Legend of Manfin, The Journey, Book 1

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Legend of Manfin

The Journey

book one

By Laura Wright LaRoche

Legend of Manfin by Laura Wright LaRoche

© 2013 Laura Wright LaRoche

Smashwords Edition

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This book is a work of fiction, the characters, incidents and dialogues are products of the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead is entirely coincidental.

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Manfin

book one

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Records

Manfin were the first intelligent creatures to live on Earth, and their records go back to the beginning of time when all was new. They believed their existence would last forever. Proof of this breed has been left behind in all areas of the world. Most commonly found inside caves and on mountainsides in the form of petroglyphs and pictographs. In other parts of the land, statues were erected from chiseled stones.

The manfin leader commonly known as Master was born into a family of leaders, much like a king among humans. In the days of old and days to come, records were sacred and protected in an effort to maintain the manfin's heritage and bloodline. Important information such as deaths, births, and weddings were recorded inside, along with the traditional meetings. These meetings were always conducted by the Royal Panel, consisting of the Master, Mistress, General, Lead Hunter, and the Master and Mistress's personal assistants, and whomever the Master felt should be in attendance.

As the world aged, manfin became the most powerful and dominant breed. This domination lasted for hundreds of years, until the land shifted and the tides changed and another breed developed; a descendant from their kind who walked onto land and never returned to the sea. This breed called themselves humans and threatened manfin's existence.

While man populated the land, a third breed developed that could not leave the watery deep, this kind and gentle breed was called mermaid and was welcomed among the manfin. They numbered only in the hundreds, and relied on the wisdom of their ancestors, the manfin.

As the years passed and the grass grew over and over, man became the new dominant breed, pushing manfin from the regime, and totally out of their territory. Eventually, the manfin and mermaids became part of human mythology, and their place in history now lay inside of fairy tales and fantasies. With this new fate bestowed upon them, the manfin fearfully lived in hiding.

Diving into the ocean, and collaborating with the mermaids, manfin ventured farther south. Their population lessened; once well into the millions, they now only numbered in the thousands. Manfin is a proud breed who will one day regain their place within the world, but for now, survival is their only concern. - The Book of Manfin - Records of Old, Master Nequi Hokin.

Chapter 1

Migration

The ocean was raging with turmoil as Zabara fought off a predator. He held tightly onto a spear while defending his family. Fiercely, he rushed the enemy, ramming the tip of his spear into the shark's side, and blood flowed through the blue water, causing an eerie purple tint as the wounded shark swam away.

Quickly, Zabara ascended to the ocean surface, inhaling when his head emerged. Small fish fins expanded outward from the sides of his head, twitching as he listened. His eyes adjusted to the sunlight while he studied the sea, and after deciding all was clear, he dived back into the watery deep. A prominent scale-covered area was high on his forehead, rising into a small sonar bump. Echoing sounds could be heard as he called his family from hiding.

Vaelyn swam toward Zabara, while their son was snug within her grasp.

The family was migrating north during the stormy season to an area safer for their kind. The two month journey was necessary, although they hated this time of year; migration was dangerous, but the threat of storms was more so.

The manfin used their large fishtails and swiftly swam towards land. The water level became shallower as they neared the island's edge, and their tail fin covering unwrapped, exposing their legs. The tail drapery rolled tightly behind each manfin's body into a lizard-like tail. The family rose into a standing position and walked onto land as they exited the sea.

Standing on the beach, Vaelyn spoke, using her voice; sonar communication was for ocean life purposes. Nequi is hungry, Vaelyn said after her son fussed. Unrolling her aqua-colored tail wrapping, she sat down upon her shiny scale-covered blanket. Then she untied her animal hide shirt for the baby to suckle.

Zabara raised his spear into the air, and jammed it down into the sandy beach. Then he stretched, raising his arms high above him, revealing webbing between his fingers. His body was muscular and his golden skin glistened with droplets of salt water. Around his waist was a massive band of green scales, extending to the tip of his tail. He was a formidable being, standing at six feet tall with shoulder length black hair tied into a ponytail. He gazed upon his family lovingly before speaking.

I need to find shelter for the night. He bent down and kissed his wife. Grabbing his weapon once more, he disappeared through the tree line while smacking his tail into the shrubbery.

After the baby was done feeding, Vaelyn placed him onto the ground. Nequi crawled on all fours around the water's edge. His mother stood guard protectively, allowing him some freedom. At thirteen months old, the baby's tail covering wasn't quite developed. It would be a few months before Nequi could swim alone.

A seagull squawking overhead caused the baby's listening fins to stand stiff.

It's okay, Nequi! His mother spoke softly and kneeled down beside him. She picked up a seashell from the sand, and handed it to her baby. Isn't this pretty, she cooed. Her hair fell forward and she brushed back her long brown braid before standing again. Fully erect, Vaelyn was barely five feet tall. She was slim and toned, a natural state for their breed.

Within the woods, Zabara located a small cave. He stared at the darkened entrance, half covered with overgrowth. Raising his spear, he rushed inside, forcefully, ready to attack. Fortunately, the cave was vacant, and after his pupils adjusted to the darkness, he scanned the interior. It would do for a night.

Ripping palm leaves from the nearby trees, Zabara placed them inside the cave. When he was satisfied with their bedding, he returned to his family.

Vaelyn looked away from Nequi as Zabara approached. Your father’s back, she said and Nequi giggled. Then she asked, Did you find us shelter for the night?

Yes, a small cave.

Good. Vaelyn watched Zabara lie on the beach next to his son, and she joined them. They played for hours, until the day started to close.

It will be dark soon, Zabara said, brushing sand away as he stood. I will hunt for dinner, he stated as he walked away.

Vaelyn rose up, and hoisted her son onto her hip before walking over to some blackberry bushes. While she was selecting only the ripest of berries, a long green snake slithered from behind, hissing. She swooshed her tail, knocking the creature away.

* * *

The next morning before sunrise, the family was ready to resume their journey. Standing on the beach's edge, they ventured into the ocean. Moonlight sparkled on the splashing waves while they walked through the water. Then, in a blink of an eye, their tails unrolled, engulfing their legs tightly. They were half fish once again.

With great leaps, they swam further north, accompanied by dolphins. Swimming side by side on their journey, the group used sonar communication to chatter along the way.

Several days later, they arrived at their annual destination. Generation to generation, they traveled to this place of comfort. The island was small with few predators, making it ideal for their kind. Several huts were scattered about, and more manfin would join them soon. For now, they were alone, except for their dolphin friends. They enjoyed their time with their son, the heir to the throne.

Master Zabara was the leader of all manfin, and it was his birthright, as it would be for Nequi.

Protecting their young was important to manfins; especially as they were so few in number, and extinction loomed. Zabara had taught the clan many survival techniques, and he hoped it was enough for their survival.

Vaelyn, called Mistress, knew her husband worried about protecting them, and keeping their breed alive was of the utmost importance. Born into a family of warriors, Vaelyn had fought side by side with her clan, but she knew after meeting Zabara her life would change. While she was a warrior by blood, she was now a mother by choice. She never regretted her decision and proudly used her warrior skills to protect her son.

Being the wife of the leader and her family bloodline made her revered by all. Her great-great grandfather was the greatest warrior that ever lived among them. He died during the great battle between the whales and dolphins. He was a fierce loyal member, and so was his blood. After his death, the dolphins vowed always to protect the fallen warrior's family. They stuck to that promise. Not only protecting them, but all of manfin.

Look! Vaelyn squealed. Nequi took his first step alone!

Zabara was working on an animal hide for clothing when he glanced up, only to witness his son falling down, but he praised him anyway.

Good boy!

* * *

The next day, three more manfin joined them. Roak, the handsomely strong and brave general who had been friends with Zabara since birth. Julika, Roak's main warrior, a woman of great strength and beauty. The last was Craya, a gangly man, and a hard worker of the kingdom. He liked to call himself the Royal Errand Runner. They would stay with Zabara and Vaelyn until it was time to venture back home. The clan was tight, only drifting apart during the stormy season.

* * *

Over the next few weeks, Nequi had steadied himself, and was now walking alone with pride. When he did stumble and fall, he stood giggling, ready to try again.

Come here, Nequi! his mother encouraged and he staggered into her open arms.

In the deeper water away from the shore, Zabara and Roak were hunting. Forcefully, they swam, looking for their prey when Zabara sighted in on a target. With his arms flat onto his sides, he pumped his legs up and down as he suddenly shortened the gap. His mouth was drawn tight as he removed the hidden spear from under his arm. Then swiftly, he pierced the side of a tuna. He held tightly while the fish fought against the attack, and Roak rushed to his aid. Together, the men battled the tuna until it finally surrendered.

With help from a few dolphins, they brought the large fish to the surface and after it was on land, Zabara cut away several large hunks of meat and threw them into the ocean as a thank you.

Daddy! Nequi squealed when he noticed his father.

Son! He held his arms out and bent onto his knees.

Steadily, Nequi made it to Zabara's arms. Then Zabara raised him into the air, tossing and catching him. The boy laughed delightfully with each toss.

Sitting on a boulder, Vaelyn smiled while she watched her husband and son.

What have you been up to today? Roak asked as he approached her.

Mostly playing with Nequi, but Julika and I did have time to set up some targets.

Great! Do you want to have a shooting match? Roak narrowed his eyes as a challenge.

Don't make me laugh. You know we will make you cry in shame.

I'm willing to take that risk, he replied, then turned toward Zabara. Did you hear that? She thinks we can't win in archery!

Is that so? Let's see who hits their mark! Carrying his son, he walked toward them.

After they arrived at the huts, Vaelyn told Julika to get ready. The women smiled and grabbed their bows and arrows.

Do you mind tending, Nequi? Vaelyn asked Craya.

Of course not. We will enjoy the show.

For the next hour, they shot several rounds of arrows, and when it was over, the women had won the match.

I told you! Vaelyn said, grinning. She and Julika walked away with their noses in the air.

Now we have to cook dinner! Zabara stated. Do you have any idea of what we can make?

Whatever they least like, Roak said, and smiled.

The men walked away, laughing.

Later, after the disgusting meal so lovingly prepared by the men, they heard a loud rumble while the dolphins sounded a warning. They scattered into the thickness of the trees, hoping the large ship wouldn't stop. It was difficult to always to stay hidden, but they did their best, and with the help of the dolphins, rarely had they been seen.

While in hiding, Vaelyn asked Zabara if he had ever met a human.

Yes, but I told no one of this encounter, until now. We made eye contact for several minutes before I fled into the sea. I assumed he was a boy, judging by his size. He looked to be the same age as me. I stood at the water's edge when he stumbled from the trees.

While Zabara recited that day long ago, Nequi fussed and Vaelyn let the baby suckle.

It was amazing how similar the boy was to me, minus the tail and fins. He looked as scared as I felt. We didn't speak or move, until I heard other voices heading our way. Quickly, I dove into the sea.

Wow! I can't believe you haven't told me this story. How old were you?

I was nine.

You've kept that bottled for twenty-three years?

Zabara didn't reply, and Vaelyn understood. It was forbidden to interact with humans, and to be seen was shameful.

Several minutes passed before they decided it was clear, and they ventured from hiding to rejoin the others.

* * *

Days went on and eventually it was time to travel home. Roak, Julika, and Craya left three days earlier. They had to swim with the clan, and the other warriors, keeping them safe from all predators. The leader and his family would swim alone, able to take care of themselves.

Nequi swam between his protective parents with his tail fin fully developed. Zabara and Vaelyn watched for enemies and the dolphins swam on guard. All manfin learned from an early age to respect the dangers lurking in open waters.

Needing air, the family rose to the surface.

Ah! Vaelyn inhaled.

Dolphin! Nequi watched them jumping from the sea.

Come! Zabara stated to his son, and he followed.

A dolphin named Rave sank below the surface, waiting for Nequi and Zabara to mount. They climbed onto its back, and Nequi grinned widely. Then Vaelyn crawled atop a different one, and together they rode on top of the dolphins. Holding on tight, they leaped into the air before diving deep into the sea.

The day was beginning to draw to an end, and they were only a day away from home when a nearby dolphin named Ishkan yelled a warning.

The manfin jumped from the dolphins' backs, diving deep. They were ready to defend themselves, and three dolphins quickly swam toward Nequi. They stood guard around the baby as his parents helped the others.

Zabara went deeper while swimming toward the killer whale, and Vaelyn rushed straight on with her spear clearly visible. She stabbed the whale in its side, and Zabara attacked from the bottom, piercing through the tough skin. Together, they injured the animal.

The whale screeched with anger and pain, snapping its large mouth. It tried to bite the leaders, but they moved quickly as the dolphins forcefully slammed into its side. The whale bit down once more, catching a dolphin named Lita, and blood spread rapidly as the dolphin went limp. While it began drifting to its death, Zabara echoed a cry of attack. He and the dolphins frenziedly fought back the killer whale, which turned and fled when it realized it was outnumbered.

Vaelyn rushed toward her son, grabbing protectively. The dolphins guarding the boy fled to join the others.

After the turmoil settled, they began their journey once more. Solemnly, they swam, broken hearted as they mourned the loss of a great warrior.

* * *

While they rested for the night, a man on land by the name of Ashaw Lewis was determined to find the creatures called manfin. He had witnessed this breed when he was a child, but no one believed his tale. He had spent years studying ocean life and wanted to go on a manfin hunt. Alas, his duties at home were demanding while he took care of his dying grandfather. His wants were put on hold, but not forgotten.

Ashaw was sort of a recluse while the world thought he was nuts; the man who believed in fairy tales. He knew they talked about him, but he didn't care. He no longer wanted to prove to anyone else that manfin existed. He only wanted to find them for himself, and one day he would.

* * *

The next morning, the manfin family was already less than an hour from home, and the closer they got, the faster they swam. Vaelyn was excited, and she wanted to share Nequi's progress with the clan, while Zabara was ready to resume his leadership.

Dolphins swam ahead and informed the clan of their arrival.

Trees surrounded Izalyne Island, blocking it from the outside world. It was a large land mass located away from any of the main continents, and able to support many times the amount of its inhabitants. Huts were scattered about the land, and a fortress sat to one side. A grand castle was erected hundreds of years ago, housing the leaders and the main workers. All others who tended the fortress and its grounds stayed close by in provided shelter. The warriors and hunters lived among a large compound surrounded by an enclosing wall that protected the arena grounds. During the day, the land and ocean were filled with manfin busy at work. At night they rested, spending time with their families.

After the dolphins informed Adebelle, Vaelyn's personal assistant announced to the clan, They're on the way!

Hundreds of manfin dove into the sea, and joining the mermaids, they formed a welcoming line from the island and across the ocean floor.

Razo, Master Nequi's Nannie, stood beside Adebelle at the castle’s main doors, when Heldon, Zabara's personal assistant, limped toward them. An old injury as a child had left his leg marred. Zabara and Vaelyn approached the welcoming line, and they nodded their heads toward Roak, and Julika, who escorted them in. They gratefully accepted the clan’s warm welcome, waving at the cheering crowd, and a large but gentle mermaid named Jaqua, the leader among the mermaids, joined them. Then Zabara and Vaelyn exited the sea and walked regally into the castle.

Master and Mistress. It's great to have you back, Adebelle greeted, giving each a hug.

It's good to be back, Vaelyn replied.

Yes, Zabara agreed.

Heldon nodded toward them, and they nodded a reply.

Vaelyn looked at Razo, then spoke. Nequi can walk and swim alone! she boasted, smiling.

You went and grew up on me! Razo said while scooping the child into her arms.

The boy giggled while hugging her, so happy to see his Nannie.

Other workers rushed into the foyer to welcome their leaders, and when they were done, Zabara and Vaelyn retired to their room. Tonight there would be a grand party, and they needed to rest before preparing for the big event.

Outside, everyone was hurrying about while making preparations and Roak bellowed at the hunters. Gather more wood! This fire must be grandiose for our leader’s return!

The hunters scattered quickly.

Roak! I think you scared them half to death, Ladarin, a vivacious woman and the Royal Chef, said as she walked up behind him.

As I should, he replied.

Tsk! She turned, looking over her shoulder to see if he was watching.

Roak smiled, and she stuck her nose into the air and twisted away.

Come! There's a lot to be done! Roak waved his arms at the crowd of workers.

* * *

Inside the castle, Nequi was running as Razo chased him. Turning a corner, Nequi's tail smacked into a table, causing it to topple. A vase hit the marble floor, shattering upon impact.

Look what you did! Razo pointed toward the mess.

I sorry! Nequi hung his head in shame.

Follow me. We must fetch Albon.

Albon? Nequi questioned.

Yes. He fixes what needs fixing, Razo explained, smiling.

Upstairs in the master suite, Vaelyn and Zabara were refreshed after a short nap. They lay on the bed, holding one another as they talked.

I wish our parents could have seen Nequi. They would have been so proud of him, Vaelyn said.

Yes. They would have.

I love you. Vaelyn snuggled close and kissed him.

We must ready for the celebration. Zabara rose and extended his hand as an offering.

She smiled and accepted his kind gesture. Hand in hand, they exited the room.

Razo and Nequi were in the hallway when they emerged.

Mommy! Daddy! Nequi rushed toward them.

Could you fetch Adebelle and Heldon? Vaelyn asked Razo.

Yes, Mistress. She hurried down the corridor, then a few minutes later, they returned.

Come with me, Nequi. Mommy and Daddy have to get ready. Razo led the child away.

Let's get you ready, Master, Heldon suggested.

The men walked into an adjoining room while the ladies stayed in the master suite.

I have something special for you, Adebelle said, walking into the closet. She removed a large box, and placed it atop the bed before removing the lid.

An exquisitely detailed outfit made of the finest cloth, colored white, lay inside.

Vaelyn began to cry.

I'm sorry, madam. I will put it back. Adebelle reached for the box, but Vaelyn stopped her.

No. It's perfect. I'm glad you thought of it.

But you're crying. I should have known better.

I remember my mother wearing this on my sixteenth birthday. Vaelyn lifted the clothing up to her chest.

Adebelle smiled. Let me fix your hair.

While the women got ready, so did Zabara, who was dressed in brown leather decorated with feathers and shells. Heldon painted the traditional manfin scrolls, an intricate pattern of symbols and scrolls, down each of his arms. Then he fashioned Zabara's hair into a ponytail and placed a jewel-encrusted crown atop his head.

You are handsomely ready, Heldon informed him.

Thank you, Heldon.

They walked downstairs to wait for the women, and a half an hour later, Vaelyn gracefully stepped her way down the stairs. Zabara stood at the bottom of the staircase, gazing upon her beauty, and momentarily lost his breath while he waited. Her hair was fashionably braided, roped with strands of pearls woven into place, and a delicate crown decorated the top. Her clothing sparkled with pieces of shiny