A World Apart (The Jake Thomas Trilogy - Book 1)

by Tolle, Steven A.

  Dominic was out of his saddle in an instant. "Stay here" was all he said as he headed into the tavern, Deepwood right behind. They were inside for a few minutes, then came back out.

  Dominic came over to Jake while Deepwood motioned for a couple of soldiers to dismount. "A white-haired man and two others ran out of the back entrance of the tavern. I went out back, but they were gone." Dominic said. "Moshanna is going to leave a couple of soldiers to get descriptions of the men from the other patrons and then have the town watch search for them."

  Dominic and Deepwood climbed back on their horses, starting the group back into motion. Dominic rode next to Jake, his gaze watching for any threat. They reached the soldiers' barracks without incident. Jake and Dominic followed Deepwood inside. They were seated at a table and water was brought for them while Deepwood met with his officers in another room.

  After he was finished, they headed back towards the town gate. Both Dominic and Deepwood rode close to Jake as they made their way through the crowds. They cleared the town without incident and headed back to the Keep. Jake turned around to look at the town, wondering if he would ever be able to go somewhere without feeling like someone was after him.

  A couple of days later, Jake was taking a break in his training with Dominic when Deepwood came to update them. "My men and the town watch searched the entire town, but found no trace of the men. It is likely that they escaped right after Jake saw the old man. The gates guards remember a fat man riding by on a wagon, but he was alone. They sent out a patrol to see if they could find him, but had no luck. They will arrest any of the men if they return."

  "Thank you, Moshanna." Dominic said, standing with his arms crossed. "If you can get the descriptions for me, I will send them to Sanduas with the next messenger."

  "Of course, Dominic." Deepwood replied. He patted Jake on the shoulder. "Do not fear, Jake. You are safe enough here. All of my soldiers were given descriptions of these men. They would have to be complete fools to try to enter here."

  "Thank you, Captain Deepwood." Jake replied, still uneasy about the fact that these men were out there.

  ...

  Over the next few weeks, those concerns dropped away as he continued to train. Dominic used the incident to emphasize the need to stay focused and pushed Jake harder. Tomaris had been concerned when told about the incident in Numaria, but reassured Jake of his safety at the Keep.

  "While I am here, there is no enemy that can reach you, Jake." Tomaris had said firmly.

  One day, Jake was sparring with one of the soldiers, a younger man only a few years older, when he twisted his knee trying to avoid a blow. He felt something pop and then pain started shooting up his leg. He waved off his opponent and hopped over to one of the posts that made up the edge of the training area, gritting his teeth and cursing under his breath.

  As Jake leaned against the post, Dominic came over and knelt down next to him, feeling along the knee. Jake winced as Dominic pushed down on areas around the knee.

  "Well, you may have done some serious damage." Dominic said, shaking his head. "If we were at Sanduas, I would have Jonas or the girl look at it."

  "Tomaris can help, Dominic." Deepwood said, as he came over. He helped Dominic take Jake to a nearby bench and sent a soldier to get Tomaris.

  The soldiers were still standing around the training area when Deepwood asked Dominic if he would like a sparring session while they waited. Dominic asked who he wanted to be his sparring partner, glancing at the soldiers, but Deepwood said. "I would be honored, if you are willing."

  Dominic simply nodded and the two men entered the ring. The soldiers realized what was happening and began to gather around the edge. Jake, still grasping his leg, had a clear view of the training ring from his bench.

  Dominic and Deepwood squared off in the middle of the ring. There was a moment of stillness, then with a flurry of metal, they came together. Jake, pain suddenly forgotten, watched in amazement. Their swords were blurs as they traded blows, the ringing of the metal sounding out in the sudden silence. They seemed to dance as they moved, swords clashing. Then, abruptly, they parted, Deepwood indicating he had been hit. Jake did not even see it happen.

  They took up positions again, then started. As before, Jake was having trouble following the blows when they parted again, this time Dominic indicating a hit. While the soldiers watching suddenly cheered for their captain, Jake was stunned. He was used to Dominic's seeming invincibility.

  The two men continued for five rounds, neither saying a word. When they broke for the last time and saluted each other with their swords, the final tally was Dominic with three scores to Deepwood's two. Deepwood sent his soldiers back to their duties while Dominic came back over to Jake.

  "I can't believe it was that close." Jake said quietly as Dominic sat down next to him.

  "Why do you say that?" Dominic asked, an eyebrow going up.

  "I have seen you take out eight half-men by yourself." Jake replied, incredulous. "I just thought that there was no one that could touch you one-on-one."

  Dominic laughed, the first full laugh Jake had heard from him. "I appreciate your confidence in my skills, but I didn't get all these scars because I felt like it. There is always someone better than you, boy; never forget that. As I said before, it is the will to survive that wins in combat."

  He continued. "Also, Moshanna is very good. He is fast, strong and does not make the same mistake twice. His soldiers are lucky to have such a commander."

  Jake sat there quietly, while Dominic stood and went over to talk with Deepwood. With all of the excitement done, the pain in his knee started to bother him again. He was holding his knee, looking out over the field, trying to distract himself from the pain, when Tomaris appeared.

  "I hear that you have had an injury, Jake." He said as he knelt down to take Jake's knee in his hands. A look of concentration came over his face, then Jake felt the pain just fade away, nothing at all like when the clerics healed him. Tomaris smiled and stood.

  "Stand up and see how it feels." Tomaris told Jake.

  Jake stood, no pain at all. He jogged in place, then did some kicks, the knee feeling fine.

  "How did you do that?" Jake asked incredulously.

  Tomaris just smiled and said. "I will see you at our session." He turned and went back inside the Keep.

  ...

  Keria was finishing her letter, sealing it with the royal seal, when Nataly came into her bedroom. "Forgive me, Highness, but Marcus is here for you."

  Keria sighed, then stood. She handed the letter to Nataly. "Please ensure that the messenger gets this before he leaves." Nataly gave a quick curtsy, then followed Keria into the waiting area.

  As she entered, she saw Marcus standing there, waiting impatiently. She did feel a slight flush as she looked at him, handsome as always. He had made his intentions towards her clear. Unfortunately for him, her father would not approve of his courtship.

  "Good afternoon, Marcus." She said pleasantly, smiling at him. "Why the sudden visit?"

  "I have heard about your trip." He replied, giving her a short bow. "You must speak to the king. I want the honor of escorting you to the wedding."

  "I will ask my father, but how did you find out?" She asked. The trip was supposed to be kept secret until she left.

  "I have my sources." He said, crossing his arms, clearly not going to say more.

  She sighed. He could be so stubborn at times. It had to be one of his friends in the Royal Guards.

  Worried that Nataly would miss the messenger, she motioned for him to follow her out into the hallway. She walked quickly as they made their way down towards the main floor.

  "I will speak to my father tonight after the evening meal." She said warmly. "You should accompany me to help persuade him since time is short." She lowered her voice, speaking quietly. "I am supposed to leave in the morning."

  They continued on, unaware of the figure that stepped out from a darkened alcove. He would have to send his own
message.

  Chapter Twenty-Four

  Occasionally having to apologize for bumping into someone, Jake made his way up to Tomaris' study for his regular training session, oblivious to the people passing around him, his focus on the letter in his hand. He had re-read it multiple times since it arrived, the parchment wrinkled from the repetitive opening and closing, as well as getting scrunched up in his pocket. He brought it up to his face and sniffed; he could still faintly smell the perfume that had been applied to it.

  A rider wearing the signal of Sanduas had shown up at the gates about a week ago, announcing that he brought messages. Jake had been shocked when, after delivering messages for Tomaris and Dominic, the man had pulled out this letter. It was on fine parchment and sealed, the royal seal outlined in the wax, addressed to Jake. When he took it, he noticed that it had the scent of a familiar perfume, the one that Keria wore. Dominic had taken one look at the seal and walked away, shaking his head.

  Barely dodging a servant with a basket full of clothes, Jake looked back at the letter. It was written in a neat and flowing script. He read it again.

  My Dearest Jake,

  I was very upset with you when you left without saying goodbye or leaving a message. However, Bother Jonas has met with and explained to me the reasons that required you to leave in that manner. I forgive you for the hurt your sudden departure caused me and I am glad you are safe and sound.

  It is very exciting to hear that you have this mysterious magic. Learn well so you may become a powerful hero. Surely, with such power, my father will reconsider his foolish demand.

  I'm leaving tomorrow and traveling to Morisan to attend my cousin's wedding. I had to beg my father to let me go, but he finally relented. I will be gone for a couple of weeks, but hope that when I return, you will have finished your training and are back in Sanduas. I pray that we can see each other very soon. Please stay safe and come back to me.

  With all my affection,

  Keria

  As he re-read the letter, he wondered when he would be allowed to return. He had been at the Keep for two months now, the people and halls becoming familiar, the time passing quickly as he trained. While he was pleased with his progress and Tomaris was a gentle teacher, he was starting to feel the need to return to Sanduas.

  Jake shook off his thoughts and put the letter away when he reached Tomaris' study. He knocked and went in. Tomaris was sitting in his chair, eyes closed. He did not respond to Jake's presence at first, only opening his eyes when Jake was close. "Hello, Jake. How was your training?"

  "The usual, Tomaris." Jake said, smiling, rubbing his forearms.

  "If you will forgive me, we will not have a session this afternoon." Tomaris said. "I have some business that requires my attention." He smiled at Jake. "You can go relax if you like."

  "Of course, Tomaris." Jake said. "I will see you tomorrow."

  ...

  Later that evening, Jake was sitting at his desk, his letter pinned down by the inkwell, facing towards the patio doorway, enjoying the cool night breeze that rolled in as he thought of Keria. After several large yawns, he was considering going to bed when there was a gentle knock at his door. He went to the door and was surprised to find Tomaris on the other side. He started to step aside to let him in, but Tomaris held up a hand.

  "I apologize for the late hour." He said quietly. "But I would like you to come with me. Please bring your armor, but you can leave your sword."

  Jake did not hesitate, but went over and grabbed his breastplate. "Should I get Dominic?" He asked when he returned.

  "No, Jake. This matter is for you alone." Tomaris said quietly. He turned and began to walk back down the hallway.

  Jake shrugged on his breastplate as he closed his door and followed Tomaris. He worked on the buckles as they made their way back down to Tomaris' study. Once inside, Tomaris went over to a shelf and did something Jake could not see. He was startled when the bookshelf slid to the side, revealing a rough-cut passageway.

  Tomaris gestured and a small ball of light, similar to the ones in the main hall, appeared in the air above him. Tomaris looked back at Jake with an unreadable expression on his face and motioned him to follow. Tomaris headed into the tunnel, Jake right behind. After they were inside, the shelf slid back into place with a wooden thump, the tunnel turning dark, the only light the glowing ball.

  "Where are we going?" Jake asked, starting to feel a little nervous.

  "I will explain when we get there, child." Tomaris said as he set a surprisingly quick pace. They went down the tunnel, the soft sound of their feet magnifying and echoing as they moved. The tunnel sloped downward, so Jake knew they were heading deeper into the mountain.

  After around ten minutes of following that small ball of light, Jake could see another light source glowing ahead. After walking down that dark rough tunnel, it was a shock when they turned a corner and stepped into a long and wide hallway with a smooth floor. There were three large iron-bound doors on each side of the hallway and another at the end. The one at the end was glowing with a golden-white light that lit the hall.

  Tomaris walked down that that door, then turned to face Jake, lined face serious. "Jake, I have brought you here for a final test." He said solemnly. "I have a task that will require me to leave for a period of time. I depart tomorrow and you and Dominic will return to Sanduas." He reached over to grasp Jake's arm. "You have made good progress in learning your power, but I have to know that you are ready before I go."

  He turned back and gestured towards the glowing door. "Through that door lies a test that only you can face. You will have to master your fears while controlling your power." He paused, then spoke again, voice serious and sad. "There is also danger, child. This test will put you at risk, both physically and mentally. You must hold your courage and be prepared to defend yourself. Do you understand?"

  Jake, still unsure of what was happening, was silent for a moment. "I understand what you said." He finally replied. "But why do I need this test?"

  "It is a critical test." Tomaris stated. "You will leave here and head back out into the world, with only your power to defend your life. Always remember that our enemies are after you. If you cannot pass this test, then it is likely that they will have you." He paused, then spoke. "I ask you to trust me in this, Jake. The test is dangerous, but I believe that you have it within you to succeed."

  Jake shrugged his shoulders, adjusting his breastplate. He fought down his nervousness and worry and spoke, trying to sound resolute. "If you say I have to pass this test, then let's do it."

  Tomaris nodded and gestured at the door. The light vanished, but his floating ball of light glowed brighter to make up for it. Tomaris reached over and opened the door to reveal another tunnel, its path dark. He reached over to place a hand on Jake's shoulder, his eyes kind. "Be courageous, child, and remember our lessons. May the Creator grant you success."

  Jake called up his power, feeling it fill him, his form glowing brightly in the low light. He took a deep breath, then headed into the tunnel. He was only a few feet in when he heard the door close behind him, its light suddenly shining again. He tried to put that out of his mind and continued down the tunnel, fighting down his unease.

  After another twenty feet or so, the tunnel opened up into a small cave, only about fifty feet wide. It seemed natural, its roof and walls rough and uneven. Only the floor looked like it had been worked, level and smoother than the rest of the cave. What was not natural was the faint ball of light that hung at the top of the cave and the wall of light, the same color as the door, which filled the back wall of the cave.

  As Jake stood there, the wall suddenly vanished, leaving the ball of light and Jake's own form as the only sources of light. Where the wall had been, Jake could make out the outline of a shadowy alcove in the cave wall, the alcove itself black as the cave light did not reach it. Jake felt the cold grip of fear as he looked at that dark opening.

  "So, he expects you to be my executioner, doe
s he?" An inhuman voice spoke from the darkness. Jake watched disbelieving as an Imp came out into the light. It was dressed in a cowled robe, the cowl thrown back, revealing its scaly face. Its clawed hands flexed as it moved closer towards Jake. "You will find that I am not easy meat, boy. I have existed since before the creation of your puny world."

  "Stay back." Jake said, involuntary stepping back, as he drew more of his power in, sweat suddenly running down his spine. He tried to recall his lessons, but his mind seemed frozen. The Imp took a few more steps, as if to signal that Jake's warning had no effect on it, then stopped.

  "You don't need to die like this, boy." The demon called Rigil said, voice taking on a compelling tone, as it grinned, sharp teeth reflecting the light. "You do not realize the power you could wield if you came to us. You will have position and wealth. You can have any female you desire. All you have to do is agree to serve us."

  "I don't believe you." Jake said nervously, trying to reach the calm that Dominic had been teaching him. He could not shake off the fear. "I have seen what you and your followers do."

  "You mean the city?" The demon asked, its eyes pits of darkness. "That was just because we had no other way to reach you." It paused, then spoke again, its cold voice soft. "Listen, boy, you should not believe the stories that you are told. We are not what you have been led to believe."

  Rigil's voice became smooth, though still inhuman. "We did not defy the Creator. We were exiled because we opposed some of our brothers when they sought to convince the Creator to reverse His original plan for us to rule over the worlds created, with man to serve us. They are the ones who poisoned Him against us, claiming a non-existent rebellion. It was their jealousy that caused us to be sent out from His Light. We only seek to claim what was our birthright."

  Jake, keeping his eyes on the demon, watching for any movement, shook his head. "I think you are making that up. I'm not that stupid." He said softly, but defiantly.