Legends Lost Amborese

Legends Lost

Amborese

By Nova Rose

Copyright © 2011 Nova Rose

Legends Lost: Amborese

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

Cover Illustration by Robert M. Henry

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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents within are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or location is entirely coincidental. The publisher does not have any control over and does not assume any responsibility for author or third-party websites or their content.

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Ten years ago I watched my cat play with her toys and envisioned a scene where she was telling her life’s story. Thus began the story of Amborese. As with all books this never would have come to existence if it wasn’t for the support of my family and friends. I would like to thank my mother for her support and for being a sounding board when I needed ideas. I also would like to thank my friend Elias who helped me edit this story. But where would a good book be without art? So last, but not least, I thank Robert M. Henry for his cover illustration-The Phoenix Medallion.

Table of Contents

Title Page

Maps

Book One: Destiny's Call

Prologue

Chapter I An Unexpected Journey

Chapter II A Cave of Discovery

Chapter III The Dwarves

Chapter IV Hill’s Valley

Chapter V Scales

Chapter VI Commander of the Dragons

Chapter VII A Crossing

Chapter VIII The Sorceress

Chapter IX The River

Chapter X Caught in the Middle

Chapter XIT he Departing of the Dead

Chapter XII The Troll Under the Bridge

Chapter XIII The Changing Woods

Chapter XIV Drulocs

Chapter XV Death Valley

Chapter XVI Land of the Unicorns

Chapter XVII The Fairies

Chapter XVIII Capture

Chapter XIX Separate Ways

Book Two: A in Time

Chapter I Gangas Pass

Chapter II Serym and Korin

Chapter III Lost And Found

Chapter IV Castille And A Stranger

Chapter V Scypher’s Fate

Chapter VI Hemíl

Chapter VII The Lost Lamb

Chapter VIII Shadows of Fear, Slivers of Hope

Chapter IX Where’s Zolo?

Chapter X Conquered No More

Chapter XI Battle for Hemíl

Chapter XII Abandoned No More

Chapter XIII Perilous Journey

Chapter XIV Secrets revealed

Chapter XV To Whatever End

Book Three: Journey's End

Chapter I Aslyn

Chapter II Moving Onward

Chapter III A Battle And A Union

Chapter IV Aslyn’s Lesson

Chapter V The Race to Norlyk

Chapter VI The Beginning of the End

Chapter VII The Purging of Norlyk

Chapter VIII Sposa’s Funeral

Chapter IX Farewell

Epilogue

Glossary

Coming July 2012:

More by Nova Rose

Other young adult fiction by this writer under Janet McNulty

Book One:

Destiny’s Call

Hush my child. Listen to the breeze.

There is a voice that beckons us all.

It travels amongst the seas

And over the mountains tall.

This voice is neither foul, nor fair.

It is a voice that all will listen

To as it passes by, floating on the air.

It is a voice that does not hasten

To whisper in your ear.

It comes when least expected,

And you must decide whether to hear

What it has to say or ignore it.

But hear me now and listen well.

This voice is softer than the Fall.

It is quieter than the bell.

This voice that whispers is Destiny’s Call.

Prologue

A cold mist settled in the air. Queen Rosina stood in the palace gardens staring at the vast sea before her without really seeing it. Her mind rested elsewhere. Fresh green leaves floated around her.

You wished to see me, said a voice.

Yes, Clymorus, replied the queen. You were here in my time of grief and kept the lands of Tesnayr from falling into disarray. I wish I could thank you for it, but I cannot. It has come to my attention that you have abused the authority I have given you to further your own ambitions. You have until midday to leave Tesnayr.

You seem different, your highness.

Yesterday I awoke from a long sleep. I went among my people for the first time in several months. There I saw them starving, suffering from lack of basic necessities. You have lied to me, Clymorus. All this time I have allowed your words to cloud my mind from the truth. I opened the storehouses. From this day forward my people will be allowed to live as men.

My Lady, I have only ever served you, said Clymorus.

Served me? Queen Rosina whipped around to face the man she once trusted. Was it my wish that you burn the grain fields or slaughter the people’s livestock? How is instituting a famine serving me? I will spare your life, but you are forever banished from these lands.

You cannot do this! You will not be rid of me so easily, Clymorus threatened. His expression darkened.

Take him away, Queen Rosina ordered. Two guards stepped near Clymorus. He whipped out his sword and cut them down instantly. Shocked expressions covered the guards’ faces as they slumped to the ground. Queen Rosina watched terrified. Stiffly, her feet moved back.

How could you, she said.

I did not spend all this time in this rotten hole kissing your feet just to have you throw me out, spat Clymorus, I had hoped to be able to use you, but since you decided to overcome your grief you are of no further value.

You will never get away with this.

Pain coursed through Queen Rosina as Clymorus shoved his sword through her. I already have, he whispered in her ear. Warm blood surrounded her on the cold stone. Something shiny caught Clymorus’ eye. He bent down and yanked the necklace from around her neck. Good day, My Lady, he said as he walked off.

Queen Rosina lay helpless on the ground. She felt life leaving her as blood poured from her wound. Suddenly, a bright orb floated toward her. She watched it with half closed eyes. The orb hovered a moment before transforming into a beautiful lady. The woman looked down upon Queen Rosina with sadness.

Help me, pleaded Queen Rosina, her breaths coming in ragged gasps. Help my people.

I cannot, said the woman sorrowfully. But it has been decreed that you shall have a second chance. But not as the Queen Rosina. The woman waved her hands and a golden light engulfed the dying woman. Slowly, it dissipated revealing a gray cat with tan markings. The cat glanced about it confused. From this day forth you shall be called Sposa.

But—

Because of you, the lands of Tesnayr have fallen into darkness. Through another, they will be restored. Fetch the necklace that was stolen from you and guard it well. Spread the hope that one will come who will destroy Clymorus. A child shall be born who will bring unity to the land. When she is, you must protect her and guide her. This is your second chance.

Why a cat?

I told you. You are no longer the Queen Rosina. Now go before it is too late.

The strange woman disappeared, melting into the landscape. Queen Rosina, now Sposa, bounded off awkwardly unsure of what to do. She only hoped the child that was foretold would come quickly.

300 years later…

She ran fast and hard through the dark forest. Her legs tired and her lungs longed for air. In her arms she carried a small bundle, a baby. Her breaths came in gasps. Then, she saw it. Up ahead, shining in the moonlight stood a small cottage across the bridge. She ran faster, ignoring the pain in her body, ignoring the panic that rose within her. She crossed the bridge and headed for a small woodpile near the cottage. Heavy breaths escaped her mouth. Soft cries came from the baby.

Shh, she comforted. She cradled the child and looked upon its delicate features whispering one last farewell. The woman gently placed the child next to the pile of wood taking great care that it lay hidden in the shadows. She took one last glance at the infant torn about leaving it behind. She snatched a nearby rock and wrapped it in her apron. Cradling it as one would an infant, she ran into the night and back through the forest hoping that the beasts would believe her deception and pursue her.

Loud crashes echoed behind her. The woman came to a halt as she realized that she approached a dead end. She turned to dash in a different direction, but was trapped. The beasts had caught up with her. She looked defiantly in their horrific faces. Her pursuers approached with their swords drawn.

Give us the child, one of them growled, And you will not be harmed.

The woman backed away clutching the rock more tightly. I will never deliver you the child, she said boldly, You have failed your master.

The Iork moved toward the woman and with one swift stroke struck her dead. She fell to the ground still clutching the rock. One of the savages reached down and grabbed it from her hands. He threw it in disgust. She hid the child, he snarled.

We must find it. Search the woods, said one.

No, roared the leader.

We were supposed to kill it. Our master will not be pleased that we have failed, another spoke up.

Silence, said the leader, The child will not survive the night in this cold. We will tell our master that it is dead. Any who disagree can argue with my sword. The beasts left the dying woman determined not to tell their master of their failure.

The woman laid there on the cold, wet ground underneath the moon and the stars as the savage beasts disappeared into the darkness. At least the child was safe, she thought, at least the child will be safe. She smiled at her success as she succumbed to unconsciousness and crossed the threshold of death.

They left the forest unaware that at a small cottage an aged man stepped outside his door. He walked toward the woodpile where he found an infant sleeping peacefully. Gingerly, he picked up the child. Who would leave you here, he whispered to it. The man ran to his home. Myrna, come quick, he called to his wife.

Kyas, what is it, said a woman stepping out into the night. A child! Who would leave it here?

It is a girl. She is an answer to our prayers, said Kyas.

But, what if her mother returns?

No mother abandons her child like this, said Kyas. She was placed near the woodpile for someone to find. Perhaps her mother felt that she could not care for her.

Myrna smiled at the infant taking it into her arms, relenting. The child gurgled. She is beautiful, our Amborese.

Chapter I

An Unexpected Journey

An autumn breeze greeted Amborese as she collected wood in the forest. Fur brushed her leg. It was a gray cat with tan markings in the shape of eyebrows above its eyes, on its feet, and chest. Amborese greeted the cat. She had met it several times in the past, but could never get it to follow her home. The cat preferred the woods. Every morning when Amborese collected firewood the cat would come greet her. As Amborese reached down to pet the animal, the cat arched its back and hissed.

What is it, kitty, asked Amborese, puzzled. In answer to her question the cat hissed again and ran up a tree, disappearing in the leaves.

Amborese.

Amborese turned around abruptly upon hearing her name. It was a soft whisper, almost ghost like. Amborese continued to collect firewood, under the assumption that she was hearing things.

Amborese.

This time Amborese was certain she had heard a voice. Who are you, she called.

Follow my voice.

Ignoring the voice, Amborese picked up two more pieces of wood. Something shiny caught her eye. Curiosity took hold of her. She walked toward it. She paused in a clearing when she heard the voice again.

Amborese.

Amborese spun around dropping the wood in her arms. Right before her stood a figure wearing a long, shimmering white and gold dress. Amborese slowly dropped to one knee when the woman stopped her. Stand up, child, the woman said in a gentle voice, It is I who should be kneeling before you.

Who are you, Amborese asked.

You are the wearer of the phoenix, a part of the Gantylla Shealayr. You bear it around your neck, replied the woman, ignoring Amborese’s question.

I do not understand.

I come with a warning and a message, said the woman.

Warning?

He is coming.

Who is coming? Uneasiness rose in Amborese.

The darkness rises again. It comes for you and what you bear.

What? asked Amborese.

Trust the dragons. Your command they must obey, continued the woman, The broken alliances shall be reforged.

A twig cracked catching Amborese’s attention. A man’s humming filled the air. When she turned back the woman had gone. Puzzled, Amborese picked up the wood she dropped and headed back to the cottage. The humming she had heard before had grown stronger and she knew who it was. It was Zolo, an old man whom many thought was mad. As she crossed the bridge that went over the river and led straight to her home, she could see the old man clearly. He wore plain robes with a purse tied around his waist and a walking stick in his hand. His beard and hair blew in the wind as he came toward her.

Hello, my dear, he greeted.

Good morning, Zolo. And where are you off to this time of day, Amborese said distracted by the strange event that took place minutes before.

I am on my way to town.

Where is your horse? It is a good five miles to town, said Amborese

Nonsense, replied Zolo, Walking is good for the soul.

Or it allows time for one to think of ways to cause mischief.

Why, what would make you say such a thing? said Zolo.

Last week when Mr. Dunper was trying to sell his stock, his wagon exploded in an array of sparks and smoke as fireworks were sent everywhere, Amborese said.

And what has that to do with me?

The entire town blames you for the trouble. You are the only one in these parts who knows a few simple magic tricks.

Well, how about I let you in on a little secret. Zolo leaned in close. That old Mr. Dunper will think twice before he tries to take advantage of innocent people. It was a wonderful show, don’t you think?

Spectacular, said Amborese in a sarcastic tone. Zolo, you may not want to walk these woods alone, she said nervously, remembering the lady in the forest, There are strange folk about.

Strange folk, Zolo asked suspiciously.

Yes, a la-, Amborese cut herself off.

Don’t you worry about me. No one attacks old Zolo.

What are you going to do? Show some magic tricks to anyone who tries to attack you, Amborese said.

I’ll have you know those magic tricks take a lot of thought, Zolo replied.

Like the time you made a copper penny disappear and all the while it was hidden in your sleeve.

Yes, well, it was a very exhausting trick at that. Where did you get that, Zolo said pointing to the phoenix shaped necklace around Amborese’s neck. It glittered gold in the sunlight.

Oh this, Amborese replied taking hold of the necklace, My father gave it to me. He found it when he was fishing yesterday. It was caught in his net.

Zolo stared at it darkly.

Have you thought about my father’s request? He wanted you to come to dinner tonight to thank you for curing his horse, said Amborese.

Tell him I would not miss it for the world. Well, I must be going.

Good-bye, Zolo, and stay out of mischief.

I always do.

Zolo watched as Amborese went to the cottage with her bundle of wood. She set the wood by the well and put a bucket down it to draw some water. So, he whispered to himself, You, as well as I, Quesha, know that the time has come. You, too, have been watching the Black Mountains.

Amborese walked inside the cottage carrying the bucket of water to find her mother busying herself by the fireplace. The woman had a plain face and the years had added to her plumpness. She looked up from her work. Where have you been?

I was talking to Zolo, Amborese replied, I invited him for supper like father wanted. She set the water bucket on the table.

Her mother released an exasperated sigh. She disapproved of Amborese’s fondness for the man. I wish you wouldn’t spend so much time with that man.

Why do you not like him? asked Amborese.

Mystery surrounds that man. He knows things. He speaks of past events as though he were there. And he is very protective of you, her mother responded.

Father trusts him, said Amborese.

I need you to go to town and fetch a bag of flour from the mill. Take Figaro with you, Myrna said, changing the subject.

Yes, mother. Amborese left the cottage and fetched Figaro from the stable.

She harnessed the horse to the wagon and made her way to the forest road that led to the town of Samaria. Amborese sang softly to herself, all the while thinking about the morning’s events. She knew the only reason her mother wanted her to go to town was because the miller’s son would be there. Her father made an agreement with the miller that she was to marry his son within a month’s time. He was a nice enough man, but she did not want to marry him. These thoughts mingled with her memory of meeting some strange person in the woods earlier that morning. What, she wondered, was such a noble lady doing in the woods alone?

The horse squirmed in agitation. Amborese sensed the animal’s uneasiness. Silence shrouded the forest. The birds ceased their sweet music. The wind had stilled. Amborese shivered as goose bumps appeared on her skin. She felt isolated, alone.

Figaro reared up on his hind legs twisting and turning in his harness. Whoa, boy, Amborese soothed. She jumped off the rocking wagon and led Figaro to a tree holding tightly onto the reins. Tying them around the trunk of a tree, she patted the horse’s muzzle whispering in its ear. The horse reared, violently knocking Amborese to the ground. Amborese covered her head as a fierce gale crashed through the trees. Her necklace glowed green. She stared at it. The same greenish glow emanated from the trees.

She walked aimlessly amongst the trees. She felt eyes watching her. Slowly, she moved through the brush. Crunching leaves beneath her feet broke the silence. Her movement echoed through the forest. Amborese passed by a giant redwood startling a flock of crows. She watched them disappear into the sky. Unusual for there to be so many. She glanced at the place where the crows had been and gasped in disgust.

A deer carcass lay there. Entrails scattered everywhere. Amborese covered her mouth from the foul stench. Amborese had seen carcasses before, but something was different about this one. Something was outlined in the animal’s blood. Amborese peered closer. It resembled the pendant she wore.

I have been looking for you.

Amborese jumped. The masculine voice surrounded her. Its harshness sent chills up her spine. Fear gripped Amborese. She sprinted through the woods, her lungs heaving in the effort to breathe.

Where are you, Amborese?

Amborese froze. Wildly, she looked around. She strained her ears listening for signs of being followed. A growl rose behind her, immediately drowned by the screeching of a cat. Amborese whirled around and caught sight of a gray cat squirting away. Something touched her shoulder. Screaming, she turned and found Zolo behind her.

Calm down, said Zolo, What is the matter? Amborese’s incoherent babbling told the old man what he needed to know. Come with me, he said.

The icy fear that had filled the atmosphere disappeared as he led her back to the road. She climbed into the wagon upon Zolo’s urging. He sat beside her. She noticed a bag of flour sitting in the back of the wagon.

Zolo, how—

I think it’s time to return home, he interrupted her.

As Zolo steered them homeward, Amborese took notice of the sky and realized that the sun hung low on the horizon. The wagon bounded lazily along the road to the tune that Zolo hummed with his pipe dancing between his teeth. Amborese glanced around her, but everything was as it should be, except for one thing. Zolo did not act in his usual carefree manner. Worry creased his brow.

That night Zolo came to dinner as promised. It was a truly wonderful dinner with roast chicken, peppered squash, apples, and toasted nuts for dessert. Stories were told to pass the time. Amborese had almost forgotten about the day’s events until the conversation took a more serious turn.

Would you like more to drink, Zolo, Myrna asked as Zolo sat by the fire puffing on his pipe.

No, thank you. I’ve had more than enough, Zolo replied, Have you thought of leaving your home here, say, traveling to a place more distant.

Why, would we do that, replied Kyas.

Most have already headed west or north towards the sea. Smoke seeps from the Black Mountains. Enough to cause the people in that area to leave.

We live far away from those parts, Zolo. We need not worry about anything, this time it was Myrna who spoke.

Distance means nothing in the danger that now arises. It has been said that Clymorus is gaining strength.

That name has no meaning here. Amborese turned from the fire as Myrna spoke in an icy tone.

Clymorus died long ago, Kyas said.

There you are wrong, Kyas, said Zolo, His body was destroyed, but his soul survived these past three hundred years residing in the Black Mountains. Or have you forgotten what he once was? Do not underestimate the danger that arises in the east.

There is no danger and even if there were it will not come here. We are isolated here and of no importance to the people of Tesnayr. Besides, all that is left of the lands of Tesnayr are the broken alliances; that is the only danger we need to fear.

Are you certain? Think of Amborese. You may want to take her someplace safe, especially with that necklace around her neck. Amborese faced Zolo in alarm.

She will be safe. We all will. Danger will not strike, her father said with assurance.

Danger is an unsuspecting surprise. It creeps around in the shadows and strikes like lighting. Danger comes to those who least suspect it and insist that they are far from its grasp.

Some bring it with them, Myrna said.

Zolo slapped his hands on his knees. I believe I have overstayed my welcome. He stood up grabbing his cloak.

I’ll walk you out, offered Amborese as she joined him.

Crickets chirped as Amborese walked Zolo to the bridge. Zolo, do you really believe we are in danger? What you were talking about in there. It all seems so far away.

Events that seem far away, often appear on our doorstep, said Zolo. Amborese, keep your ears and eyes open. The night is thick and still.

You needn’t worry about me, Amborese assured him.

Zolo disappeared into the shadows. Amborese went inside, unaware of the eyes watching her from the shadows of the forest.

Amborese woke with a start. She pulled the blanket closer to her chin as the noise from outside grew louder—the sounds of heavy footsteps strangely like that of a marching army. She had barely opened her eyes when the sound suddenly stopped. Odd, she thought. She held her breath for a moment, alarmed by the unnatural silence. Resisting the urge to go back to sleep, Amborese decided to see what woke her. She crawled out from beneath the covers and tiptoed around the house, only to find her parents still in their room, sound asleep. Still bothered by the eerie silence, Amborese padded to the front door. Slowly, carefully, she opened it couple of inches. She peered out into the night, but saw nothing. Hairs on the back of her neck stood straight as an uneasy feeling crawled down her spine. Something watched her. Unable to see what bothered her, Amborese dismissed it, closing the door tightly. She lay back down on her pallet by the fireplace. Amborese curled up under her blanket. Clang! Amborese jumped up. She ran to a window and peeked out. Shapes resembling people approached the cottage.

Quickly, Amborese ran to her parents and shook them awake. Get up! Get up, she whispered urgently.

Amborese, what is it? her father asked. Another loud clang answered his question. Guttural voices surrounded the building. Amborese and her parents darted into the other room of the cottage. Quick, her father said as he went to the fireplace, Help me brush away the ashes.

Father-.

Silence!

Soot filled the air as they hastily swept the ashes away. Afterward, her father moved the bricks from the floor of the fireplace. Amborese watched as he threw the bricks aside letting them crash on the wood floor. The door rattled violently as the invaders rammed against it. The latch held. The door shook again releasing a pop as the wood cracked. He father pulled a chain revealing a trap door motioning Amborese inside a black hole.

Now, he said as he lifted her into the underground tunnel, I want you to follow this tunnel until it ends. When you come out, head straight for the forest. Do not stop. Do not look back. And do not let anyone see you.

But, father, what about you and mother?

We will be right behind you.

Amborese let go of her father’s hand. Her bare feet touched the cold earth. She looked up as a soft thud caught her attention. The door was shut.

Father, she shouted.

The door to the cottage exploded as it was ripped from its hinges and crashed onto the ground. Her mother screamed. Scuffled footsteps reverberated above her as a struggle took place. Pottery clattered all over the floor. The terrifying sounds surrounded her. Amborese cowered on the ground in her dark seclusion. Dust rained down upon her from the boards above. She pressed her hands against her mouth to conceal a shriek as a thump echoed around her. A terrifying thought gripped her stomach. Amborese was now alone.

Smoke tickled her nostrils forcing Amborese from her frozen position. She stumbled through the dusty tunnel; hunched under the low ceiling as she ran. Darkness swallowed her. She slid her fingers along the rock wall feeling her way. Cobwebs entangled her. She swept the sticky mess away with her hands. Her throat clenched as she suppressed a cough. Onward the vast emptiness stretched. How long has this been here? Fumbling, she ran further and further, nearly tripping over a rock and falling on her face. Her dark escape came to a sudden end as she crashed into a ladder. Stunned, Amborese peered at it. A sliver of light came from above. Amborese reached upward, straightening as she realized that the tunnel ceiling was now a foot above her.

Amborese crept towards the ladder. She slowly wrapped one hand around a rung. The smoothness of the wood surprised her. She had expected it to be full of splinters. As she climbed, a bat flew close to her head. Startled, she lost her balance. The ladder groaned from her shifting weight as she hung on. Amborese continued climbing until she reached the top. She felt the door above her and pushed against it. It didn’t budge. She pushed harder. Nothing. Exasperated, Amborese rested her hand on the top rung of the ladder. It moved. She felt it and realized the wood was thin enough to fit in the crack underneath the door. She wrenched the rung free and pushed it in the crack. Using all of her strength, Amborese pulled hard on the lever she made until the door dislodged. She opened the door until she could squeeze through.

Fresh air wafted over her. Amborese stayed put, too frightened to leave her dark sanctuary. A roar echoed through the tunnel. Glowing embers of a fire shone in the distance. Amborese coughed violently as thick smoke surrounded her. She crawled through the opening and to the world above.

She found herself behind the stables only yards away from the cottage. Amborese peeked around its edge to look at the cottage. She stared in shock. The cottage blazed wildly with leaping flames. She looked closer and saw the assailants ransacking the chicken coop and drinking water from the well. They looked inhuman to Amborese with their thick armor, crooked swords, and spiked helmets. Remembering her father’s words, she turned to flee into the woods, but came face to face with one of the beasts. A scar crisscrossed his face forming a ridge in it. A rasping growl escaped his throat. His crooked, yellow teeth greeted her. He lifted his sword and swung it straight at Amborese’s head, but she dodged just in time to avoid it. The beast’s sword struck the side of the building instead. Tightening her grip on the ladder rung, Amborese swung it at the beast’s neck. He fell to the ground clutching at his throat. His gasps filled the war torn atmosphere.

Two more looked up at her. Amborese fled into the woods as they raised the alarm. She smashed through the trees trying to shake her pursuers. Twigs snapped. Armor clanked. She skidded to a halt catching her breath.

Quick, follow me, whispered a feminine voice.

Who are you? replied Amborese.

A friend.

But, I can’t see you. Amborese peered at the dark silhouette of bushes.

Follow my voice.

Amborese obeyed.

When she felt that she had lost her savior, Amborese would hear the voice. To your right, it instructed. She faltered as leaves hit her face. The voice led her through the forest guiding her every step. Amborese ducked under branches and climbed over logs to keep pace. The movement through the woods felt painful to Amborese as she moved slowly doing her best to remain silent while following an invisible voice. They made many twists and turns that she became more lost then before.

Stay here, the voice commanded.

But, Amborese called to the night. The mysterious voice had left.

Amborese ducked underneath some brush uncertain of where to go. The sound of roaring water filled the night. Are we near the river? Off in the distance, she heard cries of surprise and terror as those that chased her went to their deaths. Judging from the direction of the screams, Amborese knew that they must have gone over the sharp edge of the riverbank and into the raging river below.

Are you all right?

Amborese jumped. Yes, I think so, she replied, Who are you? Show yourself. Amborese eagerly looked for the person who saved her, but no one appeared. She searched the trees and bushes only to be met by disappointment. Her eyes drifted downwards as a small figure walked out of the shadows and into the starlight. Amborese’s jaw dropped as a gray cat came toward her. It was the same cat that she had met every day in the woods when collecting firewood. Why…you’re a cat, she stammered.

So I am, the cat replied, My name is Sposa. We do not have much time. I will explain everything later.

Amborese stood in a cloud of confusion. She pondered the pieces of this puzzle trying to fit them together in her mind.

Let’s move, said the cat.

Amborese dragged her feet awed that a cat had saved her life. Her heavy feet picked up speed as she struggled to keep up. The cat climbed up trees and jumped from branch to branch. Several times Amborese tripped over clumps of grass, falling on many occasions. The thorny underbrush snagged her clothing. Sposa yelled at her to keep up. The cat was fast. Amborese felt that if she ran any faster she would break her neck.

Stop, Sposa commanded.

Amborese slipped in a puddle. The ground broke her fall. She opened her mouth to ask where they were when a heavy footstep broke the night.

Get in those bushes, Sposa commanded. Amborese crouched in the nearby brush.

Leaves crunched as the footsteps drew nearer. She peeked through a small gap in the bushes. A shadow approached. The cloaked, slightly hunched figure seemed familiar. Amborese’s heart thudded in her ears. For a moment, she thought he looked straight at her.

You can come out now, Amborese, he said.

She knew that voice. It belonged to the old man who passed the cottage every day on his way to market. Delight filled Amborese. She jumped out of the bushes and threw her arms around him. They-, she sobbed as she buried her head in his shoulder.

The old man wrapped an arm around her to comfort her. The cat’s impatient meow brought a flood of questions to her mind. But how…why? Amborese stammered.

Later, answered her elderly friend. For now, we must get you to safety. And he led Amborese away.

Zolo escorted Amborese through a thick patch of trees and brush. The plants seemed to have opened up before them, and behind them rearranged themselves in their tangled mess. They walked through the night until a boulder blocked their path.

Zolo, this-, Amborese tried to say before being silenced by a wave of Zolo’s hand. Zolo outstretched his hand to the boulder and said a word Amborese did not understand. Grinding rock filled the atmosphere as it moved slowly to the side, revealing a lighted hole. In. Quickly, Zolo whispered. Amborese followed Sposa down the steps leading into the hole with Zolo close behind. Once they were inside, the rock slid back to its original position.

A well-lit and warm room welcomed Amborese. Hooks lined the wall next to her with cloaks and packs hanging on them. Chairs and a small table rested in the far corner. A flood of emotions overpowered Amborese as she realized why she was there. The night’s excitement had filled her mind, but now that things had quieted, her parent’s death dominated her thoughts.

Tea, Zolo asked as he put a kettle in the fire.

No, thank you, Amborese replied somberly, staring at the floor.

Amborese, Zolo began, I know there is nothing I can say, or do, that will ease the pain you feel from your loss.

You knew, didn’t you, Zolo?

Yes, I did, said Zolo quietly while shaking his head in sympathy.

Why, Zolo? Why me?

That, my dear, is a very long story and one I hesitate to tell.

You better tell her now, Zolo, Sposa spoke up, She needs to know. And the sooner, the better.

Tell me what, demanded Amborese.

Why your family was attacked by those beasts, replied Sposa.

I don’t understand, Amborese said.

Amborese, began Zolo, Tonight’s events did not happen by chance. They happened because of the necklace you wear and of who you are. You are not the daughter of Kyas.

But, Zolo, I know that, said Amborese, How does this necklace have anything to do with it?

That necklace is a symbol of who you are.

And who am I, Zolo?

The future Queen of Tesnayr.

Amborese coughed into her cup of tea. You must have me confused with someone else.

Sposa, perhaps you should tell her. You know the story better than I.

Sposa got up from her spot and walked behind Amborese’s chair. She jumped onto the shelf that was above the fireplace and walked to its center before sitting. She sat straight and tall with her tail curled around her feet. And so, the cat began her story.

The necklace you now wear, I once wore, Sposa paused and began again, "Three hundred years ago I was Queen Rosina, wife to Thalium, King of the lands of Tesnayr. We lived a contented life. My world was shattered when my husband was murdered by one of his loyal servants. I was overcome by grief. It was then that Clymorus came. He comforted me and helped me through my grief.

"I was his slave, and the people suffered by my hand. Hundreds of people were murdered. Many enslaved. I was so blinded by my grief I never knew I was the pawn of Clymorus’ plans.

"One day I decided to ride out into the city disguised as a midwife. I did not recognize my own home. My people were starving. I told Clymorus he was no longer needed. Furious by my stance, he killed me.

"Before death could take me, a fairy appeared. She granted me my life, but not as a human. As punishment for allowing Clymorus to reign, I was to be a cat. She told me that I had a mission to fulfill, one that would take centuries to complete. I was charged with two tasks and cannot die until they are complete. One was to hide the necklace. The other: to restore Tesnayr’s heir to the throne.

Centuries later a peddler came along and found it. It had worked its way to the surface, waiting to be found. The peddler picked it up and pocketed it, probably hoping to sell it. I followed the peddler and devised a plan to steal it from him. I never got my chance. When he came across the bridge that has been by your home, Amborese, he paused to pull it out of his pocket and glance at it. I noticed that as he did so, the peddler had a look of shock and fear on his face, such as I have never before seen, and unwittingly dropped the necklace into the river, where it remained for twenty years. Now that same necklace is around your neck.

How can a piece of jewelry be so dangerous, asked Amborese.

Originally it was not, said Zolo. When the people of Norlyk learned of Queen Rosina’s death, they rose up against Clymorus. He attempted to perform a spell that would control the mob. But it went terribly wrong. It would have killed any man. But Clymorus managed to pour his most powerful magic into the necklace, thus keeping his soul alive. He needs it to take bodily form. Yet, it appears that he can draw power from it. But what empowers him can also destroy him.

Your necklace is one of two, added Sposa, They were formed by the elves for Tesnayr himself. One was for him. The other for his wife. Together they form the Gantylla Shealayr.

Legend says that only the bearer of the Gantylla Shealayr can defeat the dark reach of the Black Mountains, said Zolo.

What happened to it? asked Amborese.

It disappeared over three hundred years ago.

What happened after Clymorus’ disappearance? Amborese inquired.

With no heir to the throne, the people fought over who should rule them. The elves refused to be ruled by dwarves, the dwarves refused to be ruled by men, the men refused to be ruled by any one, and on it went in a great circle. The five lands of Tesnayr have been warring with each other ever since, said Zolo.

What makes you think that I am the Queen of Tesnayr?

I had no children. You are the last descendent of the king’s sister, Valerissa. She and her husband fled when the riots broke. They have been hiding ever since. Twenty years ago, when you were newly born, Clymorus sent Iorks to your parents’ home in the woods. Your real parents were murdered and the midwife barely escaped with you. She ran through the woods and came upon the cottage that you lived in. There she left you, and fled back into the woods in the hope of leading the Iorks away from you. Her plan worked. Until now, Clymorus had no idea that you were alive. How he found out about you is a mystery.

How can I be certain of your claims?

Has that necklace ever glowed since you put it on, asked Zolo.

Amborese glanced at the necklace around her neck. She felt the phoenix with her fingers. She thought back to when she first received it. She remembered. She looked up at Zolo with her pearly blue eyes and whispered, Yes. Zolo nodded his head and stared at the fire. What must I do? she asked.

You must head east to Norlyk, the heart of Sym’Dul. There the necklace must be destroyed. Keep it around your neck at all times and keep it covered. No one must see you wearing it. Not now, replied Zolo, Tomorrow we shall head north.

North, but you-, Amborese stopped when Zolo lifted his hand to silence her.

We must see Quesha du’Adieu. She is a sorceress who knows more about these matters. Zolo raised his hand as Amborese tried to speak. You will need to do more than destroy that necklace, Amborese. Much more before the coming war.

War? What war? Amborese asked with uneasiness.

Zolo chuckled. Reclaiming an empty throne is never easy.

I am not going, said Amborese.

Amborese, began Zolo.

I have no desire to be queen. I am no leader. Tears trickled down her cheeks.

Amborese, I know this is difficult. But you must leave these parts. Those Iorks that attacked your home tonight will never stop hunting you. And they will surely find you if you stay here.

Amborese, Sposa spoke softly, You cuts are healed.

Zolo lifted Amborese’s chin and studied her face. The cuts that had littered it had gone. So they have.

A loud crash of pots and pans, behind Amborese snatched their attention. A black and white cat stood among the mess. All of him was black except the belly, the chest, the tips of his paws, and the right side of his upper lip were white. The stranger cowed on the shelf hoping to remain unseen.

Bali, you are an utter fool, scoffed Sposa.

Sposa, why didn’t you tell us you had a friend, Zolo asked. Then, looking at the black and white feline he said, You been here long?

The cat stood still.

I assume you heard the entire conversation, Zolo continued.

The cat shook his head before speaking. I, uh. . . I hope I didn’t disturb anything.

Sposa rolled her eyes at this comment as Amborese snorted into her tea.

Please, Mr. Wizard, sir. Please let me come with you on your quest to the east, begged Bali as he tried to jump from the shelf, but he slipped and landed flat on his face.

It appears that cats don’t always land on their feet, Zolo muttered as he and Amborese let out a short laugh.

Bali ignored them and continued, I’ll help you, sir. I can fight Iorks and make Clymorus wish he had never been born. I’ll. . .I’ll. . .is that sausage I smell? Amborese turned toward the fire to see what Bali was talking about and noticed that Zolo had cooked some sausage during their conversation. Zolo told Bali to help himself, which he gladly did.

How did you get in, Zolo asked Bali.