Blood of Legends

By J.R. Knight

The world is plagued with dangers. Monsters lurk in every corner and even mortals turn on one another in resentment.
Ellie is a young warrior, following in the footsteps of her father. Though known for being unique due to her red eyes and ability to conjure fire, she lives an average life in Hearthelm.
Terror and bloodshed strike the city one night, which forces Ellie to venture into the land of draconids – Vathia. Secrets and mysteries unravel as she fights formidable foes and meets reliable allies on her journey.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tellwell Talent
• Release date: Sep 29, 2021
• ISBN: 9781922703224

J.R. Knight

J.R.Knight is the author of the novel ‘Blood of Legends’. A book-wyrm since she was a kid, J.R.Knight took to creative-writing as a passionate passtime, inspired by fantasy books and video games. She plans to write more following her first book, turning the 'Blood of Legends' title into a series.

Book preview

Chapter One

Ellie had woken on her first day of guard work. She wore a black tunic with a laced up corset of leather around her waist. Ellie slipped on her scabbard holding her sword and buckled it upon herself. Her long, light auburn hair tied back into a ponytail; little strands of hair dangling around her face. With a heavy sigh, Ellie stepped out of her small home and met with her patiently waiting father.

About time. Started to think you fell back to sleep, her dad joked.

He chuckled, a wide grin across his lips. Her father, Victor, looked at her proudly with steel-blue eyes. The two were to patrol outside the city walls of Hearthelm, along with another friend of theirs.

Victor! Ellie! cheered a joyful voice.

A stubby man with long, gold locks draping from his helmet to his chin, smiling widely as he approached them. Ellie smiled back, recognising the man.

Bosco! she greeted him.

Ellie! the stubby man grinned.

The two rejoiced with a tight hug, Ellie almost lifting the short man off of the ground.

Victor, Bosco grinned.

Morning Bosco, Victor replied, the two greeting one another with a handshake.

‘ear about Duncan?

Yes, no surprise he is with the cleric for a week.

The orc got his apology and compensation from the tavern. Hope Duncan appreciates making Murial pay for his stupidity.

He never does.

Bosco turned to Ellie and slapped her arm proudly.

Finally get to see ya out guarding! he stated with a grin of excitement under his beard.

Hopefully it won’t be like the farm attack back when I was a kid, Ellie replied; rubbing the scars of three claw marks on her right cheek.

If it were any other fella, they’d be taking a dirt nap in the cemetery.

She could’ve too, Bos. It was very dangerous, Victor interrupted.

Your mum would’ve been proud, he continued.

Victor looked down solemnly for a moment. Ellie frowned, she could tell that he was mourning her mother.

It’s alright, Dad. I would miss her too … if I knew her more, Ellie tried to comfort him.

Hmm … I know, he nodded.

Not many get to know their own parents. It’s a cruel world, Bosco interjected.

Any maiden to you, Bos? Ellie asked to change the subject from the gloomy topic.

Honest to Gods, what damsel would befall her heart and soul to me?

Have faith, friend. Maybe your angel is yet to fall from the heavens above, encouraged Victor.

Pfft. Gods grant an undead whore for my lap, be sure. The world is cruel!

The three walked on to the first area to patrol; a farmstead along the road heading north of the city.

Hey, Bos, mind if I give Ellie a run on how the guard patrol goes? Victor asked politely, giving a wink ever so subtly.

Oh ah, yeah. I’ll be by the worker’s house, Bosco answered.

He scampered off with a wide grin. Ellie watched as he ran past and sat in a chair by the door of a rickety workhouse. She gave a confused expression to her dad. All he responded with was a shrug.

See, due to it being your first day of guard work after many reschedules, Victor stated.

Uh huh … Ellie replied with suspicion.

Me and Bosco decided since this is the early, less dangerous shift of the day, you will cover us.

Wha –

And as if he vanished, Victor bolted off for a chair hiding beside a barrel near the workhouse. Ellie glared over at them. The two simultaneously waved with cheeky grins upon their faces, pleased with their scheme. With a groan, she followed the paths around the farm.

After a few laps of patrol, Ellie noticed two milkmaids struggling to work with an agitated cow. It seemed frightened and was beginning to thrash about. One of the women; who had light tan skin, and golden, wavy hair; was tossed to the dirt after a failed attempt to calm the animal. Ellie hurried over to try to help.

Careful! She’s out of control! warned the second maid.

Ellie cautiously approached the cow. It slightly shook its head in fright and took a few steps away. Ellie kept her calm approach, slowly raising her hand out to reach for the cow’s snout.

Easy, girl, Ellie muttered.

The cow snorted and trotted, slightly rebellious to the incoming approach. Ellie took a deep breath and focused. The red of her eyes glistened as she gently touched the cow’s snout.

Everything is alright, she gently comforted.

The cow nuzzled into Ellie’s hand and was finally calmed by what had spooked it before.

Gods bless you child, haven’t seen Bucket calm in the past week! thanked the blonde maid.

The cow hasn’t been calm for a week? Ellie questioned, curious and concerned.

No. No one knows what upset her either. And she’s the brave one of the herd, would fight a pack of wolves if she had to.

So nothing strange has happened? Not even a little sudden change?

Not that I know of.

I’ll let the potatoes seated by the workhouse know about that. They might know something.

Ah, you’re Victor’s daughter! We all have been eager to see you on duty. He said you’ve been studying, buried under books.

Uhh … well … knowledge is the best weapon, I guess. Take care.

The two parted and Ellie walked over to the two resting by the workhouse. Bosco was asleep under his helm that sat crooked upon his face. Victor remained awake and had watched everything that had happened.

Saw Bucket jumping. You managed it well, he acknowledged.

Just needed a gentle touch, do you two know why she’s been jumpy for the past week? Ellie asked.

Animals tend to act up before bad weather. I would guess a storm is rolling for us soon.

Maybe …

Ellie looked over at the women milking the calmed cow. The blonde maid headed toward the city, carrying a bucket of fresh milk to deliver. She suddenly tripped before the three and lost the bucket from her grasp. Ellie reacted quickly and attempted to catch the bucket.

With considerable success, not all the milk spilt out, only a small amount splashed upon Ellie. The maid that had tripped, landed into Bosco, causing him to stir awake. She stood up quickly and dusted herself off.

I’m so sorry! I wasn’t watching my step! I didn’t mean to wake you! the woman gushed in a panic.

Bosco stared at her speechless.

Bos, she’s talking to you, should speak back, Victor encouraged with a smirk.

No … no need to … it is alright madame. No harm done, Bosco stammered.

Uhh, I’m no madame … My name is Faith … Faith Hollowdusk, she introduced herself.

I’m … Boscobel … Bosco Hartford. My name is Bosco Hartford.

Ellie stared, holding in laughter by biting her tongue.

Farewell, Faith smiled shyly before leaving the three.

Ellie handed the bucket back to Faith as she passed on her way back to the farm.

And once Faith was far from earshot, Ellie blurted amused, Your full name is Boscobel?!

Aren’t you supposed to be on duty! Bosco snarled grumpily.

Victor chuckled, She was going to learn eventually Bos. Family, friends and all.

It could’ve waited a few more years!

He huffed and returned to try and sleep again. Ellie walked off to continue her patrols. After an hour or so, a traveling caravan of traders ran by on the road from the north. They were being pursued by a vicious troll. Its fur was brown as dirt and its four eyes of pure black full of hunger and rage. Jagged teeth dripping with drool as it lumbered on after its prey.

Ellie unsheathed her sword and caught the attention of the troll by rushing over in its direction. Victor jumped at the sight and hurried off to his daughter’s side. He armed his blade out from the scabbard on his back.

Ellie took a few steps closer towards the troll. Gleaming claws swiped for her, she rolled out of reach quickly and raised her sword to block the beast’s next swipe. Ellie pushed the troll’s claws away with her blade. The beast roared ferociously.

Ellie noticed then that she had a crowd watching the battle. Women with their hands clasped in prayer, Victor stood nearby in case she needed assistance and Bosco just joined the crowd, watching what was to happen carefully.

Ellie took a deep breath and tapped her index and middle fingers against her leg. In a quick, swift motion, she held her hand out at the troll charging for her. Flames burst out from her fingertips. The fur caught ablaze, the lumbering beast letting out a roar of agony.

The flames died quickly and the troll lunged at Ellie. She dodged swiftly, hopping back from the people watching. Ellie charged at the beast again and as the troll turned, its side was impaled by her blade. The creature let out a terrifying wail that echoed aloud.

Victor joined the fight and dismembered the troll’s arm off with a swift swing of his sword. Ellie freed her sword out of the beast. The troll’s blood pooled as it collapsed, gasping its final breath. The two stepped back from their victory, Ellie exhausted from the fight.

First … fight … as a guard … panted Ellie.

Victor looked over at her, hunched over the ground as she tried catching her breath. The crowd rejoiced, the farm workers grateful to the Gods and laughing about the beast’s defeat.

You deserve a break, Victor stated.

He looked over at the jaw dropped Bosco nearby.

Guess who’s taking over Ellie’s shift, Bos, Victor grinned.

I’m happy to do that for her, Bosco smiled gently.

Ellie and Victor walked past Bosco for the worker’s house. They rested in their seats from before while Bosco continued the patrol. The two cleaned up their swords with rags, returning their blades back into their scabbards.

Chapter Two

After the long, first day of guard duty, Ellie stopped in her tracks hearing Victor call her over. She walked with worn out legs and arms.

Your day’s work is over, Victor informed her.

My day’s work? So you’re still on duty? Ellie asked.

After a drink at the tavern, I’ll be in the citadel courtyard tonight.

Ellie frowned a small pout.

Victor patted her back gently, Don’t worry, I’ll see you tomorrow.

I know, Ellie nodded with a small smile.

Let us drink! Celebrate a first day well done.

The two walked together to the local tavern; ‘The Sleeping Dragon’. Inside was merriment, people dancing and drinking.

Victor! Ellie! Welcome! greeted the bartender.

She had her grey hair tied into a bun and tucked loose strands behind her elven ears. Her elven beauty hid the fact she was nearing a century old.

A successful first day for Ellie! rejoiced Victor aloud to the bar.

The whole tavern cheered a cry in rejoice for the good news. Ellie froze and covered her face in embarrassment, feeling her face burn bright red. Victor noticed and gave a chuckle. She gave a groan as the two sat at the bar. The bartender fetched tankards and poured two drinks of mead. Ellie stared at hers, deep in solemn thought.

Are you alright? asked Victor.

Ellie looked over to him quickly, Yes, I’m fine. It’s just …

You’re nervous about your first drink.

No, no … no. I just, I’m –

It’s alright, everyone is always nervous about their first drink. I’ll tell you now, it will taste horrible.

Oh great.

It will be … bitter, unlike anything you’ve tasted before. Yet, after a day’s work it will be refreshing.

Ellie pondered on her father’s words and stared at her drink once more. She took a sip and winced in disgust. Her face sunk in trying to hold back from spitting in disgust.

I told you, Victor chuckled.

It was horrible … but … you were right. It’s sort of refreshing, Ellie commented.

Told you so.

She smiled and indulged in another mouthful. Victor raised his tankard in the air and caught the attention of the entire tavern.

MY DAUGHTER IS GROWING UP! he cheered loudly.

The tavern uproared in celebration. Ellie sunk in her seat, turning crimson in embarrassment.

Cheers, Victor smiled as he clinked his tankard with hers, Ready?

Oh no … we’re downing them? Ellie asked, concerned.

Three.

Dad!

Two.

Oh Gods.

One!

The two raised their drinks as they downed their mead. Ellie and Victor slammed down their emptied tankards simultaneously.

I love spending time with you, Ellie smiled.

And I love every moment I get with you. I’m sorry I was barely home most of your life, still am even. Me alone wasn’t enough to raise you. Yet you turned out wonderful, I couldn’t be prouder of who you’ve grown to be, Victor patted her back and leaned in for a small hug.

It’s alright Dad. I understand. You have work and that paid for our home and lives here. You’re a wonderful dad.

Victor smiled widely, his heart touched by his daughter’s unwavering love.

Maybe one drink is enough. I’ll see you in the morning, Ellie noted, standing up from her seat.

You’re going so soon? her father asked.

Sorry Dad, but if I am to guard again tomorrow morning, I need rest.

It’s alright, I understand.

The two hugged tightly, before letting go, Victor gave a gentle kiss upon Ellie’s forehead.

Goodnight Ellie.

Stay safe Dad.

She began to leave the tavern, only to suddenly hear Victor again cheer aloud and proudly, MY DAUGHTER IS GROWING UP!

The whole tavern cheered even louder than before. Ellie laughed and covered her face as she left. The walk home was quiet, the calm breeze chilly, Ellie was relieved. She climbed into her bed and wrapped herself in soft sheets. It didn’t take long for Ellie to fall asleep.

A monstrous roar stirred her awake in the middle of the night. Ellie sat up from the sounds of screams outside. She rushed out of her dark home to see fire blazing from the city. People ran and hid in fear, taking cover in the forest that surrounded the outskirts of Hearthelm. Ellie looked above to find what had caused the chaos, a wyvern of olive-green scales soaring the skies above the city.

Holy shit … Dad! she panicked.

Ellie ran for the burning city, suddenly stopped by someone running out; the bartender from earlier that night. She was pale with fright, her dress singed from the flames.

Ellie! Thank the Gods you’re okay, the bartender rejoiced, relief in her eyes, yet fear clouded them.

Where’s my dad?! Ellie’s eyes darted around, searching for any signs of him.

Inside still. I’m sure he will get out –

I’m going.

No! Ellie, it’s dangerous!

Ellie raced off fast for the city, ignoring the bartender’s cries. Fire blazed in the streets and smoke filled the air, making it difficult to see what lay ahead. Nonetheless, she ran around through the hellfire streets, encountering a few people fleeing with guards aiding them out, yet none of them were Victor.

Ellie quickly stopped one of the guards, Where’s my dad?

Courtyard. He’s helping the royal family and subjects out of the city, the guard answered.

Ellie rushed off for Hearthelm Citadel. Blazing fires and crumbling debris obscured the way through streets. Embers danced wildly among the wisps of smoke that shrouded the path ahead. She managed to make her way to the grand stone castle, entering the open courtyard. Ahead she could see a few people in the dark smoke. Ellie quickly recognised them as Victor with the Hearthelm royal family and some of the subjects.

Dad! Ellie called out.

Ellie? What are you doing here? Victor questioned, shocked.

I was so scared, I had to come find you.

Oh, Ellie.

The two rejoiced in a tight, loving embrace. Come on, let’s go, Victor stated.

She nodded and helped escort the group through the burning city. They came to a street blocked by a collapsed part of a house. Ellie noticed a way through, a shortcut to the city gates lay beyond a tarp that once covered the marketplace. She took out her sword and tore a large hole through it to safely go through.

This way! Ellie ordered.

They all passed through and followed to where the rest of the city had fled. Ellie and Victor joined the rest outside the city walls. People hid amongst the woodlands on the edge of the city outskirts. Hearthelm guards lined up in defense waiting to fight the winged beast in the sky.

Ellie, I want you to stay behind everyone, Victor voiced, his eyes full of concern and fear.

No. I’m not cowering behind. I can help, I can fight! she protested.

I don’t want to lose you. I know you can handle yourself, but this is different. Please, I need you to stand back.

I don’t want to lose you either!

There’s no time to argue, Ellie!

A sudden cloud of dirt filled the air as a loud crash grabbed everyone’s attention, the wyvern had landed nearby. Victor pushed Ellie back to the bushes where some people of Hearthelm took cover. She struggled to go back as the city cleric and blacksmith supported Victor’s decision and held her back with all their strength.

The wyvern glared down at the guards before it, all that bravely stood their ground. Ellie watched, scared for her father’s life, struggling against those holding her back. The beast eyed through each soldier’s soul with its pure white eyes. The brave guards all stood forward ready to fight, unwavered by the intimidating creature. The wyvern roared fire before their feet to try to frighten the guards back.

Instead of giving in to the fear, the guards charged onward. The attempt seemed ineffective, the beast flinging the guards off with ease. Most were able to recover, Victor among them remaining resilient. Swords and shields raced forth, he charged ahead of his comrades.

The tail of the monster swept forth and knocked back those who were closest in range. A few managed to dodge the swipe, including Victor. He slashed a cut along its side, causing the wyvern to roar out in pain. Curses uttered in a language foreign and unknown thundered from the beast.

Victor courageously and cautiously took a deep stab to its exposed throat, causing the blazing flames engulfing the city to die out. The wyvern screeched for breath as it endured the lethal blow. Its massive wings fluttered hastily in an attempt to knock the guards away, mainly focused toward Victor. He was sent back onto the ground hard, his sword flung from his grasp.

The wyvern growled and lunged its sharp, clawed wing at Victor’s chest. Ellie summoned all her strength and threw off those keeping her back. She charged for the battle, tears streaming in her furious eyes as she watched the claws rip into her father. It was too late to save Victor, blood running from his wound and down his side.

Ellie screamed with distress scraping her throat, drawing the wyvern’s attention. At first seeming ready to face any challenger, its grimace suddenly shifted to a stare of shock. Consumed with rage, she drew her sword.

She was knocked back by the gust of wind as the wyvern took to the sky. It dripped blood during the flutter as it stared at Ellie. Anger blinding her, she stood up and raised her sword back to try using it as a spear. Before she could attempt to throw, the beast