Dream Seeker

By Lisa Lowell

Jarek's life changes when he's discovered by Liri. As just a blind child, he's promised the chance to gain his sight and become a member of the esteemed Wise Ones. In pursuit of safety and learning, Jarek and his brother are taken inside the protective walls of Lar's academy. But peace doesn't last for long; Jarek is abducted to the rival realm of Marwen and thrust into a world of dark magic and political intrigue.

The abduction sets off a series of world-changing events, as the Wise Ones wage war to retrieve one of their own. Kjerstin, Marwen's princess, becomes an unexpected ally, and through the chaos of war and the complexities of growing up in extraordinary circumstances, bonds are forged and broken.

As Jarek embarks on his journey of transformation, he has to confront the challenges of a world in turmoil, and find his own identity and purpose.

Lisa Lowell's DREAM SEEKER is the sixth book in The Wise Ones series of fantasy novels.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Next Chapter
• Release date: Nov 10, 2023
• ISBN: 9798890080349

Book preview

1

BLIND

Liri watched the boys from afar and shuddered. It was too much like her own pitiful past. She saw the younger boy rattling his dented tin cup to attract the attention of passersby. Most of the people of Wallward gave little heed to the orphan. His grimy hand gripped the staff that led him safely through the streets. Had he always lived on the streets tucked up against the solid Wall that bordered his entire world?

In his mind, Liri heard a curiosity to one day leave the market where he begged for scraps and coins to feed himself and his brother. No, this was his whole world. His ragged trousers showed his scabbed knees. He had split them at least a year since, and although he wasn’t large for his eight years, he was outgrowing the clothing some kind lady had given him when he was four.

At least he had his blindness to rely on. The poor older brother had no such handicap. Instead, the thirteen-year-old hovered nearby, protecting the younger. He survived scrapes that left him bruised, skittish, and not a little bit angry. He often ran errands for shopkeepers and raided the garbage of the kitchens beyond the market shops for his supper. Surprisingly, he wasn’t a thief. He always gave his little brother most of what he found.

How selfless, Liri thought.

Now something about them attracted Liri to this far corner of the Land. The incessant itch that lured her here resonated within these two. She couldn’t tell which one yet, but one of them would be a Wise One – a magician of great power. And she had come to Wallward to introduce that world to him.

Yet, she saw they loved each other with a fierce protectiveness that translated well on the streets of Wallward. Heaven help anyone who would dare come between them. Like her.

How could Liri break these two apart? The boys’ minds entwined so tightly that the magic that lured her here to them settled like smoke over the sandy streets.

Then there was a demon hovering above the city that gave her pause. So, she could not wait.

Liri conjured a small coin and walked out of the alley where she hid to watch the boys. She passed the blind boy, dropping the coin into his cup. Her magical wave of warmth registered as he heard the plink of a coin in his tin.

Thank you, he called out. Then the boy’s head lifted as if he scanned the sky.

Was he the one? Could he sense the demon that hung invisibly over the city? That reaction assured Liri she had chosen the right boy. She sat down right beside him on the curb. He gripped his cane in preparation to defend himself. Perhaps someone had given him a coin on a pretense of stealing his whole cup. What a nasty trick.

You don’t have to be afraid of me, Liri’s soft voice reassured. I just saw you there and wanted to chat on this fine morning. What’s your name?

The little boy didn’t reply, but instead rattled his can, ignoring her. Anyone who wanted to ‘chat’ was up to something, his thoughts screamed.

Finn? Who is this? The older brother shifted across the traffic to assess his brother’s predicament.

Liri smiled, grateful for the shortening of the blind boy’s name, especially with a demon around. Liri looked up at the older boy and did not react to his protective stance. She would have to handle both brothers.

Finn? That’s a nice name. And you are? Liri addressed the older boy.

I’m his brother. And who are you?

Finnick – for that was surely his whole name - – squirmed at his brother’s defensiveness. Liri put out the coals of suspicion with a smile and warm thoughts. You may call me Lady Liri. I came here looking for you boys.

The elder boy growled in distrust. Finnick’s chin lifted as if to glance at the sun overhead, again sensing the demon that stalked the garrison city. Liri dipped into Finnick’s thoughts to tell. No, he was a dreamer. He was wondering about her title and speculated about why a lady would seek him out. A lady? As in, from the Lord’s house?

Finnick knew of Wallward’s lord. However, he doubted anyone in that household would wander the crowded streets and strike up conversations with begging boys. Then Finnick’s thoughts drifted to her voice and warm scent. She was a nice lady, he had decided.

She’s not going to rob us, Davos, Finnick assured. Liri’s subtle spell had relaxed him at least.

Then Liri switched her mental focus to the elder brother, Davos. He was still suspicious. She was dressed as the other farmwives in the market. Her clear skin and shining golden eyes seemed out of place. Her hands, however, were as calloused as a dishwasher. She didn’t look like the darker people from the south, out of Marwen. Where was this lady from, Davos wanted to know.

Liri smothered a smile at his stubbornness. You’ve been taking care of Finn for a long time, haven’t you? That’s good. I’ve got an offer for the two of you. I want to get you off the streets. If you come with me to the garrison, I’ll arrange work and a permanent home for you. You might even get some training. You’ll be safe, off the street.

Both Finn and Davos scoffed. Not in this world, Davos muttered under his breath.

Liri dove into his mind and heard all the other well-wishers who had tried to help the boys. Davos hated to be reliant on others. He immediately distrusted anyone, suspecting ulterior motives.

You won’t be answerable to anyone if you don’t want to be, she tried again. You will still have your freedom.

Liri remained in their private thoughts over her strange offer as it hung like smoke from a smothered campfire. Finally, when they could not imagine anything else to say, they both spoke.

Why? the boys said in tandem, but Davos continued without his brother’s input. Why would you do this for us?

Liri looked down at her hands, chapped with fire. I have a gift for Finn. I might be able to give him his sight.

For a long moment, Liri heard the stunned silence of disbelief in their thoughts. Finn regained his tongue first. I’ve never been able to see. No one but God can do that.

Davos scoffed. Only a huckster would promise him his vision. Not even magic can do what you’re suggesting, and we don’t trust magic…unless you count this Wall. And all it does is protect us from invaders.

Nevertheless, I want to try, Liri responded.

Now the older brother grew testier. I don’t see how following you to the garrison will bring his sight. The two aren’t related, he pointed out logically. Besides, we do well enough, and he earns more than I do by being blind. We don’t need your help, lady.

Liri looked up, checking on the unseen presence. No demon in range, Liri judged, and then quickly answered, You’re clever, aren’t you? Very well, I cannot give this gift to your brother until he’s older and fully grown. For that to happen, he’ll need you to protect him. That means you both need a safe bed and decent food for several years to come. Otherwise, neither of you will reach manhood. Someone will see to that. However, at the garrison, you will enjoy protection so that you both can grow up in safety. Then when he’s an adult, I can give Finn his gift, but not until.

Davos’ mouth closed before he let out his bitter words. He peered over at his little brother to see some sign of how he felt. The younger boy rattled the two coins in his cup instinctively and then said, It sounds like one of my fairy tales.

That’s because it is. Magic like that doesn’t exist, Davos said, although the hope in his tone came easily to Liri’s ears.

Oh, it exists. What do you think built this Wall? challenged Liri. What do you have to lose?

As if it were decided, Liri stood up, dusted herself off, and looked up the crowded street. Tell you what, I’ll go over there so you two can discuss my offer.

She didn’t wait for them to agree but walked off to the nearest vendor of bread down the road half a block. She could have overheard the boys from miles away, but they did not know that. She easily sensed Davos’ keen eye on her back as she surveyed the bread at a baker’s cart.

What do you think of her proposal? asked Davos.

It’s magic she’s offering, Finnick affirmed, but I think she means it. You’ve always wanted to be a soldier. I bet at the garrison you’d be able to learn.

In other words, we’ve got nothing to lose, if we can be together. She did say that we could leave if we didn’t like it, countered Davos.

In other words, we’ve got nothing to lose, agreed Finnick. I might like stories of magic, but I don’t think I believe she can give me sight. I’m not going to believe it…until I see it.

Ha, ha, Davos muttered sardonically then added, Well, let’s see what it’s like at the garrison before we reject her offer. She doesn’t seem the type to abuse us or lie. She looks too nice to have anything but an honest offer. If there’s no magical sight for you, we’ve lost nothing.

As if she had heard their decision, Liri crossed back over the street bearing two thick rolls and a hunk of cheese, which she held out to them as a trust offering. Warily Davos took a bite, and then he told his brother it was good, and they both ate greedily.

Well, gentlemen, what have you decided? Liri asked in a careful tone. She dared not frighten them away. Demons overhead might make that clear, and she dared not alert them to the importance of their decision.

We’ll see what the garrison has to offer, but we won’t agree to stay if we are not satisfied, Davos announced for them both.

Agreed. Liri held out an upturned hand to seal the deal. Davos slapped her palm. And you too, Finn?

Finnick didn’t understand what was done until Liri reached out and took his hand off his stick, opened his palm, slapped it, and then gave him back his cane.

Now, if you’ll follow me… Liri led them off through the city streets, confident that they willingly came after her.

Both boys knew of the garrison, but from their thoughts, Liri could hear they had never been inside. Wallward boasted a large contingent of men because of its spot on the border, but although it was well-armed, the magic of the Wall was the town’s finest defense. Nothing had come over the Wall since the days of the first Founding when Owaillion, King of Creating had teamed up with Vamilion, the King of the Mountains, to build a barrier so impenetrable that nothing but great mages could cross it.

Or flying demons, Liri reminded herself.

While the legend of building the Wall grew misty with time, Liri personally knew the Wise Ones who had built it. The edifice remained a massive witness to their continued power. Still, in Davos’ mind, she heard the simple sentiment; Wallward needed to rely on swords, shields, and the garrison. He didn’t trust magic to protect the Land. Instead, Davos’ thoughts dwelled on this new opportunity.

He didn’t know their father, and as no man’s son, he didn’t stand to inherit any land or trade. No one would take him on as an apprentice, not with a blind brother in tow. However, at the garrison where men-at-arms trained, now that was a position where any healthy and clever boy could earn his way. He needed no title, education, or name. He could work his way up at the garrison. Maybe he could use what he learned to discover where their father had disappeared. Hadn’t he been fighting for this kind of opportunity all his life? Well, now he would be given exposure to the weapons that went with the fight.

But he worried for Finnick.

Meanwhile, Finnick believed the Liri offered a legitimate opportunity. Perhaps she would cure his blindness if he went to the garrison. All his life, Finnick loved the stories he heard in the streets. He dreamed of talking with dragons, and of the Wise One magic that founded the Land. One day he hoped to tell his own fairy stories that he gathered on the streets like begged coins.

Liri dipped back into Davos’ thoughts as he worried. The elder boy scoffed at the stories that entertained his little brother. Davos hoped Finnick knew they were only dreams. Now, with a lady suggesting a true-to-life cure, Davos worried the blind child might see merit in the other myths he had wisely rejected until now. Davos would still keep a close eye on his brother and the minute something smacked of magic, he would warn his brother away. He would protect Finnick from the world.

"You do that, Davos."

Davos lurched, pretending to trip over a cobble, but he looked up at the lady, recognizing her voice in his head. Had she just used magic on him? He knew her voice, but no actual sounds came with the private whisper.

Pardon me? Davos asked, straining to watch the lady’s face as they walked. With her longer legs, she was always ahead of them, and he distrusted his impression.

"You heard me, she reiterated, but her lips never moved. I’m going to give you a gift too. I need you to be very strong, a keen fighter, so that Finnick will be safe. I will see to it that you are the greatest soldier the Land has ever boasted."

I don’t believe in magic, Davos said succinctly, puzzling his brother who hadn’t heard the lady’s comments, despite having excellent hearing.

I know that, Liri said aloud, but that doesn’t mean that magic doesn’t believe in you. Now then, we’re here. Let’s go to the south gate. The guard there is a friend, and we’ll get a better reception there.

Liri led them past the intimidating main gates made of wood with iron lashing, bristling with polished iron nails pounded into it. The boys would feel less troubled by the man-door around the side of the three-span high fort wall. Marek, who had the watch on that door, owed her a favor, and he loved children.

You mean you haven’t already arranged this? Davos’ voice squeaked. How do you know they’ll take us if you haven’t asked already? We’ve lost half a day’s work in following you across town. If they won’t take us, we’ll be back to the streets again.

Liri laughed lightly. They’ll take you on because I will ask them to do so. Trust me.

Davos didn’t say what he thought of that suggestion, but Liri heard it. He didn’t want Finnick to hear the filthy words he wanted to say. The only reason Davos was even considering this was because of the hope of a safe bed and a chance to see soldiers in training; not the promised gift of sight. Liri’s silent conversation with him didn’t tempt Davos in the least.

The boys followed her up the ramp to the south gate. There Liri went up to the less intimidating door and knocked loudly with the clapper. The two boys waited awkwardly behind her. Marek opened a small sliding window, took one look at Liri’s smile, and opened the full door.

Lady, welcome, murmured the older gentleman, armed with a pike and a bow, wearing the livery of the Wallward Garrison, gray with green piping.

Thank you, Marek. I’ve brought some guests for you, and she stepped through the door and into the opening next to the guard house. Finnick and Davos followed with far less confidence.

Lady…? You bring us boys? Marek said in wonder.

Liri smiled warmly and replied, Sir, why don’t you go get the commander? I have a few things to say to him. We’ll wait here. Her suggestions came across as orders, and so Marek went clanking across the courtyard toward the unit of soldiers going through a pike exercise in the open fort.

Meanwhile, as was his custom, Davos began describing the place for his brother in a low whisper. "Cobblestone grounds, round courtyard wall that looks like the Wall itself.

Barracks on the outside wall in a half circle…" Then Davos stopped abruptly.

A tall burly man with a black beard and full armor came traipsing across the yard toward them. Davos couldn’t describe him adequately, for the boy had eyes only for the weapons he carried: a sword, spear across his back, and a dagger long enough to be a sword for Finnick. The commander, obviously, but his intimidating look didn’t faze Liri. Davos straightened up, hoping to look taller than he was and Finnick did as well, as he sensed his brother’s tension.

Commander Rosen, Liri greeted him, hand on her heart, regally. I’m the Lady Liri and I have got a project for you and your men.

Davos’ mind shouted at her as he realized Liri hadn’t even met the commander before. Both boys’ thoughts stopped, fearing this situation was growing worse by the moment. What made her think that she could offer them a place here when this military leader looked more likely to boil children than employ and house them? Liri tuned the boys out.

Commander Rosen thought much the same, in abrupt alarm. He stopped just short of cursing and growling but didn’t take Liri’s greeting. He looked ready to throttle Marek who had followed his commander back to the south gate. Marek now hurriedly resumed his post in the guard-house rather than come into range of the tongue-lashing he would surely get if there weren’t guests.

Lady Liri, I cannot have civilians here interrupting our training, especially children. What do you want from us? Rosen’s chopped words were officially polite…unlike his private thoughts.

Unfazed Liri replied. I want you to take these boys into the garrison. They are to be raised here. You can train them in weapons, and make them apprentices if you will, but not slaves. You, at the least, will feed, clothe, and house them until I come for them again in…ten years? Your wife will do most of that work. I expect when I return for them, they will both be healthy, able to hold their own with a weapon and will speak highly of their time here at the garrison. If they choose to leave your protection, that will be their choice, but I do not want you to drive them out, or I shall hear of it.

The commander’s ruddy face grew redder with each word until Liri feared he might light his hair on fire with the rage. What in the Blessed Wall’s Foundation would persuade me to do this, woman?! he roared. One of them is blind. I’ve no time or place for anyone who cannot pull his weight here. I’ve kicked out full-grown men as won’t take orders or lift their load. A boy’s got…

Liri interrupted his tirade with her sultry voice even softer and almost alluring. "You will take them in because I say you will do so. You will find that Davos here is going to be your finest warrior. And Finn will be no burden either. You have my promise."

Then, before everyone’s eyes, Liri changed.

Her hair that had been bound down in a simple braid now rolled up into a fine regal setting with gold wire and rubies entwined. Her simple brown linen dress shifted and shimmered into red silk with gold thread images embroidered into the scarlet flowing gown. The hem that spilled over the stones seemed to be lit on fire but wasn’t consumed by the burning. All up her body and then down her arms, an elegant phoenix climbed over the fabric in stitching to her shoulder. And on her back, she carried a rapier of gold, deadly and whip-thin.

You have the promise of the Queen of Fire. I am of the Wise One order. I will have these boys protected. I will know if they are frightened or abused. You will see to it. Then she lowered her voice into a new tone. And commander, what I ask of you will be difficult. They will be under attack. Magic will seek them out and you must be ready. I will do what I can, but I cannot be here with them. I will repel the magic, but you must guard against the acts of men. Am I understood?

The ruddy face of Commander Rosen had gone ashen pale. He stood there frozen, staring at the glowing lady. Davos closed his mouth with a snap and gripped Finnick’s arm until his brother almost complained about it. Finn sensed something in the tone of voice and the heat pulsing off Liri that kept him from disrupting. Magic was afoot and no one wanted to disturb it.

Finally, Commander Rosen found his voice, gulped, and then nodded.

Yes, my Lady. I’ll see to it. Do you really want them…the one to be taught arms?

If he wants it, yes. You’ll find Davos has an aptitude for it. Don’t neglect the same training for Finn either. He might be blind, but he’s clever. They are both under my protection and I will be watching.

With that, Liri turned back to the boys. Without a by-your-leave, she placed her fiery hands on their heads, as if anointing them. Now, boys, you’ll be here under Commander Rosen’s protection. I hope you have the good sense to appreciate it. Do not do anything foolish. I will return in ten years if nothing else happens, to give you the gift I promised.

Finnick nodded under her hand, and Davos stood there frozen in wonder. Then Liri removed her hands and turned back into her simple clothes. She had finished her errands. Liri walked out the south gate door and disappeared.

And that was how Davos and Finnick came to live at the garrison of Wallward.

2

IN THE GARRISON

Commander Rosen and Davos stared each other down for a moment while Finnick waited impatiently for the explosion they all expected. Finally, Rosen admitted defeat, let out the gust of air he held, and growled. Well, she gives little choice, doesn’t she.

Who was that? Finnick asked with a flicker of dread in his voice. All I felt was very hot.

Rosen’s voice cracked with irony. If you don’t know who she is, what makes you think I would know? She’s surely one of the Wise Ones, the masters of magic here in the Land. I’ve only met two in my entire life…not the Queen of Fire before. Just the Queen of Healing and the King of the Plains. They all flit about the Land, fixing what needs fixed magically and for the most part, leaving we common folk to rule ourselves.

But why bring us here? Davos asked.

Rosen grumbled under his breath. To make my life more difficult no doubt. Then he looked down at them critically. Well, what are your names? he barked.

Davos, sir.

I’m Finnick, sir.

Very well, Commander Rosen sighed heavily as if he knew the war he was about to fight. My biggest battle will be with the wife. Let’s get this over with. Follow me.

With trepidation, the two boys trailed after the commander to the far side of the garrison, past the men who trained in the courtyard. Davos watched their stances and the practiced blows with blunted swords. He imagined the storage warehouse teamed full of weapons, enough to arm far more men than trained or boarded here. The citizens of the city would also be expected to take up arms if the need arose. They passed stables Davos recognized by smell and finally made it to a tiny house set right into the corner where the non-magical wall of the garrison’s compound met the Wall that acted as a magic border of the Land. Only the commander must live here full time, with a wife in the home that came with the rank.

As they marched toward the house, Rosen waved a hand toward a long sweep of rooms against the outer wall of the compound. Most of my men are housed in barracks above those stables, or they find homes out in the town. I won’t put you there. The men…well, they’re a bad example.

At the door of his house, Commander Rosen stuck his head in and called to his wife, Marta?

Marta, a large, hard-working woman, came to the door with her stout arms covered in flour from working bread. She was a middle-aged lady with fat braids of graying hair and twinkling blue eyes. When she saw her husband’s followers, she stopped, dusted her hands on her apron, and rested her fists on her hips, waiting for the explanation.

We’ve got … guests of a sort, Rosen began hesitantly.

Guests? Marta’s eyes flashed with pique.

Under orders. I’m to keep them until they grow up. I don’t think we can house them in the barracks with the men. See what you can do, and then feed them some lunch. I’ll be back in an hour. Rosen retreated manfully back to his duties.

If Marta was unpleased, she didn’t show it as much as her husband. She looked the boys over with the critical eye of a military commander. Yer mere slips. And dark. Are you descendants of Marwen then?

Neither boy knew how to answer. We don’t know, mistress, Davos tried.

Well, to the wash house and clean yourself, she ordered, pointing toward a brick room