The Age of Ornan: The Prophecies of Oruras Fulfilled

By J.C. Pilcher

The Blade has returned. It has been restored. The company is split and in shambles. No longer knowing who is friend or foe, the task of defeating Oruras seems more difficult than ever. Only by the grace of Vashaar will the people of Domus-Lux live to see the end of the war. But Oruras is no longer silent. He has marched on Domus-Lux and will not stop until the nations are destroyed and Gollofar is restored to power.

Now the time has come for Oruras to answer for his tyranny. Despite their many weaknesses, the defenders of Domus-Lux fight to give the Hero of Ornan the chance to return and face Oruras. All of the pieces are in motion, and this great fight has come to a head. Soon the prophecies of Oruras will be fulfilled.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Oct 6, 2015
• ISBN: 9781490889733

J.C. Pilcher

J. C. Pilcher has always had a love for fantasy and apologetics. He wrote The Age of Ornan series as an attempt to merge the two in an entertaining fashion and ultimately to bring glory to Jesus Christ, his Lord and Savior.

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Copyright © 2015 J. C. Pilcher.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

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ISBN: 978-1-4908-8972-6 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4908-8974-0 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4908-8973-3 (e)

WestBow Press rev. date: 09/14/2015

CONTENTS

Chapter 1   The Game Continues

Chapter 2   Justice For Sarora

Chapter 3   The Land Of Confusion

Chapter 4   The Battle For Osgecar

Chapter 5   The Story Of Annaloshea

Chapter 6   The Death Of Sarora

Chapter 7   The Knights Of Honestia

Chapter 8   The Call For Aid

Chapter 9   The Secret Of Aremor

Chapter 10   A Life Worthy Of Remembrance

Chapter 11   Hope Rekindled

Chapter 12   Osbimogh The Strong

Chapter 13   The Stone Of Death And The Sword Of Life

Chapter 14   Joy Overshadowed

Chapter 15   The Road To Osgelead

Chapter 16   Preparing For The End

Chapter 17   The Battle Of The Ages

Chapter 18   The Closing Of The Age

Chapter 19   The Prophecy Revealed

Chapter 20   Farewell To The Company

A Message From The Author

Notes

CHAPTER 1

THE GAME CONTINUES

All was silent in Aremor. For the first time since their arrival there were no goblin armies or bands of evil men. The silence caused the company to wonder why they were fleeing, yet they fled into the darkness with all their might. They did not know where they were running but were being pushed on by Burdep as if the armies of Aremor were on their tail. At last they grew weary of the run and halted, What in the world is this about?! Andrew asked.

I saw Oruras! Burdep said, He tried to kill me!

What! Andrew shouted, You saw Oruras! Why didn’t you kill him!?

I didn’t have the sword. answered Burdep, And I was outnumbered three to one.

Calm yourself down Burdep, Englorion said, take a deep breath and speak clearly.

Burdep sat down putting his face in his hands, We’re done for. He said, I can never defeat him.

Why not? Andrew asked.

First of all he can shape shift. Burdep answered, I have met him before, all of you have in fact.

How can that be? Englorion asked.

We knew him as Peli. Burdep Answered.

Nonsense, Peli is dead. Grosemon said, We saw him fall at the hand of Oreguj. But that is trivial to me now. Tell me where my AnnaLoshea is?

Oreguj’s sword could kill anyone unless he was immortal. Burdep said, Haven’t you heard about him? Oruras is an actor. It was all a big scheme of his to warm up his blade again and to laugh at us.

But Peli was a small person. Andrew said, Not how I imagined Oruras but he is still conquerable.

I said he was a shape shifter! Burdep shouted, When he reaches his full height he stands far above me!

That’s not surprising. Grosemon said, I knew he would be larger than life. The stories always said so. But that does not matter now! Please tell me where AnnaLoshea is!?

I’m sorry but I do not know Peli. Englorion said.

Me neither, Balnif said, Who is he?

He was a part of our company early on. Andrew said, He was a part of a mercenary group called Lasbad’s mercenaries. Up until now I thought Lasbad was the leader with Fahlon following and Peli holding the lowest rank. Now I see that Peli, or Oruras, had the perfect spot to keep secret while he toyed with us.

And I know for a fact I was alone with Peli many times. Burdep said.

Why didn’t he kill you then? Balnif asked.

I don’t know. Burdep said, He trained me and told me to prepare my best to defeat Oruras. I think he wants a good fight in the end. He wants it to be a grand play like he used to be in. He probably sees me as his old enemy Niru. This is probably all an attempt to relive those days and to turn the table. He wants the one everyone hopes to succeed fall while he triumphs in spite of his being the hated one.

And I am sure he expects the world to suddenly change and see him as the true hero in the end. Andrew said.

Tis a pity. Englorion said, The great and mighty Oruras is a sham. Beneath his thundering voice, mighty stature, and dark armor lies little Yorbid Sarmethir trying to become a hero.

But remember that his new appearance is closer to the person he has become. Andrew said, He is out for vengeance and fame. He wants to bring death to the entire world. He can try to hide it behind noble intentions but his cruelty has proven that it is all a sadistic attempt at revenge.

What should I do if I meet him again? Burdep asked.

Fight him. Englorion said, There is always the possibility that he will not kill you if he does win.

He still wants that dramatic finish. Balnif said, If you can stand up and defeat him then there will be very little reason to finish the war.

Your desire to kill Oruras and destroy the death stone all at the same time may yet come true. Andrew said.

Burdep sighed, I always knew who Oruras was from the stories. He said, But having seen him with my own eyes I realize that I can never stand up to that. Are we merely delaying an inevitable end?

The world is countin’ on you Burdep! Balnif said, Keep in mind that Vashaar is the one in control. If you keep that in your thinkin’ you could defeat Oruras and all the armies of Aremor. You know that!

It’s easy to say such things when all is going well. Burdep said in a sigh, But it is nearly impossible to believe it when you stand before Oruras yourself and look into his helm and see those fiery eyes. The thought dawned on me that the flame that burns in his eyes was lit and sustained by his vision of defeating me. I drive him to do what he does and I just don’t know how to go on in light of it all. He wants me to go on and attack him someday. He wants to kill me. That is the thing that drives him.

That’s good. Andrew said, As long as he plays around with the idea of facing you he most certainly will give us a shot at the death stone. He thinks that he can control all that transpires in Domus-Lux. He sees himself as some sort of god running the affairs of the whole world. But what he doesn’t realize is that he cannot control everything. He has been stretched thin and eventually it will come and bite him.

Speaking of running the world. Burdep said, I have learned something about the Red Star.

Fiedir’s group? Balnif asked.

Yes, but not Fiedir’s said Burdep, Fiedir was just one of many of those who are in Domus-Lux. Frederick and Lasbad were also Red Star. They said that the Red Star is a person. The Red Star is their leader. I now know who the Red Star is.

Do not even say it. Englorion said.

The helmet Oruras was wearing had six prongs, said Burdep, two on each side with one pointing skyward and another towards the earth. It made a six pointed star. The whole star was bordered with a red lining. Oruras is the Red Star, and all who are members of it report to him directly or indirectly I suppose.

It makes sense. Grosemon said, But what has this to do with AnnaLoshea!

It is said that you do not even learn who the Red Star is until you reach the top. Andrew said, That must be because no one would join the group if they knew initially that Oruras was their leader. So they get them in by inflating their ego with good deeds and all the while slowly corrupt them through demonic philosophies. And as they climb the ranks they get so brainwashed that they end up following Oruras willingly.

It is most disturbing. Englorion said, It is no wonder that we Elves have never joined the Red Star.

Enough of this Red Star and Oruras! Grosemon said, Where is my AnnaLoshea!? What happened to her?! Do not continue ignoring me!

She never was. Burdep said.

What? Grosemon asked, Don’t talk like a fool?

The girl we knew as AnnaLoshea is a fake, Burdep said, Her real name is Sarora Sarmethir, she was Oruras’ daughter, and Fahlon was his son.

How can that be? Englorion asked.

That would explain why she wasn’t willing to tell us her name. Andrew said, She always called herself AnnaLoshea of Crobbe instead.

That can’t be true! Balnif said, She could not have been. She was such a kind and considerate soul. She certainly could never have been the daughter of Oruras.

Sadly that is true. Grosemon said, I must admit to keeping far too much about her past secret. When I rescued her she was a little girl, not even a year old. Her mother was going to drown her in the Great River. I saved her and killed the goblins defending her mother. I would have slain Orsomara as well but she was willing to trade me information for her life. She told me that AnnaLoshea was the daughter of Oruras and that she had a brother. I let her go and then rescued Fahlon. Fahlon was always a rebellious child. I fear that he was in charge of indoctrinating AnnaLoshea when I was gone. Oh, I was gone far too often! Even still I cannot believe that she is one of Oruras’ servants.

Believe it. Burdep said, She was the one that brought me out to Oruras. Then Oruras told me all about her past. She denied it and told me to believe her rather than Oruras which I would have been inclined to do. But then he told her to stop the play acting because he was reassigning her. Immediately she stopped pleading with me and took on a whole new personality not so much different than her brother, which is telling. She informed me that her job in the company was to get close to me and kill me if anything got out of hand. Then Oruras told me that I did not appear that promising and so he commanded AnnaLoshea to kill me then and there. And so I killed her.

Is she really dead? Andrew asked.

I think, Burdep stammered, I will admit I made a sloppy shot with a weak wind bolt. She most likely survived and I do fear her coming back to finish us. She could try once more to kill us or she might try to deceive us in some way again. But do understand my plight. It comes hard for me to be willing to marry a person one day and then try to kill her the next. I held back. But if she returns we cannot for the good of the company.

I do not believe that she could have been lying all of that time. Englorion said.

She’s a good actress. Burdep said, She is her father’s daughter. That was one reason I was always so suspicious of her in the beginning. Now I realize that my gut feeling was correct.

I was such a failure. Grosemon said, She could not have been corrupted at such a young age. It had to have happened behind my back. First I lose Fahlon to Oruras and now AnnaLoshea!

Do not call her AnnaLoshea! Burdep said, She may or may not be alive but AnnaLoshea never lived. She was only a figment of our imaginations. I should have known a girl so wonderful did not exist. Mirusian girls don’t act like she did. They are all brainless babbling fools looking out for their own selves! Do not call her AnnaLoshea. Call her Sarora, because that is who she really is.

It explains why she was always so hesitant to hurt her family as well. Andrew said, But if we have the duty to kill Fahlon on sight then it can be no different for this Sarora. We cannot take any risks.

Forget the girl you all once knew. Englorion said, The memory you have of her will be a tool that she uses to unmake you.

At the very least the enemy can no longer use her to threaten us. Andrew said, We are all men who do not fear death and would willingly give our lives for this cause! If the enemy takes one of us we will simply have to go on. We cannot fall into any more situations like we had at the tower.

To think all of that was orchestrated by Sarora. Burdep said, We had to take that risk for a lie! It makes sense.

But that tells me one thing. Andrew said, If she went out of her way to make things look like she was being taken to that tower so we would go back to it, then it tells me that Oruras must be getting desperate. He wants to face you, be at the war, and stop you from destroying the death stone all at once. This cannot happen for him.

Then let us proceed with haste and increase his desperation! Englorion said.

Indeed. Andrew agreed.

With that the company re-adjusted their packs and took a few steps northward but then they noticed that Burdep was still sitting on the ground gazing aimlessly into the darkness.

You should have heard her. Burdep said, She could easily pass for one of the Kerjomos. She was that evil.

Apparently evil runs in the family. Balnif said.

And as far as hearing her goes, Andrew said, We may yet get a taste of who she is. Everyone, keep your eyes open. She was always light footed. If she is alive she could easily sneak into our camp at night and kill us all without being heard. All those on guard need to keep an extra close look out.

They all agreed and set out once again with weary hearts. Their ranks had dropped down to five. Each one of them lost what they felt was a dear friend, and Burdep lost the one he was prepared to give his life for. He was fighting hard to accept what had happened, but one does not make such a commitment to someone and not feel deep anguish when it all comes to naught.

Burdep found it hard to move on. Each step seemed to grow heavier and every obstacle seemed to grow more difficult. The deafening silence caused him to hear Sarora’s mocking voice louder as he replayed that night over and over again. Each time he thought of Oruras he saw him grow in might while he shrank to a Dwarf’s height. Burdep had lost something more precious than the sword. Barram and Mershapi would be taken care of. But without AnnaLoshea there was no reason in his mind for him to go on. His world had ended. If he did manage to destroy the death stone and bring an end to Oruras the world would go back the way it was for everyone, but not for him. He would return to Hennyfed where he would have to retire from being Chieftain. Barram and Mershapi would have to be sent to a family like the Dyleps. He knew that he would not be able to provide for them with his limited skill set. The nations and races might seek to honor him and to give him places of prominence. But what good would those things be if AnnaLoshea was not there with him. Who could he share his victories with? Burdep fell into despair and lost all of his purpose as he slowly progressed towards the tower of Oruras.

The company tried to encourage Burdep along the way but no one had done that better than AnnaLoshea. They knew that a big piece of his heart had been ripped out and there was nothing that they could do for him. They offered words of encouragement and tried to put on merry dispositions but nothing worked. Burdep went along with his head hung despairing with each step he took.

The road did not help them. The lands west of the river dropped while the river continued to flow through the higher plain. They wanted to remain somewhat distant from the river so they followed the lower lands and found that a high cliff was forming on their right separating them from the river. Their water supplies were running low and as far as they could see they would have to climb up the cliff if they were ever going to replenish their skins. This could mean that they find goblins at the top and either have to climb down, hide on the edge, or attack the goblins. There was not an option that sounded safe, easy, or even feasible. So they trudged on and continued to hope that their water would last until the land rose again and they would not have the treacherous climb.

They did find the downward sloping land a good thing. They had been walking on flat or uphill ground for days and they were glad to be going down for a change, but of course none of this ever made a difference to Burdep. Uphill downhill, all meant the same to him, and all caused him to wonder why he was going on. It was certainly not for his sake. He thought that failing the mission and just dying would work to his advantage more than any other possibility.

Several days later they were walking along the cliff when Andrew brought them to a sudden stop, What’s goin’ on? Balnif asked.

I heard something. Andrew said, Be careful.

Does it matter? Burdep asked, The enemy can catch us it makes no difference to me.

You can wish the termination of you own person. Englorion said, But I ask that you save us first and then you can expire in the most pleasant means you choose.

They took a few more steps when small rocks fell down the side of the cliff at their feet, Something is up there. Englorion said.

Andrew and Englorion readied their bows and continued. Suddenly on top of the hill many heads looked over. It looked like a mixture of Men and goblins. Andrew and Englorion both shot one but before they could load their bows for another strike ropes were hurled over the edge and they all slid down. It was only a small group, about twenty in all. Lastly AnnaLoshea slid down the rope amongst them. The goblins and men were chanting the whole way down, Sarora! Sarora! Sarora!

Their chant did not cease as she approached the company. She looked at them with an arrogant smile somewhat resembling Fahlon’s. The company was not sure what to do. She was not attacking them but she certainly did not look friendly. She stood only a foot or less from them and paced back and forth. She looked each in the eyes as she passed by and at last she stopped in the center and laughed, These people look remarkably familiar don’t they? she asked the Men and goblins.

Her company quit chanting and agreed, They do. And then they continued.

Where have I seen you before? She asked with the same smile. Then she walked over to Burdep and looked at him, This one looks very familiar. She said, But I can’t seem to place him. After looking at him a while more she said, Oh, yes I remember. You are that company of Ornan that I was in charge of keeping track of, aren’t you?

You know right well who we are Sarora Sarmethir! Andrew said.

I see you know my name! Sarora said, That’s good. I’m glad to have people talking about me now. You see it is rather difficult being my father’s shadow all of the time. Even in this company I was not recognized for what I did. My brother was lucky enough to play the part of the notorious traitor, but me? I had to play the stupid girl who befriends the hero. I wouldn’t have minded it if I did get the opportunity to kill the hero but no, my father wanted that to himself. So I was stuck playing Ornan’s baby sitter! Speaking of which! Where might I find your brother and sister? I would love to let them see the real me. They would love it so much. They would drop dead you might say.

Wouldn’t you love to know? Burdep said.

Well I said I would silly! She laughed, But then again I have other things to attend to. I am actually rather busy now that I have a real job! You see I was such a good babysitter for the company that my father gave me a promotion.

What kind of a promotion? Andrew asked.

Would you like to know? She asked, I would love to tell it! It is all like a huge game. One piece gets moved to the south so another must take its place, sound familiar?

Too familiar! Balnif said.

AnnaLoshea laughed, I know, she said, I have been assigned to take Lasbad’s place. The game continues my friends! My father was thinking of what he was going to do about Lasbad so I told my brother that I could take his place. We arranged the whole tower ordeal to get me to my father to discuss it. Then he made me battle a room full of goblins to see if I had the strength and when I passed with flying colors I rejoined the company waiting for the opportunity. Lasbad finally left, I thought he never would, and I took his place. While I would have loved to go to the war with him I knew there was a certain someone that I would also love to toy with. She turned and looked at Burdep.

How’s the stomach? Burdep asked.

Doing quite well, thank you. AnnaLoshea laughed, It takes more than a little magic to kill a Sarmethir.

Do you want to bet on that, AnnaLoshea?! Burdep asked.

AnnaLoshea cringed and twisted her head to the right and then the left, Don’t call me that! She said, It reminds me of all those wasted days! I thought that being my father’s shadow was bad enough, but playing second fiddle to a person as pathetic as you was worse. I was on the verge of suicide! then she paused as if to think, Sorry people, I learned bad things from my mother! Apparently suicide runs in the family! But with my title I will no longer have to worry about being underutilized or unappreciated.

So why have you come here? Andrew asked.

I thought you would want to see me again. She said, I know that it has been a while. And I also thought you would want to learn about my new title. I know that Lasbad traveled with us for some time and you were well acquainted with him when his game began, but Lasbad was himself even when in the company. I had to play a stupid character, so I wanted to introduce you to the real me! Do you like?

I liked the character better. Burdep said.

AnnaLoshea laughed, Of course you did. She said, Everyone knows how foolish I made you act, threatening to bring the world to its end to save me. It would have been wonderfully romantic if it wasn’t so pathetic!

Whatever the case may be we are not interested in meeting you again. Andrew said, Now be gone. We will let you go this once, but we will let you know that the next time we set eyes on you arrows will fly, swift, silent, and without mercy. Do you understand?

Perfectly. She said, It wouldn’t be right if you didn’t. If you haven’t figured out we Sarmethirs don’t like tasks that are too easy. We like to hear our audiences gasp and watch them chew their nails off! I will enjoy the games we play.

Come now, Balnif said, The game picture was annoying when Lasbad used it. You are making it even worse.

So why did Lasbad want you to go with him to Cyreno all that time? Burdep asked.

Don’t talk to me about Lasbad either! she said, He is a piece of our game that will not submit. He writes his own rules and does whatever he pleases. If he weren’t so valuable we would have done away with him a long time ago. He is infatuated with my beauty, and who wouldn’t be? I want nothing to do with him, but I might go and be his little queen if that makes him obey better. He would be a better husband than you would have been.

Burdep burned with rage and was ready to draw his sword when Andrew spoke again, So you didn’t like babysitting the company but you are willing to babysit Lasbad is that it?

I wouldn’t like that either. she said, But I am willing to do it if it makes Burdep squirm. I learned to despise him throughout our adventures.

I will kill you before I see you in Lasbad’s dwelling! Burdep shouted.

You already tried to kill me before, she said, Why would I expect you to behave differently now?

Why? Grosemon asked suddenly, Why have you done this to us? Why have you done this to me?

Sarora looked at Grosemon, You are delightfully simpleminded. She said as she bent over and tugged on his beard, I like this one! I really ought to take him home. But my father would not approve after all I ought to be killing you. But there are many more Dwarves in Domus-Lux. I shall have to find one in our service! But as to your question, you just never knew what I was doing all of those hours you left me alone with my brother. We went to trainings where I learned to be a good Sarmethir and I have been about trying to be as much like my father as I could ever since! Her shoulders slumped and she rolled her eyes, Speaking of which, my father wanted me to make a deal with you before I tried to kill you. I personally don’t like it but I suppose I must do as father says if I want to keep climbing his ranks. My father is offering Burdep Feliwafdir the chance of a lifetime. He said that your fighting skills were pathetic.

I was able to defeat you! Burdep said.

A lucky shot, She said, Don’t interrupt me. I have something to say! He thinks that your fighting skills are pathetic and he doesn’t believe he will get the battle of the ages he had hoped for. So he said that he is willing to offer you the chance to be the second in command of his armies! If you do so he will give you me for a wife, which is awful, and you will be honored to the highest degree!

He is only making this offer to catch me! Burdep said, He would kill me as soon as I entered his gates!

He could have killed you the other day if he had chosen. She said, Why would he want to kill you in cold blood and look like the villain? Besides is there any more heroic of a picture than a man that takes his greatest enemy and makes him his most loyal friend?

That’s not going to work! Burdep said, It’s Oruras’ intention to destroy all life! That includes me and you.

Not so, she said, But even still, if it were the case wouldn’t you want to spend the rest of your days with me? I will be whoever you want and do whatever you want so long as your loyalty is guaranteed. I will play as the girl you loved and you won’t be able to tell the difference. You’re going to die anyway. The mission you are on is a hopeless one. Then she stepped closer to him and wrapped her arms around his neck and laid her head on him, Wouldn’t you rather have me and a quick and painless death than to continue on this lonely path only to be captured and tortured? It’s not a difficult choice. But I leave it to you.

Burdep was surprised to find himself actually considering it. The last few days without AnnaLoshea had been miserable. He could not bear the idea of going on without her. He no longer cared if she was acting, to have AnnaLoshea the rest of his days along with power and glory would not be a bad idea. He would be relieved of his duties as the chosen warrior never to feel the need for anything. He knew that it was direct violation of what Vashaar had called him to but he now understood what Grosemon meant when he said that he simply wanted peace. Burdep wanted peace so badly he might join Oruras for it. Then after some deep consideration and turmoil he asked, If I joined you, would Barram and Mershapi be spared?

You only need ask it. She answered.

What are you doing!? Englorion asked, "Don’t listen to her!

Andrew put his hand up to stop the Elf.

Would your father give me Hennyfed? Burdep asked.

The second in command must have a kingdom. She answered.

Would he give me all the lands of Domus-Lux and all who are in them!? Burdep asked, Would he give me the sword and allow me to slay him without struggle!? Because if he does not do these things then I can never aid him! Burdep jerked Sarora’s arms off of him and twisted her around putting his sword to her throat, I ought to kill you right now! He whispered in her ear.

I take it that you’re declining my father’s offer. She said.

What do you think? Burdep asked.

That’s a shame. She said, It’s truly a shame. I could have made your life wonderful. I suppose now all there is left to do is begin our little game, and when it is all done I will go to be with Lasbad.

Lasbad can have you! Burdep said, It wasn’t your face that I loved it was the person on the inside! It was AnnaLoshea!

She cringed once again, You are dead set on using that stupid Elvish name aren’t you? she asked, Too many memories, too many memories indeed.

You have given us your story. Andrew said, We have declined your offer now be gone or we will cut you down now!

But I am not at all dressed for battle. Sarora said, And this is not the best men I have for a fight. I will return with someone other than my praise choir to face you. Until later, tah! She spun around and scaled the ropes up the side of the mountain and the Men and goblins followed continuing their chant Sarora, Sarora.

When she was gone the company shook their heads in disgust, It’s one thing to betray us like that but to wave it in our faces is another thing entirely! Balnif said.

If she comes by this company again she will get more than she asked for. Andrew said.

At least Lasbad came alone. Burdep said, She’s going to be chasing us around with armies.

As I said before, Andrew warned, Keep your eyes open. She knows that we will kill her so she may not give us a chance to see her.

So the company set out once more. Sarora did not know it but all her visit had done was anger Burdep. He now had something to drive him forward. He was not going to let her taunt and chase the company as Lasbad had. He determined in his heart that she would fall by his hand before the end. But he knew it would be difficult seeing Andrew viewed her as the company’s chief threat and would not allow personal matters to get in the way of him doing what had he had to in order to save the company.

The company did notice that Burdep was affected by their conversation. They felt wrong for doing it but they continued to stir up Burdep’s anger against Sarora. They wanted to do whatever it took to keep him going. But Burdep was no longer their chief concern. The company was worried that Grosemon may have been in on their plot and that he may be a spy also. He may be in charge of informing AnnaLoshea to their exact location. Perhaps Sarora had given them an unintended hint when she said when one piece is moved another must take its place. Grosemon could have been AnnaLoshea’s replacement. So to be safe Andrew decided that they should question the Dwarf.

One night as they gathered around their camp Andrew spoke, Grosemon, he began, Do not take offense, but you know that we have been betrayed by both Fahlon and AnnaLoshea. We know that you are a common thread between both of them. So naturally we have to assume that you may be in on their schemes.

I thought it would come to this. Grosemon said, It is sad to see the times that we have come to. I have spent years in service to the races of Domus-Lux. I am now old and feeble, and I am accused of treachery. I hold no ill will against you for this. You do the wise thing.

So are you a spy? Balnif asked.

Sadly I cannot answer. Grosemon said, Wouldn’t AnnaLoshea have told you no?

We are in a predicament. Andrew said, Can you give us a reason to trust you?

I was born in a mine to a wealthy Dwarven family. Grosemon said, I lived there only a short while. I could have lived off of my parent’s wealth and never have done a day’s work in my life. But I left to make a positive impact on Domus-Lux. I roamed the lands of the nations, mapping out some of the less traveled areas. I found gold and jewels and all forms of precious metals. I kept none for myself. I gave them all to my people and made them into the wealthy Dwarves they are now. I spent my life serving my people. But they idolized me and tried to make me into some sort of celebrity or god and I wanted nothing to do with it. I realized that I had few years to live compared to what I had when I began this whole excursion. So I went to Aremor to pursue my greatest passion. I wanted to find the Black Dwarves. I used all I had but never discovered them. Then I found two children and raised them to be followers of Vashaar even if it did not take root in them. Then I joined the company of Ornan to ensure that my people the Dwarves would not be conquered. I am nothing more than a Dwarven patriot, a Dwarven adventurer. I could have held wealth fame and anything else I wanted but I turned them down. Now I am old and tired and death is the only great adventure left for me, and I welcome it. I do not care if Oruras strikes me down I have nothing to benefit from serving him. If all of this means nothing to you then so be it. If you count me worthy to die then I will not refuse.

The Dwarf speaks truth. Englorion said, But I cannot prove it. Tis a shame when your ultimate enemy is the father of lies.

I want to believe you. Andrew said, But you understand what we have been through. We just cannot take another risk like we did with AnnaLoshea.

What will you do? Burdep asked.

We will bind him. Andrew said, If you are not lying to me then I beg your forgiveness, but we have been in the company of so many liars that I cannot defend you.

That is best. Grosemon said, Bind me and never let me out of sight, so that you will know that no one is passing messages to me.

We’re sorry, Balnif said, I’m sure you’re nothing more than a good Dwarf with the best of intentions.

Do not take it hard. Grosemon said, The Dwarf who raises a generation of traitors should not be offended when taken for one. You do what is wise and I can never hold it against you.

So the company bound Grosemon and moved on. They progressed along the cliff side as they had previously. They kept their eyes searching high and low for any signs of AnnaLoshea. They knew that they were being hunted. She did not have a dragon like Lasbad so she could not survey the landscape from a distance, so the only way she could possibly find them is if she tracked them. Burdep also thought that she could easily follow the cliff. They were not doing much to hide their progress. It would take her little effort if she did want to find them.

The cliff was no longer growing in height but it continued to stretch far off in the distance. They were hoping that it would soon come to an end so that they could be only a short run from their water supply, but as they marched on their water dwindled. They feared that they would soon have to scale the mountainside to refill them. They knew that would be the most likely place for Sarora to attack them so they waited as long as they could to keep from filling their water. But eventually they dripped their skins dry and thirst set in. They knew that it was dangerous to attempt the climb or to go near the river but there was little else they could do. The cliff still stretched out of sight. They could be days away from a place where they might be able to walk alongside the river. They did not even know if the land ever would rise back up with the river. They knew that they would have to face the climb sooner or later and they figured that sooner was better seeing that they were all parched.

Slowly and methodically they started up the mountainside. Burdep was still no admirer of heights so he did what he could not to look down. They managed to climb the side and to their relief they found no goblins anywhere. The river was only thirty yards away so they rushed over and filled their flasks. Once they were done and ready to leave they heard the sound of what they thought to be voices, What is that? Balnif asked.

People, Englorion said, It sounds like a chant.

What are they sayin’? Balnif asked.

Burdep listened hard and then tensed up when he understood it, They’re chanting Sarora! he said.

It’s her praise choir. Andrew said, We need to get out of here!

By then the chant was near and getting louder with each second that passed. They ran to the side of the cliff when suddenly they heard a laugh from behind them, Going so soon? Sarora’s voice rang, Are you really going to run from me and take all of the joy out of our meeting?

Andrew spun around firing an arrow across the river at her. She stepped to the side and caught it in her hand, That was most impressive. She said, But they give me some of the craziest training back home. I suppose it is necessary if I am going to earn this position.

Be gone! Andrew said, Or we will be forced to cut you down.

That’s the spirit, she said, I was hoping that we would have a little battle. You see I brought my sorcerer singers to cheer me on as I fight you, and I brought forty goblins to add to the mix. It ought to be fun. Look, I am even dressed for the occasion!

She was dressed in black leather armor with long boots and gloves. She wore a plate that covered her chest and shoulders and held the twin blades given to her by Giral. Upon her head she wore a crown. And she had a blue cape that nearly reached her feet. By the sound of the choir and looks of her dress it seemed that vanity was more important to Sarora than practicality.

I trust you will make this worth my while. She said, after she had finished posing for the company, Now I hope you will all be gentlemen and help me across the river.

What do you think? Burdep asked.

I think that you will be awful and I will have to call my goblins to make a bridge for me. She said. Then she clapped her hands and goblins came out bringing long boards which they placed over the river. Then with a few quick bounds she crossed the boards onto the other side. The goblins followed as did a few Kor, I enjoyed our conversation the other day. She said, But I feel that I will enjoy this even more. Now which one to battle? She walked back and forth looking at each member of the company as she had on their last visit. I would dearly love to fight Mr. Granite, but I fear that I would lose the opportunity to fight Mr. Feliwafdir. So I will choose Burdep. Now my help will have to deal with the rest of you but I want Burdep. She paused suddenly as she noticed Grosemon, Oh, that’s a very naughty thing you did to the Dwarf, tying him up like that."

I am giving you your last warning. Andrew said, If you do not retreat now then we will kill you. You are only a shadow of the pain that Lasbad caused us.

Did you see what I did to Lasbad the last time we fought? She asked, I can be a warrior when ticked. With all that out of the way, prepare to meet your maker!

The goblins and Kor rushed towards the company. Andrew quickly defended Grosemon who was still bound. Sarora rushed towards Burdep with both swords drawn. She took a swipe at his head but he was able to duck out of the way. He leapt back into her face with a barrage of his own attacks. They incorporated moves from the sword dances and even some that were completely designed to catch each other off guard. The battle was going evenly for them but the company was actually beginning to gain a little ground against the goblins and Kor.

Burdep took a chop at Sarora’s throat but she flipped backwards kicking Burdep in the chin. He stumbled back and blasted a fire wall to back her off. She dived out of the way and watched as her Praise choir was struck by it and set aflame. They ran around like mad and then dived into the river and were washed down stream, Now look what you’ve done! she said, Who will sing my praises now? Who will write a ballad of my victory?! I severely doubt you will, but perhaps before this fight is through you will relent and bow before me. I would like that very much.

Burdep ignored her and rushed in. he struck at her with his sword but she dodged again and kicked him in the back. He spun back around with a backhanded blow. She ducked beneath it stepped inside and flipped him over her head landing him solidly on his back. She spun around and fell down on the ground and put her hands on his face as she brought hers so close that their noses touched, My, my you are a clumsy oaf, said she You are making this too easy.

Burdep took a strike at her with his staff but she rolled backwards onto her feet causing him to strike himself in the face. Burdep rose and slashed at her again but once more she dodged. It was like she knew exactly what he was going to do before he even did it. He stepped back and lunged forward with a stab. She stepped out of the way and locked Burdep’s arm and bent him over. She brought her knee up into his collar bone and attempted to do so again. Burdep softened the blow by putting his staff in the way, Why are you doing this? he asked.

My father said so. Sarora said, Besides I enjoy it!

But what did we ever do to you? Burdep asked.

You were born. She said, Believe me; I do you a favor in cutting short your life. It’s not worth it.

Burdep blasted AnnaLoshea with a wind wall knocking her off balance. He jerked back and prepared to attack again, After all that we went through I cannot believe that there is nothing of the girl that I once knew in you! he said.

Believe it. She said, as he countenance hardened, You can never trust an actress. You said it yourself. I have fooled you and you choose to remain a fool. It really doesn’t matter. When you die you will be forgotten and it won’t matter what you were.

She rushed in yet again Burdep stuck out his staff to blast her but she leapt into the air kicking his staff aside and then spinning around to land a kick square in his chest sending him sprawling on his back. She rushed over and knelt down beside him, It’s nothing personal, She said, You are just one of many who have to go.

She raised her sword in the air preparing to drive it through Burdep’s chest. But before she could bring it down Balnif came up behind her and stabbed at her back. She swung her other sword behind her head deflecting it and then kicked him in the side of the head knocking him to the ground. He rose to his feet and stabbed at her time and time again with his spear. Burdep rose and slashed at her but she ducked under it and landed an elbow in his face. Then she spun back around and ducked to one knee. Burdep looked up to see three goblins taking aim at him with their bows. He realized that he did not have his staff and he stepped back preparing for the arrows to pierce through him. He heard the twang of the bows and closed his eyes in preparation for the pain. He heard the arrows pierce flesh but felt nothing. He opened his eyes expecting to see three arrows in his chest, but instead he saw Balnif laying pierced at his feet.

Burdep stood silent in dread. He could not believe that he was seeing what was in front of him. A desire for vengeance took him and he reached down and grabbed his staff. With a cry he took three quick blasts killing the archers before they could reload. He ripped into the goblin lines killing everything in sight. Then he heard the sound of shouting. He turned to see Andrew get knocked down by a Kor and another grab Grosmon’s rope. The Kor spun around and threw Grosemon to the edge of the cliff and his momentum dragged him over.

Andrew rose to his feet again and slew the Kor. Then the goblins rushed him and he was forced to back up as he fought for his life. He stepped back until there was nowhere else to go. He killed many goblins with his sword but one launched himself towards him tackling him off of the cliff.

Burdep could not believe his eyes. Three of his comrades had fallen. He turned in desperation and fought on once again with all of his might. Sarora would not leave herself open and no matter how he attacked she always managed to avoid it somehow. He rushed in grabbing her by the throat. He bent her back over a stone and struck her in the face. She took one of her swords and hit him in the leg with the hilt. He stumbled back and she kicked him in the side of the head knocking to his knees. He looked up and saw Englorion wielding his blade against the goblins. There were ten of them and two Kor remaining. But they were too numerous they rushed him knocking him over the edge to join his companions.

As Burdep continued to watch in disbelief Sarora stepped in his line of vision and then knelt down, And to think you turned me down for this. She said, You are pathetic.

At least I am my own Mirus. Burdep said, I am not someone’s shadow. I chose for myself to become chieftain. I chose to leave Hennyfed both times. Gallar persuaded me in some things but ultimately I answer to no one but Vashaar. Look at you, you pathetic excuse for a Mirus. You answer to your father who has been nothing but a failure throughout his entire existence. He was a failure as a child. He was a failure as an actor. He was a failure as a leader. He has lost many wars and nearly been put to death on many occasions and has only remained afloat because of the Kerjomos. It seems to me that failure runs in the Sarmethir family and you have inherited a double portion of it!

I am not my father’s shadow! Sarora said, But even if I was, I would rather taste victory as a shadow then defeat as my own person.

You call this a victory? Burdep asked, You can win here, you can destroy all of Domus-Lux and its inhabitants but that will not be victory. You cannot kill Vashaar! And you may cut me down here but I will immediately go to be with him while you will go to Hell with Gollofar and your father! Do you call that victory? If you think what you have here is victory then savor it! Your end is coming soon. And in that day you won’t be able to run to daddy for help. And I sure won’t be there to rescue you.

I don’t really care. Sarora said, I will enjoy my victory. Then I will go after your brother and sister. Do you think anyone will be able to stop me from doing that?

If there is no one else then I will! Burdep dived and tackled her to the ground he landed several solid punches in her stomach but she flipped him over before he could do anything else. She leaped towards him and kicked him in the chest causing him to stumble back to the edge of the cliff. It’s time for you to be reunited with your friends!" she said.

You will pay dearly for this! Burdep said.

But not today. She said.

Curse you! Burdep said, Curse you!

Suddenly she kicked him in the chest sending him over the edge. He grabbed her cape to pull her off but she removed it and he plummeted into the darkness below. As he fell he shouted AnnaLoshea!

CHAPTER 2

JUSTICE FOR SARORA

Burdep awoke lying on his back. He was wet, cold, and feared that he was dead. But his body ached all over so he assumed it was not the afterlife. He opened his eyes and saw the cliff looming over him as well as grey clouds from which dropped large rain drops. Burdep smelled a sweet savor and he sat up suddenly fearing it was Sarora returned to finish him. But he looked around and saw nothing. Then as he looked down to his dismay he found that his lantern’s lid had fallen off. The flame was still burning but most of the Serev had spilled onto the ground, That explains the smell. he thought.

He put the lid back on and slowly tried to move himself. He had a rock in his back and he feared that he may have broken something and was just not feeling it yet. But his fears were delightfully abated as he was able to sit up with only soreness. He brought himself to his feet and thought back on what had happened. Then he remembered the sword. He looked down at his side and the Blade of Ornan was still there, "How could she have forgotten