Tales of Faerie: Book One: The Quest to Destroy the Crystal Sphere

By A.W. Hoacs

Seventeen-year-old Kylie's life is turned upside down when she discovers that not only do faeries exist, but she is half faerie, and not only is she half faerie, but she is also the granddaughter of the great faerie, Queen Azarya, and being the last living relative of the queen, she is also the only person who can destroy the dark powers of the evil faerie lord, Sadasun.

Along with her uncle, Sir Liam, and her four best friends, Hunter, Leah, Colin, and Jared, she sets out on a perilous journey to do just that, submitting to the will of the Just Creator and accepting this task which he has given her.

Suddenly, in a world she never knew existed, she and her friends are forced to battle creatures that should only exist in a person's worst nightmares, doing whatever is necessary to fulfill this task given her. Along the way, they learn the importance of having faith in the Just Creator and trusting him in all situations, especially when all things seem hopeless.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Nov 13, 2023
• ISBN: 9798886168143

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Tales of Faerie

Book One: The Quest to Destroy the Crystal Sphere

A.W. Hoacs

ISBN 979-8-88616-813-6 (paperback)

ISBN 979-8-88616-814-3 (digital)

Copyright © 2023 by A.W. Hoacs

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods without the prior written permission of the publisher. For permission requests, solicit the publisher via the address below.

Christian Faith Publishing

832 Park Avenue

Meadville, PA 16335

www.christianfaithpublishing.com

Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

About the Author

Acknowledgments

Thank you, D. C., A. T., R. S., and M. M. for reading my books and giving me feedback.

Chapter 1

The blistering summer sun beat down on Kylie, making her feel as though she had been tossed into an oven and the heat turned on high. She stopped what she was doing to wipe away the tiny streams of sweat that were making their way down her forehead and then brushed away the long strands of golden hair that had become plastered to her lean, sun-kissed face. It was the middle of the summer season, and as is usually the case in the middle of summer, the sun was hot and the air was thick with a humidity which clung to her body covering her with a layer of moisture that made her clothes stick to her uncomfortably. Standing in the middle of her vegetable garden, she gazed around her, searching the vines for any ripe vegetables that she may have overlooked as they lay hidden among the foliage.

Spying one last small tomato almost completely shrouded by the dark green leaves, she reached for it, pulled it gently from its vine, and placed it gingerly in the basket that she held beneath her arm. Glancing down at the vibrant, colorful mix of carrots, cucumbers, beans, and tomatoes that now overflowed her basket, she decided she had gathered quite enough for one day, especially a day as hot and oppressive as this day was, and now wanted nothing more than to escape from the scorching sun.

She wound her way through the maze of vegetables and then followed the narrow cobblestone path that led to the back door of the small cottage where she lived with her mother and went inside. Glad to be out of the sun, she placed the basket of vegetables on the kitchen table, then, certain that she couldn't feel any hotter or thirstier than she did right now, she walked over to the kitchen sink, turned on the faucet and, splashing some of the cold refreshing water onto her face, she sighed, reveling in how wonderful it felt on her skin. She grabbed a nearby hand towel and patted her face dry, then reached into the cabinet next to the sink and took out a tall glass decorated with colorful flowers and filled it with cold water. This she emptied in one gulp, savoring every last drop as it flowed down her parched throat.

Feeling much better, she placed her glass on the counter by the sink. Unfortunately, the air inside the house wasn't any less humid than the air outside had been, and it didn't give her nearly as much relief as she had hoped it would. In fact, it was stifling hot inside the house, and hoping to allow whatever small breeze existed outside in, she lifted open the window over the sink to its fullest, being careful not to knock down any of the small vases that lined the sill. But it did little good. There was no breeze outside, not even a faint whisper that could offer her even a hint of relief. The air stood thick and silent, the white embroidered curtains that hung from the window remained still and the house remained warm and muggy. But on the plus side, she told herself, trying to remain optimistic, she was at least out of the sun.

She glanced at the six small blue vases that stood on the windowsill, each vase holding a single colorful flower that had been freshly picked from the garden and checked to make sure that each bloom had an adequate supply of water. She filled those where the water had been thirstily absorbed by the vibrant blooms and then stood for a moment in the small cozy kitchen, admiring the colorful garden prints that hung on the golden yellow walls. Just a shade lighter than the petals of a sunflower, the walls made the kitchen bright and cheery. She walked over to the small alcove—or breakfast nook—and lowered the shades of the windows that enclosed the cozy little nook. Although normally kept open to allow as much sun as possible into the house, today it was just too hot to welcome in the sun. She checked the water level of the vase, which sat on the small oak table centered in the middle of the alcove, straightened the four blue-and-yellow-checkered table mats, which were placed in front of each chair, and then glanced at the clock that sat on the bottom shelf of the corner cabinet.

It was already one thirty in the afternoon. The morning had gone by quickly despite the heat, and her mother should be returning home soon. Kylie's thoughts then turned to the upcoming afternoon, and she grinned happily. Her friend Hunter from the neighboring town of Fairlawn would be arriving soon, and she grinned with anticipation. Hunter had been her best friend for many years now, and their friendship just continued to grow stronger with each passing year. The two were inseparable and visited each other often, planning outings together, sometimes just the two of them, other times with their friends Jared, Leah, and Colin.

Today, they had planned a fishing outing in one of the small ponds that were nestled within the vast Elleinad Forest, and she had been eagerly waiting for the afternoon to arrive. Smiling happily to herself, she filled her glass one more time with some cold water and, glass in hand, headed into the living room where she plopped herself down onto a large, overstuffed beige chair. Gulping the cool liquid and once again emptying the tall glass of all its contents, she placed the empty glass on the small end table beside her. Her thirst finally satiated, she closed her eyes and rested contentedly.

Opening her eyes again, she looked out the large bay window, which was opposite her, and watched a small squirrel scurry up a tree and then glanced at the large fieldstone fireplace behind her, her gaze landing on the large glitter globe that sat on the mantle and the beautiful faerie sitting on a toadstool inside. It was Kylie's glitter globe, a gift from her parents when she was born, and it was very special to her. Her father had died shortly after her birth, and although she was far too young to remember him, the globe reminded her always of how much he loved her. It was the most cherished item of all her possessions. She had always loved it as a child, the crystal sphere sitting on top of a large mushroom base, and she would always shake it so that she could watch the sparkling glitter fall softly down around the beautiful faerie inside.

Even now at seventeen years of age, she still loved to watch the glitter swirl gently inside the crystal sphere, glistening and sparkling as it drifted silently to the bottom of the magical world inside. She sat now, trying futilely to ignore the heat and humidity, but found she was far too uncomfortable for that. The air inside the house, much to her dismay, seemed now to be even more oppressive and sticky than the air outside had been, and she wished there would come along a breeze—any breeze—even if just a tiny small breeze that would blow fresh air in through the open windows and cool the house down, even if just a bit. But all her wishing couldn't muster a breeze, not even a hint of one. The air just sat there, hanging thick with moisture that clung to every inch of her body. Already, her face was once again covered with sweat, and she tried her best to ignore her discomfort, focusing her thoughts instead on the coming afternoon with Hunter.

A smile once again spreading across her face, she glanced at the living room clock which hung, ticking loudly in the otherwise silent room, above the mantle. She still had a few more minutes left before she would need to freshen up—if that were even possible—and get ready for her afternoon excursion with Hunter.

Resting a short while longer, a contented smile now on her flushed face, her happy thoughts were abruptly shattered when the front door suddenly burst open, and her mother, a frightened but determined expression on her usually happy and gentle face, came rushing in. She glanced at Kylie, who had jumped up in her chair, startled. Kylie, she instructed as she raced past and headed down the small hallway that led to the two bedrooms. Come here quickly!

Kylie, alarmed by the look on her mother's face and by the urgency in her voice, scrambled from her chair and quickly followed her mother, who was already in Kylie's bedroom, rummaging through her closet. Kylie, growing more and more frightened and confused with each passing second, watched her mother as she continued to search frantically through her closet. Mother! she cried. What's the matter? What are you looking for?

Her mother turned and looked at her just for an instant. Kylie, she replied, you need to leave Steproth immediately! She then continued her search through Kylie's closet.

Stunned and thoroughly shaken by her mother's words and her strange behavior, Kylie's eyes grew wide with fright. Mother, why? she asked. What are you doing? Mother, what's the matter?

We're being attacked, replied her mother as she pulled from Kylie's closet a large sword. Her voice was grave and serious, as was the expression on her face, and she turned toward Kylie, who stood stunned by what her mother had just said.

Certain she had misunderstood or that her mother was wrong, she whispered, What?

Kylie, replied her mother gently but still with a great urgency, our village is being attacked. She handed Kylie her sword, then began searching once again through Kylie's closet. We need you to go to Fairlawn and summon help.

Kylie, sword in hand, couldn't believe what she was hearing. Attacked? How could that be? Who would be attacking them? She looked at her mother, at the frightened look in her mother's eyes, and it filled her with a dread that she had never felt before. She had never seen her mother like this. Who is attacking us? she asked numbly as she watched her mother finally find and retrieve Kylie's bow and a quiver full of arrows. Kylie watched, eyes growing wide with fear as she saw her mother bring out her weapons.

You must go to Fairlawn and summon help from your Uncle Liam! her mother continued. You must go directly to him! He will make sure that you are safe. You are to stay in Fairlawn, Kylie. do not return here under any circumstance! Do you understand? She looked at Kylie, her eyes intense and sober, and Kylie shook her head.

No, I don't understand! If the village is being attacked, I should stay here and help defend it. I can fight. I know how to wield a sword and bow and arrow. I have been trained for this. Someone else should be sent for help.

Her mother shook her head. No, Kylie, we need you to go. Because you can use your weapons. We need someone who can defend themselves if it becomes necessary along the way.

In the distance, Kylie could hear the shouts and cries of the attacking army as they slaughtered the innocent and unsuspecting villagers, the horrifying sounds echoing throughout the village and sending chills of terror rippling uncontrollably down her spine.

Kylie, you must go now! implored her mother as she frantically ushered Kylie toward the front door. She thrust Kylie's weapons at her. Strap these on! she ordered.

Terrified, Kylie took her weapons and fastened them to her back, her fingers fumbling as she tried to secure them, her entire body now trembling. This can't be happening, she thought to herself, it can't be real. She looked up, confused and afraid. Her mother held out a small dagger.

Strap this to your ankle! she ordered.

Again, Kylie did as she was told, her hands trembling as a panic she had never felt before threatened to consume her. She looked at her mother with terror-filled eyes. Mother, who is attacking us? Why are they attacking? she stammered as she watched her mother cautiously open the front door and peer outside.

Her mother searched carefully in all directions to make sure that no one was there and then replied urgently, There is no time to explain, Kylie. Your uncle will tell you all you need to know. You must trust me. She looked at Kylie, and Kylie could see the fear in her eyes—something she had never seen before—but she also saw the strength and determination that had always defined her mother. Kylie, you must trust me, she reiterated. If anything or anyone attacks you, you must use your weapons to defend yourself, even if you must kill them.

Kill them? cried Kylie silently to herself. She had never hurt another living creature in all her life. Although she had been taking lessons in the use of a sword as well as a bow since she was a young girl and could use both weapons quite skillfully, she had never thought she would ever have a need to actually use her skills. And to kill? A surreal sense of terror filled the room, and Kylie felt as though she were a spectator watching in on someone else's bizarre and nightmarish dream. This couldn't be happening! It just couldn't be so.

Looking out the front door as her mother hustled her along, she was stunned to see, far in the distance, their attackers burning down houses as they slaughtered the innocent villagers. Horrified, she looked at her mother, her eyes wide with panic at the reality of what was happening. Mother, I need to stay and fight! Look at what they are doing!

No, Kylie, you need to go now! ordered her mother as she quickly retrieved her own sword. Run as fast as you can, don't stop for anything, and don't look back! Take the small path through the forest. It will be the quickest and safest route.

But, Mother! cried Kylie completely, distraught now. I can't leave you here alone.

Kylie's mother looked at her and smiled a thin, cheerless smile, a deep sorrow in her sapphire blue eyes. Kylie, I need to stay and help defend our village. You need to summon help. Then her face was serious once again. We will not survive without additional troops from Fairlawn, Kylie. Without them, all will be lost. We need you to summon their aid. It is the only way we can survive, and you are the only one who can do it. There is no one else as adept with their weapons that has such easy access to the path through the forest, no one else that knows the path as well as you. Kylie, we need for you to do this. Kylie's eyes began to water, the thought of leaving her mother behind to face the monsters that were attacking their village making her wither and die inside. But, Mother, she whispered sadly, they'll kill you.

Don't worry about me, soothed her mother. I'll be fine. I'll meet you at your uncle's later, she lied. She knew in all likelihood that she would never see her daughter again. She touched Kylie's frightened face. Everything will be all right, she soothed as the cries of the battle rang in the distance.

Kylie looked past her mother and could see the trail of death and destruction their attackers left behind as they advanced through the village.

Kylie, you have to leave before they reach us. Her mother looked at Kylie one last time. I love you, Kylie, she whispered, and she drew Kylie into her arms and hugged her tightly. Then she pushed her daughter out the door.

Kylie, stricken with a dread so powerful that it threatened to immobilize her, turned to look at her mother, pure panic in her eyes. Mother! she began, but her mother interrupted.

Go, Kylie! she implored. "Now!"

But I can't leave you! cried Kylie, tears beginning to flow from her eyes.

Kylie, we need you to get help! replied her mother firmly. Without help, our village and its people will not survive. Do you understand? We need the help of Fairlawn's army. You must go now, Kylie!

Kylie looked in her mother's eyes and saw fear and desperation staring back at her, and she realized that her mother was right. She had to get help. With a determination of her own building within her, she glanced one more time at her mother, then turned and ran. Her village, her friends, and her mother—their survival, their fate—now depended on Kylie getting help. From behind her, she heard her mother call out, Stay in Fairlawn, Kylie, do not come back! as she raced toward the path that would lead her through the Elleinad Forest to her uncle's town of Fairlawn.

*****

Kylie ran down the narrow, tree-lined street, quickly passing by the few other neighboring houses, barely noticing the flower gardens that decorated their front lawns, oblivious now to the vibrant blooms that thrived beneath the warm summer sun. Her village had become two, one still the peaceful and quiet lazy summer day that she had awakened to, the other suddenly torn from the tranquility that it had enjoyed moments earlier and thrust into the midst of a battle where it fought furiously to survive the destruction that tried to claim it. She glanced quickly at the empty, silent homes as she passed by, a deep wave of despair attacking her senses as she realized that many of those that lived within their walls—her friends and neighbors—were, in all probability, right where the battle raged, trapped with no possible means of escape, their lives come to an abrupt and terrifying end, and her eyes welled up with tears.

But her fear and sorrow quickly transformed into rage and anger as she grew furious at those who dared attack and destroy the lives of the innocent people that lived here, and she vowed that she would one day make them pay dearly for what they were doing. Her anger gave her renewed energy, and she ran furiously down the street, turning left when she reached the corner. She could still hear the battle in the distance, the sounds of the enemies' cries echoing in her ears, but far worse, she could hear the terrified sounds of the villagers as they tried to escape, as they tried desperately to save themselves from the death that sought to take them.

She cringed as she ran on, covering her ears tightly as she tried desperately to block the horrific sounds that assaulted them, the agonizing wails of pain and the terrifying cries of fear, but she could not block them entirely, and they reverberated in her head, burning an imprint in her brain that she knew she would never forget. More determined than ever to get help before her village and its people were destroyed, she raced on, leaving the road and continuing through the tall grass that surrounded the village. Jumping over the rocks and branches that littered the ground, she headed toward the path that would lead her through the Elleinad Forest to her uncle's house in Fairlawn, her mind a jumble of confusion and terror. What, she wondered, is happening?

The day had started out so peacefully. Just moments ago, she had been resting with nary a care in the world, looking forward to a lazy afternoon of fishing with her friend, Hunter. Then, in an instant, all those happy thoughts had vanished, shattered into a million pieces, and replaced by a stunned disbelief as she was thrust into a surreal nightmare—a nightmare that she could not awaken from—and now, barely more than a mere few minutes later, she was racing for her life and for the lives of her friends and neighbors.

Kylie continued to run toward the Elleinad Forest, determined to get help for her mother, when suddenly, she heard a low, insidious voice growl from directly behind her. Where do you think you're going? it hissed wickedly.

Terrified, Kylie glanced quickly behind her and saw, standing just a few feet away with his arrow poised directly at her, the most vile-looking creature she had ever seen, a creature part human and part something else entirely, glaring at her with such an intense hatred that it made her blood run cold. Where had he—it—come from? She stood momentarily frozen, too stunned to think clearly, her mind unable to comprehend what she was seeing—a creature with a face that seemed almost snakelike, covered in dark green scales with two small slits for a nose.

His eyes, pure white and filled with loathing, glared at her, and he snarled angrily, revealing two tremendous white fangs. He pulled back on the arrow that sat perched upon his bow and was just about to release it when suddenly, Kylie's mother appeared, lunging at him, her own sword drawn. She stabbed the creature, violently plunging her sword into its broad chest but not before he released his arrow, sending it spiraling directly toward Kylie. It sliced through the air, chasing after its target as Kylie, trying desperately to get out of its way, turned and raced toward the forest. She ran furtively, trying to escape the deadly weapon that pursued her, but almost instantly, she felt an intense burning pain in her upper leg as the point of the arrow found its mark, ripping open her flesh and embedding itself deeply into her thigh.

Glancing quickly behind her, she saw her mother entangled with the horrific creature, fighting furiously to keep him from pursuing her. Kylie wanted to go back and help her mother, but some inner voice screamed at her to continue and not to turn back. This is not your fate. You must keep running. The words shouted in her head as clear as if someone had just spoken them, and she somehow knew that she had to obey. It was the only way to save those she cared about. She had to keep running, she had to get help, or all would be lost.

She looked back in the distance, past where her mother fought, and saw more of the loathsome creatures heading in her direction, and she knew she had to leave before she was discovered. Looking down at the arrow embedded in her thigh, she grabbed hold of the shaft and pulled, wincing at the pain as it ripped free of her flesh. Blood instantly poured from the wound, but Kylie knew she had no time to worry about that now. She had to leave before the creatures found her. But she would not, could not do so without helping her mother first.

Pulling an arrow from her own quiver, she quickly and precisely placed it on her bowstring. Pulling back, she sent the arrow flying toward the monster that fought her mother, and she watched as it embedded itself deeply into the back of the creature's neck. He let out a shrill scream and pulled the arrow from where it had struck, tossing it angrily to the ground. Kylie, without hesitation, sent another arrow piercing through the air, this one also embedding itself into the creature's neck. Blood spurted from his wounds as he screeched hideously and dropped to his knees.

Run, Kylie! cried her mother. Run now! You must go! Hurry!

Filled with utter anguish and horror that she had to leave her mother behind, Kylie glanced back one last time, and then, her eyes filled with tears of anguish, she turned and headed toward Fairlawn, the vision of her mother attacking the nightmarish creature etched in her mind, forever in her memory now left to haunt her for all her remaining days.

*****

Running frantically toward the forest, Kylie tried to block the image of her mother fighting the horrible snakelike creature from her mind, but it replayed itself over and over again. She tried to ignore the agonizing pain in her thigh from where the arrow had pierced her, but with every step she took, a wave of pain washed over her. She pictured in her mind the horrible monsters that had attacked them and wondered what they were and where they had come from. And why were they attacking Steproth?

She wondered if her mother would survive or if she would never see her alive again. Grief-stricken beyond words, she fought the tears that spilled uncontrollably from her eyes and blurred her vision, knowing that the only thing she could do now was summon help from Fairlawn. Her uncle would save her mother. He had to. She ran on, feeling as though she had indeed entered into a nightmare where the monsters that lurked in the darkness of a child's worst dreams had come to life, pursuing her through a world that had become strange and unreal. She wished that she could close her eyes and that when she reopened them, she would be safely tucked in her bed, her mother smiling beside her, comforting her, and telling her that it had all been a dream.

But this was no dream. It was as real as the fear that filled her heart, that engulfed every fiber of her body. She ran blindly forward, barely noticing the blood that dripped steadily down her leg, not caring about anything but escaping those that pursued her and getting help for those she left behind. She focused all her energy, all her strength on reaching her uncle, Sir Liam, Lord of the city of Fairlawn. He would sound the alarm, and Fairlawn's army would be mobilized, heading out immediately to the aid of Steproth. It was the only chance Steproth had at survival, and it all depended on her. Kylie prayed that she would be strong enough to make it in time.

*****

Running through the tall grass on the outskirts of her village, Kylie glanced anxiously behind her to make sure that she wasn't being followed. Far in the distance, she could still see the flames that engulfed her village, could still see the black smoke that now scarred the once bright blue sky, but thankfully, she could see none of the vile snakelike creatures pursuing her. Relieved, she ran on until, finally, after what seemed an immeasurable amount of time, she reached the small path that entered into the Elleinad Forest.

Stopping briefly to catch her breath, her chest heaving as she gasped to draw air into her exhausted lungs, she glanced down at the wound in her thigh, now throbbing painfully as blood continued to ooze in rivers down her leg. This won't do, she thought to herself as she tore off a thin strip of material from her shirt. If I lose too much blood, it will make me weak—I can't let that happen! I need to reach Fairlawn and cannot afford to lose any time.

Wincing from the pain, she wrapped the thin strip of cloth around her thigh and secured it tightly. That will have to do, she reasoned as she continued to try and catch her breath. Then, not wanting to waste any more time, she gathered her strength once again and headed into the forest.

Chapter 2

Although the Elleinad Forest was an immense place, encompassing hundreds of thousands of acres of land, the area where Kylie entered now stood less than two miles wide. Not only large but old as well, the forest held some ancient trees that loomed nearly three hundred feet tall with circumferences that could reach more than twenty-five feet. Kylie had traveled this path many times before having visited Fairlawn often, and she knew it like the back of her hand. There was a wider, more traveled road farther south from here, but this would be the quicker way on foot. Moreover, the enemy, whoever they were, would probably be watching the main road, perhaps traveling that way themselves, making that route unsafe and dangerous.

Once Kylie made it through the forest, she would then have to travel another mile through grassy fields before reaching her uncle's—and Hunter's—village of Fairlawn. Running as fast as she was able, she followed the small path, dodging trees and brush and jumping over fallen branches and rocks that littered the forest floor as it wound its way through the forest. Although dark and densely covered with trees and brush in other parts of the forest, it was not so here, and light easily penetrated the sparse canopy above, allowing grass to flourish on the forest floor as well as a multitude of plants and shrubberies. In addition, numerous small creeks meandered through the forest, gurgling softly as they wound their way around the trees, some ending in deep pools of crystal-clear water, but she noticed none of that now as she quickly darted through the forest, following the small path that divided the Elleinad in two.

Before she knew it, she had reached the large old oak tree that marked the halfway point of the forest path. Its large, gnarled branches spread out all around it, reaching out like giant arms, a guardian of the forest protecting all that lived within its realm, encouraging her, reminding her that she was almost at the end of her trail. She was beginning to tire and wanted desperately to stop and rest beneath its comforting and familiar outstretched arms, but she knew it would cost her precious time, time that she did not have to spare. So, without pause, she continued past.

Her thigh was burning painfully now, the pain radiating down the entire length of her leg with each step that she took and, although she tried to push the pain aside, it was getting harder and harder for her to block it from her thoughts.

Breathing hard, her agile body swiftly darted through the forest as her mind battled with the pain that threatened to consume her. She could not let her thoughts linger on her pain—all that mattered right now was reaching Fairlawn as quickly as she was able. She could not—would not—let her pain slow her down. She had traveled nearly three quarters of the way through the forest when she suddenly noticed movement out of the corner of her eye as a strange form moved steadily toward her, a dark shadow that had broken off from the shadows of the trees.

She ran on as the dark shadow glided silently toward her, praying fervently that what she was seeing was just an ordinary forest animal and nothing more, but again, that voice spoke to her, Be prepared, Kylie. Draw your weapon.

Listening to the words in her head, she reached for her sword but she was not quick enough. In an instant, the dark shadow let out an ear-piercing shriek that shattered the pristine silence of the forest, and before she knew what was happening, the shadow was upon her, fiercely swinging its large sword.

Taken off guard and unprepared for the attack, Kylie attempted to dodge the blow, but it all happened much too quickly, and she was not able to avoid the creature's blade which sliced her right upper arm. The blade burned like fire as it cut into her flesh, but she was lucky; just as the sword struck her, she tripped on a protruding root, moving her arm just enough to force the blade away so that it just grazed her upper arm.

At first, stunned at what was happening, she quickly shook the terror and shock from her mind and immediately drew her own sword as her years of training kicked in. She turned to face her attacker, her mind dizzy with fear and disbelief, but her determination and courage were strong, and she steadfastly stood her ground. The creature lunged at her again, but this time, she was ready, and she dodged the blow, pivoting to the left while swinging her own blade, making contact with the creature's upper left arm. Thick blood oozed from its wound, and it let out a wail of agony as her blade sliced through its flesh, but its cry of pain quickly turned to a roar of fury. Filled with an unbridled rage, it turned to face her, and stunned, Kylie gasped, horrified—in front of her stood the same snakelike creature that had attacked her village, the same hideous face, and the same evil, white, hate-filled eyes!

Standing face-to-face with this loathsome creature, time suddenly came to a complete standstill. What is going on? thought Kylie, her brain unable to accept what her eyes were seeing. Once again, she felt as though she were merely a character in some sort of strange dream or perhaps a tall tale, fighting creatures that could only exist in a person's imagination. Has the world gone mad, she wondered as she stood in silent disbelief, turning into a nightmare? What were these horrible creatures? How could they possibly be real? Where had they come from? Why had they suddenly attacked her village without any provocation? And why was this one attacking her now?

Questions raced furiously through her mind, but she had no time to contemplate the answers as the snakelike creature, filled with utter rage at having been injured, lunged at her again, swinging its deadly sword in its powerful arm and screeching loudly. She instinctively whirled around and twisted to the right, narrowly avoiding his blow, but he was on her again in an instant, thrashing at her with his blade. Again, she was able to dodge his attack, this time managing to strike him in the process, digging her blade deep into his right shoulder. Filled with an uncontrollable fury, her attacker spun around in a frenzy and lashed at her again, this time striking her in her right arm and inflicting a deep, painful gash.

Blood spurted from the torn flesh, and she stumbled backward and fell to the ground as a blinding pain ripped through her arm. Seeing her attacker coming at her again, she quickly scrambled back to her feet, just as he lunged at her. With instant reflexes, she lifted her sword and blocked his blow, but the sheer force of the attack sent her hurtling backward, and she fell to the forest floor, the wind completely knocked from her lungs.

Stunned by the force of the attack, Kylie sat, dazed, watching as the creature came bearing down on her once more, pure evil in his white eyes, his one and only desire to kill her, for what reason Kylie could not imagine. But she would not let that happen! Gathering her wits, she twisted aside, frantically kicking at her attacker as his blade just narrowly missed piercing her neck. Turning back, he was on her again in an instant, lunging at her one more time, but this time, Kylie was ready for him.

Bracing herself, she watched as the creature came racing toward her, and just as he was about to strike, she lifted her sword and forcefully embedded it straight into his chest. The monster let out an ear-piercing shriek and fell backward, stunned, landing hard with a thud on the ground. He writhed in agony, clutching at his chest as blood oozed profusely from the wound Kylie's sword had delivered. His hideous white snakelike eyes burned with hatred as he glared at Kylie, who now stood watching him, eyes wide with horror. Then, with one last shrill cry that pierced the silence of the forest, the evil creature fell silent.

Kylie, too stunned and exhausted to move, stared in disbelief at the lifeless form in front of her. She suddenly felt weak, and her body began to tremble as the fear she had forced aside now engulfed her completely. She fell to her knees, no longer able to stand, her body bloodied and in pain. She examined the deep wound in her arm and, in a daze, ripped yet another piece of cloth from her shirt and tied it as best she could around the torn flesh to stop the bleeding. Too exhausted and too frightened to move, she sat, gasping for breath, her heart pounding hard against her chest before reality once again reared its ugly head.

Realizing it was all too possible that there existed more of these creatures lurking in the forest, she knew that she had to get out as quickly as possible before another one had the chance to attack. She would not be able to stave off another attack, not in the condition she was in now. Taking a few deep breaths, she tried to calm herself and slow her racing heart, then she slowly rose to her feet. She had to clear her mind, had to concentrate on what she still needed to accomplish—to notify Fairlawn of the attack on her village. That was all that mattered. She took another deep breath to steady herself and to clear her brain from the fear that clouded her thoughts. Praying fervently to the Just Creator that she would meet no more of these hideous snakelike creatures, she continued on the path that would lead her to Fairlawn.

*****

Exhausted, she moved more slowly now, her wounds throbbing painfully until it became almost impossible for her to ignore the pulsating waves of pain that coursed through her body. The wound in her thigh had become painfully red and swollen, and the fresh wound in her arm was dripping with blood, but she tried desperately to concentrate only on the task at hand. She had to reach the village of Fairlawn before it was too late. Not wanting to be taken by surprise again, she constantly scanned the forest around her, searching the trees and the shadows for any movement and for anything that appeared suspicious. If there were more of the loathsome creatures waiting for her, she would be ready this time and would not be caught off guard. She walked on for what seemed to her an eternity, stumbling and falling, her body weak from loss of blood, her mind fighting a losing battle with the pain that was now assaulting her body relentlessly.

It was becoming extremely difficult for her to walk, her thigh burning with even the slightest movement, but she refused to give up. She was determined to make it to Fairlawn to save her village. Staggering the last few yards of the forest, she finally emerged into the sunny meadows that sprawled out ahead of her. A rainbow of wildflowers greeted her, spread out across the field like a colorful carpet, their fragrant aromas hanging thickly in the warm humid air.

Encouraged that she had made it out of the forest, she quickened her pace, barely registering the throng of bees that buzzed industriously around her, her mind too numb with pain and a fearless determination to care about anything save her one objective—reaching Fairlawn. Although buoyed by the fact that she had made it out of the forest and had now less than a mile to go, she was beginning to panic as her strength waned. What if she didn't make it? She could feel her strength beginning to mutiny, abandoning her and leaving her weak and trembling. Not only had her encounter with the snake creature in the forest wasted precious time, but the battle had weakened her more than she had thought—the wounds she had sustained had drained her of too much blood, leaving her exhausted and weak. And, on top of all that, both wounds were excruciatingly painful now and, try as she might, she could not push the pain aside any longer.

The pain consumed her thoughts as each step she took, every move she made, reminded her with blatant clarity. She tried desperately to focus in front of her, to forget the pain and the weakness, convincing herself that she could make it—she had to. She would not give up, not while there remained breath in her lungs, not even if she had to crawl the last mile on her hands and knees. She continued slowly, staggering through the grassy fields, forcing each leg to move forward, forcing herself to ignore the pain that each step caused. The summer sun was still shining brightly in the sky above her, and its oppressive heat added to her already unbearable discomfort and misery.

She was exhausted and drenched with sweat, and although her body tried nobly to cool itself, the moisture that hung thick in the air made the task impossible. So laden with moisture was the air that it became suffocating and almost impossible to breathe. Gasping to draw air into her lungs, Kylie pushed forward until finally, she was able to see the gates to the city of Fairlawn.

Relieved that her task would soon be over, that Fairlawn's army would soon be on its way to the aid of Steproth and her mother, she staggered weakly toward the small town, but where her will was still strong, her body was not. The loss of blood from her wounds was just too much, and with the gates to Fairlawn in her sight, she fell astonished to her knees. She closed her eyes tightly, trying to block the unrelenting pain, trying to coerce her body to stand. We are almost there, she beseeched, please don't fail me now!

She glanced down at the wound on her thigh which was now covered with tiny, painful blisters, the rash having spread quickly both upward and downward until nearly covering her entire leg. She felt hot, her body burning, but whether from the sun or something else, she did not know. Unable to withstand the pain any longer, too weak and exhausted to even breathe, her body finally began to succumb to the overpowering pain. Her vision began to blur as she fought desperately to stay in control, cursing herself for being so weak. Desperately, she tried to force her vision to clear, tried to force herself to stand, but her body would no longer comply with her wishes. It grew heavy and clumsy as her sight began to dim, a dark shadow floating over her eyes. She tried to chase the veil of darkness away, but it continued to grow, closing in on her from all directions, obscuring her vision until the blackness stole it entirely. Her body, no longer able to withstand the intense pain that assaulted it and weak from the loss of blood, grew limp and heavy.

Try as she might, Kylie could no longer go on. Furious with herself and filled with utter despair that she had been unable to save her mother, she fell face down into the grass as the darkness grabbed her and carried her away.

Chapter 3

Whistling a happy tune, Hunter sauntered through the front gates of the city of Fairlawn and headed for the small path that would lead him through the Elleinad Forest and into the neighboring town of Steproth. A smile on his face and a twinkle in his eyes, he strolled contentedly down the winding path as it led him away from Fairlawn and down through the grassy fields that ushered in the Elleinad Forest. He had been eagerly anticipating the upcoming afternoon all morning, and his patience—or lack thereof—had finally gotten the best of him. He had rushed through the last of his chores—much to the dismay of his mother who had nearly been run over in process—and, after thoroughly apologizing to his compassionate and understanding mother, had finished well ahead of time and was now reaping his just reward. He had gained an extra free hour. That meant another hour that he could spend enjoying the afternoon fishing with his best friend, Kylie.

Two fishing poles in hand, he quickly strolled through the tall grass as a profuse blanket of colorful flowers spread out all around him. Butterflies dancing and bees buzzing from flower to flower, Hunter grinned as he watched the busy insects go about their business, collecting pollen from the colorful blooms. Chuckling gaily to himself, he thought of what Kylie's reaction would be to the throng of bees busy at work in the fields. High-spirited and adventurous, she was afraid of nothing; nothing, that is, except the tiny insects that buzzed around him now, the small creatures rousing a totally irrational but nonetheless all too real fear within her that she had no control over.

At the sight of just one of these tiny insects, she became hysterical, and no amount of reassurance could make her behave any less irrational. But that is all fine and good, thought Hunter as he smiled to himself. He enjoyed being the chivalrous hero who protected her from the nasty little wayward creatures that, at times, found their way into their homes through open windows but were strangely incapable of and unable to navigate their way back out. Her knight in shining armor, he told himself, smiling.

Grinning broadly, he walked along at a steady pace, the warm summer sunshine beating down on his broad, muscular back which was already golden from the sun. The air was thick with moisture, and he soon found himself covered with perspiration. Birds sat, huddled quietly amongst the leaves of the few trees that dotted the fields, the small feathered creatures too hot to venture into the sunshine, too hot to even sing. Wiping the sweat from his forehead, he decided that a quick dip in the cool water would be the first order of business once they arrived at the designated fishing hole.

He looked in the distance and could see the beginning of the Elleinad Forest still far ahead of him, and he hoped it would be cooler once he found himself beneath the shadows of the trees. Still gazing ahead at the path before him, Hunter was suddenly aware of a strange form lying in the tall grass. What, he wondered, was it? An injured animal? He quickened his pace, moving quietly and cautiously so as not to startle whatever it was that lay ahead of him. Squinting and shading the sun from his eyes, he walked briskly down the path toward what he assumed was an injured animal, but as he drew closer, he grew more and more suspicious. It didn't look like an animal at all—it looked like a person! Why in the blazes would someone be lying in the middle of the field? he wondered as he quickened his pace, knowing full well that no one would be unless something was wrong.

Suddenly, a terrifying dread washed over him, and he began to run down the path, dropping both fishing poles into the tall grass along the way. It couldn't be her, he tried to convince to himself as a terror began to consume him. It couldn't be! Why would she be here, in the fields outside of Fairlawn? But try as he might to convince himself that it wasn't Kylie, his instincts were telling him otherwise, and he raced down the path, praying to the Just Creator that his instincts were wrong. He could now see that the still form was covered with blood, and stricken with a panic that consumed him, he raced to the injured person and quickly knelt down in the grass beside them.

Gently, he lifted and turned the still form toward him, hoping fervently that his instincts had been wrong and that it was not Kylie whom he now held in his arms, but when he looked down, his heart plummeted as he found himself looking at the dirt-covered face of his best friend. Her body, limp in his trembling arms, was covered in blood, and her clothes were ripped and torn, and Hunter gazed down at her in stunned disbelief, wondering what could have possibly happened to her. Was she attacked by an animal? No, there were no animals in this area that would—or could—cause such injuries. He glanced down at her right leg, red and swollen, covered with painful blisters, and then at the bandage around her upper arm, now soaked completely through with blood. He could feel her body burning beneath his touch as she lay limp in his arms and it filled him with an overwhelming dread.

Kylie! he whispered hoarsely. Kylie, can you hear me? He gazed down anxiously at her small face now covered in dirt and blood. Gently, he brushed away the hair that lay plastered to her face, praying for a response, praying to the Just Creator above to spare her, to make her open her eyes, but they remained closed. Quickly, he grabbed her wrist and frantically searched for a pulse, heaving a great sigh of relief when he felt the weak pounding as her blood flowed through her veins. She was alive, but just barely.

He knew he had to get help immediately if she were to survive, and he quickly but gently began to lift her into his arms. It's okay, Kylie, he whispered softly into her ear. I'm here now. Everything will be all right. I won't let anything happen to you.

*****

Kylie floated on a sea of clouds through the darkest of nights oblivious to everything surrounding her, oblivious to all that had taken place that morning. All memories of the attack on her village were washed away, erased so that she felt none of the fear, none of the sorrow, none of the pain. A gentle breeze kissed her cheeks, and she sighed contentedly. Then, from seemingly far in the distance, Kylie heard a sound, someone calling her name from another world, telling her all would be all right, and she smiled. It was Hunter!

She was safe now. Hunter would not let anything happen to her. The darkness that wrapped itself around her began to grow even darker, but then in the midst of the darkness, a soft light began to emerge. It grew brighter and brighter, and Kylie watched it in wonder. Within the light, she saw a face—a beautiful face of a woman. Kylie gazed at the face mesmerized when, suddenly, the vision began to speak, her voice like the melody of a beautiful song. Kylie, it is not your time yet. You have much to do still. The world needs you. You must go back, Kylie. You must tell Hunter about the attack on your village.

And suddenly, Kylie remembered—her mother! How could she have forgotten? She was supposed to be getting help! She could hear Hunter's voice again, and she tried desperately to make her lips move, tried to tell him that her village was under attack, but her mouth refused to comply. She fought with the darkness now, refusing to let it take her. She had to save her mother. She had to save Steproth.

Hunter! her mind shouted, but still no sound came from her lips. Blast! Why wouldn't her lips move? Terrified now that she would die before she could summon help for her mother and her village, she prayed one last time, Please give me the strength to speak! and her prayer was answered.

Finally, she was able to force her mouth to move, force her lips to form the words, and with all the will and strength she could muster, she whispered weakly, Steproth…under attack and then, too exhausted to do anything more, she let the darkness take hold of her once again, and she fell limp into Hunter's arms.

*****

The words echoed in Hunter's head like a deafening roar.

Under attack? he thought, stunned and horrified. How could that be? How was it possible? He looked down at Kylie's bloody form and knew that he had no time to dwell on how such a thing could have happened. He had to get Kylie to the infirmary—she needed help, and she needed it now. Lifting Kylie's head up gently, he saw a stray tear escape from her closed eye, dripping down her cheek, leaving a small path through the blood and dirt that caked her face, and his heart shattered.

Kylie, please don't cry, he whispered softly. Everything will be all right, I promise. And, quickly, he lifted her into his arms and began to run toward home, whispering words of comfort as he did so. His mind still dazed and stunned, he cursed himself for not having protected her as he had been charged. Whatever had happened to her was his fault, for he was supposed to keep her safe. Her words continued to echo in his head as he raced through the fields. Steproth was under attack? How could