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Shadow Swarm
Shadow Swarm
Shadow Swarm
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Shadow Swarm

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Born to Rule. Lived to Heal. Died to Save. Born Again.

WINNER: Mom's Choice Awards, Gold Medal - Fantasy & Science Fiction

Aberthol Nauile doesn't know that he beheld the creation of the world, ravaged by a war of the gods, and began anew; or that he led legions in a war that had raged since the dawn of time; or that he once rode on a dragon with his father. All he knows is that he awoke in a coffin deep within a tomb, hearing voices in his head, and now the whole world thinks he is their savior.

EVOLVED PUBLISHING PRESENTS an epic fantasy adventure spanning millennia, set in a world full of magic and dark forces where creatures of legend come alive. (Great for readers 15 and up.) [DRM-Free]

PRAISE FOR "SHADOW SWARM":

"Shadow Swarm sucked me in…." ~ Michelle Isenhoff

"Great action adventure!" ~ AllisonBurres

"It's extremely poetic and something I haven't seen done in any other book that I've read." ~ Tara Lee

"D. has a way of spinning a story that engrosses you from the moment you begin reading." ~ LizzieBeth

"Shadow Swarm is a new novel that goes beyond touching the surface of fantasy and takes the reader into a whole new level of fiction." ~ Lois Ann

INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR:

Q: What made you want to write epic fantasy novels?

A: I grew up on this stuff: J.R.R. Tolkien, Stephen R. Donaldson, Roger Zelazny... I could go on and on, but it was this kind of epic fantasy with dragons, and magic and fantastical worlds that filled my imagination as a kid. So the question is more like how could I not write an epic fantasy?

Q: Do you consider Shadow Swarm a Sword & Sorcery type epic?

A: There are certainly elements of sword and sorcery in the novel. With big sweeping battles and magic I poured all that I love into this story. I also worked to create a world with a rich history, political machinations and fantastical creatures of every kind. Again, this is the stuff I love. Shadow Swarm is also clean without the language and sex found in many books today, so it can be a great epic fantasy book for teens to read as well.

 

LanguageEnglish
Release dateMay 28, 2014
ISBN9781622534111
Shadow Swarm
Author

D. Robert Pease

My whole life, I’ve loved hearing and reading stories, and creating worlds of my own. As a child, I spent countless hours drawing crazy contraptions on paper, or building vast fortresses in a sand pile behind my garage. There was hardly a time I wasn’t off on some adventure in my mind, to the dismay of parents and teachers alike. So it’s no big surprise I took all that daydreaming, all that longing to really see the wonder of creation around me, and started pouring it into discovering hidden universes in my own mind. For quite a few years I tried my hand at writing, mostly working on one, massive fantasy novel, but it wasn’t until I had kids and they became voracious readers that I found my passion. There’s no greater audience than a child. I’d rather have a simple review from a kid that says, “Awesome book!” than a five-star review in the New York Times. Of course, if anyone at the Times wants to try to prove me wrong, I’d be willing to let you. To receive newsletter announcements related to D. Robert Pease’s new releases, please visit http://www.drobertpease.com/About-the-Author/New-Releases-Newsletter

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    Shadow Swarm - D. Robert Pease

    Copyright

    www.EvolvedPub.com

    ~~~

    SHADOW SWARM

    Copyright © 2014 D. Robert Pease

    Cover Art Copyright © 2014 D. Robert Pease

    Interior Maps and Illustration Copyright © 2014 D. Robert Pease

    ~~~

    ISBN (EPUB Version): 1622534115

    ISBN-13 (EPUB Version): 978-1-62253-411-1

    ~~~

    Editor: Marissa van Uden

    Senior Editor: Lane Diamond

    Interior Designer: Lane Diamond

    ~~~

    PUBLISHER’S NOTE:

    At the end of this novel of approximately 116,000 words, you will find two Special Sneak Previews: 1) In the Company of the Dead by Ciara Ballintyne, the first novel from The Sundered Oath series, and; 2) Kingdom in Chains by J.W. Zulauf, the first novel from the Kingdom in Chains series. We provide these as a FREE extra service, and you should in no way consider it a part of the price you paid for this book. We hope you will both appreciate and enjoy the opportunity. Thank you.

    ~~~

    eBook License Notes:

    You may not use, reproduce or transmit in any manner, any part of this book without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations used in critical articles and reviews, or in accordance with federal Fair Use laws. All rights are reserved.

    This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only; it may not be resold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, please return to your eBook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

    ~~~

    Disclaimer:

    This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are products of the author’s imagination, or the author has used them fictitiously.

    Books by D. Robert Pease

    YOUNG ADULT SCIENCE FICTION (Suitable for Readers Aged 11+)

    Noah Zarc Trilogy

    Book 1: Noah Zarc: Mammoth Trouble

    Book 2: Noah Zarc: Cataclysm

    Book 3: Noah Zarc: Declaration

    Special Edition: Noah Zarc: Omnibus/Boxed Set

    Prequel Short Story: Noah Zarc: Roswell Incident

    ~~~

    SCIENCE FICTION (Suitable for Readers Aged 13+)

    Exodus Chronicles

    Book 1: Enslaved

    Book 2: Red Sea (Coming Soon)

    Book 3: Promised Land (Coming Soon)

    ~~~

    YOUNG ADULT URBAN FANTASY (Suitable for Readers Aged 13+)

    Joey Cola Series

    Book 1: Dream Warriors

    Book 2: Cleopatra Rising (Coming Soon)

    ~~~

    EPIC FANTASY

    Shadow Swarm

    ~~~

    www.DRobertPease.com

    BONUS CONTENT

    We’re pleased to offer you not one, but two Special Sneak Previews at the end of this book.

    ~~~

    In the first preview, you’ll enjoy the First 2 Chapters of Ciara Ballintyne’s award-winning IN THE COMPANY OF THE DEAD, the first book in the exciting The Sundered Oath series of dark epic fantiasies.

    ~~~

    ~~~

    OR GRAB THE FULL EBOOK TODAY!

    YOU’LL FIND LINKS TO YOUR FAVORITE RETAILER HERE:

    THE SUNDERED OATH Series at Evolved Publishing

    In the second preview, you’ll enjoy the First 2 Chapters of J.W. Zulauf’s critically acclaimed KINGDOM IN CHAINS, the first book in the Kingdom in Chains epic fantasy series.

    ~~~

    ~~~

    OR GRAB THE FULL EBOOK TODAY!

    YOU’LL FIND LINKS TO YOUR FAVORITE RETAILER HERE:

    KINGDOM IN CHAINS Series at Evolved Publishing

    Table of Contents

    Copyright

    Other Books by D. Robert Pease

    BONUS CONTENT

    Table of Contents

    Dedication

    A Note from the Author

    SHADOW SWARM

    Map 1

    Chapter 1 – Birth

    Map 2

    Chapter 2 – Presentation

    Chapter 3 – Flight

    Chapter 4 – Murals and Memories

    Chapter 5 – Waljan Jyn

    Chapter 6 – Mountains of Shadow

    Chapter 7 – The Sa’Lavian

    Chapter 8 – A Wedding

    Chapter 9 – Stones of Seeing

    Chapter 10 – Council of War

    Chapter 11 – A Parting of Ways

    Chapter 12 – Safe Haven

    Chapter 13 – Anwalrah Dominah

    Chapter 14 – Daughter of a King

    Chapter 15 – Bruinthore

    Chapter 16 – Forbidden Knights

    Chapter 17 – Amber Hall

    Chapter 18 – Voice of Threim-Zhure

    Chapter 19 – BaramZhore

    Chapter 20 – House of the Quiet Moon

    Chapter 21 – Fall of the King

    Chapter 22 – West

    Chapter 23 – Fangs of Necros

    Chapter 24 – Malevonar

    Chapter 25 – Power of the Aerodore

    Chapter 26 – Upon the Throne

    Chapter 27 – Final Conflict

    Chapter 28 – Farewell

    Names and Terms

    Acknowledgements

    About the Author

    More from D. Robert Pease

    Special Sneak Preview: IN THE COMPANY OF THE DEAD by Ciara Ballintyne

    More from Evolved Publishing

    Special Sneak Preview: KINGDOM IN CHAINS by J.W. Zulauf

    Dedication

    For Dave, who whispers to my soul each Sunday of the great epic story.

    A Note from the Author

    Dear Reader,

    You’ll find, right at the end of the story, a section called Names and Terms. Given the vast array of characters (and the difficult pronunciations of some), and the whole new world you’re about to discover, I thought you’d find this a helpful resource.

    Additionally, we’re including a link to the Names and Terms section at the end of every chapter, so you won’t have to hunt around for it too much should you need it.

    Please enjoy,

    D. Robert Pease

    Chapter 1 – Birth

    Burning oil and cooked meats barely masked the acrid smell of death. His swollen tongue tasted thick dust on cracked lips. Rough stone dug into his back as he opened his eyes and flung his hands up to shield his gaze. Dust billowed around his nearly skeletal fingers, which glowed red against the searing light.

    The reek of death grew stronger. He struggled to move, but his legs were stiff, his shoulders jammed between stone. Sweat poured from his brow in this cramped box as he kicked his legs and grappled toward the light.

    Straining against the edges of the box, he pulled himself up toward the ruddy glow. Gray dots danced across his vision, his head spun, and he nearly fainted. At last, the room steadied.

    He sat in a granite box on a raised platform at the end of a long narrow chamber. Stone sarcophagi lined both sides of the room. A chill prickled his skin.

    I have awakened in a tomb.

    His mind raced as fresh sweat rolled down his grimy forehead into his eyes. Nightmarish visions of faces filled his mind—faces surrounding him—large pale eyes watching, always watching. A need to climb free of the coffin overpowered him.

    Gathering his strength, he lifted his leg over the side and stepped to the floor. A dusty linen sheet fell from his body, and cool air tickled bare flesh. He felt a touch upon his breast. A delicate amulet dangled on a thin gold strand—a dragon and a lion locked in mortal combat. Set between the beasts was a clear, flawless diamond.

    Lamps on golden stands filled the chamber with warm light, and rows of columns on each wall supported a ceiling lost in darkness above.

    Sharp pain wrenched his hollow stomach. How long has it been since I’ve eaten?

    The aroma of food nearby drew him toward a bright alcove a few yards down the wall. His legs buckled as he lurched toward a coffin opposite his. Stone, intricately carved in the shape of robes and boot-shod feet, greeted his touch. The sarcophagus lid bore the likeness of a warrior, with a sword crossed over his chest. A name came to him: Vuzhex Mqueg. He strained to remember.

    A rich mural covered the wall above, in which Vuzhex Mqueg stood with a gleaming sword lifted toward a sky of red fire and black smoke.

    I dub thee Loequazh Thabo, Bane of Death. Memories gnawed at the edge of his mind.

    Columns on either side of the mural, carved in the likeness of majestic oaks, soared toward the ceiling and intertwined with branches from columns on the far wall. No frescos stood watch over his coffin.

    How did I come to be entombed with such as these? He looked at the richness beyond his drab, stone box. It was apparent he did not belong.

    He stumbled toward the flickering light of the alcove.

    Fire smoldered on a hearth at the far end of a small chamber off the main. In the center, nearly filling the room, stood a polished cherry-wood table surrounded by ten chairs, their backs carved like the wings of dragons. Jewel-encrusted plates and goblets sat ready for unseen guests, along with large platters and bowls containing soups, meats, cheeses, vegetables and hard-crusted bread.

    His mind filled with wonder at the sumptuous meal, but his stomach called for action. He moved to the nearest chair and sat. Fine utensils lay on each side of the dishes, but he tore into the fare without regard for manners, hoping whoever had prepared the banquet would not begrudge the sacrilege. He devoured the food, tearing off large chunks of meat and bread, followed by frenetic gulps of a warm, sweet drink found in a finely etched silver pitcher. When he could eat no more, he leaned back in his chair. His body shook as he gazed around. He was in a tomb, with no idea how he got there, nor any apparent way to leave.

    Where am I? Am I dead? Am I doomed to spend all of eternity roaming this mausoleum, being fed by invisible beings?

    There were no doors in the paneled walls. He stood and found he had a bit more strength, enough to walk with greater confidence. To think his body had grown so weak....

    Once I led legions in battle. This thought stopped him, and he leaned his weight on a chair. He too was a warrior? He strained to remember, but fog enveloped his mind.

    He shuffled from the alcove and passed a stone basin with cool water. After splashing his face, he peered at the sarcophagus in front of him. Again, a kingly soldier lay in repose with the same sword, Loequazh Thabo, across his chest. No name for the warrior came to him, however.

    His gaze darted toward the fresco behind.

    Dark reds and purples defined a scene drawn from the final moments of a grisly battle. A vast host arrayed in polished blood-red armor surrounded a mounded hill. Fallen men lay in mangled heaps all around, as the vile army taunted their encircled prey. Fire filled the sky, and at the summit, an ancient stone hand held aloft the broken body of a woman dressed in tattered white robes. In front of the woman, a shadow of a man grasped a bloodied sword; hope faded. Nevertheless, the figure stood, feet planted wide, blade held high.

    He heard a voice as if through a great wind, Desperation does not become you. Surrender now and sue for leniency.

    He staggered back from the fresco.

    I will not let you have her. His eyes leapt to the figure of the woman, broken and bloodied on the stone hand. Tears blurred his vision. Why does she move me so?

    He clawed at his head, trying to remember, but the fog did not lift. He slumped to the floor and cradled his face in his hands, and the voice faded.

    At the same time, his stomach began to murmur; he should not have eaten so quickly. Within moments, his insides twisted in pain. He lurched to his feet and staggered toward the stone basin. Dousing his face with cool water did nothing to quench the sweat that poured from his forehead, while his body quaked in the cold of the room. Bile rose in his throat, and he retched into the bowl. The room blurred around him as his limbs tingled and grew heavy.

    He collapsed to the floor, feeling cold stone before all went dark.

    ***

    When he awoke, visions and voices flitted in and out of his thoughts. Then he realized he no longer shivered.

    A soft pillow supported his head and a fragrant blanket covered him. Clothes of rich purple and forest green lay folded neatly near the water basin, along with a pair of supple, finely tooled leather shoes. He sat up, reached for the apparel, and once more caught a heavenly aroma.

    Another meal? Who has cared for me?

    He dressed, finding everything including the shoes fit his thin frame, and peered at the table. In place of dirtied dishes sat clean plates and bowls. A steaming meal drew him toward the room once more. This time the food consisted of fruits, eggs and meats, as well as toasted bread and juices. He went to the table and, being more cautious, ate mainly fruit.

    After his hunger subsided, he washed in the basin, now filled with clean water. Once again, he explored the hall and found no doors, no way for someone to get in or out of the mausoleum. Assuming there must be a hidden entrance, he ran his hands over each wall, searching for cracks or seams that would indicate an opening. He found none.

    A raised dais, topped by a throne carved from the same granite as the sarcophagi, filled the far end of the mausoleum. Barren and forlorn it seemed, as if waiting for its owner to return and take rest.

    Next to the throne stood a stone altar that held a glimmering, filigreed sword—Loequazh Thabo, the very sword depicted in several paintings, and carved upon the breasts of many of the tomb’s inhabitants. With care, he caressed the steel blade and intricately crafted pommel.

    ‘I have come to see your handiwork.’

    Echoes of some long gone voice reverberated in his skull. He turned from the sword and gazed to the wall behind the throne.

    A fresco of amazing beauty soared thirty feet into the air. It depicted a central figure, many times larger than life, against a star-filled sky overlooking a rich, green pastoral landscape. Animals cavorted in reverie, while trees and plants laden with fruit made the world abundant and alive. Men and women of various races joined one another in discussion and all seemed at peace.

    The portrait of a woman who gazed away from the others caught his eye. Fear filled her face. He followed the line of her stare, to where a boy-child of only three or four crouched in the lower left corner, his hand stretched toward a smoky darkness. At first it appeared the painting had been damaged, but on further inspection it became apparent it was part of the work. Dark red smoke boiled in the corner with tendrils reaching out to pull at the child’s hand. Creatures with hatred on their faces gazed out from the darkness.

    In his mind, he screamed at the child. Flee! Why does the mother do nothing? He lifted his eyes to the figure in the stars whose gaze passed over all of creation toward the boy. A single tear ran down the giant figure’s face.

    No voices greeted him as he studied the painting, so he turned to regard the rows of sarcophagi—nine, all told, including his own. He stepped from the dais and moved between the stone coffins. All held men except one, its lid portraying a queenly figure carved with long flowing gowns. Each sat before a mural painted on the wall behind. After a while, a story began to emerge—a story of war that raged across generations. More than once, he found himself moved to tears as he beheld heroic deeds rewarded with blood and death.

    Who were these people? What were their names? This thought caused him to pause. What is my name?

    He stopped, sat on the floor with his back against a tree of stone, and closed his eyes as he struggled in vain to remember. Who am I? What is my name?

    No voices spoke to him.

    He searched the room, desperate for clues to his identity. Writings in multiple languages adorned everything—the sides of the sarcophagi, the walls, even the floors. To his surprise, he could read them all.

    He gazed around the mausoleum, growing frantic for some answer to the riddles whispered in his head. Carved at the base of the sarcophagus in front of him, an inscription read:

    ~~~

    Jafnethox defog adthaom mesgabasaeth thupo~ hegu-quosquauf~ eneafmiquo lomquegisquauf efle goviagol zhufuigo.

    The language was High Aerodore, but in the common tongue it read:

    Being king does not mean dominance and forced submission, but tenderness, compassion, and duty to protect at all cost, the lowliest of the populace.

    ~~~

    It seemed those enshrined in such magnificence were of royal blood, but surely not he. The fact of his plain coffin bore witness to that.

    Then why am I here? Who am I?

    He stood and peered around, certain there must be an answer. At last he spied a name carved in small runes just over the head of the warrior nearest him—Zhuquaif Mqueg. He turned around—another name on the coffin which held the woman—Ellabeth Nauile. He walked in the direction of his own coffin, past another sarcophagus—Aerazhire Nauile. He began to run. Heulfryne Nauile. He reached his plain, stone coffin and frantically searched the granite box, running his fingers over its surface.

    It was without mark.

    He slumped to the floor, his head in his hands. Who am I? He pleaded with the voices, Tell me something useful. The echo of his words faded into silence.

    After a while, the effects of his exertion began to take their toll. He retrieved the blankets and pillow and lay down next to his coffin. Names danced in and out of his mind. Ellabeth Nauile, Aerazhire Nauile, Heulfryne Nauile. The last name tugged at his memory, but the more he wrestled with it, the less certain he felt the name held any more significance than the others.

    At last, he drifted off to sleep, voices luring him from sanity.

    ***

    The sound of soft shuffling awakened him. He opened his eyes a mere slit to try and catch a glimpse of who cared for him.

    The hall had grown dark, and the shadow of a figure drew near and arranged a clean change of clothes on the floor.

    The rich smell of food told him a new meal had already been laid out on the table.

    Down the row of coffins, he glimpsed light coming from an open, previously hidden door near the throne. A strong desire overcame him to escape. It was not fear of the figure but a desperate longing to discover what lay beyond the walls of the mausoleum.

    Would I be stopped if I attempted to leave?

    The figure shuffled back toward the light.

    Within a few moments, the hall brightened as lamps were lit. The lamplighter appeared small, only two-thirds his size, and dressed in a coarse black hooded robe. The figure’s back was to him; the time had come to act.

    He got to his feet and dashed toward the open door. He’d nearly reached the exit when he heard a gasp behind him. Not stopping, he ran through the door and into a dusty hallway.

    A high-pitched plea sounded from the mausoleum. Wait! You are not ready.

    Nevertheless, he did not stop.

    At the end of a short hall, a stair ascended in a spiral. Sputtering torches lined the walls every dozen steps or so.

    You do not understand. I am here to help. Again, the voice yelled, insistent but not threatening.

    He took the stairs two at a time as they wound upward, and the frenzied sound of sandals flapping on stone came behind. After scores of steps, he came to a closed door. Barely slowing, he put his shoulder to the iron-clad wood and heaved. The door flew open, and he stumbled into a large hall filled with black-robed figures.

    Every man, woman and child in the room swung their gaze toward him, and what had been boisterous chatter only a heartbeat earlier now grew into silence. He froze for a moment, his blood pounding in his ears. It was apparent a celebration was taking place, as tables laden with food lined the walls.

    He glanced around and then walked toward the center of the room, where a fire with a roast animal on a spit burned at the top of three steps. Over his shoulder, he caught a glimpse of his pursuer who had entered the room behind him—a young girl, her faced flushed from running. As he walked, the throng parted, and each in turn dropped their eyes with bowed heads.

    He came to the steps around the fire, stepped onto the first, and turned to survey the room.

    The crowd gaped at him with anticipation. Their faces beamed with wonder. Only the sound of his heavy breathing filled the hall.

    At last, when he had breath to speak, he asked the question that had haunted him. What is my name?

    All in the room turned to one side and rested their gaze on a bent figure standing a few paces to his left. Those near stepped aside as an old man hobbled forward. Surprise filled his eyes.

    Do you not know? Gaining his composure, the elder drew a deep breath. "Your name was given you by your father on the steps outside these very halls in the Year of Reckoning 3640. Granted to your name is the highest honor among all men. At your name, nations rise to your aid and enemies tremble."

    The old man turned to the expectant crowd and smiled. Rejoice, for he has come forth. Rejoice and give allegiance to your king: Aberthol Nauile, son of Heulfryne Nauile, bearer of the power of the Aerodore, rightful heir to the throne and Lord of all Nuadaim.

    The black-robed figures fell prostrate to the floor.

    ~~~

    Link to NAMES AND TERMS Section

    Chapter 2 – Presentation

    Upon hearing his name, a great weight lifted from his chest. Yes Aberthol Nauile feels right. But... he raised his hands in protest. I am no king.

    The startled worshipers peered up at him in confusion. Kings are.... He struggled to find the right words. Kings are nobler, stouter of heart than I ever could be. There must be some mistake. Aberthol searched for someone to agree, but no one moved. I have beheld mighty kings, in the murals of the mausoleum.... He began moving toward the door leading down to his crypt, while muttering to himself. I could never be the kind of man I saw there.

    The old man at his side reached up with a gnarled hand and touched the skirt of his tunic. Please, your confusion puzzles me but I assure you, you are indeed king. The elder stood, and waved for all others to do likewise. My name is Illiam, chieftain of the Neglafem, guardians of the heir. Perhaps we should sit. I will tell you anything you wish to know. Are you hungry? He moved toward a table, not waiting for Aberthol’s response.

    Aberthol followed while all in the hall watched his every move.

    As if remembering some duty, Illiam turned and cried out to the assembled, Rejoice, this is a day of celebration—one hoped for through generations.

    The hall erupted into noise as everyone spoke at once.

    He bade Aberthol sit in a large padded chair that did not seem a match for the rough-hewn timber table. Illiam sat across from him.

    A young girl followed and stood nearby—his pursuer, his caretaker. She flashed him a quick smile.

    Illiam gazed across the table, his eyes dark coals under bushy gray eyebrows. We were in the midst of a celebration marking your birth. For a long moment, the old man stared at Aberthol, and then realized the girl’s presence. I apologize. My manners have departed—my granddaughter, Elise. He turned toward her and said, Please fetch us food and drink. I am certain the king has many questions.

    After a quick bow, she disappeared in a rush.

    Illiam did not take his eyes off Aberthol, who began to grow uncomfortable under his gaze.

    At last the old man spoke. I must confess you surprise me. I have waited my whole life for your birth, and here you are, but you do not appear as I expected.

    Aberthol struggled to put words to the thoughts swirling within his head.

    Again I must apologize, said Illiam. "You caught us all by surprise, bursting into the hall. I was preparing to come to you today, to help you better understand your place in the histories of Nuadaim."

    He smiled, and Aberthol sensed the warmth of his gaze. This is a man I can trust.

    If you have any immediate questions, please ask, said Illiam. "I will do my best to answer. However, because of your early departure from the Sanctuary we will not be able to talk at length. After the Presentation we will have time aplenty."

    Aberthol thought for a moment, and then leaned forward and spoke in a hushed voice, unsure if he was prepared for the answer. You said you waited for my birth. How old am I?

    Illiam’s face broadened in a warm smile. A simple and most excellent question, but one that will not elicit so simple an answer. He leaned forward, mirroring Aberthol’s expectant posture. "You are both newly born, and aged. You might say that when you awoke in your tomb, you were reborn. Therefore, you are a babe. However, birth from the womb of your mother took place three hundred twenty and seven years past, being how we the race of man mark time."

    Aberthol sat back and stared at the old man. But how? I do not understand. How can I be both so very young, and exceedingly old? I feel neither.

    Illiam smiled and raised his hand. Surely, this is not alien to you—your knowledge is beyond my comprehension. I am here only to help you orient in the present.

    Aberthol gazed at him in puzzlement. My knowledge? I know nothing.

    Just then, the girl, Elise, returned with a tray of food and two large mugs of dark ale. Two young Neglafem followed her, and stood at attention behind Illiam. Elise arranged the meal, first before Aberthol, then Illiam. After setting the table, she sat down at the old man’s feet.

    Aberthol smiled at her as the aroma from the warm brown bread and steamed vegetables caused his stomach to murmur. He ate while wrestling with Illiam’s words. Nevertheless, try as he might, he could not put his mind around the concept of being both centuries old and a newborn.

    He set his gaze on Elise. Although small, she was not a child as he’d first thought. She seemed to be in her early twenties, or only just under. Surely, I am about her age.

    Elise smiled as she realized he stared at her, and quickly looked away, her cheeks blooming in red.

    Aberthol turned to Illiam. Next to this old man, I feel more the babe than his elder.

    The chieftain, intent on his food, or more to the point, his drink, did not look up as Aberthol studied the room. Everyone spoke in concert, filling the hall with noise. There were men and women of various ages, even some children, but again Aberthol felt younger than most.

    How can I be centuries old or a newborn?

    Illiam set his mug down and bridged his hands in front of him, elbows resting on the table. In the quiet of my room at night I have begged the One Who Is to allow me to see you before I die, and here you sit. He grinned. I never gave up hope, of course, but as you can see my years draw short. The old man looked around the noisy room. Please forgive our excitement. Our people have waited a very long time for this day.

    You say I am a king? You say I am over three centuries old? Aberthol shook his head. I do not understand. There must be some kind of mistake.

    Illiam looked at him, his smile turned to puzzlement. "But surely you do understand, for so it is written: ‘The king shall bear answer to life’s greatest mysteries.’ Your mind must be awash with history. You have beheld history. You have created history."

    I do not... I have not, Aberthol sputtered.

    For a long moment, Illiam sat and stared at him. There must be a time of disorientation, something unaccounted in the scrolls. The old man smiled once more. Do not fear. We have prepared for centuries, and we will help you remember. This evening I will take you back to the mausoleum of your birth. There the lore of Nuadaim is depicted in the paintings.

    He stood and looked Aberthol squarely in the eyes. New histories will begin. The groans of Nuadaim have at last been answered.

    Illiam motioned to the two men behind him. "For now, Lord Aberthol, if you will allow it, you are to be made ready for the Presentation. It is written: ‘The king must be presented to his people, midday, soonest after his coming forth.’ He turned and spoke with the young Neglafem. Please help the king prepare."

    Aberthol, disoriented and unsure, allowed the Neglafem to escort him from the room.

    Elise caught up and walked in step with him. Do not be afraid, Your Majesty, my people have been in preparation for your coming since before the birth of the grandfather of my great-grandfather. She smiled again, reassuring him a little.

    As they walked, Elise spoke excitedly about the significance of the day.

    Aberthol studied her. There were moments when she seemed to forget her presence with a king and was quite affable and relaxed. Aberthol found this endearing. Already he grew tired of the way those he passed bowed, gazing at him with a mixture of reverence and fear.

    A splash of freckles dusted the bridge of her nose, which helped her appear younger than indeed she was. Her eyes, a dazzling green with a glint of mischief, peered at him through the protective cover of her long eyelashes. I am talking too much, Your Majesty. I apologize. This is a long-awaited day for our people.

    Please, do not apologize. Aberthol sensed a twinge of guilt as he realized he heard nothing of her last few words. I am enjoying your company.

    The bridge of her nose crinkled as she smiled, and she continued. We approach the room where you shall be made ready. Then the presentation of our new king will take place. I myself have longed my whole life for this day. At long last I shall gaze upon the wonders of the outside world.

    Aberthol, captivated by her movement, suddenly registered what she’d said. You have never ventured outside?

    There is so much beauty in the land.

    Elise grew serious. Oh no, the Neglafem are forbidden to leave the Chambers of Waiting. Our complete devotion is required. We are dedicated to the care and protection of the king, until the time of welcome has passed. None in the hall we just departed, nor any Neglafem for over three centuries, has had contact with the world outside these halls.

    Aberthol was again amazed.

    In truth, Elise continued, it is written the king alone will be the first to step forth into the land of our peoples. Signals have been given telling those outside you are coming, but we are forbidden from speaking with your subjects until your presentation is complete.

    The two young men stopped as they reached a pair of doors, gilded with gold leaf.

    Elise turned to Aberthol. "Here I bid you goodbye until the Presentation. I have been honored by the chieftain with a small part in the ceremony." She bowed and walked back down the hall from whence they had come.

    Aberthol followed her slight form with his eyes.

    Each of the two Neglafem opened a door and stood aside as they motioned Aberthol to enter.

    He walked into a lavish space. Rich fabrics of purple draped the walls, and the floor glistened in polished white marble.

    The young men closed the doors behind and one showed Aberthol a door off the main room. Steam poured forth. Please, Your Majesty, a bath has been drawn for you. Enter and find rest.

    The other said, We are squires of the king. My name is Erbin, and this is Celdar. If you require anything, do not hesitate to ask.

    Aberthol thanked them and entered the bath. He relieved himself in a privy off the main room, and then settled into the steaming pool. The hot water did much to untie the knotted anxiety in his muscles. Events of the past few hours replayed in his mind. He was obviously not what Illiam had expected. Somehow, the old man thought he should know who he was—should know the histories of Nuadaim. Illiam spoke as if....

    As if I am something more than a man, something more than even a king. He mulled it over for a moment. Yes, he and I have much to talk about.

    When Aberthol finished, the squires assisted in manicuring his beard and giving his tangled hair a much-needed trim.

    The main room held a large full-length mirror, and next to it stood a mannequin adorned with a suit of mail and rich robes. Erbin directed Aberthol to stand in front of the glass as, piece-by-piece, the squires placed upon him the royal array. They draped a hauberk of golden chain over his shoulders. The mail shirt was much lighter than it appeared. Around his waist, Erbin clasped a belt with a long, jewel-encrusted scabbard.

    At this, Celdar lifted a gilded casket, about two lengths of a grown man’s arm, from a table beside them and gingerly laid it at Aberthol’s feet. Erbin knelt with him and they each released a clasp in unison and opened the box. The pair reached inside and lifted out a glimmering sword—the very blade from the mausoleum.

    Aberthol marveled at its beauty, and once again yearned to touch it. Loequazh Thabo.

    The squires remained kneeling and held the blade hilt first, toward Aberthol.

    He reached for the sword and grasped the pommel. Sulfur assaulted his senses and his vision blurred. Aberthol heard himself speak as if from some distance. He knows you are here.

    ***

    Before him, a man climbed a rocky mountain slope. Thick smoke belched from a fiery crack below. Beyond the ruddy glow, waves crashed on a black sandy beach.

    The man replied, Who knows I am here?

    The Dark Master—I have witnessed his approach.

    Aberthol recognized him, Vuzhex Mqueg.

    Vuzhex spoke. I—who are you?

    If you know not, who am I to say?

    But how did you...?

    There is no time for questions, Aberthol said. The enemy approaches.

    Vuzhex glared past Aberthol and his face filled with fear.

    Churning red smoke burned Aberthol’s eyes as it swirled and coalesced into the shape of a man. A faint white glow outlined the figure as he stood gazing down upon them.

    Aberthol turned to Vuzhex. Can you grant me a weapon to aid in our defense?

    I’ve none but the sword at my side, and this. Vuzhex held a newly forged blade toward him. It had no hilt, its edge not yet sharpened.

    It will suffice. Aberthol snatched the hot metal from his hands.

    But you have no right, Vuzhex screamed.

    Aberthol glanced toward the figure above. There is no time. Behold.

    Before them stood a being Aberthol somehow knew.

    I have come to behold your handiwork. The deep resonance of the figure’s words echoed within Aberthol’s ears. At once, he knew the voice of his enemy, Threim-Zhure.

    The figure in white spoke to Vuzhex. I am an admirer of exquisite works of creation, so when I gained knowledge of your efforts I knew I must come bear witness. Then he turned toward Aberthol and extended his hand. May I?

    For a moment, Aberthol was compelled to grant the enemy’s request. He beheld within Vuzhex’s eyes his sudden desire to see Threim-Zhure hold the blade.

    Then Aberthol remembered: I am not here. He chuckled. Your voice has no power over me.

    Vuzhex stood in shock, but Aberthol continued. You understand, do you not? Your power cannot reach me. Aberthol grinned. "But I can reach you."

    He lunged toward Threim-Zhure, and blue fire blazed along the hammered steel in his hands. A thought filled his mind: I can end the struggle of millennia now.

    The enemy, however, had expected the attack and stepped aside. At the same moment, he drew forth a long silver dagger, grabbed Vuzhex Mqueg, and put the blade to his neck.

    I know not your name, but I sense you are bound to this pitiful creature. Threim-Zhure’s face split with a crooked smile. If I kill him, you also will be subdued.

    Aberthol faltered, somehow knowing the truth of his words.

    Ah, I see I speak with wisdom. Faint ripples of crimson smoke curled about the dagger held to Vuzhex’s neck.

    Aberthol lowered the sword. What is your desire?

    As I have stated, I simply wish to behold this magnificent weapon—to honor fully its craftsmanship.

    Vuzhex’s eyes pleaded for Aberthol to hand over the blade.

    Very well.

    Threim-Zhure opened his free hand and, for an instant, Aberthol imagined the outstretched fingers changed to crimson, taloned claws.

    Nevertheless, he extended the blade toward Threim-Zhure.

    The dagger to Vuzhex’s neck slipped away, but Vuzhex did not try to flee.

    Why does he not escape?

    Aberthol dropped the steel until it touched Threim-Zhure’s palm, and blue sparks exploded on the blade. Energy poured up the arm of Threim-Zhure, as well as Aberthol’s, who still held fast to the hilt end of the sword.

    Vuzhex staggered back, released from the hand of Threim-Zhure.

    Aberthol stared in amazement as the shimmering white form of Threim-Zhure changed. Crimson smoke poured from him, flowing out of the pores of his skin and engulfing the light. The smoke swirled like blood in water as blue fingers of electricity erupted within the shadow.

    Still Aberthol held fast.

    Threim-Zhure laughed as power filled him. Then the world around the three men began to melt. The stone, upon which Aberthol stood, rippled and blurred. The orange sky twisted in fire. In a rush of wind, the very universe around him stretched toward Threim-Zhure. Like a red whirlpool, the strength grew in the enemy and sucked at the world. Rock melted and flowed into the dark shadows.

    Aberthol beheld his own hands. First, his fingers, then his arms began to elongate toward the whirling blackness of Threim-Zhure. Fear gripped him and he clawed for something to hold on to, but his hands and feet found no purchase. He floated in a void.

    Still Threim-Zhure laughed.

    Then at last, Aberthol gained footing and leaned away from the all-consuming vortex. For a moment

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