The night sky made the city feel as if it were in slumber. The comforting silence of the twinkling void above helped Zeke calm his mind. He watched again at the city below as the lights illuminated the empty stone streets. It all felt as if it were frozen in time, waiting to be reset the moment the sun rose.
- a General, and it wouldn''t be long until he arrived.
Return To Source - III
Freezing - that''s how Farion described the streets of Farweyn in the night. It was as if a sudden snowstorm had swept through and left the cold in its wake, taking the snow along with it. Although it never snowed there; nor did it rain.
The sun came and went but shifts of weather never found itself upon the city and none dared venture beyond the gates under Alimar''s order to find out if it were different anywhere else.
The city was it''s own prison, self-sufficient, and condensed with overpopulation; an issue brought upon their leader who did nothing about it. He believed in Alimar at the time, thinking that there was nothing worth seeing beyond the golden gates, just pain and death but he was beginning to wonder - to doubt.
There had to be a reason why none were allowed to leave, the order became the first reason for the unrest within the population, the second being revenge. They had been told that they had to return to Sciolyn and he wanted to, but there was something Zeke and Alimar weren''t telling him.
He walked along a white-stone path, shivering as a cold breeze swept past him. He had his hands in the pockets of a golden waistcoat, where they would remain for the rest of the journey. His destination, however, was the Golden Star Inn where he intended to find someone willing to cause a ruckus.
He passed a cloaked elf who had a hood drawn far over his head, obscuring his face. Farion tried to stop and speak to him but the elf moved past, not acknowledging him for a moment.
What''s his problem?
Farion reached a reassuring hand over the hilt of his dagger strapped to the back of his belt and sighed. He had to be cautious just in case. Never in his long life had he ventured this deep in the city, a place that, as he looked around; gave a small sense of danger.
The rounded architecture was still prominent amongst the buildings but they all seemed unclean as if the prestige had been stripped from the very foundations and pissed all over. It left a bad taste in his mouth and he spat on the stone in disgust.
He continued on through the empty dark streets, scanning his surroundings warily. He could feel a shadow at his back, even under the beaming streetlights, he didn''t feel safe. He snapped around behind but there was nothing there - nobody.
I hate doing grunt work.
He sighed again and concluded he was simply being paranoid then continued marching on. Suddenly he was thrown into the outer wall of a building by his side. He slammed against it, feeling his skull tap the hard stone with a vibrating pain rippling through his head.
His immediate reaction was to hold his hand to his head, he felt the warm sticky sensation of blood but before he could recover he felt a hand grasp the collar of his waistcoat.
In a daze, he tried to make out who was holding him but he saw nothing but a hooded silhouette with the streetlight shining behind him. He had been caught by surprise, but he was a soldier and it wouldn''t happen again.
The figure''s weight had him held hard against the wall but Farion managed to slip a shaking hand behind and grasp the hilt of his dagger. With a seething rage, he pulled it from its sheath and slashed at the figure in one motion. The hooded elf took a step back into the glow of the streetlight, missing his blade by a hair.
With the weight now off of him and slightly recovered, he put himself into a combat stance. His left foot forward and to the side with his dagger held out in front of him in his left hand. The hooded figure merely looked at him without a discernable reaction then spoke.
"You don''t look to be from this part of the city," He said with a stern voice and gesturing at Farion''s attire, "What''s your business?"
"You always attack before asking questions?" Farion retorted.
"I had intended to before you slashed your blade at me."
Farion looked to the elf, holding his dagger firmly, "Perhaps you should consider walking away, I won''t show you this kind of mercy twice."
A laugh emitted from the shadow of the hood, "Not before you tell me why you''re here."
"Why do you care? As far as you know I''m simply going for a stroll."
"Nobody simply goes for a stroll in this part of the city," The elf paused and lifted his cloak to reveal a longsword, "I won''t ask again. Why are you here?"
Farion snorted, "You really think you stand a chance?"
"I do," He said and two more hooded figures emerged from the shadows by his side.
Farion wasn''t equipped to deal with three at once, not armorless at least. He continued to hold the dagger in front of him with a firm grasp but soon relented with a sigh and lowered it.
"Nobody from the upper city makes their way here," The hooded elf who stood in the light started, "You must have a good reason to be here."
"I have an old friend I''m meeting at the Golden Star," He lied.
"Nobody from the upper district has friends here and I''ve never seen you before."
Farion spread his arms, "So what then? You''re going to mug me?" Farion reached into his pocket and tossed a coin purse to the man in the light, "Here."
The hooded elf simply followed the sack as it was tossed through the air, landing just by his feet then gazed back at Farion.
"You''re here to join us, aren''t you? I see word has reached even beyond our district," The hooded elf said softly.
Farion raised an eyebrow and for a moment forgot what to say. He quickly nodded and let out a raspy, "yes."
"Why else would someone like you be here and playing coy with his answers."
Farion didn''t know what to say, though something about the elf''s tone came off as testing. Either he was bluffing or it had to be some sort of lucky coincidence, he decided to humor them.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.
He knew that the people were getting restless, but he''d never had guessed they''d come this far already. If he wasn''t lying then all he had to do now was play along and get on their good side.
"So is this it? Just you three?" Farion said sarcastically. He was surprised when all three nodded in response.
"Yes, it''s just us," The one in the light replied.
"And who exactly are you three?"
The three hooded elves looked to one another briefly but did not remove them, "I am Lief," The one in the light said, "To my left is Zon and to my right is Fyr."
"Alias''s I''m guessing. Call me Gwyn if that''s the case, but please," Farion gestured ahead, "Let''s go somewhere more... Quiet."
The three led him far from the main streets and through several sets of alleyways until they arrived at a cellar that was at the back of a tall house. The door creaked open and he followed them inside. It was a dirty cellar with nothing out of the ordinary, just racks upon racks of wine stacked along the walls with barrels in between. At the center of the room on the stone floor stood a simple wooden table and three chairs with a lone candle in the middle emitting a faint glow. The elf named Lief removed his hood to reveal a very young man beneath it. He had short chestnut brown hair and icy blue eyes. A faint stubble had begun to grow on his square jaw. The one called Fyr removed his own to reveal that he looked the exact same as Lief, he could only guess that they were twins. That left Zon, though he didn''t remove his hood. Zon simply gestured towards one of the chairs for Farion to sit and he obliged while Zon stood behind him with his arms folded. Lief and Fyr took seats opposite of him and watched Farion with curious eyes. He could tell that they had many questions to ask. He wasn''t going to tell them his true identity, he had a suspicion that they didn''t take kindly to soldiers, especially one as high ranking as he. "So," Farion started, "Give me the run down." He hadn''t heard of them and he needed to know what they were all about. Did their desires align with his own? Or was this some sort of criminal activity he''d gotten himself into. "This place," Lief started, "We know the truth. We know why Alimar hasn''t let anyone leave the city since we arrived." This piqued Farion''s curiosity, he raised an eyebrow and nodded for the elf to continue. Lief leaned in closer to Farion and spoke almost in a whisper, "We need to leave this place. Return to where we came from." "What did you learn?" Farion spoke low, trying to hide his intense curiosity. "There''s nothing," Fyr stated before Lief could respond. "Elaborate." "There''s simply nothing," Lief replied, "At the edge of plains, beyond the horizon, there''s nothing. Gwyn, we''re floating... The city - that''s all there is here." Farion didn''t even try to hide his surprise, though he was skeptical. He knew more than anyone that the walls were sturdy and nobody should have been able to breach them. With his men posted all across them, nobody could have been able to climb them unseen. Unless someone''s been slacking off. "You''re full of it," Farion murmured. Lief stared at him unflinchingly for a moment and then sighed, "I didn''t expect you to believe us so we''ll simply show you." "You''re joking, right? Not a chance we''ll be jumping the walls unseen." "We know," Zon said with a monotone voice. "So how then?" Farion shot back. Zon glanced at Lief expectedly, waiting for him to say something. Lief, without a word, rose from his seat and made his way across the dark room, outside of the candlelight, and stopped near a large wooden wine barrel by the wall. "First, you prove your loyalty, Gwyn," He declared and folded his arms. Farion shrugged, "What do you expect me to do?" "Tell us who you are." Farion hesitated as a sudden lump fell into his throat and he began to sweat. He was right where they wanted him and there was no way he could take them on by himself. He had to lie, there was no way they could possibly figure out who he really was and he couldn''t predict their reaction if they did. "Garweyn Lirion," He lied, "I''m a tailor in the upper district." All three elves stared at him for a moment. Eyes locked on his face in search of some tick that gave away the lie. Farion kept his face straight as butterflies fluttered within his stomach. He had to seal the lie with a deal, one only he could make to convince them. "I happen to have some connections with the blacksmith, a small favor he owes me for," He lied again, "Come tomorrow I will send a shipment of freshly sharpened weapons to your little hidey-hole here as proof of my loyalty." Fyr, who was still seated opposite of him suddenly drew a dagger and stabbed it into the table, startling Farion. "Swear it!" He said gesturing to the dagger. Farion knew what it meant - a blood seal. Proof of trust and promise; an age-old custom that still held to elven society to this day. He dreaded the cut that would be left behind but he fully intended to make well on his promise, it had been the plan right from the start. He grabbed the hilt firmly but hesitated and looked to Lief who was patiently waiting. "Before I make this promise, remind me. What are your plans with the weapons?" Lief stared into Farion''s eyes, "To forcibly remove Alimar from office. We''ve been waiting for far too long and the city is overpopulated! We can''t expand any further and we are on the edge of a void, of our own extinction," He paused and composed himself, "We know of the Wayfinder''s existence, only he can save us; not Alimar." Farion could tell from the elf''s words that his heart was full of resolve. He would have made a great soldier in his battalion and he almost regretted that he was practically sending them to their deaths. He knew they wouldn''t stand a chance against the men surrounding the castle. It would all be in vain but perhaps he was underestimating them. At the end of the day, they both wanted the same thing. No longer hesitating, Farion pulled the blade from the table and slit it across his left hand. Fyr did the same and the two elves firmly shook on it. The promise was no written in blood, there was no turning back. "If you break this blood promise," Lief said menacingly, "Then we''ll assume you''re a spy and kill you." Lief twisted the spigot at the front of the wine barrel and it opened like a door with a squeak. Farion had to admit, he''d never expected anyone to dig under the city. Then again, people were getting desperate. Fyr grabbed the candle and rose from his seat, Farion followed suit and made his way towards Lief with Zon at his back like a shadow. Through the wine barrel, there was a tunnel that stretched as far the eye could see, there was no light at the other end just a cold empty blackness. The tunnel was tall enough for them to walk and was solely made of dirt, yet their footsteps still echoed with a crunch. The claustrophobic space gave little room for Farion to feel comfortable, feeling confined as his shoulders grazed the loose dirt on the walls. They walked for what seemed like hours until they reached the other end and emerged into the cold breeze of the night. Farion spun to look back upon the city as it glowed like a golden beacon in the shadow of night. The castle with its great tall spires and white-gold stone reminded him of a lighthouse upon a rough sea of grass - it made him feel safe. "Come," Lief beckoned. He followed the elf across the long green grass until he saw it. He wouldn''t have ever believed it but as he gazed down into the nothingness below, his whole world shattered. Everything he had ever believed, his duty and loyalty to Alimar had suddenly be cast into the abyss he now found himself gazing in fear at. Further down below he could see other floating plains. Bits of land that looked like the one he found himself on. He snapped a glance at Lief, he looked back with a face that read ''I told you so''. "So it is true. Our return to Sciolyn... We have to make haste." Lief cocked his head towards his brother and Zon, "You make do on your promise and we''ll work on recruitment. It shouldn''t be hard considering the state of the city." Farion gazed again to the edge of the world, encapsulated in the beauty of the void. It was like a night sky with luminescent blue and green spirals scattered about, looking like an embroidery pattern upon linen. That was the moment he knew for absolute certain that they had to return. Alimars obsession with subtlety was causing their race to stagnate and fester in their own filth. Their desire for revenge was no longer the main cause of action, it fell second to the very survival of their kind. "You will get the weapons at dawn," Farion reassured, "The time has come."
The three led him far from the main streets and through several sets of alleyways until they arrived at a cellar that was at the back of a tall house. The door creaked open and he followed them inside. It was a dirty cellar with nothing out of the ordinary, just racks upon racks of wine stacked along the walls with barrels in between. At the center of the room on the stone floor stood a simple wooden table and three chairs with a lone candle in the middle emitting a faint glow. The elf named Lief removed his hood to reveal a very young man beneath it. He had short chestnut brown hair and icy blue eyes. A faint stubble had begun to grow on his square jaw. The one called Fyr removed his own to reveal that he looked the exact same as Lief, he could only guess that they were twins. That left Zon, though he didn''t remove his hood. Zon simply gestured towards one of the chairs for Farion to sit and he obliged while Zon stood behind him with his arms folded. Lief and Fyr took seats opposite of him and watched Farion with curious eyes. He could tell that they had many questions to ask. He wasn''t going to tell them his true identity, he had a suspicion that they didn''t take kindly to soldiers, especially one as high ranking as he. "So," Farion started, "Give me the run down." He hadn''t heard of them and he needed to know what they were all about. Did their desires align with his own? Or was this some sort of criminal activity he''d gotten himself into. "This place," Lief started, "We know the truth. We know why Alimar hasn''t let anyone leave the city since we arrived." This piqued Farion''s curiosity, he raised an eyebrow and nodded for the elf to continue. Lief leaned in closer to Farion and spoke almost in a whisper, "We need to leave this place. Return to where we came from." "What did you learn?" Farion spoke low, trying to hide his intense curiosity. "There''s nothing," Fyr stated before Lief could respond. "Elaborate." "There''s simply nothing," Lief replied, "At the edge of plains, beyond the horizon, there''s nothing. Gwyn, we''re floating... The city - that''s all there is here." Farion didn''t even try to hide his surprise, though he was skeptical. He knew more than anyone that the walls were sturdy and nobody should have been able to breach them. With his men posted all across them, nobody could have been able to climb them unseen. Unless someone''s been slacking off. "You''re full of it," Farion murmured. Lief stared at him unflinchingly for a moment and then sighed, "I didn''t expect you to believe us so we''ll simply show you." "You''re joking, right? Not a chance we''ll be jumping the walls unseen." "We know," Zon said with a monotone voice. "So how then?" Farion shot back. Zon glanced at Lief expectedly, waiting for him to say something. Lief, without a word, rose from his seat and made his way across the dark room, outside of the candlelight, and stopped near a large wooden wine barrel by the wall. "First, you prove your loyalty, Gwyn," He declared and folded his arms. Farion shrugged, "What do you expect me to do?" "Tell us who you are." Farion hesitated as a sudden lump fell into his throat and he began to sweat. He was right where they wanted him and there was no way he could take them on by himself. He had to lie, there was no way they could possibly figure out who he really was and he couldn''t predict their reaction if they did. "Garweyn Lirion," He lied, "I''m a tailor in the upper district." All three elves stared at him for a moment. Eyes locked on his face in search of some tick that gave away the lie. Farion kept his face straight as butterflies fluttered within his stomach. He had to seal the lie with a deal, one only he could make to convince them. "I happen to have some connections with the blacksmith, a small favor he owes me for," He lied again, "Come tomorrow I will send a shipment of freshly sharpened weapons to your little hidey-hole here as proof of my loyalty." Fyr, who was still seated opposite of him suddenly drew a dagger and stabbed it into the table, startling Farion. "Swear it!" He said gesturing to the dagger. Farion knew what it meant - a blood seal. Proof of trust and promise; an age-old custom that still held to elven society to this day. He dreaded the cut that would be left behind but he fully intended to make well on his promise, it had been the plan right from the start. He grabbed the hilt firmly but hesitated and looked to Lief who was patiently waiting. "Before I make this promise, remind me. What are your plans with the weapons?" Lief stared into Farion''s eyes, "To forcibly remove Alimar from office. We''ve been waiting for far too long and the city is overpopulated! We can''t expand any further and we are on the edge of a void, of our own extinction," He paused and composed himself, "We know of the Wayfinder''s existence, only he can save us; not Alimar." Farion could tell from the elf''s words that his heart was full of resolve. He would have made a great soldier in his battalion and he almost regretted that he was practically sending them to their deaths. He knew they wouldn''t stand a chance against the men surrounding the castle. It would all be in vain but perhaps he was underestimating them. At the end of the day, they both wanted the same thing. No longer hesitating, Farion pulled the blade from the table and slit it across his left hand. Fyr did the same and the two elves firmly shook on it. The promise was no written in blood, there was no turning back. "If you break this blood promise," Lief said menacingly, "Then we''ll assume you''re a spy and kill you." Lief twisted the spigot at the front of the wine barrel and it opened like a door with a squeak. Farion had to admit, he''d never expected anyone to dig under the city. Then again, people were getting desperate. Fyr grabbed the candle and rose from his seat, Farion followed suit and made his way towards Lief with Zon at his back like a shadow. Through the wine barrel, there was a tunnel that stretched as far the eye could see, there was no light at the other end just a cold empty blackness. The tunnel was tall enough for them to walk and was solely made of dirt, yet their footsteps still echoed with a crunch. The claustrophobic space gave little room for Farion to feel comfortable, feeling confined as his shoulders grazed the loose dirt on the walls. They walked for what seemed like hours until they reached the other end and emerged into the cold breeze of the night. Farion spun to look back upon the city as it glowed like a golden beacon in the shadow of night. The castle with its great tall spires and white-gold stone reminded him of a lighthouse upon a rough sea of grass - it made him feel safe. "Come," Lief beckoned. He followed the elf across the long green grass until he saw it. He wouldn''t have ever believed it but as he gazed down into the nothingness below, his whole world shattered. Everything he had ever believed, his duty and loyalty to Alimar had suddenly be cast into the abyss he now found himself gazing in fear at. Further down below he could see other floating plains. Bits of land that looked like the one he found himself on. He snapped a glance at Lief, he looked back with a face that read ''I told you so''. "So it is true. Our return to Sciolyn... We have to make haste." Lief cocked his head towards his brother and Zon, "You make do on your promise and we''ll work on recruitment. It shouldn''t be hard considering the state of the city." Farion gazed again to the edge of the world, encapsulated in the beauty of the void. It was like a night sky with luminescent blue and green spirals scattered about, looking like an embroidery pattern upon linen. That was the moment he knew for absolute certain that they had to return. Alimars obsession with subtlety was causing their race to stagnate and fester in their own filth. Their desire for revenge was no longer the main cause of action, it fell second to the very survival of their kind. "You will get the weapons at dawn," Farion reassured, "The time has come."
Return To Source - IV
The marble halls were empty as usual. The cold open air made them feel as if they were a tunnel in a void. Not even the reflection of daylight could warm the air around him. Farion shivered as he stepped along the hard floor, listening to his footsteps echo until they fell to nothing. Zeke''s quarters were only a few meters down the hall and he was beginning to feel anxious. Things were starting to happen and he''d gone too far to turn back now, he was in it for good.
Return To Source - V
A freezing breeze swept across the balcony Zeke stood on as he once again looked down upon the great city. His heart was thumping hard, repeatedly until his chest felt tight - He was nervous. Nervous for what he was about to do, to tell all the people of the great city the truth of it all. The truth within lies; the storm that would follow would not be fleeting, nor would it be silent. The people would come in droves to demand an answer from their king and when that happened, he would strike.
He glanced down at his shaking hand and clenched it tightly, hoping the shimmering feeling within would subside. Everything was coming to a head and they would finally make their way to Sciolyn. He was excited and nervous at the same time, however, he would not show it in front of his men. He had to be a leader - a warrior for them. They would never see even an inkling of weakness from him, not before they were all dead and gone.
He gazed upon the city and took a deep breath then looked at the palm of his hand.
Still shaking - dammit.
Suddenly there was a knock at his door. It startled him and he withdrew from the thoughts that lingered in his mind. He snapped a glance at the door and cleared his throat.
"Come in."
The door squeaked open to reveal Farion at the other side. The golden-haired elf stepped in, his chiseled jaw clenched and his silver eyes stared back at him; speaking on their own. They told him that he was ready and for the first time, Zeke could read that Farion wasn''t afraid.
Farion was now clad in the white-gold armor of their army. The shiny circular pauldrons that arched over his shoulders sat snugly in place and the bulky chest plate covered his usual slender form, making him look a lot larger than he really was. Zeke noticed that the tabard bearing the snake was missing. He guessed it was somehow symbolic of his new allegiance. Farion stepped through and the plated metal boots tapped loudly upon the marble floor with his steps, only stopping when he reached the rug.
Farion gripped the hilt of his sword that sat on his hip as he bowed to Zeke, "My lord, are you ready?"
Zeke stepped from the balcony and back inside his room, "I am. Have you mustered the men at the gates."
"I have," Farion nodded, "Though the men are quite confused at their orders. I have no doubt that will change once the announcement echoes throughout the city."
"Good, the sooner we get this done; the better. Go now to the gates and be there with your men to witness their reactions."
Farion bowed again, "As you wish my lord. The time has come for the emergence to begin."
Zeke saluted the general and he returned the gesture. As quickly as he entered, Farion left and Zeke was left alone again to return to the balcony and watch the city for the very last time. He decided he would do so in complete and utter silence and with a calm heart. As he stood, he looked into the horizon where distant spires stood proudly; Monuments to what they had built soon to be left at their backs as they disappeared back into their home. The sight of the sun looming at its zenith brought on a sense of peace, a calm before the storm and he let that overcome him as the hour flew on by.
The wind whistled as it blew his hair gently and he took a deep breath and clenched his fist. Using magic, he amplified his voice.
The time had come.
Attention people of Farweyn, the great city of white-gold. This is Zekhalin, son of Zanathar and Wayfinder. I speak to you now in regards to a great truth I''ve come to discover. A truth that will break the very foundations of this city and all of you who inhabit it. Your king; King Alimar, a veteran of the war of the crown and the man behind the construction of this great city. A man who is now no longer fit to be king. For thousands of years we have built this city, watched it grown and I''m sure every single one of you has wondered what lies beyond these walls.
I hate to disappoint you all... But what lies beyond is nothing. A great void of stars and colors; an endless chasm leading to nowhere. We are alone, drifting aimlessly in oblivion as your leader does nothing. He bides his time while we suffer from enormous population growth; a problem that has come to no longer be sustainable. People are dying and we''re out of room, I call for you all to make haste towards our great golden gates and watch as they finally fall to reveal what I say as truth.
Alimar has lied, we suffer for nothing. I call for a return to Sciolyn - A return to our home and I call for it now!
Soldiers! I order you to tear down those gates.
And like that, he had done it. He ended the announcement and took a deep breath then let out a beaming smile. Zeke knew at that moment he was Alimar''s number one enemy. He darted into and across his room to a dresser and pulled a dagger from one of the drawers. He studied the blade and ran his finger across it, smiling to himself then slipped it into his belt.
A sudden and exhilarating burst of adrenaline surged through him, he was determined to finish this and finally show Alimar who really deserved the title of king.
He stepped from his quarters with a spring in each stride and he looked ahead with a hard stare to the end of the marble hall where behind the elegantly patterned wooden door Alimar would be waiting for him and he was ready.
I''m done with holding back. I''m done with waiting. I''m ready to end this and begin something anew.
The rage and disbelief could be heard echoing throughout the city streets and the steps of hundreds of townsfolk began trampling towards the gate where just above - on the wall - Farion stood watching with a wide smirk upon his face. It had been done and he was absolutely ecstatic and couldn''t wait a moment longer to break open the gates and show them all the truth of Alimar''s lies. He glanced down to the soldiers that were posted by the gate and called them to attention. The soldiers looked up to him, waiting for his order. "Open the gates! Open them now!" He called. The soldiers nodded and began smashing at the large padlock wrapped in chains. The crowds began cascading down the street like the flow of a river. Some appeared enraged whereas some seemed confused or curious. At the end of it all, every single one of them would change to hatred and fear. It was for the good of them - for his people and it was a necessary change, he told himself that again and again. He was proud to be the one by Zeke''s side as they changed their world and soon to be the next one too. History would look upon him favorably as a loyal servant to the true king and a true leader who helped overthrow Alimar and subsequently lead the charge back into Sciolyn. Farion closed his eyes and listened to the jumbled hysterical conversations of the city folk - waiting for the crash and jingle of the lock falling to the stone road. He opened his eyes and there it was... With a loud crash, the lock dropped and the gates opened with a loud groan that drowned out the voices of the city folk. He turned and watched from the wall as they scattered amongst the open fields like runaway slaves searching for the truth. Once they learned that what Zeke said was true, they''d be scurrying to surround the castle in droves. It may have seemed like a plot to overthrow a king but Farion would rather think of it as liberation because that''s exactly what it was. "You!" A voice called from below the wall. Farion turned to see Lief standing staring up at him with both Fyr and Zon by his side. "Looks like you got what you wanted," Farion said with a smile. Lief didn''t return it however and continued to stare at him until finally, he spoke, "You did this, didn''t you?" Farion frowned, "I thought you''d be a little happier." "Oh, I am," He nodded, "Just didn''t expect a soldier - much less - a General of the army of Alimar to be behind it." "Let''s just say I saw things your way and leave it at that." There was a long pause and Farion was about to say goodbye before Lief spoke again. "There''s something I wanted to ask you," Lief said, avoiding Farion''s eyes. "What is it?" "Since we''re now likely serving Zekhalin, we wanted to join the fight in taking back our home."Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. Farion raised an eyebrow and held back a cackle as he looked at the three, but the look in their eyes told him they were serious. "You want to join us? Now isn''t the time, Lief," Farion cocked his head towards the outside of the wall, "Perhaps we should wait until later. There''s quite a lot going on." "Of course," Lief bowed, "But I expect to see you after this is over, I''ll hold you to that." Farion bowed back and returned his attention to the people as they disappeared behind the horizon. By now they''d likely have learned the truth and that meant it was time for him to make his way back to the castle. His men could handle it from here and he needed to back up Zeke if something went wrong. He pointed to a few soldiers that were loitering down by the gate and called out to them. "You, you, and you. You''re coming with me, we''re heading back to the castle." The men saluted, "Yessir."
The door creaked open loudly as Zeke stepped inside Alimar''s quarters. The room felt cold, like an aura of ice was floating around him and his face felt like stone. He gripped his dagger tight as his gaze fell on Alimar who once again, had his back to him. He stood there dressed in a golden waistcoat with black pants and he cocked his head at the sound of the door. He did not say a word for a moment and slowly turned to face the young elf. Zeke watched his eyes as they glanced at the dagger still held firmly in his hand and Alimar let out a weak smile. "So, you''ve betrayed me then?" He said casually as if the whole ordeal was a mere inconvenience. Alimar''s uncaring attitude irritated him and he could feel a trembling in his arms as rage began to boil within. "I''ve seen through your lies!" Zeke snapped, "You ride on the coattails of all great kings before you." "I saved our people," Alimar shot back, "We had nothing and look at what we''ve accomplished," He threw an arm out behind him, gesturing to the city that stood beyond the balcony. "All I see is stagnation, death, and suffering as we all wait for your call to leave this place. The city needs a king of action, one who will not waste time as their people suffer!" Alimar arched his eyebrows and frowned, "I had a plan! Biding time was the only way to gain enough force and power to ensure the least amount of lives lost at our return." "People are dying here anyway!" Zeke cried, "You imprisoned my sister to keep me in line while I did your dirty work. I followed you like you were my father and convinced myself that what you did to Taren was necessary. My every breath was for your cause until I realized that I should fight for what I believe in, my own cause, my way. You are nothing but a pretender standing in my shadow, I have more power and by right I should use it for myself." Alimar stood silent, letting his words sink in and Zeke watched as anger began to rise within him. His face turned red and his jaw locked up, in a split second he reached behind his back and drew a dagger. "Look at you," Alimar muttered, "A spoiled child with a power you never earned! It matters not if I kill you, I still have your sister and unlike you, I will make her obey." That was the last straw. Zeke felt the surge of magic flow through him with a flaming intensity that grew much stronger with his rage. He curled up a fist and pulled it behind him as if he were gearing up for a punch and pushed forward with his hand open, throwing a telekinetic blast of magic forward. The moment the blast left his hand, he dashed forward ready to plunge the dagger into his throat. Alimar blocked the attack leaning forward with his arms crossed but wasn''t prepared for the melee follow up. The best Alimar could do was stop the dagger with his left hand and Zeke saw Alimar watch with horror as the blade pierced through and spatters of blood spread across his face. Alimar threw Zeke off him with a shove and grabbed him with a magical grip, throwing Zeke up into the ceiling, holding him suspended in the air for a moment before slamming across the room and into the wall with a loud thud. He felt the breath leap right from his lungs but managed to drag himself back to his feet with a gasp. Zeke was painfully aware that Alimar had much more magical knowledge than him but he had something Alimar didn''t - teleportation - and he had full intentions of using that to his advantage. By the time Zeke made it to his feet, Alimar began throwing every bit of furniture his way with magic in a vicious frenzy of both rage and desperation. Zeke dodged by teleportation, disappearing and reappearing in flashes of blue light, gradually getting closer to his adversary as he continued to launch attack after attack, be it telekinesis or flame. Zeke had reached halfway across the room before Alimar stopped his frenzy, pausing only for a split second to charge up a fire blast. He hesitated to launch himself at Alimar in fear of being hit by the blast and it cost him an opportunity to strike. He ducked quickly under the fireball, feeling the molten flames singe the tips of his hair before continuing his advance. Alimar would never expect such a bold strategy of a straight advance, he was a cautious man, and Zeke was not; he was a man of action. Alimar knew he was getting too close and switched into a melee combat stance with his dagger held in front of him, ready for the blades to clash. Zeke tensed his arm and slammed the dagger forward as hard as he could but instead of the leathery feeling of splitting skin, there was only the hard clash of metal and a hiss as the blades slid across each other. Alimar followed the block up with a hard punch to the gut, Zeke coughed but returned with a sharp blow to the face with the pommel of his dagger. Alimar stepped back with a grunt and in a daze as he tried to recover from the blow, leaving himself wide open and Zeke went in with his dagger pressed forward, ready for the final blow but Alimar was baiting him. He suddenly kicked the dagger from Zeke''s hand and quickly followed up with another punch in the gut, then another. Zeke could have sworn he felt a rib crack on the last one and he fell to the cold marble floor breathless, coughing, and heaving in desperate attempts to catch his breath. "You see now, Zekhalin?" Alimar said with a sneer, " You''re too weak to be a leader." Zeke clenched his teeth, his words were like salt in the wound of his pride. He wouldn''t lose, he wouldn''t let this be the end. He had to suck up the pain and let it fuel him; let it be the source of his power. He no longer took orders from anyone and the only way he could be his own person was to cut out the leech that kept him suppressed. I won''t lose... I can''t lose. He hid his pain, deep down, and let it fuel his rage. He glanced to his left and saw his dagger lying on the marble floor and it was close enough to grab, he had an idea. In the blink of an eye, he launched himself towards the dagger, grabbing it tightly before Alimar could react and then teleported. Reappearing in the air above Alimar with the dagger held up behind his head and the tip pointing down, ready to stab. Alimar only managed to react and lookup for a moment before the blade pierced through his throat and out the back of his neck. Zeke pressed the dagger in as deep as the blade would allow him and when they fell to the floor, he only let go of the hilt when the blood began to spread across the white floors and Alimar''s gurgling stopped. When he let go, Zeke looked to his hands as they trembled uncontrollably. He glanced down at Alimar, the man''s eyes still wide as if the shock still hadn''t left him even when he took his last breath. He sat there beside him for a moment as he let the adrenaline wash away, only standing when he heard the loud crashing of metal footsteps quickly approaching the door. "Zekhali-" Farion cut himself off at the sight of Alimar''s corpse as he rushed through the door, "So, it''s done then." Alimar nodded, "It is," He paused for a moment, "Rally the men and settle the citizens, the time has come. We leave for Sciolyn in four hours." "What about him?" Farion pointed to Alimar. "I''ll take care of it. You have your orders!" Farion saluted, "Yessir," And marched from the room. Zeke waited until Farion''s steps faded away before he turned his attention back to Alimar''s corpse then grabbed the fabric of his coat and slowly dragged him to the balcony. Once he was set in place, Zeke clicked his fingers and a flame burst to life on the coat and he watched as the man he once followed slowly burned to ash, gone with the wind, and forever left with the city he built. A city that would someday be long forgotten, just like him. He watched as the ash was carried away in the wind and gazed into the sky and let the wind overcome him. He had done it, what he needed to do and for the first time in a long time he felt liberated, he felt whole. There was only one more thing left to do before he left for Sciolyn. He held his hand out and made a cross-motion with his index finger and a blue shining portal appeared in front of him. A few moments passed before both Taren and the human, Ren, emerged looking confused and bewildered then eventually enraged when their eyes fell upon him. "Alimar is dead," Zeke said without hesitation. Both Taren and Ren were tense, eyebrows arched, and ready to make an attack at any sudden movement he made. Taren''s expression softened and she stepped forward, much to Ren''s disapproval, "Does this mean you''ve changed your mind?" Zeke shook his head, "No, I haven''t. But Alimar is gone, he no longer controls us and this kingdom is ours and all of Sciolyn and beyond can be ours too," He reached his hand out towards her, "We can make things the way we want them to be. Please, I''m giving you one last chance to join me." She almost seemed tempted, furrowing her eyebrows as a glistening tear began to roll down her pale cheek and slowly reached her arm out. "Don''t listen to him," Ren called from behind her. "This does not concern you, human!" Zeke snapped. He watched in saddening silence as Taren''s hand slowly drifted back down to her side, tears flowing like rivers and she shook her head. "Why can''t you go peacefully? Why is your heart so full of hate?" She said, her soft voice quivering, "Let go! He''s gone now." In a fleeting sense of sadness he almost considered her words but reality soon took its place. He was a leader and the humans still hadn''t paid for what they''d done. He tried desperately to let go for the sake of her but he couldn''t. He knew she would come to understand in due time, she would submit to his cause. "It''s too late now," He said apologetically, "If you''re not with me, then you leave me with no choice." He raised his hand but Taren was quick to react. "Ren!" She called, and he placed his hand on her chest that followed with a bright beam, "Go now!" In an instant she held out her hand and did a crossing motion. He knew what it was and lunged at her in an attempt to stop her but he was too late. The portal opened and with a thrust of magic Taren threw Ren inside before turning her attention back to him. "Don''t you go!" Zeke shouted over the portals hum. He reached out and tried to grab her with magic but she resisted. He was surprised at her determination and he clenched his hand tighter as the grip around her strengthened. Her arms were held close to her sides but he was surprised to see her flick her wrist and open her hand and at that moment he knew what was coming next and if he were to block, it would risk her getting free. She had won. He braced and the next thing he knew, he was thrown across the room by an invisible force, losing his grip on her and slamming hard into the wall. When he came to, the last thing he saw was Taren looking back at him with a cold sadness in her eyes. He could see the finality on her face and that was when he knew she would never be coming back. She made her choice and the next time he''d see her, it would be on the battlefield. His heart sunk when he saw her step through the portal and disappear in the shining blue light, and for a moment he let himself weep privately. I''m so sorry. I can''t let go... The Emergence - I I''ve never felt so alive. Alive and powerful, the feelings that many crave. When he put the crown upon his head, the gems glowed a luminescent blue upon the coiling body of the golden snake. It fit snugly like it was forged specifically for him and the power that surged through his body was astronomical. Something far larger than he thought he could ever be capable of. Even without the entire six gems slotted in the grooves that sat between the body of the snake, two was enough for him to feel like he could do anything. He couldn''t even imagine what power he''d hold once the crown was completed. Zeke glazed his eyes over the lines of troops that gathered below the stairs of the castle, their armor glistening in the morning sun. They looked like statues with stone-hard expressions on their faces. Expressions that still held conviction and purpose, he could see it in their eyes. It was something they had been lacking for far too long. Rows upon rows of men and women who were ready to fight for their right to dominate the land they had once ruled. In front of the soldiers were the battlemages, warrior wizards who held a small amount of magical affinity. Enough to raze a town with a flick of a wrist but still nowhere near his level of power. They wore the white-gold armor of the soldiers but with a hooded cape wrapped around the pauldrons and carried daggers instead of broadswords. They were the lieutenant commanders of each platoon, capable of giving orders and fighting on the battlefield. Behind him stood Farion and the other generals who remained silent and waiting for his words before the emergence. The time that was dawning upon his people and that time was near. The rest of the townsfolk would stay behind, the elderly mostly. Most of the young would be conscripted into the armies and would fight for their land and with so many gone, the threat of over-population would subside for a time. Once the coming war had ended, they''d be transported to Sciolyn where a new age would begin. The return of the elves. He opened his arms wide and smiled, looking upon the marvelous grand army in total awe. It is time. "The time has come, my comrades. Where the men and women of Farweyn will emerge from the star-rifts in droves to take back what is ours and conquer the humans once again like our great ancestors once did. The White-Gold Dominion will break the rulers of Sciolyn to their knees and we will not conclude our campaign until they''re face down beneath our boots. We are strong and we are many; On this day they will taste the steel of our blades and we will soak the land in their own blood!" He paused and listened as a loud crunch of gauntlets slapped in salute and watched as it echoed across the courtyard, "Now witness the power of The White-Gold Dominion!" With his arms still spread open, he closed his eyes and felt the warmth of the gems pulsating in the crown as the magic flowed from them and to his head, then his arms. He felt like he''d ascended far beyond a mortal, he felt like a god. The warming surge within his arms made him feel as if he could lift anything - break anything - And the smile on his face didn''t cease. He balled his hands into fists and tensed his arms, letting the flow build up like the wall of a dam, and at a moment''s notice, he spread his hand wide and made a large cross-motion with his arms. When he opened his eyes, he watched a giant blue portal begin to open behind the soldiers. The entire castle and the city was engulfed in a great blue light as the doorway spread wider and wider. The sky had turned dark and a great wind suddenly appeared. He felt Farion come up beside him and Zeke placed a finger on the nape of his neck, amplifying his voice through magic. "Now turn!" Farion shouted. And with a loud metallic thump, the soldiers turned all at once; now gazing into the greatness that was his power. Zeke turned his head to Farion and smiled, this was it. The moment they''d all been waiting for and the anticipation within him spiraled out of control, coming to a point where he thought that maybe his heart would leap from his chest. The feeling of power was exhilarating and addictive, he needed more and he knew that soon he would get it. He just had to be patient. With a will to dominate, to overturn the world I will gain power and everyone will kneel before me; even Taren. I can no longer be controlled and I will bend and break anyone who ever tries again.
"I fucking hate mountains," Sylaina groaned as both she and Tycon trudged through shin-deep snow. "Y''know, I''m right there with you," Tycon replied between breaths. They had spent several days in the town before the mountains and each moment that passed they dreaded the coming journey; And here they were, trudging through deep snow as the howling winds wrapped themselves around the mountains leaving trails of light snowflakes in their wake. Tycon expected it to be cold but not this cold, having nothing on Winter''s Peak in terms of the frigid air. The snow reminded him of Ambre and the last time he''d seen her, his thought''s lingered on her for a long time and it kept the cold from getting to him. Warming his heart enough to barely notice his numbed gauntleted fingers and feet. Tycon walked ahead, taking the brunt of the harsh weather with Sylaina following close behind. Both of their arms locked within their armpits in a desperate attempt to bring back an inkling of feeling within their hands. He longed for their descent from the mountain and he could tell that she did too, the winding and warm tropical coast of the southern isles would be a far cry from the immense cold they now endured. He couldn''t wait for the warm sun to lick his skin, casting a feeling of relief upon his tired and frigid form. "I''m starting to regret coming back for you," Sylaina shouted over the wind. Not even the cold could freeze her charm and sarcasm. Tycon forced a laugh to emerge from his pale lips, "It''s not too late to turn back," He replied. "Not a chance," She smiled, "I like your company too much." "Even when I''m being dramatic?" He joked. "Especially." They paused as they made their way to the summit of the mountain trail. Tycon shielded his eyes with great effort against the strong wind as he emerged, trying to gaze upon the sands that lay on the other side but saw nothing. Nothing but a blinding snowstorm of white and the grey of the mountain rocks that lay ahead. He sighed to himself, knowing that there was still a long way to go. "So we''re doing all this because of something you saw in a dream?" Sylaina spoke over his shoulder, the warmth of her breath on his neck quickly falling to mist, "I know that I should believe you after what I saw in the forest but still. It seems to be little to go on." "Then why do you follow me?" Tycon asked continuing to descend from the summit. "Because I''ve seen enough to trust your word on all this. Remember what I said, I don''t think you''d go through that much trouble for a single gemstone. Plus, I don''t think this is something you can do on your own, and heck, maybe I''ll learn some ancient secrets left forgotten." "You''d be surprised what''s out there. The things I''ve seen and fought, you''d go insane at the sight of them."Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Sylaina was silent for a moment, "What things have you seen?" "You''ve seen the monsters, I know that. But when I went to retrieve another gemstone in the Zinlyn desert there was a creature in the tomb. It was there long before the return of monsters, it acted as a guardian. A creature of great strength, large with long blackened claws. Strong enough to tear a man in half in one light swipe. This place we''re meant to find, I''m guessing it''s another tomb." Sylaina''s expression sharpened, "You think so?" "There''s no other reason I can muster that explains why the place was lost for so long or why no one has bothered to enter in all these years. They''re either afraid or they never return once they enter." "Sounds ominous. I think we should be prepared, then. We can''t rush anything if it means we''ll have to fight something like that." Tycon agreed, "Sharpen your blades as much as possible, that things skin is hard to pierce, believe me." "Oh, I believe you," Sylaina nodded, "You''ve come through so far, I don''t see why else I''d doubt you now but a part of me doesn''t want to believe it. That things like this are real; That they once existed." "We can stop it," Tycon said with absolute conviction, "And we''ll find a way to locate Ren while we''re at it. I won''t abandon him." They were almost there, just single decent from the mountain and they''d achieve their goal. They continued to move slowly down the treacherous mountain, cautiously taking each step as it could be their last. One slip and they''d be sent plummeting down a great chasm into the valley below, left broken and preserved on the frozen rocks. Tycon took a glance down into the valley by their side, he couldn''t see the bottom through the sailing snow but he knew it was a long fall if one of them slipped. "Take my hand," He said to Sylaina, reaching his arm out towards her. He felt her frigid hand grasp his own and they interlocked fingers as they continued down the mountain. They only made it three steps before Tycon heard a crunch and a crack, he gazed up above and saw it. The loose snow that was capped over the grey rocks was coming loose on top of them. The wind was too strong and he didn''t have time to turn back before it would fall. "Shit," He swore, "Sylaina, brace!" He locked his legs onto the ground below him and put himself in a slight crouch, tensing all of his strength on his calves. He lowered his head and waited, grasping Sylaina''s hand tightly, though he could barely feel her hand on his frozen fingers. He held on for dear life if she fell then he wouldn''t be able to live with himself. He had friends now and he couldn''t lose another. The weight fell on him like a heavy wet blanket, feeling the cold envelop them both in the hard powdery snow. The force almost caused him to lose his stance, hitting him hard enough to dig himself deeper into the dirt that lay beneath. He heard a muffled cry beyond the snow and he clenched his hand but couldn''t feel Sylaina''s. Oh, no! His heart suddenly leapt to his throat and he felt his stomach turn. He dug into the snow frantically looking for her but each time he reached, he grabbed onto nothing. His heart began racing like a thumping drum in his chest and his arms moved without thought as he dug. It wasn''t long before he elt the chill of the frigid air seep into the hole he dug and he knew he was getting close. Above the howling wind, he heard Sylaina''s heavy breathing and the crunch of falling rocks. He pulled himself from the snow pile and saw her frantically holding onto the jagged rocks that sat on the cliff edge, her face red from cold and fear. She clung for as long as she could as she hung from the cliffside, her feet dangling at the abyss of the valley below. "Hang on!" Tycon cried, "I''m coming." "Please... Hurry!" He rushed over to her and grabbed her arm firmly, there wasn''t a chance that he was going to let her fall. Luckily for him, she was slender and light, even with all the gear she carried. Although so was he and it was still a challenge to pull her up. She let go of the rocks and grasped his coated arm with both hands and Tycon pressed his knees and pulled her up slowly and he sighed in relief. He hadn''t realized it but he was sweating and as quickly as the droplets came, they all but froze on his skin that left an intense coldness on certain parts of his face. He fell back onto the mound of snow and Sylaina fell on top of him, breathing heavily, the mist from each breath disappearing quickly in wind. He wrapped his arms around her and held her tight, taking a short moment to rest and warm up as much as they could. In any other circumstance, he''d have blushed but the close call left nothing but an intense relief within him. "I thought caravans came through here," She said when they let go. "I think we may have taken a wrong turn," Tycon replied after the tension began to dissipate. Sylaina rose to her feet and brushed some snow from her shoulder, shifting her gaze to the trail ahead that lead down the mountain. She looked back at Tycon and offered her hand which he graciously took. "We better get off this thing before we both end up at the bottom of the valley." Tycon nodded, "I couldn''t agree more." The climb down was just as treacherous as the journey to the peak and both elves took extra caution with their descent. The long way down was filled with more chilled winds and treacherous snow and when Tycon''s boots finally hit solid ground, he sighed in relief and smiled knowing that the hardest part of the trip had been conquered. The sun was setting behind the horizon by the time they made it down and he took a moment to gaze at the distant tropical beaches and ocean ahead. The view reminded him of Selenicar and the beautiful sunsets he''d seen there. The echoing sound of seagulls and the chirping of crickets all but consumed him and he was surprised at the sudden change of environment. It almost felt as if the journey across the mountain was some kind of fever dream. His soaked clothes and still frosted hair reminded him that it wasn''t. They decided to set up camp some distance from the base of the mountain and by some palm trees, hoping to escape the frigid air and dry their clothes. Tycon collected some twigs and sticks while Sylaina tried her best to get the flint dry to make a spark. He could hear her swearing to herself as he worked and let himself laugh loud enough for her to hear. He watched her turn with a frustrated scowl but he didn''t let his smile falter and soon she relented and smiled back. They were close to their goal, although, Tycon still questioned what exactly they were looking for. He had a feeling that if anything strange was to happen there, then he''d be confident that they''d be close to whatever they were supposed to find. He reached into his pocket and studied the gem, letting the blue shine take him over once again as he gazed at the moving spirals within. Whatever they were here to find, it had to have something to do with the gems. Why else would the woman point him this way? When Sylaina finally managed to get the fire going, Tycon began to strip off his damp clothes, oblivious to Sylaina who frowned and looked away. He didn''t see it as anything weird, but a necessity. There wasn''t a chance he was going to remain in his frozen and soaked clothes. "Do you really have to do that in front of me?" Sylaina said, turning her head away from him. Even in the firelight, he could tell she was blushing. "If you want to get warm and dry, I think you should do the same." "Not a chance," She blurted immediately, the stubbornness in her voice was incredibly strong. Tycon rolled his eyes, he knew what she was thinking, "If you keep them on, you''ll get frostbite and I don''t want to have to saw your arms or legs off." She hesitated and shivered, shifting her eyes from Tycon to the fire and back again, then with a sigh she relented, "Fine," She said, "Just... Look away, okay?" "Of course," He obliged. Once he was done stripping to his briefs and had placed his clothes by the fire, he sat and gazed towards the ocean, and then the stars as darkness crept upon them. He heard Sylaina struggling with her clothes beside him as he let the beaming warmth of the fire wash away the cold from his feet and chest. "How long do you think it''ll be before we reach the nearest town?" Tycon asked, turning to face her. His jaw locked up and his eyes widened as he saw Sylaina, who was practically nude staring back at him with a fiery rage in her eyes. He tried his best not to look at her exposed breasts that were quickly hidden by her thin pale arms. He didn''t know what to say so he said nothing and quickly shifted his gaze back towards the ocean. "I-I''m sorry, I forgo-" "Quiet! You perv," She snapped and Tycon locked his jaw again. He waited for the moment to pass before asking his question a second time. "How long before we reach the nearest town?" "I saw some torches in the distance," She replied, now calm, "I''d estimate about half a day. What exactly do we look for once we get there?" "I don''t know," He admitted, "I guess we''ll have to wait and see." He wondered if he''d see the woman in his dreams again, in fact, he hoped for it. He needed something - another clue as to what they''re looking for. He silently begged that she''d appear because he was beginning to worry that they''d waste too much time and get nowhere. And he didn''t have any time to waste. Not anymore. A sinking feeling followed him, something was about to happen. Could Sylaina feel it too? Was it an elven thing? He went to look to her but hesitated. Choosing instead to look at the stars to clear his head of the clouded fog of thoughts that lingered. Actions would speak louder and he needed to complete his objective. The fate of the world was at stake. Hang in there, Ren. The Emergence - II "Damn, this place is beautiful," Sylaina said as both she and Tycon entered the village. Of course, they were met with the curious stares that he had gotten many times before. From the moment they stepped into the small seaside village, he could feel their eyes on him, unwaveringly watching their every move as if they expected them to cause some sort of trouble. The village was charming, having small huts scattered across the sandy trails that led through. Most of the huts were made from palm leaves and bamboo, it was something Tycon found simplistic in a good way. They were far from the dark and dank city streets he had seen most of his life, and the dirty farming villages he''d traveled through. Despite the heavy stench of fish and salt, the place felt rather clean and unpolluted, like everything was done naturally in this part of Sciolyn. The disease of industry had not yet made its way to the quaint village and he hoped it wouldn''t ever. The serene beauty of the seaside was something to be cherished, despite the odd things that lay beneath the surface. They were now directly on the southern coast of Sciolyn and further south - in the ocean - were the isles. Large islands of mostly sand and stone. He could see them in the distance from the center of the village, just beyond the fishing dock. That was likely their destination but he knew it wouldn''t be that simple. Who knows how much time they''d spend simply searching for anything of significance. He knew that they would be spending a whole lot of time scouring the sea around the coastline of the isles. He figured that maybe they could get some leads or learn something from the locals but so far they''d been hesitant to even approach the two elves. Maybe it was the way they were dressed? The villagers seemed to only trade with the town beyond the mountain for goods that couldn''t be found within the sea and they were mostly human. Maybe it''s some sort of culture shock. The villagers were mostly dressed in simple cloth leggings and shirts, likely crafted from certain leaves that grew in the area. Tycon didn''t know much about the looming process but he could take a wild guess that it took a long time to craft a shirt. Most of the men in the village seemed to not know what a shirt was, but who could blame them? Their sun-kissed skin was perfect for the sun and ocean; when you spend a lot of time in the water farming oysters and clams, who needs a shirt? Like everywhere in Sciolyn, the village, of course, had a tavern, though this one was built from different materials. Mostly built out of wood from an oak with a stone foundation, the building certainly stood out from the identical bamboo huts that were scattered around. He wondered what the story was behind the construction of the tavern and why here of all places. The building looked slightly waterlogged and showed the whithering after-effects of seaside decay and when he stepped up onto the verandah, he could see the trails upon trails of sand all across the deck and leading inside the building. The atmosphere within was a lot more vibrant than the gloom he experienced on the way in. The large wooden room smelt of tobacco and alcohol with the odd mix of piss to go with it. Tycon wrinkled his nose at the sudden stench and in the corner of his eye, he could see Sylaina do the same. The people inside didn''t look like the villagers he had passed on the way in. Most of them were armed with blades and were dressed in gambesons and leather armor. They looked like both he and Sylaina - mercenaries. Not a single villager was inside the tavern and Tycon felt an odd feeling growing within him but quickly chose to ignore it and instead approached the barkeep who was drying a mug with a not so clean cloth. The large man glanced up as they approached, scratching his thick dark mustache as he greeted them. "What will it be?" The man asked, his hearty booming voice still barely managing to drown out the conversations in the background. "Information," Tycon simply replied. The man sighed and continued drying the mug, speaking as he did, "You''re not the first to come through here asking for information," He said, "Let me guess, you''re looking for something?" Both Tycon and Sylaina leaned on the bar, interested in what the man had to say, "Indeed we are looking for something," Tycon said. He shook his head, "I ain''t got much to tell you two, only what I told them," He gestured to two men who were seated in the far back corner. Tycon could see their stares on them both and they looked like trouble. "What did you tell them?" Tycon asked. "Well, you see. They paid for their information, so..." The man coughed and held out his hand. Tycon glanced back at the two men and then to the barkeep and sighed, reluctantly pulling his coin purse from his pack. "How much?" Sylaina asked. The man stared at the pouch Tycon held and he was obviously trying to hide a smile, "That''ll do." "What, the whole thing?" Tycon could barely contain his outrage. "That''s not going to happen," Sylaina sneered, "You give a fair price and we''ll happily pay it," "No pay, no information," The man shrugged. Tycon clicked his sword slightly from its scabbard, "Listen here, friend," He spat, "I''ll be giving you fifty uons for the information, no more. Unless you''d like to come out the back and be tonight''s meat special." "What''s going on here," A stern male voice said from behind. Tycon and Sylaina turned to see it was one of the men who had been sitting at the back earlier. He was tall and had a muscular frame. Stubble had begun to grow on his gaunt square chin, it ran all the way up his small face and met with the sideburns of his short brown hair. His blue eyes were menacing and Tycon could tell from his expression that he was obviously bothered by the commotion. "Nothing," The barkeep said, "Just a little bit of haggling." "It looked more like you were threatening him," He said to Tycon, pointing to his sword that he still had a firm grip on. "He was practically trying to rob us," Tycon argued, "A whole sack of coin for some information that''s likely useless anyway." The muscular man turned back to the barkeep, "Really? Again? I''ve been here for two weeks and this is easily the fourth time I''ve seen you do this. I guess you''ve been bumping it up for each traveler to come through here," He sighed, "Look, you better be careful who you try to swindle, barkeep. Or your boss will mysteriously find out you''ve been collecting a large sum of coin on the side without his knowledge. We wouldn''t want that, would we?" "Y-yeah, of course not, here," The barkeep began to pour four drinks before setting them down on the bar, "On the house, take it as an apology." Tycon reached into the coin purse and tossed a handful of coins onto the bar, "Take this as my apology." "The information you''re looking for," The barkeep said, "It''s about a mysterious blue light that has been cast over the mountains in the isles. There are several travelers here that are looking for its source, no luck so far." Tycon looked around, the tavern was practically full with nobody but what looked like mercenaries. He wondered if they had the same dreams he did and if they were all there on a common purpose. He didn''t see why else all these travelers and mercs would be there. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. "So you''re here looking for the same thing we all are," The muscular man said and extended his hand, "The name is Daenor, you two wouldn''t be interested in teaming up would you?" "No, we''re not," Tycon said. Daenor gestured to his friend who still sat in the corner eyeing them, "Well how about you two have a drink with us and see if you change your mind?" His friend seemed watchful and just by his expression alone, Tycon could tell that he thought they were trouble. He had no intention of sitting with them, time was short and what they were after wasn''t something they could share or something he was willing to share. Tycon went to decline when Sylaina spoke first. "We''d be happy to join you," She said politely, giving Tycon a look that suggested he should go along with it. What is she playing at? "Come along then," Daenor smiled. Tycon leaned into Sylaina as they made their way to the table with Daenor''s back to them, "What are you doing?" He whispered. "We might be able to learn more about what''s going on here." "I doubt it." "Let''s just see," She whispered, her tone sharp as a dagger, "We might even get some allies out of this," "I''m not here to make friends, Sylaina," He replied. "We sure-as-shit need some if whatever we''re looking for has a guardian like the one you spoke of in Meliora." He hadn''t thought of that. The one objective of getting the gem had clouded his thoughts until they became linear. A line of thinking that could lead one to their deaths. He looked at Sylaina and appreciated her presence and clear mind, something that - lately - he was unable to grasp. He kept telling himself that the gem would somehow help him find Ren but he knew deep down it was wishful thinking, something to keep him moving; another purpose when saving the world felt pointless. He knew that maybe he''d have to accept that he was gone but he couldn''t. There had to be a way. He kept himself silent as he followed Daenor towards the table where his friend sat. The silence felt awkward and the man''s stare across the table - even with all the noise around them - gave a sense of foreboding. Daenor took a seat next to his friend, sitting across from both Tycon and Sylaina. He took a moment to observe the man before him. He was a thin man and looked rather tall, even when sitting. Shaggy brown hair hung just above his eyebrows and his hazel eyes locked with Tycon''s for a moment as he observed. Tycon quickly shot a glance at the table to avoid the man''s gaze. His face was small and clean-shaven, with a jaw that was shapely and well defined. Tycon guessed the man was at least in his early twenties and the lack of any facial scars told him two things; He was either very good or not very experienced. His question was answered when he noticed the crossbow that was resting on the man''s leg by the side of the chair, he didn''t fight up close. "This is Valin," Daenor said, slapping his hand on the other man''s shoulder. Tycon saw him wince at the contact. "W-well met," Valin replied and extended his hand to Tycon, which he shook and then to Sylaina who accepted the handshake aswell. The way the man spoke caught Tycon off guard. He had figured that Valin was the strong quiet type, but after hearing him speak, he was no longer inclined to believe it. He seemed uncomfortable, not on guard. It made him wonder what Daenor''s relationship with him was, they seemed like polar opposites. "So what exactly brings you here?" Tycon asked. Daenor hesitated for a moment then took a sip of beer from his mug, "You''re not gonna believe this but... It was a dream." Sylaina and Tycon both looked at one another, "A dream?" Sylaina said. Daenor nodded, "I know it sounds insane but it was Lucid as if I were really there. Normally I''d have palmed it off as something crazy my mind conjured up but something about it felt so real," He paused for another large sip, "You''re here aren''t you? Tell me, did you have the same dream as all the others I''ve asked?" Tycon hesitated but it was obvious by Daenor''s intense expression that he already knew the answer, so he told him the truth. "I did have the same dream. A young elf standing by the river dressed in a light white dress, who only spoke in with vague directions and predictions." Daenor nodded, "Yeah, the exact same dream beat for beat," He paused for another sip and let out a satisfied sigh, "Now, let''s get to business. You told me that you''re not interested in teaming up but I have to ask, Do you have a boat?" Both Sylaina and Tycon looked to one another and then back to Daenor and shook their heads. "Then how exactly do you plan on getting to the Isles?" Daenor asked with a hint of condescension in his tone. Tycon locked his jaw and bit his tongue, trying his best to dismiss the mans tone before answering him, "I had planned on hiring a boat." "What? The feeble fishing boats from the village? You''ve got to be kidding me. You take that thing two miles out and the choppy waves will have you capsized within the minute." "And you''ve got something better?" Tycon replied, trying to match the condescending tone Daenor had prior. To Tycon''s surprise, Daenor nodded enthusiastically, "Yeah, I have my ship anchored just around the island behind the trees. I''m surprised you didn''t see it on the way in." Daenor was right, he was surprised and he wondered why his ship would be docked around the coast behind the trees instead of at the fishing dock that lay only a hundred meters from the tavern. It raised some red flags but he decided to give the man the benefit of the doubt. Tycon glanced again at Valin, who hadn''t spoken once since he introduced himself and they locked eyes for a moment. He tried to read them but his expression was blank, he could see nothing within them, no hint of any emotion whatsoever. His body language was still what Tycon perceived as uncomfortable. "Well Daenor," Tycon said slamming the mug onto the table signaling the finality of the conversation, "I''ll think about your offer but I want to let you know now that it''s likely we''ll come aboard," He extended his hand to the man. Daenor quickly burst from his seat and clasped Tycon''s hand with a firm grip and shook it with a broad smile spread across his stubbled gaunt cheeks. "Return to me here in the morning with your answer, I''ll see you then."
The cool coastal wind flowed through the old bedroom window of the Inn, bringing with it the pleasant salty smell of the coast and to Tycon''s surprise and delight, no stench of fish was carried along with it. The room was about what he expected, small and simple with a single bed that he suggested both he and Sylaina share, although She insisted they have separate rooms despite the extra cost. After some debate, he finally compromised with sleeping on the floor if it made her feel better. He glanced down at the old rug that would soon be his bed and sighed. The fabric looked as if it had been clawed at by some animal with strands of the fabric protruding upwards and flickering with the wind that flowed through. He guessed it was rats. Sylaina sat by the window across form him, leaning back lazily in a small splintered chair with her feet on the window sill, staring into the sunset that had begun to peak through the window and into the room. "Is it just me it did something seem off with that Valin guy?" She said turning her head slightly in his direction, "He barely spoke." "If I recall, you barely spoke too, but you''re right. Something did seem off." Sylaina chuckled, "I figured I''d let you do the talking. You''re a lot better at that than I am, I''d probably just piss him off." "Yeah you''re right about that too," Tycon replied. "Hey, you weren''t supposed to agree," She said playfully, shaking her head. Tycon grinned, "But then I''d be lying." The two laughed then let the moment settle before the conversation returned back to the matter at hand. "Do you trust Daenor?" Sylaina asked. "No, I don''t," Tycon replied, "But I''m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt and I''d rather be on a ship than a rickety boat." "We don''t have much of a choice do we." Tycon sat on the side of the bed and began cleaning the blade of his sword, "I didn''t see any other ships on the way in. Then again I didn''t see his ship on the way in either." "And there were a lot of mercenaries in the Tavern," Sylaina added, "Do you think there are more ships docked along the coast outside the village?" "Possibly," He said as he caressed the old cloth along the pommel, "But I''m willing to bet some of them were his crew." "Once we get there, we''re gonna need those numbers against whatever we find. Better to be safe than sorry." "Hopefully they put up a good fight," Tycon said, sheathing his sword. He looked at her across the room. Sylaina had let her brown hair loose as she sat back staring into the sunset horizon, the strands blowing and coiling in the breeze, exposing her small pointy ears. He felt guilty looking at her, but he had to admit she was beautiful. He remembered their brief and awkward kiss back in the forest and a large wave of embarrassment washed over him. Maybe in that moment intimacy was something he needed and a kiss wouldn''t have hurt, but he always returned his thoughts to Ambre. Maybe he finally needed to accept that their statuses in the world around them didn''t coincide. Maybe they really weren''t meant for each other. Let her go. "Why are you staring at me like that?" Sylaina said sternly, pulling Tycon from his thoughts. "I wasn''t staring at anything," He replied. "I can feel your eyes on me and can see you in my peripheral," She shook her head, "Something on your mind." "No, nothing. I was just thinking, maybe we should let loose for the night. Go downstairs to the tavern and have a good time. We''ve been on the road for a long time and we''re about to head out into the isles. I think we should have some R&R." "Sounds like a lot was on your mind," She joked, "And I can never say no to a few beers." "And I can never say no to a glass of wine," He replied. "I don''t think you''re gonna find wine in this shithole." "No," Tycon laughed, "I don''t think I will. Beer will have to do." The Emergence - III Tycon''s head throbbed like the beat of a drum as he woke on the rug he''d passed out on the night before. He fluttered his eyes open to see Sylaina staring out the window to his right, she hadn''t noticed that he was awake. She stared with her palm in her hand, out into the distant sea where the volcanoes loomed on the horizon like blemishes in the earth. He was glad she had come along with him, he was grateful for everything his friends had done in the name of saving the world. He''d come so far since Selenicar, since his first encounter with the gems and as he watched the faint wind blow her brown ponytailed hair, he tried desperately to stop himself from climbing to his feet and hugging her as tight as he could. The overwhelming and sudden urge took him by surprise as if a reminder of everything they''d been through had swept over him like a tidal wave. Even with his throbbing head, he couldn''t help but find his mind lost in those thoughts. The face of Balin flashed within his mind as well as Ren''s and... Ambre. He missed them all. Tycon slowly climbed to his feet and Sylaina turned to face him with a smile, "Tycon," She said, "It''s almost time to get to the shi-" He grabbed her by the vest that sat snugly over her blouse and pulled her towards him, his body moving on its own as if it yearned for the warmth of hers. He embraced her tightly, a part of him not wanting to let go and it was clear she was taken aback but she soon fell into it. "What''s this?" She said softly between bated breaths, "I - I don''t know what to say." "Thank you," Tycon replied warmly, "For coming this far with me, even after everything. All the blood and pain, I just want you to know that I appreciate it." He could hear her let out a smile, "Are you sure you''re not still drunk?" "I''m being serious and... I''m sober." She sighed and rested her head on his chest, "Well since we''re being honest, I don''t know what compelled me to follow you," Her voice was tender, "The goal of saving the world? The desire for adventure? I''m not sure but all that matters is that I''m glad I followed you." They let go and for a moment they locked eyes, he could only imagine how scruffy he looked in her point of view, but then again; They both did. Her large emerald eyes studied him as he studied her and he looked to her lips then back again, the nostrils of her small freckled nose flared as she began to breathe heavily, clearly flustered by the sudden embrace. Tycon pretended not to notice. "We''re about to take a huge risk going out there," Tycon began as the mood died down, "I wanna ask again if you''re sure you wanna do this?" Sylaina put her hands on her hips and leaned on one leg, "You really think I''m gonna follow you over a huge fuckin'' mountain and nearly fall to my death, just to chicken out now? C''mon Tycon, of course, I wanna do this." "Okay," He said, "But don''t look at me if everything goes to shit." Sylaina rolled her eyes, "I''ve heard that before." They both began to gear up for the coming voyage out into the volcanic isles of the south. He pulled on his tattered coat and checked his blade by running his finger across it. the action had become routine and if his finger wasn''t bleeding by the end then it wasn''t sharp enough. As he watched the crimson liquid emerge from his finger, he slipped the blade back into its scabbard and began strapping on his leather gauntlets. The gauntlets slid on his hands snugly and he buckled the straps over the bracers to keep the armor on tight. In the corner of his eye, he could see Sylaina doing the same. The time had come to venture forth. Tycon double-checked his daggers were strapped to his waist and without another moment''s hesitation, the two elves left.
Daenor was waiting in the tavern for them on his own. Tycon glanced around but couldn''t see Valin anywhere, he assumed he was on the ship. The tavern was all but empty, he could only hear the clanging of glasses as they were cleaned. There was no music and no conversation. "Hello my friends," Daenor waved as they approached. "Hey," Tycon replied bluntly, "How''s the ship? Is it ready to go?" Daenor nodded, "I''ve got Valin and the boys on the ship prepping for sail now. If you would follow me, I''ll take you to where we''re anchored." "Lead on," Tycon gestured his hand to the door. The village was almost as quiet as the tavern, not many villagers were wandering the sandy trails and he only saw one or two down by the small fishing dock. It was still early in the morning, the sun had only just presented itself over the mountain so he figured most were still asleep, though the quietness was still unsettling. They followed Daenor from the tavern and down the sandy trails heading east towards the lush jungle that stood just beyond the borders of the village opposite the mountain they''d come from. Tycon was beginning to get tired of forests or anything like them. He''d spent too much time recently among trees and he was just beginning to get used to the coastal scenery. Daenor led them into the dense jungle and they followed foot-made trails through the greenery and eventually over a small creek. The air was hot and the distant sounds of exotic birds made him feel a lot farther from civilization than he was. Tycon kept his hand over the pommel of his sword in case Daenor was leading them into some sort of trap, even if it seemed like he was paranoid. Just as the darkness of the trees overhead began to reach their peak, they soon found the jungle getting thinner and through the trees, Tycon could see the brightly lit sand in the morning sun just ahead of them. He let his grip over his sword falter for a moment, at least until he noticed anything else suspicious. Once they reached the beach and his eyes had adjusted to the bright reflective sand, he noticed the large silhouette of a Brigantine ship out on the water, swaying with the movement of the waves. Daenor turned to them, moving backward with a proud grin on his face. "This is the Wavesplitter," He declared, "The fastest ship in the south." "It''s very impressive," Sylaina said politely. Tycon admittedly agreed, "Indeed it is." Daenor, who was satisfied with their comments, turned back and began walking towards a small rowboat that was beached nearby with Valin standing beside it, waving them over. Tycon glanced at Sylaina who gave him an approving nod in return and they both followed the man to the rowboat. Once they were on board, Valin began rowing and Tycon realized it was going to take a while before they arrived at the ship. They slowly moved against the force of the waves and none of them could escape the spray, he could taste the salt as the water collided against his lips. The wind began to pick up the further they made it out to sea which only made the seaspray worse, Tycon was convinced they''d be soaked by the time they reached the ship.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. "So what do you do? You a pirate?" Sylaina asked, her soft voice barely being able to be heard over the sea and wind. Daenor cackled at the question and shook his head, "No, mostly cargo transport but I do loot any pirates we sink. They''re an annoying bunch." "You run into pirates often?" Tycon asked. "Quite often, that''s why I''ve got the ship equipped with some of the best defense cannons in the region, though we try to avoid conflict when possible. You never know when some bastard will get a lucky shot and sink your damn ship." Tycon nodded slowly, "So if you transport cargo, why are you out here treasure hunting?" Daenor paused for a moment, "If there''s money to be made and I''m close by, you''re sure-as-shit gonna find me making it." Tycon knew that Daenor would inevitably betray him for the treasure. With a whole crew at his back and just the two of them, it made sense that he''d want it all for himself, maybe not entirely out of greed but simply because he could and because he had the means to. Maybe he was wrong though, perhaps he was honorable and would split the reward, only time would tell. Once they arrived at the ship, a couple of crewmen dropped down some ropes for Valin to tie to the boat. Tycon took the other rope and tied it onto the back of the rowboat and Valin thanked him quietly. He couldn''t help but wonder what was up with him, he really seemed out of it. The four of them were raised onto the deck and Tycon got a good chance to admire the beauty of the ship from up close. The deck felt strong and firm, even when waterlogged by the sea. He watched as the crewman worked, preparing the black sails for the upcoming voyage to the ashen isles. Before he got a chance to truly study every aspect he was beckoned to follow Daenor to the quarter deck where once he arrived, he turned with an even larger grin than before. "Just you wait til you see her in action, she glides through the water like it were butter." "How long do you think the voyage will take?" Tycon asked, refraining to comment about the ship. Draenor''s grin quickly disappeared and he walked over to the railing that faced the distant isles, "I''d say around two or three hours give or take. It depends on the strength of the wind." He paused raised his head to the sky as if taking in the salty air then he turned back to them, "Come, I''ll show you below deck so you can get comfortable, we set sail in five." Again the two elves followed Daenor down to the main deck where he opened a large trap door with stairs that led below deck. Once they got down Tycon''s stomach turned and he heard Sylaina let out a short gasp. He scanned his eyes across the room and his mouth fell agape. Strewn across the room were animal cages but within them, he saw men and women, naked and frail; too weak to even pick themselves up from the floor. Their skin had shrunken and withered, wrapping tightly around their bones, it became obvious they hadn''t been fed in weeks. A spark of rage became an ember in his chest and he clenched his jaw tight as his hand wrapped around the grip of his blade seemingly on its own. Tycon turned to face Daenor who had four other men at his back with their weapons brandished. The chilling smiles of the men made the anger swell faster with each second that passed. He glanced at Sylaina who had her blade out, her eyebrows arched, and her posture stiff with anger. "What the fuck is this?" Tycon hissed. "Business," Daenor replied with a shrug, "Gotta make money somehow." Sylaina pointed her blade to Daenor, "So you''re a slaver? Human scum." "I prefer businessman but sure, I''m a slaver and I hear elves go for a good price these days," He focused his gaze on Sylaina, "Especially the female ones." "You touch her and I''ll feed you to the sharks." Daenor smiled menacingly and his sword hissed from its scabbard, "We''ll see about that." Two of the men charged at Tycon and he didn''t hesitate to react, he raised his sword in front of him and blocked both their incoming strikes, pushing one away with a sharp kick so he could turn his attention on the other. The second man came in for a follow-up attack but Tycon quickly slashed his blade across the man''s chest, spattering his face in blood. By the time he was done, the other crewman recovered and was coming in for another attack, Tycon lunged aside from the incoming blade in a roll, dodging it. He noticed chained shackles sitting by the wall and quickly grabbed them, immediately tossing them in the man''s direction, hitting him. He followed it up with a quick strike across the neck, almost severing the head. Sylaina seemed to be taking care of herself with one man already lying across the floor facedown in a pool of blood and in battle with the other. Tycon quickly began making his way to Daenor who had dropped his weapon and began to flee up the stairs. Tycon dropped his sword and chased after Daenor, grabbing him before he could make it to the top and throwing him down onto the deck below, landing with a loud thud just in time to be spattered with his last crewman''s blood. Sylaina pointed her sword at him as he scurried on his back towards a nearby cage, "D-don''t kill me," He whimpered, "I needed the money. I have debts." Tycon walked to where he sat pathetically and crouched over him, peering into his eyes, "Oh, no. I''m not going to kill you, you''re going to take us to the isles. Try anything funny and you''ll be shark food quicker than you can say... Help," His final word a whisper. Suddenly the door creaked behind them, Tycon shot a look over his shoulder to see a pair of boots descending the stairs until it revealed Valin, holding a crossbow. The man''s eyes widened at the sight of the crewman that were spread across the now-crimson wooden floor. His gaze scanned the room until it settled on the shaking and whimpering Daenor at the foot of a cage. "Master?" He said softly. "Valin," Daenor cried, "K-kill them." "Shut it," Sylaina spat and gave him a swift kick. Tycon grabbed his sword off the floor but when Valin didn''t react to his movement, he kept still. He was a slave and Tycon didn''t want to kill him if he didn''t have to. Valin''s face fell blank and unpredictable, there was no way of telling exactly how he felt. He simply stared at Daenor with empty eyes. "I gave you a command," Daenor shouted, "Kill the-" He was interrupted by another kick by Sylaina. Tycon waited for Valin''s next move, he slowly danced closer to the man to get within killing distance of him should he decide to turn on them. If he shot his crossbow at either of them, he''d be dead before he could see where the bolt hit. For the first time, Tycon saw a smile creep onto Valin''s lips, it almost seemed as if a new life had sparked within him. Valin squeezed the grip of the crossbow and shook his head. "No, I''m not going to kill them... Only you." In a split second, Valin raised the crossbow and fired a bolt that landed directly into Daenor''s throat, ending any chance he had to beg for mercy. "Great," Sylaina said sarcastically, "Who''s going to take us to the isles now?" "I will," Valin replied, his voice suddenly strong, "This is my ship now, if the rest of the crew don''t agree then they''re welcome to leave once we dock," He pointed to Daenor, "The keys are on his body, free the slaves and get them fed. By the time this is over, I''ll have a new crew free of slavery." "Why didn''t you kill him sooner?" Tycon asked. "You don''t know what it''s like to be a slave do you?" His tone was sharp, "This life was my whole world, I''ve been in it for eighteen years... since I was three. Following orders was my pride, getting them right made sure I wasn''t whipped at night," He paused and looked at the lifeless body of Daenor, "I''m supposed to be loyal but when I... Saw him, lying there like that, so pathetic and weak, something awakened within me. I think this is the first time I''ve truly felt conscious and to consciously make a decision for what''s right, the feeling is indescribable. So there''s your answer, as long as it is." "I''m sorry," Tycon said, "I don''t know what it''s like. I didn''t mean to offend you and thank you for not killing us." "Forget it, he was scum. Luring the treasure seekers into a trap and selling them into slavery, his death was an ironic and fitting one. I''ll take you to and from the isles but first I need to attend to the people here. The voyage will be delayed for a short while." "We can wait," Sylaina said, "If you need any help we''ll be happy to oblige." "Indeed," Tycon agreed, "Consider it payback for not killing us." "I''ll accept your offer. You''ll soon be there finding whatever it is you''re looking for." With that both Sylaina and Tycon helped free the people in the cages, feeding them and eventually had them rest in the cots. It wasn''t much but it had to beat the deck. Before long they found themselves setting sail through the choppy waves and towards the volcanic isles of the south. He didn''t know what they''d find but he hoped it''d be worth the trouble. As he stood on the quarter-deck looking ahead as the ship sailed, he pulled the gem from his pocket and looked into the green-stone once again. The celestial spirals within never ceased to amaze him, they had to be something for another world. Their beauty could not be from a place so dark like Sciolyn, or any other continent for that matter. What kind of secrets do you hold? The Emergence - IV The ship swayed in the pelting wind of the sea. Even on a day so clear he could see the shores from miles, there were a few times where Tycon was convinced that the ship would capsize. The crew, however, seemed as if they''d manned a thousand waves more fierce than the ones they found themselves on. Nobody seemed phased by the violent seas, nobody but he and Sylaina who held on to the railings of the quarter-deck for dear life. After their brief but brutal fight with the now-former captain Daenor, Sylaina and Tycon spent the next few hours freeing and feeding the slaves that remained within the brig. Many of them chose to leave the ship behind as it harkened to bad memories for them, whereas others remained on the ship; knowing they didn''t have much else. He was surprised at how many no longer remembered their families or didn''t have any at all. He couldn''t imagine what they''d been through and the sight of them made his heart sink. At least there''s a better chance for them now. They have a future and that''s a lot more than they had before. When the one''s who chose to leave were safely taken ashore, they set out for the volcanic isles. The closer they made it to the isles, the thicker the air became and they soon found themselves under a blanket of smoke and ash looming high above them like storm clouds. Tycon hoped that Valin would keep some distance from the volcano, he didn''t like the idea of being sunk by a loose rock that had fallen from the top or worse. "It''s... Looking a little... More active than I thought," Tycon shouted over the wind as he held the railing tightly. "Indeed it is," Valin called back, fighting against the wheel, "Maneuvering around the isles is going to be risky with the violent waves and jagged rocks lying beneath the surface." "Maybe we should turn back," Sylaina shot Tycon a concerned look. Tycon shook his head, "We don''t have time," He insisted, "Just get us in there and move the ship outside of the volcanoes range. I''ll signal you for pick up when we''re done." "We still don''t know what we''re looking for. We don''t have time to figure it out with all this... Damn chaos." Tycon frowned, he knew she was right. They were getting closer and coming in hot, he had to think on his feet; he''d been taught that when becoming a bounty hunter but this was something he didn''t entirely understand. He shifted his gaze to the deck, his mind moving as if he were flicking pages on a book. C''mon, think, think, think. He scanned his eyes across the horizon hoping to find something but saw nothing. "Shit," He spat quietly. "Tycon, your coat!" Sylaina exclaimed pointing at his pocket. Tycon looked to his pocket where the gem was located and through the fabric was a faint blue light. The gem was glowing, he didn''t know why but it had to be a good sign. He reached in and pulled the small gemstone out then held it between his thumb and index finger, studying it once again. The entire gemstone glowed a luminescent blue and he could no longer see the coiling stars within - Just endless light. "We must be close," Tycon said softly to himself then turned his attention out towards the horizon again, "Valin, drop us on the Isle closest to us." "Sure thing," He said through clenched teeth and violently pulled the wheel leftwards, catching speed with the waves that moved towards the shoreline. Tycon waited in anticipation as they approached the shoreline quickly, the waves and wind boosting their speed tenfold directly at the beach. It was going to be quite a maneuver for Valin as he needed to turn the ship before they hit the shore and with no time to drop the rowboat, something told him that they were in for a rough swim. "We''re going to have to swim aren''t we?" Sylaina said as if reading his thoughts. He gave her a solemn nod, he''d been through so much already and he was sure he could handle a swim, although the brigandine he wore certainly didn''t fill him with confidence. The metal plates layered within the fabric would surely cause him to sink, not to mention his sword and daggers. Going in armorless made the most sense for him, though he was reluctant to settle on that fact. Sylaina didn''t need to worry as much as she didn''t wear armor, preferring her loose blouse than anything that fit tight around her chest. It made him worry, yet envious that she cared so little about armor. Tycon placed the gem in the pocket of his pants and threw off his coat then began unbuckling the belts across his chest that held the brigandine closed. "You really are slow to act aren''t you?" Sylaina teased and nodded her head towards her bow and quiver that had already been placed on the deck. "Yeah, well I wasn''t expecting the wind of a fucking cyclone. I intended on taking the rowboat." Sylaina glanced at the isle and then back at him, "Well you better hurry up, I think Valin is about to do his grandiose maneuver. He fiddled with the straps a little longer until the brigandine fell from his body with a large thud upon the deck. He reached into his pocket and pulled the gem back out, holding it tightly in a balled fist, not wanting to lose it to the abyss of the ocean. "Get ready!" Valin called. Sylaina and Tycon held the railing together then crouched down, preparing to leap over it and into the ocean. "On my signal," Valin called once more. Suddenly the ship veered a sharp left, turning the bow from the isle and back towards the ocean. The momentum almost threw them overboard anyway. "Go!" With the gem in hand, the two Elves threw themselves over and it felt like seconds until he felt the warm shadow of the water envelop itself around him. Beneath the surface, it was silent and calm as the torrenting waves crashed overhead. He swam upwards quickly, feeling lighter than he ever had before and soon broke the surface, looking wildly for any sight of Sylaina. After a few moments of scanning, he saw her head rise from the water and he waved then shouted, catching her attention. Then the two began the slow swim towards the shore.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. The waves helped drag him in further but at the same time their violence would periodically pull him under but he persevered, always rising and pushing onward until he felt the soft sand beneath his feet and the waves pelting his shins. Sylaina dragged herself upon the sand and Tycon ran over quickly to help her up. "I think I would have preferred the rowboat," She said wearily. "You and me both," Tycon agreed. He opened his hand and looked at the gem, its light still blinding then looked into the Isle they stood upon. Surrounding the Titanic volcano was a thick jungle, the trees on the canopy swayed forcefully in the vigorous wind. If he was going to search for the mysterious light, he''d start there. He could use the volcano for direction, though he had a doubt that he''d even be able to see it from beneath the trees. All he knew was that the further he was from the volcano, the closer he was to the beach. "I hope Valin is willing to wait around for a good while because I don''t think we''ll be finding whatever it is we''re looking for any time soon," Tycon said with a sigh as he leaned on one of the palm trees that dotted the beach, gazing into the jungle before them. "Best get started immediately then," Sylaina replied. "Who knows, maybe we''ll see the light again. It would certainly halve the time we''ll be spending here." With that, the two Elves ventured forth into the jungle. The shadow of the trees took hold the moment they stepped within the canopy, outstretched arms of greenery ready to embrace and consume them inside. Tycon intended for them both to come out alive, he had his sword strapped to his hip and that''s all he needed to face whatever was within. He soon found himself hacking at the vines that were stretched between the many trees, it was to be expected within a jungle that had no beaten path. As they moved further in, the air around them began to chill and a hint of concern ran through Tycon. "You feel that?" He asked. Sylaina nodded, "Yeah, isn''t it supposed to be hot in the jungle?" "Somethings not right here," He said, "At least we know we''re heading in the right direction. Keep your sword-arm at the ready, we don''t know what could jump out at us from the trees." Sylaina frowned, "I''m more concerned about the spiders." "They''ll be the least of worries. At least it''s gotta beat rats right?" Sylaina forced a laugh, "Rats aren''t venomous and I think I''ve had my fair share of venom related near-death experiences." "Well, hopefully, we don''t get a blood-loss related death experience," He smiled grimly, "Just keep an eye out on the webs." There was a pause as Tycon began hacking at yet another vine that blocked their path. "Do you think we''ll make it out by nightfall?" Sylaina asked, filling the silence. "I hope. We''ll have a hard time getting out of here in the dark. I don''t think even the volcano would help us."
An hour had passed and the fatigue was beginning to set in but the chill kept him moving in an effort to keep himself warm. Tycon could see his breath in the air and the further they made it in, the colder it became. As he cut the last vine between two trees, he saw sunlight beam through the hanging leaves. At first, he thought he''d reached the other side of the isle but soon realized, as he stepped out from within the trees, that he was in a small clearing with a lake in the middle. Flowing from the lake, there was a thin river that was obscured by trees and lead into the ocean. There was no way he could have seen it from the ship. They walked to the water''s edge and sat for a moment. He noticed a small island in the middle of the lake about two hundred meters out that was perfectly circular to the point where it looked unnatural. There were no trees of any kind upon it; Only a single stone pedestal stood on its lonesome coiled in vines from the ages long past. He couldn''t make out the finer details from where he sat but he guessed it was worth investigating. "You see that?" Tycon pointed towards the pedestal on the lake. Sylaina followed his finger and squinted in the general direction, "That''s got to be something useful right?" "We''ll have to see," Tycon replied, "I hope you fancy another swim, it doesn''t look like we''re getting there any other way." Sylaina was silent for a moment as she scanned her eyes along the lake then sat back with her arms for support, "This place feels so far removed from the world, almost as if we''re in a different plane of existence." "Perhaps it has been left mostly untouched for a reason. We should keep moving, I don''t think Valin will wait forever." He took a deep breath and went to take his first step into the lake when the water began rippling as if something were boiling beneath the surface. Tycon lunged backward and they both swiftly drew their blades. He watched as the ripples got bigger and the bubbling grew louder, waiting to strike whatever may jump out from the water. A few moments passed and there was nothing but Tycon didn''t drop his guard, he kept his muscles tensed and ready to move a moment''s notice. Unexpectedly the head of a human suddenly popped out from beneath the water, it was a woman and she had a scowl on her face. Tycon lowered his sword slightly and took a cautious step towards the lake. The woman didn''t react, she stared at them with large eyes, too large to be human and continued scowling. "Uh, who and what are you?" Tycon asked, trying his best to sound polite. Her pupils grew larger and her scowl disappeared from her small mouth, "You carry one, elf," She said, her voice monotone. "One of what? This?" He opened his hand to reveal the gem. "Yes," She replied, "What do you hope to find here?" "I was hoping you could tell us." "Do you seek power?" Her voice came out like a cold whisper that brought a chill down his spine. "We do," Sylaina cut in, "Let''s not be so cryptic and get to the point." "Sylaina!" Tycon shook his head. The woman in the water frowned, "Your companion should watch her tongue, I could have her torn to pieces in a flash." Sylaina stepped forward, about to snap but hesitated and eventually settled on clenching her jaw. "She''s right, I do seek power," Tycon said, "Will I find it here?" "You will," She nodded, "But what is your purpose with this power?" Tycon didn''t hesitate, "To kill someone before they gain the same power to destroy Sciolyn and the world." She closed her large eyes and rose further from the water, her wet dark hair flowed down to cover her bare breasts and he noticed that there were scales where her hips were. She was truly a magical creature, who knew how long she''d been there. A mermaid. "I am the keeper. I feel the conviction in your tone and I will let you pass but just know that you will be tested within. Should you fail, you will be deemed unworthy of the power and perish," She paused and lowered her head, her tone growing grim, "There is no turning back from here. You either win or you die." "What''s in there?" Tycon asked. The mermaid shook her head, "I cannot tell you that." "Why?" "I do not help nor hinder. I am a spectator." Tycon thought for a moment as a bit of doubt grew in his mind but he pushed it away. He''d been through this before in Meliora, if anything he was more prepared than anyone else who had tried and failed before him. "I accept," Tycon declared then glanced at Sylaina, "Do you?" "Of course," she replied. The mermaid lifted her hands from the water and the ground beneath them began to tremble, "So be it," She said. The water began splashing and shimmering with the rumbling vibrations and the two elves watched seaweed-covered stone pillars rise from beneath the water to form a bridge across to the island in the middle. There were human bones stuck within the seaweed and Tycon shuddered, glad he hadn''t taken a swim. "Go," The mermaid said, "Come out victorious." "We will," Tycon said clenching his fist, "We have to." "Don''t worry, Tycon," Sylaina said confidently and pulled the bow from her back, winking at him, "Whatever we find in there doesn''t stand a chance." "I hope you''re right." I really do. The Emergence - V Final chapter of book 1
The rage and disbelief could be heard echoing throughout the city streets and the steps of hundreds of townsfolk began trampling towards the gate where just above - on the wall - Farion stood watching with a wide smirk upon his face. It had been done and he was absolutely ecstatic and couldn''t wait a moment longer to break open the gates and show them all the truth of Alimar''s lies. He glanced down to the soldiers that were posted by the gate and called them to attention. The soldiers looked up to him, waiting for his order. "Open the gates! Open them now!" He called. The soldiers nodded and began smashing at the large padlock wrapped in chains. The crowds began cascading down the street like the flow of a river. Some appeared enraged whereas some seemed confused or curious. At the end of it all, every single one of them would change to hatred and fear. It was for the good of them - for his people and it was a necessary change, he told himself that again and again. He was proud to be the one by Zeke''s side as they changed their world and soon to be the next one too. History would look upon him favorably as a loyal servant to the true king and a true leader who helped overthrow Alimar and subsequently lead the charge back into Sciolyn. Farion closed his eyes and listened to the jumbled hysterical conversations of the city folk - waiting for the crash and jingle of the lock falling to the stone road. He opened his eyes and there it was... With a loud crash, the lock dropped and the gates opened with a loud groan that drowned out the voices of the city folk. He turned and watched from the wall as they scattered amongst the open fields like runaway slaves searching for the truth. Once they learned that what Zeke said was true, they''d be scurrying to surround the castle in droves. It may have seemed like a plot to overthrow a king but Farion would rather think of it as liberation because that''s exactly what it was. "You!" A voice called from below the wall. Farion turned to see Lief standing staring up at him with both Fyr and Zon by his side. "Looks like you got what you wanted," Farion said with a smile. Lief didn''t return it however and continued to stare at him until finally, he spoke, "You did this, didn''t you?" Farion frowned, "I thought you''d be a little happier." "Oh, I am," He nodded, "Just didn''t expect a soldier - much less - a General of the army of Alimar to be behind it." "Let''s just say I saw things your way and leave it at that." There was a long pause and Farion was about to say goodbye before Lief spoke again. "There''s something I wanted to ask you," Lief said, avoiding Farion''s eyes. "What is it?" "Since we''re now likely serving Zekhalin, we wanted to join the fight in taking back our home."Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. Farion raised an eyebrow and held back a cackle as he looked at the three, but the look in their eyes told him they were serious. "You want to join us? Now isn''t the time, Lief," Farion cocked his head towards the outside of the wall, "Perhaps we should wait until later. There''s quite a lot going on." "Of course," Lief bowed, "But I expect to see you after this is over, I''ll hold you to that." Farion bowed back and returned his attention to the people as they disappeared behind the horizon. By now they''d likely have learned the truth and that meant it was time for him to make his way back to the castle. His men could handle it from here and he needed to back up Zeke if something went wrong. He pointed to a few soldiers that were loitering down by the gate and called out to them. "You, you, and you. You''re coming with me, we''re heading back to the castle." The men saluted, "Yessir."
The door creaked open loudly as Zeke stepped inside Alimar''s quarters. The room felt cold, like an aura of ice was floating around him and his face felt like stone. He gripped his dagger tight as his gaze fell on Alimar who once again, had his back to him. He stood there dressed in a golden waistcoat with black pants and he cocked his head at the sound of the door. He did not say a word for a moment and slowly turned to face the young elf. Zeke watched his eyes as they glanced at the dagger still held firmly in his hand and Alimar let out a weak smile. "So, you''ve betrayed me then?" He said casually as if the whole ordeal was a mere inconvenience. Alimar''s uncaring attitude irritated him and he could feel a trembling in his arms as rage began to boil within. "I''ve seen through your lies!" Zeke snapped, "You ride on the coattails of all great kings before you." "I saved our people," Alimar shot back, "We had nothing and look at what we''ve accomplished," He threw an arm out behind him, gesturing to the city that stood beyond the balcony. "All I see is stagnation, death, and suffering as we all wait for your call to leave this place. The city needs a king of action, one who will not waste time as their people suffer!" Alimar arched his eyebrows and frowned, "I had a plan! Biding time was the only way to gain enough force and power to ensure the least amount of lives lost at our return." "People are dying here anyway!" Zeke cried, "You imprisoned my sister to keep me in line while I did your dirty work. I followed you like you were my father and convinced myself that what you did to Taren was necessary. My every breath was for your cause until I realized that I should fight for what I believe in, my own cause, my way. You are nothing but a pretender standing in my shadow, I have more power and by right I should use it for myself." Alimar stood silent, letting his words sink in and Zeke watched as anger began to rise within him. His face turned red and his jaw locked up, in a split second he reached behind his back and drew a dagger. "Look at you," Alimar muttered, "A spoiled child with a power you never earned! It matters not if I kill you, I still have your sister and unlike you, I will make her obey." That was the last straw. Zeke felt the surge of magic flow through him with a flaming intensity that grew much stronger with his rage. He curled up a fist and pulled it behind him as if he were gearing up for a punch and pushed forward with his hand open, throwing a telekinetic blast of magic forward. The moment the blast left his hand, he dashed forward ready to plunge the dagger into his throat. Alimar blocked the attack leaning forward with his arms crossed but wasn''t prepared for the melee follow up. The best Alimar could do was stop the dagger with his left hand and Zeke saw Alimar watch with horror as the blade pierced through and spatters of blood spread across his face. Alimar threw Zeke off him with a shove and grabbed him with a magical grip, throwing Zeke up into the ceiling, holding him suspended in the air for a moment before slamming across the room and into the wall with a loud thud. He felt the breath leap right from his lungs but managed to drag himself back to his feet with a gasp. Zeke was painfully aware that Alimar had much more magical knowledge than him but he had something Alimar didn''t - teleportation - and he had full intentions of using that to his advantage. By the time Zeke made it to his feet, Alimar began throwing every bit of furniture his way with magic in a vicious frenzy of both rage and desperation. Zeke dodged by teleportation, disappearing and reappearing in flashes of blue light, gradually getting closer to his adversary as he continued to launch attack after attack, be it telekinesis or flame. Zeke had reached halfway across the room before Alimar stopped his frenzy, pausing only for a split second to charge up a fire blast. He hesitated to launch himself at Alimar in fear of being hit by the blast and it cost him an opportunity to strike. He ducked quickly under the fireball, feeling the molten flames singe the tips of his hair before continuing his advance. Alimar would never expect such a bold strategy of a straight advance, he was a cautious man, and Zeke was not; he was a man of action. Alimar knew he was getting too close and switched into a melee combat stance with his dagger held in front of him, ready for the blades to clash. Zeke tensed his arm and slammed the dagger forward as hard as he could but instead of the leathery feeling of splitting skin, there was only the hard clash of metal and a hiss as the blades slid across each other. Alimar followed the block up with a hard punch to the gut, Zeke coughed but returned with a sharp blow to the face with the pommel of his dagger. Alimar stepped back with a grunt and in a daze as he tried to recover from the blow, leaving himself wide open and Zeke went in with his dagger pressed forward, ready for the final blow but Alimar was baiting him. He suddenly kicked the dagger from Zeke''s hand and quickly followed up with another punch in the gut, then another. Zeke could have sworn he felt a rib crack on the last one and he fell to the cold marble floor breathless, coughing, and heaving in desperate attempts to catch his breath. "You see now, Zekhalin?" Alimar said with a sneer, " You''re too weak to be a leader." Zeke clenched his teeth, his words were like salt in the wound of his pride. He wouldn''t lose, he wouldn''t let this be the end. He had to suck up the pain and let it fuel him; let it be the source of his power. He no longer took orders from anyone and the only way he could be his own person was to cut out the leech that kept him suppressed. I won''t lose... I can''t lose. He hid his pain, deep down, and let it fuel his rage. He glanced to his left and saw his dagger lying on the marble floor and it was close enough to grab, he had an idea. In the blink of an eye, he launched himself towards the dagger, grabbing it tightly before Alimar could react and then teleported. Reappearing in the air above Alimar with the dagger held up behind his head and the tip pointing down, ready to stab. Alimar only managed to react and lookup for a moment before the blade pierced through his throat and out the back of his neck. Zeke pressed the dagger in as deep as the blade would allow him and when they fell to the floor, he only let go of the hilt when the blood began to spread across the white floors and Alimar''s gurgling stopped. When he let go, Zeke looked to his hands as they trembled uncontrollably. He glanced down at Alimar, the man''s eyes still wide as if the shock still hadn''t left him even when he took his last breath. He sat there beside him for a moment as he let the adrenaline wash away, only standing when he heard the loud crashing of metal footsteps quickly approaching the door. "Zekhali-" Farion cut himself off at the sight of Alimar''s corpse as he rushed through the door, "So, it''s done then." Alimar nodded, "It is," He paused for a moment, "Rally the men and settle the citizens, the time has come. We leave for Sciolyn in four hours." "What about him?" Farion pointed to Alimar. "I''ll take care of it. You have your orders!" Farion saluted, "Yessir," And marched from the room. Zeke waited until Farion''s steps faded away before he turned his attention back to Alimar''s corpse then grabbed the fabric of his coat and slowly dragged him to the balcony. Once he was set in place, Zeke clicked his fingers and a flame burst to life on the coat and he watched as the man he once followed slowly burned to ash, gone with the wind, and forever left with the city he built. A city that would someday be long forgotten, just like him. He watched as the ash was carried away in the wind and gazed into the sky and let the wind overcome him. He had done it, what he needed to do and for the first time in a long time he felt liberated, he felt whole. There was only one more thing left to do before he left for Sciolyn. He held his hand out and made a cross-motion with his index finger and a blue shining portal appeared in front of him. A few moments passed before both Taren and the human, Ren, emerged looking confused and bewildered then eventually enraged when their eyes fell upon him. "Alimar is dead," Zeke said without hesitation. Both Taren and Ren were tense, eyebrows arched, and ready to make an attack at any sudden movement he made. Taren''s expression softened and she stepped forward, much to Ren''s disapproval, "Does this mean you''ve changed your mind?" Zeke shook his head, "No, I haven''t. But Alimar is gone, he no longer controls us and this kingdom is ours and all of Sciolyn and beyond can be ours too," He reached his hand out towards her, "We can make things the way we want them to be. Please, I''m giving you one last chance to join me." She almost seemed tempted, furrowing her eyebrows as a glistening tear began to roll down her pale cheek and slowly reached her arm out. "Don''t listen to him," Ren called from behind her. "This does not concern you, human!" Zeke snapped. He watched in saddening silence as Taren''s hand slowly drifted back down to her side, tears flowing like rivers and she shook her head. "Why can''t you go peacefully? Why is your heart so full of hate?" She said, her soft voice quivering, "Let go! He''s gone now." In a fleeting sense of sadness he almost considered her words but reality soon took its place. He was a leader and the humans still hadn''t paid for what they''d done. He tried desperately to let go for the sake of her but he couldn''t. He knew she would come to understand in due time, she would submit to his cause. "It''s too late now," He said apologetically, "If you''re not with me, then you leave me with no choice." He raised his hand but Taren was quick to react. "Ren!" She called, and he placed his hand on her chest that followed with a bright beam, "Go now!" In an instant she held out her hand and did a crossing motion. He knew what it was and lunged at her in an attempt to stop her but he was too late. The portal opened and with a thrust of magic Taren threw Ren inside before turning her attention back to him. "Don''t you go!" Zeke shouted over the portals hum. He reached out and tried to grab her with magic but she resisted. He was surprised at her determination and he clenched his hand tighter as the grip around her strengthened. Her arms were held close to her sides but he was surprised to see her flick her wrist and open her hand and at that moment he knew what was coming next and if he were to block, it would risk her getting free. She had won. He braced and the next thing he knew, he was thrown across the room by an invisible force, losing his grip on her and slamming hard into the wall. When he came to, the last thing he saw was Taren looking back at him with a cold sadness in her eyes. He could see the finality on her face and that was when he knew she would never be coming back. She made her choice and the next time he''d see her, it would be on the battlefield. His heart sunk when he saw her step through the portal and disappear in the shining blue light, and for a moment he let himself weep privately. I''m so sorry. I can''t let go... The Emergence - I I''ve never felt so alive. Alive and powerful, the feelings that many crave. When he put the crown upon his head, the gems glowed a luminescent blue upon the coiling body of the golden snake. It fit snugly like it was forged specifically for him and the power that surged through his body was astronomical. Something far larger than he thought he could ever be capable of. Even without the entire six gems slotted in the grooves that sat between the body of the snake, two was enough for him to feel like he could do anything. He couldn''t even imagine what power he''d hold once the crown was completed. Zeke glazed his eyes over the lines of troops that gathered below the stairs of the castle, their armor glistening in the morning sun. They looked like statues with stone-hard expressions on their faces. Expressions that still held conviction and purpose, he could see it in their eyes. It was something they had been lacking for far too long. Rows upon rows of men and women who were ready to fight for their right to dominate the land they had once ruled. In front of the soldiers were the battlemages, warrior wizards who held a small amount of magical affinity. Enough to raze a town with a flick of a wrist but still nowhere near his level of power. They wore the white-gold armor of the soldiers but with a hooded cape wrapped around the pauldrons and carried daggers instead of broadswords. They were the lieutenant commanders of each platoon, capable of giving orders and fighting on the battlefield. Behind him stood Farion and the other generals who remained silent and waiting for his words before the emergence. The time that was dawning upon his people and that time was near. The rest of the townsfolk would stay behind, the elderly mostly. Most of the young would be conscripted into the armies and would fight for their land and with so many gone, the threat of over-population would subside for a time. Once the coming war had ended, they''d be transported to Sciolyn where a new age would begin. The return of the elves. He opened his arms wide and smiled, looking upon the marvelous grand army in total awe. It is time. "The time has come, my comrades. Where the men and women of Farweyn will emerge from the star-rifts in droves to take back what is ours and conquer the humans once again like our great ancestors once did. The White-Gold Dominion will break the rulers of Sciolyn to their knees and we will not conclude our campaign until they''re face down beneath our boots. We are strong and we are many; On this day they will taste the steel of our blades and we will soak the land in their own blood!" He paused and listened as a loud crunch of gauntlets slapped in salute and watched as it echoed across the courtyard, "Now witness the power of The White-Gold Dominion!" With his arms still spread open, he closed his eyes and felt the warmth of the gems pulsating in the crown as the magic flowed from them and to his head, then his arms. He felt like he''d ascended far beyond a mortal, he felt like a god. The warming surge within his arms made him feel as if he could lift anything - break anything - And the smile on his face didn''t cease. He balled his hands into fists and tensed his arms, letting the flow build up like the wall of a dam, and at a moment''s notice, he spread his hand wide and made a large cross-motion with his arms. When he opened his eyes, he watched a giant blue portal begin to open behind the soldiers. The entire castle and the city was engulfed in a great blue light as the doorway spread wider and wider. The sky had turned dark and a great wind suddenly appeared. He felt Farion come up beside him and Zeke placed a finger on the nape of his neck, amplifying his voice through magic. "Now turn!" Farion shouted. And with a loud metallic thump, the soldiers turned all at once; now gazing into the greatness that was his power. Zeke turned his head to Farion and smiled, this was it. The moment they''d all been waiting for and the anticipation within him spiraled out of control, coming to a point where he thought that maybe his heart would leap from his chest. The feeling of power was exhilarating and addictive, he needed more and he knew that soon he would get it. He just had to be patient. With a will to dominate, to overturn the world I will gain power and everyone will kneel before me; even Taren. I can no longer be controlled and I will bend and break anyone who ever tries again.
"I fucking hate mountains," Sylaina groaned as both she and Tycon trudged through shin-deep snow. "Y''know, I''m right there with you," Tycon replied between breaths. They had spent several days in the town before the mountains and each moment that passed they dreaded the coming journey; And here they were, trudging through deep snow as the howling winds wrapped themselves around the mountains leaving trails of light snowflakes in their wake. Tycon expected it to be cold but not this cold, having nothing on Winter''s Peak in terms of the frigid air. The snow reminded him of Ambre and the last time he''d seen her, his thought''s lingered on her for a long time and it kept the cold from getting to him. Warming his heart enough to barely notice his numbed gauntleted fingers and feet. Tycon walked ahead, taking the brunt of the harsh weather with Sylaina following close behind. Both of their arms locked within their armpits in a desperate attempt to bring back an inkling of feeling within their hands. He longed for their descent from the mountain and he could tell that she did too, the winding and warm tropical coast of the southern isles would be a far cry from the immense cold they now endured. He couldn''t wait for the warm sun to lick his skin, casting a feeling of relief upon his tired and frigid form. "I''m starting to regret coming back for you," Sylaina shouted over the wind. Not even the cold could freeze her charm and sarcasm. Tycon forced a laugh to emerge from his pale lips, "It''s not too late to turn back," He replied. "Not a chance," She smiled, "I like your company too much." "Even when I''m being dramatic?" He joked. "Especially." They paused as they made their way to the summit of the mountain trail. Tycon shielded his eyes with great effort against the strong wind as he emerged, trying to gaze upon the sands that lay on the other side but saw nothing. Nothing but a blinding snowstorm of white and the grey of the mountain rocks that lay ahead. He sighed to himself, knowing that there was still a long way to go. "So we''re doing all this because of something you saw in a dream?" Sylaina spoke over his shoulder, the warmth of her breath on his neck quickly falling to mist, "I know that I should believe you after what I saw in the forest but still. It seems to be little to go on." "Then why do you follow me?" Tycon asked continuing to descend from the summit. "Because I''ve seen enough to trust your word on all this. Remember what I said, I don''t think you''d go through that much trouble for a single gemstone. Plus, I don''t think this is something you can do on your own, and heck, maybe I''ll learn some ancient secrets left forgotten." "You''d be surprised what''s out there. The things I''ve seen and fought, you''d go insane at the sight of them."Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Sylaina was silent for a moment, "What things have you seen?" "You''ve seen the monsters, I know that. But when I went to retrieve another gemstone in the Zinlyn desert there was a creature in the tomb. It was there long before the return of monsters, it acted as a guardian. A creature of great strength, large with long blackened claws. Strong enough to tear a man in half in one light swipe. This place we''re meant to find, I''m guessing it''s another tomb." Sylaina''s expression sharpened, "You think so?" "There''s no other reason I can muster that explains why the place was lost for so long or why no one has bothered to enter in all these years. They''re either afraid or they never return once they enter." "Sounds ominous. I think we should be prepared, then. We can''t rush anything if it means we''ll have to fight something like that." Tycon agreed, "Sharpen your blades as much as possible, that things skin is hard to pierce, believe me." "Oh, I believe you," Sylaina nodded, "You''ve come through so far, I don''t see why else I''d doubt you now but a part of me doesn''t want to believe it. That things like this are real; That they once existed." "We can stop it," Tycon said with absolute conviction, "And we''ll find a way to locate Ren while we''re at it. I won''t abandon him." They were almost there, just single decent from the mountain and they''d achieve their goal. They continued to move slowly down the treacherous mountain, cautiously taking each step as it could be their last. One slip and they''d be sent plummeting down a great chasm into the valley below, left broken and preserved on the frozen rocks. Tycon took a glance down into the valley by their side, he couldn''t see the bottom through the sailing snow but he knew it was a long fall if one of them slipped. "Take my hand," He said to Sylaina, reaching his arm out towards her. He felt her frigid hand grasp his own and they interlocked fingers as they continued down the mountain. They only made it three steps before Tycon heard a crunch and a crack, he gazed up above and saw it. The loose snow that was capped over the grey rocks was coming loose on top of them. The wind was too strong and he didn''t have time to turn back before it would fall. "Shit," He swore, "Sylaina, brace!" He locked his legs onto the ground below him and put himself in a slight crouch, tensing all of his strength on his calves. He lowered his head and waited, grasping Sylaina''s hand tightly, though he could barely feel her hand on his frozen fingers. He held on for dear life if she fell then he wouldn''t be able to live with himself. He had friends now and he couldn''t lose another. The weight fell on him like a heavy wet blanket, feeling the cold envelop them both in the hard powdery snow. The force almost caused him to lose his stance, hitting him hard enough to dig himself deeper into the dirt that lay beneath. He heard a muffled cry beyond the snow and he clenched his hand but couldn''t feel Sylaina''s. Oh, no! His heart suddenly leapt to his throat and he felt his stomach turn. He dug into the snow frantically looking for her but each time he reached, he grabbed onto nothing. His heart began racing like a thumping drum in his chest and his arms moved without thought as he dug. It wasn''t long before he elt the chill of the frigid air seep into the hole he dug and he knew he was getting close. Above the howling wind, he heard Sylaina''s heavy breathing and the crunch of falling rocks. He pulled himself from the snow pile and saw her frantically holding onto the jagged rocks that sat on the cliff edge, her face red from cold and fear. She clung for as long as she could as she hung from the cliffside, her feet dangling at the abyss of the valley below. "Hang on!" Tycon cried, "I''m coming." "Please... Hurry!" He rushed over to her and grabbed her arm firmly, there wasn''t a chance that he was going to let her fall. Luckily for him, she was slender and light, even with all the gear she carried. Although so was he and it was still a challenge to pull her up. She let go of the rocks and grasped his coated arm with both hands and Tycon pressed his knees and pulled her up slowly and he sighed in relief. He hadn''t realized it but he was sweating and as quickly as the droplets came, they all but froze on his skin that left an intense coldness on certain parts of his face. He fell back onto the mound of snow and Sylaina fell on top of him, breathing heavily, the mist from each breath disappearing quickly in wind. He wrapped his arms around her and held her tight, taking a short moment to rest and warm up as much as they could. In any other circumstance, he''d have blushed but the close call left nothing but an intense relief within him. "I thought caravans came through here," She said when they let go. "I think we may have taken a wrong turn," Tycon replied after the tension began to dissipate. Sylaina rose to her feet and brushed some snow from her shoulder, shifting her gaze to the trail ahead that lead down the mountain. She looked back at Tycon and offered her hand which he graciously took. "We better get off this thing before we both end up at the bottom of the valley." Tycon nodded, "I couldn''t agree more." The climb down was just as treacherous as the journey to the peak and both elves took extra caution with their descent. The long way down was filled with more chilled winds and treacherous snow and when Tycon''s boots finally hit solid ground, he sighed in relief and smiled knowing that the hardest part of the trip had been conquered. The sun was setting behind the horizon by the time they made it down and he took a moment to gaze at the distant tropical beaches and ocean ahead. The view reminded him of Selenicar and the beautiful sunsets he''d seen there. The echoing sound of seagulls and the chirping of crickets all but consumed him and he was surprised at the sudden change of environment. It almost felt as if the journey across the mountain was some kind of fever dream. His soaked clothes and still frosted hair reminded him that it wasn''t. They decided to set up camp some distance from the base of the mountain and by some palm trees, hoping to escape the frigid air and dry their clothes. Tycon collected some twigs and sticks while Sylaina tried her best to get the flint dry to make a spark. He could hear her swearing to herself as he worked and let himself laugh loud enough for her to hear. He watched her turn with a frustrated scowl but he didn''t let his smile falter and soon she relented and smiled back. They were close to their goal, although, Tycon still questioned what exactly they were looking for. He had a feeling that if anything strange was to happen there, then he''d be confident that they''d be close to whatever they were supposed to find. He reached into his pocket and studied the gem, letting the blue shine take him over once again as he gazed at the moving spirals within. Whatever they were here to find, it had to have something to do with the gems. Why else would the woman point him this way? When Sylaina finally managed to get the fire going, Tycon began to strip off his damp clothes, oblivious to Sylaina who frowned and looked away. He didn''t see it as anything weird, but a necessity. There wasn''t a chance he was going to remain in his frozen and soaked clothes. "Do you really have to do that in front of me?" Sylaina said, turning her head away from him. Even in the firelight, he could tell she was blushing. "If you want to get warm and dry, I think you should do the same." "Not a chance," She blurted immediately, the stubbornness in her voice was incredibly strong. Tycon rolled his eyes, he knew what she was thinking, "If you keep them on, you''ll get frostbite and I don''t want to have to saw your arms or legs off." She hesitated and shivered, shifting her eyes from Tycon to the fire and back again, then with a sigh she relented, "Fine," She said, "Just... Look away, okay?" "Of course," He obliged. Once he was done stripping to his briefs and had placed his clothes by the fire, he sat and gazed towards the ocean, and then the stars as darkness crept upon them. He heard Sylaina struggling with her clothes beside him as he let the beaming warmth of the fire wash away the cold from his feet and chest. "How long do you think it''ll be before we reach the nearest town?" Tycon asked, turning to face her. His jaw locked up and his eyes widened as he saw Sylaina, who was practically nude staring back at him with a fiery rage in her eyes. He tried his best not to look at her exposed breasts that were quickly hidden by her thin pale arms. He didn''t know what to say so he said nothing and quickly shifted his gaze back towards the ocean. "I-I''m sorry, I forgo-" "Quiet! You perv," She snapped and Tycon locked his jaw again. He waited for the moment to pass before asking his question a second time. "How long before we reach the nearest town?" "I saw some torches in the distance," She replied, now calm, "I''d estimate about half a day. What exactly do we look for once we get there?" "I don''t know," He admitted, "I guess we''ll have to wait and see." He wondered if he''d see the woman in his dreams again, in fact, he hoped for it. He needed something - another clue as to what they''re looking for. He silently begged that she''d appear because he was beginning to worry that they''d waste too much time and get nowhere. And he didn''t have any time to waste. Not anymore. A sinking feeling followed him, something was about to happen. Could Sylaina feel it too? Was it an elven thing? He went to look to her but hesitated. Choosing instead to look at the stars to clear his head of the clouded fog of thoughts that lingered. Actions would speak louder and he needed to complete his objective. The fate of the world was at stake. Hang in there, Ren. The Emergence - II "Damn, this place is beautiful," Sylaina said as both she and Tycon entered the village. Of course, they were met with the curious stares that he had gotten many times before. From the moment they stepped into the small seaside village, he could feel their eyes on him, unwaveringly watching their every move as if they expected them to cause some sort of trouble. The village was charming, having small huts scattered across the sandy trails that led through. Most of the huts were made from palm leaves and bamboo, it was something Tycon found simplistic in a good way. They were far from the dark and dank city streets he had seen most of his life, and the dirty farming villages he''d traveled through. Despite the heavy stench of fish and salt, the place felt rather clean and unpolluted, like everything was done naturally in this part of Sciolyn. The disease of industry had not yet made its way to the quaint village and he hoped it wouldn''t ever. The serene beauty of the seaside was something to be cherished, despite the odd things that lay beneath the surface. They were now directly on the southern coast of Sciolyn and further south - in the ocean - were the isles. Large islands of mostly sand and stone. He could see them in the distance from the center of the village, just beyond the fishing dock. That was likely their destination but he knew it wouldn''t be that simple. Who knows how much time they''d spend simply searching for anything of significance. He knew that they would be spending a whole lot of time scouring the sea around the coastline of the isles. He figured that maybe they could get some leads or learn something from the locals but so far they''d been hesitant to even approach the two elves. Maybe it was the way they were dressed? The villagers seemed to only trade with the town beyond the mountain for goods that couldn''t be found within the sea and they were mostly human. Maybe it''s some sort of culture shock. The villagers were mostly dressed in simple cloth leggings and shirts, likely crafted from certain leaves that grew in the area. Tycon didn''t know much about the looming process but he could take a wild guess that it took a long time to craft a shirt. Most of the men in the village seemed to not know what a shirt was, but who could blame them? Their sun-kissed skin was perfect for the sun and ocean; when you spend a lot of time in the water farming oysters and clams, who needs a shirt? Like everywhere in Sciolyn, the village, of course, had a tavern, though this one was built from different materials. Mostly built out of wood from an oak with a stone foundation, the building certainly stood out from the identical bamboo huts that were scattered around. He wondered what the story was behind the construction of the tavern and why here of all places. The building looked slightly waterlogged and showed the whithering after-effects of seaside decay and when he stepped up onto the verandah, he could see the trails upon trails of sand all across the deck and leading inside the building. The atmosphere within was a lot more vibrant than the gloom he experienced on the way in. The large wooden room smelt of tobacco and alcohol with the odd mix of piss to go with it. Tycon wrinkled his nose at the sudden stench and in the corner of his eye, he could see Sylaina do the same. The people inside didn''t look like the villagers he had passed on the way in. Most of them were armed with blades and were dressed in gambesons and leather armor. They looked like both he and Sylaina - mercenaries. Not a single villager was inside the tavern and Tycon felt an odd feeling growing within him but quickly chose to ignore it and instead approached the barkeep who was drying a mug with a not so clean cloth. The large man glanced up as they approached, scratching his thick dark mustache as he greeted them. "What will it be?" The man asked, his hearty booming voice still barely managing to drown out the conversations in the background. "Information," Tycon simply replied. The man sighed and continued drying the mug, speaking as he did, "You''re not the first to come through here asking for information," He said, "Let me guess, you''re looking for something?" Both Tycon and Sylaina leaned on the bar, interested in what the man had to say, "Indeed we are looking for something," Tycon said. He shook his head, "I ain''t got much to tell you two, only what I told them," He gestured to two men who were seated in the far back corner. Tycon could see their stares on them both and they looked like trouble. "What did you tell them?" Tycon asked. "Well, you see. They paid for their information, so..." The man coughed and held out his hand. Tycon glanced back at the two men and then to the barkeep and sighed, reluctantly pulling his coin purse from his pack. "How much?" Sylaina asked. The man stared at the pouch Tycon held and he was obviously trying to hide a smile, "That''ll do." "What, the whole thing?" Tycon could barely contain his outrage. "That''s not going to happen," Sylaina sneered, "You give a fair price and we''ll happily pay it," "No pay, no information," The man shrugged. Tycon clicked his sword slightly from its scabbard, "Listen here, friend," He spat, "I''ll be giving you fifty uons for the information, no more. Unless you''d like to come out the back and be tonight''s meat special." "What''s going on here," A stern male voice said from behind. Tycon and Sylaina turned to see it was one of the men who had been sitting at the back earlier. He was tall and had a muscular frame. Stubble had begun to grow on his gaunt square chin, it ran all the way up his small face and met with the sideburns of his short brown hair. His blue eyes were menacing and Tycon could tell from his expression that he was obviously bothered by the commotion. "Nothing," The barkeep said, "Just a little bit of haggling." "It looked more like you were threatening him," He said to Tycon, pointing to his sword that he still had a firm grip on. "He was practically trying to rob us," Tycon argued, "A whole sack of coin for some information that''s likely useless anyway." The muscular man turned back to the barkeep, "Really? Again? I''ve been here for two weeks and this is easily the fourth time I''ve seen you do this. I guess you''ve been bumping it up for each traveler to come through here," He sighed, "Look, you better be careful who you try to swindle, barkeep. Or your boss will mysteriously find out you''ve been collecting a large sum of coin on the side without his knowledge. We wouldn''t want that, would we?" "Y-yeah, of course not, here," The barkeep began to pour four drinks before setting them down on the bar, "On the house, take it as an apology." Tycon reached into the coin purse and tossed a handful of coins onto the bar, "Take this as my apology." "The information you''re looking for," The barkeep said, "It''s about a mysterious blue light that has been cast over the mountains in the isles. There are several travelers here that are looking for its source, no luck so far." Tycon looked around, the tavern was practically full with nobody but what looked like mercenaries. He wondered if they had the same dreams he did and if they were all there on a common purpose. He didn''t see why else all these travelers and mercs would be there. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. "So you''re here looking for the same thing we all are," The muscular man said and extended his hand, "The name is Daenor, you two wouldn''t be interested in teaming up would you?" "No, we''re not," Tycon said. Daenor gestured to his friend who still sat in the corner eyeing them, "Well how about you two have a drink with us and see if you change your mind?" His friend seemed watchful and just by his expression alone, Tycon could tell that he thought they were trouble. He had no intention of sitting with them, time was short and what they were after wasn''t something they could share or something he was willing to share. Tycon went to decline when Sylaina spoke first. "We''d be happy to join you," She said politely, giving Tycon a look that suggested he should go along with it. What is she playing at? "Come along then," Daenor smiled. Tycon leaned into Sylaina as they made their way to the table with Daenor''s back to them, "What are you doing?" He whispered. "We might be able to learn more about what''s going on here." "I doubt it." "Let''s just see," She whispered, her tone sharp as a dagger, "We might even get some allies out of this," "I''m not here to make friends, Sylaina," He replied. "We sure-as-shit need some if whatever we''re looking for has a guardian like the one you spoke of in Meliora." He hadn''t thought of that. The one objective of getting the gem had clouded his thoughts until they became linear. A line of thinking that could lead one to their deaths. He looked at Sylaina and appreciated her presence and clear mind, something that - lately - he was unable to grasp. He kept telling himself that the gem would somehow help him find Ren but he knew deep down it was wishful thinking, something to keep him moving; another purpose when saving the world felt pointless. He knew that maybe he''d have to accept that he was gone but he couldn''t. There had to be a way. He kept himself silent as he followed Daenor towards the table where his friend sat. The silence felt awkward and the man''s stare across the table - even with all the noise around them - gave a sense of foreboding. Daenor took a seat next to his friend, sitting across from both Tycon and Sylaina. He took a moment to observe the man before him. He was a thin man and looked rather tall, even when sitting. Shaggy brown hair hung just above his eyebrows and his hazel eyes locked with Tycon''s for a moment as he observed. Tycon quickly shot a glance at the table to avoid the man''s gaze. His face was small and clean-shaven, with a jaw that was shapely and well defined. Tycon guessed the man was at least in his early twenties and the lack of any facial scars told him two things; He was either very good or not very experienced. His question was answered when he noticed the crossbow that was resting on the man''s leg by the side of the chair, he didn''t fight up close. "This is Valin," Daenor said, slapping his hand on the other man''s shoulder. Tycon saw him wince at the contact. "W-well met," Valin replied and extended his hand to Tycon, which he shook and then to Sylaina who accepted the handshake aswell. The way the man spoke caught Tycon off guard. He had figured that Valin was the strong quiet type, but after hearing him speak, he was no longer inclined to believe it. He seemed uncomfortable, not on guard. It made him wonder what Daenor''s relationship with him was, they seemed like polar opposites. "So what exactly brings you here?" Tycon asked. Daenor hesitated for a moment then took a sip of beer from his mug, "You''re not gonna believe this but... It was a dream." Sylaina and Tycon both looked at one another, "A dream?" Sylaina said. Daenor nodded, "I know it sounds insane but it was Lucid as if I were really there. Normally I''d have palmed it off as something crazy my mind conjured up but something about it felt so real," He paused for another large sip, "You''re here aren''t you? Tell me, did you have the same dream as all the others I''ve asked?" Tycon hesitated but it was obvious by Daenor''s intense expression that he already knew the answer, so he told him the truth. "I did have the same dream. A young elf standing by the river dressed in a light white dress, who only spoke in with vague directions and predictions." Daenor nodded, "Yeah, the exact same dream beat for beat," He paused for another sip and let out a satisfied sigh, "Now, let''s get to business. You told me that you''re not interested in teaming up but I have to ask, Do you have a boat?" Both Sylaina and Tycon looked to one another and then back to Daenor and shook their heads. "Then how exactly do you plan on getting to the Isles?" Daenor asked with a hint of condescension in his tone. Tycon locked his jaw and bit his tongue, trying his best to dismiss the mans tone before answering him, "I had planned on hiring a boat." "What? The feeble fishing boats from the village? You''ve got to be kidding me. You take that thing two miles out and the choppy waves will have you capsized within the minute." "And you''ve got something better?" Tycon replied, trying to match the condescending tone Daenor had prior. To Tycon''s surprise, Daenor nodded enthusiastically, "Yeah, I have my ship anchored just around the island behind the trees. I''m surprised you didn''t see it on the way in." Daenor was right, he was surprised and he wondered why his ship would be docked around the coast behind the trees instead of at the fishing dock that lay only a hundred meters from the tavern. It raised some red flags but he decided to give the man the benefit of the doubt. Tycon glanced again at Valin, who hadn''t spoken once since he introduced himself and they locked eyes for a moment. He tried to read them but his expression was blank, he could see nothing within them, no hint of any emotion whatsoever. His body language was still what Tycon perceived as uncomfortable. "Well Daenor," Tycon said slamming the mug onto the table signaling the finality of the conversation, "I''ll think about your offer but I want to let you know now that it''s likely we''ll come aboard," He extended his hand to the man. Daenor quickly burst from his seat and clasped Tycon''s hand with a firm grip and shook it with a broad smile spread across his stubbled gaunt cheeks. "Return to me here in the morning with your answer, I''ll see you then."
The cool coastal wind flowed through the old bedroom window of the Inn, bringing with it the pleasant salty smell of the coast and to Tycon''s surprise and delight, no stench of fish was carried along with it. The room was about what he expected, small and simple with a single bed that he suggested both he and Sylaina share, although She insisted they have separate rooms despite the extra cost. After some debate, he finally compromised with sleeping on the floor if it made her feel better. He glanced down at the old rug that would soon be his bed and sighed. The fabric looked as if it had been clawed at by some animal with strands of the fabric protruding upwards and flickering with the wind that flowed through. He guessed it was rats. Sylaina sat by the window across form him, leaning back lazily in a small splintered chair with her feet on the window sill, staring into the sunset that had begun to peak through the window and into the room. "Is it just me it did something seem off with that Valin guy?" She said turning her head slightly in his direction, "He barely spoke." "If I recall, you barely spoke too, but you''re right. Something did seem off." Sylaina chuckled, "I figured I''d let you do the talking. You''re a lot better at that than I am, I''d probably just piss him off." "Yeah you''re right about that too," Tycon replied. "Hey, you weren''t supposed to agree," She said playfully, shaking her head. Tycon grinned, "But then I''d be lying." The two laughed then let the moment settle before the conversation returned back to the matter at hand. "Do you trust Daenor?" Sylaina asked. "No, I don''t," Tycon replied, "But I''m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt and I''d rather be on a ship than a rickety boat." "We don''t have much of a choice do we." Tycon sat on the side of the bed and began cleaning the blade of his sword, "I didn''t see any other ships on the way in. Then again I didn''t see his ship on the way in either." "And there were a lot of mercenaries in the Tavern," Sylaina added, "Do you think there are more ships docked along the coast outside the village?" "Possibly," He said as he caressed the old cloth along the pommel, "But I''m willing to bet some of them were his crew." "Once we get there, we''re gonna need those numbers against whatever we find. Better to be safe than sorry." "Hopefully they put up a good fight," Tycon said, sheathing his sword. He looked at her across the room. Sylaina had let her brown hair loose as she sat back staring into the sunset horizon, the strands blowing and coiling in the breeze, exposing her small pointy ears. He felt guilty looking at her, but he had to admit she was beautiful. He remembered their brief and awkward kiss back in the forest and a large wave of embarrassment washed over him. Maybe in that moment intimacy was something he needed and a kiss wouldn''t have hurt, but he always returned his thoughts to Ambre. Maybe he finally needed to accept that their statuses in the world around them didn''t coincide. Maybe they really weren''t meant for each other. Let her go. "Why are you staring at me like that?" Sylaina said sternly, pulling Tycon from his thoughts. "I wasn''t staring at anything," He replied. "I can feel your eyes on me and can see you in my peripheral," She shook her head, "Something on your mind." "No, nothing. I was just thinking, maybe we should let loose for the night. Go downstairs to the tavern and have a good time. We''ve been on the road for a long time and we''re about to head out into the isles. I think we should have some R&R." "Sounds like a lot was on your mind," She joked, "And I can never say no to a few beers." "And I can never say no to a glass of wine," He replied. "I don''t think you''re gonna find wine in this shithole." "No," Tycon laughed, "I don''t think I will. Beer will have to do." The Emergence - III Tycon''s head throbbed like the beat of a drum as he woke on the rug he''d passed out on the night before. He fluttered his eyes open to see Sylaina staring out the window to his right, she hadn''t noticed that he was awake. She stared with her palm in her hand, out into the distant sea where the volcanoes loomed on the horizon like blemishes in the earth. He was glad she had come along with him, he was grateful for everything his friends had done in the name of saving the world. He''d come so far since Selenicar, since his first encounter with the gems and as he watched the faint wind blow her brown ponytailed hair, he tried desperately to stop himself from climbing to his feet and hugging her as tight as he could. The overwhelming and sudden urge took him by surprise as if a reminder of everything they''d been through had swept over him like a tidal wave. Even with his throbbing head, he couldn''t help but find his mind lost in those thoughts. The face of Balin flashed within his mind as well as Ren''s and... Ambre. He missed them all. Tycon slowly climbed to his feet and Sylaina turned to face him with a smile, "Tycon," She said, "It''s almost time to get to the shi-" He grabbed her by the vest that sat snugly over her blouse and pulled her towards him, his body moving on its own as if it yearned for the warmth of hers. He embraced her tightly, a part of him not wanting to let go and it was clear she was taken aback but she soon fell into it. "What''s this?" She said softly between bated breaths, "I - I don''t know what to say." "Thank you," Tycon replied warmly, "For coming this far with me, even after everything. All the blood and pain, I just want you to know that I appreciate it." He could hear her let out a smile, "Are you sure you''re not still drunk?" "I''m being serious and... I''m sober." She sighed and rested her head on his chest, "Well since we''re being honest, I don''t know what compelled me to follow you," Her voice was tender, "The goal of saving the world? The desire for adventure? I''m not sure but all that matters is that I''m glad I followed you." They let go and for a moment they locked eyes, he could only imagine how scruffy he looked in her point of view, but then again; They both did. Her large emerald eyes studied him as he studied her and he looked to her lips then back again, the nostrils of her small freckled nose flared as she began to breathe heavily, clearly flustered by the sudden embrace. Tycon pretended not to notice. "We''re about to take a huge risk going out there," Tycon began as the mood died down, "I wanna ask again if you''re sure you wanna do this?" Sylaina put her hands on her hips and leaned on one leg, "You really think I''m gonna follow you over a huge fuckin'' mountain and nearly fall to my death, just to chicken out now? C''mon Tycon, of course, I wanna do this." "Okay," He said, "But don''t look at me if everything goes to shit." Sylaina rolled her eyes, "I''ve heard that before." They both began to gear up for the coming voyage out into the volcanic isles of the south. He pulled on his tattered coat and checked his blade by running his finger across it. the action had become routine and if his finger wasn''t bleeding by the end then it wasn''t sharp enough. As he watched the crimson liquid emerge from his finger, he slipped the blade back into its scabbard and began strapping on his leather gauntlets. The gauntlets slid on his hands snugly and he buckled the straps over the bracers to keep the armor on tight. In the corner of his eye, he could see Sylaina doing the same. The time had come to venture forth. Tycon double-checked his daggers were strapped to his waist and without another moment''s hesitation, the two elves left.
Daenor was waiting in the tavern for them on his own. Tycon glanced around but couldn''t see Valin anywhere, he assumed he was on the ship. The tavern was all but empty, he could only hear the clanging of glasses as they were cleaned. There was no music and no conversation. "Hello my friends," Daenor waved as they approached. "Hey," Tycon replied bluntly, "How''s the ship? Is it ready to go?" Daenor nodded, "I''ve got Valin and the boys on the ship prepping for sail now. If you would follow me, I''ll take you to where we''re anchored." "Lead on," Tycon gestured his hand to the door. The village was almost as quiet as the tavern, not many villagers were wandering the sandy trails and he only saw one or two down by the small fishing dock. It was still early in the morning, the sun had only just presented itself over the mountain so he figured most were still asleep, though the quietness was still unsettling. They followed Daenor from the tavern and down the sandy trails heading east towards the lush jungle that stood just beyond the borders of the village opposite the mountain they''d come from. Tycon was beginning to get tired of forests or anything like them. He''d spent too much time recently among trees and he was just beginning to get used to the coastal scenery. Daenor led them into the dense jungle and they followed foot-made trails through the greenery and eventually over a small creek. The air was hot and the distant sounds of exotic birds made him feel a lot farther from civilization than he was. Tycon kept his hand over the pommel of his sword in case Daenor was leading them into some sort of trap, even if it seemed like he was paranoid. Just as the darkness of the trees overhead began to reach their peak, they soon found the jungle getting thinner and through the trees, Tycon could see the brightly lit sand in the morning sun just ahead of them. He let his grip over his sword falter for a moment, at least until he noticed anything else suspicious. Once they reached the beach and his eyes had adjusted to the bright reflective sand, he noticed the large silhouette of a Brigantine ship out on the water, swaying with the movement of the waves. Daenor turned to them, moving backward with a proud grin on his face. "This is the Wavesplitter," He declared, "The fastest ship in the south." "It''s very impressive," Sylaina said politely. Tycon admittedly agreed, "Indeed it is." Daenor, who was satisfied with their comments, turned back and began walking towards a small rowboat that was beached nearby with Valin standing beside it, waving them over. Tycon glanced at Sylaina who gave him an approving nod in return and they both followed the man to the rowboat. Once they were on board, Valin began rowing and Tycon realized it was going to take a while before they arrived at the ship. They slowly moved against the force of the waves and none of them could escape the spray, he could taste the salt as the water collided against his lips. The wind began to pick up the further they made it out to sea which only made the seaspray worse, Tycon was convinced they''d be soaked by the time they reached the ship.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. "So what do you do? You a pirate?" Sylaina asked, her soft voice barely being able to be heard over the sea and wind. Daenor cackled at the question and shook his head, "No, mostly cargo transport but I do loot any pirates we sink. They''re an annoying bunch." "You run into pirates often?" Tycon asked. "Quite often, that''s why I''ve got the ship equipped with some of the best defense cannons in the region, though we try to avoid conflict when possible. You never know when some bastard will get a lucky shot and sink your damn ship." Tycon nodded slowly, "So if you transport cargo, why are you out here treasure hunting?" Daenor paused for a moment, "If there''s money to be made and I''m close by, you''re sure-as-shit gonna find me making it." Tycon knew that Daenor would inevitably betray him for the treasure. With a whole crew at his back and just the two of them, it made sense that he''d want it all for himself, maybe not entirely out of greed but simply because he could and because he had the means to. Maybe he was wrong though, perhaps he was honorable and would split the reward, only time would tell. Once they arrived at the ship, a couple of crewmen dropped down some ropes for Valin to tie to the boat. Tycon took the other rope and tied it onto the back of the rowboat and Valin thanked him quietly. He couldn''t help but wonder what was up with him, he really seemed out of it. The four of them were raised onto the deck and Tycon got a good chance to admire the beauty of the ship from up close. The deck felt strong and firm, even when waterlogged by the sea. He watched as the crewman worked, preparing the black sails for the upcoming voyage to the ashen isles. Before he got a chance to truly study every aspect he was beckoned to follow Daenor to the quarter deck where once he arrived, he turned with an even larger grin than before. "Just you wait til you see her in action, she glides through the water like it were butter." "How long do you think the voyage will take?" Tycon asked, refraining to comment about the ship. Draenor''s grin quickly disappeared and he walked over to the railing that faced the distant isles, "I''d say around two or three hours give or take. It depends on the strength of the wind." He paused raised his head to the sky as if taking in the salty air then he turned back to them, "Come, I''ll show you below deck so you can get comfortable, we set sail in five." Again the two elves followed Daenor down to the main deck where he opened a large trap door with stairs that led below deck. Once they got down Tycon''s stomach turned and he heard Sylaina let out a short gasp. He scanned his eyes across the room and his mouth fell agape. Strewn across the room were animal cages but within them, he saw men and women, naked and frail; too weak to even pick themselves up from the floor. Their skin had shrunken and withered, wrapping tightly around their bones, it became obvious they hadn''t been fed in weeks. A spark of rage became an ember in his chest and he clenched his jaw tight as his hand wrapped around the grip of his blade seemingly on its own. Tycon turned to face Daenor who had four other men at his back with their weapons brandished. The chilling smiles of the men made the anger swell faster with each second that passed. He glanced at Sylaina who had her blade out, her eyebrows arched, and her posture stiff with anger. "What the fuck is this?" Tycon hissed. "Business," Daenor replied with a shrug, "Gotta make money somehow." Sylaina pointed her blade to Daenor, "So you''re a slaver? Human scum." "I prefer businessman but sure, I''m a slaver and I hear elves go for a good price these days," He focused his gaze on Sylaina, "Especially the female ones." "You touch her and I''ll feed you to the sharks." Daenor smiled menacingly and his sword hissed from its scabbard, "We''ll see about that." Two of the men charged at Tycon and he didn''t hesitate to react, he raised his sword in front of him and blocked both their incoming strikes, pushing one away with a sharp kick so he could turn his attention on the other. The second man came in for a follow-up attack but Tycon quickly slashed his blade across the man''s chest, spattering his face in blood. By the time he was done, the other crewman recovered and was coming in for another attack, Tycon lunged aside from the incoming blade in a roll, dodging it. He noticed chained shackles sitting by the wall and quickly grabbed them, immediately tossing them in the man''s direction, hitting him. He followed it up with a quick strike across the neck, almost severing the head. Sylaina seemed to be taking care of herself with one man already lying across the floor facedown in a pool of blood and in battle with the other. Tycon quickly began making his way to Daenor who had dropped his weapon and began to flee up the stairs. Tycon dropped his sword and chased after Daenor, grabbing him before he could make it to the top and throwing him down onto the deck below, landing with a loud thud just in time to be spattered with his last crewman''s blood. Sylaina pointed her sword at him as he scurried on his back towards a nearby cage, "D-don''t kill me," He whimpered, "I needed the money. I have debts." Tycon walked to where he sat pathetically and crouched over him, peering into his eyes, "Oh, no. I''m not going to kill you, you''re going to take us to the isles. Try anything funny and you''ll be shark food quicker than you can say... Help," His final word a whisper. Suddenly the door creaked behind them, Tycon shot a look over his shoulder to see a pair of boots descending the stairs until it revealed Valin, holding a crossbow. The man''s eyes widened at the sight of the crewman that were spread across the now-crimson wooden floor. His gaze scanned the room until it settled on the shaking and whimpering Daenor at the foot of a cage. "Master?" He said softly. "Valin," Daenor cried, "K-kill them." "Shut it," Sylaina spat and gave him a swift kick. Tycon grabbed his sword off the floor but when Valin didn''t react to his movement, he kept still. He was a slave and Tycon didn''t want to kill him if he didn''t have to. Valin''s face fell blank and unpredictable, there was no way of telling exactly how he felt. He simply stared at Daenor with empty eyes. "I gave you a command," Daenor shouted, "Kill the-" He was interrupted by another kick by Sylaina. Tycon waited for Valin''s next move, he slowly danced closer to the man to get within killing distance of him should he decide to turn on them. If he shot his crossbow at either of them, he''d be dead before he could see where the bolt hit. For the first time, Tycon saw a smile creep onto Valin''s lips, it almost seemed as if a new life had sparked within him. Valin squeezed the grip of the crossbow and shook his head. "No, I''m not going to kill them... Only you." In a split second, Valin raised the crossbow and fired a bolt that landed directly into Daenor''s throat, ending any chance he had to beg for mercy. "Great," Sylaina said sarcastically, "Who''s going to take us to the isles now?" "I will," Valin replied, his voice suddenly strong, "This is my ship now, if the rest of the crew don''t agree then they''re welcome to leave once we dock," He pointed to Daenor, "The keys are on his body, free the slaves and get them fed. By the time this is over, I''ll have a new crew free of slavery." "Why didn''t you kill him sooner?" Tycon asked. "You don''t know what it''s like to be a slave do you?" His tone was sharp, "This life was my whole world, I''ve been in it for eighteen years... since I was three. Following orders was my pride, getting them right made sure I wasn''t whipped at night," He paused and looked at the lifeless body of Daenor, "I''m supposed to be loyal but when I... Saw him, lying there like that, so pathetic and weak, something awakened within me. I think this is the first time I''ve truly felt conscious and to consciously make a decision for what''s right, the feeling is indescribable. So there''s your answer, as long as it is." "I''m sorry," Tycon said, "I don''t know what it''s like. I didn''t mean to offend you and thank you for not killing us." "Forget it, he was scum. Luring the treasure seekers into a trap and selling them into slavery, his death was an ironic and fitting one. I''ll take you to and from the isles but first I need to attend to the people here. The voyage will be delayed for a short while." "We can wait," Sylaina said, "If you need any help we''ll be happy to oblige." "Indeed," Tycon agreed, "Consider it payback for not killing us." "I''ll accept your offer. You''ll soon be there finding whatever it is you''re looking for." With that both Sylaina and Tycon helped free the people in the cages, feeding them and eventually had them rest in the cots. It wasn''t much but it had to beat the deck. Before long they found themselves setting sail through the choppy waves and towards the volcanic isles of the south. He didn''t know what they''d find but he hoped it''d be worth the trouble. As he stood on the quarter-deck looking ahead as the ship sailed, he pulled the gem from his pocket and looked into the green-stone once again. The celestial spirals within never ceased to amaze him, they had to be something for another world. Their beauty could not be from a place so dark like Sciolyn, or any other continent for that matter. What kind of secrets do you hold? The Emergence - IV The ship swayed in the pelting wind of the sea. Even on a day so clear he could see the shores from miles, there were a few times where Tycon was convinced that the ship would capsize. The crew, however, seemed as if they''d manned a thousand waves more fierce than the ones they found themselves on. Nobody seemed phased by the violent seas, nobody but he and Sylaina who held on to the railings of the quarter-deck for dear life. After their brief but brutal fight with the now-former captain Daenor, Sylaina and Tycon spent the next few hours freeing and feeding the slaves that remained within the brig. Many of them chose to leave the ship behind as it harkened to bad memories for them, whereas others remained on the ship; knowing they didn''t have much else. He was surprised at how many no longer remembered their families or didn''t have any at all. He couldn''t imagine what they''d been through and the sight of them made his heart sink. At least there''s a better chance for them now. They have a future and that''s a lot more than they had before. When the one''s who chose to leave were safely taken ashore, they set out for the volcanic isles. The closer they made it to the isles, the thicker the air became and they soon found themselves under a blanket of smoke and ash looming high above them like storm clouds. Tycon hoped that Valin would keep some distance from the volcano, he didn''t like the idea of being sunk by a loose rock that had fallen from the top or worse. "It''s... Looking a little... More active than I thought," Tycon shouted over the wind as he held the railing tightly. "Indeed it is," Valin called back, fighting against the wheel, "Maneuvering around the isles is going to be risky with the violent waves and jagged rocks lying beneath the surface." "Maybe we should turn back," Sylaina shot Tycon a concerned look. Tycon shook his head, "We don''t have time," He insisted, "Just get us in there and move the ship outside of the volcanoes range. I''ll signal you for pick up when we''re done." "We still don''t know what we''re looking for. We don''t have time to figure it out with all this... Damn chaos." Tycon frowned, he knew she was right. They were getting closer and coming in hot, he had to think on his feet; he''d been taught that when becoming a bounty hunter but this was something he didn''t entirely understand. He shifted his gaze to the deck, his mind moving as if he were flicking pages on a book. C''mon, think, think, think. He scanned his eyes across the horizon hoping to find something but saw nothing. "Shit," He spat quietly. "Tycon, your coat!" Sylaina exclaimed pointing at his pocket. Tycon looked to his pocket where the gem was located and through the fabric was a faint blue light. The gem was glowing, he didn''t know why but it had to be a good sign. He reached in and pulled the small gemstone out then held it between his thumb and index finger, studying it once again. The entire gemstone glowed a luminescent blue and he could no longer see the coiling stars within - Just endless light. "We must be close," Tycon said softly to himself then turned his attention out towards the horizon again, "Valin, drop us on the Isle closest to us." "Sure thing," He said through clenched teeth and violently pulled the wheel leftwards, catching speed with the waves that moved towards the shoreline. Tycon waited in anticipation as they approached the shoreline quickly, the waves and wind boosting their speed tenfold directly at the beach. It was going to be quite a maneuver for Valin as he needed to turn the ship before they hit the shore and with no time to drop the rowboat, something told him that they were in for a rough swim. "We''re going to have to swim aren''t we?" Sylaina said as if reading his thoughts. He gave her a solemn nod, he''d been through so much already and he was sure he could handle a swim, although the brigandine he wore certainly didn''t fill him with confidence. The metal plates layered within the fabric would surely cause him to sink, not to mention his sword and daggers. Going in armorless made the most sense for him, though he was reluctant to settle on that fact. Sylaina didn''t need to worry as much as she didn''t wear armor, preferring her loose blouse than anything that fit tight around her chest. It made him worry, yet envious that she cared so little about armor. Tycon placed the gem in the pocket of his pants and threw off his coat then began unbuckling the belts across his chest that held the brigandine closed. "You really are slow to act aren''t you?" Sylaina teased and nodded her head towards her bow and quiver that had already been placed on the deck. "Yeah, well I wasn''t expecting the wind of a fucking cyclone. I intended on taking the rowboat." Sylaina glanced at the isle and then back at him, "Well you better hurry up, I think Valin is about to do his grandiose maneuver. He fiddled with the straps a little longer until the brigandine fell from his body with a large thud upon the deck. He reached into his pocket and pulled the gem back out, holding it tightly in a balled fist, not wanting to lose it to the abyss of the ocean. "Get ready!" Valin called. Sylaina and Tycon held the railing together then crouched down, preparing to leap over it and into the ocean. "On my signal," Valin called once more. Suddenly the ship veered a sharp left, turning the bow from the isle and back towards the ocean. The momentum almost threw them overboard anyway. "Go!" With the gem in hand, the two Elves threw themselves over and it felt like seconds until he felt the warm shadow of the water envelop itself around him. Beneath the surface, it was silent and calm as the torrenting waves crashed overhead. He swam upwards quickly, feeling lighter than he ever had before and soon broke the surface, looking wildly for any sight of Sylaina. After a few moments of scanning, he saw her head rise from the water and he waved then shouted, catching her attention. Then the two began the slow swim towards the shore.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. The waves helped drag him in further but at the same time their violence would periodically pull him under but he persevered, always rising and pushing onward until he felt the soft sand beneath his feet and the waves pelting his shins. Sylaina dragged herself upon the sand and Tycon ran over quickly to help her up. "I think I would have preferred the rowboat," She said wearily. "You and me both," Tycon agreed. He opened his hand and looked at the gem, its light still blinding then looked into the Isle they stood upon. Surrounding the Titanic volcano was a thick jungle, the trees on the canopy swayed forcefully in the vigorous wind. If he was going to search for the mysterious light, he''d start there. He could use the volcano for direction, though he had a doubt that he''d even be able to see it from beneath the trees. All he knew was that the further he was from the volcano, the closer he was to the beach. "I hope Valin is willing to wait around for a good while because I don''t think we''ll be finding whatever it is we''re looking for any time soon," Tycon said with a sigh as he leaned on one of the palm trees that dotted the beach, gazing into the jungle before them. "Best get started immediately then," Sylaina replied. "Who knows, maybe we''ll see the light again. It would certainly halve the time we''ll be spending here." With that, the two Elves ventured forth into the jungle. The shadow of the trees took hold the moment they stepped within the canopy, outstretched arms of greenery ready to embrace and consume them inside. Tycon intended for them both to come out alive, he had his sword strapped to his hip and that''s all he needed to face whatever was within. He soon found himself hacking at the vines that were stretched between the many trees, it was to be expected within a jungle that had no beaten path. As they moved further in, the air around them began to chill and a hint of concern ran through Tycon. "You feel that?" He asked. Sylaina nodded, "Yeah, isn''t it supposed to be hot in the jungle?" "Somethings not right here," He said, "At least we know we''re heading in the right direction. Keep your sword-arm at the ready, we don''t know what could jump out at us from the trees." Sylaina frowned, "I''m more concerned about the spiders." "They''ll be the least of worries. At least it''s gotta beat rats right?" Sylaina forced a laugh, "Rats aren''t venomous and I think I''ve had my fair share of venom related near-death experiences." "Well, hopefully, we don''t get a blood-loss related death experience," He smiled grimly, "Just keep an eye out on the webs." There was a pause as Tycon began hacking at yet another vine that blocked their path. "Do you think we''ll make it out by nightfall?" Sylaina asked, filling the silence. "I hope. We''ll have a hard time getting out of here in the dark. I don''t think even the volcano would help us."
An hour had passed and the fatigue was beginning to set in but the chill kept him moving in an effort to keep himself warm. Tycon could see his breath in the air and the further they made it in, the colder it became. As he cut the last vine between two trees, he saw sunlight beam through the hanging leaves. At first, he thought he''d reached the other side of the isle but soon realized, as he stepped out from within the trees, that he was in a small clearing with a lake in the middle. Flowing from the lake, there was a thin river that was obscured by trees and lead into the ocean. There was no way he could have seen it from the ship. They walked to the water''s edge and sat for a moment. He noticed a small island in the middle of the lake about two hundred meters out that was perfectly circular to the point where it looked unnatural. There were no trees of any kind upon it; Only a single stone pedestal stood on its lonesome coiled in vines from the ages long past. He couldn''t make out the finer details from where he sat but he guessed it was worth investigating. "You see that?" Tycon pointed towards the pedestal on the lake. Sylaina followed his finger and squinted in the general direction, "That''s got to be something useful right?" "We''ll have to see," Tycon replied, "I hope you fancy another swim, it doesn''t look like we''re getting there any other way." Sylaina was silent for a moment as she scanned her eyes along the lake then sat back with her arms for support, "This place feels so far removed from the world, almost as if we''re in a different plane of existence." "Perhaps it has been left mostly untouched for a reason. We should keep moving, I don''t think Valin will wait forever." He took a deep breath and went to take his first step into the lake when the water began rippling as if something were boiling beneath the surface. Tycon lunged backward and they both swiftly drew their blades. He watched as the ripples got bigger and the bubbling grew louder, waiting to strike whatever may jump out from the water. A few moments passed and there was nothing but Tycon didn''t drop his guard, he kept his muscles tensed and ready to move a moment''s notice. Unexpectedly the head of a human suddenly popped out from beneath the water, it was a woman and she had a scowl on her face. Tycon lowered his sword slightly and took a cautious step towards the lake. The woman didn''t react, she stared at them with large eyes, too large to be human and continued scowling. "Uh, who and what are you?" Tycon asked, trying his best to sound polite. Her pupils grew larger and her scowl disappeared from her small mouth, "You carry one, elf," She said, her voice monotone. "One of what? This?" He opened his hand to reveal the gem. "Yes," She replied, "What do you hope to find here?" "I was hoping you could tell us." "Do you seek power?" Her voice came out like a cold whisper that brought a chill down his spine. "We do," Sylaina cut in, "Let''s not be so cryptic and get to the point." "Sylaina!" Tycon shook his head. The woman in the water frowned, "Your companion should watch her tongue, I could have her torn to pieces in a flash." Sylaina stepped forward, about to snap but hesitated and eventually settled on clenching her jaw. "She''s right, I do seek power," Tycon said, "Will I find it here?" "You will," She nodded, "But what is your purpose with this power?" Tycon didn''t hesitate, "To kill someone before they gain the same power to destroy Sciolyn and the world." She closed her large eyes and rose further from the water, her wet dark hair flowed down to cover her bare breasts and he noticed that there were scales where her hips were. She was truly a magical creature, who knew how long she''d been there. A mermaid. "I am the keeper. I feel the conviction in your tone and I will let you pass but just know that you will be tested within. Should you fail, you will be deemed unworthy of the power and perish," She paused and lowered her head, her tone growing grim, "There is no turning back from here. You either win or you die." "What''s in there?" Tycon asked. The mermaid shook her head, "I cannot tell you that." "Why?" "I do not help nor hinder. I am a spectator." Tycon thought for a moment as a bit of doubt grew in his mind but he pushed it away. He''d been through this before in Meliora, if anything he was more prepared than anyone else who had tried and failed before him. "I accept," Tycon declared then glanced at Sylaina, "Do you?" "Of course," she replied. The mermaid lifted her hands from the water and the ground beneath them began to tremble, "So be it," She said. The water began splashing and shimmering with the rumbling vibrations and the two elves watched seaweed-covered stone pillars rise from beneath the water to form a bridge across to the island in the middle. There were human bones stuck within the seaweed and Tycon shuddered, glad he hadn''t taken a swim. "Go," The mermaid said, "Come out victorious." "We will," Tycon said clenching his fist, "We have to." "Don''t worry, Tycon," Sylaina said confidently and pulled the bow from her back, winking at him, "Whatever we find in there doesn''t stand a chance." "I hope you''re right." I really do. The Emergence - V Final chapter of book 1
Tycon''s and Sylaina''s boots splashed on the wet stone of the spiralling staircase that lead deeper into the structure. He could feel that they were descending beneath the lake, the air and stone growing colder the deeper they went; The damp chill only reinforced the emptiness around them. The stairs went on for a while, spinning into darkness and he brushed his hand along the mossy walls to keep himself stable as the light faded from outside.
When the sound of the brushing trees and the howling wind disappeared, they were left with only the rhythmic drips of water and the sound of their own footsteps as they echoed into nowhere. Tycon kept his other hand grasped on the hilt of his sword, the touch reassured him and made him feel safe but he knew he wasn''t. He knew there was something down there waiting for them and that feeling of safety would be fleeting.
A few minutes went by and he found himself able to make out faint silhouettes as his eyes adjusted to the darkness, mostly ones of the stairs but he no longer needed to caress the damp stone walls.
"I feel like we should''ve brought a torch," Sylaina remarked from behind.
"Even if we had, it''d probably have been soaked anyway."
He heard her sigh, "You''re right. It''s just cold as shit down here... And dark."
"Maybe we can find something down here but I doubt it," Tycon said.
There was a short pause, the silence broken by their footsteps until eventually, they reached the bottom of the staircase. From what he could make out, there was a large doorway just beyond it. He tapped his foot on the wet stone and listened for the echo. He could feel Sylaina''s confused eyes on him.
"What are you doing?" She asked quietly.
"Checking how large the room is by how far the echo carries."
"You could also be ringing the dinner bell for whatever is in here," She whispered harshly.
He immediately felt stupid, she was right, and found himself surprised that it hadn''t crossed his mind. Tycon waited a few moments, his hand on his sword but nothing came. No growls or hisses, just the echo fading away. He made a mental note not to be so reckless again.
"Anyway," Tycon started, "The room is pretty big so remain cautious."
"Says you," She replied jokingly.
At the very least, her charm relieved some of the tension that had begun to grow within him.
They stepped slowly into the large chamber, he could barely see a few feet in front of him and it made him nervous. From what he could see, it reminded him of Meliora. Not much was different save for the floor being wet and mossy rather than covered in sand. There were marble urns scattered along the walls as they were in Meliora and in retrospect he realized that it was likely what housed the ashes of the elves who fell long ago.
Tycon began to wonder again as to why these tombs of all places seemed to house the gems or at least a few of them. Perhaps they belonged to great kings of old or maybe for another purpose altogether. Was it to hide them? That was likely the answer, he saw no other reason for there to be a guardian protecting it. In the end, the reason didn''t matter, the fact was that one was here and he needed to get it by any means necessary.
As they reached the other side of the large dark chamber, they found themselves within a hallway with the floor and walls made of marble. The hallway took many turns with no interconnecting rooms until finally, Tycon saw a light at the other end. An intense glow of red that shimmered like the light of a fire and every step they took closer, the air began to feel warm again. Warm quickly became hot and that''s when he realized that they were somewhere beneath the volcano.
He emerged from the hallway into a cave with an island in the middle of a lake of lava. On the island was a marble pedestal with a blinding blue light that pulsated every now and then, almost blinding him. He scanned around until he saw a bridge on the other side of the room that was connected to the island but he didn''t take a step towards it. He stood still and drew his sword from its scabbard.
"I won''t take another step until whatever is hiding in here shows itself," Tycon said with his sword grasped in both hands in front of him.
He heard Sylaina pull an arrow from her quiver beside him, "I don''t want to jinx it but maybe there''s nothing here."
Sweat poured from his brow and the droplets split where the bridge of his nose began. He wanted desperately to wipe it away but didn''t want to sacrifice even the slightest moment. They waited some more but still nothing came and after a lot of hesitati0n on his part, he reluctantly took a few cautious steps forward with Sylaina in tow, still gripping the blade.
"I feel like I shouldn''t help with the jinxing," Tycon said slowly, "But so far so good."
He heard Sylaina snort from behind, "Hopefully those aren''t your last words."
"Would you prefer a cry?" Tycon said and sarcastically mimicked a shriek.
"I think that might be even worse."
The tension slipped a little and they made their way slowly around the rockface that circled around the lake of lava. The elves headed towards the bridge to the island on the other side. His skin felt as if it were right next to a campfire and for a moment he smelled his coat singe a little. The heat was uncomfortable but not unbearable but he knew that would change the longer they remained there. It was best to make it quick but that may prove to be easier said than done.
The blue light shimmered as they arrived at the bridge, the glow almost outshone the dominant red that cast its light upon the walls of the cave. The bridge was made from stone and chunks had clearly crumbled and fallen into the lava over time, leaving it to look a lot more unstable than he would have liked. There was no other option, however, but it still took him a moment to mentally prepare himself to walk across it. This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.
"I think you should hang back," Tycon said.
Sylaina nodded a little too enthusiastically, "Hey, any excuse not to walk along that thing."
Reluctantly, Tycon took a step upon the crumbling bridge and it seemed to be holding firm. He took another deliberate step and this time a small chunk of stone crumbled from the handrail, splashing into the fiery depths below.
Shit.
A part of him was tempted to just sprint across and make the agonizing journey a quick one but the risk of the bridge collapsing under the sudden weight seemed likely. He sighed and took another step and as soon as his foot touched the stone, the cavern suddenly began to rumble. It startled him and he shot a glance back at Sylaina who was wide-eyed in fear and it mirrored his own expression.
Tycon had no clue what was making the cavern shake but when he began to see the bridge crumble more and more, he decided against his better judgement that he''d have to sprint across. Rocks and stalactites fell from the high ceiling and began plummeting into the lava around him and in a fight or flight response, he quickly darted across the bridge like a startled deer, making a leap at the end to land face-first into the dirt of the island and right before the pedestal.
"Are you okay?" Sylaina called from across the crumbling bridge.
Tycon climbed to his feet, struggling to regain his balance in the shaking room and gave her a half-hearted thumbs up.
The violent rumbles began to grow and it was almost impossible for him to stay on his feet. He made sure to stay as far away from the lava as possible as it began to bubble and splash. Tycon had no clue as to what was causing the tremor, he guessed an earthquake but wasn''t entirely sure. Stumbling his way to the pedestal, he reached out to the bright light, hoping to grab the gem and get out of there before the bridge collapsed entirely but was stopped when something rose from the lava lake - something large.
The thing looked to be what Tycon thought was a demon made of cracked stone. Its head was shaped like a lizard with curved horns protruding from the sides of its head with molten red glowing eyes that peered at him with a cold gaze. Its humanoid stony torso was cracked with the humming red glow of lava in between, looking like veins of fire that twisted throughout its muscular figure and on to the wings that were on its back.
When the creature fully emerged, the tremors stopped and it let out a powerful roar with fire coming from its mouth like a hot wind. Tycon stunned at what he was witnessing grabbed anxiously at the hilt of his sword but he knew it was useless. The creature stood twenty-five feet tall and his sword would be nothing but a thorn if he were even able to pierce its stony skin. He glanced back at Sylaina who held her bow ready and he could see her arms shaking. She knew as well as he that it was useless, his best bet would be to snatch the gem and make a run for it before it could attack. And Tycon did just that.
He reached into the light but was shocked to find his hand grasp something else. It didn''t feel like a gem, not even close. It felt strong and heavy, his hand felt at home as he grasped it in a tight grip. A smile crept upon his lips as he began to pull the object from the light and the immense power he felt as his eyes met with it was overwhelming.
It was a sword.
A blade imbued with a faint light. Glowing blue runes of a forgotten language trailed down the fuller, only stopping before the ridge. The hilt was gold with a red grip of the finest leather he had ever felt upon his hands as if it stuck to him and would never fall from his grasp. The pommel had an empty socket and the crossguard had a snake coiled around it with similar empty sockets along its back. That''s when he knew what the sword was for and he didn''t hesitate to reach into his pocket and grab the gem, then slip it into the socket on the pommel all in one quick motion.
The hilt vibrated as the gem slipped into place and the blade almost began to feel heavier as if the weapon had come to life. With no time to gawk, he raised the sword to the molten creature with no idea what exactly it was going to do.
The creature raised a hand and slammed it into the cavern wall, clenching its fist to remove a boulder from it.
Oh shit.
Tycon lowered his guard and turned to run. There was no way he was going to block a boulder, even with a sword that felt as powerful as it did. He ran without a second thought, leaping over the bridge with as few steps as possible and grabbing Sylaina by the blouse.
"Run!" He shouted.
They made their way quickly towards the cavern door they came through but the creature was in the middle of the lake and they were in range at all times. Suddenly a boulder flew past them, only missing them by mere feet and he could feel the wind blow past from the force of it. They stumbled but continued on desperately to their only way out. Tycon glanced towards the creature as it was readying itself to launch another boulder their way and tried to quicken his pace. He looked away for a moment as they ran and then glanced back toward the creature only to find a large boulder headed directly at them.
He didn''t know why he did it nor did he know how he did it but in a response that felt almost automatic, he swung the sword at the incoming boulder in a desperate attempt to die fighting only to find, to his surprise, that he crumbled it to dust with a flash of light.
Tycon stared wide-eyed at the sword for a moment. What in the hell had he just done?
He swung the sword again and light shimmered around the blade. He knew that it was no ordinary weapon but for it to be able to be powerful enough to turn a boulder to dust blew his mind. He could only imagine the power it would hold with all four of the slots filled with gems.
"Quickly, we have to go now!" Sylaina shouted.
The two continued running around the lake and were gaining on the exit when the creature began making large strides through the lava towards the cavern door. Tycon began to run harder and as fast as he could to at the very least meet the creature there to kill it. He felt more confident with the sword. He felt like he could take on anything with the power he now held and finally he could make a difference.
The creature reached into the cavern wall again and threw another boulder, this time at the exit. Tycon wasn''t worried as the doorway collapsed in on itself. If the boulder he destroyed was anything to go by, he would have no problem carving them the way out.
The creature arrived at the collapsed doorway just as they did and it reached out to grab Tycon but he jumped aside and swung the weapon at its hand, watching with a smile as it cut right through and crumbled it to dust. The creature roared again, spouting flames into the cavern but it had made a mistake by coming into range of him. One slash across its gut as it stood by the edge of the lava was enough to send the thing falling backwards and into the lava it came from. When it didn''t come back up, he assumed it was done with fighting for now.
The calmness that had suddenly engulfed the cavern felt odd as if he hadn''t just been running for his life moments before.
"Okay, so what is that?" Sylaina asked, trying her best to sound as nonchalant as possible.
"I don''t know," Tycon replied, "Some sort of ancient magical sword? Look here."
Tycon showed her the pommel where the gem sat snugly with a faint glow emitting from it.
"So this weapon is somehow connected to the gems," She said ponderously, her eyes locked to the gem.
"I''m guessing this is what their purpose is," Tycon said, "Was this what Zeke was looking for? Or are there others out there?"
Sylaina shrugged, "I don''t know."
"It was rhetorical."
"I know," Sylaina teased and bumped him with her arm.
"Anyway," Tycon started, "Let''s get out of here, I''ve had enough of this place.
There was a blue night sky when they emerged, flashes of light on the horizon both of fire and magic. When they had entered they thought they had more time but when they returned they found quickly that the sand in the hourglass had run out and their world was at war. Tycon knew Zeke had come, they were here to burn the world and rebuild on top of the ashes of the fallen human rule. He looked to his newly found sword once again, knowing that this may be the only way he could stop them. The only way he could save the world. Continued in book 2 "The War Of Reclamation"
There was a blue night sky when they emerged, flashes of light on the horizon both of fire and magic. When they had entered they thought they had more time but when they returned they found quickly that the sand in the hourglass had run out and their world was at war. Tycon knew Zeke had come, they were here to burn the world and rebuild on top of the ashes of the fallen human rule. He looked to his newly found sword once again, knowing that this may be the only way he could stop them. The only way he could save the world. Continued in book 2 "The War Of Reclamation"