Okay, to clear things up and to get it all in one post, here is the Prologue and Chapter One. Rince wrote most of the Prologue, so props to him!

Prologue

The wind howled through the halls of the savior, whipping up dust and sand and spinning it in intricate patterns. Amborn wrapped his cloak tighter to shut out the chill, staring at the swirling dust he got the impression that if only he looked a bit closer and for a bit longer he might see God's plan unfold before him. Glancing about he could not help but notice a subdued atmosphere about Pintera. Ever since Zaleth had left, the halls had lost some of their light. Hearing footsteps he turned to see Jonah walking towards him.

“You have been summoned to the high chamber Amborn” said Jonah in an almost whisper, not wanting to disturb whatever it was that had held his attention for so long. Looking at Amborn, he could not help but wonder why he had been sent to find him, glancing at him from head to toe; all he saw was an aging fool, covered in dust with an unkempt beard. “The lord himself has requested your presence”.

Standing up Amborn winced slightly; had he really been sitting down for so long? Jonah noticing his discomfort offered an arm as they set off towards the chamber of gold.
Standing at the entrance to the Golden halls Amborn felt his Lords presence all around him. It felt like a spring morning just before a Thunderstorm. “Enter”, the word erupted into his mind with such force and power. It hurt, but in a good way, a heady mixture of pain and overwhelming pleasure at having his Lord, his god speaking to him. Stumbling into the Chamber Amborn was almost blinded with rapture, simply from being in his presence. Dropping to his knee's Amborn barely managed to whisper “what would you have from me Yahweh?”

“I am troubled” Amborn heard pulsing in his skull... “I fear that Zaleth has fallen”. Hearing this Amborn started to panic. His dear friend killed? But how, Zaleth was protected by his Gods own will, surely no harm could have come to him. “Lord but how? Surely you yourself protected him?”
Amborn then felt sorrow erupting almost from the walls, and it took all he had not to be overwhelmed. “No Amborn, Not slain... fallen. He has gone the way of the morning star. He has put me from his heart and now claims dominance over the lands of Serapnoir. He already holds the Cities of Lamerith in thrall”. Hearing this news Amborn was filled full of questions. How had Zaleth, one of their brightest fallen? Had they not all learnt from Lucifer? And then there was the question of Serapnoir? He had heard of no such thing.

Yahweh, sensing the questions Amborn did not dare ask sighed. “Serapnoir was to be my new Eden Amborn. I created it in my image after realizing I had failed man. I had hoped to do better. I thought a world that did not know my touch, my voice, and my will might prosper where a world flooded with false prophets claiming my voice as their own failed. I sent the brightest of you Angels down to watch and guide where it was needed. To help and to watch... to lead by example..... And I failed. Again.”
Amborn could not believe what he had just heard... Zaleth turned to the dark, a new Eden created? “But Lord, why tell me this? What can I do?”

“Go Amborn, you are my arch in this, I have watched you. I have seen your soul. Go to Serapnoir, heal what can be healed, save what can be saved and stop Zaleth.” With that Yahweh waved a hand and the divine wind rushed through the Chamber, lifting Amborn and carrying him away...





Chapter One

Amborn looked around as many different images flashed before his eyes, it had seemed like a lifetime that he was falling but he fell still. Thoughts still rushed through his mind about Yahweh’s great order. What was he meant to do on this land that he knew nothing about? What of Zaleth? His best friend and the head Angel had fallen. What would this mean to Pintera, land of God? Surely there was something wrong, some piece of information that he had misunderstood, but before he could think of anything he saw blue skies and clouds below him. Soon, he could see the land around him. It reminded him of Earth, its peaceful mountains, and rivers running through the plains. Right as he was marveling in the beauty of it, he thudded down on the ground and he felt his body quiver in pain. Looking around he saw that he was on a very tall mountain, in fact, it was the tallest in sight. Before he got up he took the time to massage his knees which absorbed much of the impact, and were quite sore.

Looking around he saw no path down, and decided he must climb down. The trees were a beautiful green that reminded him of his cabin on Earth. The many different shades of dirt and grass were amazing in their glimmer, and shine. He walked gently for some time before coming to a large drop off and had to find a decent ladder formation of rocks to climb down on. But as he lowered his foot down, the rock underneath it cracked in two sending him down through the air toward the bottom nearly two hundred feet below. He was certain he would land hard and break his back but just before the moment of impact, he stopped. Floating in the air he wondered what could have done such a thing. As he thought about it, he slowly lowered to the ground and was placed down softly and comfortably.

He stood up to examine himself and the area, but found no remarkable reason for his miraculous save. How queer, he thought to himself, does this land of Serapnoir have resistant gravity? He walked along a small clearing, edging towards the small pond below. For nearly seventy years he had been dead, and had never experienced thirst. Now that he felt it again, it came strangely but naturally to drink the water. It was cold, and as it touched his lips it brought back many memories of his past life. He remembered cold milk, and hot eggs fresh from the stovetop. He remembered going hunting and looking for squirrels with his son. Amborn had not thought of these things in a long time. Not since he was accepted to be an Angel of the Order, and his son turned down had he thought of his life. When becoming an Angel, you are transported to Pintera, land of God away from all of the other spirits. For thirty long years, Amborn had not seen or heard of his son Adam. He wondered what it must be like, to be in Heaven along with the other spirits. Pintera was a wonderful place, and he loved being in the service of God…but he could not help but wish to be with his family.

He finally reached the bottom of the great mountain, nearly three hours after his arrival at Serapnoir. Past the fields he could see many different lands and rivers. There was a vast lake, with a river heading north. Through a mere whim he decided to follow it, and began his journey to wherever he could find people. The river was long, and narrow, but its water was crystal blue. In it, he could see an assortment of fish and frogs as they swam around and flopped above the water. After a while Amborn was wondering if there was any intelligent life on this new planet until finally he saw something drinking from the river in front of him. It appeared to be a great horse, larger than any he had ever seen; at least fifteen feet tall. As he approached he noticed something very strange about this creature, it did not appear as most normal horses do, its chest bent up into a very peculiar shape. This horse was not a horse at all, it had the body of one…but it had the head of an ape! Amborn stopped dead in his tracks about thirty feet away in hopes of not being noticed. The strange creature finally looked up and stared right at him. Amborn’s knees shook and he fell to the ground as it met him face to face.

“Hello human. I am Derek, who may I ask are you?” Did this horse creature just speak to me? Surely not! But the ape face continued to look at him with wondering eyes, and Amborn built up the courage to answer. “My name…I’m Amborn.” The creature backed up a bit and shook his head, “Never heard of you. Where are you from, Amborn?” To this Amborn did not know how to reply, he could not speak of Heaven, or God or surely he would be punished. “I am from very far away….what, if you don’t mind my asking, are you?” This for some reason or another caused the creature to laugh. “That’s a good one, “What am I? Ha, very funny.” “I’m sorry mister, but I honestly have not a clue what you are.” Slowly the creature stopped laughing and began to stare at Amborn blankly, “You don’t?” “Sorry, but no I don’t.” This made the creature frown a bit, “Very odd, most humans know very much about us Gargils.” “Gargils?” “Yes, that is what we are called. We mostly live in a place called the White Oak Forrest, but surely you know of the great white wood?” Again Amborn was embarrassed to admit that he knew nothing of these creatures or places.

“Surely you are not of Lamerith, if you truly know so little.” Derek calmly stated with a chuckle. “Uh… no I’m not.” This finally calmed the creature and the two began conversing about their day and before long Amborn asked if he could tag along with Derek, as he knew the land so much better. “Normally, people are not allowed into our city, but you are not a man of war I can tell…it will be up to the guards to let you in, but I will take you there if you like.” “That is fine…may I come?” The large ape head shook in agreement and after drinking a little longer, they headed towards the White Oak Forest.

They had a long way to walk according to Derek, in fact, the White Woods lie on the opposite end of the nation. “There are many fields throughout Lamerith as you can see.” What Derek said was very true, they had crossed nothing but flat fields since they began walking. “So, what is the White Oak Forrest? Some sort of city, or a forest?” Amborn asked in the most politely way he could, “It is both. It is the greatest forest known to Serapnoir, its trees are a bright white shade, and the leaves are of a golden color. It is also where the Gargils developed their cities long ago, and it is now our home.” “What happened that made the humans and the Gargils dislike each other?” Derek frowned a little, “Most humans are very resentful of us because of our appearance. They call us “Freaks of Nature”” “Oh…that’s terrible, we had similar problems where I come from.” Somehow, Amborn truly did feel for the beast, as he could tell that, in mind at least, Derek was not so different from him. “We are nearing the Black Lake now, up there.” Derek was pointing at a very large and deep lake with many creeks stemming from it in different directions. “We are roughly half way there now…perhaps we should rest here for the night?” “Yes, that is fine with me, besides it’s nearly dark.”

The night was peaceful and Amborn enjoyed the strange fish that they ate for dinner. “I think I will be off to bed now Derek. Thanks again.” He said as he waved goodnight. His sleep went mostly uninterrupted and he dreamed of many great things, but towards morning he dreamed of something very different. The face of God was glaring at him, smiling. “My lord, why are you here?” he asked softly. “Do not tell of me. No one can know. Do you hear me?” Amborn shook his head in agreement and the light grew brighter, so much so, that he had to close his eyes. When he opened them again, he found himself on the ground by the lake. He stood up and looked around. His legs were still bothering him from the fall, but he managed to walk over to the shore. Derek was happily fishing for breakfast, which was an interesting sight to see. Being half ape and half horse, he did not fish like most creatures would. Instead he kind of galloped along every once and a while bobbing his head in to attempt to grab one of the many different varieties of fish. “I see you have woken up old man! How about coming and helping me out?” Of course Amborn had no problem with fishing, he had done it many times before without a pole. “Hang on, I will just get my sword.” He yelled, but as he went to turn around a gust of wind blew past him and the water in the lake seemed to recede from the shore leaving at least forty fish to squirm in the sand. “How did you do that?” Amborn asked Derek honestly. “I didn’t do that! Come on now, let’s get some of them.” They happily gathered the fish and walked to the grassy area where their fire was. The lake water slowly came back to rest in its natural position. “Amazing…truly remarkable!” Derek shouted loudly and with great excitement. “Yes…very strange.”

Amborn ate in an almost zombie like state. His mind was on other things. Between his great fall, or lack thereof, and then the lake; he was quite curious how so much luck could come to him. “This is some of the best fish I have ever had, how about you Amborn?” “It’s…very good indeed.” Derek laughed at him, “What’s wrong with you? You’ve been acting strange since I met you.” “Nothing, I’m just a little preoccupied is all. Sorry.” They finished eating and began packing their things to be on their way. “Which way is the White Forrest Derek?” Amborn asked in hopes of sounding normal. “North West from here, we will pass by Palamoore on our way.” “What is Palamoore?” Amborn asked, “It is the capitol city of Lamerith! Goodness, I have never met someone as dull as you. What are you doing here if you know so little of the area?” This is what Amborn was afraid he would be asked; after all he had no answer. “Just traveling, wanted to see some new sights I suppose. Like that mountain that I found you near.” Derek shook his head, “Yes, Mount Gibs is the tallest in Serapnoir. Beautiful, but she’s hell to climb.” “Yes, I would imagine so…” Amborn replied in a soft and avoiding voice.

“We are nearly thirty minutes from Palamoore now; we should see its great walls soon.” Derek called out to Amborn who was walking a bit behind due to his bad legs. His blue robe was torn and dirty but he felt clean, and reborn. It was like a second life was given to him, like he had never died. “Here, use this staff.” Derek said as he handed him a great stick. “Thank you, this should help wonderfully. I fell you see, and my knees are giving me trouble.” “No problem, I like walking slow; it gives me time to look at the scenery. Look, there are the walls.” Amborn looked and beheld walls nearly a hundred feet high and all painted silver. They went on for miles and miles, but the size and stature remained true. “I have never seen such a thing. They would stop any intruder!” Amborn said as he marveled at their size. “Not quite, they have been broken through before, but not by many. We Gargils got in once, during the battle of the year 998.” His voice was grave when he said this, and Amborn knew that there was a hatred for that year in Derek. “War? The conflict is truly that bad?” “Oh yes…you see, we Gargils are very intelligent creatures and we do not stand for being treated any different. They were using us as slaves and horses of such. So, our great King at the time retaliated and we took our stance on the battlefield. It was fifty years ago, but I remember it so clearly.” Derek’s voice trailed off and he began to walk faster, so Amborn did not ask further questions despite his intrigue.

They arrived at the gates of Palamoore at roughly noon. Derek’s plan was to just pass by quietly and to not be disturbed. Plans however, are made to fail. As they crossed the grassy hill Amborn stared at the tall golden gates and the five guards around it. Two of them came walking towards them with his hand reaching for his sword. “Sir, what are you doing here in Palamoore?” he asked and Derek replied, “We’re not in Palamoore, we are just outside the city, therefore we are simply in Lamerith.” Amborn laughed at this, but the guard must have found it insulting for he looked at Amborn and asked, “Does he belong to you?” This idea made him angry, “Belong to me?” “This Gargil, he belongs to you?” Derek nudged Amborn in the back and he replied, “Er…yes, he’s mine.” “Where are you taking him?” Surely the guard had no right to ask these questions! Amborn thought. “We are just walking, I need the exercise, and I can ride him home if my knees give out.” He finally said with a slight grin, proud of his witty answer. “Very well then, on your way.” And the guard walked away.

“Nice job there human, even I believed you.” Derek said as they happily walked away. “How far are we now?” “Maybe an hour or so, if that.” Amborn nodded and increased his pace, after the amazing walls of Palamoore; he could not wait to see the White Woods. “Derek?” he asked, “Do you think they will let me in? After what the other humans have done to you?” he had been worried about this for a while, and finally it had amounted in his brains enough so that he spoke up. “Amborn…some of them will welcome you gladly, but I fear the elders will be much more hesitant. They remember the old days far too well to just move on like the rest of us. They were literally tortured, hung, and decapitated during the early wars.” Amborn was shocked at how the humans behaved to such remarkable creatures, but he then remembered how things were not so different on Earth. “Where I come from, many animals were mistreated as well, just for being different. It even got so bad; that humans were treated badly if they looked different then what was considered normal…” Amborn felt strange talking of Earth when Derek knew nothing of it, and wished he could tell him. God’s message kept popping in his mind in times like these though, and he quickly shut his mouth. “Sounds like our lands are not so different then.” Derek said softly. “Were you ever treated this way Amborn?” “No. Or at least not for the same reasons.” “Oh? What do you mean?” Amborn did not wish to speak of this time in his life, and simply kept walking to which Derek did not care.

The fields had turned to trees now and when white trees with golden leaves began appearing in scarce amounts, Amborn figured they were nearing the forest. “Who is your King Derek? Is he a nice fellow?” “His name is Alector, but most call him Alec. He’s nice enough; I never saw anything wrong with him anyway.” Finally a tree line was in sight and they were no more than two hundred yards away. “When we get there, just follow my lead. I will tell them what I know about you, and then we shall wait for their answer.” “I should say nothing?” Amborn asked angrily, “Not until they have said yes or no…then you may blabber as much as you want.” Derek smiled, and it gave Amborn hope that the guards would allow him into the White Oak Forest, which as he could see now; truly was of the most amazing things he could ever dream of. The trees rose up higher than any before, and their white wood shined in the light of the sun. The golden leaves shimmied in the wind and covered the gates completely.

“Who goes there?” the guards shouted. “It is Derek, son of Gratics and fellow Gargil.” He yelled back. “Who is that with you? Why have you brought a human to the forest?” with these words the guard sounded angry and Amborn was feeling his chances slip away. “I must speak with King Alec about him. He is a good man, and he is not of Lamerith.” “How can you be so sure? Can you prove that he is not one of the Palamoore filth?” Amborn was shocked at how much hatred existed for humans as he noticed the face of the guard flinch at even mentioning Palamoore. “I must speak with the King!” Derek shouted. This shouting triggered something as the guards drew their bows and took aim for Amborn. Fifty arrows came soaring through the air at him and he knew all was lost. Derek ran out of the way as the arrows got within five feet of them, and Amborn stood still, still as a board. The arrows stopped, and fell to the ground peacefully. The guards looked at Amborn with open mouths, “You have brought a mage to the White Forrest? Why didn’t you say so? Bring him in!” Derek also looked astonished at this, but the gates opened and Amborn felt himself being pushed by Derek, “Go on…” he whispered.

“I will take you to the King, my name is Terrence.” said a large Gargil as he came down the long stairs from the wall. “Uh…hello Terrence, I’m Amborn.” Slowly Amborn was beginning to feel awkward, as he thought of the title the guard had given him, Mage? I am no mage…am I? Terrence was talking but he paid no attention, his thoughts were too many for such trivial conversations. These weird happenings were starting to amount to something, but a mage? Such things were what you found in fairy tales during Amborn’s former life! But he thought maybe, in this new world of strange things; magic and wizards did exist. Why couldn’t Yahweh have explained more? Helped me with my mission? Amborn felt a bit of anger at this but accepted that there must have been a reason, though he could think of none. As he finished thinking, he looked up to see a large hallowed out tree with golden doors and a large flag next to it. “This way Amborn, the King resides in this tree.” Derek whispered.

King Alec was the tallest of the Gargils that Amborn had saw, and wore a crown of silver and sapphire with a look of dignity and knowledge. “My men tell me that you are a mage…is this true?” he asked in a deep bellowing voice. “I…I’m not sure sir.” Amborn replied in a soft and respectful tone. “That is how the other one responded as well. Zaleth was his name, do you know him?” “Yes! He was my friend, but I hear he is much different now…is that true?” This was the question that ached in Amborn’s heart the most; could it be possible that his friend of so many years truly have become a fallen angel? “Zaleth is certainly not the same as he was when he came here…he was a very kind and caring being, but no longer. He has slain many men and even more Gargils over the course of a few years.” Amborn was struck deep in his heart by this news. The man he thought he knew was always a good friend, and seemed to have the best intentions for humanity. “I am sorry to hear that. He was a very good friend at a time.” The King frowned, “I know your pain well. Come in here, we shall speak more.”

The tree seemed never ending in its size, as they entered a large room resembling a council office, with a long table and many chairs. The King took his seat at the end and Amborn took his place next to him. “I am guessing, as Zaleth before you, you do not know how to use your magic?” Amborn was amazed how these creatures spoke of magic as if it was common. “No, I do not…it mostly happens by accident.” The King shook his head and smiled, “We can help with that, if you want.” Amborn wanted to jump on the opportunity but calmed himself down. “That would be great sir, but how?” “We cannot show you how to do everything, each wizard has his own range of power, but we can show you how to control it and use it when needed.” This was all a new world to Amborn, and he questioned this offer deeply but decided that it would probably be his only chance and accepted. “Good, it is late now so we will start tomorrow. That okay with you?” Naturally Amborn agreed, and left with Derek who offered him a place to sleep in his tree.

Chapter Two - Finally Done!

Derek’s tree was small but well kept. Its rooms were well laid out and Amborn felt at home while eating dinner with him in his kitchen which was painted yellow. “I hope you don’t mind squirrel meat Amborn, I have not been able to hunt for quite some time now.” “Quite all right Derek, I used to love squirrel, haven’t had it in a while in fact.” He replied honestly. He used to hunt for squirrel in his past life every Friday with his son. This brought back sad memories again for Amborn, and he tried to change the subject to avoid looking unsatisfied. “This is some wonderful stew, what else is in it?” Derek smiled, “It was my mother’s recipe, it contains a dash of pepper and the usual spices…but the main ingredient” he said while reaching for a bottle, “is this. A small bit of banana juice makes it taste perfect.” Amborn scoffed at this, “But bananas have no juice…do they?” he asked remembering that all was not the same as Earth here. “Quite right, but my mother found that smashing bananas in a bowl of honey, created this flavor…good isn’t it?” Amborn smiled and shook his head as he took another bite.

The subject of magic had not been spoken of for most of the night to Amborn’s great pleasure but it was inevitable that that Derek would bring it up eventually. He asked the obvious questions of why Amborn had not told him, and why would he not know his own power. Amborn spent nearly an hour trying to describe the situation without speaking of God, or his great mission. He hated telling such lies when Derek had so far been a great help in his journey, but knew that he had no other choice. Finally they decided that sleep was what they needed and Amborn headed up the long winding stairs to the upstairs room which sat just below the main branch layer and shielded all sunlight from entering its windows. So much so, that Amborn would have slept late if not for the loud horn which blasted through the trees and awoke him with great surprise.

“What was that?” he asked as he stumbled down the stairs to see Derek scrambling his things. “There have been men spotted approaching our gates, they think it’s an attack!” he yelled softly as he grabbed his bow. “An attack? Why would the humans attack so suddenly?” Amborn asked in a state of panic. “You.” Derek replied with speed and sorrow as he head out the door leaving Amborn to decide a course of action alone. He could not attack the men with the Gargils for he was sent to protect the people, and he could not aid the men for he had grown close to Derek and wished them no harm. He thought of staying in the tree to let it pass without his aid either way, and even sat down for some time. Before long however, he knew what he must do. He had just decided to make a pot of tea when he heard the pain in his head whisper to him in a voice like a soft winter wind, “Stop them all.” It was a quick and complicated order from God, and it left Amborn wondering what he should do in order to fulfill it. A great length of time was spent thinking until the matter called immediate attention and so he left the tree for what laid outside.

The great King of the White Wood was standing in front of nearly three hundred of the Gargils and the King of Palamoore, and by extend Lamerith was standing in front of at least an equal number of men. Amborn came down from a ladder and to the front of the line of Gargils to which the King smiled, “Come to aid us in the battle to come?” Amborn frowned, “No.” he then began walking through the field but only made it half way before the angry wave of Gargils charged as well as the humans. They charged toward him intent on destroying each other. They were within ten yard of each other, with swords raised high before Amborn took action. Feeling a wave of air seemingly go straight through his body, he stamped his staff into the ground and yelled in a mighty voice, “EVERY ONE STOP!” and slowly, a yellow wave went through the crowds of soldiers sending them hurdling to the ground on each side leaving Amborn the only man standing while the Kings looked upon him in wonder.

“Uh…” he mumbled as he struggled a way to explain himself. “Look, I don’t know why you think I am so important,” he said looking at the human King. “And I don’t want you dying over me.” He said looking at the Gargil leader. “What I do want is to talk to everyone about an important aspect of this feud. You fight each other and hate each other…yet there is a power in the East that hates and kills both of you. I wish for a meeting…a conference of sorts to speak with all of you in a civilized matter.” Amborn was nervous and it showed greatly for his great intelligence seemed to not want to help him come up with his speech. “King Alec, and King Laos, I wish to speak with you if that is alright with the both of you.” he said again as the Kings looked on in astonishment. The human King could not get his mind of what arrogance this strange wizard had. “I will speak with you whenever you require the Gargil King said kindly but King Laos did not act in such a kindly way. He stood up and walked strait to Amborn’s face and mumbled curse words under his breath. “Very well, but no guards!” he spat, “Good, there should be no need of them anyway.” Amborn smiled and walked away towards the gate.

The armies were left to think about this while Amborn walked through the trees thinking to himself about what he could say at the meeting. Instead of going to the Kings tree however, he headed for Derek’s. He felt he needed time to think so that he could have all the words in order and not make a fool of himself. He walked in the door and sat on the nearest chair which was hard and made of some sort of stone that had been sanded and smoothed over. Even if they decide to not continue battle, what on Earth could I say? He thought to himself. The use of the word Earth made him chuckle, realizing the others wouldn’t know what he was talking about if he used it again.

Derek soon came walking through the door. “What are you doing sitting there? The Kings are waiting for you!” Amborn smiled and stood up, “They can wait a bit longer I think…wish me luck?” “Of course, this is very stupid you know…but if you do this right it could stop a long lasting rivalry. So, yes I wish you luck.” Derek replied with a smile and Amborn left the comfort of the tree to head for the angry leaders who awaited his arrival in the tallest, whitest tree. Here we go, he thought to himself as Derek waved goodbye.

The path to the council room was long and full of doubt. Amborn was questioning his mission more than ever and wanted to kneel down and beg God for answers. The door was intimidating and he found it hard to reach for the handle. Amborn had never known such stress but handled it decently as far as his outer appearance; any passing person would never guess the trouble going through his mind. He walked into the council to see many people sitting in the chairs all staring at him. Some of them were men who looked very dignified and others were Gargils who looked old and wise. Amborn was standing there in his blue robe and with his red beard messy from the wind and felt slightly embarrassed by this. “Good evening, I see you have decided to take up my offer?”

Many of the men scowled and the Gargils did not look all too happy either but Amborn walked to the only empty chair and sat down with hope and optimism. A long silence fell over the crowd and Amborn finally began to feel uneasy again. He thought quietly while the others stared at him until he finally broke the tension. “Zaleth as we all know has killed many of both our armies. Gargils and men alike have been slain at his hand and he continues to seek reign over Lamerith. Yet despite this common enemy you continue to seek battle with each other and waste many a good soldier trying to take the other out. Are you blind? Or are you truly mad?” he asked in a sad tone and the King of Men took the situation to yell, “What would you know about it stranger? You come from a far off land and decide you can tell us what we are doing wrong? You weren’t here!” Amborn smiled a bit and calmly responded. “You fight these Gargils simply because of their looks. What does that say about you? Let us fight the ants for being too small huh? Or perhaps the bears for being too big? Its madness, and it has got to stop.” This the King was both embarrassed by and angered by.

“You claim this war is because of the men? Do not forget how many of us have been killed by them as well!” Amborn stood up and his face was grave, “They have chosen the wrong path as well, that is not the point tonight. Tonight we make amends and move on with our lives. There are worse things in the world than a petty war that has been going on for far too long. Two wrongs do not make good. Now is the time to come together and see the light. Both of you have strayed from the path, both of you can turn around and come back.” Finally King Alec spoke, “Amborn is right. Now is the time for salvation, the threat in the East is to grave to carry on fighting against each other. Only together can we survive.”

The room felt the silent chill of the wind again and Amborn smiled as he felt victory near. “My friends, I come here as the middle ground. You do not know who I am or where I come from, but I come as the peacemaker. Join me, and together Zaleth will fall. I cannot possibly achieve victory without the combined armies of both men and Gargils. Please…” This decision was not an easy one for both sides, the battle of men and Gargils had been going on for nearly all of Serapnoir’s existence. But as if suddenly seeing the light, King Laos stood up, “Let it be known, that the year 1125 was the year that peace was brought to the Gargils and Men by a mere stranger. I now am going to retire to bed.” After that the men all left the tree leaving King Alec and Amborn alone.

“Do you think he is telling the truth sir?” Amborn said quietly to avoid being heard. “I feel he is, but I fear that the common folk may not take to this alliance kindly. It will take time before we come to respect each other but only time will tell I suppose.” The giant creature stood up and bid Amborn farewell as he left the council room. He made it half way to Derek’s tree before he realized the luck he had just had and the mass importance of what had just occurred. For the first time Amborn felt confident in himself and his mission. Perhaps he thought God had made a good choice after all.

help me i dont know what to do lol oh btw that sounds kool!

THE REST OF CHAPTER THREE

Amborn’s chest pounded and his shoulders felt a great strain as he sat in his bed thinking about the previous nights dream. What had God meant when he said “a greater darkness”? Did God intend for Amborn to stop both of the rising evils in this land, or just Zaleth? What was the second evil? It was all driving Amborn mad and he wondered why he couldn’t just have all of the answers at once instead of being left to wonder and to figure it out on his own. To this though he remembered the Lords other words, “Do not question my plan!” and the voice seemed to echo in his mind with great resonance. He stood up and felt his legs had seemed to finally heal and no longer pained him as they had for so long since his great fall. Derek was in the kitchen cooking a strange smelling breakfast.

“Good morning Derek.” Amborn said falsely for he knew the morning was anything but “good”. “Amborn…hello. Do you want some turtle shell?” and he held up some of the cooked substance. “No…no thanks Derek, I’m not hungry.” He walked to the living room and sat down with a thud, outside patter of many feet could be heard and Amborn became nervous. “Have they come here yet, searching for me?” he asked in a bitter tone and he wished he wouldn’t have asked. “No, but I received a letter saying to trap you and drag you to their court. I hope you know that I will not drag you, but we must go today.” Amborn sighed, “Yes, we will meet them after breakfast but for the moment…I would like to try some turtle if you don’t mind.”

- So this chapter was supposed to be longer, but this was a good split point and since the next chapter will be dealing with different things it made the most sense to have this be the end of 3. Hope you like it, whoever reads it that is.

Wrote one paragraph today, that is one paragraph more than in the last 5 months. I have decided to combine my story with Greek Mythology and have been looking the best ways to do this. Anyone who cares to butt in and share your opinion, help is appreciated.

No, actually I just finished Mythology by Edith Hamilton.

I just bought it, pretty good but I wish it would have spent more time on the Titanomachy.

CHAPTER FIVE


Sleep seemed to despise Amborn for it never came around him and he chose to continue his journey after trying for over two hours. Now Amborn was nearing a great patch of wild forests known unofficially as the Black Forests because within it lye the Black River which Derek had described to Amborn. He walked carefully in an attempt to alert no one of his presence there; but within those trees there are eyes that see all. Strange creatures not unlike men can be found there, or so Derek explained during their last dinner together.

The storm had eased up and the clouds parted enough to allow a line of sunlight peek through the green leaves and this allowed Amborn to see a good path which had been ran into the ground. He walked along for a while without any disturbance other than his own nerves. He thought the trees were coming to an end many times only to see that they were only receding for short distances and returning later. But Amborn grew uneasy for he heard noises around him. He wondered if he was being watched as the hair on his neck stood up. Tension rose and every cracking twig sounded as though it were a great oak falling to the ground. Finally he turned to see behind him and saw what had indeed been following him.

A small man, and though his stature did not invoke fear, his appearance did. He had blood red teeth and green skin. His eyes were black as night and had no emotion, and he stood there dressed in bits of cloth with his arms high in the air as if he was calling something from the skies to fall upon them. Amborn stepped back to see what was falling but it was more like diving. Great black crows were diving at Amborn and began to peck and bite at his face and neck. Amborn managed to grab three of them and throw them to the ground, injuring them beyond flight but more just kept coming.

Amborn was getting desperate, his face felt as if it had been ripped to shreds and the small man seemed to have an endless supply of crows ready and able to dive at his will. The birds finally gave break for a split second giving Amborn the chance to lunge at the man and tackle him to the ground. Amborn stood up and slammed his staff into the ground and the man fell limp. He was dead. The birds all flew away and went along as if nothing had ever happened. It was as if they had not been in control of themselves and had only attacked due to orders made by the strange fellow who lay dead now.

Amborn stood slowly and examined his face with his scarred hands. He had lost some blood, and his looks were not to be desired but other than some scars he was okay. A short rest and he was on his way again though he decided to be more careful about which paths he chose from here on out. Things were so different from what Amborn expected, and even from what he thought he had learned since arriving on Serapnoir. This world revealed more to him at every turn and he wondered how much was left unknown to him. This thought made him wonder if some things were still unknown to the people and creatures of Serapnoir as well and perhaps were only here because of Zaleth and his terrors.

Amborn was avoiding any woven path in hopes to avoid being found again. The trees blended together though, and his direction was lost. The map was supposed to tell the answers but his position on the map was an unanswerable question. He wondered now if he would ever truly understand anything here without some sort of guide from Ortanu. He only knew so much and in order to defeat Zaleth he would need to know so much more. Why wouldn’t Ortanu answer him? Or, and this thought made Amborn tremble…maybe Ortanu himself didn’t know the answers. This thought brought a severe headache to Amborn and he figured it was Ortanu punishing him for thinking such a thing. But Amborn was beginning to doubt himself and his journey which could lead back to Ortanu. Perhaps questions must be answered a different way?

Lost and confused Amborn decided to set up camp in a small clearing with no trees but plenty of soft grass and a canopy overhead to block out unwanted light. It was here Amborn decided to put his worries away and let himself relax for the first time since leaving the White Forrest. He sat back and let his head push the grass down feeling it bend and squeak as the water dripped to the ground. Here Amborn enjoyed himself as though he was still in Heaven. Thoughts of Serapnoir and his old life on Earth were no more here. Rest came easy, and before long so did sleep.

Amborn awoke to the sound of some green birds singing a tune like no other had ever heard. His ears delighted at the sound and he rose without an ache in his body to be found. He looked around the trees hoping no one was around and found himself to be quite alone. The trees were still and the forest was quiet. The river could be heard rushing downstream nearby and he felt thirsty. However, he did know if he could drink the water from the Black River, and so he was forced to continue his journey without refreshment.

His lips were dry and the aches in his back and legs returned as he looked out among the many miles of forest ahead of him. All hope was fading and the happiness of morning was going away fast. Suddenly he saw a light between a great bush the size of a small fort. He pushed through the twigs and leaves to find he was standing on a large hill and below him sat a tent next to a young boy or man who was cooking something on a fire. Amborn went to go back through the bush when the boy turned and waved him downwards. He figured this young man must be kind for his smile alerted no ill feelings in Amborn. So he took the time to nearly fall down the hill and greet him.

“Good day lad.” Amborn said softly as he shook the boy’s hand. “Yes it is, the sun seems to be giving us some light finally.” The boy said in a very mature voice compared to his appearance. He motioned Amborn to sit down and they both did upon logs which were perched next to the fire. “You look like you have been on a long walk sir, would you like something to eat or drink perhaps?” Amborn shook his head and smiled but the boy handed him a water pouch anyway and Amborn refused to let a drink get away this time. “Thanks…err I didn’t catch your name.” The boy smiled, “James sir, of Ailforth. I’m out here on a bit of a hunting trip, how about you?” Amborn smiled as he remembered hunting trips of old on Earth and shook himself to remember where he was at, “Amborn is my name kind lad, and I’m on my way to Narsik if I can find it.”

“Narsik, that’s dreadfully close to old Zaleth’s fortress. Why would you ever want to go there I wonder?” James looked genuinely worried about anyone going that close to Zaleth. “I was told I could find my way there. Seems I have something waiting there for me. Where is this Ailforth your from.” James smiled, “Only the quietest, most boring place you have ever wished to leave Amborn sir. It’s a small farmer town about twenty miles from Narsik. We get our own bit of injustice from the hands of Zaleth you see, and Narsik gets full blast of it. We only get what comes around them and it isn’t desirable sir.” James ended his words in a grave voice and seemed like he may have had some serious encounters with the wrath of Zaleth himself. “Sounds like I may have my work cut out for me then James.” Amborn said this mysteriously but James did not push for information out of respect. Instead they continued to eat the stew and enjoy the cold water which James continued to offer as they sat through most of the day.

“You ought to sleep here tonight sir, it’s getting dark as it is and you don’t want to get caught alone out here at night.” James said as the stew was finished up. “Well, I really should get some ground covered but if there is one thing I know its how things get around this forest at night. I had a run-in with something last night that I have never seen in my life.” He replied as the boy stood up, “Well then you can sleep in the tent and I will stay out here to keep watch for a while.” But Amborn could not ask this of the poor lad, “James I could never ask that of you. Take your tent.” James laughed, “You may not ask if of me, but I am asking it of you. Now please, take my tent and sleep well. I can take comfort from the sleeping sack I have out here. Good night.” James closed his eyes and feigned being asleep so Amborn gave up and went to lie down indoors for the first time in a while.

The inside of the tent brought memories back to Amborn as he closed his eyes. He remembered a time when he and his son had went on a hunting trip in the woods in Oregon and had slept in a tent much like the one he lay in now. He smiled and slipped into sleep without any struggle unlike recent nights. He dreamed of his journey, as if he was watching it from just outside himself. He saw his walk from the mountain he landed on and the many miles before he reached the Black Lake and found Derek. He went through every aspect from the White Forest across the thirty odd miles he had walked until finding James at the river bed. He then seemed to see a map with a marker of where he was sleeping. He had driven off course a bit and was north of the road to Narsik. He had been heading toward the border of Lamerith. This dream continued on like this until he was awoken by the noise of bacon frying over a new fire.

James had woken up much earlier than Amborn, something Amborn was not used to. In yet another stroke of kindness James decided to go hunting for breakfast and managed to find a wild boar that was now going to be the duos meal. Amborn thanked the boy many times as he marveled at his cooking; he had not experience bacon like this and he wondered if it was different from Earths bacon due to being a different bread of boar. He chuckled at what would normally be an insane thought if this journey had not taken place. James stared as Amborn continued laughing. “Sorry dear boy, I’ve remembered something funny during my travels.” Amborn did not like to lie, but it seemed necessary and harmless. James nodded and stood up to cut more bacon. Amborn waved him down, “Quite alright James, I do not require more nourishment,” he laughed again. “No, you have treated me kindly enough and I would be perfectly happy if you could just point me in the right direction.”

“Well I can do more than that sir. If you will allow it I will take you all the way to Ailforth. I am ready to be heading home and it’s on your way anyhow. Would that be okay with you?” Amborn smiled and replied, “Yes, I could use the conversation anyway. Human interactions have not been so kind to me since I arrived in Lamerith and you have reminded me of better time.” James smiled awkwardly and began packing his things. Amborn began to help and they were off before noon crept over the mountains in the south.

Thirty miles Amborn had traveled from the White Forrest and he was now thirty miles away from Ailforth. With half the journey done he was glad to be of company with James for he had missed a good conversation since leaving Derek behind. James was unbreakably kind and very smart which Amborn continued to find along the six miles they got through before nightfall. Their pace had been slow but still they figured there was no hurry. Amborn was worry free and he was enjoying every minute of it.

“Why would you want to go near Zaleth’s palace Amborn? It’s a right foul place you know and no good will come to you if you go about it the wrong way. His forces have done horrible things in Ailforth and we only hear of worse from Narsik.” James was continuingly grim looking when he spoke of Zaleth and it drove Amborn to ask, “Something had happened to you by the hand of Zaleth has it not?” To this the boy did not wish to answer but he figured he owed Amborn the truth if he was going to trust him.

“My mother was…killed by the hands of a stone kelt.” James looked up with a shiny gleam of sadness in his eyes and Amborn looked down. “Sorry James, but what is a stone kelt?” This was the first time in which Amborn had head of such a thing and he immediately wanted to know more. “It is a horrible thing, a servant of Zaleth himself. He sends them out in waves of ten and fifty. They keep us “in line”. They are about twenty feet tall and carry huge weapons, and being as they’re literally nothing but stone giants, there has been nothing we could do to stop them.” Amborn sighed as did James, “What happened with you mother James?”

“She tried to stop them from taking our vial of bluecular water.” Amborn felt bad asking another question but he needed to know everything, “James…what is bluecular water?” James looked up, “It’s the water from the Bluecular Lake at the bottom of Mount Gibs. It’s just south of here. Zaleth uses it to create his armies. I reckon he could go and get it from himself but the lake only lets kind hearted people who have sacrificed for others to go near it. It has some sort of unworldly power because it can make things come alive with a simple drop. My mom used it for her cabbage gardens…he uses it for his kelts.” Amborn thought about all this for a while, the Bluecular Lake must have been at the bottom of the mountain he came off of at his arrival in Serapnoir but he remembered no lake. “The kelts?” he asked, “You mean stone kelts?” James looked wearily at him, “Not exactly, he makes many breeds of them. There are stone kelts and kelts makes of trees that I know of. But I hear that there have been kelts of steel and iron attacking Narsik lately so you never really know I guess.”

Amborn had a lot to thing about on this night and again he felt the feeling of uncertainty and lack of guidance. His sleep would not be as easy as the night before but he took comfort in his learned companion who had helped him when he dearly needed it. He knew something of what he was going against now, though it only made his mind worry, it was a start. James and Amborn decided they need not talk of the matter anymore for memories and emotions sake and so they both went to bed eagerly and with haste. Amborn looked at the stars as the world faded black and silence fell around him. Sleep invaded and he knew no more until mornings illuminating light.

James woke up early, he had wished to prepare a new meal for Amborn before being on their way again. Amborn was enjoying his sleep anyway and continued to do so for about an hour while James was gone. Then it happened. Amborn began seeing images in his dreams as he had before and like a wave of energy he heard a voice call out, “You have found the key to everything Amborn.” This was all he heard and he saw but a grey room shrouded in black curtains. James had just returned to find Amborn trembling violently in his sleep and quickly tried to wake him. Amborn jumped and looked around rattled by the strange dream. It was not a message from Ortanu this time. Someone else was trying to tell him something. “Are you okay sir?” James asked concerned. “Yea…it was just a bad dream.”

Chapter Seven


Since Amborn had left the White Forest much had happened. Derek was amongst a group of Gargils who were called to a meeting soon after the unlike human had left. He wasn’t sure what the meeting would be about and was a little nervous as he stepped out through his doorway. The Gargils had been distant of Derek after his association with what many of them still considered an escaped criminal. He looked as the eyes peered over their fences and shrubs to gaze at the once highly regarded Derek. He imagined that Amborn had felt the same dread he felt now, only much more often and to a greater extent. He wondered how a human could resist so much hate coming from creatures who hardly knew him. Thoughts of Amborn were not to be found soon however, as Hotani was at the meeting and was already speaking to the others. “Good evening fellow Gargils. It was only a short while ago that I sent young Amborn away from this forest to a doom he does not understand. Narsik is in peril as we all know and word has been spread that Zaleth is planning to destroy what is left standing of the flailing city. Soon, the city of tears will be gone and our kings murderer as well. Why put blood on our hands when Zaleth can do it himself?” Finally the old Gargil shut his mouth and walked down the aisle of his worshipers bowing his head to many of them. Derek did not bow back.

In fact, Derek was disgusted by the turn of events that had just been laid out for him. He knew his friend must be warned somehow, but by the time of the meeting Amborn had already met James and crossed the Black River. Still, Derek rushed to his tree and put as much of his things in a sack as time allowed. Soon he would be leaving the White Forest, a place where he had looked up to as a shining light of good and riotousness. Hotani and his followers had dimmed Derek’s vision of the place and he barely looked back as he passed through the gates. He heard whispers from the guards as he left saying, “Maybe he’ll get himself killed as well and we can be rid of the both of them.” Derek frowned and continued heading east towards the Forest Black. By the time he arrived at its tree-line Amborn would be in Ailforth. Time and speed were not on Derek’s side it seemed, but he pressed on.

Derek crossed the Black River roughly an hour after Amborn had stopped the Kelts who destroyed the beloved little village of Ailforth. Derek was tired and ached from the running but still he pressed on, avoiding foul creatures that stalked him in the night and those who openly followed him in the light. Legend would tell of the journey he made those days for no creature ever crossed such a distance in Lamerith ever before or after. But none had been given such a tall duty to be carried out over the land either. The distance is wide and terrain is rough and Derek ran with the swiftness of a hawk diving for its prey. Indeed, the fields and wreckage of Ailforth were soon in his sights and they weighed heavy on his heart. His hope for Amborn had been turned into fear for his life. The huts were barely huts at all by his eyes; many were mere piles of singed hay and broken branches. He looked over the faces of the living in hopes of spotting a familiar face but all he saw were sad faces with sour looks. This place was ruined and dead yet no sign of Amborn was to be found here. Perhaps he was already moving toward Narsik!

Derek leapt forth again in hopes of catching Amborn in the Great Woods of Bluecular. Amborn may not have known it at the time but the woods between the cities was rich with life in its south-western parts and was considered one of the oldest forests in Serapnoir. The woods were always interesting for Derek to enter for he knew so much of their history. Battles for Narsik had been fought here yet the trees were never torn down or ruined by the ways of humans. Each tree was from the beginning of the world, each with a long and rich history filled with memories of the peoples who had passed through the woods. Ailforth and Narsik had made out richly living so close to such a powerful forest and much of their farming luck was from the seeds and waters stemming from them. Amborn however, had already been through them and passed through the gaping hole of Narsik. Derek was nearly too late.

Determined to make his journey worth the effort he pressed forward without paying his usual close attention to the details of the woods. He could see the lone tower and the gates would soon be visible through the trees. Narsik was upon him, and destruction would soon be upon Narsik. Zaleth had sent forth his Kelts from the dark fortress he called home just moments before Derek leaped through the hole in the wall. Running through the broken streets yelling for Amborn he was looked at as a crazy rabid creature by the few remaining city dwellers. Amborn and James were searching a pile of rubble when the sounds of Derek’s yells came through the air to their ears. “Somebody is looking for you Amborn!” James said thinking it may be what they were searching for. “Yes they are James…I know that voice.” They walked out of the alley they were in and soon saw Derek splashing through the puddles of water that had been built up out of the deep holes in the roads of Narsik. “Amborn!” he yelled as he reached their very feet, barely stopping before trampling them. “My Derek, you must have come a mighty distance to reach me at this hour…” his face lit up with worry, “What could be so important?”

Derek spent much time explaining the situation to Amborn and before long they were gathered around a table of the available weapons. The people of Narsik were in no condition to defend themselves and the three would-be-saviors were no match for the army of Kelts reported to be heading from Zaleth’s fortress. “What must we do?” James asked urgently. Amborn looked at him with troubled eyes, “The answer James…is what we can do.” They all stood up with this and began walking to a destination none of them knew but before long Derek was trampling up the winding stair of the tower of Narsik to get a better look at the marching doom heading to them. From the tower he could see the Kelts nearing the city; they were roughly a mile off by his reckoning. He tried counting the ones he could see well enough and the number was at least ten. He took out his bow and prepared his arrows, there would be no time to leave the tower. Instead he yelled down to Amborn, “They will come from the South almost directly Amborn, through the Woods of Bluecular!” To this Amborn was a little lost as he did not know these woods were titled as such but a quick explanation from James had him ready for the attack. The Kelts he had taken down previously were smaller than those he could see through the trees and some were even seen above the treetops. That instance was also only an army designed to take down the city of Ailforth. This army though, was bred for the destruction of Narsik. To take down the last remains of the city to the North was Zaleth’s latest ambition and he had created more than enough to help in his task.

“Are you ready James?” Amborn asked rather stupidly he thought. But the tension had to be brought down to make for stronger battle minds. “I suppose this will be the hardest thing I have ever done Amborn…but if life or death come to me in the end I will know I did what I should have done…and with my friends.” Amborn smiled strongly and a gleam was seen in his eyes. “You are wise beyond your years James; it would be a crying shame to lose someone like you to the great darkness of war.” James then smiled back, “So let us make sure that end does not come then.” They turned their head to the woods and saw the Kelts drawing near. A whistle was heard as Derek’s first fired arrow flew towards the horrid things. It hit one of the front leaders but did not bring him down, it had barely startled him. These creatures were not easy to destroy, and Amborn began to doubt himself once more. “You and Derek have been great friends to me since I have come to Lamerith James. But now to Zaleth’s armies I am come and I bring vengeance. I bring my might and the power behind me like no other, let them tremble in fear.

James as confused but the evening starlight was peeking through the clouds and the rumble of the Kelts great steps could be felt now. James ran forward first, alarming Amborn a little until he saw James plan of attack. His show of agility and cunning was nothing short of amazing as he ran between the stomping feet of the giants and grabbed onto ones leg as he strode forward. Amborn looked on in utter astonishment as James climbed the creature like a tree and proudly stuck his sword into its wooden head. The creature bellowed out in an awful roar of pain and agony. The very sound shook the earth as it fell to the ground lifeless. Amborn rushed forward now, for there were nine left to defeat. They began attacking the walls of Narsik and Amborn threw his hands out with staff in the left and sword in the right. A blue light radiated and the walls seemed to pulsate with a strange glow as the two Kelts clawing at them fell to their knees. They fell into the same bulb that Amborn had seen before and all this was good until Amborn spotted young James just a short distance away from them. “James, get away from them!” He yelled as James ducked under a small dirt ledge.

The Kelts exploded in the same blast pattern as the Ailforth Kelts and they too fell dead in the aftermath. Seven now remained of the ten Zaleth had sent to Narsik. Amborn was beginning to think this was going to be easier than they had all imagined but James and Derek knew better. They had seen the strange power of the will of Zaleth like Amborn had not. They knew the tides could and more likely would change at any given moment. Derek fired arrows from the top of the tower at one single Kelt until finally he fell leaving only six for the ten. Soon there would be five as James climbed up another and cut his trunk of a head. Amborn stepped forward once more and attempted to destroy a group of three Kelts that had been standing near each other. He felt the familiar wave of energy serge through him as the lights came from his hands to the creatures ahead of him. But finally an unfamiliar thing happened. The Kelts did not explode in a lightning like explosion this time and instead something rather horrible happened. The three morphed into each other and became one as a great red surge of power clung around them. The merging of stone and wood made an awful noise like no other as the three creatures became a toweringly massive Kelt nearly as tall as the lone tower of Narsik. Amborn looked up and his jaw dropped in disbelief.

The great behemoth lurched forward to the walls of the city and smashed a great portion to the ground. Amborn yelled out, “James, Derek…together!” They all nodded from their distant locations and attempted to bring the great Kelt down. Derek fired his arrows to the head of the creature as James climbed up his leg toward the head high above the ground. Amborn walked slowly through the wreckage of the wall and between the other two kelts toward the feet of the monster. James reached the head just as Amborn raised his staff towards the sky. Derek fired one last arrow into the very head that James thrust his sword into. Amborn called out in a powerful voice unknowingly, “The power of Ortanu be with me as I save this city…only with you can I stop this.” He calmly put his sword to his spear and the light appeared once again. Not blue, but white and brighter than any morning sun has ever been. The last image Derek saw from his tower was of Amborn shrouded by light and the creature look to the south and scream for help. The great light grew and James managed to jump to the ground before he fainted.

Amborn saw the creature bend over holding itself together as the light grew and a great rattle of the earth followed. The light exploded and the noise was deafening as the creature burst into broken stones and twigs. The entire city of Narsik was contained in the dome of light and every living thing within felt the power of Ortanu though they did not recognize it. Suddenly all that was good and right went through them all. The light climaxed as white as the brightest star and sunk back down until vision had returned. Amborn looked up and saw the most marvelous sight he had ever behold. Ortanu’s face was in the wall of Narsik just before he looked up at the tower. Like a renewed hope the city was rebuilt. The holes were gone and the wall restored. The cloud that the city had held over itself for generations had gone and all that was left was the horrible memory. This was Narsik in its prime again, this was a memory long forgotten but soon restored. There was hope again and Amborn gladly accepted it as did his companions in hope and riotousness as they marveled at the return of the City of Tears; a name that was no longer suiting. After all that had happened, this was now the City of Hope.

Through the excitement of the battle and seeing the renewed tower Amborn had barely noticed the pain he felt in his face. He had simply shook it off as a wound attained in the action, but it was something more. He fell to the ground as the adrenaline wore off and the full effects of what he had done rained down upon him. The left side of his face was black and translucent, veins appearing to die beneath his cheek. He had called the power of Ortanu to go through him and now he would pay the price. No human body can withstand the full surge of power that he had used to take down the Kelt. Amborn had brought himself near to death.

James and Derek looked to Amborn from where they stood and saw him fall to the ground in agony. Both ran to him but he had passed out by the time they arrived. The sight of his face alarmed them and they immediately took him into Narsik for help. “We need help…bandages!” they yelled as they rushed through the newly formed golden gates of the city. People flocked to them to thank the cities heroes but also to help the fallen. Derek sat him down on a table in the middle of the courtyard as different medical professionals came to aid Amborn. Derek and James could do nothing but look on from a distance as their friend slowly slipped away. But Amborn knew something quite different.

Amborn was back in Lintalona with Ortanu who sat smiling down at him. “You have done something quite marvelous this day Amborn.” His booming voice called out like the trumpets heard in the clear mornings in the White Forest. “I do not feel so great my lord.” Amborn was coughing, which was strange as he had never felt any sign of illness in the presence of Ortanu before. “You bore a great burden…I’m afraid you may not ever be fully healed from this experience. To transfer my light through you was not only complicated, but also detrimental to you bodies health.” Amborn agreed that this was not a particularly healthy feeling. “Will I be able to handle it once more?” He asked, realizing something he had been dreading for a while now. Slowly he knew that this task to stop Zaleth would also bring an end to his time on Serapnoir. In order to stop Zaleth he would need the power of Ortanu once again for his own would only be enough to match Zaleth at best, and even with the aid of his lord the battle could be lost. He frowned as he thought about leaving his friends to a possible worsened world. “Once more the power can stream through you but that is all you will have Amborn…and the time must be right. Go back now, for your journey is not ended.”

He saw the walls of Lintalona fade from his view as his spirit was put back into the ragged body of his. Slowly he felt the pain in his face return, but he could feel the sensation of his fingers resting on the table and he knew he was alive once more. His eyes opened to see his friends staring down at him. “Honestly guys I think there are better things to stare at.” He laughed as they helped him sit up. “We thought you were lost” James said as he choked back tears. “Not yet…there are things to be done.” Amborn stepped down from the table and began to walk away when he noticed Derek looking at him with a curved brow. “Amborn…what is Ortanu?”

Chapter NINE


The route west was different this time, as they were passing south of the Black Lake instead of north of it. The majority of the journey would be through the Great Woods of Bluecular and Amborn would see some truly miraculous sights there. The woods were older than most living things on Serapnoir and the beings who dwelt there had long been in slumber. But those who are waking are both fearful and marvelous. The parts of the forest closest to the gates of Narsik had been close to Zaleth and therefore had been rundown a bit leaving Amborn to suspect that the entire place was relative to this. He knew right away he was wrong as he and his companions journeyed further into the trees. The Forest Black and The Woods of Bluecular were different in more ways than he expected. Where The Forest Black had been full of dark and foul things that stalked you in the night and hunted you in the day, Bluecular was calm and peaceful but filled with large creatures of sorts Amborn had never seen and many that even Lamerith had yet to name. “This is the most spectacular place I have ever stepped into…” he mumbled as he looked up at a bird that sang in some otherworldly language in a most beautiful voice. “Yes…these woods are an inspiration. Life of all different sorts can be found here and the waters can give life like no other…it is an abomination that Zaleth has warped it into his own creation of malice.” Indeed, the idea of the kelts being from the same beginning as these wondrous beings seemed wrong in every way to Amborn.

Miles of walking left them halfway through the woods and nearing the Bluecular Lake. They decided to set up a small camp near a tall tree that had leaves of red colors. They were not dying red or even dry but fully fleshed leaves colored red and orange. The bark was a deep and powerful green and brown that looked to have come from the heavens themselves. James started a fire as Derek went out to gather wood and food. Amborn considered himself lucky to have friends who would so willingly let him sleep as they worked to prepare supper. He happily sat down on the ground looking to the sky as he pushed himself up against the red-tree. Sleep took him again though it did not last long because soon the smells of cooking meat were reaching his nose and pulled him away from it. But when he awoke something happened he could not have expected. He stood and smiled at his friends as they held his plate up in the air. He leaned against the tree for balance as he picked up his staff and a growl was heard. “I do not appreciate men burning my fallen limbs for their own nourishment!” it called in a booming voice that reminded Amborn of Ortanu himself. “Who is that?” He yelled back. The red-tree shook as it straightened and its eyes opened as his mouth spoke again. “I suppose it’s alright as long as you do not rip the living from my branches.” It spoke in a deep and longwinded voice drawing out the “s” sounds and pausing after every other word. “Who are you?” James yelled drawing his sword. “I do not think this moment calls for violence young human. But I will answer your question, I am Bluecular.” Derek scoffed, “Bluecular was a chemist who created the waters that give you the ability to live! He died ages ago.” The tree seemed to yell in anger and grabbed Derek with branches that were not his. The red-tree seemed to have control of the entire forest.

“I created these woods and waters indeed. I made them for myself and my own. To keep myself alive and powerful I created this all and you are at my mercy creature! I have every branch and twig at my command and you should be mindful of what you accuse!” Derek settled his anger and put his sword away as the branches put him safely back on the ground. “Now if you are able, please prove to me that the beings of Lamerith still have some respectability left in them after all these years. Long have I been neglected by Narsik and Zaleth. So we will play a game.” Amborn became angry, “I have come to stop Zaleth from his treachery of living things and now you intend to hinder our journey?” He was battling with an ancient mind and a powerful body but he felt less fear in saying this than he expected. “I will let you pass if one of you can correctly answer my question. Many have played and you shall be no different. If you have come to stop Zaleth then I hope you get it correct. If not, then you will die like the rest.” This tree-man was polite and yet cruel. Amborn was dumbfounded.

“You should do nothing to give Zaleth a possible upper hand. We can stop him, and you should be helping those who oppose him!” James yelled rather immaturely but with a tone commanding respect. “Ah, but everything has opposed me and my trees at some point in my lifetime and therefore I find I must trust no one.” The tree said. Amborn stood up tall, “You can trust me.” The tree smiled, “We shall see.” The three of them were picked up by different limbs and held above the ground as the tree thoughtfully looked at them. “The question…hmm…I got a good one for you my intruders. Nuro is currently king of Narsik, the city east of here. Who were his father and his grandfather, former kings of Narsik?” Amborn felt happiness within as he realized that Derek would know this questions answer easily and indeed Derek immediately spoke up. “Mera was the elder and Nero the kings father.” The tree lifted his eyes and his face in surprise. “A Gargil who knows so much about the eastern cities is strange, but I suppose you have proven your worth. You are free to go as you please.” They were sat back on the ground and Amborn smiled as he passed the tree, “You should consider helping us more.” The tree frowned but Amborn knew he had just made a contact that may prove useful later. The southern section of The Black River would be in their sights soon and Amborn was glad to be leaving the forest. Trees had outgrown their welcome with him.

The section of the river that resides south of the Black Lake was near to where Amborn first met Derek. It was a river with many varieties of small fish but the water was rather foul tasting. This water was of the very source that gave the Gargils their ability to speak and think like humans long ago. Still, this river had long been used for wrong-doers just as the Bluecular water had been and was nothing to be taken lightly. Their passing of it would be dangerous and would need to be quick. The depth of the water would not be a problem as the river ran low here but the current was swift and hard. Derek decided he should go across first since his legs and general frame were the strongest, he took James along to see how that would work. Slowly he put his feet into the water and began trudging his way through as the current nearly swept him of his feet once or twice. He made it and sat James back on the ground. Amborn was determined to come across himself now but Derek would not allow him to take the risk. With no attention paid to speed Derek made his way back across and brought Amborn back with him. The whole event seemed far less exciting this way but James and Amborn thanked Derek for allowing them to ride on his back. “It’s not a disrespect if it is friends doing the riding.” He politely said as they walked through the plains ahead of them.

Directly to the south of their location was the Gibian Mountains, a common sight in Lamerith. The map Derek gave Amborn showed the range of hills to completely encompass the lands of Serapnoir. Amborn found this a little strange and wondered how accurate it was even though he had heard it described this way before. Soon they would be passing near the Path between the Rocks. “It’s called that because it’s a large gap between the mountains and Palamoore to the Lotus River.” Derek described as Amborn looked out through the path. It was astoundingly flat in this area of Lamerith. He could see for miles through this gap because there was hardly any hill or plant in his line of sight. Amborn was constantly amused at these little things about Lamerith and he wondered how James and Derek felt about the same things. He assumed that they would not care at all having seen it before, and for Derek he would have been right. But James was almost just as amazed at this area of the world because he had only heard the old stories from travelers and rangers. This was his first time viewing the far western lands of Lamerith.

“We are nearing Palamoore now my friends. Our path turns north-west now as we will pass the city if we do not angle north.” Derek said. Amborn already knew this though for he had been starting to recognize the lands leading to Palamoores gates as they drew nearer. “Perhaps now would be a great time to sleep Derek. So Amborn can enter Palamoore rested and able minded tomorrow morning?” James asked with concern for the intense debates that may await Amborn in Palamoore. “You are right James, what say you Amborn?” Derek smiled for he had already seen the look in Amborn’s face as James mentioned it. “Rest would be great now, night fall is nearly here and tomorrow may indeed hold some troubling times for our band of outcasts.” James laughed at him describing the trio that way but Derek sighed as it was true. They had been cast out of the White Forest and James had nothing in Ailforth worth staying for. “Then let us set up.” The camp went up fast and soon they were all sitting around telling stories again. James told of an old tale about a vagabond from the far-east and his great battle where he had killed nearly two-hundred men when his city of Cradlemoore was attacked. The city was the sister-city of Palamoore and was nothing but empty ruins now but the lone fighter had held back the armies for years and it was not until his death that the city finally fell. “Such stories would entertain my son.” Amborn said stupidly and his eyes jerked wide-open as he realized the two looking at him.

“They are not stories…legends are neither false nor true.” Derek said with a laugh and Amborn settled down as no one asked about his son or any past life. He had escaped trouble once again, or so he thought. “I wish you would tell more of your family and where you come from Amborn. You know an awful lot about us.” James said kindly. Amborn shook his head as he knew it was the truth. “Well James, I had a wife and a son but that life was long ago…they’ve passed on I’m afraid.” Derek frowned, “I’m sorry Amborn. Long ago you say?” Amborn looked up from the fire as its flames reflected in his glazed eyes. “Many years ago…it’s easier not to speak of it. You understand?” James and Derek agreed in unison and they headed off for the night’s sleep. Amborn laid down as well thinking about when he left his family to join the order of Ortanu. The memories were no longer sad for they were long ago but there was a longing and a wish in his heart to see them again. He thought that it was a sad day but his memory of it showed a bright light in the heavens. He thought it must have been a path worth taking for he had already been put to good use by Ortanu. Saving Narsik was not only extraordinary but helped Amborn cope with the roads he had walked long ago. He drifted into sleep just as the image of his family entered his mind again. His thoughts were illuminated and darkness stripped away. The night was peaceful and he had a smile on his face as his mind left this world and entered a land of dreams.

“Amborn you simply must wake up…it’s nearly mid-day after all.” Said the kindly voice of James as Amborn slowly opened his eyes. The light of the sun hurt his eyes but he sat up to see James smiling at him so he smiled back.“I wonder whether we should head out immediately then?” asked Amborn as he stood up to brush his robes off. “We could go if you deem it the best option. Some of us might say a proper breakfast would be good though.” said Derek with a grin. Amborn gladly stood up to grab the plate that was already being offered to him. “You two need not worry about me so much.” He said as he bit a large portion of his meat in two. James stood up looking worried and pointing North. “What do you suppose that is Derek?” The other two jerked their heads northward and were just barely able to see a silhouette of a horse and rider approaching their campsite. “This could be trouble.” Derek said gravely.

A few minutes passed and the horse arrived at last. Unfortunately though, the rider was being held to his beast by ropes and was in fact quite dead. The three adventurers looked on in fright and wonder. “What do you suppose happened to him?” Amborn asked quicker than he meant too. Derek grabbed the body and pulled him from the horse. As he did it became obvious that the man had been pierced by an arrow as it was still stuck through his chest. “My…who do you think he fought with?” asked James. Derek pulled the arrow out and examined it closely. “He fought with no one. This man was killed from afar with his sword holstered,” he pointed to the sword on the man’s side and continued, “This arrow shows all the signs of the average Palamoore sword I fear.” Derek handed the arrow to Amborn who looked at it for a while. It was white with a brilliant blue tip which was covered with dried blood. Amborn became worried, “You don’t think that Palamoore has taken to shooting random passersby?” he said with a trembling voice. Derek merely frowned and sat down.

The minutes before their leaving passed very slowly for Amborn as he was becoming fearful of what greeting awaited him when he reached the gates of Palamoore. Derek glanced at the arrow ever so often and James took his turns doing so as well. Finally they all stood up as if all reaching the same conclusion at the same moment. “We really must go.” Amborn spoke first. The two others nodded their heads and they set off towards an uncertain future. Each individual step seemed to shake the very ground they walked on and it was not long before Amborn had grown tired and was aching. The trip was short however and soon the great silver walls were visible ahead of them. Those familiar walls haunted Amborn’s mind for a while before the gate was visible. A memory of him and Derek being questioned here seemed very far away and long ago. The direction of life had turned since then. They all looked to the lookouts that were above either side of the gates and smiled as they realized that no bow was aimed at them.

Approaching the mass of golden gate ahead of him Amborn began to sweat with worry. Derek was quietly surveying the situation while James marveled at the size of the wall and the extensiveness of its design. Amborn went to pull the rope to ring the bell but as he put his hand out the gates opened by their own accord. As they did Amborn became aware that the guards above must have seen them and opened the gates. The field of view opened like the parting of an ocean and the city within became visible. A lone road ran straight through to a very long and high set of stairs that led to the marvelously constructed home of the King. This place was far different from Narsik in its grandiose and vanity. The road was lined with golden trim similar to the gates and every building on either side seemed to be build with royalty in mind. To his left Amborn saw various shops with different things within. One contained swords and shields in its windows while another simply held books within. As he looked closer Amborn realized that the entire Eastern half of the city was made-up with shops while the Western half contained the homes of the peoples of Palamoore.

Within their first ten steps into the city a horn suddenly was heard ringing down from the steps ahead. The King could be seen approaching them with a very extravagant robe draped over his shoulders and a silver crown on his head. He had more than four different guards on both sides of him and a tall blonde headed woman behind him. He also held a ruby engraved scepter in his right hand which he poked into Derek’s chest as he reached the group of three. Amborn knew it must have taken all of Derek’s restraint as the Kind did this disrespectful act and silently thanked Derek for keeping his head. “Why have you come here Amborn? You may have delayed battle for a while between us and the Gargils but you should know that you and…” he paused and gave a sour look to Derek before continuing, “…It are not welcome here. Amborn knew all of this beforehand as he could vividly remember the meeting between the King of the Gargils and the King of Palamoore. Suddenly Amborn remembered the night he saw King Alector of the Gargils murdered by Zaleth. His mind troubled, he tried to speak with courage and well-meaning. “I have important news that my friends and I have carried from Narsik in the East. I ask that you listen as it regards Zaleth and the battle for this world.”