The Shattered Realm: Complete Series Bundle

By Oskar Soderberg

The complete series bundle of The Shattered Realm is finally here! One purchase for Oskar Soderberg's full debut series.

 

Dangerous things are stirring in dark corners and caravans are found attacked by strangers not quite human. Will the realm withstand the attention of forces beyond their understanding? Will the world that once slayed their own gods be ready for what comes next?

 

A young man defies all known logic of the world's system of magic. Is Sarien really broken, or is he the burning ember that is about to set the kingdom ablaze?

 

The Broken Pyromancer

Sarien yearns for a life of adventure, like his father's. Instead, he's stuck mucking out stables so the nobles don't accidentally get dirt on their polished boots.

His chance finally presents itself when a whole village's worth of people suddenly disappears. The noble house's oldest son needs extra men to hunt for whoever, or whatever, is responsible. Under cover of darkness, a ferocious beast attacks the group. In moments, they're all on the ground, wounded and helpless.

In a moment of desperation, Sarien discovers a swelling spark inside him. A flame dances in the palm of his hand, the flame of a pyromancer! Only, this one is stark white and cold, rather than burning hot. That's wrong, all wrong.

 

All pyromancers in Eldsprak are under the authority of The Burning Tower of Firemagi, even the broken ones. Sarien is finally getting the adventure he's craved for so long, but will he burn strong, or smolder away?

 

With otherworldly threats spilling into their world from somewhere beyond, Sarien and his newfound friends could be all that stands between this new threat and complete annihilation. If he doesn't come into his strange and broken powers, everything might be lost.

 

Gathering Darkness

Sarien and his friends pushed back against the Rhinn invaders in Tyralien, but that was just the first step.

When Sarien finds himself stranded in a world without magic, he knows he must find a way back to his own world before it's too late. Maydian is under attack by invaders and horrific monsters both, and its fate might rest on Sarien's ability to return and stop them.

Meanwhile, Goslin returns to his kingdom, Eldsprak, to find it under siege, teetering on the brink of destruction.

Emeryn must navigate the deserted Kinship of Jordfaste and uncover the truth about her god's survival and the Kin's plans.

Lana, a reluctant leader, returns home to rally the Loftians and discover her own strength.

And Kax, afflicted by the dark void spreading across his body, is still Kax.

 

Gatekeeper

As the god Wyndemir's assault grinds to a temporary halt, Sarien must embark on a quest to find his enigmatic, long-lost mother—Anja, one of the legendary heroes and a formidable Gatekeeper. Can she unlock the secrets of Sarien's burgeoning gray flame, and pave the way to vanquishing the monstrous invaders plaguing Maydian?

 

Meanwhile, the fallen and imprisoned deities of Maydian might be the key in this worlds-spanning web of intrigue, but their roles are shrouded in mystery. It falls upon Tomford, aided by Emeryn, to seek out the one god who still stands—Taera, the goddess of earth—and bring an end to her ominous reign. In the impending battle, they'll require every ounce of assistance they can muster.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Oskar Soderberg
• Release date: Apr 30, 2024
• ISBN: 9789198826234

Book preview

The Shattered Realm

THE SHATTERED REALM

FULL SERIES BUNDLE

OSKAR SODERBERG

Oskar Soderberg

Copyright © 2024 by Oskar Soderberg

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Cover by: getcovers.com

Editor: badassbooks.co

ISBN

The Shattered Realm - Ebook: 978-91-988262-3-4

The Broken Pyromancer - Ebook: 978-91-988261-2-8

Gathering Darkness - Ebook: 978-91-988261-5-9

Gatekeeper - Ebook: 978-91-988261-9-7

CONTENTS

Maps

The Broken Pyromancer

Gathering Darkness

Gatekeeper

About the Author

To Anna

My darling wife

MAPS

High resolution maps in color can be found on my website

oskarsoderbergbooks.com

Map of Maydian

THE BROKEN PYROMANCER

BOOK ONE

ONE

Wet grime trickled into his soft leather boots, soaking Sarien’s feet, as he slowly made his way through the stall, careful not to get too close to the horse. The horse snuffled, looked at Sarien blankly, and returned to sleep. He let out an exhale. This one liked to bite.

Sarien pulled on his foot and it came away from the muck with a sucking sound that sent a shudder of disgust down his spine. At least this time, his boot didn’t come off. Why do we have to get up before first light to muck out the horse crap? he muttered, reaching over the low wooden divider to grab a shovel.

Ben laughed from one of the other stalls. The noble Karm family might step in some dung during their morning ride if we didn’t!

What are you so happy about? Sarien grumbled. Ben hung a tiny lantern on a pillar in the middle of the stables. The light cast a small glow that fell short of the shadows lining the stable walls.

In the stalls, the two young men moved blindly, cleaning out the stalls by touch and the familiarity of having performed the same chore every morning for years. Shouldn’t you be in the kitchen helping out your mother, or at the mill? Anything would be better than this, no?

The dull thud of manure hitting the wheelbarrow told Sarien that Ben was just about finished in his stall.

I don’t mind the stables, Ben said. The horses are nice and the smell ain’t that bad, you know? Also, we get to work together! Perhaps your da will take me to train with you?

Well, yeah. I’m glad you’re here too, Sarien admitted. At least I’m not the only one smelling like dung all the time. He heaved a shovel load of manure into the wheelbarrow. Most of it landed where it was supposed to. Sarien sighed. But I’m not sure he’ll ever take me out hunting. Did you know he won’t even let me touch a bow?

Of course, I know. You keep whining about it. They let us ride sometimes, at least.

Ben’s relentless optimism never failed to put Sarien in a better mood. The short young man went through life seeing the happy coincidences and enjoyed every little nugget of gold found in the horse crap that was their occupation. Did you ask about riding today?

One of the horses snorted, as if making fun of them. I did, Ben replied.

And?

The gangly young man turned to give Sarien his widest grin. The stablemaster said we could as long as we don’t take Trillian’s or Hacha’s horses. Or your da’s. Imagine if we rode Talc’s horse, huh?

My father would skin us alive if we even tried to saddle his beast, much less ride it, Sarien said, edging out of the stall to get away from that very horse. So we can go when we’re done here?

Ben nodded. Sure. Your da won’t mind?

I’m sure he’s going off on some hunt, an errand for Karm, or something fun. Keeps saying he’s too busy to teach me anything.

Well, at least we get to ride, Ben said. Ever the optimist.

At least we get to ride, Sarien agreed. His father always said he’d teach Sarien archery, tracking, and bushcraft once he was older and more experienced, whatever that meant, but it never happened.

At eighteen, Sarien was already considered a man by most, except his own father. He knew he lacked the knowledge and experience to become a proficient huntsmaster like his father and worried about what would happen when he eventually retired from the post. It didn’t make any sense why Talc avoided training his own son. Sarien gritted his teeth. It was a waste of time thinking about it. No matter how much he begged his father to train him, his pleas fell on deaf ears.

Sarien continued on to the next stall where a fresh pile of manure waited for him.

Soft morning sunlight streamed in through the stable windows when the two of them were nearly done. Just one more stall, then they’d wash up and head for the kitchen and get some breakfast from Ben’s mother, Lilian. She was the estate’s head cook and always made sure they got plenty to eat.

Sarien’s stomach growled as he entered the last stall, where the horse belonging to Trillian waited. He was the oldest child and only son of Hacha and was next in line to inherit the whole Karm estate and the title that went with it, and he lived to remind Sarien of that fact whenever he had the chance. He was, without a doubt, a royal pain in Sarien’s butt.

The stable door banged open. Good morning!

Sarien winced and glanced up. Shit, he’s here, and he brought his friends. The two boys glanced at each other, a silent message passing between them, before they hurriedly went to work.

Trillian’s three large friends chuckled. They all looked remarkably alike with their wide shoulders, strong arms, and dull expressions, but they weren’t brothers. Ola, the redhaired one with the wide nose, was the son of one of the lumberjacks and helped out in the forest cutting timber. Perti was a little taller than the other two and worked in the mill carrying sacks of grain around all day. Both Perti and Hein, the third of them, had light brown hair. Hein worked as a blacksmith’s apprentice and was squat with thick arms like tree-trunks.

All three were commoners but hung around Trillian, because he didn’t have any other nobles to socialize with. Sarien once overheard him beg Hacha to send him to Fyrie, the capital, so he could make proper friends, but Hacha refused.

Just keep your head down, Ben whispered. Don’t let him get to you.

The two horse boys! Trillian said, a sneer in his voice so obvious Sarien didn’t have to look up to see it on his face. Saddle my horse for me, horse boys!

Sarien clenched his jaw so hard that it began to ache. The saddles are over there, he said, pointing at the far wall while keeping his tone as even as possible. I’m sure you know how it’s done.

Ben gave him a quick wide-eyed look. I’ll do it, hold on a moment. He opened the stall and guided the horse out before running across the stable to fetch a saddle.

Trillian waited patiently, watching with a smug grin on his face, and then patted Ben on the shoulder when he was done. That’s a good lad. At least one of you know how to respond to your betters.

Ben’s face turned beet red but he said nothing. Trillian turned to his friends with the horse’s reins in his hand. Let’s get out of here, the boys smell worse than the stables themselves!

Manure flew through the air and splattered Trillian, covering the entire right side of his body. His face was smeared with crap and his fine clothes ruined.

Sarien looked from his shovel, to Trillian, and then back again in wonder. He hadn’t thought. He’d just done it. There would be hell to pay, but he squared his shoulders and said, Don’t talk to Ben like that, or next time you’ll be eating it!

Ben, Trillian, and his three very large friends stared at him in silent disbelief for a moment, then Trillian’s blank expression turned into pure rage.

Oh shit, was all Sarien had time to say before the four men jumped onto him, tumbling him to the floor, and flattened him face first into the muck.

Worth it, Sarien mumbled as he stepped into the chilly water. The river started somewhere up in the mountains that separated their remote part of the kingdom of Eldsprak from the kingdom of Loft. He didn’t know much about the neighboring country other than how they used aeromancers, the wind mages, to sail their ships faster than any other kingdom’s. That speed meant they ruled over the oceans, though, nowadays it was mainly the merchants who enriched themselves with trade. No use for battleships in a time of peace that had lasted for hundreds of years.

Sarien sighed and dunked his head under water. They were far from such things here on the Karm estate and he wouldn’t ever likely see a ship in his lifetime.

Was it? Really? Ben asked when Sarien came up for air. He sat drying on a rock after having washed himself in a hurry.

Sarien winced. Sorry, I didn’t think they would come after you too.

At least they didn’t beat me, Ben said. Just the horse poop.

So much poop, Sarien agreed. Trillian was not prone to mercy at the best of times. He and his friends hadn’t been satisfied until Sarien was all but unconscious.

How are the bruises? Ben asked.

They’ll heal, Sarien said.

Do you think they’ll still let us go riding?

Sarien shook his head and water spattered from his short, light brown hair. I don’t think so. He swam to the edge of the river and pulled his clothes in with him. He scrubbed them vigorously. They’d need a good rinsing before he’d put them back on.

Ben ran a hand through his mop of brown hair. What do you think your da will say?

Guess we’ll soon know, Sarien said, pointing over Ben’s shoulder. Talc, his father, the huntsmaster, approached and he did not look pleased. Talc’s eyes made him look old beyond his years and the short-clipped dark beard only added to that image. With his impressive height and broad shoulders, the man could cut an imposing figure even if he looked a little thin.

I think I’m going to go. Ben hurriedly gathered his clothes and scampered off without waiting for a reply.

Talc walked up to the edge of the water and threw a bundle on the ground. Get out of there, Sarien. He sounded tired and exasperated, rather than angry. That was good, wasn’t it? On closer inspection, he looked a little disheveled, as if he’d been pulled out of bed to answer for Sarien’s actions.

Sarien pointed to the bundle. What’s that?

Brought you some clothes. Heard yours might be a little dirty.

A little. Sarien got out of the water and dressed without drying himself off. The warm air would take care of that soon enough. Late summer was turning into fall, but it was still warm enough in the middle of the morning. You spoke to Hacha?

He nodded. I did.

And?

What do you expect? He isn’t happy that you humiliated his son.

You know how Trillian is! He made fun of us. Made fun of Ben!

Talc sighed and sat down on the ground. Hacha knows his son well. That’s why there won’t be any punishments. They could have you whipped for this, you know?

Whipped? Sarien asked incredulously. You’re joking? He started it!

He is a noble. You are not. But like I said, that won’t happen.

Sarien narrowed his eyes. This is your fault, you know? I should be out there with you hunting, not cleaning out the stables!

Talc barked a laugh. My fault? You’ve really showed that you’re mature enough to handle something more than mucking out the stalls today. He sighed again. What I’m trying to say is it’s important to pick your battles. You’re never going to beat Trillian at this game.

So, I should just not stand up for my friend? For myself? Sarien was both taller and stronger than Trillian. Sure, most of that muscle came from shoveling crap, but he was pretty sure he could best the noble son in a one-to-one fight.

You should always stand up for yourself. Just pick your fights and your moment. You and Trillian have been butting heads for nearly all of your lives. You should both know better. That’s why we’re sending the two of you on a task. Both Hacha and I hope that this will bring the two of you closer together.

Sarien perked up. A task? He frowned. With Trillian?

Don’t mess up this chance, Talc admonished. You don’t know how uncommon it is to have a house ruled by a noble who doesn’t just trample on the commoners in his employ. This is your chance to prove that you can rise above the petty squabbles and show that you’re ready for something other than the stables.

So, what's the task? Sarien asked.

His father grinned. I knew you’d be interested. His smile faded away. We’ve had word from a nearby village, Kalstram. Some people went missing. A few were found dead, their bodies torn apart by large claws. The rest of the villagers have run off, refusing to return unless Hacha sends some people to investigate. We thought it would be a good test for you and Trillian, to make sure you can work together. If you’re to become huntsmaster in the future, you and he will need to put your differences aside.

People disappeared and were killed? Sarien fidgeted with his dirty clothes. Are you coming?

No, Talc said. I have some other issues that I need to deal with. This is probably nothing more than a bear who wandered too close to the village. We will send a few soldiers with you and Trillian, so there should be no issue. You can handle this, right?

Sarien stood. Of course! I’ll make you proud, father. What about Ben?

I talked to Griswold. He has agreed to let you take out the horses. Ben can accompany you. Just be careful.

Sarien nodded vigorously. We’ll be careful. So, what are we supposed to do? Find the bear and kill it?

Scare it off, if possible. If not, you have our permission to kill it. Bears can be quite strong and fast, so you better be ready for a fight. Trillian will take the lead so you will have to learn how to swallow your pride and take orders from him. He'll make sure you get proper weapons. Something easy to use, since you have no experience. Can you follow him in this?

Fine. I’ll do what he says. Where are you going?

Nowhere in particular, I’m just a very busy man. You better hurry. The others are already getting ready to leave.

I’ll be off then, father. Don't wait up!

The others were indeed ready to leave when Sarien returned to the estate. Ben sat quietly on a horse and waited apart from Trillian, three of his friends, and a young woman Sarien hadn't seen before.

Trillian greeted him with a sneer. So, you're finally here. My father said you have to follow my commands, so you better do as I say. Do you understand?

Sarien lowered his eyes. I understand. He glanced around. Where are the soldiers? My father said we would have an escort.

Trillian barked a short laugh, his friends joining in. We don't need soldiers. My companions here will be enough, of course. He turned to the young woman and his voice grew even more arrogant. You don't have to worry about your safety, dear. I will take care of you. I apologize for these two ruffians but I'm afraid my father did not leave me much choice in the matter.

She shrugged and replied, I don't mind. Just make sure whatever it is you're hunting does not come after me.

Of course. You're perfectly safe in my company. Trillian turned to address the group as Sarien mounted the lone riderless horse. It's a bit less than an hour's ride to the village. We’ll follow the road for a while then turn off and cross the fields to shorten the journey. Once there, we’ll search the village and deal with whatever we find. Understand?

Ben nudged his horse to close the distance between him and Sarien. Do you think it's a monster? I bet it's a monster.

I don't think there are any monsters in Eldsprak, Sarien whispered back. It's probably a bear, like my father said.

Ben shook his head. I bet it's a monster.

Once they’d set out down the gravel path from the estate that would take them to the main road, Ben handed over a paper-wrapped packet to Sarien. From my mom. The thought of you going without breakfast made her anxious. She said we couldn’t have that.

Sarien gratefully accepted and unwrapped the paper to find a bread roll stuffed with a thick slice of hard cheese and several strips of bacon. Sarien tore into it enthusiastically, relishing every bite. She takes care of me like I’m your brother or something. Can't fault her for that, right?

Ben shrugged. I guess.

When he finished, Sarien tucked the paper into his pocket. So, what about weapons? Sarien called out so his question would carry over to Trillian who rode some distance ahead.

Trillian ignored him, but Ben answered, There is a weapon cache near the village. We are going to stop there, according to Trillian.

I hope he’s not lying, Sarien said. They are all carrying swords. What are we supposed to use?

Spears, if they have any? Ben said. I won’t mind some distance between us and whatever we are supposed to fight.

Sarien shook his head. A spear would be fine. I wish I knew how to shoot a bow, that would be even better.

A little while later, they turned away from the road and started across a field of grass dotted by large boulders. Just as Ben said, they eventually made it to a cabin. Deer horns were affixed above the door and when Sarien peeked through a gap in the shuttered windows, he saw pelts and skins on the floor and walls.

What is this place? he asked.

Trillian sighed and gestured to a small shack right next to the house. My father said you’d find weapons in there. This place is used by the village’s hunters, apparently. Now hurry it up, I want this done before sundown.

Ben dismounted and hurried over to the shack. He opened the door then turned back. There are only staves in here.

So, take a stave, Trillian said. We four have steel enough to deal with whatever animal is terrorizing the villagers.

Sarien accepted one from Ben. Maybe there are more weapons in the house?

No, Trillian said. My father told us to grab what we needed from the shack. That was it. Let’s go.

But we can’t fight with these, Sarien protested.

Are you going to argue and disobey me? Trillian asked, his voice dangerous. Good luck following in your father’s footsteps then.

Fine, Sarien grumbled. I’ll just beat the bear to death with a stick.

TWO

The village was eerily quiet. Not a sound to be heard. Not from humans or animals, nor from whatever chased them away.

A thrumming began in Sarien’s chest, something more than a sense of unease. Something he hadn’t felt before. A beat. Almost like his own heartbeat, except it and his heartbeat didn’t match up.

Sarien tried to shake the sensation off and focused on what was in front of his eyes. Everyone is just gone.

Trillian waved for Sarien and Ben to approach the rest of the group where they’d stopped a little way off. Neither him nor his friends looked very bold now that they’d arrived. The strange quiet was getting to them as well. Check the nearest houses to see if anyone stayed behind.

You want us to go alone? With the sticks? Sarien asked, holding up the stave.

Trillian shrugged. You do as I say or when we return home, I can inform your father and mine how you willfully disobeyed me.

Fine, Sarien said. He thought it unlikely that a bear would be hiding inside one of the houses.

The village was tiny with only one main road and a smaller one running parallel. Three rows of buildings lined them, mainly homes. A few farms dotted the horizon, but their main concern was the village itself. At the end of the road sat an inn, the only two-story building in the village.

Sarien and Ben approached the closest house and knocked. There was no answer. Sarien leaned in closer to the door. Hello? Nothing.

They’re all gone, Ben said. They both looked back to Trillian and his friends, as if asking what to do next.

Well, go on. Try the door. Ben and Sarien looked at each other and shrugged. Sarien tried the door handle and it swung open without a sound. The inside was a mess. It looked like the people who lived here had gathered their belongings in a hurry before running off.

Do you really think a bear would have scared these people like this? Ben asked.

I don't know, but I don’t like this, Sarien said. He turned back to Trillian again. They all left!

Trillian released a heavy sigh and rode closer. Do I have to do everything myself? You two go down the side street and check the houses there. Every one, mind you. He turned to his friends You three, check the buildings on the main road. I’ll stay here with Lady Trishan to make sure she's protected. Return here when you're done, or yell if you find someone.

Ola, Perti, and Hein dismounted and drew their swords. They hurried down the road, splitting up and each disappearing into a building.

What’s the plan if we don’t find anything? Sarien asked, watching as Perti exited one house and shook his head in the negative before moving onto the next. What do we know about what happened here? My father mentioned claw marks. Anything else?

Just go and do what you’re told. Leave the thinking to your betters, Trillian answered.

The thumping in Sarien’s chest hadn’t stopped. If anything, it changed a little, or perhaps his sense of it was getting better. There was a direction to it now. Like a pulling force that wanted him to go east. He looked in that direction but saw nothing but hills and more rocky grassland. What’s over there? he muttered.

What’s that? Ben asked.

Sarien looked up, startled. What? Oh, nothing. He blinked and then turned to go. Let’s get this over with. I’m sure the rest of the houses will be empty too.

They were. All of them. Not a single villager stayed behind. The group gathered outside the inn.

Now what? Ola asked, his voice almost a whisper. Sarien wasn’t sure he’d ever heard the man speak before.

The young noblewoman hugged herself and kept glancing at the shadows between the buildings. I don’t like this, Tril. Why don’t we just ride back?

There is no need to worry, Lady Trishan, Trillian said, patting the scabbard at his side. Not as long as I have this.

What then? Sarien asked.

The last attack occurred at night. We’ll stay here and wait for it to return, he said, pointing at the inn.

You want to stay the night? Ben asked, his voice uncertain.

We will stay the night, Trillian repeated. And I don’t want any whining out of any of you. This has to work out.

Work out? Ben asked.

Never mind! Trillian barked. He waved to the inn. Just do as I say!

All they could do was wait for night to fall. Sarien thought they could have ridden out into the country to investigate the surroundings, but Trillian didn’t give that order and would probably have bitten Sarien’s head off if he tried to suggest it.

The group sat in the main room of the inn after raiding the cabinets for food. There was plenty to eat and even some opened casks of wine. Sarien drank deeply, the wine providing some much-needed warmth.

Ben came out of the kitchen with an excited grin on his face. He held up two large knives and a bundle of thin rope. Look!

Knives? Sarien asked.

That’s right!

What about them?

You said you wanted a spear, didn’t you? Ben proffered the items. Well, now we can!

Oh! Sarien said. Good idea, Ben!

Lisa always says you’re the pretty one and I’m the smart one.

Sarien raised his brow. She said what?

Ben laughed. Those big eyes of yours and the wide mouth. She says you’re pretty, like a girl.

I’m not sure that’s a compliment, Sarien said, accepting a knife and a length of rope. And I’m even less sure you’re the smart one.

Of course, I’m the smart one. You’re doing that all wrong.

Sarien was trying to tie the knife to the staff, but the knife kept slipping free. So, you’re an expert on spear making too?

It’s kind of obvious when you think about it, you can’t just tie the thing to the stick. You do it like this, Ben said and produced a hammer he’d found somewhere. He placed his blade against the top and struck it with the hammer so it dug into the wood. A few more strikes and the wood parted about a hand’s breadth down the middle. Once that was done, Ben placed the knife down on the floor and struck the handle a few times until it broke off. With the blade free, he placed it into the split wood and then tied the rope around it.

Sarien couldn’t help but be impressed. How did you know to do that?

Told you I’m the smart one, Ben said, handing over the spear and grabbing Sarien’s stave. My da makes a lot of things for the stables himself without asking the smith. It isn’t that difficult.

You are full of surprises.

Ben grinned. With this, we’re ready for anything!

Outside, the day was drawing to a close. They would soon find if whatever had haunted the village still lingered just out of sight.

The tugging in Sarien’s chest didn’t stop. It made him want to head east. His left hand tingled with pins and needles. Sarien held it out in front of his face and flexed it. There was no difference that he could see, but it was almost as if something occupied the left side of his body.

Are you listening? Trillian said, pulling Sarien out of his own head.

What?

You are on first watch. I just told you.

You want me to go out there alone? In the dark?

Trillian rolled his eyes. Do you have to question everything I tell you to do? He raised a fist in front of Sarien’s face. This is it. Show me, your father, and my father that you have what it takes. You have your little spear and I'm not asking you to fight anything by yourself. If you see anything, you yell for us. Don’t try to be a hero. He opened the fist and put it on Sarien’s shoulder, smiling. I don't want to have to be the one to tell your father you died.

Sarien looked to Ben who shrugged and gave him a weak smile. The three brothers remained silent, and the young lady was picking at her nails.

I'll do it, Sarien said. Sarien was terrified but didn't want to show it. He opened the front door of the inn and stepped outside.

Lamplight shone through the inn windows. The light only reached a few steps, before darkness overwhelmed the village. It wasn’t just dark. It was pitch black. Sarien turned away from the inn, putting the light behind him, and waited for his eyes to adjust. He gripped the makeshift spear until his knuckles whitened from the pressure.

Without thinking, he moved in the direction of the tugging inside his chest. The sensation soothed him. A sound brought him out of the daze. He blinked. It sounded like someone stepping on the dirt path and came from the other side of the house that stood directly in front of him. He heard it again.

He stepped back slowly and turned to face the comforting sight of the inn. He was about to break into a run when a single word broke the silence around him.

Help.

Sarien spun on his heels, his breath caught in his throat. Now he knew that whatever was out in the night wasn’t a bear. Unless it was an exceptionally clever one that could speak.

Hello? he called out softly.

Help.

A woman’s voice, but rough and flat. There was no fear in the voice. No emotion at all.

A cold shiver ran down his spine, but he shook it off and took a step toward where he thought he heard the voice last.

Help.

Sarien did not call out again, but he stepped forward. All he wanted was to run and get the others, but what if there was someone under attack? There were no sounds of struggle, but the person might be trapped.

With the spear held out in front of him, Sarien rounded the corner and peered into the darkness. He cursed himself for not bringing a lantern. He learned when he was younger that he possessed the ability to see better than others in the dark, on account of his large eyes his father said, but he struggled to make out the form before him.

Sarien squinted and saw the silhouette of someone crouching on the path. Are you well?

The person stood up and barely reached his waist. A child? Sarien took a step forward but stopped abruptly. Something was wrong with the child’s shape. Its arms dragged on the ground. Sarien took a hasty step back.

The creature’s strangely long, tapered fingers reached out to him. Help.

It followed as Sarien backed out of the narrow passageway between the houses and toward the inn. As they rounded the corner, light glinted off the creature’s fingers. Not fingers. Claws.

Sarien screamed and pulled back. He tripped and fell, then flipped onto his stomach and pushed himself up and ran as fast as his legs could carry him. A sudden sharp pain seared into his arm and he cried out, dropping his spear.

Sarien looked over his shoulder to find the creature standing next to a covered well.

Smooth, rounded face with no holes for eyes. A small mouth with lips curled back to reveal sharp, pin-like teeth. In one hand, it held the severed head of a young woman with her eyes rolled back, showing the whites against the monstrous pitch-black skin of the creature. The woman’s mouth bobbed up and down as if jerked on a string and said, Help.

Sarien screamed.

He turned to run the last few steps to the inn and almost cried tears of happiness when Trillian barged out of the front door with his friends close behind him. All four had their swords dawn. Ben followed with his spear while Lady Trishan peered out from the doorway.

What? Trillian barked, scanning the surrounding area. Did you see it?

Sarien almost fell as he turned to point at the creature. All he saw was the empty road. It was right there!

What was it? Ben asked, his eyes wide and his mouth set in a nervous half-smile, as if he didn’t know if he should be frightened or excited.

I don’t know. A monster! Sarien stammered.

Lady Trishan’s voice sounded shrill from inside the inn. We’re going right now, Trillian. Do you hear me?

Trillian waved at her. In a moment, dear, then pointed his sword at Sarien. Are you sure it wasn’t a bear?

Yes! Sarien yelled. It was right there! He pointed again, a flash of movement caught his eye off to his right. There! Did you see it?

Trillian turned in the direction he’d indicated. I can’t see a damned thing.

It’s out there, Sarien whispered. About the size of a child. It has claws, sharp teeth. Sarien pointed at his own face. No eyes!

I swear if this is a trick, Trillian said, his eyes scanning the darkness. His pale expression said that he wished Sarien was trying to scare him.

Sarien held up his injured arm. The cloth of his sleeve was torn and a bright red line marked his skin. The creature had only grazed him. I’m not!

I saw something! Perti exclaimed, pointing one thick finger into the night.

Trillian took a deep breath then let it out in a harsh shudder. Here’s what we do. If the stable boy isn’t lying, we need to get Lady Trishan to safety. Let’s get the horses.

The horses. They’d left them in the inn’s stable, a small structure beside the main building. What had they been thinking, leaving the defenseless animals all by themselves? Sarien ran back a few steps and grabbed his spear laying in the grass. They moved as one to the stable with Lady Trishan walking in the middle of their group. Her head swiveled back and forth like a bird’s trying to see in every direction at the same time.

Sarien breathed out a sigh of relief when he saw that the stable doors were intact and the horses unharmed.

Are we all going to leave? Ben asked.

Trillian shook his head as he backed into the stable. No. We came here with a job to do. We’re not leaving until it’s done.

You’re not going to have me leave by myself, are you? Lady Trishan shrieked.

The question seemed to stump Trillian for a moment, but then he settled on a decision. No, of course not. My trusted friend Perti here will ride with you back to the estate. The rest of us will return once this beast is dealt with. He turned to Sarien and Ben. You two, saddle the lady’s horse and Perti’s.

Sarien didn’t want to relinquish his spear. He knew it was the only weapon standing between him and a terrible death, so he saddled the horse quickly without complaint.

Sarien and Ben led the horses out of the stables. Trillian exchanged a few words with Lady Trishan and then smacked the horse’s rump, causing it to bolt forward. Be safe!

Sarien watched anxiously as Lady Trishan and Perti rode straight through the village. As they passed the first house, a shadow flew at the two riders, latching onto Perti’s horse. Perti’s body stiffened before slumping forward. Lady Trishan’s screams filled the air as Perti’s head slid free from the rest of his body and rolled into the dirt.

Sarien watched in horror as dark blood pumped from the decapitated body, soaking Lady Trishan as she grabbed the reins and veered her horse sharply away from the carnage. It looked like the creature was drinking from what remained of Perti’s neck, but it was difficult to tell in the dark.

Lady Trishan’s screams faded as she rode off into the night.

Now! Trillian shouted, drawing his sword. The five of them ran to intercept Perti’s terrified horse. It cried out, bucking erratically to shake off Perti’s body whose feet were still strapped into the stirrups. The creature held on tightly, focused only on its meal.

Sarien reached the horse and its riders first and thrust out his spear at the creature. He missed, the attack slow and clumsy, and struck the ground. He fell, the momentum too swift for him to stop.

Thankfully, Trillian and Ben fared a little better. Neither of them struck it, but at least they didn’t fall and embarrass themselves.

The eyeless monster slashed with its clawed hand and hopped off Perti’s body. It backed away warily. Trillian and Ben closed in and swung for its arms, but the creature darted away. None of them had even come close to hitting it when it fled behind the nearest building.

What in Eld’s name was that? Trillian asked, panting hard.

I told you, didn’t I? It’s a monster! Sarien said, forcing himself to stand. "Do we follow?

Trillian nodded, his face pale and his hair plastered to his forehead with sweat. You and Ben go left, Hein, Ola, and I’ll go right. We’ll corner it. As he spoke, he pushed Ben, almost throwing in the direction he wanted the young man to run. Sarien followed and tried to ignore whatever was happening inside his chest. Something was building in there, calling to him alongside the thrumming and the pulling. He felt certain that it had to do with the creature.

They rounded the corner and found nothing, not even Trillian and his friends. A flickering movement in the dark disappeared behind a building across the street.

Over there! Sarien shouted.

THREE

Sarien and Ben followed the creature, but slowed their steps as they approached the building.

I don’t like this, Sarien said. It’s like it’s luring us into a trap.

You think it’s that smart? Ben asked, bewildered.

It kinda looks like a human. Could be as smart as one.

Trillian, Hein, and Ola approached with their swords grasped tightly in their hands. Don’t stop, we have to kill it! Trillian said, panting hard.

Sarien nodded. Trillian was right. They could not let the creature escape.

He rounded the corner. The creature lashed out from its hiding place, where it sat silently waiting. Sarien raised his spear in the last moment, the creature’s claws slicing at the wooden shaft. The force of the attack tossed Sarien aside, flinging him against the side of the building. His head cracked against the wall, the pain blinding him before he collapsed onto the ground. His spear snapped in half when his weight landed on top of it and Sarien gave a cry of surprise, more from pain than fear.

Trillian, Hein, Ola, and Ben ran forward with their weapons raised. Sarien’s head spun as he watched Ben heave his spear and drive it straight into the creature’s leg. The creature screamed, a sharp harsh sound, as it tried to dart away back into the darkness.

Ola blocked its path and slashed at it, but the strike was feeble and slow. The creature took off his arm at the elbow with one swipe. Ola screamed, blood spewing from his stump. Hein stood frozen, his eyes wide with fear as he watched his friend thrash on the ground.

The creature took advantage of Hein’s distraction and, with one swipe, cut the young man’s gut open. Hein’s eyes rolled to the back of his head as he dropped to the ground, dead.

Sarien emptied his stomach then forced himself to his feet. He blinked wildly trying to clear his vision, but the world swam before him. He picked up the top half of his broken spear, where the blade was fixed, and blindly threw it in the direction of the creature.

To his surprise, the blade struck true into the creature’s shoulder. It screeched again. Sarien scrambled along the ground and grabbed Ola’s dropped sword. He swung, the blade slicing across the creature’s chest, but not cutting deep enough.

Ben snuck up behind it, his spear held low and ready to strike. When Sarien attacked, Ben thrust his spear, but missed. The creature turned on him, its arms shooting out and grabbing Ben at the shoulder. It dug its claws deep into Ben’s flesh and tore him apart. Trillian took the opportunity to charge in and deliver a thrust, but their monstrous opponent danced away.

Ben screamed in pain and fell to the ground. Sarien stood in shock, paralyzed at the sight of all the blood seeping from Ben’s still body and into the dirt. Was he dead? No, couldn’t be.

What are you doing? We must kill it now! Trillian screamed.

His face was white from shock and blood loss, but there was a fire in his eyes. He advanced on the injured creature and slashed. Sarien, you have to help or we’ll both die too!

Screw you! Sarien said, pulling his gaze away from Ben’s prone body. In that moment, he truly hated Trillian. He knew the noble was right.

Sarien let out a wail and struck out with Ola’s sword at the creature. Both men attacked desperately, Sarien with no training at all and Trillian forgetting his, but it did not matter. The erratic movements soon had the creature pinned up against the wall of the building.

Sarien struck for the thing’s arm. The creature screamed and swiped at him at the same time, the movement too fast to follow. The result was a long gash along Sarien’s chest and his own attack missing its mark. The pain was indescribable. Like burning fire and cold at the same time. He gasped and fell to his knees, hugging himself. His clothes were in shreds and his hands came away bloody.

Trillian’s sword finally found its mark in the monster’s the neck, digging deep. A killing blow.

Except it didn’t perish fast enough. Blood gurgled from its mouth and the many wounds across its body gushed. So much blood, enough to make Sarien sick while hunched over on the ground, unable to stand. It struck out one last time, cutting Trillian across his face and continuing downward, along the young man’s chest. The claws scored deep grooves in his skin and flesh.

Trillian didn’t make a single sound as he fell. Neither did the monster when it tumbled to the ground with Trillian’s sword still lodged in its throat.

The pain in Sarien’s chest was overpowering. He couldn’t stand, could barely breathe or think. He hadn’t been able to do a thing. A noble saved him, one he despised.

Ben! Crawling away from the creature, Sarien slowly made his way toward his childhood friend. He didn’t make it far. An incredible sense of fatigue washed over him. It would be fine to rest his eyes for a moment, wouldn’t it? They’d beaten the thing, after all. Just a short little rest.

Sarien woke with a start and felt someone shaking his shoulder. Blinking, he turned to his side and winced in pain.

It was Ben, his face pale and covered in beads of sweat. Sarien, you’re alive. Thank the flame. Thought you were gone.

Ben, Sarien mumbled. He didn’t recognize the area around them. The sky was pink and orange. Dawn. Something nearby smelled terrible. He wondered idly if it was him.

Ben? His friend didn’t reply. Sarien blinked again and turned to find Ben face down in the dirt. Sarien forced himself up and flipped Ben over. Ben’s entire front was torn to shreds. Long gashes cut so deep that it looked like the young man was a ragdoll coming apart at the seams.

Ben! The shocking sight of his friend’s mangled body brought Sarien back to his senses. Pain shot through his own body, but it faded away at the gruesome scene before him. The monster lay on the ground with its remaining limbs curling inward, like a giant dead insect. Ola and Hein were drenched in blood and guts and it was difficult to even make out which man was which. They would not wake up again. Trillian twitched but Sarien could barely look at the young noble with his face torn open.

Sarien’s sense of time was distorted, but he must have been asleep for a while, since the night was being pushed away by dawn. Adding to his confusion was the strange sensation inside the left side of his body. It still pulsed and thrummed with a beat pulling at him to go east. A power that churned and grew, almost begging to be used.

Sarien’s left hand tingled. He held both hands up in front of his face, ignoring the searing pain from his chest wound. Both of his hands spasmed, but he felt no strangeness from his right hand.

He felt as if a dividing line went straight through the middle of him, splitting him in two. The left side contained what felt like a cold light. He could feel it struggle to cross to the right side of his body.

What’s going on? Sarien asked out loud. A flame?

Yes, that was it. When he concentrated, he got the impression of a flame in that white swirl of power growing inside him.

A wheeze from Ben shook Sarien out of his thoughts. Neither Ben nor Trillian would be long for this world if he didn’t do something. But what could he do? Moving them was out of the question. The estate was too far away and they wouldn’t survive such a trip, and that was if Sarien could lift them across a horse’s back. Unlikely at the best of times and impossible now he was injured.

Ignoring the tingling in his hand proved difficult. The sensation only increased and spread down his arm. It wanted out. He would never be able to explain how, but in that moment, he let it.

A white light began pulsing in his left hand. Sarien stared in disbelief.

Magic. Had to be. This was the Kingdom of Eldsprak. That meant any person manifesting powers was a pyromancer.

He squinted, trying to make out a shape. A pyromancer conjured fire, so this manifestation in his palm should be a flame. Before he finished his thought, a flame formed, white and cold. It flickered despite the lack of wind. The color was all wrong, and it wasn’t even warm, but it was all he had. In a rush, he got up on his knees and placed his left hand on Ben’s chest, palm down. The flame disappeared into his friend.

With no idea how to continue, he focused on the overpowering need to save his friend. He couldn’t lose Ben. The mere thought made his eyes burn and streaks of tears ran down his cheeks.

Don’t go! he shouted through clenched teeth. The energy inside him drained away as he tried to make it do something, anything, to help Ben. A flowing throb of purpose sprung into the power. It grew from something miniscule into a presence that approached from beyond.

The flame grew inside Ben and over Sarien’s hand, then his arm. White light fully enveloped them. A sense wrongness followed. Danger.

Sarien didn’t care. He pushed through, wrangling his power, Ben, and the presence together with sheer force of will as the flame grew to an incredible size, even overwhelming the surrounding buildings. Sarien released a wordless cry when he felt a shift. He’d done something. What, he couldn’t say, but it was done.

All he wanted was to collapse and let oblivion take him, but there was still the matter of Trillian. He’d done all he could for Ben. Even if he despised the noble, he couldn’t let him die.

Without opening his eyes, Sarien moved his left hand from Ben to Trillian. The sound of horses approaching reached his ears, but he ignored it. His entire focus was on the inner glow of his magic. He lost himself in it and let it wash away his fear and his anger. This time, the pull and the presence differed. No sense of wrongness followed, only a sense of calm. Like an oasis of love. Sarien flexed his fingers, sending the sensation through him and into Trillian.

Instead of flowing freely, he felt something reach out to touch Trillian.

Beware and be wary, little human. It is far more than fire you’re playing with.

Sarien’s eyes snapped open. What was that? He withdrew his hand and pulled back. Someone grabbed his shoulder and he let out a scream of surprise.

Sarien, my boy, it’s me. His father’s normally soothing voice was tinged with worry.

The huge white flame in Sarien’s hand flickered and diminished before dying out entirely.

Griswold, the large stablemaster, was on the ground, next to Ben, his son. Ben! Answer me, Ben!

Sarien was relieved to see that both Ben and Trillian were alive. Trillian’s previously cold and pale skin was now slightly pink, flushed with blood. Ben’s chest rose with each steady breath. Their gaping wounds were gone. Only pink scars remained.

He’d done it. He had healed them with fire. Sarien let out a giddy laugh of disbelief.

Sarien, what happened here? What did you do? his father said.

Sarien blinked, grinning. I healed them. Did you see? My fire. Doesn’t that make me a pyromancer? He tried to force himself up, but his head spun from pain and exhaustion. Whatever he’d done, it felt like every ounce of energy was sapped from his body. His mind began to drift, untethered.

Someone muttered from behind his father. That was no fire.

You can’t heal with fire, a second man said.

Sarien turned to face who had spoken, but his father blocked his gaze. Talc spoke forcefully, addressing the stunned crowd gathering around them. No one is going to ever mention this again, you understand? Not a word!

He wrapped his arms around Sarien, who felt himself slipping into the black void of unconsciousness. Listen, son, never use that power again. You hear me? You don't understand what you have done. That pale light…

Talc trailed off, then it sounded like he came to some sort of decision. I’m going to have to leave for a while. I’ll try to keep the firemagi away from you. You’re not one of them, son. Do you understand me?

What was he talking about? Of course, he was a pyromancer. His father had even seen the flame. And why shouldn’t he use his power? Darkness crept in from the edges of his vision and the last thing he heard was a soldier cursing as they found the dead creature. He drifted off into sweet oblivion.

Sarien didn’t remember returning back to his room, but when he woke, he was laying in his bed. One of the estate’s maids sat by his bed, idly knitting. The rhythmic sounds of her needles tapping against each other woke him. With eyes blurry from sleep, he only caught the outline of her before closing them tight against the light. Lisa?

The sound of her needles stopped. You’re awake!

What time is it?

You have been asleep for four whole days, you dummy!

Sarien squirmed and opened his eyes. Four?

Four!

He sat up with some difficulty, the events of that one night rushing back to him. Ben? Is Ben safe?

He’s fine, she answered, but Sarien caught her frown before she pasted on a blank look. The young woman was prone to smiling. Seeing her this serious worried him.

What’s wrong?

Lisa took up her needles again and began plucking at the gray shape she was working on. Oh, it’s nothing, I’m sure. Trillian is perfectly healthy too. He even went riding for the first time yesterday. And he looked in on you once!

Sarien rolled his eyes. What a gentleman. Then he narrowed them, not liking her evasiveness. Lisa. Tell me about Ben.

Fine! She put the knitting back down on her lap, then stored it away in a cloth bag that hung on the back of the chair where she sat. He’s fine, really. Just…I’m not sure. Something is different about him.

Different how?

She shrugged. Like he’s not as happy. Kind of not himself.

Sarien gathered what little strength he had to swing his legs over the edge of the bed. Well. He was more than half-dead. That could do it, maybe?

She nodded enthusiastically and stood, reaching out a hand to him. I’m sure that’s it! Now come, we need to get some food in you before… She cut herself off, her eyes widening.

Sarien sighed. Before what?

Lisa brought her free hand to her mouth, dropping Sarien back into bed. Tears formed in her eyes. Oh Sarien, I’m so sorry! The news spread of what you did. They’re coming for you. From the tower!

He sat back up on his own, wincing from the pain. The pyromancers? Is my father back?

She shook her head. No one has heard from him. He left right after returning with you. Her fingers grazed the bandages around his chest. You need to be more careful.

Sarien frowned. His father said he’d be going to the firemagi. It wasn’t all that far and he should have returned by now. Why hadn’t he?

Sarien couldn’t help but feel a little excited at the prospect of going to the tower. Just sitting there on his bed, he felt the white flame churn inside the left side of his body, waiting. From what he assumed, the paleness and lack of heat in his flame had to be common for new pyromancers. A little instruction would set everything right. Sarien was sure of it.

He would go to the tower, talk to his father, and finally be free of the nobleman’s boot on his neck. Sarien needed strength, he needed power. Next time he wouldn’t fail his friend. Magic would trump a spear every time.

When are they coming, the pyromancers? he asked.

I don’t know, Lisa replied. Could be as soon as today. Oh, Sarien, I was so scared they’d take you before you woke up and we wouldn’t know that you were okay and they’d treat you horribly and…

Sarien put a calming hand on her arm. I’m sure it’ll be fine. Can you please help me to the kitchen? I’m starving. Where is Ben now?

She grabbed the hand he put on her shoulder and helped pull Sarien to his feet. I’m sure Ben’s ma will force enough food down your throat to make you fat like a pig. Lisa sobered but hid her sudden wariness behind a cheerful smile. Ben is in the library. He’s mostly been reading since he woke up.

Sarien looked down at her in surprise. Reading?

She nodded. Didn’t even know he could read. Not well, anyway.

I have to see him before they come for me. His stomach grumbled as he leaned heavily into Lisa’s shoulder. But let’s go get something to eat first.

When they staggered into the kitchen, Lilian wrapped her thick arms around him and pulled him off his feet, spinning fast enough to make Sarien dizzy.

You beautiful boy! You saved our Ben! Thank you, thank you, thank you! Then she set him down on one of the stools and wiped a tear from her eye. If it wasn’t for you…well, let’s get some food in you!

He said goodbye to Lisa with the promise to see her again before he left with the pyromancers. Sarien stuffed his mouth with bread and cheese, grunting at Lilian’s constant stream of gratitude.

It didn’t take long, however, for Sarien to spot the maids eyeing him as they entered and left the kitchen, and it was not the shy blushing kind of looks that they used to send his way.

What’s wrong with everyone? he asked Lilian, who busied herself with stirring in different pots and pans.

She didn’t look up at him, but he could see her shoulders tighten at his question. It’s what you did, lad, she said. The fire. She paused for a long moment before continuing, I love you for saving my son, but many here are uncomfortable with that type of thing. We don’t see much magic around here and it frightens the others.

Sarien looked at the palm of his hand and tried to imagine what his magic appeared like to the others. It shot high into the sky, blazing white, and brought two men back from the brink of death. He couldn’t refute that sentiment. But that wasn’t terrifying to him, it was beautiful.

Oh, don’t look so glum! Lilian said, approaching with another plate, this one full of beans and piles of boiled potatoes slathered in gravy. You did a good thing. You saved them! The lord’s son, even. He better throw heaps of gold on you! The earnestness in Lilian’s round face made Sarien all warm inside and he couldn’t help but feel a pang of loss at the thought of leaving the estate. The need to find his father outweighed everything else, however, and the sense of adventure beckoned. Before all that, he had to talk with Ben and see with his own eyes that his friend had recovered from the attack.

Sarien found his childhood friend in the library, rummaging through the stacks.

Are you even allowed to be in here? Sarien asked with a laugh. Ben hadn’t noticed him come in and jumped, glaring at him when he finally turned to Sarien. It wasn’t the normal grin Sarien expected. Something was definitely wrong.

Are you okay, Ben? he asked hesitantly. After everything that happened?

Ben smiled and his lips pressed into a thin curved line that looked bizarre on his friend’s face. It’s you. My savior. He scurried up to Sarien and took his hand. Tell me. How did you do it? How did you beckon me?

Sarien pulled his hand from Ben’s grip. I don’t know, but I did it with fire.

Ben moved his lips, as if tasting the word. Fire. Then he narrowed his eyes.

He was about to speak again, but Sarien interrupted him. What are you reading about? The whole situation raised his hackles. He felt a surge of energy within him demanding that he either fight the man standing before him or flee the scene.

Ben waved a finger in in the air, an unusual gesture. Oh, just getting acquainted.

Well, I’m glad you’re okay. What happened to the creature? Sarien asked. Perhaps it wasn’t the best idea to bring that up, not with his friend affected so much by the trauma.

Hmm?

The monster we killed.

Ben seemed to ignore the question at first, as he went to another shelf and began pulling down books. Then he spoke without looking at Sarien. That’s in the past.

Sarien nodded. That’s all well then. Look, I have to go talk with Hacha and your father before I go. I’ll check in again before I leave.

Ben’s eyes snapped to Sarien's. Leave? Perhaps I should come with. He crossed the room to grab hold of Sarien’s sleeve as if afraid to let him go. We’re friends, aren’t we?

What is wrong with you?

Before Ben had a chance to reply, the door opened behind them and Griswold stepped in. A look of concern passed over his face as he pulled Ben back away from Sarien.

Is everything all right in here?

Sarien nodded. We’re fine, Gris.

Griswold didn’t seem to believe him, but continued, I came to say that they’re here. I’m sorry, lad. I didn’t want it to come to this, but the Tower needed to know about you and your powers. Thank you for saving my boy. He looked at Ben, who was already back by the books. Griswold frowned. I’m sure he’ll turn out fine once everything settles down.

I’m just happy I could do something. They’re here? Already?