The Demon Akahaziel: Spirit Link

Dmitri entered the room, followed closely by Claudia, keeping close in an effort to stay away from Birkett. So closely was she focusing on Birkett that she didn’t notice Dmitri stop and she ran into him. The room around them was clearly at the foot of one of the towers; it was large and circular and had several arrow slits and murder holes that could be used in defence. But it wasn’t the size, or the windows that had made Dmitri pause; it was what was in the room. On one side were two rough pallet beds with threadbare sheets. A large copper tub filled with water was sitting next to the beds and a rickety table with two stools stood nearby. On the other side of the room, separated by scaffolding was a laboratory area. Shelves stacked with jars of reagents lined the walls. A workbench of sorts held tomes and scrolls and manuscripts. Another section of the walls held host to a list of cages, several with animals, some more that were empty but one with a human corpse inside.

Claudia, looking around Dmitri, saw all of this and was stunned. It was a fully equipped laboratory, with living quarters! Back in her element, she stepped out from behind Dmitri and went over to the workbench. She ran her slender fingers over some of the tomes, pausing now and then as a particular title caught her eye. Her next stop was the reagents where she inspected several labels and uncorked several jars to smell their contents. Birkett, still watching her was scowling at the child-like delight she was exhibiting as she went around the room and discovered more of what it held. However, when she reached the cage with the corpse in it, she was taken aback. Screwing up her face, she turned to Birkett and Wayte, who was standing by the doorway, fuming quietly to himself and not uttering a word, “Does that have to be here? Can’t you get rid of it?” she asked.

Birkett laughed, “What Arcaedus says goes, and he said to have it there. He said that you will need it.”

“But what-“ started Claudia.

But Wayte interrupted her, “I’m sure Arcaedus will explain when he comes to inspect the room.” He turned to Birkett, “Let’s leave them to get settled. I have a few things to say to you. Can you come with me please?”

“Oh?” said Birkett, “You don’t want to tell me in front of your friends?” he asked.

“Now!” barked Wayte.

Birkett shrugged and walked out. Wayte followed behind and closed the door behind him. There was the distinct sound of a bolt being drawn indicating that even though Dmitri and Claudia had better chambers, they were still prisoners.

Inside the room, Claudia turned to Dmitri, “What are we going to do about that?” she asked indicating the corpse.

Dmitri thought for a moment, “Link with me,” he said, “If I wrap it in a pocket of air and water it will stay preserved until I’m ready to work on it. We’ll be safe from the disease and the smell.”

Claudia nodded in agreement and linked with Dmitri. He traced the glyphs for air and water in mid air and the corpse appeared to shimmer slightly as it was enveloped by the magic. Dropping the link, Dmitri walked over and began to inspect it. Claudia went over to the workbench with the reagents and manuscripts around it.

“Can you believe this?” she asked excited, “With the ingredients we have here, I could do so much! And the knowledge! There is a copy of ‘Origins’!” Noting Dmitri’s blank expression, she explained, “It is the alchemy book. I have seen manuscripts that reference it, but to actually see it, let alone get the chance to read it. My father would be thrilled! It’s just such an opportunity.” But then she eyed the copper tub, and looked at Dmitri, a sly expression on her face, “and speaking of opportunities.” She stepped towards the tub, untying her dress and letting it fall to the floor.