so here you go, enjoy and please let me know what you think!
Guide to chapters
"So, you live on Earth, congratulations. What do you want, a medal? Yeah, it may be like a big deal to you that you live here, but is it? Do you know what else is out there? What worlds your primitive culture knows nothing about? Can you imagine a world without poverty? A world without pollution, or war? I can, want to know how? I live there.
"Now, I'm not crazy, if that’s what your thinking. Look up in the sky at night, what do you see? I see a billion of different worlds, all capable of intelligent life. Instead, your narrow-minded scientists talk about life not being able to survive due temperature differences or atmospheric problems. Now here is my question to your geniuses, can fish breath above water, or can human’s breath underwater? No! so how can you base your species’ specific genotypes on other worlds. So what if you can’t survive there, others might. So those stars that you think don’t contain life might really surprise you. Well, guess what, my realm and world is one of those dead stars!
If you’re a believer in the bible stories, then you know about the Garden of Eden. That’s pretty much what my world is, or should I say, was. Yes, we are all flawed, and the biggest problem was with king Slade. Yep, that was my father in law. It’s kind of a long story, with more twists and turns then the labyrinth.
"But I'm old now, way past the normal age. I lost my wife a while ago, which too was a long story. So many stories, so short of time. That is why I am constructing these series of books to tell about my time over which I have seen many things, some good, mostly though were bad. Also, I wish to honor the memory of my departed loved ones, who are complicated beings in their own self. Most of them are either long dead, or in a higher place, either way they are finally at peace.
"I am for-warning you, though, there were a lot of unjust actions and a lot of hard times. That is the main reason i record these records here today. as a living testimate to the struggles these people went through. i guess, in the end, they were my family, and to them i owe my life. I shall proceide,being that there is little precious time left for me. I'll start with the history of Ainede, and maybe give you a tip of the iceberg to the future of these souls.…"
The king sits back in his chair and starts coughing continuously. When he finishes, he picks up his pen and paper and starts writing…….
Smoke filled the air and darkened the landscape with soot and blood. Men laid dead or dying, scattered in heaps as far as the horizons met the land. The sky was clouded, and rain washed the dead’s blood from the fields to the violent river, which was dyed red from all the slaughter. To the nearest raging battle, three men sat and watched on a large eminent mountaintop, observing the man slaughter brought upon by their warriors towards the local farmers, recently called to arms. Two sat on royal horses, covered in heavy black metal. The first and most menacing sat proudly perched on the steed looking out with great triumph written across his face and evil burning in his eyes. The man who sat next to him was visibly younger, his black hair nearly covered his deeply clouded blue eyes and shadowed his young face. The boy lowered his stunning eyes, as the army of inhuman soldiers torched the houses of innocents. The man who stood held his shoulders high and his eyes higher. His dark brown hair was tied back tightly, bounded to the back of his head. He wore long blue silk robes, which reached to the ground, and screamed that he was a royal by blood. He looked out on the battle emotionless; his expression remained unaffected as he watched the slaughter brought forth by his minions. His large black eyes were focused on the heavens above the fight. A streak of lightning stuck a near by tree and reduced it to a pile a smoking ashes, which soon brought fire across the landscape.
"Soon, my brothers, we will own this world." The tallest turned towards his older and younger brother and smiled a ruthless grin. His eyes almost matched the color of blood that lay before them from a farmer who was the only one to make it this close to the overseers. Slade wished for bloodshed, it was what consumed him and his soul. He hadn’t even listened to the farmer’s pleas for forgiveness before he brutally sliced his neck in half. It was how he thrived to live, both brothers knew that.
The middle child with the clouded eyes shook his head in disgust. Hatred and loathing foamed in his mouth for the lives shed in this unnecessary event. "You don't have to do this, Slade! We don’t need to kill all these people! You can stop it and leave some people for you to enslave, as we all know you will."
Slade turned towards his brother, anger rising in his eyes. His lips sneered back to revel an evil grin. "Jared, you weak fool, of course I do. This is the best way to avoid riots; kill all those who oppose. A few will get in the way, but you know how I like it; bloody. And this…" Slade reached his massively diesel arms towards the heaves, as if trying to touch the stars themselves, he turned and narrowed his eyes towards his younger brother, “This, my brother, is how you accomplish such a task!”
The youngest stopped staring towards the skies and turned slowly to face his brothers. His eyes turned colors as he tilted his head at them. As quickly as one could blink, his eyes went from a pitch black to a frosty white, with traces of artic blue laced beneath the surface. "You stupid fool!" He spoke in a low garbled whisper, emphasizing every word. "You think that they will just give up? You don't know anything about these people anymore then you know about common sense. They will fight until there is no one else, they will never bow to you. Slade, let’s finish this blood shed so we can move on and stop this nonsense!”
Slade glared at the out-spoken blue-robed figure. "Ray, you don't understand, you would never understand the power of being in command. Your to docile to even command a platoon of children! How dare you speak to me like you are better! Your no better then the bitch that born you! Now shut up!"
Ray, the youngest child, looked at Slade in a blind stare. From a side view, it looked almost like lightning struck through his eye," I understand more then you can ever imagine! I understand also that father doesn’t wish for us to kill everyone, he does want an inhabited world, does he not?" Ray raised an eyebrow and laughed a hollow low laugh. “I don’t think he would appreciate you slaughtering his people...do you?”
Jared blocked them out. They never got along, especially in times of decisions. He looked down at the battlefield. “Who am I kidding?” he thought, “I’m not supposed to be here. I would side with these farmers in a heartbeat. They deserve better then to die for a cause that they cannot fathom, nor stop. Battle?” Slowly he shook his head, “No, this was past battle days ago. This was a full fledge massacre.” Jared was the first to notice the king being escorted by a platoon of guards. Though by time he reached the mountain, he only had one left. As he reached the top, he ordered the last guard to leave, fending for his life. On the back of his horse Jared noticed a small bundle of blonde hair, apparently the king brought his daughter along, and had her covered in a red robe and made to seem as if it was only the back of his robe. Yet Jared saw right through it, and knew the peril the king and the princess would both be in if either of the other two brothers reached them before he did. Before Slade could move, Jared kicked his horse and rode to meet the frightened king. Time seemed to move in slow motion as Jared urged his horse forward, not daring to look over his shoulder. He arrived at the kings’ side and moved his horse to block the two from view of Slade or Ray. He looked at the king and frowned, lines of worry tinted his pale form. “This...” he pointed a shaking around at the landscape, “this all could have been avoided. I know how you feel for your people, and I know how much you don’t trust me at this point, but you must make a decision in these final moments, trust me and maybe I can save you and your daughter in this coming arrangement. I follow not my brothers, nor am I here willingly; I am merely following my father, for fear of his hand towards me. Follow me and I will protect you as much as I can, to this you have my word.”
The old king stroked his long grey beard. He unintentionally put a hand to his back, to calm his trembling daughter. He looked at Jared, desperation and panic colored his eyes. “How should I know that you won’t follow in your father’s footsteps and stab me in my back if I am to trust you? How can I be sure? You come in with these monsters; you burn my villages and butcher my people! You brought about the death of my wife and all other children! You and those awful people deserve to die! Now why should I trust you when you have done nothing but kill?”
Jared sighed and pointed over his shoulder, “because they will rip you apart if they get the chance, and do unthinkable things to your daughter there. Sire, it was an unwise idea on your part to bring her along! You need not to fear me; this as I have promised and it is true. But I need for you to trust me, and hand me your young daughter, for she is not safe with you. I can save her, this I know! I understand why you don’t trust me, and I probably would do the same in your situation, but you need to think with your brain right now, sire, not your heart!”
The king inhaled sharply and sat tall on his steed. He looked over Jared’s shoulder towards the figures, which seemed to be advancing on the three. He turned back at Jared and swiftly nodded. He reached back and pulled the robe of his daughter. He reached around and pulled his daughter into his lap. She was a small girl, only about four feet in height. She had long blonde hair, which was tied back in a French braid. He talked lowly to her, nearly whispering. “my dear, dear Syrene. My little girl…”tears welled in the kings eyes as he stared hard into his youngest child’s deep purple eyes, “we talked about this at one point…we just never thought it would come to this. Mommy…” The king ran a hand down his face and rolled his eyes to suppress the tears, “mommy went away with Kalid and Kale. They won’t be coming back. Right now, I need you to be strong…I need you to go with this man here. He is going to keep you safe for the time being. I will not lie to you, precious, after this, we might not see each other for a long time. But in the end, we will meet on the planes of Zaru, all of us will be a family again. But remember what daddy told you about being strong, it’s all for the good of our people. Now sit here with him, and keep quiet Syrene. And if daddy doesn’t make it back to the palace, you know what to do. Please be strong, Syrene, you are all that is left! Regardless of what you see here, I need you to be my strength.”
The young girl glazed at her father and silently nodded. With a small hand, she wiped a tear off her fathers face. “I love you daddy, that’s all that matters. Please don’t cry…it will all be okay.” She turned and extended her arms to Jared slowly. Jared reached and pulled her onto his horse and turned it to face the hill. He looked gravely at the king then pointed up the hill, “This way, sire.” The three silently rode up the hill. As they got within eye sight, Jared immediately felt Slade’s eyes piercing through him. He felt the anger radiate off his oldest brothers bald head, and had to fight the feeling to cower back to his place. He then felt Slade’s gaze pass through him and onto the small girl behind him. He watched his brother’s lips slide into a malicious sickening grin, and Jared knew what he was thinking. Jared placed a hand in back of him protectively and gently slid Syrene behind his large form. Ray glanced at the two then slowly returned his eyes to the king, as he slowly approached Slade. The king dismounted from his horse as a sign of respect and gently fell to one knee in front of Slade. He spoke to the ground, yet loudly enough for an echo to persist into the valley beneath them. "Please Slade, call of this barbaric attack on my world! I will give up my land, as your father wished. I will grovel, if needed, just stop this insanity. You have brought upon the destruction of more lives then a plaque could take! Please, I beg of you, spare my people, spare my daughter, and spare my world! Just stop this slaughter!” Slade sneered and jumped off of his horse. He circled the kneeling king a few times, laughing a hideously evil laugh. He stopped nearing the king’s head and put his hand on the hilt of his sword. “You were wise Graven to come up here! Now I can kill you instead of a minion. You think I will just stop this at your begging? You think you have to give us the right to your land? We are merely toying with you man! If I so chose, your land would be mine…” Slade threw an intentional glance towards his Jared, “as would your daughter!”
In a second, the land around the five grew quiet. All noise ceased to exist as did the wind and the scream. A strong gust of hot air, as if breathed from the mouth of hell, attacked the five out of no where. Five feet from them, in the rocks of the mountain, the colors started to swirl. A vortex of swirling colors and hot air illuminated the dark mountain. White light soon overtook the color as a figure appeared inside the swirling mass of nothingness. In a blinding spark, the portal was gone and a man stood before of the group. The figure was dressed in black robes, much like those of Ray, except with a blood red color lining his collar. His eyes were sunken into his head and glowed an eerie yellow, which resembled that of a cat., and his skin was as pale as snow. Wrinkles lined his face dramatically as cracks in his dry skin remained around his eyes. He had light brown eyebrows, which was narrower then normal on most, and rose highly, nearly to his widow’s peak of slick black hair, as he talked. As soon as the sons saw him, they dropped to their knees, that is, all but Jared. Jared bowed his head silently, yet did not move from his horse. The man seemed hardly to notice, as he approached Slade and the king. He placed his hand on his oldest sons shoulder and Slade stood up, proud, next to his father.
"So, Graven…” His voice was rasp, yet commanded a tone that no man would dare defy him. He paused for a moment and slowly continued with a look of triumph branded onto his face. “We meet again after nearly a hundred years. I told you, one day I would crush you and your pathetic empire! And low and behold,” the man looked out upon the landscape covered in blood, “that day is here. You were a fool not to listen to me when I told you to save your people’s lives and just hand over your world. You could have saved your family that way…you could have been a real hero. Instead you try to fight my army with your pathetic farmers with their pitch forks and shovels? You should have known what you were dealing with!"
The king remained kneeled and did not look up to the sorcerer who stood before him. His voice remained sturdy, yet his body trembled with fear. “Solithis, I beg of you, end this bloodshed. Do not continue to punish my people for my mistakes. They had no part in it. This was my doing; defying you, punish me and let my people live!”
Solithis looked back to the three sons with a look of disgust written across his old face. He slowly turned back to the king then walked slowly out onto the edge of the mountain to survey the damage done to the land. He turned around with much enthusiasm and clapped his hands in front of his robe. "Well, this is a disappointment. I was hoping to hear begging, pleading, and whining on your part. Not this pansy routine of ‘please don’t hurt my people’ as I hear every time I conquer a world! I wanted to hear crying and screaming, especially as I slit your throat!” Solithis pulled a sword form his back hoister and approached rapidly to the king. Solithis grabbed the back of Graven’s head and slanted his neck backwards and put the tip of his sword to it. “Any last words before I kill you, like I soon will your family?”
Before Jared could react, Syrene dashed off her saddle and ran to where her father laid and Solithis stood. She ran in front of Solithis and put her hand gently on his sword. “No! You will not kill my father! He is the king and you are to listen to him! I don’t care where you came from or how you got here, you are in my fathers lands now! Whether those are your monsters down there or not, it doesn’t matter! You will treat him with the respect he deserves!” Jared immediately was off his horse and grabbing the girl from behind.
Solithis pulled back his sword and threw the king forward violently into the ground. “Jared stop!” Solithis circled his youngest son, who now held Syrene pressed tightly against his legs. “What is this? What do you call this?” Solithis glared hatefully at his son. “Answer me!”
Jared glared back at his father, fearing the worst. But he had given his word about protecting Syrene, and he intended to do so. “I call this a duty as an ambassador, making sacrifices for the good of the mission…”
Solithis reached out quickly and slapped Jared, hard, across his face. “I call this treason! You are harboring an enemy and did not tell me about it! This… this, my unfaithful son is what you call a perk in victory. But you, you are not an ambassador, and this,” Solithis reached down and grabbed Graven by the hair once more and shook him at Jared, “this is what you call an idiot! We own this place Jared, we don’t need to make an sacrifices. Sacrifices are for losers, winners take what they want!” With a flip of his hand, Syrene jolted out of Jared’s hands and into Solithis’s grasp, sliding across the ground reluctantly by an invisible force. Solithis glared down at his captive then towards her father and her savior. “Maybe I should take her blood instead, what do you two think?” Jared approached his father yet Slade stepped in the way, his fist colliding with Jared’s face. Jared tumbled backwards and Slade moved with lightning fast speed and held Jared’s arms behind his body. Smiling, Solithis put the end of his sword on the tip of the Syrene’s chin.
Graven’s face lost its color, and nearly his lunch. Stuttering across the words, as fast as he could speak, he began. “Please, No! Solithis you can have anything you want, kill me if it would make you happy, but she is merely eleven years old! Spare her, please! She knows not of what she speaks about!”
Solithis looked upon the girl’s face, and his smile faded. Syrene had no tears in his eyes, which Solithis was expecting. She stared into his dark eyes through her determined eyes. She brushed a piece of her blonde hair from her perfect face and sneered, “You can kill me, and it may bring peace.” She flashed a quick look to her father for support. “If that is what it takes then so be it!” She took in a breath. “But remember this, you will, one day, be driven out by my people. And they won’t rest until your body is buried in the crypt of the doomed souls!”
Solithis recoiled his sword in shock. He grinned backwards to Slade, who had released his grip slightly on Jared, mostly from shock. “The little one has spunk. To bad it will bring about her death!” He raised the sword far above his head. Syrene dropped down onto her knees and put her head on the ground. She screwed her eyes tightly shut and held her breath. “go ahead…coward!”
Jared couldn’t believe what he was seeing. His father was a madman, that was a fact, yet he had never stooped to kill a helpless child. Glancing from Graven’s panic stricken face, to feeling Slade’s lack of support in his grip, Jared acted fast. With a swift kick to Slade’s groin, Jared dive-rolled away, directly into the path of Solithis driving the sword home to kill the girl. Jared placed himself straddling directly over the top of Syrene and held his sword, high and clashed it with Solithis’. Solithis stepped back in shock and disgust, lowering his sword to his side, and staring open mouthed at Jared. “You dare raise a sword to me?”
Jared stood and pulled Syrene up by her shoulders and pushed her behind him. “You don’t need to kill anyone, father. They surrendered, you won. This battle is over, and it does not need to involve an innocent child’s life, no matter how much you wish it to!”
Solithis took a breath. “I hoped I wouldn’t live to see the day when my own son turned against me. But, alas your right. I don’t need to kill that little girl. This battle does need to end.” Jared relaxed for a second, a second to long. Solithis turned, quick as the wind and grabbed his sword from its sheath. “I’ll just finish this!” Lifting is sword above his head, in a smooth movement; he brought his sword over Graven’s head and severed his head from body. After a second, the king’s head rolled from its body to Solithis’s feet. Solithis bend and picked up the bloody monstrosity and held it high. “We are victorious!”
Jared felt all the blood rush to his face as his stomach threatened to regurgitate its recent intake. He quickly grabbed Syrene and turned the traumatized child into his body, facing her away from the remains of her father. It was over…it was all over.
Slade was the first to get off his horse. “Well done, father. You proved him who is the supreme ruler of this world! Do you wish for me to dispose of Jared and that little bitch?”
Solithis turned towards his oldest son and glared at him. “Thank you Slade, but I will handle our young Jared. As for you, I wish that I had seen more of your leadership though out this battle.” Slade recoiled and stared blankly at the ground. “I killed a few…farmers…but I was to oversee the battle! And that is what I did!”
Solithis laughed a laugh that would send shivers down anyone’s back. Solithis looked down at the farmland and past it to the castle. "We have a lot to do here, my sons. There are a lot of people to restrain from battle and mold to our civilization. Those who do not compel, kill them. I wish not for traitors in my midst.” With a quick icy glance to Jared, he continued, “we also will need an army to oversee all of this.”
Jared stared at Solithis then downwards to Syrene. “How could he do this? He had won, now he wished to kill more people? Would this madness ever end? Was he bound to this for the rest of his life?” He glanced down at Syrene, who was chocking back quiet tears. Anger swelled in his heart, not just for the injustice done to this young girl, but for this entire world. Jared looked at Solithis. "Now what, oh so great father of mine? Would you like us to round up the local maidens so our soldiers could have fun, or rather line up the young children for meals? Tell me, my all supreme lord, now where do we go?"
Solithis stopped talking to Slade and turned slowly towards Jared. In his eyes, flashed such disgust that Jared felt his knees would give out to his weight and leave him defenseless on the ground. Jared gulped but stood his ground and returned his fathers stare. "You dare raise your voice to me, after that stupid stunt of retaliation against me? You are lucky I don’t kill you where you stand right now! Have dare you speak to me like that, you sniveling little ingrate!"
Jared swallowed hard once more and held his ground, keeping eye contact. "Father, you were going to kill a little girl….she’s merely eleven. You need not to prove your manhood by killing such a helpless child!” Jared’s eyes fell from Solithis’. “I’m sorry father, but I believe I acted appropriately.”
"Impudent bastard, you will be the first to feel my wrath! You will learn what is appropriate, as I squash you like the bug that you are! You have been nothing but a bug in my side for years now, taking on your mothers views of life! And you shall have the same fait as she did!”
Jared carefully placed Syrene behind him and stood tall to his father. His mother had been murdered years earlier, apparently by his father’s hand. "Do as you will, father. But as long as I live, I will not allow you to hurt this child!" Solithis pulled the sword that had just ended the life of the past king. Blood dripped from its tip as Solithis lifted it towards Jared’s heart. "I knew this day would come, when I would have to kill my son, but I wasn't really hoping on it soon. You have been nothing but a disappointment since you were born! Now I will end your shame!”
In a flash of bright light that appeared from overhead, the sword in Solithis's hand melted. He screamed in pain as the burning metal scared his hand. Letting it fall to the ground, the sword turned into a gooey pile of glowing metal. From the direction of the searing light, Ray got off his horse, his eyes were filled with more bolts of lightning then the sky could hold. "You don't need to harm him. I will not allow it. He is my brother, as well as your son! Though he betrayed you, he is still family as well as righteous in his actions!"
Jared moved next to his brother and let out a small gasp of air, more from shock then anything else. "Thanks, Ray. Your one of the last I would think would side with me!”
Solithis glared at them, blue light forming in both of his hands. His eyes turned pitch black and the wind picked up in a chilling breeze, enough to freeze water. "You will both be punished for your insolence!" He lifted his hand towards both of his sons and started chanting an ancient spell, one that contained enough power to level the entire mountain.
Ray glanced around then at his brother. Solithis, his father, had gone to far, and was about to do something stupid. But Ray could not face his father in a show down of magic. His father was ten times stronger then Ray himself. Yet if he didn't do something quick, the entire mountain village, the people on top of it, as well as the brothers themselves would be reduced to a smoking pile of ashes. Ray glanced at Jared, though his battle was noble, his hands were trembling with incredible force. Neither had ever spoken out of line to their father, let alone betrayed him. Now they both would face the ultimate punishment.
Jared held his breath, as Solithis aimed the blue light of death in their direction. He tightened his grasp on Syrene, knowing that there was no way out for any of them. He had sealed their fait, now he only wished for the final blow to be delivered.
Ray, having nothing better to do, ducked to the ground.
Solithis lowered his hand, the blue light reducing to a mist, then disappearing all together. "You both stood your ground, and to that I am proud. You both faced with your punishment as men, not as cowards. This I have taught you well." Solithis glared behind him only to find Slade had completely vanished. With a wave of his all mighty hand, Slade lifted a boulder which lay south of their location. Behind it was crouched a dazed Slade. “Get up here Coward!” Solithis threw the bolder with a flick of his wrist, over the mountain. Slade returned sheepishly to his father’s location, holding his head low .Solithis glared at his son, but spoke no word. Looking back towards Jared and Ray, he spoke slowly, “Though I do not condone your treachery, I am impressed by the both of you. Not even the elder gods would stand up to face me in a battle of such worth.” Solithis walked away from the two and faced the outlaying mountain region. "I cannot be in two places at once. My place on the council of the gods eldest to our universe, and that is more important then raising a planet such as this. My only logical move would be to leave this world in one of your cares, yet to whom go the spoils? Though all of you deserve it, who did the most and would be the smartest in dealing with a culture? Who would make me the proudest?” he glanced throughout the line up of his three sons. “Slade…you are a warrior by birth, yet not the smartest of the litter not to mention the bravest,” his gaze drifted onward to his youngest son, Ray. “Ray, you have been my protégée for years now, learning all I have to teach in the dark arts. You know all and can handle yourself decently, yet you lack the fighting abilities that would be needed to run your country, let alone your everyday life.” His eyes met those of a bewildered Jared, “and you my middle child, are the unlikeliest of them all. You can rule people with your eyes closed yet you don’t have the backbone for war nor the magic abilities to hold your ground. All you have is spunk.” Solithis turned his back to the boys and smiled evilly, “so who, per say, gets this land?”
Slade approached slowly to his fathers location. He was the oldest, and the best qualified to rule; he held all the fighting abilities and could make anyone tremble under his rule of thumb. No one would dare to disobey him, for they would find themselves at an untimely end if they ever dared. “He'll pick me, he has no other logical choice.” Slade though. He started planning his first rule. “All the people must do exactly what I say, and I will have everything I could ever have wished for.” A smile crept onto Slade’s face, as he wishfully thought about what would come to him, as the oldest son.
Jared looked down at Syrene then back towards his brothers. His father would give control over to Slade, he had a gut feeling. His father was a callous person, and shallow on top of that. If he say a way that Slade could exploit these people, which they had already done, he would mine it for all its worth. The planet would be lost, as Slade would use it for his own pleasure. Jared had watched Slade do many unspeakable things to people for fun. He shivered thinking about what was to come for this tiny world. He reached down and patted Syrene’s head, trying to keep her calm as well as himself.
Ray glanced at Jared, then at Slade. If Slade got the control, the world would be lost, if Jared got control, the world would be to susceptible to invasions from outside forces. Jared was nothing near a fighter, now or would he ever be. Both were not fit for the job, and neither was he. But the world was not what Ray was pondering over. How could the elder gods let his father, of all people, into the council. The council was that of higher beings that ruled over everyone’s lives, making rules and overseeing that they were kept. Invasion of a world was far from approved, and yet it was overseen by an elder. That was confusing. He took one more glance at his brothers and then towards his father. They all seemed to be in a deep in thought, for once. Ray looked down at the landscape, and then across towards the shattered towns, “ I wonder if they anywhere left standing where you can get a decent burger.”
Solithis stared into an abyss for a few moments, giving his sons plenty of time to dwell over his decision. “Well,” he began, glancing at Ray, then Slade then Jared; “…I guess it would be only fair to give the crown to Slade. Being the oldest, as well as the strongest, he would prove a great warrior!”
Slade’s eyes fluttered with excitement and his face glowed with pride. He was going to be the king of a world. His dream had now come true. He immediately began planing his reign of terror over the small world which was to be his. “First”, he thought, “I could start an army, and take all those left alive and make them my eternal slaves. Then come the village slaves who will comply to my every whim.” Slade looked up out of his whirl of thoughts to notice Solithis smirking. “What?” Slade knew what was going to be said before it left his fathers mouth.
“But since when have I ever been fair?” Slade looked down upon realizing he wasn’t getting the crown. Solithis smiles ruthlessly once more. “Slade, quite frankly, you’re a great warrior but a complete disappointment. All you care about is money, blood and sex; hardly good traits for a good ruler.” Jared smiled and saw where Solithis was going. “Well, being the only one that I can possible see who could rule this operation, Jared, I am forking over the power to you. You will rule Ainede."
Slade’s face turned red and his eyes narrowed. "Jared?!" He roared. "Jared couldn't rule a kingdom if he was the only occupant!" He then grew angrier. "Father, let me try to rule, please. I will make you proud, to this I swear!"
Solithis looked at Jared for a moment, and then at Slade. Both seemed to be willing to make giant sacrifices for this world. "Well, I suppose the right way to find ruler would let you two fight it out, to the death, of course. Winner takes all!" Slade glared at Jared. "My pleasure." The words seeped through Slades mouth like venom. Slade pointed at Jared and sneered, “you have had this a long time coming! I will mop this pathetic wasteland with your remains!”
Jared took a deep breath and let it out. "If it is to be, then who am I to stop it? But Slade, you will not win!" Jared got into a fighting stance. Solithis looked at his two sons, about to fight to the death for rule of the kingdom. "Are you both sure about this?" Jared looked at Solithis through his perficial vision. "Yes."
Syrene ran over to Ray. "Why are they doing this? Jared doesn’t have to fight, he was given the crown! He is the only good guy left and the only one who is fair enough for have my fathers thrown!”
Ray looked down at her. "Because they both want your fathers kingdom and Slade will not give up the easily, to something that he wants. Your land is something that is a high trophy for Slade. If he wins, you and your people will perish." Syrene looked at to where Jared prepared for the battle. "Please win; we can't have a monster like that on the thrown!"
“Monster like that,” Jared nodded at the use of the words. Syrene was right. If Slade won, he would be dead and no one would stand in the way of Slade, not even Ray. “I can't lose; I can't risk the lives of more people!” He turned and picked up some soil and rubbed it thoroughly over his hands. He stood and looked out upon the horizon. Quietly, Jared though, “with the help of this land, and the souls of the dead as my backing, I can win this.” He turned back towards Slade, anger colored his voice. “Lets end this.”
Slade bowed slightly to his brother as Jared approached, and Jared bowed back. Slade grinned menacingly and lifted his massive hands to his face, balling them into fight fists, exonerating his every move. Moving his weight back and forth like a professional boxer, Slade slowly approached his brother. Sneering, Slade curled his lips back, “I will destroy you!" With that, Slade leapt at Jared like a giant cat going in the kill. Jared, knowing his brother all to way, countered to the side and caught Slade in the stomach with a timed roundhouse. Stunned, Slade slid a few feet towards Solithis, who seemed baffled, before getting up and re-charging at Jared. Jared, once more trying to time the attack, side stepped, hoping to send his brother over the cliff.But as Jared moved, Slade dropped into a hard slide and brought his legs up into a scissor kick. Catching Jared behind the knees, then in the stomach, he pulled Jared to the ground with incredible force. Slade did a backwards extension out of grounded position and quickly began to kick Jared in the stomach. Seeking safety, Jared rolled away, as fast as he could, taking in many blows to the face as well as his abdomen. Jared fell and Slade landed an axe-kick on his back. Jared managed to crawl away from Slade.
Bleeding and broken in many places, Jared stood shaking. There was only one way to win this, and it was with a power none of his family knew he had. He had done that much in keeping one key factor a secret. He slowly raised his bloody hands above his head and began chanting, staring at the skies. The chant was unknown to any of the magicians who inhabited that hillside that cold fall evening.
Slade froze in his approach on his brother. “What is this?” Slade thought it was a prank, something to throw him off guard. His younger brother knew no magic; he was merely the democratic and liberal one of the group. But as the clouds parted over Jared’s head, Slade began to realize he was indeed in a lot of trouble. Taking a quick side glance towards his father, he could see the marvel and the pride in Solithis’ eyes, as he watched his son show what he was truly capable of. Slade turned back, angrier then ever. He would end this. Running towards Jared, Slade threw himself blindly at the younger boy.
Jared started to glow with a halo of white light surrounding his body. His wounds healed miraculously, in a matter of seconds. Jared opened his eyes and saw Slade’s form rushing in his direction. But from Jared’s view, everything was in a slow motion. Though Slade was running quickly, to Jared, he had enough time to move to the side, and bring his arm out to clothesline Slade, nearly shattering every bone in Slade’s neck.
Slade flew to the ground and laid, paralyzed from astonishment as well as pain. Grunting, he slowly stood from his crumpled state, blood dripping down the sides of his bald head. With a quick flick of the neck, Slade cracked the bones loudly and spit a bloody wad of flam onto the ground near his feet. “you shall pay for that!” Having no choice but to either yield or attack, Slade continued his attack. He brought his leg up to meet Jared head, hoping to knock him out of his spell.
Jared saw the leg coming, before Slade had even moved it. With the powers he had called on, he knew it all. But this magic was most unlike anything Slade or Solithis had encountered. The only person who might have been able to verify it was Ray. The magic was good, it was pure. The source incorporated the earth beneath them and the skies above them. It called upon all forces of nature as well as ones personal ethics and morals. Only one pure of heart could harness such a strong power. Jared watched as Slade attempted to ruin him, to gain control of this precious land. Jared raised one hand and blocked above his head with the intensity of a metal pole. With a thundering crack and a scream of pain, Slade’s leg snapped over Jared’s arm. Using his open window, Jared reached forth his other hand and punched Slade in the chest, sending him flying into the side of the mountain, hard enough to leave an indentation. Slade slid to the ground in a unconscious heap.
Solithis approached his victorious son, who had suddenly lost the glow, as fast as he had gained it. “my son, I am proud. You have shown me powers I never knew you could harness. Where that magic came from and what it possesses is something I am dying to know. I only hope you can teach me as the year’s progress. Now, deal with your brother who wished nothing more then to kill you…finish him.”
Jared turned to his father and tilted his head. In his eyes burned a large blue fire, a fire fueled only by Jared’s good will. “No.”
Solithis recoiled and stared hard into Jared’s eyes. “Did you hear me boy? I gave you an order! Now finish that boy where he lays. He is a shame to this family!”
Jared turned to look at Solithis, his eyes gleaming with hate. “I will not. He is defeated. Take him and leave me with my land. I won, and this battle is over.”
Solithis’ smile dropped to a scowl. “You dare defy me? You call this your land? Since when was this ever your land? If you think that I am going to give this world to you, after such acts of treason as you committed tonight, then you have better read up my boy! For I am no fool, and I am stronger, older and much,” Solithis’ voice rose into a yell that echoed over the country side, “much powerful then you will ever be! You know not what you are dealing with boy!”
Jared smiled a wicked smile. Behind Solithis, a portal opened and the same smell of hell rose from it as it had when he arrived. “I do believe father that your time here is up. Leave my land, and don’t come back! You are not welcomed here! Tell whoever wishes to touch this land will have to deal with Jared, ruler of Ainede!” With a quick raise of the hand, wind sprouted from Jared’s palm. Even with all the magic Solithis knew, he could not stop Jared. Solithis Clung onto the ground in vain as he was sucked back into a portal to the demon realm. After he was gone, Jared lifted Slade magically into the air. “Go where you belong!” With a violent thrust of his hand, Jared sent Slade hurtling through dimensions, back to their home world. Jared turned to ray and extended a hand. “Help me seal this rift, so they cannot enter rightfully for years to come.”
Ray stared at his brother, as if it was a man he had never known. How had his brother been able to harness such a force, as god of storm himself, he could not contain. His brother, a mere shell of his father, was able to defeat the great Solithis with hardly breaking a sweat. Ray approached slowly, fearing what might happen if he was to piss of Jared. “I don’t know where that came from, or what your doing with it, but …” Ray looked around and couldn’t’ contain a laugh, “that’s freaky man.” Ray joined hands with his brother and both looked towards the skies.
For years to come, villagers could only describe Solithis’ defeat upon mount Wagner as astonishing. In the midst of their defeat, a blinding light swept the countryside, eradicating all evil that had followed Solithis into his hollow war. The light took away the blood and the stains of those who had died, and left the bodies at piece of those who had fought so bravely for their world. As some looked towards the mountain, they claimed they saw to distinct patterns of light falling from the sky, one as pure as the clouds and heavens, the other with a tint of blood red to the pattern. The light funneled from the sky and into the mountain itself. And then it was gone in a blaze of fiery fury, sweeping the land of its pain and suffering. Following the night that beheld the land, off that mountain top came the greatest leader Ainede had ever known.
Jared stood behind a small podium staring out at mess of materials which laid scattered about the land. In front of him, gently laid out on the podium were diagrams drawn by his own hand for a new capital city. He had carefully sketched out every detail, from the main hall of the palace to the side alleys where no one dare to travel in the marketplace. Smiling with pride, he knew this city would soon be spectacular. He glanced out upon the few people who had willingly volunteered to help him with his quest. Many, though, still feared to leave the confines of their own home, fearing what laid in wait for them beyond their doorsteps. He didn’t blame them though, as he knew how it felt be been a prisoner of fear. His father’s war brought forth creatures that no one on this planet had beheld, let alone dreamed of. They had been creatures of the night, merely myth. Yet these creatures came to life at his father’s beckon, and brought forth unnatural suffering to these people. Jared refused to force these people into the light, and wished to give them their time. Jared looked out upon the wasteland that had once been brilliantly full of life and magic. As he thought about the past three years and how his father had destroyed his people, hatred and loathing still swallowed his heart. He heard not from his father, after he banned him from Riana. With Ray’s help, the two had forced Solithis and a broken Slade through the portal back to their home world, the Voidelans. It was a miracle, to say the least, that he was able to contain one of the strongest sorcerers in the known universe. To the day, Jared believed there were other forces at work that night, such as the elder gods who wished to protect those who could not protect themselves. Yet in his heart Jared knew it wasn’t the last he would hear of those two, they would lay in wait for the perfect time to attack. Jared knew that if they were to attack now, Solithis would easily overpower the meek citizens once again. But Jared knew Slade’s thinking, he would want a formidable battle, not one just to take what he thought should be his.
The only person from the Voidelans allowed to step foot in this realm was Ray. Though the two had their times of bitter fights and harsh words, they got along better with each other then with any other family member. The biggest problem that confronted the two was the development of a sister world to Riana. Their realm overlapped that of another, a solar system containing nine planets that circled only one star, compared to Riana’s two stars and well over thirty planets, each one full of intelligent life, or so assumed Ray. Jared wished to gain access to the new world before Slade had the chance to enslave whatever may live there. Ray insisted that Jared wait, at least until the world was out of its ice age before even thinking of deploying a reconnaissance mission. Jared buried his head in his large hands, sinking into deep thought. He heard a short sigh then a very meek, “Sire?”
Jared pulled his head slowly, as if the weight burdened him, to stare ahead from his podium. His eyes behold a sight that he was relieved to see. Syrene, who was now fourteen years old, was standing patiently in front of him, her hands clasped behind her back. Her hair, blonde as the sun, was held tightly to her head in a French braid, and wrapped sturdily under a long veil, which draped down her back like a robe. She was dressed in a long dark blue satin dress, which reached the floor and followed behind her. She always wore dark colors, Jared noted, in honor of those who died and for the loss of her family. He couldn’t blame her, even though it had been three years. Though Jared was rightfully king, he never at any point let his rule overrule the true princess of the country. He wanted the populace to remember that he did not choose to rule by force, but merely as one who observes. He forced a smile onto his solemn face and nodded. “Yes, Syrene, how can I help you?” Jared thought for a moment and laughed silently. “I’m saying this only one more time, as well. Stop calling me Sire! You, my dear, are the rightful heir to this thrown. I am merely your advisor.”
“I’m Sorry Sir, I mean,” she looked up into his eyes, “Jared.” She looked down, then to the right of the room. She wrapped her arms around her thin frame and looked back to Jared with a look of frustration on her face, “Jared, you and I both know that you are the ruler…I am to young to be queen, therefore, this world is yours. Stop trying to pretend that it isn’t, it’s driving all of us mad. Take you’re thrown as you rightfully should.” Though her voice proved otherwise, in the words not said he could hear that she was forcing herself to say that. She looked back at Jared and smiled weakly, “though you might not feel that you belong here, due to what your father did, but you saved all of us, and we do appreciate it.” Honesty beamed through her heart, giving Jared the slight glimpse of hope for the upcoming future of this planet. “ People will not retaliate against you for your fathers actions, they know what happened; what you did for us and how you defeated your father in a single triumphant blow. And I, Jared, know that good is in your heart…it consumes you. That is what I…see…in you.”
Jared stared into Syrene’s purple eyes, and lifted his hand and brushed a string of loose hair from her beautiful face. He took a deep breath and could feel his pulse rate heightening. He licked his lips to keep them moist, as he felt as if all the water had left his body and was draining away into the floor. He closed his eyes and looked down, breaking the stare between the two. “This is wrong! I can’t fall in love with Syrene, not with Syrene.” He opened his eyes and looked up to see her looking worriedly into his blue eyes. He strained a smile then put his head back into his hands. “But…No, I can’t. She is only sixteen years old! I can’t fall in love with her…its not meant to be. If I do, this kingdom will be ruined! Its impossible…” Jared looked from his thought to see Syrene looking slightly baffled in his direction.
Sensing the oddness in the air, she continued with the reasons she came to speak to her lord, hoping to break the ice. “The construction teams say it will take at least seven years to complete your plans for the city. I don’t think that we can hold out that long, Sire….” She looked at him and smiled, “I mean, Jared. We have too many troubles facing our lands right now, and not having a marketplace will cripple our economy, causing more problems then we can handle. Plus, the new moon season is soon upon us. We need to be ready with harvests for the upcoming frost.”
Jared looked down. “How much time do we have before the new moon season? That is when the frost arrives, right?” With the new terminology that was at hand for him to learn and it was a strain on him to remember. Back in the Voidelans, there was one climate; hot, and one time of year, hell. Suddenly being brought into a world where both suns laid near each other, nearly 5 AU from the planet and 2 AU from each other, their winters were very, very cold, compared to their scorching summers. Though the world was beautiful, it was not an easy task to thrive with a steady economy.
Syrene smiled at the ignorance of their ruler. Though Jared had goodness in his heart and was the ruler of this land, Syrene knew that without her, this civilization would cease to exist. She tried to contain her smile, yet it did little good. “We have a month before the frost sets in. Lua’go will soon disappear from our skies. When it is gone, that’s when all crops will die. Our farmers, that are left, are harvesting what little was saved. This frost will be a harsh one, probably the worst since the war. We will have to strictly regulate our exports to the citizens, as well as placing guards at all granaries, in case of other civilizations trying to steal our food…or more dramatically, our own people.”
Jared nodded in agreement. He hated the thought of their population starving to death, due to the lack of good soil to grow crops, which just kept reminding him that it was his fault. He groaned and leaned against the stand which held his maps, and rested his eyes. He opened them and frowned at Syrene. “Syrene, do what you wish with the crops, you know more about this then I do. My only concern is that we do have food for the winter ahead. Enlist the help of however many people you need. If they refuse, come find me.” Syrene nodded quickly and turned to leave. At the open entrance of the building, she turned and looked over her shoulder. “Jared, it will be okay. We’ve survived worse…three years ago we had nothing but spirit and look where we stand today.” With that, she turned on her heels and walked swiftly away from the building.
Jared watched her leave, though he knew he shouldn’t. He let out a humongous sigh and dropped his head hard into his arms, placing all his weight on the stand. “How can this be happening, I fought to save her from my brothers and yet here I am, gawking over her with a school boy’s crush. She is much too young and I still can’t forgive myself for her father’s death. His blood is still on my hands…and yet with all my scrubbing and masking, that fact still remains as explicit through my people’s eyes as the day my father murdered him. If I had let him flee…if I had held back the attack…none of this would ever have befallen such a quant community.” As Jared wallowed in his pity, he failed to notice the figure by the door. Breaking the silence throughout the room came a boisterous chuckle, emitted from the door way. Jared looked up to see Ray leaning on the frame of the door. His face masked in a mischievous grin, and his eyes laughing at Jared. Jared sighed louder and leaned on the podium, propping his arm upwards and resting his chin on them. Rolling his eyes, he hummed “Why don’t we all come and pick on Jared today, its so much fun.”
“Brother,” Ray laughed , as approached Jared. He placed a hand on Jared’s shoulder and gave him a slight shove, “what happened to the righteous one of us who wished to protect that little girl from the big bad older men?” Ray’s grin widened, “and now here you are, falling all over her. Why, I’m impressed, our Jared’s robbing the cradle,” Ray continued his circle around Jared then leaned on the opposing wall, five feet from Jared, “because you two are like, what, ten years apart?”
Jared sat up and pushed a streak of his jet-black hair away from his face. He felt his face growing hot, something that had not happened in years. He tried desperately to hide his grin. “No, Ray, it’s more like six years.” Noticing Ray’s smirk was growing by the second, Jared quickly looked away and flicked his hand. “But it’s of no matter. I have no wish to take up relations with Syrene. She is only a child. And yes, I still plan on protecting her from Slade…and you.”
Ray smirked and nodded his head, his pony tail flopping like a flag in the wind behind his head. “Say what you will, Jared, your emotions and body language will show your true feelings. So, how goes it?”
Jared stood from his slouching position and walked slowly about the room. “Brother, I’m lost here. I feel like I need help but there is no-one. I can’t shake the guilt of what happened on this world, nor can I shake the feeling that these people hate me and will one day conspire to destroy me, as I did to their king. I feel as if it is me against these thousands of people, and they have me against the wall.”
Ray put a hand on his brother’s back. “Jared, I will always be here to help you, and look out for you. I know how you feel about what our father did. All of his past deeds have left nightmares in my head that I can’t possibly describe. The things I’ve seen done in my time…no wonder I am the way I am.” Ray looked at Jared and smiled, “don’t worry Jared, if they haven’t killed you by now, they probably won’t. just don’t try to change what they know…leave things the same. If you push them into something new, they will probably retaliate. Just go with the flow Jared, its all I can tell you.”
Jared looked at his brother and nodded. He knew what his brother spoke of, and understood it all. He smiled and stopped pacing. “Thank you Ray, it means a lot to be able to have at least one person I can speak to. I’m sure you have heard of our problems with the upcoming seasons…with the winter rapidly approaching, I don’t think we will have the crops needed for food for the winter, nor adequate housing. I can’t loose more people Ray, and many will die if we don’t do something. They need someone telling them its okay…someone of a higher power. Something to worship that they believe will help them on their struggle.” Jared glanced at his brother, the God of storms, to see if he was picking up on his hints. Ray glanced at Jared and the proverbial light bulb lit up over his head.
Widening his eyes, Ray backed away from his younger brother. Holding his hands defensively in front of his torso, he spoke rapidly, “No Jared, I am no where near a full god, nor am I ready to be the leader of a civilization!”
Jared glanced at Ray and laughed. “Ray, I’m not asking you to lead them into anything. All I’m asking is to let everyone know that you are the god of storms and that they do have someone on their side. You can give them something to lean on, someone to believe in. They have nothing Ray…no sense of pride, no sense of security thanks to dad, and no sense of hope. You could bring that all back…I’m not asking you to be responsible, I’m only asking you to seem responsible…act it out, make it seem like your to watch over them, yet not do their work.”
Ray frowned and put down his hands. He glared at Jared, reading his eyes for the answers to his unasked questions. “I know that I am going to be a full god in two years, maybe sooner. I can’t promise much Jared if I do it…my only request is…” Ray smiled a guilty smile and looked around slowly, “I don’t want them to know I’m not a full fledge yet, it might turn them.” Ray paused as a look of doubt drifted across his face. “You’re playing with fire here, my dear brother, I warn you of that now, so don’t say I didn’t.” Ray placed his hands on his hips and tapped his foot in thought. A mischievous smile curled the sides of his lips and he nodded once. “the only thing I ask is that…” Ray looked down and grinned, “I want a temple, a nice one that people can leave offerings at. A temple that can be sanctuary to those who want one, or need one.”
Jared tried not to laugh, the smiled appreciatively at his brother. “Thank you Ray, it really means a lot to me, as I’m sure it will to the people. Knowing you’re with me and by my side, I don’t think I could ask for more.” Jared patted Ray on the back, and then motioned for him to follow him to his balcony. The two stepped out of the second floor onto a golden terrace, overlooking the developing town, which laid in shambles with debris from the construction. Jared glanced towards Ray and pointed towards the outskirts of town, to the dwindling crop fields. “That is what I need you to help them with. Bring us rain in these last few days to help our harvest.” Ray nodded and Jared continued. “Tomorrow I am holding a meeting to discuss this issue with the local townsmen. I want you there brother. I want them to witness your power at that moment where they believe we are in dire need of help. Bring lightning to our skies, or rumble the heavens with your thunder. Do something to let them know that you are here and you are the real deal.”
Ray looked out into the distant lands for a moment, and closed his eyes. “What you ask will be hard to do…I control such powers its true, but to use them for a mere show of whit, I’m not sure if the elder gods would approve. It is something that I wish not to ask them about either, I’m sure they would frown upon me interfering with another world’s growth.” He looked back to his brother. “I will do my best, brother. I can’t promise anything incredible though.”
Jared nodded and the both stood in silence, watching the golden suns set across mount Wagner, awaiting what the next day would bring for them.
The next day, the few hundred remaining citizens gathered in the courtyard of the old palace, all eager to hear what their ruler had to say. Men, women and children flocked from every nook of the kingdom to hear Jared speak. Slightly startled by how many showed for such a small speech, Jared stood proudly on the balcony of what remained of the palace, as the old king used to. Syrene stood quietly by his side, wearing a deep blood red dress that fell to her feet. Jared, nearly petrified at the idea of delivering this speech, sought solace by gentle cupping Syrene’s small hand into his.
Quietly and as Sauvé as he could, Jared searched through the masses of people to see if he could find Ray. He was starting to fear that Ray would not show. “just like my brother,” he thought silently, “always procrastinating will the last moment.” Jared soon realized that the crowd had fallen to a hush, waiting for their rulers to speak. Clearing his throat, Jared stepped slightly forward, “Citizens of Laszlo, rulers of Riana,” he began, “We have suffered greatly in the last three years since Solithis’ mascara. Our crops have withered away over these past three years and with the frost approaching, we all fear for the worst. I too am preparing for the worst, yet am hoping for the best. We all know that there is a lot to be done for the rapidly approaching season. I am counting on all of you to work together to see that our crops are saved, as well as our families. I know this future looks dim, but we are not completely out of hope yet, for I have learned we have been blessed. The elder gods have finally smiled upon our dismal planet and have granted us the eyes of a god, the god of storms to be exact.” As Jared looked out, he saw the look of disbelief etched across his people’s faces.
As he inhaled his next breath, a thundering boisterous voice echoed from the depths of the crowd. “You speak of gods as if they are magical beings that will help everyone the see fit, whenever they are in need! I ask; what gods? There are no gods out there which are willing to help us, without any personal gain. The only god that ever saw our world fit to oversee what your father, and look where that got us! Why should we even bother to waist our breath on these so called gods when they never spared the time to help us!” The man’s voice redirected itself from Jared’s perch and was aimed towards the people in the crowd. “Where were the all mighty gods when our world was ransacked by the man that you now call sire’? Where were they when we were attacked by the famine that killed our children? Where were these supposed gods when monsters, brought forth by our sire’s hands, raped our women and burned our villages? Where have these gods been while we have been suffering through a drought for over a years span? This man enters our civilization as a self proclaimed king and now expects us to change our life to fit that of his own, to accept all that he does?” Jared watched horror stricken as the crowd parted like the red sea to let through an older man. Gasps and whispers spread throughout the crowd like a wild fire. The man walked with a hobble in his step and wore a brown cloak over his bent frame, masking his identity. When he lifted his head, he dared not to look in Jared’s direction. Yet in his hand he carried a long walking stick, carved from the finest wood around. Stopping in the front of the rallied crowd, He stopped and pointed his stick towards Jared. “Who do you think you are?”
immediately the crowd died down, waiting to hear Jared’s response to a question that baffled most of the populous to that moment.
Jared looked at the cloaked figure suspiciously and glanced around at the crowd. An eerie silence loomed in the air, as if nothing was alive on that world but Jared and this brave fool. Jared swallowed hard and licked his lips. “Who I am?” Jared repeated to the man. In a quick thought, Jared spoke rashly, “I’m King Jared Hann.”
The old man scoffed and whirled towards the crowd and echoed, “King…King of what?” The crowd murmured yet hardly rose above a slight whisper. Women leaned forward to hear, covering their children’s mouths, not daring to let them speak. Men crossed their arms and awaited the answer to their long examined question.
From the balcony, Jared glanced at Syrene remembering what she spoke of the night before. He looked into her eyes for help, yet she turned and looked away, leaving his standing on his own. In a reflex, he dropped her hand from his and clasped them behind his back. He paced for a moment then looked down upon the man. “I know not who you are to question me, sir, but I assure you, I am ruler of this world.” That was enough to send the crowd into wild gasps and loud arguments between themselves. As if all hell broke loose, the valley was filled with noise. Once more Jared though hard and glanced towards Syrene for help. She spoke not a word, yet her thoughts echoed in Jared’s head, “speak from your heart, and they will learn the truth of your good will.”
That was enough for Jared to hear. In as loud of a yell as he could possibly muster, Jared echoed above all else. "I am merely a servant to this land!” With that said, everyone in the crowd was silenced, as if their voices had been stolen. The old man turned to look up at Jared, and nodded in agreement. In a hope to right what he had so far said wrong, Jared continued. "But aren't we all when life gets right down to it? I am merely a servant of the people to watch over affairs of the kingdom and make decisions to help your queen. I make the laws in which you carry out your days by, yet I too am a subject to them.” The crowd lowered their voices to hear their mighty king’s speech. Surprised and proud, Jared continued. "If I were to break those laws, which I set for you all to obey, then I am no kind of ruler at all. I dare not to place myself higher then anyone of you, because I am not. We are all mortal, we all bleed when cut, shed tears when sad and smile when happy. I am the same as any of you, just merely performing a different job. Yet I too are bound by the conventional rules that are used to govern your society. I am merely a mortal being attempting to deal with what was handed to me, and to restore your beautiful kingdom before the invasions came. I am Jared Hann, a pawn at your service.”
The crowd remained mute for a moment, stunned by what was just presented. The robed figure seemed to fade back into the crowd, almost as fast as he had appeared. All remained silent until a single clap was heard, echoing from the right side. Another followed, from the left, and soon the entire crowd was cheering and clapping, in honor of their acceptance of Jared. Jared felt Syrene’s eyes staring at him, and he turned to see her smiling. She nodded and gently placed her hand over his. Jared felt his face grow red and he looked out upon the land and bowed his head slightly. Suddenly the sky grew dark and lighting flashed across in a sudden flash. Jared sensed the panic of the crowd, and quickly returned his full attention to them. As he looked out, he felt something cold drop onto the rim of his nose and another onto his right cheek. Rain, it was raining…his brother had done it. He watched the faces light up of those in the crowd, as the young children began to run and play in the quickly forming puddles. Jared laughed lowly and raised his hand out to his people. “As I have promised, our god has brought us rain!”
Lightning struck once more in the distance, the directing into the courtyard. People screamed and flocked to the opposite side. But from the strike zone of the lightning, stepped a figure covered in white robes. His hair was tied back and his eyes filled with pride. He walked towards the people and stopped short of Jared’s terrace. Ray looked out upon the citizens and nodded his head. “Your prayers have been answered. I, my kind sir, am that god in which will help you! I know we haven’t proved to be all what you expected, but with what I can do to help, my services are at your command! All I ask is that you dare not question my intentions again…”Ray skimmed his bony finger along the grounds outskirts, “any of you! I am here to help you!” Ray smiled and in another flash of light, he was gone.
The crowd in a synchronized rhythm, turned back to face Jared, who was completely soaked from the pouring rain. “Why don’t you all go and seek shelter, this rain may not let up for a while!” With that, the crowd dispersed from the courtyard, and Jared retreated with Syrene into the castle.
Once inside the confines of the castle, Syrene gave Jared a quick hug. “Jared, I don’t know where that came from, or who possessed you out there but that has been one of the greatest speeches I must have ever heard…it was just the right thing for our…”Syrene caught herself and looked into Jared’s eyes and turned red. “I mean, your, people needed.” Syrene looked around for a moment then looked back towards Jared. “I knew not that Ray was a full god. If I had known, then I would have perused him to have made it rain a lot earlier, it would have done a lot more good.”
Jared nodded and looked at the young girl. “Ray was harnessing his powers, and still is. He’s not quite full yet but,” Jared smiled a mischievous smile and grinned a pearly white smile, “that will be our little secret.”
The doors to the room flew open and Ray burst in, smiling ear to ear. He bowed to Syrene slapped Jared, hard, on the back. “What did I tell you, bro! I knocked them dead out there! Did you see their faces? At first they ran, but no, I saved the day!” Ray bounced on his feet hopping around in pure excitement. “man, I haven’t felt this good in years…no, decades!” Ray calmed down for a moment and looked at Jared in the eyes, “you, my dear brother, were excellent! That was an absolutely moving speech, and let me say, it nearly brought a tear to my eye.” Ray paused for a second then started laughing, “nah, I’m lying but you did a brilliant job.” He grinned once more, “but I know I was better...”
Once more the doors of the palace opened and a tall guard walked in. He kept is back straight and his head held high. Jared turned to face him and the guard fell to one knee. He crossed one arm over his chest and Jared cleared his throat. “Et’posh, what can I do for you?”
The strange creature spoke with a deep booming voice, one low enough to make a tenor shy away. “Sire, you have a guest. I told him you didn’t want to be disturbed but he insists…” the guard stepped to the side to let the man who had challenged Jared in his own courtyard into the palace thrown room.
The man walked to Jared and bowed slightly, completely ignoring the rightful queen of the thrown and the storm god. “Sire, I apologize for my intrusion out on the courtyard but I had to make sure you were the real deal; that you were mentally fit for the tasks at hand!” The man pulled back his hood to reveal himself to the king. He was nearly thirty five years old yet had wrinkles around his eyes. He had a small goat-t running down his chin that came to a sharp point. His hair was black and tied back tightly in a thick ponytail. His eyes were brown with what Jared deemed as sparks of red lingering about his pupil. Jared was able to note the scent of magic that surrounded the newcomer. Jared heard a small gasp from Syrene but thought nothing of it. "My name is G’er Onde. I traveled here from the depths of Sira to hear your lecture. You are indeed what this land needs. I am here to offer my services to you, to be your consultant. I know our…young,” with that he threw a quick glance at Syrene, who seemed rather irritated, “Princess…has a lot to deal with that such a young child cannot possibly handle alone, or with the help of a slightly older and wiser man like yourself. Having someone with past experience in diplomatic relations with other parts of the world would benefit you graciously. I humbly offer myself to you.”
Jared glanced in Ray’s direction, who seemed just as disgruntled as Syrene. “I thank you for that, but if by trying to make me look like a fool in front of my people is what you plan on using for publicity, then I’m sorry to say no way. I understand not why you would think for one moment that I would take on someone who would interrogate me in front of my people just to hear the answer to one question. Give me two good reasons why I should take you on?"
G’er smiled a toothy sneer and clasped his hands behind his small back. He nodded to Jared and spoke slowly. “I am a sorcerer and a very powerful one at that. I worked for the king before you for many years before…the invasion. I have many different skills in many different regions across Riana and have been, how do you say, around the block a couple times. What it boils down to sire, is that I am exceptionally skilled."
Jared crossed his arms and bit his upper lip. "if you haven’t noticed, G’er, I to am a powerful sorcerer. Those are not powers to be thrown around lightly. I also have a god on my side to keep track of diplomatic relations, so tell me once more just why I need you."
G’er’s smile fell from his face and was replaced by a look the Jared couldn’t classify. He forced a slight smile to his face and nodded to Jared. “I am well aware of your powers and how you…forced….Solithis back to his realm. It is a wonder that you, sire, were able to dispose of such a powerful lord of the dark arts.” Jared glanced to Ray with a slight look of worry on his face. G’er’s words sounded like a ploy, to gain his trust. Jared licked his lips and beckoned for G’er to continue. “I am also, Sire, what one would call a metamorphose.” G’er took one solid look at Jared then tapped his shoulder with two fingers. In a matter seconds, G’er changed his form to become an exact replica of Jared. Jared stepped back, not use to seeing such a talent. G’er held his form for only a matter of seconds before reverting to his natural state. “As you can see, I can be handy for infiltration missions as well.”
Syrene looked towards Ray and muttered under her breath, “we understand that much.”
Jared look towards Syrene to hush her then looked back towards G’er. “Well, sir, I cannot promise you much but I will have Et’posh show you to a room upstairs. His men are at service to help you bring your items into the castle.”
“Where have I seen this man before?” Ray pondered quietly. He couldn’t believe Jared was letting a metamorphous, or more commonly called a Metam, into his home. These foul sorcerers were the filth of the universe. Every being that was capable of intelligent thought knew these…creatures… were not to be trusted. They could hold any form they wished for as long as they possibly could, and with the change in appearance came a change in their voice patterns, and if held long enough, a change in their emotional patterns. There was a legend of a Metam who murdered a king and held his form for over thirty years; the secret was only reveled on his death bed, for the Metam truly believed he was the rightful heir.
The power of a Metam was only inherited; for the family must be linked to the same dark past. The original Metam, so claimed history, was forged on the planet of Givas during the time of Neitie and Nod. The evil sorcerers formed alliances with Nod himself, who alone possessed the power to create or destroy the universe. Though Nod, who chose to be the living embodiment of evil, was soundly defeated by Neitie, who was the first elder god, the sorcerers escaped and with only two left, made life for themselves on a neighboring planet. Though one can only hold their ancestors responsible for a short length of time, Metam’s lived up to the name of evil time and again, over the years.
Ray knew that they could not be trusted, as did Jared. Ray stared hard at Jared wondering what was scrolling through his mind and then looked towards Syrene. She seemed just as upset over the entire idea as Ray was. Ray rolled his eyes, praying Jared knew what he was getting himself into. Yet in all of his thoughts, he hardly noticed that everyone was waiting on him.
"Storm god, wake up."
Ray snapped back to reality upon getting nudged by Syrene. He looked at G’er, who was staring at him with cold eyes, and faked a smile. "Oh, my apologies, I was lost in… thought… for a moment." Ray glanced towards Jared and nodded, as if saying he was okay. He turned once more to face G’er. “What may I do for you?”
"I asked if by chance you were on the elder’s council. I prey they would not grant our world a, how do you say, younger …god…to watch over our precious and fragile kingdom” G’er drew out the last tree words, as if trying to pronounce them for the first time. He threw a quick smile towards Jared. “…yet I don’t believe I have ever seen you anywhere before the attack on our homeland.” G’er’s eyes narrowed and his red lips curled into a nasty snarl, “So tell me; how long have you held your time?”
Ray straightened his back and blinked his eyes. Staring into G’er Ondes black pupils, he spoke in a tone that no mortal man would dare to question. “I don’t think, personally, that is any of your business to question me, mortal! You should watch your tongue while it still remains in your mouth!” Ray shrugged his anger off, like a sweep of the wind. His face softened as he prepared an answer. “I am not an elder god, at least not yet. I do have my links into the council that still remain loyal to me. I am the god of storms and that is my job for now. Do not question my authority, for you will suffer if you do it again.”
G’er smiled and bowed his head towards Ray, yet not taking his eyes off of him. “I meant no disrespect, just curiosity. My apologies, it will not happen again.”
Ray frowned and inhaled slowly, making himself grow an extra inch or two. “See that it doesn’t.” With a quick sneer, Ray turned to Jared slowly, “if you excuse me, your lordship, I must go and report back to my people. I will be back later, and we shall talk.” Ray bowed to Syrene and took his leave in a flash of golden light.
G’er looked at the wall as Ray vanished. "So, Jared, what do you say? Am I truly in?”
Jared glared at the metam and frowned. “First, I say to call me Sire, and second, I've learned over my years not to trust a Metam. No offense is meant Sir but being capable of such powers could prove dangerous during these trying times."
G’er blinked, as if he half expected to be granted some joyous plea of acceptance. "Maybe so, but I can help you in all your relations as well as plans for the future of this grand world." G’er threw a quick glance at Ray, “that is, if the position of negotiator still holds some availability.”
Jared looked towards his feet then at the corner wall. He slowly scratched behind his ear and then decided to go against all of his best judgment. “You are in, G’er, until I find reasonable doubt to dismiss you.” Jared took a small step towards the sorcerer and whispered in his ear, ”and believe you me when I say that if you step one foot out of line, I will find out and I will have you exiled to the Kirabisque.” For a moment, no one spoke. Syrene grinned at G’er like a child on Christmas. With a quick glance for Jared, she wiped the smile off her face. Jared glanced back at G’er and took a deep breath. “One rule, I beg of you to remember; never shape into me or any of my palace attendants. All you need to know is what I will tell you, when I tell you. I do require your assistance, and by judging your inquisitions outside today, my guess is that you have held negotiations with other countries.” Jared paused, “All positive, I hope.” He grinned and continued, “You are in, G’er. I hope you do not make me regret this.”
G’er nodded and bowed lowly to Jared, staring at the floor. "Sire, you need not worry about my powers being abused. I change only when I see it necessary.” G’er looked into Jared’s blue eyes and grinned, “My powers are at your leisure Sire, for the good of the kingdom.” G’er smiled a toothy grin. “My only request is that you allow me on my days off to travel to other towns, and the rights to wander in the castle.”
Jared sighed and shrugged his shoulders. “If that is all you ask of me, then it is granted. You may travel a days walk from here to other towns, by foot. I grant you no steed for such a journey. As for the castle, everything is open but the third story war room. That is reserved for me, and me alone. Try not to enter it.” Jared waved his right hand above G’er’s head towards his open chamber room door. “let me introduce you to my head guard.”
As G’er turned, he felt his breath catch in his throat. The monster that stood before him belonged not to this planet. The abomination stood over nine feet tall and had to weigh over eight hundred pounds. It’s skin was a thick rawhide brown, and was very dry in parts. Its face resembled that of a tiger; his eyes were narrow and its pupils were merely slits, yet were filled with yellows and greens. Its eyebrows pointed down on a straight diagonal slant, nearly touching each other at the point of its nose. The creature was built as strong as a steel wall, as was the rest of its clan. These creatures were known as Samki, a supposedly extinct race that was once unstoppable, as well as indestructible. These massive creatures lived for thousands of years at a time and served only one person, their masters. G’er thought them all to have been wiped out when the plaque was spreading like wildfire amongst the darkest parts of Ainede. Those who lived of the Samki forged alliances with all those who were left in power that were strong. This was the first Samki G’er had seen in over a thousand years. These creatures, as well, held strong grudges over Metam’s, for it was the Metam’s that introduced the plaque into the environment as a mere test of their power. G’er felt transparent under the rigid glare of the Samki.
“Et’Posh, Show Sir Onde to his quarters in the northern wing of the second floor. He shall be inhabiting the castle for the time being.” Jared’s eyes fell upon the war brewing between the two. He crossed his arms slowly, “Gentlemen, we are all adults…and…”he glanced quickly at Et’Posh, “grown….people…..we can handle as such. I wish for you, Et’Posh, to show Mr. Onde around the castle. Leave no part undiscovered. You two shall be friend before this is done.” Jared smiled and shoed them out of his room. G’er followed in footstep of the massive creature in front of him, glaring at Syrene as he left, and triumph gleaming across his face.
As the doors closed, Syrene let out a loud sigh. Jared turned slowly to glance at the Princess, frowning. “What is the matter now? Do you not care for my decision?”
Syrene bit her tongue for a moment, considering her remarks. She circled Jared’s podium and sat on the small wooden stool, which sat in a dusty corner of the dimly lit room. “Its not that I don’t agree with you, or for that matter, praise your decisions, my lord. It’s just that my father had dealings with that man…right before the invasion. He had been trying to get a charter drawn for trade exports to be sent to Jui. My father was reluctant and eventually turned G’er away. It is odd that Jui was in fact the only province that was not attacked in the war.” Syrene closed her eyes and shook away the terrible memories. “I have heard stories of their treacheries; stories that could destroy what we are trying so hard to rebuild. I dare not risk any more tragedy to befall my kingdom, and I sense nothing except foul intentions radiating from that man.”
Jared nodded, taking in all that Syrene had to say. She was, as many had said, wise beyond her years. When she was finished, Jared walked slowly to where she sat. He gently placed his hands on her fragile shoulders. “My dear and sweet Syrene, I know what you speak of; I could sense that as well. But many would have said the same about me. We can’t judge a book by its cover, or this man by his appearance. I shall keep both eyes, whenever I can spare them, resting on his man when he is in my presence. In the after time, I shall have Et’Posh keep him in close bearings. Fear not, my queen, it will be okay, I promise.” Jared gently ran his hand up her neck and gently held her chin between his thumb and ring finger and tilted her head upwards. He glazed deeply into her purple eyes. They stared into each others eyes for a moment, before Syrene pulled herself out of Jared’s intoxicating stare and gently removed herself from the stool.
“I have places to be….things to do. I shall see you later my lord.” She smiled gently and wisped her way out the door.
Jared stood still for a moment, closing his eyes and breathing in the stray aromas of Syrene’s perfume. He sighed happily and made his way back to his drawing board. Plans needed to be drawn, as meetings needed to be arranged.
After a long afternoon of silence and walking, Et’Posh delivered G’er to his chambers. The creature opened the door and glared at the sorcerer. “This,” he spoke, “is where you shall be staying. Wander not, sorcerer, by yourself, for this palace is not completely secure.” A smile flickered onto the creatures face, but was replaced as quickly as it had appeared by a familiar scowl, “It would be a shame to loose such a…talented…man as you.”
G’er entered the faintly lit room and looked back at the creature. “This is it, you call this a room?” Arrogance colored the Metam’s voice. “This is hardly fit for a murderer!” G’er whipped around to face the smiling Samki.
The creature smiled ear to ear. “No, my lord. This is called a broom closet, but it shall serve your needs just as well. Goodnight.” The creature slammed the door and abandoned G’er in the minute space.
G’er lit a candle that laid on a wooden piece of furniture, which was hardly what one would call a desk. His bed lay against a wall two feet from the door, with hardly enough space to walk. There was a small oak dresser with a smaller closet attached at the end. The room was hardly wide enough for G’er to lay down across the floor, let alone keep any personal effects in. Yet it would serve its purpose, as all he needed were candles. Out of his duffel bag, he produced twelve blood red candles and one giant midnight black candle. He placed them around on the furniture as well as the floor. In the middle laid the giant black candle and a piece of glass that could have once been a mirror. G’er glanced towards the door and began to chant. This would have to be quick, he thought silently. Soon a wind swirled through his tiny enclosed room and snuffed out all the candles. A white light radiated from the mirror that lay at G’er’s feet. A voice echoed throughout the room; a voice that could bring fear to any breathing organism.
“You summon me from my eternal sleep Sorcerer; why?”
G’er bowed his head, his black long locks falling in front of his face, “my emperor, I have breached the palace walls and await your command. I have gained the trust of the king as well a thunder god. Our day of glory will soon be at hand. Together, we shall rule this dismal planet!”
Time flew like the blink of an eye; autumn passed and soon winter as well. Seasons changed and years circled by, all the while Laszlo grew in its population as well as its strength. Soon the formerly magnificent city became what it had once been, a flourishing utopia. Six years had now passed since the Great War and it finally seemed to be settled in the past. Townsfolk walked freely around the main village, never fearing what might lie around the next corner, never worrying about the dark whispers. To some, the past was like a bad dream, and was too easily forgotten. There were some, though, who would never forget, and would never forgive.
Jared was caught in the crossfire; the citizens either loved him or whished death upon him that no living being should ever have to face. Though he was still merely an advisor to the princess, tensions grew strong, and threatened to rip apart the unity that had just begun to coexist between homes. Though one idea raged amongst every women and man alike; Riana was without a king, and without a king, the world would fall. Every young bachelor in the planets domain approached the castle, hoping to sway the love of the Princess Syrene and make the world his. Syrene was a stranger to the idea of a mate. She smote any attempt of a lover with a flick of her hair and an icy stare; though this did not discourage the suitors. Each month brought waves of different men, from far and strange places. No race was akin from trying to woo the fair Syrene. But time was starting to tick away, and need for an heir to the thrown was becoming a pressing manor.
It was Jared’s idea that brought Riana its new king. A royal ball; one that every possible suitor that wished for the title of king would attend. Syrene would have her pick of the litter of the man that she wished to become king.
Jared stood firmly on the steps, facing an angry Syrene. He had announced the idea without consulting Syrene, for he knew that she would be completely against the very underlining thought. He knew she wished not to get married, for then that would leave the new male leader to take head in the decisions that ruled the land that so much adored. This land, this city was Syrene’s life; her heart only belonged to its people, not one in particular. They had spoken briefly about an arranged marriage that her father had once tried to prepare with the son of the Stuart of Jui, but Syrene had never been for to that ploy. The original idea of a ball came from Ray and Jared had improved upon it. Though it was a mentally painstaking ordeal, the worst was about to come. Syrene had found out from a gathering of townsfolk in the market making chatter as she passed by. Now he would face her wrath.
“I refuse, utterly refuse, to be paraded in front of hundreds of men like a trophy that only one is to win and decide something that I will have to live with for the rest of my life!” Syrene’s face was hot with anger. Her lip curled while she yelled at Jared. “I don’t know who you think you are, coming here and…determining…my life for me. Do you wish to know why I have not chosen a suitor Jared?” Syrene tossed her blonde hair over her right should and took two steps towards the baffled advisor. “No man on this planet is fit to be a ruler. No. Man. Not a single one.” Jared swallowed the insult with little problem. He sucked in a deep breath a retorted, “I understand you are upset my princess, and I understand you are angry with me, be keep in mind I had the best intentions,” Syrene’s purple eyes crackled with anger. “Some of the most horrid tragedies that have been unleashed on this world have sprung from the best intentions. Let’s hope this isn’t another.” Syrene turned on her heals and stormed out of the room, hardly taking notice to G’er who was standing by the door. With a small noise in her throat she marched by him.
G’er glanced towards the swinging glass door leading to the gardens and then glanced back to Jared. “I take it as her heiress did not appreciate you attempt at finding her a mate?"
Jared sighed and nodded. Wordlessly, he beckoned G’er to walk with him around the palace. After a few moments, Jared spoke. “I don’t wish to pawn her off to just some average Joe. I am holding this ball so that she gets time to speak with the countrymen. What other time does Syrene have to find herself a partner? She is always in meetings, prayer or otherwise indisposed. She has no time to actually meet anyone.” Jared glanced out a window leading to the garden and paused. Syrene was sitting by the watching pool; the grave site of her father. Jared lost mind of thought and of time as he gazed upon his princess. He watched as she stroked her fingers through the sacred water and slowly traced a heart on the marble statue of the former king Graven.
G’er cleared his throat a moment later, retracting Jared’s attention. “Sire, you were saying?” G’er’s eyes seemed to pierce through Jared, and began to tug at his hidden emotions for the princess. It was as if his life was on display whenever G’er was around. Whether G’er could read his mind or not was another issue that Jared had yet begun to tackle. For a brief moment, while time seemed to stand still, Jared sensed that G’er was almost judging him; sizing him up to the past rulers of the land, and the outcome, Jared was sure of, was not a good one. Jared felt patronized whenever G’er would enter the room, mocked when his back was turned and schemed against when his presence was absent. Though he could prove none of this, his fears grabbed a hold of him whenever he was alone with G’er. Like a child in a dark room, illogical thought and madness tugged at his psyche.
The two walked in silence until they reached the master ballroom; where the assembly was to be held. Through the white doors lies the grandest space in all of Riana. The staircases were marble white with golden railings and from the ceilings hung crystal chandlers which emperors would marvel at. A water fountain shined as the proud centerpiece of the room, sputtering its royal blue waters from its porcelain faucets. Hundreds of tables lined in silk cloth surrounded the grand dance floor, while a balcony draped in evergreen vines and royal purple flowers lingered overhead. Syrene would sit on the balcony as the night began, then slowly make her way about the crowd, conversing and dancing with those of her choice. All the while, Jared would watch from above as the one woman who he held so dearly gave her life away to some peasant who hardly knew her. Jared’s face grew hot with anger; what had he been thinking? Did he really think he would be okay as he watched the one girl he had longed to wed hand herself out? He glanced at the table setting next to him and in a fit of rage overturned the entire table with the throw of one arm. G’er jumped in shock as the silverware came crashing to the ground, and the noise echoed for what seemed like a lifetime across the room. Jared turned on his heels and muttered to the maids on his way out the door, “It’s wonderful, she’ll love it.”
People gathered from all corners of the world to attend this prestigious occasion. They arrived in waves of hundreds, and before Jared could blink, the ballroom was packed to its fullest extent. The guards had to turn away angry suitors who had traveled hundreds of miles to try to gain the power being handed to one man on this night. Jared wandered the floors trying to get incite as to the nature of men attempting to obtain the treasure of Laszlo. Anger surged through his veins as he listened to some of the conversations being held between men; how some just wanted the thrown, and how some just wanted Syrene. One man dared to mention the thought of gaining the kingdoms trust then trading it to the highest bidder from the Voilans, completely unaware that Jared had placed himself directly behind him. His circle of spectators diminished quickly as Jared slowly crossed his arms. Reading everyone’s expressions, the mans face whitened as his Adam’s apple grew taunt. He turned slowly, hoping the fear not to hold true. Jared laid his fist directly into his right eye sending the suitor soaring across tables and eventually crashing down on a table, ten feet away. Jared pounced upon him like a cat going in for the kill. Jared punched him in the kidney, the grabbed him by the torn collar of his coat.
Words seeped through Jared’s mouth like venom from a snake, “How dare you speak of such things in a company such as this. You are lucky to be still living! Who are you?”
The man stuttered for only a moment, and then glared Jared in the eye. “I am Rafu, son of Glorien, Stuart of Jui. How dare you lay your hands on me!” In a feeble attempt to shake Jared’s hands off, he glanced around at others for help.
Jared pulled Rafu closer to his face and spoke softly but sternly. “Well Rafu, son of Glorien, if you are but a sensible man, you will escort yourself from this city, and it would be a wise idea never to return!” With a final shove of his arms, he sent Rafu wheeling into the table once more and sneered. He riveted on his heels, and glared about the room. “That goes for all the men here!” His voice echoed in the great hall like the thundering of a storm. “Anyone who believes for one moment that this is merely an auction of Laszlo can leave, for by no means is it. Syrene has a keen eye to traitors, knaves and thieves. Think not that you can slip by unnoticed or unchecked. Any person who feels as Rafu, Stuart of Jui does, be aware that your idea is as faulty as a bottomless boat. All others understand that this is for a woman who deserves the world to bow at her feet. She is both wise and kind. If any man here is in this to hurt her, know that your life will be forfeit at my hands!”
As Jared glared about the room, awaiting anyone to dare challenge his claims, he noticed Syrene standing on the balcony; a smile resting upon her fair face. Jared gawked at her feeling all the blood rush to his face. Her golden hair laid freely upon her shoulders, and on her head lay a beautiful diamond tiara. She was wrapped in an exquisite blue gown that flowed the length of her body and cluttered neatly by her feet. Her purple eyes smiled proudly at Jared, as the horns announced her arrival. The men of the room soon turned their attention from Jared to the beautiful teen that now stood before them. She cleared her throat and all noise seemed to die at her feet. Not till this night had Jared truly realized how beautiful she really was.
“Jared speaks the truth,” she began, her voice harsh and firm, “I am used to the tricks of the naive, the attempts of the feeble minded to overpower myself and my generals. This is a celebration of life, and what life may offer someone at one point. This is not an auction, a presentation, a contest or any other sort of parade, it is merely a celebration.” A smile crawled its way up Syrene’s lips as she watched Rafu pull himself to a standing position and push past Jared in a huff, storming through the entrance. “Let us enjoy ourselves.” With a flick of her blonde hair over her shoulder, she raised her wine glass. “Here’s to the health, merriment, and success of Riana.”
There was a loud cheering sound that gathered from the gander of men that lay at her feet, followed by an enormous clinking of wine glasses. Syrene let her eyes wander to Jared and smiled towards him. With nod of his head, he raised his wine glass to her and drank, never removing his eyes from hers.
The night was less then halfway through and Jared had long wished to throw himself from the highest peak of the castle. He sat in the corner and watched as Syrene danced about with a different man every few rounds. There was one gentleman, a man from the province of Marcovia, an area that lay to the west of Laszlo whom Jared had been watching for a little over an hour. He had held his eye on Syrene for the night as Syrene had on him. They danced but a few steps before being jaunted away and to Jared it seemed that she was trying to get back to him. Jared sat disgruntled with an ale in his hand and a look of disgust on his face. G’er approached his lord quietly, and watched from behind Jared for a moment. Without turning, Jared knew of his presence. “I don’t like this, G’er; I don’t like this at all.”
G’er must have though himself invisible, for he jumped at the sound of Jared’s voice. Collecting himself, he started, “sire, if you do not like the suitor then send them about their business. Syrene does not need a suitor as long as you are present. This city does not need another mistake for a leader. After all, sire, this is your land, or have you forgotten that it was given to you by Solithis.”
Jared paused mid -drink and wheeled about his chair to face G’er. The only person who knew of Solithis’ deal was the wizard himself, Jared’s brothers and Syrene. No word of what happened on Mt. Wagner had reached any townsfolk, at least to Jared’s knowledge. His eyes narrowed and he felt his throat go dry. “How do you know of the happenings of that night? No one was told of that day!” Jared stood quicker then G’er had anticipated and locked him against the wall; his muscular arm nearly crushing G’er’s airway, “To long have you known things that you shouldn’t! Speak now, sorcerer, and be spared of all the pain of torture!”
G’er face remained unchanged by the effects, and an eerie calmness lingered in his brown eyes. “Sire, if you are asking if I have had connections to your father you are sorely mistaken. Word has traveled; myths and rumors have been spread. Yet I have remained loyal to you since the day I arrived, and if you have not realized that by now then I shall take my leave.” He gently pushed Jared’s arm away from his neck. Jared frowned and released G’er from the wall. He instantly regretted his outburst for now any trust that had been bonded between the two was shattered. “I am sorry G’er; I meant none of what I said. These games, this…” Jared flailed his arm about directing G’er’s attention to the happenings of the lively room, “festival is making me sick. It was a sore idea, I see it now, but it is too late for me to take back my actions. I have indeed begun what could be the worst thing to happen to Riana by my impatience with a girl who is merely a child.” Looking past G’er his eyes locked with Syrenes’. The smile slid from her face as a look of worry soon replaced it. Jared gave a brief nod as if mentally saying everything was okay and returned his attention to G’er. “Forgive me, for I am weary.”
G’er nodded, his eyes piercing through Jareds’, “I think nothing of it sire. If you shall excuse me, sire, I am to retire. This old man needs his rest.” G’er bowed slightly, his eyes never wandering from Jareds and turned on his heels and took his exit. Jared looked back on Syrene, she was now dancing with the Stuart of Marcovia. She laughed and danced about gleefully and Jared’s heart seemed to melt, for he knew this young princess was forever out of his reach. After a moment, he wretched with disgust and left the room, fearing he would be sick.
As the night drew to an end, few suitors remained from the original four hundred. Those who Syrene had spent much of her night with were the few stragglers, most feeling they had indeed earned the thrown of Laszlo. Jared reentered the room, and returned to his dark corner, as the final song of the evening began to play. A soft tone floated through the room, enrapturing all its listeners. All men stood tall, praying they would be the recipient of the last dance. They lined the floor like anxious children, awaiting their prize. Syrene wandered down the line, smiling at each as she walked. The man from Marcovia, Iholkai as Jared had learned his name to be, stood at the very end cap of the line, awaiting his princess. She walked to his and smiled the gentlest of all smiles, her voice sound almost angelic, “Excuse me.” Baffled, Iholkai moved from her path, clearing her way to Jared. She held out her hand and beamed, “Please honor me with this last dance, after all this was all your idea.” She held out her pale fragile hand, her eyes pleading Jared to take it.
Jared sat bewildered at her request. His eyes intertwined with hers and he was at her mercy. Without realizing his actions; his hand grasped hers and pulled him to his feet. As if in a dream, they walked to the center of the ballroom and began their dance. First leisurely, slowly circling each other the two turned and pivoted about in a childish style, hardly touching. Then the tempo picked up and Jared found her in his arms, dancing about the room. Jared felt like he was on air, possibly even in heaven. As he stared into her purple eyes, he felt all his emotions raging in his brain. He yearned to kiss her but resisted, for it was not his place. The two swayed about each other never removing their gaze which bewitchingly held the pair at bay. Before he could blink, the song was over and she was curtsying to him. Mindlessly, he bowed and she drifted away, like a ghost in a dream.
Syrene got to her steps which lead to the grand balcony and ascended three levels, which placed her slightly above everyone’s head. She glanced out amongst her people and nodded for her guard as well as Jared to join her. Jared wandered to her side, wishing to shrink away, for this was he part of the night he feared the most. Little did he yearn to hear who she was to give her life away too. Slowly she began the speech which was to change her life, “Tonight I must say has been by far the most fun I have had in over five years. I will admit, I was against the idea of this at first, but now I see the good it has provided. Tonight I met over fifty gentlemen whom I wish to keep in my life for I know you shall be the future of this world. Yet as the night closes her curtain to us, I feel I must make that decision that truly gathered you all here tonight.” Syrene glanced from Et’Posh to Jared, then out to Iholkai and the rest of the men. “This is not an easy conclusion, I guarantee you all of that for being forced to pick the man I wish to spend my life with in one night is not how I fancied myself doing this. I know that I will sometimes regret this hasty resolution, for I hardly know anyone standing here in my presence today, but my answer to the riddle that all of you long to hear is…” her eyes fell upon Iholkai and she flattered for a moment.
Jared followed her gaze to Iholkai and he felt his face loose its color. This was it then his princess was to marry the Marcovian that stood before them. He felt the urge to leap from his position and strangle the intruder but kept himself in check and with a deep sigh and a struggle to keep himself calm; his eyes closed.
“Jared.”
Jared’s eyes flew open as his gaze shifted towards the princess. For a moment, he thought she had asked him a question until his eyes met hers. In her eyes was a passionate burning fire he knew all to well. He heard gasps and it was at that moment he knew that what he had heard was indeed true. He blinked, lost in a sudden vast confusion.
Syrene smiled and approached him, walking up each step like it was within itself a mountain. “You have always been here for me, my lord. The one man I have come to know dearly, the one man I have come to…” Syrene stared into Jared’s eyes, as if searching for that final word.
Jared reached out, surprising even himself and wrapped one hand around her waist and pulled her against him. He found no words he could speak to pronounce his joy. Bending his neck, he lowered his lips to hers and gently laid them upon hers. Soft at first, as if to make sure this was no ploy, her grasp on his tightened and he kissed her with all the passions in the world; she was his.
As the year passed on, the city only grew to become a buzzing metropolis; filled with merchants and commerce; Laszlo was now the world’s largest city. In the heart of this raging city was its true foundation; the place. The royals had been the saving force of the world till this day. Events that took place drew in outsiders whom soon nestled into the cove, becoming a part of this expanding civilization. The most forthcoming event which drew the most attention yet offered was to be the marriage ceremony of Jared and Syrene. No matter where you walked there was a group discussing Syrene’s choice, Jared’s worth as a king and the pairs connection. The talk that took place in the alleys is what worried Jared. Whispers of the distraught, ideas of the wicked, rumors of a return of the sorcerer and the soon destruction of everything they had rebuilt. It was these faceless terrorist threats which had Jared up in arms, bracing for the worst.
Ray had been gone for a few months on business from the elder Gods. The sister planet of Riana had spurred life with some intelligence and it was Rays duty to oversee their development. With the growing of the city, the citizens had not missed his presence. Jared, though, missed his brother horribly. Jared was praying of Ray being his best man but that dream seemed to fade away more and more everyday.
War was brewing on the outskirts of the city between neighboring countries, wars which each side was trying to persuade Laszlo to join. Jared remained neutral, to the annoyance of all the generals. Attitudes began to shift and Jared soon began to fall from favor within these other city states. As Syrene tried to smooth delegations over, something always seemed to go wrong.
As the wedding approached both Syrene and Jared were astray in other thoughts.
Jared left the war room brooding, the delegations that were happening with Marcovia seemed to be going down the tube and Jared worried that they soon would turn against him. Of the five provinces of the world, Marcovia was the last one that truly remained loyal to Jared’s cause. He stormed down the hallway and found himself in the western side of the castle, nearest to Syrene’s abode. Passing her door slowly, he glanced in to see if his princess was present. Syrene was sitting at her desk writing fiercely of words he knew not. He took note to all the cluttered mess of torn, balled or otherwise destroyed paper laying about her feet. Jared leaned on her doorway, is long black hair outlining his worried face. For one moment he found piece, watching her go about her business unaware of his presence. His blue eyes softened and his lips curled to a smile, she was indeed beautiful, he kept thinking to himself. He hated to interrupt her but he needed solace and she was the only one who could grant it. He gently cleared this throat and she jumped in shock and tried to hide her papers. “Syrene, don’t…its okay.”
Syrene looked like a deer caught in headlights. “What’s going on Jared? I…didn’t hear you….how long have you been standing there?”
Jared smiled and sat on her bed, a few feet away from her chair. He reached down and picked up a crinkled piece of paper. Before he could open one edge, Syrene grabbed it from his hands. He tilted his head towards her but brushed it off. “Can we talk?”
Syrene put away the paper and nodded, turning her chair to face him. “Go ahead Jared.”
Jared reached forward and took both her small hands into hers. “I feel so…lost. Everything is so mixed up. As I try to make relations better in other lands our problems get worse; as I try to gain us allies, I alienate all others. I feel the pressure rising and yet in the midst of all of this I have this passionate burning love for this absolutely gorgeous woman…but I feel like I shouldn’t be happy, I feel wrong for loving you; for being granted this much pleasure in a life that should be miserable. All the pain that I inflicted on others … I feel as though I should get be suffering for it.”
Syrene stared into Jared’s troubled blue eyes, her tone rasp, “What are you saying Jared? Are you saying you don’t want to marry me anymore?”
Jared took in a short snort of air and looked away from Syrene. His eyes filled with tears as he tried desperately to hide them. “Maybe….no….I don’t know! What I know is that I love you as well as I love this kingdom. I want what is best for both but never can I shake the fact that it was by my hands that this world fell apart. I’m asking people to accept me as their king while it is their fathers that I indirectly murdered. How can I ask them for their respect? ”
Syrene took as deep breath and proceeded slowly. “Jared, I’m starting to believe that you are indeed blind. Syrene stood from her chair with the slightest of ease and placed herself in front of Jared. She fell to her knees and took Jared’s face between her two hands and looked him directly in the eyes. “I love you…my people love you. Jared, I understand better then anyone your fears but I also see the truth.” She kissed him gently on his lips and stood while taking his hands. “Follow me.”
Jared stood with much effort and slowly trailed behind Syrene. She walked towards her balcony that rested on the village side of the castle. She pulled back her white drapes and opened the large glass doors. The two walked onto the awning and stared out into the crowed marketplace. In awe, Jared watched as people stopped in their tracks and stared up, awaiting for their rulers to speak. Children screamed in happiness, women gasped and clapped and men cheered. Syrene couldn’t help the wide grin that enraptured her face. She turned to look at Jared and nodded towards him. “Is this the greeting for a king, whom his people hate, would grant him?” Jared, who was currently speechless, shrugged. Sighing, Syrene turned out to her citizens. “People of Laszlo; our ever so wise advisor is now the one on the opposite side of the table. He needs your help, as do I. You see, Jared has come to believe that he is not fit for the thrown of Laszlo…a thought that I understand not where it began. So, let me hear your opinion, my fair people, do you believe that Jared is fit for the thrown.”
Never before had a roar of cheering people echoed throughout Laszlo as loudly as it did on that fateful cold morning. Houses shook as others joined in, and for a moment, the sound resonated through the valleys and over the mountain tops, and reigned over all of Riana.
Syrene turned to stare upon Jared’s astonished face. She smirked in spite of herself and folded her hands neatly on her lap. “I ask you once more, Jared, son of Solithis; will you rule this land by my side?”
Jared smiled and turned to his beautiful fiancé. He tried to speak but the words he could not form. He gently embraced her in both his solid arms and kissed her passionately, for his fears had finally been subdued.
Thunder roared in the foreground, alerting all to the approaching storm. Their gathering diminished within seconds; mothers gathered up their children and returned to their humble abodes while gentlemen finished their shopping and said their goodbyes. Jared looked to the front entrance to the castle and noticed a hooded figure approaching the gates. The robed man glanced upwards towards the balcony and tipped his head towards the king; lighting flashed within his eyes. Jared’s face instantly lit up as he let a slight yelp escape his lips. Placing one hand on Syrene’s shoulder, he redirected her attention to the forthcoming visitor. Abandoning Syrene on the balcony, Jared hurried to the gate to let his long distant brother in to his world.
Ray’s journey had been a tough one, and his stories of the new world, a world called Earth, were filled with mystery and adventure. Ray spoke of the fresh and fertile lands of this new planet, and of its inhabitants. He told them of the worlds vast oceans which encompassed more then three fourths of the planet, compared to Riana’s which hardly filled but a sixth of the planet. Ray spoke of the mysteries of the ocean depths and the strange creatures that roamed the lands. Jared listened to his brothers stories, enthralled in the ideas of this new land. He listened to how his brother’s life had changed over the last six years for well over three hours. When he was finished, Ray rested his chin on his open palm and grinned towards his younger brother. “So tell me, Jared, what is this that I hear of you two getting married? Are the rumors true?”
Jared beamed indirectly under the interrogation. “I know not how you heard of this news on another world…”
“I have my connections still Jared and those few I shall never loose. I am sure that I know of things that you have yet to hear that has happened right under your very nose.”
Jared smiled sheepishly. “Well…it is true then my brother; I am to wed Syrene in a month’s time. I was hoping for you to make your grand appearance a lot sooner, but everyday my wishes were in vain. I…” Jared smiled a pearly white smile and glanced about the room, almost embarrassed of the question. “I was wondering one thing…if you would not mind and could spare the time that is.”
Ray grinned like a child with a secret. “Go ahead…no request from my blood relative is too much to ask.” “Well…it’s like this: you are probably my closest friend, not to mention the only family I link myself to. Would….would you do me the honor of serving as my best man for the wedding?”
Ray sat back on his wooden chair, resting it on its back two legs. “It would be my pleasure Jared. I mean, how often does my youngest brother get married?”
Jared’s smile widened and in his eyes Ray sensed relief. “Thank you, brother. You really don’t understand what this means to me…to us. Your help…all you have offered to help me and Syrene; it is all so much appreciated.”
Ray smiled sincerely at his brother. “I’ll do anything to help one relative that I love so much…Now speaking of relations…” Rays tone hardened as he tilted his chair upright, “have you heard any news on Father or Slade?”
Jared’s face once worriless, clouded like a night sky on the brink of a raging storm. “No, not a single peep has been reported of activity from the Voilans. Trust me Ray,” he added as he watched his brother fade into a disgruntled haze, “it concerns me when there are no problems.” Ray nodded in agreement but remained silent. “I have a continuous guard over any suspicious territory or for that matter people that have been linked with the Voilans. Father won’t pull the wool over my eyes, I guarantee you of that.”
As the two spoke, the door to the hallway spurred open and G’er moseyed in as if he, himself, was the ruler of the castle. He opened both chamber doors as the same time, glaring about like treachery was being plotted. The duo froze in mid sentence and stared at the intruder. As the sorcerers gaze fell upon Ray, he paused in his step. He bowed curtly towards Jared before he turned his attention to the storm god. “Forgive me sire, I knew not that you had company.” Though the words were directed at his king, the Metam’s stare never ventured from burning their hole through Rays eyes.
Jared’s tone held a slight annoyed over-draft. “What can I do for you G’er?” With a sneer, G’er turned back to his lord. “The council has convened and is awaiting your presence.” Jared smacked himself mentally: today was the first meeting to try to settle trade negations with the outside provinces. It would be a long and trying debate, for now it seemed that people were coming out of the woodwork to try to get a piece of the profits that five years ago they were so unwilling to help fund. Greed rotted each delegate’s core persona, Jared was sure of this; but in his heart he knew that Laszlo would cease to exist if they remained so withdrawn from the ever growing market of trade. Grinding his teeth, the young lord stood. “Ray,” he turned to his brother, whose stare was fixated on G’er, “you will have to excuse me. Duty and all you see…”
Ray turned his disgusted glaze to fall upon his brother. For a moment he remained speechless until the proverbial light bulb seemed to go off in his skull. A smile slowly tugged at his face, “I understand Jared completely, and of course you are busy. As a soon-to-be king would have no time to spare in mere small talk. If you don’t mind, though, I would find it pleasurable to sit in on your meeting and see what these knaves have to offer you.”
G’er raised his voice in protest, “Sire, this is merely matters of the court. There is no need for a…god… to attend such a minor negotiation…”
Ray jumped to his feet at an astonishing speed that it knocked his chair backwards. “I am speaking to your king not to you; keep your forked tongue behind those yellow teeth.”
G’er sneered at Ray but remained silent.
“Gentlemen…please; I need no discord between my advisors. We will see plenty of that coming from these next delegations.” Jared looked back towards Ray, “of course, brother, you are welcome in the meeting. I will greatly value any information you can offer.” Jared closed his eyes and smiled. He turned his head and slowly opened his eyes; a look of impending dread loomed within his hazy blue stare, “or for that matter, any relief from these maters.”
Ray smiled at Jared and approached his brother’s side. “Then shall we get on with it?’ He turned his attention towards G’er, “let us go.”
Stepping from his lord’s path, G’er followed in the footsteps of Jared and Ray, glaring down the pair the entire time with a look of loathing etched in stone across his long face.
As Jared entered the courtroom, the talking diminished and the delegates faced the lord who was indeed quite late. Silence became a deafening factor when Ray followed behind Jared. The brothers tried to hide their smirks, as they well knew that every delegate in that room had never once been graced by the presence of a god before. G’er entered last and closed the silver doors. Jared took his seat in the golden chair at the front of table, as G’er took the closest seat towards Jared’s right side. Ray scoffed at the sorcerer and leaned against the wall, becoming nothing more then a shadow in the wide court. Next to G’er sat Et’Posh, looking rather disgusted at the fact that the sorcerer had chosen to sit next to him.
The creature to the left of Et’Posh was a well known solider to all who lived in Laszlo; this creatures name was T’Mock. T’Mock was a Hypiata, a race that had originated in the lands past Sira. These creatures stood not much taller then humans, ranging from the females that were normally about five foot six to the alpha males that stood at a towering six foot nine. They all had royal blue eyes and almost all males had golden brown hair that reached their shoulders. Their muscle builds were phenomenal, normally being to life weight well past four times their size. Their skin was always a healthy olive brown, until they reached the end of their lives where the tone turned to a dark bronze. They were a knowledgeable people, who had been the original inhabitants of Riana. As new races came, the Hypiata strayed from contact and eventually found themselves bound by invisible boundaries in the kingdom of Sira. After the Great War, their king sent three soldiers to all kingdoms but Laszlo, for they still believed Jared was as evil as his father. T’Mock had ventured to Laszlo against his kings wishes, for he felt that with the growing civilization, someone needed to keep their eyes on Jared’s rule. With T’Mock came his younger brother G’Roth who was a skilled warrior. The duo feared nothing; neither war nor storm could hold the two back. Next to T’Mock sat his brother G'Roth.
Across from the two sat the vilest of all who attended the meeting; Rafu of Jui sat silently, his feet perched on top of the table. The young man held an arrogant gaze in his eyes and a snide look on his face. He yawned, as if thinking he could get the pair to begin the meeting by merely opening his mouth. He still held a remarkably strong grudge against Jared for the incident at the ball a year prior.
On the right of Rafu sat Kelope, a Koslov from the province west of Marcovia. If there was one person to be nominated for the title to insane, it would without a doubt be handed to Kelope. He came from a very sadistic war-mongering race of creatures that had just recently begun to populate Riana. He was a short man, only reaching five feet in height, yet had an oval shaped head, with an elongated torso which to most looked like a punching bag. His shoulders were pushed back behind his neck and his arms were as long as his body. He was covered head to toe in animal skins of all kinds and on his back was a magnificent sword of silver and gold. This creature’s eyes were a pitch black, except for two tiny red dots that clouded each center. Though he sat still, his head swayed back and forth slowly as if enchanted by an inaudible melody. Kelope had journeyed to the castle a few weeks back, and was the only delegate from his people to make contact with any race of Riana.
The last remaining delegate sat a seats length from Kelope and continued to give him baffled stares; as if he had never quite beheld a creature this odd looking. Nicodemus Dedrick sat proudly next to Jared, grinning like a wild cat. His long black hair was retained in dreadlocks that flowed over his shoulders and protruded everywhere. His green eyes sparkled like a madman; one would never know what he was to do next. His skin was a beautiful tanned brown from standing on the decks of his ship; laboring in the hot sun, Nicodemus’s muscles seemed to bulge from his shirt. He was dressed in a pair of cut off black material pants and a white button down shirt with a red vest. Smiling his unearthly smile capped with a few gold teeth Jared knew; Nicodemus was a pirate.
“Sire,” Et’Posh began after a long period of silence, “I would like to begin by stating that our profit margin has doubled itself in six months. The internal growth of Laszlo is amazing, to say the least. How much we need trade routes is hardly a question to ask at this time, for it is not a necessity.”
A commotion stirred about the other delegates as Rafu was the first to open his overly large mouth. “It may not be necessary for you but for others it is! We cannot find another source of coal more abundant then the one contained in Mount Wagner. To travel to the other side of Sira is madness; it doubles the time that it takes us to get there and back as compared to dealing with Laszlo. I refuse for my people to have to keep avoiding the easy roads of your province because you are not ready to produce the necessities to help other lands! You have been an annoyance, to say the least, since you took the thrown, I think it is time that you made up the errors!”
Jared turned his gaze towards Rafu and stared coldly. “Let us not get started on the discussion of not being willing to help other lands. Where was Jui when Solithis attacked? Under his right wing I suppose? Where was Jui when Laszlo lay in heaps of smoldering ashes? What about when we needed help to begin rebuilding? Jui was never here to help us in our times of need, what makes you think I will help you?”
Rafu jumped to his feet, anger surged through his veins. His face turned as red as the sun and his eyes began to bulge, “How dare you accuse Jui of being in league with Solithis when you, the very son of the dark lord sits here in front of us?”
Jared folded his hands neatly and stared Rafu down, “I sit here as lord of Laszlo; a ruler that has not once done harm to my citizens since I banished the last scoundrel that wished destruction on all of Riana. Let me tell you something about my father; you think your land was protected because you were in league with the sorcerer himself but he would have turned on you when he finished conquering Laszlo. I did you a favor by getting rid of him…I took care of the ingrate that dared to rip this world apart…”Jared’s stare hardened as he narrowed his eyes, “as I will anyone who threatens this city.”
Rafu took his seat, seething. He stared at the table with nothing more to say for the moment.
Jared waited a moment to let his temper fall back to its place. He would have rid the planet of Rafu a year ago if murder had been but an inch above the law. After exhaling a deep sigh, Jared started his speech. “I understand why all of you are here today. I know that Laszlo holds quantities of materials that are demanded around the world today. Whether it be coal, crops, wood, food or precious gems, I know not but make sure that this point is absolutely clear; We will not be stepped on, taken for granted or pulled along for the ride. All of you have come here, apparently expecting treaties to be drawn and to leave with some type of material and that is fine in itself. Yet if anyone here thinks that I am blind or stupid, you have another thing coming. I will not let Laszlo be threatened into treaties. Welcome to the new age gentlemen, the age of Laszlo!” Jared threw a quick disgruntled look towards Rafu, without wavering his hold on Rafu, he continued, “So for those of you who want to open trade routes, now is the time to let me hear your offer.”
For hours the delegations and trade agreements raged on for every province of Riana wanted something Laszlo, or the province of Ainede so preciously contained. Ray stood in his shadows; though speaking no words his presence was felt by every person in that room like a crushing weight. As the negotiations drew to a close weariness pulled at everyone’s eyes. Jared had been surprised by G’er’s quietness. Normally the foul mouthed sorcerer always had a snide comment or rude remark to throw into conversation. Yet throughout the meeting G’er had listened patiently and in silence. Often G’er would begin to rock in his seat ever so slightly, yet it was a rocking motion that Jared as well as Ray were able to pick up on.
Jared glanced towards his palace delegate and opened his mouth to speak when G’er stood suddenly, as if directed by an inaudible command, and bowed in Jared’s direction. “Sire, I grow tired of this incisive rambling. If you mind not, I shall take my leave and go about my other duties which remain unfulfilled in the castle.”
Jared, exhausted and stunned by the metam’s good behavior, flicked his wrist, dismissing the sorcerer. Burdened with his own thoughts, he hardly any more thought to the Metam’s strange behavior. As Jared watched G’er leave, wishing it was him who could escape from this clad metal cell, his eyes locked on with Rays’. He could read a disturbed emotion juggling about in Ray’s eyes but took no heed of it, for the god’s disgust with the sorcerer was well known. Smiling Jared swung his arm in the direction of the open seat on his side, “Come join us brother.”
Ray grinned from the corner and walked from the shadows. He took his seat and looked about the shocked faces of the delegates. Never before had a god join in on such an insignificant conversation such as simple trade delegations. Ray looked about the papers for a moment while silence loomed overhead. After a moment Ray turned his attention back to Jared. “These are all decent plans as well as fair exchanges and payments for the services. There is only one problem, who shall send the convoys?” Ray looked about the room at the others, smirking. “If it is you who wish for these items, then it will be you who sends the carrier. Expect us not to provide you these items as well as deliver them to your doorsteps.”
Anger flailed about the room, giving heed to arguments. Nicodemus was the first to speak up in anger. His plea directed solely at Jared, “Sire, my ships are constantly on the seas and we have no way to reach the inlet of Laszlo. I have no sea bearing people who know their way about the shores of these lands. To have a convoy meet us in Basi would be little trouble to ask, would it not?”
Jared’s eyes gleamed in protest but before he could speak, Rafu spoke in his place, “Hold your tongue knave, how dare you look to spoil the great lands of Basi with your pirate filth. To long have my people stood back and let you plunder our shores for what you could salvage. To believe that I would allow your ship to dock for one utter moment in my ports would be ludicrous.”
The pirate’s eyes grew dark as he slowly turned his chair to face the outspoken fool. “No one has plundered your shores in over a thousand years. The pirates that roam the seas now are merely merchants…we buy and trade our goods on the open market just as you do yours, savvy?”
Rafu’s face seemed to change its form; his eyes grew to mock the pirate that sat before him and his tone stuffed itself with arrogance, “no, I don’t savvy. I will never let your kind into my harbors…if you dare even try to step foot into them I shall have your ship destroyed!”
Nicodemus leaned forward in his chair, his hands now held each of the arms of the chair in a death grip that was straining the wood to a breaking point, “You spineless dog, how dare you threaten war on the Pirate population.”
Rafu’s temper rose as did his voice, “This ends now!” Rafu stood swiftly, as did Nicodemus, and pulled his sword from his sheath.
Nicodemus gleamed at Rafu with his wild eyes, sizing him up for the kill, “To long have your family dictated Jui under threats of terror and treason. I would kill you where you stand if your serpent’s acidic blood would not melt my silver. Aye, your not worth my effort.”
Rafu laughed coldly, his eyes glistening with a raging bloodlust, “How dare you speak to me, Steward of Jui, about treason while you and your seadogs kill innocent civilians.”
Nicodemus roared in anger, his face livid with rage. “We only plunder those who have attacked us first! You and your pitiful excuse of an infantry kill anyone who stands in your way, regardless of age or sex. At least my kind understands and even respects the wish of Parle! You just slaughter those who oppose you!”
Before either could get out another word, a bolt of lightning seemed to appear from the ceiling and scorched the floor between the two. Both seemed to freeze in their tracks and their faces twisted towards the god of storms that now stood angrily from his seat, blue fire rising in his eyes. “Sit down, the both you of!” Both men sat without another word fearing the wrath of this god. “Your personal tiffs are not needed here in this court!” His eyes flashed back to Jared, who nodded with respect towards Ray before he continued.
“Now, as i was saying, if there is a way for you to get your caravans to us, we shall grant you the items dictated by your contracts.” His eyes turned to the once more burning Rafu, “If Basi is the only port of call nearest to Laszlo, then so be it. Under the treaty of Basi, Nicodemus your ship can dock in Basi’s ports,” his eyes flashed to Rafu, “without repercussions of attack, for no more then two days in one months period to send a convey to Laszlo. Otherwise then for those two days you are to steer clear of Jui’s provinces under penalty of war. When you are docked, only you and your first man may leave the ship to get what is needed from the town.”
Both men seemed ready to object but the mix of both Jared and Ray’s stares seemed to make them think twice. Rafu was the first to speak, “if I get word that you are even within a mile of my coast, I shall see your ship to the bottom of the ocean. Is that clear?”
Nicodemus touched his rough hand to his brown beard, his eyes lost in thought. Finally he nodded firmly and grabbed the Treaty which had been drawn up by Jared. “Fine…but if I encounter any resistance on those two days that I wish to dock, a war will ensue that will leave your family running for the hills, savvy?”
Rafu nodded and glared at Jared. “If any of my citizens loose their lives to these pirate dogs, I shall hold you fully responsible!”
Jared smiled like the Cheshire cat, his eyes glowing in a raging anger, “then I guess you should tell your citizens not to intimidate the pirates, now shouldn’t you.”
Rafu scoffed at Jared and took a long deep breath and let it out through his teeth. Hastily he signed all the papers that sat in front of him then turned his attention back to Jared. “I have had enough of these games. To much of my time has already been wasted on your negotiations.” He stood firmly from his chair. He walked to the metal doors and paused for a moment, looking over his shoulder. “Jared, you should hope that your father never finds his way from that hell you locked him into.” Rafu’s mouth twisted itself into a sickly looking grin, “I would fear that he would be quite mad…and I would far to much enjoy the pleasure of watching him dismember your dead carcass…piece by piece.” All members of the delegation rose to their feet at the blatant threat as the Steward of Jui walked from the room.
After the door was closed, the rest of the delegates took their seats seemingly discouraged from the last act. Kelope was the first to speak from his chair, his eyes wielding an untamed fire, “mad that one is, may even destroy this whole world one day he might,” he laughed in a way that would send shivers up even Solithis’ back. “important he may yet be…alive he shall be kept.” The madman’s eyes seemed to focus onto Jared, “accept your proposal my people do….but warned you shall be… our caravan shall be unharmed with goods it will carry. Harm will come not to your people if harm come not to my men.”
Ray and Jared glanced at each other, the backwardness of this creature seemed to tug at their faces. Jared smiled at Kelope, “I appreciate your acceptance of my terms, and believe me when I say your caravan faces no danger from anyone in Laszlo.”
Kelope stood from his chair and began to waddle down the isle. He stopped by Ray and glazed into his eyes, “You are a god but who do you rule? Ruled by the people you are…will not help when he returns.”
Ray glazed down at the small creature that now was at the height of his broad chest. “When who returns?” Ray’s eyes seemed to glow in a curious light. “Who is coming?”
The Koslov smiled and shook his head. “know not you shall until it is…”the Koslov seemed to break from his sentence and stared out the window into the court yard. He stared at the beautiful flowers that had grown in the midst of all the wreckage and turns of time. He shook his head and looked at Ray, “…too late. And when to late it is, you must decide your final side.” The creature walked from the room following in the footsteps of Rafu.
Ray stood up anxiously and stared at Jared. “I’ll be back…” Ray took his leave from the room trying to chase down the small creature that had just uttered a very disturbing prophesy.
Jared looked upon the faces of the remaining delegates. “I hate to be a burden about these rules but there are certain countries that would rob Laszlo, or for that matter this entire province of Ainede, blind. I want to thank all of you for your time and your patience. If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know.” Jared bowed deeply to the last few as they stood and returned the gesture. As some filed out, T’Mock remained behind. He bowed once more the Jared and searched for the words he wished to speak.
“Sire…my people…they are not very akin to the idea of trading with the son of the devil, no offense is met on my behalf but I don’t wish to see you in a position where you need to perform negotiations with my home country. It would be in the best manor of the court if….” T’Mock looked to the floor and once more looked for the right words, “…if I were to work out of Laszlo for my people as a diplomat. That is, sire, if you would let me. I truly have come to admire your methods for ruling and believe I could learn a lot from you.”
Jared was taken back from T’Mock’s sudden proposal. The entire delegation the Hypiata and his brother had remained almost as quiet as G’er. The trustworthiness of the Hypiata had always been a well known fact to Jared for years yet to have one wish to learn from his still shocked him. Jared smiled and couldn’t help a small smirk, “gee, everyone wants to hop on board Jared’s wagon.”
“Sire?”
Jared looked at T’Mock and grinned wider, “its just that it seems everyone wants to become a part of this team.”
T’Mock looked towards his brother, who seemed to not be as apprehensive about the idea as his older brother was. “mik hach oucis. G’I ven towas.” His brother stared for a moment then bowed towards Jared and without a word walked from the room. Jared looked to T’Mock but said nothing. “I asked him to meet me outside, this is not a talk that I wish for him to overhear. Jared…”he blinked once and shook his head, “sire, i do not trust any of the other races. Rafu as well as Kelope both are as mad as the wildest Cugra. They might abide by their contracts until they decide there has to be an alteration. My people have had nothing but bad tidings with these people. I do not wish to see your reputation smothered by their past insolence.” T’Mock bowed his head and for the first time, Jared watched a smile tug at his face, “I…like…the way you dealt with that fool.”
Jared laughed loudly for the first time in a while. “I like your idea T’Mock and I would honored to have you on my team. If you wish, your brother can stay as well. I know the difficulty of parting with someone you care about.”
T’Mock seemed taken back at the idea and blinked his large eyes. “I…did not stop to think about my brother. I will, undoubtedly, be exiled by my people.” Noticing Jared’s awestruck look of horror, T’Mock quickly explained, “as you see sire, my people have always been a humble race….a race that does not believe in outside influences. To become a delegate for a country is a nobel task yet is looked upon as treason. It is a most complicated issue but basically I will still have the power of my government yet will not be allowed back into my kingdom due to the…changes if you would, that your people will undoubtedly bring about in my personality and traditional ways of life. My people wish not to change their ways which have been set in stone for thousands of years. They believe outsiders will force that unwanted change to become prevalent. So to keep our race pure, those who venture into other provinces for more then two moons are there and forever exiled from our home. It will be my brothers choice if you will allow him to stay to decide but my decision is final, I wish not to return to customs and traditions.”
Jared smiled and looked to the ground, “sounds to me like we have a mutineer. I have always said the only change besides for extinction that comes upon a culture is when people make the effort to change. Maybe this will become a trend.” Jared winked at T’Mock and gently hit him in the shoulder, “talk to your brother for he is most welcome in my palace.”
T’Mock bowed deeply to Jared and crossed his right arm across his chest, pounding on his heart, “my services are now yours sire. I will protect you with my life.”
Jared gently reached down and pulled T’Mock to his feet by his giant arm. “I don’t need another body guard but the thought is appreciated. What I do need is another friend. You will work next to me, not for me, got it?”
For a moment, Jared truly believed this massive giant was about to cry. T’Mock’s face scrunched up and his eyes brimmed with tears. “Never in my life has anyone showed me so much kindness…I will try to remember your kind words, thank you sire.” Jared began to smile but suddenly an overwhelming surge of power pulled at his heart. As if he was on fire yet freezing, Jared felt his knees give and caved in onto the floor face first. His body jolted once sending white hot pain up his spine. He felt as if he was being pulled in five different ways. The last thing he could remember was an acidic smell souring the air and the crackling of an unnatural lightning.
Ray caught up with Kelope outside in the main garden as the small creature was about to mount his mighty steed which stood twice the midgets height. Ray paused at the reigns of the horse and put his hand out. He gently ran his hand down the horse’s mane patting him gently on the head. His crystal blue eyes traveled to look upon the face of the small warrior. Ray bowed his head curtly and offered a hand. “My fine gentleman, a moment of your time please is all I request.” The warrior stared at the god’s mighty hand for a moment, as if afraid to touch it. After a moment, he firmly took the storm god’s grasp and jumped from his steeds back.
“Long time it took to get to that height. As I am sure you can tell, height is not my forte. For this intrusion the means better be good.”
Ray smiled and the two walked a few paces from his horse. “what you said in there…I need to know more. If you know anything about my father or his minions…it will benefit all. My father, as I hope you understand, is a very evil and very powerful man…his forthcoming could mean the end of all of Riana…not just Laszlo. Solithis will even turn on his allies when the task is finished. Think not that you are ever on his side, for there is no side…only death. I implore you, sir, tell me what you know.”
Kelope turned to look at Ray, his red pupils swam like stars in their black abyss. “Brave you are storm god to come after me. I am, though, unable to speak of more. I know of your father’s treacheries yet silent I must remain about he who is not named.”
Ray felt his eyes widen yet tried to remain calm. This creature knew more then he let on about a man who was more savage then Solithis and Slade put together. “if you know something…anything…it would be in your best interest to let me know.”
The small man crossed his arms and sighed loudly at the empty threat. “What I know you do as well…maybe not in your mind but in your heart. This day to come has been known. It is what they whisper in the dark corners and speak of in covered alleys. It is the what your brother fears of all things. Not to late is it to be stopped, yet if you wait the evil will find you.”
Ray clenched his fist and took a deep breath, he could feel his patience wearing thin. “For one moment can you please not speak in nonsense and tell me what is coming!”
“If you don’t know then why shall I tell you? If it comes you alone cannot stop it.” The creature let out a loud heckling laugh, “you could never stop it.”
Ray wanted noting more then to crack this madman’s head open on the nearest tree yet held a strong reserve for his violent wish and calmly asked again, “please Kelope, tell me what I don’t know. What is coming that I cannot stop?”
A small smile crept to the corners of the Koslov’s mouth, “mistaken I must be but I thought gods knew all. Stop looking with your eyes, thunder god. Look now with your heart…you know who awakens the demon. Once brought forth…this world will fall like the others. No more second chances…”
Ray closed his eyes and swallowed hard. Something that felt like rocks pounded at his heart as he realized what the creature meant. “In the name of Neitie,” Ray glanced at Kelope as the sense of impending doom lingered over his head, “…G’er…that little shit has been playing both sides. I knew he was no good…” Ray’s nose picked up the sent before he was thrown forward. A bright blue electric field surrounded the god hurling him to and fro like a rag doll. Ray fell forward into the dirt feet from Kelope’s horse and quickly hurled forward into a tree. Before slipping into unconsciousness, Ray glanced at the smirking Kelope who now loomed over the god with a grin that was filled with an untamed wildness.
“Too late you are my lord…to late you are.” With a running jump, the Wildman landed on his steeds back. The horse bucked widely, standing on its back to legs, Kelope let out one more insane laugh, “the dark lord has cometh.”
He had heard and obeyed his master’s call; it was time. G’er had been feeling an off balance of power that morning and by mid afternoon he was sure today would be the day his lord would return. He heard the echoing cry in the middle of the meeting telling him that it was indeed time to bring back the rightful heir. Yet there was more…much more then even G’er himself knew. Yet he followed his master’s wishes, for he would do anything to take down that arrogant imbecile from the thrown. For three years he had to answer to his enemy, pretending to give a damn about his rebuilding and about his petty love affaire with a girl six years younger then himself. Yet G’er had known that it would all be in vein for his father would return and destroy Jared’s pitiful excuse for a town to build a real city…a real world. The only unexpected interference was Ray’s sudden appearance. Solithis had told him not to worry; Ray was merely a bug to him. Yet as he left the conference room in his hurry, he could feel the Storm God’s eyes reading him, piercing through his soul. He told himself, over and over, that if Jared for one moment suspected anything…just one simple thing, he would have already been imprisoned.
He searched the draw with no avail…the bottle of hausaphat that Jared kept was always in his top dresser draw. It was the final ingredient to the spell and the only herb that did not grow on any planet in their galaxy. G’er, disguised as a badly dressed Jared, ripped through his draw in fury. His lord was waiting and this tiny vile of herbs was not about to beat him. Given to Jared by Solithis about twenty years prior, it was the only herb in all the universe that with one single pinch could open a vortex to any land. It was how Solithis began his reign of terror and it was how G’er would bring Solithis back from hell. Finally he felt his fingers grasp a small glass bottle and knew he had found it. Smiling, he withdrew the vile which contained the purple herb and tossed it into the air. He clapped his hands and whirled about in a circle, catching it with his right hand and pocketing it. Solithis would walk again. As G’er turned, standing in the doorway was Syrene. She leaned on the wooden frame seductively, her blonde mane glimmering in the sunlight. A small smile crawled to G’er’s face and he leaned against the bureau, maybe this was another added plus of being king for a day.
“My lord…” Syrene gave a quick bow and G’er fought the urge to look over his shoulders to see if Jared was in fact present. She danced her way about towards her husband to be…or at least who she thought was Jared. She grinned and wrapped her arms around G’er’s waist. “I heard that you really gave Rafu quite the verbal beating.” She laughed quietly, “and I heard that you did a great job in there. You are settling in really wonderfully Jared. I don’t think I could be prouder.”
The might king, afraid of a little responsibility, G’er almost laughed out loud. Was this true, he couldn’t wait to find out. How could it be that the son of such a might sorcerer had no idea how to run a country. Jared was weak, and now he had proof. This whole time Syrene had been his driving force, the one making him get out there and run the city. If the citizens only knew…G’er laughed out loud at the thought.
“What is it Jared?”
G’er paused and smiled once at Syrene. “Nothing, my dear.” He found himself putting emphasis on his words, almost like a grand actor. He laughed again, at the realization that right now he was Jared and could have anything he wanted…even Syrene. He reached out and wrapped a long arm around the princes and pulled her towards him. He brushed a stand of her golden hair from her eyes. “You are beautiful, you know that don’t you. You know how much I adore you.” G’er licked his slimy lips and gently brought a hand up to her sleeve. He gently slid it down her shoulder to reveal her milky white shoulder. G’er felt his smile widen in his expectations and felt the blood rush from his face. With his other hand he placed it on her stomach and gently ran it up over her chest to her neck. He could have his way with no problem and kill her, what a grand finale for Jared to find his princess raped and dead in his bed, with his father on the loose as well. He ran his hand through her blonde hair, tossing it over her head and he had watched Jared do time and again. With his right hand he began to remove her other sleeve, exposing her to his greedy eyes. Gently, he laid his lips upon hers.
“Sire...oh…my apologies…”
With a rage of anger, G’er turned his eyes to the door that Syrene had left open. Et’Posh stood with his back to the two, his head slightly lowered. “What, what could you possibly want…” G’er felt Syrene’s eyes begin to drill into the side of his head and he regained his composure. “I’m sorry…what can I do for…you….” His loathing could not be contained as his words seemed to seep from his mouth. Puzzled and probably insulted, Et’Posh turned to face the king. His eyes were cloudy, could it be he was about to make this might creature cry? “my lord…you have your next meeting at the village square. For the building of Ray’s temple…to worship to gods. You mustn’t forget about that one, it is the most important of the day. I would normally not have to remind you but that sniveling dog of a side kick that follows behind you is missing.” Et’Posh shook his head and anger swelled in his eyes, “I truly feel, sire, that he is up to no good. I get of you to get rid of him.”
G’er felt a fire begin to burn in his eyes. “how dare you speak to me of dogs. G’er had been loyal and trustworthy to me since the day he stepped foot into this palace. Speak out of line again, knave, and I will cut out your tongue.”
“Jared!” Jared turned quickly to look at Syrene, whose eyes were now filled with disgust. “How can you speak to someone that way? You have said it yourself that you do not trust G’er, how can you dare to threaten Et’Posh when he speaks the truth?” Syrene quickly pulled up the sleeves to her gown. “What is it with you today?” Syrene turned on her heels and marched out of the room, leaving the faint trace of her perfume lingering in the air.
G’er took one deep inhale and looked towards Jared’s personal guard. “I’ll meet up with you at the square. Leave me now!”
With a slight bow, out of respect no doubt, the Samki marched off fuming in anger.
G’er let out a deep breath and checked his pocket. The vile was still nestled firmly in his pants pocket. He licked his lips and grinned evilly. “Hey, there are always perks.” G’er walked from the room and down the hall and as he turned the corner, he morphed back to his natural filthy form. G’er could feel his body temperature rising, he knew that he was about to do could get him killed if the wrong person found out. He shook his head and entered his room and slammed the door. He could feel the beads of sweat dropping off his forehead. His room…his tiny cell like abode that Jared had so gracefully offered him …was brightly lit by ten black candles. In the middle was his golden mirror. The once so flawless glass was now a swirling black vortex. It reminded G’er of the storms in the Kirabisque, the bad lands of Riana: black, void and dangerous. In a circle around the mirror was dark red blood of a Guros, the rarest of creatures that loomed in the wild jungles of Cirse. It was blood that he had traded precious strategically devastating information about Laszlo’s armies for to a certain unnamed delegate. Now the spell was almost complete and Solithis was nearly free. G’er stared into the mirror, chanting quietly in an unknown language. “Oh madumas, ge’re confuious, hext garbaria!” He picked up a black candle and brought the flame to the blood. In a bright spark, a circle of fire enclosed the mirror and began to encircle G’er. Like a magic trick gone wrong, the flaming circle spread about the room, lighting everything on fire. The flames parted around G’er like the red sea around Moses, as he could smell the sour acid of the realm of the dead stinging at his nose. G’er reached into his pocket and withdrew the small vile that he had stolen from Jared’s dresser. The hausaphat herb was the final ingredient to the spell. Tossing a pinch at the vortex, G’er began to shout, “Bring forth the rightful heir…come from the dark lands my lord…come to what is truly yours!”
An arid strong gust of wind surged from the mirror, knocking G’er off his feet tossing him like a rag doll over his bed and into his dresser. Shaking his head G’er struggled to his feet only to be greeted by a worse effect. Like that of a Banshee, a screaming howl pierced through the vortex sending G’er to his knees groveling in pain. It was the screams of the dead…the screams of those who had been Solithis’s victims…those he conquered. G’er felt a warm substance at his fingertips that were firmly implanted in his ears. Withdrawing them, to his horror, he found fresh blood dripping at their tips. Slowly it flowed out of his ears and down his neck. Soon G’er could not tell the difference between the howling of the eternally damned then from the screams of agony echoing out of his own mouth.
The door to G’er’s room flew open so quickly that G’er thought for one moment Solithis had chosen another entrance. He felt a large hand ensnare his neck and rip him from his fetal position in the corner. Et’Posh pulled G’er’s face inches from his own, staring into the eyes of the coward. Fear and pain pulled at the sorcerers face knowing that if Solithis did not appear now, all was lost. The Samki stood tall apparently not affected by the howling of the damned. Et’Posh threw G’er against the closest door, holding him there by his throat. “You dare to call forth the demon that nearly destroyed this planet? Are you mad?” The Samki swiped his claw like hand at G’er’s neck and wiped off the spilt blood. “Is this what a good king does? Make those who help him suffer?” The Samki shook his head and clawed Solithis across the face ripping apart the sorcerer’s skin. “Demon, you will not live to see a fair trial! I should have killed you when I had the chance!” Quicker then light, Et’Posh pulled his saber from his sheath on the side of his hip. Dropping G’er to the ground he raised it high above his bald head. “You die now!”
G’er looked behind Et’Posh at the portal. For sure his master would never allow for this ingrate of a creature to claim victory over the one man who stood at the dark lords side. G’er, in a state of panic, stared at the Samki then transformed into a rat. He ran from the giant’s feet, burying his way into the wall. Et’Posh yelled in disgust once then followed in close pursuit to the now rodent form of G’er, trying to squash the life out of the sorcerer. G’er, blocked into the corner by the angry guard, transformed back to his natural form. If he had chosen any other form the spell could be disrupted and who knew where that would land his lord. G’er, facing no other escape, closed his eyes and prepared for the unavoidable death.
. A crackle of green lighting shot forth from the vortex and wrapped itself around the unsuspecting guard. Held in a catatonic state, the Samki’s feet lifted from the ground as he was a mere hostage in the grasp of the devil. A footstep echoed about like thunder in the tiny cabin as G’er slowly uncovered his eyes and turned back to face his masters forthcoming. From the portal stepped Solithis, clothed in brown robes; only a pair of red eyes shined from beneath the darkened hood like that of a hell beast. His white hand which was raised in the air imprisoning Et’Posh in the circle of green lightning was as thin as that of a skeleton; his fingers decayed at the tips, his skin like a cloth of bone…hell had taken a lot out of this sorcerer.
G’er rose to feet and dusted off his pants. He turned and bowed deeply to his master, “Sire…”tears welled in the corners of G’er’s eyes…his turn to rule was at hand. No longer would he stand plotting and loathing in the shadow of Jared. The time of hell had sprung itself upon Riana and the devil was to take his first victim. “This impudent…creature….” G’er threw a menacing smile towards Et’Posh, whose face was distorted with pain, “meant to kill you before the spell was complete. I think it only fair to end him with the same fait.”
The red eyes shifted from the creature in his grasp towards his loyal apprentice. The fowl smell of erosion began to poison the room as the devil spoke his toxic words, “I have not battled through hell and flame to be stopped by a mere Samki…no army can stop the work of Solithis. Let Jared cast down his troops to delay my forthcoming…tonight hell hath rapped on Jared’s door.”
With a flick of the skeleton hand, Et’Posh screamed in pain and was sent hurtling through the black vortex. Screams of agony escaped the black hole as it closed behind the footsteps of its master, claiming the end of the long life which had once been Et’Posh. Solithis turned back to face his servant and removed his hood. G’er winched in horror yet stood his ground. Solithis’s face was like a mask; its skin twisted about the bones of his face, his eye sockets empty of anything but a hellish glowing red. His skin was decayed, missing in some parts of his face and head. The scent of evil corroded the room and entwined its way into the hallway. The fire burned red in the devil’s eyes as he grinned a soulless smile, “let them know of my arrival….let them hear their father’s call!”
Green lightning exploded about the sorcerer and bolted out the door. Solithis smiled and turned to his fearful slave. “It is time…let us walk about this world in secrecy…the time of tribulation is at hand and no one shall be saved!”
In the Conference room, T’Mock stumbled to help his new lord stand to his feet. The disoriented Jared looked about the room as fear crept into his eyes. His words fell flat upon T’Mock’s stare. All Jared could manage was a quiet swear and an empty glare. Finally Jared composed himself; he could only imagine how he had looked two moments before hand. Stuttering, Jared glanced about the room. One thing misplaced or knocked over, that was all he asked for. “Let my fears hold no weight” Jared prayed over and over in his mind…but alas, everything was in its place. He had received a mental jolt…someone wanted him to know of their arrival. “Did you feel that?”
T’Mock bowed lowly and shook his head no. “I am sorry, my lord, but I felt nothing. You…sire…” taking a moment to find the right word, T’Mock’s mind swirled, “…flew…across this room. Are you okay?”
Fear pulled at Jared’s face as his eyes widened, “no…this cannot be possible….”his eyes turned out to the courtyard where he took notice to the crumpled form of his brother laying face down in the dirt. “No…no…no…this isn’t supposed to happen! Not yet…not now!” Jared turned to stare into the blank eyes of T’Mock, “summon your troops…Solithis has returned.” With that, Jared darted from the room running as fast as his legs would carry him to the courtyard.
As he left, G’Roth entered from the foyer of the opposing room. T’Mock’s face, twisted in horror and disbelief frightened his brother. G’Roth rushed to his side and placed one large hand on his shoulder. “Brother…did I hear Jared correctly….has the sorcerer of death truly returned?”
T’Mock remained silent and stared into the courtyard, his eyes trained on Ray’s crumpled body. “No mortal man could take down a god…it must be true….” T’Mock stared back at his brother, his eyes filled with horror as his words seemed to die on his lips. There was nothing more that could be said.
G’Roth stared down the hill towards the courtyard and then returned his glare towards his brother. After a moment to let the shock begin to settle, he spoke up. “What now T’Mock…” answering his own question, T’Mock’s frightened brother began to ramble, “we must return home to alert the government…we must tell our leader of this news…the world shall shift orders once again…we must prepare.”
T’Mock took a deep breath, his large torso shaking with anger. “You…G’Roth…you must rush at once to the king and tell him of this news. Get troops, anyone who is willing to fight, and send them here to Laszlo. We must help Jared and his people before the devil is allowed to go any further. We still have time but you must fly. Hurry, G’Roth, spread the news of this monsters return. Leave not one town unwarned!”
G’Roth nodded and saluted his brother; he rushed from the room yet paused in the doorway. Looking over his shoulder, the creature asked quietly, “and what of you my brother? What are you to do in this time of terror?”
T’Mock nodded slowly and spoke heavily, “I will stand by Jared’s side, as I pledged my life to do so. Now flee my brother, and return fast!”
G’Roth nodded and rushed from the room towards his horse. That was the last time T’Mock saw his brother alive.
Jared flew from the glass doors of the palace into the middle of the fresh green courtyard, his mind wheeling all possible scenarios. One name repeated itself over and over again in his mind; G’er. G’er’s odd behavior in the meeting, his sudden departure… why hadn’t Jared thought of this sooner. Reaching the form of his brother, Jared held his breath. No known form of magic could claim his brother’s life but a brutal beheading yet this was his father’s whose infinite wisdom was beyond the brother’s combined. Reaching out a shaking hand, Jared gently shook Ray’s shoulder.
With a loud groan, Ray shook Jared’s hand off and began to rise. The god shook his long hair and rubbed his bruised face. Lowering his hand, he stared dumbfound into the eyes of his brother, “Did you get the number of that truck that just kicked my ass?” Jared sighed and helped his brother to his feet. Jared could watch as the memory of the incident played itself over in Ray’s mind as a look of revulsion became transfixed on his pale face. Shaking his head, Ray stared at Jared. “It cannot be…Solithis is free?”
Jared nodded solemnly, knowing what was soon to come to the town. “I know it too…or should I say felt it. The acidic smell, the burning…G’er has freed Solithis from his prison.”
“That little bastard…I knew we should have killed him when he surfaced his serpents head in our kingdom!” Ray’s eyes turned black as night and stark yellow lightning began to flicker through his pupils. “If we find the marionette, then we find the master…we have to stop them before Solithis regains his strength. No doubt his journey through hell has weakened him.”
Jared nodded yet remained speechless. He had taken Solithis out of this dimension once before, almost by pure luck. There was no way that he could once again surprise his father with his vast knowledge of magic. Solithis would be weak, but he was not a fool. There would be guards…those whom had remained loyal to the sorcerer in the darkest spots in their minds. Those who had stood in the shadows for the past years and watched loathingly as Lazlo was rebuilt and once again became prosperous. Also, of course, there would be his third brother. Jared stared off into the sky as he felt his stomach twist in knots. Slowly, he muttered, “Slade.”
Ray snapped his head to stare at his brother. “What about him?”
“I’m sure father would bring Slade for the ride to protect him in his weakest state. He is yet another obstacle we must overcome.” Circles blurred Jared’s vision as time seemed to stand still. His mind was pacing much faster then words could flow from his mouth. The worst of all scenarios played through his mind slowly devouring Jared’s feelings of security, pride and above all else, sanity. Taking a very long deep breath, Jared closed his eyes and whispered, “Now we must plan…we must tell the people what has happened…and what is to come.”
Ray held up both hands defensively, his eyes returning to their calm brown. “Whoa there brother…I don’t think that is the greatest idea. You will not be able to find the sorcerer in a mass panic. If you tell these people that the devil who slaughtered them before is back, everyone is going to pack their bags and running for the next bus out of this dimension. It will become a mass hysteria and you will not find anything then. Planning…yes, planning is a good thing. Let us plan before we go any further.”
Jared stared blankly at his brother. “we can plan all we want…we can plan what to say to my people…but we must take swift action…Solithis shall seek vengeance for his years in imprisonment…so shall Slade. We have no time to plan for a battle. We are now already at war.”
Ray crossed his arms and sighed loudly. His brother was right but to rush head first into a battle was not a wise idea. “Jared, we must investigate other avenues of help. Send word to your neighboring cities. Tell them to send armies…to send reinforcements. We need as many warriors as we can muster. If Solithis is here for an invasion, then there shall be no stopping him.”
Jared’s eyes dropped towards the ground and he shook his head no. “they will not send help. We are the son’s of this madman…would you help us? No, no one will send us help. We are alone now.”
Ray scratched behind his ear and sighed loudly. “You do not possess the sheer number of citizens to make an army worthy of the battle that they shall endure. It will once again become a massacre.”
Jared threw his arms up into the air and screamed a blood curling yell. Staring back at Ray, anger surged in Jared’s expression, “then tell me brother, what am I to do? If I cannot form an army, we stand defenseless. If this kingdom is defenseless, it shall fall. If not to Solithis, then to Slade…if not to Slade then to Jui. One way or another, I need an army, and I need an army now! There is no time to waste on gathering my forces…we must take action immediately. If I do not alert my public to the arrival of our greatest rival then I am no better then the last king who failed them utterly!”
Ray’s eyes widened a little as he slowly nodded to Jared, his eyes breaking Jared from his speech.
Jared paused and sighed loudly. “What Ray, what do you have to say now?”
Ray grunted a low moan and tilted his chin towards the direction behind Jared.
Jared turned on his heels to find a speechless Syrene. A desperate feeling of falling overwhelmed the young king as he stared into the hateful eyes of his bride to be. How could he refer to her father as a failure? He had given his life for his people. Self hatred foamed at Jared’s mouth as his eyes dropped to the floor. Slowly and carefully, Jared struggled for words. “Syrene…I’m sorry…”
A repugnance feeling radiated off Syrene as anger surged in her purple eyes. “How dare you? Who do you think you are? My father saved his people from the wrath of Solithis…at least that is what he believed he was doing.” Tears pulled at her eyes as anger besieged her heart, “he gave his life to that cause…and you…you stood there whilst that monster of a father of yours took my fathers life as if he was no better then a dog. You dare to speak of my father in those terms…a man who failed his kingdom… shall we not look at your past as well? You are the son of a murderer…deception and ruthlessness is in your cold blood…” tears slowly streamed down her red cheeks. Her chest heaved in and out, increasing with each harsh word she spoke to her lover. Licking her lips, she tilted her head and wrapped her arms around her body, her hair standing on end. She blinked away the fresh tears and whispered harshly, “…how dare you?” Shaking her head, the young princess turned on her white heels and ran back towards the castle. Throwing open the main doors, she hurried her way inside never once looking back over her shoulder. In the courtyard, the words spoken by Syrene sunk into Jared like a bed of nails. Closing his eyes to compose himself, Jared tried desperately to control his emotions. As much as every bone in his body begged for him to run after Syrene…to make her understand that he was not putting down her father…that he loved her with all of his heart…he stood his ground and looked around.
After an awkward moment of silence, Ray cleared his throat and put a hand on Jared shoulder. “We should meet with the council…it shall be then that we decide what to do.”
Jared nodded and followed his brother coldly back into the palace.
(more to come)
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