Guardians of Lakaya: Volume 1

By Richmond Camero

For ages most of Anarri has been plagued by the Oblivian Rebellion. The Anarrians have felt its disastrous effects until now. Guier is tasked with helping one of the victims of the Rebellion: the village of Akisha. With his companions from Perennia,they are able to rebuild the village and give hope to the Akishan dwellers. As he and his companions leave for their hometown, the Akishan leader warns them of an incoming but unknown danger.

But the danger would come sooner than Guier expected. With his party's return to Perennia, bizarre phenomena begin to happen: the sky darkens and colossal pillars of light shoot out of the sky.

Is this the end of Anarri or the start of a new rebellion?

Guier must find out before it's too late.

Guardians of Lakaya: Volume One includes the first three books in the Guardians of Lakaya Series:
* The Catalyst
* Wrath of the Phoenix
* Smoke and Mirrors

• Language: English
• Publisher: Creative Wordscape
• Release date: Jan 11, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393196082

Richmond Camero

Richmond Camero is the author of the Guardians of Lakaya series. He tells stories from the fantasy and science fiction genre. He builds worlds inspired by anime, video games, books, and his experiences in real life. He molds characters from different ethnic backgrounds with diverse traits and larger-than-life goals. Richmond is working in the IT industry since 2010 and does his writing during his free time. He likes to read fiction and self-help books. He lives in the quiet town of Bulacan, Philippines.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

Guier walked toward the firelight and away from the comfort of his bed. The night was getting colder but the town of Akisha was alive. Guier rubbed his good left eye. I’m getting too old for this, he thought. The cold wind caught his long hair and beard and he held his cloak closer. With a sigh, he trudged toward the gathering crowd.

Akishans of different ages gathered in the town center. Guier felt comfortable with them around after his six-month stay in the village together with other Perennian soldiers. As he got nearer the bonfire, he heard drums and singing. He smiled.

The Akishans knew how to bid farewell.

As he reached the town center, he scanned the crowd. There were people dancing around the bonfire. Others were sitting on wooden benches carved from wide tree trunks, mugs of wine in their hands. Guier looked for his companions but he couldn’t find them in the crowd. He waited in a vacant spot far from the celebration.

As soon as he was settled, Guier noticed someone approaching. He was tall, his hair was trimmed but he grew his beard. Guier was sure that it was Dror.

Hey, old geezer, Dror told him. I knew I would find you here.

You have been enjoying yourself sufficiently, Guier said, noting the bottle of wine in Dror’s left hand and a wooden mug on his right.

Dror poured wine in the mug and offered it to Guier. Drink! You don’t get to taste wine like this in Perennia.

I don’t get to drink wine at all.

Humor me, Dror said.

Guier took the mug from Dror and took a sip. The wine tasted like berries and left an earthy aftertaste.

How do you like it? Dror asked.

It’s unique, Guier said. He felt the warm sensation of the concoction in his stomach and he thought the warmth useful against the cold weather.

Dror sat beside Guier, taking a gulp from his mug. We’re going back to Perennia tomorrow, Dror said. I will sleep all day.

But we still cannot rest, my friend, Guier replied.

Dror’s mug was halfway to its lips but he stopped. He held the mug with both of his hands. You’re right. There are many villages we need to restore.

The Oblivian Rebellion hit us hard. But we’ll persevere.

After a thoughtful silence, Dror spoke. Enough of that. We’ll get to all of them someday. But tonight, you need to celebrate. If not for us, do it for the Akishans.

Guier looked at the people, singing and dancing as if nothing had happened to them. I guess you’re right, he said with a smile.

Make way for Aban Yulik! An Akishan shouted. The celebration lulled into silence. The Akishans stopped dancing and gathered around the fire.

Let’s join them, Dror said.

Guier nodded and both of them stood up. They walked toward the bonfire and stood among the Akishans. The group of people opposite him parted into two smaller groups, creating a path between them. They were looking at Aban Yulik from the far end, waiting for him to pass by. The sound of footsteps crunching on the ground became louder and from the crowd, a cloaked man appeared. His cloak was pure white and it reflected the light of the bonfire. When he reached the center, the Akishans around him bowed low to the ground.

Aban Yulik raised both of his arms and the Akishans stood up. He withdrew the hood of his cloak and it revealed the face of a man hardened by time. His skin was tight and there were wrinkles in his eyes and around the lips. Yulik wore red paint in his face, but his was more intricate than the other Akishans, with vine-like pattern crawling across his forehead and the side of his face. He looked toward Guier and Dror. Tonight, we give honor to those who helped us rebuild, Yulik said. We have been through difficult and dark times, but the Twin Beings gave us the chance to live. Now, we are reborn.

The Akishans shouted in approval.

And this is because of Perennia’s aid. The Aban raised his hand toward Guier and Dror beckoning for them to come to him. Guier walked toward the Aban with Dror following him behind. They moved around the fire and stopped in front of the Aban. Yulik looked to his right and an Akishan came to him, bearing a long object wrapped in cloth. Yulik received it and turned to Guier. He bowed down and with outstretched arms, presented the object. He removed the cloth and it showed a sword sheathed in a golden scabbard filled with precious stones.

This is one of the most valuable treasures of the Akishan tribe, the sword of the first Aban, Yulik said. Please accept this as a sign of our gratitude.

Guier looked at the sword, his hands still beside his hips. We appreciate this gift Aban Yulik but we helped you because it was our duty. Guier pointed to the sword. This belongs to your family.

Yulik chuckled. You are modest, Gatekeeper. But the greatest of deeds deserves the greatest gifts. We owe our future to you. Yulik bowed and offered the sword to Guier. The sword gleamed, its luster magnified by the light of the fire.

If you will not take it, I will, Dror whispered between his teeth.

Guier threw Dror a glance. He held out his hands and bowed. We thank you for this gift, Aban Yulik, Guier said, taking the sword.

Yulik faced the Akishans and said, Today, we become Perennia’s brothers!

The Akishans shouted in response. The sound of drums and music swelled again in the air. One by one, the Akishans returned on their feet and moved near the fire. With their hips swinging and the wine in their cups sloshing, the celebration went up to its peak.

Guier handed the sword to Dror and he received it with a sheepish grin. He walked near Yulik and said, Thank you for your hospitality, Aban Yulik, he said. We are fortunate for being welcomed to your home.

Yulik waved his hands and said, No, it is us that should be thankful. You are of great help to us. Yulik bowed and walked away from them. The dancing Akishans made way for Yulik. Guier watched the Aban walked back to where he came from until he was out of sight. When Guier turned to Dror, he was already wrapping the sword with the cloth.

This is a beautiful weapon, Dror said, securing the wrap with several knots of rope. When Dror finished, they walked away from the celebration by the fire. I better put this in my pack.

I’ll join you. It’s time for us to retire, Guier said.

But the celebration hasn’t started yet. I intend to return here, Dror jested.

The pair started walking toward their camp. They passed through the houses of the Akishans, small cottages made of wood. With the Akishans joining the celebration, only a few cottages remained lit. Walking through the town for probably the last time, Guier remembered the times when they had dined with the townsfolk. They were merry and hospitable. Each supper felt like a feast. He smiled and promised himself that he would come back. Someday.

When they reached the outskirts of town, Guier thought of their other companions and he asked, Have you seen the others?

Wasn’t looking for them. Besides, they deserve to have fun.

As long as they’re not drinking themselves to death. We'll leave at first light.

Don’t worry, I’ll tie them to my horse and drag them if I have to, Dror said with a laugh.

They reached their camp and went to their cabin. They entered and were surprised to see their companions already packing their belongings. Guier counted the men in his head. Five. All of them were present.

Told you there’s nothing to worry about, Dror said, walking to his cot in the room’s corner. The Perennian soldiers greeted Guier with smiles and went back to their packs. Guier walked past them and realized something. He was worried that his companions would drown themselves in wine and merriment. But what he didn’t realize was that there was something greater than the celebration and was more fulfilling than Akisha’s wine on their minds.

It was going back home.

Guier felt a warm sensation in his chest and he allowed himself to relish it. He looked back at the Perennian soldiers around him, his brothers for the past few months. and smiled. It was time for them to come home.

* * *

At the break of dawn, the crow of a distant rooster rang through the cabin. Guier opened his eyes and listened to his surroundings. He heard the rooster’s crow again, but other than that, it was quiet. He sat up, deciding to start the day early. Dror and his other companions were still asleep. A few more minutes wouldn’t hurt. Guier stood up and made his way to the door. He left quietly and the soft breeze of dawn welcomed him. The sun was just rising, its rays peeking through the trees. Guier took a deep breath and he inhaled cold air with the scent of a stream nearby.

Peaceful, isn’t it?

Guier was startled and when he looked around, he saw Yulik. Aban Yulik, Guier said. Forgive me, I wasn’t expecting you.

Yulik chuckled. Sorry to give you a scare, my lad.

Guier noticed that the Aban was wearing a robe lined with fur to keep him warm. He studied Yulik’s face. His eyes always struck him and Guier could feel the power of the Aban through them. Yulik’s gaze always felt like he was seeing right through him.

Yulik held his hand toward the forest beside their camp. Shall we take a walk?

Of course, Guier replied. He allowed Yulik to lead. They walked away from the main road and went inside the forest. Yulik walked slowly, biding his time and observing the beech trees as if he was seeing them for the first time. They continued to walk for several minutes and when Guier looked back, he could only see the faint outline of their cabin.

I have to tell you something, Guier, Yulik said.

I’m listening, Guier replied.

Yulik looked at him, his lips curved into a frown. As you know Guier, I am very much connected with the Lifeblood around us. My connection with it has helped me and my people in different times. Sometimes, I can see a glimpse of what could happen. Yulik paused and he stared at the space before them. A few days ago, I had a vision of our future.

What did you see? Guier asked.

That is the problem, Yulik frowned and he turned to Guier. I am not sure what I saw. The earth shook and the sky split, and Perennia witnessed them all. The Perennian Lords were in grave distress. You too Gatekeeper. Yulik held Guier’s shoulders. I saw you wounded, not mortally, but wounded just the same. But beyond that, there was darkness.

Yulik was silent and Guier waited for him to speak.

The darkness was heavy, but what it conceals, I did not discover.

Guier thought about what the Aban had said and he cannot shake the feeling in his chest. Aban Yulik?

What is it? Yulik replied.

Do you think… Guier started. Do you think the Oblivian Rebellion is related to this?

Yulik sighed. I don’t know my child, but I hope not.

Guier heard laughter and chattering from where they came from. Yulik tilted his head at the direction of the sound and walked back to the camp.

Thank you for telling me this Aban Yulik, Guier said. I will relay this to the Perennian Lords when we return.

Send them my best regards. I’m sorry I am not much of a help, Yulik said.

This is more than enough, Guier said.

They reached the camp and found Dror standing outside facing away from them. Dror seemed to hear their footsteps and turned to them. Aban Yulik, Dror said, his eyes wide with surprise. He bowed to the Aban as greeting.

Yulik smiled at Dror and raised his right hand. He then turned to Guier and said, We’ll meet you at the village entrance to send you off.

Yes, Aban, Guier replied.

Yulik walked back to the village center. Dror and Guier watched him go.

I knew there was something going on when I saw your bed empty, Dror said.

Where are the others? Guier asked.

On their way to the stables. I said we’ll meet them back in town.

Guier nodded and said nothing more.

Is everything all right? Dror asked.

I’m not sure, Guier replied. I’ll tell you on our way back. We best get ready.

Guier retrieved his pack and his weapon, the Yggdrasil staff, from the cabin. He and Dror went back to the village and were met by the early risers. The scent of fresh bread and herbs filled the air. They went past the village center and into the stables, where they saw some villagers handing out salted meat and bread covered in leaves to the Perennian soldiers. Guier nodded to them in thanks and went to his horse. After half an hour, they rode to the village entrance, with Guier leading the way and Dror on the rear. The Akishans cheered them as they passed through their houses. They reached the entrance and found Yulik waiting for them, along with other Akishans.

Guier guided his horse to face Yulik. Come visit Perennia sometimes, he said.

I will, Yulik said, smiling. If my health permits me.

Guier smiled back. Until we meet again.

Yulik bowed. Akisha will always welcome you with open arms, he said. May Vethuri and Millad be your guide.

Guier nodded and reined his horse away from Akisha. The Perennian soldiers waved goodbye to the villagers. Dror was the last to depart after giving them a bow.

With the words of Aban Yulik still in Guier’s head, he led their way back to Perennia.

CHAPTER 2

I see it, one of the Perennian soldiers said.

Finally! Dror exclaimed, stretching his arms and adjusting his weight on his horse. I thought I’d be sleeping with insects for the rest of my life. He grimaced and said, My buttocks are sore.

Serves you right for not getting down from your horse, Guier said. The soldier was pointing to the Yggdrasil tree, standing over Perennia and rooted in the heart of it. Judging by the distance of the tree, Guier surmised that it would take them several more hours at best. It was late in the morning and if they maintained their speed, they would reach Perennia before nightfall.

Always a sight to behold, Dror said, appearing beside Guier.

Indeed, Guier replied.

Guier’s party continued on the final leg of their fourteen-day journey. The Perennian soldiers urged their horses to speed up to a gallop, only slowing down to allow them to regain their breaths. With the sun still visible in the late afternoon, they reached Perennia’s gates.

Guier rode in front of them and waited for the guards on the battlements to acknowledge him. The guards shouted with joy at their arrival, raising the gates to allow them inside. Guier rode through the gate with his companions closely behind. When they crossed the gate, there were only a few people on the streets. Some were sweeping the front of their homes, some were crouching on the ground gambling, and some were in clusters, exchanging stories and the day’s gossips.

One of the Perennian townsfolk noticed them as they passed through. Is that Guier?

One by one, the people around them looked up. They walked closer to Guier and the other Perennian soldiers to have a better glimpse of them. After a few moments, Guier’s squad found themselves surrounded by Perennia’s people, shaking their hands, giving them impressed nods, laughing with them.

They have returned!

Call your sisters!

I can’t believe that I’m this close to the heroes of Perennia!

Papa!

Guier turned his head to the small voice that spoke. At the same time, Dror steered his horse forward. He got off from the horse but his right foot got stuck from the stirrup. He shook it off and ran toward the child that called him.

Helga! Dror embraced her, then carried her in his arms. How is my little lad?

Helga laughed and embraced her father. Then she scratched her face and pulled the tip of Dror’s beard. Dror feigned pain and pinched her daughter’s chin. He put Helga down and when he straightened, a lady ran to him and wound her arms around his neck.

Oh, how I missed you, my love, the woman said.

Dror let go of his wife and held her face. I missed you too, Lili. I am here now.

I know. I’m just worried every time you are away. Lili said. Will you be staying for long?

I think so, Dror said. Lili looked at her with steely eyes and Dror laughed. Of course, I will. He held her wife’s face again. It’s good to be back.

Welcome home, love.

Behind Lili was a teenage boy, whose face was a younger version of Dror’s.

Dror crouched to level with the boy’s eyes. You taking care of your mom and sister, eh Spencer?

Yes, I am, Spencer replied, fumbling with his fingers.

Dror smiled and said, Come here.

Spencer went to his father and embraced him. We missed you, papa, he said.

I missed you too, son, Dror replied.

Guier dismissed the other soldiers that were with them. He then guided his horse near Dror’s family and greeted Lili with a nod. Dror gave him a wide smile. He walked to his wife, whispered a few words, and returned to his horse. Dror looked at Guier to signal that they could go. Lili and her children waved goodbye as Guier and Dror made their way to the heart of Perennia.

The Sanctuary.

I can’t wait to get back home and have supper with them, Dror said.

You could have stayed, Guier said.

Duty calls, Dror said. And besides, we need to report back to the Perennian Lords.

The pair rode in silence, smiling at the familiar sights of home. They passed through the Perennian houses, observing the progress that Perennia had made. Like Akisha, it too has found its way out of the destruction caused by the Oblivian Rebellion. As they went deeper into the center of Perennia, the stone houses lessened, replaced by trees of various kinds and sizes. The Yggdrasil grew larger above them. It was because of the Tree of Life that the Perennians were prohibited to build houses near it. Its roots had reached a great distance from its base, nurturing the ground and giving birth to smaller trees. They rode through the forest and the path widened leading them to the Sanctuary.

The Sanctuary was a citadel where the Perennian Lords resided. In its center stood the Yggdrasil. Vines from the tree adorned the walls of the citadel, giving the impression that it had a life of its own.

Guier and Dror approached the Sanctuary and saw a man standing on the grounds. His hair was dark gray and his face lined. The man was tall for an Anarrian. He stood nearly ten feet tall, his bulky features evident beneath his steel armor. He looked like a man in his late years but in reality, he already lived as long as the world existed.

The man waited for Guier and Dror to dismount and said, Welcome home.

Lord Gaea, Guier said. How did you know that we were coming? He stood in front of Gaea, looking small.

A little bird told me, Gaea replied, smiling. After a few moments, a great horned owl flew from the sky and perched on top of Gaea’s shoulder.

Of course, Guier said. Saab, it’s good to see you.

The owl bowed his head. Good to see you too, Master Guier. Did you have a great ride home?

I would not really call it great, Dror said. Tiring, but otherwise it was fine.

Nothing of great interest? Gaea asked.

None, my Lord, Dror said.

There were no signs of Oblivia on our way back, Guier added.

Good then, Gaea said, smiling wide. Come, let us convene with Serem and Kosmos. Gaea let Saab fly and walked toward the Sanctuary.

Dror retrieved the Aban’s sword from his mount and followed Guier and Gaea. They went through the Sanctuary’s entrance, a twenty-foot wooden door with a vine pattern embossed in its surface. In the main hallway, banners of Perennia’s insignia, a golden image of the Yggdrasil on a dark blue shield, lined the walls. They passed through several corridors and as they neared the heart of the castle, the vines crawling in the walls grew thicker. Finally, they reached the Sanctuary’s throne room.

The three of them entered and saw two figures standing in the base of the Yggdrasil. The concrete floor gave way to a pool of clear water.

I always feel nervous every time I’m doing this, Dror said.

It’s easy as walking on water, Guier replied.

Gaea laughed, his deep baritone voice echoing in the walls of the room. After you, Dror, he said.

Dror placed the first Aban’s sword on his back and walked forward hesitantly. He raised his right foot on top of the pool and a stone step rose from the water under Dror’s foot. Dror continued walking, the stone steps rising with the rhythm of his feet. Gaea and Guier walked beside him, creating their own path of rising and falling stones.

Dror was the first to step on the island in the middle of the pool. Lord Kosmos, Lady Serem, Dror greeted them with a bow.

Serem responded with a nod. Her hair was long reaching the ground and her skin was chestnut brown. Kosmos walked toward him, his long blonde hair swayed as he walked. Almost as big as Gaea, he picked Dror up with both of his hands. Good to see you, my friend! Kosmos said with a wide smile. He put Dror down and turned to Guier. He did the same, lifting Guier up with a hearty laugh.

Gaea stood in between Serem and Kosmos. Now, now, Kosmos, let’s not get too excited, Gaea said.

Forgive me, Gaea, Kosmos responded with a grin. He then assumed his position at the base of the Yggdrasil.

Gaea glanced at Dror and Guier for a moment and said, I suppose Akisha is now back on its feet.

Indeed, Guier replied. Aban Yulik expresses his gratitude. Guier gestured to Dror and he got the sword from his back. He walked forward and held the sword with his arms. Kosmos accepted Akisha’s token of gratitude. He drew the sword a few inches from its sheath and inspected the blade. The blade, like its sheath, was gold too. Kosmos smiled with satisfaction.

The Aban is too kind, Serem said.

Yes, Gaea said, nodding. And we will continue to aid them if the need arises. Well done, Gatekeeper. We have found a new ally.

Guier’s brows creased and he looked at each of the Perennian Lords. Aban Yulik told me something.

Gaea leaned forward and tilted his head on the side. What is it?

"A premonition. Perennia may be in