The Jake Thomas Trilogy: Book 02 - Sword of Light

by Steven A. Tolle

  The sword fell to the ground, its Light suddenly extinguished. The Guardian attempted to retrieve it, but was forced back by the demons’ might, their power burning past his defenses. Without his sword, he knew that he could never defeat this many of his fallen brothers and would fall, leaving the people of this world unguarded. With a cry of frustration and pain, he sent a blast of power into his enemies, gaining a measure of space, and translated out of the physical plane and fled.

  …

  Tomaris carefully set the scroll down on his lap. The room was quiet as they all contemplated what they had just heard. After several moments of reflection, Tomaris spoke again.

  “The scroll goes on to say that, after his defeat, the Guardian appeared to Arnes, who was living alone in a cave, and showed him how to access the clerics’ power. He explained its uses and bid him to go out and bring others to the service of the One.” He paused, then said. “Further, it states that the Guardian would continue to oppose the demons as he could, but without his sword, he could not directly confront them or heal the tear. There is a mention that he must continue to hide his presence to prevent the demons from tracking him down and destroying him.”

  “Why didn’t the One simply banish the demons?” Jake asked. “That would seem to be the easiest way to take care of this. That would have prevented a thousand years of chaos.”

  “I certainly do not know the mind of the Creator, Jake.” Tomaris said with a soft chuckle. “We have to assume that there is a reason for all things, even if we can’t understand why.”

  “Also, consider that our lives are but like flashes of light in the broad sweep of time.” Tomaris said more seriously. “You are young and I am sure that the time to reach your age seems to have taken a long time, but at my age, that period of my own life seems but a brief moment. Can you imagine what a thousand years would be to an immortal creature that existed before the creation of time? Likely, those long years seem but what a few minutes would be to us.”

  “Now that we know this, Tomaris, what do we do with it?” Dominic asked. “You did not simply come here to give us a history lesson.”

  “You are correct, Dominic.” Tomaris replied. “I think I have found a way that we can help Jake return to his world and gain another weapon in our fight against our enemies.” He paused, looking at each of them, appearing to gauge what reaction his words would bring. “I believe that we must find and recover the Guardian’s sword.”

  Chapter Nine

  “Are you mad, Tomaris?” Dominic asked, voice deathly quiet. “How can we accomplish something that the Guardian cannot do?”

  “I am sane I assure you, Dominic.” Tomaris replied evenly, taking no offence. “I still don’t understand how Jake was brought here, other than it took someone or something with great power. Even if I solve that puzzle, I lack the strength to even attempt to return Jake to his world. The sword is a source of great power. With it, I believe that we stand the greatest chance to be successful in helping Jake, as well as having a mighty weapon to wield against our enemies. If we were to succeed, perhaps the Guardian himself would appear, sending Jake to his home and closing the tear.”

  He paused for a moment. “Also, it may be a mad idea, as you suggest, but I doubt that our enemies even dare to believe that we would make the attempt. What are we compared to the Guardian? That may give us the edge we need to be successful.”

  “Where is the sword, then?” Dominic demanded. “Why have you not seized it before, if it can be done?”

  “I do not know the exact location of the sword.” Tomaris admitted. He held up his hands when everyone, shocked and in disbelief, began to protest. After it quieted, he continued. “I am confidant that we can locate it, but it will take courage and determination. When I was a younger man, I heard many stories of a powerful object that the demons protected. I tracked down those leads and found clues that now indicate to me that the object of those stories is the sword. The demons cannot touch or use the sword as it is an anathema to them, but they protect it to keep it from the Guardian. I was never able to find it or I would have attempted to take it; it is moved from time to time.”

  “What I propose is dangerous, with a small chance of success, but the reward is great.” He looked at Dominic. “I know that you have small regard for your own safety, but are you willing to risk your life for a chance to send Jake back to his proper world?”

  “I would risk it, as long as it is not a fool’s errand.” Dominic replied directly, face neutral and arms crossed.

  Tomaris nodded and turned to Jake. “Jake, are you willing to face danger and hardship in an effort to find a way home?” He asked, watching him closely.

  “I would, if I wasn’t in this condition.” Jake stated.

  Tomaris sat silent for a while, studying Jake and thinking. “I believe that, with Jonas’ assistance, I can help you with that. However, I think that we can use your current condition to aid us.”

  “Do you still believe that the demons have spies in the city, as you mentioned in your letter, Jonas?” Tomaris asked.

  “I do.” Jonas replied. “We know that their attack was directed at Jake. They knew of him, where he lived and with whom he associated. They could only know that if someone in the city was providing that information.” He absently scratched his beard. “Also, the attack on the princess was meant to draw Jake out. Someone had to know the schedule of her travels and that would only come from the palace.”

  “Let us use this to our advantage.” Tomaris said. “We will let it be known that I am taking Jake back to the Keep to study his condition. Once we are safely away, we can send him off in search for the sword.”

  “Surely you do not intend to send Jake off by himself?” Jonas asked, incredulous.

  “No.” Tomaris replied. “He will need someone who knows something of the world and can help guide him.”

  “I will go.” Dominic said. “I will protect him.”

  “No, not you, Dominic.” Tomaris disagreed. “You are too well known and if our enemies see a young man with you, they will know who that is and realize our ruse.” He continued more gently. “You will search for the sword, but not in the way you may think.”

  “Who then, if not me?” Dominic demanded.

  Tomaris looked over at Hailyn and nodded.

  “Absolutely not!” Jonas interjected. “She has just barely passed her tests. If a cleric is needed, then I will go.”

  “No, friend Jonas.” Tomaris said kindly. “You are as well known as Dominic. Your presence would draw unnecessary attention.” He looked at Jonas with a measure of sadness in his eyes. “Also, I sometime have glimpses of what may be. In these visions, I have seen that you will be needed here. If you are not present, then terrible things will happen.”

  “Then, I will find another cleric to go with Jake.” Jonas replied, frustration evident on his face. “Hailyn is not ready.”

  “Jake will need someone that he trusts and can rely on.” Tomaris responded. “Can you find a cleric who will care more for Jake than this beautiful child does?”

  Jonas was quiet, his jaw clenching as he thought of how to respond. In that silence, Dominic spoke.

  “She is a cleric now, Jonas.” He said directly. “She may be young, but she is a skilled healer, levelheaded and brave. The boy and her get along, which is important on long missions. She seems the best choice.”

  He turned to Hailyn. “Will you go with Jake, girl? Knowing the risks and the small chance of success?” Dominic asked.

  Hailyn straightened and responded. “I will, Dominic.” She looked over at Jonas. “If Brother Jonas allows it.”

  Jonas struggled with his emotions; he saw both the longing and the fear of being left behind in her eyes. He knew of her feelings, but he thought of her almost like a daughter; he was closer to her than any of the other apprentices in the Temple. He wrestled with his desire to protect her and realization that Dom was right. Saying a silent prayer for strength, he tried to believe that he wa
s doing the right thing.

  “Hailyn will go.” He said reluctantly. “As Dom said, she appears to be the best choice.” He put a hand on her shoulder, trying to ignore the look of relief on her face. “She is a cleric of the One and we must trust in His grace to keep them both safe.”

  “We still face a choice.” Tomaris said. “From what I have been able to piece together, I believe that the sword is in one of two locations. While it is imprecise and the true location unknown, one set of clues points to the north, somewhere in Beragan, while the other suggests it is in the far south of Aletonia, near the Southern Wilds. What I propose is that we send Jake and Hailyn to the north while Dominic will accompany Moshanna to the south. Moshanna is from Aletonia, so he can assist Dominic.”

  “Shouldn’t we send some soldiers or other clerics along with them?” Jonas asked. “While Dom can usually take care of himself, demons likely guard these sites and only clerics can succeed there.”

  “Stealth will be key to this quest, Jonas.” Tomaris replied. “Too large a group and it will attract attention. Also, neither country is likely to welcome Sanduan soldiers roaming inside their borders.” He thought for a moment. “While Jake and Hailyn have the power to stand against the demons, Dominic and Moshanna will need some magic on their side.”

  “What do you propose then?” Jonas queried.

  “Can you find a cleric around Jake’s size?” Tomaris responded. “One that is strong in his power?”

  Jonas thought it over, and then nodded. “I know a cleric that I trust to do this.”

  “Then you will announce that Hailyn and this other cleric are going on a mission to the clerics of Beragan and they will accompany us when we head back to the Keep.” Tomaris stated. “Once we get to the crossroads, we will dress Jake in the cleric’s robes and send them north. The cleric will act as Jake’s double until we reach the Keep, then he can accompany Dominic south. Dominic’s presence with my party is obvious, as he is known as Jake’s protector, and will reinforce the idea that Jake is at the Keep.”

  “Remember, we must keep this plan secret.” Tomaris cautioned. “If our true purpose is known, then the demons will move the sword or reinforce their positions.”

  “Are we agreed?” He asked. Dominic gave a curt nod while Jonas did so reluctantly. Hailyn looked at Jake and they both indicated yes.

  “Now, it has been a long day. I am old and travel is not as pleasurable as it once was.” Tomaris said. “We will use tomorrow to prepare for the journey, then Jonas and I will return tomorrow night to heal Jake. We can depart early the next morning.”

  “Come to the Temple, Tomaris.” Jonas said, heading to the door. “We have room for you and your men.”

  “Thank you, friend Jonas.” Tomaris responded. “Your hospitality is much appreciated.” He looked back towards Jake.

  “If you allow me a private moment with Jake?” Tomaris requested.

  “We will wait outside.” Jonas said and he left, followed by Dominic and Hailyn.

  “Child, this is a dangerous undertaking.” Tomaris began. “If I was younger and could endure the physical demands of this quest, I would accompany you. Since I cannot, you must rely on your strength and power. Even if you remain undetected, you may still face challenges that will test you to your limits. Remember what you are trying to accomplish and have faith in yourself.”

  “However, you must learn to control your fear.” He continued. “I believe that your fear is what triggered the intertwining of your life force with your power. Jonas told me of what happened that caused you to touch that force. Both times it sounded as if you were frightened enough that the fear overwhelmed you. I know that Dominic has tried to train you to keep fighting even when afraid. That control is the same with your power.”

  “I admit I was scared out of my mind, but all I did was try to gain more power. I didn’t do anything different.” Jake stated, looking down at his hands, seeing the unnatural paleness. “I still don’t understand what you and Jonas mean by my life force.”

  “Your life force is that which animates your physical body.” Tomaris explained. “I have told you that man is a creature of two worlds, the physical and spiritual. The life force is a gift of Light from the Creator that provides the energy that powers your body while binding your spirit to your mortal form. But you should know that it is a finite resource. As we age, it slowly dissipates, causing the body to weaken and that spiritual binding to become frayed. Once it is exhausted, the body dies, the bond disappears and our spirits returns to the Creator.”

  “In some way, you are able to tap into it.” He continued. “Since it is pure Light, it is very powerful against the forces of Darkness. But, as you know, there is a cost for using it. If you use too much, then you will die.”

  “You have been lucky so far.” Tomaris stated. “In the first instance, you had Jonas nearby to succor you. You had your friends to bring you out the second time. I will be able to help you now, but once you only have Hailyn with you, a third use may mean that either you or she will die. That is why I urge you to gain control of your fear since fear is the trigger. I will not say that you may not face a situation where that use will be required to defeat your foes, but if you use it, know that it will likely kill you.”

  “How do I keep from using it, then?” Jake asked. “Controlling fear is easier said than done.”

  “Unfortunately, I cannot help you there. Only you can control your fear, Jake.” Tomaris said understandingly. “You must hold onto courage and calmness in the face of danger. Keep in the forefront of your mind something like home, or perhaps someone special, that would be lost if you cannot control your fear and are killed.”

  Tomaris rose to leave. “If you wish to say farewell to your friends here, I would encourage you to do that.” He said kindly, eyes compassionate. “Your fate is unclear, but whatever results this quest brings, it is unlikely that you will return.” With that, he turned and left.

  Jake released his magic, sagging against the wall, and thought about all that had been said. His emotions were jumbled and conflicting. He felt excited, nervous and sad at the thought of leaving, but was troubled by the ribbon of fear that twisted in his mind as he contemplated embarking on a quest that would be full of dangers.

  …

  The next day passed quickly for Jake. Knowing that he may never see them again, he got up early and went with Norlan to the smithy to spend some time with Dern and Almos. The walk was tiring, but he tried to stay engaged for their sake. He spent a couple of hours talking with them, catching up on all that happened since he left. When Norlan suggested that he go back to the house, he said his goodbyes, politely telling them that he would try to return after he finishes at the Keep, keeping the finality of his departure to himself. They had been good friends to him when he needed friends, so it was a slow and sad walk back to the house.

  He then spent the rest of the day with Cherise and Madalin. They had been told that he was returning to the Keep so Tomaris could find a way to heal him. They paid close attention to him, fussing over him really, and already teary-eyed regarding his departure. Jake tried to put on a brave face, not wanting them to worry.

  When Norlan returned in the early evening, Dominic was with him. Jake noticed that he had a different breastplate on, one that looked like his old one. Jake asked him about it.

  “You have a good eye, boy.” Dominic replied. “This is my old armor. I recovered it after we had cleared the demons’ fortress. It was custom-made for me and I wanted to see if Norlan could pound out the dent and fix the straps. I had gone to the smithy this morning, arriving shortly after you left, hoping that something could be done. We were discussing it when Jonas and Tomaris arrived at the smithy. I am not sure what he did, but with Tomaris’ help, Norlan was able to repair it.”

  “I think the old man used some magic.” Norlan stated, scratching his head. “Reheating forged metal is tricky; done incorrectly, it can ruin the strength of the metal. I did not think that I coul
d possibly get it done before tomorrow. When Tomaris said he could help me with it, I was skeptical. But he did something, standing there with his eyes closed, for the metal seemed to become almost like clay. I was able to repair it and it cooled quickly, quicker than it should have. Dern and Almos made the new straps while I worked.” He shook his head in wonder. “I would swear that the steel is as strong as it ever was.” He barked a short laugh. “If I could hire him, I would make a fortune.”

  “We’ll find out how well it is done when it has to stop the first arrow or sword thrust.” Dominic said sardonically. “But I am glad to have proper fitting armor again.”

  Dominic accepted Madalin’s invitation to stay for dinner. While Jake and Cherise played with Maxis, Norlan and Dominic sat on the porch benches, talking quietly. With the daylight fading in the west, Tomaris’ carriage appeared at the gate. Jonas and Tomaris stepped down and entered the yard. Maxis ran over to Tomaris, stopping and sniffing him, shaking his head as if he could not understand the scent. Tomaris smiled down at the dog and petted him. When Jonas and Tomaris joined the other men on the benches, Jake was surprised that Maxis lay down and studied Tomaris, appearing to be puzzling out who he was.

  Madalin came out, seeing the newcomers and asking if they would like to join them for dinner. When Jonas agreed, she called Cherise inside to help her. Jake sat down next to Dominic, absently listening as the men made small talk about the weather and the going-ons of the city.

  The meal was delicious as usual. Once they finished eating, Dominic departed to finish gathering supplies for the trip. As he left, he told Jake that Hailyn would take Dontas as her mount on the way to the Keep.

  “I think Jake should pack and get some rest.” Jonas said gently as he stood. “They will be leaving early in the morning.” He looked at Norlan and Madalin. “Tomaris and I need to speak to Jake about some aspects of his condition. We will accompany him to his room to discuss it privately.”