Legends of Elysia: Awakening: Elysia, #2

By Yuri Jean-Baptiste

Before the flames of rebellion sparked, seven unlikely heroes were called by destiny. These are their stories.

Before they were Virtues--Omari, Celeste, Amani, Jamal, Rafael, Rina, and Rae—they were ordinary warriors searching for purpose in the war-torn lands of Elysia. Haunted by their pasts and pursued by the nefarious monsters of Vehdite, hope had become a relic.

Unbeknownst to them, plans are in motion that will change the trajectory of their lives forever, designs that threaten to plunge the kingdom into the clutches of Chaos. With time running out, each warrior must make a choice: accept their place on the frontline of destiny or allow the twisted minions of Vehdite to force the Freedmen into submission.

From epic clashes against the sinister soulcrafter Faden Grimm to bloody battles against the Orcs of the Barren Expanse, these are the tales that transformed these common warriors into legendary heroes.


Legends of Elysia: Awakening is the first in the companion series from the author of Metamorphs. Fans of C.S. Lewis, R. A. Salvatore, and Andrzej Sapkowski will love this diverse new spin on the genre.

Learn more about the wondrous world of Elysia and uncover the epic tales of your favorite heroes today!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Yuri Jean-Baptiste
• Release date: Nov 8, 2021
• ISBN: 9798223073963

Yuri Jean-Baptiste

While Yuri Jean-Baptiste may have spent his adolescence growing up in beautiful Fort Lauderdale, FL, he mainly lived in the magical fantasy and sci-fi landscapes his imagination created. A voracious reader and movie-lover, Yuri spent much of his childhood years world-building and concocting adventures before being forced to grow up. Lucky for him, he met his true love, Jennifer, who dared him to imagine again and pursue his dreams of becoming an author. Married in 2015, Yuri now lives in Durham, NC, with his wonderful wife and two dogs, although he devotes much of his time within his now fully-developed worlds. When he is not writing his novels, Yuri can be found channeling his inner nerd, playing Dungeon’s and Dragons and Magic: the Gathering with his friends.

Book preview

Legends of Elysia: Awakening

Yuri Jean-Baptiste

Also By

Elysia

Chronicles of Elysia: Rebellion

Legends of Elysia: Awakening

Chronicles of Elysia: Apprentice

Legends of Elysia: Assassins

Alterra Universe

Lightforge

Lightforge: A Light in the Darkness

Metamorphs

Metamorphs: Return of the Legion

Metamorphs 2: Ripple Effect

Metamorphs 3: Fallout

Metamorphs Four: War of the Deus

WarloX

WarloX: Child of Destiny

WarloX: Child of Darkness

WarloX: Child of Madness

While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.

Copyright © 2021 by Yuri Jean-Baptiste

All rights reserved.

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.

Cover designed by MiblArt.

This book is dedicated to God above all else, my supportive, amazing wife, Jennifer, and the world-changing men of Unparalleled. All of you make me a better man .

Contents

Foreword

Elysia World Map

Beastbane

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

The Blood Artist

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Weathered Storms

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Whispers of Truth

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Afterword

Foreword

Thank you so much for taking the time to read Legends of Elysia: Awakening, the next chapter in my epic fantasy series! I hope you enjoy the wonderful adventure that awaits you in this breathtaking new world, and I encourage you to dive into the other books of this expansive universe once you’ve finished! Please make sure that you also check out the other novels in the superhero universe of Alterra with my critically acclaimed series, Metamorphs.

Please don’t forget to leave a review for this novel! I can’t stress enough how important it is to leave reviews as this is the lifeblood for indie authors like myself. Social proof is massive when it comes to new readers and the main deciding factor on whether a new reader will take a chance on an author. Please take a minute to review, even if it’s just through the star rating, as it will help bring more fans to the YJBLiterary Metaverse! You can also sign up for the newsletter to get access to your FREE copy of my prequel! Thank you all again, and see you at the finish line!

-Yuri Jean-Baptiste

Newsletter link: YJBLiterary

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Beastbane

Year 734; Gielah, 30th of Sandum

Chapter One

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The fiery figure of Prex began its descent along the horizon, releasing purple and orange hues across the clear, blue canvas. Rafael observed the beauty of Elyon’s creation with a grateful heart as he proceeded into the valley below. His body was weary, stout legs aching from the miles of traveling, and his burly arms still sore from the previous battle. Rafael’s dark brown poncho was stained with blood, and remnants of the foul substance were still present along his oversized Warhammer. The dried green liquid clung to the stone, which along with the scars running across his toned, hairy body, was just one of the many trophies Rafael had earned over the past week.

The male Haranae knew a deep cleaning was in his future, for both his weapon and body. They deserved that much, at the very least. And so his feet plodded onward, pulling the wanderer to an unknown destination determined by the Spirit.

Rafael knew there was no use questioning the invisible force that guided his path. It had kept him alive this long, allowing the hunter to survive and overcome dangers that would have demolished any fool who dared imitate his ways.

But such is the life of one chosen by the Almighty, Rafael thought grimly. These are the costs.

Rafael, like a majority of Haranaes, lived and died by The Perfection of Comtuna, the guidelines given to the people of Elyon as a way of life. Sadly, the world had long forgotten the truth behind the words of wisdom, choosing instead to create their own truths. Perhaps this was the reason the world had fallen into such darkness, unable to withstand the influence of the Seven.

Rafael hoped that one day, when the world was restored, the people would remember the Perfections and allow the words to soften their calloused hearts. But until that day, it would depend on warriors like Rafael to live them out.

Even if that meant swollen jaws and bloody knuckles.

Despite his diminutive height, Rafael had traveled quite a distance in a short period. His journey from the Kerheim Bastion to the outskirts of Demond had taken him just under a week. Rafael’s trek had included two stops, and as a result, two colonies of Forsaken Ones now lay dormant thanks to his efforts.

Rafael’s timely interventions came at a price, however, as he was currently nursing a fractured finger in his non-dominant hand and had suffered a nasty wound on the side of his right thigh. Despite this, the Haranae warrior considered himself quite fortunate. He was still alive, which was more than he could say for the poor souls who had fallen victim to the monsters before he had arrived.

As with all things, the Spirit compelled Rafael along on his journeys, telling him where to go and when to fight. He was a nomad, always on the move, though to where and for what purpose, Rafael never knew until he arrived. And it was this driving force that now guided him to the borders of Eshna.

Rafael had never visited the tiny hamlet before, choosing to avoid the outskirts of the capital when he could. There was far too much evil within the city of Demond for one man to withstand, even one such as Rafael, and its pervasive, toxic culture infected even the most insignificant of the outlying towns, Eshna among them. Despite his initial misgivings, Rafael had trusted his guide and ventured past his comfort zone, traveling across the Hollowed Plains to these tainted lands.

Prex still lingered along the border of the sky while Rafael made his approach, yet the dark clouds overhead obscured most everything else. A thick mist hung in the valley, obstinately clinging to him like a curtain, needing to be separated with each step. Rafael squinted through the fog as he looked upon the hamlet of Eshna, and he tried to recall what little information he knew about the tiny village.

Though it was an obscure, quaint destination, Eshna’s reputation preceded it. Even from this distance, Rafael could see the object that made the hamlet so well known. The small hamlet of Eshna had been established because of its proximity to a massive pecan tree and several surrounding nut groves. The renowned tree was perhaps the thickest plant Rafael had ever laid eyes on, its massive trunk nearly the size of a house. Innumerous long, thick branches extended well past its center, providing an abundance of produce during the peak harvest season. Surrounding the centerpiece were a variety of other nut trees, and while not as large, they, too, were thick and plentiful.

Due to their meager population, farmers made up the majority of the village, and the hamlet had thrived as a result of their plentiful harvests. While they scraped by throughout the year, their popularity would soar tremendously during the autumn months. With little else to offer, Eshna was largely ignored but for the Fall Harvest, which supplied Demond with plenty of irresistible delicacies during the autumn season.

This year was different, however. Elysia was experiencing a shorter fall than what was customary, and winter was rearing its ugly head several weeks earlier than expected. With the second sun fading in the distance, Rafael shivered from the chill wind sweeping across the valley.

The sooner I can get into town, the better, Rafael muttered, rubbing the tense band of muscles around his thick neck. At this rate, he wanted nothing more than a warm bed and hot beverage to ease his aching muscles. Though Rafael was not sure what drove him to this location, surely his guide would let him rest, even if it was for just an evening.

He was so tired.

Within a few minutes, Rafael had passed the small fence that marked the hamlet’s border and made his way along the muddy road that ran through the town. The hamlet was structured in a circle, the entire village built around the celebrated pecan tree at its center. To the east and west, the farmer’s homes comprised the borders of the ring, while just north of the majestic tree stood a handful of establishments that provided services to the community.

Though Eshna remained a simple village, the residents were surprisingly well-to-do given their fragile economy. The beautifully constructed homes could even be compared to some of the finer estates within Demond. In fact, Rafael noted, most of the homes appeared to be miniature manors with plenty of land between them. The residences were more lavish and ornately designed than the neighboring businesses, a contrast which intrigued the male Haranae. Though the population was few, perhaps 100 at the most, they looked to have done well for themselves thanks to their niche harvests.

Rafael skirted around the edges of the fenced-in plantation, observing the magnificent tree and surrounding plants. He identified several farmers working the land, scavenging for any elusive nuts still clinging to the trees. Their bounty was scarce when considering the time of year, the multitude of branches empty. But it wasn’t just the meager harvest that disheartened Rafael.

Coming from a small town himself, Rafael was familiar with the forlorn expression painted upon the farmers’ faces. It was the look of those amid struggle. Disappointment and frustration dominated their grim demeanors as they desperately scrounged for any reward they could find. The harvest had not been kind this year, and with it being such a vital part of their economy, the effects had surely been devastating.

Rafael’s heart went out to the people, yet he found it disconcerting how their eyes followed him once they spotted him along the path. The farmers spoke in hushed tones while they scavenged and exchanged glances amongst themselves as the male Haranae made his way to the northern portion of the town. Whether it was from distrust or curiosity, Rafael could not tell, but the people's gaze never left him.

Something sinister tugged upon his soul, and Rafael sensed a dark presence within the quiet hamlet. The Spirit had been correct. Something was not quite right about this place, and it left him deeply disturbed.

Rafael reached the village tavern, grateful to escape the stares of the gawking farmers. He wanted nothing more than a warm beverage and a soft bed to ease his body and growing anxiety. Rafael hoped that whatever was burdening his heart lay outside the realm of this hamlet, though something told him otherwise. And in his experience, the Spirit was never wrong.

Eager to escape the thickening mist, Rafael opened the door to the tavern and let himself inside. The spacious establishment radiated with the light of the many candles set all around the room, illuminating most of the area. A husky barkeep was busy filling up a tankard of ale while his assistant rummaged through their items below the bar in search of ingredients. The mouthwatering smell of broth wafted through the air, the pleasing aroma causing Rafael's weathered face to break into a grin.

Placing a hand upon his belt, Rafael moved his poncho aside to feel for the small pouch by his hip and gave a grunt of satisfaction at the weight he felt within. Though he was not a Haranae of extravagant means, Rafael had earned an abundance of gratitude from those he had rescued from precarious situations during his travels. In return, some had graciously blessed him with enough jewels to get him to his next stop. Though he never expected such gratitude, Rafael was neither proud nor foolish enough to turn down any form of payment for his services. He was no mercenary, but his work came at a cost.

There were a surprising number of villagers within the establishment, and the other farmers’ weary faces told a similar tale to those encountered outside. They were all huddled together at one of the larger tables, while the majority formed a ring around them and listened in.

It would appear I've interrupted some kind of town meeting, Rafael deduced. No matter, I shan’t be here long. A nice meal and some tea will do me good before I find an inn for the night.

The villagers had been speaking in normal tones when the male Haranae stepped into the tavern, however, their conversations ceased the moment they spotted the newcomer. Several of their eyes widened in surprise, and others exchanged glances.

You’d think they had never seen a Haranae before, Rafael grumbled in silence, perturbed by the unwanted attention.

Eshna was close enough to Dagalduhr that many Haranaes had to have passed through the village before. And while the occurrence was rare, there were still those of his kind who lived in Demond, though they were among the Tainted. Of those Haranaes, Rafael held little regard. Exiles and turncoats, they, too, would meet an unfortunate end, if Rafael had anything to say about it.

Perhaps, Rafael reasoned, his disheveled appearance gave these villagers pause. Though his people were renowned for working the desert land, Rafael was more wild-looking than most because of his extensive travels and battles. His body was covered in scars, earned from the many battles with the Forsaken Ones that plagued the land. He had a large one that ran along his bald head from his first encounter with a band of Voraxxes, a nasty confrontation that still haunted him to this day. His tan, leathery skin was muscular, having spent years battling the denizens of the Underworld. Rapahel had broken his flat nose more times than he could count, and though his kind, brown eyes were gentle, they revealed a sadness behind him that no amount of time could heal.

Rafael walked over to the bar and took a seat on the nearest stool. He stroked his long brown beard as he contemplated his request. Riddled with streaks of gray, his beard, like all Haranae males, was a source of pride for the warrior, and the fact it wrapped around his waist several times over let outsiders know he was a man of significant influence among his people. It was a blessing from Elyon to have lived this long, and if he continued to follow the Perfection, he knew many more years were ahead until he reunited with his loved ones.

After pondering his choice, Rafael hailed the barkeep, gesturing that he was ready to order.

What can I do you for, good sir? the proprietor asked after he had deposited several rounds of beer to the huddled group in the corner.

Nothing too fancy, I assure you, Rafael replied. I smell something delicious cooking in the back. Some kind of stew, if my nose is not mistaken.

That it is, the portly man said with a smile. It's a lentil and cauliflower stew with a hint of hazelnut to give it that hearty flavor. One of our specialties here in Eshna.

That sounds delightful, Rafael replied with a warm smile. I would be very interested in trying some. Also, if you had some tea, I would be most grateful to you.

I’ll have that ready for you in just a minute, sir, the man stated and moved to the back kitchen.

When the tavern keeper entered the back room, Rafael noticed the assistant was staring at him anxiously. The young man was barely out of his teens, and he kept shooting glances from the Haranae to the group in the back. He appeared nervous about something, but Rafael tried to avoid his glances. It was bad enough that he did not feel welcome in this tavern. Whatever the people were discussing, it was for their ears only and not to be divulged to strangers such as him.

After a time, the young man gathered his courage and strode over to where Rafael was sitting. He leaned forward, whispering from the side of his mouth.

Excuse me, sir, the assistant stuttered. I don't mean to be rude or nothing, staring at you and all. But I can't help but notice those scars. And judging from the looks of you, and that scary hammer you're carrying, I'm led to believe that you’re a warrior of sorts.

Of sorts, Rafael agreed with a curt nod.

That's great to hear, the man said with obvious relief. Are you a man of the military or…of the pouch?

A mercenary, Rafael interpreted. He wants to know if I’m a mercenary, though for what purpose, Elyon only knows.

Neither. I fight for greater purpose than government or money. I don't know what it is you're looking for, young man, but unfortunately, I don't think I am it. Now, if you'll excuse me, Rafael broke off, nodding to the kitchen door, which was just opening, I would very much like to enjoy my meal in peace.

The young man turned away immediately, avoiding the disapproving scowl of the barkeep, and he scuttled around his superior. From the corner of his eye, Rafael could see the lanky young man shuffle his way to the townspeople in the corner as the barkeep brought his meal.

Sorry about that, the man stated. The kid means well, but he's a curious young fellow. Always sticking his nose where it doesn't belong. A man’s story is a man's story, and it’s his to tell when he sees fit. We don't get many strangers wandering these parts, so I apologize for the attention you're garnering.

Not to worry, Rafael replied with a nod. Strange looks are not new to me, though I must admit, they are more prevalent here than most. And I have a sense that is for good reason. Though what that reason is you may know better than I.

The proprietor looked at the group before giving Rafael a thin smile.

That I do, good sir. That I do. We sized you up the moment you walked in here, though I assure you it’s not with evil hearts that we look to you. But I suppose you'll learn soon enough, the man muttered before turning away to resume his duties.

Rafael pondered the man's words while he consumed his meal. The stew was as good as advertised, and Rafael took his time consuming every morsel. The local delicacy did indeed have a bold, unique flavor, which the warrior appreciated to great delight. It had been some time since he'd enjoyed food such as this, and he took the time to savor it. The tea was also quite good, especially given the region he was in, and the hot mint beverage paired well with the nutty flavor of the broth.

While eating, Rafael deliberately ignored the murmurs coming from the other end of the room, choosing to focus on his food instead. Yet, despite his best efforts, there could be no ignoring the elephant in the room, or in this case, the Haranae. After a time, when he was finishing mopping up the rest of the broth with a chunk of bread, one man finally stood up and made his way over to the warrior.

The villager hovered beside the Haranae for a time, believing that Rafael would turn around and acknowledge him. Rafael did no such thing, continuing to focus on his meal. After a few awkward seconds, the man cleared his throat, causing Rafael to pause.

Can I help you, sir? Rafael inquired.

I certainly hope so, the man replied in a hushed tone. If appearances are to be believed, you seem to be a man who’s not afraid to get his hands dirty. A man who has encountered a Forsaken One or two.

Or two, Rafael conceded, still not looking at the man.

Well, if that's the case, I think I have something that may interest you, the man declared, reaching around his back. He removed a large pouch and dropped the bag beside Rafael's bowl, causing the plate to shake. Rafael could hear the jingling of jewels within.

This town has a few monsters worth killing.

Rafael simply chuckled. Why would you assume I'm the one for the job?

The man stared intently at Rafael, taking a seat beside the warrior.

Because you look like a man who's gone through the Underworld and back. And right now, we need you to kill a devil.

Chapter Two

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Rafael stared at the large green pouch lying on the surface of the bar. From the sheer size, he surmised the contents were worth more than anyone had previously offered him. Whatever haunted this hamlet, they obviously considered it quite dangerous based upon the amount being offered for his services. Rafael stroked his beard thoughtfully and wiped his mouth with the back of his forearm.

"Monsters are hard enough to kill, let alone