Legends Born: Tahir Edition (History's Shadow)

by K. Dzr

  Chapter Twelve

  R E N D E Z V O U S

  Far from the sanctuary of Elysi, a lone stag stood, majestic and full of health. Unaware of the fanged predator closing in, it nibbled casually from a fig tree. The wolf crept in the brush, closer and closer. While the stag dined on dry, bitter leaves, the wolf anticipated dining on its warm, juicy flesh. The thought made his mouth water; although he was anxious for fresh meat, he knew he must remain patient or his hours of stalking would be wasted.

  Long ago, the wise and powerful Dracara of the Skies, Xandero, had granted him incredible magic. Yet, despite his immense power and the thousands of years spent in the company of wizards, he was still a wolf at heart. Nothing compared to the steady build of anticipation as he stalked his prey, the struggle between hunter and hunted, and the taste of a fresh kill. His masters may have his life planned, but this is what he lived for.

  Without a pack, the kill would not be easy, but he learned from other lone hunters that stealth and patience were key. He would soon dine on venison. The time had come. He readied his legs and dug his paws into the ground.

  “Alexander!”

  Demetrius’ voice seemed as loud as thunder and pained his ears. He watched the frightened stag bound from view.

  “Humans,” he snarled under his breath and emerged from hiding.

  “Ah, there you are.”

  “Will you never comprehend even the basics of stealth, Demetrius?” Alexander snarled.

  “I’m sorry, but who needs stealth when you have magic?” He squatted to scratch Alexander’s ears and throat. “I have word that our guests will be arriving soon. Come, friend. I’ve been doing some hunting of my own. We shall have a feast! It should more than make up for your lost deer.” Demetrius chuckled as he stood up and the two returned to their camp.

  It’s been centuries since their first encounter—back when Demetrius was no longer a boy but not quite a man. They met shortly after Demetrius discovered his magic and defeated the dragon Netiro to liberate his people. The village was long gone; his friends and family dead for hundreds of years. If it were not for the company of Alexander, the loneliness probably would have driven him mad. Li’Ang and Xanderick brought them together for reasons he could not begin to understand at the time. Across the years they’d grown and learned from each other. Now, after centuries of study and practice, teaching and observing, they were nearing the time to fulfill their destinies.

  Alexander stopped and stared in disbelief. Demetrius smiled at his friend’s astonishment.

  “A hippopotamus?” Alexander looked at Demetrius quizzically. “You tracked a hippopotamus in these forests?”

  “Who said anything about these forests? I am not bound by space. You know this.”

  Alexander trotted over to the slaughtered hippo, and rose to his hind legs, resting his front paws on the creature’s massive side to inspect it. There were no marks or wounds; it died peacefully as he expected from Demetrius. More importantly, it was still fresh. Alexander smiled a wolf-like smile and wagged his tail.

  “All for me?”

  “Well, you must share with Xanderick, he is, after all, our guest.”

  “Xanderick does not know how to share.” Alexander hopped down from the hippo, frowning at Demetrius. “Furthermore, each time we see him, he seems to have grown larger. He’s likely to eat the entire thing.”

  Demetrius laughed.

  “While that may very well be true, should I have captured two hippos? One for a fat Dracara and one for a greedy wolf? There will be plenty for all, I assure you. Now stop moping and help me prepare.” Demetrius tossed Alexander his favorite black kimono.

  Alexander grumbled a bit, then quickly transformed into human form to assist Demetrius in the preparations for Li’Ang and Xanderick’s arrival. The two worked efficiently, using magic as needed to create a beautiful table to accommodate their guests. The table was large and sturdy to support the incredible amount of food Xanderick would surely eat. Demetrius decorated it with flowers from around the world and candles that emitted the sweet fragrance of jasmine. Alexander built a massive spit and used magic to rotate it continuously; thereby freeing his hands to season the hippo with his private collection of ancient spices grown from the gardens of Atlantis.

  “She needs to cook slowly, Demetrius,” Alexander called out to his friend. “I do not believe she will be ready in time.”

  “’Tis nothing a wave of the hand cannot remedy, my friend.” Demetrius didn’t need to see Alexander to know he was shaking his head.

  “Magic is not always the answer. Hippos taste best when they are allowed to turn slowly and marinate in their own juices…”

  Demetrius laughed.

  “She won’t taste as good Demetrius, mark my words.” Alexander knew he was wasting his breath and begrudgingly used his magic to decrease the cooking time of the large beast.

  Demetrius laughed to himself as he prepared fruit, berries, vegetables, and bread. He made tea and set out his finest wine. For desert, ambrosia from a recipe he learned while in Greece. After all was set, and he was satisfied with the final touches, he sat down to play his lute and wait for his guests to arrive. He didn’t have to wait long: one of the benefits of being blessed with the burden of foresight.

  “This is a feast fit for gods, Demetrius! You’ve outdone yourself once again,” Xanderick’s voice thundered above them.

  “I’ve never known a man who loved to cook and entertain as you do,” Li’Ang said. Jubó, her servant and guard, helped her out of the elaborate carriage harnessed to two winged sabres she called Star and Swift.

  “Why, thank you Xanderick, Li’Ang, it’s an honor and a pleasure.” Demetrius bowed gracefully as they approached. The earth trembled with each of Xanderick’s steps.

  “Alexander, my prized student! How are you? Demetrius isn’t corrupting you with his human tendencies, is he?”

  “Be nice, Xanderick,” Li’Ang scolded with a smile.

  “Even if Demetrius tried, I would not have it. No worries.”

  “Please sit everyone. You too Jubó. Join us, you will find no danger here,” Demetrius said as he filled the goblets with wine. “Alexander, will you fetch the water bowls and pitcher that our guests may wash their hands?”

  Alexander left as Jubó unhitched the sabres so they were free to roam and dine as well. Once everyone was seated at the table, Demetrius lead them in prayer and they began their feast.

  They talked as old friends do of yesteryear, the ways of the world, new discoveries and adventures. They were old friends, true enough, but this was not a casual visit. When all that remained was the tea and ambrosia, Li’Ang decided it was time to discuss the reason for their gathering.

  “The winds of time are blowing Demetrius. We are at the very eve of the hour.”

  “Li’Ang, you speak as though it were tomorrow,” Demetrius replied.

  “Time waits for no one.” Xanderick growled. “Not even I, in all my great power, can slow it for even a heartbeat. Do not underestimate the enemy.”

  “Do not worry, Xanderick, I have not been a boy for many centuries. I have taken the task you have given me quite seriously and given it much thought.”

  “You are but a child in comparison to Li’Ang and myself…”

  “Xanderick,” Li’Ang interrupted. “We selected Demetrius with good reason, if we do not trust him, then we do not trust ourselves.”

  “Hmph.”

  Li’Ang ignored Xanderick’s snorts and turned to Demetrius. “Tell us of this boy you have chosen.”

  “His name is Tahir al-Din.”

  “Al-Din?” Li’Ang put her finger to her lips contemplating. “Is this…?”

  “We are not certain,” Alexander answered. “However, it is likely.”

  “Not long ago, his village and its entire people were destroyed,” Demetrius continued. “Alexander rescued him and allowed him to embark on a journey alone to England. We were able to guide him to Elysi instead, where he
will become a man, raised by unicorns, gnomes and sprites. He will know nothing of greed or vanity or selfishness. His love of animals, magic, and knowledge will inspire him to greatness. He has already learned much from the residents of Elysi, and is eager to learn more. Soon he will be ready to leave for England where he believes he will become a great warrior, gain glory and fame, and rescue fair damsels.” Demetrius and Alexander glanced at each other and chuckled.

  “And what is your plan?” Xanderick asked.

  “I will not interfere with the ways of the world. History will run its course; mankind will continue as it would. When the time comes, he will lead our people to safety and defend us against the Evil of Egypt.”

  “Are you suggesting what I think you are?” Li’Ang asked suspiciously.

  “We have reason to believe he is the one we’ve been looking for.” Demetrius smiled.

  “What proof do you have?” Xanderick scoffed. “I am not so quick to put my trust in the dreams of a blind man, Demetrius.”

  “Though my eyes weaken, my vision has never been clearer. These ‘dreams’ as you call them, have yet to be proven wrong.”

  “Luck.”

  Demetrius rolled his eyes.

  “When I found him in the Sahara, I spoke to him in several different languages. Within minutes he could understand everything I said,” Alexander explained.

  “Unimpressive. So he can pick up on a few languages? Is that all the evidence you have?”

  “He learns quickly, although we have yet to truly test him. He has the aid of the black unicorn of legend, the sprites, gnomes and a new-found leviathan friend.” Demetrius explained. “He has been under the watchful eyes of Alexander, Nayani and the fairies in Elysi, who can attest to his purity.”

  “I suspect he has also attracted the interest of those we would prefer he did not,” Alexander added. “Now, whether they are drawn to him or the Eye in his possession, I do not know.”

  Li’Ang’s eyes grew wide.

  “Now, that is interesting.” Xanderick hissed. “If he is who you suggest he is and he is with the black unicorn and the Eye, they would be quite the prize for our adversaries.”

  “I share Xanderick’s concern.” Li’Ang’s brow furrowed. “You dance with venomous snakes, Demetrius. One misplaced step and the dance is over. They should be separated immediately!”

  “Elysi is one of the largest and most elusive fairy havens I am aware of. There are few places that could protect them better. Besides, I think they are good for each other.” Demetrius explained. “They have bonded and have much to learn from each other. I foresee their strength being drawn from each other.”

  “But if they are being sought, it is only a matter of time before they are found.”

  “I was able to divert them for now. Alone, the unicorn was venturing far from Elysi,” Alexander said. “His wandering made it easy to bring them together, but he was becoming quite the thorn in my paw. Since they’ve become friends however, they have, for the most part, stayed within the safety of Elysi.”

  “We are placing much into the hands of an unknowing child, Demetrius.” Li’Ang shook her head and tapped the table nervously. “The Counsel would not approve. Should we not at least take the Eye to a safer place?”

  “Alexander was unable to reach the boy’s village in time to protect him. The Eye may very well have been the only thing that kept him alive. I don’t think it would be wise to take it. No, it would be better to have it protecting him, than hidden away for our enemies to find.”

  “I don’t like this,” Xanderick grumbled. “Trusting one of the Eyes to a child…It’s far too risky!”

  “It’s been in his possession since he was a baby,” Alexander explained. “If they couldn’t find it when he was in an unprotected trading village, how would they find it hidden within the shroud of the dryad?”

  “Besides, taking risks is in your bloodline, Xanderick, and we’ve gained a powerful ally because of it. Would you not agree?”

  Li’Ang and Xanderick looked at Alexander.

  “Can you not tell me more of what you have foreseen?” she asked.

  “If you desire assurance that he is the one we have been looking for, and that he, the Eye, and the Black Unicorn will be safe in Elysi, then feel assured.”

  Li’Ang sighed and nodded her approval. “I will not doubt your visions, Demetrius. I will support you in this matter. Xanderick?”

  “I will accept it for now, but I am wary. Not every risky plan has worked out so well, and there are always consequences to taking such risks. At this time I will withhold certain information from the Elders, and I suggest you do the same, Li’Ang. But at the very first sign of trouble you are to notify me immediately.”

  “Of course,” Demetrius smiled. “I’d have it no other way.”

  “Who is this Dracara of the Seas the boy has befriended?”

  “He is a youngling called Jeverre,” Alexander answered. “Most likely one of the Jeve bloodline; they are in closest proximity to Elysi.”

  “Indeed. Then his father is Jevelian. I will speak to him. The more eyes watching this human the better.”

  The wizards all nodded in agreement.

  “Now, tell me what you have seen for the one called Kraven,” Li’Ang demanded.

  “Kraven? I do not know this name.” Demetrius looked to Alexander; the wolf-man shrugged.

  “If he has not drawn your attention, perhaps he is not the threat we feared. Nonetheless, Amalia saw fit to bring forth her concern.”

  “The instructor at Asymptier?”

  Li’Ang nodded.

  “Yes, Amalia. Brilliant sorceress, patient instructor, a beautiful woman: she taught me much of what I know,” Demetrius said.

  “Yes. I take her words quite seriously. She has brought to my attention a student with a dark past who recently left Asymptier abruptly. You should remember him, Alexander.”

  “The boy?” Alexander scoffed. “That was many years ago. I hardly thought of him since I dropped him off there.”

  “Amalia said he possessed great potential but was arrogant, had a seemingly insatiable thirst for power. He also expressed too much interest in the dark arts. She tried to keep him under her supervision and teach him discipline, but when she refused to teach him certain spells, and denied him certain knowledge, he became angry and left. Unguided, he could venture off and discover that which he should not.”

  “Interesting. Do we know where he is now?” Demetrius asked.

  “He abandoned the school only a few weeks ago.” Li’Ang explained. “I have been informed he is eager to learn and is searching for guidance. If you can find him and teach him, he may be a powerful ally.”

  “He could also become a dangerous enemy,” Xanderick interjected. “Li’Ang and I do not have time to take on a troublesome underling. If you think you can handle him, I offer you the challenge; if not, I will eliminate the threat swiftly.”

  “This is why I have convinced Xanderick to offer you the opportunity to locate and mentor Kraven. I do not want bloodshed, Demetrius. However, I do agree this matter requires immediate attention, and if you do not think you can teach him, I will be forced to allow Xanderick to handle it his way.”

  “We cannot kill a young man because we fear he may become a threat.”

  “Normally, I would share your feelings, Demetrius. However, I fear our benevolence may very well bring about our demise; our enemies have grown exorbitantly strong. We have foiled many of their plans, but we have allowed far too many misguided wizards to slip through our fingers. We may soon be out-numbered and fighting for our lives.”

  “To defeat our enemies we must become them?” Demetrius shook his head. “No. I will send Alexander to track this ‘Kraven.’ After observing him we will decide what is best.”

  “Wise decision, Demetrius.” Li’Ang nodded to Jubó. The man moved like a shadow to retrieve a scroll from the coach. She gestured for him to hand it to Alexander. “This belonged to Kraven, perhaps i
t will be of assistance.”

  Alexander sniffed the scroll; Li’Ang and Jubó’s scents were strong. There was also Amalia’s scent, ink, parchment, cedar and a few herbs. Then one faint human scent from a distant memory. He unrolled the scroll and smelled inside; the scent was stronger. That was Kraven. He nodded to Li’Ang.

  “Go quickly, and may the fairies fly with you.”

  Alexander leapt into the air. In the blink of an eye he transformed into an owl. He disappeared into the darkening sky leaving his kimono to billow down to the table. It was many days’ travel to Asymptier, but he could fly at speeds far surpassing what he could by foot. Energized by the evenings meal, he’d likely travel through the night before resting.

  “Is there nothing more?” Xanderick arched his corpulent body and yawned. “I think we have covered everything we intended to accomplish at this meeting.”

  “I agree. Jubó, ready Swift and Star.” Li’Ang answered.

  Jubó bowed deeply and whistled for the sabres.

  “I will update the Elders of Fire with most of what you have told me, Demetrius. The dinner was superb as usual.” Xanderick rubbed his full belly.

  “When the boy is ready, summon me,” Li’Ang said. “I would like to meet him before he makes his return to civilization.”

  “As you wish; when the time comes, you will know.”

  The dragon flapped his leathery wings and took to the sky, vanishing in a swirl of dust and smoke. Li’Ang, escorted by Jubó, entered her coach and readied herself for her flight home. Jubó quickly took command of the creatures. He uttered a few indistinguishable noises, and Swift and Star took a running start before leaping into the darkening sky.