Piercing The Darkness (Guardian Series)

by JW Baccaro

  The Nasharins, Athanasius, Kelarin, Caelestias, Olchemy, King Loreus and Captain Mythaen stopped atop the rocky hill where Darshun had buried Mirabel. For Nayland decided he would bury his father there too, alongside his father’s oldest friend. After he had done so, a few Dwarves who’d previously left long before them, set up two grave stones with the following inscriptions:

  ‘Here lies Mirabel Luthais, also known as ‘Mirabel the Great,’ hero and champion of the Second Great War, and the noblest Nasharin to have ever lived.’

  And the other:

  ‘Here lies Magnus Winveil, also known as ‘Magnus the Mighty,’ fearless warrior of the Second Great War, and a Nasharin whose sacrifice will never be forgotten.’

  "From this day forward, the Nasharin race shall be remembered no more as a race of heathens or beasts,” Athanasius announced in front of all the races. “But as a noble race of warriors. Abidan be praised.”

  They departed.

  Kelarin went with Darshun, sitting behind him, arms wrapped around his waist, holding him tight, and resting her head against his back.

  Upon the eagle, they soared across Syngothra, gazing down at the Demon Stone and Great Northern Mountains, the frozen river, the endless snow-covered forest, soon passing over into Asgoth. Then, on over the old Ackarda woodlands, and every piece of landscape they journeyed through over the course of five months. Back then, the trees were green but now the foliage was beginning to spread from the start of the autumn season, Darshun’s favorite time of year. He thought it strange how everything had begun the first of spring, and now ended the first of fall.

  Soon, they were passing over Ashhaven, and the others except for Loreus and Mythaen landed, but Darshun also wished to return to Loreladia, and Kelarin desired to be with him a little longer, so they took back to the sky and continued until reaching the city. The eagles dropped them off.

  All the men, women, and children of Loreladia were waiting for them in the cobblestone streets, shouting and rejoicing so loudly that it was difficult not to be overwhelmed with joy. Then as an entire group, they respectfully bowed before them, and especially before Darshun.

  At first, Darshun felt a little embarrassed or shy—all these individuals on their knees for him?

  Kelarin took his hand, squeezing it a little. She gazed at him, and he at her, and in unison, both dropped to their knees before crowd, in return for their support in the war.

  A truly wonderful day—never to be forgotten.

  CHAPTER TWELVE

  CELEBRATION IN LORELADIA

  A few weeks passed since the day of victory and each and every race that helped fight in the war was invited to Loreladia for a great festival. The silver eagle Asiel delivered the invitations and it was to take place on the twenty-first of October.

  The day finally came and the festival began, and it’d fallen on a beautiful autumn day with a clear sky and a cool breeze. The different races flooded the city but they greeted one another in love, respect, and appreciation and were happy to see each other again.

  The streets were filled with many delicious foods that were placed upon long cheery wood and maple furnished tables for all to take what they desired, a massive smorgasbord. There were beef, chicken, elk and apple-spiced pork, crisp vegetables splashed with vinegar and herbs and spices. A variety of nuts and fruits, and Mrs. Hagel’s magnificent deserts ranging from chocolate cakes to pumpkin and fruit pies and apple crisps that no soul could resist, especially Darshun and the Dwarves.

  They ate in the open field outside of the castle where great bon fires blazed and every musician bearing an instrument played beautiful music and the people danced for hours. It reminded Darshun of Queen Judith’s birthday party in Avshalum. Then—once again, the Queen Dwarf asked him for a dance, but he already had another partner in mind and so he politely refused—his partner was Kelarin of course and she gladly accepted his offer. They danced for a long while, holding each other and gazing into one another’s eyes.

  Kelarin never felt at such peace when she was with him, and she rested her head against his chest as they continued to dance, and she wished the moment would last forever.

  Two other individuals also danced together, Nayland and Minevara. Though their dancing became humorous, because there were times when Nayland would lead, but Minevara wanted to instead and vice-versa, so they danced as if they were competing in a duel. It became obvious however, despite all their pride and competitiveness, they were happy to be together.

  At three-o’clock, everyone gathered around King Loreus’ castle waiting for a speech he was suppose to give.

  Soon, he walked out onto his balcony and gazed down at the mixed races with a warm heart.

  They cheered when they saw him, the Golden King.

  “My brothers and sisters,” he stated in a loud voice, so all could hear, “As it seems right to call you that, for all of us dwell upon this earth together and live in harmony with the ways of the Light. And because we united, we prevailed. May this day live in our hearts forever, may we never forget the courage so many have shown and the sacrifices thousands have made to win our freedom, our existence. May we honor them, and every last individual who has fought in the Second Great War. But most of all…Let us honor the one who made it possible, the Nasharin warrior, and the earth’s newest guardian…Darshun Luthais!”

  Darshun walked out and stood beside the King and everyone cheered so loudly—it shook the castle.

  It seemed hard to believe every creature was cheering for him, someone belonging to the Nasharin race, a people once hated by nearly all races, but now redeemed and accepted.

  Then, an old familiar friend flew down and landed on his shoulders, Asiel.

  “Hello, old friend,” Darshun said rubbing his smooth head. He gazed out at the overwhelming crowd that was still shouting, cheering, and roaring with excitement. Eventually, the crowd settled down and Darshun spoke, “Eh, thank you all so very much. I never thought this would happen. I never thought I would be called to undertake such a task. At first, I did not accept it. I did not believe such a prophecy could pertain to me, a boy at the time and a Nasharin as well. I’d always believed that my people were hated, and for a time it was true, but when our existence was threatened by the most terrible evil to have ever plagued the earth, we let go of our differences, our past and banned together. And I could not have accomplished my quest without any of you, and I give my gratitude and respect…” he paused and smiled.

  The crowd remained silent and all eyes rested on the young savior.

  “But now, I understand the importance of a calling, a calling that is sent from above. I believe all of us have one. Whether it is a guardian, a protector, a warrior, a healer, a wife or a husband, mother or—father. We all have one. Whether we accept it or not is our choice and our choice shall always return to us in glory, or consequence. Nevertheless, I’ve chosen to follow mine. I’ve accepted to watch over this earth, and to guard and protect it from evil for as long as I can. Someone once taught me about sacrifice, the man who raised me and who I’m proud to call my father, Mirabel the Great. His lesson I will never forget and I strive to do the same, to protect all of you, to be beside you when darkness falls, and if need be, to die for you, just like my father had died for me. This is my promise that I shall forever keep, my sisters and brothers. Glory be to Abidan.”

  The crowd cheered and sang beautiful chants praising Abidan, Loreladian deities, and honoring Darshun and all other members of the Light.

  Then Darshun shifted his eyes toward the forest and for a brief moment, he thought he saw Mirabel watching him from beside the trees, and smiling. Then the image turned around, walked into the woodlands and disappeared. He didn’t know if this was real or his imagination, but he liked to think his father returned once more to see him as Guardian before ascending into the heavenly realm of Abidan for eternity.

  Then, casting his gaze across the city below, something occurred to him and he turned to the King. “King Loreus, I’
d like to ask something.”

  Loreus guzzled down the remainder of his ale, then set the chalice on a stand. “Mythaen sure can brew. This pumpkin ale is the best I’ve ever tried. It’s like one of Mrs. Hagels spiced pumpkin tarts liquefied and aged.”

  “Heh, yeah,” Darshun said, wondering if he’d even heard him.

  Loreus licked the creamy foam from his lips, meeting Darshun’s eyes. “What would you like to know?”

  “Well, it’s just, I’ve noticed throughout your castle and across the city you have removed a majority of the statues representing Loreladia’s deities. Why is that?”

  “That’s what I thought you were going to ask,” he answered, curving his lips into a nice smile. “See, when you left for Syngothra, I felt—helpless. Something was burning inside of me, a new spirit of truth perhaps. I knew I needed to do something further in the war before it would end. Many nights, I pondered about the golden sword of Lythar, the Sword of Purity. I asked each and every Loreladian God and Goddess to reveal to me the mystery…all were silent. Then, I did something no Loreladian has done before. I called out to the mysterious Abidan—the deity so few Loreladians know…”

  At his pause, Darshun tilted his head with curiosity.

  “I asked him for help, for who knows, maybe there was a stronger God out there, beside the deities I grew up to know. Maybe Abidan could deliver what they could not, and had remained silent on. Later that day, I took the sword and to my surprise, I was able to wield it. Then, the unicorn Astra appeared and told me that this sword was promised to me and I was to use it to unite the divided races of Light. I did, and after the Demon Lord was destroyed I felt free—satisfied.” Loreus sighed and looked around as he paused.

  Darshun’s curious expression faded as he nodded his head solemnly.

  “Then, something else occurred to me, the prophecy of the sword said that the ‘last’ Loreladian King would wield the sword, and since I was able to wield it, I took that to mean that I was to die. But then—I finally understood the meaning, the ‘last’ Loreladian King who followed in the ways of Loreladian traditions. Now I have respectfully renounced the deities we once worshipped. I’m not saying they hold no honor or place in Loreladia’s history, they most certainly do, but a new deity, one that is not so ‘new’ at all, has intervened and brought deliverance. My people may choose to worship any Gods or Goddesses they desire, just so long as their ways remain in harmony with the ways of the Light, and Loreladian deities always have. But as for my household, we shall serve Abidan. To him…I give thanks and praise.”

  “Blessed be this day,” Darshun replied. “And blessed be you. Now, there can be no doubt in your mind the Loreladian people respect you.”

  “Aye, Darshun. Much gratitude goes out to you, brother. And if you should ever need anything, only ask.”

  Darshun nodded, then bid him farewell and ventured outside the castle, back down into the cluster of people, and found his Angel waiting for him. “Kelarin,” he called, meeting her gray blue eyes and smiling lips.

  “Darshun.” She took his hand.

  Then, a great shadow dawned in the sky, the shadow of a Dragon. Everyone looked up, and while startled at first, they all quickly realized there was no cause for alarm.

  It was the Red Dragon, Uriel. He landed in the field, his awesome features shining bright in the autumn sun.

  Darshun thought he came to take Olchemy away and he hadn’t a chance to said goodbye yet, so he rushed over, catching the High Wizard by his sleeve. “Olchemy, surely you’re not leaving without a farewell?”

  He turned around to face him, his beard, hair and even brows had grown nearly twice as long, and presently were different shades of gray and dirty white.

  Why Darshun hadn’t noticed before puzzled him, but Wizards are secretive enough, no point in asking.

  “I must leave,” he said.

  “I know. Where are you going?”

  “The war has been won, therefore my presence is no longer needed here. Abaddon is dead but there are still many unfriendly creatures out there, many dangers and toils, lurking across the earth. Even now do I feel them, conjuring up another dark plan.”

  Darshun rolled his eyes. “Can it not wait? I mean Olchemy, really—today is a day for celebration. Besides, there is still so much scrumptious food to devour. My belly is on the prowl for every Mrs. Hagel-made desert!” He smiled, his lips reaching as high as they could possibly stretch.

  The High Wizard paused as he stared at his animated face, and then he chuckled. “Such an innocent spirit you are, Darshun, cherishing nothing but the simple things in life. One can learn a lot traveling by your side.”

  “Heh,” he mumbled, gazing aside, licking his lips. Then sadly, he looked back to Olchemy. “I’m sorry about your father.”

  “I know. Thank you.”

  “Wherever he is, I hope his spirit is resting in peace.”

  Olchemy said nothing but looked over toward Uriel, the Red Dragon gazing back, though his eyes were strictly on the Guardian. “He has not come for me, you know, but for you.”

  “Wh—what?”

  “You must return with him to the realm that exists between the heavens and earth.”

  “I remember, you once said that was where I was to dwell during my guardianship. But—now?”

  “Yes. Uriel has much to teach you.”

  “Your Dragon is going to teach me?”

  “No. Your Dragon is going to teach you, Darshun, for he now belongs to you alone, not I. Uriel understands many things of this realm, many secrets, and powers you further must master.”

  “How much is there to learn?” he asked, feeling as though he’d conquered every trial already.

  Olchemy stared at him. “The limit is like the depths of the sea. For there is always another level to explore, and become familiar with, young Guardian.”

  Darshun smiled. “Yeah, I know that. I remember you telling me that we exist here in this ‘Forbidden Realm’ to evolve our spirits. It’s recommended for the inexperienced to choose another realm, for the sake of the trials we face here in this Forbidden—Seventh Realm.”

  “Aye. It is a difficult realm to walk.”

  “So…spirits do exist before we enter these physical plains?”

  “I think you’re aware of that now. You and I once knew one another, as did Mirabel and Magnus, Nayland and Minevara, even Abaddon and the first earth Guardian Aurelius. The journeys were different. For some, the adventures took place in another realm. Some of us grew, while others fell.”

  “That’s difficult to grasp.”

  “In time.”

  “Olchemy, who are you, really?”

  “I’m not all that different from you.”

  “No, who were you in this other time you speak of, when you and I were together?”

  Olchemy smiled. “I must say farewell for now. Abidan be with you, Darshun…Windtros…Marsainn.”

  Olchemy walked toward the forest until the foliage shaded him completely. He was gone.

  Darshun pondered why Olchemy called him Marsainn, the founder of the Nasharin Arts. Did Olchemy mean to say that Darshun was really the Nasharin Master Marsainn? At least in a previous life? That Olchemy was once the Wizard Milandrith—the one who sought out Marsainn and who was also responsible for the birth and curse for the Nasharin Race by his act of marriage to the beautiful Princess Auristela? It was too much to think about for the moment, and he shook his head.

  Darshun turned around and felt surprised to see many of his friends staring at him.

  There stood his sister Minevara, Caelestias, Captain Mythaen, King Sirach and Judith, Kaylis, Athanasius, Caelestias, Favonius, Queen Aeryka, and even Astra the unicorn. They stared with eyes of joy and sadness, for they knew he was leaving.

  I gather I’ll have to pass on Mrs. Hagel’s pies. There will be other opportunities for those indulgences. He walked over to his friends and wished them all goodbye, giving each a long hug.

  “Abidan be with you,�
� Lord Athanasius said.

  “And also with you, all of you.”

  Then, he turned to Kelarin. She stood with her head down and Darshun placed his finger under her chin and gently lifted until their eyes met. She was weeping and he hugged her tightly. “It is all right, we will see one another again.”

  “I know. It’s just—well—I’m going miss you, dearly Darshun. And—”

  He placed his finger over her lips. “I know what it is you desire, and it’s in my heart as well. I will visit you often, and I promise you, with every breath I have in me, that when my Guardianship is finished, I shall return to be with you, and that dream you are so fond of looking into will come to pass.”

  She widened her eyes.

  “Yes, I remember, my Angel. You could not take that away from me, the love in my heart for you is too strong. We will be together Kelarin. A new life for both of us shall begin, and we will become as one.” He reached into a pocket of his tunic and took out a flower, the gray blue petals folded over, shielding its real beauty.

  Kelarin recognized it at once. “A full-moon peonies!” she exclaimed. “I’ve been by your side day and night since the battle ended. How—where—when did you get it?”

  He smiled. “It’s a blessing having wings, my love.” He gently placed the peonies into her palm. “There is going to be a full moon tonight. And when this flower illuminates its beauty, not only tonight but also every night, may its glow be a sign of my promise to you.”

  Joy filled her expression and she hugged him tightly, never wanting to let go.

  “Until that day should come, farewell Kelarin.” He kissed her forehead, and then softly on her lips.

  “Farewell Darshun, my love…” Then, as he turned to walk away she added two more words but in a whisper, “always and forever.”

  When Darshun approached Uriel, he saw an old adversary of his who’d become a dear brother, Nayland Winveil. He was beside Uriel stationed upon his horse Shadow.

  “Nayland,” Darshun greeted. “I thought you already left.”