The Book of Prophecy: The Chronicles of Elementary Book One

By Steven J. Guscott

Living among the innocent, in a society blessed with peace for seven centuries, Dragatu expects to follow the same mundane path as his father.

But when he and his two brothers are granted miraculous mythical powers, and swear to keep The Book of Prophe

• Language: English
• Publisher: Steven J. Guscott
• Release date: Apr 29, 2024
• ISBN: 9781068612114

Steven J. Guscott

Steven lived in Scotland for most of his young life, but currently lives in England. At the beginning of 2010 he discovered an unhealthy obsession with writing and loves creating fantasy/sci-fi stories.His hobbies include drawing, reading, watching films, Dungeons and Dragons, and playing board games - Risk is his favourite. He also loves most types of music, and is always searching for unique books and films.To keep up with other writing projects he's working on you can visit www.stevenjguscott.com

Book preview

To Starbuck: For Giving My Dreams Life

Muad’Dib could indeed see the Future, but you must understand the limits of this power. Think of sight. You have eyes, yet cannot see without light. If you are on the floor of a valley, you cannot see beyond your valley. Just so, Muad’Dib could not always choose to look across the mysterious terrain. He tells us that a single obscure decision of prophecy, perhaps the choice of one word over another, could change the entire aspect of the future. He tells us ‘The vision of time is broad, but when you pass through it, time becomes a narrow door.’ And always, he fought the temptation to choose a clear, safe course, warning ‘That path leads ever down into stagnation.’

From Arrakis Awakening by the Princess Irulan,

Dune, Frank Herbert

1

PART ONE: FUEL

Wolf And Man

10/6/695

The snarls of the wolf were drowned by Branon’s command.

Protect your brothers Dragatu! Remember your promises!

Dragatu’s attack stopped dead. The danger they faced was too great not to obey. If he followed his fighter’s instinct, and attacked the monstrous wolf he was going to get them all killed. Instead, he froze with heart-stopping realisation, suddenly aware of what his father was doing. Branon, who was on the far side of the wolf, released an arrow.

Snarling with the sudden sharp pain, the beast whirled around, ready to punish the culprit. The distraction worked, saving Dragatu and his two brothers, but all they could do was watch as their father turned and ran for the denser area of trees. Branon gave one final loving glance their way and was gone, enveloped by the darkness of night. The enraged wolf bounded clumsily after him, hindered slightly by the wound.

A vacuum of eerie stillness was left in the gloom of the forest.

Let’s go! Dragatu suddenly cried as he sheathed his knives and gripped the shoulder strap of his bear skin pack.

Unilus was first to respond. He took Phoenon by the arm and dragged him into a run. Dragatu took the rear. They were running blind. From the dull outline of the western hills to their right, and the stars twinkling through the trees, Dragatu knew they were heading in a southerly direction. Yet, there was no time to focus on the best path out of the bowl-like valley. He kept them at a fast pace and the trees became a never-ending dark green and brown blur. Phoenon sobbed from up ahead, but Dragatu wasn’t going to let them stop to console each other. Not when that monstrous wolf was out there. Abruptly the triplets emerged from the tree line.

Argh! We’ve come too far west, Dragatu exclaimed. This isn’t the way we came in.

He took a moment to catch his breath and wiped the sweat from his forehead. His brothers said nothing, just staring, waiting to be told what they should do. Fully aware of this, he forced himself to stay calm and looked to the heavens to re-plot their course.

This way, he called.

He led them south along the edge of the valley, making sure they didn’t stray too far west up the hills, or east towards the exposed floor that had no trees. On and on they ran. Then suddenly the steady incline of the western foothills steepened dramatically, creating a grey wall. Dragatu glanced at it as he ran and caught sight of a small canyon.

That should give us cover, he said, pointing.

It’s the wrong way? Unilus protested.

Yes, but it’ll give us cover. Then we can continue south over the hills. We’ll wait there for Father.

Unilus didn’t argue anymore. The brothers entered the small canyon, walking quickly and cautiously, following it to its end. They crept from the shadows to discover the very thing that had brought them across the desert.

Water… they said in unison with a gasp.

Dragatu stepped forward slowly, all previous haste vanishing as he beheld the hidden lake. He crouched at the edge of the solid ground and put his hand into the water. It was cuttingly cold, but he ignored it. They had found what the Nation needed so desperately and that realization had gripped him. His eyes suddenly shifted focus to the image in the water. The weak reflection of his black hair, square jaw and broad shoulders stared up at him, reminding him of his father. The sight quickly dispelled the trance, bringing his awareness back to the threat they still faced. He stood up, shook his head and strained to see how far the lake extended. The starlight didn’t help much, but it was clear that water fanned and stretched out a long way. It was what they needed, but nothing could be done now. He scanned for another way out. There was none. The walls were too steep to climb and he turned back around. The only option was to lead them back the way they had come.

Unilus had already come to this conclusion.

Come on, Phoenon, he said as Dragatu turned to face them. We have to go back.

Phoenon sobbed again, turned around and breathed deeply in preparation for the exertion that was so foreign to him. Such activity was more Unilus and Dragatu’s domain.

They hastened back through the passage, Dragatu taking the forward position this time. He was ready to protect his brothers. Emerging from the darkness of the canyon, they slowed to a cautious walk.

We must continue south, and leave the valley, Dragatu announced. If we can make it over the hills, we will be safe. Father may have killed the wolf. He could be waiting for us.

I told you that was the wrong way, Unilus said.

This is no time to argue, and don’t be such a child.

Technically, I am a child, Unilus said flatly.

Thirteen is just a number. We can’t act like children if we want to survive. Now move. We can’t waste any more time.

Unilus didn’t say anything else and they started to run again. Fear made time chaotic and they pressed painfully on and on, their lungs heaving and legs burning. Just as they felt they were safe, a familiar carnal sound froze them to the spot.

Arrraaoooooo!

The deadly call grew louder as it washed over them. The beast was close.

Father… Unilus murmured.

Dragatu focused, looking around to assess his surroundings.

What shall we do? Phoenon said, panicking.

Quiet. Let me think, Dragatu replied.

The trees, Unilus whispered, pointing up.

Go then! Dragatu hissed. Be as quiet as you can!

He pulled himself up a tree with great agility and gave a last command.

Do not move, or even speak, until you hear my voice again.

They climbed as high as they could, and waited, barely daring to breathe. Mere seconds passed when ominous panting rumbled below. Dragatu moved his head slowly, squinting down through the canopy of leaves to look at the bull-sized predator. The white fur was matted with even more blood than before and it scanned the area with the piercing eyes of a merciless hunter. Its mouth held razor sharp teeth that dripped with blood, the blood of their father. Dragatu held in a gasp and a single tear ran down his cheek.

The wolf prowled and sniffed at the ground, circling the trees. It suddenly stopped. Before Dragatu could even blink it sprang to his tree, reared up and clawed at the bark, tearing away large chunks. Dragatu closed his eyes in despair.

Two things happened in quick succession. The wind changed, and then there was a loud ‘thud’ about twenty metres away in the darkness. The wolf darted off in the direction of the noise.

Dragatu sighed with relief.

What now? Unilus hissed.

Down, Dragatu called back.

He reached the bottom first, followed by Unilus. They quickly helped Phoenon down from his tree.

Now, run! Dragatu said as loud as he dared.

They set off, barely noticing the ground of the southern hill becoming slowly steeper. All their senses were alert for danger, all silently praying that the wolf wasn’t following. Dragatu gained the courage to look back down the slope. He saw no sign of the wolf amongst the trees, but didn’t allow their pace to slacken, calling out instead.

Keep going! Don’t stop! Just keep going!

Up and up the hill they ran, and after what felt like an eternity they emerged above the tree line, close to the top. Dragatu looked back again. Seeing only trees and no monstrous predator, he slowed the pace to a walk, stopped, and bent over, trying to catch his breath. His brothers stopped as well, but collapsed onto the ground, lying on their backs and struggling to breathe.

Has…has it gone? Phoenon managed to ask.

I believe so, Dragatu said, listening and surveying the surroundings.

It would have got us by now…if it was still following, Unilus concluded between breaths.

Phoenon and Unilus sat up, having recovered ever so slightly.

We must keep going to be sure, Dragatu said. We can rest once we get down the other side.

Phoenon and Unilus nodded grudgingly. They staggered to their feet and continued on, until finally they reached the top. Dragatu let them rest again, but only for a brief moment.

It’s beautiful, Phoenon said, looking north beyond all the hills that rolled towards the snow-covered mountains barely visible in the distance.

The rising sun was hidden behind them, but the light it gave was enough to show the greens of the valley and the browns of the closest hilltops. They formed a large circle in front of them, part of which they were currently standing on.

Let’s keep going, Dragatu said heavily, turning and looking south towards the desert. Once we’ve rested at the bottom of the hill, and replenished our water at the spring, we’ll have an even harder journey to get back home.

They trudged down the hillside, briefly surrounded by trees once more, until finally they came to the flatlands of grass. It would be the last greenery they saw for two weeks.

We can rest now, Dragatu said when they reached the glistening spring. Get the water you need and have some food. Then you can sleep.

We’re going to need to share our food and water. I don’t have my pack anymore, Unilus said hesitantly.

Where is it? Dragatu asked sternly.

I threw it away as a distraction when the wolf was trying to get you.

Dragatu looked down, his anger dying.

Thank you, you saved us. However, this makes the journey home more difficult. We’re going to have to be very careful. Let’s hope we find the same small springs, and can catch some desert animals. Although, I don’t fancy any more lizard. He smiled weakly. We can worry about it later. Get some sleep.

What about you? Phoenon asked.

I’ll keep watch in case the wolf comes. I don’t think it will. It’ll most likely return to its territory when it can’t find us.

Once they had eaten and drank, Phoenon and Unilus lay down. Dragatu sat on a boulder next to the spring. He listened to their sobs, but it wasn’t long before exhaustion took them and they fell asleep. Dragatu sat still on the boulder, beginning to re-live the horror of what had happened. He wrapped his arms around his chest, bowed his head and tried to come to terms with the death of his father, crying silently into his arms. He remembered Branon’s last words and thought about his unique burden: the burden of the Book of Prophecy.

2

Secrets And Promises

One month earlier…

9/5/695

Shouts and grunts, followed by laughter and chuckles could be heard from the courtyard of the only three-storey house in the wealthy southern part of the Nation. The house was the familiar square design of brick that belonged to the rich, but its extra level made it stand out amongst the normal two-storey houses that had been built nearly a century earlier.

The streets and better houses were designed by those who had stored wealth and decided to extend the growing Nation. Each street had been made wide enough for two carts to pass side by side, and each had a row of houses down either side. The courtyards to the rear of the houses were shared by another row of houses, their backs facing the courtyard and fronts leading onto another street. These changes had been the first signs of a class divide, bringing subtle divisions amongst this innocent and mostly united people.

Ha! I win again! came the shout from Dragatu. You should really stick to your inventions and animals, he said as he held Unilus in a chokehold.

Their playful wrestling had come to a stalemate. However, Dragatu had finally shifted his weight, moved his arm over Unilus’ corn yellow shoulder-length hair and around his neck, linking his hand to his wrist. He applied pressure.

Unilus squirmed with his whole body, grabbing with his toned but strong arms, trying to get a hold of Dragatu. The intense struggle continued under the warmth of the high sun. Locked by Dragatu’s ox-like strength and muscular bulk Unilus was like a fly trying to escape a spider’s web. Finally, he accepted defeat and tapped.

Well done! Branon shouted, leaning against the stone wall that ran down the side of the courtyard of their deep-red brick house.

Dragatu made his quick boast, released Unilus and they both stood up. They breathed heavily and bowed their heads, acknowledging the praise.

I’m so blessed to have such strong sons, Branon continued.

Thank you, Father. We learned from the best, Dragatu said, looking up at his father, who stroked his short black beard out of habit.

The beard was the only thing, apart from age, which separated Dragatu and Branon in their facial appearance. Dragatu had inherited his father’s strong square jaw and jet black hair, and people always commented on how similar they looked.

Branon’s habitual movement was followed by a sly grin and playful retort.

And who was that then, eh? I’ll not have another man teach my sons to fight!

There was a brief silence and Dragatu struggled not to roll his eyes.

Branon suddenly let out a bark-like laugh in feigned surprise.

Oh, you meant me?

Dragatu couldn’t help but sigh.

Unilus wasn’t exactly sure what was so funny, but smiled and nodded, humouring his father.

Okay, I’m sorry, that was a bad joke, Branon admitted through deep chuckles. Unilus I guess you’d prefer something that’s a bit more sensible?

Unilus hesitated, unsure how to reply, but finally nodded.

Well, how about you go inside and get Phoenon for me? I’ve something I want to discuss with the three of you.

Unilus nodded once, turned around and walked with his head held high and back straight as he always did. With Unilus gone, Dragatu took the chance to discuss his wrestling.

Do you think Unilus will ever beat me?

Probably not. You’re very strong and very skilled, Branon replied.

So you agree that I’m the best?

There was a brief pause.

Yes, Branon said hesitantly, you are the best at wrestling, but remember that everyone is good at something. Your brothers have amazing strengths that make them special. It’s not always the strongest that succeeds. It’s often the wise, or even the compassionate.

But if you’re strong then you can beat them in a fight?

Branon frowned, and opened his mouth to speak, but as he did Unilus and Phoenon appeared from the open backdoor of the house.

We’ll talk about this some other time, he replied quietly.

The other two boys strolled over, Phoenon smiling widely at his father, and they both stood beside Dragatu.

Thank you, Unilus.

Branon smiled and turned to Phoenon.

Are you having a good day? he asked, his voice gentle for his sensitive son.

Yes, Father, he replied bouncing on his toes. I was just helping Mother prepare some snacks.

That’s very kind of you. What do you say, Unilus? Dragatu?

Thanks, they replied in unison.

Phoenon’s round baby-like face beamed with the joy he felt from knowing he had helped.

I’ve some exciting news for you, Branon declared as he crouched down and placed a hand on the dry, dark brown soil. Sit down my sons, he continued soberly. And listen well.

They obeyed.

When I was your age this ground was green with fresh grass, but now it’s hard and difficult to maintain. Do you understand why this has happened?

Unilus answered first.

Because the number of people has grown dramatically, and we don’t have enough water for everyone.

Correct, Branon replied. We know from the records people have left, and from the Book of Law, that our ancestors have been here for six-hundred and ninety-five years. We’ve always had what we needed and never had a reason to search beyond the land we already know.

He stopped for a moment and stared at the soil as he crumbled it between his fingers.

In more recent times some people have taken it upon themselves to explore. This is out of desperation. We really need to find a new water source that would be big enough to help us, but no one has been successful.

He stopped talking. As he crouched, he began to draw on the surface of the dry dirt with his finger, drawing a circle to show the Nation, and continued to draw a rudimentary map. Once it was finished he spoke.

Those who went east, beyond the ore pits, only found canyons and mountains. To the south is the salty sea that can’t be used. The forests in the west appear to go on forever, and only small lakes have been found.

He started to make a lot of little dots to the north of his map, pressing hard with his fingernail.

The one place that hasn’t been explored is what lies beyond the desert to the north.

The boys took a sharp intake of breath, preempting what was to come.

I wish to explore and find what’s beyond the desert, Branon declared, confirming their thoughts. I believe there must be land beyond it. We know of the lions that sometimes appear and try to take our livestock. Surely they must come from somewhere? If we explore, we could find where they come from and there might be water that can be transported here. This will help those who are suffering and we can stop this problem before it gets any worse.

The passion in his voice showed his love for the people. There was a long pause as the reality of what their father suggested sunk in. Phoenon spoke first.

Isn’t it too dangerous?

It could be dangerous, but I believe we can do this. We can find the water that will save many lives, Branon repeated, adding a reassuring smile.

We? Unilus asked, noticing the term had been used a few times.

Yes. I want the four of us to go. It’ll be a great adventure. Would you like that?

Yes! Dragatu exclaimed without any hesitation.

Branon smiled at the enthusiasm and looked at Unilus and Phoenon.

I will, Unilus said after a few moments of thinking. It will be a good chance to see if anything exists beyond the desert, and maybe there’ll be some new wildlife to study.

Branon’s eyes fell lovingly on Phoenon.

Are you really sure it won’t be too dangerous? Phoenon asked softly, repeating his worries.

This is so exciting Phoenon, don’t be such a coward, Dragatu said, cutting in.

Branon turned his head patiently towards Dragatu.

Please don’t talk to your brother that way, he said sternly, giving Dragatu a disapproving look that was more effective than any shout of anger.

Dragatu looked down at the floor apologetically.

Yes, it will probably be dangerous, Branon said, turning back to Phoenon and placing a hand on his shoulder. But if we can find a way to help our people it’s worth the risk. If we can find a new water source and find a way to get it across the desert, we’ll help generations of people.

He looked to all three of them.

I want my sons there beside me if I find it. It’ll be your legacy as much as mine.

He squeezed Phoenon’s shoulder gently.

However, if you don’t want to come, I’ll not force you, but if you do, I promise I’ll look after you, and so will your brothers. No harm will befall us. I promise.

There was a pause and finally Phoenon spoke up.

I’ll go for you Father, and for the people. I trust you.

Thank you, Son, Branon smiled, hugging Phoenon tightly. So it’s settled. Start preparing your packs with things you’ll need and we’ll leave in a couple of days. And please spend as much time with your mother as you can. She volunteered to stay and collect this month’s goods from the traders. She will miss us terribly. Reassure her and calm her fears with your love. I must go and barter for some goods. We’ll need some good hunting knives and a new bow for me too. I’ll see you later for dinner.

12/5/695

Dragatu stood facing the mirror at the far corner of his bedroom and sighed with frustration. Turning to the doorway, he made his protest once more.

Must I wear these trousers, Mother? Can’t I wear my normal ones?

It’s going to be very hot as you cross the desert. Your leather ones will make you sweat and waste your body’s water. So once again, the answer is no, Healana repeated for the fourth time in two days.

Dragatu looked back to the mirror with a furrowed brow. At the same time, he ran his hands over the new hunting belt and admired the custom-made knife holsters on either side. He tried another angle.

Can I take them with me in my pack? There could be anything beyond the desert. I’d rather have them than these stupid cotton things if I need to hunt.

Healana finally gave in.

Fine. But I’ll speak to your father and he’ll make sure you don’t put them on while crossing the desert. You don’t want to make your journey any harder than it already is.

Dragatu gave a half smile.

Thanks, he said, turning back to his bed that lay parallel to the far wall of the room.

He folded up the leather trousers and added them to his bearskin pack. With one last glance at the mirror he swung the pack over his shoulder. He walked between the two other beds that were on either side of the room and followed his mother down the stairs.

Is everything okay? Branon asked as Healana and Dragatu stepped from the front door into the shadows cast by the houses in the fragile light of dawn.

Yes. It’s fine, Healana said, smiling softly. Just make sure he only wears the cotton trousers while crossing the desert. He wants to wear the leather ones, but they’ll not be good in the heat.

No they certainly won’t, Branon agreed, and as Dragatu walked over to stand beside his father, Branon gave him a wink, whispering, but maybe on the odd night they’ll be okay.

Branon quickly spoke louder to cover what he said.

Let’s do a last check of our packs before we go.

He stepped back toward the house and stood beside Healana, turning to face his sons.

Does your pack have dried food, a large blanket, spare clothes, and a full container of water?

The triplets nodded.

Good. I have everything else. It’s time to start our adventure.

He smiled, rubbing his hands together with anticipation. He waited for a moment as Healana closed the door of the house and as she came to his side he took her hand. They walked down the street. As they did, the light of the rising sun began to transform the greyness. The brick houses radiated reds, the hardened mud streets blossomed into bark-like browns, and the glossy light greens grew from patches of carefully maintained grass. Dragatu took a few brisk steps to be at the front and the others followed in pairs. People watched them with excitement. News of the adventure had spread quickly and many people had gathered specifically to say their farewells, others doing so in passing on their way to work, or to trade.

See you again soon! Dragatu’s friends called from their windows and doorways.

He waved back, but walked on swiftly, hoping they didn’t notice the cotton trousers.

They pressed on north through the streets and it wasn’t too long before the extravagance of the houses decreased. Many of these houses were wooden, but there were also clay and even some mud and straw houses of the very poor. It was Phoenon’s turn to say goodbye to his friends. They hugged him goodbye, thanked the family for what they were doing, and quickly made their way to work. By high sun, they reached the farms and it was time to say goodbye to Healana. Phoenon was the first.

I’ll miss you every day, he said, crying and hugging her tightly.

When he let her go, Unilus took his turn.

If I find a new species of flower, I will name it after you.

He turned away quickly as she smiled and nodded, he didn’t like to hug.

I’ll help look after them, Dragatu said casually and hugged her. I will miss you, he quickly whispered so no one else would hear.

Branon was the last to say goodbye.

Everything will be fine. We’ll be back before you notice we’ve left.

Healana smiled weakly.

I wish I could come. But someone has to be around to collect what our traders owe us this month and invest it back to help people.

And I love you all the more for it. You know how I hate all the figures. I will make it up to you.

You better, she said playfully.

They embraced and tears fell from their eyes. Branon wiped his away, turned and led their sons towards the desert. Healana stood watching as they passed the large reservoir, then they turned north-east away from it, walked by the farmhouses and through the livestock and crop fields, finally becoming dots on the horizon, and then they were gone.

* * *

The adventurers continued to walk to the edge of the nation. As they did, the grass of the fields turned to dry mud, like their courtyard, and by late afternoon it became sand. When Phoenon saw it he spoke up.

Is it time to rest?

Not yet, Branon said with a patient smile. It’ll be best if we keep going long into the night and sleep in the shadows of dunes by day.

Phoenon sighed heavily.

Take a sip of your water to refresh yourself, Branon continued, but remember to use it sparingly. Adjusting to this pattern will be hard, but once we do, it will make the journey easier. This is the start of a wonderful adventure so let’s enjoy it!

Branon took the front position. They trudged on over the sand, adjusting to the almost fluid foundation beneath their feet. Night came and still they pressed on, making light conversation when they needed to break the silence.

This feels like it’s going on forever, Dragatu complained for the hundredth time.

I know, Branon said