Quest of the Staff and the Sword IV: Codex Nexus

By T.K. Kohl

In the captivating fourth installment of the epic adventure of the Quest of the Staff and the Sword saga, the “hooded man” and his wife, Elizabeth, are tucked away in Luke’s dungeon. With the help of a forgotten ally, Luke is guided back through time to a place called Halcyon, where he is certain he will fortify his hold as king of the world. Before he leaves, Luke attempts to tear apart John and Elizabeth by introducing a new woman into John’s cell. Elizabeth has to push aside her increasing feelings of jealousy to step onto the Quest of the Staff and the Sword. John’s role in the Quest is to gather eight individuals, known simply as The Eight, including Elizabeth and the new woman, Jena. Now Elizabeth, John, and Jena must find a way out of the dungeon to search for a series of codices that form the Codex Nexus. Their Quest takes them into harrowing tombs and ancient ruins around the world, all while deciphering clues and fighting against Luke’s tyranny. This exhilarating, character-driven adventure will keep you on the edge of your seat!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Outskirts Press
• Release date: Jul 6, 2022
• ISBN: 9781977256553

T.K. Kohl

T.K. Kohl has a bachelor’s degree from Logos Christian College. Much of his life has been spent working in the technical field and customer service. He is the proud father of two adult sons, whom he considers his greatest accomplishments. In his spare time, he enjoys bringing the world of his imagination to life through fiction.

Book preview

PROLOGUE

Lightning flashed across the sky. Claps of thunder shook the soul. Rain poured down. Trees swayed heavily in the wind. The cry of the banshee pierced the darkness causing even the strongest hearts to faint.

The rain poured around him as he dashed through the swampy field. His feet splashed through mud. His breathing having the intensity of a marathon runner approaching the end of his race. His lungs felt as though they were in a vice. His heart as though it was ready to explode.

He looked over his shoulder. Fear gripped him as lightning flashed. The hunter behind him. The forest in front. The hooves of the horse drew closer. Tears poured from his eyes. The trees seemed so far. The hunter so close. With one final lunge, he dove for cover.

He rolled through the brush tumbling several times before hitting hard against a tree. He looked back past the edge of the trees. The black horse rose high on its hind legs. Fire spewed from its nostrils. The rider screamed into the night. His cloak flapped in the wind.

Luke Nachash sat back against the tree gasping for air. The rider rode back and forth outside the tree line. Lightning filled the sky. Inside the hood of the rider only darkness resides. The rider dismounted. The earth quaked when his boots hit the ground.

The skeletal hand extended out of its cloak towards Luke’s throat. Luke backed up against the tree. Tears clouded his vision as he sprung to his feet. He ran deeper into the forest. The banshee screamed behind him. Luke continued into the blackness ahead. The root of a tree sent Luke tumbling forward. A fallen tree trunk with its center rotted out was before him. He crawled into the tree. His heartbeat echoing in his ears.

Inside the tree, Luke was able to catch his breath. His solace was short lived. With each step of the rider, the ground shook in rhythm with Luke’s heart. The jingle of the rider’s spurs grew closer. Luke stared out the end of the log. The black cloak whooshed across the opening. Luke fought to hold back any sound.

The black boots turned in every direction indicating their owner searched for his prey. Luke laid his head down. Tears filled his eyes. He knew the hunter stood inches from where he lay. The hunter wouldn’t rest until he had his prize.

Luke flinched. Insects crawled up his leg biting and pinching, feasting on his flesh. Luke was certain it couldn’t be worse, until he felt the snake slowly making its way up his pant leg. He put his hand over his mouth. He fought to hold in every sound.

The rider turned in a circle. He stepped out of sight, but with each step the rider made, the ground shook, indicating he wasn’t far away. Moments passed. The beating of Luke’s heart seemed to echo inside this log. The jingle of the rider’s spurs finally moved away.

Luke pulled himself forward until his head was out of the log. The hunter was nowhere to be seen. Luke climbed out of the log. He pulled the snake from his pant leg. He threw it into the brush. Luke slapped the insects from his legs. He sat down on the log to regain his strength. The scream of the banshee wasn’t far away.

Luke ran back the way he came. He reached the clearing. With fire in his eyes, the rider’s horse stared him down. He raised high on his hind legs, neighing loudly. The banshee’s cries sent chills down Luke’s spine. He looked into the forest. He knew his stalker was on his way.

Luke ran around the horse and along the tree line. He looked back over his shoulder. The rider reached the tree line. It seemed the wind carried the cloaked stalker to the top of his horse. Luke turned in amongst the trees.

He ran deeper into the blackness of the forest. Limbs slashed across his face and arms. Luke didn’t care. He had to get away. He had given himself the name ‘The Dark Lord’ offending this rider.

The rider cried out seemingly far behind him. Luke slowed his pace, but continued deeper into darkness. A bolt of lightning crashed into a tree limb ahead. The tree split and fell to the ground. He ran past the fallen limb.

Luke reached the edge of a clearing. He stopped. He leaned against a tree. His eyes scanned the clearing. He looked over his shoulders. He was certain his pursuer had given up the chase.

Luke walked into the clearing. His breathing slowed as he caught his breath. His heartbeat returned to normal. Rain continued to pour down around him. He lowered his head as he walked forward. Lightning flashed. Another bolt of lightning revealed the cloaked rider standing in his path.

This rider stood ten feet tall. His hood covered his head. Luke looked into the black void inside the hood. The rider’s skeletal hand clutched the scythe. A bolt of lightning struck the scythe. The words, ‘The Dark Lord’, lit up in flames.

The rider raised the blade and brought it forward. Luke knew his fate was sealed, for this rider’s name, is Death.

Luke sat up in his bed. His sheets soaked from sweat. He looked around the room. Lightning outside gave brief glimpses of the room. All seemed calm except for the storm brewing outside.

Luke listened to the breathing of his wife, Tara, and two of his sorceresses. He thought about the pleasure they gave him the night before. He rubbed his hand over his face. Another flash of lightning filled the room. Luke was startled by the ten-foot figure standing in front of his bed. Fear gripped every muscle of his body. Death raised his scythe.

Luke raised his hand. No, wait. If it’s death you want, I will bring you death. Take my name from your blade and I will bring death to the world of man. The blood of men will flow like a river.

Luke stood, walked to the end of the bed, and looked into the void inside the hood. He leaned forward, stuck his face inside the hood, and gave Death a kiss.

Luke stepped back and stared at the hooded figure. A flash of lightning. His name vanished from the blade. The banshee screamed. Lightning flashed. Silence. Luke smiled, for he knew his pact with Death had been sealed.

1

The Essence of Darkness filled the air. The flowery misty smell permeated throughout the earth. The bright orange star that once warmed the earth had long become nothing more than a crimson orb. All light pushed out. The world consumed in the pleasures of darkness.

Luke Nachash had taken control of his destiny. The Lords of Darkness, Demetrius and Kalki, found residence inside him. The Breastplate of Dominion, forged from the fires of Jannah Erebus, funneled into his soul the powers of darkness. Darkness saturated his body. His blood ran cold.

Luke walked down the stairs of his castle. He had black hair, black eyeliner, and black eye shadow. His fingernails were painted black. He wore black boots, pants, and shirt. He wore a black hooded robe over it all. Under his shirt, the golden Breastplate of Dominion gave Luke the authority to wear the title, ‘The Dark Lord’.

Luke sat down on his throne. He looked around the room. Nimrod, the commander of the Kehtu soldiers, stood beside Luke’s throne. His soldiers stood as guards around the foyer. Five individuals stood next to Luke’s throne. The black clothing completely covered them except for the slit revealing their eyes. Sheathed swords were on their sides. These five are known as ‘The Warriors of the Night’.

Luke looked around the room. He noticed a servant woman mopping the floor.

Luke pointed towards her. You. Come here.

The woman stopped, looked at Luke, and pointed at herself. Me?

Yes woman. Come here.

The woman leaned the mop against the wall and approached the throne. Luke stood from his throne and faced the woman. He rubbed the back of his fingers across her face. He lifted the rag dress that loosely covered her body. He placed his hand between her legs and stared into her eyes. You are excited to see me.

Yes, my lord. I give myself willingly. The woman bowed.

Good. Luke ripped the dress from her body. He pushed the woman to the ground. He pulled off his robe. He satisfied his desires with the body of this woman.

When he finished, he stood, pulled the woman to her feet, and pulled out a dagger. I thirst. He grabbed the woman’s arm and sliced through the artery in the woman’s wrist. He put her wrist to his mouth and drank the blood. He drove the dagger into her stomach. I hunger. He drove his hand into the woman, reached up, and grabbed hold of the woman’s heart. He stared into her eyes as he pulled the heart from the woman’s body.

Luke turned, walked to the throne, and sat down. He stared at the woman, as he put her heart into his mouth. Shock filled the woman’s face, as her body fell to the ground.

Luke laughed, sat back on the throne, and finished eating the heart. He stared at the body of the woman for a moment. He stood, walked to one of the soldiers, and grabbed an axe. He used the axe to remove the woman’s leg. Luke grabbed the leg. He sat on his throne. He ate.

Tara, his wife, walked up to the throne. She glanced at the body on the floor. She turned to Luke. I see you started breakfast without me. Do you mind if I join you? Tara sat in Luke’s lap. She bit into the leg.

Luke and Tara laughed.

Ten women, who are Luke’s sorceresses, walked up to the throne. The women looked at the body on the floor. They turned to Luke. Luke pointed towards the body. Go ahead, ladies.

The women threw themselves on the woman’s body. They feasted like ravenous dogs.

Bang. Bang. Bang. The knock on the castle door resounded throughout the foyer. The women lifted their blood covered faces and stared at the door. Luke pointed towards the door.

A Kehtu soldier opened the door. The women returned to their meal.

Lightning flashed outside. A lone hooded figure stood in the doorway. Luke stood. He stared at this person.

The person entered the castle. The person walked forward towards the throne. He looked at the women eating. He stepped past them and stood before Luke. The five warriors moved closer to Luke. They unsheathed their swords, pointing the blades towards the lone figure. The man pulled back his hood and stared at Luke.

The man was tall, with brown eyes, and dark hair that hung down past his shoulders. He was well built. The handle of his sword protruded from his black long leather coat. Under the coat, the man wore a black leather breastplate. His shirt, pants, and boots were black. Luke found this man to be quite handsome.

The man pointed towards the ten women. I see you still feed your women well, my lord.

Luke sat on his throne. We meet again. I found what you told me earlier to be true. Are you going to tell me who you are this time?

The man knelt before Luke. My name is Braedon. I serve you, my lord.

Luke stood. Tara helped him put on his robe. Luke stared at Braedon. Follow me. Luke turned to the sorceresses. Finish your meal, ladies. Then clean yourselves up. We have a guest.

Luke walked towards the library. Braedon whispered in Nimrod’s ear. Nimrod nodded. Nimrod walked out of the castle. Braedon followed Luke into the library.

Luke turned to Braedon. What did you say to Nimrod?

Braedon stared at Luke for a moment. He walked over to a stack of scrolls. These scrolls have a lot to teach you, Luke. I know they have taught you to travel through time. Braedon whipped around. You went back in an attempt to kill the hooded man. What did you find?

Luke studied Braedon for a moment. How did you know I went back to kill him?

Braedon’s laughter filled the library. So, you have discovered how to travel through time. I wasn’t for sure if you had yet, or not. Tell me, what did you discover when you went back?

Luke thought a moment. I came back here and the hooded man was still here. I guess I failed.

Braedon laughed again. I know this hooded man has lived for quite some time. I have searched through the centuries for a John Elias. No one I have searched for meets the description you gave me. Either they had dark hair or their eyes were dark. I have killed any John Elias that might have resembled the one man. You went back and found him. You found him at a remote home in Texas. This man does not exist, yet you found him. Then he disappeared. I wasn’t for sure if he was dead or not. You can try to find him again, but I’m telling you, you will be wasting your time. It’s as though he is hidden behind a veil. If he is seen, it’s only because the Master allows it. Even then, it’s only brief glimpses, nothing more.

Braedon walked up to Luke. If you wish to stop the Master, you must go back to an earlier time. You must go back to a time of innocence. You must make a pact with the Master. By doing this, you will be king.

Luke stared into Braedon’s eyes. When would this time be?

Braedon stared into Luke’s eyes for a moment. He whipped around and walked over to one of the shelves in the library. He looked over the books as he spoke. History is never kind to the one who opposes the writer of that history. If no one is available to write about the history of a place, then no one hears the story. There was once a kingdom. All the inhabitants were destroyed. No survivors to tell the world of this kingdom. None that is credible anyway. You must go back to this kingdom. Braedon pulled a book from the shelf. He handed the book to Luke.

Nimrod walked into the library. He pulled a young girl behind him. Nimrod brought the young girl to Braedon.

Braedon bowed to Nimrod. Thank you.

He stood the five-year-old girl in front of him. She wore a rag for a dress. Braedon turned her to face Luke.

Braedon stood behind the girl caressing her body. He stared at Luke. The first time I looked upon you, I was enamored by your beauty. Braedon smiled. You see, I once trained with the Master. I saw you the day you walked up to the Master. We had been training hard that day. You talked of what you liked to do with young girls and boys. You told me about how you love to take their innocence. This made my mind come alive. I felt stirrings in my loins. I fought this for a time. Then I gave into my desires and served you ever since.

Braedon looked at the young girl. Look at this girl, Luke. Look in her eyes and see her innocence.

Luke looked into the face of the innocent girl. He looked into Braedon’s eyes.

Braedon smiled at Luke. He lifted the girl’s dress and rubbed his hands between the girl’s legs. He ripped the dress from the girl’s body, while continuing to caress the girl.

Tears filled the girl’s eyes. The girl screamed. Braedon pulled the girl’s hips into his hips. Braedon threw his head back. He screamed out his ecstasy. Braedon pushed the girl into Luke’s arms. Braedon kissed Luke. He walked out of the library.

Luke no longer could contain himself. He raped the little girl. Luke screamed as his dark fire shot into this girl. He watched her soul turn dark. Luke laughed. The fires still burned.

Luke lay back. He allowed this young girl to worship him, until her soul overflowed with his dark fire. The fires still raged. Luke leaped to his feet, ran into the foyer, and grabbed Tara. She was unable to quench the fires. Luke stood. He looked towards the stairs.

Braedon stood on the landing. He smiled at Luke while holding the hands of two young boys. He led the boys towards Luke’s bedroom.

The fires burned inside Luke. Luke ran to his room. He caught up to Braedon as he reached Luke’s bedroom door. Luke, Braedon, and the two boys walked into Luke’s bedroom. Luke slammed the door closed.

Hours later, Luke and Braedon walked out of the room. Luke stared into Braedon’s eyes as he walked downstairs. Luke turned to Tara. This man knows how to cool fires like no one else. Luke kissed Braedon.

Braedon laughed. He walked into the library. He walked out carrying the book he had given Luke before. He handed the book to Luke. "You need to read, Luke. This book speaks of a place you need to go. You must go. You will destroy the Master.

Luke looked at the book. He looked into Braedon’s eyes. Where did this book come from?

Braedon smiled. I wrote it. He gave Luke a kiss.

Luke glanced at the book. He looked into Braedon’s eyes. How long have you been around?

Braedon laughed. I was born in the thirteenth century.

Luke smiled. He walked into the library. His sorceresses were examining scrolls. Tara slid her arm around Luke. She looked at Braedon. What can you tell us about this hooded man?

Braedon bowed his head. He looked at the scrolls and tablets. He looked around the room at all the books. He turned to Tara. Not much. What I knew was written in that book. I can’t remember details of the kingdom. It’s as though portions of my memory were wiped away. I do remember bits and pieces. These bits and pieces are what have kept me going all these years. I remember the pact you made. Shortly after you made the pact with the Master, a scroll was discovered. No one knows where it came from or where it might have gone. My guess is it was destroyed with the kingdom. What I have found is scrolls, which spoke of eight being united. The scrolls talked of One being found in Eight and Eight being found in One. They used the words, Toldo Yanwa. This roughly translates to eight united. When eight are united, a King will be revealed.

Braedon grabbed Luke’s shoulders. I’m telling you; the Master spoke of one he was training would produce this King. He was training three of us. One is dead. The other two were filled with darkness.

Luke shook his head. He rubbed his hand over his face. Knaramor was one, was he not? He now serves this hooded man. He can produce this King.

Braedon shook his head. No. The Master was clear to us. No darkness would be found in this King. If we ever turned to darkness, we would never produce the King. Once Knaramor turned, even if he turned back, he could not produce the King. I can’t produce the King because I serve you. The other is dead.

Luke thought a moment. If you can’t remember, how do you know this other didn’t produce an heir?

Braedon laughed. I remember this other turning to darkness for a season. Once he did, he would never be able to produce the heir. His only child turned to darkness and turned him. The Master has lost and he knows it.

One of the sorceresses held up a scroll. Luke, I found this the other day. This speaks of a king. It says, ‘The King conceived. Menelmacil forged. When Toldo Yanwa, the king will be revealed’. She looked at Luke. I remembered it when he said, Toldo Yanwa.

Luke pulled the scroll from her hand. He opened the scroll. "It says this king will stand in opposition to the night. His courage will be unmatched. His compassion will abound. The king will be hidden from the world for a time. A new kingdom, with a new king, will rise up against the night. When Toldo Yanwa, or when eight unite, the king will be revealed.

Luke handed the scroll to the sorceress. He put his hands behind his back and stared towards the foyer. He turned to Braedon. Follow me.

Braedon, the sorceresses, Tara, and the five warriors followed Luke. He led them into the foyer, past the throne, and down the hallway. He walked to the door that led to the prison. The guards opened the door. Luke ran down the stairs and stood in front of the cell that held the hooded man. The others gathered behind him.

The hooded man sat at a table with a candle on it. Luke smiled because he was only wearing a loincloth. The man was exposed. He was eating a steak and baked potato. Luke’s smile faded. He grabbed the bars. Where did you get that?

The hooded man put down his fork and knife. He sipped from a glass of wine. He looked at Luke. I appreciate your hospitality Luke, but quite frankly your cooks need to do a better job of cooking. So, we decided to cater out tonight.

Elizabeth laughed from the cell next to his.

Luke looked into her cell. She sat at her own table eating a steak and potato.

Luke turned to the hooded man.

The hooded man wiped his mouth with his napkin. Elizabeth, what do you say to Italian tomorrow?

Sounds good, John.

The hooded man smiled at Luke. I would ask you to join us, but Elizabeth and I wish to be alone.

Luke walked up to the hooded man’s cell. He stared at him for several moments. He turned to Braedon. He pointed towards the cell.

Braedon stepped up to the cell. Who are you?

The hooded man put a bite of food in his mouth. He chewed his food and swallowed. He sipped his wine. He stood and walked to the bars. He stared into Braedon’s eyes. A man stands close to the light. His destiny is before him. His pride causes him to turn away and cower in the darkness. He takes the life of many. If he does not turn, destruction will be his fate. He placed his hand on Braedon’s right shoulder. How is that right shoulder?

Braedon flinched and pulled away.

The hooded man turned to Luke. You may try to satisfy the desires of Death, but he will always want more. When one who has defeated Death, stands before him, Death will bow. Anyone who makes a deal with Death will join him in the fire. The hooded man walked to his chair and sat down.

Rage built inside Luke. You were asked a question. I’m not here to listen to your riddles. I want to know what you know about the King.

The hooded man looked up from his plate. One is found in Eight. Eight is found in One. Toldo Yanwa. The Eight bear his name. The hooded man returned to his meal.

Luke grabbed the scroll from the sorceress. He opened the scroll. This scroll talks of a king. It says the king has no darkness inside him. This man would be a man of honor. He would have only truth inside of him. He would have only one wife. This wife was chosen before time began. She will be descended from royalty. He would be filled with courage. He would defend the helpless. His wrath will come against the night. When eight are united this King will be revealed. Luke looked up from the scroll. I know the Master made a pact. In this pact, he said the king would be descended from one he was training at the time of the pact. I know that everyone he was training either is dead or has turned to darkness. That would make me king of the world. Or maybe, you think you are this King.

The hooded man continued to eat his steak. He didn’t acknowledge Luke.

Elizabeth giggled.

Luke stepped in front of Elizabeth’s cell. Elizabeth looked up. You just described anyone who trains under the Master. But John can’t be that King.

Luke looked at Braedon. He turned to Elizabeth. Why not?

Elizabeth smiled. I’m John’s second wife. John is divorced. And, I’m certainly not descended from royalty.

Luke turned to Braedon.

Braedon studied Elizabeth. Do you know me?

Elizabeth looked at Braedon. She shook her head. No, I don’t believe we have ever met.

Braedon turned to the hooded man. The Master has sent you on a fool’s quest. I once served the Master. I realized my pleasures do not come from the Master. I now serve the king of the world. You will come to realize the Master is full of lies. You’re trying to bring about a King, which cannot exist. Braedon turned to Luke. He cannot be this king. There are no heirs. If he is divorced, he cannot be this King.

Luke stared at Braedon for several moments. He looked past him towards the hooded man. He looked towards Elizabeth. He smiled. You’re in my kingdom. I don’t recognize your marriage. Whores don’t marry. I declare you a whore. Luke laughed.

Luke ran upstairs. He looked around his foyer. He ran into the kitchen. He found a servant girl. He grabbed her hand and pulled her behind him. He led her down to the prison. He ripped her rag dress off her. She stood naked before everyone.

Luke turned to the warriors. He pointed towards the hooded man’s cell. Open his cell door.

Luke ripped the loincloth from the hooded man. He handcuffed the hooded man’s right arm to the servant girl’s left arm. He handcuffed his left arm to the servant girl’s right arm. He looked into the hooded man’s eyes. With these rings I thee wed. I now pronounce you man and wife. Now, kiss your bride, amongst other things. Everyone laughed.

Luke walked out of the cell. The door was locked behind him. He looked at the hooded man through the bars. He stepped in front of Elizabeth’s cell. If what you say is true, this man now has had three wives. Luke laughed and walked upstairs.

Braedon and the others followed Luke.

Luke walked to the front of the throne. He turned to Braedon. Now that you have met this hooded man, what do you think?

Braedon looked towards the prison, while rubbing his right shoulder. I sense I may have seen him before, but I can’t remember where that would have been. If what this Elizabeth said is true, he cannot be the King. What concerns me, I know I’ve met her before.

Luke grabbed Braedon’s arm. Where did you meet Elizabeth?

Braedon looked into Luke’s eyes. I first met her at a celebration in a small village, in the thirteenth century.

Luke looked down the hallway. He turned to Braedon. How could she have been there?

Braedon looked towards the floor. He took a deep breath. I don’t know. Braedon looked into Luke’s eyes. I have seen her many times throughout these past centuries. How old is Elizabeth?

Luke laughed. She isn’t that old. I remember seeing her with her parents at a young age. Although she appears to be thirty, she has to be over seventy-years old, at least. But that’s a far cry from being hundreds of years old. He turned towards the dungeon.

Braedon looked down the hallway. She has been trained by the Master. Those who train with the Master gain immortality. Braedon rubbed his right shoulder. I’m certain she’s the same woman. I owe you, bitch. Braedon whipped around. He looked into Luke’s eyes. She didn’t recognize me. She hasn’t been back in time, yet. He looked towards the dungeon. I suspect it could be soon.

Luke pointed towards the prison. I say we don’t bother with them. They are locked away in those cells. The bars are made from the fires of Jannah Erebus. Those handcuffs are made from the same material. They weaken the hooded man’s power. He can’t escape those cells. Luke turned, walked to his throne, and picked up a gold band. He brought the band to Braedon. Here, put this on. It will shield you from the light. The hooded man cannot see into the darkness.

Braedon held up his left wrist exposing the band on his arm. He looked into Luke’s eyes. You already gave it to me, Luke. In the thirteenth century. He grabbed Luke and kissed him.

Luke led Braedon upstairs. They entered Luke’s bedroom. Tara, the five warriors, and the sorceresses walked into the bedroom. They satisfied each other until everyone collapsed from exhaustion.

Luke awoke. Everyone was passed out around the room. Luke stepped over their bodies and walked downstairs to the library. He picked up the book Braedon had given him.

After a couple of hours of reading, Braedon walked into the room. He was fully dressed. Luke, I need to leave.

Luke set the book down. He stood. He walked over to Braedon. He rubbed his hand over the man’s crotch. I thought we would be spending more time together.

Braedon laughed. He pushed Luke’s hand away. Don’t worry, Luke. When you go back in time, you will meet my younger self. You will teach me many things.

Luke gently kissed Braedon. You’re not coming with me?

Braedon looked towards the castle door. He turned towards the back of the castle. No, Luke. Seeing Elizabeth, convinced me my journey would lead me in a different direction. Part of the prophecy about these times speaks of a scroll. This scroll is said to reveal the location of a set of keys. It also talks of a series of tablets. This series of tablets is known as the Codex Nexus. It is said this Codex Nexus will lead to a great treasure. With the keys and the Codex Nexus, the Dark Kingdom will hold great power. I have spent centuries searching for the scroll that would lead me to these keys and Codex. The prophecy states that in the day of the night, the Codex Nexus will be revealed. I must find this scroll that will lead me to the Codex Nexus.

Luke picked up the book. He turned to Braedon. This book talks of a kingdom on a peninsula in the Caspian Sea. I guess I will be traveling there. Where will you be going?

Braedon looked at Luke. It is rumored the Codex would be found in Rome. I watched the Master as he talked with Elizabeth. He gave Elizabeth a scroll. I asked the Master why he gave a servant girl a scroll. The Master told me it was of no concern of mine. He said the servant girl was running an errand. At the time, I didn’t think much of it. When I read about the Codex Nexus, I felt I needed to find that servant girl.

Braedon looked towards the foyer. It seems she was from a different time. I am certain the Master gave Elizabeth the scroll that would lead to the Codex Nexus.

Braedon turned to Luke. I don’t believe she carried that scroll through time. I believe she carried that scroll to someone else. She associated with another servant girl. I believe she gave the scroll to that servant girl. When the kingdom was destroyed, I was certain that servant girl had died. I never found the scroll. Seeing Elizabeth, suggests that servant girl may be alive. I need to find her. I believe I will find that scroll.

Luke rubbed his hand over his face. Maybe it was destroyed with the kingdom. We could have people search the remains of this kingdom to see if they can find the scroll.

Braedon laughed. I guess that’s an advantage of being alive for centuries. The peninsula was destroyed. It was as if the sea opened up and swallowed the peninsula, along with the kingdom. I’ve hired divers to search the bottom of the Caspian Sea. There was not even a glass jar at the bottom. It’s as if this peninsula never existed. It’s as if the kingdom never existed. Everything completely vanished.

Luke walked up to Braedon and wrapped his arms around him. Why not stay one more night? We will celebrate together. You have yet to meet my children. They are a new breed. They are half Junachi Starih and half man. I call them ‘Junachi Manchi’. We can celebrate tonight and we can leave tomorrow.

Braedon laughed. Okay, Luke. He rubbed Luke’s crotch. I have longed for this for quite some time.

Luke gave Braedon a kiss. Good. One more thing, Braedon. When you find this Codex Nexus, be sure to remember who you serve.

Braedon bowed to Luke. Yes, my lord.

Luke grasped Braedon’s hand and led him into the foyer. He turned to his warriors. I need my carriage.

The five warriors ran out the castle door. Luke led Braedon out the door. They stood on the porch and waited.

Moments later, a golden carriage drove up in front of the castle. Eligor, the leader of the warriors was driving. Sitting next to him was Nyx. Standing on the back of the carriage were Baset and Nina. Athena held the door open for Luke.

Luke and Braedon entered the carriage. Athena closed the door and joined Baset and Nina in the back. Eligor cracked his whip. The carriage moved forward.

Eligor drove the carriage through the empty streets of Turin, Italy. Luke turned to Braedon. The world of man has been gathered into my kingdom. We built corrals to hold them. I consider them my cattle. We put them to work building my kingdom. Like all cattle, I do enjoy a feast. Luke laughed.

The carriage pulled up to a gated prison. Junachi Starih and Kehtu soldiers surrounded the prison. People walked around inside.

Luke turned to Braedon. We have over twenty-five thousand in this corral. I have thousands more corrals like this throughout my kingdom. Luke laughed.

Luke exited the carriage. The people backed away.

One of the Junachi Starih greeted Luke at the gate. The Junachi Starih are a tall strong race of people with wings. They are Malaikat who rebelled against the Master. Luke had set them free from their prison. The Junachi Starih bowed to Luke. Can I help you, my lord?

Luke walked up to the gate. Yes, I’m having a celebration tonight for my guest. I need to choose a couple of my cattle for the feast.

The Junachi Starih bowed to Luke. He unlocked the gate.

Luke walked through the gate followed by several Junachi Starih. Luke walked up to a large muscular man. He turned to Braedon. This is a nice bull. Luke grabbed the man’s crotch. Braedon, I think this one would make an excellent breeder. I don’t think we should eat this one. Luke laughed.

Luke walked over to a woman. He pulled her over to the man. He turned to one of the Junachi Starih. This bull is a fine stud. Dr. Braun has some pills that will enhance his ability to increase my herd. Luke turned to the man. I see no reason he shouldn’t start now.

The man smiled at Luke. He turned to the woman. He grabbed the woman and forced himself upon her like an animal.

Luke laughed. He turned to one of the Junachi Starih. This corral is filled with plenty of females. I see no reason he shouldn’t be engaged at all times. If he is not being productive, I want him beaten.

Luke looked around the yard. Find other bulls like him.

Luke turned to the Junachi Starih. Dr. Braun has something for the females, as well. See to it they are all productive. If they aren’t productive, we’ll send them to the Hall of Serenity. Those, who have no value, will be processed out of this world.

The Junachi Starih bowed to Luke. Yes, my lord.

Luke walked over to an average sized man. He grabbed the man’s arm and led him over to the Junachi Starih. This one will do nicely for tonight’s celebration. Get him prepared.

The Junachi Starih tied the man’s hands.

Luke walked in front of the people. He stopped. He grabbed the wrist of a woman. He gave her to the Junachi Starih. He turned to Braedon. Do you feel that is enough?

Braedon looked at the two people Luke had selected. No. We need a larger celebration.

Luke pointed towards the people. Pick out what we need.

Braedon walked in front of the people. He grabbed three men and three women. He led them to Luke. These eight should suffice.

The Junachi Starih tied their hands. They herded them towards the castle. Luke and Braedon climbed into the carriage. They rode to the castle.

Later, Luke and Braedon walked out of the castle. They walked to a platform that was set up in the courtyard. Luke sat in a chair on the platform. Braedon sat next to him. Tara sat on the other side of Luke. Luke motioned to one of the guards.

Twenty-one individuals marched out of the castle, led by Sutek. They marched two by two up to the platform. They were toddlers with wings. Sutek stepped forward. He wore a business suit. He smoked a cigar. Hello dad.

Luke stood. Sutek, how many times have I told you, you don’t need to be smoking in front of our guests? You’re being disrespectful.

Sutek looked up at his dad. Aw, come on dad. You know I like cigars.

Luke stared at Sutek.

Braedon slapped Luke on the arm. I always enjoy a nice cigar. Let him keep it.

Luke nodded. He sat down.

Luke turned to Braedon. He pointed towards Sutek. Braedon, this is Sutek, my oldest. He turned to Sutek. Say hello to our guest, Sutek.

Sutek bowed to Braedon. He looked at Luke. This guy could have me anytime.

Luke pointed at Sutek. Be nice or I’ll send you to your room.

Sutek pointed towards Braedon. Can he join me?

Luke stared at Sutek.

Sutek bowed his head. Sorry, dad. He looked at Luke. When do we eat?

Luke nodded to his warriors.

The warriors brought the eight people forward. Their bodies had been shaved of all hair. Luke stood and faced the people. Luke’s vision turned blood red. He transformed into the fiery red creature. Horns protruded from his head. He breathed fire. Luke enjoyed the pleasures of the eight people, while ripping out their hearts, in celebration of Death.

Luke, Braedon, Tara, the sorceresses, the five warriors, and the Junachi Manchi children feasted on the flesh. Everyone gave their bodies to one another in celebration and worship to Death. Luke led Braedon, Tara, the sorceresses, the five warriors, and the Junachi Manchi children up to his room. They continued what was started in the courtyard of the castle until they collapsed from exhaustion.

When Luke awoke, he walked to the foyer. Everyone joined Luke in the foyer. Luke kissed Braedon. Braedon left the castle in search of the Codex Nexus.

Luke turned to the others. We’re traveling to the Caspian Sea. Tara and my sorceresses will be traveling with me. I will need my warriors. Nimrod you will travel with me. I want a platoon of your soldiers. I want ten Junachi Starih with us.

The five warriors exited the castle. Luke walked into the library. He picked up the book Braedon had written. He led the others out of the castle. Luke, Tara, Athena, and Baset climbed inside the carriage. Eligor drove the carriage through the gates of the castle. They turned to the east. Nimrod, his soldiers, the sorceresses, and Junachi Starih rode horses behind the carriage.

Luke read the book as he allowed the women to bring him pleasure on the journey. Luke kissed Tara. He looked into her eyes. We will go back in time to destroy the Master and that hooded man. No one will stand in my way. Luke laughed.

2

Luke walked upstairs followed by his people. Elizabeth ran to the bars of her cell. She heard the door at the top of the stairs close. She turned her attention to John’s cell. John, what’s going on over there?

Um, well, Elizabeth, it’s a little complicated. John spoke from the cell next to hers. It seems Luke has handcuffed me to this woman. She’s not wearing any clothes.

Elizabeth leaned into the bars hoping she could see something. Well, John, you need to keep your clothes on.

Uh, hum. John cleared his throat. Um, Elizabeth, it seems Luke stripped my clothes off me. Our wrists are handcuffed to each other’s. We’re facing one another.

Elizabeth leaned back against the wall. That’s not good, John. Elizabeth looked up at the ceiling. At least tell me this woman is ugly.

A long silence came from the next cell before John spoke. You are the most beautiful woman in the world, Elizabeth.

Elizabeth rubbed her hand over her face. She turned her head towards John’s cell. She’s beautiful, isn’t she, John?

Elizabeth, I’m trying not to look at her body. But if you must know, she has long blond hair that fortunately covers her, um, well you know. John said.

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. Breasts, John?

John snapped his fingers. Yeah, that’s what you call them. She stands about my height. John paused. She’s taller than you are. She has very soft skin.

John? Why are you touching her skin? Elizabeth covered her eyes to shield them from the blinding light that came from the cell next door. The light faded to a slight glow. It sounded as though someone fell. Then silence.

Elizabeth called out. John? She waited. Hey, girl? Anybody? What’s going on in there?

No one answered. Elizabeth leaned in close to the bars. The glow of light faded until all was dark except for one torch on the wall on the other side of the dungeon. Elizabeth shouted towards the stairs. Somebody help, please. Somebody, please help.

Two Junachi Starih walked downstairs. They walked up to Elizabeth’s cell. What’s wrong with you?

Elizabeth pointed in the direction of John’s cell. Something happened.

The Junachi Starih looked into John’s cell. They turned to Elizabeth. The two men burst out laughing. One of the Junachi Starih walked up to the bars of Elizabeth’s cell. It seems your ex-husband enjoys his new wife. The two men laughed. They turned for the stairs.

Wait. Elizabeth grabbed the bars and looked towards the two men. What is going on in there?

One of the men turned around. It seems your ex-husband passed out on top of his new wife.

The other man laughed. Consummating a marriage does wear a couple out. The two Junachi Starih laughed all the way up the stairs.

Elizabeth leaned back against the wall of her cell. She listened for any sign of movement in the other cell. Elizabeth shook her head. She grabbed the bars, lowered her head, and cried.

Elizabeth paced back and forth in her cell for hours. She looked at John’s cell. John? Anybody? There was no response. She leaned back against the wall of her cell. She stared up at the ceiling. Master, what’s going on?

The soft gentle voice of the Master spoke from her heart. You’re listening with your ears, allowing your mind to control your thoughts. You must allow your heart to speak to you. You know all will be okay.

Elizabeth took a deep breath. She walked to her cot and sat down. The Master’s voice spoke. You should rest. You have a long Quest ahead of you.

Elizabeth looked towards the ceiling. Quest? She looked towards John’s cell. I can’t go anywhere now.

Rest, Elizabeth. The Quest is long. Step onto your path. Do not look with your eyes, or listen with your ears. Follow your heart and you will know. Now, rest, Elizabeth. Begin your Quest. The Master’s voice went silent.

Elizabeth rubbed her hand over her face. She lay back on the cot, closed her eyes, and fell asleep.

Elizabeth opened her eyes. She was lying on a bed of leaves. A dense dark fog surrounded her. Elizabeth sprung to her feet. Where was she? Moments ago, she was inside a cell, which was inside Luke’s castle in Turin. Now it appeared she was standing in the midst of some forest. Large tree trunks stood as pillars around her, rising up into the murky cloud. Little light was seen in this twilight. Birds celebrated the morning.

Elizabeth combed her fingers through her hair. She looked around. Where am I, Master?

The Master’s voice spoke from her heart. The Quest of the Staff and the Sword has much to reveal to you, Elizabeth. Watch and learn.

Elizabeth shook her head. She filled her lungs with the freshness of this morning, inside this unknown forest.

Elizabeth was startled by the snorting of horses behind her. This murky soup provided little visibility. She ran behind a large tree hoping to hide from any impending danger. She watched the curtain of fog in front of her. She thought of calling out, but was unsure what or who was approaching. She waited. When she spotted movement, her breath seemed to be sucked from her. Tears ran down her cheeks as fear gripped her. She covered her mouth with her hand.

Four dark grisly horses pushed aside the thick vapor. They stood so tall, Elizabeth figured they would make Clydesdales appear as ponies. Their eyes appeared as fire, piercing the twilight, searching for anyone’s soul. Their hot breath made it seem as though they breathed fire. These massive beasts carried dark riders, wearing long dark robes. Long swords sheathed at their sides. Hoods hid identities. Fiery eyes darted one way then the next. Elizabeth was certain they searched for her.

The horses stopped. They rose up on hind legs. The horses seemed to roar, resounding through this forest. Elizabeth pushed herself against the trunk of the tree. Tears filled her eyes. She looked down at the rag she wore, which barely covered her butt. She had no weapons.

The lead rider leaped from his horse. He unsheathed his long blade. Elizabeth’s heart seemed to stop as this rider stepped towards her with determination in his step. His dark voice pierced Elizabeth’s soul. Why are you here, Wench?

Elizabeth stared into the dark hood. A vice of fear seemed to clamp down on her tongue. She was unable to respond.

The rider raised his long blade. He studied Elizabeth. He looked towards the other riders. Why would she be here in this time? He turned to Elizabeth. You are out of your time, Acairis.

Another rider spoke. Take her life, Baelmor. We will no longer fear the Tempest.

The leader nodded. He examined Elizabeth. She is weak.

The leader whipped his head around. Did you hear something?

One of the riders pointed towards Elizabeth. Take her life. End this now. Our power will grow.

The leader raised his long blade over his head. We will feast on her soul together. We will have her power. He brought his sword towards Elizabeth.

Elizabeth fell. She covered her head with her arms waiting to die.

Metal clashed against metal. A woman called out. You would kill a helpless soul. You are a foul sorcerer, Baelmor. Leave this place.

A blinding light surrounded the area. The light dissipated. Elizabeth looked towards the rider.

Baelmor’s laughter rose up. He stepped back from the woman. He pointed his long bony finger towards the woman. The light in you is strong. He stared at the woman. Who are you? Baelmor gasped. How can this be? He backed up to his horse. He leaped on his horse. He looked towards the woman. You will not win. He turned away. The four riders disappeared behind the curtain of fog.

The woman stared towards the riders. Elizabeth slowly climbed to her feet. She looked towards the back of the woman’s hood. Um, thank you.

The woman whipped around. She put the point of her blade to Elizabeth’s throat. She examined Elizabeth starting at her feet. When her eyes met Elizabeth’s eyes, she spoke. Who are you? Some kind of whore?

Elizabeth looked down at the rag dress. No. I was in a dungeon when I went to sleep. I woke up in this place. Where am I?

The woman walked around Elizabeth, keeping the point of her blade close to Elizabeth’s throat. When she was behind Elizabeth, she brought the point of her blade down. She lifted Elizabeth’s dress.

Elizabeth leaped forward. Ah, what do you think you’re doing? She pulled her dress down.

You speak strangely, woman. You need to keep your hands up. The woman tapped Elizabeth’s elbow with her sword. The woman lifted Elizabeth’s dress and brought the blade through her legs. She moved in close. Are you friend or foe? Don’t move or I will cut you in half.

Elizabeth kept her hands up in surrender.

The woman ran her hand across Elizabeth’s butt. She reached her hand through her legs and felt along her crotch. She lifted Elizabeth’s dress and rubbed across her stomach. She ran her hand around to Elizabeth’s back. She pulled down the dress over her right shoulder.

The woman leaped away from her. Turn around.

Elizabeth turned to face the woman. The woman had her eyes wide open and her jaw as low as it would go. She pointed at Elizabeth. You have the mark of The Eight.

The woman pulled back her hood, knelt to the ground, and bowed to Elizabeth. I’m sorry, my lady. Can you forgive me?

Elizabeth stared at the woman for a moment. I should slap you. Nobody but my husband touches me like that.

The woman bowed her head. Please, forgive me, my lady. I was searching for weapons. She looked into Elizabeth’s face. I am sorry if I gave you any other impression. The woman bowed her head.

Elizabeth shook her head. She grabbed the woman’s arm. Stand up.

Elizabeth admired this woman. She was beautiful. She had long blond hair. Her eyes were blue. She was a little taller than Elizabeth was. She seemed strong. She wore tight pants and a tight shirt with a breastplate over the shirt. It accentuated her beauty. She wore black boots. She wore a black belt around her small waist. The woman sheathed her sword.

The woman smiled at Elizabeth. The Master told me he would send me a friend. I never knew it would be one of The Eight.

Elizabeth stared at the woman. She turned away. She looked around the forest. She turned to the woman. Do you know the Master?

The woman grabbed Elizabeth’s hand. You must come with me. We must go to my home. I need to get you out of that, she looked Elizabeth over, um, rag. One of The Eight should not dress like a whore. She looked into Elizabeth’s face. You’re not a whore, are you?

Elizabeth shook her head.

The woman smiled. She pulled Elizabeth down the trail.

They came to a clearing. The woman stopped and looked around. She pulled Elizabeth through a small village. The woman nodded as she passed several people.

A man stepped in front of the woman. Why are you dressed like that, Zandre? No woman is allowed to fight. You need to dress properly, or we will have to remove you from our village.

Zandre bowed her head. I’m sorry, my lord. I’m taking my friend to my home.

The man looked around. He looked at Zandre. Do you think me a fool, Zandre? I see no one else around. If I see you dressed like that again, I will bring you in front of the council. The man pointed across the village. Now go, Zandre.

Zandre bowed to the man. She turned to Elizabeth. She grasped Elizabeth’s hand, walked to a cabin, and opened the door. She pushed Elizabeth inside. She looked behind her then ducked inside, closing the door behind her.

Zandre turned to Elizabeth. I’m sorry about that man. They have rules about women fighting. I spend the early morning hours with the Master. I usually get back while it is still dark. He told me to go into the forest and wait for a friend. You took your time getting here.

Elizabeth looked towards the door. I don’t think that man saw me.

Zandre walked over to a counter. She pulled out a mug and poured some juice into it. She placed the mug on the table. Sit. We have much to talk about.

Elizabeth sat at the table. She took a sip of the juice. This juice had a strong kick to it. She looked at her mug. What is this?

Zandre smiled. It’s a special blend of mine. It has several fruit juices and I add a special ingredient. Ale. It’s strong, so be careful if you’re not used to drinking.

Elizabeth took another drink.

Zandre filled a mug with the juice. She gulped the drink down and refilled her mug. She sat at the table and stared at Elizabeth. So, what do you want to do? I’ve never had a friend before.

Elizabeth stared at Zandre. Where am I?

Zandre smiled. "You’re on the peninsula of Halcyon. It’s