by Aya Knight
Without verbal response, Kale took her by the shoulders and pinned her against the wall. He leaned in until their warmth radiated against one another.
“You’re beautiful,” Kale spoke, his lips teasingly above hers.
“And you are amazing,” she replied, wrapping her arms tightly around his torso.
Kale slid his hands from her shoulders to the wall. His hair fell messily across his face as he peered into her eyes.
“My heart is yours alone.” He gently fell forward, allowing their lips to meet.
The kiss was passionate, and unlike anything he’d experienced before. He slid an arm around her back and pulled her into him. Kale guided her to the floor with his body supported atop.
She dug her fingers into his back, guiding him firmly against her body.
Together, they became one, in a state of bliss that would forever remain in their memories.
Chapter 23: The Library
Thomas carefully placed his foot on the large rock. The path was steep, and the tall stone building seemed miniscule from such a distance. He heavily panted, gripping his weary back as he prepared to ascend over the next large chunk of stone.
“I do hope this is worth the journey. At this moment, I feel as though I am the walking dead.” Thomas wiped the perspiration from his forehead.
“Come on old man—it’s not that bad. ‘Feels good on the legs.” Illadar replied.
“Simple for you to say! I’m nearly three times your age!” Thomas snapped back.
Zasha placed a hand over her mouth to stifle the laughter. “It’s nice to hear voices aside from Dibble’s in my ear each day.” She winked at the two men. “As for our destination, I can assure you, it will be worth all your efforts.”
The final steps were the most enduring as they cleared the orange sand, tangled with thick tree roots. A looming shadow cast upon their surroundings from the tall structure.
Zasha was the first to reach the red entrance. She firmly shoved her weight forward, nearly stumbling as the old doors creaked inward. A cloud of dust stirred into the air, leaving the group at a distance until it settled.
“Jumping balt toads—what is this place?” Thomas stood in amazement, his mouth agape.
“I hereby designate this tower yours, wise one,” Zasha replied while waving an arm out toward their surroundings.
“You’re giving all of this to me? But I do not quite understand …” Thomas replied while taking in the sight.
“Yes—it is yours now.” Zasha turned to Thomas and placed a hand upon his arm. “You have brought light to my son’s life. It is you who stood by his side—even as a beast. You truly are a marvelous friend, Thomas. I can see all this going to no better man.”
Illadar huffed in the doorway as he listened to her speak.
“I meant no disrespect Illadar. I fancy you will have little use for this tower,” Zasha spoke with a smile.
Illadar stepped inside to find each wall was filled with old books, coated in dust. “What are they? Research?” He questioned while tracing a finger along one of the book’s spine.
“Books of ancient magic—I can feel it. Someone placed an enchantment upon them. This place holds power unlike anything I’ve felt before. Not even at Romlit’s Academy did I behold such a sight,” Thomas replied.
“You are quite right, Thomas,” Zasha spoke as she plucked a book from the shelf. “They are the work of Oran himself. Only a user of magic, with virtuous intent can read the written words. Though they make little sense to me, I’m certain you will use the knowledge obtained to help my son—and the fate of the world.”
Thomas ran his tongue against his bottom lip as he paused in thought. “Zasha,” he broke his silence, “I am beginning to assume there is something you’re not telling me. It’s almost as though you are making preparations for something that is to come.”
Zasha connected with his eyes. “I … well, yes. I do not wish for my Firehart to know at this time, so it is important to keep what I say between us three. I am certain that if he did know, he would wish to leave this place at once, and you will not have adequate time to master your potential.”
“What is it? I insist you tell me. You are well aware that I have Kale’s best interest at heart.”
Zasha nodded. “I do hope the knowledge I’m about to bestow upon you is put to good use. Time is short and you must focus on what is necessary to win.”
“Win?” Illadar questioned.
“Great danger is on the horizon; it rises—hovering over your every move,” she replied.
Illadar stared blankly.
“Jedah—he lives well and is preparing his forces to destroy Kale. He desires to eliminate all who oppose him. He dwells on the island of Sundra, far from the frost elves citadel, though I am unable to determine his exact location.” Zasha reached out and took hold of Thomas’ hand. “His strength has increased since last you met. He is not alone in his endeavors. Someone is aiding his cause. This is whom I’ve been trying desperately to discover. The individual is more powerful than anyone I’ve felt since Oran. This person—this being—is able to conceal its presence from me, even in sleep.
“I cannot fathom why anyone would aid such a horrid man. I would take great caution, for I fear this person will make Jedah seem no more than a misguided child.” Zasha tightened her clasp on his hand. “The one who threatens my son is close—I can feel it—I am certain. This person can feel my eyes upon them and has used great power to conceal their identity. I sense that whoever seeks harm upon my son is able to strike now—yet waits for an unknown reason. Please Thomas, use these books to your advantage and help my Firehart. I fear he is not prepared for what is to come.”
“And what exactly is to come?” Thomas questioned.
“Death.” Zasha released her grip and walked toward the doors through which they had entered. “This place is now yours.”
There was silence as Illadar watched Thomas run a finger along a row of books. A single, tall ladder was attached to a cylindrical rod which allowed movement around the entire room. Illadar lowered himself to the floor and released a lengthy breath until his lungs begged for air.
“Might I ask why you are still here?” Thomas paused his inspection to face Illadar.
“It’s somethin’ I like to call, restin’. I don’t think there is anything of use for me here—I might as well recover my strength while you do … whatever it is you’ll be doin’.”
“You have far more important things to do—have you gone mad? Or is it just that you’re too focused on that woman whom you barely know and were oblivious to Zasha’s warning?”
“How dare you, old man.” Illadar stood. “Kale is stronger than you give him credit for. I have no doubt he will be fine.”
“Your words are filled with confidence, though your eyes reveal uncertainty,” Thomas replied calmly.
Uncomfortable silence filled the room as Illadar made way to the door.
“And just where are you going now?” Thomas questioned.
“To help Kale prepare,” Illadar replied while looking up toward a stained glass window. “I’ve told him, from the beginning, there’s always room for improvement—I must set that example.” He snickered, “Besides, hanging around a boring old man isn’t much for entertainment. Enjoy the books.” He flashed a grin as the large door shut.
Days fell to nights, and before long, a week had passed in Pan’s realm. Kale and Illadar worked diligently on improving their techniques by sword.
Kale found his newly acquired weapon to be brilliant in combat. He was able to brandish the blade, and swing with little effort or exertion. He was pleased to also discover that his armor was left with minimal wear after their sparring matches. Kale was able to force the armor within his body at will and use his own strength to repair
any blemishes to the exterior. He felt more confident than ever to return to their world.
That night, they sat around a large, relaxing fire. Kale had grown accustomed to being catered to by the gords, knowing that any refusal would have resulted in bitter feelings. He thoroughly enjoyed the tender yellow berries that burst in his mouth with each bite.
Once full, it had become an amusing pastime between the group to bounce the berries upon the stone floor in hopes of landing one inside the fire.
Neelan was the first to succeed; the fire intensified, reaching its flames toward the sky, blazing brightly in a vivid yellow that was nearly blinding to the naked eye.
“You always win,” Kale muttered in a childish manner.
Neelan laughed. “I cannot help if the aim of a human is so terrible.”
“Illadar, aren’t you going to try? What is with you tonight? You haven’t said a word.” Kale tossed a berry at his friend’s arm.
“Kid …” Illadar slightly tilted his head to glance toward Kale, “I have somethin’ to talk to you about. You’re not gonna’ like this.”
Kale widened his eyes and gestured his head forward for Illadar to continue.
“Now, you’ve gotta’ understand, I haven’t told you what I’m about to reveal for your own benefit. You needed more time.”
“Time for what, Illadar? Get on with it.” Kale huffed.
“You know I’ve had an excuse for Thomas’ absence for days now. I’ve made it a point to keep you occupied with tasks so that you would not disturb him. He has been going through great lengths to ensure your safety.”
“My safety? What is exactly going on here? I want to see Thomas this instant.”
“Just listen, kid. It has come to my attention that Jedah h—”
“Jedah has escaped the frost elves,” Thomas interjected while standing in the glow of the fire.
“Thomas!” Kale and Neelan exclaimed.
“Where have you been?” Kale suddenly grew stiff as he spoke. “Wait a moment—what in Pan’s name did you just say?!” His body heat began to intensify with each passing second.
“I am sorry for not informing you of this sooner, however, Illadar stands correct—this was for your own protection.” As Thomas spoke, the light flickered against his face. The skin beneath his eyes were tinted with purple hues and drooped in heavy rings of skin. His eyes were unfocused, a glossy glaze covering his pupils.
“How dare you … how dare either of you!” He looked to Thomas and Illadar with disgust. “To hide something of such importance, and decide what is for my own safety—it’s unacceptable! You sit back and do nothing while that monster roams free? We mustn’t remain here any longer. Whether time truly passes slower here or not, each second we waste is one more Jedah can use to regain power.”
“What we did was necessary. Had we left any sooner, we might as well be walking off the edge of a cliff. In other words—it would have been pure suicide.”
“Are you a fool, Thomas? There are four of us, along with the sand-people. It would be near impossible for Jedah to lay us all to rest.”
“Jedah isn’t alone, kid.” Illadar grazed his hand along his stubbly beard. “There is someone else—someone with much greater power. And … it’s you they want.”
Kale looked to Neelan who shook her head. At that moment, he knew she was just as ignorant to the situation.
“The frost elves are not to be trifled with. No one imprisoned by their kind lives to tell the tale. Even the elder high-elves avoid contact for fear of their power. Much like your armor, their power comes from within—they are their own weapons. If Jedah has indeed escaped, then I have no doubt what they say is true; a higher power must be in alliance with him.” Neelan stood. “We should find Zasha.”
Her head hung down between her collar-bones; red curls tracing over the contour of her neck. The crumbled altar bore no further sign of purpose, and yet she prayed. Her voice soft, yet amplified by the stone surroundings.
“They are here,” Dibble’s voice broke her repeated pleas to the dragon god.
“As expected,” Zasha replied. “Thank you Dibble, you may go now.”
The gord shuffled his tiny feet. “If you do not mind, I would like to see them off with you.”
“Very well.” Her eyes were reddened and damp around the lashes. “Bring them to me.”
Dibble nodded before hurrying outside.
Kale stood, waiting with his arms crossed over his chest. “Is she inside?”
“Yes—and waiting for you. Please come, Master.”
They entered the altar room to find Zasha facing them, her hands clasped within one another. Kale could see her struggling to control her shaking fingers.
“Why didn’t you tell me? Did you truly feel I was not strong enough to take on that worthless excuse for a human?!” Kale stood inches from his mother.
“It is apparent you have not been listening to your friends, my son. Jedah does not work alone—and what Neelan says holds great truth. Jedah alone could not escape the frost elves. They could have easily crushed him from the inside out had he attempted to leave by force. Someone put great thought into releasing him from the frost elf imprisonment.” Zasha panned across the group. “The four individuals who first came to this place were not ready to encounter this new threat. I do not think you realize just how much Illadar and Thomas have been doing to help you prepare.”
Neelan glanced down, shuffling her feet uncomfortably. “I-I didn’t know about any of this, Kale. I’m sorry I haven’t done more to assist.”
“Do not apologize, Neelan.” Kale gazed sternly in Thomas’ direction as he spoke. “It is not your fault that others left us oblivious to the situation.”
“He is right dear, do not blame yourself.” Zasha turned from Neelan, to Kale. “If there is anger in your heart my son, direct it at me. I knew it would be impossible to inform Neelan of the plan. You see, when in love we often think with our hearts—I am certain she would have told you.”
“With due respect, I will always do whatever is in my power to protect Kale. You should have come to me with such news. I could have used my time to improve my marksmanship,” Neelan hastily replied.
“Your aim is hard to match. I am certain you will do fine should the need arrive to utilize your skill,” Zasha’s tone dropped.
Neelan furrowed her long brows, certain that there was more to Zasha’s sudden change in inflection.
“You must leave this place—now.” Zasha’s words took the group by surprise and Neelan flashed a worried glance at Kale.
“Why the sudden severity?” Illadar questioned.
“I have allowed you to stay this long because it was necessary for Thomas to learn from Oran’s writings.”
Kale eyed Thomas as Zasha spoke.
“And quite possibly for my own selfish desire to have more time with you, my Firehart.” Zasha continued. “But Jedah continues to prepare for his attack upon Ravondore and must be stopped before it is too late. A tunnel awaits you on this side of the realm—it is the only way to return to the world you know. When you find the pool of water, you must not fear.
“Once upon familiar soil, you will make way to a small harbor town known as Perun. You will seek the town’s captain, known for sailing fearlessly across the treacherous seas.” She grabbed Kale and pulled him tightly against her. “We will meet again—be safe, little one, and never lose sight of what is important.” A single tear escaped her eye. Her expression revealed a tormenting sorrow. She released Kale.
“I suppose this is goodbye for now.” Illadar bowed before her.
“Yes … for now. “Her stare refused to fall where Illadar stood.
From the corner of his eye, Kale could see Dibble drop his solemn gaze to the floor.
“Is everythin
g all right?” Kale interrupted, bewildered by the odd behavior.
“Yes.” Zasha nodded her head before pulling Illadar into a tight embrace. “Thank you.” She whispered into his ear, loud enough for only him to hear.
Confused, Illadar raised a brow before stepping toward Kale.
“Farewell, Zasha—until we meet again.” Thomas smiled.
“Indeed, wise one. I wish you all a safe journey. Do not forget what you have learned today.”
Dibble scurried to the group, instructing them to follow. “Come, come, we mustn’t delay.”
Neelan remained motionless as the others moved toward the exit. Her eyes narrowed as she held her stare upon Zasha. “Let us not play games—what is going on? There is something you are withholding from us; that much I am sure of.” Neelan gasped as Zasha’s body began to tremor in convulsions. She looked around frantically, but her friends had already left the room.
“I see it.” Zasha’s eyes shot open wide. Her pupils were no longer visible and a white haze had overtaken all color. “Death.” Her voice was deep and nearly unrecognizable. “The darkness brings death.” Her body shook violently. “Death. Death. Death.” She inhaled suddenly, gasping for air. When she calmed, her eyes returned to their normal state.
“What just happened, Zasha?” Neelan stood in a confused state of fear. “Is something bad going to happen that you have seen?! If you know something, please confide in me—I assure you, I will do all in my power to help.”
Zasha slowly shook her head. “Well, that’s just it, my dear—you can’t …”
Chapter 24: The Tunnels
Neelan knew that her hope for answers had dissolved the moment Dibble escorted her away from Zasha. There would be no returning to this place before events unfolded on their own. She secured her bow upon her back and closed her eyes, allowing the sun’s rays to wash over her face.