The First Paladin

By William Korn

Once servants of the Gods and bringers of faith, the Paladins had perished and were all but forgotten. William was an ordinary man who was led down an extraordinary path. Could he find the strength and the faith to become the first Paladin in hundreds of years and stand against Darkness?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Feb 25, 2023
• ISBN: 9781365385643

Book preview

By William K Korn

The First paladin

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Chapter 1

Kang rode his yellow stallion down the dusty North Road heading away from Calamar. The sun was high overhead. The traffic on the road thinned out greatly the further away from the city of the Katan Master traveled. The few that passed by looked at the Katan warrior with confusion and suspicion. Kang was accustomed to this. None of his people had traveled to these lands in centuries. His almond eyes and long black hair pulled back in a ponytail drew immediate attention.

Kang’s armor was predominately hardened leather stained a deep rusty red color.  Fine steel plate protected the Katan warrior’s chest, shoulders, thighs, shins, and wrists. It was the preferred attire of his order, allowing for good protection, but being light weight and flexible enough to allow maximum mobility.  Back home, Kang’s armor would be prized and revered, but in these foreign lands, it was source of amusement.

The middle-aged sword master had left his wonderous and peaceful home of Shandala nearly six months ago.  Hidden past the frozen tundra and ice planes far to the south, Shandala was shining star, practically forgotten and tucked away in an unforgiving land few dared to venture.  Dozens of hot springs covered the valley that Kang had called home his whole life.  The bubbling rivers and lakes kept Shandala warm despite the freezing wastelands that surrounded it.  Beautiful jungles stretched upward through the constant mists that filled the valley.  It had been very hard to leave.

It was a contentious decision, opposed by all the other Katan masters.  Centuries before, they had turned away from the rest of the world.  The other kingdoms had been weak.  They fought amongst themselves and worst of all, abandoned the Gods!  The Katan had always been servants of the Gods and defenders of the faith.  The others did not deserve their help.  If they did not wish to worship the Gods who had given them so much, then so be it. There were few who dared to try and reach the hidden kingdom.  In time Shandala’s name faded into myth and legends. 

Then why was it that the Gods no longer answered the prayers of Kang’s people?  They had kept the faith.  They prayed to the Gods and built wonderous temple to honor them. Beautiful statues of the Gods decorated the landscape, but it was not enough.  Centuries went by, and none could remember any that had received the blessing of the Gods.  This was why Kang left the peaceful solitude of his homeland.  One of the greatest warriors ever known, the weapons master was revered among his people.  His decision to leave had sparked anger and dismay. 

When Kang was asked why he would do this to his people, he tried to explain.  He came to believe that the reason the Gods no longer answered their prayers was not because the Katan had stopped believing, it was because they had stopped helping.  When Darkness was rising against the Gods, and all those who stood up against it were either dead or dying, the Katan turned away from Solara’s children.  The Sun Goddess needed Kang’s people to keep up the fight and bring hope, faith, and light to the lands.  Unfortunately, the Katan sailed south and never returned.  Was it fear? Was it arrogance?  It didn’t really matter.  When the Gods needed them the most, Kang’s people failed them.  No wonder they did not hear their prayers anymore.

This belief angered most of his fellow warriors, but Kang did not listen to their protests.  They each had a destiny.  It was one of the core beliefs of the Katan warriors.  Kang doubted he would ever find his in Shandala.  So, while his brethren watched on in disbelief, the greatest Katan warrior of the mystical vale packed up his bags and sailed away.  Kang missed his home, but he could not go back. He had to find what his people had lost.

Kang’s reminiscing was suddenly disturbed by a heart wrenching wail behind him. He quickly reined in his horse and spun around. Another scream followed. It had come from a small farmhouse that the warrior had rode past just moments before. Kang spurred his steed and rode up quickly to the small abode. The house was meager, probably only four or five rooms. There was a barn behind the home and several gardens were visible out back. A single brown stallion was standing out front.  From within the house Kang could hear a man sobbing and crying out. The warrior looked quickly around and saw no one else nearby.

The foreign warrior dismounted his horse and drew his sword. It was a long thin curving blade.  The handle was ivory and carved in the semblance of a dragon.  Its single eye was a sparkling emerald.  Kang cautiously approached the front door. More sobbing could be heard from within. He glanced quickly in the door with his sword held at the ready. Inside he saw a single man. He was on his knees to the back of dimly lit main room. Everything was in shambles. Clearly there it been a struggle. Furniture had been flipped upside down and tables were broken. More distressing were the three bodies on the ground in front of the distraught man. One was a woman, naked, beaten, and her throat slit. Kang assumed this to be the man's wife. The bodies of two children lay beside her, a girl and boy. Neither were much older than eight or nine years and both similarly murdered.

The crying man stroked the hair of his children as he went back and forth hugging and kissing his dead family. Kang lowered his sword. He felt immense pity for the man.  The man became aware of someone else in the room and jumped to his feet. He was tall, several inches over six feet, with a lean body and forest green eyes. Crazed with grief and fury, the man yanked his sword from its scabbard.

Wait! Kang called out in his native tongue, but the other man was beyond hearing and charged at him.  The younger man swung his sword wildly at the much shorter sword master.  Kang easy ducked the blade and back up.

Not enemy. He switched languages with difficulty.  The bigger man did not hear.  He came again at Kang with a flurry of poorly sword strikes that were easily deflected or dodged.  Kang kicked his assailant in the stomach and the younger man’s breath exploded from his mouth.  The older warrior then deftly swept the man’s feet out from under him.  Dazed from his head impacting on the hard wooden floor, the downed man could not resist when Kang kicked his sword out of his limp fingers and across the floor.

Not…your….enemy. the master swordsman squatted down and put a hand on the grieving man’s shoulder.  The young man blinked as his vision started to come back into focus.  What…has happened…here? Kang speech was broken.

The man rolled painfully over onto his hands and knees and crawled to where his family lay. I just got home… The man sobbed as he reached trembling fingers out. Why would anyone do this? He gasped and stroked the hair of his wife once more.

Who…did this? The Katan warrior asked.

How should I know! He yelled. Why? Why? The man sobbed further.

Kang sheathed his sword. I will help you…bury them. He stepped forward to pick up on the bodies.

I will carry them. The man said his face drained of all life or expression. The grieving father and husband was clearly in shock. Kang nodded and stepped out on the front porch. He had seen gardening tools leaning against the wall when he first approached the house. The warrior went over and found two shovels and a gardening hoe. He heard footsteps on the porch behind him and turned to see the man carrying his wife around back. Kang followed quietly. Once in the backyard the man put his wife gently on the ground. He awkwardly straightened her arms and legs before getting up to go back in the house.

Kang started digging. No words were exchanged while the grieving father carried his two children out. The man picked up the other shovel and began digging as well. The hard ground had been tilled before, and there were few rocks to hamper their progress. Once a large enough grave was complete, the man carefully placed his wife inside. He put her arms out wide. He paused and looked at her right hand. He stroked it as he whispered. Your ring. They took your ring. His chest shook as he tried to hold back his tears.

The man got up and gently placed both of his children with his wife. They lay on her chest, and he brought her arms around like she was holding them. Once he was satisfied with their placement, he crawled out of the hole and the two men started shoveling dirt into the grave. The grim task completed, the man sank to his knees at the foot of the grave. Kang walked away to investigate the crime scene.  Moments of sorrow like this were a personal business.

He returned a few minutes later to find the man still kneeling at the grave. I am very sorry…for your loss. He offered.

The man looked up. His head swayed slightly, as if he could barely hold it up. His face was pale and the skin seemed to sag like a corpse. He blinked once and then slowly looked at the grave again. The man took a shuddering breath, then looked down at the dagger sheathed on his belt. He slowly drew the weapon and stared at the blade.

Do not do this thing…yet. Kang said. The grieving man paused. His brow furrowed slightly in confusion. It was not the plea that had gotten his attention. It was the word yet. The stranger did not seem surprised, or even opposed to what he was thinking. Had it not been for that one word, the distraught man would have plunged the blade into his chest. He blinked once more and looked up at Kang.

Why? He whispered.

The men…who do this. The katana warrior replied. They left the road and go east along…your field. They must be punish…for what they do. Justice…must be served.

Justice? The man blinked again, but with more life returning to his eyes. Yes. His lip curled slightly and his eye twitched. Yes! He said more firmly. They have to pay for what they've done! His knuckles turn white around the hilt of the dagger.

Kang nodded his approval. When you are ready, I will meet you…out front. The Katan warrior turned quickly and went out to get his horse

The two men rode east along the field heading away from the house. They passed several small gardens that had just started to produce corn, cabbage, and beans.  The trail turned sightly north along the woods. Kang looked over at the man beside him.  His expression was grim, but that was expected. He wore a chainmail shirt, and banded mail leggings.  His helm was simple and unadorned. There was a steel long sword sheathed on the man’s left hip and the shield he carried was old and battered.

What is…your name? the foreign warrior asked.

William. the man replied.

You are a...guard? Kang inquired.

Yes. William said flattly.

You can use …a sword then. the smaller man stated. As a courtesy, Kang did not hold the man’s performance earlier as any sort of testimony to his ability. 

Better than most. the grieving man said nothing else.  Kang nodded and the two turned along a creek, all the while keeping the trail of the bandits in clear site.  The Katan warrior was glad to know that the man he was helping had some training.  Combat is always a nasty affair but babysitting someone on the battlefield tended to end badly.  He knew that William was out for vengeance, and that was alright. Vengeance and justice were often close cousins.

The two men road along the trickling creek as it wound its way eastward.  There are many deer trails that cut through those foothills to the forest on the other side. William pointed out. He was beginning to worry that they were not going to find the men who murdered his family.  Suddenly Kang pulled up short and called for William to stop.  The older warrior trotted his horse forward a bit and pointed towards the hills on the right.  A thin column of smoke drifted up into the evening sky. William started to spur his horse forward, but Kang grabbed his arm and stopped him.

Never charge in. The man said. We will…check it out, first. William scowled slightly. He knew the warrior was right, but his thirst for vengeance made patience difficult. Both men dismounted and tethered their horses to a tree. Swords drawn they carefully approached the smoke. Faint voices and laughter drifted down past a ridge up ahead. Kang indicated for them to get down low and the two soldiers crawled up the embankment.

William peered carefully over the ridge. Down below was a group of men gathered around a campfire. They had a single wagon loaded with supplies off to the right. At least a dozen horses were tethered beside it.

There must be fifteen of them. He whispered.

Sixteen. Kang corrected as he pointed to a figure standing beside a large boulder to the rear the camp. The bandit finished urinating and then returned to the others.

Those are our horses! William said as he spotted the gray and chestnut mares that belonged to his wife and kids. Kang put a restraining hand on the bigger man’s shoulder and held his finger up for silence. He looked down at the group of bandits who seemed unaware that they were being watched. They were busy laughing and passing around jugs of ale.

William got control of himself. He looked at the man beside him. There are so many. We can’t take them all. Thank you for your help, but you don't have to go in there. I will take out at least a couple of them before I die.

They are all…going to die. Kang said nonplussed. William stared at him for a moment. The older warrior did not seem frightened at all. The foreigner indicated for the two to retreat down the hill. Once at the bottom, Kang equipped his shield and drew his sword.

Follow me. He instructed. Do not attack…until I do. William instinctively knew that this strange warrior knew what he was about and had done things like this before. He nodded that he understood. Kang rested his sword over his shoulder casually and walked around to the trail through the hills and scrub brush that led to the camp. William followed close in tow with his sword drawn as well.

When the two men walked into view, Kang called out. Hello!

The bandits all fell silent and jumped to their feet. They started to go for their weapons, until they realize that there were only two visitors. Kang walked calmly forward with William behind and to his left. A lanky man with a scruffy tan beard stepped forward to greet them. He glanced at two of his men.  The bowmen notched arrows and moved to either side of the clearing. Some of the bandits sat back down and resumed drinking their ale. Clearly these two were not a serious threat.

Greetings. The leader of the bandits answered. What are you two doing out in this wilderness?

We are …warning people. Kang replied with some difficulty.

About what? The man inquired.

A family was…murder, to the west. The smaller warrior explained. Several of the bandits exchanged glances. Those that were drinking put down their jugs. The criminals …may be near.  We are warning people we find…so no one else gets hurt.

That's terrible. The bandit tried to appear sympathetic. We've been out here hunting game. We have not seen anyone else all day.

We will…keep searching. Kang said. Perhaps we find these men…and bring justice.

That's dangerous business, chasing murderers. The leader of the bandits warned.

Only…for them. Suddenly Kang step forward and swung his sword. The blade sliced into the right side of the man's neck. He never had a chance to draw his weapon. Blood sprayed from the exposed arteries and the dying man fell to the ground clutching his throat. The other bandits yelled out and jumped to their feet.

Kang moved quickly and thrust his sword through the midsection of the closest bandit. He then spun around to confront a big barrel-chested man with thick black hair and a beard. Kang smoothly blocked the man's axe with his shield, and in one smooth strike amputated his enemy’s right leg below the knee. The big bandit fell to the ground screaming.

The bowman to the left loosed and arrow right at Kang's back. As if expecting the attack, the Katan warrior spun and blocked the incoming arrow with his shield. Without losing momentum he jumped forward and slashed another bandit across the chest. The archer to the right let fly another arrow fly, only to have it deftly blocked once again. Kang dodged and weaved his way through the bandits as he cut down one after another. He paused only slightly to block incoming arrows with his shield.

When the fighting started, William charged the closest bandit on his left. The men exchanged blows several times before William gain the upper hand. He thrust his sword into his enemy's gut. The man cried out in agony and fell to the ground clutching his eviscerated stomach. William turned just in time to deflect an incoming attack from a second bandit. The tip of the man's blade slashed across his left arm and left a deep cut. Oblivious to the pain, William yelled in rage and threw himself at his enemy.

Despite having three men attacking him, Kang seem to be unstoppable. One man's head when spinning into the air. The archer on the right let loosed another volley. The Katan warrior grabbed the shoulder of one of his enemies and pulled him into the path of the arrow. It struck the man in the back between the shoulders. Kang kicked the man in the stomach and sent him tumbling to the ground.

The older warrior dodged another arrow and then calmly avoided a clumsy swung mace from one of the bandits. Kang spun around behind the man and slashed him across the back. The man screamed as he collapsed to the ground. The Katan warrior raced forward towards one of the archers. The man tried to notch another arrow but was too late, and Kang's sword plunged through his chest. Still holding the impaled man upright, Kang spun around and used the dying man's body to block another arrow.

He pushed the man to the ground and charged forward to confront the last two bandits in the center of the camp. The first one lost his arm just below the shoulder. The second bandit started to run away. Pain exploded in his chest as a long bloody blade erupted through his breastbone. The last archer turned and fled. Kang grabbed a spear laying on the ground near him. He threw it quickly and the steel tip plunged into the back of the fleeing man. Kang turned around in a circle to make sure no other attacks were coming. Mangled and bloodied bodies littered the ground around him.

William charged forward and caught his assailant in the chest with his shoulder. The bandit was knocked off his feet and landed on his back. William raised his sword and plunged it down into the man's chest. The dying man gasped and grabbed the blade. He coughed and bright red blood exploded from his lips.  The bandit struggled slightly, then lay still. William panted and gasped for breath as he spun around to face his next enemy, but they were all dead. He lowered his sword slowly in disbelief as he observed Kang calmly clean the blade of his sword before he put it back in its sheath.  Thirteen bodies littered the camp around him.

Kang retrieved another spear and unceremoniously put an end to the suffering of the wounded, all except one. The man with the amputated leg had managed to take his belt and put a tourniquet on the stump. He was pale and crying out for help. William wiped the sweat and blood from his face and walked over to the crippled man.

Where is her ring! He yelled as he grabbed the man’s shirt and shook him. In shock from pain and blood loss, the bandit babbled that he didn't know what William was talking about. He pleaded for help and mercy. My wife's ring! Where is it! William let the man fall to the ground and raised his sword over the man's chest.

Jewelry is in the small box! The man pointed at the wagon. The small wooden box in the wagon!

William lowered the sword and walked over to it. He threw aside crates and bags until he found a small wooden chest. He opened it and inside was a collection of necklaces, earrings, and other trinkets. William dumped the contents out and start frantically going through the pile of jewelry. He paused when he uncovered a simple silver band. Williams trembling fingers picked it up. Flowers were engraved on its side. He slid his wife's ring onto his pinky finger before he brought it up and kissed it.

Behind him he heard Kang execute the wounded bandit. William sat down on one of the crates. He rested his elbows on his knees and looked at his bloodied hands. The strange warrior walked up to him and began examining the wound on his left arm.

I can…fix this. Kang offered.

What's the point? William's face had a blank expression. He looked down at the dagger sheathed on his right hip. He drew the weapon out and looked at it once again.

Kang sighed slightly. William had done what was needed. What was there left to do? If you must…do this, I….understand. He said sympathetically. You have serve justice, and the men that murder your family… are dead.

But it did not bring them back. William replied flatly.

No. Kang answered. But you save the lives…of families that these men would have murder, in time. There is great honor in that.

Neither men said anything for a couple of moments. Kang looked around the hills about them, and then back at William. I will not..stop you. Before you do this, I ask you…come with me.

Where? Why? Williams voice was devoid of emotion and he sounded very weary.

The where is …out there. Kang pointed to the horizon in all directions. Why? Because… there are many more men…like these…out there. He pointed to the bodies of the bandits. There will be…families, like yours, and they will… need our help. You can honor yours, by protecting theirs. We must…bring justice to the…wi...wick...

The wicked? William helped Kang find the word.

Wicked, yes. Kang nodded appreciatively. The wicked…must be punish.

William looked at the warrior standing next to him. He then looked at the bodies of the bandits that they had just killed. He longed to join his family, but he found himself thinking about friends he knew in the city.  They had families too. He thought of them being murdered. He thought of wives and children crying out for help or mercy. Tears came to his eyes. William swallowed and slowly put the dagger back in its sheath. He stood up and looked over at Kang and nodded.

Good. The Katan warrior nodded his head quickly in return.

Chapter 2

William stepped out of his tent and into the cool morning air.  A light dew dusted the grass.  The soldier stretched his back and arms.  He grunted slightly when his spine popped.  William scratched the stubble on his cheeks and looked over to his left.  He spotted Kang sitting on a small hilltop about a hundred yards away.  As usual, the Katan warrior was sitting on the ground facing the sunrise.  William contemplated making breakfast, but instead decided to walk over to see what the foreign soldier was about.

The dew glistened on William’s boots as he strolled up the small incline.  Kang was dressed in a white robe and his legs were crossed with his hands resting lightly on the knees.  A campfire smoldered in front of the Katan warrior.  A small tea pot sat on the embers.  William could smell the minty brew as he approached.  Personally, he preferred a good cup of coffee.  The younger soldier walked up and stood a few paces to Kang’s left.  The older man had a calm peaceful look upon his face.  William envied him this.  He had not known a peaceful night sleep, or day for that matter, since the two men had started travelling together over a month ago.

Good morning. He said.  Kang did not open his eyes and simply nodded his head slightly.  What is it that you are doing each morning and evening?  Meditation?

I am praying. The katan warrior replied.

Who are you praying to? William wiped the sand from his eyes and yawned.

The Gods…of course. Kang still did not open his eyes.

You believe in the Gods? the younger man seemed surprised.

Don’t you? Kang’s eyes opened and he turned his head slightly to look up at William.

I have always been told that the Gods abandoned us long ago, or maybe never existed at all.

That is…untrue. Kang seemed a little sad at this revelation.  Can you not see and hear them…everywhere you go?

No offense. William did not wish to upset his companion.  I have never seen anything that made me believe in the Gods.  If they have a message, I have never heard it."

Yes…you have. The older warrior stated matter-of-factly.  You just don’t know…what to listen for.  William shrugged his shoulders slightly.  He was going to let the discussion drop, but Kang continued.  Let me…ask a question.  A child…is taken from its parents…when it is born.  Many years later, the child grow to adult.  If the child were…to meet its parents…and hear them talking, would that child know their voices?  Would it…recognize its parents?

I would think not. William replied.  How could it?

Kang raised his eyebrows and tilted his head slightly.  He had a knowing look on his face.  William paused and thought about this for a moment. 

The Gods are talking to us, always. He said.  You can hear them… when the wind blows.  You can …hear their message in the rain, or in the waves.  Their voices are in…the wind and thunder… from above.  You can feel it…on your face when the sun shine on it.  The God’s are talking to you, William… even now, and they…want you to answer.  They miss their children…just as you miss yours.  Don’t mistake unaware, for unworthy.

Kang turned his face back to the rising sun.  The calm and peaceful look returned to his face. William stood silent for several moments.  He thought about the older man’s words.  William started to turn around and head back to camp, but he paused.  Not really sure why, the younger man sat down on the slightly damp grass beside Kang.  William crossed his legs and put his hands on his knees.  He glanced over at his companion, then looked east towards the sun.

It really was a beautiful sunrise, spectacular even.  William was surprised that he had not noticed it before.  Caralynn had always loved watching the sun come up in the mornings.  He closed his eyes and felt the warmth of the sun’s rays flow across his face.  William heard some movement to his right and opened his eyes.

With a practiced hand, Kang carefully poured some tea into his cup.  Instead of taking a sip, he brought his left arm around and placed the cup on the grass beside William.  The older man then returned to his prayers.  William picked up the tea and was about to say thank you but did not wish to disturb the serenity.  He lifted the steaming cup to his lips and gently blew on it.  William carefully sipped the hot liquid.  The minty flavor flowed down the back of his throat and made his nose tickle slightly.  The warmth of the tea filled his chest.  William took another sip, and then placed the cup back on the grass in easy reach of Kang.

William turned back to the sunrise.  He closed his eyes, and for the first time since the death of his family, he felt peaceful.  And thus started his routine of daily prayers, and a love for mint tea.

William put some more wood on the fire. He looked around and spotted Kang in the field off to his left. The foreign warrior was going through his sword form. William watched as the Katan warrior moved smoothly through each step.  The older warrior did this every day, even in the rain.  Done with the fire, the younger soldier walked out to him. He waited quietly until Kang had finished his form.

Yes? Kang asked without looking over his shoulder.

I was wondering if you wanted to practice swords together? William answered.

Kang turned to face him. Yes. He nodded curtly. It was always so hard to read the older warrior's expression. William was uncertain if he was intrigued, bored, or irritated?

William drew his sword and took up position in front of the Katan warrior. Kang nodded that he was ready. William lifted his sword in salute and then carefully advanced. He knew that he was out of his league. The younger soldier had seen Kang in action on several occasions. The soldier needed to practice however, to keep up his skills. This was also an opportunity to perhaps learn something from his much more talented companion.  William swung his sword only to have it effortlessly deflected.

Kang moved quickly. He did not seem in a hurry to attack William, rather he was taking his time and sizing up his opponent. Several more attempts by William were blocked, or completely avoided. William had the distinct impression he was being toyed with. He tried to catch Kang off balance and lunged forward. The Katan warrior deftly skipped to the side and tripped the bigger man. As William stumbled forward the flat of Kang's blade slapped him hard across the back. He landed on the ground with a thud.

William stood up and dusted himself off. He turned to find Kang waiting patiently for him. Nice. He acknowledged and saluted once again. That was how the session started, and it only got worse from there. William tried desperately to outmaneuver his opponent, but every attack fell far short of its mark. Repeatedly, William found the tip of Kang's sword hovering at his throat or pointed at his heart. Over and over the younger soldier ended up lying on the ground. His face became streaked with sweat and dirt and William started panting from the exertion.

Kang waited patiently while William got up off the ground once again. He had expected the soldier to have given up long ago. The young man was persistent, however, and just when Kang thought he had knocked him down for the last time, William stood back up. The Katan warrior respected that. When it was clear that William would not give up, Kang held up his hand.

Enough. He said. Thank you for…the practice. Kang wiped off his blade and slid it back into its scabbard.

William took a drink of water and wiped the grit from his forehead. Do you think you could teach me to do that? Fight like that? Kang paused for a moment before answering.

No. He replied. I…cannot.

Why not? William was a perplexed, and a little irritated, although he tried not to show it.

It is…forbidden. The older warrior said. The training…of the Katan can only be passed…along family lines. I cannot…train you.

Oh. William nodded as if he understood. He pondered this a moment while the two men walked back to their camp. What if a Katan warrior didn't have any children?

Sometimes…a katan warrior can…teach the child of another. This often…is because a Katan warrior had… died. It would be…honorable…to continue the teaching for one of our order.

I understand. The younger soldier said. But we can still practice, right?

I would like that…very much. Kang nodded curtly as he always did.

Excellent. William replied. Thank you for the practice. He then walked back to camp.

Kang watched his companion leaving. He thought about his father. They had talked once about one of the Katan who had taken a student. One of their order had died, unexpectedly, and left behind an eight-year-old son. Kang remembered his father saying, What is a teacher who has no student?. The Katan warrior tilted his head slightly before walking back to their tents.

The next afternoon the two men set up a camp next to a small wood. They had been working their way along the coast Ashenbore, heading towards the city of Borthalis.  Slavers had been abducting families in the night and Kang suspected that the criminals were using the brackish swamplands as their hideout and for transporting their ‘cargo’.  The Katan warrior was tending to his horse when William announced that he was going to go hunt up some dinner. The foreign warrior nodded but said nothing as usual.

William disappeared into the woods. It was a few moments later when Kang noticed his companion’s bow and quiver of arrows still on his horse. The older warrior puzzled over this and glanced over to the woods where William had gone. He walked over to the horse and removed them both before heading off after his younger companion.

Kang found it easy to follow the bigger man's tracks. William had heading north, following a small brook.  After several minutes, Kang spotted the young man in a small clearing. William was just standing there quietly. The Katan warrior moved forward almost noiselessly. He noticed William’s sword and shield laying on the ground to his left. Although part of Kang found it distasteful to be spying on someone, he found himself intensely curious as to what his companion was up to. The older man took up a position beside a large oak tree and waited.

William straightened himself and placed his left fist into his right palm in front of him. He bowed slightly. William took a step forward, then brought his hands up in front and over his head in a wide arc, coming back around to his waist. He leaned back and reached both hands behind himself with his fingers extended before bringing them quickly back in front of him and extending his arms towards the horizon.

Kang watched with a mixture of amusement and fascination while William proceeded through the first Katan form. It was not the young man's technique that caught Kang's attention. Truth be told, it was horrible. His center was off and his movements were sloppy. Had Kang performed his form like this before his father, he would've been severely whipped.

What was amazing was that William completed all fifty steps without error! He didn't miss a single move! The young soldier had memorized the entire form without any instruction, simply by watching Kang every morning for the past three months. Kang tilted his head to the right slightly. William completed the form and then brought both hands back in front as he had at the start and bowed his head. The young man turned to go get his sword and shield but was brought up short by the presence of Kang standing right behind him. William froze, his eyes wide in surprise.

I… His voice drifted off. William felt both embarrassed and a little bit guilty, as if he had taken something without permission from the Katan warrior.

Kang tilted his head to the left as he scrutinized him. Without a word the older man slowly walked around William. The younger man turned his head to watch Kang, but neither of them said anything. When the Katan warrior had come back around to the front, he stopped and looked William over from head to toe critically. He tilted his head to the right, as he pondered.

When a Katan warrior…take a student…it is a great…honor…for both of them. Kang said.  It is…bind?

Bond? William corrected.

Bond, yes. Kang nodded. It is a bond, and a…promise. It is a promise…that both the student and teacher…will not stop until the training is complete. For a student to quit…is a terrible…insult. That student loses honor…and title and become…banish. If the insult is great…the student is sometimes…put to death. Do you understand?

I do. The young soldier nodded. Kang paused and tilted his head slowly while he looked into Williams eyes.

Then…I will teach you. He said.

William smiled and his eyes widened. Thank you! He reached out his hand. Thank you!

Kang looked at the hand and took a step back. He put his arms down by his side. I would be honored. He then bowed deeply.

William quickly lowered his hand and bowed in return. I am honored as well.

Let us…returned to camp. Kang nodded. You start your training…in the morning. He turned briskly around, as always, and headed back the way he had come. William ran over and grabbed his sword and shield and then hurried after his new master.

The following morning William found it difficult to sleep. He peeked out his tent flap. It was still dark outside. He was not sure if he was feeling excitement or anxiety at the prospect of starting training with Master Kang. It was probably a little bit of both. Although Kang was clearly a compassionate individual, he was also very strict. Some would say unyielding.

William stared at the top of his tent and tapped his index finger on his stomach while he waited. He heard the flap from Kang’s tent rustling.  William sat bolt upright. The young man got on his hands and knees and poked his head outside. There was a hint of light on the eastern horizon. Kang was standing by the still smoldering fire from last night. He placed a teapot on top of the coals before turning to face William.

We greet the sun goddess every morning. The older warrior said matter-of-factly. First, we stretch.

William followed the Katan warrior out to the front of the camp. This seemed like it would be an easy way to start the day. However, the next thirty minutes were filled with constant twisting and stretching that left the younger man grimacing in pain. William doubted that he would ever be as limber as the older soldier with him. There were times that Kang seem to contort his body in ways that no man was meant to.

You are as flexible…as a rock. Kang admonished.

Yes Sir. William stood up and shook his arms and legs to try to get them to relax. I will get better.

Yes, you will. His teacher stated flatly. Kang then walked over to the fire and retrieved the pot of now steaming hot water. The two men walked out onto the grass, facing east. The horizon glowed with a myriad of colors as the sun just started to come into view. Kang sat down and indicated for William to do the same.

Now we pray…and meditate as we greet the mother… of us all. Kang placed his hands on his knees in close his eyes.

What do we pray and meditate about? William asked.

We pray to the Gods. The older man said in a calm soothing tone. We focus on our bodies…and our minds. We…think about things that we should…or could have done…in our lives. It is a chance to…reflect, perhaps to answer… a riddle or problem that...you could not solve before.

That's a lot of stuff. William replied.

There are a lot of sunrises. Kang took a deep breath and exhaled as the first rays of sunlight warmed his face.

That's true. William whispered, as he to close his eyes. William was unsure what to pray about. Predictably he thought about his family. It only been a few months since their murder. The young soldier doubted if the pain would ever go away. He wanted to put thoughts of them aside and focus on the task at hand, but he was worried they would be hurt by this. Seeing the light through his eyelids and feeling the warmth of the sun on his cheeks, William thought about Solara. He didn't really know much about the goddess. There were stories and legends that William had heard in his life, but that was all.

The evening before, while the two men were having dinner, Kang explained to William about the Gods.  First there had been Solara.  The shining Goddess had drifted alone in the nothingness until she came across Terras.  Alone and sad the Earth God was nothing more than a barren rock adrift in emptiness.  Solara shined down upon the god and the warmth made him happy.  Happy to not be alone, Solara laughed and danced around and around Terras.  They fell in love and have never left the other’s side.

From their union came the children.  Vennig was first.  The God of Wind blew his clouds across the skies and brought the rains.  Mayr, The Great Ocean was second and his waters flowed over Terras.  The third offspring of the Gods was Silva, the Goddess of Nature.  From her, trees and animals came to life.  They were five, and they were happy.

But something happened that Solara did not expect.  Her light illuminated all she shined down upon, but this gave rise to shadows.  Shadows from Vennig’s clouds drifted across the lands.  Silva’s trees cast shadows wherever they grew.  Deep in Mayr’s oceans, Solara’s light could not reach, and darkness prevailed.  While Solara danced around her husband, night would creep in and cover the lands.  Everywhere were shadows and dark places, so much in fact, that it gave rise to another being.  Darkness.

Solara tried to welcome this unexpected child, but every time she tried to embrace it, Darkness retreated in pain.  It hated its mother.  The sight of her filled Darkness with loathing.  It tried to turn Vennig against the Sun Goddess.  If the God of the Skies would blanket Terras in dark clouds, then Solara could be blocked out forever.  Vennig refused.  The Lord of Wind turned against Darkness, as did the other siblings.

Alone and reviled by the other Gods, Darkness festered…and it hated.  It schemed and snuffed out light wherever it could.  Generally considered a coward, Darkness would wait until the Sun Goddess was asleep, then in the dark of the night it would send out its servants to bring harm to the other Gods in any way it could.

So, Luna, the Watcher was born.  Shining in the night sky, Luna gazed down upon the Terra each night watching for Darkness and its servants. Since that time, the war has been in bitter stalemate.  Solara could not help the shadows that her radiance created. and Darkness could not stand against her light

.

If you do exist and can hear me…can you tell my family that I love them. William prayed to the Gods. Perhaps I can do some good before I rejoin them.

William's thoughts were interrupted by a light tapping on his right knee. He opened his eyes to see Kang offering him a cup of mint tea. The two warriors sipped on the aromatic steaming liquid, each man's thoughts and prayers a mystery to the other. When the sun had fully risen above the horizon, Kang stood up. He emptied out the teapot.  The Katan Master handed it and his cup to William and instructed his student to clean them and return quickly.

The young soldier did as he was told and gently placed the dishes inside his tent. William jogged back to where Master Kang was waiting for him patiently. The older man said, We start with… Karatsu form. Hand and foot… in harmony. He explained.

Kang turned to face the sun and stood straight with his feet together. William did the same. The foreign warrior placed his left fist over the palm of his right hand. Once a student had done so as well, they both bowed their heads.

He said, We breathe in… the strength of the morning… and let it fill our body. Kang brought his hands up in front of him and threw his arms out in a wide arc while breathing deeply in through his nose. He brought his hands down beside his waist and exhaled. William did likewise.

We step forward… to greet the wind. He said while stepping out with his right foot and extending his arms before him. William followed suit as well.

Na na na na!! Master Kang admonished while waving his hands. He stood beside William. Is step, not stomp! The smaller man slapped his foot down. He straightened up again and looked at his student. Is step… slide… foot just above the ground. He moved gracefully forward. His toes touched the earth first and then the rest of his foot came down. Picture all around you… a field of rose petals. Do not disturb the petals.

Yes Sir. William nodded that he understood. The younger man straightened up and then slowly and carefully stepped forward. Kang watched with a critical eye. He places his hands on William’s chest and lower back to straighten his posture. With his foot, he moved William’s forward foot slightly to the right. Kang then made William bend his knee a bit more and readjusted his shoulders. When he was done Kang took a position beside him.

The wind flows to us, but the wind… likes to play… and rushes past. Kang's upper body swayed back slightly.  He brought his arms close to his chest and then reached behind him. We catch the wind, he turned his palms facing each other, and pull it back… through us. He brought his hands back across his chest and proceeded to stretch them out in front of him, snapping his wrists at the end.

William did the same, with multiple corrections along the way. Sometimes his elbows were too low, or his feet were not wide enough apart. He came to realize that there was much more to this form than he had thought.

But the wind… is tricky… and tries to get away. Kang had resumed the end of the last step. He clenched his fists and then with a quick hop leapt forward. And it pulls us with it. Once he had corrected William's posture, they continued. The wind swirls… around us. he opened his hands and raised both above and back behind the head. We take its power. He closed his fists and then stepped forward thrusting each one powerfully before him. The left fist striking towards what would be an opponent’s midsection while the higher right fist aimed at the head. And strike!

William had to repeat this step a couple of times, again with many postural corrections. Master Kang walked over and retrieved a before unnoticed stick from the grass.

Start from the beginning. He instructed.

William nodded and quickly moved back to his starting point. It did not take long for the student to learn the rules. A first mistake was greeted with a tap or prodding from the cane. The second error was corrected with a slightly more forceful poke. The third mistake was greeted with a painful slap. William realized that he had been right to be anxious. It was going to be a long day.

Chapter 3

Twelve years later…

Prince Ahrik rode along Kings Way approaching Kent Castle.  He had left the city proper behind and the tall stone walls of the castle rose high above him.  Ahrik was the son of King Oberus, ruler of the Kanis Combine, and second in line for the throne to his older brother Rizard.  Rizard was the soldier of the family.  He was tall, handsome, and considered one of the finest swordsmen in the kingdom.  Ahrik was shorter with dark black hair and blue eyes that contrasted sharply with his older brother’s blonde locks and brown eyes.  He may not have been a swordsman, but the young prince had other skills.  He was often referred to as ‘the rogue prince’.  The young man rather liked that title, although to many it was meant as an insult.

Ahrik had never been too keen on swordsmanship and warfare.  He had a sharp intellect that was much more in line with negotiations, contracts, trade agreements, and other activities that his older sibling considered tedious.  Rizard was only too happy to leave these aspects of royal life to his little brother.  Ahrik really reveled in the job.  In truth, he had done far more for his kingdom than his brother ever would.  The prince took great satisfaction in arranging trade agreements that would help feed his people or strengthen the might of the formidable Kanis army.  Often, his contributions to the family were overlooked, but Ahrik was quite certain his father kept a tally in his head.

So it was that Prince Ahrik was routinely sent on missions to other kingdoms to meet with dignitaries and hash out one contract after another.  It is hard, however, to be engaged in such dealings and not get a little dirty in the process.  Ahrik found himself working with many unsavory individuals.  The prince learned how to get information, and more importantly, how to use it.  There were times that he found his assignment was more about espionage than just another trade agreement.  Ahrik had to be cautious, though.  He had to learn skills to aid him, so as not to be caught, captured, or killed.  The prince discovered that he had natural talents.  He learned how to pick locks, climb, sneak, hide, all the requirements to be a first-rate thief.  He learned from the best, and few in that shady underground could deny the prince’s abilities.

Ahrik eavesdropped on his competitors. He forged documents. He broke into his adversary’s homes to uncover secretive documents, and yes, sometimes to assassinate those that threatened the interests of his kingdom and family.  Oh, there were those that suspected, but no one had ever been able to prove it.  Accusing a prince of a crime was a risky affair. If they didn’t fear the man, they certainly feared his network.  Ahrik had his fingers in many pies, and his influence was undeniable.  Not bad for a young man of only twenty-five years.

The prince did not see himself as a bad person.  He was a patriot and a family man.  He genuinely cared for the people in his kingdom, almost as much as he did his own family.  He had to protect them, and if doing so got his hands a little dirty, then so be it. 

As much as Ahrik liked wheeling and dealing, he was not looking forward to his current assignment.  The Kents were the ruling family of Florendale and the long-standing enemy of the Kanis Combine. There had been many confrontations over the centuries between the two dominate houses of the Eastern Expanse, from skirmishes to outright war.  A ‘peace’ had survived for the last fifty years or so, but it was an uneasy peace.  There had been no armed conflicts in over a generation and hostilities had lessened to the point of even allowing for commerce with one another.  Of course, each side was always trying to get the upper hand on the other, and this always led to arguments and saber rattling.

Such was the case now.  The Combine’s economy was mostly based on its large mining industry and the production of iron, steel, jewelry, and precious metals.  Steel was the dominate export for Ahrik’s kingdom, whether it was in the form of weapons, armor, or raw building materials.  What the Kanis lacked was a large enough agricultural base to support the large empire.  The Steppes that comprised nearly half of the lands controlled by the Kanis Combine were poorly suited for agriculture.  What crops Ahrik’s people were able to grow was simply not enough to meet the demand.  Goblins and giantkind that proliferated in the hills to the north made it even more difficult.  Raids on farming communities were not uncommon, and Ahrik’s father had to use many resources in an effort to protect his citizens there.

The Kingdom of Florendale was mostly an agrarian society, commanding all the fertile lands and forests east of the Granite Mountains which separated the two kingdoms.  Florendale was massive, and it reigned over nearly two thirds of the Eastern Expanse.  They had some mining operations in the northern foothills of Duras Mountains, but that was getting into dwarven territory, and the dwarves were not ones to give up mining rights without a fight.  Ahrik’s people had recently been reminded of this fact when his father tried to extend mining deeper into the Granite Mountains north of the Combine.  It did not go well.

In time, the Kanis Combine and Florendale began trading with each other.  Ahrik’s kingdom sent over steel and iron, while the Kents dealt in crops, grains, and livestock.  It was a good arrangement that met much needed deficiencies on both sides.  That was until now.

Suddenly, and without warning, the Kents were pulling out of the agreement!  This was devastating! It was early fall, and with winter not too far off, Ahrik’s people could ill afford the sudden loss of the much-needed resources.  First the prince needed to find out the why.  Why would the Kent’s suddenly abandon their agreement?  After the why, then Ahrik had to find a way to get them to negotiate. There was so much that needed to be discussed.  The rogue prince just hoped that the King Regent would be reasonable.

The King Regent…that was another issue.  King Antony Kent had died nearly thirteen years ago. He drowned apparently, although the details were a bit unclear.  He had a son, Evard, who was only five when his father died.  Until Evard was eighteen and could assume the throne, his uncle and brother to the queen, Luther Aquellus, would rule the kingdom as regent.  Unfortunately, the king regent was notoriously harsh when it came to dealings with the Combine.  Negotiations with him had been unnecessarily difficult, in Ahrik’s opinion.

Prince Ahrik, along with his personal bodyguard Stefan, rode through the gates of the second of three walls that encompassed the city of Florendale.  The first surrounded the city proper and led into the commons.  This is where most of the stores, shops, traders, and commoners took up residence.  The second gate surrounded the wealthier parts of the city.  Master artisans could be found here, as well as more well to do families and nobles.  The third wall protected Kent Castle, a massive granite structure consisting of three tall outer towers which surrounded and even more grand central tower.  The four structures were interconnected by a series of elegant bridges that weaved back and forth between them.  It was truly and architectural marvel.

Ahrik finally arrived at the third set of gates.  The gates were open during the day, to allow the citizens access to the large garden and topiary that lay within.  Hundreds of trees and bushes had been fashioned into a menagerie of creatures, both real and mythical.  It was truly impressive!  Families would come every day to wander about in wonder.  Adults would rest while children ran about laughing and pretending that the animals were real.  It was quite peaceful.

The prince and his bodyguard Stefan climbed down from their horses as one of the royal guards came forward.

Prince Ahrik. The man greeted him courteously.  I have sent a messenger to notify Lady Kent of your arrival. My partner here will take your horses to the stables and make sure that they are well cared for.  A second guard stepped forward and took the reins of the steeds.  Ahrik thanked the man as he and Stefan removed their bags.

Two servants from the castle ran up to relieve the prince of the luggage.  The guard asked the two travelers to follow him and began escorting them through the garden.  Ahrik looked up at a giant topiary of a dragon, its fierce jaws open wide as if it were to gobble up any who walked by.  He allowed himself a smile. 

The three men reached two large iron bound doors at the far end of the garden.  Two more guards stood resplendent in well cared for chain armor.  Their shields depicting a majestic oak, the family symbol of the Kent’s.  Prince Ahrik’s escort announced his arrival to the sentries, and they quickly pulled the doors open.  Just as they entered the castle grounds, the Queen Mother, Lady Bettiny Aquellus Kent came walking up.

Like all the women in her family, she had auburn hair.  Her eyes were light blue, and like her hair, had a touch of grey.  Bettiny’s petite nose and dimples just added to her beauty.  The Queen wore a long light blue gown that matched her eyes.  Walking along side mother of the king was another woman dressed in masterly crafted plate armor.  She was slightly taller than Prince Ahrik with short cut golden hair.  Thick brows and a jutting chin gave the lady a brooding look.  The warrior woman’s shoulders were broad and her limbs thick and muscular. A long broad sword was sheathed over the knight’s back and shoulders.

Welcome to Castle Florendale, Prince Ahrik. The Queen greeted politely.  This is Lady Crystan, my protector. She indicated to the dour faced woman beside her.

Prince Ahrik. Crystan formally saluted by placing the knuckles of her strong hands together.  It was the salute of a dwarf, but not like any dwarf that the rogue prince had ever met.  She was a full head taller than most!

Thank you for having me on such short notice, your majesty. He looked around.  Your brother? The King Regent?

Is indisposed at the moment. Lady Kent apologized.  Luther was prone to coughing illnesses and had been ill the last couple of days.  I am sure that you are tired from you long journey.  Hot water is being brought for your bath as we speak.  Might I suggest that once you are cleaned and rested, we can gather for dinner and discuss that matters that brought you here?

That would be nice. Ahrik accepted.  At the direction of the Queen, the servants carrying the prince’s luggage led him to the west tower while she left to tell her brother of the prince’s arrival.  Although part of him wanted to go straight to discussing their trade agreements, the prince found the idea of a warm bath even more inviting.

Later that evening, Prince Ahrik, now clean and dressed in his customary fine satins, was led to the central tower and into the grand dining hall.  The hall was large enough to comfortably seat a hundred guests, but currently had but a single rectangular table near the north wall.  This was where the Kent family dined.  Ahrik thanked the servant who had escorted him and stepped forward to greet the current head of the household.

Sir Luther, thank you for having me. He said