The Illuminated Darkness: Part 1

By Martin Lundell

Who is the "bad" guy? A delightfully deceptive story about two individuals, Lamb and Donde, and their rise to the top, but there's an unknown shadow bent on bringing them down. Can they discover them before it's too late? Can you? Including romance, adventure, and self-discovery, it seems like a simple, predictable story, but you're being led. Lamb, with his love interest Liv, discovers many vital skills with their shifting, an ability to shift reality. Donde, from another kingdom, is not a Shifter but has many adventures and also ends up on top. The two are from competing nations but have a similar dark unknown shadow seeking their downfall. Will they find it in time?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Fulton Books, Inc.
• Release date: Jul 19, 2023
• ISBN: 9798887316734

Book preview

Table of Contents

Title

Copyright

Chapter 1: March 27, 173

Chapter 2: November 173: Dan

Chapter 3: March 27, 173–April 1, 173: The Farm

Chapter 4: August 13–16, 173–October 1, 173

Chapter 5: November 173

Chapter 6: October 1, 173

Chapter 7: November 173

Chapter 8: November 173–December 173

Chapter 9: December 173

Chapter 10: December 173

Chapter 11: December 173

Chapter 12: December 173

Chapter 13: February 174

Chapter 14: February 174

Chapter 15: January 174

Chapter 16: April 174

About the Author

cover.jpg

The Illuminated Darkness

Part 1

Martin Lundell

Copyright © 2023 Martin Lundell

All rights reserved

First Edition

Fulton Books

Meadville, PA

Published by Fulton Books 2023

ISBN 979-8-88731-672-7 (paperback)

ISBN 979-8-88731-673-4 (digital)

Printed in the United States of America

Chapter 1

March 27, 173

Barry Munoz had been known as Lamb for as long as he could remember. The nickname had started as a joke because of his curly blond hair and then stuck, just like combs which would lodge in the tight locks. Lamb apprenticed for a local business chef, Carlos. Lamb and other assistants kept the kitchens stocked while Carlos kept the workers fed. Carlos had a number of assistants, or apprentice chefs as he called them. Carlos fed a group of shepherds that cared for flocks of sheep surrounding Stilton, although word of his excellent stew had gotten out, and he regularly had others to feed. Lamb himself had brought multiple individuals from his numerous trips to the market. Carlos didn't mind and seemed to enjoy it. There were about a dozen shepherds, but they came and went, so there was never the full dozen. Lamb figured that shepherding played a role in his nickname. Carlos never had to cook for all of them, just those currently not watching the sheep. They watched the flocks of Mack Cooper, although they almost never saw him. They watched the flock in the local Green Mountains. The Green Mountains were more like hills. Lamb didn't know if they were named by someone unfamiliar with mountains or someone trying to make them sound more grand than they were. The shepherds would protect the flock from predators and help when things arose like a birth or a stuck lamb. Mack employed them as loss of flock could really add up.

Green was a correct adjective. The hills around Stilton were almost always green save for a brief time in the winter months. That provided a good source of food for the flocks. They had learned to always have several armed shepherds watching the flocks at any time. Although there were twelve shepherds total, only four were with the flocks at any given time. The shepherds armed themselves with bows and arrows for distance, and long knives for near work. Mostly they'd been used for predators but lately were required for bandits who thought the sheep might be an easy target. Mack's shepherds had quickly disabused them of that idea, but not before several bandits had lost their lives. The bandits had decided to prey on another source—Stilton's children.

The shepherds were grateful to have Carlos to provide a rest from their work. There was always work that needed to be done at The Farm, as it was called. Carlos was generally nice but barked orders when things weren't going just as he thought they should or as fast. Lamb and four others that Carlos had employed, kept The Farm running. They kept the wood stocked, hauled water from the well, cleaned the rooms, cleaned the shearing barns, cleaned everything, and kept Carlos supplied for cooking.

Trips to the market for basic items, this time onions, was a common task. Lamb dragged a wagon to carry them. He'd gone this way many times before and was very familiar with the route. A little worry played quietly in the back of his mind about the bandits that took people off the street, but that was at night or evening, and it was daytime. Since the war had gotten close to Stilton, the number of bandits had greatly increased. Some soldiers had taken to the hills as bandits. They were looking for a quick buck in illegal sale of children. Some shady soldiers used their position to become temporary bandits. Soldiers were moved around a lot. Some took advantage of the fact that they wouldn't be around if the authorities went looking for perpetrators. The bandits wouldn't attempt a direct attack on the town as the local guard did their job of protecting the town well. The bandits would try to take children at night. The kingdom of Dyster provided a ready consumer for children as they had no laws against their sale. Mothers had their children play near open doors, where they could retreat inside at a moment's notice.

In the distant past, there had been one land called Hela. Two provinces, known as Belysa and Dyster, dominated the land, although each contained numerous provinces. Each region had a ruler. Belysa had always had a Shifter Queen elected by the other nobles. Dyster always selected a soldier king from the royal line. Just being in that line made you somehow fit to rule. The thought seemed utterly ridiculous to Lamb. There had been peace between them and, all other kingdoms identified with one or the other. Eventually Belysa and Dyster had had a territory dispute, and the war was born. The differences between the two kingdoms had justified the rulers in ordering soldiers to attack. Regular people and soldiers hated the war. Many were convinced the war had become nothing more than chest thumping by the rulers. The rulers seemed all proud about winning some battle when it wasn't them that did the dying. Still, Lamb knew many things about Dyster that were just wrong and needed fixing. The war seemed a fair justification for accomplishing those changes or at least resisting them. It was odd to Lamb. The war was both justified and despised.

Lamb hardly paid attention to the dusty streets as he went. He was lost in his thoughts. He was glad to get away from the sweaty kitchen even if it was for a menial task. He walked down the street, lazily tossing a leather ball in the air as he went. Occasionally, someone would pass, going the opposite direction, coming back from the market. They were often carrying their purchases for the day. He was familiar with smells that emanated from the homes and shops as he went. Some of the homes had smells of cooking food coming from them and were quite pleasant. Some didn't have any smell. One home nearly made him vomit. He hurried past and was pleased when he finally left the smell behind. Were they cooking smelly socks?

The noises made by others kind of fit into his routine. He let it wash over him, began to toss the ball again to the rhythm of the sounds, and began to daydream about the help he could give others if he was much more influential. Children wouldn't have to hide or stay in their yards. They'd be fearless. People who dared violence against children would really get their due. He let himself be carried away with thoughts of the justice he'd met out. Only fools would step into that trespass of violence against a child. He'd see to it. Children were at the top of his list. Technically, being sixteen himself, he was barely a child himself, but his proximity to it only strengthened his resolve.

He dropped the ball and noticed weeds creeping up through the dirt road as he retrieved it. That was another thing. There was poor maintenance of roads, but it wouldn't be the case if he was in charge. Imagine all the good that could be done for people right outside their homes. People would love the improvements if they were right there and they could see them.

He let himself mentally toy with ideas of what he'd do if he was calling the shots. He could see many things he'd change. It was common to daydream as he went, as the trip was so common and boring. He had the route memorized and didn't need to pay attention. He even walked in the same ruts.

It was the absolute sameness that made him aware of his followers. He was only about three quarters to the market, so he still had a way to go. It was just his luck. It was a particularly empty road. He knew that it was one of the more empty sections of his route because he was so familiar with it. It was the perfect place for them to jump him. He sped up. Hopefully they wouldn't follow suit. They matched his speed, perhaps even beating it as they were three adult men and had longer strides.

He continued for a while and eventually turned and confronted them.

What do you want? he asked.

They shortened the distance between him and them before responding, To get a better look at you.

He felt cold. These men didn't seem to have good intentions.

He backed up a little but knew trying to increase the distance was futile. They could cut any advantage he could secure in seconds. He opted to try and talk them into being reasonable and friendly. Can I help you guys, tell you the way to the market or something?

Know the way and know it's a way off, the leader said. He continued, Seen you play. You're healthy. How old?

Sixteen, but why do you want to know? Keep them talking, he thought. Maybe someone will come along the route, returning from the market.

They like 'em young and malleable.

No doubt was in his mind. They wanted him. Not to rob, which would be silly as he only had money which Carlos had given him for the onions on him, but to kidnap. The horror of the situation set in. He could really use someone returning from the market about now. He looked around. He was alone with the three thugs.

We're gonna win, the leader looked resigned. You can fight and hurt later, or we can do this easy.

He prepared to make a run for it. If he could get nearly to the market, they'd leave him alone.

Not much into pain, he responded and broke out into a run.

There was a brief moment where he thought he'd make it. He was fast, and he was glad for that. Must have surprised them a bit as he really felt he was gonna win. He heard an oath and some shuffling. He'd caught them off guard. He was able to maintain his speed for a while, then pain began to set in. It hit his lungs first like a little flame and then the fire began to spread. He wasn't used to this running. He could feel himself slowing down. A little more, and he'd be able to call for help from the market. Someone would hear him. Then he felt a hand on his shoulder. They'd caught him. It was almost impossible to run with a guy hanging on him.

Hurting it is, said the thug that caught him. He got pushed to the ground, and the thug sat on him. The thug caught his breath while waiting for his companions. He weighed more than Lamb thought he could.

You were pretty fast. That helps your value, he said, huffing and puffing, still out of breath.

Not fast enough, replied Lamb but could barely get it out with weight on him. The thug stayed on him and waited for his companions. Eventually, they caught up and were discussing if his value was in what he demonstrated he could do or more in what he potentially could do. He was glad for the discussion because he knew the hurting would start after they were done. They came to the decision to try and to feel out a buyer. He was grabbed, lifted to his feet, and knew he was about to hurt. They kept a hand on him, and he knew there was no chance of running again. One of the thugs clenched his fist.

Looks like this one is gonna be a little bruised. Lamb knew hurt was coming.

Suddenly a voice spoke up behind Lamb where the men were holding him, so he couldn't see. Can I help?

Lamb was relieved but twisted and got a look at his savior. One guy carrying some carrots. Lamb was hoping for several. The guy was middle-aged and pretty normal and nondescript. The thugs saw this and were emboldened by it. Just walk away, one said to him.

He held his ground. No, I offered help, and I mean to give it.

The thug muttered under his breath and lunged at him. Suddenly he flew across the road and groaned loudly on impact. Lamb was frozen just watching it all unfold. The remaining two thugs stared at the third briefly and got into a prepared stance. They started to bleed out of their noses.

The rescuer looked at them and said, Now would be a good time to run away.

They did. The third saw them flee and followed suit.

The gentleman turned to Lamb and asked if he was okay, then he said, Don't worry, they won't return if they know what's good for them.

Yes, what you did was amazing. You're a Shifter, Lamb said.

Shifters was a simple term they used to describe people who could use magic. They could shift reality. Lamb didn't know how it was done but was glad to have one helping him now.

You could have ended them, Lamb continued.

I had no desire to end them, he explained.

How did you do that? Lamb asked.

Not important, he said dismissively.

Where are you going, young man? he asked.

To the market…for onions, Lamb added the last to clarify, but his savior didn't seem to be paying attention.

I'll accompany you to make sure it's uneventful, but I think I'll need some food at the end, he replied.

I've got you covered, Lamb stated. Lamb felt like it was okay to volunteer an extra mouth to feed for Carlos. He liked visitors. It gave him a chance to show off his cooking.

I'm Barry, but everyone calls me Lamb, Lamb said.

I'm Stefan, he replied. Good to meet you.

Chapter 2

November 173

Dan

The sounds of battle were thick in the air. Sometimes louder, sometimes quieter, but always present. Sergeant Dan put down his sword for a bit because his fingers had begun to ache from gripping it. The air mostly smelled of smoke, but occasionally, he got whiffs of smoke or blood. He prepared to get back into it with his soldiers following him. The brief break was designed to let his soldiers catch their breath and, hopefully, perform that much better. They were slowly losing. He could see that and wondered if his soldiers could. He hoped not. He didn't want the despair of losing to affect their performance. He started looking for a way to run with his soldiers when it became inevitable.

He wiped his hand on his gray uniform and was surprised how much filth came off. He must have been accumulating the grime through the battles. He picked up his sword. Time to get back to it, he thought and told his soldiers as much. He gave a few orders, then began to follow through. He was really getting sore. His age didn't help. His plan was to attack smaller units that they could overpower. They had a few Shifters with them, but they were mostly used for healing. Shifters were used to create little explosions or as healers, though not every Shifter had the ability to heal. He felt lucky as a squad leader when made a sergeant over Fear Squad, to get some Shifters that could heal. Having more troops was a better tactic than explosions. Most of the Shifters had been killed in prior battles. The remaining Shifters had had to defend themselves using their non-shifter skills. Even so, their mounts had not survived. They had the distinguishing stripe of a Shifter in their pants but were on foot with the other soldiers. Sergeant Dan had also lost his mount a couple of battles ago.

His troops were not overly excited about another battle, but they'd been reliable during the previous five. They had slowly been whittled down from each battle. They still had a good force left, but they had never been that big. That was good as they were able to avoid much notice. They had escaped many situations simply by being a smaller force and, therefore, able to leave unnoticed. If things weren't looking good, they would simply disappear from battle. He continued to think of a backup plan, a way out. There was a road into this area. It would be too obvious to try and take it. They'd be seen and likely confronted. They could escape into the surrounding forest, but the local geography would funnel them to a point, and again, they'd get caught. It would be viewed as desertion, but he preferred to think of it as self-preservation. He figured the best choice was just off the road, but they would have to move quickly. They could scout ahead, use the road for direction, and hide quickly if needed. They'd be watching it pretty soon after to route any exodus.

They rounded a bend and came face-to-face with an opposing group. There was an instant of shock and then two groups dove into each other. His Shifters cast flashes of light around the enemy Shifters, blinding them. It was worthless to attack them directly as they'd have protections in place. If they were blind, then they could be dealt with at leisure. They still got off a few explosions among his men. He briefly heard some cries of pain, but his attention was soon occupied by battle. He squared off against someone that looked like they might present problems for others. He was a big guy, but Sergeant Dan knew skill trumped. Even the toughest soldier could fall to experience.

They came together in a clash of swords. Sergeant Dan felt the other's strength from the meeting. It almost left him numb. The individual was stronger than he had first determined. Sergeant Dan was satisfied that he had taken on this foe. He certainly would have overpowered almost any of his soldiers. Even so, Sergeant Dan was having a hard time with him. His opponent was throwing himself hard into each foray. Sergeant Dan could see that was his weakness. He depended on his strength, which was formidable. Sergeant Dan feigned as though he was losing, which wasn't hard because he was