Loreila - Echoes from the Past

By Nicholas Soleil Chai

***Enjoy their adventure with 7 fully colored illustrations!***
“No, not again. Please! Anyone … Anything!” Rouxnet screams as the mutated beast is about to rip his best friend apart. And his plea evokes the Primordial Spirit Lord of the Wind, making him its vessel.
Living under the shadow of his suppressed trauma, he deems the lives of his friends above his. So when the lineage of his close friends reveals to be the true heirs of Ethelia, he has no hesitation to join them in the quest to regain the kingdom or die protecting them.
Yet, the lurking shadow who seems to know his true identity pulls strings from all over the lands, laying lethal traps to ensnare them.
Now, he needs to gather allies, learn to control his newfound power, and become ever stronger to protect his friends. Or risk watching his friends die because of him, again.
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Embark the journey with Rouxnet and friends across Loreila, a world closely relates to our own, the Earth.
As the equilibrium of the two worlds gets threatened by different schemes and desires, what would our heroes do?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Nicholas Soleil Chai
• Release date: Jun 29, 2020
• ISBN: 9789811445897

Book preview

Resolve

PROLOGUE

Frantic, anxious, and chaotic. Such was the maelstrom of emotions writhing in the residents of the prestigious House Noir El, and, with no other clear options, the House could only stand in disarray. Every tick on the clock marked the impending arrival of ambassadors from several great nations. All awaited the result the House had been researching, yet the key figure was nowhere to be found.

Where are the young master and his assistant?

Find him, quickly!

We have no more time!

The air grew heavy with the weight of those words.

Twenty-year-old Daniel Noir El approached his authoritarian grandfather in the man’s pristine study. As always, the wide room with its tall white walls and minimal furnishings exuded an intimidating aura. Though he stood six feet tall, Daniel felt small in his grandfather’s presence.

Grandfather, representatives from the United Arab Emirates have arrived at the Zurich airport, he respectfully informed Richard Cladius Noir El, the man who wielded the highest authority of the House.

I see. Is he still nowhere to be found? Richard asked, his voice steady

I am afraid not. Our men have combed through the mansion, but to no avail.

Very well. Bring Lerion to me, Richard commanded.

Understood, Grandfather. Daniel left the room to comply with his grandfather’s request.

Moments later, Lerion knocked on the door. Grandfather, I have arrived.

Come in.

Lerion opened the door and approached his grandfather. What is it you called for, Grandfather?

Looking into Lerion’s eyes, Richard said, Lerion, I want you to take Xerion’s place.

But that research belongs to Xeri! Lerion protested in shock. No one knows about Subject E better than him!

You are one of the key researchers. With both him and his assistant missing, you are the most knowledgeable resource remaining to us.

But … Lerion faltered, a noncommittal whine emitting from his throat.

Lerion, the austere man called out in a stern voice, cutting off the meek boy’s whine. There is no room here for your sentiments. You do understand how precarious our situation is right now, don’t you? Upright, hands behind his back, unforgiving tone—everything about Richard’s posture told Lerion that his grandfather’s mind was made up and nothing could change it; the order was cast in stone.

Yes, I understand, Grandfather. I will prepare for it. Lerion bowed his head. He could only succumb to his grandfather’s authority.

Walking to the balcony of his office, Richard set his gaze far away into the distant sky. Subject E, he whispered. "The wheel has begun to spin …

CHAPTER 1 -

Telltale Signs

Stupid Lionel! Under the morning sun, the boy’s glittering, silvery hair fluttered across his cerulean eyes as he fled, his face contorting into an expression of panic and anger. Why did you agitate that boar? he shrieked at his best friend.

The early birds perching on tree branches raised their beaks into the frigid air and chirped their morning melodies while the golden sun ascended from the horizon. Gentle smoke wisped to the sky from the red-bricked chimneys of many homes. Families of Fiolus filled the cold and lonely stone-paved streets with warmth and bustling crowds. It was a usual start to the day, except for the pair of fifteen-year-old boisterous boys.

But that boar looks delicious! Lionel, running for his life, replied to his friend, Rouxnet, without sparing him a glance. Dinner! Dinner! Think on the bright side!

My foot! It’s an armored boar! I’m so gonna curse you if I die here!

Impossible! Cause I’ll be kissing the mud with you! Lionel joked, though the bright red hair he’d pulled back and tied up had turned into a disheveled mess.

Ugh, think! Think! Rouxnet scoured the landscape for any clues out of this mess. And then, a glimpse of hope.

Lionel! Rouxnet pulled out his rivol and fired a few shots at the boar’s armored head. The energy bullets barely scratched its skin, but he managed to enrage the boar even further and diverted its attention to him. He then made a sharp right turn and began casting a mystic seal. As soon as he visualized the symbols which empowered jumps, they materialized beneath his legs. Tensing his muscles and focusing his strength on the mystic seal, he propelled his jump high into the air, leaping over a thick, messy patch of grass. Through his precise aim, he fired a few more shots at the boar and smirked. Come.

The raging boar charged toward him, and then, his plan worked. The boar tripped on the foliage beneath it and crashed to the ground, stunned, but only for a few moments. That was all he needed.

With a loud war cry, Lionel swung his massive sword down into the boar’s soft neck, his momentum driving the killing blow. The boar yipped, and then laid lifeless.

The two boys slumped onto the ground, looked at each other, and then began to laugh.

That … that was scary! Rouxnet guffawed while still trying to catch his breath. He could see his friend’s crimson eyes still glinting with excitement.

It’s fun, but I’m surprised you thought of using this. Lionel patted the grass beneath him.

Nettle vines. Saw Felix tripping on them a few times.

You really gambled with your plan. Lionel stood and patted his pants clean.

I had no time! You knew what I was thinking anyway. Rouxnet was still on the ground, his heart racing.

Lionel grinned and extended his hand to his friend, who gratefully accepted the gesture. With the prey lying on the ground, Lionel eyed his companion with puppy eyes. Roux?

No. I’m tired. Carry it yourself. You chose that.

Lionel groaned as he hoisted the boar onto his shoulders.

*

We’re back! Rouxnet greeted his family of fellow orphans as he pushed open the wooden door of their house.

Welcome ba—Wow! What’s that? Clara exclaimed as she caught sight of them.

Oof! Lionel heaved as he lumped the boar onto the floor. Dinner, he proclaimed with pride, wiping the sweat from his brow.

Uh, but I don’t think we can eat it like that. Clara peered closely at the boar’s hard, stony head.

We can sell the head in the marketplace. Merchants are coming today. So please—Argh! Rouxnet groaned in pain as a sudden impact rammed his abdomen.

Stupid Rouxnet! Felix—one of the younger boys in the house who, for some reason, held some animosity for Rouxnet—laughed and ran away.

Felix! Clara shouted, but the lad had already run from sight. Are you all right?

Y-yes, he replied, his hand still pressed on his throbbing abdomen. Anyway, can you please chop this up before Aunt Miranda sees it? I think she’ll be back soon. But his plan was for naught.

See what? a woman’s voice asked in a chilly tone from right outside the door. Rouxnet spun around to find a pair of furious eyes pinning them down.

A-Aunt Miranda, Lionel stammered at their furious plump caregiver. With her hands on her hips, she breathed down at the boys.

We need to talk.

With that, the two were made to sit on the floor and listen to Miranda chastise them for their actions. Her lecture was the infamous everlasting nagging, or at least that was what the kids in the house secretly called it.

Though it was Lionel’s fault, Rouxnet endured the lecture alongside him, but made sure to pinch his friend with all his might, channeling his frustration into it. Seeing his buddy’s face writhe in pain while he suffered in silence, Rouxnet sighed and decided to forgive him.

Alas, with half the morning gone, Miranda finally let them off the hook.

*

Roux! Hurry! Lionel’s boyish voice shouted across the street in an energetic tone.

Just slow down! Rouxnet was already out of breath, and his tiredness showed in his voice.

We can’t! Isn’t that because you wanna visit the library first? We have to hurry, or we’ll miss the fun in the marketplace!

That’s … because I wanna return the books!

The two boys ran toward the library, which was housed in a minor sanctum—a small temple where the people offer their prayers to the symbols of their religious faith, the Twin Stars.

How … just how can you run so long … while lugging that thing on your back? No less … upslope! Rouxnet panted when he finally caught up to his buddy, who’d stopped to wait for him. He doubled over, still gasping for air, both hands on his legs.

You run out of breath so fast. You should do this more often, like me! Instead of holing yourself in the library all the time.

Ugh, shut up! Rouxnet furrowed his eyebrows as sweat dripped down his cheeks. At least I’m faster than you! Indeed, Rouxnet had the speed of the wind. He had no trouble winning against anyone in Fiolus over a short distance.

Hey! I can beat you any day in swordplay, too!

No fair! You’ve been training since you were born. I’d be good if I’d done the same.

Yeah, but not before Master Odius knocked you out a time or two. Or many, many times, Lionel said with a deadpan expression.

Rouxnet shuddered at the mere memory of Odius’ lessons. Through his vast experience in both physical and mystical combat, he frequently put Lionel and his elder brother, Lloyd, through rigorous training. Rouxnet had been under his regimen, too, ever since he and his elder sister, Friyona, were taken under the wing of the shelter. Three months before, Rouxnet and Friyona had stumbled upon Home Pinoli at the top of a hill and decided to stay for a night. But the caregiver, Miranda, took them in. After that, the two pairs of siblings had gotten along very well—especially Rouxnet and Lionel. They did almost everything together, from exploring the wilderness to sparring with each other.

I think it’s a good thing for you, Lionel said, setting his hands on Rouxnet’s shoulders. You were so skinny the first time we met! At least you’ve more brawn on you now. He sounded almost sympathetic.

I don’t need your pity. Catching the vibe, Rouxnet gave him a cold glare. But within, he knew it was a blessing. I’m a boy! I have to grow stronger!

And I, Lionel said with his hand on his chest, will help you!

Seeing Lionel’s face made him reaffirm his resolution to protect his friends.

Arriving at the minor sanctum on the top of a small, lush hill, Rouxnet scanned the temple as usual. Just like the cottages they walked past along the streets, it was washed in an array of colors—red brick stones, grey stone floors, lush green flora, and many different attractive flowers. He found himself mesmerized at the vibrancy despite having seen it many times.

All right, I’m gonna wait for you outside. Going in reminds me of classes. Lionel grimaced and groaned.

Letting him be, Rouxnet entered the sanctum and walked towards the library. As he crossed the nave, he always stared at the symbol of the faith—the stone statues of two adult male figures that greatly resembled each other. Every time he looked at them, he felt a strong sense of familiarity. But that shouldn’t be, because he had no memories of his past. If anything, his memory was only three months old, from the day he joined Home Pinoli.

Rouxnet was promptly greeted by the librarian at the wooden counter as he entered the library. Good morning, I want to return these books. He took out the books and put them on the desk.

All right. By the way, Friyona is here too, the librarian said as she pointed over. Following her finger, Rouxnet turned his head and saw his sister reading a thick book with several others stacked beside her.

Okay, thanks! As he walked over, he ran his fingers over the wooden desk and felt its smooth varnished surface, enjoying the smell of the old books and the wooden shelves. As it coupled with the cooling breeze that blew in through the opened windows with the gentle sunlight, the interior of the library brought out a rustic feel, which struck a chord in his heartstring. Rouxnet gave a tiny smile. Friyona, he called out.

Oh, you’re here. Friyona pushed her blond fringe aside and raised her head, tilting her bun and hairpin slightly. Rouxnet watched her hairpin’s ivory fan-like top shimmer from the window’s light, and remembered how she said it had been a gift from him a long time ago.

Wanna return some books. What are you reading?

Just some history. You’re here alone? Friyona asked, closing her books.

Lionel’s outside. He doesn’t like to come in; said it reminds him of classes.

Friyona chuckled. He and the kids are having classes here after all. I heard Lloyd had his here too when he was younger.

How much did you mess with him before he had to tell you that? Rouxnet walked over to the section for books about mystic arts and began browsing.

Just a little, Friyona replied, and Rouxnet could hear her let out a little giggle. So, you’re going to borrow books on the mystic arts again?

Uh huh. I’m trying to look for more advanced ones, but I don’t think this library has them, Rouxnet replied while scouring through the book, and then pulled out a few books. So now I’m just reading different ones to see if I can learn anything new. There’s even books about the elementals.

You’ve always been adept in this field, Friyona said. Rouxnet had heard that a few times from her, but that was about as much as she would say regarding his past. After a few probes that only resulted in her silence, he stopped asking.

It’s interesting that mystic arts are so integrated into this society, he commented. Everyone can use it, even meathead Lionel and the kids at home. As long as you understand the rules and can translate the effects into symbols, you can cast the seals with the desired result. Even our daily tools use mystic seals.

Not everyone can use them like you, Friyona replied. Casting several seals simultaneously and using complicated ones? Even I have some trouble doing that. The compliment made Rouxnet blushed a little.

Anyway, I’m done now. Rouxnet pulled out a few books and walked to the counter, Lionel’s probably bored stiff now. See ya back home.

All right.

Walking out of the sanctum, Rouxnet saw Lionel carrying a huge boar head over his back while squatting down, playing with a stray cat. He couldn’t help but let out a small laugh. I’m done. Let’s go.

Finally! Lionel stood up. I thought you holed yourself again.

Saw Friyona inside and chatted a little. They continued their trip.

The boys reached the marketplace. Neatly pruned trees and wooden boards plastered with a slew of sales advertisements flanked the short road. At the entrance to the market stood a tall, intricate stone archway carved with leaves and branches entwining the pillars.

The archway always awed Rouxnet with its towering presence. The thought of such expert craftsmanship and undying effort sent shivers down his spine, triggering his belief that he would never be able to accomplish such a feat. This arch always looks like a wonder. He stopped underneath it, tilting his head up to take it all in.

You always say that. Is it that unusual? Lionel asked, continuing ahead.

Of course, it is! Rouxnet’s eyes remained fixed on the arch. Can’t you imagine the skill and effort needed to build it? Whoever crafted it must have been adept.

Lionel stopped and turned around. Well, it’s a famous landmark, for sure. But who said one person built it?

Really? Surprised by this new revelation, Rouxnet raised his eyebrows at Lionel.

Of course! No doubt there was a master craftsman, but also many others helping him. The master craftsman designed the arch and worked on the main details while his assistants focused on the minor details. When they finished, they put the parts together and made it what it is today.

Rouxnet stared at Lionel with wide eyes, amazed by the process. He wondered why he’d always assumed just one person had made it. I see. So, he was not alone. He looked back at the arch.

Of course not! Who could build something so big all by themselves? Lionel laughed. We can build something great together, too! A huge grin split his face.

Really?

Count on me! Lionel then pointed ahead, We’ve arrived! Many stalls were already set up with a plethora of goods displayed.

There’s so many people! Rouxnet could not contain his excitement and ran toward the marketplace. Visiting merchants were a norm; however, merchants of different races were rare. This trip would be his first time seeing those outside humankind—namely, the elves and dwarves.

Lionel followed suit and ran after him into the crowd. Roux! Stay close! he called from behind.

Mmhmm, Rouxnet murmured, showing blatant indifference to anything Lionel said. He was too engrossed in all the new things around him, until he heard a voice shouting out to him.

Hey! Hey you! The shiny-haired one! a girl hollered.

Huh? You’re talking to m— Rouxnet turned to reply, only to be cut short by her striking appearance. She had pearly skin, long golden braids, and most importantly, a pair of long pointed ears.

You looked interested in the goods. I totally recommend the … Um, hello? You there? The girl waved her hand at the star-struck boy.

I’m sorry. It’s his first time seeing an elf. Lionel laughed and tapped Rouxnet’s arm to snap him back.

What? Your first time? Which rock are you living under? The elven girl chuckled. This is also my first time meeting a human who looked so struck to see an elf!

Hey! Crystal! a gruff-voiced boomed. Don’t be rude to the customers! A big burly man around two heads taller than them, a bushy goatee thriving on his face, walked into the conversation.

And yet, the first thing Rouxnet looked for was the giant’s pairs of ears. Oh, human, he mumbled in disappointment.

Yes, I’m human … I guess? the huge man replied with a confused expression.

Crystal broke into uncontrollable laughter. I-I can’t take … Gerald! This guy is too funny! She pressed her hands against her abdomen and wiped the tears from her cheeks.

Realizing his folly, Rouxnet blushed and scurried to explain himself. Oh, I didn’t mean to be rude! I had amnesia, so a lot of things feel like the first time. I might have seen elves in the past, maybe dwarves, too … He gave up. I’m sorry. I realize I was rude.

No, no, it’s fine! I know—how about if you buy something to make it up?

Oh! What do you have here? Lionel eyed the goods.

These are rings that help improve the mana flow. Specially made with our elven secret techniques! Crystal boasted.

Mana … I’m quite bad with mystic arts, Lionel admitted.

Yeah, that’s expected. You look too dumb to use these. Shiny-hair here seems better suited, Crystal said, brushing off Lionel casually.

Wha— Lionel was about to protest when another even louder voice blared in.

CRYSTAL! Gerald shouted at the brusque elven girl. Don’t be rude! He flicked Crystal’s forehead hard with his huge fingers, making a loud thud. It was painful enough for her to cup her forehead and squeal.

Heh! Lionel smirked.

I’m sorry for her rudeness. This is your first time seeing such a marketplace, right? To make up for it, she’ll give you a tour, Gerald offered.

No, it’s all right. I’m not mad. I mean, Lionel does look dumb sometimes. Rouxnet quickly waved his hands in refusal. He didn’t want to hassle anyone, especially when he believed it was his fault.

Hey, Roux! Don’t side with her! Lionel protested.

Heh! Crystal smirked.

No, I insist! Gerald wouldn’t budge. He then pushed Crystal out of the stall and gave her a pat on her back. Show them around, and DON’T be rude, he emphasized.

All right, all right. C’mon, there’s a lot of things to see here! I’m sure you’ll be interested. Crystal began to lead the way.

With that, the three of them introduced themselves and walked around the busy marketplace. Many elves flitted amongst the crowd, along with short and stout people—the typical characteristics of dwarves. Most dwarves were selling metalwork, which Crystal explained was their expertise. Rouxnet couldn’t help but try to siphon as much information into his head as his curiosity demanded.

Try not to stare too much. Dwarves wear wigs, Crystal said.

What? Really? Rouxnet gasped and stared even harder.

Nope, I’m just kidding, she replied, followed by fits of laughter. Lionel, is this guy for real?

Lionel chuckled. When he’s like this, he takes in everything. Don’t tease him too much.

How protective you are! But still, I’m honest with the ‘don’t stare too hard’ part. Dwarves are known to have a short fuse, she added. Short fuse, yet patient. Heh! Aren’t they contradictory? But perhaps that’s why they’re so good at working with the fire and earth.

You mean the elements? What about the elves? Rouxnet could feel his curiosity starting to fuel.

We can summon all elements, since we have much higher affinity than other races. But we usually focus on one.

Rouxnet could feel his lips grin from side to side. Races, elements, and affinity. He could feel his heart thumping as all sort of possibilities began to swirl in his head with excitement.

Anyway, it’s rare to see so many races together in the same place! Lionel said suddenly, breaking Rouxnet out of his mind.

Right! That’s why I joined this band of merchants! So glad I ran away from home. Crystal said.

Ran away? Rouxnet echoed.

Oops. You didn’t hear anything! She flashed a smile and walked ahead.

Not tactless enough to probe, Rouxnet and Lionel let it be and continued exploring the marketplace with her.

Oh, I’ve wanted to ask, do you guys happen to know a Halfling in this area? A half-human, half-elf, Crystal clarified.

I don’t know. Do you? Rouxnet turned to his buddy, only to see a fear-stricken face.

Do you mean Lazarus? Lionel asked in a trembling voice.

Yeah! That’s her name. She’s really famous, even in our lands, Crystal said. I’ve wanted to meet her.

Pe-perish that thought! Burn it! Evaporate it! Lionel protested vehemently. That old witch is really, really, and I mean REALLY dangerous!

Oh, okay. I’m just curious, that’s all. Crystal, clearly taken aback, laughed it off, and an awkward silence fell upon them. But soon, everyone started chatting again, forgetting the previous topic. They even managed to sell off the armored boar’s head for quite a sum, with the help of Crystal’s skill in upselling.

Lionel suddenly stopped in his tracks. Rouxnet, following closely behind and unable to stop in time, crashed into him.

Ouch! What? Rouxnet whined, rubbing his aching nose.

I can smell the bread! Lionel exclaimed. The aroma of the freshly baked bread soon wafted to Rouxnet, tickling his nostrils. Hurry! Lionel ran toward the stall like a puppy to a bone.

Lionel! Rouxnet tried to stop him but decided it was futile.

Is this his first time having bread? Crystal gaped.

He’s just a glutton. But the smell of the fresh loaves was too much for Rouxnet. Let’s go. With a tinge of embarrassment, he ran after Lionel.

Boys … I guess everywhere’s the same.

A girl wearing a red scarf over her brown ponytail hair greeted Lionel, and then she asked, Um, where is Rouxnet?

Good morning, Lisa! And one shiny-haired boy coming right up! Lionel pointed his thumb over his shoulder right as Rouxnet and Crystal caught up to him.

Ah! Good morning! Lisa blushed, her eyes downcast.

Good morning, Rouxnet greeted back. I didn’t know you set up a stall here today. You’re always so diligent. With that, Lisa’s cheeks flushed a rosy red.

Wow, the bread smells really delicious. Crystal put her face near the display and sniffed, not forgetting to tease Lionel. No wonder Meathead charged over like a boar.

Hey! Lionel protested.

Oh! Hi! Welcome! Lisa quickly greeted Crystal. She then stared at her for a few moments before turning to Rouxnet and Lionel. Who is this beautiful elven girl? Is she your friend? She twiddled her fingers as she whispered to them.

She’s with the merchants. She’s getting along really well with Lionel, too. Rouxnet gave his buddy a smirk.

We do not! Lionel denied. All she’s done is call me stupid!

I’m Crystal, nice to meet you. Crystal cut in. Then she grinned devilishly. You’ve got the hots for our silver-haired friend here? Her brazen question stumped everyone.

N-no! I’m … I’m just … Lisa’s face flushed to her ears. I need to bring out the bread now. She escaped to the back, out of everyone’s view.

Why did you ask that? We’re just friends! Rouxnet winced. To him, Lisa was simply a nice girl who worked hard, helping her grandmother in the bakery every day.

Poor girl, Crystal sighed.

You made her that, Bigmouth, Lionel shot back. Are all elves like you? I don’t remember so.

I’m special, Crystal boasted.

An old lady walked out from the back and asked with a kind voice, My my, Rouxnet, what have you done to my granddaughter? Wrinkles creased the crone’s face.

Huh? What did I do? Rouxnet asked.

Lionel grabbed Rouxnet’s head, tousled his hair, and answered to the old crone with a sigh. Forget it, Granny Emeri. This guy can be really dense. Then he turned back to Rouxnet and tousled his hair even harder. If only I were as good-looking …

Right. He does come off as a smart but dense kinda guy. Plus, he’s shiny. Too shiny, in fact. Crystal couldn’t help but add. His silvery hair is the reason I called out to him in the first place, she admitted.

What’s going on? Rouxnet asked again. Lionel, stop with my hair already! He groaned as he tried to push Lionel’s hand off, but to no avail.

Hmm, I can see that. It is exceedingly rare to find people with light hair like his. The old lady looked at Rouxnet. And with bright blue eyes, he is indeed eye-catching. No wonder my granddaughter is smitten. She giggled just as