George grinned. As he circled the Dark Chancellor, his blue eyes turned cold. The warlock reached out and stroked Marcus’ face only to follow it with a stinging slap. “Did you truly think you could end me so easily?”
Again, George backhanded Marcus. He allowed the chancellor to topple into the waves. George turned his hand over and then extended his palm. He used his power to hold Marcus beneath the water. Many moments passed before he allowed the chancellor his first gasp of air.
George dunked Marcus again and again until the chancellor slipped into unconsciousness. The warlock whipped his hand in the direction of the beach. Marcus flew through the air and landed on the sand with a thud.
George was quick to follow. As he stood over the chancellor, he used his foot to roll Marcus to his side. The warlock cupped his right hand under Marcus’ chin, used his power to shock the wizard into consciousness and then waited for the chancellor to spit up the water he had swallowed.
After rolling Marcus onto his back, George straddled the chancellor and then leaned over to place his face only a hand from Marcus’. The warlock relished the fear in the chancellor’s brown eyes as he grabbed his chin.
George hissed, “Do I appear insane, Marcus? Don’t ever doubt me. I’m capable of accomplishing anything I set my mind to. This includes ending you. I’m only 23 seasons, and yet I’ve found the power that you have failed to find in over 700.”
Marcus managed a weak response. “Please ... forgive me.”
George stood and pulled Marcus to his feet. He had to use his power to keep the chancellor from toppling over. Once he was sure that Marcus was strong enough to remain erect, the warlock put his arm around the chancellor’s shoulders. “It sounds like you and I will be able to work together after all.”
Still shaken, Marcus nodded. “I’ll do as you command.”
“Perfect. That’s all I wanted to hear.” George took a seat next to his boots. As he brushed the sand off his feet with his socks, he continued, “There are some things that I want you to accomplish. First, I want you to end...” The conversation continued.
Western Luvelles
Later That Peak
Just Before Late Bailem
George appeared outside his home. To his delight, the family had gathered. Brayson had returned with Maldwin from the Merchant Island, and a large bonfire was ablaze near the mound of rocks that sat above Kepler’s lair. The evening air was crisp, and the clouds were threatening to storm. Despite this threat, everyone was bundled up and had gathered to enjoy each others’ company.
As expected, Gregory Id was present. His curiosity about Susanne had been piqued by Brayson. But the White Chancellor was not the only guest who had chosen to attend. George had also asked Brayson to invite Boyafed and Lord Dowd, and both army leaders were standing near the fire, each holding a mug of ale.
George addressed the warriors as he approached, “Lord Boyafed, Lord Dowd.” The warlock reached for their forearms. “Thank you for coming.”
Each army leader responded, “Prophet,” as they lowered their head in respect for George’s position.
Lord Dowd continued, “Thank you for the invitation.”
Boyafed added, “It’s a fine evening for an outing.”
The warlock smiled. “I’m glad you both could set your differences aside for the moments necessary to enjoy a meal. Tonight will be an evening of games, fun and pleasant conversation. I plan to take our little gathering someplace special. But until then, is there anything I can get you?”
Lord Dowd responded. “No, nothing for me. Thank you.”
Boyafed waved off the offer and then redirected the conversation. “The Head Master told us that you wanted to speak with us. I must admit, I’m curious to hear what you have to say after I was visited by your feline companion over there.” The dark paladin pointed across the flames at Kepler.
George grinned and then motioned for both leaders to take a seat on one of the benches the family had placed around the fire. “We’ll speak about Kepler later, my lord. For now, let’s enjoy each others’ company, shall we?”
Athena’s voice filled the air as exited their home and approached. “Hello, honey!” Joshua was wrapped in a bundle of blankets, and he was sleeping in his mother’s arms.
George kissed Athena on the forehead after she stopped next to him and took the baby from her. “Can you give me a few with these gentlemen, babe? I only need a moment or two.”
Athena pecked George on the cheek and then went to the other side of the fire to sit next to her mother.
After watching his wife’s backside sway back and forth, the warlock smiled, and then he turned to hand Joshua to Lord Dowd. “Go ahead. Hold him for a bit.”
Sensing the white army leader’s hesitation, the proud father insisted, “Go ahead, Lord Dowd. You won’t hurt him.”
Boyafed looked at Dowd. “I remember that feeling. The first moment I held Kiayasis, I thought I would break him in half. He felt so small and fragile in my hands.” Boyafed patted Dowd on the back. “Take the child, Henry. I assure you, the infant will survive.”
George released Joshua. “Your name is Henry? I would’ve never guessed that.”
Dowd cradled Joshua in his arms. “There aren’t many elves who know my name. I’d prefer it to stay that way, if it’s all the same to you, Prophet. My given name is Henry Froland Dowd.”
Boyafed laughed. “Froland?” He reached over and gently prodded Dowd on the shoulder. “It’s good you’re holding the child so you can’t strike me for jesting. I, too, would’ve kept a name like that a secret. It’s a travesty.”
For the moment, the mood between the three men was light. George reached out and pulled the blanket off Joshua’s face. “Gentlemen, this little guy is the reason I search for peace. Many of your men have families, sons and daughters of their own. We owe it to them to find a peaceful resolution to your differences.”
A frown appeared on Boyafed’s face. “I regret to say that our problems cannot be solved through diplomacy, Prophet. At least not on this occasion anyway. Someone must be ended for the sins that have been committed against both my friend and the dark army.”
Dowd nodded. “The moments for negotiating have long since passed. Tonight, we shall dine and respect one another as honorable men should, but tomorrow, I plan to wipe his life’s source off my blade.”
Boyafed lifted his mug. “I’ll drink to that. But it’ll be your life’s source that stains my weapon, my friend.”
George could only marvel at their candor. “Gentlemen, neither of you did anything to provoke this war. You’ve been deceived by the gods, and because of this deception, I asked you to come to my home. But as I’ve already said, let’s enjoy each others’ company. We can talk of more serious matters later.”
George no sooner finished his statement when the Head Master walked up and called for everyone’s attention. “I have something that I wish to say before we depart for Grayham.” Once everyone was paying attention, and George had explained how he planned to take the group to Grayham, Brayson Id lowered to one knee near the fire and took Mary’s hands in his own.
Mary’s eyes widened as she held Brayson’s gaze. She was wearing a new, black dress that was long enough to cover her feet, and though they could not be seen, she was wearing shoes that matched. The dress exposed her shoulders, but she was wearing a thick, knitted, yellow sweater to cover them. This was yet another outfit that Brayson had given Mary, and it had been done over breakfast that morning.
After watching Brayson kneel, Athena grabbed hold of Susanne’s arm and squeezed. Susanne was standing next to Gregory who wore a white and green tunic with white pants, which Mykklyn had convinced the White Chancellor to wear for his first date with Susanne.
Gregory smiled as Brayson gathered his nerve to continue and then leaned over to whisper to Susanne, “This is exciting. I never thought my brother would take a mate. I, too, long for the Peak when I meet the right woman.”
A large smil
e appeared on Susanne’s face as Brayson cleared his throat. “Mary ... I have watched your elegance ever since the moment you set foot on Merchant Island. Luvelles has never been the same for me since your arrival. I have never wanted to spend my seasons with any other before you. I would be honored if you would accept me as your mate.”
Everyone remained silent as they waited for Mary’s response. High above, the clouds had opened, and the first snowflake of winter fell from the sky and landed on the end of Mary’s nose. As her warm breath billowed past her eyes, she contemplated the Head Master’s proposal and searched for the proper way to accept. She looked up and followed another flake as it fell, and as if it was meant to be, it landed on the end of Brayson’s nose.
Mary gasped. “It seems the mood of winter’s white rain would be ruined if I declined. I would love to be your mate.”
The crowd erupted as the family gathered to congratulate the couple.
George turned to lords Boyafed and Dowd. “It’s moments like these that prove peace is a far better solution than war. Shall we go to Southern Grayham and dine with the King of Brandor and his family tonight? Things have happened on that world that I’m sure will make you question your beliefs.”
Boyafed’s brow furrowed. “Has Brandor’s Senate already chosen a new king? If so, I’m impressed. Their government must operate with remarkable efficiency.”
George reached out and patted Boyafed’s shoulder. “Nope. They have not chosen another king. I look forward to the surprise on your face when you learn the truth.”
Before Boyafed could question further, George felt something scratch at the pant leg covering his left calf. When the warlock looked down, he could only smile as he bent over to pick Maldwin up off the ground.
Maldwin was excited to see his old friend. All he could think of to say was, “Everything is A-Okay, George!”
The warlock gave the rat a thumbs-up. “How ya doin’, buddy?”
George turned to excuse himself from the army leaders. “I better get this little guy some cheese. His name is Maldwin, by the way.”
Boyafed questioned, “You have a pet rat?”
The warlock smiled. “Doesn’t everybody?” George turned his attention to Lord Dowd. “Will you please give my son to my wife when you’re done holding him? I think you’re getting the hang of it. You’ll be a good father some Peak. I’ll be back in a bit, and then we’ll get out of here.”
George lifted his voice and called to the far side of the fire. “Kep, come with me. And Susanne, keep an eye on Payne until I get back from the house.”
Dowd looked at Payne as the fairy-demon hovered close to the fire, then at Kepler and finally the rat. “George, you keep diverse company. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a man with companions such as yours.”
Boyafed chimed in. “I watched that cat kill four tricksters just the other Peak. His magic is strong.”
Dowd looked across the fire at Kepler. “I suppose it needs to match his size.”
“You’ll get no argument from me,” the dark warrior responded.
Kepler heard their comments. The jaguar looked at Dowd, winked and then he teleported onto the porch of George’s home.
When George and Maldwin caught up with the jaguar, the warlock shut the front door behind them. “Kep, I need you to do me a favor. Tell Maldwin I’m happy to see him. Tell him there are things we need to accomplish while he’s here on Luvelles. Tell him if he wants me to—”
Kepler interrupted. “Great. Are you really going to start the tell him thing again? Have you gone dense?”
George shook his head. “Would you just shut up and listen so we can get going?”
Maldwin squeaked, “I like cheese, George!”
Kepler just rolled his eyes. “I’m reliving a nightmare.” A long conversation ensued that explained everything the warlock wanted to accomplish with the rat’s help.
Meanwhile, Ancients Sovereign
The Hall of Judgment
Gabriel lowered his binding to the top of the large, marble table within his hall and waited for the gods to arrive. The moment had come to deliver some news of his own. The deities the Book had chosen to replace Yaloom and Mosley would be introduced, and Gabriel had sent a message filled with intrigue in order to persuade the Mischievous One to attend.
One by one, the gods made their appearance, and as always, Keylom’s hooves clapped against the floor as they waited for the fashionably late Lasidious and Celestria to arrive.
Eventually, the Mischievous One appeared with the Goddess of Beasts at his side. Celestria was wearing a bright-red gown that hung low across her bosom. Her hair was pinned up to expose her gem-covered neck and dangling earrings. She was radiant and greeted everyone with a genuine smile.
Once the Collective was settled, Gabriel rose from the table. “As we all know, Yaloom failed to name his replacement. Because of this failure, our laws command me to choose for him.”
Gabriel floated to a position that was directly above the center of the table. “There is also another matter that I wish to discuss.” Gabriel took a deep breath. “Mosley has broken the Collective’s laws. He has been stripped of his right to remain on Ancients Sovereign, and he must also be replaced.”
Lasidious was the first to react as he stood from his chair. “What could the wolf have possibly done? He is too smart for that.”
Keylom responded, thumping a heavy hoof on the floor to get everyone’s attention. “Mosley attacked me. We had a confrontation, and he failed to control his anger. Gabriel had no choice but to strip the wolf of his immortality.”
The others began to shout questions as Lasidious lowered into his chair. The Mischievous One looked at Celestria. “Too bad. Mosley was my favorite. I wonder what would’ve caused him to do something so drastic?”
Celestria responded. “Perhaps his reasoning was not drastic at all. Perhaps it was for other reasons that we simply don’t know, reasons we could discover if we were to find him. He wasn’t stupid.”
Gabriel floated over to the couple. “You’re right. The wolf wasn’t stupid. He broke the law intentionally. He used Keylom as a way to regain his mortality.
“You may not have realized it, but Mosley didn’t enjoy the games the gods play. That was his reason for choosing a mortal life. His final request was that I place him on Trollcom, but the reason why remained his own.”
Alistar lifted from his seat. “Forget the wolf, Gabriel. I want to know why you waited until now to choose Yaloom’s replacement. You could’ve chosen this being much sooner.”
“That’s a great point,” Mieonus added as she pushed her brunette hair clear of her face.
Bailem stood and adjusted his robe as he always did. “Get on with the announcement, Gabriel. I don’t have all Peak.”
The Book moved clear of the table and hovered at the far side of the hall. He motioned for the demon queen, Sharvesa, to enter.
Everyone in the room gasped.
Lasidious looked at Alistar and then at Celestria. The Book’s decision to promote the demon queen to godhood would hurt their plans on many levels.
After Sharvesa addressed the Collective, she looked at Lasidious and spoke in the language of the demons. A rough translation was, “With respect to your greatness, My Lord.” She hesitated. “Perhaps I should address you in a less formal manner, now that I’ve ascended. It’s good to see you.”
Sharvesa thought a moment. She reconsidered her position and then decided to stay with what she knew best. “My Lord. The demon council has met. All demons will worship me as soon as my daughter, Charansay, has succeeded me as queen. However, I would like you to know that I enjoyed serving you while I was on Dragonia. I’m sure you can understand my desire to be the object of their affection.”
Everyone in the room watched to see what Lasidious’ reaction would be, but the Mischievous One refused to give Gabriel the satisfaction. Since he respected the demon queen for her tact, he stood from his chair and smiled. “You shall make a fine
goddess, Sharvesa. I will be sure to compliment Gabriel on his choice, and I welcome you to the Collective.” Lasidious turned and found the Book’s eyes. “She is worthy of replacing the wolf. Who’s next?”
Gabriel’s heavy brows narrowed as he studied the Mischievous One’s countenance. He was unsure how to interpret Lasidious’ reaction. After a moment, he shook off his confusion and motioned for the other being to enter.
As the Troll King of Trollcom, Kesdelain, entered, the room once again filled with gasps, but during this series of moments, Lasidious had to fight back his emotions to keep a straight face.
The troll had cleaned his black dreads for the occasion, and the dirt from his cavernous throne room had been washed off of his vibrant orange and black skin. Kesdelain appeared confident and ready to meet the Collective.
Alistar and Celestria also felt the threat of the Book’s choice. They, too, had to work to keep their anger hidden while they waited for Lasidious to address the troll.
Now, fellow soul ... I must interject. Between the demon queen and the troll king, the loss of worshippers serving Lasidious drastically effected the Mischievous One’s plan to control the Book and significantly reduced his power. That meeting of the gods was not one of the finest series of moments for the Mischievous One. Lasidious felt he was so close to seizing control, and by the end of the meeting, he knew he was far away.
Even though the centaurs on Harvestom, the beings on Southern Grayham, and the elves and the halflings on Luvelles were all questioning their faith, Gabriel’s choices to replace Yaloom and Mosley kept the Mischievous One from attaining absolute power. Celestria, Alistar, and Lasidious would leave that meeting believing that they needed to work harder to find replacement followers to accomplish their goals.
Lasidious put on a smile as he spoke to the troll king. “So ... Gabriel has made you the new God of Greed, Kesdelain. I doubt you possess the fortitude to handle a duty of this magnitude.” The Mischievous One looked at the Book. “I would’ve expected a wiser decision from you, Gabriel.”
The Eye of Luvelles Page 66
