The Sea People
There was a cold touch on his arm.
Jim?
Spock forced his sluggish mind to analyse the small amount of information it was receiving and came to the conclusion that although human body heat was lower than a Vulcan's it was not chill like this. He forced open heavy lids to see an elderly man with long white hair and beard, and craggy features looking down at him. Ancient wisdom shone in the depths of the man's sea-green eyes and his skin had a viridescent hue that continually shifted and changed. Spock could not sense any threat but he kept his shields up and his expression neutral.
"You are safe here, Elf Lord. It has been many years since one of your kind visited my demesne," the old man said in a deep bass. "Rest after your ordeal."
Spock swallowed and almost closed his eyes in disbelief on seeing the enormous fishtail below the other's bare torso. Just where was he? And who, or what, was this being who spoke to him so kindly? "Forgive me, sir, but I do not know my location nor your name," he said.
The old man smiled, revealing large jade coloured teeth. "You are under what, depending upon my mood, the humans call 'The Sea of Death' or 'The Sea of Serenity'. This is Ainligl, my city. I am Maghwynn, King of the Ocean."
Spock tried to sit up. His senses spun and he almost blacked out. Only firm control and Msupport prevented it. "My thanks," he said. "I fear I am weak from hunger." Maghwynn snapped his fingers and, within seconds, seashell plates filled with a variety of fruits and vegetables were placed beside him by young fish-tailed females. 'Mermaids,' Spock's astonished mind supplied. 'Logical,' he added. 'If one accepts elves and manticores and dryads, why should there not be merfolk?'
"Eat, my lord. The spell you wove to bring yourself here was a powerful one. Even the greatest of sorcerers can rarely use it. Alas there are few, if any, of them left in Arigol. My brother destroys all who oppose him."
Spock was curious. Surely, Maghwynn could only mean one person. "Medrikhor is your brother?"
"Alas it is so; we share the same father. One cannot choose one's family. Please do not hold a grudge against me for my brother's actions."
Spock nodded. "That would not be logical, sir." He picked up a soft yellow vegetable and bit into it. The taste was sweet and pure and since there was no way to analyse it he mentally shrugged his shoulders and began to eat. If the old man wanted to kill him there was ample opportunity. However, some instinct told him he was safe.
Once his hunger was appeased Spock felt strong enough to take proper note of his surroundings. He was reclining on a narrow couch at one end of a large chamber whose pearly walls appeared to shimmer in the clear water. 'Water! Am I breathing water?' he asked himself.
Maghwynn watched him intently. "Do not be concerned. I have adapted your body for this environment. If not you would have drowned. The spell will hold until you desire it to end."
"Thank you, Maghwynn," Spock said, his voice tinged with relief, and concentrated on testing his breathing. He was taking water in through his mouth but it was being passed out through slits on the wall of his pharynx. He exercised extreme restraint on reaching the inevitable conclusion that he now possessed gills and brought his hands to his neck to touch the strange organs. Fascinating!
He still felt weak and disorientated but it was beginning to subside a little. He tried to stretch his legs but his limbs would not obey him; they felt heavy, without their accustomed suppleness. Could he have been injured? He supported himself on his elbows and looked down to a sight that would have caused even the masters of Gol to show emotion. A glistening green fish-tail swelled outwards from his waist before tapering down to a symmetrical two bladed fin. It lay still but Spock's sudden shock caused involuntary movement in the appendage and it repeatedly slapped the couch. Spock called on all the disciplines at his disposal but several minutes passed before he could bring the errant tail under control.
The sea king's laughter boomed all around them, creating a fountain of bubbles. "My daughter teaches the infants to swim. Once you are rested she will instruct you."
Spock inclined his head. "Thank you, sir. I shall endeavour to be a diligent pupil." His tail undulated but he concentrated for a moment and it settled back onto the couch.
Maghwynn grinned. "You are wise, my lord. When first I exchanged my tail for legs to walk the land, I bawled with anger and frustration for days until I became used to them. Of course I was but a stripling then. Now tell me why you are here."
Spock had always argued that as a Vulcan, he used logic but his association with humans had taught him that he did have intuition. Although not as highly developed as his captain's it could, at times, be useful and he was sure that this jovial creature was trustworthy.
Maghwynn listened without interruption as Spock recounted the events since his arrival in Arigol. He did not mention anything about his life on the Enterprise, knowing that the other would not understand, but once he had finished, the astute old man questioned him on it anyhow.
"What kind of power do you wield there? Is Ayrond correct in believing it will withstand the Evil? Why do you, a halfling prince, bow to the will of a human?"
"It is different there," Spock replied. "We work a kind of magic we call science. My people and the humans are only two of many in an alliance where all are equal. I am one amongst hundreds in a team of explorers. Captain Kirk is our leader. Humans know something of Arigol but to them it is dismissed as legend. The reality of this place has been a shock to my friends. We are, however, all willing to help if that be the desire of Arigol's populace."
Maghwynn thoughtfully stroked his beard. "I am very old. Once I met Vajed Halfling-Prince. He told me how he defeated the dragon, Peredwyr, and of the prophecy. When first I beheld you I thought you were he. Truly the Arch-Mage's deed is of heroic proportions. Who would have believed he could span the void. Very well, Spock, halfling from another place, I will pledge thee my support."
"Against your brother?" Spock asked.
"Against my brother," Maghwynn muttered. "I have sworn vengeance against Medrikhor. He ravished my mother, the goddess Arigol. He has, for centuries past, attempted to pollute the sea? Yes, my lord, I will join your battle for he is evil incarnate." Green eyes flashed with anger. "The time of resistance has come at last. For with the Heroes of Prophecy on our side we will destroy Medrikhor."
Spock settled back onto his couch. He could scarcely keep his eyes open. "Forgive me," he murmured, ashamed of his weakness.
"Rest, young lord. I will mobilise my forces. Then we will make plans for the future."
Spock nodded in agreement; drifted into sleep and after fourteen point two hours he woke fully refreshed for the first time since his arrival in Arigol. Strength pulsed through his body.
"My sea can be the elixir of life or death," the old merman said. "The waters give sustenance to those who serve the Goddess. You are such a one. Your abilities are already formidable but your sojourn here will increase their puissance."
Spock could not restrain his eyebrow from rising. "Indeed. I must test them to be certain."
He reached out with his mind, sensing the thoughts of sea creatures and merfolk. He touched the shore and the fearful emanations of Arigol's land dwellers crowded in on him. Forcing them aside he searched for his companions. "There," he whispered as he pinpointed the faint but familiar thought patterns of his captain. He strained to make contact but eventually caught the tendrils of Jim's psychic emanations. As their minds began to merge, a sudden surge of malevolent sorcerous power twisted round the link and snapped it. Stunned by the attack, Spock slumped back paralysed by the destruction of the open bond they had shared since that meld at Ayrond's house. Gone also was the empathic awareness of one another which had made them the best command team in the fleet. The emptiness inside was unbearable and Spock cried out in agony.
Who has done this?
The pain was unendurable.
'Pain is a thing of the mind. The mind can be controlled. There is no pain. What nonsense. The pain is unendurable!'
Spock fought with every shred of his training; all his determination to dampen the agony. He owed it to his captain, to all his companions and to the people of Arigol. He must somehow learn to live with his loss and continue. 'I am a Vulcan. I am in control. There is no pain.'
Spock lost track of time and although faintly aware of the concerned merfolk around him he did not have the strength to inform them of his silent battle for equilibrium. He finally gained tentative control and worked to promote self healing. If he was unable to effect an adequate cure then he could not play his part in Medrikhor's downfall.
He could almost hear his captain's voice. Spock, find a way to help these people. No-one will defeat us. We'll meet soon, my friend, don't worry.
Vulcans do not worry, Jim, he automatically responded, but deep in his heart he knew it was a lie.
He forced himself to reassure the merfolk of his well being and, satisfied, they left him to rest. Spock breathed deeply, and slowly achieved the first level of meditation. He came to the conclusion that this open wound in his mind would never heal and with that dire knowledge he built a temporary cocoon around it for protection and willed himself to believe that one day the link would be re-established. He did not dare contemplate that he might have to live like this for the rest of his life. Alone again. In constant pain. Empty.
***
The mer-king held court in a grand chamber of his crystalline palace. It was decorated with garish undersea flowers, pearls and corals. Exotic fish swam freely and strange sea creatures undulated and slithered past. Spock was assisted by servants to a bejewelled throne at the sea king's side and settled back to study the assembly. The merfolk were a handsome species. The females had perfectly formed, green-skinned upper bodies and their black waist-length hair was decorated with bands of shells. The males were muscular and hirsute. Their skin was a darker shade than the females and, with the exception of their king, their long coarse hair was dark green.
Maghwynn, his tail swishing gently as he floated in the water, spoke to his subjects. He told them about the prophecy and the arrival of the saviours. His audience stared at Spock with open curiosity and he could feel the pressure of their questioning minds. Spock drew on Vulcan disciplines and forced himself to shut out the painful clamour. A stab of agony almost caused him to gasp out loud but he suppressed everything with iron control and the pain gradually receded.
"Elf Prince," a voice murmured.
He blinked and looked up at the craggy features of the speaker. "King Maghwynn, forgive me."
"You are ailing. You need further rest." The old merman's voice was gentle.
"No," Spock replied. "It is a temporary indisposition. Please do not be concerned."
Maghwynn's face was filled with worry. "Nay, Elf-Prince, your words belie the knowledge within your heart. The sea-folk have many skills. Some have the seeing-gift and know of your great pain."
Spock lowered his gaze. If Maghwynn spoke the truth it was illogical to deny his problems. "Very well, sire. It is true. There is an ache within me that is difficult to explain. You were with me when some evil force attacked me. It broke a bond, a joining link, if you will to another."
"I did perceive your distress. I thought, at first, that you would not survive it."
Spock almost smiled. The mer-king saw beyond the surface and his 'seeing gift', in all probability, was a psi ability. "Do not concern yourself, sire. Your people are assembled. We must plan our strategy."
The king rubbed at his generous white beard then raised his voice to permit the entire gathering to hear. "My demesne is wide, my subjects many, but there are places to where my rule does not extend. Deep below us lies a land we call Aenndia; the realm of creatures who have existed since the world was formed. They do not deign to coexist with us and prefer their own ways. Our support may not be enough to overthrow Medrikhor. My advice, Elf-Prince, is to seek out the denizens of the Deep and enlist their aid. I will send messages to our cousins the seal-folk. They are a peaceful people who have suffered much under Evil's rule. If you return with allies from the Deep they may be convinced that the Time of Prophecy is truly at hand and join us."
Spock's eyebrows rose. He had assumed that Maghwynn ruled all of the sea. "Before I travel it would be wise if I had swimming instruction."
The company of merfolk laughed and clapped their hands. At a sign from the king, three lovely females swam to Spock's side; two held his arms, a third clasped his tail and he was lifted from his chair. Spock was too astounded to protest and concentrated on maintaining his shields against the barrage of emotions from the mermaids. They took him to a tall arched doorway' built of gleaming silvery shells' and swept through it with reckless speed.
"Where are you taking me?" He finally found the wits to ask.
"To the surface," the mermaid to his right replied with a stunning smile.
Spock swallowed hard; he was a Vulcan and would not be disturbed by such exotic beauty. Yet Surak had written, with respect, of feminine power for the very existence of the Vulcan male depended on his mate. Spock thought of his former betrothed, T'Pring, and her cold repudiation of their vows. He compared her to these flighty, attractive, laughing creatures and it was with some difficulty that he drew his attention away.
As they ascended to the surface, they were accompanied by all manner of brightly coloured aquatic creatures. Many were unfamiliar to Spock but their loveliness was undeniable. Dolphins surrounded their small group and seemed to laugh at his awkwardness as he took his first gulp of air since his arrival in Ainligl. His head just above the water, he inhaled the freshness of it into his lungs. His aquatic respiratory system had become second nature to him now but the air felt good and, as he relished each breath, he marvelled at the merfolk who could adapt to both air and water with ease.
"Lord Elf, I will teach you to swim," a contralto voice said.
He turned to the speaker and found himself staring into large almond shaped eyes that seemed enormous in the mermaid's pointed elfin face. "What is your name?" he asked.
"I am Ainle, daughter of the sea-king. These are my handmaidens." The mermaid's lustrous black hair floated behind her.
Spock bowed his head in respect. "I am grateful, Lady. Swimming has never been one of my strongest skills. My home is a desert place where water is a luxury."
Ainle's full lips parted to reveal even white teeth. "The sea is all. I cannot envisage a land without water." She dived under, then returned to the surface and leaped into the air with a dolphin's grace.
"I do not require gymnastics, Madam, only the rudiments of swimming with this tail," Spock commented as the three mermaids began to cavort alongside the dolphins. He swished his fishtail; his arms naturally moving in the forward stroke which was his favoured style.
"No, no," Ainle chided. "That is not suitable." She moved to his side and began the lesson by first showing him how to use his hands. He mastered the movements with relative ease but manipulating the tail was more difficult and after two hours of practice, exhaustion forced him to stop. The solicitous mermaids helped him to a small island and he sat, with his tail fin trailing in the water, soaking in the warmth of the sun on his bare chest and back.
There was a tug at his head and he looked behind him. The handmaidens were drawing wide toothed combs of coral through his hair. He opened his mouth to protest but Ainle, in a very human gesture, touched her fingers to her lips so he took a deep breath and permitted the giggling mermaids to continue with their self appointed task. The heat of the sun dried his hair into a shiny dark mass which he braided in the pre-reform style. He searched around for something to hold it with and as if reading his thoughts, Ainle removed a band of finely strung beads from her own hair, skilfully refashioned them to the correct size and tied his hair back.
"There, Lord Elf, truly you look like a hero out of the prophecy," she teased with laughing eyes.
He thanked her and pretended not to notice her flirtatious looks as he was brought fruits by two giggling mer-children. The youngsters were fascinated by his ears and, despite Ainle's scolding, could not take their gaze from them. Spock watched them chasing one another, admired their effortless swimming and wondered if he would ever match their skill.
The day progressed and, still fatigued, he dozed for a time until piercing shrieks jolted him awake. He opened his eyes to find darkness had settled around him, although he could see daylight only five metres away. He looked up and found the cause. A flock of large flying vulture-like creatures circled the islet. Each had the head and upper body of a woman. Their leathery wings pounded in a steady rhythm and, instinctively, Spock ducked as one being swooped down on him, its sharp talons barely missing his back.
There was a scream of agony. Spock turned in the direction of that cry and saw one of the mer-children being carried away from her kin. Well-trained reflexes responded to the emergency and he tried to leap into the air. His new lower body failed where his long legs with their vulcanoid strength might have propelled him high enough to reach the girl. He fell back onto the rock and unable to gain a secure grip he slipped down into the sea.
Ainle was thrashing about in the water. "Zia, my child. Zia," she screamed.
The evil flock attacked with a ferocity that frightened and stunned the weapon-less merfolk. The odour from the attackers sickened Spock and his horror at the child's fate nurtured a deep anger and battle-lust in him that intensified with each passing moment.
"Dive under the sea. Save yourselves," someone shouted. "We must alert the warriors."
The stinking carrion smell was close to Spock. He glanced upwards to see, only inches from his face, the hag's face and leathery wings of one of the enemy. A green haze swam before his eyes and with grim determination he gripped the scrawny neck between his hands and tightened his hold. A howl emerged from the fetid toothless mouth. The talons tried to rake him but using Vulcan strength, he dragged the creature down into the water and dived. The foul thing took only seconds to drown and, his bloodlust gone now; Spock listlessly released his attacker and turned away.
Two smaller ones gripped his hands. "Elf Prince, you have killed the harpy. It is one of Medrikhor's deadliest minions," Ainle whispered.
A shudder travelled through Spock's body as he watched the limp form of the dead harpy float to the surface. His gills had automatically begun to function and he was comfortable in the watery environment but he longed for a breath of pure air unpolluted by the stench of the harpies.
"Elf Prince, are you well?"
His eyes focussed on Ainle's worried face. "I am functional. Do not be concerned."
The band of mermaids and their young surrounded him. Gone was the earlier playful behaviour. Now they were solemn as they looked at him and there was awe and hero-worship in their manner. Their feelings made him uncomfortable and he strove to reduce the effect on his telepathic senses, his thoughts returning to the abducted child. He had failed her.
"We must return to the city," Ainle said. "This must be reported to the council. Never before have the harpies ventured this far from the shore. They have grown bold and that bodes ill for our people."
"What of the child?" Spock asked.
Ainle bent her head and clutched his hands more tightly. Spock almost reeled with the intensity of her grief. "The harpies are carnivores and like nothing better than a child to eat."
Her words chilled him. "Ainle." He did not know how to comfort her.
She looked up at him with grief-stricken eyes. "You will be our saviour, Elf-Prince. Single-handedly you destroyed a harpy, a feat even the strongest of our warriors is incapable of doing. You have been sent here to lead us against Medrikhor, that we might join with all the people of Arigol in the great battle which is to come."
'The prophecy is coming to pass,' Spock mused. 'But why did the innocent Zia have to die'? It made little sense but nothing did in this strange land of magic. It was difficult for a scientist to accept but he must fully embrace the laws which governed Arigol. He had already successfully worked spells in his own particular way. Now it seemed as if he must look to Vulcan's ancient martial philosophy, and draw on its disciplines to fight on behalf of these vulnerable people in this battle between Good and Evil.
Their journey back to the undersea city passed in silence. Spock swam in the way he had been taught and found it becoming more comfortable with each stroke. There was a certain elegance to it, which appealed to him, and his body began to adapt to the demands made on it. A slight awkwardness remained but he knew that swimming would soon become second nature to him.
The streets of Ainligl were deserted as Spock followed Ainle to the audience chamber. She recounted the story and as the rage from these normally peaceable people became palpable, Spock focussed inwards. He floated almost motionless in the water, still aware of all eyes upon him, and tightened his shaky barriers against the surge of admiration, which engulfed him.
Inadvertently he touched the open wound and pain lanced through him. Jim, he called, reaching out in a futile attempt to find his captain, but met only emptiness. With difficulty he submerged his concern for Jim's welfare. Worry was illogical.
Maghwynn bowed low in front of him. "Truly you have the halfling power. I beg you, Elf-Prince, permit us to follow you."
"I would be honoured, sire, but I am unfamiliar with your kind of warfare."
The old merman smiled. "You are too modest. However be assured that my warriors are well trained. If necessary they will instruct you."
"In my land there is peace; we have abandoned the martial culture of our ancestors. Certain elements remain in our rituals however and the youth are given lessons in weaponry and unarmed combat. In my capacity as a... " Spock trailed off. He would have to explain it in terms they could comprehend. "I serve the King and am sworn to protect him. I have learned many fighting skills and, if necessary, will use them."
"Then perhaps an exchange of knowledge would be possible," Maghwynn said.
Spock nodded. "A logical suggestion."
Maghwynn dismissed everyone except the Inner Council. Spock listened with interest to further stories about giant creatures that lurked in the depths. Legend told of daring merfolk who had travelled far and had caught glimpses of enormous forms in the dark waters below. There was often a grain of truth in such tales and Spock wondered what allies could be found in the Deep. He agreed to begin his quest as soon as he was prepared, and Ainle and Derryth - a young gregarious merman - volunteered to accompany him. Spock thanked them and accepted their offer.
During the next few days, he exercised, building up stamina and swimming skills. He discussed tactics and fighting techniques with the warriors, young males and females chosen to defend their people. Derryth took personal charge of Spock's combat training. They sparred for hours using three-pronged spears whose mythic origins Spock recognised from the ancient tales of Greek Sea gods. He had little difficulty in mastering the trident and soon, with his strength as an added bonus, had conquered even the most experienced fighters. There was no time now to think about the comrades he had been separated from and he was grateful. There were many dangers in Arigol and humans could be so vulnerable.
Before they left, Spock and his companions went to the surface. It was night and as he stared up at the brilliant star-field, a pang of homesickness struck the Vulcan. Ainle and Derryth watched with him but, pleasant as they were, they could not keep his loneliness at bay.
He tore his eyes from the magnificent display. "Let us depart."
They swam for hours until they reached a mountain peak that just broke the surface.
"This is the way-mark," Ainle said. "Here we must descend to Aenndia. The journey is long. Few have returned."
"I have," Derryth said, his emerald eyes sparkling with pride. "Far below lies the hidden gorge. It is there we must reach. I have seen a giant creature there.
"Was it intelligent?" Spock asked.
"I cannot say why I believe it to be wise," Derryth replied, "but I do."
Spock studied the merman. Derryth's long green hair was tied back with a black silky band and his softly bearded face was alive with eagerness. He was an able, if impulsive, fighter and it was possible that he had a strong psi ability. "Very well, we shall test your belief. Lead us to the gorge."
Derryth grinned. "I obey, Lord Halfling." With a flamboyant swish of his tail, he flipped around and dived beneath them.
Ainle shook her head. "Arrogant spawnling." She gracefully plunged after him.
The mermaid did not appear to be older than Derryth but perhaps Spock had incorrectly assessed their ages. It was difficult to tell in a universe where magic could preserve a person's youth. Ainle was the mother of the unfortunate Zia yet she looked scarcely old enough to have borne a child. After a deep gulp of the bracing sea air, not knowing when he would ever breathe it again, Spock followed her. He was curious about the relationship between his companions. He had noted their rivalry and the flirtation that seemed to him inappropriate considering Ainle's recent loss. He recalled the mermaid's teasing behaviour with him before the harpies had struck. The social mores of many species were quite different to his own. At first, accustomed as he was to Vulcan standards of behaviour, the promiscuity of the majority of humans had shocked him. Now he accepted that all species had their own codes and it was not his place to criticise them.
Ainle giggled as he bluntly asked her if Derryth was her lover. She gracefully circled around him, her tail fin caressing his. "He wishes it were so, my lord. Many of the young warriors want the attention of a princess."
He hesitated before mentioning Zia. "Ainle, you have borne young."
A flash of pain crossed her delicate features. "Yes, it is my right to choose the father of my child. We daughters of the sea abhor the laws which tie many of our land-sisters. I am beholden to no-one."
"I see," Spock said. "Then he wishes to court you."
"He does but I have no interest in his childish behaviour. I prefer mature individuals." Ainle eyed him appreciatively.
Spock restrained a sudden urge to squirm. "Madam, please control your lascivious tendencies. In the time span of my people I am but young."
Her eyes widened and, after they caught up with Derryth, the journey was made in silence.
The sea grew darker until the merfolk could only see their way from the light cast by the luminous creatures of the depths. Spock's night vision could detect further details and by mutual consent he took the lead as a black ravine loomed before them. "The gorge, I presume," he commented.
"Yes, Elf-Prince," Derryth replied. "This is the spot where I saw the denizen emerge from the hidden lands beneath.
"Can you describe its appearance?"
"It was difficult to tell in the dimness. An impression of length, undulating scaled body, large head, glaring eyes. A fearsome creature. Its teeth were the only feature of it which I clearly saw. Sharp, pointed and deadly."
"Fascinating, " Spock said. "You describe the mythical sea serpent."
"It is possible," Derryth replied. "There are tales of merfolk taken by such serpents."
"What shall we do?" Ainle asked as they hovered above the murky pit.
"Continue," Spock replied. "It is the only logical course. If you wish to depart then do so now. I must follow my quest but it is not necessary for either of you to risk your lives."
"I will stay," Ainle replied.
"I too," Derryth said.
Spock nodded. These merfolk were a brave and noble species. He raised his trident, indicated the way ahead and plunged down into the gorge, his companions following closely behind. They travelled for hours without rest and Spock grew weary. There was nowhere to stop - no surface of any type could be seen - only the endless pitch-black water all around them. It was becoming colder and his metabolism was having difficulty in compensating. If these conditions continued for much longer it was possible that he would have to return to Ainligl with his mission unaccomplished.
After a time Spock saw a mauve light in the distance. Could it be the far end of the gorge? Did the land of Aenndia lie beyond? The journey, even for these natural inhabitants of the sea, had been an exhausting one. His companions could not yet see the light but they welcomed his news and with increased vigour the three swam towards it. As they drew nearer, the colour changed to a deep violet but within its rich glow, streaks of grey could be seen. The gorge's exit was narrow, but Spock extended his arms, flicked his tail and squeezed through into an immense grotto. He swam upwards and to his surprise broke the surface. He breathed in fresh air as his companions joined him and they clambered onto a ledge and looked around. Bright colours ranging from the palest pink to the most vivid purple painted the walls. Looking closer, Spock realised that millions of tiny worm-like creatures attached to the surface were the source of the light.
"What is the origin of the air we breathe?" he asked as he scanned the high ceiling for clues.
"There are many such places," Ainle said. "It is said that the mythological sea-goddesses built them for their human slaves.
Spock had no answer to that. As the air pocket existed, it had to be accepted and he thought no more about it. After checking there were no signs of intelligent life forms in the immediate vicinity, they rested until - at Spock's insistence - they prepared to resume their journey. If they were to find Aenndia's inhabitants and enlist their aid, it should be as soon as possible. Spock knew that he must find his shipmates for they might need his assistance. Also there was the prophecy. If Ayrond was correct then he must have the scroll in his possession and recite the words of the spell to create the conditions for Jim to destroy Medrikhor. However, the time factor concerned him. How many weeks ago had he made that desperate effort to teleport them both to the surface? There were gaps in his memory and that disturbed him. Had he been successful in returning Jim to the others, or was his friend languishing in a dungeon in Medrikhor's castle?
A rumble vibrated through the grotto. Spock braced himself against the rock as a sudden eddy engulfed them but the others were caught and swept away by the mighty force. He sensed Ainle and Derryth's fear and could not abandon them. With grim determination, he launched himself after them, fighting the pull of the water, and keeping his companions in sight until they suddenly disappeared over the edge of a chasm. He drew on all his reserves and followed, allowing the cascade to carry him as it thundered to an unknown depth below. It stung him like millions of tiny needles of ice and he steadily grew colder. He was still grasping the trident although he had no memory of how he had managed to keep it, but as his fingers grew numb he knew it was a matter of time before he lost the weapon.
'Fool,' he chastised himself as his logical mind reasserted itself. 'I can work magic. Why have I not attempted it whilst under the sea?' The thought that his exhaustion after the teleportation from the Castle of Doom and the sorcerous attack was considered and accepted. Only recently had he begun to recover from the ordeal but, regardless of the debilitating effects, he could hesitate no longer. He concentrated on producing heat throughout his body and gradually the cold was replaced by a pleasant warmth. Spock relaxed and allowed the current to take him where it willed. He needed to save his strength.
Moments later he dropped into a pool and swam away from the powerful cascade. He struck out for a nearby ledge and lifting himself from the water, gratefully rested on the wet rock. He peered through the torrent in front of him, searched for the others but it was impossible to see anything. He shook his wet hair back then concentrated all his senses until his superior hearing detected faint screams. He dived into the pool, headed in the direction of those terrified sounds and surfaced to find himself in another grotto, facing a sight out of nightmare.
Derryth lay helpless in the mouth of the largest reptile Spock had ever seen; a sea serpent that closely fitted the description the merman had given earlier. Its eyes were opalescent and stared down at him with no signs of intelligence. Its sheer size was overpowering and Spock judged it to be almost twenty metres long. Close by, Ainle lay sobbing; her arm bent at an unnatural angle and green blood streaking her face and upper body.
There was no time to lose. Spock placed the trident between his teeth, leaped up like a dolphin and grasped the base of the serpent's long, slimy neck. Using his upper body strength, he climbed up and pulled himself on top of the enormous jaw. He stared at a saucer shaped eye, instinctively knowing it would be a weak spot, and lifted his spear. He prepared to thrust the deadly pronged trident points in when something in the milky gaze changed. Derryth cried out with pain but Spock hesitated. 'There has to be another way,' he reasoned.
Spock did not analyse the impulse that told him to try and communicate with the beast. He reached out to touch its forehead, searching for the contact points common to the majority of species and a tingle in his fingertips told him he had, indeed, discovered them. The mind that met his own was, at first, filled with violent emotion but Spock transmitted soothing images, and attempted to reassure the creature that he and his companions were not hostile. Slowly its thoughts calmed.
Spock sent a simple message. 'Peace. Do not be afraid.'
'Who. What you?' it asked.
'We are travellers. Please let my companion go. He has done you no harm.' Spock kept the contact light, careful not to alarm the other.
The serpent was puzzled. 'You fish?'
'No, we are not fish. You are hurting Derryth. Please put him down.'
The creature agreed and after Spock broke contact, it lowered its head to the ledge and allowed the unconscious merman to slip from its lethal fangs to lie safely beside Ainle. The ashen face of the princess was marred by cuts and bruises. Her wounds obviously pained her but she seemed to forget them in her amazement as Spock clambered down to her. "Why did the brute release Derryth?" she asked in a shaky voice.
"I spoke to it." Spock settled the merman as comfortably as possible and examined him. Derryth's tail was torn open and thick green blood steadily gushed out. There were contusions on his face and body and a head wound bled profusely. "How can I treat these injuries?" he asked.
Ainle glanced past him, at the sea serpent that loomed over them, chewed at her lower lip and visibly overcame her fear. Spock silently applauded her bravery as she spoke. "There is a plant which we tend. It has healing properties. I do not know if any will be found this deep."
Spock looked around the grotto but there was nothing remotely like the seaweed Ainle described and called thyrkan. He was concerned about his companions for it was possible that the reptile's bite was toxic. He spied a discarded piece of soft unidentifiable material, picked it up and cleaned their wounds. Once that was done, he decided it was time to test his psychokinetic skills again, so he settled down and envisaged the red, serrated frond of the required plant. He recalled, in every detail, his trip to the surface and meticulously scanned his memory for the thyrkan, eventually finding it close to the isle where the harpies had struck. If it was still there, or even close by, it might be possible to lock on and bring it here. He slid deeper into trance and searched for the healing algae.
'Yes, I see it'. A whirl of colour washed his inner vision, there was a wrench and he was falling into a void of multicoloured light.
'What, doing?' A voice asked.
He forced himself to awareness and found himself clinging to a wet surface, staring into an opalescent eye. How did he get back on the serpent's jaw? 'I am attempting to locate the healing plant. Your bite may be poisonous to my companions.'
'Hungry. Thought they fish.'
'They are not fish,' Spock explained again. 'They are merfolk; intelligent beings who live in the ocean above. Tales of sightings of great serpents like you inspired us to search for allies against the Evil which threatens all those of land, sea and air.'
'Wish me help?' There was an almost childlike note to the serpent's mind voice.
'I will tell you of the danger but the decision to join us must be yours alone.'
"Elf-Prince, " a female voice cried. " The thyrkan! It is here."
Spock was jolted from the meld and he turned around to see Ainle holding up large seaweed in her hand. He frowned and tried to clear his head but the familiar tiredness and hunger which was the result of any spellcasting began to overcome him. He fought it. He needed to be alert now. Put me down, he told the serpent and it obeyed him immediately.
"How is this possible?" the mermaid asked. "Did you magic it here?"
"Affirmative," Spock replied, uncomfortable with the awe she so openly showed.
Ainle smiled and without further ado tore strips from the plant and placed them on Derryth's injuries and her own. "The healing properties pass from the thyrkan into our bodies. In time the wounds will close and there will be no more pain."
"Fascinating," Spock said. One of Dr McCoy's interests was the study of herbs from other worlds. The human would be most curious about this one if it was as efficacious as Ainle believed. He glanced up at the beast. "Ainle, how did I reach the serpent's jaw?"
"Ah, Elf-Prince, the magic power lifted you."
"Fascinating," Spock repeated
The mermaid watched him through worshipful eyes before falling into a deep sleep beside Derryth. Spock slipped into a light trance but remained alert to any danger. Soon, the serpent slithered away and he was left alone with the merfolk, contemplating all that had occurred since they had left Ainligl.
The dark shadow looming above him brought him instantly to awareness and he wielded his trident. He blinked several times on realising the serpent had returned and could not restrain his surprise when the creature opened its mouth to reveal fish, fruits and plants before dropping them all. Ainle and Derryth awoke under the barrage.
"It has brought us food," Spock commented.
"You have even won over the sea-serpent," Ainle exclaimed. "Truly you have the halfling power."
Derryth watched them groggily but as Ainle told him of Spock's deeds, the young merman's expression became filled with wonder. Spock cleared his throat, picked up a fruit he was familiar with and washed it in the clear water before biting into its sweet flesh. The serpent seemed to study him with its milky gaze but only when Spock had finished eating did it lower its head close to him.
It obviously desired contact and he easily initiated a meld. ' Thank you for gathering the food for us.'
'You hungry.'
'Yes. You were most kind.'
'Kind? What kind mean?'
'Willing to help another.'
The serpent's mind was primitive but it was intelligent enough to understand another's discomfort and sought to please almost like a sehlat! If it was even remotely like that species so prized on Vulcan for its fierce protectiveness and loving nature then the creature might be willing to accompany him to Ainligl.
'Help you.'
Spock sent a wave of thanks and the creature responded with all the warmth of his much-loved I-Chaya. Life truly was mysterious. Who would have believed such a feared sea-monster could have such a gentle and generous spirit. He told, in the simplest terms possible, the story of Medrikhor's advance, the prophecy and the part he and his shipmates had to play in it. The serpent attempted to assimilate the difficult concepts. It was a creature of the deep, it rarely surfaced and had only neared land once during its life
'Help you,' it repeated. 'Evil kill all. Bad. I go you. Fight Evil.'
'Thank you. Are there others like you who might help?'
'Once others. Gone.' 'Gone where? Are they dead?'
A memory replayed in the creature's mind. As a group of small ones cavorted around one large serpent swimming close to a sheer cliff, a giant flying beast swooped upon them. It had the wings, claws and head of an eagle but its gold body was humanoid. Carnage followed as each baby was snatched into the air and eaten, then the distraught mother was attacked. Spock knew that he saw this through the other's eyes. It had been the only one from the family group to escape and now lived its solitary life here in the hidden depths of the ocean. Sympathy for the child who had lost everyone transmitted itself within the link and the serpent soaked it in like a starving soul.
'You need never be alone again,' Spock assured. 'Once the merfolk know of your plight they will, I am certain, welcome you amongst them.'
'You. Stay.'
'I can stay in the sea only for a time but would be honoured to be your friend. What is your name?'
'No name.' The serpent's thoughts were full of sadness and Spock received the impression that the adult in the memory - its mother - had not yet named it.
'May I call you Chaya?' It seemed logical as the creature bore some similarity to the sehlat and Spock was receiving an impression of maleness from the other's mind.
A great joy spread through the reptile. ' Chaya. Chaya. Yes.'
'Excellent. My name is Spock.'
'Spock,' the serpent said. 'Like. Chaya like'.
'Do any other intelligent species live here?'
'Alone'
'You are sure? There are no other lands? People like us?'
'None.'
Spock conversed with Chaya and informed him in more detail about the situation on Arigol. The serpent was an eager pupil and with practise became more articulate. The merfolk, now almost cured by the healing algae, were astounded when told of Chaya's past. Accustomed to thinking of it as a ruthless killer of their people they found difficulty, at first, in accepting him as the lost and uneducated creature that he was. When Spock told them of Chaya's former belief that they were fish and the solemn vow he now made never to attack them again, they were speechless with shock. Eventually they recovered their aplomb and, under Spock's guidance, stroked the serpent's head and scratched under his chin whilst Chaya growled with pleasure.
They rested for a while, replenishing their energy with the treats brought by their new friend but they had been away from Ainligl for too long. There was a sense of urgency in Spock's mind and despite not understanding the reason for its presence, he knew that something was calling him to return. He sensed a terror pervading the land that he blocked before it could paralyse him.
Chaya insisted in carrying all three of them to Maghwynn's kingdom and his strength was more than able for the task, making their return journey faster, if more awkward, than the outward one. Close to their home Ainle and Derryth sped ahead to prepare their people for the sight of the approaching serpent. As they waited for the inhabitants of the crystal city of Ainligl to come and greet them, Spock mindspoke with Chaya and calmed his fears .
'They afraid,' Chaya replied. 'I go.'
'No, Chaya. Be patient. They are a generous people and will accept you as Ainle and Derryth did.'
'Tell me of Jim,' the serpent suddenly asked.
Spock was startled. He did not recall mentioning his friend other than being the King of Prophecy but the serpent's mind was, perhaps, capable of understanding more than appeared on the surface. Had Chaya seen deeper into his thoughts? He is my friend.
'Friend like Chaya?'
'Different.' It was difficult to explain in words Chaya would comprehend.
'Hatchling-kin' Chaya had interpreted them into his own experience of family.
'Yes, it is similar.'
'Chaya miss hatchling-kin.'
Spock started to reply but the strident sound of a horn disturbed their conversation and he looked into the distance to see the approach of hundreds of sea-people. Maghwynn swam at the head of the assemblage, an instrument made of shell held to his mouth. Chaya retreated in fear but Spock stroked his neck. 'Be not afraid, Chaya. None shall harm you.'
Maghwynn reached them. "Be welcome, Elf-Prince. Pray enter my city in triumph with the creature from the depths."
Spock bowed his head. "I accept, King Maghwynn. May I introduce you to Chaya, our new ally."
Maghwynn's teeth glistened in the reflection of the sunlit water. "Then we shall honour our ally and friend. Be welcome, Chaya the serpent."
Spock repeated the king's words and Chaya's mind filled with pride and happiness as he swam down a pathway between two rows of welcoming merfolk. Spock sat precariously on the serpent's back, with one hand resting, for support, on the smooth head. Waiting in the great hall were dozens of pale-skinned folk with flowing grey hair and dark eyes who stared in astonishment as Spock and Chaya entered.
"Seal Kindred, the Halfling Prince has returned with the great serpent of the Deep," Maghwynn addressed them. "Now do you believe the Time of Prophecy has come? Join us, my cousins."
As the seal-folk pledged their support, Spock knew that his undersea quest had been fulfilled. Now plans would have to be made on how to co-ordinate with the ground forces against the enemy. Medrikhor had to be attacked on all sides for him to be vulnerable and there was still Spock's personal task of finding his shipmates. He pressed his face against Chaya's neck. He would not permit distress to prevent him from playing his part in the Prophecy but if only he knew of his companion's whereabouts and of Jim's fate.