Brethren Through Bloodshed

By M.K. Lauren

Those with ill intentions seldom sit idly in the dark while the world prospers. Evil never presents itself before a firm foothold has been secured. Questions that were not asked when peace washed over the land will soon flourish as the sum of all evils is renewed and released upon the realms. Agents of darkness spread fear and hate throughout the continent before any are capable of bringing forth resistance. Marching hordes of barbaric warriors and cruel warlords will once again fill the hills and plains with death and destruction. As the world quickly fades to black, an ancient power is stirred; a power that was once meant to be a gift from the gods themselves. It was to be spread to those capable within the land in order to bring balance to all who lived. The ancient power will soon be renewed but the allegiance of its wielder has yet to be determined. Those aware of the ancient power's awakening work with a frenzied pace to assure the alignment of its wielder shifts toward their favor.
There are many who shall rise up to oppose the destructive forces. Many will sacrifice their lives to give the world a chance, no matter how fleeting. Then, there is one that will discover that he has been given the gift to challenge those working for his very destruction. There is but one problem. He does not have the knowledge or ability to control it. He must take up the task of standing in front of an evil that has been hidden for centuries while attempting to unlock his true potential. As he struggles to meet the challenge of his newly found power, he is joined by others who yearn to fight the evil that once again plagues this world. Together, they face many struggles as they attempt to conquer the atrocities darkness sends their way and stop the tyranny from rising to power.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Nov 11, 2022
• ISBN: 9781667876795

Book preview

Prologue

Scaen sat on the only spot of grass he could find not splattered with the crimson blood that had been spewed across the battlefield only a moment before.  His bloodied war hammer sat beside him as he stared at the two mountain ranges that still remained far to the east.  Located between the snowcapped peaks was Castle Kleindale.  The castle was their destination when they left from Xarax, but now with so few remaining, he wondered if they should continue their journey.  The answer was obvious, they were men of Orionii and so they must forge onward.

He watched his brethren of the temple walk through the bodies lying over the once-green land.  He heard the villagers behind him slowly exiting from their homes where they hid when the war party had appeared from the west.  They were blessed that Scaen and a host of his brethren had been making their way to the mountain city far to the east.  Fortune once again smiled on the villagers as the banner carried by the company of paladins and clerics stalled the violent host of men from their intended course. 

Scaen watched casually as his brothers-in-arms scoured over the field in search of the living.  The fates of those found still alive were hinged on their original alignment when entering the fray.  Servants to the temple of Orionii were set upon by the clerics who worked with fevered efforts to heal the fallen warriors, oftentimes in vain.  Those who aligned themselves with the raiding horde were set upon by the paladins, who released them from their bonds to this world.  The temple believed in righteous justice.  Those who bore the crest of chaos and destruction were shown no mercy as they would give none in return.  The enemy of Orionii was delivered to their god.  It was unfortunate they were not able to sway those who fought for evil.  Many attempts had been made in the past, but those desiring the shedding of blood would always revert to their deepest desires.

The templar began to recall the battle, and more importantly, the creature that was the downfall of many of his order.  He wondered why a demon of this size was here in this realm, in this world.  He was not surprised to see it but wondered why it was put to such a menial task.  In the back of his mind, he feared the enemy had sent this beast forward because they had enough to spare.  The contemplating warrior overheard the children of the village asking their elders why such a beast came so close to their homes.  The fear was evident in the voices that gave their reply.  Scaen wished he could comfort them.  He wished he could stand up and reaffirm that Orionii, the over-god, was watching over them and proof of that was in the arrival of the holy order.  To tell them such would be a lie.  The men he rode with happened upon this village at the right time but were not sent here to intervene.  It was luck that saved these villagers on this day.  Three of the paladins who had survived the encounter approached with exhaustion.  The time for them to continue their ride was upon them and they had come to summon their templar. 

Scaen stood and looked at the crowd of villagers who seemed to be waiting for divine inspiration.  He could give them none of what they longed for today.  The templar knew why it would appear to them that their gods had deserted them.  He had become aware of the separation in a vision, the last action allowed by the deities.  The gods had not turned their back on them.  They were simply exiled from the land for an undetermined length of time.  Only when a resolution to their conflict in the heavens had been reached would they be allowed back in this world.  The only other time this had occurred was when a power struggle raged amongst the gods.  A challenge had been made to Orionii and the world was now forced to determine the resolution of that challenge. 

Scaen feared there would be an unseating of the holy throne.  He and all other holy men of the land knew their efforts would determine the outcome of the challenge.  They were the weapons of the gods in times like this.  The templar mounted his horse, knowing this world would soon fall into darkness as the tides of war washed everything away.  The followers of the challenging deities were already working quickly to gain the advantage and if the number of men lost in this small skirmish was an indication as to how the war will be fought, there may not be many remaining in this world for the gods to watch over.  He knew they were at a great disadvantage as those that challenged the throne knew their actions.  They were able to put events into motion before they openly declared the challenge.  Scaen simply prayed that a counter was made quickly enough to give them a fighting chance. 

The templar put his heels to his horse and rode away from the villagers, who stood in disheartened silence.  Scaen was not the one who would give them false hope.  He only hoped the villagers would stand and fight for their gods.  If they did not, they would soon have their faith fall to another deity or be executed.  The shadows of the heavens drew in heavily on the world of man.

Chapter 1

Darium Teldron stood looking out his window on the top floor of the Chancellor’s Tower.  The tower was perched high above the city nestled back in the valley created by the Orionii Mountains.  It was the first time in years he could look out from his home and feel as though no eyes were glaring at his every move.  He relished that feeling as he looked out over the entirety of what had been his home for a great many years, the city that he had stood as the leader of for more than three hundred years.  His fingers ran through his dark black beard as his mind raced.  He watched the moon begin its descent.  The sleeping city would wake to a new day, a new head wizard, a new era, and many dark days to come.  The question continually surfacing in his mind was how could he have let this once cherished land fall into such darkness?  It seemed as though the darkness was truly invisible.  Beads of sweat glistened in the moonlight and trickled down his smooth head as he concentrated on the matter, even the cold night air could not prevent them.  Those with dark intentions had not lingered in the shadows long before extending their intent upon others.  How did this much ill will remain unseen while it crept so deeply into his council?  How could something hidden in shadow take hold of so many?  Placing his hands on the sill he leaned out and looked down the length of the tower, down to the entrance.  Tomorrow’s night would see two more torches lit.  There were two torches to represent each of the previous Chancellors of Magic.  On the eve of this day, one hundred twenty-two torches would burn. 

A knock on his chamber door broke his concentration.  The time had arrived.  He knew what he must do, and it was time to act upon it, the world had fleeting chances to squelch this evil, and he would not let selfishness eliminate this opportunity.  As he walked to the door, his heart raced at a much greater pace than that of his feet carrying him forward.  The mahogany door swung open at his command, revealing the one who knocked.  The young page had a look of grave concern frozen upon his face.  Evidence of a heavy burden was visible in his eyes.

Chancellor Teldron, the page said urgently, his voice quiet and shaking, you…..your…..your prediction has come true.  The young page shifted his eyes to the floor in an effort to avoid the chancellor’s eye contact as he continued, A wizard has dreamt this night and the Watchers sense a strange presence in the city.  They request your audience with great haste.  It was obvious he did not wish to be the one to deliver this news to the highest-ranking authority within the city.  Darium knew he might hold the rank, but the power had long since vanished.  He knew he had become nothing more than a figurehead and the council truly made any important decisions.  This was only one of the reasons he wished to do what he was about to do.  This could be the final choice made in this life.  It was a choice of his free will, uninfluenced by the guiding hand of the corrupted.

Take a breath Chelin, did I not predict this occurrence?  I will not be upset with a page bringing me news of the accuracy of my foresight, regardless of the time, Darium replied as calmly as he could.  The head wizard paused, taking in Chelin’s reaction to his latest comment.  When the young man, boy really, not more than fifteen years old, followed his instructions and took his breath, Darium continued.  I must ask you to do me a grim favor that consists of much secrecy.  Are you capable of doing exactly what I ask of you without question or regard for your own safety?

The young page looked up into the chancellor’s eyes.  He paused but a moment to pull in a deep breath before he spoke with more confidence, Yes your Majesty, I would never do any less with an order you gave me.

You are a good lad, Chelin.  This favor I ask of you will drastically change the course of your life.  It may even put your very life at risk.  I despise having to ask anyone to take part in this repugnant matter, but there is nothing else for me to do at this moment.  Are you still willing to accept this task?

Chelin cleared his throat, My Lord, my allegiance lies with you, not the council, but to you, and you alone.  Those in the seats of power are not the only ones who have seen the shift of alignment take place.  The other pages and I have seen a change as I am sure you have as well.  I will do what you request without hesitation, without consideration for my own safety and without doubt of your intentions.

The chancellor was extremely satisfied with this response.  He could tell by Chelin’s intense hazel eyes that he meant every word he said.  Come in for a moment, the chancellor said as he turned and walked into the next room.  Chelin followed and saw there was a sizable chest on the table.  Darium looked directly at Chelin.  His green eyes scanned the young page, a sizeable boy for his age.  Darium had known this young man for ten years.  In that time, he noticed Chelin had always taken his job with great seriousness.  He always dressed appropriately in his assigned attire.  Even now at this hour, he was dressed in a finely pressed uniform, his short sword secured at his side, his short brown hair properly maintained.  Darium continued, I will not be going to see those who summoned me.  I am instead going to the one who is dreaming.  I am sure you have heard it’s dangerous for a wizard to dream, he will soon be walking into a nightmare from which none have returned.  He is not just facing a fellow wizard who wishes to gain his magical knowledge; he is confronting an evil that has been at rest for a very long time.  He will need my help if he is to do the impossible.  I need you to come with me.  The chances of me returning from this task are not favorable, so once all is finalized, I need you to explain some things to the waking wizard.  This chest, the chancellor set his slender hand on the large wooden box.  I need you to give him this chest with all of the contents.  Do not try to open it as I have spelled it.  No one in the entirety of this city will be able to open it but him.  Tell him to read the letter prior to looking at anything else.  You must understand.  This is the most important thing for you to tell him as he wakes.  Do you understand, Chelin?  The boy nodded his head as he remained in silence.  Once you have delivered the chest to the wizard you will leave the city with him.  I apologize for forcing your departure from the city, but any and all who have helped me may be at risk.  In the letter I have asked him to take you with him and watch over you until you are free of the city.  He is an honorable wizard and will do as I wish.  You will be in capable hands.

Chelin looked up at the chancellor and spoke with emboldened words, Do not apologize.  I am honored you have asked this task of me.  His eyes sank back to the floor and his voice lowered to his normal tone as he revealed some of his thoughts to the chancellor, To be honest, as of late, I have often thought about leaving.  If it wasn’t for the faith I have in you, I would have done so the moment the idea sprang into my head.  If fortune is…. Chelin’s voice broke ever so slightly.  A deep breath brought the steadied tone back.  If fortune is unfavorable and you do not return from the task that has called you, I would leave the city regardless of the duties you assign me.  I am grateful you trust me enough to carry out the last order you shall give as the leader of this city.

Darium smiled at the young man.  Grab the chest.  We must make our way there now.  Once we arrive, you must go to your quarters to prepare for your journey.  When you return, the wizard will be waking. Do not leave his side until he gives you leave.  You are to watch over him and he is to watch over you.  Once Chelin grabbed the large wooden container, Darium walked toward the exit.  They made their way quickly through the stone stairwell.  Chelin was amazed the box was not as heavy as it looked.  He was sure the chancellor had spelled the box in case he had to carry it himself.  Chelin wondered what would have resulted if he had turned down the request of the chancellor.  Deep down, he knew what would have happened.  If the level of threat was indeed as grand as Darium made it out to be, the chancellor would not have been able to leave alive any who could betray his secret.  The young page shuddered as the fear of the situation ran down his spine.

The large stairwell turned into a hallway that ran between other living quarters.  Darium placed a finger over his lips to indicate to Chelin that they must be as silent as death.  This path carried them past the living quarters of the high council members, four powerful wizards who had joined in the corruption of the City of Magic.  One of these betrayers would soon become the Chancellor of Magic.  Chelin did not need to see the signal from the chancellor to understand it was important to remain quiet.  It felt as though the hallway was without end as they cautiously covered the ground toward the opposite end where another set of stairs took them down another level.  The tower was built this way specifically for the defense of the chancellor.  Any of those who wished to harm the supreme leader of the city would have to work through the members of the council before they arrived at the chamber doors of the chancellor.  This had been attempted many times in the past, but because of the defensive layout of the tower, these attempts had failed. 

When the two were safely through the hallway and down to the next level, they quickly made their way to a set of stairs that would take them to the ground floor.  The stairs carried them down the thirty floors they needed to go.  Once they arrived on the tenth floor, they made their way across the wide stone hallway.  The living quarters were smaller on lower levels so there were twenty doors on each side of them.  Knowing he would be leaving it behind shortly, Chelin took in as much of the familiar tower as he could.  The size of the tower always astonished the young page.  How the wizards had such an enormous structure created he did not know.  More of a question was how these wizards had made this structure stand so soundly for more than a thousand years without even the slightest crack in the foundation.  The tower was built at the entrance of a large cave that traveled a great distance into the heart of the mountain.  They had found the best stone workers to ensure the structural integrity of the cave where students would learn and practice their art.  The workers also built this massive tower.  Magic surely coursed through the mighty stones, enhancing the skills of the craftsman and strength of the rock.  Darium stopped abruptly in front of a door, turned to the page, and took the chest.  He placed it at the foot of the door and then turned toward the young page.  He set his hand on the page’s shoulder, Go, make your preparations quickly, I do not know how long I will be.  The wizard inside is Cayden Validus, you will serve him until he bids you leave.  Do you understand?

Yes Chancellor Darium, I understand.  I shall return with as much haste as I can muster, Chelin replied then bolted toward the stairs that would lead him out of the tower and toward his private residence several miles away.  Darium watched as the brave page departed with the promised urgency.  The chancellor turned toward the dreaming wizard’s door and opened it.  The wizard lay in his bed sound asleep.  Picking up the chest, Darium entered the room and closed the door behind him.  He placed the chest on the nearest table and then sat on the floor near the head of the bed. 

He began to cast quickly.  Time was fleeting.

Chapter 2

Framed paintings between the wall sconces were illuminated as the ball of fire passed by them.  The hallway behind the blast remained lit as the intensity of the magical blast put flame to wick as it passed each sconce.  The heat of the summoned fire warmed the small hallway and turned some of the paint to liquid as it rushed on its path, burning with blue intensity and ill will.  It was an impressive display of wizardry, but it also betrayed a weakness within the caster.  This magic wielder could not see in the dark.  It was almost as if this initial attack was a powerful distraction meant to hide this disadvantage.  The blast erupted and fizzled as it slammed into the thin wall of ice his intended victim managed to raise just in time.  The heat of the attacker’s spell was evident even through the temporary wall of frozen water as the smell of singed hair quickly overtook the mold and mildew lingering in the air.  Cayden leaped forward through the drift of steam in order to see his attacker.  In an instant, lightning crackled from his hand, its course and intent meant to end this threat quickly.  The form that attacked the young wizard brushed off the magical lightning with a flip of its wrist and in an instant drew back for another assault on his prey.  Once again it seemed as though all the heat from the building left, Cayden could see his breath as he calmly anticipated the attack.  Fire spouted from the mysterious wizard’s hand. It was more concentrated than his attack before.  This spell hid no ulterior agenda.  The ball of fire grew as it approached the young elven wizard, its caster still focusing his energy into it as it raged down its course.  The magical fire only covered half the distance before it was struck with a large ball of ice that matched its intensity.  Darkness consumed the two wielders of magic as the opposite forces filled the hallway with steam and the moisture was enough to douse the flames burning within the sconces.  Cayden’s quickly designed plan worked into reality as a group of frozen blades burst from his fingertips.  In the damp darkness, the hooded assailant didn’t see all five threats racing toward him, but he could sense something heading his way.  He managed to defend himself from only one of the deadly shards of ice.  Cayden watched cautiously, with another offensive spell prepared, as the sharp edges of the shards pierced cleanly through the cloth robes, opening a path for the larger back end.  He could hear cloth and flesh tearing, bones popping, and an excruciating scream echo down the hallway.  He knew the immediate threat was ended.  His appreciation for that spell had nothing to do with the fact it was incredibly painful to the victim, but from the fact it brought a quick death, a quick end to battle. 

The hallway was suddenly draped in an unsettling quiet.  Nothing could be heard except for the quickened breaths of the victorious wizard.  Cayden covered the remaining portion of the hallway that separated them.  He attempted to summon flame to the sconces once again but the moisture in the area resisted his attempt.  Once again, he tried, this time putting more energy into his spell and the wicks flickered ever so slightly before taking to flame.  With his wooden staff, he prodded the pile that attacked him only a few moments ago.  There was no movement, no resistance to the persistent poking.  The elven wizard scanned the area as he went to one knee, trying his best to avoid the continuously spilling blood that stained the hardwood floor.  He had no idea what had brought on the unexpected attack, but he knew he had to eliminate it and quickly.  His hand cautiously stretched out toward the lifeless body. His intentions focused on seeing who wished him dead.  He gripped a handful of the wizard’s robes and pulled it back, the sight of the mangled corpse causing him to gasp in disgust.  There would be no way of identifying this man through a physical description.  Cayden felt the warm liquid that coursed through the grains of the wooden floor seep into his robes where it met his flesh.  He stood quickly, still slightly queasy from the lifeless body lying in front of him. 

His focus snapped from the departed wizard.  Cayden could sense someone with magical powers, someone very close.  Goose flesh raced through his body as he quickly made a list of defensive spells.  He questioned whether any spell he could cast would be enough.  He had never sensed this much power before, not even sitting in front of the magic council on the Island of Orionii in the City of Magic.  Fear rushed through him.  His ability to sense those with the power of magic was common among wizards, but this level was inconceivable.  Cold words cut through a darkness that even the eyes of an elven wizard could not penetrate, Cayden Validus, my master summons you to join him as his apprentice where he will teach you to wield your magic with such ferocity and skill that none shall stand before you and question your word.  I have been searching for you for a long time now.  The effort I’ve needed to put forth has honestly impressed me and I admit I appreciated the challenge.  I have found you at last and now I am close to completing the will of my master which brings me great relief.

The recent battle resurfaced in Cayden’s mind.  Did he just kill this man’s friend?  He did not know the intentions of this inconceivably powerful….apprentice.  How could one that gave off such power hold only the rank of apprentice?  Cayden’s mind raced; he knew what direction the voice came from, but he also knew he could not contend with the amount of power he sensed.  He intently searched the dark hallway for reasoning.  For some hint of understanding as he replied in an attempt to stall the mage as he tried to process everything running through his mind, I have not been hiding; therefore, I do not know why your search was so exhaustive.  You know my name.  May I ask for yours and the reasons you search for me?  He knew what caused his inability to see the powerful apprentice who probably stood mere feet from him; a spell of darkness encompassed the magic wielder.  It was easy to see the boundaries of the magical darkness as it seemed to absorb any of the moon’s light that seeped in through the heavily draped windows.  The wall sconces he had managed to relight sizzled as the globe of darkness surpassed the flame.  Cayden had an initial thought of leaping past the boundaries of the darkness, landing inside of it.  This would block anything within the blackness from normal sight; Cayden wouldn’t be able to see the wizard, and the wizard wouldn’t be able to see him.  When he heard the flame of the sconce extinguished, he realized the lightless area was linked to at least one other spell.  That spell was a cold spell that carried enough power to snuff a well-burning flame.  The elven wizard thrust his staff onto the blood-stained floor and called his counter spell to life.  A blinding white light burst from the floor and encompassed the elven wizard.  He had momentarily blinded himself, but he hoped the magic would do the same to the other wizard.

The man standing before him seemed to chuckle, possibly because of the defensive techniques Cayden used, possibly because he knew whatever the elven wizard did, he could counter.  He cleared his throat before speaking calmly without a hint of humor, My name is of no importance, only the task my master has assigned me.  If you request formalities though, I will humor you.  I am Thaleous.  I’m here to extend my master’s offer.  If you accept, it will provide you with more power than you can possibly imagine.  Power greater than mine, I have been told.  My master wishes to take you on as an apprentice.  It is a rare opportunity as he is a great wielder of magic with powers beyond comprehension.  I have learned under his tutelage for many years now.  I have no doubt that you can sense my strength in the arcane.  You can most likely sense something else as well.  My master wishes to wake the rare power within you so you can also serve him in his struggle. 

What is your master’s name?  I’ve lived a long time and been to the Island of Magic many times.  I may know of this wizard, Cayden replied as he began a slow retreat, growing his light spell with every movement he made in order to prevent the mysterious wizard from knowing his intentions.

"You have not heard of him, I assure you.  He makes it a habit of keeping himself unknown to others.  Even for an elven wizard, you cannot comprehend his age.  He has seen the ascendance and the decline of the last three emperors of your homeland.  I have heard of no one older nor any with more power than he.  The elders you wish to appease here on the Island of Orionii are frail and weak compared to my master.  His vast knowledge of the arts is incomparable to any you may know.

The offer I make must be accepted in blind trust.  Cayden could tell the intent of the wizard’s words had changed though the tone of his voice remained the same.  The man continued, My master sent me to recruit you because he senses a rare and powerful gift within you, something he has not seen for thousands of years.  He offers you an apprenticeship with him.  What is your answer?

The length of the conversation brought Cayden’s sight back from the temporary blindness and he was able to see clearly within the radius of his light spell, which he realized was better than being inside the globe of darkness where neither caster could see the other.  The results were the same but at least Cayden had his vision.  The spells that encompassed both casters, where they touched, seemed to cause a vortex of power.  Sparks, black as midnight on a moonless night with streaks of fire that looked to be from the sun itself, were emitted from wherever the boundaries collided.  Cayden, looking to gain more time, continued stalling.  Though I appreciate your honesty and your offer, I need to know more about your master before I decide upon becoming an apprentice again.  I cannot and will not accept an offer blindly.  I don’t wield magic for the power but for the ability to aid those in need and the mental challenge learning it provides.  Those wielding magic for power and control over others are quickly removed of both.

"I must correct you.  Those who are ill-suited for power and control of others are often easily overturned.  Those who are properly trained and skilled in their abilities can rule for many years bringing great prosperity and gain to any region.  They can raise a realm where their ideals are law. 

So, you see, you’re missing the point all together, Cayden, the wizard replied.  You can sense the power that flows through me, correct?

Yes, Cayden answered.  The sensation of power Thaleous was giving off was very powerful, and after the initial shock, very familiar.  He had sensed it before within someone very close to him.  It reminded him of his father, an elven wizard he had not seen for far too long.  There were differences, but the core of the sensation was almost a match for that of his father’s.

"Well then, imagine the amount of help you could grant others if you reached your true potential.  The magic my master offers has been considered dead for more than ten thousand years.  He alone has the ability to teach young wizards to wield it.  The power is incredible.  The possibilities are endless.  Imagine the aid you can bring to those you wish to help.  Imagine the destruction you can bring to those who call it upon themselves.

"That is only a small portion of it as well.  My master has assembled the greatest military minds in all aspects of warfare who have ever lived.  It is these great warriors who counsel my master in proper troop placement, battle techniques, and defensive procedures.  If you had these men at your disposal, your ability to aid others in the time of battle would be greatly increased. 

My master offers you a rare gift in this world.  That rare gift is absolute power.  Only he has the ability to relieve me of my position, my abilities, and my power.  He leaves me to it regardless of what I decide however, because it is his promise.  He raised me.  He taught me.  He has the capability but not the will to destroy me.  Join with us Cayden.  Aid us in preventing a great magical ability from fading into oblivion.  Only he has the ability to pass it on.  Only a few have the ability to keep it alive and vibrant.  You have this ability.

Cayden sensed an uneasy tension within himself.  He knew of only two forms of magic.  The first was the common form that he himself wielded with efficiency.  The second however was a rare and powerful magic that had died thousands of years ago.  At least it was rumored to have died.  It was a magic passed down from the heavens themselves and bestowed on nine mortal beings of the world, transforming them from mere men and women to wizards.  The first wizards the world had ever seen, the most powerful beings in existence outside of the heavens. 

Cayden knew Thaleous spoke of the style that gave birth to magic.  It was a form of magic that could be harnessed and directed by only commanding it.  It required no elaborate incantations or fluid gestures, no components, or time-consuming preparations.  If one of these original wizards commanded it, it happened.  It was wrought with power but difficult to learn and oftentimes too costly on the bodies and minds of the apprentices who were taken up by the great nine.  A long dead magic as the last of the great nine, the elven master, had passed over ten thousand years ago.  Cayden didn’t think it was possible, but he replied in a calm manner in case he was mistaken, The magic you speak of is far too dangerous to learn and even more difficult to teach.  I am confident in my own abilities, and I have much more to learn.  I’m young even for elven kind so I will continue learning and unlock my true potential.  I must again decline your master’s offer if I do not get his name.

The globe of darkness advanced slowly, pushing itself into the globe of light.  The sensation of power radiating from the dueling magic was immense.  Cayden weaved a defensive spell within his light orb.  A thin, magically reinforced wall of ice rose in front of him.  The darkness advanced another step, close enough to touch the ice wall.  You are as foolish as your father!  You have to realize you are over matched, my power far exceeds yours.  There is only one way for you to know my master’s name.  Accept his offer.  You will regret it if you don’t.  Your chance at this power is fleeting; your hold on life is fleeting.

Cayden felt powerless as the incredible force shredded his wall of ice and his globe of light erupted around him.  There was a concussion to the air.  Cayden was knocked to the hard wooden floor.  Anger flared within him.  He stood even though he felt a strong pressure trying to hold him on his back.  He commanded with deep-seated authority, Your insults of my father are beyond childish.  You speak of things in which you have no knowledge.  He was far from foolish.  He was a strong wielder of magic and even more forceful with knowledge.  You will find it best to hold your tongue next time you wish to speak ill of a man you know nothing about.

A cold shrill laugh sliced through the heat of Cayden’s rage.  I know more about your father than you do.  He was not only a fool but was incapable of understanding his true potential.

I warned you once.

Keep silent, Thaleous commanded.  I know your father just as well as you know my father.  My name is Thaleous Validus.

CAYDEN, a familiar, authoritative voice called out from behind the elven wizard.  Cayden turned to see who had joined him in the mysterious hallway.  He recognized the man immediately.  Darium Teldron, High Chancellor of the City of Magic, walked past the young elven wizard and looked menacingly at Thaleous.  His voice was cold as he addressed the intruder, It has been a long time Thaleous.  You will give me a moment and then you and I shall settle an old question of power.  Thaleous silently nodded with a smile, he was apparently pleased with the turn of events.

Darium turned and grabbed Cayden by the shoulders.  He pulled the younger wizard close until he stared directly into Cayden’s eyes, they could feel the warmth of each other’s breath.  His tone was more serious than Cayden had ever remembered, You will leave here immediately.  You must return to your room within the tower.  You must flee from this place.  Seek sanctuary!

Cayden attempted to pull away from the chancellor but was held fast by a surprising strength.  His mind was filled with a wave of burning anger he was unfamiliar with.  He desired nothing more than to lay waste to Thaleous in response to the lies he spoke of his father.  He could feel the anger surging through him as if it were a dark power on the verge of erupting.  He took a breath and let the air escape slowly as he tried to calm himself.  He spoke with a defiant tone, I am sorry Master Teldron, but I will not leave here without answers.  He knows something about my father.  He has made the claim that we call the same man Father, which is beyond my grasp of reasoning.  I must stay until I find out why he tells me such lies so shortly after offering me an apprenticeship with his master.

Darium took hold of Cayden’s jaw with one hand and pressed his staff against the elven wizard with the other.  Their stares were boiling with intensity as both wizards demanded they be heard.  Darium’s tone matched his forceful grip.  You will listen to me, and you will listen carefully.  As truth filled as his words are, they are still poison.  You must not focus on anything he says, it will only aid him in accomplishing his tasks, whatever they may be.  He is your brother but only through half-blood.  Now is not the time for discussion or discovery on this matter.  You will not argue with my decision.  There are far greater things for you to accomplish in your life than perish at the hands of this evil.  This is MY calling.  It is why I am here, the chancellor commanded.  The elder’s aged staff struck softly on Cayden’s chest and his vision blurred for a moment.  The elven wizard could only curse to himself as he discovered the slyness of his elder.  He had been distracted by the words and realized too late that Darium had cast magic in order to banish him from his own dream.  Haze circled Cayden as the world of dreams began to fade into emptiness.  I am sorry Cayden.  I know this is not what you want, but this is the way it is.  You can either be made bitter by it and let it limit you, or you can forge through the difficulties and emerge stronger.  I pray you choose to grow from the experience.  Darium let the words linger for only a moment hoping they would help Cayden understand the link he had with the young wizard’s father. 

He continued, I promised your father I would look after you as long as I could do so.  I will do so for the last time as I take your place momentarily in this fight.  Cayden remained silent and only nodded his head in acknowledgment of the chancellor’s words.  Darium had quoted something his father had always told anyone he was teaching, ‘I know this is not what you want, but this is the way it is.  You can either be made bitter by it and let it limit you, or you can forge through the difficulties and emerge stronger.  I pray you choose to grow from the experience.’  The elven wizard had grown to hate that saying as he had heard it more often than he desired.  Cayden’s mind searched his memory for any recollection of his father mentioning a half-brother.  He put his father’s advice to use and purged the thought from his mind as he searched for a way to break Darium’s banishment spell before it ran its course.  He mentally contemplated the effectiveness of every magical spell or trick he had ever been taught while he listened to the two remaining wizards. 

Darium, that was foolish of you.  You know you will not be returning from this dream realm.  Why would you sacrifice yourself for that wizard? taunted Thaleous.

Everyone who seeks refuge or knowledge within my city is worthy of my sacrifice.  All except those you have already turned against me, Darium stated in a defiant tone. 

After this night, you will no longer be the leader of your fair city.  You will no longer be capable of teaching meaningless magic to meaningless wizards.  You will…

Enough words have spilled out of your wicked tongue, Darium yelled out above Thaleous.  You should hold your mouth still and let us finish your question on which of us is stronger.

Cayden heard Thaleous chuckle.  He stared through the thickening haze and was able to see the wizards releasing spell after spell at each other.  Fire and lightning scorched the darkness with streaks of red, orange, and yellow light that burned Cayden’s eyes even through such a heavy fog.  The elven wizard wanted nothing more than to help one of the most honorable men he had ever known but Darium had denied him the possibility.  He adjusted his eyes once more to watch what was happening, hoping to see his teacher cast down the intruder of dreams.  Cayden saw the opposite, he watched Darium miss a defensive spell, the last spell he would ever cast in his life.  The haze that formed when moving from the realm of dreams to the world he was from swallowed his vision completely.  Cayden could only hear Thaleous’s laugh as he exerted his energy into the blast of lightning.  Darium’s screams of pain were beyond difficult to hear.  Cayden heard the soft thud of a lifeless body falling onto the floor beside the wizard who attacked him.  Thaleous spoke words intended to taunt and enrage Cayden, but he could not understand them.  The intrusive wizard summoned three large balls of lightning that flickered in the darkness.  The lightning strikes scorched through the darkness and haze as they streaked toward Cayden.  The elven wizard began to worry that the power of this magic would not be bound to the realm in which it was cast.  It seemed to be gaining speed as it came closer; Cayden knew his own efforts would be restricted to the realm he was in.  Fear began to course through his veins, and it joined in unison with his anger.  The bolts were close enough to feel the charge held within them as his hair began standing on end.  In a brilliant flash, the room went dark.

Chapter 3

Cayden sat up in his bed, his body engulfed in a liquid flame that matched his movement.  He could not feel the heat from it even though anything it touched ignited quickly.  His silk sheets as well as the down mattress burst into flame.  This was a protective flame, burning blue with an intensity meant to scorch the energy from any spell wishing him harm.  The elven wizard swiftly rolled out of his bed knowing full well the fire from the sheets and mattress would burn him if he lingered long enough.  He landed on his stomach on the cold stone floor and saw boots standing in front of him.  He raised his head slowly to see a young page with an astonished look on his face.  The boy was rubbing his arms as if he were freezing.  Cayden could see the vapors emitted with each breath the boy took.  He stood and extinguished the flames coating his body.  Turning toward the still-burning bed, the elven wizard called forth the magic to create a thick sheet of ice.  The flames were first suffocated and then quenched with the water from the melted ice.  The elven wizard could tell why the boy was cold; his room was void of any significant heat.  The coming spring had retreated after sunset giving way for the chill of winter to return once again.  The wizard cast a small bolt of fire into the fireplace within his room to increase what little already burned.  The flames grew and he began to feel the warmth radiate outward, driving back the cold.

Cayden turned back to the page and abruptly said, State your name and your business or be gone.  I have much on my mind at the moment.  The elven wizard did have many things weighing on his mind.  Things he never expected to see, hear, or feel.

I’m Chelin, sir.  Darium assigned me a task which involves you, the boy timidly replied.  Something had frightened the page, which was unusual for his profession.  He had been around powerful wizards his whole life, certainly more powerful than the one he stood before now, but for some reason, he stood in front of Cayden with a look of fear and awe in his eyes.

What is it that has you so afraid?  I have no intentions to harm you.  Especially since you’re on an assignment from Darium, Cayden said in an attempt to comfort the boy and find the true reason for his fear.  The page mentioned another thing on his mind, where was Darium?  The master of the city had entered into the dream world even though he knew it was dangerous.  He went there to save him.  Cayden wondered if he would return.

Chelin looked cautiously at Cayden, How did you do that?

Do what?

Cast such magic as to change the temperature in the room.  It is as though the fire you cast drained the room of all its heat, it dimmed the fire to near ash.

You must be imagining the temperature change.  I used a common defensive technique that was costly to me in both magical components and energy.  I assure you, after such a spell, my ingredients are nearly exhausted as is my magical endurance, Cayden replied.  He would have to stop and get some more components as soon as he had the time.  It was one more thing to put on his mental list of burdens that seemed to be growing at a greater rate than he desired. 

Chelin looked down at the wizard’s feet, I mean no disrespect sir, but I was here before your spell took effect and the room was quite comfortable.  I had just stoked the fire.  The flames from your spell drained all the heat from this room when they engulfed you.  I have never seen the likes of it.

I am nobody of importance and thusly, you may address me as Cayden.  The possibility of such a thing occurring the way you speak of is unlikely.  The magic you speak of has been dead for thousands of years.  At least I thought it was, until tonight, Cayden replied as he started pacing toward the door.  He remembered his battle with the first wizard in the tower where his dreams had taken him, the one he struck down.  He did remember the heat being pulled out of the hall when the wizard cast his fire.  It wasn’t impossible that someone had studied and was lucky enough to gain a slight knowledge of the archaic powers, but he had no knowledge of the ancient magic.  He could not have called it forth.

Chelin hesitated only a moment, Sir, I mean, Cayden, I do not wish to interrupt your thoughts, but Darium requested I return here after gathering my things.  He left you this box and told me to make sure you read what he wrote before looking at anything else. 

Cayden, still in deep thought, looked at the boy, Chelin, please bring me the letter he wrote.  The elven wizard then turned back to the door, still in exhaustively deep thought.

I cannot.  The chest is warded.  You are the only one who may open it without triggering Darium’s magic.  He told me specifically to make sure you, and only you, opened it.

Cayden knew Darium.  He understood it must be important if the page was accurate in his statement.  Darium would only ward something if it was desperate in nature.  The chancellor knew all too well anyone could have stumbled upon a chest in an unlocked room and opened it.  Darium believed in preserving life when he could and taking it only when he must.  It was a discipline Cayden admired and followed when he could.  It would also explain why the page now stood in his room. 

Cayden walked to the chest and folded the latches over.  The moment he touched the chest he could see the magical symbols Darium used to ward it.  They were gone in an instant, but Cayden knew that had anyone else attempted to open this, it would have resulted in a gruesome death not only to himself but to anyone nearby.  He pushed the lid open and was amazed at all the items that were packed into such a small space.  On top was a scroll with the Chancellor of Magic’s seal binding it.  The elven wizard broke the seal and unraveled the scroll.  He began to read the quickly scribed letter.

‘Cayden,

It is with great regret that I must leave this world without telling you all you need to know about your family’s history.  My rule has brought the downfall of the City of Magic and times have become desperate.  My attention was on matters other than what they should have been on.  I have failed this city and I have failed you. 

The only things I can do for you now are to give you what is truly yours and hope you will be able to piece the information together.  Inside this chest are possessions that once belonged to your parents.  I dispatched wizards to investigate when I heard of your mother’s disappearance, they returned with no answer, but they did find the pack she carried with her.  The most important item in this pack is the fire sand.  It will tell you the story of your mother’s journey to find your father after he disappeared.  I believe it will reveal much of the mystery and answer many of your questions.  I used a small pinch and I know her intentions were for this to reach you if she should meet a tragic end.  I do not know what, if anything, this will reveal but it was meant for you.

The other items within this chest belonged to your father.  They were items he wished to keep hidden when he left the elven city.  He knew I would give them to you when the time was right.  The time had yet to be right, but now there is no more time for me.  Most of the items are rare magic books your father had collected over the years.  He wished to leave them to you if an ill fate fell upon him.  The other items from him are a mystery to me.  He asked me not to snoop and I respected him too much to dishonor his trust in me.  You must take great care with these items as I am sure they are rare and dangerous if used incorrectly.  Keep still your inquisitive nature.  There will be time to look at them more closely when you are well hidden in your homeland.

The last issue to bring to your attention is my failure to hold this city together.  It is all too clear to me now corruption and evil have taken root within my council members.  They have long ago betrayed the city and I have long since stared blindly upon it, not realizing they had turned.  Only now do I see what they have done, they have betrayed all who have lived peacefully within this land.  It is my greatest failure, my greatest shame.  I cannot tell you who you can trust anymore for I have no idea how deep this treachery goes.  I will say the deception has rooted itself within the four council members and spread.  They have committed acts which I now understand were to the detriment of the city and possibly the whole of the world.  I believe one of these acts was directed at you.  I believe they are responsible for enticing you into the dream realm through magic I do not understand.  I believe they are in league with the wizard who has worked so diligently toward my downfall.

As you very well know, it is dangerous for a wizard to dream.  You have been taught it is because, in the state of complete relaxation, few things are restricting the mind.  Wizards’ have been known to do tremendous damage without realizing it until it is far too late.  The risk to self and others was only a minor influence upon the creation of this law.  The defenseless state of mind one lingers in while dreaming is the most dangerous situation a wizard will encounter.  Those who learn to do so may enter the minds of those sleeping wizards and access their breadth of knowledge.  In only moments, they can steal the magic of their victim and leave them with no memory of the arcane. 

The council will know who has dreamt this night.  I’m sure they knew before you laid your head upon your pillow that it was to be you.  They will blame you for my death and accuse you of attempting to take my knowledge as your own.  The people of the city will be struck with grief and will want justice.  You must flee the city at once.  It will not be safe for you by the time dawn brings light to the city.  Gather your elder and make haste, you are quickly running out of time, much the way I did.

Sincerely,

Darium Teldron

Chancellor of Magic

P.S. There is a page with you as you read this; please take him out of the city.  I fear the council will deem him a traitor to their cause and have him executed.  He will need your help.  Protect him, he is a good lad.  Part with him when you must but deliver him away from this island.’

Cayden rolled the scroll back up and turned toward the window.  He hadn’t noticed it right away, but Darium’s body lay on the other side between the four-post bed and the window.  Cayden rushed to the body of his former master hoping he still drew breath.  The elven wizard knew it would not be the case.  If Darium knew it was his time, it was his time.  He placed a hand on the lifeless shoulder of his former teacher and without looking up, he directed Chelin, Go into the wardrobe and prepare my things.  I need to go inform my elder.  Chelin didn’t hesitate as he rushed over and opened the tall oak wardrobe.  He started gathering the various items within and placing them in the wizard’s pack without hesitation or question. 

Cayden left the room in silence and crossed the hall.  He knocked softly on the door, but it sounded as if he were using a hammer to form metal.  The door opened slowly after a pause that seemed to last an eternity and an older elven wizard peered at him from behind the heavy wooden door.  Aldrian had a look of both surprise and disapproval on his face.  He had not expected to have a visitor so early in the morning.  Cayden forced his way into the room, giving Aldrian a signal to remain quiet as he did so.  Silence lingered until the latch snapped into place behind them.  Cayden turned to his elder and spoke with a hushed tone, We must leave the city now, it is not safe to remain any longer.

Why?  What is the meaning of this sense of urgency?  You are to test your skill in magic this morning.  It is your fourth and final test scheduled for this visit.  We will leave afterwards, replied Aldrian.  The elder did not seem interested in leaving any time soon.  The only thing he seemed interested in was returning to sleep as he adjusted his feather pillows.

Darium is dead, Cayden stated bluntly.  We need to leave now.  He died in my room assisting me.

Aldrian stopped what he was doing.  He took a step back, clearly trying to process the information he had just received.  What do you mean he was trying to assist you?  Why would he need to assist you at this hour?

Cayden was trying to get his elder to pack his things so they could be off.  He refused to delay with meaningless talk.  He spoke directly to the point, I dreamt last night, and I was attacked by a dream reaper.  Darium knew what was happening and came to my side to help me.  The dream reaper brought some of his allies.  Darium died while I escaped.  The chancellor knew this was going to happen. He left me a letter and told me to depart the city immediately.  We need to be out before dawn.  Before any of the council members realize what has transpired this night.

Aldrian still did not seem eager to leave, Young wizard, you know it is dangerous for a wizard to dream.  Surely, we must stay so you can face your punishment for such a transgression.  As far as Darium’s death, we will need to explain what occurred.  All will be fine, breathe easy.  Let us just hope they will let you finish your testing before assigning your punishment.

Cayden was becoming angry.  He no longer cared if anger came across in his voice, Elder Aldrian, in the letter left for me, Darium, the Chancellor of Magic and leader of the City of Magic, explained the council has long since turned against the people of the city and the sanctity of magic.  He explained there is nobody he would have me trust.  My testing is complete here, we must leave now.  I would much rather worry about the lost cost of the fourth test than linger and see what occurs.  Please Aldrian, we must leave right now or see ourselves at the end of a rope.

Aldrian, appearing motivated by Cayden’s explanation, walked to his wardrobe and retrieved his things.  The sun creeps closer to the city with every passing moment.  Lead the way young wizard but first calm yourself.  An angry wizard uses emotion, rather than his mind when times become troubling.  Remember, your mind is your greatest asset.  Do not fear using it but do not lose control of it.

Cayden walked out of the room toward the door with Aldrian right behind him.  He paused.  He heard voices inside his room, voices questioning the young page inside.  Cayden wasted no more time.  He pushed the door open and entered, offensive spells racing through his mind in preparation for who he might find.

Two of the council members stood within his quarters.  Two of the people Darium had specifically warned Cayden to be wary of.  They were obviously prepared for this evening as they both wore their battle robes.  One stood next to the window where he held Chelin by the neck.  He was magically enhancing his strength because the young page looked large enough to fight back against such an aged man but did not at the moment.  The one closest to the entrance turned. He wore a smirk on his face.  His gold-trimmed battle robes reflected the light of the fire.  He spoke first, Cayden Validus, just the wizard we were looking for.  You have some explaining to do and you had best begin immediately.

Cayden tried to slow his thinking as he replied, I will give you the answers you seek.  First you will release Chelin.  He has only done what was ordered of him.

The council member who