Death's Conquest

By Richard C. Webb

For nearly one thousand years, Death incarnate has laid dormant on the borders of the Forwyne Kingdom in a place known as the Death Lands, biding his time. Banished from the heavens and loath to return to the underworld, he has settled for the mortal world with his eyes cast toward the realms of men to the east. With his fearsome army of Shadows, the time of his assault is near.

The High King of the Forwyne Kingdom, distracted by turmoil within his house and potential treason all around him, must turn to an untried young man from a remote village near the Death Lands. Together with an arrogant tax collector and the cunning chief adviser, they must attempt to stand against Death and his minions while resisting the urge to fight amongst themselves. Will they succeed, or will the mortal world descend into darkness and flames with Death's conquest?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Richard C. Webb
• Release date: Aug 3, 2016
• ISBN: 9781945851032

Richard C. Webb

Richard C. Webb is a professional author and registered nurse. He lives in Los Angeles, CA. Writing since the age of seven, he has written several short stories and poems, ranging from fantasy and science-fiction to gothic thrillers, mysteries and romance. Death’s Conquest, Book One of the Spirits, Shadows and Death trilogy, is his first novel.

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Book One of the Spirits, Shadows and Death Trilogy

by Richard C. Webb

Copyright 2016 by Richard C. Webb

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

This book is available in paperback and hardcover at most online retailers.

Published by Richard C. Webb

First eBook Edition, 2016

ISBN 978-1-945851-04-9

www.richardcwebb.com

To my first fan. Your words of encouragement have kept me plugging along all these years later. You are loved and missed, Grandma.

Table of Contents

Maps

1

Shadows upon the Mountain

2

The Mountain High Council

3

Fireside Anecdotes

4

The Fourth Tusque War?

5

The Woes of Serad

6

Granite Hollow

7

Death’s Retribution

8

Vengeance in the Great Blacks

9

Birds of a Feather Flock Together

10

A Discourse with Boorag

11

The Ancient Ruins

12

The Temple of the Scrolls

13

Fight or Flight

14

The Siege

15

The Master of the Shadows

16

The Great Horizon

Connect with the Author

About the Author

Maps

Figure 1: Northern Death Lands

Figure 2: Northern Wilds/Northern Forwyne Kingdom/Northern Glume Kingdom

Figure 3: Southern Death Lands

Figure 4: Central Forwyne Kingdom/Central Glume Kingdom

Figure 5: Southwestern Forwyne Kingdom

Figure 6: Southern Forwyne Kingdom/Southern Glume Kingdom

1

Shadows upon the Mountain

An unseasonably cold wind blew around the Outer Wall of the village of Mountain High. The town lay quiet in the blackness of the night. Mountains towered above on three sides, as dark as the dwellings in the town at their feet. In the middle of this small cluster of homes, the Central Tower rose above all else. The roof of the stone tower was flat with a short wall that did nothing to slow the gusting winds. Three men stood on the circular roof, gazing out upon the empty town beneath them.

The men were almost indistinguishable. All three of them were husky with dark brown beards that hung down their chests. Two of the men were sitting on a wooden bench in the middle of the roof; the third was standing, bundled up in a woolen cloak. And this is supposed to be spring, eh? he asked.

The other two exchanged a glance. The taller one of the two shrugged. What do you expect? You've lived here all your life, same as us. You know winter never really ends up here. There's still snow on the mountains. I say that's where this frost-bitten wind is coming from.

I was only thinking out loud. You got to read into everything, Gorgen? This is my first time on guard duty. I know you both have been up here before. Your bad luck I guess. I just wonder if there really is any point to this. Every night for what, two weeks now, we've been standing up here looking out for tusques and Shadows, neither of which have been seen near these parts for decades. When I was selected for this, I was actually excited. Thought I might get to see some action. We sure could use some. He coughed into the back of his hand. So tell me, is it always like this or is it just my luck?

I hate to break it to you, but this is about all there is, Gorgen said. Although last year there was some excitement. I saw torchlights on the other side of the dale, towards the Great Valley. Thought it might be someone approaching. Turned out to be the beginning of a forest fire. Probably caused by lightning. Can't say I was disappointed. I don't much like travelers.

The man sitting next to Gorgen chuckled. His beard slid up and down his cloak as he nodded his head. Who would when you only get one a year and he just so happens to be the most frustrating man in the world?

When is Neethi-Ra coming anyway? Gorgen asked.

Probably soon. He usually comes 'round this time on his way to Granite Hollow, the man who was standing said. Hopefully he won't come at all. Hopefully a tusque mauls him on his way up the mountain.

That's funny, Alviden. Anything to keep him from strutting around town with that high and mighty look on his face. If he arrives when we're up here, I say we don't go down and open the gate for him. Let him sit outside the Outer Wall and freeze. Teach him some manners maybe.

Won't happen. He'll come during the day when he knows the gate'll be open, Alviden said. He sat on the bench between the other two sentries and rubbed his hands together. Wish I had some gloves.

Maybe Margaera can knit you some, Gorgen said. The men laughed, their hearty voices carried away by the wind, which had picked up in speed over the past hours as the air decreased in temperature.

She can knit me anything she likes. Alviden winked, eliciting even louder laughs from his comrades. You heard the joke about the armorian and the mermaid?

Nope, the other two said.

You'll like this. So an armorian and a mermaid walk into the inn. The bartender looks them up and down and tells the mermaid, 'get out.' The mermaid asks, 'why?'

Hold on. Wait, Gorgen said. What's that? You see that, Scrallweg?

What?

Towards the west, in the trees. Lights flickering. Like torchlight. He held out his arm, his outstretched finger pointing into the darkness. A moment of silence passed as the men peered into the gloom.

Oh, yeah. I see it. It's probably a forest fire again. Like last time.

There's no lightning though. And it seems to be moving.

Maybe they're Shadows from the Death Lands. Wouldn't that be exciting? Alviden asked.

Bite your tongue, Gorgen said. You make it sound like a good thing. There haven't been Shadows in the Forwyne Kingdom for almost a century. And we're all better off for it.

I know. I know. Just thought it might add some spice to our night is all.

It would add more than just spice for the night, Scrallweg said. He paused, stood up and approached the parapet. He leaned over it, squinting into the night. You're right, Gorgen. They're moving this way. They'll be out of the forest soon, but we still won't be able to get a good look at them because then they'll be behind the ridge.

Should we wake the head councilman just in case? Gorgen asked.

No. Not until we know who or what it is. You know how he can get. Anyway, we'll have a good view of them if they continue up the path. They'll still be a good ten minutes’ march away once they come around the mountain. And that's if they're even moving this way at all. They're probably just travelers from Granite Hollow heading to the Central Vale. Or maybe knights from the Ancient Ruins.

Now this is exciting, Alviden said. I wonder who it could be.

The men stood in silence as the cluster of orange light passed through the thick carpet of trees that blanketed the edge of the bowl-shaped valley. The vale was hemmed in on three sides by mountains. To the south, it came to an abrupt end in the form of a cliff. Next to the westernmost mountain that flanked the village was where the torchlights returned after a brief disappearance. The village guard of Mountain High waited in silence as the lights approached. As the flames drew nearer, individual pinpricks of light became visible. There were nine torches. A swirling darkness covered the ground, hiding the grass from the moonlight above. When the company was close enough to discern, Scrallweg broke the silence. You've damned us all, Alviden. They are Shadows.

How do you know? You've never seen them before.

That doesn't mean I don't know what they look like. Your siblings never told you the tales when you were young? Scrallweg paused and stared at Alviden, but he did not reply. Do you see any armor shining in the light? Any glinting steel? Just darkness. What else could they be? Give it a couple more minutes and you'll be able to see them better, I'm sure. They're moving fast, so they'll be here soon. Then your doubts can be quelled.

All right. So we know they're Shadows then. But what could they want? Alviden asked.

How would I know? Hopefully they come in peace.

In peace? Gorgen said. When have Shadows ever come in peace? Them coming here can only mean one thing: trouble.

You may be right, Scrallweg said. But the small size of their group gives me some hope.

We've got to wake the Head Councilmen now, grumpiness or not.

You're right. Let's go.

The three men opened a wooden trapdoor at the north end of the roof. They crouched and groaned as they lifted it. Its rusted hinges protested until they dropped the dilapidated door, causing it to slam against the grimy stones that housed it. Within was an iron ladder, coated with flaking black paint. They took turns descending it.

The rickety landing that the ladder stood upon creaked and groaned under their immense weight. They hurried down the wooden steps that revolved around the inner wall of the interior of the tower, ignoring the numerous doors that opened into side rooms. The stairway spilled into the ground floor lobby, which held numerous entries into other rooms, a plush carpet streaked with the colors of a rainbow and a marble statue depicting a man locked in battle with a massive, dog-like beast with arm-length teeth like sabers. The statue did not make it clear who was winning the battle.

The village guard ran around this statue on their way out the largest door in the room: a man's-length-wide mahogany door with a large brass knob that had etches of pine trees in its face. It took all three of the men pulling on the door to get it open, even with the bone-chilling wind forcing its way in. With the door open enough to slip through it, the men exited the Central Tower of Mountain High.

Outside, the Town Common stretched from the Central Tower to the Inner Wall. In between these two structures was verdant green grass and a thin forest as tall as the wall that enclosed it. It included spruces, pines and firs and a few stunted fruit trees that were just beginning to show buds. The men ran across the quiet lawn and under the largest of three arches that pierced the black stone of the Inner Wall. On the other side, a few of the twenty or so homes that made up the town became visible in the night. Beyond the ramshackle dwellings, the Outer Wall, which surrounded the village, loomed.

Wait, Scrallweg said after they had passed underneath the Inner Wall. Alviden, you should go wake up the head councilman. We'll go talk to the Shadows and see what they want. I doubt they're going to be patient if we make them wait out there long.

What? But I want to see them for myself. Alviden paused while Scrallweg stared at him without saying a word. All right. I guess I'll still get to see them when I bring the head councilman over. We'll meet at the gate?

Aye, Scrallweg said.

Alviden ran down a side trail as the other two members of the village guard hurried down the gravel path that stretched into the distance towards the Outer Wall. As they passed through the town, the gate that the Shadows were huddled outside of grew visible. Torches flickered behind the iron bars that barricaded an uneven hole through the Outer Wall, which was made of roughly hewn blocks of basalt that blended in with the Great Black Mountains that surrounded the village. Nearby a stream churned through the town and out a metal grate in the base of the wall, its whitecaps turned silver by the moonlight.

Scrallweg was the first to approach the thick iron gate. Gorgen followed a few steps behind. The two members of the village guard grabbed the cold iron and peered through the gaps between the bars. Nothing was visible at first glance, but after a moment a torch appeared from around the corner of the entryway beyond the gate. The being that was carrying it was only visible as a blotch of deeper darkness shifting in the night. It stood a head taller than either of the men before it and was shrouded in swirling black smoke. Whether it had limbs or even a head was impossible to tell. As it approached the gate, it seemed to glide across the dew-covered grass and its crimson eyes, which shined brighter even than the torch it was holding and were all that was visible through the darkness of its veil, narrowed.

Mmm… I can taste your fear. The Shadow paused. Although you have nothing to fear yet. We only come bearing a message.

And what message would that be? Gorgen asked.

I suggest you silence that tongue of yours before I rip it out of your mouth. We didn't travel for a week to waste words on the likes of you. Bring me your governor, councilman, duke or whatever your leader fancies himself. Or you can choose to ignore me and can watch while we burn this town to the ground. What will it be?

Now, there's no reason for violence, Scrallweg said. We've already alerted the head councilman. He's on his way.

Splendid. The Shadow's bass voice made Scrallweg's deep speech seem like that of a child's. I can't wait to meet him. From the darkness behind the Shadow, throaty laughter echoed from its comrades.

Scrallweg and Gorgen retreated from under the arch. They moved around the corner, out of sight from the Shadow's view. They wrapped their cloaks tighter around themselves as the wind continued to pick up speed and waited in silence until Alviden approached from the direction of the Central Tower with a tall, hulking man and a younger man behind them.

Are they really Shadows? the taller of the two newcomers asked. He had a broad face with a well-defined jawline as if sculpted from stone. His hair was dark brown, almost black, and his light brown eyes, which might otherwise have been warm and welcoming, were narrowed. Alviden didn't seem very sure.

Yes. We're sure, Head Councilman, Scrallweg said. We spoke to one already. There can be no doubt.

The head councilman stroked his immense, clean-shaven chin and nodded his head. His broad shoulders slumped and he took a deep breath. So be it. Did they say what they wanted?

Just that they had a message and wanted to speak to our leader. Scrallweg hesitated. Their words, not mine.

The head councilman nodded. All right. Let's see what they want.

He turned to the young man standing behind him. He was a head shorter than the head councilman and was as lean as the latter was muscular. His hair was short, brown and curly and his handsome, youthful face was hidden in shadow. Ranthi. I know you wanted to see them, but wait here for now. I will not risk anything until I know what they want.

Yes, Father, Ranthi said.

The head councilman walked towards the gate, his heavy boots trampling the grass and leaving sizable depressions in the soft ground. When he reached the barrier, the Shadow moved forward from where it had been standing.

You're the leader? it asked.

I'm the head councilman, as chosen by our people. What do you want?

I want nothing. My master, on the other hand, does.

Get on with it.

The Shadow's eyes narrowed even further. My master has the message.

Do you think I'm fool enough to believe that he would come here? He hasn't left the Death Lands in what, a thousand years?

The Shadow laughed, a rough laugh that was reminiscent of cracking knuckles. Oh, not him. If he was here, we would be having an entirely different conversation. I suppose the word you would use wouldn't be master. Perhaps general is a more fitting term.

The Lord of the Shadows.

That's the one.

He's here?

Absolutely. We're on a very important mission. Important for all involved. We needed supervision; otherwise, who knows what kind of trouble we could get into. The Shadow laughed again.

The head councilman grimaced. Then why are you wasting my time? Send him over here.

Oh, that won't be possible. You'll have to send someone out to speak with him.

That is not going to happen. How is it not possible for him to come here if he is present?

Let's just say your archway here, while I'm sure you find it very impressive, is not large enough for my master to fit under. We wouldn't want him to bump his head, would we? So you'll have to send someone out to speak with him. I'm not going to repeat myself again.

And I won't repeat myself either. I'm not going to send someone out there for you to do who knows what to him. I don't trust your lot for even a second.

Suit yourself. The lord of all, Death, has a very generous offer for the Forwyne Kingdom. Seeing as how you're the closest civilian town to our borders, you get the honor of passing the message on to your king. If you choose not to send someone out, we will have to tell the lord of all that your answer to his offer was no. Of course, this will mean the complete and utter destruction of your entire kingdom. But go ahead, you should most certainly be the one to make that decision, oh ye grand head councilman of Mountain High.

The head councilman stared into the piercing eyes of the Shadow. After a moment without turning away, he blinked. So be it. Wait here while I get some rope to lower him down.

Just open the gate and let him walk out on his own. We promise him safe passage. Two smaller pillars of smoke that served as arms protruded from the Shadow's shroud and made a gesture as if giving a hug.

The head councilman laughed. I'm not that much of a fool. You think I don't know what you are? You're a Shadow. And everything about you and your leader, is evil and not to be trusted. So no, I'm not going to open the gate and allow you to pillage our homes and murder our people. I will lower our envoy by rope, end of discussion.

Oh, you clearly know what you're doing. We'll wait here, but not for long.

The head councilman turned around and retreated from under the archway. He marched across the grass, ignoring the twinkling stars above, until he had reached the other men.

What did it say, sir? Scrallweg asked.

He has a message for the High King. He expects us to deliver it. We need to send someone out there to hear the message.

You can't be serious, Gorgen said. You'll be lucky if they return his bones when they're done with him.

It is not within my power to make a decision that could affect the entire realm, nor is it fair. Sacrifices must be made; risks must be taken. We can send one man down by rope while the rest of us watch from above with bows at the ready. Shadows are still mortal, and they're outnumbered as well if it comes to battle. He looked at each man in turn. So, any volunteers?

The village guard shuffled their feet but said nothing.

The head councilman's son's lips parted into a wide smile. Well, you're always telling me I should go outside the walls someday, Father. You're always saying, 'you need some adventure in your life. Like I had when I was your age.' And yet, when I want to, you never let me go.

And your point is?

Let me go out there. I asked you if I could come to see the Shadows. What better way for me to see them? And I'm not afraid of them either.

That's the problem, Ranthi. You should be. The head councilman stared at the other men around him and frowned. You're an adult though. So if you truly are volunteering and no one else is brave enough to, then so be it. It's not quite what I had in mind when I said you should go outside the Outer Wall sometime, but it's something.

You're being a hypocrite. You say I should go outside the wall, but then when I ask to go exploring you tell me 'it's too dangerous. You could get attacked by a pack of tusques.' You don't even like the gate opened, except when there are verified visitors, because you're so scared of tusques. So how am I supposed to go outside?

We'll talk about this later. Now is not the time. He shook his head and stared down at his son. Are you ready?

Ranthi smiled. Absolutely. So where is the rope?

Alviden?

Yes, Head Councilman.

There's a storage room in the base of the wall, just across the stream. Go in and procure us one length of rope, four bows and four quivers. The arrows should be loaded already, as long as Gemeren's done his job.

Yes, Head Councilman.

Alviden hurried away, splashing across the creek and almost slipping on a patch of ice that coated its far bank. He found a decrepit door in the base of the wall next to where the water passed through via an iron grate. He pulled on the door, which opened askew, and entered the darkness that greeted him. Stumbling around the room until his eyes adjusted to the lack of light, he found bows and mostly empty quivers against the rear wall of the narrow space, arrows in a crate alongside of them and a rope coiled atop a shelf on his right. He loaded the quivers with a handful of arrows apiece and left the room. With the items in hand, he jogged back to his comrades’ side, again skidding across the patch of ice that flanked the stream. Only one of the quivers was full.

The head councilman scowled.

But I found some extra arrows in a carton and filled the others.

The head councilman's downturned lips straightened but only a little. Good work. Let's get up on the wall. Help me carry all this up, gentlemen. Each of the men grabbed a bow and quiver, except for Ranthi, who carried the rope, which was tightly wound but fraying on both ends.

Beside the misshapen arch stood a wooden ladder. It leaned against the inner side of the wall and was damp with the plentiful dew of the early morning. Its surface was beginning to crack, frequent freezing and thawing taking their toll on the pine bark that it was cut from. The men of Mountain High rushed up the ladder, each rung creaking under their heavy boots. The top of the Outer Wall had no parapet, so the men traipsed from the top rung onto and across the rough roof.

Blocks of rock jutted up at odd angles, forcing the men to crisscross their way over the basalt barrier. When they reached the far edge, the Shadows were visible five man's lengths beneath them. Twenty of them mulled about the meadow that filled Mountain High's valley from the mountains to the top of the cliff to the south. One of the Shadows was more than twice as large as the others. This one stood farthest from the wall, not moving at all despite the surrounding activity.

All right. Let me tie the rope around your waist, the head councilman said. When you get down there, undo it so we can pull it back up. When you're done speaking with the Lord of the Shadows, come back to the wall and we'll lower the rope. Then you can grab it, and we'll pull you up. If you have any issues down there, yell for help. Got it?

Yes, Father.

That's my boy. Make me proud. He clasped one of his son's thin shoulders with his burly hand and squeezed it.

After knotting the rope around the young man's waist, the other men lowered him down the face of the wall. The journey was a slow and jerking one. All right. You can do this, Ranthi said as he used his hand to keep from grating against the wall during his descent. No reason to be afraid. The Shadows aren't going to hurt you. Even Shadows know that you don't kill the messenger. You can do this. He grabbed the faded brown leather handle of a hunter's knife that was sheathed at his right hip. When his feet touched the ground, he released the handle and put his hands in the pockets of his olive-green pants. He noticed that the soft carpet of grass that used to fill the area was now blackened and dead as far as his eyes could see. As he examined this desolation, the Shadows surrounded him. He could feel the heat of their breath, which was accompanied by the smell of rotten meat. He gagged and covered his mouth.

Look at this one, one of them said.

He's shaking, another one said.

If you're scared of us, boy, you're going to piss yourself when you see our master.

I'm not scared, Ranthi said. Now show me to your master. He grasped at the handle of his pocket-size blade again.

One of the Shadows moved forward. Follow me. And I wouldn't draw that toy if I were you. Otherwise, I might have to break my word that I wouldn't hurt you. And my master is less accepting than I am.

Ranthi released his weapon and walked behind the Shadow who had spoken.

Fifty paces later they reached the Lord of the Shadows, who had his back to the pair. He towered more than two man’s lengths above the ground. The smoke that surrounded him swirled about like a turbulent thunderstorm, but its only color was black. So this is the respect I command? he said without turning around. I tell them I have a message for them, a decision that will mean the difference between life and death for tens of thousands of people, and they send me a boy.

I'm not a boy. I'm a man.

You're a man, all right.

The Lord of the Shadows wheeled about, causing Ranthi to step back, stumble and fall onto his backside. He was a pillar of darkness even in the black of night, no different from his peers and yet different in every way at the same time. His eyes were red like his brethren; they glowed like a searing flame, burning brighter than a blacksmith's forge. A foolish mortal, like all other men who came before you. A smoke-covered arm appeared from nowhere out of the thick cloak that enveloped him, holding a blade of blackened steel, which was longer than Ranthi was tall, and had a handle carved from volcanic glass. He flicked the blade in the direction of his visitor, forcing Ranthi to scoot back to avoid the steel's notched tip. Rise, you fool.

Ranthi did not hesitate as he followed the Lord of the Shadows' command.

I remember in the golden ages, battling with your ancestors. You would have made an excellent shield bearer or horn blower or a pretty companion for a knight with more acquired tastes. The Shadow who escorted Ranthi cackled. But now you're the best your town can summon. The best and bravest. This is truly a sad day. I only hope your king accepts the lord of all's offer. Defeating your ilk would bring me no pleasure. I appreciate a challenge. I don't like my prey to go down easy. The Lord of the Shadows tilted his head and poked his blade into the soil in front of Ranthi's right foot. The wide greatsword seemed to slide into the earth like a knife into butter. Have you nothing to say? he roared. I impeach your fellow man, insult you and your town and yet you remain silent. He lowered his voice. I guess I was right about you. Just a boy after all.

I'm not scared of you, Ranthi said, his hands shaking and jaw clenched. But I'm also not a fool. What should I do? Draw my weapon? And throw my life away? I'm sure you would love that. But I'm not the fool you think I am. Now give me your message, and I will deliver it to the High King myself if I have to. Anything to stop you from ever coming to my home again.

Ooh, I like this one. He does have a little fire in him. Maybe I was wrong about you. Maybe I will enjoy slaying you and your kind and desecrating your houses. Maybe I will. Hopefully one day we will get to find out. In the meantime, I'm done having fun for now. Time to get serious. Using his partially buried sword for leverage, the Lord of the Shadows crouched down until he was so close that he could headbutt the man before him if he chose to.

A horrible smell like that of dead flesh wafted out of the gargantuan Shadow's shroud. Ranthi recoiled and held his hand over his nose and mouth. Breathing through his fingers, he waited.

I bear this message from the lord of all, Death. It is to be delivered directly to the king at Forwyne Village. Understand, mortal?

Ranthi nodded.

Good. Now listen very carefully. This is the message: the master of all mortals, the lord of all, Death, offers peace to the Forwyne Kingdom in exchange for all the lands in the Central Abandonment from the Upper and Lower Great Divides to the Gray Wood. Otherwise, not only will we take said lands, but will conquer the entire Forwyne Kingdom. You will send your response to the border of our kingdoms between the Ancient Ruins and Borderline. We will wait no more than three weeks from tomorrow for this response. Did you understand that, mortal?

Yes.

Ooh. Sharp as well as brave. Aren't you the complete package? Now get out of here. And remember, three weeks. Ranthi turned to leave but only managed two steps before the Lord of the Shadows spoke again. What's your name, boy?

Ranthi turned back to the giant Shadow. I am Ranthi Amadoro.

It was nice to meet you Ranthi Amadoro. I hope we meet again in the future but under entirely different circumstances. The Lord of the Shadows leapt back to his feet, ripped his blade out of its earthen sheath and brandished it towards the man before him. Now get out of my sight.

Ranthi stumbled away, and the Shadows parted before him. Ahead stood the Outer Wall; barely visible above it was the Central Tower. The silhouettes of the men atop the wall became apparent as he approached. A gray tendril snaked its way down the barrier's craggy surface until it rested on the grass. Ranthi clutched the rope with both hands as high as he could reach. He felt the tug of the men from above and almost lost his grip. The sweat on his palms caused the rope to slip through his fingers. He squeezed it even tighter, ignoring the burning sensation it caused. After scraping all four of his limbs on the sharp basalt rocks that made up the wall, he stood atop it.

Did you get the message? his father asked.

Ranthi nodded.

Alviden clapped him on the back. Way to go. What did they say?

Not now, interrupted the head councilman. Put this stuff away, Alviden. Ranthi and I are going to return home and talk about this. We'll discuss this at our regular council meeting in two days. I expect you all to be there, as this meeting will be especially important. He faced the Shadows and shouted, We've heard your message. I expect you to leave now or face the consequences. He lowered his voice and said, I want you all to stay here for the rest of the night. If they don't leave by sunrise or if they leave and come back, then come tell me. The head councilman walked toward the ladder and began to descend into the village. Come, Son.

Ranthi nodded at the other men and rushed after his father.

***

The head councilman cleared his throat and eyed his son. That's why I didn't want you to go out there. Shadows are not people. They're not just unpredictable; they're outright evil. The only thing they enjoy more than frightening men is killing them.

They sat in a single large room with two doors on opposite sides of each other. In between was a series of benches accompanied by colorful pillows, large cupboards along the walls and a fireplace and chimney in the corner. The fireplace was the only part of the room not made of wood; it was shaped by bricks that may have once been red but were so soot-stained that their original color was hard to decipher. The room was filled with the smell of this soot paired with the much lighter scent of freshly cut lumber.

I'm fine. I was more angry than scared. The way he talked to me. And to know I couldn't do anything about it. I was outnumbered twenty to one. I've been working on my swordplay with Jorhan a lot lately but still.

Thank goodness common sense prevailed. I know you've been working hard at it, but we are talking about the Lord of the Shadows here. And play fighting is not the same as real fighting. It's entirely different when someone is actually trying to kill you, when they're not holding back.

I know. I know. You're the one that said I should be prepared. You said you never know what could happen, that every man should know how to wield a blade.

And I meant it. And I'm proud of your progress. You've always had a knack with a bow, but your prowess with a blade is coming along as well.

Coming along? I’m already the best here. Jorhan hasn’t beaten me in months.

The head councilman frowned. Maybe you are. Maybe you’re not. But I want you to realize that we'll never really know how far you've come until that prowess is put to the test. And I hope that day never comes.

Ranthi looked at his father and hesitated, fiddling with the hem of his cloak. I want to deliver the message to the High King myself.

The head councilman recoiled as if slapped. Absolutely not. It's too dangerous. You're not ready for a task like that. You have no idea of the dangers of the world outside these walls.

You keep telling me that I'm a man now, to grow up. Then let me. I've been a man for seven years, and you tell me to start showing it. Well, I'm trying. I want to do this. And I can do it. I'm ready. Let me go.

The head councilman slammed his fist on the table. That's enough. You're not going. I've already made my decision; accept it. He grimaced, paused for a moment and put his hand on his son's shoulder. Look, Son. I get it. I understand. You want to prove yourself, to prove that you're a man. It's understandable. But if I send you, it will be a suicide mission. And that is not the way to go about it. You're not prepared for something like this. You have to start small. Maybe if you keep practicing with Jorhan for another year, then I might feel comfortable sending you out on a hunting expedition. Then if you do well at that, you can do whatever you like. I won't stop you. I just don't want to see you throw your life away because of a lack of patience.

Ranthi shook his head, glowering at his father.

I know that's not what you want to hear. The head councilman sighed. Here's what I can do. I can allow you to start attending the Council. You've been asking me if you could.

And you said it's only for grown men.

And that's what you are. You've proven it to me tonight. So I'll let you join. But I don't want you to actively take part yet, just observe. Don't say anything. Not until you get used to how things work.

All right. I can do that.

I know you can. In exchange though, you will have responsibilities. The youngest member of the Council has to clean, set up the room, accept visiting dignitaries and run other miscellaneous errands. Are you prepared to do that?

Yes, sir.

Excellent. So the morning after tomorrow, I'll bring you in with me when the Council convenes. Everyone will be excited to see you. They've been asking me when you would be joining us. I'll be proud to say that my son is now a man; he proved it by facing the Shadows as no one has done in almost a century. The head councilman stared into Ranthi's light brown eyes. You did a good job tonight, Son. Soon you will find a wife of your own, have children together and build your family a home.

Ranthi fidgeted in his seat, bit his lip and nodded. Sure. I want that too. May I go to sleep now? I'm very tired after all of this.

You may. I know it's been a long night. Thank you for what you did for our people.

Thank you, Father. Ranthi stood, nodded towards the head councilman and walked into his room. He closed the door and fell into his bed without even removing his cloak, though he did not fall asleep until the sun began to peer through his window.

2

The Mountain High Council

A heavy knock on his door woke Ranthi. The walls of his room shuddered, shaking his bed in the process. He groaned, rolled over and faced the door.

What?

Get out here, his father said.

Ranthi arose from his bed and looked out his window to see that the sun had journeyed halfway across the sky. He changed into an olive-green tunic with matching pants. He opened the door to find the head councilman towering over him in a full-length blue robe that had a wide black stripe stretching from his left shoulder to the right part of his waist. The robe was bound around him and seemed ready to burst open at any moment.

What are you doing still sleeping? It's past noon.

I couldn't fall asleep.

Ah, I see. He patted his son's shoulder. Remember what we talked about last night?

Which part?

About how I was going to let you join the Council, but you would have responsibilities.

I remember.

Well, it is time for your first task. We have a visitor coming to town, a representative from the High King's court. He's at the gate as we speak. You will show him to the guest house, the one by the spring. Make no mention of the Council tomorrow. This man is very meddlesome. I don't want him interfering. Do you understand?

I do. What is his name? Will I have heard of him before?

His name is Neethi-Ra. I don't believe you've met him, but you might have heard others talk about him with not-too-kind words. He comes every year around this time to collect the High King's taxes.

Neethi-Ra? Yes. I've heard of him. Not-too-kind words is a very nice way of putting it. From what I've heard he is completely intolerable.

I hope that won't be a problem. The head councilman stared down at his son.

Not at all. I was planning on practicing my swordplay, but I'm fine doing this. Actually, I've always wanted to meet him, just to see if he is as bad as people say. But he's never here for more than a day or two, so I never got the chance. I'll be happy to take him to his quarters.

The head councilman chuckled. You remind me so much of your mother, may the lord of all, Colerod, bless her. I just hope your curiosity doesn't get you into trouble one day. Come on. Let's go. I'll introduce you to him.

They went outside together. Light radiated through the valley. The carpet of grass shone like a brilliant emerald. The smell of pine needles flowed through the air on a cool breeze. The snow-covered black mountains that enclosed Mountain High rose above the town like jagged teeth, bits of rock showing through like cavities in the mountains' enamel of snow. Puffs of cloud drifted across the sky from west to east, mirroring the path that passed outside of the confines of the village. In the middle of the town, Ranthi and the head councilman walked toward Mountain High's front gate, using the same route as the night before.

Neethi-Ra has a servant with him, the head councilman said as they passed one of the entrances to the Town Common. I don't remember his name, but hopefully that means that all you'll have to do is show him to the guest house. Of course, if he asks you for anything else, don't say no. Actually, I should tell you a few other rules. He stopped walking and turned towards Ranthi. Like I just said, absolutely do not tell him no if he asks you to do something. If it's something you can't do, just tell him you're unable to do that, but you'll find someone who can. Also, do not interrupt him under any circumstances. Oh, and do not ask him his last name. And don't ask him about his wife either. And whatever he says, don't respond if he tries to bait you into a confrontation. And don't disagree with him or contradict him. It's best if he believes he is right, even when he's not. You do all of that, and things will go much more smoothly for you.

Wow. Uh, anything else?

Above all else, do not mention the Council. That's really it. Neethi-Ra is a... The head councilman paused. A character. But you'll see what I mean. Best not keep him waiting much longer. He continued walking but at a faster pace than before.

Their breathing quickened as they pushed up a small grassy hill. As they reached the top of the hill, the gate came into view. At the gate they found two men and a donkey laden with supplies.

One of the men was the same size as Ranthi, but appeared to be younger; his face was soft, chubby and without a trace of stubble. The other man was tall, scrawny and pale with long, wavy, black hair and a massive, pointy nose. He wore a golden cloak that fluttered in the breeze. While the younger man had a pack on his back, the older one carried nothing. The older man pushed his oily hair off his clean-shaven face and smirked at his welcoming party.

Took you long enough, he shouted as the head councilman and Ranthi approached.

My apologies, Neethi-Ra. I had important business to attend to.

Oh yes, I am certain you did. You have taxes to collect, I am sure. The High King's coffers aren't going to fill themselves. Neethi-Ra made a noise that could have been mistaken for laughter had it not sounded like the cackle of a wild animal.

Yes. Well, as I was saying, I will be unable to show you to your quarters, so I retrieved my son for you. He will show you the way. He gestured towards his son, who was standing beside him. This is Ranthi.

Neethi-Ra laughed again. Ranthi? What a name. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. Unsophisticated town, unsophisticated people. It just sounds so, well, dirty. Is that really the best that you and your woman could come up with?

The head councilman clenched his fists. My wife passed away twelve years ago. You will never speak of her again.

Ooh, I struck a nerve. My apologies. I was only kidding. It's a lovely name, boy, really. Neethi-Ra clapped his hands. I'm ready to go now. My legs are exhausted. No matter how many times I come here, I'll never get used to the climb through the mountains. I need a bed and perhaps some refreshment. If there's any to be had around these parts, that is.

Ranthi stared at his father, who nodded in response, and then faced the visiting tax collector. Right this way, sir.

Wonderful. Let's go then. Come, Quanthine. His servant grabbed the reins of their ass and pulled it along as they walked into the town.

The group stopped when they reached the Inner Wall and its westernmost entrance to the Town Common. Through the towering archway, glimpses of the verdant lawn within and stands of fragrant conifers were visible. The fluffy clouds overhead draped the head councilman in shadow as he said, Here is where I leave you. Ranthi, show Neethi-Ra the way to the guest house. When he's settled and comfortable, come to my office. I would like to speak with you. To Neethi-Ra he said, Welcome back to our town. And thank you for your patience. If you need anything, just ask my son here. I will have the taxes for you tomorrow afternoon, so you won't have to come looking for me. I will bring them to your quarters, so you may count them. The head councilman nodded and then proceeded through the arch and into the Town Common.

When Ranthi's father disappeared around the corner, Neethi-Ra said, Now let's get down to business, boy. I don't know what your father told you about me, but I am not a man to be trifled with. I expect your obedience at all times. I am a member of the High Court. If anything should happen to me or if you should disobey me or even so much as aggravate me, I will summon justice from Forwyne Village the likes of which you can't even imagine. You'll wish you were in your mother's shoes by the time they are done with you. Got it?

Ranthi cleared his throat and put his hands in his pockets. Yes, sir.

Good. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let's move, shall we? Neethi-Ra clapped his hands. Come, Quanthine. His servant dropped the reins of their beast of burden and then fumbled with them as he tried to pick them up. Having a servant isn't all that it's made out to be sometimes. Did you know that, boy? Just look at this one. Almost seven years now he's been my slave, but he's still just about useless. Hurry it up, boy. I'm tired. He stomped away, cutting through the grass alongside of the trail, the hem of his cloak brushing across the ground.

After a few minutes, there were no more structures near the path. A sharp bend in the dirt track brought it to the banks of a narrow stream, its shallow water coursing around numerous rocks of all sizes.

This is the Mountainside Stream, the same one you followed on your way up from the Great Valley, Ranthi said. Your quarters overlook its spring.

Neethi-Ra crinkled his nose as he looked upstream to where a dwelling sat atop a rocky knoll. Sounds lovely. The trail carried them up this hill until it dead-ended at the porch of a structure that was nearly a mirror-image of the head councilman and Ranthi's home. Behind the cabin, at the base of its hill, the Mountainside Stream bubbled up from underground into a small pool. It flowed out of the pool to the south where the Outer Wall and its gate were visible on the horizon. On the north side of the spring was a thick forest of conifers, behind which the Outer Wall wound. Looming above all this, so close that individual boulders and trees were visible on its flanks, the Great Black Mountains reached into the sky. Their summits, capped with snow and trees, glistened in the midday sun. Small waterfalls rained down their sides in all directions.

I’ve always loved the view here, Ranthi said. This is usually where I go when I want to be alone.

Why is it that every time I come to this village I have to hear about the wonders of nature like I've never been here before? This is where I always stay. It's nothing new to me, and frankly, it's nothing special anyway. If bitter cold, isolation or being attacked by wild animals were things I wanted to live with, I would rather live in High Green. At least the people there recognize that they have nothing. No. I think I'll stick with life in the Central Vale, but thank you anyway.

My apologies. I just wanted to give a little background information to you.

Well, keep it to yourself next time. Neethi-Ra stepped up the porch. Are either of you going to open the door for me? Or is that my job?

Quanthine frowned and followed his master onto the porch. Sorry, sir.

Uh-huh. Once the door was open, Neethi-Ra proceeded inside. Can you two bring in my things? You know how I like everything set up, Quanthine. I'm going to lie down. Do not disturb me. When Ranthi came into the room carrying a particularly large satchel, Neethi-Ra said, Thank you for bringing me here, boy. Is there anywhere in this village that I can get some refreshment later? Or have you still not built one?

We have no pub or anything of the sort if that's what you mean. But I could have a bottle of wine brought to you later if you like.

That will do for today. As for tomorrow, I like my breakfast just before noon. Don't bring it earlier than that. I am a late sleeper.

I can't bring it then. I'll be at the Council, but I can ask someone else to do it.

Oh, the Mountain High Council convenes tomorrow? How perfect. I will definitely be attending that. The High King always wants to hear how things are going in his more remote villages. What better way to find out than from your Council?

Ranthi grimaced. I'm sorry. This Council is a private session. You can't attend.

Neethi-Ra glared at him. Oh, I can't? I believe the High King will disagree with that, or did you forget what I told you on the way over here? Believe me, I'll be there. Just try to stop me.

Ranthi hesitated and sighed. Yes, sir. I'll let my father know you wish to attend. May I go now?

Yes you may. But I better get that bottle of wine and my breakfast tomorrow. And tell me, what time does the council convene?

Ten in the morn'.

I hope you're not lying to me, boy. It will go very badly for you if you are.

No, sir. I'm not.

Good. Then get out of my sight. I'll see you and your father tomorrow morning.

Ranthi nodded at Quanthine. It was nice to meet you. Good day to you both.

***

Ranthi knocked on the smallest door in the foyer of the Central Tower.

Come in, the head councilman said.

Ranthi hesitated for a moment, took a long breath, opened the door and walked in.

Inside was a small room with a tan-colored desk. The walls were adorned with various paintings, some depicting bloody battles and others showcasing scenic vistas. Around the desk, a few short stools were situated. In a much larger chair behind the