The Trials & Tribulations of Gin

By Matt Linart

With almost a century passed since the death of Thorgan and containment of Kazimby the mental God. The Naidni Empire is at peace and prospering. The storms of treachery are now brewing under their unknowing feet. The head cleric Lorax is plotting for the throne in Thandor and Thismal; with plans for the entire kingdom to fall behind them. Young prince Gin and his brother Nu stand in his way though. When the up rise of Lorax begins Gin runs away in fear and Nu is locked in the emerald of time. Will Gin be able to muster the courage to save his brother and his kingdom or will Lorax be the supreme Leader of the Naidni Empire?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Oct 20, 2014
• ISBN: 9781312610507

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The Trials & Tribulations of Gin

The

Trials

&

Tribulations

of

Gin

By

Matt Linart

Copyright © 2014, Matt Linart

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted by any means—whether auditory, graphic, mechanical, or electronic—without written permission of both publisher and author. Unauthorized reproduction of any part of this work is illegal and is punishable by law.

ISBN: 978-1-312-61050-7

Dedication Page

I dedicate this page to my family and friends who have stood by me through this process. I want to especially thank my grandmother Roline for all her love and support. She has always stood by me with everything. I would also like to dedicate this book to everyone and anyone, who has ever had a dream. I want you to know that any dream can come true. If you work hard and dedicate yourself to your dream, it will come true.

Acknowledgements

I want to thank the love of my life for inspiring me and giving me the fuel I needed to make this book possible. I want to give another special thanks to my grandmother Roline for without her love and support this would have never have been possible. To my mother who although we go through our ups and down has stuck by my side. My little brother Elijah who I wrote this book for as a bedtime story. Last but never least my little sister Satara who without her constant nagging and over achieving I would have never wanted to top her in life. Omari my cousin who I hope will follow me and give the world another awesome piece of literature. All my cousins Tamika, Latoya, Monae, Renae, Felicia for always giving me a smile through our life. To all of my aunts who helped raise me and give me the things I needed to make it to this point in my life. My fans who have stuck with me through all of my different endeavors. Adrian my brother from another mother who always gave me great advice and has looked out for me and helped me even when I didn’t deserve it. Curtis Farrell for always being a true friend to me through all that we have been through. Kyle Pendleton who gave me laughs and showed me a lot through my struggles.  Dominic Oh who believed in me and always gave me hope in the darkest of my days. Justin Keeton for giving me enough laughs to last a lifetime and more. Hanna Ross for helping with my editing and all of my other thoughts toward this book and other projects I have had. Last but not least all of the other people I might have forgotten to mention in this for supporting and helping me in one way or another.

Chapter 1 - The quiet before the storm

The sun started to rise out of the east. The morning dew was fresh on the flowers and grass. The forest was quiet and calm. The flaps of bird wings filled the air. The sound of Horses galloping at full speed broke the silence and echoed through the woods. A pack of thirty men rode behind the lead rider.

They rode to the clearing of the forest on top of a hill. Down below them a few miles ahead laid a vast city. The lead rider let out a cry and put his spurs into his horse. The riders behind him followed suit galloping behind ever vigilantly. They were all wearing buffalo skin over their boiled leather armor. There was a chill in the air. That could be seen from the white air they let out with each breath.

Horns blared from the watchtowers of the kingdom. The horses kicked up dust along the road creating a cloud like path behind them. Gaurds at the cities entrance assembled themselves to greet the riders. The flag of Thandor flew high above them in the morning air. The flag was separated into two stripes the bottom was an emerald green. Above it was a red stripe and in the middle of the two stripes was a six-pointed star.

A smile broke out of the lead riders face as he saw the flag. He knew it all to well. The green represented the origin of aura each man was blessed with. The red was for the bloodshed that came with the blessing. The star in the center each point on it represented the six walks of life. He bore the same star on his shoulder that was covered by his coat.

A rider behind him carried a different flag though that waved in the air behind them as they rode. The flag in his hand was black. The great dragon of fire and the dragon of wisdom locked their talons together and protected the sun. which was a symbol of their unit and standing.

The French horn continued to be blown as the riders entered the city. Soldiers saluted the riders as they passed. The city was beginning to come to life as they rode in. little kids were fetching water or bringing it back home. Women and men walked around them getting ready to begin their day. They were heading to the market or getting supplies for breakfast. Many stopped and stared at the riders, some waved, and others flashed a smile.

The riders continued on through out the city. The breeze was refreshing as the sun rose higher in the sky. The smell of bakers preparing their days supply filled theirs nose.  Each rider was ready for a hot meal and a hot bath.  The sound of celebration was in the air. Trumpetors blared their horns and drummers banged their drums announcing the arrival of the riders. The mountain echoed the praise and sounds of the welcoming city.

They reached the corridor to the castle. Gaurds lined the rows to the entrance. The horsemen road through as the gaurds erupted with excitement around them. They clanked their swords to their chest and shields in unison. The great doors of the castle opened. The King walked out with his elite gaurds. The court came to silence as he raised his hand. The riders got off their horses and removed their helmets each soldier walked forward with their helmets in hand. They bent down on one knee in front of the him. King Domori was a tall naidni. His skin was red and brown. His headdress bore the six-point star of Thismal. He had a long lock of hair running down his back. Over his right eye was a tattoo. Over his eyebrow was a line and at the end of each point of the line was a diagonal line that enclosed his eye in between.

One year ago we sent our finest soldiers to defeat the Zarthanite uprising. Now they have returned. Arise brave warriors and tell me of your victory. Tonight men we celebrate! the King said as he walked over to the lead rider and touched his shoulder.

The soldiers cheered banging their swords against their shields.

I am glad to see you my son. It has been to long. Where is your brother?  King Domori asked over the noise.

Is that really a question? Father he is with the troops. He will be along momentarily! Prince Nu said with a chuckle.

Come go get washed up and prepare for the celebration. Your mother has been expecting you for some time King Domori said

Prince Nu listened and made his way into the castle, which stood firmly into the mountain. The columns were forged from crystals and stalagmite from the mountain. It glistened as the sun hit it. What wasn’t crystal was marble. There weren’t many places in the castle that didn’t shine. The chandelairs was made from gold finely crafted to accomodate the rest of the palace. Prince Nu made it to his room and looked around it like a stranger. He removed all his clothing except his under clothes and splashed his face with cold water. He looked at himself in the mirror and smiled.

Over his left eye was a brand of the fire symbol. He was happy to be back home again. Yet he missed being out on the field with his sword in hand. The past year had been his first real test as a warrior. He stopped the pillaging of the Zartanites with minor casualties and no help from the clerics, all while managing to keep Gin’s head squarely on his body.

The rush of the victory still flowed through him. He could hear the trumpets and mandolins blaring outside in the palace courtyard. He walked over to his window and took in the scenery of his kingdom. There was a buzz in the town as the citizens prepared for the festival. Prince Nu turned away from the window and dropped on his bed. He closed his eyes and slowly slipped into a slumber.

An urgent knock abruptly woke him up. Before he could get out of bed, his door burst open. Prince Gin bound in with the biggest smile on his face. He grabbed Prince Nu and spun him around. Prince Nu pushed his little brother away and fixed himself. No one would be happier to be home then Prince Gin. Although he was a great fighter he was no warrior. He preferred to tend to plants and bury his face in books.

Brother are you going to sleep through the festival. There are women and drinks waiting to be devoured. Prince Gin said with a great smile.

Prince Nu pushed Gin away and grabbed up some clothes and put them on. He put on a light white cotton shirt and some breeches. Then turned to Gin and grabbed him putting him in a headlock. Prince Nu pulled his younger brother out of his room. The two continued down the hall with Prince Gin still under Prince Nu’s armpits. The sun was beginning to set. The orange glow from it shined through the halls as they walked. Prince Gin was fighting effortlessly to get free of his brothers grip.

Servants opened the doors for the two to enter the courtyard. The sounds of music and people exploded around them as the doors opened. King Domori gave Prince Nu a scornful look from across the courtyards, and he released his brother. Prince Gin quickly scurried away and fixed himself. The queen touched the king’s hand and they both looked at each other. Laughter and music filled the air. People rejoiced and danced there was a harmonious peace in the air.

The king summoned his servants to fill up his chalice. He grabbed a fork and tapped it three times. The music stopped as the king stood and raised his cup. All attention was on the king. The queen stood by his side smiling ear to ear.

A toast for my sons and our troops who crushed the rebellion in the south and for the future king. King Domori said

The crowd erupted and cups rose in the air. The musicians picked right back up where they left off. Prince Gin and Prince Nu danced in the center of the courtyard with girls. Laughter and merriment were in the air. The moon was in its fullest form lighting up the kingdom with its glow. Lightening bugs danced around the partygoers.

The crowd slowly started to shrink as the sun started to rise. Men slept on the banquet table with cups of ale still in hand. The musicians started to get shaky with their notes.

That’s enough boys’ Prince Nu said walking past them. Two Naidni women held him up as he stumbled with them into the castle.

********************* **************************** ******************************

A hard knock on the door jumped Prince Gin out of his sleep. The sunshine in his room blinded him as he opened his eyes. He dove back under the covers; his head was pounding from the night before.

Will you be joining us for lunch young master? his servant Lorenzo asked as he closed the door behind himself.

What time is it Prince Gin asked jumping out of his covers. He walked to his sink.

Half past lunch, I have been trying to wake you up since breakfast! Lorenzo said grabbing clothes out of his closet. He laid them on the bed.

Prince Gin got dress and followed Lorenzo down the hall. The palace seemed to be in merriment. Maids buzzed around doing their daily chores with a smile on their face and pep in their step. Lorenzo opened the dining room doors and introduced Prince Gin.

He made it Prince Nu laughed and clapped.

Nu be nice. He had a long night last night. Eleanor said

You be too easy on the boy, when will you be more responsible like your brother. I won’t be here forever you two will have the kingdom when I am gone. King Domori said sternly.

Yes I know father and I will try harder father Prince Gin said sitting at the table.

They all sat in silence for a moment and began lunch. The queen broke the silence by praising her planning skills. She heckled the boys about the girls they were dancing with. Eleanor slid her hand over to Domori’s and caressed the top of it. He put his hand over her’s and tapped it gently with a smile.

Mom, dad gross Prince Gin said putting his utensils down.

King Domori smiled at Eleanor then gave Prince Gin a glare. He stood up and held his hand for his wife to rise. He bid the boys farewell and the two of them walked out the hall cuddled together. Prince Gin and Prince Nu both looked at each other and laughed.

You know dad is right he won’t be around forever soon I’ll be king! Prince Nu said but let us look on the bright side. If you continue to be a failure, I’ll be around to clean up your mess.

Prince Nu got up from the table but sat back down in laughter. He reminisced on the last five challenges of Litric he beat his brother at. He walked around the table still laughing and swung his arms over Prince Gins shoulder. He went to punch him in the chest. Prince Gin stopped him raising his aura up a bit. They both were glowing from their aura now. Prince Nu smiled as he glowed a fiery red while gin-looked uncomfortable with his blue aura. They both looked at each other as the table started to shake from the forces they were letting off.

Prince Nu turned his grapple into a headlock. He laughed as he held gins head into his chest and walked out with him. Gin tried to fight but once again couldn’t get out of his lock.

Brother come join me for my midday workout Prince Nu said releasing him and laughing.

I have other things to do then wrestle with you and your boyfriends Gin said teasingly as he caught his breath.

Run along little brother go play with your flowers and crayons. Prince Nu scoffed at him as he walked down the corridor.

Gin continued on straight and walked to the balcony. The sun warmed his red skin. He pulled his jet-black hair back as he fixed his clothes. He breathed in a deep lung full of fresh air. The balcony overlooked the castle garden. He marveled in the magnificence of his work. He managed the garden for as long as he could remember. His mother always joked he should of took the gift of earth.

Gin continued down toward the garden. He entered and the aroma overwhelmed him with pleasure. He walked down one of the isles and stepped over the rail. He walked over to a new path of flowers growing. Bending down over them gin focused his aura. He started glowing blue again and his hand waved over the flowers and water poured from it. It gently fell on the plants.

The water dripped off their budding red leaves. Prince Gin got up and stepped back he walked back to the path. Gin focused himself some more in the tranquility of the garden. He sat on the ground and began his meditation with his aura glowing stronger by the moment. The clouds around the garden started to come together and grow black. They crackled a little and a light shower sprinkled over the garden.

The water flowed around gin and not a drop touched him. He marveled at the fruits of his labor. He focused his energy and the rain stopped. He walked to the back of the garden straight to a bright purple plant. The hairs on the bud were a fire red. He pulled out a pipe from his jacket. Gin plucked a bud from the plant and kissed it. He walked over to a bench in the garden. He blew a breath of wind on the bench pushing all the water off of it. Leaving his seat nice and dry as he calmly sat down and marveled at his garden once more.

**********************************************************************

Prince Nu made a circle in the sand where he stood. Twenty guards all armed with practice swords, stood around him preparing for their attack. His teacher Darus stood on the second tier of the yard and looked on. He motioned to the soldiers to attack. Nu dodged the first man and lashed him on his belly with the sword making him bend over in pain. Another soldier came in prepared to attack. Prince Nu blocked him and spun around to stop the one coming from behind him. After laying them two down a man with a bow staff stepped through the crowd.

The bow staff man wore an all black robe and moved as if he was one with the staff. The man swung it over his back and head showing his discipline with the weapon. He bowed to prince Nu and jumped into attack. He lashed the bow staff on the ground and Nu barely missed it. The other soldiers jumped out of the way not wanting to get hit with the staff. The bow staff wielding man swatted at Prince Nu continuing to make him be defensive but not getting him out the circle.

Finally one of his attacks got Prince Nu to jump out and backed him into a wall while still dodging the strikes. Prince Nu realized he was in trouble so he bounced off the wall and swung at his enemy. The bow staff wielder blocked and started backing up. Darus signaled a soldier to jump in. as he did Prince Nu almost landed his strike on the bow staff wielder. The soldier swung Nu’s sword back allowing the bow staff wielder to regain his balance.

Prince Nu jumped back and glimpsed at all the soldiers around him. He centered himself and focused his self. He wiped the sweat off his brow gripped his sword and charged. He attacked the bow staff man, the swordsman tried to help again but Nu kicked him in the chest. He grabbed the soldier and used him as a shield to block the bow staff strike. Then shoved the wounded soldier into the surprised bow staff wielder and pulled his staff away from him.

Darus pounded his fist on the banister. All the soldiers in the yard focused on Prince Nu. They all gripped their swords. Prince Nu smirked and looked at Darus. He started to swing the staff dancing his way to the center. He looked at the fear in the soldier’s eyes as he made his way. Each of them was unsure of themselves and ready to fall by his attack. It gave him a silent thrill how he would knock one after another of them down.

A soldier broke his concentration by attacking. Prince Nu struck him with the staff. One after the other they dropped. Prince Nu made his way towards the steps in the courtyard. He made a path of destruction headed to the bottom of the steps. He ran up the steps and the soldiers followed in rows of three. Halfway up he turned around and used the staff horizontally to knock them down. Nu ran back down after them and grabbed two swords off the fallen soldiers.

Soldiers stepped over their fellow brethren to chase him up the steps. Darus jumped on the ledge and jumped onto another ledge and started to climb. The soldiers swung and Prince Nu defended backpedaling to find an exit. He spun with his sword at the attacking soldiers buying him-self some room. He jumped on the ledge and cut the drapes hanging overhead. He threw it on the soldiers buying him some time to climb up.

As his hands gripped the top of the roof Darus stepped on his hand. King Nu yelled out but grabbed with his other hand. Darus tried to do it once more Prince Nu used his momentum and jumped up off his other hand. Darus jumped back and turned in surprise. Prince Nu swung his sword at him Darus dodged it and laughed as if a child swung it.

Prince Nu continued on the offensive. Darus casually dodged him. At his next swing Darus grabbed his arm and flipped his sword out his hand. He threw the sword up and it landed on the other end of the roof behind him. Prince Nu looked at the sword then at Darus smirking face. He focused himself and struck out at darus. Darus blocked and continued to back up. King Nu tried to kick him; Darus grabbed his foot and pulled him in for a punch.

Prince Nu hunched over from the powerful blow. Darus flicked him off him and attempted to jump back. Prince Nu grabbed his leg and pulled him back down. He dropped him and punched him in the ribs. Nu jumped for the sword and clutched it. Darus stood up and prepared for the attack he dodged and blocked it. The practice sword exploded with the impact to his arm.

Darus stood firm and punched the shocked Prince Nu in his chest again. The soldiers standing in the courtyard marveled at the fight they were watching. Darus raised his foot to stomp on Prince Nu who blocked both with his hands. He thought to himself for an old man Darus was strong. But then again he was an inimeg and that wolf blood was strong in his veins. Nu pushed his foot back up with all his might. Darus jumped back and Prince Nu stood up.

So old man why don’t we finish this up like real men! Prince Nu said as he brushed himself off.

Prince Nu did a back flip off the roof and landed in the courtyard. Two soldiers ran over and presented him with two swords. Darus landed and walked over to them. They each picked one and bowed to each other. The soldiers cleared away to give them room.

Prince Nu and Darus focused their energy raising their aura’s up. Darus slammed his sword to the ground it came back up as a rock sword. The blade shined as if it was made of marble. He swung his sword straight at Prince Nu. A small boulder flew out the sword. Prince Nu sliced it and from that spark his sword started to burn. The sword looked no different except from the blue flames rising and swaying with the wind around it. Prince Nu created a circle around himself and the ground burned as the sword cut through it. With one hand he signaled for Darus to attack.

Darus lunged at him and the two exchanged blows. Darus pushed Prince Nu out his box and stepped in it. They battle for a few more moments trading blows. Prince Nu got frustrated that he was still in his circle. That gave darus the opportunity to strike his sword out his hand. The sword flew into the crowd of on looking soldiers and landed in the ground. Prince Nu looked at darus’s sword so close to his neck. He could smell the earth burning from all the strikes to his sword in his nose.

Thinking will get you killed! Darus said breaking the silence and pulled his sword back. All of you should keep that in mind, now let us prepare for dinner!

Prince Nu bowed with a troubled look on his face.

What troubles you young prince? Darus asked

You could have cut off my head! Prince Nu said

Yes well I guess I could of if I wanted to. You have fought in many battles why does it trouble you now? Darus asked laughing

I do not know. It just felt so real when I smelt your sword. Prince Nu said

You are a fine warrior. You must remain clear headed in battle. That temper of yours will be your downfall. Darus said giving him a stern look.

Darus patted him on his back and made a left down the corridor. Prince Nu made a right and shook his head as if it would get the smell out his nose. He tried to get the thought out of his head. He walked into his room and peeled his clothes off. Nu was hot and sweaty. Yet his reflection in the mirror made him admire his chiseled physique. He walked in to his shower and turned it on. The water splashed him with cold water; he fixed it to how he liked it. Nu punched the wall leaving a dent in it. Pieces of the framing fell off as he pulled his hand back. Prince Nu leaned on the wall and under the shower letting the water run down his head.

*************************************************************

King Domori and Lorax walked through the palace talking. The moon shined on the palace. There was a cooling wind blowing in the night air. They walked to the balcony of the palace and over looked their vast kingdom. The lights in the kingdom gave it a vibrant look. King Domori thought to himself about what it took to build his kingdom. How lorax and Darus had become his top generals. As he overlooked the city all these thoughts ran through his mind, as he considered the fates of all the people that would come under his decision.

With this defeat to the rebels in the south we can now focus on the Taruvians to the east. Lorax said

"All this talk of war Lorax after