The Rising Past: Book 2 in The Keepers of the Orbs Series

by J. G. Gatewood

  “This is where I reside. The only way to get you here is to use the subterfuge I enlisted. They have imprisoned me here for over two-thousand years. While the orbs contain powers controlled by those who knew how, their true purpose is that they are keys. It takes all seven combined to release the bindings keeping me here. The energy contained in each orb is a remnant of the mage who assisted in my imprisonment. It took eight of them to confine me here, and seven of those died creating this prison. They prepared for this, and channeled their powers together using the orbs. They knew this to be the one way to contain me. They left the one who remained with the responsibility of scattering all seven of the orbs. He will live on indefinitely, ensuring all seven are never brought together.” He smiled at Lutheras and urged him to approach. “This is where you come into play. This is also why it is so important for you to succeed in that which I have laid before you. I have waited for too long and I grow tired of it.”

  Lutheras’ mouth opened in surprise at all Martul revealed to him. “I had no idea. You said you had been imprisoned, but I never thought you meant it quite literally. Especially when you can influence what goes on in the real world.” Lutheras shuddered, realizing how much power Martul held back. “I’m planning my siege of Shakiel, and I’m pleased to tell you we will arrive within the week. With the orb that summons the dead, I foresee a quick strike with little resistance...”

  Martul’s laughter interrupted him. “Little resistance?” More cackling cut into his speech. “Oh, you will face resistance Lutheras. It won’t be the easy task you envision, but you will succeed. Tell me, what do you plan on doing about the orb in your brother’s possession? I need you to gather all of the orbs, not just six. It will take all seven to return me to Nithor where I belong.”

  Lutheras realized he’d perhaps been too confident, even though he felt like he would encounter no further problems. “Sorry. I intend to capture his orb last.” He bowed his head. “Raythum will have to confront me sooner or later. And when he does, I will have a few surprises for him. I’m not the fool some of those under my command appear to be. I got away from him once, I can do it again.” Lutheras couldn’t wait for the opportunity to face off against his brother, and this time he would put an end to his brother’s pitiful life. He wanted to make this the last thing he accomplished so his brother would see the full repercussions of his failure.

  Laughter rang from Martul again. “Not that I don’t believe you, or that I don’t share in your confidence, but it is not how I see it playing out.” He stopped laughing long enough to level a gaze at Lutheras. “I’m afraid your recent failures in this task have forced my hand. Before Dhava summoned you, I sent him about a task to ensure the orb can be captured and Raythum is seen dead.” Lutheras winced at this comment, which piqued Martul's interest. “Does this bother you, Lutheras? I thought you would be glad to know he is disposed of, because you don’t seem capable of handling it on your own.”

  “I would be glad to hear of his demise, my Lord, but by my hands, no one else’s. I have dealt with his torment for far too long, and I wish to be a witness to his last breath.” He curled his right hand into a fist and jammed it into the palm of his left hand. He hated his brother and wanted it to be his job to end his life.

  Martul pulled on his bindings and inched forward to confront Lutheras. As he spoke, his hot rancid breath curled Lutheras' stomach. It smelled foul, and took everything in his control not to cringe away. He could see white maggots cinching their way in and out of Martul's nostrils and ears. He even spotted them rooting around Martul's teeth as he spoke. “Then you shouldn’t have left the task to the two bumbling idiots you call Audron and Gaelum. I’m afraid your chance at accomplishing this has passed.” He stood up and released Lutheras' bindings, stepping back into the center of his confinement. “I think you should focus on your attack on Shakiel. It won’t be as easy as you think, and you should ensure you are prepared.”

  Lutheras felt anger and hatred flow through his body. He clenched his teeth so tight he inadvertently bit down on the edge of his tongue. He could taste the salty blood oozing out of the fresh wound. It stung as saliva filled it, but he fought the feelings off. “Yes, my Lord. I will focus my efforts on Shakiel. I won’t underestimate my opponents again.” He curled his hands into fists and his long, unkempt fingernails dug into his palms. He could feel the blood collecting and the gashes burned deep down into his core.

  Martul noticed the anger building in his pupil and he held back his disgust. “Then go, and try to redeem yourself. I would hate to send you back where I found you. You were a lost soul searching for more than what life had given you. If you want it back, I can give it to you. Ensure you succeed. I don’t wish to summon you back here as it takes too much effort. If you fail me again, I’m afraid the least of your concerns will be living your previous miserable existence.”

  Lutheras nodded and bowed one last time to his master. “I will succeed, my Lord.” He rose and noticed he once again stood in the lavish chamber from minutes before, although, only an illusion filled his head. He noticed Martul once again stood in Human form with his pale skin and blue silk robes billowing all around him.

  He grinned at his pupil. “Dhava is still waiting outside the doors to the chamber. He will see you back to Nithor.” He turned to leave Lutheras when another thought occurred to him. “You will find minutes have passed since you left.” A smile crept on his face. “Like I said, time works differently over here.” He laughed and walked away, before disappearing all together.

  Lutheras left the chamber and found Dhava waiting for him outside. The Grahada acknowledged him, and led him down the hallway. When they were back in the curving tunnel leading to the lake, Lutheras asked Dhava what he had left for Raythum and his group.

  “A surprise they won’t expect, nor will they know how to handle.” The Grahada laughed to himself in his snake-like hissing cackle.

  A Dragon and her Rider

  The sun had yet to rise, and Raythum wrapped his cloak tighter around himself to ward off the cold produced by the strong, easterly winds. He spotted the rise and fall of a large mound laying just south of the cottage. The moon’s rays reflected off the bronze scales of the Dragon. It was comforting knowing she was waiting for him.

  He quickened his pace. Sensing his arrival, she turned her head in his direction. He walked up to her and rubbed her muzzle.

  I’m sorry if my attitude toward you came off as disrespectful and childish. Without my memories, I didn’t understand what transpired through the bond we share. He told her while still rubbing the coarse, yet somehow smooth scales of her snout.

  There is no need to apologize Raythum. I could tell I received a lot more from you, than you were getting from me. I’m sure I came off as abrasive at times, and I of course didn’t wish to divulge too much in case my intuitions proved incorrect about our situation. She groaned as he massaged a sensitive portion of her thick skin. To all of a sudden feel another existence through the bond… well, it left me unnerved to say the least.

  He stopped rubbing her and walked to her side, sitting down with his back to her. A thought drifted into his mind, and he asked, this brings up an interesting point, Milenthia. How can our bond still be intact here, one-hundred and thirty years before it formed?

  It is something I have pondered myself, ever since you happened into my life. I didn’t know you were from the future where we had in fact created a bond, making it all the more perplexing. I have asked the elders, and nothing like this has ever been encountered before—time travel being rare and all—at least in modern times.

  He made a mental note. I will have to ask Norlun if he has any more information.

  They sat in silence for a moment. He brought his hands to his face while his brain struggled to recollect all of the pieces from his missing memories. After much pain, it passed, and he felt sympathy from Milenthia through the bond.

  The sun had yet to rise out of the west and a chill ran up his arms. He res
ted his head on her, and felt the soothing rise and fall of her stomach as she drew in each breath. Reveling in the comfortable moment, he felt it wouldn’t last. They had to work quickly if they were going to thwart his brother.

  He stood and walked back to her head so he could see her face. He preferred to have a conversation with her in this manner so it felt real, not just something going on in his mind. She could already sense his next question.

  I’m going to have to ask you a favor, Milenthia.

  She interrupted him before he could continue. I don’t know if it is a wise decision. Jaeden has already shown he has control of the touch. If I bring more Dragons here, it could be catastrophic. He is too young, and too weak to be trusted around my kind. What if he bonded with one of my brothers or sisters?

  Raythum stroked his chin. Feeling the stubble reminded him he needed to shave. I can understand your point, but I think it is a risk we are going to have to take.

  She grumbled in disagreement with his plan.

  He continued. It would take us over a month to return to Havenbrook. You know it as much as I do that this is time we can’t waste. With the assistance of more Dragons, we could be there by the end of the week. You have to see my point.

  I do see your point, but something about Jaeden has me on edge. Are you willing to train him if he does make a bond?

  He shook his head. I don’t see there will be much time, but I will do my best. Especially if it means returning to Havenbrook quickly.

  It’s not as easy as that. She told him. A bonded Dragon, in the hands of an inexperienced Human, could prove disastrous. There’s a reason we left the Human realm and retreated to the furthest reaches of Askabar. We no longer trust you.

  Raythum spun on his heels, facing away from Milenthia. He grew angry and tired of their conversation. What about me, Milenthia? I was untrained and untested with Dragons. I survived, you survived, the entire world has survived, and our relationship remains strong.

  He turned back and faced her once again. What happened to us can only be classified as an accident. Fear and trepidation filled your kind when we approached the elders and informed them we had bonded. Many felt anger and dissension toward what we had done, even if it occurred by accident, but the elders saw past that and allowed us to train, to continue to build upon our bond.

  Milenthia sighed before she responded. You were different. The whole world was different in your time. I believe the world had progressed and could accept the return of Dragons. That is not the case right now.

  Regardless of the time, we ushered in a new era of Human-Dragon relationships. We trained other riders after bonds had formed. A peace existed between our species, one which hasn’t existed for centuries. Through our efforts, Dragons understood Humans, and Humans understood Dragons. Your kind could walk among us. You even had emissaries among our cities, and you no longer had to fear we were out to exterminate you. He paused and resumed rubbing her snout while looking deep into her eyes. What makes you think it would happen any differently this time?

  She blew a large breath out of her nostrils, creating a large cloud when it met with the cold, damp morning air. My biggest concern is the elders. Even with your presence, and the memories we share of the future, I don’t think they will be accommodating to what you’re requesting.

  But they have to be. You need to convince them. He grew chilly from the unrelenting morning breeze penetrating his flesh. I know I don’t have to tell you how powerful my brother has become. Having the Dragons on our side might be just enough to tip the scales in our favor.

  She growled from deep in her stomach, but Raythum sensed she understood his point. While I cannot make any promises, I’ll do my best.

  Thank you, my friend. You know I wouldn’t ask you if I didn’t feel it necessary.

  She nodded. It will take me at least two or three days to travel home where I will try to convince the elders. I think you could use the time anyway to give your brain a chance to catch up.

  He walked closer and stroked her neck. I know, Milenthia, and thank you. I wish you swift and safe travels.

  And I hope for the safety of you and your companions while I’m away. Trouble seems to have a way of finding you. You would be best served resting and relaxing until I return.

  He grinned as he felt her loving, motherly feelings flow through the bond. You know me. He laughed. Really, though, we won’t be going anywhere. I would love to rest, but something tells me it won’t be forthcoming. He looked toward the cottage. They have many questions, questions about me they will want answers to. Not that I can blame them, but it doesn’t mean I’m looking forward to the experience either.

  He stepped back from Milenthia to give her plenty of room as she stood and spread her wings.

  Farewell my friend. Let’s hope the elders believe in your optimistic plan.

  She shot up in the air and beat her large, leathery, golden wings. He watched her gain altitude, wings pumping, and blowing dust into the air and into Raythum’s face. He threw his hand up to protect his eyes. It pained him to watch her go—her sympathy and reassurances through the bond were comforting—and he would miss it.

  She cast a silhouette as she flew in front of one of the moons. She soon disappeared, and he made his way back to Norlun’s cottage. From outside the door he could hear the furious level of conversation his friends were deep in; more than likely all centered on him.

  He walked in and a hush filled the room. All of their eyes followed him until he sat down in his chair.

  Liniana grabbed his arm and began stroking it while she smiled and gazed at his face. She seemed so happy he was conscious, and their quest hadn’t been in vain because his memories were returning. “How did it go?” she asked. “She has been anxious to talk to you.”

  He smiled before gazing at the others assembled around the table. “It went well. I sent her home to commune with the elders. I want her to bring other Dragons back to expedite our return to Havenbrook.” Jaeden and Matt’s eyes grew large, and smiles filled their faces at the prospect of riding a Dragon.

  Raythum could sense their excitement and he didn’t want to set them up for disappointment, so he continued. “There are risks associated with this endeavor. Risks I don’t wish to go into right now. Milenthia seems to think the elders won’t agree, which would mean weeks of farther travel. If they do, however, agree, then I will fill you all in on the risks at that point. Do you all understand?”

  They nodded their heads, the smiles leaving several of their faces.

  He met the eyes of Aglina, and he could tell she would ask him to continue the conversation from where they left off.

  “I know you are eager to hear more, Aglina, and I will continue.” She smiled and nodded her head. “Like I said, you made my armor and sword. Drognard commissioned you to craft the items for me, as a reward of sorts, for leading the victory in the war of Bracknell.”

  He could feel her excitement. She had praised, and seemed envious of the craftsman responsible for the items for the past couple of weeks. To find out she had been the one who created them, was something she never expected, but delighted in.

  “But the folds of the metal and the quality of craftsmanship—especially around the seams—is nothing like I could ever do. Don’t get me wrong, I could come close, I just couldn’t match it.”

  He laughed. “But you will, Aglina. Remember, this is the future we are talking about. You still have over a hundred years to hone your skills. Not that I don’t think you could do it now, because I think you could.”

  He noticed her cheeks growing red as she blushed. She sat in silence for a moment, which gave the others a chance to begin hounding him with questions.

  “How did you and Milenthia bond?”

  “Why did Lutheras come back in time?”

  “What is the war of Bracknell?”

  “Why did you lose your memories when you traveled back in time, when Lutheras appeared to have arrived with his intact?”

 
“If you are the prince, and Liniana is a princess, are you two related?”

  He knew it had to come up; he had expected it, but before they could continue their badgering, he motioned with his hands for them to be quiet. “I know you all have questions, and believe me when I say I would too.” He paused, considering his next words. “But if we keep this up, I think I could spend weeks answering them. I think it would be best if I told you my tale from the beginning.”

  Norlun, who had sat quiet up until then, spoke. “I have a great deal of insight into your experiences. When I touched you to remove the memory block, some of your memories flowed into me. I think much of this information would be very beneficial, and I think this is a wise course of action. It seems we have time, anyway.”

  Raythum considered his words. “It would appear we do. I just hope it is enough time.” He looked at the rest of them. “It is a long tale, so I ask you to get comfortable. And I think it would be best, if we could reserve the questions until the end. I have a feeling most of what you are interested in will come out as I speak.”

  He sat back in his chair and sighed, while he considered where to start. All at once, it hit him. It wouldn’t be pleasant, but he had already revealed the news anyway, so it would be best.

  He coughed to clear his throat before he began. “This isn’t the greatest place to start, but I already told the affected party, so I think it’s best.”

  Liniana understood what he said. She sat back in her chair and tried to hide the fear creeping through her body. She bowed her head and nodded for him to continue.

  Raythum could read her fear. But because she had given him her approval, he began.

  “Liniana traveled to Melina to meet with the lord, and visit with the healing conclave located within the capital city. Soon after crossing over Melina’s borders, an ambush awaited them.”