The Age of Ornan: The Blade of Oruras Bane

By J.C. Pilcher

Burdep is a young Mirus who has everything going for him. Hes in line to be the tribes next chieftain, and everything in his city is good. His only problem is that he must find a wife and be married before he can take the throneand marrying is something he swore he would never do.

But darker times are soon to arrive in the Mirus city. Not long before he is supposed to take the throne, a pack of giant wolves attacks the kingdom, injuring both Burdep and his fatherwho is killed soon after the attack by dark magic. Now, the same man who murdered Burdeps father wants to banish magic and take the throne for himselfand seeks to kill Burdep and his younger, twin siblings to make it happen. In order to survive, the three must escape.

Burdep and his siblings flee to a dark forest on the edge of their kingdom, only to be chased by more wolves and a dark, hooded creature that emanates evil. Along the way, Burdep finds a legendary sword and is joined by the prophesied Company of Ornan. Together, they must find a way to defeat the ancient evil threatening their lands.

In this first installment of a three-part epic, follow Burdep and his siblings as they travel through the other kingdoms in the land of Domus-Lux and learn that trusting God is the only way to be successful.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Aug 31, 2015
• ISBN: 9781490889818

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.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

PARTY PREPARATIONS

I t was now the day before the Mirusian New Year. All the inhabitants of Hennyfed were out and about trying to get their last minute preparations complete before the celebration. The Mirus loved nothing more than a good party, and the New Year celebration was the biggest event on their calendar. Each of the Mirus was looking forward to the week-long party with great anticipation. The New Year celebration was always grand and this one was promising to be greater than ever. There would be food, and drink, sword dances, and fireworks, stories, and countless booths set up selling gifts. But this year was different than the others, because of a strange happening that morning. The guardians of Elves, Men, and Dwarves had arrived. These unexpected visitors filled the children with joy, and caused the adults much anxiety. (For the guardians were quite purposely uninvited.) A guardian in Hennyfed is an ill omen. said many of the elder Mirus.

But the thing that troubled them the most was the fact that the guardians went straight to the home of the Mirusian guardian Giral, who had been acting strange of late.

The guardians drove their old beaten carts to Giral’s house. They left their belongings in the carts and went straight in without knocking, which is a ritual observed religiously by all respectful Mirus, and many of the Mirus were quick to point it out. Once inside the guardians found Giral sitting in a chair staring blankly at the wall.

Greetings my fellow guardians. Giral said dryly, and not in his usual charismatic fashion.

Greetings Giral! shouted Bruzhur, the short, stout guardian of the Dwarves, who was always jolly, and boisterous.

The other guardians did not bother to return the greeting. They had only come to discuss business, and if Giral could not greet them properly then there was no point in greeting him at all.

After a moment of silence Gallar, who was the natural leader of the guardians, and guardian of Cansillia, the most prominent nation in Domus-Lux, began, Tell me Giral. Why have you not kept in contact with us guardians these past years?

Giral gave no answer, and only continued to stare at the wall.

Ankor, the guardian of Tyran, who was a large burly fellow with a rather short temper demanded. Well say something!

Giral answered. I have nothing to say, His eyes were still gazing blankly at the wall.

Fulmen, the guardian of Cyreno, shook his head, and said Come now my good friend. Normally you are as lively as Bruzhur here. And he patted the dwarven guardian on the shoulder.

Bruzhur gave a hearty laugh, Ho, ho, too true! he said, Come Giral tell us your worries! That is one reason why there are seven guardians instead of one! We can help each other in all our struggles.

I asked for help. Giral said with a scowl as his eyes met Bruzhur’s But I did not receive it. and they darted towards Gallar.

Ah. replied Rothar, who was guardian over the Elves, and was blessed with great wisdom. So that is why you behave as a Cansillian king, you are still angry at Gallar.

What do you mean? asked Anor, the guardian of Honestia.

Shall I tell the tale to those who do not know? Giral asked.

You shall indeed. Gallar replied.

Very well then. Giral said, Were to begin? he paused for a moment, to recall the tale, and as if he were still in deep recollection he began I suppose it happened around fifty years ago. The former king of Cansillia sent men to spy out the land of Lastad.

Lastad?! Anor interrupted, Lastad is a province Honestia! I knew not that our land was being spied out. Had I know it I would have had King Modec drive them out.

Until that time I had no idea that the king was spying on you. Gallar assured him, You know how Cansillian kings try to keep all their dealings from my ears.

Let’s not get into a debate about that. Giral retorted. I still have a story that I have barely begun.

Very well. Gallar said, You may continue.

Giral went on, While the old king was spying in Lastad his men found a way through the Black forest. As soon as they set foot in Hennyfed and saw its beauty and wonder, they knew that the king would desire the land. So they sent a letter to the king notifying him our marvelous land, and as expected he coveted it. But when he heard that the Mirus lived there he was angered, and decided to have us killed. He tried everything a person could imagine, mercenaries, pirates, and bandits, anything he could think of. But they could not move through the forest even with guides. There are many dark creatures in that wood and many men met their doom without any need of it. After many failed attempts at stealing our land the king decided to take his soldiers and go there himself.

I’ll have you know, Gallar said I tried to get the king to stop. But the kings of men do not respect us guardians as the Mirusian chieftains do.

Indeed. Men are very foolish. Ankor added.

That is for certain. Giral said as his patience began to wear thin, Now let me finish! The king did come. His men found the way through the woods again. But they were not prepared for the traps I had set. Giral sat forward and a fire lit in his eyes as he recalled that fateful night,

We met them in the dead of night; there were five hundred men all on horseback and they were marching toward Four Falls, as they reached the plains of the Westfed we set off hundreds of fireworks. The sudden flash of lights, and loud screeching and banging of the missiles sent the horses running like mad. They hurled there riders to the ground and trampled them beneath their hooves. The few men who survived the horses were finished by the Mirus. The king fell there also. It would seem that we were victorious, but in our greatest victory came our ultimate downfall. The king’s son, Frederick Granite, took the throne. Gallar told me he would not allow Frederick to turn out like his father. Pah! He’s a thousand times worse! He has done so much to bring my people to their end. Before long, if he is allowed to continue, he will destroy us, utterly and completely. And that is why I am… angry at Gallar.

Fulmen, who was going through a large number of scrolls that he had in an old torn and patched sack, began to read. At Gallar’s command, I Fulmen guardian of Cyreno am keeping record of King Frederick’s progress in his dealings with the Mirus.

He glanced up at Giral with a slight smirk and said. It’s rather long and it will take a long time to read. Though I would like nothing more than to present it in full, I know that I would put you to sleep as usual, so for your convenience I will abbreviate.

It says that Gallar was doing all he could to help Frederick to love the Mirus, or at least abide with them, but it also says that the old king’s advisor created a lie and caused all the men of all the nations to believe him. He sent out messengers to the various kings and told them that the king went on a secret quest to save a village from a Mirusian attack, and on the way the Mirus ambushed them and murdered the king. Frederick chose to believe this, and now wants revenge. You can read it for yourself if you would like.

It’s not necessary, Giral said as he put his head in his hands. Forgive me Gallar. It’s just that, well you’ve heard, everything’s going wrong for the Mirus, and what do they do? They go about having parties, and celebrating like they have always done! There is not a warrior amongst them, except for Wurria, and since he is the chieftain I would not want him to fight our enemies.

Bruzhur leapt to his feet, What about the Dwarves of Nireb-B’zuku they live in your mountains, why not ask them for help?

The Mirus only let the Dwarves in so that they can buy their crystals and sell them back once they have been charged by the elemental stones. Were it not for the Dwarves’ money the Mirus would not let them near Hennyfed.

Why? Bruzhur asked feeling rather offended. We have always been good to the Mirus, and would never betray them.

The only thing that the battle with the king did to the Mirus was make them very suspicious of outsiders. Even more than usual, Giral explained.

But the Dwarves will be at the celebration. Bruzhur insisted.

Yes, but most of the Mirus won’t like it. Giral stated. The only person who agrees with me is Wurria. Were it not for him the Mirus would have commanded the Dwarves to leave Nireb-B’zuku a long time ago. They are so very suspicious of everyone. I can almost hear the old Mirus now when they saw you arrive. ‘Those guardians went in Giral’s house without knocking. A guardian in Hennyfed is an ill omen. All seven is worse, and not knocking such poor manners! Nothing but ill news they’ll bring I’ll warrant.

Ho, ho! T’was a wondrous impression! Bruzhur laughed. I have seen enough of the Mirus to know you are more than correct!

Is that all that troubles you Giral? Gallar asked.

Yes. He answered, But I must ask how the king is dealing with his… misfortune.

That was twenty years ago. Gallar said.

Yes, but since the Mirus were involved, I’m sure it will make him even more bitter against us. Giral said.

You are correct. His hatred has turned to madness since then. Gallar answered.

And what misfortune do you speak of? Ankor asked.

Have you not heard? Gallar asked in amazement. His wife and children were murdered by a band of Mirus.

Oh that. Ankor said as he rolled his eyes. He deserved it. But I must tell you Giral, if you want revenge that is no way of getting it. You should really learn to control your Mirus.

I was not the one who ordered that attack. Giral said in his defense. I can’t say that I was displeased to hear the news, but I asked Wurria what he knew and he told me it had to be band of rebels, though he did not know who they were.

But in spite of all of this, one good thing did come of Frederick’s misfortune. Gallar said.

What is that? Anor asked.

His son, Andrew Granite was taken prisoner and a few weeks after the attack I received a letter from the Mirus who had attacked the king. They were demanding that we pay them to return his son. We all thought the prince was dead since he was less than a year old when the Mirus attacked. But at that time I decided to keep the letter a secret from Frederick. According to the letter we were to meet the Mirus near the black forest of Silva-Nox. So I went there by myself disguised as an old lord that served Frederick. When I arrived I discovered that it was only a few of the Mirus that had attacked originally. In fact there were only five of them, poorly equipped and in no position to stand against me. And so I defeated them, and took the kings son, then I tracked down the mercenary Gwain and gave the lad to him.

Why give the kings son to a stinking mercenary. Ankor asked in disgust.

Gwain is an honorable man. Gallar said, He fights to rid Domus-Lux of bandits and pirates. He will raise Andrew to be a good king.

A mercenary raising a lad to be a king does not sound right. Anor said.

You would know why I chose Gwain if you knew him. Gallar said But I will speak nothing more of Gwain. He prefers to be left out of people’s conversations.

Giral you should be thankful to Gallar for his attempt to put a wise king on the throne. Rothar said.

I am thankful Gallar. Giral said, But don’t you think this mercenary will raise Andrew to hate the Mirus? I have yet to hear of a mercenary who wouldn’t

Gallar gave a wry smile but said nothing.

I assure you. Fulmen said. Gallar would not choose anyone who is less trustworthy than we are.

I will say nothing of Andrews’s progress. Gallar said, still bearing his smile. You my friend will see firsthand what a great man he has become.

Is he here? Giral asked.

No. Gallar answered. He and Gwain are going to Houd-Osgedrom to meet Frederick for the first time since the attack. And you my good guardian of the Mirus are invited to join us!

I don’t know. Giral said reluctantly. I never leave my house, except for the New Year celebration, and even then I go in secret. I have grown weary of the world, and the only person allowed to speak to me is the chieftain.

Why force such misery on yourself? Bruzhur asked.

Giral rose from his chair, and pointed at Bruzhur Because I can’t go out there and watch the Mirus die! he fell back into his seat and put his hand on his forehead. He sat silent for a moment as if taken by a great weariness, then his eyes strayed to his window, Gallar, you come to the celebration every year you’ve seen it. Our numbers grow fewer and before long there will be no more Mirus.

When Andrew takes the throne all of this will end. Gallar said.

I am also troubled about Wurria’s wayward son, Burdep Feliwafdir. Giral said with a frown.

Burdep’s a good lad. Gallar protested.

He refuses to follow the Mirusian customs. Giral insisted.

What customs are you referring to? Rothar asked.

It is mandatory for the Mirusian chieftain to be married before he becomes chieftain. And when asked about it Burdep said, this, word for word. ‘I have met every girl in Hennyfed and would never marry any of those brainless jaw flapping fools!’ And he means it!

Gallar laughed. It sounds like him. But can’t you change the customs?

No. the Mirus will not allow it. Giral answered, And I try to keep them happy.

It sounds like a full time job. Ankor growled.

You don’t know the half of it. Giral said as he stared at the wall again.

There was a moment of silence and then Gallar spoke, Do not fret Giral. He said as he rose from his seat. It is a new year and it appears to be a promising one at that. Let us speak no more of dark things; my heart is in need of merriment! That’s why I come here all the time. It gets rather depressing around all of those priggish Cansillians.

Indeed! shouted Bruzhur. And my stomach is in need of some refreshment! Let us have a toast!

Giral got out a small pot of tea and poured up seven cups. They held their cups high and declared in unison. To a year of change!

It necessary at this point to explain more about the Mirus, for their part in this tale is quite large. The Mirus are happy yet suspicious race, who live in the land of Hennyfed. The Mirus are very similar to the race of Man, but they have a few distinct attributes. First of all on average they stand a few inches shorter than their human neighbors. They also have black hair and blue eyes, both traits are not found together amongst the race of men. Most of the Mirus possess soft and almost childlike features throughout their lives. And when age takes its toll on them their black hair fades to a blinding white. Their ears are slightly pointed somewhat similar to the Elves, and for this they have often been labeled as black Elves.

As mentioned earlier the Mirus live in Hennyfed. Hennyfed is divided into four parts, The Northfed, the Southfed, the Eastfed, and the Westfed. The land is bordered to the north, east, and south, by tall impassible mountains and the west is blocked off by the dark forest, Silva-Nox. The Mirus, who are also naturally suspicious of outsiders, have become so strange in that respect, that they mostly only trust the Mirus that are from the same Fed as them. This can be rather awkward since the center village which is also the largest in Hennyfed, called Four Falls, was built in the center of Hennyfed, with one corner of each Fed in the city. It is not uncommon to have neighbors who fear each other because of the strangers of another Fed that live next door. It is not like the Mirus hate each other, but they find each other rather queer, and prefer to stay with their own folks.

The main source of income for the Mirus is farming. The Mirus have used the magical stone of life to transform Hennyfed into the most beautiful and healthy land in Domus-Lux, so farming was an easy way to make a living. There are also a large number of dye traders. This is because the Mirus love bright colors, and will pay a lot of money to get their clothes dyed in the brightest colors they can find. The sages, who are the Mirus whose duty is to study the elemental stones, are paid by the chieftain, and the chieftain gets his income from the Dwarves and Elves, who go into Hennyfed to buy crystals charged with the power of the elemental stones.

The elemental stones are the center of the Mirusian culture. They were given these powerful stones by Vashaar the one true God of Domus-Lux. From these mysterious stones flow the powers of the elements, but only if Vashaar wills it. There are six stones altogether. The stone of fire, which is located in the Southfed, the thunder stone of the Eastfed, the water stone of the Northfed, the wind stone of the Westfed, the stone of life which the city of Four Falls is built around, and lastly the Unknown stone which is near the border of the black forest. The Mirus built warehouses near these stones, otherwise called temples, and certain Mirus dedicate their life to studying them and charging crystals with their power. There was also said to be a seventh stone, seven being the number of completion which Vashaar so loves to use, but nobody knows what this stone did or were it is located. All tales told of the ancient times make no mention of it, and even the guardians know little of it.

It is mandatory for all Mirus to learn a little of the magic of the stone that resides in their Fed. Which means a Mirus from the Southfed would be required to learn the fire magic. A Mirus from the Northfed would learn water magic, and so forth. Everyone must learn life magic since there is a piece of it in every fed. At one time in ages long forgotten the Mirus learned to use the unknown stone, but now if you were to try to master its strange power you would be considered mad, and probably would be banished from Hennyfed.

The stones can be used for a wide range of tasks. A person with beginner’s knowledge of a type of stone is called a pupil. Once the pupil has learned to use the magic comfortably he becomes a scholar. And if the scholar studies hard enough and learns to use the magic in mighty ways he becomes a sage, and the last and highest level is called the head sage. There can only be one head sage, because you must be a sage at all magic, and have the most knowledge of the magic stones than anyone in Hennyfed. The Mirus test the knowledge and skill of all sages yearly to see who will be the next head sage.

The magic is mainly used for help in every day challenges, such as starting a fire, making a garden grow larger and faster, watering the garden, and even healing wounds. It is said that in the dark days that the Mirus used magic to fight. Many tales were told of the sages who used fire to blow holes in their enemies, and how they rained water on their enemies and froze it around them, leaving them encased in a block of ice. And some tales were told of sages who could make the wind blow so hard on a single point that it slashed through anything that got in its way. But such things are not done anymore. The sages could if they wanted but do not for fear of being called strange, and they now spend their time trying to put it to a more practical and day to day sort of use.

With the ways of the Mirus firmly established the time now comes for us to return to the story, but not to the guardians. For now it is necessary to go to the fire temple of the Southfed where Burdep Feliwafdir, son of the chieftain works as a fire sage.

Burdep was an unusual Mirus, even though he was twenty one, he was suspicious of other people as is common for the older Mirus. This was very strange since the younger Mirus are normally inquisitive beyond measure and only become suspicious once they throw away their childish fantasies for Mirusian sense, as the elder Mirus commonly say.

Another strange thing about Burdep was his height. Most adult male Mirus stood around five feet and five to seven inches, but Burdep stood at a whopping six foot one inch. His name was also a strange thing. His mother wanted to name him after the Buffy River that flows through the Northfed and part of the Westfed, but his father, Wurria, thought Buffy didn’t sound very much like a name befitting a future chieftain. So Wurria left Hennyfed to find out what the human name for the Buffy River was. He discovered that it was called the Jordan River, and quickly rushed back to Hennyfed and found his linguists. They translated Jordan into Mirusian and came up with Burdep, and so Burdep was his name. The final thing that was considered strange about him was the fact that instead of training to become chieftain. He spent all his time learning magic. In fact he had learned so much that he was a sage in all magic’s including the unknown magic. He could have become the master sage if he had wanted to, but he preferred to stay a fire sage and work at the fire temple. He did not like responsibility and chose to stay in a low position where little would be expected of him.

Part of the job of a fire sage is to make fireworks around the New Year celebration. One thing that makes the Mirusian fireworks special as compared to the other races attempts is that they are powered by crystals charged by the elemental stones and so they have more than just Fireworks. There are also water works, thunder works, and wind works. But fireworks are very popular, and this year there was an even greater demand for fireworks than ever before! All the sages were working as fast as they could, but none of them could make the fireworks as fast as Burdep. When on duty his mind remained focused on his work and he could hardly be broken out of it to answer a question. While his hands were naturally slow he had his art down to a system and he had perfected it to the point where he could make them faster than the lightest fingered sages.

It was now seven o’clock and Burdep had arrived on duty at nine in the morning. He was scheduled to leave at five o’clock and he was getting annoyed at having to stay late. Lycubia, who was the head sage of the fire temple, looked out the window and saw Barram and Mershapi Feliwafdir. Barram was Burdep’s little brother, who was a mischievous ten year old Mirus who loved nothing more than to make a little mischief, he even taught himself to make explosives, and did so quite often, and terrorized his neighbors.

Mershapi was Barram’s twin sister, she was kind and gentle, but unfortunately as Burdep would put it she was a brainless babbler! Talking was her favorite past time, but this was common to all Mirusian ladies both young and old. The men would be the same way but were often forced to be silent so that the ladies could talk. Many learned simply to talk over each other leaving meals for the Mirus very chaotic times.

Lycubia looked at the clock, and after seeing how late it was, she rushed to where Burdep was working Oh I’m sorry honey! She shouted. I didn’t know how late it was!"

Hifna, who was Lycubia’s assistant sage, came over to where she was and said, Lycubia why do you always keep Burdep late?

Well I can’t help it he’s the only good worker we got. Lycubia responded.

Your right about that! Hifna said, People think if they get a job as a sage it means they can sit around, scratch their heads all day, call it work, and get paid.

Burdep just smiled. He didn’t quite know how to respond to the praise he received from his boss, and feared speaking his mind because he loved little more than making less than kind impressions of all he met. So to keep his reputation in tact he actually spoke little when he was around others.

Well thanks for stayin’ late you can go if you want. Lycubia said, but she was wishing and haflway hinting that he could stay to midnight.

Burdep finished the final touches on the firework he was making and stood up. It wasn’t any trouble. He said, and looked about the room. Fireworks were laying everywhere. How many more do we have left?" He asked, as he scratched his head.

But Lycubia had already darted off. She was a hyper sort who walked, talked, and worked in fast motion, and without a break.

Hifna took a piece of paper off the wall and looked at it. We still need one hundred more. And that’s if no one decides to ask for more!

Burdep shook his head Are you people sure you can handle the job?

Yeah, If I can get them to work! Hifna said.

Burdep laughed to himself. He liked to work with Hifna, but he knew there was nobody who enjoyed talking on her shift more than she did. After a drink of water he said farewell to his bosses and left the building. He stepped outside and saw Barram and Mershapi sitting on the ground. By the looks of things they had been there a while and were both getting bored.

You’re two whole ours late! shouted Barram, who was tired of being a Good lad while he waited on Burdep.

I don’t need an escort kid. said Burdep, who preferred to walk home by himself in order to process all that had gone on during his work day.

Now Burdep, don’t say that to your brother. Mershapi said.

Whatever! Burdep shouted. I worked two hours overtime and I’m tired and would really like Barram to be a little quieter. Burdep was usually tired and irritable after work but he had something on his mind which made him worse than usual.

Yes Barram, you should be quiet. Mershapi said, Your brother did work a long day on the hardest day of the year.

Barram stuck his hands in the pockets of his tunic, and grew silent.

The Feliwafdir siblings walked along in silence for a moment but Barram couldn’t contain himself long, and burst out. I just can’t wait for the party!

Oh don’t start on it again. Burdep scolded, That party is all you’ve talked about for the last three weeks!

Come now Burdep. Mershapi said. You always get excited about the celebrations. So why are you getting all grumpy now?

I’m not grumpy. Burdep said, I just get tired of hearing Barram go on about it.

"But you always go on about it to! Barram protested. Why can’t I?"

Because I make sense when I talk, Burdep said, and I can make point without making a horrible racket.

Well who cares? Barram said. And anyway I still can’t wait! I can just imagine what prizes I’ll win tonight!

Or what beautiful dances we’ll see. Mershapi added.

Or what delicious foods well eat!

I can just hear the fireworks!

I can feel the heat of the fires!

I can smell the wonderful flowers!

I can see the drunken Dwarves rolling about in the street! Burdep added, to give their conversation a rather abrupt and anticlimactic end.

That’s not altogether true, Burdep. Mershapi scolded.

Your right! laughed Barram. They’re rolling in the floor trying to get back to their chair for some more! with that Barram burst into laughter.

Hey! Burdep said. Don’t forget our fellow Mirus who don’t mind a bit o’ ail themselves! Burdep joined his brother in the laughter as well.

Mershapi shook her head. You two know how to make a good party sound, foul!

Yes I’m rather good at that. Burdep said with a wry smile.

What would father think! said Mershapi in disgust.

With that word a shiver ran down Burdep’s spine Please don’t mention father. He said with a cringe.

Why? Mershapi asked. But Burdep did not answer. Did you and father get in a fight?

Yeah! Shouted Barram, And I know why!

You shut your mouth, you little brat! Burdep Commanded. But it did not deter the mischievous Mirus.

Father wants Burdep to get ma- but before he could finish, he was thrown to the ground. Burdep put his hand over Barram’s mouth, But to no avail, for Barram did not fight fair. He bit Burdep’s hand with all the force he had. Burdep jerked his hand back which gave Barram time to yell. Married. Ha-ha!

Blast you kid! I told you to be silent! Burdep said, still rubbing his hand, I bet half of Hennyfed heard that!

I see no reason why you should be angry about that. Mershapi said while frowning at her two disappointing brothers.

But father said he wanted me to…….. to… I won’t even say the word! Burdep said, But he wants me to do it tomorrow!

Tomorrow? Mershapi asked, Well, there’s plenty to choose from, and they’ll all be at the celebration.

There’s plenty of the same thing. Burdep said, It’s like saying there’s plenty of tomatoes to choose from and I don’t like tomatoes period, and besides, there’s no amount of money you could pay me to marry any of them! And you know how I like money.

Well what did you say to father? Mershapi asked.

I told him that he wasn’t married anymore and was still chieftain so I didn’t need to be. Burdep answered.

You told him you wouldn’t obey him! Mershapi said, with a look of fear and astonishment.

If that’s how you want to put it, then yeah. Burdep said.

What did father say? Mershapi asked.

He said I would never become chieftain, and I told him, so be it! Burdep said, I would rather stay a temple sage my whole life, than live one day with any of those Mirusian idiots! Or waste my life leading these ungrateful Mirus

Great stuff, isn’t it? Barram said as he started to laugh again.

Oh, it is dreadful. said Mershapi.

Indeed let’s not speak of these things. Burdep said, and they went a little further in silence.

Mershapi began to notice that they had put Burdep in a foul humor, so she tried to think of something to comfort him, and then it hit her. Burdep, did you know that Gallar has come already!?

Really!? Burdep asked.

Yes. she answered. He went straight into Giral’s house.

Without knocking! Barram added.

Without knocking? Burdep asked. Such bad manners, and Gallar knows the customs. He must have urgent news to discuss with Giral.

Most certainly. Mershapi said. And what is even more amazing is that the other guardians were with him! I’ve never seen them before.

All seven?! Burdep asked, Stranger still Burdep began to rub his square shaped chin, trying to look calm, but all the while his heart was racing. I bet it has to do with what father said about Giral acting funny.

Possibly. Mershapi said. But you should have seen them. They were just like in the stories, tall, broad, and stern.

Except that one short one. Barram noted, He was broad like the others, but noticeably shorter than everyone, and was by no means stern. He went into the house dancing and singing waving his hat about in the air.

And there was that one who was taller than the others. Mershapi said. He had long golden hair, he was not as broad as most of them, and he had no beard. But his face, it was like nothing I’ve ever seen before, he seemed to be old and wise, and yet at the same time young and fair.

That must be Rothar, guardian of the Elves! Burdep exclaimed. Normally I would be angry at their ill manners, as the old Mirus probably are, but if they are friends of Gallar then they must be good. And that short dancing one that you were talking about, I have seen him before; father took me to Nireb-B’zuku once, and he was there singing and dancing. He is Bruzhur guardian of the Dwarves.

Why is he so short? Barram asked.

In spite of the fact that Burdep was suspicious of outsiders, he enjoyed learning about foreign things, and though he never wished to go and see them for himself, he had a lot of knowledge about them, and loved to share his knowledge. The guardians, he began, are meant to picture the people that they lead. That is why the guardians of men have short hair and long beards. It is also the reason that Bruzhur is short.

But he is awfully tall for a Dwarf. Barram said.

The guardians are supposed to have a commanding presence about them, and so they are all tall for their race. Burdep said.

Wow! This is great! Barram Shouted.

I know. Burdep said with a frown. Why haven’t you told me sooner?

Burdep, that was early this morning, Mershapi said, Many things have transpired since then. I forget things quickly.

Well now I can’t wait to get there and see them myself, Burdep said, do you realize we will be some of the first Mirus in over an age to have seen all of the guardians!

Then let’s hurry home! yelled Barram, with a leap, and he raced ahead.

Burdep and Mershapi ran after him all the way back to their home.

As they reached the door Burdep came to a sudden halt. What’s the matter? Mershapi asked, as she opened the door.

Father’s in there, isn’t he? Burdep asked.

Yeah! Barram laughed. Are you ready for another go at it?

Not at all. Burdep replied under his breath. But let’s go and get it over with. I can’t avoid father the rest of my life.

So they entered the large Mirusian home. From the outside it looked as is if it was same size as the other houses but the inside was quite different. The house was built on the side of a large hill. Roughly one third of the house was above ground; which naturally meant that the Feliwafdir’s house was about three times the size of most Mirusian homes. The house was very strange in that there were few rooms. Most of it was made up of long narrow passageways, much like a Dwarven mine, though they were not as cold or gloomy, and the walls were carved out of wood instead of hewn out of stone. It was actually built by both the Dwarves and Elves as a gift to the Mirus when they found their home in Hennyfed. That was in the beginning of the Season of Forgetfulness when the men had attempted to chase them out of Domus-Lux.

Burdep loved his house more than anything he had. He felt that in the long dark halls he could hide from the troubles of the world about him. He spent countless hours wondering aimlessly through the halls, as he did through life. He also used this time for thinking of how he could better his knowledge and skill with the elemental stones. But as he entered his home today he knew that he could not hide from his troubles here. His only problem at the moment was his father and his father could always find him in the halls, and besides, what would it profit him to hide from his father.

Burdep stood just inside the door shifting nervously back and forth on his feet. Where is father? he asked.

He’s probably getting supper ready. Mershapi answered. Poor father. He has to be both a father and mother to us, and trying to be chieftain at the same time. If only mother were still here. The Feliwafdir’s mother had died shortly after Barram and Mershapi were born. There were many Mirus who had caught wind of Wurria and his wife leaving Hennyfed to name Burdep and the rumor was spread that her death was somehow on account of that. All Burdep knew was that it was sudden and without a good explanation.

You know you could have stayed home and cooked supper for us. Burdep continued trying to show his disapproval of Barram and Mershapi following him home.

Father told me to enjoy my day. Mershapi said defending herself.

And you’re saying you find joy in getting on my nerves? Burdep asked.

Before Mershapi could say anything Wurria entered the room. Greetings my children, he said, in his low fatherly voice. He wiped his hands on the apron he was wearing, and then he turned to Burdep and frowned. What kept you late? he asked.

Lycubia. What else? Burdep answered flatly without making eye contact.

Very well. Wurria replied, as he sat down at the table Let’s not speak of work. Now is time to eat! And tomorrow we will celebrate! he then turned to Burdep. Oh I forgot to mention. You just missed the guardians! All seven of them!

We missed them? Burdep said in dismay. I thought as much. I hope they stay for the party.

Wurria just ignored Burdep’s comment and led them to the kitchen, and there they said a prayer, and ate their meal. It was nothing special, but quite good considering how quickly Wurria had thrown it together.

After they finished Wurria told Mershapi and Barram to clean off the table, and then motioned for Burdep to follow him. He led Burdep to the living room, and sat down.

Burdep he began with a sigh. about this morning.

Burdep interrupted him. Father there’s nothing more to say. He said, My mind has not changed.

Let me finish. Wurria said. I am sorry to force this upon you, but for the good of the Mirus, won’t you reconsider?

Burdep gave no answer, and refused to even look in his father’s direction.

Wurria began again Burdep, I am your father, and chieftain. I have the power to force you to do this. But I cannot and will not because I want you to be happy. But I ask, I beg you to please find a wife tomorrow.

That’s not going to happen. Burdep said with a frown, and he rose from his seat and left the building.

Burdep wondered out into the hill country of the Southfed, which was only a five minute walk from his house, and there he found a tree on the side of the road, and leaned against it. There he began to think over all the events that had transpired that day. This has got to be one of the worst days I’ve ever been through. He thought. I wake up and Father tells me that I must get married, to sell my soul to some stinking blabber mouthed woman! Then I have to stay late at work, and once I get off work and I’m ready for a relaxing walk home Mershapi and Barram have to follow me! Then I hear that the guardians are here, and I get home too late to see them! Everything that could have gone wrong went wrong. This has just turned out to be an awful day! This is shaping up to be a lacking year altogether!

Part of the problem was the fact that Burdep was beginning to get lonely. Normally if he had a problem he would wait until Gallar made a trip to Hennyfed and he would talk to him about it, and though the old Guardian was currently in Hennyfed, he had noticed that Gallar did not make as many trips there anymore. And it seemed that when he did, he would show up without warning and leave in a flash. Even though he would be at the party, he would probably be too busy to talk to him. Burdep had also built many barriers between him and his family. He could not talk to them about things that mattered and he had nobody who would or even could understand the things he was going through. Or so he thought.

As Burdep was leaning against a tree complaining to himself, he heard the sound of a cart coming down the road. By the sound he decided that it was too big for a Dwarf cart but too heavy for a Mirusian cart. He was still feeling irritable so he ducked behind the tree, hoping to avoid a conversation with anyone. As the cart passed by Burdep caught a glimpse of the old weather beaten thing, worn from much use, and he recognized it. It was none other than Gallar’s cart. And indeed it was Gallar who was riding down the road on his way to Four Falls humming along the way. Maybe one thing will go right today. he thought, and leaped out from behind the tree. Gallar! He shouted.

The old guardian brought his cart to a slow stop, and turned his head towards Burdep. Only highwaymen hide in trees waiting for travelers to pass by. He said, with one eyebrow raised.

Burdep ran to the carts side, Believe me I have no intention of robbing you. He said

And I have nothing worth stealing. Gallar said, as pointed at the piles of old dust covered scrolls and maps in the back of his cart.

Indeed. Burdep said in agreement. But I say to you Gallar, your manners aren’t what they used to be.

Gallar raised his head and frowned but said nothing.

And so Burdep continued I hear you went into Giral’s house without knocking, and you leave without talking to me, the future chieftain. And now you call me a highwayman and say that it’s a proper greeting. Burdep shook his head in mock disgust. But neither of the two was serious. They were good friends and usually greeted each other in a similar fashion.

With a smile Gallar shook his head, Why don’t you climb in my lad?

Burdep ran to the other side and leapt into the cart. Do you realize it has been a whole year since you last came to Hennyfed? Burdep asked?

I make a point to always be quite aware of what I am about. Gallar answered. You will find yourself in a great deal of a mess if you do not do so. But my business is far too great and dull to tell. And so I ask you, how have things been going for you since I last came?

It was going well, but not so anymore. Burdep said dryly.

And what do you mean by that? Gallar asked, keeping his eyes on the road.

My Father told me that I must get married tomorrow! Burdep said as he slammed his fist on the edge of the cart.

Is that such a bad thing my lad? Gallar asked, Most people do it at one point or another.

Yes it is. Burdep answered as he shook his head. Then he continued. Gallar you have no idea how br- But Gallar interrupted him.

How brainless the Mirusian girls are. he said with a dry smile.

How did you guess? Burdep asked.

Gallar laughed, You have only told me that one hundred times before, and two hundred I have heard from others quoting you.

Well, it’s true, and I will keep to my story! Burdep said, Brainless babblers! Every last one of them! I get a headache spending more than five minutes with just one of them!

I must say I agree with you Burdep, Gallar said, but it is the Mirusian law, and you are the chieftain’s son, you must do this, for it is your duty.

Duty, my blasted foot! Burdep said, The Mirus and father can’t understand that I wish to associate myself with intelligent people.

Most Mirus are intelligent. Gallar said, They are just overwhelmingly childish and very few know how to hold their tongues.

Burdep laughed. He had to agree, there were very few Mirus who didn’t talk constantly, and he knew that he was the rare exception. You know Gallar, He said I guess the biggest problem is the fact that I like life the way it is, and I am not ready to change, and with you not showing up, and my father trying to get me married. Life’s changing and I can’t do anything about it.

You are a man now, Gallar said, Whether you like it or not, now is the time for change. And I ask lad, what’s so bad about change?

Burdep just sat and said nothing.

I believe you will make a good chieftain, Gallar said. Even better than your father, I think.

Tell that to the other Mirus. Burdep said.

Come now Burdep, do you wish for Fiedir Yopifur to be the next chieftain? Gallar asked.

NO! Burdep shouted Anyone in the world but him.

Fiedir Yopifur was Wurria’s advisor, and even though he seemed to be a faithful follower when he was in Wurria’s presence, he was actually working behind his back to turn the Mirus against him, so that he might become chieftain instead of Burdep. Because of Burdep’s position and the fact that Fiedir hated anything to do with the elemental stones he had an overzealous hatred for Burdep. There were rumors that it was he, who planned the attack on King Frederick’s family. He also had a habit of disappearing for extended periods of time and would show up again, and as Burdep would say, he always came back with a wicked aura about him. But Fiedir managed to keep this from Wurria’s ears

Fiedir Yopifur will become chieftain if your father died and you were not married. Gallar continued.

It will be many years before father dies. Burdep said. I have a lot of time to wait.

Burdep, long life is not guaranteed to all. Gallar said. Your grandfather died young, as did your mother.

I hope that is no ill omen. Burdep said.

A flock of birds flew overhead and Gallar looked about. He cocked his head as if he were listening to things other than Burdep The world is changing. he said, The Elves are restless; the Dwarves are being forced from their mountains, and the Men fight with one another. You Burdep must change too or change will be forced upon you. Vashaar is the only one who does not change, but what he changes, changes for the better. You too must change, but change can be both good and ill. Be sure to change for good.

Burdep sat in silence for a moment. He too had been getting restless in recent days, but thought that the feeling would go away. He now wondered what was going to happen in the next year. What strange power was at work to keep the races so restless? Would his restlessness change him into someone he never thought he would be? Amidst all the questions one thing was for certain, he knew he would not enjoy the party I just dread tomorrow. He said quietly, I know there will be long lines of girls waiting for interviews. A whole day wasted, and a good day at that.

Gallar said nothing, he stared straight ahead and returned to his humming, and he appeared as if he were deep in thought. Burdep had run out of things to say, and if Gallar was only going to sit and sing to himself, then he was better of going home for some rest. Well, Gallar He began, I think I should be heading home now." And so Burdep climbed out of the cart and headed back in the direction of his home.

Farewell! Gallar said, Do not worry about tomorrow these things are often not as bad as we think. May you find a flower amongst the weeds!

Burdep told Gallar farewell and left, not knowing that Gallar was completely wrong in his prediction of the following day.

CHAPTER 2

THE PARTY

A fter Burdep worked a full shift at the fire temple, as he had done on the previous day, his father would always wake him up early the next morning otherwise he would sleep in until noon. But today was different.

Burdep woke from his restless night and thought to himself. Father will send for me when the time comes, until then I’ll just lay here for a while.

And so he dosed in and out of sleep for an hour. He woke once again, and began to wonder if his father had become lazy. So he dragged himself out of bed, and stumbled down the long, dark, hallway. He heard no sound from his family, which was strange, because Barram and Mershapi were usually up talking, and banging dishes about, at this time of day.

As he made his way to the kitchen, he found that it was empty, but the sun shone through the windows, which told him that they should have been awake a long time ago.

And so he went back to his room and got ready to go to the loathsome, party. When he returned to the kitchen, he decided if they were going to sleep in all day, then he would make his own breakfast, and go to the party on his own. He grabbed some fruit and sat at the table, and began to eat. He reached for the pitcher of water that was kept on the table. As he lifted it he realized that there was a letter beneath it. He picked it up and began to read.

Good morning Burdep! Father said that you would be tired,

And that we should let you sleep in. But I will let you in on a little secret!

We are already at the party!

Please come as soon as possible. We will be waiting.

P.S. Look out the window, Tee hee.

Mershapi

What the heck! Burdep shouted. Gone without me!? Blast my luck!

Burdep did not mind leaving without his family, but them leaving him behind was completely unacceptable. They have already had the time of their lives. he thought, and they probably think it’s funny that I am at home missing it! He glanced back at the post script and thought on it, And what does she mean by look out the window?

He turned, to glance out the window, and caught a glimpse of many wide eyed Mirusian girls with gaping or flapping jaws, peaking into the windows. As fast as lightning he vanished behind the table. Idiocy! He exclaimed, How am I supposed to get to Four Falls without them following me?

Apparently he had been spotted, for they began shouting, and laughing, and they crowded the door. Burdep had no intention of facing them, and began to think of possible ways to escape. And then it hit him. They are at the front door. The side door is unguarded! I’ll just sneak out and they will never know I’m gone!

So Burdep carefully backed out of the kitchen trying not to be spotted. He then made his way to the side door. As he reached it he grasped the handle and pushed the door, and it began to squeak terribly upon its old hinges. Blast you Burdep! he thought, You know father told you to oil those hinges two weeks ago! I will be the death of my own self some day!

In spite of it all he finally got the door opened enough to peek outside. It was indeed a beautiful day. The grass was trimmed so perfectly and so well kept that it looked as if the whole yard was covered with a thick green carpet. The only exception was the small gardens which Mershapi had planted about the yard. The sky was blue, and there was not a cloud to be seen. There was also a soft breeze which added to the serenity of the landscape.

I need to get out of here quickly! Burdep thought. This is a perfect day to play tackle ball, and if those brainless idiots catch me I will never get the chance to do it.

He knew that he had to be exceedingly quiet otherwise they would hear him. As he opened the door completely a large flower pot, which had been placed above the door that morning, by none other than Barram Feliwafdir, fell onto his head, knocking him into a pile of pots which crashed, and broke against each other. At that moment he heard the sound of the brainless idiots running, shouting, and laughing in his direction. He leapt to his feet, and as fast as he could, darted in the direction of the road. As he drew nigh unto the road he caught a glimpse of Gallar’s cart riding down the road towards Four Falls.

Praise Vashaar! He thought, and raced towards the cart.

The old guardian turned and saw Burdep coming his way. Hurry my lad! He shouted in a tone of mock desperation.

He then flicked the reins, and the horse moved from a trot to a gallop. Burdep put forth all the strength he had left and finally reached the side of the cart and bounded into the back of it.

As he lay amidst Gallar’s baggage trying to catch his breath he heard the sound of the elderly guardian laughing uncontrollably.

What’s your problem!? Burdep demanded.

I have not seen such an amusing sight in ages! he replied as he attempted to regain his composure.

I’m glad someone’s enjoying my misfortune. Burdep said sarcastically.

Indeed. responded Gallar with an impish grin.

What are you grinning about! asked Burdep.

Remember what I told you last night? Gallar asked.

Yes I do. Burdep answered, And I will have you know you couldn’t have been more wrong even if you had said that the east was the west!

Gallar began to laugh again. You didn’t think that I had figured it out already?

Burdep frowned and shook his head, At least I have learned a valuable lesson today.

What might that be? the guardian asked.

The old Mirus were right! said Burdep, A guardian in Hennyfed is an ill omen. I’ve had nothing but trouble sense you arrived, and I guess I have you to thank you for it.

O surely you hold us guardians in a higher regard than that. Gallar said, sarcastically, still feeling quite amused at Burdep’s anger.

Tell me Gallar. How do you manage keep the kings of Cansillia from executing you? Burdep asked with a slight smile.

Gallar said nothing.

Do you realize you just made me look like a complete fool? Burdep asked.

I did no such thing. Gallar responded. You played the fool quite well without my aid. I merely watched, though I do not say that I did not enjoy it.

Well, I must thank you for getting me out of that mess. Burdep said.

It was no trouble at all. Gallar responded, And I say again, I rather enjoyed the show, but I will have you know, that I have only delayed your misfortune, for those girls will be going to the party.

Unfortunately you are far from wrong, and all to correct. responded Burdep, But if we keep riding at this pace we’ll get there before those fools, and I might have a little time to enjoy myself.

Gallar only smiled. He knew that the girls at Burdep’s door were only the ones from the Southfed, and that the girls of the other three Feds would all be waiting at Four Falls, for his arrival. They rode on in silence until they reached Four Falls.

Four Falls was a most beautiful town. It was the largest city in Hennyfed, and yet it was still small enough for most if not all of the inhabitants to know each other by name. The city got its name because of the four rivers of Hennyfed, the Buffy of the Northfed, the Buffylapir of the Westfed, the Yherti of the Eastfed, and the Obesi of the Southfed. They run into the town from the high hills that surround the city, and indeed they make four falls. These rivers then wind their way throughout the city until they reach the center and collect around the great stone.

The city was built in a small valley that looked as if a giant had taken a spade and dug a hole in the middle of the planes of Hennyfed. Normally one would think the people of Four Falls should fear flooding, but the sages of the Northfed use the water magic to start and stop rain when they choose. And after thousands of years of research the Mirus know the exact amount of precipitation that is required to make the land beautiful, and yet, not flood the city. But the most unique thing about the town is the great stone of life. It sits in the very middle of the town. And some say that when Vashaar created the stone of life, he dropped it from heaven and it landed in the middle of Hennyfed, making a great crater that Four Falls is built in. But most Mirus do not like that story because they say that their valley is too beautiful to be a crater, and that the stone of life is not big enough to make so big a crater. But that does seem to be the most likely explanation for the valley. The stone of life’s magic is so powerful that it makes the whole city shine, and helps all of the plants throughout the whole city to grow bigger and more beautiful. The food that is grown there is also tastier, and many Mirus refuse to eat fruits and vegetables grown anywhere else.

As they came to the outskirts of the town, Burdep was horrified to see girls of all different ages and Feds everywhere holding signs with all manner of