Time of Trial

By Shane War-rose

Golgotha knows peace with the new queen. During her reign, Zenais and Kairi try to marry despite the objections of her father. When an unforeseen event threatens Golgotha, Zenais must put his plans for a wedding aside during that time. In its aftermath, Zenais watches as his beloved falls into the Vesuvius Realm-a realm of pain and misery. Will Zenais swallow his pride and ask Lord Eden for aid when he accused the deity of mistreating him and falsely branding him the enemy? His choice will affect his future.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Apr 19, 2021
• ISBN: 9781098077815

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Time of Trial

Shane War-rose

Copyright © 2021 by Shane War-rose

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods without the prior written permission of the publisher. For permission requests, solicit the publisher via the address below.

Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.

832 Park Avenue

Meadville, PA 16335

www.christianfaithpublishing.com

Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents

Time Served

A Better Solution

A Daughter’s Deceit

Lord Eden’s Warning

Crossroads

Coming Clean

Kairi’s Exile

Separated

Sneak Attack

Times of Desperation

Last Roundup

Castle under Siege

A New Edict

Damascus’s Confession

Word of Warning

Season’s End

Plagues

A Hardened Heart

The Tenth Plague

Rescue Effort

Beast with a Broken Heart

To Stand Trial

Time of Trial

Hail the Dragon King

New Reign

A Strange Message

Chapter 1

Time Served

The month was over. My father would be back home in a matter of days. How I would pull off my secret, deadly scheme kept my mind in wonder. I had to pull this off without drawing suspicion. I even had to keep this a secret from my ahava Zenais and my cousin Azalea, the Komodon Queen, as she called herself now.

I thought that Zenais and Azalea caught a whiff of my plan, but I believed they didn’t know my true intentions. I carried on my days as I did every day. I would sew together torn garments brought to me by various villagers. Madam Harrah, my elder’s agape, took me as her apprentice. It was a joy to have her mentor me as I improved my vocation. Zenais kept building new homes for newly arrived citizens. My other cousins—the ones who still lived in Samaria Village—Rin, Isaac, and Caleb were tasked by Elder Daniel to find livestock for the village.

By nightfall, the entire village celebrated the previous elder’s birthday. My uncle Sage passed away from unknown causes a few months ago. It was grim day for Samaria. My uncle was a great man. His wisdom seemed to rival Lord Eden’s, as some villagers had speculated during the celebration. My cousin Seth, who was now the acting elder of Iguanate Village, mourned his loss the most.

I danced around a large bonfire with Zenais’s hand. I kept jesting him for being a lousy dancer. He laughed at my ploy. I was having a great time with him. Me being at his side brought me joy.

Why couldn’t my father see that?

The sun rose as we continued to celebrate. Seeing how we forgot the time, Elder Daniel declared that we rest for two hours and resume our daily routines. And so we did. I spent the time out on my favorite spot—a bridge of stones extending out to sea. On occasion, I would see some sea creatures broke the surface of the water. Zenais came and got me when the respite was over.

I’ve been thinking, I told Zenais.

About what?

What if we renovate our home? Make it bigger so you would be able to enter and leave.

That’s not a bad idea. But I could just build another one larger than our current hut.

How long do you think it will take? I asked.

About two weeks, depending on how much help I get from your cousins. They’ve been helping me construct each home here.

What if I help?

No offense, sweetheart, but I’m not sure if you can contribute.

Let me try.

Don’t worry, Kairi. I’m sure there will be something for you to do. Zenais left to gather more wood. I’ll see you later. Inform your cousins of our plan when you see them.

I shall.

The rest of the day passed by. It felt like only a minute had gone. I wasn’t able to find my cousins at all. However, at sundown, I was able to find Isaac. I called his name, and he waited for me to approach.

Hello, Kairi. What brings you to my humble abode?

Zenais and I are wanting to build a new home for ourselves.

What’s wrong with the one you currently have?

Nothing really, I said. I just want a home big enough for him to fit inside.

I’ll tell my brothers.

Thanks, Isaac. I kissed his cheek. I’ll take my leave. Zenais is probably finished with making supper. I’ll see you tomorrow.

I hope so.

I waved goodbye and headed home. Just as I made it inside, Zenais just finished cooking our meal. "Hello, my ahava. I hope you’re hungry."

Do you have to ask? I kissed his snout. He licked my cheek with his purple tongue. I didn’t like it when he would do that, but I let it slide this time. I told Isaac of my plan.

Great. Hopefully we’ll get started on the foundation tomorrow.

I can’t wait to see what it will look like. I’ll try to help you out tomorrow if Madam Harrah doesn’t have need of me.

You know you don’t have to participate in this.

I know. I just want to work alongside you as you construct our home, I told him.

I hope that you will, but tomorrow may not favor you, Kairi. Don’t fret if you won’t be able to.

I won’t.

I had enough talking, so I dug in. The meal was delicious. Zenais made the best food. I didn’t know how he did it, but I didn’t care. The taste was exquisite. I savored each bite. The meat practically melted in my mouth. Zenais watched in amusement as I ate. Hearing me moan in delight made him smile. I take it you like my food.

You should be working for Azalea. Your methods of making food are phenomenal.

I’ll settle with only making it for you, Kairi. Besides, Azalea already has a personal cook. I don’t intend to replace that individual for your cousin.

Thanks for saying that. But it would be an honor if you did.

Yes, it would, but I would be miserable without you.

I love it when you sweet-talk me.

Does that mean you’ll be sleeping by my side tonight?

After the last time I did, that is not happening.

I won’t give you a kiss this time, promise. I was never more scared of you before. I learned my lesson, then and there.

My answer is still no. I stood away from the table and made my way to him. But I will do this. I grabbed his snout and placed a kiss on the horn above his nose.

Good night, my handsome dragon.

You, too, my beautiful damsel.

I placed one last kiss on him before moving to my quarters. I should’ve told Zenais that I wanted to visit my father in Komodon Village. But I would inform him of my intentions tomorrow. I’m giving you one last chance, Father, I whispered. I prayed for protection and for Zenais to admit his guilt for his past crime as I slept tonight.

The sound of a rooster crowing woke me. I stretched as I lifted myself off my bed. I found breakfast sitting on the table. Zenais must’ve left it there for me.

I love it when he does that.

I ate as I made for my elder’s home. Harrah wasn’t in her usual spot. I heard little cries and cheering inside her home. I went inside and found her cradling her babies in her arms. Some were Allidites; the remaining were Iguanates. Lord Eden granted her to bear both Allidite and Iguanate children for her and Daniel’s undying love for each other. Kairi. She looked up at me. I’ll be off today. Can you handle being by yourself?

Yes ma’am. I kneeled before her and looked at her newborn children. They look so cute.

They take after both their mother and father. We’ve already named all seven of them. Lord Eden told us each gender before they hatched. Five boys and two girls.

Which one’s the eldest? I asked.

She looked down at the Allidite climbing onto her shoulder. This one. He is named Jeremiah. Daniel grabbed him before he could fall off his mother.

The rest of them are Saul, Rachel, John, James, Jacob, and the youngest of the brood, Sarah. Daniel put his son on Harrah’s lap. Jeremiah nipped at Daniel’s hand when sliding him down. That hurt, little one. He chuckled.

Definitely takes after you, my dear. Harrah teased her agape. Daniel looked at her and pretended to be offended. But she knew he was jesting.

I best get to my vocation. I stood and curtsied. Have a good day, milady.

You as well, Kairi.

I finished three dirty robes before it started to rain. I grabbed the two remaining garments and headed inside. I finished them as the storm raged on for the next few hours.

I hope you’re still on the way home, Father.

Zenais found me hiding from the pouring rain inside the elder’s home. We just made the foundation when the rain started. Do you wish to see?

Yes, I do.

He moved his wing over my head. Come on then. Zenais kept me dry as he escorted me into the forest bordering the village. The outline of the house was huge. He really did a great job.

How did you do that?

Your cousins conjured up some stones, and I used my fire to melt them. The rain came at a great time. We’re going to start on the walls tomorrow.

Why not do it before the day ends?

The ground is too moist to build on. Let’s get home.

We made it home, and I rushed inside before Zenais escorted me all the way. He kept his head inside as the rain poured on the rest of his body. I leaned against his head and stroked his snout. The air was cold, but the steam coming from his nose warmed the room. Did I tell you that you know how to warm me?

You could bring it up every now and then.

I giggled at his jest.

Does the fire in your lungs warm your body?

It burns me more, but it helps when the temperature is low. Rain also helps.

I wonder when I turn into a dragon, the fire will burn me like it does you.

His eye looked at me. You shouldn’t be what I am. I have to live like this because of some vengeful deity. You have the choice to remain human forever.

What if we want to have children of our own?

We shouldn’t concern ourselves with that problem right now.

Are you saying you don’t want to have any children?

Of course, I do, he replied. But I fear that we may never have that opportunity, with us being two different species in all.

Then I’ll become a dragon. That way, we’ll be able to raise a family. I’ll tell my father to put that into our ketubah.

Kairi. He sighed and then growled. I don’t want you to change. You being the way you are is what keeps my inner beast caged.

I admire that, Zenais. I really do. But I want this to happen. When the time comes, will you still love me the same?

He looked away and shook his head. I don’t know. I hope that I will.

I wasn’t expecting him to say that. His words stung more than my mother’s did. I wiped my eyes just when they let loose a few tears. I was joyed that he would be willing to accept me when I would become the same creature as him. I patted his neck and kissed him near his eye. Say you’ll love me no matter what I am.

There was a long pause before he finally spoke, I will. I smiled and fell on his head.

Thank you, Zenais. That means a lot to me.

I do anything for you.

And I will do anything for you too.

Isn’t that just sweet? I heard a voice say within my home. Zenais hissed, and I stayed near him.

Who’s there? Zenais said in an angry tone. You have one minute to leave or you’ll burn.

A figure in the form of a snake slithered into view. I pressed my body against Zenais upon seeing the serpent. I knew what that thing was. The disgraced, I stuttered.

The one and only. I was in complete fear not just from him but also from the form he took. This wasn’t the average snake. No, this one was Jezebel Brimstone. It was the deadliest animal here on Golgotha. Its bite could instantly kill you. "Don’t be afraid, my girl. I’m not here to harm you. Everly sent me to see how Zenais is doing. That wretched woman has the most florid delusion of affection toward your ahava."

Do I have to call for Lord Eden? I said.

No need, my dear. I will take my leave. He grinned at me. I bid you goodbye.

Everly must’ve revealed my future to him. That woman didn’t know when to stop running her mouth. The serpent slithered away, and I let out a sigh of relief. Zenais was still angry. I could sense his tension. Did you have to mention Lord Eden?

I had to, I said. Didn’t you see the creature he was?

Yes. A harmless little snake.

That wasn’t just any harmless little snake. That was Jezebel Brimstone—the deadliest serpent on Golgotha. One bite would’ve been fatal.

Oh. He looked back where we saw the serpent. Then I’m sorry for being cross with you.

You should be. If I hadn’t mentioned him, who knows what that thing would’ve done?

Tell me more about this specific breed of reptile.

As far as I know, they live near a secret cave near the Forbidden Forest. And there’s a legend that says the cave is a direct link to the Vesuvius Realm. Every twenty-five years, they would swarm and bring any unfortunate souls to the cave so they could be banished to the Vesuvius Realm.

Do you believe it? he asked me.

I don’t. There’s been no record or rumor of anyone seeing this event happening. I believe in facts.

Then you must know that I have a deep affection for you. He winked at me and smiled.

I do.

The rain stopped. Rays of sunlight filled the house. Zenais told me he was going to hunt with my cousins, and he left. I went to check if I had any robes to fix. There was nothing for me to do. So I went back home and tidied up.

After I finished, I sat on the beach instead of going onto the stone bridge. I drew in the sand and thought of what my future holds, not just for me but also for Zenais. As I contemplated, I started to consider whether or not I should murder my father.

The next morning, I told Elder Daniel that I was going to visit my father in Komodon Village. He wished me well, and I departed. I didn’t tell Zenais, but I did inform Rin. I asked him to tell Zenais that I had gone.

I made it to the incline on the cliff near the Forbidden Forest, and Zenais landed at the base of the path. Why didn’t you tell me?

You were in the middle of something. I didn’t wish to interrupt you.

You still should’ve told me. I know I would’ve insisted on taking you myself, but I would appreciate it if you would tell me when you decide to go off somewhere. Can you promise me that you’ll inform me of where you plan on going?

I promise.

And I swear to give you some space if you need it. Just let me know if I persist.

I will. I kissed his snout. Now get back home. I want to see your handiwork when I get back.

He stroked my cheek with his clawed finger. He backed up a few feet and flew away. I continued on my journey, and I arrived at Komodon Village. I was greeted the usual way—with cold stares and pelted by various food. Some were seen by Elder Cyrene and were chastised for that.

Elder Cyrene. I curtsied. It’s nice to see you.

I wish I could say the same with you. He didn’t mean that. His vice was telling lies, after all. I should know. I grew up in this village. The other villagers shunned me because I didn’t turn into a Komodon like everyone else did. Even my father endured the same treatment I had. I’m sorry. How are things going with you?

I’m doing well, I said. Have you seen my father?

I haven’t. He is most likely on his way here as we speak. I heard that he’s continuing to deny your union with Zenais. I will try to convince him to bless your marriage.

I appreciate that, Elder. May I linger in your home until my father arrives?

You may. He placed his arm around me. Pray for Lord Eden’s guidance while you wait. It will help.

I know it will, but praying is not why I’m here. I’m giving my father one last chance to give Zenais permission to marry me.

I’ll keep you in my prayers, darling. Let me know if you need anything. Or ask my agape.

I nodded.

I waited ten minutes before I checked to see if my father came home. I walked in and saw him sitting at his table, drinking water from a clay pitcher. Father.

He looked at me. I’m still not changing my mind, Kairi. If you came here to change my mind, you won’t.

Father. I sat down and stared at him. I’m happy with Zenais. Don’t keep me angry with you.

I could care less if you’re happy with him. I’m not letting that scum marry you.

You’re just like him when I first met him—stubborn and stupid. I got up and plucked the pitcher out of his hands. You’ll come around. I shook the container to see if any water was left. It was half full.

I dosed my father with the water and threw the pitcher against the wall. It shattered. Get out of my home!

Make me. I folded my arms and sat back down.

He stood and grabbed my arm. I slugged him when he touched me. He staggered to the wall and fell to his bottom. That felt good.

Elder Cyrene rushed in. What’s going on in here?

My father pointed at me. She hit me when I tried to remove her from my home.

Is this true, Kairi? he asked me.

Yes, I answered him. The old man had it coming.

I could see the surprise on them. I never said something like that in front of them. Maybe part of Zenais was rubbing off on me.

Elder Cyrene turned to my father and helped him up. "Why won’t you make your daughter happy, Sinai? Don’t you want her to be happy with her ahava?"

No, he said angrily. She won’t marry him, and that’s final.

Why am I not surprised? Can’t get over the fact that I can make my own choices. I headed over the door. You just lost the only one you had left. Hope it was worth it.

No one said a word as I left. The trip back home was what I needed. Taking the stroll really helped calm me. My father had his chance. Now I could act out my vengeance.

Chapter 2

A Better Solution

Zenais had me blindfolded as he led me to our new home. Come on, Zenais. Let me see.

Not quite yet, darling. Wait a bit longer.

He halted my advance, and I felt his claw over the hood used to restrict my vision more. He was going to show me our house. I was so excited that I wanted to pull my blindfold off. Zenais kept his hand on it so I wouldn’t ruin the moment.

Just take it off! I shouted excitedly.

Zenais chuckled and gave me a slight push forward. Okay. He removed his hand. Take it off.

I ripped off the mask. The house was huge. I was in awe of how large it was. It definitely could house the entire population of Golgotha. It was the ideal home for a thirty-foot lizard. The walls were made of stone, and the roof, wood. I love it. I want to check it out. I rushed in with Zenais behind me. The rooms were wide enough for Zenais to turn and pass through with ease.

Zenais and I brought over all our possessions from our old home. I told him to set our table in the middle of the room. I found it odd to have a table this small in a room so large. But I couldn’t have Zenais make one so big that I wouldn’t have been able to reach the top. I moved to the next room, and I saw a large stone bed sticking out from the wall. It was low enough for me to climb up on. We’ll put something on it to make it soft, Zenais said as he lay beside me. How do you like our new home?

I love it. I snuggled up against him. We can finally sleep together. I kissed him near his eye. I’m glad you’re here with me.

"I am, too, my ahava. We only have one thing holding us back now."

My father.

That old fool was really irritating me. I didn’t understand why he would deny me my significant other. I knew that Zenais committed a horrible crime in the past, but I didn’t let that interfere with how I felt about him.

Don’t worry about that fool. If he wants to earn my hatred, let him.

"He’s definitely earned mine. He gave me his