Sytravious: The Lost Warlock Of Moruz (The Oathbreaker Book 1)

by Acevedo, E. B.

  “And in his retreat he torched the outlying villages,” Sytravious alleged.

  Nysight remained silent in deep thought.

  “He did it with the black flame, the same type of flame that just so happens to be the family art.”

  “Your mother would not approve of us having this conversation.”

  “But I am asking you, not her. She is not even around. Was it not only weeks ago that you told her I should know more about the details of the past? Share the facts with me so I can better understand not just her past, but also my own. I need to know who Byronicus is to me. I deserve that much.”

  “I agree, you ought to know about your family tree, but your mother should be the one to tell you.”

  “So you admit Byronicus is in my family tree. How am I related to him?”

  Ignoring him, Nysight lifted his swords and began his attack on Sytravious again. He was frustrated with his stepfather and the way he was evading the conversation. Parrying the strikes, he then leaned in and jabbed his weapon forward to create a greater distance between Nysight and himself. In turn, his stepfather used the swords to form an ‘X’ over the blade of his weapon and stabbed them into the ground, trapping the halberd between them.

  “Pay attention,” Nysight warned.

  “But, I was not done talking to you. You can try to spar me all day as a distraction, but I will not stop asking these questions until you answer them. Now tell me, who Byronicus is to me!”

  Nysight left his swords stuck in the ground, stepped up to Sytravious’ face, and grabbed him by the collar. “It seems I have given you the impression that you have the right to talk to me like I am one of your little friends off the street.” Nysight glowered at him; every word he spat out was full of fury. “You may be able to take on your mother using your magic, but until the day you can kick my ass like a man, blade on blade, do not ever think you can make any demands of me. Remember your place, and show some respect.”

  His stepfather let him go with a shove. Sytravious was shocked by the outburst. He could not believe he had been scolded in such a way, and having it been by Nysight only made him feel worse.

  “I did not mean any disrespect, I guess I let my obsession with these ideas cloud my judgement and I am sorry. I only wanted to know about where I come from because it is a part of me that I feel is missing.”

  “So what if you are an heir to Byronicus, he is dead. What does it matter now?” Nysight grumbled.

  “I do not know.” He shrugged. “You and mother leave me with the impression that it somehow matters.”

  “How so?”

  Sytravious raised an eyebrow and gestured to the weapons. “Why spend so much time teaching me all this? You either need me to be prepared for something serious that is going to happen, or you two are just obsessed with me.”

  Nysight’s look of discontent faded as he snorted and tried to hide his grin. “Yes, the latter.”

  “Okay, no jokes. Please, tell me the truth. I can handle it.” He watched as his stepfather closed his eyes and rubbed his temple. Was the information he was asking him for really that taxing to explain?

  “You are the last male heir in the VanDrake bloodline, making you Byronicus’ grandson. Lord Fheng, the current ruler of the First Legion, was jealous of your grandfather’s status and influence he had among the people, so he murdered him. After that, he knew it would be only so long before your mother would try to seek revenge for her father’s death, so he preempted her strike and tried to murder her while she was pregnant with you. She let Fheng believe he had succeeded, which is when I helped her flee the country.”

  It was all starting to fit together now. This was all about Nyxseous wanting revenge for her father’s murder. “So all this preparation is for the vengeance she wants to exact on Lord Fheng? Which means she does not plan to stay here forever, does she? Am I only a pawn in her retaliation?”

  “Your mother…well, she has been nursing a deep-seated hatred for Fheng for twenty years. The severity of his deception against her family cut her deep, and that is why she has dedicated everything to getting her revenge one day. It is understandable to an extent, but it has consumed her, making her heart full of hate. There is no room for anything else, including us.”

  “And you are alright with that?”

  “Sytravious, I am no fool. I know she only keeps me around to protect the family and teach you to be a better fighter. In that way, I am of use to her, but she does not need me for anything other than that,” he said and looked to the ground.

  “I do not understand how you stick by her side, despite how callous she is.”

  The saddened smile on his stepfather’s face told him that Nyxseous’ inability to love Nysight back did not affect the way he felt. He still loved her. It was not his place to question the feelings his stepfather had for his mother, so instead he asked, “What do you intend to do once she enacts her revenge? Are you going to remain loyal to her and blindly follow her through with her plans?”

  “I will always be loyal to her, but that does not mean I will just do whatever she wants. I will always try my best to keep her safe, even if it is from herself. In this case, I used to agree with her and was even willing to help her kill every enemy she had in mind, but as time went on, I started to see things differently. Spending all these years with you both, it has changed me and opened my eyes to a life I never believed was possible.”

  “You mean you actually enjoy living in Havencrest, hiding who you are just so you can work as a blacksmith?”

  "I do not think I really am hiding my identity, other than my name. Your occupation does not make up whom you are. You must know that. I am getting old and the dreams I once had, of being mighty and powerful, have changed. I think I could be just as happy staying in Havencrest with my family.”

  “How? We cannot escape who we are. No matter how much I would like to stay, a VanDrake would never be welcome in Havencrest.”

  Nysight rested his hand on Sytravious’ shoulder. “Son, you have lived here your entire life. Your mother and I are the fugitives, not you. Maybe we cannot leave the past behind, but that does not mean you have to let us affect your future. Before a few moments ago, you did not even know you were a VanDrake, so why would anyone else? You know, I used to train you to be able to fight alongside us when we went back to Moruz, but those same skills can apply to whatever path you choose. Our past does not define you, Sytravious, and our sins are not your burden to shoulder.”

  He smirked at Nysight. “Thanks,” was all he said, not trying to let on how glad he was to get his stepfather’s encouragement.

  “Alright, now enough talking about the past and pick up your weapon.”

  Sytravious bent down, grabbed the halberd off the ground, and began sparring again. While parrying the attacks coming at him, he dwelled on the idea of choosing his own path in life, one that included the priestess. He had already felt the growing urge to rebel against Nyxseous’ oppressive control over his life, but with this nudge from Nysight, he was more confident in acting on that desire.

  From the south and east gates of the castle, the heralding trumpets’ celebratory fanfare could be heard echoing through the woods. Both men halted, knowing the lesson was over.

  “Let us go see what all the fuss is about,” Nysight said.

  They picked up their belongings and moved out, heading back to the Trapper House. Sytravious had not heard that notification come from the castle since they announced the celebration of a new priestess at the temple. He was too young to understand at the time, but he enjoyed the festivities nonetheless. By the time they arrived, the entire town had already gathered on the castle grounds, leaving the streets quiet and empty.

  “I am going home to put our weapons away and get your mother. She will not have went to the castle alone. Go see what is going on and we will catch up with you later.” Nysight waved his hand as if shooing Sytravious away.

  “Okay, I will go check.” He turned and ran toward the cr
owd.

  The eager energy among the masses was palpable. As he pushed through the citizens, he could hear multiple mentions of the name Jezra. Was the High Priestess in Havencrest? Her presence would be unusual, as she rarely visited their city. He wondered what would make her travel all the way from the capital. His stomach dropped when he remembered what Elric had told him about sending the report to Cleary Court, but all his worries receded to the back of his mind when he saw Raiven sitting in the royal courtyard.

  Sytravious stood near the front of the gathering, with a clear view of what was going on. It was the first time he had seen her since their kiss. She wore an elegant, form fitting, sage colored dress that flowed to her ankles. Her long ponytail sparkled with decorative emeralds and pearls. She looked just as flawless as the last night he laid eyes on her.

  Sytravious scanned the group that was assembled in the courtyard, seeing that next to Raiven, sat Jezra. The High Priestess seemed archaic in comparison to her apprentice, but it played into why she commanded the respect of everyone. Behind the two priestesses were their head guardians. Bryce stood next to a rather large man that Sytravious assumed to be Jezra’s well-known guardian, Xertias. Off to the side, sat the general and the warden. Two elite knights flanked them, each holding up the city banners of Valcrest and Havencrest, with pride.

  When a man, who Sytravious recognized as the royal crier stepped out into the middle of the square and cleared his throat, the crowd hushed.

  “Hear ye, hear ye, citizens of Havencrest. I am proud to announce the arrival of the magnificent High Priestess of Valcrest. This is such an exceptional occasion that your generous warden could not let it pass without a spectacular celebration in the form of a grand festival the whole city can enjoy. It will be an event to remember!”

  Sytravious clapped, but his gaze was focused on Raiven. Everyone surrounding him whooped and whistled with delight, while others stomped their feet to create a ruckus. It had been ages since they were afforded the chance to have fun at the city’s expense.

  The crier continued, “In four days’ time, the festival will begin with performances by talent from all over the land. We also encourage local merchants to come and sell their goods and services. Lastly, we will end the festivities with a combat tournament, which is open to both eligible citizens and soldiers. For more details please see one of the information booths we have set up right outside each castle gate. The champion will win two-hundred gold pieces, a steed of their choice from the royal stables, and…” he paused for effect, “An invitation to the royal banquet as the esteemed guest of High Priestess Jezra and our very own Priestess Raiven. Not a warrior? Do not fret! You are still welcomed to enjoy the celebratory meal right outside the castle walls. So, leave your money at home because the warden will be hosting your free dinner, complete with wine from the royal cellars!”

  Sytravious found himself cheering with the crowd. Dinner with Raiven was something he could get excited about, not to mention everything else that came with the prize. The crier had completed his announcement and the crowd had started to disperse. He remained in place, trying to get one last glimpse of the priestess. Just as he was about to walk away, their eyes met, and her face lit up with joy. He gave her a wink, before disappearing into the crowd.

  Her dazzling smile was the last push he needed to confirm the decision he was about to make was the right one. During the festival, his stepfather would be setting up a stand to do some simple smith work for the people. Nysight would be able to earn some extra money, but Sytravious was not planning to be there to help.

  Conversely, there was Nyxseous, who would not be busy at all. With the warden giving out free drinks and food, there would be no reason for customers to visit the Trapper House, leaving his mother without anything to do. If she knew what he was devising, she would stop at nothing to bring down his plans, but he did not care. He was going to do what he wanted for a change.

  As he approached the castle gate, he saw the information booth. “Those same skills can apply to whatever path you choose,” were Nysight’s words from earlier that Sytravious now repeated in his head. He stood in line behind a wide, brawly, man with blonde curly hair. Upon second glance, he realized it was Xertias. Sytravious was not worried about the guardian taking part in the tournament, but it hardly seemed fair to everyone else who wanted to compete. Why dangle all the rewards in front of the ordinary people, but then let someone like Xertias participate? It was just wrong.

  When the guardian finished speaking to the soldier at the table, he turned around to leave. Before exiting the booth, he stopped to size up his opponents that waited in line. Xertias scoffed and then laughed as he walked away. Sytravious rolled his eyes after the cocky guardian passed him. He knew better than to be arrogant in front of the other contenders.

  “Mister, listen up!” The soldier shouted at him.

  He leaned closer so he could hear better amidst the hubbub. The man recited the guidelines from a piece of parchment. “The tournament will take place in the royal square. We will erect the ring the day before the competition. It will take place over the span of two days. The first day will consist of single elimination duels. The contestants that remain will participate on day two, in a grand melee, where the ultimate champion will be determined. All weapons are to be made of steel or iron, and must be blunted to ensure a certain level of safety for our competitors. To win, you must disarm your opponent or they must concede defeat. Do you have any questions?”

  Sytravious shook his head.

  “Then if you still would like to participate, sign this roster right here.”

  Chapter 17

  The Champion Revealed

  The castle grounds had undergone an impressive transformation to reflect the memorable occasion. Performers of all sorts entertained the people of Havencrest. Tents were set up for vendors, who seized the chance to have a free spot to sell their merchandise. Every few paces, citizens were offering Raiven different types of tasty treats, while others tried to lure her into playing festival games or joining in a group dance. It had turned out to be a joyous celebration, just as the warden had promised.

  Jezra had granted the young girl permission to take part in the festivities as long as she brought her two best guardians with her. Bryce had been authorized to compete in the tournament, leaving her in the company of his two successors. The absence of her favorite guardian did not bother her though, because Raiven was happy to be able to walk amongst the people of Havencrest, and they were overjoyed to see her as well. While she wandered around, individuals were permitted to approach her with a respectful salutation, but nothing more than a simple handshake. After greeting the first few folks, she figured out a handkerchief would have come in handy since most of the residents wiped their food-covered fingers on their clothes before shaking her hand; but they seemed so grateful for her recognition, she could not help but smile.

  The thrill of being surrounded by her people tapered off by the third day, and rather than appreciating the celebration with everyone else, she was searching more diligently for Sytravious. Since the festival began, she had yet to see him in the throngs of townspeople, but by dusk, she had managed to find Onyx. Raiven walked up to his tent and examined the equipment he had brought along with him.

  “Good evening, Priestess.” He bowed his head. “How may I be of service to you?”

  She smiled at him. “Good evening to you as well. I was just seeing if your son was out here. He did such a superb job repairing the dagger I brought in a few weeks ago that I wanted to thank him personally.”

  Onyx’s brow wrinkled in surprise. “Really? Well I am sorry to tell you, my lady, but I have yet to see him out here since the celebration began.”

  “Oh.” She tried to conceal her disappointment. “Is that not a little inconsiderate of him? How could he just go off and enjoy the party, leaving you here to do all the work?” Raiven was trying her best to get him to tell her where Sytravious was.

  “I do not
think you will find him celebrating or gorging on food, it is just not like him.”

  Dissatisfied with his response, she could not help but frown at the blacksmith.

  “My lady, you have my word that if I see Sytravious, I will let him know you were looking for him.”

  That was all she needed to hear to boost her mood. Delighted, she reached out across the table and grabbed his hand within both of hers.

  “Thank you Onyx, may Vesalys shine her light on you. Have a good rest of your evening.” She released his hand and waved goodbye.

  He bowed his head once again. “You do the same, my lady. Farewell.”

  When the next morning arrived, the festival continued. Today the priestess knew she wanted to enjoy her last outing, because she did not know when another chance like this would come along. To get the most out of her day, Raiven knew she would have to ditch her two guardians, who were following her every move. After many handshakes, she turned to the two men behind her and stared at her hands in disgust. “Oh dear, it seems I have forgotten my handkerchief today. Would one of you please fetch one for me?”

  While the guardians debated who would walk back inside for the priestess, she ducked between the long stilts of a nearby entertainer and ran, dodging between tents. When she was confident she had lost them, Raiven stopped to sit in the grass with an audience who were watching a musician perform. She leaned back on both hands. The warm sun shined against her face while she panted, trying to catch her breath.

  “Oh, you like listening to the lute too?”

  “The lute…?” she asked, and glanced up at the stage to see a man playing the stringed instrument. “Yes, it is quite lov---Sytravious!” She gasped, having only just realized he was the one sitting next to her.

  “Maybe I should learn to play one then.”

  Her loud laughter was disproportional to his wisecrack, but she was so happy to see him she could not control it. “Where have you been? I have been looking all over for you!”