The Summoning

By Robert R. Hotchkiss

The second book in the epic Shalrodan saga, The Summoning is the exciting sequel to Earth of Fire, Sky of Ice. The Summoning chronicles the continuing adventures of Geologist Gary Krahmer during his time spent with the Valrimir, the last remnant of a civilization that has lived on the Antarctic continent

• Language: English
• Publisher: Robert R. Hotchkiss
• Release date: Oct 15, 2021
• ISBN: 9780578318240

Book preview

THE SUMMONING

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An Epic Fantasy Adventure

Robert R. Hotchkiss

The Second Book of The Shalrodan Saga

The Summoning

The Second Book of The Shalrodan Saga

An Epic Fantasy Adventure

Second Edition

All Rights Reserved © 2021 by Robert R. Hotchkiss

No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or by any information storage retrieval system, without the permission

in writing from the publisher.

ISBN: 9-780578-318240

Printed in the United States of America

The Shalrodan Saga by Robert R. Hotchkiss:

Earth of Fire, Sky of Ice

The First Book of the Shalrodan Saga

The Summoning

The Second Book of the Shalrodan Saga

Heir to Three Thrones

The Third book of the Shalrodan Saga

DEDICATION

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This series is dedicated to all who have ever lost a loved one. Whether by accident, to disease, to time, and especially to that which by no accident is the greatest disease of our time; hatred.

IN LOVING MEMORY

ERIC A. HOTCHKISS      1954-1982

MARILYN A. HOTCHKISS      1932-2001

ROBERT H. HOTCHKISS      1930-2011

JAMES H. SCOTT III      1976-2018

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

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First and foremost, I thank my Eternal Father, from whom all wisdom and inspiration comes, and for His Son, a continual beacon of hope upon this stormy sea of life. I thank my Parents, Robert and Marilyn Hotchkiss, and Rita and Sherman Olsen whose loving guidance and inspiration have shown me that all things are possible.

To my beautiful daughters (and their husbands), Shannon (and Jeff), Holly (and Zane), Valorie (and John), and Shay (and Jace); I am so proud of each and every one of you, and love you more than you can ever know. If I can somehow earn some small measure of your love in return, my life will have been well spent.

To my beautiful grandchildren, Natalie, Nolan and Lily, and J.J., Eric, and Paige, I love you all dearly. May the world become a better and kinder place for you, and because of you.

Much love to my siblings, (their spouses and my nieces and nephews/their spouses;) Eric (Jolene/Geary and JoDell, Brian/Heather, and Katie/Chris),  Dave (Pat and Alan and Ryan), Crystal (Jim and Matt/Loni, Becky/Marcus, and Rachel/Bob) and my Brother in Law; Cless (Tereza and family).

Thanks to my good friends, Jack and Debbie Wood, Scott and Cheryl Acton, and Alex and Diane Kirk and their families.

Thanks for all of the love and support from my PSI-7 family and MLS Brothers.

To my many Cousins, Nieces and Nephews and Great Nieces and Nephews and their families. You are all family to me, and I love you all.

A special thanks to everyone else that I did not mention specifically, you all know who you are, and how much you mean to me.

To my readers, ultimately this work is dedicated to you.

Finally, to my loving wife and love of my life, Holly, you have been so wonderful and supportive to me; my words cannot express all that my heart can never hope to repay.

EPIGRAPH

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The summoning comes as an undeniable and unexplainable need to go, usually to a place that one has never been before.

Talien, Master Illidranii of the Oracle

CONTENTS

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Dedication

Acknowledgements

Epigraph

List of Illustrations

Author’s Note

Preface

Introduction

BOOK TWO

THE SUMMONING

JOURNAL ENTRY–MAY 14th.

CHAPTER ONE: THE FEAST OF THE HARVEST

CHAPTER TWO: A HORRIFIC VISION

CHAPTER THREE: A SECRET MEETING

CHAPTER FOUR: THE MASTER SUMMONS

CHAPTER FIVE: DREAMS OF DARKNESS

CHAPTER SIX: UNPLEASANT MEMORIES

CHAPTER SEVEN: TREACHERY REVEALED

JOURNAL ENTRY–MAY 15th.

CHAPTER EIGHT: THE DECISION

CHAPTER NINE: ECSTASY AND AGONY

CHAPTER TEN: VALUABLE INFORMATION

CHAPTER ELEVEN: SHADOWS OF DESTINY

CHAPTER TWELVE: A DISTURBING DREAM

CHAPTER THIRTEEN: THE THRAFRI BECKONS

CHAPTER FOURTEEN: SEEDS OF TREACHERY

CHAPTER FIFTEEN: PERIL IN THE DARK

CHAPTER SIXTEEN: A BATTLE OF WORDS

JOURNAL ENTRY–MAY 17th.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: CONFRONTATION AND JUDGEMENT

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: THE DIPLOMAT AND THE ASSASSIN

CHAPTER NINETEEN: A NEW HOME

CHAPTER TWENTY: A LONG DAY’S JOURNEY

CHAPTER TWENTY–ONE: A FAREWELL FORETOLD

CHAPTER TWENTY–TWO: AN UNINVITED GUEST

CHAPTER TWENTY–THREE: MYSTERIES OF THE ORACLE

JOURNAL ENTRY–JUNE 4th.

CHAPTER TWENTY–FOUR: THE CONSPIRACY

CHAPTER TWENTY–FIVE: SEEDS OF DOUBT

JOURNAL ENTRY–JUNE 14th

CHAPTER TWENTY–SIX: CITY OF THE FROST GIANTS

CHAPTER TWENTY–SEVEN: IN THE SERPENT’S LAIR

CHAPTER TWENTY–EIGHT: A SCREAM IN THE NIGHT

CHAPTER TWENTY–NINE: THE MAKING OF A MAN

CHAPTER THIRTY: THE TRAINING BEGINS

CHAPTER THIRTY–ONE: DREAMS IN THE DARKNESS

CHAPTER THIRTY–TWO: DREAMS OF OTHER PLACES

CHAPTER THIRTY–THREE: MIDNIGHT PATROL

CHAPTER THIRTY–FOUR: IN THE HALL OF THE FROST GIANTS

CHAPTER THIRTY–FIVE: A LITTLE KNOWLEDGE

CHAPTER THIRTY–SIX: SCRIMMAGE

CHAPTER THIRTY–SEVEN: A MORAL DILEMMA

CHAPTER THIRTY–EIGHT: TALK OF WAR

CHAPTER THIRTY–NINE: THE MESSAGE

CHAPTER FORTY: SWEET REUNION

CHAPTER FORTY–ONE: MASQUERADE

JOURNAL ENTRY–JUNE 20th

CHAPTER FORTY–TWO: A VOICE OF POISON

JOURNAL ENTRY–JUNE 21st

JOURNAL ENTRY–JUNE 22nd

CHAPTER FORTY–THREE: THE AMBUSH

CHAPTER FORTY–FOUR: A RUDE AWAKENING

CHAPTER FORTY–FIVE: THE APPARITION

CHAPTER FORTY–SIX: LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

CHAPTER FORTY–SEVEN: BEHOLD THE WHITE CITY!

CHAPTER FORTY–EIGHT: THE GENERAL AND THE KING

CHAPTER FORTY–NINE: A MATTER OF TRUST

CHAPTER FIFTY: CHIEF TORIBOR SPEAKS

CHAPTER FIFTY–ONE: TALIEN’S TERRACE

CHAPTER FIFTY–TWO: NIGHT RAID

CHAPTER FIFTY–THREE: THE REMATCH

CHAPTER FIFTY–FOUR: THE MEETING OF THE MINDS

CHAPTER FIFTY–FIVE: A CHANGE IN COURSE

CHAPTER FIFTY–SIX: THE BEAST WITHIN

CHAPTER FIFTY–SEVEN: THE BLACK GUILD OF TYRRH

CHAPTER FIFTY–EIGHT: RIVALS OF THE HEART

CHAPTER FIFTY–NINE: A WALK IN THE GARDEN

CHAPTER SIXTY: THE COUNCIL OF SHALDOR

CHAPTER SIXTY–ONE: A BATTLE AT SEA

CHAPTER SIXTY–TWO: THE ASSESSMENT

CHAPTER SIXTY–THREE: THE SPRINGING OF THE TRAP

CHAPTER SIXTY–FOUR: QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

CHAPTER SIXTY–FIVE: A TEST OF LOYALTY

CHAPTER SIXTY–SIX: THE FLAME OF THE HEART

CHAPTER SIXTY–SEVEN: A PARTING OF THE WAYS

JOURNAL ENTRY–JULY 1st

CHAPTER SIXTY–EIGHT: PURSUIT

CHAPTER SIXTY–NINE: THE REVELATION

CHAPTER SEVENTY: NEW MEMBERS IN THE CIRCLE

CHAPTER SEVENTY–ONE: A DIFFICULT LESSON

JOURNAL ENTRY–JULY 3rd

CHAPTER SEVENTY–TWO: THE PROMISE

CHAPTER SEVENTY–THREE: JUSTICE AND INJUSTICE

JOURNAL ENTRY–JULY 5th

CHAPTER SEVENTY–FOUR: FINAL PREPARATIONS

CHAPTER SEVENTY–FIVE: ANSWERS AT LONG LAST

CHAPTER SEVENTY–SIX: BREAKING THE SILENCE

CHAPTER SEVENTY–SEVEN: THIS DAY, AND IN THIS VERY PLACE

CHAPTER SEVENTY–EIGHT: REUNITED AT LAST

CHAPTER SEVENTY–NINE: A SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT

CHAPTER EIGHTY: THE ORACLE

CHAPTER EIGHTY–ONE: THE RETURN HOME

EPILOGUE

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

APPENDIX A: THE GENEALOGY OF SHALRODAN

APPENDIX B: THE VALRIMIR CALENDAR

GLOSSARY

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

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The Lands of Shalrodan

Greater Shalrodan

The Isle of Tyrrh

The Shaldor Peninsula

The Dramarak Passage

The DramViron Road

The Province of Vironia

The Land of the Giants

AUTHOR’S NOTE

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I first met Gary Krahmer in the Junior High of my small intermountain area hometown.

Gary was always serious and quiet, a good student, and one who excelled in math and the sciences. In contrast, my first love was writing. It was strange that two such opposites as we obviously were should become such fast friends. I guess it was in the fact that we were both loners that we found a common bond with each other. Gary was an only child. My brothers and my sister were all several years older than I, and had all married and moved out by the time I was in High School. My association with Gary continued well after graduation.

I was saddened to hear of the death of both of his parents in a tragic automobile accident when Gary was in his mid twenties. Shortly after, Gary came to visit me. He told me that he was going on an extended geological expedition to of all places, Antarctica. He would be a civilian contractor for the National Science Foundation, that was using a U.S. Military facility as a base of operation. The curious thing that I remember most about that visit was when Gary looked me in the eyes and said to me: In case I never see you again, I just want you to know how much I have valued our friendship. Those words still haunt me.

It was a few years later that I received in the mail a sizeable box that contained the amazing story, which I am about to recount to you. The postmark said Storslett, Norway. Enclosed was Gary’s personal journal, along with many pages of hand written notes recounting his adventures and all of the history that he had read, including the legends and fables that he had been told. What a find! (And doubly so for a writer such as myself!). Rarely does an opportunity such as this fall into one’s hands. Night after night I read, spellbound, and found myself unable to hold back the tears, or keep from laughing aloud at some of the many humorous predicaments that he had gotten himself into.

I re-read dozens of times the letter which Gary had written to me, a letter of a most highly personal nature, wherein he related to me the considerable moral dilemma he had struggled with in allowing this remarkable story to be revealed to the world, as opposed to continuing to keep it a secret. Part of his letter said; Read the entire story, every page of it, for if you do, you will understand why I have made this decision to send my story to you, and why I want the world to know what I now know…

Likewise, I would ask that you, the reader, read the entire story, every book and page of it, and eventually you too will understand. I have taken the various notes and journal entries relating the story of Gary’s remarkable journey, edited them, and have tried to mold from it a story that is as readable and cohesive as possible. It is my estimation based upon the amount of material that Gary has presented me with that it will take me three books to adequately relate to you the entire story.

The first book, Earth of Fire, Sky of Ice will introduce you to Gary’s incredible discovery, and to the lands and peoples of a place, which you will come to know and love as Shalrodan. In the second book, The Summoning you, the reader will gain a much greater and more personal involvement not only with Gary, and his own personal development and his destiny, but also will gain a new perspectives into the varied lands and people of Shalrodan. Finally, in the third book, Heir to Three Thrones everything will finally fall into place as two uniquely different story lines finally merge and become one. For those that stay with me until the last page of my last book, I promise that you will be rewarded, and all of your questions will be answered.

Regretfully, I cannot now reveal to you the basis of his reasoning to reveal his story to the world, nor his motivation for doing so. I could not adequately do so without revealing key elements of the story that are crucial to the ending. Just as overhearing how the movie ends while you are still standing in line to see it on opening day would no doubt decrease your enjoyment in seeing it, I feel that to do so at this point would ruin a perfectly good story for a good many people. Just place a small measure of trust in me, and let me be your guide. In return, I promise you a ride that is quite unlike anything or anyplace you have ever experienced! And now, on to the story…

Sincerely,

Robert R. Hotchkiss

PREFACE

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The story which I am about to recount to you is to say the least, remarkable. I have already well accepted the fact that many who may read the following account will consider it incredible. I say, let those who will believe, believe. Perhaps the rest will at least enjoy the tale. It is a story of three worlds in collision. It is a history, past and present of a people that the rest of the world have either forgotten, or never realized existed at all.

It is a beautiful story; it is a tragic story. It is an important history that is far too important not to be told. In this accounting, I have attempted to carefully interweave an epic story from three different viewpoints, which I might add, was no simple task. First, I have drawn extensively upon personal journal entries, which is an account, viewed from the perspective of the twentieth century world. A modern man suddenly thrust into a land unknown to the rest of the world, and vice versa. A place steeped in the traditions of many thousands of years. A simpler place, unfettered by the technology and knowledge of a world left behind. A place in many ways ignorant, or perhaps, a better word would be naiive, and yet there is much that my world could learn from theirs.

Secondly, we travel back thousands of years to the world of the Valrimir, the Kolothyns, the Tyrrh, the Lashad, the Virons, and the other people who first journeyed forth to the land of Shalrodan, meaning the lands of Rodanim, so named after the man known as Rodanim among the first, and certainly the greatest adventurers that my world has never known. This accounting is primarily the adventures of Gareth Graymare; hero, prophet and traveler in search of his identity, and certainly a much a part of the Valrimir legendry as say, our own George Washington, Daniel Boone, and Davy Crockett combined. This is the world, the people and history of the Valrimir past.

Finally, there is the world of the Valrimir of the present, a fair and honorable people, and the last remnant of that great empire that once was Shalrodan. I will attempt to convey to you the deep emotions that I felt during the time that I was with the Valrimir, the fear, the joy, the pain, and the revelry. I shall attempt to express it as I remember it, as if it were happening to me for the very first time. Perhaps in this way, you the reader can likewise travel along with me, and experience for yourselves the awe of my discovery; the lands, the times, the history, the culture, and the people that is uniquely SHALRODAN.

INTRODUCTION

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IN BOOK ONE; EARTH OF FIRE, SKY OF ICE

Gary Krahmer, a geologist, is on an extended scientific expedition at Camp Ohio in the Queen Maude range, Antarctica. Investigating an area of geothermal activity, and while reviewing some topographical maps, he notes that a small section of the topographical map has been expertly altered. Overcome by curiosity, and against his better judgment, he explores the area in question and discovers a small fissure. Lowering himself down into the vent hole, he discovers a cavern system of immense proportions. Upon further exploration, he discovers a geological anomaly—a fire geyser. Upon closer examination of the phenomenon, he falls into the water, and is pulled down into a subterranean lake where he is overcome by the heat and gasses.

When he awakens, he finds himself in the care of a woman by the name of Trista. He learns that Trista is a member of a race of beings that call themselves the Valrimir. He learns that the Valrimir are the last remnants of what was once known as Shalrodan or the lands of Rodanim. He is also amazed to learn that a great civilization once existed upon the Antarctic continent, until the continental drift caused the lands to shift southward, forcing the Valrimir to seek refuge from the cold in the fire caves where they have lived for over 4000 years.

While with the Valrimir, Krahmer learns the trade of the Lumiskveya, which deliver and exchange the lumas, crystalline objects that provide warmth and light. He learns that the Valrimir have a complex and unusual system to make a reckoning of their time. For one thing, a day in the fire caves is approximately 22 hours long (which corresponds to the duration of two daily cycles of heat and light that a charged luma will emit.) As a result of this unusual schedule, the Valrimir observe four one hundred day seasons per solar year. They make their chronological reckoning based upon the number of years since Krevoma, (The creation), Flaslan, (The emergence, presumably after the great flood) and Kryam (The time that the great cold drove the last individual to seek refuge from the cold within the fire caves).

In the process of working with the Lumiskveya guild, he meets several individuals. Some befriend him like Rundo, Akeel and Islon. Others are concerned that his presence will disrupt life for the Valrimir people. One such individual is Hagrath, a very elderly yet powerful and influential member of the Valrimir Council. In the course of living with the Valrimir, he also meets Rasmius, a tinker whose incessant curiosity about the Outworld is of grave concern. In confidence, Krahmer tells his friend Rasmius much about his own world.

Christmas day comes, and Krahmer gathers his friends together for a dinner as he tells them of the traditions of his own land. He gives each of his friends a gift; however, when he gives Trista a small, ornate box which Rasmius had made for him to give to her, she leaves the room in a tearful outburst, saying that she cannot accept the gift.

Krahmer soon discovers that Rasmius has been gathering a significant following of individuals who meet together to hear tales about the Outworld. Krahmer is invited to address the large assembly to tell them first hand about the Outworld; however, he publicly embarrasses Rasmius and makes an enemy of him. This happens when he tells Rasmius’ followers that he refuses to confirm or deny any of the things that Rasmius had told them regarding the Outworld.

Krahmer avails himself of an opportunity to hide in the clerestory and view a sacred Valrimir rite of Eshala Tasaad (The choosing) and Selana Taelisir (The Joining). During the Eshala Tasaad, he sees Trista step forward proclaiming her availability for marriage. He discovers the significance of the ornate robes, which the Valrimir wear, as well as the reason why Trista became so visibly upset when he gave her the ornate box on Christmas day. He learns that his doing so was essentially a marriage proposal, and customs prohibit the joining of a Valrimir to an Outworlder.

During the ceremony, Krahmer discovers the depth of his feelings for Trista as he nearly loses her. This occurs when she is almost chosen by a Stilarii (Ice walker) named Glamish. The next day, he is determined to seek out Trista, to reveal his true feelings for her, but finds that she has already left to journey to Tronolasti (which in the Valrimir tongue means Earth of Fire Sky of Ice.) Tronolasti is the other Valrimir settlement far to the north where crops are grown and livestock is raised.

Krahmer sets out to find the Tronolasti-bound party, and is nearly killed when he falls into a fissure. Fortunately, he is rescued and returned to Valrifas (The Valrimir city within the fire caves.)

After he recovers, Krahmer journeys to Tronolasti with a party that will help with the harvest. He sees Trista again, but her reaction to seeing him sends some mixed signals, confusing him. After his arrival there, he meets the King of Tronolasti and gains his favor. During the great harvest festival, Krahmer is invited to tell some stories. When the people hear his name, they believe that he is the reincarnation of Gareth Graymare, an ancient prophet who the ancient writings foretold would return one day and would bring the holy records to their people.

He has an opportunity to speak with Trista privately where she professes her love for him as well. He promises Trista that he will choose her at the upcoming rite of Eshala Tasaad.

While at Tronolasti, Krahmer learns the ways of the Stilarii as well as translates his pocket New Testament into the Valrimir tongue. In gratitude, Valistral, King of Tronolasti (And younger brother of Validor, Lord of Valrifas) formally adopts him as a member of the great family of Valrim.

In the duration, Krahmer has learned the Valrimir language and has begun translating the history of Shalrodan into his native English.

The historical records begin some 4000 years before, and tell of a man by the name of Rodanim, the great grandson of Noah, who with two of his cousins, (Tarshus and Valrim) set forth upon a great ship with their families. After traversing a great storm, they discovered the lands which came to be known as Shalrodan.

It tells the tragic tale of Iotheld, Lord of Shaldor, (the capitol city of Shalrodan). When Iotheld’s treacherous and ambitious nephew, Thetus, orders a surprise attack upon the isle of Tyrrh during a storm, Shaldor’s entire naval fleet is lost upon the reefs. This effectively strands the forces upon Tyrrh, powerless to repel an imminent retaliatory attack by the Tyrrh upon Shaldor.

Iotheld has not been well since his wife Valerian died seven years earlier. In reality, the Royal Physician, Dairel, under orders from Thetus, has been drugging Lord Iotheld to keep him passive and under control. One day, however, Iotheld once again displays the fire and bravado that was once his trademark.

Thetus, fearing that Iotheld was becoming immune to the drug, orders Dairel to double the dosage. Dairel refuses to continue the practice, and writes a letter to Iotheld confessing his dark doings and exposes Thetus’ involvement. As Dairel is fleeing Shaldor, he gives the letter to a stable tend named Elan.

Elan is instructed by Dairel to take the letter to the King. Elan succeeds in delivering the letter to Iotheld, and unwittingly becomes ensnared in Thetus’ web of treachery and intrigue.

When Iotheld questions Thetus about the missing forces, Thetus Stabs Iotheld, and as the King dies, Thetus tells Iotheld of his rage at having been denied the throne of Shaldor. His mother, Gaiia was the crown Princess and heir to the throne until Iotheld had been born. He also informs Iotheld that his youngest son, Valhalek, is not who he believes him to be. Additionally, he tells Iotheld that his wife, Valerian, did not die in childbirth, as was reported. Iotheld dies pondering the mysteries that Thetus has so cruelly thrust upon him. Thetus then masterfully implicates Elan in the murder of Iotheld.

Meanwhile, Dairel makes his way towards the great Oracle at Vironia, where he seeks absolution for his wrongs. Unbeknownst to him, Thetus has paid a visit to Azrilon, the master of the assassin’s guild, seeking his assistance in tracking Dairel down. Utilizing his network of Illidranii (highly gifted individuals with unique abilities such as telepathy and long distance thought projection), Azrilon sends word to have a party sent from Tarshilon to intercept Dairel.

While traveling, Dairel meets, and is befriended by, Galen Graymare,—ruler of the isle of Kolothys. Thanks to Galen’s skilled horsemanship and knowledge of the terrain, Dairel is able to traverse the Dramarak passage in two days rather than the usual three.

During the course of their conversation, the two men talk of their mutual distrust of Thetus. Dairel learns that Thetus’ father, Traboret, was an heir to the throne of Kolothys until the throne was usurped by the Graymares, and Galen tells Dairel of his continuing quest to discover the location of his wife Valrissa, who was kidnapped by Thetus on the day that they were married. Dairel gives Galen a clue, vital to Valrissa’s whereabouts.

The next day, Galen returns northward towards the mines of Dorga, as Dairel continues southward towards the Oracle. Fate would, for the moment, intercede in his behalf as he manages to depart from the south Dramarak gate mere hours before the arrival of the assassins that were attempting to intercept him.

Meanwhile, Derek, Iotheld’s oldest son, (and heir to the throne of Shaldor), makes ready to leave the capital of Tarshilon, to return to Shaldor and assume the throne. Andre’, his blade master, mentor, confidant and friend, takes Derek upon his ship and sails him toward Shaldor. Thetus sends a ship to intercept Captain Andre’s ship, which Azrilon ‘sees to’ personally. Wounded in a fight, Derek’s last sight, before he succumbs to unconsciousness, is that of Andre and Azrilon locked in a death grip, as a swaying bridge between the ships gives way below them.

On the Isle of Tyrrh, the Shaldorian forces make preparations to march upon the great Citadel of Tyrrh under the leadership of Commander Jamalek, and a man named Gandral, leader of the Tyrrhan resistance that is seeking to overthrow the tyrant Dakkor. Gandral reveals to Jamalek the story of how his daughter Shalindra was taken to the Citadel by Dakkor, and how she threw herself over the citadel wall to the rocks below rather than allow herself to be despoiled by the tyrant.

By stratagem, Jamalek and Gandral’s forces enter the citadel disguised as fighting men of Tyrrh. A great feast is presented by Dakkor to the several divisions assembled therein.

Gandral rescues Rosala, a serving woman, as well as several of the other women serving with her. The next morning, Jamalek and his men completely fill three ships, and find some of his men assigned to various other vessels. Gandral remains behind to organize the resistance.

On the mainland, Thetus has called for an emergency meeting of the Council of Shalrodan where, in consideration of Derek’s failure to appear for coronation, he is seeking to gain Council approval for a motion that would make him Governor Pro Tem of Shaldor, until such time as Valhalek is old enough to assume the throne. In a bold move, Thetus has secretly ordered all of the ships (docked in the harbor at Shaldor) to be confiscated and delivered to the armies that are encamped at Norpoint.

This causes an uproar in the Council, as most of the trade ships docked in the harbor at Shaldor belong to several other provinces. Many of the ships that were taken belonged to the Kolothyns. Word is sent to Kolothys, where a fleet is sent to attempt to recover the stolen ships.

Further south, Galen Graymare enters the mines of Dorga, where he is captured and imprisoned. Galen escapes and succeeds in locating and rescuing Valrissa. The two flee on foot toward the pass that will take them toward Lashad. As they journey up the pass which will lead them to freedom, they are met by Gareth, the Dorgan Captain of the guard.

Rather than apprehend them, he assists them, and provides horses and provisions to Galen and Valrissa to assist them in their escape. In gratitude, Valrissa promises to name her firstborn son after him.

Once the couple reaches Lashad, they obtain passage back towards Kolothys, but in the process, join the fleet of Kolothyn Corsairs seeking to recover their stolen ships. In the process, they encounter the invading Tyrrhan fleet, which is trapped between the Corsairs and the retrofitted Shaldorian naval forces. The three ships, which Jamalek’s men are upon, manage to cause much confusion among the Tyrrhan ranks. Finally, after a great naval battle, the Tyrrhan Forces are destroyed.

On Tyrrh, Gandral’s resistance has freed several Shaldorian seamen from the Citadel’s dungeon. Dakkor and his forces retreat from Gandral, whose men have succeeded in capturing the armory. In a dramatic deathduel with his archrival, Gandral outwits Dakkor, and the tyrant ends up falling to his death upon the same rocks that claimed Gandral’s daughter. Gandral and Rosala make plans to marry and to rule side by side as they establish the new order in Tyrrh.

At last, Dairel makes his way to the great Oracle of Vironia. While at the Oracle, he gains great new insights, as he struggles with his past, and is brought face to face with those whom he has wronged in his life. Dairel discovers that he has a unique and powerful gift, the gift of the Illidranii. As he consults with the Oracle, he learns many things and feel the weight of his past choices as he recalls many of his own evildoings. One such vision is of the night that Queen Valerian was due to give birth, and how he had assisted Thetus in attempting to switch the newborn with another infant, —a child which Thetus presumes to be his own son. He vividly recalls the horror of seeing Thetus viciously smother Valerian, when she threatens to expose Thetus’ plan, all the while he stood idly by and did nothing. Finally, in the dome of the Oracle, Dairel endures the bitterness of the most painful and graphic vision of all. Believing for years that the death of his own wife was an accident, he discovers the painful truth, for in his vision he witnesses the murder of his beloved wife. His visit to the Oracle brings a sense of freedom and balance to Dairel’s life, and yet, he knows that there is one final task that he must face, for he knows that he will never be truly free until he faces his pursuers, who have followed him to the Oracle.

In a simple and yet courageous exchange, Dairel (using abilities newly discovered, and yet not fully understood), enlightens his pursuers as to the futility and undesirability of their chosen profession. The three turn away, mount their horses and return towards Tarshilon.

Covered by the darkness of night, Galen and his Corsairs raid the palace of Shaldor where they reclaim Valrissa’s Son, Valhalek. The next morning, as the child awakens, Valrissa reveals to him that his true name is Gareth Graymare, and that she is his mother. Thetus also awakens and finds a note, upon the pillow next to him, telling him that Valhalek has been reclaimed. He recognizes the writing as having been penned by Valrissa.

Following the crushing defeat of the Tyrrh at Norpoint, Jamalek sees to it that the stolen ships are returned to their rightful owners. Derek, meanwhile, has been imprisoned by Thetus to keep him from assuming the throne of Shaldor.

Dairel, presently, has returned to the Oracle where he has chosen to remain and serve. He continues to refine his abilities, and one day, years later, is surprised to find that a man named Elias, one of the three assassins who pursued him, has now come to seek the absolution of the Oracle. Dairel warmly welcomes the man, and acts as his guide and escort while at the Oracle.

In the present day, as the story closes, Gary Krahmer is making preparations to leave Tronolasti to return with Trista to Valrifas where he faces an uncertain future. Trista’s Father, Thealt has forbidden the two to see each other. He ponders his own identity, and considers his purpose for being in this exciting and strange, new world of Shalrodan.

BOOK TWO

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THE SUMMONING

JOURNAL

ENTRY—MAY 14TH

Valrifas

Adari 59

4339 Flaslan

3392 Kryam

Today we arrived in Valrifas after nine days that were both difficult and long considering the limited amount of sunlight that we had to travel by. The days are quickly growing shorter now, and as we traveled, we enjoyed only perhaps three to four hours of sunlight per day. With about an hour or two of hazy gray twilight at dawn and dusk, and by the light of a full moon, we did as much traveling each day as we could. Some of the days were overcast, all were windy, and one was downright miserable. The wind from the north blew strongly as we plodded along through the flurry. At least the wind was at our backs rather than in our faces. Despite the difficulty of the trip, I found that I enjoyed this return trip far more than my original venture to Tronolasti, for this time, Trista was at my side.

Upon that blustery day that I before mentioned, we were making our way along a particularly steep embankment. I recognized it as the same point at which I had first located the footprints of Trista’s party those many months ago. It was rough going, and the wind and flurries did little to ease the difficulty of our travel. However, for the first time on the entire trip, Trista (who by her nature had always been quite reserved in the display of her affections) did reach over and cling to me as we made our way along. Perhaps it was the cold, perhaps it was sheer exhaustion on her part, and then perhaps it was something more.

I welcomed the opportunity to draw her close and help her along. Two of the nights were clear, and we were able to travel by the light of a nearly full moon. I suppose that this, then, is the reason that annually, the journey is made from Tronolasti to Valrifas at this time, for this is the return of those that have gone to help with the harvest and to maintain the dome of ice. To travel much later in the season would be too difficult without the full moon to travel by, and to wait until the next full moon would find the days totally sunless.

As we traveled, the men took turns rotating into duty pulling several sleds of grains, meat, fruits and vegetables that had been harvested in Tronolasti. Even though the going was difficult, at those times when it was my responsibility to pull, Trista opted to pull along with me, that she might remain at my side. Thanks to the scamoths, we made good time considering the conditions.

At long last, we did arrive at Valrifas. As before, I found my arrival was met with mixed emotion.

CHAPTER ONE

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THE FEAST OF THE HARVEST

Valrifas

May 14th

Adari 59

4339 Flaslan

3392 Kryam

By the time that the last of our party had entered the relative darkness of the fire caves, a welcoming party had already gathered to greet their returning loved ones. Akeel and Islon greeted me, as did Rundo and Kyria. From the corner of my eye, I noted that Rasmius had been carefully watching us, but when I looked toward him, he turned his head in the other direction. Trista left my side and rushed toward her parents, Thealt and Camia. Meanwhile, I approached Rasmius.

Hello Rasmius, my friend. It is good to see you again.

What do you want? Rasmius replied coldly.

Am I wrong to call you friend? For did you not once call me friend as well?

That was a long time ago, much has changed since then.

That was not so very long ago. Could so much have changed so quickly?

Everything has changed between us. Nothing is as it once was. I have nothing more to say to you. Good day Rasmius said as he hurriedly made his way from the crowd.

After cleaning myself up from my journey, I went with Rundo and Kyria to a large hall, where all the people had gathered for a great feast celebrating the return of the venturers, and the arrival of the harvest. We all enjoyed a fine meal of seasoned Varna, bread cakes, and what was probably the only fresh meat, fruits and vegetables that many of the residents of Valrifas would enjoy for a year. As we were eating, Rundo explained to me that this occasion was known as the Feast of the Gathering, one of the largest of the annual celebrations held at Valrifas, and also marked the beginning of the dark times, the time when the days grow shorter, the weather colder, and the work of the Lumiskveya is increased to meet the impending cold.

At the conclusion of the feast, Lord Validor arose and spoke to the people.

"My good people. My greetings and my love to all of you. This night we celebrate the gathering of the fall harvest from Tronolasti. Many of you have bravely given of your time and have labored hard these past months gathering in this bounteous harvest and bringing it here to us in Valrifas that my people might have food in the dark times. This night we honor you for your sacrifice.

This is a most momentous and historic occasion, as we recognize the presence of my good brother Valistral, Lord of Tronolasti and the goods that he brings us. Behold the harvest!"

As the people clapped and cheered, a virtual army of men proudly paraded across the hall bearing large sacks of grain, trays of vegetables and fruits, and racks of meats. I have never seen so much food in one place before in my life! In addition, they brought several Scamoth pelts and skins as well as reams of cloth.

As Valistral arose and clasped his brother’s forearm (the manner in which the Valrimir men greet each other), all the people present loudly cheered.

Validor continued. The craftsmen of Valrifas have not been idle, but have been busy mining the ore, and refining it. They have been constructing the tools, metal works and items that Tronolasti requires and has requested. We have several sleds worth of such goods for you to take back to Tronolasti. Behold!

From the other side of the hall came a large group of men bearing several trays of tools, metal works, plates, glasses, urns, utensils, harnesses, and all manner of crafted goods. In addition, several types of clothing and various boots came parading by. Without exception, the craftsmanship was outstanding. In that instant I gained a valuable insight into the high level of cooperation and interdependence exhibited by these two cities. Each was so very productive in their own way, and each so different, and yet not so very different.

Lord Valistral was the next to speak. "Good and noble Valrimir of Valrifas, my people of Tronolasti accept these goods upon which you have worked long and hard. We appreciate your many labors to make these goods for our use. Rest assured, they shall be well used these next two seasons until we can once again return after the dark times to share with you our spring harvest.

Indeed, this is a historic and momentous occasion. Both of our peoples have long waited with great anticipation the dawning of the fourth renewal. The ancient records foretell of the return of Gareth Graymare to bring forth the lost holy records and to usher in the fourth renewal, the age of Celeva. It is with great happiness that I announce to the good people of Valrifas that Gareth Graymare has returned!"

The room was suddenly abuzz with excitement and anticipation as Valistral smiled and raised his hands. The anxious chatter immediately subsided. Valistral reached down and picked a scroll off of the table and held it high for all to see.

Here in my hands, I hold a portion of the holy word which Gareth Graymare has restored to our people!

Again, the excitement was overwhelming. Rundo and Kyria looked at me with astonishment and surprise. Several other anxious glances darted my way from others at the long table at which I was seated. Out of the corner of my eye, I even observed Thealt, Camia and Trista. Camia smiled proudly. Thealt’s eyes were wide with surprise, and Trista was as radiant as ever, no doubt hopeful that this revelation might win some measure of acceptance of me with her Father.

Once again, Valistral raised his hands, imploring his audience to lend him their attention.

Good people of Valrifas, I shall not say much more, except to say that this day I present my brother with the holy writings as foretold by the ancient Prophets—the same record that was brought forth and restored by Gareth Graymare. This is the same record that I hold in my hands. It has been translated by Gareth Graymare into the Valrimir tongue so that we may all partake of it! Now, enjoy your festivities, and rejoice, for this is a truly a great and monumental day for both of our peoples.

All that were assembled cheered with approval. The celebration continued. At one point, I chanced to see Thealt, standing alone, and availed myself of the opportunity to speak with him privately.

Greetings Thealt. You are enjoying the festivities?

It is good to have our Trista back. We have dearly missed her.

Thealt, I would speak with you regarding a matter that is of great import to the both of us.

Thealt shifted nervously, and answered me.

Well speak then. What is the matter?

Now it was my turn to be nervous, but realizing that this was no time to mince words, I spoke candidly and directly.

"In the time that I have been amongst the Valrimir people, I have come to appreciate your ways and have come to love your people. Were it not so, I would have left and returned to the Outworld long ago; and yet, I have no desire to do so. I feel at home and at peace here with the Valrimir. I wish to spend the rest of my days here with the Valrimir. I have labored side by side with your men, I have learned your language, and I have dressed in your clothes. I have done all that I can to learn your ways and to respect your customs, and yet, I feel that you still consider me to be an Outworlder.

Thealt, this will not be easy for you to hear, but it is something that must be said. I am in love with your daughter, and tomorrow night at the rite of Eshala Tasaad, I desire to choose her to be my mate."

NO! It is not possible!, Thealt said as a dazed look crossed his face. Thealt thought for a moment and added; You would not be permitted to attend the ceremony, for you are not Valrimir.

But I am Valrimir.

How is this possible? Thealt nervously queried.

In Tronolasti, Lord Valistral desired to show his appreciation for my labors in translating the Holy records, and bringing the words of Eloima and Yavala to the Valrimir people. He has formally adopted me into the great family of Valrim, and proclaimed that I should never be known as ausverlen again.

Even so, I will not permit this union. Understand this, it is nothing personal. I believe that you are a fine man, but your blood is not the blood of a Valrimir. I fear that were you to join with our people, the purity of our race would be compromised.

But Thealt—I said, realizing that my words were falling upon a closed mind.

I will not permit this union. Thealt firmly said, as he turned and began to walk away.

STOP! I firmly said. Although I intended it to be a request, when I heard my own words fall upon my ears, they could be no mistake that they had been issued with the brazen confidence of a command. After all, I had overcome so many obstacles this far, and was not about to give up this easily.

Yes? Thealt said with an uncertain air of anticipation. After all, he was a man of position, and was not accustomed to being spoken to in such a manner.

What is more important to you, your daughters’ happiness, or your prejudice? Stop for a moment and consider your daughter. I do not make this request lightly, and I speak as much for her as I do for myself. She has proclaimed her love for me as assuredly as I have proclaimed mine for her.

Thealt hung his head and closed his eyes as he silently contemplated the situation. At last he spoke, his voice beginning to choke with emotion.

My Trista has said that she loves you?

Yes

And she has agreed to be your mate?

Even if your disapproval were to drive her away, even if she knew that it meant that she would never again see you or Camia again, yes, she has agreed to be my mate. This is how much she wants this. However, even more than this, she desires that this union could take place with your blessing. Thealt, I know that this must be a terribly difficult decision for you to make, but consider this. You hold her heart within your hands. You can either crush it or you can set it free. If you want to make your daughter very happy, set her heart free and allow her to soar after it.

Thealt pondered the point. At long last he said, I will consider your words, for they are well spoken, and full of wisdom. However, I need to discuss this matter with Camia. Come to call tomorrow morning, and I will give you my decision.

There was nothing more to say, nothing else to do, and so I made my way to my quarters in the hall of Rundo. I tried to sleep, and yet found that I could not. And so I passed the night away continuing to write my history of Shalrodan.

CHAPTER TWO

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A HORRIFIC VISION

Havola Woods

(Province of Shaldor)

Krevoma 1962

Flaslan