The Sword and the Flame: The Purging

By CP Bialois

From the dawn of their world, dragons have fought to control all those they deemed beneath them. With Pyrain on the brink of destruction, peace was found and the dragons returned to their hidden burrows to sleep until the world was ready for them to return. One, a giant red dragon, has planned for his own release for hundreds of years. Will Berek and his friends prevent the end of their world or will the great Fyrelynx rise to rule the land?

"One must die for all to sleep."

• Language: English
• Publisher: CP Bialois
• Release date: Apr 16, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301782499

CP Bialois

Where do I begin? Well first I guess it's only fair to say that CP Bialois isn't my real name. It's a collaboration I made out of the three greatest pets anyone could ever want. My real name is Ed and I'm just an average person that has found a way to do what he loves. For as long back as I can remember I loved to pretend. Whether it was with my Transformers, GI Joe, or He-Man toys I loved to create intricate plots and have them fight it out. As a fan of horror, science fiction, action, and comedy I dare say my taste in movies are well rounded. Some of my favorites were Star Wars, Star Trek, martial arts, and anything with Swarzenegger in them. I'd write my own stories about the characters I saw in the theaters or TV or I'd just daydream about what I'd see myself as the hero of course. You can't have a daydream without beating the bad guys, getting the girl, etc. It's just not right to envision yourself as a flunky or sidekick. As far as books I loved Sherlock Holmes, Treasure Island, Dracula, and the normal assortment. My early love was the Star Trek novels, I'd read them or the Hardy Boys relentlessly. For a time I could tell you the plot of over a hundred books not to mention comics. I have to come clean and say that I learned to read because of comic books. I was bored, make that extremely bored when we started to read in school. Reading "the cat fell down" really didn't interest me. My dad, who continues to astound me with his insight to this day, figured comics would work. With that in mind he went to the newstand in town and bought issues of Donald Duck, Scrooge McDuck, Tales From the Crypt, and Spider-man. He patiently read through them with me until I picked it up. Whether it was him or the comics I learned to read in about two weeks and for a while few were as good as I was. For years after that whenever we'd go out he'd always spring for a couple of comic books for me. While it wasn't exactly the perfect beginning everything I've ever read or have seen has influenced me in some way and now is the time I'd like to share some of the ideas I've had over the years with all of you. I hope you enjoy my stories, they're always fun to write and I don't see myself stopping anytime soon.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Was she dreaming? It didn’t feel like a dream, at least she didn’t think of it as one. What did that mean? Janessa crossed her arms in thought, or did she imagine doing so? The place where she found herself had a queer enough feel to it to make the Halfling’s skin crawl. Around her was nothing, and that was wrong. Everything was around her as well, all she had to do was think of a thing, no matter how big or small, and it would appear. Janessa toyed with her discovery at first, thinking of the most outlandish colored items she could. Each time they appeared, and for the briefest of moments, gave some life and cheer to her surroundings.

It wasn’t that the landscape was ugly or twisted, it was simply bland. The ground, if one chose to call it that, was a fine gray powder. Despite the soft texture, it was impossible to dig, leave a footprint, or otherwise disturb it. The sky was a pinkish blue color without clouds or sun to light the way, yet she could see. Maybe the ground gave off the light, like a layer of snow seemed to under the watchful eye of the full moon.

Her natural curiosity was aroused, though Janessa couldn’t help shuddering at the lack of feeling everything had. She felt numb, but no amount of rubbing brought the feeling back to her arms. No, Janessa didn’t like wherever she was. With no other option, she began walking. Any direction was as good as another in a place like this, she reasoned. Her thoughts weren’t on her friends, which was odd for her. Instead, the Halfling concentrated on finding a way out of the wasteful expanse.

To the contrary, Berek felt a sharp stabbing pain somewhere in his body, but he couldn’t think of where it was. His body was alive with feeling. He felt warm and fevered while ice cold fingers fought for a purchase everywhere he felt warmth. Warm one moment, cold the next, and then back to warm was enough to drive anyone mad. In desperation, he tried to throw off both sets of hands causing the sensations, but his body wouldn’t obey him. Instead, each of his commands to move were followed by a renewing pain.

He tried to focus, but his mind seemed to be fighting its own war as it slowed down with each touch of the cold fingers, only to once more become alert as the warmth overtook it. Helpless, Berek tried to find some way to make his body obey him, but each time it refused. His body never failed him before, now seeming intent on allowing him to suffer.

Voices. Berek could make out a pair of voices but he wasn’t sure where they originated. It took some time for his mind to focus enough for him to recognize them. While their names escaped him, he was able to tell them apart. One was older sounding, deep and husky, speaking some strange language he never heard before. A small part of his mind called it magic, but became fuddled from another sense of cold grasping him. When Berek’s mind cleared with the receding cold, he believed it wasn’t magic, at least not any kind he ever heard of. At the end of each of his thoughts he felt a sharp pain followed by nothing.

The second voice was softer, far gentler than the first. Its words folded around him, engulfing him in love and kindness. Berek never felt such a feeling before, never imagined something like it could exist. As each word caressed him, they seemed to drive away the cold fingers fighting for a purchase on him. If this was a dream, he was content to relax in its embrace and let it lead him.

*****

Galin watched Gilliam and Fleir hover over Berek’s broken body while he tended to Janessa as best he could. He hated to admit it, but the Dwarf could do little for his friend aside from gather wood for the fire. Every so often, he glanced down at the Halfling to make sure she was alright. Janessa gave them a scare when she fell unconscious after killing Fech. Imagine that, he thought, a Halfling kills a gargoyle then faints? That had to be a first in history, but that’s of little concern now. Galin dabbed his moist handkerchief on Janessa’s forehead, they were fortunate the fight was close to a stream so he didn’t have to go far. While he could do nothing for one friend, he’d be sure the one he could help wouldn’t die from shock.

Feeling Janessa stir under his gentle touch caused the old Dwarf to smile. That’s it, lass. He whispered to her then looked towards Berek.

By all rights, the young man should be dead. Gilliam cast his spell to heal the wounds and keep his nephew from bleeding out when Fech was felled, but there was something else involved in that. He could mend the young man’s body, but after suffering such injuries one’s soul left the mortal world and took the next step. Something held Berek to their plain, something far stronger than anything the cleric had ever seen. Between spells of healing, Gilliam let his gaze wander to Fleir, she’d been a middle aged woman the last time he’d seen her before that morning. Something he didn’t understand had transformed her. Though he didn’t believe it, the proof was in front of him. Somehow, she regained her youth because of Berek and now held him to their world.

Fleir could feel Gilliam’s eyes and hear his unspoken questions, but neither of those were important to her at the moment as she concentrated on the task at hand. The day had been one of surprises for the Air Nymph. First, she never expected Berek to love her without the use of her magical charms. The energy he’d given her during their lovemaking restored her youth. An unexpected turn she was certain had never happened before in her people‘s history. Air Nymphs were unable to turn back their age like their cousins the Wood Nymphs.

Those events were followed by the Halfling’s attack on the gargoyle and then her own devotion. It was the way with all the Nymphs that they never fall in love with mortals. They were the nymph’s food source. The fact she’d fallen in love and now risked her own existence to act as an anchor for a human was unheard of. Fleir thought over each of those surprises while ensuring her hands remained in contact with the sides of his head. She would remain there, for as long as it took and risk everything for one man.

It wasn’t an unknown act for her, showing kindness, but few, if any, of her kind would go to the same extreme she was. To be an anchor for an injured loved one required the utmost concentration as well as courage. As the anchor, one had to remain steadfast and strong, for if the one they secured became lost they would suffer the same fate. Fleir accepted the risk and used all of her magic to strengthen the bond they shared, She would not allow herself to become separated from Berek.

The strain on both was great, that much was obvious even to Galin, who knew little about such matters. The Dwarf watched in silence, even taking the time to wipe both their brows with a damp cloth, which he was rewarded with a polite nod from Gilliam. Fleir, on the other hand, acted as if she hadn’t noticed. No wonder, the Dwarf thought as he returned to care for Janessa, he’d seen that type of concentration on few others. The life of his friend depended on the Air Nymph. He nearly snorted in disgust, but managed to catch himself in time. Instead, he sat down next to Janessa as she began to stir and whimper. That’s it, lass. You’ll be alright. Galin muttered the encouragement while wiping her forehead. First a Halfling threw herself at a gargoyle, then a Nymph risked her immortal life to save a human. He shook his head and looked into the afternoon sky to where he was sure Crax himself watched with great amusement.

Never one to rely on religion, Galin muttered an oath. Fine thing be you Gods. Causing good souls to be troubled and troubled souls to become good and all for your amusement. He lowered his eyes to Janessa, then towards Berek who was lying motionless except for his breathing. What happens when you’ve had your fill? Cast the lot of us in the fire like deadwood? Aye, I know your games lad, and may I be long dead when that day comes.

Gilliam finished his final spell, only then allowing himself to fall backwards from exhaustion. It… it’s done… he’ll live… he just needs rest.

Galin stood and threw another chunk of wood on the fire. The popping and crackling of the sap in the wood caused him to pause for a moment. Aye lad, you both need your rest. He raised an open palm to quiet Gilliam’s rebuttal. Don’t argue with me now, I’m twice your age and just as mean. To bed with you. You’ll do him no good if you’re passed out from exhaustion in the morning.

Gilliam thought about continuing his argument against the Dwarf but decided against it. Galin’s gruffness disappeared when he nodded towards Berek. I’ll keep an eye on him, won’t be the first time I’ve done such a thing.

Gilliam watched him for a moment to see if Galin would flinch, when he didn’t the cleric spread himself out next to the fire and as close to Berek as possible. Despite his design to do more, Gilliam was asleep seconds after he pulled his cloak around him. Galin couldn’t help smiling at the scene before him.

An interesting group we have here, isn’t it? The sound of Fleir’s voice surprised Galin, he’d been so preoccupied with the others he hadn’t noticed that she released Berek from her hold. He looked at her questioning and she nodded. The damage has been repaired. His body and soul are one once more.

For the first time Galin noticed the lines of worry on Fleir’s beautiful face. It was as though they conspired with her fear and worry to make her appear mortal to the point Galin worried about her. Better get some rest lass, I’ve got first watch.

Fleir smiled at him, he understood but didn’t at the same time. It should’ve irritated her to hear one so much younger than herself ordering her about, never mind him being a Dwarf! She couldn’t bring herself to be angry with him over such trivial matters. Despite their flaws and the conditions they chose to live in, Dwarves were considered by most to be very wise. It was… refreshing to her and though she needed only the briefest of rests to replenish her magic, Fleir nodded her agreement. So it shall be, Sir Dwarf, your council is wise.

Well I’ll be an Ogre’s… She said what? The question roared through his mind but Galin somehow remained calm. The shock, or outrage, never surfaced. That did it; this was a day for the ages. He’d never would’ve been able to dream up anything that strange, no matter how many spirits he drank.

Satisfied he wasn’t losing his mind, though he couldn’t speak for the others, Galin did a final check on everyone before wrapping himself in a cloak and took his position by the fire. Both Gilliam and Fleir were asleep, although he was certain the latter was faking as she was sure to have a protective arm over Berek. Berek seemed to be comfortable, but then who wouldn’t be with Fleir draped over them, Galin thought.

The peace that fell over them was broken by Janessa as she continued to squirm and moan in her sleep. Galin watched her for a moment as the sun began to lower over the western horizon. That was the earliest he could ever remember a camp being asleep, but then they had proven to be unusual. He pulled out his old knife and the piece of wood he’d been working on and began to whittle. Before long the sky was dark and the cool night air settled upon them.

Chapter 2

It seemed like a short nap to her, but when Janessa woke she was surprised everyone but Galin was asleep. The Halfling couldn’t stop the yawn from coming and wasn’t sure why she felt so tired since she’d been sleeping. It took her a moment to remember the fight, when she finally spoke Galin was already watching her. Surprised, she swallowed the question. Janessa hadn’t made a sound, so how’d he notice her?

Glad to see you up and about, lass. You gave us a bit of a scare. Galin grabbed her by the shoulder and pushed her back down before she could get to her feet. Don’t be getting all worked up, everyone’s fine and you killed Fech.

Janessa glanced around for a moment before whispering back, That’s two of my questions, but I have another one. Galin sat back and waited; impressed she hadn’t started screaming the moment she woke. She glanced about them as if she were about to ask something of great importance. Galin thought of Viola and hoped that wasn’t what Janessa planned on asking. Ready to answer her, he was surprised by what she asked. How’d you know I was awake?

Now, many people wake up with their brains muddled, it happens to everyone including Dwarves. That reasoning was lost on Galin as he stared at Janessa, at a loss for words. He remained silent for so long, Janessa forgot her own terrifying dream for a moment and leaned closer. Are you alright Galin?

At that moment every curse and oath having to do with Halflings Galin ever heard scrolled through his mind. Instead of letting loose with a torrent like he felt was his right, the Dwarf took a deep breath and was sure to set his knife aside. I’m fine lass, just wasn’t expecting you to ask me that.

Janessa lowered her eyes, I know, I would’ve asked about Viola, but I don’t think she’s dead.

That was an inspiring, if not strange, turn of events. What makes you say that, lass?

She paused, thinking through what to say, not a usual trait for a Halfling. "Well, Berek said he thought she was alive and he seems to understand things but, I wasn’t convinced until I nearly died. I had a horrible dream where I was in the middle of a great emptiness, but I was still surrounded by everything. It was so strange that I was sure I had died. But when I didn’t see anyone there, I kinda knew. If she was dead she’d wait for me, but since she wasn’t there I decided to come back and find her."

Her story made no sense to Galin as he listened, but his anger melted away. Aye, it’s good you did come back. Otherwise Berek wouldn’t be able to thank you for saving his life. He paused for a moment, And neither would I.

Janessa’s face twisted in confusion, He did. I mean, I think he did. But you wanted to thank me?

Aye lass, I did. Galin went back to whittling, leaving her to think about what he meant. It didn’t take her long and by then she settled down under the cloak Galin used to cover her. When she was asleep, he couldn’t help watching her in amusement and respect. Any curses he knew concerning Halflings were forgotten, it would do her an injustice to mention them.

*****

The early evening hours ticked by without a sound, the only indicator of the passing of time was the gradual cooling of the autumn air. Gilliam sat with his back to the fire and his attention on the surrounding forest. There hadn’t been a single odd sound from the woods. In fact, had he not known the events of the day it would’ve been easy for the cleric to relax and fall asleep, snug and warm in his cloak. Despite his wishes, he couldn’t find any warmth on that night, the thin cloak he held around him wasn’t made for the cooler nights. It was his spring cloak, the only one he had left after using his new one to wrap Berek in for the night.

Gilliam couldn’t stop shivering, but it wasn’t from the chill of the night air. Something about those events sent shivers coursing through him. For the first time in his life he was hunted, maybe not at the moment, but he was certain Renard would not take losing his pet lightly. Fech had been the one being whose loyalty the man could trust. He glanced over at his nephew, watching as Berek slept soundly while his body finished the healing process. Gilliam knew that before long, his nephew would wake up and find the whole thing humorous.

Gilliam let out a deep sigh and rubbed his eyes, he was too old for this. Adventuring and gallivanting around like some hero was better suited for younger men. All he wanted was to search for the answers to his questions, but when he found those answers they seemed only to add more questions. Perhaps being a cleric made him see the world differently and it was a change he wasn’t comfortable with. Gilliam was ready to feel sorry for himself when he saw something in the bushes move.

He rose to his feet and stalked into the outer circle of light emanating from the campfire. Whatever hid in the bushes wasn’t trying very hard to remain silent. Thinking it was a wolf or large cat of some sort, Gilliam unslung his mace and readied it to strike. He thought of rousing the others, but being this wasn’t a warrior looking for them, he was certain he could handle it without disturbing them.

As he reached out to move the bush aside, a small gray form leapt out at him. Startled, Gilliam stumbled backwards swinging wildly for it. He missed and watched a large gray hare dart back into the forest. He caught his breath and turned back to the fire where a familiar pair of eyes sat watching him with mild amusement.

The cleric took his place by the fire, his face was red with embarrassment. Not a word or I’ll undo my spells.

It would’ve been a good breakfast, uncle. Berek’s smile was reflected in his eyes. He’d seen the whole thing.

Gilliam tried to look at him disapprovingly but instead he burst into much needed laughter. You knew and said nothing? He paused to try to stop laughing. He failed. Then get your own breakfast.

The outburst of laughter woke the rest of the companions. Even Galin, who for the first time that he could remember hadn’t been snoring, leapt to his feet in surprise.

Berek? A blur and thud were all Berek saw and felt as Janessa embraced him, had she been any larger the Halfling would’ve tackled him.

Galin glanced at Janessa with a slight smile and without a look of disdain, causing Berek to wonder how long he’d been asleep. If the fighter didn’t know better, he’d swear it was a look of fatherly love. Galin raised his gaze to Berek, Glad to see you up and about lad. Planning to do anything that foolish again?

Berek smiled, Not for a long time, my friend. That seemed to satisfy the Dwarf as he nodded and went to work prying Janessa off of Berek.

Any ideas? Berek glanced at Fleir. The two had been sharing a bond none would ever understand until he woke. Even though she looked a little harried, Fleir was still beautiful.

In answer she nodded, "We’d better get moving. I think Fech was waiting until after dark to return. It’s only a matter of time until Renard begins looking for him.

Galin nodded, he knew Renard wouldn’t be pleased. Where to, lad?

Locksworth. Everyone looked at Janessa in surprise. The Halfling shrugged, He’d never go there.

Berek thought about it for a moment, it was four days on foot from there and he doubted Renard would follow them if he could. Without Fech and the Nursk Brothers, Renard’s reign wouldn’t last much longer. After a moment he glanced around, Any others? When no one spoke it became final. First, let’s get into Hope. We’ll need some rest and supplies.

The morning light rose calm and peaceful over the horizon to find the companions following the road out of Hope. It’d been easy for Berek to magik them into the walled city and find an unlocked store room to replenish their supplies. To appease Gilliam’s conscious, they left enough gold to cover the cost and then some. Getting out of the city was just as easy magically, though for Janessa it felt as though her heart was being ripped out each time.

That had been a few hours and just as many miles before. With Hope and Renard behind and to the west of them, a brief feeling of safety came over the group. As Galin had pointed out, Renard planned on his company leaving by then, but they noticed from a vantage point on a small hill that his camp was ready but hadn’t yet left. Curious, Janessa offered to scout for them; she’d grown to like the idea after finding Berek the day before. The idea was resoundly put down as speed and haste were needed.

Downtrodden, Janessa’s spirits raised when Berek would lead them off the road whenever a traveler passed. That small amount of added danger was enough to make their journey feel like an actual adventure and helped to take her mind off Viola. The rush each of those moments brought was fleeting, as the companions