The W.A.N.D. Epic: Book One: The Foretelling

By J. Martin Turner

Several years of feuding and mischievous behavior by the witches put a strain on the relationship between witches and wizards. The Commoners see them both as a problem, even though the wizards have always sought to look after and protect them. However, when a centuries-old foretelling is becoming a reality and poses a serious threat to the existence of both, it may lead to a change of heart, especially when a new enemy becomes a serious threat to the entire witch and wizard community. The future of their existence rests in the hands of a new baby girl - Emerlyn Foster - who is told on her thirteenth birthday that she is no ordinary teenager...she is more powerful than she ever imagined! They say it takes a town to raise a child. Will the witch and wizard communities come together to help this teenage girl battle the new evil that has surfaced? Or will she succumb to their ways and destroy all that's left of the witches and wizards? The Wretchids will stop at nothing to make sure Emerlyn, the teenage girl, sides with them. It will ultimately become a battle that will soon prove extremely important, not just for the survival of witches and wizards, but for the entire world and humankind.

• Language: English
• Publisher: J. Martin Turner
• Release date: Jan 14, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005643720

J. Martin Turner

I was raised by a single mother, born in Orlando having lived in South Jersey and the last several years in South Florida. After having attended the University of Florida as a Microbiology major, I took time off from school, moved home to South Florida, and started in the restaurant business. I decided to go back to school, majoring in forensic science and soon realized my love for writing and film. I then attended the University of Miami, dual enrolling as a Motion Pictures/English major with an emphasis on creative writing. I am divorced, have a daughter on the verge of teenager-hood, and thoroughly enjoyed my experience writing my first book, From Boy to Man: Memoirs of a Single Dad. In 2019, I completed my first fictional novel, The W.A.N.D. Epic - Book One: The Foretelling. I spent a year reworking it, editing it and now it is available for purchase and will be the first book in a five-book series of the W.A.N.D. Epic.

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The W.A.N.D. Epic - Book One: The Foretelling

Copyright 2021 J.Martin Turner

Published by J. Martin Turner at Smashwords

Smashwords Edition License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your enjoyment only, then please return to Smashwords.com or your favorite retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 - Cuttle’s Premonition

Chapter 2 - Keeper of the Crossing

Chapter 3 - The Daring Rescue

Chapter 4 - Windermere Heights

Chapter 5 - Elementalists and Spellbinders

Chapter 6 - Lurkers and the Cloaked One

Chapter 7 - Return to Windermere Heights

Chapter 8 - Flight of the Broomstick

Chapter 9 - The Meeting at Wembley’s Hilltop

Chapter 10 - Cuttle’s Mission

Chapter 11 - The Arrival of Emerlyn Foster

Chapter 12 - The Charm of Plausibility

Chapter 13 - The Terrible Trio

Chapter 14 - The Magician

Chapter 15 - Bubby’s Journal

Chapter 16 - Luminymphs

Chapter 17 - Ketelbom’s Pumpkin Patch

Chapter 18 - The Coven

Chapter 19 - Summer Academy of Wizarding New Growth

Chapter 20 - Oliver’s Quest

Chapter 21 - Wenderling’s Treetop

Chapter 22 - The Forest of Fortitude

Chapter 23 - The W.A.N.D.

Chapter 1 – Cuttle’s Premonition

Quickly, we must get her to the overhang. HURRY, Cuttle shouted, as he ran with two more following behind. Look, there’s an opening in the rock. The night sky is alive and we are in danger.

They continued on, securing themselves in the cave-like hole within the walls of the large rock structure. As the three of them stood, Cuttle looked down at his hands, moving the white cloth aside, revealing a beautiful baby girl. Her big, crystal blue eyes stared up at him in wonderment as the light flashing in the night sky reflected off her jet-black hair.

We can’t hang out here for long, Cuttle said, still trying to catch his breath. Timmons, when are we supposed to send her off?

I’m not sure, Cuttle. We are supposed to see a sign...look, over in that field, Timmons said with excitement while pointing to a field just below the rock structure. The field was an empty, dark flat. Just beyond the field was a very thick and dense forest.

Delphy, do you agree, asked Cuttle.

Yes, but we must make sure we do it right or we may very well end up with our lives lost, Delphy replied with a tremble in her voice.

It doesn’t matter, this must happen.

Several strikes of purple and green lined the darkening sky.

It looks like it is getting worse, Timmons said, just as scared and trembling.

This baby means everything. We cannot let him down. Wait! Listen...

Just as they paused, they heard a high-pitch screech.

That’s it, that’s our sign. Here, take the baby.

Cuttle handed the swaddled infant to Delphy.

Where are you going, Cuttle, Delphy worriedly asked.

I have to make sure this is our true sign and not a trick.

Cuttle stepped out from the cave. He peered around the corner, looking into the sky only to see the continued flashes of purple and green. He took a small step forward and just as he did, he heard a shrill coming from above the landing where the cave was located. The landing went upward as if it were a hill and standing at the top of the hill was a dark, cloaked figure.

How dare you steal from me...STEAL FROM ME, the evil voice screamed.

A flash of purple light was thrown at Cuttle. He instantly dove to move out of the pathway of the bolt. Cuttle stood and ran toward the field. The cloaked figure pulled back and hurled a flash of purple light striking again, just missing him as he shifted back and forth trying to keep the cloaked figure from having a direct shot at him. Several of the shots hit the rock structure sending debris flying. As Cuttle made his descent toward the field, he heard the baby crying. He stopped in his tracks and looked back at the cave. The cloaked figure laughed as it turned, looking at the opening of the cave, suddenly headed toward Delphy and Timmons and the baby. Cuttle saw this and quickly turned and ran toward the opening of the cave. The cloaked figure reached back, Cuttle ran and jumped in front of Delphy, Timmons and the baby. A long streak of purple light flashed, striking Cuttle in the back hurtling him into the rock wall. They all screamed out...

Noooo, Cuttle shouted, quickly sitting up in his bed, covered in sweat and breathing heavy.

What’s wrong, another nightmare, Delphy asked, waking up next to him.

Huh, uh, yeah. It was, he said, tapping his chest and shoulders, reassuring himself that he wasn’t actually struck in the back. Cuttle hopped down off the bed and headed to the bathroom to wipe off his face from the sweat.

Are you gonna be OK? I wish there was something I can do. This is the fifth night in a row that this has happened, Delphy explained, worried why Cuttle keeps suffering from these nightmares.

I’ll be fine. I don’t know why, but it’s all so...real.

I’m gonna make us some breakfast, that’ll help start the day better.

Delphy went off to the kitchen and Cuttle proceeded to change and get ready for work, unsure why these nightmares were happening to him and he couldn't seem to so sleep a peaceful night's sleep without it happening again and again.

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

Dwarvine was not only known for its beautiful landscape, but it was also tucked quietly, privately in the middle of the Apotropaic Forest. The small town - and a very small town indeed - was picturesque in quality of life and surroundings. Several massive Douglas firs and Western hemlocks encompassed the tiny community, as if bordering it in its own private quarters somewhere away from the rest of the world. The Apotropaic Forest is also referred to by the Commoners as The Valley of the Giants mostly because of the massive height and diameter of the trees. What was most striking was the tiny nature of this community up against such an impressive size of tree. This helped keep the tiny town safe and protected from outsiders, poachers, or anyone seeking to cause harm because it is quite difficult to hike or maneuver through the massive forest. Also, not far from the little town are several Redwoods. This served as a reminder to those living in the tiny town that should intruders impart their ways on their town, relocating was not difficult for them to do.

Dwarvians lived peacefully. They were skilled workers and very intelligent. They were called upon for their wisdom and were very well respected by many because of their light-hearted nature. They always appeared happy and boisterous and willing to lend a hand where needed. They also had an uncanny ability to understand nature. It wasn’t a practice or anything, but they never feared their surroundings or nature’s livelihood.

On a warm, sunny afternoon early in August, Cuttle Banderbluff had just returned from gathering nuts, berries, and firewood from the forest. His baskets were full as he strutted along with a huge smile on his face upon returning to the town.

He always finds the goods, doesn’t he, remarked Timmons Taberlong. Cuttle, you must tell me your secret?

Timmons, a true seeker never reveals his secrets. Besides, you know the answer to this question already, replied Cuttle with the simplest of responses.

Cuttle, if I had known, I would not have asked.

Cuttle stopped dead in his tracks and turned toward Timmons. He walked toward him with a smile and an air of confidence.

Here, have a sampling, Cuttle offered, extending his basket outward. Timmons reached out and took the offering without hesitation. He placed a handful of the berries in his mouth and chewed slowly, then speeding up while closing his eyes and smiling.

Yes, only the finest. The secret, please, Timmons repeated.

Just reach inside and use your Dwarvian instincts my friend. Let nature speak and you... Cuttle paused, leaning toward Timmon’s ear and whispering ...listen!

They both stood and laughed heartily.

Perhaps I shall join you one day and you can show me, Timmons said.

"I’ll be venturing out again tomorrow morning, just before the crack of dawn. Meet me by the sand trap and you can tag along.

Deal!

Cuttle continued on to his cottage.

I come bearing winter essentials, he shouted upon entering his home.

It looks wonderful. Another fruitful gathering, Delphy replied.

Yes, I have a few more trips to make before we begin to prepare for the winter months. There is still much to find.

Delphy walked to Cuttle, reaching out to hug him and pulling back to look at his face without giving up her embrace.

How are you feeling today, she asked, looking him in the eye, concerned.

I’m better. Once I got into the forest, I felt much better. Nature has a great way of making us feel so alive and safe, you know?

Delphy smiled at him and nodded. She walked over to the table and turned to him with a letter in her hand.

I’m still concerned about these night dreams you keep having.

I’m sure it’s nothing.

Cuttle, a couple or a few nights; but five nights worries me. What’s most disturbing is you won’t share them with me.

I can’t share them with you because I don’t remember.

Well, here, Delphy said, extending her arm with a letter in it. While you were away, this was delivered,

To me? By whom?

By Iris.

Cuttle stopped what he was doing, quickly put his baskets down near the table and took the letter Delphy was holding in her hand. It was a tri-folded piece of vellum with the crest of the sender attached to seal the letter. At one of the folds of the letter, a golden quill poked out at the end.

Is everything alright, Cuttle, she asked.

This is an Encrestment. If this was delivered by Iris and there’s a quill inside, it’s urgent, a high priority, and...

And what, Cuttle?

"...an agreement that must be made and signed.

Cuttle carefully broke the seal, his wife standing behind him and they both began to read:

Cuttle Banderbluff,

You are asked to meet with Alton Caledon, August 6th at 8am sharp. Please take the proper route and sign with the golden quill provided to confirm your presence. Once signed, confirmation will be received. Also within this Encrestment, you will find a silver pendant. This pendant must be kept with you. We look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

The Council

Cuttle sat on his chair, leaning back and folding his arms.

Whatever could that mean, Cuttle? You have not heard from Alton for what, three years now?

No, I have not. The last time we spoke, he was going away on a mission. So I’m not quite sure what this could mean.

But I thought...

No, Cuttle quickly interrupted. We must not speak it. We don’t know what this could be. It could be a variety of things.

Shall I go along, too?

Unfortunately if your name is not on the invite, then the invite extends only to the person which it is intended. So it is best you stay behind.

They both sat in silence. Cuttle pulled the pendant from the Encrestement, took the golden quill, sighed deeply, and then signed his name on the bottom of the notice. Once completed, the letters in his name began to shine brightly, matching the quill in a magnificent, shimmering gold. Cuttle placed the quill on the table next to the vellum. Instantly the quill levitated and slowly swayed back and forth resting on the center of the vellum. The vellum quickly rolled up and a pop like a balloon was heard with several small, white feathers coming to a heap on the table. A moment later, the feathers began to move and from underneath, a small white bird with golden eyes chirped, looked at Cuttle and Delphy, turned its head and flew off through the window.

He told me he would alert me when he came back from his mission. However, I’m not quite sure the reason for his mission other than him telling me that he would be in contact when he returned. Of course that was three years ago. I truly did not expect to hear from him, if at all.

Alton didn’t mention any of the details to you of why he left?

No, I asked him just before. He smiled and continued packing. I then asked him again, and nothing. But he did say...he did say, Cuttle repeated and paused, as he walked slowly over to the window, looking out into the forest. He said, ‘When I return, our preparation shall begin. Then we’ll have thirteen of silence before the start.’

That makes no sense, Cuttle, Delphy responded. Unless…could it be?

Delphy, please. I’d prefer to think otherwise. Let’s just hope it is nothing.

And hope was all they could do until the meeting.

Chapter 2 – Keeper of the Crossing

Cuttle had quite the journey ahead of him. He knew he needed to make sure there were enough goods at home for his wife. He also spoke with Timmons about his journey and asked that he and his sister, Ophelia, watch over Delphy while he was away. Cuttle was quite certain that he would be fine on his journey to meet with The Council as per the agreement he signed. Dwarvians were very in-tuned with nature. Not only because they were small in size and could navigate, climb, and move very easily and very quickly, but all Dwarvians had a special connection - an intuition - about all the natural living species that existed around them. They could sense danger and sickness. There were things that Dwarvians could feel that only they could understand. And the route that was given by The Council involved a lot of movement through the forest. This was perfectly fine by Cuttle.

Many of the Dwarvians believed in a greater presence they referred to as The Surrounding - a guided presence, one that could not be seen, but easily felt. It was the force of nature that existed around them. The Surrounding is what allowed them to become more aware of what was within their presence. They firmly believed that if they were to stop, focus, and tune in closely, they could make many predictions about near future events, they could hear nature speak, and they were completely one with the elements. This was strictly a rumor and was not believed by anyone who had ever heard of them or listened to stories about the Dwarvians. But it was also an unspoken belief, one that they only understood through - and by - each other and those close to them.

As Cuttle prepared himself for departure, his next-door neighbor, Gideon Enderling, stopped off for a visit.

Cuttle, are you still around, Gideon yelled, rapping on the door.

Gideon, how are you, Cuttle answered upon opening the door.

I’m well my friend. Looks like you are about to partake on a journey.

Cuttle looked carefully at Gideon and noticed that he was in full on travel gear and carrying a backpack.

Gideon, I’m sorry to disappoint you but I cannot allow you to follow me on this trip.

That’s where are you are wrong, sir, Gideon shouted gleefully, smiling and walking through the door without being invited in. You see, I too have been called upon by The Council and was instructed to watch over you on this journey for your safety.

My safety, Cuttle asked, with a confused look about him.

Yes, as you know, I’m one of the best navigational Dwarvians this lifetime, if not - EVER, he shouted, following up with a very hearty laugh.

Gideon was a staunch Dwarvian. Not only was he small, but he was powerful in size, similar to that of a boulder. He had a short, thick brown beard, light brown eyes and had a laugh that was easily recognizable among those he knew.

Why should I be concerned for my safety? I’m merely taking a trip to see Alton.

The Council fears otherwise my good man, Gideon insisted, tugging his beard with a cackle. And not only am I a great navigator, I’m also very strong.

Delphy was standing in the other room, listening. She walked into the living room where the two Dwarvians were having their exchange. Just as Cuttle turned to deny his accompaniment on the trip, he noticed Delphy standing in front of him with a smile on her face.

I suppose you agree with this, Cuttle said in a soft tone, as if giving in to any argument about him going alone. Delphy nodded.

I know how long a journey this is. And that Encrestment was just that, an important letter otherwise Alton would have made the trip himself. I have a sense that something more is going on and I’ll be able to sleep better at night knowing you won’t be alone, that Gideon will be with you. My brother loves you just the same.

Delphy stepped to Cuttle, giving him a long embrace.

Very well.

Great, shouted Gideon with high energy and a gleam in his eye. Have no fear, sis. He will be in good hands and very well protected. Without further ado, let us be off.

Gideon, I hadn’t planned on leaving till tomorrow’s early morn. I was simply preparing for it.

Oh. Yes indeed. Very well. I shall return then tomorrow at dawn’s first crack of light and we shall be off, correct, Gideon asked, with a sense of hesitation in his look. Delphy and Cuttle nodded.

Very good. Tomorrow it is.

Gideon gathered himself and left to get rested up for the beginning of their long journey to see The Council.

Later that night, Delphy awoke to find Cuttle missing from their bed. She got up and walked the house. He was nowhere to be found. She looked throughout the rooms and could not spot him anywhere. She finally went out the back door and there he was, sitting in the rocking chair on the porch, watching the night sky. Without a word spoken, she quietly walked outside, sitting in the chair next to him, reaching over to hold his hand. He looked over at her and smiled and they both looked up, staring deeply into the sky. The sky was littered with tiny, little stars. Yet these stars were shining brightly, a powerful shine to indicate their own strength, despite how small they appeared. The trees surrounded the sky as if they were the border of a picture frame – and within the frame a silhouette of the treetops and the night sky pictured at the center.

You know this might be it. All the discussion. All the lore. All the stories. This may very well be it, Cuttle said with a whisper in his voice.

And if it is, then there is no denying what destiny brings.

They both continued watching the sky.

Does it scare you, Delphy asked.

Cuttle shook his head.

The only fear I have is being without you, Cuttle replied, squeezing Delphy’s hand.

They continued to rock, admiring the sky’s beauty. A shooting star streaked across, followed by another and another.

We will always be together, Cuttle.

Even if this is it?

Even if. And if this is it, this is so much bigger than just us. But we have to do what will be necessary and needed. We both know this. But we will do it, together.

They both smiled while looking up, realizing sunlight was not far behind.

At the first crack of dawn, Gideon and Cuttle met outside of Cuttle’s front door. Cuttle stood on the porch, took a deep breath looking off into the tall trees, and turned toward Gideon nodding that he was ready.

Cuttle and Gideon were perfectly aware of their journey, knowing it would take four days by foot to reach The Council. The first part of the trip required navigating through the Apotropaic Forest. This would pose no challenge as Cuttle and Gideon have combed a good portion of the forest for several years gathering firewood, nuts and berries. Sometimes they would go deep into the forest as others in the community would have gathered most of the supplies. There was always enough supply, not only to feed the forest wildlife, but also for the community’s survival. This trip would be a bit different as they had to head north a little ways, then east, then back south again in order to reach their destination. The reason being is that as beautiful and wonderful a forest the Apotropaic Forest was, there was a boundary they would cross if they headed directly southeast of their location. This boundary was not only dangerous, but could potentially cost them their lives and they were perfectly aware of the dangers that lay ahead if they chose that route. Granted, that route would get them there in less than two days, the risk was too great and the extra few days of travel would be much safer.

The forest was dark, with moments of sunlight breaking through the cracks of the branches and leaves. The darkness was an indication of the thriving life of the forest - the thick green leaves, long, strong branches and growing moss where the sunlight was unable to reach.

The first day and night went very well as they covered a large portion of forest and practically made their way to the border. Dwarvians were swift in movement and were able to cover a great deal of ground when focused. There wasn’t much time for talk or discussion as they had plenty to cover.

The second day’s light quickly lit up the night sky and Gideon and Cuttle were up and off again, trying to repeat the amount of distance they covered the day before. While walking one of the paths, Cuttle noticed a sign up ahead.

Gideon, are you seeing what my eyes are seeing?

You mean that rather large, decrepit sign up ahead? A little difficult to miss, Cuttle, don’tcha think?

Gideon, I’ve passed these grounds several times and have never witnessed such a sign before.

Is that so? Then let’s get closer and see what it says.

Gideon and Cuttle continued making their way closer and were finally able to make out the sign:

PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK

Cuttle and Gideon stopped to ponder the sign for a moment.

Cuttle, why do you worry of a couple words put up to scare fear into outside passers-by?

Gideon, I just find it strange that someone would do this. We are about to pass into a new segment of forest called the Foothills.

What’s so dangerous about that?

That’s what I mean...nothing!

So what do you think it means?

I’m not sure, Cuttle replied, with trepidation in his voice.

Both began walking slowly, making sure to heed the sign’s warning. As they moved along the pathway in the dense forest, they heard a faint scream up ahead.

Ahhhh! HELP ME!

Whatever could that be, Cuttle whispered.

How am I supposed to know? But we must help whomever it is.

They continued moving quicker along the path to a clearing up ahead and a bridge. As they approached the clearing, the screams became louder. What stood at the entrance of the bridge-way was a hideous site. It was a creature of sorts, about the same height as both Gideon and Cuttle, but much broader in size but not pleasing to the eye. The skin was gray in color, rough in appearance. The hair was long and looked like slivers of muck pulled from a mossy bayou. The nose was long, protruding outward and pointing downward. There was a large mole on the side of the creature’s nose. It wore a thick suit and held a sharp stick. The fingers were outstretched and the nails were black. This was unlike any creature either Gideon or Cuttle had ever witnessed.

They crouched behind the last bush before the clearing, staring at the guarded entrance of the bridge. There was a gorge just below the bridge where the screaming occurred.

Well, I’m not quite sure if I’d even be strong enough take on that beast, Cuttle, Gideon admitted. He looks powerful and well-intended.

Gideon, we don’t have much of a choice. Our only option is to lose the day we already spent and go the opposite way around the village and south. You know the risks.

What do you suppose we do?

I say we approach as if we we’re going to cross the bridge. That way, we can see the response we will receive and react accordingly.

That’s your plan, just walk up to him and pretend like we don’t see him, try to cross the bridge and – that’s your plan? What if he attacks us?

We can run.

Gideon stood, hand firmly planted against his head, shaking it back and forth in absurdity.

Do you have a better plan, Gideon?

Gideon pondered for a moment. He scoped the area, looking up and down and everywhere he could get his eyes on.

Here, let’s walk up to him and act as if we were crossing the bridge. There are two of us and only one of him. If he tries anything, we both can take him.

Huh, Cuttle said realizing that Gideon just proposed the same idea. Yeah, great idea.

They both waited a few moments longer, looked at each other and proceeded to head forward, nervously. Cuttle and Gideon slowly made their way to the creature. He was looking down, motioning to something below.

SOMEONE, PLEASE HELP ME, the scream came from within the gorge.

You shut up down there, the creature growled, Otherwise you’ll be dinner much sooner than expected. As a matter of fact, scream all you want. The more you do, the less I’ll have to hear!

Gideon and Cuttle proceeded to move closer to the large creature.

Dinner? What on Earth did he mean by that, Cuttle whispered.

If I knew the answer to that, we probably would have left a long time ago, Gideon replied. Now stop asking me dumb questions.

As they crept up on the creature to begin to pass, a stick cracked and the creature turned swiftly.

You! How dare you try to sneak up on me, the creature snarled with a deep, crackling voice. You are not wanted here. Depart or I will be forced to add you to my collection.

Wait, Cuttle screamed out. We merely need to cross that bridge.

Impossible, the creature grunted.

Nothing is impossible. Besides, you do not own this bridge, therefore we have the right to cross.

That right was taken away when I arrived, Trespasser, the creature grunted. Unless...

Unless, asked Cuttle.

Unless you have something you are willing to offer…to pass, the creature hinted.

What do you want, asked Gideon. We are merely looking to cross without any argument or fight. We are meeting with the Grand Nobler.

The creature heard of this and pondered momentarily.

And what business, may I ask, do you have with such...such...a figure?

We were summoned by him to meet, Cuttle quickly replied.

I see. I see, the creature responded. "Well, I require a