"Heart of the Crown" Chapter 18

[seymoure]

Chapter 18

Fire Ships and Magic Cutlasses

“These armor vests have been fortified with a spell,” Koss told the four chosen to materialize on the deck of Scythe’s flagship, “that will make them invulnerable to any but magic weapons.”

Sandor shifted uncomfortably in the ill-fitting garment, something obviously meant for a smaller human.

“And these,” the Wizard smiled as he handed long blades to the fighters, “are also invested with spells that will allow them to cut through anything that is not likewise of magic woven. If there is a counter spell, then the stronger of the two, plus the will of him who wields the sword, shall be the determining factor.”

Sandor eyed the saber in his hand with distrust. First, he did not like weapons. His father had taught him that the man who depends on a weapon is a man who can be disarmed and helpless. Secondly, this particular sword was vibrating, and there was a hint of strobing light coming from the blade. Sandor was not a fan of depending on magic, either.

Cela had thrown the spell, and the ship had been enveloped in a dome of invisibility that, luckily, did not affect those within the spell.

“Look!” yelled a lookout.

From either side of Scythe’s ship came boats that were beginning to move toward the position of the Slug. There were no sailors evident on the decks. After a moment, the fire began to show itself.

“Fire Ships!” Sabre cursed. “They know we’re here, and they have launched fire ships at our position.”

“Whatever mage they have with them knows,” Koss said, “that if we have to tack too quickly, we will reveal ourselves.”

“Send us,” the Corsair demanded, “before they get any closer.”

With that, Howler started up again, Koss chanted a few words and the foursome disappeared from the deck of the Poisoned Slug.

Slip held the child in his arms and looked at the distant ship of the Scarecrow.

“There is going to be blood on the water,” he muttered. “Let’s hope it’s theirs.”

© 2008 C. Wayne Owens
Chapter 19 is here.