Evilsbane

"Spock. Spock. Wake up."

The voice was persistent. There was a damp sensation against his forehead and moments later he opened his eyes to see anxious faces staring down at him.

"Damn, Vulcan," the doctor's grouchy tones assaulted his sensitive hearing. "You're always trying to prove me wrong." He took the wet cloth from Spock's face.

"Bones," Kirk soothed. "He's all right. See he's awake now."

Spock relaxed. "Jim, what has happened?" he asked.

"You transported the medicorder," Kirk said. "Spock, once you've recovered, some phasers and tricorders would be very welcome." He grinned and added, "If possible."

"Better still, can't you get us out of here?" McCoy asked.

"Really, Doctor," Spock retaliated. "For one not gullible enough to believe in wizards and magic, that is an illogical request."

The Doctor smiled. "Okay, you pointy-eared, long-haired, logical Vulcan, I admit I'm a sceptic but you brought my tricorder through so I'll accept your telekinetic ability, however you got it. I'm gonna check our sorcerer out." He turned to face Ayrond. "With your permission, sir."

***

The mage nodded and watched with interest as the healer held the magic box close to him for a few minutes then proclaimed in a wondering tone, "He's as human as you or I, Jim."

Ayrond ignored the comments and listened, outwardly calm but inwardly seething with excitement as the Elf-Prince recounted his experience. Truly the power was strong within that lean frame; none but a halfling could have the ability to reach through the mists to bring an object through with just his own magic. As the Halfling hungrily ate the remnants of the repast, Ayrond answered all questions as clearly as possible but it was obvious that there was a difficulty in communication.

"Let me get this straight, Ayrond," the King said in a quiet voice. "You deliberately abducted us because you really believe we are the ones foretold in your prophecy. You expect us to fight this Medrikhor for you?"

The penetrating gaze of the King was no less intimidating than that of the Prince. Ayrond could not face either of them without acknowledging their right of command and despite the desperation which had forced him to bring them here, there was a deep guilt within him which he could not deny.

"Yes, Sire," Ayrond humbly replied.

"How are we to believe this? Why should we trust you?" The King paced the room, his impatience barely restrained. "Spock, are you recovered enough to try the stone again?"

The Prince nodded. "Indeed, sir. It was a most interesting experience. Now that I am familiar with the process it will be simpler to control."

"Good, but be careful. Check what's happening on the Enterprise. Try and get a message to Scotty, and if possible bring through some phasers in case we're stuck here for a while."

Ayrond noted the concern the companions held for the Elf-Prince and marvelled at it. Before Medrikhor's power had weakened it, eldritch magic had protected Arigol for untold centuries. The elves were deeply respected by all the inhabitants of the land, but few dared love such an emotionless people. Humans had long since learned not to consort with them for in that there only lay heartache. Yet,on occasion, some special humans had pierced the coldness of the eldritch race. In times of extreme danger, halflings with exceptional power had been born of these unions but once the menace had been defeated, tragedy had often befallen parents and child.

There had been no halflings born for aeons past. The elves lived within their enchanted demesne having little involvement with any other; only Ayrond in his capacity as Arch-Mage had regularly consulted with them. He well knew their goodness and beauty; the love for the land which they masked with their icy demeanour. Yet Maran Elf-Princess had looked kindly upon him after he had worshipped her from afar for many years. He had not intended to fall in love with her, but it had happened and there was no escape for either of them. She had left her leafy home to live with him, and theirs had been a happy marriage until Maran had been killed after her sister, Aelwen Elf-Queen's defeat at the last great battle. Ayrond had vowed vengeance on Medrikhor and would not rest until a way was found to destroy him.

He and Maran had not produced any offspring however this one - Spock - was very like the son they might have had. According to legend, a halfling cleaved to his elven nature, his demeanour as cold as any full-blood, yet this one was different. His features showed little emotion but his eyes expressed much and he obviously returned the affection so clearly shown by his comrades. Ayrond smiled with a certain pride as Spock reached into the crystal and forced its powers to his will to bring another artefact from beyond the void.

The Youth, his eyes bright with awe, caught the oddly shaped object as it appeared in thin air before him. "Meester Spock you've brought a phaser."

This time the Halfling was less fatigued and had clearly learned from his earlier spell-weaving. He looked at Ayrond. "According to the tales I recall, certain words or incantations were also used to assist the sorcerer in his magic. What did you use to bring us here, sir?"

The mage lowered his eyes. The Prince was clever. It would be difficult to deny him any knowledge but certain facts had to remain secret for the present. He would have to be careful. "The spell needed to bring you here is very ancient. I am trained in the usage of magic. I beg forgiveness but I know of no counter-spell."

The Halfling exchanged a glance with his liege then spoke. "You said that when the magic was restored we could go back. If there is no counter-spell how will that be possible?"

"Have you been lying to us, old man?" the King demanded, a dangerous glint in his eyes.

"Sire, I beg your understanding. There is no such spell known to me and even if one does exist there are none with enough power left to make use of it. Evil drains the magic from the land. Once Medrikhor is defeated I will call upon all our allies to combine their skills. Perhaps in that way you can return to your demesne."

"Then we're stranded here," the King said bitterly. "You kidnapped us and now tell us that there's no way back unless we kill your enemy. You don't give us much choice, do you?"

"Captain, I know how to reach the ship," the Halfling said. "I will attempt to transport us through the anomaly."

"It's too dangerous, Spock," the Healer said. "Dammit, you're still exhausted. I can't allow it."

"Would you prefer to remain imprisoned here, McCoy? With the captain's permission I shall begin."

The King glanced at Ayrond and there was a touch of compassion in his gaze. "I'm sorry about your problems, sir, but I must consider the welfare of my own people. Don't try to interfere."

"I understand," Ayrond said. "So be it." He bent his head as the one named Spock attempted the impossible.

***

Kirk supported the swaying, ashen-faced Vulcan around the shoulders. "Bones," he said urgently.

The doctor scanned the Vulcan's body. "He can't keep doing this, Jim. The energy drain is too severe. There is no way he could transport us back."

The captain nodded and waited patiently for Spock to recover. "Can you tell us what you saw, Spock?"

The Vulcan sat up, a tinge of green staining his ear-tips. Kirk sat back as Spock shook heavy hair away from his face and said, "The ship is safe, sir, and the crew are investigating the anomaly. I attempted to transport us to the Enterprise but regret to say that my strength failed me."

"That's okay, Spock. The phaser you brought through earlier may give us an advantage when we need it. Rest now, then we'll decide what to do. Eat some more food, regain your strength." He stood and faced the mage. "Well, Ayrond, you've got what you wanted." He tried to curb his resentment, for Kirk was certain the old man was genuine in his despair. "We're stuck here for the moment so you might as well tell us some more about your problems."

"This is ridiculous, Jim," McCoy complained. "Are you seriously going to help him? Dammit, he kidnapped us!"

"I know, Bones," Kirk said, "but we're here and there's no harm in listening."

"My liege," the mage said, "I thank you. We have fought the Dark King for so long, the forces of good are almost crushed. Only those who hide in the enchanted places remain untouched. They need leaders who will persuade them to come forth and join in battle against the Evil. Only the seven heroes of the prophecy can do this. The nature beings do not seem to realise that the Evil will destroy their havens and they cavort innocently as if it were still the days of happiness. Already much fertile land has been burned; lives and property destroyed. The Wood of Wonders may be next. Many beauteous creatures live there."

"Well," McCoy commented, "this has to be the most ridiculous situation we've ever been in."

Chapel wiped the dampness from her cheeks. "I think it's very sad to hear of people destroyed by such malice!"

McCoy glared at her. "You don't believe all this do you, Christine?"

She nodded. "I believe him."

Kirk chewed at his lip. Why was it that the idea of helping Ayrond seemed right? "Even if we are those mentioned in the prophecy, we know nothing about this place. We have absolutely no idea of how to defeat Medrikhor. You ask too much of us, Ayrond."

The mage bowed his head. "Permit me to guide you. I will travel with you to the Library of Learning. There in the ancient texts we may find our answers."

"And how will we read them, Ayrond?" Uhura asked. "We can't even speak your language. You're speaking ours. How do you do that?"

The mage smiled. "Ah, beauteous Queen, you are wise. It is a simple spell." He raised his staff, murmured several unintelligible words then said, "It is done. Ye can understand and speak any language of Arigol now."

"Fascinating," Spock remarked, his eyebrow rising.

"I'll believe it when I see it," McCoy commented.

"A doctor should have an open mind," Kirk said with a mocking grin. McCoy stared at him for a long moment but did not reply. "Okay, Ayrond," Kirk continued, "How far is the library?

"It is two days travel to the east. We must take provisions for the journey. There is an inn but it may be destroyed."

"Hold on, Ayrond. I've not agreed to anything yet."

The mage sighed. "Sire, you know in your heart that I speak the truth. I beg you to follow your destiny."

Kirk looked at Spock and any remaining doubts were allayed by the Vulcan's conviction that they were meant to be here. The others watched Kirk closely and he knew that they would follow him into this magic-orientated society as willingly as they would do on any normal landing party.

"You will go, sire?" the mage asked, his tired old eyes pleading.

Kirk nodded. "As far as the library. Then we'll decide if we continue."

Uhura folded her arms. "Captain, there is no way Christine and I can travel for two days in these clothes." she said determinedly.

Kirk was about to speak but the mage forestalled him. "Lady Queen, you are - of course - correct. This is the chamber of my lady, Maran Elf-Princess. She was a warrior and often donned garb more suitable for such pursuits." He muttered a word and the doors to the room's many closets opened. "Choose that which you will. The garment will adjust to the correct size."

"How convenient," Uhura replied with a swift glance to Christine.

The two women compared their different heights and build before rummaging amongst the clothes. Chekov watched them enviously for a moment before saying, "I would also like something different to wear."

The mage shook his head. "I regret that it is impossible to supply further clothing. The ladies' gowns belonged to my beloved wife but the spell used in creating the garb you and your male comrades wear has, for the moment, been exhausted. My own robes are too large for you. Perhaps you will acquire something along the way."

The young Russian pulled at the hem of his tunic. His comrades attempted to restrain their amusement at his predicament, but Sulu could not resist a teasing remark. "Just think, Chekov. All those little nymphs we'll meet will think you're Apollo."

"Really!" Chekov exclaimed, a smile covering his flushed face.

The men courteously kept their backs turned as the two women changed from their dresses into tunics and hose of blue and red. Kirk was pleased to note that they had chosen their normal section colours. "Take the dresses and whatever else you require ladies," the mage requested. "All elven-wear is almost indestructible, impervious to dirt and folds into a small package making it easy to carry. My lady travelled with a large wardrobe but it fitted neatly into yon satchels."

Uhura picked up a small delicately woven bag and peered inside. "Amazing. Too bad Starfleet uniforms aren't as durable as that."

Kirk, remembering the many shirts he had torn, agreed. "Well, Ayrond, are we going to get out of this room now?" he asked.

The mage bowed. "Very well, sire." He drew a sign in the air and the drape behind him vanished to reveal a door set into the wall. "Beyond lies my study. Please follow me."

The door opened as he neared. Spock raised an eyebrow at Kirk's surprised glance, but no-one spoke as they entered the book-lined chamber. The smell of the old volumes was like a magnet to the captain for there was little he enjoyed more than rummaging around amongst 'real' books. Ayrond noted the interest and showed his collection with pride.

"Many of these belonged to my mother. She was Arch-Mage before me. Alas she was killed by Medrikhor and her Office was bestowed upon me. The forces of Evil have taken all my family; we must stop them before the darkness completely descends upon Arigol. You are the only hope remaining to us. Will you truly help us?"

Kirk sighed deeply, torn between his wish to return to the Enterprise and the instincts telling him to help these oppressed folk. "I can't make any promises, Ayrond."

"I understand, sire." The mage turned to the fireplace, pressed a pattern on its surface and with a smooth movement a panel of the wall swivelled halfway around.

"Secret passageways," McCoy complained. "I can't wait to discover what's next."

Kirk ignored him and followed Ayrond into the darkness. Spock was close behind him and the others swiftly brought up the rear. The corridor was musty and dim, but after a moment a ball of light appeared in front of them to guide the way. "Spellfire," the sorcerer informed them. "An elemental force easily controlled."

"Could I do this?" Spock asked.

"I will teach you, Lord Prince."

"Well, would you believe it, Jim. Spock as the sorcerer's apprentice," McCoy said with a laugh.

Kirk had taken enough of the doctor's remarks. "McCoy, we need less of your caustic wit right now. Stop your needling. That's an order."

McCoy was silent for a moment before replying, "Yes, Captain."

The narrow corridor ended at a plain wooden door. Ayrond passed his hand over the lock and it creaked open to reveal a small windowless room where a metal chest sat on the floor. He uttered a word and the lid of the box opened. A gleaming silver spear rose from the interior and flew across the room, shaft first, to land in Kirk's open palm. He automatically gripped it then stared in amazement for only a split second before hefting it.

"She knows you, sire. Before leaving to fight Medrikhor, Maran placed the spear in this vault and charged me with her safety until the true King should arrive."

Kirk stroked the metal. It was warm to the touch, and unlike any he had seen before. "You call it she. Where did...um she come from?"

"Her name is Evilsbane and her origins are a mystery of the Elven-kind. Maran knew many things, she was a seer of much repute. The spear will only cleave to the one for whom she is destined. She is yours."

Kirk touched the sharp tip, slid his finger down the shaft then, wanting the Vulcan's opinion of the weapon, held the spear out to Spock. Evilsbane resisted him, forcing his hands down. The two officers exchanged a surprised glance and Kirk, puzzled deeply by the phenomenon, looked to Ayrond.

"She is nervous," the mage said. "You must reassure her that you will not part with her. Tell her that the prince is your friend. She will then permit his touch."

Feeling faintly ridiculous, Kirk stroked the spear. "Go to Spock, he's my friend." He held the weapon out and this time it did not object. Spock lifted it from him and studied it. "Fascinating, Captain." He touched his fingertips to the point. "I sense a presence, some kind of rudimentary intelligence within this spear."

"You mean it's alive, Spock?"

"In a sense I do not as yet understand, Captain, but you could say it is alive."

"Ayrond?" Kirk questioned.

"I know nothing more of Evilsbane, Lord King, except that she is yours to command."

With some trepidation Kirk took the spear back and it settled into his hand as though made for his grip. As Spock was always correct on such matters, he would, for the moment, accept the alien concept of a living spear.

"It's a beautiful weapon, Captain," Sulu said, his eyes bright with interest. "It looks like solid silver but that would be impractical as silver is a relatively soft metal."

"'Tis made by elven magic, Swordsman," the mage said. "In the hands of the King of Prophecy, it is the deadliest of all weapons.

Kirk listened with interest, exchanged glances with Spock, and then turned his attention to the old man. "All right, Ayrond, let's prepare for our journey."

The land surrounding Ayrond's house was starkly beautiful. A majestic mountain range dominated the landscape to the west, whilst to the north there was an uninterrupted view of a moor, its covering shrubs, rich in a variety of purples stretched to the horizon. Southwards, grasslands swayed in the slight breeze but to the east a narrow road reached into the distance, its smooth surface reflecting the brightness of the sun.

The mage indicated the modest stone fortress they had left. "This is the traditional home of the Arch-Mage of Arigol. Each stone is imbued with the magic of my predecessors. Their influence protects this place. Evil cannot enter here."

The Enterprise crewmembers exchanged glances. "How far does that protection extend, sir?" Sulu asked.

"A mile in all directions," the mage replied. "Once out of the influence of the shield we are in danger."

Kirk was silent as some inner sense warned him of his first officer's preoccupation with their location. He tried to gauge the Vulcan's mood but could detect little except a slight uncertainty. Aware now of the scrutiny, Spock turned to face him, eyebrow raised and head tilted to one side in the pose so typical of him.

"Observations, Spock?" Kirk asked.

"There is a power here, Captain. I can sense it. Perhaps it would be possible to adjust Dr. McCoy's medical tricorder to..."

"Oh no, you don't, Spock," McCoy interrupted. "I might need my tricorder. I won't have you messin' it up for your scientific experiments."

Kirk shook his head. "Bones is right, Spock." He glanced at the irate doctor. "For the moment, anyway. Right now I think we can trust your senses on this. What kind of impressions are you receiving?"

The Vulcan straightened. "It is not hostile to us, Captain. I cannot ascertain any more."

"Very well, that will have to do." Kirk turned to the mage. "Ayrond, you may lead us to the library, but don't try to deceive us in any way. I want complete honesty from you, anything less and we'll return here and figure out some other way to return home."

The old man bowed low. "Lord King, I am your servant. Please follow me. Stay on the road and do not be concerned by anything you hear or see. The elemental spirits do - at times - try to lead unsuspecting travellers astray. They are not evil but their mischievous ways can cause much trouble."

Kirk looked at his officers. "You heard Ayrond. Keep to the road." He tightened his backpack, gripped the spear, and with a determined air followed the upright figure. Spock walked behind him, Uhura next, McCoy, Christine and Chekov following. Sulu, gripping the hilt of his sheathed sword, brought up the rear.

***

The day was pleasantly warm and they walked steadily for several hours. Spock was immediately alert the moment they emerged from the protective shield; nothing registered but he maintained his vigil at all times and did not permit himself to relax. This adventure was bound by unknown rules and he was aware of the tension that caused amongst his shipmates. If he did possess powers here then it was his duty to use them to protect the others.

"Captain, a building lies ahead." He stopped and shaded his eyes with his hand against the sun's glare. "It appears to be damaged."

"It is the Inn of the Crossroads, Lord Prince," the mage said. He turned curious eyes on the Vulcan. "How see you so far?"

"My vision extends beyond the human range," Spock replied.

"And of the elven-kind," Ayrond replied. "Truly those of mixed blood are superior. The inn is damaged, you say? Then we must approach with caution."

McCoy was covered with sweat, his breathing laboured. "Some wizard you are. Can't you just summon up a magic carpet or something? I'm not as young as I used to be." He wiped the moisture from his forehead.

Kirk grinned. "Wrong story, Bones. That's Aladdin."

"The Healer speaks true, Lord King." Ayrond said. "Once I could have summoned the wild horses but their numbers are depleted. The few that survive now roam with the elf steeds, their distant kin, in the pasture lands of Elvenhome where they mourn their losses and attempt to regain their strength.

McCoy shrugged. "Forget I asked, Ayrond. Jim, can't we stop for a break?

"Really, Doctor, perhaps if you would follow the fitness regime required by other crewmembers, you would not need rest at this time." Spock was unable to resist baiting his nemesis.

"Why you pointy-eared excuse for an elf. We don't all have that superior Vulcan stamina, you know," McCoy blustered. "Some of us are human. Anyway I'm a doctor not a marathon walker."

Laughter swept through the Starfleet officers at the normality of the exchange but Ayrond stared, a puzzled expression on his face, as Spock replied, "Perhaps you will be most suitable for this universe. I believe you will find common ground amongst witch-doctors with their beads, rattles and invocation of spirits."

"Why you hobgoblin! With those ears you'll be just perfect amongst the fauns and satyrs," McCoy retaliated. "Trouble is, you wouldn't know how to take part in a good orgy, would you?"

"Gentlemen!" Kirk exclaimed laughing. "Enough please. We'll take a short rest then continue to the inn." He shook his head. "Really, Spock, I thought you knew better than to trade insults with Bones."

Spock forced his most innocent expression onto his face. "I was merely pointing out that Dr. McCoy would not need to rest if he... "

"Spock," Kirk warned.

The Vulcan fell silent but he sensed Kirk's amusement and it pleased him to know that he had helped ease the tension. The group settled down on a grassy verge - declared safe by Ayrond - and talked animatedly as they ate some of their provisions.

***

It was almost nightfall by the time they reached the Inn of the Crossroads. The building was uninhabitable, gutted by fire, and only several brick walls remained intact. They headed towards a small stables at the end of the compound, hoping to find shelter there from the dampness and chill of the evening air.

"This will be sufficient," the mage said as he opened the door and peered in. "Nothing of any danger to us lives here, although I will set a warding charm to ensure our safety. Simple spells should not be detected by Evil."

The stable was dark and smelled of its former animal occupants, but it was reasonably dry and warm. Ayrond summoned spellfire and its cheerful glow brightened the dullness of their surroundings. Spock could not suppress a shiver as the dampness hit him. He fought to control his reactions but the Doctor was well attuned to his unique patient's requirements.

"I thought you might need this, Spock." He reached into his backpack and pulled out a cloak. "Here wrap it around you."

Gratefully, Spock took it and nodded his thanks. Truly, McCoy was an enigma. Sometimes openly belligerent, yet at others deeply solicitous. He sighed and accepted the situation; it was the logical thing to do.

As the others huddled together for warmth and tried to rest, Spock and the mage talked long into the night. The old man regarded him with awe but that did not stop him from being a hard taskmaster as he tried to teach Spock the rudiments of how to control the power that ruled this place. Ayrond called it magic but Spock preferred to call it physics, albeit a different variety to that which operated in his own universe. As a scientist he was more comfortable with that idea than 'magic', however he was open-minded and curious enough to acknowledge that what existed must be accepted, regardless of how illogical it appeared.

This force which could be summoned by runes, gestures and incantations was formidable. Spock learned that some of the humans of Arigol had the gift to utilise it but needed many years of study under the tutelage of a qualified teacher before they were awarded entry to the School of Sorcery, a place equivalent to a Federation university or the Vulcan Science Academy. High Magic was taught there. All graduates became members of the Guild and vowed to use their talents for the good of the people. In contrast the elves were magical beings as were the many elemental and nature creatures of the land. However Ayrond was unable to tell him how these beings tapped the energy; he only knew it was their heritage and had always been so.

Spock listened carefully as the mage recited the simple rhyme for creating spellfire. It made no sense to him but to please the old man he repeated the words. Nothing happened until, recalling the method he had used to bring the medicorder and phaser through the anomaly, he focussed inwards and envisaged the object. To his surprise there was a crackle of power and a large globe appeared directly above him, bathing the dingy stables with a radiant light.

There were exclamations of surprise and a few curses from the sleeping humans as the disturbance awoke them. "Shut the lights off!" Chekov grumbled and covered his face.

The mage clapped his hands with glee. "Ah, Lord Halfling, the power truly lies within you. With further practise you will be invincible."

Kirk rubbed at his eyes. He moved to join them then crouched down at his friend's side. "What are you doing, Spock?" he asked.

The Vulcan shrugged slightly. "Forgive me for waking you, sir. I have much to learn regarding the control of this force. It is my opinion that the physical laws of this place are formidable. I can draw upon them, but not exactly in the manner of the natives. My telepathic abilities are instrumental in the process, however I would surmise that some, if not all of you might be able to work magic here. Perhaps that is the reason for our presence. If Medrikhor has indeed destroyed this vital ability of Arigol's inhabitants then they are in danger of total annihilation."

"You actually believe all this was meant to be, Spock?" the bemused captain asked.

"There is much we do not understand, sir. Here we have a fascinating opportunity to study a universe where different laws apply."

"We must proceed to the library in all haste," Ayrond said. "The ancient texts will guide us. There are books within the secret room that await your coming."

Kirk rubbed at his head; he grimaced as he came into contact with the long hair and sighed. "Okay, we'll leave at first light. How much further, Ayrond?"

The mage stood up and looked out of the small window. "The Wood of Wonders is close. Along its leafy pathways we will find the library."

Chekov leaned close to Sulu. "Vould you believe this old man. The Library of Learning. The Vood of Vonders. Does he make these ridiculous names up? It's too much, Hikaru, we must be dreaming or something. It's like we're in an old Russian folk tale."

Sulu grinned at his friend. "It seems pretty real to me, Pavel." He pointed up to the globe of spellfire hovering above them. "I can feel the heat from that and regardless of how Mr Spock created it, I think you'll find it might burn you."

Chekov scowled and did not reply, but the mage turned and regarded him. "Ah the arrogance of youth. You will, young sir, have a task to complete here but you must have faith in what you see and learn from others."

The Russian's mouth opened then closed as Spock reprimanded, "Mr Chekov, one must be receptive to different concepts."

"Aye, sir," he replied in a chastened tone.

***

After a simple breakfast they left their shelter and stood at the crossroads. The mage told them something of the area. "The north road leads to Arbara, City by the Sea. Once it was a bustling thoroughfare but alas Evil's minions rule there now. Everyone lives in terror, subject to the whims of their vicious masters. The surrounding fields lie unattended and where once all were content now many go hungry." He pointed along a smaller road going north east. "Ahead is all that remains of the Village of the Priestess. It was destroyed by Medrikhor many years ago, and all the Sisterhood taken captive. Their magic was a gentle one. They were healers of much skill, covering both human and animal illnesses."

The old man looked at McCoy and Chapel. "That is why we need you so desperately. There is a legend concerning a medicinal powder which lies hidden, awaiting the Great Healer. Perhaps you, my lord, or possibly thou, oh beauteous Caring One, is that person."

McCoy and Christine exchanged glances but the nurse, disregarding the Doctor's open scepticism, turned to the mage and smiled. "Perhaps, sir, but how will we know?"

Ayrond shrugged. "The mystery will reveal itself at the proper time." He indicated a wide road to the south. "This leads to the Lake of Destiny. It borders on the elven lands and its waters, fed by mountain springs, are some of the purest in all of Arigol. It is not the way we must travel." He pointed to dense woodland to the south west. "We must enter the Wood of Wonders and walk the secret pathway that leads to the library. There we may find many of our answers"

"I sincerely hope so," Kirk said. "What lies at the end of the Eastern Way?"

"The Forest of Fear, my liege, where great danger lurks for an unwary traveller." Ayrond shivered. "We must continue the journey for I sense Evil's presence near. The wood lies under a powerful spell of protection, where they cannot as yet pass. We will be safe there."

Kirk immediately turned to his telepathic friend. "Spock?"

The Vulcan was still for a long moment before replying, "There is something, Captain." He faced the north-east road. "It lies in that direction."

"Just as well we're heading the other way. Let's go," Kirk ordered.

Swiftly they walked on, the mage leading. Everyone was alert for any signs of ambush but they entered the wood without mishap and plunged into its dim interior until all sight of the road had disappeared. The sounds of bird song and the scurrying of small animals could be heard as they sped along a track, under the shadow of the arborous canopy that became less visible with each passing step. The foliage and branches of the tall trees caught at their clothes, and at ground level they were tripped by roots and creepers which appeared to deliberately seek them out.

Suddenly Ayrond stopped. He held out his hand in warning and the others assumed defensive positions; Sulu drawing his sword and Kirk holding the spear ready.

There were loud shrieks and, from the trees above, bodies dropped onto Kirk, Spock and Chekov. The three men wrestled with their assailants but stopped in shock as they realised their attackers were petite women wearing only skimpy, leafy garments. The other members of the group, recovering from their initial surprise, went to their assistance. Uhura, Christine and Sulu pulled the women away and held them securely.

"What the hell!" Kirk exclaimed as he pushed himself to his feet, dusting down his clothes. "Who are they, Ayrond?"

The females had long hair held back by garlands of flowers; their figures were voluptuous.

The mage smiled. "Do not be concerned, Lord King, for they mean no harm. They are simple wood nymphs who prey on male travellers."

Christine gripped the thin arms of the one who had jumped the Vulcan. Spock raised an eyebrow but did not speak. Kirk continued to study the captives and Chekov preened himself under the adoring gaze of his attacker.

"I wouldn't have minded one of them to attack me," McCoy commented with a wry grin. "I guess this robe does nothin' for me."

"Guess not, Bones." Kirk said with a laugh. "Okay Ayrond, what do we do with them? Are they any danger to us?"

"No, my king," Ayrond replied. "Begone, guardians of the trees. We are on a mission of importance."

Kirk signalled for their release and the three nymphs bowed respectfully before returning to the trees, clambering up the trunks until out of sight. Kirk sighed with a touch of regret. They had been stunning women, too bad there was no time to get to know them. He stopped his wistful wandering thoughts.

A wise precaution, said a familiar mind-voice.

Kirk grimaced. He had forgotten that his thoughts and feelings were all too obvious to Spock, and resolved to make greater effort in keeping himself in check. He sent a silent apology to Spock and the Vulcan acknowledged it.

"How much further to the library, Ayrond?" he asked.

"We will reach it by mid-afternoon."

Kirk nodded. "All right, but are there any other um, dangers here we should know about?" He wanted to be aware of anything that might be of harm to his people.

"Evil cannot enter here yet, sire, but creatures as mischievous as the nymphs do wander its pathways. Please understand it is their nature; they are simple folk and live for pleasure. They will be destroyed if Medrikhor ever breaches the enchantment, and all the knowledge in the library will be lost forever."

Kirk looked at the beautiful old trees. A family of brilliantly plumaged birds perched on a nearby branch. He reached out a hand and one gently pecked at his fingers. They had no reason to be scared for these creatures had never been hunted in their lives. He smiled and drew his hand away.

"Lead us to the library, Ayrond," he said. "We have a lot to learn."

Book of Prophecy Index

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