The Tale of the Voice of Thunder

By Aaron T. Woodhouse and Jessica Woodhouse

Epikus, the crown prince of the Kingdom of Zen, must choose a path to become king. After years of peace, his father's old nemesis Otar rises once again to take his kingdom and crown. Epikus grows in his power, from the Voice of Thunder to the Warrior's Boon, and learns the strength it will take to lead in this epic tale of conquest and vengeance! Will Epikus be able to defeat the dreaded evil threat?

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Nov 23, 2018
• ISBN: 9781543953398

Book preview

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, organizations, places, and events portrayed in this work are either products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

Copyright © 2018 by Aaron T. Woodhouse

Copy, reproduction, representation, or use of any part of this work, text, illustration, art, or music without written consent of the author is prohibited.

EPIKUS™ is a Registered Trademark

eBook ISBN: 978-1-54395-339-8

Foreword:

I must give many thanks to Jessica Woodhouse for the wonderful illustrations. Also to my mother and father and everyone who has been at my side since day one. This one’s for you!

Dear Reader/Listener:

This work is a unique presentation that includes not only the written story and art, but includes music as well. This book was inspired by the musical creation of the same name. The author has created a musical album (CD) which is available (either digital or physical copy) that tells the story of Epikus in song.  In fact, the book was written with the intent that the reader should read the book simultaneously as the music is being played! Each of the chapters of the book are written and entitled the same as the songs on the CD. To enjoy the full experience of the story of Epikus and The Voice of Thunder, I highly recommend that you obtain a copy of the CD* and enjoy the unique experience of reading and listening to The Voice of Thunder as it was created and intended.  The CD is not a narration of the story in the book.  It is EPIC Music written to enhance the story and the overall, unique experience that the reader will have as they enjoy the account of young Epikus! 

As you are reading you will come across a musical note symbol: ♫ This symbol represents the signal to the reader that it is time to turn on the music during that chapter in the book. By selecting the same song title as the chapter title that is being read, and turning on the music at the designated place, you will receive the best experience of the book, and will enjoy the three art forms presented and intended: word, art, and music that are associated with the book and the CD and the story of that particular chapter. At the end of each song, turn off the music and finish the chapter. Then, as you continue reading the next and each subsequent chapter thereafter, you will find the ♫ symbol and you will know that it is time to turn on the music and play the song that corresponds and is titled the same as the chapter you are reading. Of course, you can listen to the CD and read the book solely and enjoy them. However, the intent and best experience comes with having the music and the book together! I hope you enjoy this unique adventure. I know I did in creating it. More stories and music are coming in the life of Epikus. Thank you for your support. And, AS ALWAYS: STAY EPIC!    -EPIKUS

* To obtain a copy of the music album in either digital or physical formats, please proceed to https://www.epikuscomposer.com to purchase.

Table of Contents

One: The Kingdome of Zen and the Voice of Thunder

Two: Warrior’s Boon

Three: Hero’s Might

Four: Otar the Foul

Five: The Great Loss

Six: Wartorn Tears

Seven: Reflections

Eight: Tale of the Stalwart

Nine: The Final Showdown

Ten: Rite of Conquest

Eleven: EPIKUS

One: The Kingdom of Zen and The Voice of Thunder

The noise was deafening as it penetrated his young mind. The noise of thousands roaring in cheers and merriment, though it was annoying and bothersome as the young lad, Epikus, hurried to keep up with the longer strides of his father, Elric. Another victory, another win for the kingdom, written into its long history of victories. The kingdom of Zen had long been held in high regard (by good and ill alike) for centuries, and though enemies derided its glory, they could not deny its powerful presence and continual peace and prosperity.

Elric, his young son in tow, made his way through the crowds of jubilant and celebrating people to a raised platform set in the center of the plaza and market square of the city. The people were gathering to hear what their king would have to say. Elric mounted the stairs, turning every so often to help his son manage. Upon reaching the top, the cheering ended abruptly, and all bent the knee. Elric spread his arms, and with a loud voice spoke to them. It seemed, now, that his voice was echoing off the far walls of the entire city.

Rise! My people - friends, kin, noble, and common folk alike - hearken to me! We have won yet another victory for our kingdom, and we are safe from the tyranny of the Three Lordships once and for all!

His voice boomed across the way - deep, powerful. The crowd, having risen to their feet, erupted into thunderous applause once again!

A grin spreading across his bearded face, Elric raised his hands once more, and the applause died down again, This day, we are to celebrate! Make merry yourselves, and be of good cheer: for the powers that strove against us shall ne’er strive again! A celebration, yes, of grand proportions, is to be held here in this square! Do not delay in preparing, for we have truly entered into an era of peace and plenty!

Another, shorter uproar from the crowd.

Elric raised his arms again, hushing the crowd, I must speak of a more personal matter, regarding my son here.

Placing his hand on one of young Epikus’ shoulders, "Epikus has reached the age of choice! Tonight, we shall hear of what he has pondered over the last few years, whether he shall be a warrior or a magister, we shall see! Now go forth, beloved people of Zen, for you have claim to joy and great things this day! Your support and love have been felt and sustained me over the years and through this last conflict! We shall all