Jewel of the Elves

By Troy Skog

The Kingdom of Pendar is once again united in peace under the last of the Ellingstone bloodline. The king and queen rule together side by side, struggling to balance the constraints of leadership with the demands of their new life together. Tragedy strikes the beloved royals as they are whisked away from their lives by a hidden spell.

Separated from his wife, their armies, and finding himself far from home, King Edward must find new allies to make his way back to save his kingdom from a new threat. A wizard who has struck fear in the different races for generations has found a way to rule all of Dulin, but to do so he must have the blood of the Ellingstone heir and a legendary gem.

King Edward and his allies race the wizard's army to save his heir and find the Jewel of the Elves.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Troy Skog
• Release date: Oct 5, 2015
• ISBN: 9781311714268

Troy Skog

The directions on how to write my biography suggest telling my readers interesting details about myself. That left me scratching my mostly bald head trying to think of what folks would find interesting. I guess I'm a product of my Minnesota upbringing, I like to say "my lack of flare is my flare". After high school and a couple of years at the local community college I spent an enlistment in the United States Air Force providing security for the air base before finishing up my B.S. in Engineering Technology and Geography at St. Cloud State University. In my free time I enjoy a long run or a session in the weight room, nothing cures writers block like an early morning run on the weekend. Sunrises really are inspiring! My beautiful wife, who is one of my biggest cheerleaders, calls me her man-child for my goofy sense of humor and how I act like one of our kids most of the time. I try to bring all these values and traits, that I find to be so important in my own life, to my characters in hopes that my readers can relate to them and immerse themselves into the story. Hopefully this biography helps you, the reader, to get to know me just a little bit and gives you some background. Thanks for taking the time to let me tell you about myself. Welcome to Pendar, enjoy the adventure!

Book preview

Prologue

Kyanos, old friend, how long has it been? What brings you and your elven ship to the west coast of Dulin? The portly barkeep shouted from behind the bar to the tall elf as the captain swept into the tavern ahead of his crew.

Well met, Fitz, surprised to see me? Kyanos replied, straightening his windblown cloak.

I have to admit news of the Valero docking arrived well before you did. I’m sure the merchants of Glandore are already lining up on the dock to see what you have in your holds.

They can wait until tomorrow. Set my crew up with a round, we’ve been more than two months at sea and they could use some warm ale to chase away the cold.

Some things never change, Fitz said, laughing as the sailors began jostling for the mugs of ale before he could even top off the first, continuing to fill the mugs until they were all served.

Where did the gray hair come from, Fitz? How many years has it been? Kyanos asked.

It’s been too many, let’s get back to why you’ve docked your ship in Glandore.

I’m always looking for new trading partners, and thought I might take the opportunity to try to find a certain someone from my past.

By someone, you mean a young lady? So you never found her again? Fitz asked.

A marker in the cemetery is all that remains of her. The boy though is a mystery, it would have helped if he had looked like me rather than his mother, a little orphan elf would have been easy to find in this town of men, Kyanos said.

It’s been a few years now, he’d be a young man by now, Fitz said, stopping to wipe his hands on his towel. Well, I don’t need to tell you how difficult it will be.

The realities of the situation are known to me, mistakes were made all around, Kyanos said.

How about the dragon you were chasing when you first came to Glandore all those years ago, did you ever find its lair?

It seems I’m a better ship’s captain than a tracker, thanks for pointing that out, old man, he slapped his hand on the bar in mock anger, though I believe I may have deserved it. Kyanos slid his empty mug back to Fitz and headed for the door.

Maybe you’ll find him this time. What was his name again?

My boy’s name is Kurad, Kyanos replied as he wrapped his cloak about him and stepped out into the windy streets of Glandore.

Chapter One

Please enter, the door isn’t locked. Edward placed the quill next to the ink bottle as he looked up to see who was calling.

The rap at the door pulling his attention away from the missive he had been toiling over for most of the afternoon came at the perfect time. He was struggling to find the words that he needed.

Your Highness, bade a familiar voice from behind the door as it swung open.

How many times have I asked you to drop the formalities when it’s just the two of us? Edward stepped around the desk to greet his friend.

Ah my King, I am but a child of a scullery maid, Bernard said bowing with an exaggerated flourish, effectively hiding his smile from his boyhood friend.

King nothing, Bernard. I was raised as a peasant child on a farm a lifetime from here. I barely remember the times we shared when we ran and played in the halls of this castle. Edward clasped the forearm of his childhood friend in greeting.

I have to have my fun. Bernard replied as he returned the greeting.

Tell me how the borderlands are to the north. Last I heard you were heading that way with your company while I sat here reading reports. Edward turned to look at the stack of papers he had spent the past few days reading.

You missed little excitement, let me assure you, Edward. We traveled deep into Kabamba, met few travelers, and fewer yet highway men looking to lighten victims of their coin.

Don’t mind me, Bernard, I’m just looking for a bit of adventure and now that spring is here I have a desire to get out and see the country, Edward said.

Save your time and don’t head north, I’ve just seen it and I wasn’t impressed. Besides you can always ask Relysis to put together a detail and take you out of the city for a ride. Bernard chuckled at his verbal jab.

He means well and there isn’t anyone more dedicated to rebuilding Pendar than he. Without him these past couple years it would have been impossible. Edward shrugged though he knew Bernard was right, the old dwarf had declared himself his protector and, with few exceptions, maintained a presence near Edward when he was away from the city.

How is Jessica doing? I didn’t see her on my way through the castle.

She said she was heading to the flower gardens this morning after breakfast, she’s excited about spring. Maybe I need to get some fresh air and see what is going on in the gardens. You interested in joining me? Maybe you can give me some real information from your mission as we walk, Edward said.

I have been on the trail for weeks, I need to get back to the district and see what I’ve missed. Besides, I really just wanted to know if there was an heir to the throne in the works yet. Bernard jumped back out of reach of Edward’s swing. I’ve got good coin wagered on the arrival of the heir.

You haven’t been gone that long, I’m sure the serving girls at the tavern will remember you with or without coin. But don’t worry, I’ll let your queen know that we need to help you win your fortune the next time I see her. Come along or I’ll have Relysis send you and your company to investigate the rumors coming from Kimbra. Edward ushered Bernard towards the door, his friend still laughing at getting the best of him once again.

The pair talked as they made their way through the castle before parting ways, each with their own agenda for what remained of the day.

Edward made his way to the gardens to see Jessica, noting as he did that the castle had been fairly well put back to its former condition, that which his father kept it before suffering defeat at the hands of the gnome Orgle. The filth and neglect being wiped away through hard work by those who returned from the mountain fortress, those remnants who had returned from exile a dozen years after fleeing the gnome armies.

As he walked the halls he was reminded of events that took place at the castle when he was young, but most of what he remembered of his childhood was living with his protector, make that uncle he thought with a smile, Kurad.

The sun was a welcome respite as he emerged from the granite hallways near the gardens. Edward could see Jessica working with her mother across the cobblestone courtyard. The pair were busy planting flowers and didn’t note his approach until he called out to them.

Are you two making progress at erasing the memory of winter?

I knew you couldn’t keep yourself locked inside the castle on this wonderful day. Jessica spread her arms wide as if to take in even more of the sun’s rejuvenating rays.

You know me well, Jess. How is your help working out? Do you think she will do? Edward said, smiling broadly as his mother-in-law playfully shook a finger at him.

I never imagined being able to live freely within the castle grounds while Jessica and I were imprisoned by the gnomes. It was a hope I dared not even dream of during that time, Helen said.

It is all behind us now, Mother. We are now part of the rebirth of Pendar and we have nothing to fear. Jessica knew her mother was still haunted by their time locked in the dungeons. She hoped in due time her mother could look forward as she did.

Bernard stopped by and said hello, he wanted to check on his queen and make sure that all was well with the royal family. He is home from his scouting trip to Kimbra, Edward said.

What news does he bring from the north? Jessica asked.

Edward had to smile at her, Jess usually had as much knowledge about their neighbors as he did. It was just as expected, nothing of importance.

I think that should do it, Jessica declared as she stood and brushed the dirt from the front of her smock.

How about we get cleaned up and see what the kitchen is serving today? Helen asked. This fresh air has got my appetite worked up and my stomach grumbling.

Edward looked around approvingly at all the beds and the freshly turned dirt.

I believe you have a perfect idea, Mom. Edward and I will meet you at the dining hall as soon as we clean up. Thanks for all your help today, the gardens are going to be splendid, Jessica said.

A couple candle marks later the three were reunited in the dining hall where Edward filled his plate in an effort to silence his stomach.

I wouldn’t have gotten a plate for myself if I had known you were bringing enough for both of us, Helen quipped as her son-in-law followed Jessica over to the table where she was seated.

I never knew ruling a kingdom was so much work. On the farm, Kurad and I spent our time using tools in the barn and the fields to keep the farm operating. I assumed tasks that required simple writing instruments were much easier. I was wrong. Edward said.

Have you heard news of your uncle lately? Helen asked.

No, not since he struck out to visit Tyvig nearly four months ago. There hasn’t been any news. Edward missed Kurad, the pair had been together all of his life and there was concern in his eyes as he diverted his gaze down. After taking a moment to regroup, he took in the contents of his plate and wondered if Helen was right, maybe his eyes were indeed bigger than his appetite.

I’m sure he made it to Tyvig’s old place beyond the Silverback Mountains by now. They were going to head north and finalize the sale of mother’s farm after his arrival as well. He will be back when he is done or if there is news to report that is important to Pendar, Jessica reassured him.

He serves you as he once served your father. He’s not a man that can sit still for very long. Even when he was raising you there were times that he would strike out on the road. It calls to him and refuses any other answer but his compliance, Helen said.

Edward nodded as he began to work on the mountain of food in front of him. He knew the women were right, but still there was a place in his heart that missed the only family he had ever known.

Mealtime passed quickly as talk turned to spring and the women discussed the day’s progress in the gardens and their other plans.

I should get back to my office, I’m sure the message I began this morning hasn’t written itself in my absence. I want to thank you both for allowing me to join you in the garden, Edward said.

You’re always welcome to help in the gardens, though running a kingdom may not allow you much freedom, Helen said.

I’ve been meaning to spend some time in the library; it has been on my list of rooms to reclaim for a while now. Mother, do you still have some energy left? Jessica asked.

I will leave you to your books and meet you both for dinner tonight, Helen said.

Back at his desk, Edward made progress on his stack of papers, losing track of time before realizing that he needed to hurry to meet Jessica for dinner before his appointment with the high council.

Arriving at their room he found that Jessica had not yet returned to prepare for dinner. Taking a moment, he stepped out onto the terrace to practice the stances that Kurad had taught him with his battle axe.

Edward, are you here? Jessica called as she entered their bedroom.

On the terrace, Jess. The sunset is brilliant, come take a peek before it dips beyond the mountains.

Must you practice with your axe on our terrace? Aren’t you supposed to meet the high council tonight?

Relysis won’t allow me to spar with any other than Kurad so there is no use for me to go to the yard.

Do kings even go into battle? They should be kept safe on the castle walls.

My own father was renowned for his prowess on the battlefield. Edward shouldered his axe.

I’ve heard the telling of the trolls breaking through the city gates. I would rather you safe on the highest of the castle walls, Jessica said.

Holding out an old leatherbound book with the Ellingstone family crest emblazoned on its dusty cover, Jessica quickly changed the subject.

Look what I found in the library. I’ve been reading it and I think this is your story written here, though I’m not sure of the meaning of this part after this line. Jessica handed the book to Edward as he leaned the axe against the stone parapet.

The conquerors from the south had never rebuilt the city gates… he read, the pages beginning to glow in his hands.

What magic is this? Jessica asked, surprised by the transformation of the book.

The brilliance of the expanding light forced him to hold it away from his eyes. He was unable to put the book down, the pages of the book gripping him now as if glued to his hands.

Their world lit up with the brilliance of the midday sun. They stood immobilized, the terrace seeming to spin and swirl about them, the light growing brighter as it wrapped them in its embrace. Within moments it reached the peak of its expansion before suddenly retreating back within the pages of the ancient tome, its captives firmly wrapped within its grasp.

The king and queen of Pendar were gone, the ancient tome hanging in the air a few seconds before dropping to the stone terrace.

CHAPTER Two

Christopher, have you seen the king? Relysis asked, stopping at the table of the captain in charge of the well-known Fox Company.

No, General, I have not. I would have thought to find him with the queen and her mother at their table. Christopher stood, nodding in the direction of the now empty table. I can send a runner looking for him.

Thank you for the offer, Captain, I’ll find him. It is not an emergency. Relysis turned on his heel, leaving the men to their meal and went in search of Edward.

On his way across the hall he pulled aside a member of the kitchen staff. Have the king and queen been to the hall for dinner this evening, or has a meal been sent to their quarters?

Dutifully, the attendant hustled off to question those working the earlier shift, returning quickly to report that the royal couple had not been seen in the hall since eating their midday meal.

Not to worry, I’m sure I’ll catch up to him shortly, he told himself but even he did not believe the words he was saying. Something was off. He headed for the council chambers, hoping that he would cross paths with Edward on the way and put his worries to rest.

Rounding the corner he ran into Helen who was rapidly heading towards the dining hall.

Excuse me, General. I shouldn’t be hurrying around corners. Helen panted.

Are you ok, ma’am? Relysis asked, reaching out to steady the woman. He had nearly toppled her which only served to heighten her agitation.

Have you seen the queen? I expected them at dinner, Helen said.

Where have you looked so far? I’m sure they must be around somewhere. Maybe their plans changed, Relysis offered.

I went to their rooms and called within, but there was no answer.

Let’s go back to their chambers, I’m sure there is a clue as to their whereabouts. He motioned her to follow him. Did you ask the chambermaid?

The pair headed down the hallway, Relysis saluting the guards at the end of the hall leading to the chambers as he passed. If he was lucky, Edward and Jessica were stealing a moment for themselves. There were many demands on the young couple and, though they usually made no complaints, he could understand if they wanted to escape the public eye from time to time.

When they neared the bedchambers, the queen’s handmaid stepped out the door glancing up and down the hallway, concern readily apparent on her face. Doubt crept into Relysis’s mind he called to her. Wendy, I’d like a word with you. He watched as she ducked back inside. His short legs churned faster down the hall. The urgency of the situation seemed to take on a life of its own.

With Helen at his heels they arrived at the open doorway, the handmaid was nowhere to be seen as they pushed into the room.

Edward, Jessica! Relysis bellowed repeatedly as he made his way through the empty room, Helen in tow. Out on the adjoining terrace he found Wendy holding an assortment of rings and the queen’s necklace, discarded clothes lying about.

What are these? Relysis barked as he crossed the stone terrace, reaching for the handful of items. The three of them stared at the jewelry in the general’s thick hand, each unwilling to give voice to their fears. They were definitely the queen’s, he knew, but why would she leave them lying about?

Where’s my daughter? She was wearing these earlier today. Helen’s voice trembled as she leaned down to pick up the queen’s garments from the stone terrace.

Wendy? Reylsis asked, softer.

The king came back some time ago, he was working with his axe while he waited for the queen to return. He told me she wouldn’t be long and they planned to meet the queen’s mother in the dining hall.

So you saw the king. Did you ever see the queen? Relysis asked.

She came in with an old dusty book. It’s there. She pointed to the old tome lying on the terrace. She was very excited about showing it to the king, Wendy said.

Relysis walked over to where it lay, picking it up and inspecting the cover before thumbing through it.

The queen told me she wouldn’t need my help dressing for dinner and she would most likely see me there, Wendy went on, tears welling up in her eyes.

"And that was the