The New Guard (Crossroads Book 1)

by Matthew M. Johns

  Shortly after David’s words, the occupants of the study slowly began to depart, with General Kolk being the first to excuse himself. Once enough of the king’s cabinet had departed, David bowed to the king and asked for leave to return to his children. The king dismissed him with a wave of his hand. There would be no further invitations from the king toward David or any of his family.

  Once outside the study, David found a page and sent a note to Hogan that he’d be pleased to join him at Sabbath services. David then dismissed the page, wanting to find his own way out of the castle. When he finally did thirty minutes later, he had composed himself so as to not lay his frustrations upon his children. When he finally arrived back at Way House he found Deborah back and changed into a nightgown. Most of the girls were grouped around her talking in hushed voices. The boys, except Jeremiah, were huddled around a small table with the Coterie brothers learning a card game. David greeted them all briefly, but asked them to wait until he got more comfortable before he would talk about any details.

  David changed quickly and checked on Dinah, Mary, and Ruth, who were sound asleep in their rooms. Jeremiah was alone in the boys’ room, his nose in a book. David smiled at him and asked, “What did you find to read?”

  Jeremiah briefly looked up from the volume. “I couldn’t understand most of the books in the library downstairs; they seem to be in other languages. The Beagle says the gift of tongues only extends to hearing and speaking, and I’d have to actually learn the other languages to know how to read them.”

  “I don’t doubt you will learn them. I am still amazed you learned to read so young.” David then asked his question again. “What did you find to read?”

  Jeremiah stood up this time and brought the book to his father. “It’s a travel log the Oswald boy gave me. He said it was left at Oswald Farm many years ago. It has sketches and maps of the twelve kingdoms and the inhabitants of the Crossroads.”

  David took the book, flipped a few pages of it, and then smiled. “You should share this with your brothers and sisters. In fact, since we are probably going to be here for a while, it might be ideal for me to arrange tutoring for you all.”

  Jeremiah looked up at his father in fear. “I think that would be great, but don’t tell the others I had anything to do with that idea. Ruth thinks I’m an insufferable know-it-all, and can’t stand that I skipped a grade and we shared a second grade class. The others think I . . .”

  David stopped Jeremiah by hugging him. When he broke the embrace he knelt to be eye to eye with Jeremiah.

  “Don’t be ashamed of the gifts God has given you. At the same time, be sure you’re not flaunting them, either. Now, don’t worry; I’ll introduce the idea of schooling to your brothers and sisters so as to not implicate you.”

  David ruffled Jeremiah’s hair and hugged him once more. He stood and turned to leave, but Jeremiah stopped him with one more question.

  “Dad, there are so many things here we already know about, but didn’t think were real. In this book, the writer describes elves, dwarves, fairies, giants, merpeople, and several creatures from the darker side of fantasy. These things are real? Is this where all the stories on Earth come from?”

  David smiled at Jeremiah before answering. “Most of what we think of as fantasy on Earth has its basis in reality. Some of those stories come from people who have travelled here and found their way back. Some are stories of events that happened because those from other planets found their way to ours. Still more come from the nisse, those we would call fairies, for they are the only species to have an active presence on all the varied worlds of the other races. However, many of the stories you would find on Earth are fantastical creations inspired by the original stories.

  “There are all sorts of connections from our world to the Crossroads. I’ve heard tell of people who can partially cross over in their dreaming and people who can see between the fabric that separates the outer worlds from this realm. People tell their tales and either get published or locked away. Perhaps this is all a way for God to prepare people for a time when all the races will be brought together. I don’t know for certain though, I’ll leave that for you to ponder and find an answer to.”

  David’s smile broadened at Jeremiah’s wondrous expression. Before turning once more to leave, David spoke again. “Get to bed; I’ll be sending the other boys up shortly. We can all rest without placing watches, tonight at least. Tomorrow you get to see what elvish church is like.”

  David walked into the gathering room and found the girls still chatting away and the boys still playing cards. From the looks on the Coterie brothers’ faces, the boys were starting to get the hang of the game faster than they liked. He stood watching for a moment and then called for everyone’s attention.

  “It’s getting late, kids. We may not be on the road for the next few days, but there will still be plenty to do. No watches, so everybody rests.”

  There was some minor grumbling, but David let it slide. He motioned for Deborah, Mel, and Nic to stay for a moment. Once everybody had filed out, David sat down. First Thunder, Rock, and Fleet of Foot joined them.

  “Now, just because there is no watch tonight does not mean I don’t want you to be mindful of our surroundings and the goings-on of our group. My main rule stands: watch out for anyone smaller than you.

  “After tomorrow, I’m going to have a tutor come in. All of you need far more details on our new situation than the Beagle, our travelling companions, or I can give you. We will also continue our physical conditioning. In addition, I would like one of you three to also accompany me during the afternoon sessions of the council meetings. For the task that has been given us, one of the three of you will most likely get picked first of all your siblings. You will need some experience in dealing with governance.”

  Here Nic interrupted, “But Dad, I still don’t see how we are supposed to rule. Everybody keeps saying the Lord will guide us, or where the Word leads He provides. We are talking about taking over kingdoms, ruling populations, defending against the forces of darkness. Let’s be honest; most of us haven’t had any more experience at leading than being the captain of a kickball team.”

  David knew Nic’s frustration, as he felt it himself. He had felt it years ago when he’d first crossed over, and he felt it even now as he thought about his children having to put themselves in harm’s way.

  “I know,” David began. “I know how frightening and frustrating this is. Many years ago I was brought here and thrown into one battle after another. My only combat experience had been on the football field. However, I was protected and trained, and so will you be. I don’t know when you are going to be called forward; it could be tomorrow, the next day, next week, months or years from now. What we need to do is focus on the now, what we can do, and the providence of the Lord.

  “Nic, you’ve always been one to learn by doing. You’ve always had to be hip deep into an activity before you truly knew what was expected of you and what you needed to do. Once you grasp something, you own it, you master it, you add to it. The same will prove true in this situation, in defending and ruling.

  “Going to council meetings, training, and learning the lay of the land will help you as well. I will also let you know that the best way to lead is by example. I have strived to raise you in this very way. I wanted you to be honest, faithful, and caring people, so I lived that way. Finally, God will provide you with opportunities and advisors that will help you. He has already given you the greatest advisor in the books of the Bible. Even though we seem so far from the places within the Bible, its truth and guidance are still most valuable. I encourage you all to continue to make time to study it, even with everything else going on.”

  David closed his eyes and rubbed his temples with one hand. “I doubt the transition will be easy. Even now, forces gather to oppose the rule of the current king. I have suspicions that the Dark Riders are not sitting around waiting for you to be crowned. However, I have trust in God. There are twelve of
you, and there are twelve thrones. It is His will that you each sit upon one; therefore, He will guide you, protect you, and prepare you. There will be trials sprung upon you, some of your own creation, but He has the strength to help you through them all. We must seek the Word and do as He wills. You will know when you are being called forth. However, you must be brave enough to stand up and say, ‘Here I am, Lord’.”

  The children remained silent, a host of emotions playing on their faces. David read the doubt, the apprehension, and the hint of excitement laced with fear. He sighed heavily, feeling the full force of the change that was going to happen. His children were going to be taken from him and thrust into dire situations. He looked at his oldest children, whom he suspected he’d have to abandon in order that he may guard over the youngest. Even his youngest would grow up in a world of intrigue and subterfuge. How would he raise them, let alone an unborn child somewhere out there?

  Nic slumped in his chair and stared off, in no particular direction on at any particular thing. Witnessing this, Rock shook his head. He spoke softly with his deep, gravelly voice.

  “Don’t worry about being idle while you wait. Your father has already told you of his plans to continue his training of you. We will help make your life challenging enough so you won’t have any time to fret about the future. Then when the future becomes the present, you will find yourself armed and armored. Maybe you won’t be ready to accept the crown offered to you, but you will know you can do the job God has put before you, and you will take it anyway.”

  Nic rolled his eyes at Rock, but he, like Deb and Mel, let a smile play momentarily on his lips.

  David stood. “Well, now that is settled. I’ll see you boys in the morning. Deborah, I’d like a private word with you.”

  Deb nodded as the boys said goodnight and left. First Thunder came up to David and whispered in his ear. After only a few moments, David looked over at the two remaining cakes on a side table. He nodded, and then First Thunder and his brothers left, as well.

  When David finally looked over at Deborah, she was blushing and fidgeting. She was the first to speak. “He told you about the kiss?” As she asked she blushed, turning a darker shade of red.

  David sighed again and said, “Briefly. I am glad Hogan was such a gracious host and a thoughtful one too, but. . .”

  “I’m sorry. I don’t. . . I didn’t consciously think about kissing him and it was just on the cheek. I don’t think I meant anything by it except as a sign of appreciation.”

  David raised his hands to forestall any more comments from Deborah. “Deborah, stop. I can tell by how flustered you’re becoming that you’ve given this a lot of thought since it happened. However, let me take this moment to remind you of a few things. First, you are a beautiful young woman, and Hogan, though an elf, is still driven by the same hormones and thoughts of young men on Earth.”

  “Dad, please; Hogan was a perfect gentleman all night.”

  “Yes, I’m sure he was. He was also very thoughtful in having the birthday cakes prepared for you. Still, he is a young man, and a lovely young lady has just shown him a great deal of interest. I’m reminding you to guard your interactions, just as we have when any of the boys in high school showed interest in you. Do you remember what I promised you?”

  Deborah looked down at her left hand and the band on her ring finger. When Deborah answered, her voice was a little hoarse with emotion. “You promised to protect me, walk in faith with me, and teach me about love by showing me how a man should treat a woman: with respect, and as a gem in God’s crown.”

  When Deborah paused to catch her breath, David picked-up the conversation. “I gave you that ring as a symbol of that promise, and told you that your mother and I would both pray for the man whom God had set aside for you. We prayed for his safety, that his resolve and love toward God would be strong, and that when he entered your life we would both see him for who he was.

  “Even here, so far from the place where that promise was made, I will hold true to it. I will gladly give you away on your wedding day to the man whom God has provided for you. I only ask that you prayerfully consider any man before you fully give your heart to him.”

  Deborah whispered, her voice almost nonexistent as she battled her emotions. “I know; I’m sorry. I got caught up in the moment.”

  David walked over to his daughter and hugged her tightly. He kissed the side of her head as she fiercely returned his hug. “I know, Deb. What girl wouldn’t be swept away by the attention of a young prince?”

  They embraced for several minutes. When David was fairly certain Deborah was calm, he held her at arm’s length.

  “I love you,” he said. “However, I have to say one more thing. I don’t truly know Hogan, but I know his family. The elves have ruled the Crossroads for nearly a millennium. They are a proud family and they have not heeded the warnings of God. They will not easily surrender power. Be careful around Hogan. Even though he seems disenchanted with his family, once the truth of what you represent comes to light, he may turn on you.”

  Deborah had not the strength to contend her father’s words, even though she felt deep inside that Hogan was a man worthy of her affections, if she would give them to him. She didn’t feel Hogan would betray her if she confided in him. However, she was not certain, so she merely nodded at her father’s last comment. David took her face in his hands and gently kissed her forehead.

  “Come on,” David said softly. “Let’s get some rest and continue to pray about this.”

  *

  Later that night, in the darkness of the castle, in the chambers of the king and queen, a short squat figure sat in the corner. The king had finally fallen asleep, but his dreams were troubling. As the king tossed and turned, the small creature called out softly.

  “SHHH, O King Avrant,” the velvety voice penetrated into the subconscious of the king. “The Sword Bearer is not your worst problem. The armed landlords are not your worst problem. No, O king; your worst problem is God. You know He is displeased with you and your family, and now you have heard the rumors of a new twelve. The rumor is true; the twelve are here. Most of them sleep under the very roof you provide, but do not fret, for my master will provide you and yours with the opportunity to retain your kingdom. You are cunning, Lord Avrant, and you can take advantage of opportunities when they are presented. Who knows? Perhaps if you save the reign of your family, you will be the one sitting upon the high throne and ruling the Crossroads. Yes, O king; dream of that and my master, and I will take care of the rest.”

  The king’s sleep became less fitful as visions of ultimate power honeyed them. The diminutive, stocky figure smiled and faded into the shadows, leaving the king to envision his new kingdom.

  Chapter 14

  David and Rebekah Koen were both Christians and they raised their children accordingly. Church was typically part of their life on a weekly basis. Back on Earth, the church they had attended was a converted barn and farmhouse. They were taught that the important part of the church was the people, not the buildings; the buildings just gave you a central place to meet regularly and honor God. This is what Sunday represented to the children, a day that the Lord had set aside for people to come together and share the good news and praise the Creator and the many blessings of their lives.

  While the Seventh Day (or Holy Day or Sabbath) was celebrated throughout the Crossroads, the varied species celebrated the day in unique ways. The children were awestruck with what they experienced that first Sabbath in the Way World. They were moved by the ornate church building, the pageantry of a military service, and the many different species surrounding them.

  For seven-year-old Jeremiah, it all made his mind swim, until he focused on one aspect of the day. He chose to study the various people throughout the church. As he looked slowly around, he saw elves, gaeder, weald, Coterie, dwarves, and other humans. Then as he thought about the other species he had read about but didn’t see, he had a revelation. Each of these other races were
part of the creation. God formed not only Earth and humans, but nearly a dozen more home worlds for all these various species. Jeremiah had always looked at the night sky and wondered about the other solar systems and galaxies, but here was proof about how much more powerful God was. Each species was created in God’s image with the ability to love, create, and think beyond the present. The thought pulsed through his body, and he smiled.

  However, his smile slowly faded as he realized that each species was very similar to his own in another way. Each of these people had been represented by their own Adam and their own Eve. Each of these races had been given a chance to follow God faithfully in the Garden. Yet each succumbed to temptation, doubted, and rejected one simple command of God. They were all thrown out of their Garden and punished accordingly. Creation was broken and death entered into the equation, tainting everything life could have been.

  From that point, Jeremiah sat in church that Holy Day wondering what each different race’s Bible would look like. What choices had they made to embrace God or distance themselves from Him? What words had their Savior spoken? How had they rejected and killed Him? Then Jeremiah prayed. He prayed to the Creator of all the incalculable universe and asked Him to give him the power to help his family and God’s creation. He asked God to fill him with all he would need to combat the evil that was visible and invisible and set things right in the eyes of the Lord.

  God answered Jeremiah’s prayer. For a moment Jeremiah’s heart stopped, and his breath was caught in his lungs. Before he could panic, though, his body resumed its automated work. However, the blood pumping through his veins seemed slightly warmer, and with each breath he felt marginally stronger.

  Deep in the catacombs of Dauntalus, the Central Kingdom, Verger Rex stumbled in his work and was brought to his knees. A chill, which had nothing to do with the temperature of the tunnels, washed over his body and penetrated his veins. An image of the Spire of Haven filled his mind. The Spire was dulled, lacking any luminosity. He saw it crack and fall; however, instead of just falling down, it seemed to fly toward something. A pain throbbed through Verger Rex’s chest and he thought he was about to die. Then, just as suddenly as it had started, the vision and the pain disappeared, yet the coldness of his blood lingered. Shaken and slightly weakened, Verger Rex got to his feet and left the catacombs. Something had just happened, and Verger Rex was determined to find out what it was.