Corilia: Days of Darkness

By Joseph Hunninghake

The epic conclusion to the Corilian Trilogy, Tyler finally faces the entity that has lurked in the shadows of Corilia's extensive history.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Aug 27, 2017
• ISBN: 9781387192670

Book preview

Corilia: Days of Darkness

Corilia: Days of Darkness

Book 3

© 2017 Joseph Hunninghake.

All rights reserved.

All names, characters, and places are fictional or written about in a fictional nature.

Printed by Lulu

www.lulu.com

Illustrations by Matthew Fey

Akorat of Light

Akorat of Darkness

Akorat of Earth

Akorat of Air

Akorat of Fire

Akorat of Water

Chapter 1: Concerns

What are we going to do guys? Sapphire asked, looking at everyone gathered around the table in one of the Ancients’ meet halls.

Is she allowed to choose someone from Earth? Vorrek asked.

She’s the Queen of Corilia, The Chief answered. She’s allowed to choose whomever she pleases as her successor.

Is there any way she can change her successor to a Corilian? Gaius asked.

No, once a successor is named, the decision cannot be undone. The Chief responded.

The Queen is dying and to top it off, Coragus is freed. It’s only a matter of time before he starts the war to end all wars. It took the near extinction of an entire race to trap him in Uanu last time, not to mention now there’s only two Akorats! Tyler exclaimed.

But we’re the better two. Gaius said pounding his chest firmly with his fist and sporting an assured grin.

Indeed, Coragus is certainly a concern, but all will truly be lost if our Queen dies before her successor is found. The Chief said.

I feel sorry for the poor girl. Being thrown the title of queen is overwhelming. Sapphire said, who was named queen of Aka’ra after the death of her father.

Well, she’ll have all of us to help her. Vorrek said.

That’s right, Gaius said. We shouldn’t worry about overwhelming her, we should worry about getting her here.

Is there anything in Uanu? Tyler asked.

I have ordered Ancients to search for a way. It is only a matter of time before something is uncovered, The Chief said. In the mean time, you and Gaius should visit the Queen. Sapphire, you have your own responsibilities as queen of Aka’ra that you must tend to. Vorrek, your responsibilities as our ambassador have grown significantly. I trust you will help Sapphire in her time of need.

Vorrek nodded and the Chief dismissed them all to return to their duties. Tyler sat behind, waiting for Sapphire to exit the room. Neither had spoken one-on-one since their kiss only days before, and Tyler was terrified of that inevitable conversation.

When he could no longer hear Sapphire speaking with Vorrek, Tyler stood and left with Gaius, who had stayed behind as well, unknowing of the situation between the two.

Are you and Sapphire alright? Gaius asked.

About as alright as we could be. Tyler answered cryptically.

What’s that supposed to mean?

We’re fine! Tyler said quickly.

Just wondering, boyo. Can’t be havin’ you off, not at a time like this. Gaius stated, but Tyler remained silent.

When they completely exited the Hall onto the grasslands Tyler asked, How are we gonna do this?

Do what? Gaius responded.

"Any of it! We have to find Garla’s successor and worry about Coragus, who happens to be the beast that corrupted the Akorats during the Great War and apparently started four others just like it!"

But this isn’t happening all at once, Gaius said. Coragus hasn’t started any campaign or even appeared since he was freed, and Garla is still alive, we have time to take these things in stride.

I wish I could see things like you do. Tyler said seriously, but Gaius chuckled and they teleported to the Queen’s island. They appeared at the port where they took a carriage ride to her castle. The two Akorats were guided by one of the Queen’s maidens high up the tower to the Queen’s chamber where she lay in bed dying silently.

Her room was even more spacious than Tyler envisioned it would be. It was constructed from a subtle blue-shaded stone accented by veins of white that streaked through it. The stone looked beautiful in the sunlight that flooded the room from the wide-open balcony at the far side of the room.

The center of the room sat in a large square space that sank three steps below the main floor. On each corner of this space was a large pillar constructed from white polished, marbled stone. In this shallow pit was the Queen’s large bed. It was constructed from a beautiful light brown wood and had a white canopy hanging lazily above it. Amidst the numerous pillows on this bed lay the dying Queen, Garla Cordia.

The Queen smiled as the two Akorats entered, awed by the craftsmanship of the entire room.

You are the first men in several millennia to see this chamber. The Queen said with a gentle smile, attempting to lighten the mood.

Why’s that? Tyler asked.

Now what business would a man have in the Queen’s bedchamber? Gaius retorted, Only her husband would have business here, and we all know there’s no King of Corilia.

I was just being polite and keeping conversation! Tyler snapped back.

The Queen chuckled to herself as the two Akorats bickered. Finally, Gaius turned to face the Queen.

I apologize for the dimness of my colleague, Your Highness.

As am I. Tyler added as the two Akorats glared at each other, both holding back their mischievous grins.

You two have never ceased to entertain me! The Queen said with a smile.

The two walked to the Queen’s bedside where they knelt down beside her.

My Queen – Gaius started but was cut off.

Please, Gaius. Even now you do not use my name? She said softly.

I could never bring myself to drag such an immaculate creature down to my level by using anything other than your reverent title. He responded.

Before I was Queen of Corilia, my father always warned me of men like you, with your honeyed words and silver smiles!

An uncomfortable Tyler then cut in with his own question, So Garla, how are we supposed to find your successor? We only know of the keys, but they bring Akorats to Arimorius. Is there by chance a key for the Queen?

You mustn’t trouble her, Tyler, she wants to be at peace! We are perfectly capable of figuring this out for ourselves! Gaius started, hoping the Queen will find another laugh at their bickering.

Tyler did not see what Gaius was doing, unintentionally playing into his game, I wasn’t troubling her, it’s a perfectly reasonable question!

The Ancients are looking for a way in Uanu, we’re here simply to pay our respects.

Well I figured she could help us. Tyler said but before Gaius could respond, the Queen chimed in with a smile on her face.

It is not impossible. In fact, Tyler, you know the path you must take, the trick is finding it.

Couldn’t you just tell us? Tyler begged, That would make life so much easier!

I am afraid I cannot. You need the challenge else you will not grow. You will be faced with great pain, you must be capable of considering everything when you are alone, and only have yourself to look to for comfort. The Queen said.

Your wisdom confuses me. Tyler said bluntly, and the Queen gave a weak laugh.

What must we do to find your successor? Gaius asked and Tyler whipped around to face him.

Really? You snap at me for bringing up the topic then you turn around and ask that?

At least I didn’t bombard her with the question when I walked in!

Neither did I! Tyler snapped back

Oh right, you asked what purpose a man has in a woman’s bedchamber!

It was a fair question!

It shouldn’t have been a question at all!

Boys! The Queen uttered, and the two apologized in unison. She started to laugh but it was short-lived as she went into a coughing fit. Quickly one of the maidens brought over a crystal glass with clear water. The Queen drank it and her coughing ceased. Both Akorats felt sadness overcome them as they saw their friend and queen dying before them.

Finding my successor will not be the most difficult challenge you will face. Open your hearts and minds to all possibilities, and most of all, remember who you are and where you both come from. It is in your identities that you will find the strength to overcome your future challenges. With a wave of her hand, a maiden brought over something wrapped in a velvet cloth. The Queen took it and unwrapped it, revealing a transparent crystal.

She handed it to Tyler who asked, Will this help us locate your successor when we do happen to make it to Earth?

Think of it as a countdown. When you locate my successor have her hold the crystal. It will flash once and all colors will sparkle within it. Should I pass on before you can return with her, the crystal will turn black and the current line of the Cordian Queens will cease to exist, surely dooming Corilia to the darkness of Coragus. She will be necessary for you to overcome this evil.

The two Akorats nodded, stood up, and at the Queen’s bidding leaned toward her and she kissed both of their foreheads, then they departed. The two walked silently all the way to the edge of the castle property when the Chief arrived with two other Ancients.

Chief what brings you here? Gaius asked, surprised to see him.

I figured you two would still be here so I spared you the trouble of looking for me. The Chief answered, We discovered a way to travel to Earth in Uanu.

That’s wonderful! Tyler exclaimed, Let’s get going.

But the Chief stopped him, Unfortunately, it is one way. It would be impossible for you to return.

Their excitement tanked. They all stood in silence, pondering possibilities when Tyler hit his forehead with his palm, We can get the Ferryman!

Do you happen to know where he is? Gaius asked mockingly, He doesn’t exactly exist here on Corilia.

Chief, you speak with the Ferryman, can’t you contact him for us? Tyler asked.

Regretfully, I have no way to communicate with him. Every interaction I have had with him has been at his discretion. In other words, he finds me. The Chief answered.

That doesn’t even begin to answer all the questions I have right now, Tyler said, remembering his meeting with the Chief in the Ferryman’s realm seventy years before, but instead he figured out a solution to their problem. I got it! Maarid Rantigg has a way of communicating with the Ferryman!

I suppose if anyone would know, it would be a necromancer. The Chief said, slightly disheartened that he will have to speak to the former head of the Reapers again.

Before we go, do you think I could visit Sapphire? Tyler asked the Chief.

You must find the Queen’s successor as soon as you can. This trip would be a waste of time. He answered.

It’ll be quick. I haven’t gotten to see her outside of our meetings or have a conversation, and I may not come back from Earth. Tyler pleaded.

It is painfully unlikely you will not return from Earth, but against my better judgment I will allow you your visit. Gaius and I will be waiting for you at the necromancer’s home. The Chief answered and Tyler thanked him as he disappeared in a flash of light.

Tyler reappeared in front of the Akarian palace and entered to see his friend again. The guards have grown used to seeing Tyler in both his human and Akorat form and would bow their heads as he walked by.

He entered the main hall that bustled with the scribes and ambassadors of many different kingdoms and territories. Although, when he looked up at the throne that overlooked the hall, it was empty!

His heart sank, thinking that the only reason Sapphire would not be on the throne during that time would be because she had gone on a diplomatic visit somewhere.

Tyler? A voice asked from behind him.

He turned around to see Vorrek in handsome dark blue robes with a bewildered look on his face.

Vorrek! Tyler exclaimed and hugged his confused friend, Where’s Sapphire?

She’s talking with some ambassadors from Dashia. Why? Vorrek responded.

I want to talk to her before I go to Earth. Tyler said.

Vorrek was beyond surprised they had found a way so quickly, How is that possible? Are you and Gaius both leaving Corilia?

I don’t know yet. We’re going to try getting the Ferryman to take us. Tyler said, Now may I talk to Sapphire?

She’s been incredibly busy, but I’m sure she’ll make time for you. Vorrek stated and led Tyler out of the hall and down the beautiful hallways of the Akarian Palace.

The other kingdoms have not made her transition to Queen of Aka’ra easy. Like these ambassadors from Dashia, for example, Vorrek said. Simply put, they’re attempting to implement a tax increase on Akarian ships who make port in Dashian territory.

How’s she handling things? Tyler asked.

Vorrek grinned, I don’t think anybody expected her... aggressive approach to politics.

Tyler smiled as three men stormed out of a nearby room. They were dressed in tan robes, ordained with golden jewelry. One of them carried shreds of paper, clearly upset. They mumbled angrily amongst themselves as they rushed past.

I told you. Vorrek said with a laugh, If there’s something she doesn’t like, she’ll gladly let you know. Even if that means shredding the document.

They were about to enter the room when Sapphire tore open the door and ran into them.

Sapphire was visibly angry, but she saw Tyler and instantly fell into a happy mood, Tyler! What brings you to Aka’ra?

I had to talk to you. Tyler said. Vorrek bowed and left the two.

Sapphire looked confused, worried even, as she dreaded having to address the kiss more than Tyler, yet she still asked, What did you need to talk about?

Can we speak somewhere more private? Tyler asked. Sapphire nodded and the two entered her nearby office. She closed the door and sat next to Tyler.

What’s going on? Did you find a way to get to Earth? She asked.

Tyler answered, Yes, we’re going to ask the Ferryman to take us, and I don’t know how things are going to go.

What do you mean? Sapphire asked.

These are dark times. There are so many dangers now, I don’t know if Gaius and I can handle it, especially Coragus. I don’t know what will happen when he shows himself. Tyler took a deep breath and hesitated, I want you to know that I do care deeply for you. Thank you for the beauty you’ve added to my life.

Sapphire appeared rather sad, simply replying, You’re welcome.

Tyler instantly regretted his statement, quickly clearing his throat and putting on a fake smile before standing to leave. Sapphire grabbed his hand before he turned, You don’t have to worry about the future. Everything will turn out alright.

He just nodded, but Sapphire stopped him again, I want you to take Vorrek with you to Earth. It’ll be like your adventure with the pirates. She said with a small smile.

Tyler forced a grin and said, I hope not!

He left Sapphire, attempting not to show any signs of distress to anyone walking by, but inside, he was beating himself up. He felt embarrassed. He wanted to open up completely and tell her his feelings for her. After all, they had known each other longer than most people on Earth know others, but he was still terrified that his status as an Akorat would prevent her from having any feelings for him.

Tyler sulked all the way to the front entrance, ready to teleport to Maarid’s home before remembering he needed to find Vorrek. With a sigh of burdening frustration, he reentered the palace, praying he would not run into Sapphire.

After several minutes of searching for his friend amidst the bustling crowds Tyler exclaimed, I just talked to the guy!

He then remembered it was midday and walked to the dining hall, hoping to find Vorrek there.

He stood in the wide-open entryway to the hall as most people rushed to finish their meals and return to work. Tyler scanned the area for the lavish dark blue robes Vorrek was wearing, since they would easily stick out amongst the more basically dressed business folk, but he did not see him. Certain his friend was there, Tyler ventured further into the hall, weaving through people with plates of food while keeping a sharp eye out for his friend.

After several minutes of wander around the hall, Tyler heard his name called amidst the chatter, turning to see Vorrek waving a short distance away. He was not wearing the lavish robes from earlier, instead sporting one of his simpler outfits.

About time I found you! Tyler said with a smile, taking a seat next to Vorrek. The table was mostly filled with diplomats he recognized but never really met. They were all engaged in their own conversations, not knowing the Akorat of Light sat amongst them.

Didn’t know you were looking for me. Vorrek stated as he continued his meal.

I think you did and that’s why you changed out of your robes. Tyler said kiddingly.

I’ll have you know that those robes get pretty darn hot on humid days like this! Vorrek stated matter-of-factly. And I’d stick out too much here, so I changed to eat.

Tyler gave him a humored look of curiosity.

You are the weirdest person I know. He laughed.

It’s not like I eat here every day! Vorrek stated in defense of himself. Sometimes I eat in the nobles’ dining hall. They’re a bit classier there, but the company’s better here!

Tyler just laughed and shook his head.

So, what brings you to me? Vorrek asked in an authoritative tone to mock the nobles.

Sapphire sent me to find you, Tyler began, hushing his voice slightly. She wants you to go on a mission with me.

"I do have work to do, Vorrek stated. Where is this mission?"

Earth. Tyler said and Vorrek completely froze from shock.

Earth? For the Queen? He repeated with quiet excitement after a few moments and Tyler nodded with a grin.

Vorrek looked around the hall, weighing his options before saying, You know, I think the Queen’s order supersedes my other work.

So, you’re coming? Tyler asked excitedly.

No. Vorrek said with a straight face, making Tyler incredibly confused.

What?

I’m just messin’ with ya! Vorrek exclaimed with a huge smile. How could I pass up a trip to Earth?

You’d think I’d be used to you by now. Tyler stated as they stood up to leave.

Most people would think that. Vorrek said with a slight nod and Tyler grabbed his arm, teleporting them just outside Maarid’s house in a bright flash of light.

The two entered the necromancer’s home cautiously.

Hello? Tyler called out.

We’re in here. Gaius answered from a room over to his left.

They entered the room that was illuminated by dozens of candles. There was a large circle carved in the center of the wooden floor with a smaller circle within it. In the spaces between the two circles were strange symbols that neither Tyler nor Vorrek recognized.

You came just in time. We just finished moving everything out of the room. Gaius informed him.

This is a surprise. The Chief stated when he saw Vorrek.

Sapphire requested I bring him along. Tyler said.

The Chief thought for a moment before saying, Very well.

Why did you need to move everything? Vorrek asked, That circle wouldn’t have interfered with anything.

Because I don’t want the Ferryman to break anything. Maarid answered, I must warn you. I haven’t actually done this yet.

What! Tyler exclaimed, Do you know if it’ll work?

Of course it’ll work! Maarid answered quickly, But this just means that the Ferryman has never been summoned, at least in this manner as far as I know, and I’m willing to bet he won’t be happy. In fact I’ll guarantee that he’s going to be absolutely furious with us, so you should be on guard.

Maarid opened up a small wooden box that housed a long ivory whistle. He picked up the item and appeared to reconsider the idea, but he took a breath and blew the whistle.

The flames from the candles leapt to the center of the circles in a swirling fireball while everyone shielded their faces from the extreme brightness and heat. In an instant, the fireball was extinguished and the entire room grew black as night. A roar of anger erupted and everyone knew the summoning worked, and that the Ferryman was, just as Maarid predicted, furious.

Tyler quickly changed to his Akorat form, illuminating the room again, revealing the Ferryman thrashing about, smashing the walls with his staff.

I’ll be damned if I let anyone do that to me again! He roared as he swung his staff at Maarid who narrowly dodged the attack.

Calm down we need to talk to you! The Protector tried to reason, but the Ferryman turned and struck him with surprising force, sending him into the wall.

I’ll rip out your guts and mop my floors with ’em! He shouted at he targeted Gaius, who quickly turned to his Akorat form. Using his immense size to his advantage, Crusher grabbed the Ferryman’s staff and locked his arms around the flailing skeleton. The Chief waved his hand and all the candles still standing were lit with a subtle flame.

When the Ferryman calmed down, Crusher let him go and reverted back to human form with Tyler following shortly after.

What could possibly be so important that you rip me from my job? The Ferryman demanded.

We require your gift of travel. The Chief answered.

The Ferryman groaned, What the hell’s that supposed to mean?

We need you to take us to Earth and back. Tyler said as the Ferryman turned to face him.

That’s it? He responded, Will I get paid?

Handsomely. The Chief informed him.

What’s this for? He asked, facing Tyler.

The Queen chose a successor from Earth, and we can think of no other way. Tyler said and the Ferryman let out a loud laugh.

Really? I can think of a dozen, I can write them down for ya if you let me get back to my ferry. He said, chuckling and starting to turn away.

Please! Tyler begged and the Ferryman stopped, bearing as confused look as possible on his decayed face. Take us to Earth, for Corilia. This used to be your home too.

Everyone was silent for a moment, then the Ferryman sighed, I’ll take you… forget the pay. There was a simultaneous gasp, even from the Chief.

Thank you, Ferryman. Tyler said sincerely.

Tyler and Vorrek will go with you to find the Queen’s successor. The Chief announced.

What about Gaius? Tyler asked.

Coragus is still a threat to us. We must keep one of the Akorats here for our safety, The Chief said. So it is rather convenient that Mr. Lergo is here to accompany you.

We’d best be going, The Ferryman said and hit the butt of his staff on the ground; he paused then asked angrily. What did you do to me? I can’t teleport!

Maarid answered in a mildly scared tone, Well… we had to make sure we could keep you here long enough to speak our minds… All you have to do is step out of the circles.

Silently glaring at the scared necromancer, the Ferryman stepped outside the circles and raised his staff, but stopped and approached Maarid. He grabbed the whistle from him and crushed it into shards, then hit his staff on the ground. This time a black cloud twisted its way around Tyler and Vorrek taking them to a dark beach, where everything was still,