The Endless Night (Book II of Sword from the Sky)

By R. Janvier del Valle

(Don't forget! Sword from the Sky (Book I) is now available for FREE!)

The Sun Sets in Bune.
The Davinian Order Is Torn Apart.
A Far-Off Land Trembles with the Cries of Children.

In the Midst of this Tragedy, a Boy will Struggle...

To Accept His Destiny,
To Bring Hope to a Sunless Land,
To Confront the Beast Lurking in the Shadows...

The Kingdom of Bune has been overthrown and the Davinian Order divided. While Vohro and Siel make their way towards the city of Corco, Jeskun and his team of Davinian students find themselves hungry and weak after traveling weeks across the desolate land. Upon arriving near a costal town, seeking food and shelter, little do they know that their struggles are far from over when they run into an insidious young girl with a mysterious power.

Meanwhile, deep inside Loshendu Forest, Luca comes face to face with the beast known as the Gremleh. Torn apart by resentment and emotions, he struggles to come to grips with his true origins—only later to embark on a journey to the Province of Sabbadoh in order to meet up with a mystical beast, the only being capable of revealing to him the true purpose of his skyborn sword.

Soon after Luca meets with Wesper the Wise, he teams up with his friends as they venture into the Sunless Land, steadfastly focused on infiltrating the queen’s grand palace atop Rock Mountain. They will sacrifice their lives for one sole purpose: to free the hundreds of children enslaved by the beastly army.

But in the middle of all this chaos, the Gremleh is not only forced to confront the oncoming Davinian threat but also seek out a hidden treacherous alliance brewing inside its own circle of evil.

In book two of Sword From the Sky, R. Janvier del Valle expands the epic saga further than ever, visiting far-off lands and terrible regions that will keep the reader on the edge of their seat in a thrilling journey of mystery and enchantment!

• Language: English
• Publisher: R. Janvier del Valle
• Release date: Dec 21, 2013
• ISBN: 9781310089985

R. Janvier del Valle

R. Janvier del Valle holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Kennesaw State University and a Master of Theological Studies from Spring Hill College. He has worked in the Advertising, Marketing, and Communications industries for over ten years and has taught a number of classes in philosophy and theology to adults as well as children.He resides with his wife and daughter in Georgia. When he isn't writing, he's sleeping. And when he's not sleeping, he's spending time with his family, running, hiking, hitting the gym, watching movies, buying overpriced one-sixth scale action figures, studying and reading philosophy and theology, and most of all, collecting pointy, shiny things that tend to gleam of a certain silver whenever exposed to the moonlit eventide."In necesariis unitas, in dubiis libertas, in omnibus caritas."

Book preview

THE ENDLESS NIGHT

Book II of Sword from the Sky

By R. Janvier del Valle

Cover Art by Ronald Calica

Cover Design by R. Janvier del Valle

Copyedited by Claudette Cruz

Be confident small immortals. You are not the only voice that all things utter, nor is there eternal silence in the places where you cannot come.

-C. S. Lewis, Perelandra

R. Janvier del Valle

Copyright 2013 by R. Janvier del Valle

Smashwords Edition

OTHER BOOKS BY R. JANVIER del VALLE

SWORD FROM THE SKY NOVELS

Book One: The Blade School of Daví

Book Two: The Endless Night

SILAS DE SAN MICHEL MYSTERY NOVELS

To Kill and Kill Again (Q1/2014)

THE DEAF SWORDSMAN NOVELLAS

No. 1 Children of a Sunless Land

No. 2: The Abandoned Asylum of the Good Doctor Fangtasahd

No. 3: Along the Many Houses of Damnation

No. 4: Beauty in a Land of Sorrow

No. 5: Where the Frost Reigns (Q1/2014)

No. 6: The Golden Queen (TBA/2014)

No. 7: The Veil of Vanity (TBA/2014)

No. 8: The Hound of the Moon (TBA/2014)

No. 9: Escape from the Sunless Land (TBA/2014)

CONTENTS

PROLOGUE

I: THE KIND GIRL

II: FAMILY REUNION - PART I

III: A VILLAGE BEDEVILED

IV: FAMILY REUNION - PART II

V: STRANDED

VI: THE LONG TUNNEL DIVIDE

VII: WE ARE NOT ALONE

VIII: CHILDREN OF THE BEAST

IX: THOSE WHO BELLOW

X: ESCAPE FROM ROCK MOUNTAIN

XI: LADY OF THE IRON ARCH

XII: THE BOY SHIELDER

XIII: MASKS

XIV: WESPER THE WISE

XV: A HOUSE DIVIDED

XVI: OF TEARS AND WISHFUL THINKING

XVII: A FEW AGAINST MANY

XVIII: FIVE'S A CROWD

XIX: MOON DISTORTION

XX: WRONG TURN

XXI: AND THE WALL CAME TUMBLING DOWN

XXII: BATTLE OF THE ASTRAHLI

XXIII: THE ENDLESS NIGHT

XXIV: A BRUISED MOON

EPILOGUE

AFTERWORD

APPENDIX

(List of Names with Pronunciations)

"WILL I BE QUEEN SOON?" a young girl’s voice said.

All in good time, another female voice, much older and reprehensive, said.

But it has been so long.

You never did like waiting.

There was a sound of hair being brushed, like someone grooming a prize horse.

"You promised me I would be heir to the land soon," the young voice continued.

I promised a lot of things, and I always keep my promises.

The girl smiled. "Speaking of the queen, where is she?"

The queen has gone out.

A pause in the darkness.

To find the astrahli?

The older voice swallowed, hesitating for a second. "Yes, Senah. She went for him."

The brushing of hair continued as an elegant hand, adorned with armored gauntlets covered in emeralds, swayed back and forth, gently brushing a mane of pure white-blonde hair that glistened in the lowly lit ambience of the cavelike dwelling. The fair hair belonged to a young girl whose eyes glittered like ivory jewels in a sea of milk. Every now and then, a sparkle would skip along the center of the girl’s left iris.

Dear aunty?

Yes, Senah? the woman said as she revealed her long jet-black hair and dazzling green eyes.

Why all the incessant grooming?

You’re to be at your very best if you wish to win the hearts of the people of the land, Vahla said. Her emerald armor glowed in the bath of orange given out by a small fire flickering away near the corner of the cave. You’re to attract all of their focus, all of their attention. Otherwise, my message will be lost.

And what is your message, dear aunty? Senah said.

"You are my message," Vahla said.

Senah’s fourteen-year-old face was as fair as snow. It was a perfectly symmetrical face with thin features, modelesque. Her long neck elegantly protruded from her immaculate white armor. Ivory pearls accented her breastplate with platinum trimmings running down her shoulders and neck. What should I do for you, Vahla?

Go to all the cities and speak to the people.

To what end?

You must grow our army, dear Senah.

Not to worry, aunty. I will grow them like a virus.

That’s a good child, Vahla said as she kept brushing Senah’s hair.

Behind them was a throne encrusted with jewels, lined with silks and linens, too small for an adult to use. It was Senah’s throne, where she kept herself, waiting for the right time to reveal her presence to all of the peoples of Esterra.

And after I have grown our legions? Senah said. What then?

You’ll go after the boy. You’re the only one that can stop him.

But what of the queen?

The queen cannot do this herself, Vahla said, setting the brush down and gently rubbing Senah’s face with a lotion that smelled of fresh roses. "It must be done by one of his own kind. But remember, keep that a secret for now."

Senah understood what her aunt meant. She smirked as if she had secrets of her own that she had deceptively hidden from Vahla, secrets that she didn’t want her aunt to ever discover—that is, not until the time was right.

Don’t be gentle with him, sweet girl, Vahla continued. Remember, he’s the only one like you. He’s dangerous beyond all imaginings, and he cannot afford to reach the Light of the World. And though he is of your kind, you must be indifferent towards him, heartless. Don’t misunderstand me; you are to be nothing but kind to everyone you meet during your important mission—everyone except him.

Vahla’s words were music to Senah’s ears. I will tear asunder what is left of his limbs.

You better, Senah, for your sake.

You must trust in me, aunty. You must believe in my power.

I do.

Good, for the land will soon see what I am capable of.

***

SLAM! A DOOR BURST OPEN.

This will have to do, a young man, whose one eye beamed forth from the shadows, said. There was a cloud of chatter, like a chorus of voices sounding off behind the young warrior.

"Are you sure this is it, Mastro?" a voice behind him said.

It’s not much, but we’re not here for pleasantries, the man said. Pick your beds. Now.

The man moved out of the way and revealed himself in the light of the setting sun. It was Mastro Jeskun. His fortified body showed signs of weariness: his ren, the Davinians’ soft, poncho-like garment, was soiled and ragged; his pants were covered in dust; and his face glistened with a cool sweat. He fidgeted with his worn eyepatch before heading inside.

Behind him were his students. There were eight in total: Luleh of Heatheranla, Tamru of Nawa, Swaso of Reyhdor, Pabru of Bune, Vehru of Nawa, Kahsy of the Plains of Nevetén, Jené Jenóu of Janvai, and Nefiru, a Prince of Corco. The eight had traveled with their master for weeks, roaming across a vast, sunless land until reaching a city not yet infected with the stain of darkness.

The students poured into the building like ants streaming out of an anthill.

Ugh, what’s that smell? Pabru said.

I think it’s you, Jené said as he walked by him.

Pabru paused and discreetly smelled himself. Oh.

Vehru of Nawa pushed Pabru aside as he made his way in. If you’re not going to pick a bed then let me through. He carried his bags inside and found a bed next to a small window. He dropped the bags on the cushion and a huge dust cloud exploded all over him, sending Vehru into a coughing fit.

Has anyone ever slept on these beds? Luleh said as she took a bed diagonally across from Vehru. Her fiery mane of red curls had failed to stain with dirt during their journey, but her vest and ren were in need of a good cleaning.

Another girl approached Luleh. A shy girl of only fifteen years, she had to make an effort into speaking to the young flower of Heatheranla. Is this bed t-taken? she said, referring to the one right next to Luleh. The girl, Kahsy of the Plains of Nevetén, was the only other girl besides Luleh in the traveling party. She was tall and slim, with blonde locks. She had bright blue-yellow eyes like the color of a vibrant horizon where a blue sky merged with the flowing grasslands of a luscious green meadow. Kahsy waited for an answer.

It’s available, Luleh said. Make yourself comfortable, if that’s possible in this old and dirty place.

"S-Sadly, I don’t think it is possible," Kahsy said.

Luleh smiled. What’s your name?

Kahsy of the N-Nevetén.

Nevetén? You mean the frozen flatlands? I’ve never met anyone from there.

Well-s-s-s— Unfortunately, Kahsy couldn’t get her word out without feeling awkward.

That’s okay, Kahsy, the kind flower said. I’m Luleh of the Coastal Hills of Heatheranla.

W-Warm there.

Yes, it sure is, Luleh said.

I have d-difficulty speaking, Kahsy said.

I understand, Luleh said. It’s quite all right.

It’s c-cold where I’m from, Kahsy said, smiling. Mom says I d-don’t really s-stutter, I just s-sh-shiver because it’s so c-cold. Kahsy made a shivering motion with her arms and smiled.

Her comment warmed Luleh’s heart.

C-Can I ask you a question?

Sure.

Why does that boy k-keep looking at you? Kahsy said, turning her head towards Vehru. Luleh turned her head as well and met with Vehru’s stare. Vehru awkwardly jerked his body and put his hand up to his head, scratching it, as if pretending to have forgotten something he didn’t really forget. Luleh smiled.

Come, let’s get our stuff unpacked, Luleh said. I don’t think we’ll be here very long, but it’ll be good to settle in. The two girls talked as they sorted out their belongings.

On the other side of the room was Pabru, dusting off all the dirt that had accumulated on his pillow. If I sleep on this pillow, am I going to wake up a different color?

It wouldn’t hurt to try, Jené Jenóu said. It might suit you. Jené was a slender young man who sported a dark green mane which accented his dark, soulful eyes. His appearance was always well-groomed, even slightly immaculate.

How does he stay so clean? Pabru said to his friend across the way.

I asked him that once, Vehru said. His reply was that ‘he avoided you at all costs.’

I see the urgency of the trip has not taken away your sense of humor, Mastro Jeskun said as he walked past them, patting Vehru on his shoulder. Settle in now, quickly, he said to Pabru. We leave on the morrow.

I thought we were going to stay for at least a day or so? Tamru of Nawa, a boy of fair skin and almond hair, said.

We don’t have time to waste, Jeskun said. I’m sorry, but we have to keep on. Jeskun surveyed the dour faces surrounding him. At least we’ll have a good supper at the tavern. We’ll dine well tonight and have some good drink. Their faces lightened up some, especially Pabru’s.

Real food? Pabru said.

Don’t get your hopes up, Vehru said. You know what happened last time.

I still say that was real rabbit, Pabru said, regardless of its gumminess. I stand by my actions.

My stomach would beg to differ, Jené said.

Oh, hush up, Pabru countered.

Settle down, you two, Jeskun said as he opened the back door and stepped out.

Where’s he going? Pabru said.

Let him be, Vehru said. He has a lot weighing on his mind.

Vehru was right. A thousand thoughts raced through the good mastro’s head. A few weeks ago, his world had been turned upside down. He had lost his most precious sword and was forced to abandon his home, mourning after all the loved ones slain by the dark forces that laid siege on his school. What ever happened to those creatures?

He walked out into a large, wooden deck positioned right above the edge of a sea, looking out into the expansive coast. He leaned against one of the sturdy railings, watching his reflection in the warm water. He wondered if he had what it took to carry out the task given to him by his beloved master, Siel. He sighed.

Jeskun looked up and marveled at the city. He had been to Claria only once in his life, when he was much younger and still a fugitive beggar, long before he ran into the likes of his great friend, Vohro of Nawa. Claria was a coastal city known for its booming trade in medicinal herbs and apothecary ingredients. It was once golden with long, sandy beaches and numerous ships strewn about the various ports. Pale green palm trees lined the cobblestone streets, and coconuts of all sizes were spread along the sandy pathways. Donned in loose clothing and vibrant jewelry, the women were carefree, and the men, with their clean faces and tanned legs, were boisterous and hearty. There were gardens everywhere, and the smell of honeysuckle permeated the coastal air.

Not so much anymore.

He was so weary of travel that he had failed to notice the city’s decline. There was something not right about it. He searched with his one good eye, looking for something that would send off alarms throughout his body. All the city inhabitants seemed gloomy and hopeless, walking as if a weight had been put on their shoulders.

Strange, he whispered. The sun still lives in this place, but the people walk like they are in total darkness. And with the sense of a mage, he caught a hint of a gray spot to the west. Fog. It looks like it has finally set its eyes on Claria. The fog grows stronger by the hour. How long until the whole land sees darkness?

One of his companions stepped outside. It was Swaso of Reyhdor. He was the oldest of the children and had just turned sixteen, thus considered to be the adult among the students. Swaso was a striking young kid. He had loose locks of black hair and fair skin. His plump pink lips were balanced by his big brown eyes and some freckles atop his nose. He was muscular and fit, a true Davinian student.

Are you all right, Mastro? Swaso said.

We might not stay here through the night, Jeskun said.

Why’s that?

"The fog is rolling in from the distance, just beyond the Sea of Baahamonh, Jeskun said, taking off his soft, wide-brimmed hat. This town is not what I remembered it to be."

I think once the students get some rest, even if it’s just a few hours, they’ll be rejuvenated and ready to go, Swaso said, looking out into the sea. Besides, this hostel gives them the creeps. So, are we to skip supper then?

No, we’ll dine, sure enough, Jeskun said, smiling. And then we’ll make our retreat in the cover of darkness.

No rest for the weary, Swaso said.

That’s right, Davinian, Jeskun said, losing his smile. Go and get the others ready to dine. He motioned Swaso inside. Jeskun took one last look at the horizon before returning to his students.

*

The sign read The Cat & Mouse. The tavern was situated across from the weathered hostel. It was small in stature, with a full level on the ground floor and a half-level on the second. Various candlelit sconces lined the outer walls, lighting up the way for the patrons to see in the darkness of the post-dusk moon. As the Davinian party approached the entrance, they sensed the building to be warm and inviting. The warriors could hear music and chatter inside, and for a brief moment, their worried troubles were subdued with the thought of great food and drink.

The first to open the door was Pabru. He was quite anxious.

I see someone has lost his manners, Swaso said. You should have let the girls go first.

What? Pabru said. I knew that. Half of Pabru’s body was already inside the tavern, so he improvised. Yep. All clear. He motioned for the ladies to proceed ahead of him.

Luleh and Kahsy stepped in. The rest followed, except for Jeskun, who stayed back to get a feel for the night air.

The second the students entered the tavern, a chill filled the room. A loose wind sneaked inside the tavern through an open window, knocking down some empty cups near the edge of the tavern bar. The majority of the patrons, of which there were many, turned towards their strange new visitors. It made sense for most of them to stare in wonder, since Davinians rarely travel outside their local community, and in some circles, they were even considered legends. But Claria being so close to Bune, most recognized the students for who they were.

The Davinians, with their sleeveless rens, wide-brimmed hats, and various blades, fully contrasted the tavern’s patrons. Most of the people in the tavern were either farmers, tradesmen, apothecaries, or healers. None of them were warriors. But worse of all, fearing that the Davinians were a premonition of worse things to come, they saw them as dark passengers bringing evil into their warm and innocent gathering. They squinted their eyes in disgust, staring down the unwelcome children.

A moment later, Mastro Jeskun stepped in, but he was no child. The patrons set their eyes on the young mastro’s face and saw a battle-scarred blade master. Before, when the children came in with their blades protruding from their rens, the patrons were not at all intimidated by the abundance of steel, for they felt as if the blades were wielded by novices. But when they saw Mastro Jeskun step in with his battle-worn blades protruding from his back, the patrons gasped, as if a storm had suddenly rolled inside the tavern. The patrons turned their heads and kept to themselves.

I’m not predicting much service, Pabru said.

Let’s just sit down, Vehru said.

Where? Luleh said.

Near the corner, Jeskun said. There. He pointed towards a group of tables nestled securely beside the tavern’s rear windows, out of everyone’s way. Jeskun motioned for the children to sit. Vehru, you stay with me. We’ll go up to the bar.

Yes, Mastro, Vehru said.

The students worked themselves in throughout the maze of patrons. Once they reached their tables, they quietly sat down.

Jeskun stood still for a second, observing the people around him. They had placed all their focus on their drinks and food, occupied with their own needs. But Jeskun sensed their secrets. He sensed their hostility as he discerned gloomy spirits slouching down on the tables, inches away from snapping and turning violent. Alarmed, he turned to the bar. There were odd artifacts toppled around the various shelves. The people had some sort of weird spirituality, but he wasn’t there to question that.

Something caught his eye, a painting on the wall to his right, just above the bar shelves. It was a drawing of a circle with strange symbols inside. It looked like it was painted with blood.

You see that, Mastro Jeskun? Vehru whispered.

Take your eyes away from it, Jeskun said. Let’s not linger long with our eyes, Servantu.

A voice spoke up from the bar. Will you folks be needing anything? We’re closing the kitchen, and the bar will soon follow.

It was not even eight at night.

Why so soon? Jeskun said, approaching the bar. If you don’t mind me asking.

We’ve changed hours as of late, the barkeep, a stout old woman with a disposition akin to a grizzly bear, said. Things have been...happening at night. People go missing. The dark is not what it used to be. We like to be out of the tavern before the moon takes reign at midnight.

I see, Jeskun said. Is that why you have that drawing up there? He motioned with his eyes.

Quickly, the patrons around Jeskun ceased to talk, turning to him, as if insulted by his question. The barkeep clenched her jaw and hardened her face. But Jeskun wasn’t at all affected by their demeanors. Matter of fact, their reaction frustrated him. He wanted answers, and he was on a short fuse, especially after what happened to his homeland. Most of all, he disdained unpleasantries.

Vehru felt his teacher’s irritable disposition, and so he readily walked over to the bard, who had been seconds away from dozing off, and kicked his chair.

"Oh, pardon me, Vehru said. I didn’t mean to run into you. He took out a few silver coins. For a song, a merry one, if you are not too worn out from your duties."

The bard gave him a short glance but then was immediately tempted by the coins. He reached for them, but Vehru snapped his hand back.

Make it sprightly.

Yes, young master, the bard said, taking the coins. He began to play one of the tavern’s favorite tunes, and the people quickly forgot their grudge with Jeskun, shaking their mugs and singing along with the song. Vehru returned to his teacher.

You should have saved the coins, Jeskun said. Regardless, well done. He turned to the barkeep. Why is that symbol up there? I’m just curious.

It’s for the children.

Jeskun winced at the comment. "My students?"

No, of course not, the barkeep said. The drawing is there to ward off the children of the beast. I suppose you don’t know who they are?

He did, actually. Not really. Tell me more, he said, entertaining her train of thought.

Just recently, they have been seen around the city at night, though I haven’t seen one myself, but I’ve heard enough stories and seen enough strange things for me to be suspicious of them. They come in the dark, suited up in the ghastliest of armors. They come and take people away. That’s what they say.

Why would they take your people? Jeskun said.

I don’t know. I’m not a mage. They just do. That’s enough for me to protect myself from them. That’s why we close early, to keep our patrons safe from those children of the damned.

Does it work? Jeskun said. The drawing?

Umm, the barkeep said, skeptical. Well, they haven’t come here yet, so I suppose.

Sooner or later, you’ll get your answer, Jeskun said. Say, why do your patrons fear us?

They don’t fear you—they fear the beastly children, the barkeep said as she cleaned some wooden cups. "Well, maybe they fear you, but not your students. Jeskun grinned. They knew so little about his students. They always think strange visitors attract the beastly children."

"And do the children come when you have strange visitors?"

Not yet.

Well, we won’t overstay our welcome, Jeskun said. We’re just looking to be fed and to replenish ourselves with good drink. Then, we’ll leave the minute we’re done and make our way out of the city. And we have the coin for the food, as much as my party requires.

Very well, then, the barkeep said. What would you like?

Well— Jeskun started to say.

Meats and broth, Vehru interrupted. And hot bread. Some warm milk and good ale. Vehru’s eyes were glowing. Did I leave anything out, Mastro?

Some fresh fruit, Jeskun said, smiling at the barkeep.

His sincerity eased the barkeep’s worries. Coming right up, she said.

Vehru, pay the kind woman and meet us at the table.

Will do, Mastro, Vehru said, wiping off a slight drool.

Jeskun returned to the table and sat down with his students.

Any news, Mastro? Swaso said. The rest of the students angled their faces with curiosity.

The whole town is spooked, Jeskun said. It’s the children’s army. They’ve been here.

T-The army? Kahsy said. From the sunless land?

That’s the one, Nefiru, who up until then had been very quiet, keeping to himself, said. I can feel it. They’re after us.

No one is after us, Jeskun said, wiping his hands with a damp, wet cloth that was floating inside a small wooden bowl. The army of children don’t even know who we are or where we’re going. Let’s not let our nerves get the best of us.

Then why have they been raiding this city? Tamru said.

They must have other motives, Jeskun said. What? I don’t fully know.

And what of the creatures that attacked our school? Luleh said. Are there any more of them?

Again, young servantu, I don’t have all the answers, Jeskun said, but I suspect we’ll eventually find out.

Don’t you think you should warn the villagers of the dark creatures? Swaso said. They were led by that one child with the red armor, the one that went after Luca. Where there are more beastly children, I suspect there are more of those shadowed beings.

I’ll warn them once we leave the tavern, Jeskun said, noticing Vehru heading back towards them. For now, we enjoy our food and much-needed drink.

Vehru was all smiles as he came strutting up to the table. I got some good stuff, he said.

I hope you got enough for all of us, Pabru said, licking his chops.

If you mean ‘did I get enough for you’, then yes, I did. There’s enough food to feed a herd of elephants. Vehru sat down.

"So you didn’t get enough for him," Nefiru said with a wild grin.

Nefiru, you may be a prince in Corco, Pabru said, testy, but not here. Here you’re just—

One of us, interrupted Jeskun, breaking the tension. "We’re all the same—except for the two girls, of course. They’re smarter, cleaner, and more pleasant to be around." None of the boys smiled, except for Vehru. Luleh noticed.

Three waiters, carrying a handful of trays and jugs, reached their table. There was so much food and drink that there was no room for the Davinians to set down their plates and dinnerware. It didn’t matter. They used their laps for support. Nobody spoke a word. They just munched on the food, gulping down bite after bite, followed by large gulps of cold ale and milk. It was probably for the best, since they kept to themselves in the corner, quietly eating, careful in trying to be as discreet as possible—well, with the exception of Pabru’s numerous belches, of course.

After some time, the bard began playing a somber tune, slow and melodic, signaling the patrons that it was near closing time.

Finish up your plates, Jeskun said. We move out early tonight. The tavern is about to shut down.

Everyone sighed in disbelief.

But what about sleep and rest? Luleh said.

Oh, that’s just not fair, Pabru said.

I saw a fog rolling in from the horizon, coming from the western shores of Baahamonh. I must advise that we should stay clear of it, at least until we reach the sunless land. We must go as soon as possible. We’ll travel all night and find shelter in the later hours of the morning. We’ll get our sleep then.

A fog? Vehru said.

Replacing the sighs and boos were sounds of tension and wariness.

I would love to get a good night’s sleep, Tamru said, but I’m not too fond of fogs at the moment.

Good, Jeskun said. We’ll finish our eating and wash up. Then we’ll leave this gloomy place.

Mastro, a f-f-fog, Kahsy said.

Yes, Kahsy, Jeskun said. I was certain that’s what I saw.

N-No, I mean, there’s a fog—now.

What? Jeskun said. He turned around and saw gray smoke seeping in from beneath the tavern doors. He quickly turned his head to the open windows. Sure enough, a gray mist began to roll over the windowsills. It can’t be. He locked eyes with the barkeep, who stood near the bar. She turned to see what he ogled at and suddenly became alarmed.

The children, the barkeep said. They’ve come.

What? one of the patrons said. That’s not possible. It’s still early.

"They brought them here, another patron said, pointing towards the Davinians. They brought the evil with them."

One of the villagers began to shut the windows one by one. Another ran up to the main front window in order to see outside.

Do you see anything? the barkeep said.

Are there any children? a patron said.

No, the one looking out the window said. Wait, I see something. He paused and searched. A child.

The children are here! the barkeep said.

No! the patron at the window said. It’s just one child. Just one. No one else. It’s a small girl. She’s coming towards the tavern.

Quick, lock the door! the barkeep said.

No, the patron at the window said. It’s too late. She’s here.

They heard footsteps out on the tavern’s front porch as the fog began to recede and break apart. The doorknob turned, and the door quietly screeched opened. There she was.

The girl was about fourteen years old and had an impeccable metal-plated armor of the whitest color. Small, delicate ivory pearls outlined the armor from head to toe, and platinum trimmings lined the aesthetic lines of her slender limbs. The helm she wore was designed as a face of a young woman, much older than her true face, showing the maturity of her intellect. The lower part of the helm was cut out in order for the girl to speak. In her hands, she hauled a great big wool sack stuffed with various objects reaching about three to four feet long. She set the sack near the entrance and then proceeded to walk in.

All who stood by marveled at her without saying a word. The Davinians in the back sat idly, waiting to hear from their mysterious visitor. They didn’t doubt that she was part of the beastly army of children, but she seemed different. The girl took off her helm, revealing a splendid face. Her long, silky hair collapsed past her shoulders as she pulled her helm over her head. Her hair was blonde with a touch of winter snow, and the hair’s silkiness gave it a sheen that reflected the various torches around the tavern. Her face was thin and polished, her lips delicate and pink, and her eyes were like two pearls in a sea of porcelain.

The Davinians, especially the boys, were taken aback by the girl’s beauty. Vehru, for the first time in years, saw something more awe-inspiring than his beloved Luleh.

Damn. It showed. Luleh noticed.

Reluctantly, Vehru pulled his gaze away from the girl.

Hello there, the girl said. I am Senah of the Kind Hills of Morland. I have been traveling for weeks without rest. I have been looking for a warm meal for days. I do hope you will be able to oblige my needs.

Morland? Jeskun whispered. Never heard of humans living in Morland. Nobody has ever been there except for the founder of our order, the Blademaker. Troubled, his students looked on with curiosity.

Welcome to my tavern, the barkeep said.

Without the slightest warning, a concerned patron blurted out, Are you one of them?

Stop that, now! the barkeep said. Just keep quiet. She turned to Senah. I’m sorry, dear girl, we’re a bit jumpy tonight.

"Them, you say? Senah said. And who is ‘them’?"

The beastly children, the patron blurted out once again.

Damn it, Hargon! the barkeep said.

It is perfectly all right, Senah said. She turned and walked towards the patron. Her elegant glide made Hargon tremble slightly with reverence. Hargon, my dear. I am just a small child. What harm can I bring to you? She took her hand and cupped his face with it. Your skin is so rough. But I sense your heart is soft, free of any hardness. Look with your heart, Hargon. Why would you fear me? Do not be afraid. Do I look like some beastly child? I’m nothing like them. I mean no harm, but only kindness. That is all I offer, and that is all I ask in return—just plain kindness. Who cares about anything else? Life is oh so short. Do not be afraid of a small child. Let your heart soften your mind. Think with your heart for once. Senah’s eyes sparkled, and Hargon was caught in her trance. To him, her words were like sweet rolls right out of the oven. He licked his lips. Never fear me, she said.

I won’t, Hargon said.

She turned and walked back towards the bar.

I mean no harm to your establishment, Senah said to the barkeep. She pulled out her coin purse. I seek only your hospitality, and as a show of gratitude, I offer a final drink for everyone in the tavern, at my expense of course.

Such a kind girl, the barkeep said, letting her guard down.

"Maybe she is harmless," one patron said.

One last drink wouldn’t hurt, another said.

One burly man stood up and approached her, mesmerized. He offered her his seat at a table near the bar.

Thank you, my dear—

Klon, the burly patron said.

Klon? Senah said. What a masculine name. Klon smiled. Sit with me, Klon.

Of course, Klon said, sitting down.

Senah turned her head to all in the tavern. She raised her hands, waving everyone to gather around her. Please, come. It is quite all right. Come now. Move in closer. Let us have our drinks and talk.

The Davinians stayed in the back. Unlike the rest of the patrons, they hadn’t been affected by her kind words. They had all been trained in the art of discerning spirits since they were very young, and they felt the oddest spirit brewing inside that young girl’s soul. They couldn’t tell whether she was a friend or foe, so they stayed idle, sipping their drinks, watching from afar.

Senah noticed the Davinians’ standoffishness as they sat near the back. She turned and angled her face towards them. She smiled. They didn’t, except for Jeskun, who raised his glass up to her, playing along with the crowd. Well, well, she whispered, then turned to the crowd around her. Do tell, what is this trouble over children?

Oh, we don’t need to be bothering you with such things, the barkeep said as she brought them their final drinks.

I may be young, barmaster, Senah said, grabbing her drink, but I am more mature than you think. And I have seen many things that I do not care to talk about. But I am quite interested, so tell me.

They are the children of the damned, Klon said. It is said they come out of the sunless land. They come and steal people.

Steal people? Senah said. Why would they do such a thing?

My guess is that they enslave them, Klon said.

"Or maybe they eat them," Senah said.

Everyone gasped.

Oh, you’re just fooling, Klon said. Senah smiled. This is serious.

Another patron stepped up. I heard they take children, mostly in the night.

Senah sat up. Her eyes glowed against the dimly lit tavern. Children? She said this like she was thinking of something quite tempting. I do not blame them. Some children are so irresistibly adorable. They all nervously laughed.

Senah took her giant mug of cold ale and downed it in one breath. She slammed it on the table, smiling at the patrons. "But I am not one of them." They relaxed their postures, sighing and wiping condensation from the tips of their mustaches and beards.

I heard something different, one patron who wasn’t sitting with the rest said. He had been watching from a table near one of the many windows.

Senah popped her head out of the circle. Curious, her eyes gleamed, the light of the torches reflecting off them. Hello there, Senah said. "And pray tell, what did you hear?"

Not about you, the proud man said, but about the children. I heard people fear the children because of what they bring.

And what is that? Senah said with excitement, her eyes nearly popping out of her skull.

Shadow, the man said. They bring the darkness. They bring the fog.

The Davinians kept drinking to themselves, stealthily sitting like flies on a wall, observing. Jeskun whispered to himself, He’s seen them.

Senah sat up and rested her chin on her hands, sighing. I see.

The patrons sitting around her began to whisper to themselves. They were becoming more wary by the minute. He’s right. I’ve heard of it also. It’s the shadow. That’s why the fog is always with the children. She was losing them, but she wouldn’t let that happen.

"But what is shadow?" Senah said to the man in the corner.

Evil, he said.

"Ooh, such a strong word, Senah said. That is a word we find only in the texts of old, with scary beasts and gods of thunder. And people do not read those books any longer."

Therein lies the problem, the man said.

If shadow is evil, then what is good? Senah said. "The sun, perhaps?"

Possibly, the man said.

"Or maybe shadow is only there because of the sun, Senah said, her eyes gleaming. Take away the sun and there is no more shadow, no more evil."

The sunless land? one patron said.

Correct, Senah said. "Is it so bad? Without the sun, there is no shadow, no evil, and then everything is the same, everything is gray, like the moon’s lullaby. Eventually, one forgets the sun. Eventually, there is no evil or good, she grinned like a wily cat, but only kindness. Senah raised her arms, palms up. Like me."

The patrons smiled.

Another round for everyone, Senah said.

The patrons cheered.

Drink and be merry, she said. Why worry about the shadow and fog? Drink and be kind to everyone. That is all there is.

When all of the patrons began to sip on their drinks, the fog that had earlier crept into the tavern began to creep in once again. But this time, it was thicker and more aggressive. It took some time before the patrons noticed the fog seeping in from under the main door.

The fog is back, one patron said, alarmed. I thought it had left.

Oh no, the barkeep said. The children. They’re back. The girl lied.

The men had broken free from their cheery trances and began to panic.

Why is the fog back? another patron said. You said you didn’t bring anything with you.

Do not be alarmed, Senah said. I did not bring anything that you did not ask for. Do you really think that the fog rolls in from the depths of the abyss? Maybe from somewhere in the sunless land? The fog is not a product of the beastly children. They are merely catalysts. No, good people of Claria, the fog is birthed within the people themselves.

She stood up. "It first brews inside your hearts; you will it to. It covers the shadow inside yourself, protects it from the sun. Then, eventually, the fog manifests itself for real, rolling in from the distant horizon. The fog is not birthed out of darkness. It’s created by each and every one of us. My dear Clarians, if the fog has come for you, it is because you have invited it."

She circled around, as if she was lecturing her new students. "But do not fear the fog. It comes to free you from your bondage. It is the sun that lights up our flaws, creating shadow. The fog comes as your friend, there to make you happy, because in the end that is all we seek, happiness. The fog is not the shadow’s ally. It is its enemy. It kills the shadow and takes it away, destroying the sun and its pestering fire. All that is left is a blank slate, freeing you from pain and guilt. Do not fear the fog. Do not fear the children, but become one with them."

She slowly spun around, her arms raised, gently forcing her new disciples to fall into a lulled sleep. I am the lullaby of the night. I am the moon’s kiss. I am the one who will free you from shadow.

Jeskun and his Davinians just sat and watched, bewildered.

What do we do? whispered Swaso.

Hold tight, Jeskun replied softly. And keep your wits about.

They watched as the tavern’s patrons sat limp and loose, listening to the sweet serenade flowing from Senah’s lips. They were captivated by her words and soon began to believe and trust her.

Senah is right, one patron whispered.

She’s here to free us, another said. "The fog is our friend. She’s our friend."

The barkeep got weak in the knees, slowly lowering herself to the ground, dropping a large tray on the floor. She’s here to help us, protect us from shadow, she said. Such a kind girl. The barkeep toppled over onto the floor.

Slowly, the tavern patrons’ eyes began to droop, and their eyelids clumsily fell over their eyes. They took one last deep breath, until finally, they all drifted into a deep slumber.

Sleep now, my children, Senah said. When you wake, you will be transformed anew. You will no longer fear shadow, for you will all be darkness once and for all.

The fog kept clawing its way inside the tavern until it had almost consumed the whole ground. The gray mist climbed on top of the people strewn about the floor, rolling over them and covering them up completely. After the fog had consumed the tavern patrons, all that was left were human shapes in the form of dark patches, slumbering as if in a cocoon-like stage.

The fog has overtaken them, Vehru said. We must act now.

Steady, Servantu, Jeskun said. We don’t know what we’re facing here.

We must help them, Luleh said.

Know your enemy before you fight, Jeskun said. Always. He drew his twin blades from his back, and the sound of the steel scraping their sheaths sent a violent shrill throughout the tavern’s space. Our enemy lies before us, and it’s not the people of Claria.

Tsk, tsk, tsk, Senah said as she gracefully stepped over the sleeping patrons. "Oh, but they are your enemy. And to think that you are regarded as a master of discernment. She nonchalantly walked over to the bar and grabbed her helm. She put it on, turning to them. How long will it take for you to figure out that you are in the midst of a war, one that is much greater than you could possibly imagine?" She stepped up to the large sack she had brought inside. Quickly, she took out a short blade from one of her gauntlets and cut the long sack right through the middle.

Instantly, a massive group of various weapons spilled onto the floor. There were swords and axes, maces and lances, all of them sharp and polished. For your entertainment. She bade them goodbye with a flick of her wrist and stepped out the door.

The door creaked for what seemed like ages before slamming shut.

What did she mean by that, Mastro? Luleh said.

She knew us, Vehru said. She knew we were here.

No, Jeskun said. It can’t be. I don’t think so.

But why did she bring the weapons?

Jeskun, with a quick sense of discernment, came to an inner realization. For her army.

What army? Pabru said, his last word trailing off softly as he noticed commotion rumbling underneath the dark fog. He heard moaning coming from every direction.

They’re awake, Nefiru said. But I think the fog is doing something to them.

What is it doing? Jené said, slowly taking out his long blade, his Rasplendur, from the middle of his back.

Out of the blue, the moaning quickly changed into sounds of excruciating pain.

They’re screaming out to us, Luleh said. They’re hurting. We have to do something.

No, Luleh, Jeskun said, wisely. We are past helping them. All we can do now is prepare.

Prepare for what, Mastro? Vehru said, nervously gripping his Rasplendur.

For battle, Jeskun said.

Battle? Swaso said, wiping the sweat of his brow. What battle? Are you saying they’re going to attack us? They’re just people ensnared by the fog. They could be dead for all that we know.

N-No, not dead, Kahsy said. But transformed.

The Davinians’ eyes grew wider as they witnessed the transformation of the people in front of them. Carefully, the fog began to dissipate and speed away, leaving behind human shapes of gray. The shapes began to twitch and convulse, to twist and turn, bellowing out moans of terror. The people’s limbs, torsos and heads began to stretch to twice their size. Their hands and feet grew in width and power. The creatures’ mouths opened, and suddenly their teeth grew in size, protruding outward.

One by one, the creatures stood up as the Davinians watched, shocked beyond belief. All of the creatures had grown nearly seven feet tall and had eyes black as night. Their legs were as muscular as a stout bull’s, and their chests popped out like an adult gorilla’s. But most disturbing was their appearance. They were similar to the visrehs that had laid siege to the Davinian school a few weeks earlier, but these creatures were taller, more muscular, and ten times more aggressive. They were completely covered by a dense, gray smoke, swirling and moving, as if it was alive. Their faces were constantly transforming from shapeless fog to something more identifiable as human. Once in a while, the Davinians would catch a glimpse of their horrid teeth.

Stay away from those chompers if you can, Pabru said, situating himself into a ready stance.

What would we do without your invaluable insight? Nefiru said.

I caught a bit of sarcasm there, Pabru said.

You’re a true genius, Jené said.

Focus, everyone! Jeskun said. On my signal, we’ll engage.

The creatures growled and hunched over as if flexing their muscles. They came forward towards them, spitting gobs of saliva as they licked both sets of teeth.

Jeskun raised his arm and held it steady. On. My. Signal.

One of the creatures, the tallest of them, stepped up to the front as if leading the oncoming attack. He paused for a second, and then, like a quick storm, exhaled an incredible amount of smoky fog, as if a tornado spun out of its mouth. The creature swung his head back and forth, effectively covering up all the lit torches with his dense smoke.

The lights went out. Darkness.

I can’t see your signal, Pabru said. A chorus of sighs sounded off around him.

Genius, Jené retorted with grief.

***

THREE WEEKS EARLIER

"TURN AROUND AND LOOK AT ME." Those words echoed into eternity.

Above the dense darkness of the wild green treetops, a fog encompassed the heart of Loshendu Forest. Shadow penetrated the small pockets of space found in between the wrestling trees and their overreaching branches. Streams of gray mist weaved in and out of the large, lush landscape like serpents wrapping themselves among the thick meat of the aging oaks.

Who are you? an innocent voice cried out into the vast wilderness.

One could hear the echo of a breath inside the vacant forest. Miles and miles of green terrain lay vacant in the twilight of the Bunish moon. The small brush overflowed unto the cool and damp dirt, as if the whole of Loshendu Forest contained a colossal carpet made of sticky, wet grass. Inside the forest, patches of gray and black swam around the trees, bouncing off the gray barks in slow motion. Only a minuscule amount of silver moonlight broke the abysmal darkness suffocating the already bleak landscape.

I am nothing, I am everything, a booming voice shot out of the darkened forest, forcing a number of black birds to shoot out into the misty sky.

Breaking through the shadow-laced scenery, the black masses of wicked fog began to split apart and dissipate. The moonlight took back control of the immediate space, and a silver gleam of pure midnight wrapped the terrain with vibrant, eerie colors. The trees were more visible, gray and brown, reaching up to the sky with their branches hanging far out, thrusting themselves on top of one another.

What do you want from me? a young voice commanded of someone nearby.

Reaching far into the belly of the forest, the smell of a campfire was in full bloom. A lingering scent of roses danced around the burnt smoke, and underlying both smells was the dank stench of body odor. Inside the cloud of aromas, nestled somewhere across the northeastern corner of the forest, was the orange glow of a dying pile of embers, seemingly coming from a small fire that had been recently put out.

I have come for you, a low, menacing voice said near the small stash of burning embers.

Now visible were two black forms, one small and child-like, and the other, much more massive, seemingly towering over the smaller figure.

Reveal yourself, Luca said, taking off his mask and dropping it on the ground. I can’t see you.

As an answer to his inquiry, the beast crouched down in front of him and