Knights: Shadows of Ollanhar

By Robert E. Keller

The Divine Knights move deeper into strange lands, where a sprawling jungle awaits them. Pursued relentlessly by Bellis and the forces of the Deep Shadow, they seek refuge in a treetop city harboring a dark and ancient secret. For Lannon Sunshield, a path of his grim predecessors is revealed, leaving his future in doubt. Someone he should be able to trust seems to be plotting against him, wanting him dead. Prince Vannas faces fierce struggles of his own, seeking to understand his destiny as the Bearer of the White Flamestone and to find the maturity to keep from being in conflict with everyone around him. And in the frozen north, Faindan Stillsword goes on a deadly hunt for Tenneth Bard, seeking to put an end to the evil sorcerer once and for all.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Robert E. Keller
• Release date: May 5, 2016
• ISBN: 9781311905208

Robert E. Keller

Robert E. Keller was born in Northern Michigan in 1972. He had a very active imagination fromthe time he was old enough to become self aware, and he would invent elaborate fantasy andscience fiction stories in his mind.Robert published his first work of short fiction, Spirit Wolves, in the fall of 2008. After that hewent on to publish more than 30 stories in various online and print magazines. Meanwhile, he was hard at work on epic fantasy novels, and he released his first novel for sale, Knights: The Eye of Divinity in June of 2011.Robert lives with his wife Tracy in Northern Michigan.

Book preview

Knights: Shadows of Ollanhar

by Robert E. Keller

Book 3 of the Ollanhar Series

Smart Goblin Publishing 2016

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Original and exclusive cover art by Carolina Mylius

Smashwords Editon

Copyright © 2016 Robert E. Keller

Content Notice:

A complete 92,000 word fantasy novel.

About the Author:

Robert E. Keller is a fantasy writer who has had more than 30 stories published in online and print magazines, and he is the author of several epic fantasy novels. You can find more information on his projects at www.robertekeller.net

Table of Contents:

Chapter 1: The Dreamer in the Depths

Chapter 2: The Dragon Storms of Fall

Chapter 3: The Trouble in Greenmirror Marsh

Chapter 4: The Cave of the Mighty Frog

Chapter 5: The Tower in the Frozen Hills

Chapter 6: The Cold Streets of Silvergate

Chapter 7: The City in the Treetops

Chapter 8: The Grim Talk in Silverleaf Hall

Chapter 9: The Struggle Under Stone

Chapter 10: The Seeker and the Glittering Tooth

Chapter 11: The Path of the Dark Watchmen

Chapter 12: The War in the Ageless Tunnels

Chapter 13: The Pit of Shadow and Thorn

Chapter 14: The Defiled House of the Fish-God

Chapter 15: The Clash of Fire in the Deep

Chapter 16: The Dreadful Door of Deflection

Chapter 17: The Trials of the Dark Watchmen

Chapter 18: The Long Path to Freedom

Chapter 19: The Terror in the Hungry Sea

Chapter 20: The Gardens of Werldock

Chapter 1:

The Dreamer in the Depths

It was early morning, a pleasantly warm and breezy fall day, and Lannon Sunshield stood upon the deck of The Golden Promise, gazing at the water of Legend Lake that looked grey and purple beneath a stormy sky. The fall storm hadn't struck yet, and Lannon was hoping it would hold off until he completed his task. The last thing he needed was lightning while he was in the water.

Not everyone was awake yet. The ship was still anchored, and only Prince Vannas, Vorden, Dallsa, and Aldreya stood with Lannon as he contemplated the dangerous dive facing him.

The lives of his companions were at stake--perhaps even his own life. If he failed to retrieve the White Flamestone from the depths, Bellis would surely attack them relentlessly in an effort to stop them from obtaining the Green Flamestone. Obviously, Verlamer wasn't worried about breaking his treaty with Dremlock--as the Divine Kingdom was far away and remained free of occupation. Verlamer's goal now was to eliminate Aldreya and her warriors as quickly as possible.

But the White Flamestone could change that. If Lannon could raise it from the depths, and if Prince Vannas could show Bellis that he possessed it, they might not be so eager to attack. It was a chance Lannon had to take, and not just for the sake of his companions--but for the sake of Gallamerth itself. Dremlock needed both Flamestones to challenge Bellis.

You sure you want to do this? Vorden asked. Maybe I should go instead. My life is less valuable than yours. The Red Knight had not yet put on his stout armor, and instead wore a black robe. His black hair and beard were trimmed short. Only his yellow eyes revealed the inhuman curse he bore.

You would never make it, said Lannon. It's too deep. Lannon wanted to dispute the statement that Vorden wasn't as important as the Dark Watchman, but he couldn't. The truth was that Lannon's value to Dremlock and Ollanhar was surpassed only by the Flamestones themselves.

I'm not an ordinary man, Vorden pointed out. I heal more quickly than most, and I'm more difficult to kill. Don't forget that the Hand of Tharnin left me with many strange abilities. He winced slightly as he spoke, dark memories undoubtedly flashing through his mind.

Does that include not needing air? asked Aldreya, looking skeptical. You're still a living man, Vorden. You may be protected by sorcery, but beneath that you're just flesh and blood like the rest of us. The Green Knight of Ollanhar wore a silk robe to match her color class. Her curly silver hair blew in the breeze. Her face was smooth and youthful and innocent, but her cold green eyes betrayed the truth--that she was a hardened and determined Knight.

Vorden shrugged. I don't really know what would happen, as I have yet to discover my limits. But I do know that my limits exceed that of an ordinary Knight. I'm not afraid to take extreme risks. Call me insane, but I have strong faith that somehow I'll find a way to pull through.

Aldreya nodded. You trust your sorcery. I understand that. But sometimes we can be blinded to the truth of our weaknesses. That is the bane of all sorcerers. As our confidence soars, our vulnerabilities are forgotten.

Not forgotten, said Vorden, with a wry smile. Just ignored. I know I could die down there, but I'm eager to prove to myself that I can overcome the danger. I suppose I just want to test myself.

Not a good idea, said Lannon, shaking his head. You would have to swim all the way to the bottom. It would be like swimming the length of two of these ships. And then you would have to somehow find the Flamestone on the bottom. And while it does glow, it could be buried in mud or sand. It would be too difficult, Vorden. You would likely perish down there.

Two ships? said Dallsa, her eyes wide. Legend Lake is that deep?

Probably much deeper, said Aldreya, in some areas.

Dallsa groaned. That's impossible, Lannon, even for you. You'll be throwing your life away down there!

Aldreya frowned. Have some confidence in our High Watchman. Why do you continue to doubt him?

Fear, I suppose, said Dallsa. Indeed, she looked frightened as she contemplated Lannon's dive into the depths.

I'm reasonably sure I can make it, said Lannon. Reasonably. I can swim fast, and the Eye will sustain me as I search for the Flamestone...I think. Once I find it, I'll simply draw it into my hand and then swim back up. As he spoke, his confidence waned a bit. This would indeed be a risky venture, and anything could happen.

And what if you lose consciousness? said Dallsa.

If that happens, said Vorden, I'm diving in.

Don't do it, Vorden, said Lannon, shaking his head. It may take awhile to locate the Flamestone. The water's thickness interferes with my power, diminishing the range of my sight. Everything is murky down there.

We will tie a rope around you, said Aldreya. That way you can signal us and let us know if you're okay or need help.

Lannon nodded. A rope shouldn't hinder me.

He glanced about the deck, where many of his companions lay sleeping--some of them seriously injured from the battle with Ethella's warships. He reminded himself that he was doing this for them--so they would have protection against the mighty forces of Bellis Kingdom. It simply had to be done, regardless of the risks. Without the White Flamestone to act as a deterrent, King Verlamer would surely send a massive army against them.

Prince Vannas' face was streaked with dirt, his silver hair unkempt. Like Vorden, he still wore the robe he had slept in--a colorful one made of expensive Birlote silk. His eyes were haunted as he gazed at Lannon, his face pale. He was suffering from anxiety over his separation from the White Flamestone.

I admire your courage, Lannon, said the prince. And I obviously don't need to remind you of how important this is. Without the White Flamestone, all hope is lost. Bellis has won. The Deep Shadow has won.

We don't know that, said Aldreya, looking annoyed. Yes, losing it permanently would be a significant setback, but Dremlock survived without it in the past. Our Knights are not as helpless as you think.

I never said they were helpless, said Prince Vannas. But look at what happened when Bellis invaded Silverland. King Verlamer was able to seize control of Dremlock. Without the White Flamestone to protect it, our great kingdom fell. It could easily happen again.

Dremlock did not fall, said Aldreya. The towers were taken, yes, but some areas of the kingdom remained free. And don't forget, it took an extraordinary effort for Bellis to breach Dremlock's wall. They somehow found a way to open Darkender Tunnel. Since then, precautions have been taken to ensure it won't happen again. Even without the White Flamestone, our kingdom is very difficult to conquer. I'm not saying Verlamer couldn't do it, but the fighting would be bloody and it would cost him a lot of time and resources.

Perhaps, said Prince Vannas. But Ollanhar isn't so well defended. If Bellis marches on our tower and town, what then? Everyone there could end up slaughtered or imprisoned. It would be a disaster.

Aldreya looked uncertain for a moment. Then she said, That could be happening now, even as we speak. We can't do anything about that, White Flamestone or not. All I'm saying is that if Lannon fails to retrieve the stone, we cannot give up hope. We must still continue on with our journey.

I agree, said Lannon. We can't give up hope, no matter what. But if I fail... He sighed deeply. Bellis will come after us with everything they can spare. I can't allow that. And how would we survive the ocean, with all its perils? I must recover the Flamestone! Prince Vannas' fears are justified.

Perhaps, said Aldreya. But you are also vital to the survival of our kingdom and the fate of our quest. Don't kill yourself chasing that Flamestone, Lannon. If you run into trouble down there, pull on the rope. It's not worth it.

Lannon hesitated, then said, I won't sacrifice my life for the Flamestone. Then he added, If I can help it.

Prince Vannas nodded. I believe in you, my friend.

Vorden patted Lannon on the back. I wish you well.

Then Dallsa hugged him. Just come back alive.

Lannon simply nodded to Aldreya. It was time.

***

They tied the rope around Lannon, and he approached the edge of the deck. He glanced back at them. Remember to give me time to do this. Don't panic. He fixed his gaze on Dallsa, who looked away sheepishly.

Do what you must, said Aldreya.

Prince Vannas stood with his head bowed.

Time to get wet, said Lannon. Then he jumped in.

He hit the surface with a light splash, waved to his friends, and then took a deep breath and went under.

He swam quickly into the depths, using the Eye of Divinity to enhance his speed and fortify his body. It was a strange feeling diving so deeply. The water of the lake was filled with memories, including glimpses of things that haunted Lannon's mind. He dared not look too closely, fearing what he might see: the trails of slimy things from the deep, panic and doom from both human and beast, bloodthirsty attacks and the flailing of the drowning--all wrapped up in ancient energy and swirling along the currents, seemingly forever. They were just memories etched upon the fabric of the world, but they were dark and disturbing.

Lannon's gaze pierced the shadows, but it was a limited gaze, for the dense water drained the power from it. When he felt he had descended far enough, he paused and sent forth the Eye to scan for the Flamestone.

Several moments passed, and Lannon glimpsed nothing. The Eye sustained him, but it would not do so indefinitely. Eventually his power would diminish and he would require air.

He swam about, his gaze probing the bottom of the lake. His mind began to drift, wanting to send him into slumber, and for a moment he couldn't remember what he was doing in the water.

Then to his delight the Eye locked onto the Flamestone. But Lannon was shocked and dismayed when he saw that it was different. Somehow the cold depths of the lake had changed it, and the stone had lost its glow, having become grey, metallic, and seemingly lifeless. Had this piece of the White Guardian died down there? Was it now a dead lump of crystal without power?

But the Eye revealed life still faintly lingering in the stone. The White Guardian was not a creature that thrived in deep water, and such a setting caused it to go into a sort of hibernation to protect itself.

Satisfied that the stone could be revived, Lannon began drawing it up from the depths. Again, his mind threatened to go black. He was so tired he wasn't sure he could fight it, his cells craving oxygen instead of the Eye's energy. But he kept pulling, waiting for the stone to reach his grasp.

He was so close to victory, but he was also worried he was going to fall asleep and drown. He realized it already could be too late--that he might not have the strength to get back to the surface. But Lannon refused to release the Flamestone, even as his mind slipped further into the darkness.

Suddenly he realized he was clutching the stone in his hand. With the last of his strength, he reached for the rope to tug on it, but he never finished the task. Lannon was distracted by a grim realization--that the dark water was going to swallow him. In fact, it already had. He was floating in the belly of the beast far beneath the blue waves, and soon he would meet his doom in the shadowy depths, cut off forever from the world above. In his confusion, he wasn't quite sure what was happening. He just knew that he was trapped and in danger.

Lannon was vaguely aware that he was moving, but in what direction? Toward the surface, or further into the depths? He didn't know, and he suspected he would never know. It seemed his time had run out.

Yet Lannon wasn't dead. He could sense it. He was suddenly gazing at his own body, which he was no longer bound to, and the Eye revealed life. His power was preserving his body, but like the Flamestone in his hand, Lannon had gone into a sort of hibernation. He would live on beneath the waves--at least until his friends began to worry about him and pulled him to the surface.

But now he had a new issue to deal with: the Eye of Dreams. Lannon wasn't fond of the Eye of Dreams because he had no control over it. It was a force that seized him unexpectedly and took him to various destinations in an instant. It could take him anywhere, and Lannon never knew what it would show him.

He waited patiently (and anxiously) for the Eye of Dreams to transport him to his destination. It wanted to reveal something, as usual. And it would probably be something important. As much as he disliked the Eye of Dreams, he was eager to see where it was going to lead him.

He rose from the water and soared across the lake--moving so swiftly that everything was a blur. He journeyed over forests, swamps, and grassy plains--over the heads of people going about their daily lives. He was an unseen spirit, not able to affect anything or be affected by anything. He was completely detached from the world, just a fleeting shadow sent to observe.

Lannon went to where the forest became jungle, where ancient stone ruins webbed with vines rose up from the tangle. Here a Birlote tree city stood above the ruins, huts and bridges forming a maze through the treetops. But Lannon did not visit the tree city (even though it fascinated him). Instead he went below into the ruins--where he sensed that great danger lurked. His spirit descended deep beneath mossy stone, into a chamber where the statues of Dark Watchmen stood--his grim-faced predecessors. There, nestled amongst them, was a glowing blue crystal of great power kept beneath glass. Its name was the Lakefire. As the High Watchman, Lannon had the right to claim this crystal, but what was its purpose? The Eye of Dreams would not reveal its secrets.

Lannon had seen enough. It was time to return to his body.

***

When Lannon became aware of his surroundings again, he was standing on the deck of The Golden Promise, the White Flamestone in his hand. He had no memory of rising to the surface, but he was delighted that he had survived and brought back Dremlock's mightiest weapon.

Then he realized Prince Vannas was standing before him with a horrified look on his face. His eyes were fixed on the Flamestone. What has become of my Flamestone? the prince said. It looks dead!

It's not dead, Lannon assured him, handing it over. It's just hibernating...or something. It will eventually awaken.

When? asked Vannas, shuddering as he held the seemingly lifeless stone. I feel no power within it. It is cold in my hands.

Lannon ignored the question because he had no answer. How did I get back to the surface? he asked. The rope was still tied around him. I assume you all pulled me back up?

No, you swam, said Aldreya. And when you reached the surface, you levitated onto the deck. Don't you remember?

I thought you had died down there, said Dallsa, her face pale. It seemed like you were down there forever, but Aldreya wouldn't let me pull on the rope.

And my decision was wise, said Aldreya. For as you can see, Lannon is unharmed and the Flamestone is ours again.

Lannon was amazed that the Eye of Divinity had brought him back from the deep seemingly on its own. The dive had been a chilling experience that Lannon would never forget. He was now afraid of deep water and wasn't sure he wanted to explore it ever again. It was a fascinating realm, however--so different from the world above--and Lannon also found himself curious to know more about it.

He revealed his experience with the Eye of Dreams.

Aldreya seemed intrigued. This could be an important development. This Lakefire crystal--if it truly exists--was obviously important to the Dark Watchmen at one time. The tree city you observed is undoubtedly the Birlote outpost of Werldock, which is where we will go next in an effort to recruit some warriors. I have no idea why there would be statues of Dark Watchmen there in those ancient ruins, but we simply must discover the truth.

Chapter 2:

The Dragon Storms of Fall

They spent a few hours making repairs to the ship before they set off across the waves. The vessel had suffered a lot of damage in the battle with Bellis, and they wanted to make sure it could withstand another assault if need be. They were anticipating trouble. They assumed Ethella's retreat was only temporary and that her warships would return once repairs were made.

Prince Vannas went below deck with his dulled Flamestone. He had vowed to find a way to revive the hibernating piece of living crystal, but his eyes had showed the deep uncertainty he was feeling. This was something new. Not even Jace knew how to awaken the stone. Everyone was thinking the same thing--what if the stone could never be awakened? A hundred years might be an insignificant amount of time to an immortal creature like the White Guardian. The Divine Essence--the White Guardian's mind--had been known to sleep for decades.

By the time The Golden Promise was gliding across Legend Lake, it was close to noon. Aside from those who were too injured to do any work, everyone was awake and engaged in various duties--including scrubbing the bloodstained deck, tending to the wounded, and working the oars. The exception was Prince Vannas. He remained below deck and ignored any attempts to summon him.

Aldreya grew concerned about the prince and sent Lannon below to check on him. Lannon found Vannas seated on a crate in the shadows, the seemingly lifeless Flamestone clutched in his hands. Chills crept over Lannon's flesh as he gazed at Vannas. The prince's green eyes burned with anger in the dim light. He didn't seem to be doing anything beyond sitting and gazing at the stone.

How are things going? Lannon asked.

Obviously terrible, said Vannas. It seems you risked your life for nothing, Dark Watchman, for you have returned with a dead Flamestone. The prince sighed deeply. It is so cold in my hands, Lannon. I can't raise the temperature--not even a pinch. I always thought I was so deeply bonded to this crystal, but it seems to have utterly abandoned me. It has become strange in my hands.

It has to be temporary, said Lannon. The Eye revealed life within it. Lannon spoke with confidence, but he was just as uncertain as Vannas. He had no idea when it would awaken or what might speed up the process. But he felt he had to show confidence for Vannas' sake. Lannon was the High Watchman of Ollanhar and others looked to him for wisdom and guidance--even a Prince of Borenthia. He had an obligation to show a positive attitude.

Vannas shrugged. Yes, there is life. But life without energy or purpose is no better than death. It is like a man who no longer moves or thinks, talks or eats. Where then is life found within him? He is just a shell that exists. That's what my precious Flamestone has become.

With life, said Lannon, there is always hope. He realized that statement probably sounded a bit overbearing to the moody prince, but it was all he could think of to say.

Vannas rolled his eyes. Your endless optimism is not inspiring. In fact, it is rather sad. Sometimes hope runs out, Lannon. That's an undisputable fact. How long do you expect me to waste my time trying to awaken this gem? It has only been a few hours, and already I'm thinking of giving up.

That's not like you, said Lannon. What happened to the determined and unyielding prince? Vannas never ceased to surprise Lannon. The prince was unpredictable with his drastic mood swings. Lannon found it annoying and chaotic, and he wished Vannas had a more stable personality.

For a few moments, Vannas didn't answer. Then he looked away. What happened is that I'm quickly realizing there is nothing I can do to connect with the Flamestone. Nothing. It's like trying to wiggle the fingers of a dead hand. No matter how hard you try, they will not wiggle. Better to cut off the spent limb, accept the loss, and move on.

You need to calm yourself, said Lannon. I just retrieved the Flamestone this morning. You need to give this time. Lannon was also slightly annoyed that Vannas didn't seem to appreciate his efforts. Lannon had risked his life to retrieve the Flamestone, but all Vannas could see was failure.

The prince held up the dull stone, then slid it into its black pouch. I apologize for sounding so negative, Lannon. I will give it time, and wait patiently for the stone to live again. It's just that I'm convinced it won't respond to my efforts. If it awakens, it will do so on its own and when it is ready.

Until then, said Lannon, we'll have to try to avoid confronting Bellis. The full weight of the situation bore down on him. Without the White Flamestone, Ethella was sure to come after them fearlessly. How many attacks like that ship battle could the Knights of Ollanhar withstand?

I fear we're in grave danger, said the prince. It's time for you to take charge, Lannon. Without the Flamestone, you are the great power now--the Eye of Divinity. You're going to have to get very aggressive.

Lannon didn't like the sound of that. Getting aggressive would mean increased violence--something Lannon always tried hard to avoid. I'll do what I have to, but I'm not a killer.

Vannas sighed. I know. But maybe it's time for you to become one. I'm serious about this. We're in terrible danger. Maybe it's time to send a message to Ethella--that if she keeps attacking us, you will hunt her down and kill her. Maybe King Verlamer needs to hear that message as well.

I'm not an assassin, said Lannon.

Nevertheless, said Vannas, you are an intimidating foe--a Dark Watchman and a Blue Knight. You need to find a way to exploit that, to frighten them as much as the White Flamestone did.

I'll think it over, said Lannon. The prince was right, of course. But Lannon had no intention of turning into some deadly assassin who terrorized his foes. That was Shennen's job. Lannon preferred honorable combat--if there was a need for any combat at all--and sparing as many lives as possible. That simply wasn't going to change, no matter what the risk. It was too much a part of who he was. But maybe there was some way he could be more intimidating without causing more bloodshed. He needed a brilliant plan of some kind.

Do it, said Prince Vannas. Whatever it takes. Or the quest for the Green Flamestone is finished, and soon we'll be dead.

With that, the prince closed his eyes and would speak no more.

***

As The Golden Promise moved across Legend Lake, the wind grew fierce, with huge waves rocking the boat. The waves were startling to behold--especially to Dremlock's warriors who had little experience with boats and large bodies of water. It seemed the ship was in danger of capsizing, but Theradaxa seemed confident enough. As a captain for several years in service of the Temple, she had faced fierce weather on Legend Lake before and knew what to expect.

But the weather wasn't the only danger confronting them. In the distance, barely visible, three large ships were approaching--a trio of titans upon the waves. No one doubted that Ethella was returning to finish them off. She believed the White Flamestone was lost (and indeed it was, as long as it remained asleep) and she would eagerly send her most fearsome warriors against them while she held back at a safe distance. This was her best chance so far to eliminate the quest for the Green Flamestone and she wasn't going to let it pass her by.

Some of the Knights gathered on deck to discuss the situation, as the wind and waves threatened to hurl them overboard. They held onto whatever objects they could, to keep themselves locked in place. It seemed like a foolish place to hold a meeting, but Theradaxa insisted they assemble on deck--perhaps so they could keep an eye on the weather and the approaching ships.

It is doubtful we can outrun them, said Theradaxa. Those warships are just too fast. They're going to catch us before we reach shore.

Then we're doomed, said Prince Vannas, who had reluctantly agreed to participate in the meeting. "Their catapults will hammer us into ruin, and their archers