Darkness Surges

By M.K. Lauren

Darkness is upon all who live in Talham whether they believe it or not. The evil has done a magnificent job in remaining hidden for as long as it has. A light must shine if any hope is to penetrate the shroud of darkness.
An ancient power has awoken within Cayden. He has learned of his heritage and of the dangers lying before him. Remaining hidden was not a choice since evil was hunting him. His options were to join with the evil rising in the world or stand against it. The decision was easy, especially since he had found so many willing to fight by his side. Cayden continues to struggle with the power swirling deep within him. He has taken residence in his father's tower and touched the ancient tome. His greatest concern is he has done too little, too late. The evil he faces has already made their move to conquer the free world. A sea of steel already marches toward the most fortified city in the western side of Talham. All know if the city is to fall, any neighboring realms will fall soon after. Few believe there is a force capable of resisting the enemy which only serves to drown hope. Those loyal to Cayden must rush to find allies willing to take their word without much hesitation. They pray their previous actions have earned them the right to seek council with the leaders of great nations. They hope old alliances will be remembered and reforged. If Cayden's friends are not successful in their endeavors, the world will change drastically.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Feb 9, 2023
• ISBN: 9781667888873

Book preview

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Contents

Acknowledgments

Recap

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Acknowledgments

I would like to take a moment to thank all of those who have given me a helping hand and guided this project.  Their input and advice have been incredibly beneficial. 

I would first like to thank my family who has supported me throughout this whole project and has given me advice and guidance. 

I would like to thank Mike, Dorothy, Kyle, Tim, and everyone else who read through the revisions and stayed patient with my changes throughout the years.

Thank you to all of my English teachers who have guided me with their reading selections that introduced me to the fantasy world.

This has been a long process and I appreciate everyone’s patience and assistance.

To my wife who put up with me while I talked about this constantly and put time into writing it, I cannot thank you enough.  Thank you for the understanding that my bedtime was much later than most as I poured my thoughts into this story.

Copyright © 2022 by M.K. Lauren

All rights reserved.

ISBN: 978-1-66-788887-3

Darkness Surges

Chaos of the Archaic Book 2

Recap

The world of magic has been stabilized for centuries but it was not always the case.  The first form of magic gifted to mortals by the gods Orionii, Narcadem, and Teardant was called the Archaic.  The magic was raw, both powerful and deadly.  It became too difficult for the original nine wizards of the world to pass onto their apprentices. The magic always consumed the new students.  The gods saw this and assembled and constructed another form of magic, the Arcane, to replace the original with the anticipation the archaic form would die out when the original nine wizards passed from this world to the next.  It turns out, even the gods can be wrong.

One of the original nine wizards discovered the power was easily developed in neophytes who shared his bloodline.  He immediately began creating more apprentices by any means necessary.  The remaining eight became aware and sought to rectify the looming chaos the ninth spawned.  The irresponsible wizard, Malum, devised a plan and vanished from the mortal world without a trace.  The remaining eight were drawn into constant combat with Malum’s apprentices as they hunted for the missing wizard.  The blood-related apprentices slowly killed off six of the eight remaining wizards but not without tragic loss on their side as well.  The remaining two archaic wizards fell in love and bore a son into the world but vowed to let the archaic magic vanish.

Cayden, an elven wizard born of these two archaic wizards discovers the ancient and powerful magic coursing through his body.  He quickly learns this power makes him both target and salvation.  He soon finds he is hunted by the remaining apprentices of a dark soul.

Cayden instinctively battles against an evil attempting to subdue him within the city of Icedale Haven, also known as the City of Magic.  After the death of the Chancellor, he is forced to kill two members of the council of magic.  His defiance causes him to be hunted by any within the world of magic.  He flees back to his homeland where the emperor banishes him.  It is a punishment ordered for his own protection as well as the protection of the Quandilles Nation.  He must flee the cover of the elven woods and try to remain out of the eyes of the magical order.  He is joined by his childhood friend, Eldrith, a skilled elven ranger.  The two set out from their wooded world into the vastness of the human realms.

Shortly after they leave the woods, the elven adventurers happen upon a battle between a horde of grishek, a mortal enemy of the elves, and two creatures.  They come to the aid of the two creatures who turn out to be a barbarian named Kenric and a hyhlekin named Balhan.  They are joined in the fight by a holy man from Wyleth named Malistar.  The five new friends discover a host of men terrorizing a nearby farmhouse.  These men are attempting to seize two young women, who hold a trace of the archaic magic.  The wizard amongst these foul men believes the girls will please the one they serve.  Cayden and his company fight against them and are joined by Krym, a man from Xarax.  Krym has hunted the vile men since he encountered them within the desert lands.  The ones Cayden and company intended to stop are able to escape in the chaos. 

Krym leads the group to the city of Xarax where they are joined by two more, a man aspiring to become a knight named Temarik and by a rogue named Dedrick.  The eight learn the men Krym chases are trying to bring terror and oppression into the world.  The small group sets out to stop them.  Fate takes them to the Forest of Mythos where they discover a hunted wood nymph, Alashia, and are deceived by a member of their own group.  They track the men they search for to the Unknown Mountains where they confront them at last.  They are able to best the evil men but not before they were able to accomplish their goals.

Prologue

Scaen woke up in a cold sweat as he had done many times since passing through the fortified city of Kleindale into the eastern lands of Talham.  His dreams had once again returned to the strange leather-covered beast.  The frequency made him believe there was a reason his mind continually found the creature in his sleep as if were tied to the fate of the heavens.  He searched for the message within his visions.  Scaen had only ever seen this monster in his dreams.  The creature was strange to him, he had never come across it in any of his readings.  The templar knew this beast was from the depths of the hells though he could never fully describe it when he was awake.  He only knew this monster caused terror within any who looked upon it.  Any but her. 

She was a slender warrior clad in elegant white armor.  If there was any fear within her it was beyond Scaen’s sight.  The lone warrior fought against the mysterious beast with every ounce of ferocity contained within her.  Her silver-colored long sword struck against leathery skin repeatedly but did not cut deep enough to cause any true harm to the beast.  She stood defensively as her eyes fell upon Scaen.  There was strength in her glimmering brown eyes.  She returned her focus to the creature in front of her.  The demon was significantly larger than she was, yet she battled relentlessly. 

Scaen was unsure what his vision was trying to tell him, though he believed he must figure it out quickly because it was important.  The templar knew it was not a sign from any deity as he was aware they were banned from providing any aid to mortals until the battle for the heavens was completed.  Those living in the mortal plane were mostly unaware of the godly skirmish.  Even those who knew of it like himself had no news to impart to others.  He only knew he must reach as many ears as he could.  He would need to preach to any holding a sliver of faith in the current over-god. 

The gods would have to use all of their strength to retain their positions.  Their strength came from the number of worshipers they had in this land.  Scaen and his company would have to heal and preach to any they could in hopes of giving their deity the strength needed to persevere. 

The templar pushed his concerns aside as he sat up and looked over at those in his order.  Their possessions had soaked up the heavy dew left by the previous night.  There was a slight chill in the air as the sun began rising in the east.  Scaen sat in silence as his companions continued their slumber.  The templar’s mind returned to the slender blonde woman in white who battled the demon in his mind.  He wondered what her appearance in his dreams could mean.  He prayed for Orionii to grant her strength and he contemplated why she battled alone.  It was as if she had slipped away under the cover of darkness to find the creature.  It was as if she put herself in harm’s way just to grant those who might accompany her a moment of peace.  Scaen never saw any who might be within her party, but he never saw the demon’s allies either.  The templar knew the two were not alone. 

Scaen could not shake the memory of his dream.  He remained in awe of the warrior.  She was tenacious, never backing down.  Her constant offensive strikes paused only long enough for her to regain her breath.  He forced himself to turn his attention to stoking the fire so the company could have a small breakfast before continuing their journey.  The camp stayed relatively quiet as more and more of his order woke.  Once all had woke, and after their morning devotion, the order of Orionii marched toward their destination.

Several days passed without incident and Scaen stared up toward the Midlen Fortress.  He was relieved to see the walls still standing strong, though he knew they would be.  He knew this by the simple fact that the party had not been attacked by roving patrols after passing through the city of Kleindale.  The stone fortress was the only stronghold capable of keeping the unwanted grishek from raging through the lands between the fortress and Kleindale.  If this structure were to crumble, even walled cities like Rhoedam would fall victim to the creatures.  The Glovermine Mountains surrounding the fortress were untamed enough to cause a cruel death to any daring to traverse them.  The only way through the range of jagged peaks was one long mountain pass.  The lone path ran through the Midlen Fortress by design.  Generations ago, the grisheks had been allowed to live though they were banished to the northernmost part of Talham.  The templar wondered why this decision was made but to look upon the view of the fortress caused him to appreciate it.  Snow-covered mountain peaks surrounded the defensible location.  Parapets lined the large walls constructed from stone blocks cut from the surrounding mountain.  Several towers rose high behind the walls and served to extend the view of the defenders.  Scaen could see the tops of the castle towers just beyond the walls.  He knew the fortified building was large, but the angle he looked from hid the castle’s true size.  The templar could see the relief in the eyes of his order.  They had traveled a long way and looked forward to a warm bed and hot food.  Scaen wondered if his dream would follow him into the safety of the fortress.  He had no reason to believe it would not and in truth, he longed to look upon her again.  He prayed he would find further answers within the library hidden within stone walls of the Midlen Fortress.

Chapter 1

Eldrith leaned over the stone parapet of the ancient wall which stood between the carved passage through the mountain and the serene valley.  The nightly chill in the thin mountain air was being forced away by the light of the new day which had finally peeked over the tips of the mountains to the east.  Snow had fallen during the night and already the warmth of the spring sun was turning it to water that ran across the valley floor.  There it joined the mighty river before cascading down the rocky ledge to the pool below.  Eldrith took in the beauty of the sheltered land knowing it would be the last time he would look upon such peacefulness for far too long.  The elven ranger would have felt the tranquility of the valley consume him had he not known the evil the world would soon see revealed.  His greatest concerns were that no one yet knew the full extent of this darkness and that Cayden was somehow tied to opposing it.  The ranger was lost in thought as he stared over the forested lands that would soon be all but deserted.  A hand came to rest on his shoulder and Eldrith stood abruptly, startled by the presence of another.  Krym laughed, It is a strange day when I can sneak up on a woodsman of the Quandilles nation.

Eldrith returned his friend’s joyful expression in hopes it would hide his simmering worries.  He pointed at the valley where he had been staring for far too long.  "You had the benefit of catching me while deep in thought and drawn into the beauty of this land.  It is a shame we must leave it for now. 

Cherish your victory today because you shall not be lucky enough to catch me unaware again, Eldrith attempted to conceal the strain in his eyes with a smile.

Krym, the master swordsman was unconvinced by the expression on his friend’s face, the weight of the burden was clear in Eldrith’s eyes.  You fear for Cayden and Alashia because they are now without the protection of your bow.  It is understandable.  I too am worried about them.  I have managed to find a little solace in knowing they are doing what must be done, just as we must do.  If we delay any longer, then all the blood we have shed, all the efforts we have put forth, will be in vain.  You know better than any of us, Cayden has fears of what will happen to the world if he is unable to harness the power within him.  You also believe if he is not successful, we are all lost.  It is now time to perform our duty in this task.  We must work against those with evil intentions without the aid of our wizard.  Our friends are in a great need of time.  We must garner them as much of it as we can and pray to the gods, if they are even listening, that it is enough for Cayden to seize control of the rage coursing through him.  It is time, my friend; we must leave this valley and serve our purpose, regardless of its end.

Eldrith was amazed at Krym’s comforting tone and the effectiveness of it.  The ranger glanced once more at the lush vegetation fighting against the chill from the white blanket the thin air had placed over it.  He smiled as he realized the world would soon be doing the same, fighting against a fearless foe intent on snuffing out life wherever it could be found.  He turned to his friend, You are right.  We can serve no more purpose here.  Cayden will learn what he must, and we will give him time to do so.  I will look forward to the day he returns to our side.  It strained me to leave as I had never seen fear in his eyes until the day, we left the tower.  He fears failing to grasp hold of his abilities and even if he does, he fears it will not be enough to turn back what has already been released upon us, not to mention what has yet to be unleashed.  I would not have left had it been another wizard.  The trials he faces are enough to break the strongest of minds, but I have yet to see him give up on anything and this will be no different.  He will control the storm trying to consume him and when he does, he shall release it upon our enemy and this world will have a chance to repel the evil that stalks it.  Eldrith smiled calmly and gave Krym a firm pat on the back as he descended the old stone stairs to gather his gear. 

The ranger saw the room where he and his friends had slept was empty.  They were already prepared for their journey and now waited for him.  It was a tactic they had started using several days ago in order to force him to move forward.  Eldrith knew he had been hesitant in their travels due to the uncertainty his closest friend faced.  He cursed himself silently for foolishly delaying the group with useless expeditions to find something they did not need.  His uneasiness had already cost them a day of travel.  He rapidly retrieved his items; determined he would not be the cause of any further delays.  Krym did not hesitate as he walked past Eldrith, down the next flight of stairs, and out of the watch tower where their friends waited silently, already mounted on horseback. 

Krym was mounting his steed as Eldrith emerged from the stone structure at a quickened pace.  The ranger paused for a moment when Kenric attempted to hand him the reins of his horse.  The elven ranger looked up at the barbarian, who made the large horse he sat upon seem small, and with a smile, spoke, You should lead Antex through the gates and shut them behind you.  I will figure out how to drop the bar to seal the gates.  Our weapons are of no use to Cayden and Alashia at the moment, but we can still aid them.  At least with the gates barred any enemy who finds the mountain pass will still be delayed by having to break iron or discover another way over the wall.

And what if we are forced to make a rapid retreat?  We will be sealing ourselves on the wrong side of this protective barrier, Kenric replied as he set the reins of Eldrith’s horse on his lap.

Malistar commanded his steed toward the open gate.  He laughed at Kenric as he rode by, Kenric, when have we ever had to retreat?

Your memory fails you, paladin.  Do you not remember the grishek nest? Krym questioned with a confused tone.

I remember it well.  I remember Cayden making the cavern nothing short of a tomb for so many of our enemies.  He may not be with us at the moment but nevertheless, our days of retreating are behind us.  We either forge ahead, or we fail, Malistar replied without looking back.  Keep your faith; we can overcome any obstacle we might find.  The holy warrior’s words faded as he passed through the massive arched entrance, the only opening in the wall, the others followed without delay.

Kenric displayed his seemingly limitless strength as he pushed the first of the iron gates closed.  The barbarian nodded his approval to Eldrith as he pulled the second one shut.  Eldrith rushed into the eastern gatehouse and searched for the mechanism used to lower the massive bar into its resting place.  The ranger found it located in a lower room within the watch tower.  He looked over the mechanism carefully.  The ranger saw a large, wheeled crank with several handles extruding from the wheel.  He saw four thick steel pins, one centered in each of the wheel’s spokes.  Eldrith pulled on the first of the pins but quickly realized he had to also turn the wheel slightly in order to relieve enough pressure for it to be removed.  Carefully, Eldrith repeated this process three more times before the final pin was removed.  The dwarven-made crank turned rapidly as the resistance was gone.  The ranger could hear the screeching of the iron bar rotating on its hinge.  He took only a moment to marvel at the craftsmanship of the mechanism as the sound of the bar settling into the interior brackets mounted to the entrance walls reached his ears.  The gates alone could resist forces that would be difficult to generate in the distance between the closed doors and the entrance to the mountain pass.  He shook away his awe and bound up the stairs to the top of the wall.  Eldrith removed his rope from a pack he still carried and secured one end around an inner parapet.  The other end he threw over the wall along the edge where the mountain met the stone.  He repelled down the wall and landed softly on the ground below.  The elven braided cord blended in seamlessly with the shadow cast by the joining of the wall and mountain.  Eldrith silently rejoiced at one of the many benefits of elven-crafted rope as he anchored the hanging end to a large stone.  When he was satisfied with the way it rested against the rock, he ran toward his waiting company and leaped gracefully onto his horse with one fluid motion.  If we require a rapid retreat, I can be up on the wall within moments.  The gates will not be closed long after I disappear from sight.

I told you already, we do not have the luxury of retreating, Malistar said with a stern look on his face.  His look would assure anyone if they could not tell from his tone, he was not speaking in jest.

I pray, to any gods that will listen, you are right, Eldrith replied.

Malistar commanded his horse forward for a few steps before pulling the reins to stop.  He turned back toward his friends, I do not say it to be vain or exude a false sense of confidence.  I say it because if we do not stand firm, many will die.  If we choose to turn away from our opposition because we lack the numbers to battle them evenly, many will die.  If we turn and flee, even if we intend to return to the fray on a separate occasion, it will only bolster our enemy’s beliefs that they are already the victors.  No matter how many we stand against we must find the courage to fight, and we must find a way to win.  We must believe beyond any doubt that we will be victorious no matter what we face.  If we do not, then we are already dead because everyone and everything we hold dear will be dead as well.  The paladin of the triad did not let his words linger in the air for long before he rode into the mouth of the carved tunnel that would deliver them from the mountain valley.  His friends spoke no reply as they silently followed the holy warrior inspired by his insight and his words.  They understood he only wished for them to make sure their courage did not fail them when they needed it most.

The silence of their thoughts loomed over them as they traveled away from a sanctuary and into the tempest.  No words were spoken until they reached the cavern hidden from the world behind the curtain of water.  The sound of the mountain river falling was loud enough to drown anything less than a shout.  Malistar tested the force of the water falling by pushing his shield into the torrent.  The shield had not cleared the other edge of the fall before Malistar’s arm buckled under the pressure.  He shook his head and turned back to the group, We must figure out a way to pass underneath.  Cayden’s technique of parting the water was much sturdier than mine.  If we attempt to ride through, I doubt we would escape without serious injury.

Kenric’s deep voice echoed off the walls, There is something about this cavern that makes me feel as though there are eyes upon us, watching every move we make.  I felt it when we first entered it in our pursuit of Vailurt and his men.  I had hoped it was my mind playing tricks on me, but still, the feeling remains.

These are dwarven-made tunnels.  I realize that now, replied Krym as he ran his hand against the smoothly carved walls.  The light emitting from the torch they had rekindled and hung in the sconce on the wall was bright enough to show intricate carvings displaying dragons and dwarven warriors.  The travelers had missed the etchings on the walls and pillars when they had first passed through the falls.  They were rumored to have a city buried deep within these mountains though there had never been any solid evidence to prove that rumor true.  Any trading Xarax did with any dwarven nation came from the White Mountains north of Quandilles.

Eldrith leaped off his horse, If these are Dwarven made then I am positive that the fortifications at the other end of this path were made by the same clan.  This river of falling water did not occur after the pathway was created.  They dug this entrance in order to use the water as a shield.  There has to be a way to pass through it without magic.  In one of the watch towers above, I found a hidden mechanism that barred the gate.  I am sure there will be something similar here, we just need to find it.  The ranger began searching the columns closest to the waterfall.  The rest of the group began looking for anything unnatural to the cave as well. 

Does that mean the dwarves are watching us now?  Is that why I have this sensation? Kenric asked while looking around.

Only they could answer that.  If they are, I pray they understand the intent of anyone entering this pass and intervene when necessary.  Now that more is being discovered and the word is spreading about what we face, it will become more difficult to hide intentions.  If an army of grishek march this paved road I hope the dwarves will paint the rock red, replied Eldrith.

Whether they are watching or not, we should not delay here.  We must find the way through and continue with haste.  There is much we need to do in our preparations for war.  We need not fear for Cayden and Alashia for the moment.  The tower is sealed by magic so even if anyone else knew about this trail they would be denied direct access to our friends.  I would take great pity on anyone who had the nerve to wait for the tower entrance to be re-opened.  We have all seen the wrath of his archaic magic and he has done that without an enhanced knowledge of it.  When he is more educated and skilled in his ability, I doubt any, but the foolish will oppose him, Temarik said with an assuring tone.  The knight was eager to return to Mythos and seek his audience with the king.  Temarik hoped the king’s knowledge of battle would lead him toward the decision to join Xarax in war.  He wished to assure the army of Mythos would march into battle if called.  He also had desires to look upon Sayliana once more, but he knew those desires were for his own reasons and not the benefit of those who would suffer under the boot of the invading army. 

I have found it, Eldrith exclaimed.  The ranger pulled on a lever hidden in one of the columns that supported the ceiling overhead.  The sounds of metal scraping stone echoed through the cavern and the group watched as a massive piece of steel erupted from the top of the cavern entrance.  The steel wedge forced the water to fall to the sides of a narrow metal bridge that now stretched over the deep, cold pool in front of the cavern.  Eldrith counted aloud as the lever slowly moved back into place and their exit closed once again. 

"I do not know if I will ever cease to be surprised by dwarven ingenuity.  They can turn the rawest of minerals into useful objects with ease.  I suppose when you live among the materials, you grow accustomed to their properties.

Mount your steeds.  I will hold the lever so the water will be parted long enough for all of you ride to out.  Once you are clear of the pool, I will join you.  I will have enough time to clear the pass before the lever settles into its resting place and the water returns to its natural path, Eldrith directed. 

It took only a few moments before each traveler stood on the other side of the pool.  They watched quietly as the metal wedge and bridge returned to their hiding place and the water crashed downward again without resistance.  Eldrith turned his horse to the south and immediately reached for his bow.  The ranger leaned out of the way of a streaking arrow only a moment after he strung his own.  The rest of the group turned in surprise at the sudden actions of their friend.  They did not have to search long to find the source of the altercation.  Several grishek armored in light leather charged forward.  Their movements were all but silent against the thunderous sound of the waterfall.  Eldrith’s bow sang its song to the demise of the closest assailant.  The ranger quickly reached for another arrow as he scanned the area seeking his next target.  He looked on in terror as one of the creatures had already mounted a horse and was riding hard to the east.  Eldrith knew these creatures had seen the hidden cavern when the flow of water parted.  He knew that these creatures were members of a scouting party and if any were left alive his friends remaining in the ancient tower would face an enemy the moment Cayden had completed his training.  He took a calming breath and focused only on the creature riding with haste away from the battle.  He ignored the movements of his allies as the sound of their weapons being freed was all but mute against the roaring river.  His fingers drew the bow back slowly as he measured the distance, the speed of the horse, and the strength of the wind against his cheek.  He could not hear his breath leaving his body but the moment he felt a perfect calm, his fingers slid from the string.  The bow put the arrow to flight in an arc.  Eldrith watched nothing but the arrow though he could sense the melee was upon him.  He could hear the muffled sounds of sword on shield, but he made no attempt at drawing his tulwars.  His horse remained as motionless as he did while men and grishek cleaved at each other with deadly intent.  Eldrith watched as the arrow pierced through the shoulder plate of the fleeing creature.  A sliver of fear reached out to the ranger as the lone rider maintained his grip on the reins.  The elven archer shook off the dread trying to consume him and threw his heels into Antex.  The loyal steed lurched into sudden movement.  The horse did not miss a step, even when it collided with a charging grishek, as it heeded its rider’s command.  Eldrith reached back into his quiver as his horse rushed away from the fray.  He prayed a quick prayer in hopes that his actions would not be detrimental to his friends.  Eldrith knew they were skilled warriors and were not outnumbered so his concerns were misplaced for the moment.  The long-powerful strides of his horse covered the ground quickly but even at the hurried pace, Eldrith knew he would have to take another shot before the creature disappeared behind one of the large eruptions of rock.  These rock growths appeared sporadically around the mountains and resembled miniature peaks as if they were mountains not yet grown.  The ranger did not have the luxury of stillness as he pulled back the bow once more.  The arrow sprung into the air and in a flash Eldrith readied another as his confidence in his accuracy while riding at such a pace was in question.  He did not need it as he watched the arrow bury itself deep into the creature’s neck.  The grishek fell from the horse, its body bouncing lifelessly on the ground until it came to a stop.  The scout’s horse stopped as soon as its burden was relieved.  Eldrith glanced back at his friends with his bow readied once more.  His allies seemed to have the upper hand in the battle, so he closed the distance between himself and the fallen rider, his pace slowing as he got closer.  He pulled back on his bow as he neared the body and released the string; the arrow plunged cleanly into the skull of the grishek.  The ranger had no desire to take a chance on there being any life left in the creature.  His elven feet landed softly on the ground.  His heart was pounding in his chest as he prodded the creature with his tulwars.  Eldrith heard something other than the waterfall and the wind rushing over his ears.  He heard drums beating rhythmically.  The ranger peered around the fallen stones and his heart sank with fear.  Far off to the northeast, entering the plains that ran to the east of the mountain was a sea of metal and pillars of black smoke.  The army built to take Xarax was already here and on the move.  The pillars of smoke poured upward from the ruins of a town already desolated by the horde.  Eldrith turned his head as his friends approached.  The ranger said nothing.  He had no need of it; the vividness of what they stood against was beyond words.

Krym was the first of the group to break the stunned and fear-filled silence, Malistar, you said our days of retreating have ended.  Would you like to lead our charge into this sea of death?

When I said our days of retreating have ended, it was not meant to be implied that our days of being fools were to begin.  I can see now your days of doing that started long ago, replied Malistar with a smile. They were grateful to share the laugh because it broke them from the sinking feeling of doom. 

It looks as though they took the town without raising any alarm.  I do not see any paths leading away from the walls, Kenric commented aloud. 

Temarik studied the scene below for a moment.  He pointed out four hills only a short distance outside the town.  On each hill was a large camp, each with a tented pavilion that stood in the middle of the elevated area.  Whoever leads this army appears to be skilled in the art of war.  This army dispatched a large force of mounted soldiers well ahead of the brunt of the army.  Those soldiers positioned themselves in a place where they had the greatest vantage point.  They did this to prevent any from escaping.  They prevented any word from spreading about their arrival.  I can only assume they took their places in the shadow of night.  They were in place before the residents even knew what was happening.  There was no chance of fleeing, no chance of calling for aid or sending alerts to anyone else.

How is anything going to hold back an army of that size? Balhan asked in almost a whisper as if he feared the men and grishek from the rival army would hear him.

Krym answered the hyhlekin, I do not believe that even the walls and desert lands surrounding Xarax will halt them.

They are a large force, that is undeniable, Temarik said.  "The sheer mass is not what worries me the most.  The quantity of warriors alone does not make them unstoppable.  It is their knowledge of strategy that is concerning.  This is an army that no realm alone could stand against on an open battlefield, yet they use cunning tactics.  The leader of this scourge is intelligent, which is most terrifying.

We must move as quickly as we can.  The mass of this army will not be able to make it through the terrain of the desert at a rapid pace.  It will take them several months to get to Xarax.  We must make sure when they arrive, Xarax is as prepared as it can be and has as many allies as possible.

Even if Xarax is to recall every soldier, guard, and man fit enough to fight, it surely cannot withstand a force such as this, replied Narithela.  The wood nymph they had rescued in the archaic tower was quickly growing comfortable within the group.  It was their ever-steady faith in each other and their intentions that had quickly broken through the wall of doubt that had been built during her captivity. 

Temarik smiled, If any desire to wait for them to arrive at the gates of Xarax unopposed then you will be fighting their fight, and you will lose that fight.  We must summon the armies of every land around.  We knew this fight would come to the desert city.  Let us pray to the gods the King of Mythos has spread the word and the walls of Xarax will fill with the armies of its allies.

Temarik, Krym replied.  Even if all the nations in this area united, they could not amass greater numbers than our enemies already have.  The battlefield would be nothing more than a slaughter.

If you desire to do nothing at all then I will return to the tower with you and we can wait and see if Cayden can be the savior of all, Temarik said bitterly.  We do not have to strike them head-on, nor do we have to wait behind walls for them to storm against the stone.  They are a force too large to properly defend themselves in open fields just as this.  You’ve seen Eldrith shoot his bow, even a hand full of elven rangers could be used to thin their numbers.  The archers could force them to break their ranks and send out opposition against the elves.  The range and riding skills of Eldrith’s kin would keep them out of harms reach.

Eldrith let out a sigh, by the time I could return to this land with enough of my kin to make a difference, it will be too late.

Thinning their numbers by even a small fraction is a start, replied Temarik.  The friends of the knightly warrior stood in amazement at his confidence.  They waited patiently for him to continue.  We can discuss our intentions while we camp.  The alarm will be raised when this group of scouts does not return.  I have a large desire to see how they handle the loss of the scouts but do not wish to see it this closely.  We must move, if the whole division of cavalry is deployed, we will not live to see our plans take place.  Temarik began to turn toward his horse when the sound of a horn was heard coming from the area where the army marched.  The knightly warrior spoke commandingly, Onto your horses, the leaders of this force will soon know that a scouting party has gone missing.  They will be seeking answers by nightfall.

It was fortunate the group had acquired the additional horses from the army’s scouting party and the group they chased into the mountains because they were able to use them throughout the day.  Changing horses several times allowed them to ride hard without fear of overburdening their animals.  They had put a great distance between themselves and the riders still hunting them.  The sounds of horns blowing had faded.  It was not until half the night was behind them that Temarik became comfortable enough to stop.  Foregoing a fire, the company ate dried rations in silence as the night air brought a slight chill.  Krym volunteered to stand first watch as the others found sleep.  Fortune smiled upon them as the night passed over them without incident.

Temarik was already up when Krym’s eyes opened.  He did not allow the master swordsman an opportunity to wake fully before he began with his suggestions, You should do what you can to empty the city of any who do not have the capability or desire to fight.  I would never be able to guarantee a victory against a force this large no matter how many walls they were forced to scale.  When you arrive in Xarax, you must seek an audience with your leaders and convince them to send out word to their neighboring kingdoms.  They must request aid and fill the city with the armies of your allies.  I hope King Tovigh has already spread the word.

Krym shook his head, the few hours of sleep he had managed to get was not enough to push away the weariness.  His voice was low as he replied, "I will do what I can to reach the ears of the Lords of Xarax, but I cannot make any promises.  For generations, they have forged a confidence within those walls, and it will not be easily shattered.  They will remember tales of un-imaginary swells of water and winds that did all they could to shatter the walls and had failed.  They will not fear an army no matter how vast I declare it to be.  It will be a difficult task, but I will make the attempt.

As for emptying the city of those who will not or cannot fight, that will be an equally difficult task.  I will make the suggestion to those I see in the street but without the direction of their leaders, they will look at me as if I am sick with madness.

You must try, replied Temarik.  It is all that can be asked of you.  I pray your leaders accept your counsel and listen to your reasoning.  If they do not, the blood of the innocent will be spilled without remorse.

It is time to wake, Krym announced repeatedly until everyone stirred.  We have come to the point where we must split our group.  Eldrith and Narithela should ride with Malistar and me.  If you do not wish to ride through the desert, then you must go south along the ridge that borders the sand.  The only paths that lay to the north contain more dangers from terrain than anything we have encountered thus far.  Kenric, Balhan, and Temarik, your destination remains directly south of here.

You will be pursued, Temarik stated.  He continued when questioning looks appeared on his friend’s faces, This army, above all else, is here to sack Xarax.  We have seen their plans they will use to conquer this land and they believe it all begins with the largest trade city in this land.  If they fill the walls of Xarax, they will not only have a strong hold but enough gold, silver, and jewels to pay for their future campaigns.  It is a strategic position, and they will pursue any of us who make our way toward their target.

Krym laughed, They may be vast in number, but they would be gravely mistaken if they believe they can out-navigate me in my homelands.  I will be able to thin the ranks of any who give chase to us by simply using the terrain as if it were an extension of my own weapon.

We will meet you as soon as we have completed our tasks, Kenric replied.  The large barbarian gave his friends a confident nod as he mounted his horse. 

Eldrith smiled at those who were departing to the south, Do not delay more than you need to.  If your search for Dedrick is not fruitful, abandon it for the time being and continue it once we dispatch of this invading force.

I look forward to seeing you as soon as we can manage.  I will pray that you are not the only one of your kin that stands in Xarax when we arrive, replied Temarik.  The knight did not wait for any more words to delay him.  He ordered his steed into a quickened pace.  Kenric and Balhan immediately followed. 

Eldrith, Malistar, Krym, and Narithela lingered only long enough to see their friends ride below the top of a small hill.  The sounds of distant horns broke their thoughts and forced them into a frenzied ride of their own.  Eldrith followed behind his friends as Krym led them down the sandy hill and into the heart of the desert once more.  Each of them, except the wood nymph who had not yet seen his expertise within this land, felt confident in Krym’s ability to lead them out of harm’s way even though the sounds of the horns were more frequent and seemed to be closing the distance.  They put their pursuers out of their minds for the moment and focused on keeping their horses moving forward.  The sandstone walls of Xarax would at the least protect them from any of the riders that gave chase.  None of them went without longing to be within those protective boundaries.

Chapter 2

The blackened scales of his armor clanked and scraped against each other ever so slightly as he slid from his tall, armored war horse.  Those under his command bowed to show both honor and respect as he and the highest-ranking officers of his army walked past them toward the one who had summoned him from his command tent.  General Tenthir was a man of great stature, great intensity, and even greater skill in battle, but his greatest asset was his ability to understand those who served under him.  He expected no more out of his charges than he expected out of himself, and his actions bore the proof.  The man remained poised regardless of what he faced with few exceptions which were far different than many of the warlords his men had served under prior to him. 

Tenthir strode forward until he stood face to face with the man who summoned him.  Captain Faldin, the general stated in his deep voice.  You requested my presence? 

General Kingsfall, the captain who oversaw the large division of scouts replied as he bowed.  I apologize for pulling you from your duties, but circumstances dictate I speak to you and gain your wisdom.

Tenthir smiled slightly, Your duties are my duties, just as my successes are your successes.  I am here, now tell me why.

Faldin nodded his understanding and led the general to the body of a slain grishek.  This was a member of a scouting party that failed to return to camp when expected.  I ordered a search the moment I heard they were delayed and only a short time ago, this body was discovered.  The other members of his clan lay dead by the waterfall.  The captain extended his finger to the side of the mountain where the water cascaded down from far above.

Tenthir bent to one knee and began inspecting the lifeless body laid out in front of him.  His cold, deep voice sent shivers down the spines of all who heard his words, It was found only a short time ago, but do you have any clue as to how long this beast has been dead?  How many others rode with him?  How large would you estimate the force that laid them to waste?  If you have summoned me here so that I may look upon the body of a dead grishek, I assure you, I have seen one before.  The general did not bother to turn around and face the master of the scouts who had dropped to one knee in both respect and apology.

The man rose and cleared his throat, Of course, let me explain.  We have not summoned you here to simply look at the body of one of your legions.  I know an incident such as this requires your attention and I seek your guidance.  This was a sizeable scouting party, thirteen in total, and more than just scouts, all were skilled with bow and blade.  The tracks of numerous horses have been found heading south at a rapid pace.  The attacking party has claimed the horses of the fallen scouts so I cannot guess their numbers.  I have no doubt of their intent which is to report their findings to the Lords of Xarax or a neighboring city.

Tell me Captain Faldin.  If this group of scouts was more than just that, then show me the bodies of their attackers.  I can see this one here was killed at a distance while attempting to flee from combat, but surely the others had greater effectiveness against their attackers. 

The captain paused for only a moment before delivering his response, We have found no bodies from the company that attacked our scouts.  I can only assume they carried their dead or wounded off with them when they fled.  I also believe it is the work of an elven grouping.  We found the broken shafts of several elven arrows.  A group of elves this far from their lands would be well-trained and most likely responsible for the protection of something valuable.  If I am correct, it would be possible they eliminated my scouts without incurring serious injuries. 

Tenthir stood and pointed to the body of the grishek and commanded those who had ridden with him to scour the ground in search of anything of relevance.  One man, draped in wizard’s robes, began making grand gestures with his hands while chanting, calling forth his mystical powers.  General Kingsfall turned to Captain Faldin as his underlings sought to gather missing information, You have assessed what has been discovered.  What have you done in response?  Tenthir’s voice was calm though his frustration was growing.  He believed he knew who was responsible for the death of his scouts.

I dispatched three squads south in hope of intercepting those responsible before they can reach their destination.  I sent riders out to alert our roving patrols and I sent a rider to you, replied Captain Faldin.

General Kingsfall nodded his head in approval.  You have done everything I would have done if I were in your position.  I may have arrived at the same assumptions you have many years ago.  You believe it could be a group of elves who are responsible.  Do you have more evidence beyond the broken shafts of elven arrows?

The captain picked up on a change in his commander’s tone.  I am afraid I do not have any further evidence.  I saw the shafts and have never heard of any elves who would travel so far from their homelands without a company.

There is some logic to your thought.  Elves seldom travel alone outside of their protective homelands, but it does not mean they always travel with other elves.  Do you think perhaps these scouts stumbled upon the group of men and elves our master has warned us about?  I believe it to be more likely than not.  Did you not give them orders to avoid them and summon a commander at once?

The leader of the scouts remained silent as he stared at the ground.  He had known General Tenthir long enough to know when the end of his patience was drawing near, and his questions became rhetorical.  The leader of the army spoke once more, tell me why those under your leadership would not have followed your direction.  Are they no longer concerned with following your commands?  Do I need to appoint a stronger leader to see over the rabble of grishek we find ourselves aligned with?

No General, you do not find yourself in need of a new Scout Captain.  I assure you my authority will be reaffirmed when I return to my company.

"I would recommend you do so without restraint.  We have had these creatures thrust upon us by the one responsible for this war whether we want them or not.  These creatures will respond only to a strong leader, and they are accustomed to being commanded by those who show no remorse for carnage.

We are tasked with training the creatures the world has feared for all of time.  We must push on them the importance of following the laws of this army.  I am dependent upon you and the other commanders within my ranks to ensure these creatures understand the order of this army, General Kingsfall stated. 

I wonder why these creatures have been thrust upon us.  Your army is the largest this world has ever seen without the addition of the grishek, Faldin replied.

We will need the additional numbers to breach the walls of Xarax.  The sandstone walls are tall and strong.  We will find them harder to smash than any other wall we have encountered.  The grishek will be an advantage for us if they are willing to take commands and follow the orders given.  It is critically important we maintain our authority over all of them.  The uprising of just one creature could escalate beyond control.  The grishek clans make up half of our force and if there is a revolt, our march will end before we arrive at our destination, General Kingsfall stated calmly.

Captain Faldin bowed his head, Your wisdom is a blessing.  I will take the appropriate actions to assure the commands passed down from above me are strictly followed.

If they fled south, where did they come from? Tenthir wondered aloud as he stared toward the base of the mountain. 

Faldin looked up at the massive man in front of him.  His voice shook slightly as he replied, It would appear they came from the river.  The leader of the massive army turned and began walking toward the falls.  His officers and all the scouts followed behind slowly, knowing Tenthir was deep in thought.  The general’s thought brought a realization that struck him hard.  He called for his horse to be brought to him, he ordered Faldin to accompany him.  The captain timidly retrieved his steed.  The captain had seen situations like this turn bloody for the one in his position. 

The two rode to the pool where the water bubbled at the edge of the ground.  The general searched the ground before he turned to Faldin, a small frown was visible through his thick black beard.  Do you see any tracks indicating the attackers came from the water?

No, General Kingsfall, I do not see any tracks coming from the water, but I do not see any tracks coming from the north or any other direction for that matter, Faldin replied after viewing the edge of the pool for himself.  His words were gripped in fear and Tenthir recognized it.

Do not fear for your safety.  You have served as the master of my scouts for as long as I can remember.  There is a reason I requested you join me in my deal with the wizard so long ago.  This is the first time I have been let down by those under your command.  Calm yourself and help me solve this riddle.  It may turn out to be knowledge that will aid us in crushing our enemy, said the general as he slid from his horse once more.  His deep voice was smooth and calm.  He looked upward to the ledge from where the water poured down.  He marveled for a moment at this region’s beauty.  The greyish-black mountains stretched out toward the heavens where they were tipped in white snow that glistened in the fading sunlight.  He smiled at the serenity of it all.  Perhaps in another life, he could have found peace in such a setting, but in this one, he was tasked with bringing death, a task that he would perform with perfection as he had done many times before.

The large man stared at the waterfall intensely.  He laughed and turned toward Faldin.  Here is the passage I heard mention of while I was in the master’s tower, stated Tenthir.  The captain only looked back at him with a curious expression locked on his face.  The general continued his explanation when the two men were standing next to each other.  Behind this waterfall, there is a passage.  It is the route others within the service of Zxarath have traveled in order to get to the valley hidden within the mountains.  Clearly, it is no longer a secret.  Tenthir paused for a moment until an understanding become visible in Faldin’s eyes when it appeared, he continued. 

I would gamble with my very life your scouts have encountered the group I previously mentioned.  It would seem as though these men are more skilled and resourceful than we have estimated.  I need you to take a contingent of your scouts and ride to Zxarath’s tower in the east.  Go, ready your riders and return to my tent when they are prepared.  I will give you the message you are to deliver with haste, Tenthir commanded. 

The general saw a hint of disappointment in his captain’s eyes, so he continued, I show you honor in your new task.  I would not trust any other with the message I need you to carry.  Do not be concerned with those under your command.  I will have your position waiting for you upon your return.

Captain Faldin nodded with understanding.  The general was accurate in his assessment of Faldin’s concerns and was wise enough to dismiss them.  The master scout, reassured by his commander’s words, spoke with confidence, I will personally hand your message to Zxarath and return as quickly as I am able.

I would not have tasked you with this if I had any doubts.  Before you leave, you must inform my remaining commanders I require their presence.  Tell the phariman, Ryforth I will speak with him first, replied the general.  Faldin saluted his superior officer before he climbed onto his steed.  His heels struck the horse hard and the beast responded appropriately.

Tenthir walked several paces toward the waterfall and stared at the landscape to the south.  The rolling hills of the plains would soon give way to the harsh desert ground.  He knew a large number of his men would be lost to the conditions and terrain of this land.  He fell deep into contemplation of how he could limit his losses as he stared into the horizon.  His concentration only broke when the thundering sound of hooves from two horses reached his ears.  He waited patiently until they came to a stop.  Ryforth, he called out in a commanding tone.  A hooded figure dismounted from his steed and sauntered toward him in no particular hurry. 

You summoned me? Ryforth asked in nothing more than a whisper when he arrived at the heels of the general.

The massive man turned toward the hooded figure.  Annoyance visible in his eyes.  His voice matched the volume of Ryforths’ as he spoke, It would serve you well to not keep me waiting when I call upon you.

It would serve you equally well to remember who it is you summon.  I am not one of your men to command.  I am here at the request of Master Zxarath and none other, replied Ryforth with intensity burning in his red eyes that matched the generals.  The phariman did not fear this human warrior.  He had heard all of the legends of terror Tenthir had