Myth of the King

By J. R. Thomas

The prophecy of the Fifth Age is upon the world of Songhaia. Most in the Science Society do not believe in old myth and stories anymore Dayan is a young boy who has never left his village. The Wizard Habenzy seeks the Kesia, an object of myth. Dayan leaves the safety of the Kisibari Mountain Valley to join the Wizard's Questband. They are hunted as they search by the Preeminent's Right Hand. To succeed they must trust in the Iwe, they must trust in their destiny. The armies of the Preeminent prepare. The Allied City States prepare. All of Songhaia prepares for war and the next Age.

• Language: English
• Publisher: J. R. Thomas
• Release date: Sep 17, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370267484

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

       "In the beginning the universe was one, then two, then three, then four and then infinite. Everything that is the universe is composed in four base parts. All of reality is made in four. Yet reality can be seen in three, it can be seen in two, all is one.

       The four corners of reality, the four corners of life, the four aspects of nature, and the four elements are all one in reality. Even the consciousness of man is in the tetrad. The four ages of Man, the four great philosophies, the four powers of Man, the four cornerstones of civilization are all aspect of our knowledge, of The Quadrivium."

       In a crescent amphitheater an older but strong statured man is standing before the gallery. He is the Wizard Habenzy he stands tall unaffected by the many eyes fixed upon him in the Council Room. His robes are pure white completely unmarked with the soot and stains that may find there way on most others clothing. His robes have many wrappings. On the upper wrappings there are vertical designs covered in golden threads.

       On the inner wrappings the top of an emblem can be seen. A stylized image of an iridescent spider, if the image could be fully viewed many would recognize the Cosmic Spider, Tuta dancing on the drum of creation. Wizard Habenzy’s hands extend out from his robes, noticed among the gold circles and stripes on the edge of his vestments. 

       His back covered with the overhead image of the iridescent spider, its legs extend to his shoulders, two on both sides in the direction of his ribs, and the last legs down his robe covering overlapping dangling colorful fabrics. His hair is white and short yet it is not old age that has changed its color.

       His great longevity has changed him in ways most could not comprehend. He has long white trousers under his robes and overlapping fabrics that come to his bare feet. He holds a long staff made from a branch of the ancient Margulo tree in hand. The staff is at least a foot taller than he is. On top of the staff three extensions come forth. They extend uniting at a crest, leaving a cavity, inside a fist size clear crystal.

       The Gallery looks on with impatience and with obvious contempt. The Gallery is sectioned in groups of scientists, businessmen, politicians, and the military. They all sit in their best suits, dress and uniforms covered in black or white robes. Each robe opens in the front with large emblems and intricate design in square shapes. Each vertical design is placed on the robe based on the position they hold.

       The military has one row as tradition dictates. The politicians have four rows covering the complete surface of the front of the robe. The businessmen robes and scientists’ robes have two rows. The scientists’ designs are on the fridges closet to the arms while the businessmen designs are on both sides of the opening.

       Some businessmen, scientists and politicians are not wearing any robes but they are in the minority. Only the military have many dressed in ceremonial jackets buttoned impeccably except at the top wear the jacket folds down. The robes are traditional. Those that do not wear the robes are not originally from Manali otherwise it would be seen as a great insult to the people. 

       At this time they can not afford to raise the people’s emotions. They must keep the people feeling secure and safe. Traditions have a way of placating the masses and they know this well. It is their duty more than ever to give the people this sense of permanence, structure and stability.

       Indoors this event is private but outside these walls they know it will be a political moment. A moment, they at least can use to place their names in the source tablets. Politicians know times like these can break or destroy careers. The businessmen know fortunes can be made and lost in tense times. Scientists know great advances can be made and lead to their names being a part of history or relegate them to obscurity. The military knows better than anyone, glory comes now but also the possible loss of all they give their lives for. They relish these moments more than most.

       Behind each group are monumental vertical flags from the ceiling to the floor. Each one a symbol of the honored sections of society present today. For the scientists hangs a blue flag representing water with four circles within each other. The military flag is red representing blood and fire with an emblem of a lion with a sword in its back. 

       The politician flag is white representing air and purity of thought. A symbol of a song bird sits in its center a traditional animal of beauty and nobility. The business flag is green and black representing earth and production. In its center a golden disk many call a coin in disrespect of the greed of such men. At the bottom of each flag one stenciled hand, on each they are white except on the white flag where it is red.

       Most in attendance feel this meeting is a waste of their valuable time and have no qualms showing it. A man in the back row of the politician’s section speaks. His name like the others is stated on a plaque before him. He cares very little for what the Wizard has to say or any warning he may heed.

       Yes we all know. We all live this, says Citizen Dru Eme answering to Wizard Habenzy statements.

       In the front row of the Military arrangements a man in ceremonial military uniform stands.

       You do not speak of anything that is not known by all. What use is it to tell us this? To tell us what we all have known for years, says an angered General Piko.

       An older female scientist stands up in protest. That is not fables. Stories told to placate the masses before science, reason and facts, says Hadiyah Oka mockingly.

       A politician in the middle of the gallery answers quickly against the scientists’ almost blind consensus.

       Jilani Eyar says adamantly, My beliefs are not fables they are…

       A scientist rises interrupting Jilani Eyar.

       How can any man that speaks for science or reason still believe this nonsense, says Kiho Khadee Jahra condemningly?

       Yet a number of scientists are not of like mind one of them finally stands to speak out.

       You deny the four forces of the cosmos? The very essences we know, and can measure, replies Kumani Yondre Asa in defense of his belief.

       Another scientist is quick to point out, That is an old response of believers. One can make distinctions in any form to justify these beliefs, says Reen Tamusuke dismissively.

       Finally a young politician in the front row speaks to all cutting through the quibbles in the gallery.

       Gentlemen, ladies… please we all know these beliefs have been found to have there merits. They have their place for us all, says Citizen IIsh Balum calmly.

       Another politician quickly cheers Citizen Balum’s words. It is well documented that Citizen Balum and Citizen Xish Kantua are strong political allies. Where Citizen Kantua uses brute strength and political maneuverings, Citizen Balum uses wisdom and persuasion.

       They balance each other to a point where they have defeated most of their rivals and adversaries. Even their enemies more often than not have cheered and respected their words, policies and agendas. However in these times their enemies’ envy and treachery has grown against them. Fear whether denied or accepted changes politics swiftly.

       Yes exactly well said, cheers Citizen Xish Kantua!

       The Gallery applauds these words for they bring balance and understanding to all involved. Yet some do not engage in the debate.

       One man sits watching patiently. He is dressed in royal military formal wear but not Manali military garb. He is not a member of this gallery. He is Valens the military leader and ruler of Valansha.

       Valansha was renamed after Valens himself. The old name is not permitted to be spoken in the leader’s presence. Valens conquered the lands killing his own kin and massacring thousands. However his kingdom is small and technologically not as advanced as Manali. He knows what Manali chooses to do here will shape Songhaia for years to come, if not sooner.

       He came to the City State on official business. He chose to come on this date knowing this gallery would be held and knowing they would not refuse if he chose to be here personally. He sits in the sidelines waiting to see the result of this meeting. He wonders will Manali put its faith in itself or the Wizard. Valens hates the idea anyone here should have an inkling of influence to decide his fate. He believes most here to be fools or weak coddled by their technology and arrogance.

       Citizen IIsh Balum continues to speak trying to keep the session focused.

       "I can understand my colleague’s frustrations. Perhaps it would serve your purpose Lord Habenzy, if you come directly to the reasons you brought us here.

       For the first time the crowd is in agreement as they shout out there response to Citizen Balum’s words. Members cry out from different direction of the gallery, some for and some in protest!

       Yes to the point!

       We know why. We have heard from the other councils!

       Let him speak his peace!

       Yes let us be civil. Hear the man words!

       The gallery quiets down to hear what the Wizard has to say. Many still have their expressions of annoyance, and impatience. Citizen IIsh Balum gestures to the wizard to continue. Yet he already fears there is nothing Wizard Habenzy can say to change the hearts and minds of this council.

       Citizen Balum knows Wizard Habenzy’s power is great. It always has astonished him that the Wizard even bothers with the politics of mortals. To him, seeing Wizard Habenzy would take the time to make such arguments only proves he has great respect for them even if they do not share the same adoration in return. Some will never release the past. He fears this may be their undoing, not just in this session but in these trying times.

       Wizard Habenzy please finish your proposal, says Citizen Balum.

       Wizard Habenzy continues to speak as if the council members had never spoken or their words made no difference to what had to be said.

       Long ago during The Great War, the God King fought the greatest Evil this land has ever known. During that time the nation of Manali fought on his side. Songhaia owes much to the Allied City States, to your ancestors for having the wisdom to rally around him when it was not always certain they should.

       A scientist stands quickly after hearing these words. He feels he must for his family has always been proud of their ancestors’ role in the Great War, as do most in Manali for their city and its people activities in that generation. Many see this as a chance to prove this generation has far exceeded the will, knowledge, courage and strength of their ancestors. While others want to be able to say they are just as strong.

       Manali fought bravely giving much of itself for victory, says Ty Kon proudly.

       The gallery applauds and cheers for they all feel the same pride or at least must show co-solidarity.

       Now has come a time when you will need that bravery and much, much more, says Wizard Habenzy sternly.

       A politician in the front row speaks, The Preeminent’s forces are growing but they are nothing we are not prepared for. To compare her threat to the great Evil is preposterous, says Kia Yobachi another politician ready to show Manali is strong.

       I fear you are wrong. I believe the Kesia will be needed to defeat this threat to us all, replies Wizard Habenzy.

       You expect us to place resources to a myth. Why would we waste precious time? Why when Manali’s technology far exceed most nations of Songhaia. Our military the most advance, on land, sea and to some degree air. What do we have to fear from this Queen and her foot soldiers, questions Kiho Khadee Jahra?

       Kawiil Riah first of the businessmen to speak out individually says proudly, We are far more advanced than our Ancestors during the time of the war. Our people were barely out of mud and wood huts. I believe you underestimate our capabilities. You still see us as we once were. Time may have no affect on you Ismungugu but the same cannot be said of this city, of this state, of Manali.

       Many feel calling the Wizard by the title of the Wicked Ones as clear disrespect but if Wizard Habenzy feels slighted he does not express it.

       General Lehani Disamana sitting in the center of the gallery says confidently, Our Principal Intelligence tells us we have more capabilities than The Preeminent can handle. The war will be over quickly if she comes at Manali and her Allies.

       The Gallery applauds feeling proud about their own might. The wizard cannot help but to see their pride as arrogance. Citizen IIsh Balum, General Silas and a few others do not clap as adamantly as the others. They know the others of this gallery do not want to admit primitive weapons can be greater than the feats they have created in the last few hundred years. Manali has been taught this lesson before but still many have not learned.

       I wish your words were true General Disamana, says an obviously concerned Wizard Habenzy.

       Most of the crowd scoffs and dismisses him. They do not believe any force is stronger than Manali.

       This battle will take the strength and spirit of all. The times are changing and you do not see it. The Queen or as you call her the Preeminent will fight her battles in unorthodox ways even compared to the Orisha, Ismungugu or the Blight, warns Wizard Habenzy.

       Citizen Dru Eme stands he has heard enough and has run out of patience.

       We have graciously heard your words and will take them under advisement. I for one do not want to place my future hopes onto a fairy tale, says Citizen Dru Eme.

       The crowd agrees. They rise up walking out of the room clearing the hall quickly. Citizen IIsh Balum walks up to Wizard Habenzy. His two assistants follow him communicating on headset and tablets.

       I am sorry you were unable to open them to your way, Citizen IIsh Balum says sympathetically.

       Wizard Habenzy responds suspiciously, So am I. Yet I have to question your sincerity.

       Citizen IIsh Balum laughs boisterously.

       Believe me I truly do. I know what is coming, as I am certain you do. I only wish I was one of those that will have the future.

       I am certain you will have your part to play.

       Citizen IIsh Balum wonders glancing over to where Valens sat.

       Perhaps… perhaps… I only wish I could be more of service. Even if most do not believe, there are those who do not want to take any chances that what you propose will come to pass. They will try to stop you and I do not have the resources to assist you.

       I understand.

       Both are in agreement of the threat others may pose. The men wonder what these factions may or may not do next.

       These are indeed interesting times. This is the best era in history to be alive.

       Wizard Habenzy again cannot help but to nod his head in agreement while looking at Citizen Balum smile. They shake hands. As the Wizard turns away another man from the council meeting comes to him. The two of them seem more familiar with one another. Citizen Balum walks off intrigue about what they may converse about.

       It is good to see you again sir, says the colossal muscular man in military ceremonial garb.

       As it is you General Silas.

       I have something I must show you, the General whispers.

       General Silas gestures towards a door. When they enter he first makes certain they are alone inside the room. Then he locks the doors. He takes out his source tablet placing it on the table. Over the table is a large transparent widescreen. As his tablet activates an image of a map appears on it and simultaneously on the widescreen. General Silas presses his tablet over the name Majan. Images of a destroyed town appear on screen.

       Wizard Habenzy cannot believe what he is viewing. The General can see these images have affected him. He did not think anything could.

       I know this is one of the villages you have a covenant with. I was to ask if you knew why this has transpired but I can tell you did not know of this.

       I did not.

       Do you know the reason to why this has happened?

       Wizard Habenzy stands quietly watching the picture alteration of the devastation. He avoids the General’s question. The General knows not to press the Wizard for answers he is not willing to give.

       General Silas continues, The town was attacked by Armaki, because of the distance between Majan and Manali many do not see this as a threat.

       I see.

       General Silas presses his tablet, showing the map again. What has concerned me is the Armaki were able to attack the village without affecting any other territory. As you know Armak are known to move in a straight line. Yet as you can witness vast amounts of land between their known environment and Majan are unscathed.

       The General scales and scrolls through the map on his tablet.

       How can this be?

       I do not know.

       What has Manali response been too your concerns?

       None, they comprehend it as a lone anomaly. They have proposed theories. Many do not believe the Armaki could have done this.

       What else could cause this destruction without any Allied City States’ monitors noticing? What reasons do you have for your convictions when others doubt?

       General Silas presses his tablet again. He alternates through image files. A picture appears of a broad cavern opening into the earth. It is a known sign of an Armak attack they come out the earth, strip the land clean then return from where they came. However the cavern is usually formed when a new colony has been created not for targeted attacks.

       "Those who argue against the Armaki have not seen this. If the people knew the Armaki could attack without warning…

       There would be panic.

       I fear worse. They would demand the military to act. An act I believe would lead to the destruction of my beloved city. I do not want this to be our future. The Armaki do not attack cities but if they can target a village they can target us.

       I most depart to see this for myself, my friend. Hopefully we will be able to avoid this fate.

       I must ask, after seeing and hearing the words of the Gallery Council. Can I still count on your presence to stand with Manali on the battlefield?

       My position on my alliance has not changed even with their shortsightedness.

       Until then, travel well my friend.

       Wizard Habenzy nods to him then walks out quickly.

CHAPTER TWO

       Wizard Habenzy briskly walks out of Manali’s Council City Hall among mass pedestrians. Hi-tech buildings are as far as the eye can see, covered in pinkish and purplish flowers. They are artificial, photovoltaic, one of the many sources of energy the city relies on.

       Most of the people are too engaged in their own devices or lives to give him a second glance. In the past a wizard standing anywhere made people congregate, it was an event for all to behold, admire and even worship but now in the city they do not give them a second thought, if they recognize one at all.

       His pupil stands waiting for him outside. Once being a pupil of the Quadrivium would draw great attention as well, most do not even notice his garbs. He is wearing a smaller dark blue robe with a single belt, long baggy pants with overlapping cloths over them hanging from his waist tied with twine clipped with iron buckles with masks embossed on them, leather boots to his shins.

       On the front of his robe a small stylized emblem and the same larger on his back of an Aardvark. He carries a pouch over his shoulder it mostly holds his supplies for short travels but in this matter items for his day to day affairs. When he sees his teacher he steps to him in haste.

       How did it go, asks Mage Dakarai?

       The Wizard looks to the sky.

       Mage Dakarai says disappointed, That well.

       There is a short pause between them.

       Mage Dakarai continues speaking, What do we do now?

       We did not ask for much yet we have no assistance. We have no choice. We will have to change events ourselves.

       The Wizard begins to walk. His young pupil is lost in the idea not certain if this is something he can handle. The Kesia is the weight of legend far beyond his skills and dreams he thinks. He notices the Wizard has left him. He hurries after his teacher quickly catching up even with the crowded streets.

       How are we to do that, asks Mage Dakarai continuing as if the conversation had no pause?

       He knows the answer. He knows what will have to be done but he wants to hear his teacher say it, to give him focus and perhaps some confidence. The Wizard knows this and says it as best he can for his pupil.

       We will need the Kesia, the Heart of Ogun. We will have to connect it ourselves.

       You said they were to be kept apart no matter the situation. You said such things should stay myth, should stay in the past. You said such things should never be relived.

       He has been taught this lesson since the first accounts he has heard of the Kesia. They are to never be reconnected. These things will bring doom and destruction yet here is his teacher saying the exact opposite.

       The situation demands old systems of thought and belief be revised, says Wizard Habenzy calmly.

       Mage Dakarai is worried but faithfully follows his teacher. They walk though the crowds of Manali, the people are an assortment of brown shades; from skin as dark as obsidian to a pale brown hue. Even a few albinos walk among them. City States are one of the few safe refuges for them. In most of Songhaia they are reverend as magical which has been a blessing and a curse depending on the region or society.

       Mage Dakarai is gravely concerned. He looks at the pedestrians none of them aware of what he knows, what he is to endure. In the duration of being in the Wizard’s tutelage he cannot think of a situation when his teacher did not have some plan nor anytime his intentions did not come out for the better. He can only believe this will be the same.

       They make their way to a commodious park in the city. They walk to paths and trails rarely if ever taken by the ordinary Manali denizen. They come to small grove of trees. The Wizard waves his hands. Tree branches separate they walk through to a new path. Branches cover the pathway as they past the threshold blocking the entry from others walking by, veering from the trail or above crossway, or spying.

       Wizard Habenzy waves his hand towards the ground. It opens to steps. They make their