickly added to not have her enthusiasm falter. “How so?” the girl asked in all her innocence. “A storm is a gift of the Gods, Taleni. I doubt I am such.” He jested but the words had given them a serious look.

“You are a gift of the Gods to us, Storm.” The farmer eventually said to break the uncomfortable silence. “As I said earlier. Without your help those crops would be lost. I wouldn’t have a harvest like this one, now. If it weren’t for your help.  You ask so little of us, that I at times fear for the moment you might ask us anything.  I never met someone that didn’t have some motivation to do kind to another.” The farmer admitted earnest.

Part 4 – Why

Lyrics to Why :

I was childish and unfair
To you, my only friend
I regret, but now it’s too late

I can’t show you any more
The things I’ve learned from you
Cause life just took you away

I’m asking why I’m asking why
Nobody gives an answer
I’m just asking why

But someday we’ll meet again
And I’ll ask you

I’ll ask you why
Why it has to be like this
I’m asking you why
Please give me an answer

Many years and stupid fights
Till we accept to see
How it was and it’ll always be

Why it has to be like this
Why we don’t realize
Why we’re too blind to see the one
Who’s always on our side

I’m asking why
I’m asking why
Nobody gives an answer
I’m just asking why

Just tell me why
Why it has to be like this
That the good ones disappear
I’m asking you why

I’m asking why I’m asking why
Nobody gives an answer
I’m just asking why

I’m asking why

Days had gone by of hard work of harvesting and with it the weather had only been an extra challenge that they all had won. The farmer had tried to master the focus, Storm had spoken off.  Eventually he had learned how one could focus on one thing alone and not be influenced by rain, wind or negative thoughts.  The farmer felt himself more and more in admiration of the man, now called Storm.  His companion and himself had often discussed the man in their bed and both were puzzled by the man that seemed to be kind, honourable and yet a complete mystery. Only Taleni seemed to have found some understanding as to who he was. She placed her tiny hand in his and held no reservation when it came to her trust and confidence in him.

At times the farmer thought to see a glimmer of sadness in the man but when he thought them there, they had vanished just as quick. Mostly he just figured to have seen it wrong.  It was hard to picture Storm as a man that would be troubled by something from his past. He was a man that seemed to laugh a lot and could find a jest in about anything. Even when working in the storm the man seemed to remain unbothered.  Taleni however seemed to think different, when she had asked him to allow her to pluck flowers to comfort Storm for his grief. He had dismissed it as a foolish young girls thing, that simply wished to go out and have an excuse to do so.

“I might be gone for a hand, Storm.” The farmer said to him while he strapped the leathers over the bosks that would pull the cart that now was filled with the crops of his harvest.  “The rain might make the travel to the city more difficult.” He explained. Storm simply nodded while he helped the farmer by checking the straps. How easy it was to leave the farm now, when he knew Storm to be there.  He had come to trust the man completely and Storm had not caused him to ever doubt him. Not even his secretive way of keeping his past hidden.

Storm watched the farmer when he started his journey to the city. His hand sheltered his eyes against the sun that had of course only now showed, after all their long days in the rain harvesting.  He could feel Taleni step beside him and place her hand in his. He looked down upon her and she just peered up to him with that smile of hers.  He could almost see the questions she was to spill in the next coming ehns and chuckled. “Seems  the little lady has the questions ready ?” he jested while he pulled her up and placed her on his shoulders.  The girl giggled when he placed her there so high up. “How is it that you know, Storm ?” she asks while she planted her chin on his head.

With her up on his shoulders he walked the field to check up on the fences. She posed one question after the other while she enjoyed the view up there. At times he feigned to drop her and she cried her pleasure before another question was posed.

“Why ?” Storm eventually asked the girl “Why is it that you seek answers, Taleni ? Have you ever asked yourself why ?” he teased when some of her questions weren’t the ones he wished to answer.  “Because I feel you should ask why, Storm. Why is it that you wish to keep secrets ? Mummy told me that secrets weigh heavy. That it is better not to keep them.” She insisted. Storm laughed and again pretended to drop her. “As you can see, I am quite capable of carrying you so why not some secrets also.” He then took her from his shoulders and positioned her opposite of him “At times it is a good thing to keep secrets, Taleni. Perhaps to protect others that might not know how to deal with the truth.” He continued “Two days ago when your friend came and asked you about the verr that was drowned in the storm, you kept that a secret. Didn’t you ?”

Taleni looked at him with those puppy eyes. She gave thought to his words and eventually nodded “I didn’t want to hurt her.” She admitted. “So are you keeping them, because you fear we might get hurt if we know the truth ?” she asked and again Storm was surprised by her quick thinking. “We often ask : Why ? But do not ask a more important question.” He tells her. Taleni frowned while she listens “That question is if we truly wish to know the answer, Taleni.” He concluded.

Part 5 – Seven Lives

Chill, chill, chill Chill, chill, chill Chill, chill, chill

Traces,
many faces Lost in the maze of time
Blinded by the darkness
That’s the start of the seven lives

Chill, chill, chill Chill, chill, chill Chill, chill, chill

It’s too close, but still too far
Follow your inner guide
Show us who you are, are, are
In these seven lives

Chill, chill, chill Chill, chill, chill Chill, chill, chill

Take it easy
Take it easy, take it easy
Follow your inner guide
Show me who you are
In these seven lives

It’s too close, but still too far
Show me who you are In these seven lives
Close but still too far
Show me who you are In these seven lives

The farmers companion watched Storm head every morning to the fields to work them, to tend to them as if he himself owned the property. She was filled with gratitude and yet weary. He had never given her reason to doubt his sincerity but his evasive way of speaking of the past got her thinking and wondering. Taleni had stopped her questions and had surrendered to his silence. Her daughter still spoke often, but her questions were never about him. She had asked her why and her girl had answered in a way that made her understand that Storm himself had warned her that not all questions might have the answers they wished.

The weather had taken a drastic turn as the sun burned bright and the nights hardly gave any coolness. They all suffered the lack of sleep and with it she felt herself more tense. Suddenly she was determined to ask Storm. She looked back over her shoulder to see Taleni sound a sleep in the shadow of the room. She brushed her hands down on the apron she was wearing and silently slipped out of the house to find Storm.

She could see him in the field dragging beams to mend the fence and his bare torso showed how the sun had burned him in the past days. He was covered in sweat when she eventually placed the bucket with fresh water near him. She had taken it quickly as to give her some reason to approach. She smiled to him, even if it didn’t really reach her eyes.  She was troubled and her intent was a selfish one. “I thought you might need some refreshments in this heat.” She stated while she sheltered her eyes against the sun with her one hand. She noted Storm observing her and she felt uncomfortable under his gaze. He always made her feel as if he could read her better than she wished.

“Many underestimate women.” Storm started “I never did, though. Women with a quest are the most dangerous creatures for those men that do not consider them well.”  She felt a blush creep upon her cheeks but hoped that he wouldn’t see her embarrassment.  “Why would you speak of dangerous women, why you are so much stronger.” She asked “Strength isn’t only a matter of physics but also about mentality.  You came with a mission, didn’t you ?” he asked further. The farmers companion considered what to answer and eventually nodded. Why would she lie while she wanted the truth of him ? “Yes, Storm. I want to know who you are and why you are here.”

Storm refreshed himself with the water she had brought and with it waved his hand in a gallant gesture to a tree that might give them both shelter. “Perhaps it would be wiser to sit there while we speak.” He suggested.  The suggestion made her hopeful that he would indeed trust her with the truth. Her heart pounded rapid in her chest as she felt herself also afraid as to what she might learn. In the back of her mind a prayer was reciting in which he would indeed remain the noble and honourable man he showed himself to be.

“Are you sure you truly want to know ?” Storm asked while he placed himself against the tree. His hands rested casual in his lap while he watched her taking a seat also. She didn’t speak but simply nodded afraid her voice might betray her discomfort.  Taleni and now he made her doubt if she truly wished to know and yet this little voice in the back of her head was determined.  “Do you see those.” He said while pointing to the mountains of Sardar. “I came from there.  Who I am is more difficult to answer. I know what I have been, but not what I am now.” He started mysterious “All I know is that I have been given another chance and yet I never asked for that chance.” She could see how the mans face was serious and somewhat sad.

“None ever return from those.” She blurted out as if she rather choose to disbelief him than consider his words to be true.  She could see how he regarded her and for a moment she wondered if her words might be considered offensive.  But before she could speak he continued “There are some that return from it but I doubt anyone really will tell anyone of such. There are risks to knowing.” With that he grew silent and she tried to process what he said but felt herself failing. “I only have first knowledge.” She said in that uncomfortable silence “I guess such is second, isn’t it?” she asked “But if you have that knowledge, you are high caste and yet here you are a hired help of a peasant.”

“You are a smart woman and I can see why Taleni is such a talented and bright girl. She starts to understand that what is in the past of someone might be important, but that the actions one takes tell a much finer story.  What if I tell you that I have been hated, perhaps even feared ? That before I went to the Sardar I was unloved and unwanted ? Would that make any sense to you ?” Storm asked while he took another scoop of the water and pushed the bucket in her direction so she could drink too.

“It would make no sense. I doubt it to be true.  Perhaps some might have feared you, because my companion and I have seen your strength. We have observed your way of doing things. You used them for our interest, but I can imagine them to be dangerous for those that wronged you.”  She said while her voice had become softer. “It is the truth as you have wished to know, but tell me what does it say as to the present ? Am I unloved now ? Am I only hated now ?” Storm asked while his green eyes seemed to be sharply upon her. She felt herself shift under his gaze as if he had turned her with that look into a young girl that just burned herself to the cookie jar. She didn’t dare to answer and lifted her chin somewhat proudly as to challenge him. “It was the truth and I changed the truth by giving effort.  I worked myself in sweat and agony. My body has grown stronger by the ahns of working with the plough. My mind is at peace because of the quietness this work gives me. I feel loved by a young girl that plucks flowers and I feel cared for by a peasant that trusts his farm in my care or you that brings me water when it is hot.”

She watched him and when he spoke she felt herself stirred with emotion. She tried to compose and keep them invisible.  She could taste the grief behind his words and cursed herself for asking. She wondered if she hadn’t ruined all just by her own determination. She turned her face away and made movement to leave. “Thank you, Storm. I … I guess I have kept you too long already.” She could note the warm smile and she didn’t question its sincerity. She hated herself for mistrusting and hoped he could forgive her. With quick paces she headed back while she felt his eyes in her back.

Part 6 – Out from the deep

 We came out from the deep
To learn to love, to learn how to live
We came out from the deep
To avoid the mistake we made
That’s why we are here !
We came out from the deep
To help and understand, but not to kill
It takes many lives till we succeed
To clear the debts of many hundred years
That’s why we are here !

He watched her walking back to the farm while he himself remained in the shade of the tree.  He could understand their reasons for asking about his past.  He knew that what was in someone’s past reflected on their present behaviour. He had often used this knowledge to his own benefit, but that felt like ages ago.  Little did it matter now, he tried to convince himself. He was a ghost, a loner. None would be looking for him, nor miss him.  He tried to remain in the present, take one day at the time.  The work of the farm was rough, but it allowed or more of forced him to just be in the here and now.

He watched his hands that carried the scars of the splinters of the wood he had been working with.  They were just the hands of a hired help, not the hands of the man he once was. The strength in them had increased over the past hands because of pushing the plough and the harvesting in the storm. The last thought made him grin as it reminded him on the name Taleni had given him. “Storm.” He memorized.  He could see how he had gotten this name, since they were unaware that for a first there was no storm in his mind or heart.  He felt at peace and wondered if the city of dust would be something similar as this.

The bucket of water near his feet tempted him to cool himself for a bit and with it he lifted himself up to take it and just turn it above his head. The fresh and coolness made him for a moment gasp, but it refreshed him as he had intended. He stepped out of the shade of the tree and looked at the wood that waited on him. Patient and without voice they lay there, without understanding of time.  He knew that most Goreans had little meaning when it came to time. They had concurred aging and although he himself couldn’t imagine a life with that decease, he had seen it on Earth. He had observed the haste they had on that planet. How little children, nearly adults had the need to start relationships and have kids.  They had to obtain knowledge as quick as possible as to gain influence and money.

He shook his head as to rid himself of the thoughts of Earth. Had he not promised himself to remain in the now ? He had vowed not to be that pawn, he had been for so long. If the war would rage on, it would even without him there fighting the cause.  Had he not given a lifetime already for that cause ? Wasn’t it time for others ? Questions that remained unanswered as if deep down he knew that the call would eventually be too tempting, but until that time he didn’t wish to waste his time with it. He would remain here, feel the care of others for him as he could care for them.  A gift of the Gods, they had called it and for a moment he could see the irony of it. In the past he had been the gift of death although such could be debated if you faced the right kind of people.

Suddenly he snapped out of his own thoughts when he picked up the sound of a cart that seemed to approach in the distance. The sun had dried the soil and with it the cart seemed to make this huge cloud of dust, which made it impossible to see who was approaching. He moved towards it as to see who might be there before it would reach the farm. Chances were that it would be the farmer, but he was rather sure.

“Storm !” the farmer called out with a broad smile.  “Good to see you !” Storm laughed and for a moment caught the passenger that sat next to the man he knew “Meet Joanna. She is a relative and is searching for her brother.” The farmer introduced the woman that smiled easy enough. Her features had something familiar to him, but he couldn’t quite place it. For a moment he feared that he might be wrong and she would recognize him. “I heard much about you, Storm.” She said to chime in with the farmer. “I hope only the good things.” Storm jested and they all laughed. “Do not worry, Sir.  He didn’t yet reach those topics yet.”

He helped them both from the cart when they eventually reached the farm. The farmer headed inside to surprise Taleni and his companion while Joanna remained with Storm. “I know your name isn’t really Storm.” She said while she watched the farmer head inside “But as I know you rather wish your own name unknown I have to call you Storm as well.” She stated as if his own thoughts on the matter were dismissed without consulting him. He was taken aback by her forwardness and chuckled.  She gave him a side glance and laughed. “So Joanna, you are travelling in search of relatives. Alone that would be quite a challenge.” He asked her, more to have some form of conversation.  She nodded “Yes, it is. In truth if it weren’t for Tommon I might not have the chance to continue. I was robbed and the one I hired for protection bailed out on me at the mere sight of the thieves.”

Storm listens to her and for some reason he couldn’t explain he felt drawn to her. She would make a change for that he was certain. Silently he hoped it would be a change for the better as he tried to avoid to bring his past back to life.

Part 7 – Following the Sun

Enigma – Following The Sun door popi_vazeou

Following The Sun, To Find The One
Who`s Giving You The Wings To Fly
Following The Sun, The Golden One
Losing Sense For Space and Time

Can You Feel The Waves Of Life
(Can You) Hear The Sigh Of Love
Do You Believe In It ?
Following The Sun, Just For The One
Till You`ll Find The Door You Thought
Following The Sun, Like Everyone
Searching For A Sign Of Hope

Have A Look Up To The Sky
See The Billion Stars Above
Cos (Maybe) On One Of Them
You`ll Spend Your Further Life.

Moons had gone by and with it Storm had truly come to learn Joanna as a hard working young woman. She told him about her past, her brother and her father.  A man she admired and lost without really getting to know him. He had been a quiet listener and she had not asked anymore questions, just as the others had stopped. They had simply accepted him here, with all his mysteries and secrets.  The ahn had grown late and after a good meal they all sat together. Taleni was sent to bed and for a rare occasion a good bota of ka la na was served.

“Daegal will be worried if he learns you aren’t home.” Tommon said to Joanna that sipped the wine carefully as if she wanted to enjoy every drop of it. “He doesn’t know and what does not know, does not hurt.” She winked to Storm and he smiled easy enough, giving a little shrug as if he was in no position to say different.  “Still, you need to leave a note to him.” The farmer insisted “Or perhaps continue your way ?” Storm added. Joanna felt herself cornered by both men and held the goblet in two hands while she used another sip to buy time. “Do you wish me gone, Storm ?” she asks feigning to be offended. Storm quickly shook his head “Not at all, but if you were my sister I would understand his feelings if you were missing. If he is anything as to your stories, I guess he fears the worst. You being enslaved, sold on some market or killed.”

Thankfully the conversation had quickly turned to lighter topics of conversation, but it was clearly on Joanna’s face that the thought of her brother wouldn’t leave her. When she and Storm eventually took a walk before they would get some sleep she brought the conversation back to his attention. “Storm ?” she started “I think I have issues to leave, because I do not wish to say goodbye.” Storm turned to her and stopped their walk. “I can understand why.” He simply answered while he regarded her in the dim light of  the lantern he was holding. “At times I wonder also if I cannot simply stay here the rest of my life. The work is hard, but the reward is more than enough. I do not miss the cities, the drive for more coin so you can get finer things.”

Joanna realised that his words showed some insight in his past and felt somewhat uncomfortable by it.  She had felt some odd comfort in the unknowing. She figured there were things in his past she rather did not know.  “I guess you joining me, would be asking much, huh ?” she said somewhat in jest even if there was this part of her that hoped he would say yes.  Storm chuckled softly and with a gesture signalled for them both to return.  Little did she know what her request had stirred within him.  Perhaps this was the cue he had been waiting for. He knew he couldn’t hide forever and yet the farm had given him so much peace of mind that it was hard to say goodbye to it.

When she entered the farm he turned to the sun that only gave a little line on the horizon. Would he go with her ? Would he face whatever he had tried to block from his present life.  He knew that the choices he once made were those he had to live with the rest of his life.  He had been taught well and had found in his mentor a man that understood that there was more to any man than just appearances.  A chill run down his spine when he gave thought to his teacher.  A man that had made a choice and never turned from it. If anything he had lived every ihn of his choice even in his death.

He stood there when the last ray of light was gone. The darkness that had been so long an enemy was now a treasured friend. He would go with Joanna, even for all the wrong reasons.  The young woman had just as Taleni had done stolen a piece of his heart.  Taleni of course in a different manner but still with that innocence charm that Joanna also possessed.  Would he loose his heart to this young spirited woman ? Would he truly follow her if she indeed would decide to leave ? Questions that for now remained unanswered in his mind. If Joanna gave him a chance he might have at least some time to give it good thought. He suddenly grins, somewhat doubting the woman would give him much time.

 Part 8 – The Silent Warrior

Long ago, for many years
White men came in the name of god
They took their land, they took their lives
A new age has just begun
.
They lost their gods, they lost their smile
They cried for help for the last time.
Liberty was turning into chains
But all the white men said
That’s the cross of changes
.
In the name of God – the fight for gold
These were the changes.
Tell me – is it right – in the name of god
These kind of changes ?
.
They tried to fight for liberty
Without a chance in hell, they gave up.
White men won in the name of god
With the cross as alibi
.
There’s no God who ever tried
To change the world in this way.
For the ones who abuse his name
There’ll be no chance to escape
On judgement day
.
In the name of God – the fight for gold
These were the changes.
Tell me – is it right – in the name of god
These kind of changes ?
.
Tell me why, tell me why, tell why
The white men said:
That’s the cross of changes ?
.
Tell me why, tell me why, tell why,
In the name of god
These kind of changes.

The farmer had expected that someday Storm might leave, but when he eventually spoke of leaving and take Joanna to her brother, it still came as this unpleasant surprise.  He understood it, even believed it wise since the man had been living the life of a monk when it came to it.  Still his hard work and how he had approached some of the problems they encountered were so valuable.  He was sad and somewhat defeated by the mere prospect of losing not only a good help but also a good friend. Storm had become one of his very best even if he knew little to nothing of him.  He didn’t wish him to see the feelings the words of Storm had stirred within him, knowing them to be selfish.

Now he stood here, alone when suddenly he felt Taleni tug his tunic. “Ah my precious Taleni.” He said giving her a wink when she tried to grab his hand. “I want you to show something, father.” The girl suggested “Storm showed it earlier, come.” She insisted while she made a few paces and tried to drag him along. He smiled and feigned reluctant to being dragged with her.  She gave him an impatient look and eventually he gave in and followed her.  Even she had made quite a transformation in the past year and he didn’t doubt if Storm had something to do with it.  The girl had been silent and reserved and eventually had become more outgoing and at times even proud and self-aware.

When Taleni stopped he noted the tree he had passed so often, that had sheltered him just as much against the sun or rain. The tree he and Storm often searched for some rest or conversation. Taleni pointed up in one of the branches and he had to look carefully not to miss what she tried to show him. “There father, a nest !” she tells him. “Storm showed it to me and said that if we were very silent we could hear the young cry for their mother.” With that she placed her tiny finger before her lips and was silent. He could see how important this was to her and followed suit. The leafs of the tree gave a little whisper but above that sound the soft noise of the new-born birds was heard. He grinned to her and nodded as to signal he had heard it too.

Taleni’s face turned from hope to a more serious expression. “Storm is leaving, father. Can’t you ask him not to go ?” she asks while she peered up in hope to see some of the nest.  The farmer nodded “I could ask, Taleni, but do you think he will remain when we do ? Next to it would it be fair to ask him so ?”  Taleni’s face betrayed that he hit a thought she herself had also. “Storm said we are like birds. We are raised, taught and eventually have to fly and find our own nest.”  The farmer laughed as he could picture Storm explaining it to Taleni. “He is right. However there is one difference, we might know it is best but we will still miss him. We can only hope he will be safe and perhaps visit when he is able, huh.”

Taleni nodded but he could see the sadness on her face “What is it that you will miss most ?” he asked her while he took her small hand and walked back to the farm. “I will miss his patience and how he talked to me, father. I never felt like a silly girl when I asked him anything.” She said in that brutal honesty. He nodded and took it as vital information. Perhaps there he and his companion had been wrong. They never took her questions all that serious, but then again the work was never ending and at times her questions came on those moments they couldn’t answer them.

Storm was working on the roof of the barn when they both returned and the farmer signalled to him. Storm dropped the tools and with a worried look approached the farmer. Taleni was sent into the house when the farmer grabbed Storms shoulder “I was asked to ask you not to go. In truth I have asked myself the same question.” He started “I know it would be a selfish request, Storm. We hate to see you leave.” He admitted eventually. Storm nodded “I am grateful that you do not ask, Tommon. I fear I might not be able to leave if you would have asked.” The green eyes of the man beside the farmer were sad just as his own might be when he nodded “You will be missed and I hope we won’t say farewell forever. I hope you know that there is always a spot on our table for you.” The farmer offered while they both walked into the fields as to give some privacy to their conversation.

Storm regarded the farmer and for a first spoke of his past “I appreciate all you have done for me, but I need to face the demons I thought to outrun.” He sighed and continued “Before I arrived to your farm I have been to the Sardar mountains praying for many days for them to return my mentor.  A man that many feared or even hated. I guess most might hate me just as much if they knew of him and my relation with him.  He was like a father to me when I lost my real one.  He taught me so much that I didn’t dare to face life without him. In your home I have experienced that I have to accept that his life is over and I need to proceed with living and face whatever is ahead.”

The farmer listens, somewhat he felt touched that the man had trusted him with some of the information he had been hiding for all this time. “We are the grateful ones, Storm. Your hard work has made this year one of the best when it comes to profit. The farm is solid and you taught me much about farming even if you might not been aware of you teaching me.  I consider you like a brother and I hope you will consider me as one  too.” Storm turned his face away so the pain the last comment might remain veiled. “Thank you, Tommon.” He answered while he grabbed the man’s shoulder in a gesture of comradeship.

“I am called Caith.” He suddenly admitted.

The farmer looked up to the man he knew as Storm. His face regarded him curious and weary. Why would the man give his name now, when he made his way of leaving ? “My mentor, recruited me from a battlefield and gave that name when I took the livery of the Assassins.” Caith said.

Part 9 – Fear& Love

 We always have a choice,
At least I we think we do,
We can always use our voice,
I thought this to be true.
We can live in fear.
Extend ourselves to love,
We can fall below, or lift ourselves above.

Chorus:
Fear can stop you loving,
Love can stop your fear.
Fear can stop you loving,
But it’s not always that clear.

I always tried so hard
To share myselve around
Now I’m closing up again
Drilling through the ground

Chorus:
Fear can stop you loving,
Love can stop your fear.
Fear can stop you loving,
But it’s not always that clear.

I love to give myself away
But I find it hard to trust
I got no map to find my way
And what’s these clouds of dust?

Chorus:
Fear can stop you loving,
Love can stop your fear.
Fear can stop you loving,
But it’s not always that clear.

But it’s not always that clear…
But it’s not always that clear…
But it’s not always that clear…
But it’s not always that clear…

Joanna walked next to him in her own silence. What could she say after his confession ? She now understood why Tommon had told her to be careful with him. How had he said it ? “Do not lose your heart, Joanna. He is unable to answer it by what he is.”  Something in that sentence seemed to be wrong. He was a human being, why would he not be able too ? She glanced to him, studied him behind the veils and scarfs she had used to cover herself completely. Still she couldn’t get rid of the thought that he would feel her look. Now she knew what it had meant and it filled her with fear.  His actions had been so different to what she expected them to be. She had heard stories of these men, that lost their feelings in some final stage of their training, but little did she know what it was.

“It is best to voice your thoughts, Joanna.” He suddenly tells her. “I might not answer all your questions, but I might.” Caith said.  “Why ?” she asked him in response “Why are you what you are ?” she asked and hoped that whatever she learned wouldn’t ruin the picture she had of him. She believed him honourable, credible and wise.  “I guess I was picked when I was most vulnerable.” He replied to her truthful “I was on the losing end of the battle and with it he seemed to be my only escape.  Later when I realised I might have made a pact with the devil himself I knew I had another choice and it might have been death, but at least a honourable one.”  She smiled to him and admitted “I am glad you aren’t.”

They walked long and when they eventually reached a small village that had a little port they would travel further by ship. She felt safe with him and then it suddenly hit her “You are disarmed, wouldn’t that be odd ?” she asks when she felt themselves alone watching the horizon “I thought those men were armed to their teeth.” She jested a little “Here I am wearing more steel then you do.” Caith chuckled softly and turned to her “My mentor spoke of the one that has steel might feel himself superior to one that does not. Yet in that same feeling the one that is armed might underestimate the other and make mistakes to only find his own blade sticking in his back.” Although it seemed to be said in jest, Joanna understood that he might be right. “There is a greater weapon than any spear, gladius or dagger.” He pointed to his head “The mind, Joanna. It is capable of much greater things.”

Joanna studied him when he helped the crew with the sails and roars. He was strong and seemed to be so easy with others. He was quickly accepted as one of them, while she pondered if they would if they know what he was.  She feared him and yet she needed to admit that she had grown to love him too. She dreamed of being in his arms, feeling his lips on hers. The dreams always turned to nightmares were she eventually lost him in a pool of blood.  She never dared to speak of her feelings with him, but with it she grew tense and short fused.

“Is something troubling you, Joanna ? Afraid of what your brother might say ?” Caith asked when they were standing while they noted the change of scenery. The city of Brundisium seemed to approach even if it might be a day before they would dock there.  “It isn’t my brother I fear.” She said sharply. She could see his brow arch and lowered her gaze “Sorry.” She added quickly but turned her face away “I do not wish to pry, Joanna, but has it anything to do with me ?” his voice became soft almost fragile.  “Yes.” She admitted.  Caith nodded “I can’t change the choices I made, Joanna. We all make mistakes and have to live with them.” He sighed softly and she turned to him. “I do not think it to be a mistake, Caith.” She replied sadly “I think the choice you made was the better one in the circumstances.”

There was this silence for long when eventually Caith spoke again “You are right. I don’t think it was a mistake. I have been taught well and although I tried to escape it, my destiny was one that found me. I have to surrender to what, my mentor saw. Trust in his judgement and his lessons.” Joanna listened and knew that this was going to be a slow goodbye.  He told her this to have her understand he would leave her when she found her brother. She felt sick and turned to him “Where will you go ?” she asked him eventually. “Where ever the tide might bring me ? Tommon gave me some money for the work I did and with it I have to see that my things are replaced. Perhaps find some of the men, my mentor spoke off.” He noted Joanna take something from a hidden belt and saw the dagger she handed to him. “I once was given this.  I guess it belonged to my father, both my brother and I were given one.” She smiled at the memory of this gift and her parting of it betrayed the deep feelings she felt for Caith. He took it and studied it and frowned “This is one of the most beautiful daggers I have ever seen. Are you sure, you want to gift this ? I can understand this to be important to you.” He asked her to ensure that this was what she wanted.  “Yes, so I will know that where ever you go, you have not only your mind but this too.”

Part 10 – Age of loneliness

 

 

Carly don’t be sad
Life is okay
Life is mad
Don’t be afraid
Carly don’t be sad
That’s your destiny
The only chance
Take it, take it in your hands

 

Caith watched her leave the planks of the docks. He was sure that she would soon find her brother and perhaps forget about him. The last thought perhaps to reassure himself that whatever was between them would be smothered and die.  His heart that had been cold to life, to others had beaten because of her. How would his mentor have said it to him ? “Emotions are the true enemy.”  They were true and ringed in his ears as if the man that taught him everything was still next to him.  The emotions were why they existed and they could cloud a judgement that needed a calculated mind.  The dagger in his hand felt heavy and as he saw Joanna turn to wave at him, he couldn’t comprehend the evil and dark tricks life had played. How could this dagger that was hers be the one she received by the man that had taught him everything.

The two people that had mattered were related and he felt like this new-born child craving for food.  How could he go from here ? Where would he go from here ? He had cried himself to sleep at the Sardars as he feared himself not to be ready to go there alone and yet he had known that after killing his partner he would always be.  There was no escape from it and he would be judged based on what he was no longer who he could be.  How amazing it had felt when Taleni had judged him on the stories he told her, or how Tommon had gripped his shoulder in comradeship when the harvest was sold for the right price. Next to them there was Joanna, a woman that with her beauty and wits might be the best catch any man would wish for himself. She had managed to promise spring, as his mentor often called it. He remembered the story of the slave that managed to warm a killers heart. He remembered the laughs he and his partner had about it. They vowed never to fall in that trap. They wouldn’t buy slaves or be fools to the heart and now while he watched her fade he understood that he in his pride and ego had missed the important lesson he had taught them.

The captain approached Caith almost with his palm open up to him “You and that woman arrived. I want the rest of the payment.” He stated impatiently while his boot tapped on the wood as to urge him to pay quickly. Caith looked at the captain and nodded “I think I might go further with you. I will pay for the woman though. She will remain here.” With that he tried to find the coins Tommon had paid him for his work. He hadn’t at first wanted to accept them, but when the man had pressed on he didn’t wish to be ungrateful to the gesture.  The captain shook his head “Nope. I want your pay now in full … I will not take any passengers for some time. In truth this ship might need repairs and the shipwright here is one that I trust for the amount of coin he asks.”  Caith gave the coin to the captain and nodded to him, as if he understood what the man was demanding of him. But when he suddenly realises he is to remain here or find another captain he felt some muscles tense as if fate had again made a twist.

“The age of loneliness” he muttered when he eventually took the knapsack and swings it over his shoulder. When he stepped of the ship on the docks he hoped silently that Joanna wouldn’t learn that the ship hadn’t parted. Perhaps it gave him time enough to find another captain willing to take him further so he wouldn’t have to face that demon of care again. Alone with gold and steel, they had said when he eventually made it to become a killer. Words that had only been words until now.  How often did people say things without thinking, until faced with the true meaning of them. Deep down he felt himself victim to this dreaded caste. The assassin had tricked him into it and this deep buried anger seemed to try to leap out and just smack the first man’s face he would come across with. He would be feared because of what ? Because he made it through training ? Because he had killed men before ? Questions that now only resounded in his mind and never could be voiced.  He was unaware of the simple fact that he had everything he needed, that he had come this far because he was what his mentor thought to see in him as promise.  He was only in this stage of grief, of dealing with the loss of the man that had beaten, broken and rebuilded him again. Feelings that could be considered weaknesses, that were those things a man as he should never expose to daylight.  He needed to find that what had been there in him before he learned that his mentor had been killed.  It was time to not only say the words, but live them up to their intent.

“Alone with gold and steel – the age of loneliness.”