Joshua's Key

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© 2006, 2012 by H Brading. All rights reserved.

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Published by AuthorHouse 11/01/2012

ISBN: 978-1-4772-3520-1 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4772-3521-8 (e)

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PREFACE

THE GARDEN

It had been over a hundred years since a gathering of this proportion, the atmosphere was tense, and everyone was scared of what would happen next.

All the Lords and Ladies, Witches and Warlocks had gathered here, people from all tribes and clans were here, seated in the great sphere that rose for miles into the sky, spinning brightly.

Outside many waited in the garden, which was rich with magnificent trees and curious plants of wondrous colours. There were paths that led in all directions, confusing for someone who had never been here before, for this was the garden… The Garden of Eden, the most sacred of places. No one could use magic in this place, violence was forbidden. It was a place of contemplation, a safe haven for those who had lost their way.

Many a war had been stopped here through heavy debates and long discussions. It was told that the great Phelaxes himself had stayed in the garden for six moons debating with the great Iola over who should own and protect the lands. It was said that when they eventually came to an agreement the lands prospered for hundreds of years, and the people lived in peace.

But now the Darkness had come, and the wonderful light that shone from the garden was slowly fading. The lands and all their crops were turning bad and the people were becoming petty and selfish, but through all of this there was hope, there was the key… The Key of Life and with her all hope rested.

Then it came, a thunderous bang, the whole Earth shook with its ferocity. Everyone screamed.

Take her! Take her through the passageway; quickly it won’t be long before they penetrate the dome! Go Zabian, take the Seaton men, speed is of the essence, tonight we find out who is on our side, GO!

Yes captain and with that Zabian rose into action

Raymond, Joshua, Rassell come we must get the Key of Life and take her to safety, you have been betrayed, how far must we travel Raymond? The roads will not be safe! Shouted the warrior Zabian

We must get to the sea, and wait in the depths of the ocean and pray!

It had been written in the stars, and spoken about by many a prophet, that one day a wondrous miracle would be sent from the heavens, to unlock a light so powerful, so strong that no man or magic being could ever put it out. This miracle would bring hope to all, and would drive away any darkness that tried to corrupt the people; this miracle was the key… The Key of Life.

And so we start our journey in a remote village, by the name of Seaton. This village ran along a mighty valley, huge mountains hemmed the village in on both sides, the mountains were strewn with wildlife and all sorts of wonderful vegetation, small rivulets ran down the sides of the mountain helping to sustain the wild life higher up the mountain, in small sections trees grew clumped together making shelter for the mountain deer’s, lower down the mountain is where the Seaton people lived. The Seaton fishermen and women, were a strong race of people, with talents no other mortal or magic being would ever be gifted with they were exceptional hunters and swimmers, they had, had to be, running up hill chasing game was a strenuous task.

Their village ran two and a half miles down the valley for the Seaton people they thrived on water, their houses were scattered on both banks of the river, there were three high bridges shaped in high arcs over the water, in the arcs were oil lamps they were protected by thick pieces of glass so that no matter what the weather they could never be blown out, the floor of the bridges were transparent, so that you could see the fast swirling water in the river beneath or anything else that happened to loom there, the bridges were often used as look out posts once stood on the bridge you could see for miles down the valley, it would be hard to invade this little valley via the river.

Their houses were all circular in shape and were close to the ground, the roofs were flat, and once inside you could see they were made of glass. The Seaton’s liked to watch the stars, and have the star light shine in to their homes. Every home was very basic, a third of the circular house had been dedicated to a fire hearth, keeping warm was essential, but cooking a kill was just as important, rather than having a vent that went through the roof for the smoke, a small vent had been placed high up on the side of the house, the other two thirds of the house was divided in to sleeping areas and a seating area with a small table and chairs, outside of the house was a large bucket and lid for human waste.

On one particular night when the river was calm and the stars were shining bright, Joshua son of Raymond, head of the Seaton fishermen came running into his father’s home. Joshua was the only son of Raymond Cresteven, he was a tall boy with straight dark blonde hair, he had his mothers eyes, a joyous brilliant blue, they had always reminded his mother of a summers day when the river was calm and at its very bluest, Joshua was a well loved and almost respected member of the Seatons small community, as far as Raymond was concerned the boy needed to do a lot more growing up, Ada had always said Raymond was much too hard on their son but Raymond had always come back with it’s for his own good, one day the boy will thank me Unfortunately Ada had died, the doctor had said she had a weak heart and was to start taking things easy, that was six years ago, Raymond still mourned the loss of his wife like it was yesterday. Joshua had been out emptying the bucket, he hated that job but someone had to do it, pa had been sat down comfortably smoking his pipe so Joshua had taken the incentive, he had walked past the second bridge, all the bridge lights had been lit, and smoke poured out of all the circular houses, a few of the fishermen were sat outside drinking and speculating about the day they’d had, all in all it was a peaceful night, Joshua had reached his destination, a stinking pit of human excrement cleverly hidden in a natural pit and covered by planks of wood the only evidence of it being there was the stench every now and then when the wind blew in a certain direction, once the pit was full they would set it on fire, burn it, and then start the process of filling it again, Joshua had just emptied the bucket and was on his way to the river to wash the bucket out when he noticed an eerie light slowly pushing its way down the river. The first bridge was a fair distance away and the light as far as could see was beyond that. That’s strange he thought, everyone is here, who could that be? Joshua thought for a moment, there had been talk of pirates pretending to be friendly and helpful in return for a nights docking and refreshments, until everyone was asleep or too drunk to care, they would pillage an entire village, taking anything of worth, sometimes they would take young boys to train them up as sailors or sell to other pirates.

Best tell father, Joshua decided and sped towards home.

Father, Father there is something travelling down the river, it is not one of our own, it could be the pirates, Father quick

Calm down Joshua came Raymond’s lazy reply; he was sitting comfortably stroking Minga’s head and trying to have a quiet smoke.

A pirate boat, boy you’ve been out in the night air far too long! It’s playing tricks with your mind

No, Father please, listen to me, come, see for yourself everyone is accounted for, there should be no one travelling this late, and bring Minga with you! HURRY

At this Minga’s ears pricked up, and she slowly rose out of her bed and stretched her long legs and yawned, Raymond rose too and Minga bounded out of the house.

All three took a brisk stroll down the valley passing the fishermen who were sat drinking and singing merrily, the night air was still and cool, as they walked farther down the valley and passed the pit Joshua had just visited the light Joshua had seen became more prominent, they arrived at the first bridge, before they had ascended the stairs a ship was visible as they approached the top of the many steps Joshua yelled again.

Can you see it?

By the great Gods, Minga come on girl

As they stood on top of the first bridge it gently swayed with their movement, the bright light that was safely protected in the high arc lit their mighty valley, a magnificent ship with golden sails that shone brightly appeared on the Seaton river an unusual flag flapped in the night air, it appeared to have a spinning sphere on it that was half black, half white, Raymond could see no one at the helm, where was the helms man? The ship had been built with care and even from this distance you could see it had been made out of strong wood, greens and gold seemed to run through the wood creating wonderful patterns, possibly carvings. At the front of the ship was a woman’s face with big yellow eyes that pierced through the night.

The ship slowed to a stop and seemed to rest on top of the water. Joshua and Raymond stood on the bridge, transfixed at the extraordinary sight, excitement and fear holding them to the spot. All the while the low growling of Minga echoed softly in the night. Minga was on her haunches, she was ready to launch at whatever came off that ship her hackles were stood on end, she would protect her masters no matter what.

Suddenly there was a bright light illuminating the left hand side of the valley, a small bright space appeared in the side of the magnificent ship, there was a loud creaking noise followed by a thud as a platform landed on the sodden bank. Slowly but surely two figures emerged, very cautiously making their way down the platform looking up and down the bank. One of them gave a hand signal and they both stopped midway down the plank, one crouching the other standing. Two more figures appeared holding strange swords, the swords appeared to start off straight but ended in a piercing hook, the blades glinted in the light.

The two figures stopped when they reached the bottom of the platform one standing one crouching, again came the hand signals. This time a tall figure, in a dark hooded cloak came striding down the platform and stopped on the bank, looked at the person standing closest to them and gave a hand signal. Slowly the hooded figures turned and looked at the two men standing transfixed on the swaying bridge.

As quick as lightning the first two figures that had appeared moved swiftly and silently on to the bank, they sped towards the bridge.

No sooner had Joshua and Raymond thought to move down the stairs to intercept the strangers, Minga went charging past them barking ferociously.

Minga cried Joshua panic stricken Minga come back!

Son have you got your dagger whispered Raymond, these were not pirates thought Raymond they were much to swift, much to organized, Joshua had answered bringing Raymond back to reality,

Yes Father it’s in my hand

Good, Joshua I will go down the stairs first, you follow behind, when we’re outside run as fast as you can and wake all the men! Do you hear me lad? Raymond replied with urgency in his voice

Yes Father I understand

Then lets but Raymond’s voice was drowned out by a piercing cry from Minga. Joshua and Raymond looked at each other in disbelief, then as silently as they had arrived in their ship two cloaked figures appeared on the steps before them both wielding the strange swords. Raymond moved forwards slowly and said in a loud voice, Who are you, what do you want?

There came no reply, but the figures continued to move up the stairs coming closer, again Raymond spoke.

Who are you? I don’t want to hurt you, speak before it is too late! and with that he brandished his dagger and raised it threateningly, Raymond looked back just for a moment to see if his son was still there, then he fell to the floor eyes wide with shock

Father screamed Joshua what have you done? he asked confused

The two figures looked at him bright yellow eyes gleaming, Joshua saw a brief hand movement and felt something sharp biting his arm,

What do you want? he said as he too fell slowly to the ground

You they replied and all fell silent.

Joshua opened his eyes, his body gently swayed as he lay, suddenly he remembered. Where am I? Father, are you there, Are you ok?

Your father and your pet are fine, although if I had my way they would both be dead!

Amba there is no need for that, go and get him some Sheetrea he must be thirsty

Yes mistress and with that the dangerous voice that was Amba left

Who are you, why did you attack us, and what have you done with my father? Why are—

But Joshua was hushed.

My, my all these questions young Joshua Cresteven, your poor little mind must be racing came a calm crisp reply My name is Amega and I am Queen of Hen Coed, I have not come to attack anyone, least of all you or your family, and from what I’ve been told it was your pet that attacked my women, and your father needed to be stopped for his own good. As for why I am here, all shall be revealed shortly but first and then the door opened, and the girl with the dangerous voice, Amba entered carrying a tray with a wooden jug and goblets, they had the most beautiful emerald green and gold running through them, like the ship, giving the impression that it had all been beautifully carved. Amba set the tray down on a small table next to the bed where Joshua lay. It was then that he noticed that the room he was in was small, but very bright, all around the room was decorated in green and gold, his sheets were of a soft velvet, there was a dark green hammock swinging from the roof opposite his bed, and next to that a table that seemed to be at one with the wall and a chair. The table was cluttered with paper, next to all this mess was a beautiful green and purple plant, who’s leaves reached the ceiling, and next to where his head lay above his bed a window with beautiful golden curtains.

What’s with all the green and gold? Thought Joshua.

Here drink said Amba flatly looking straight into Joshua’s dark blue eyes.

What is it he asked.

It’s Sheetrea, it is sweet and will quench your thirst, came her impatient reply.

Thank you, Amba you may leave, tell Esme to check on Raymond, and his pet Amega said sternly.

Yes mistress Amba bowed and left the small room.

Joshua watched the two women as they talked they were both very pretty and at the same time frightening. The leader or Queen as she liked to call herself had started to talk,

Sheetrea is a traditional tea where I come from it is made from the natural mountain water, and mixed with a special plant called Sheetrea, the Sheetrea plant is also known to have healing properties, and helps its user to relax, and gather themselves. My warriors often take it before our trials to calm the nerves. Do you like it Joshua?

Joshua looked at the goblet, it was filled half way with what can only be described as watery snot, he wondered if Amba had spat in it, a smirk appeared at the corners of his lips, he realized the woman was watching him, very slowly he raised the goblet to his mouth and tried not to smell or look at the goblets contents, he took a sip, it was sweet, and yet warming as it slid down his throat, he sipped more, and instantly felt calmer and at ease he looked at Amega.

Well? she said.

It’s very sweet he replied but yes I like it he added astonished, I hope Amba hasn’t spat in it, he said to himself.

Good, she answered and moved forwards on the wooden chair she was sat on, clearly trying to maneuver herself closer to Joshua Cresteven’s bed.

Now then, she interjected why are you here? And why am I here? You have heard the prophecies of old Joshua?

Joshua nodded his head I have heard many prophecies, to which one do you refer to? The key of life Amega answered smoothly

Yes I have heard of this one, although my father is skeptical

Skeptical? Amega eyed him critically Never mind, She continued clearly unfazed by his lack of answer But you do know of a key, yes? Joshua acknowledged the question wondering where this was leading to The key of life Queen Amega continued "Was believed to have been sent to protect the lands and people from The Darkness, but before this had come to pass two great Lords had been given the responsibility of reigning over the lands, The great Lord Phelaxes and the Great Iolo, as we know, it took them six moons to come to an agreement about whom could best own and protect the lands, but they, as you know reigned peacefully together, and all prospered. However what you may not know, is while Phelaxes and Iolo where sat talking in the sacred Garden of Eden both were hit by a shower of meteor stones and dust, when they woke several hours later, both had had the same premonition, and they were afraid, neither could believe what they had seen, devastation and destruction like no one had ever seen before, the people were in despair, all hope had been lost, mothers and daughters were turning on one another, fathers and sons were killing themselves over petty things, even the animals were in despair killing each other, a darkness had seeped into the lands, and no one could stop it.

Eventually the witches and warlocks were affected; they fought like no other, wiping out villages as if it were a game to see who could kill the most. Everyone had gone mad, save one village, one race; can you guess who that might be?" She smiled at this.

Joshua shook his head.

Well? she said with a glint in her eyes, which Joshua had noticed were brown with flecks of gold running through them. She was beautiful.

The Seaton’s she said nothing for a moment, and watched Joshua’s face as this revelation slowly sank in, and then she continued "the Seaton’s fled to the sea, to the very depths of the ocean taking with them all whom they loved and there they stayed while the madness continued to ravage the lands, it was told that the darkness could not reach these people, for they were protected by the currents, and the sheer power of the water.

The darkness tried and tried to get in, but it could not, and it was while the Seaton’s were hiding, that it happened, a miracle, the goddess and protector of the sun, Aurora knew that she too was running out of time, she knew that it would not be long before she herself would be overcome with the darkness, so she asked the moon and the stars to help her, never before had she been so fearful, and so she waited for the right time to send her only child into the depths of the ocean to be protected and loved by the only survivors that she knew, the Seaton’s, there her child could grow and stop the darkness, and spread light all across the earth, as she herself had done for thousands of moons. And so she did, but there endeth the story, Phelaxes and Iolo never saw the ending, they sought many a prophet to try and find out how the story ended and when the darkness would come. But none knew. So they vowed to always keep the peace and maintain the healthy lands, and treat the animals with respect. Queen Amega sighed Until now, it has come, and it moves slowly, driving despair and hopelessness into the hearts of many, draining light, and it is only you and your people young Joshua who have the power to stop this, we must work together and find the key, before all of us are thrown into despair Amega finished there, then looked at Joshua do you understand? Are you prepared to help me and my people stop this before we all perish and the world becomes dark?"

Tori watched as her warriors practiced their fighting skills, and was quietly impressed with their techniques. They were her women, all of them her friends, some were like sisters to her. She had never let her importance in the clan get in the way of treating people as her equal, and her, their equal. After all it was a hard cross to bear being a princess, knowing that one day she would be queen, sole protector of everything she loved, and held dear to her heart. One day she would have to send her friends her sisters to their deaths, she knew with certainty that they would go, they would all die to protect their Queen, their princess, their home. She looked at her beautiful empire; Hen Coed was breathtaking, thousands of trees with luscious branches and leaves, reaching up into the skies. Wondrous plants of every colour imaginable, streams running this way and that, birds sitting colorfully in their nests or just perched on a branch surveying the land for food, rabbits hopping from brush to brush and deeper in to the forest, deers, Hen coed was perfect, and further through the trees was home. Intricate houses had been built into the trees, swaying vine bridges led from one house to the next others had ropes to swing to and fro, most people took the bridges but the youngsters who were always in a hurry or up to mischief would use the ropes.

Tori remembered her first swing she had been petrified, but so determined to get to the other houses, platform. Tori remembered holding tight onto the rope as her mother had showed her,

Now run and jump! Amega had shouted, Tori had flew through the air, with a joyous yes! she had looked for her platform, excitement and fear flowing through her, she dared to let go, she had landed neatly standing on both her legs, she was proud she had done it and proud that her mother had been there to watch her. After that she could not stop swinging, wonderful days, a smile spread across her face, Amba and her had caused endless mischief with those ropes and now there was no time for games, no time for fun, she had to train her warriors hard, for she knew nothing of the army they were about to face only that they had to be ready. She had promised her mother, Queen Amega before she left, that she would prepare their army. And so she was. Tori herself was training hard, working on new methods of attack.

The men in Hen Coed were all carpenters of exceptional skill, they built the houses, the boats, the ladders, they made the warriors their bows and arrows, the men were strong and could fight. But they were not as swift or as agile as the women. They could not move as fast or as quietly, the women were efficient hunters, they were clever and quick thinking and so they protected the land and the men that built their homes and gave them children.

Tori come and watch this it’s amazing a voice broke the silence

Stirring from her thoughts, Tori looked at the girl who had spoke and replied yes of course what is it?

It’s Alexi, she’s managed to contain the light without it going out!, but Tori you can throw it and it lights whatever it touches, you were right, we can use this to light up the darkness!

That’s wonderful Fauna replied Tori less excited and slowly maneuvered herself to follow the girl down the narrow little footway, tall trees hemmed them to the middle of the path, and slowly it widened to reveal a small flat stretch of grass near a small tributary.

Alexi, she’s here, quick show her! Fauna shouted as she and Tori approached the gathered women.

Alexi saw Tori walking towards her and couldn’t keep the smile or excitement from her face Tori it’s amazing, the light, it seems to absorb all of the prydferddwch yr goedwig’s sap, and then just by accident I knocked over a flask of water! And then it happened, look! Alexi was clearly excited by this development.

Tori looked as Alexi picked up what seemed to be a bubble, a watery bubble containing a light, as Alexi passed her the ball Tori held out her hand. She could not believe what she was seeing; she was holding their precious light in her hands! It was amazing.

Alexi you’re a genius! And you are using the same plant? Tori could feel her excitement rising.

Yes the sap out of the prydferddwch yr goedwig is amazing, it seems to be feeding the light, but Tori this water shield isn’t that strong, a hard knock or even dropping it to the floor and it breaks, but the light still shines. This plant is extraordinary, how did you know that our simple house plant would keep the light burning? Alexi waited patiently for Tori’s reply.

Because Alexi, the plant is grown and nurtured in any condition, its strives in the light and the dark, most plants need the sunlight, but not this one, it grows freely on our ships hidden in shadow and in all of our homes surrounded by light, it just made sense at the time Tori laughed at her own ingenious Yes she continued we give prydferddwch yr goedwig all the love and care it needs, we water it and feed it, it is a part of all our homes Tori stopped and looked at all her warriors Warriors she roared we have our weapon! No darkness shall overcome us! and with that they all shouted with triumph.

Raymond had been awake now for several hours, he had paced up and down his room at least a hundred times wondering where his son was, where he was and why all of this was happening, he was not happy. His room like Joshua’s was green and gold and he had studied the green and purple plant for quite a while, and was convinced he had seen it move. He could not understand how the plant had thrived with no sunlight. The window was small and the curtains generous, so not much light could get in, although the room itself was bright.

There was a knock at the door, and a voice said I am coming in; do not attack me if you want to see your son again!

Joshua is he alive? What have you done with him? Raymond was tense, by the gods what was going on? He thought Ada He whispered under his breath I swear if one strand of hair has been hurt on our boys head I will kill them, that much I promise you, my love

Are you listening to me Raymond Cresteven, leader of the Seaton’s? Joshua is well, but you must listen to me! Can I come in and be safe? Amba was losing her patience; normally she would have flung open the door, restrained the person, and shown them her blade. But Amega did not want this so Amba tried to keep her patience. Perhaps she thought the father may be every bit as dumb as the son! Ha! Wouldn’t surprise me! she thought callously

Yes I will listen Raymond replied

Good, she said, sit on the bed so that when I come in I can see you Amba was taking no chances. She turned the key in the lock, and then opened the door; good She thought Raymond was sat on the bed as he had been told to do, Maybe he is not so dumb,

My name is Amba I am queen Amega’s aide, know this, if you make one wrong move, I shall slit your throat! I am here to take you to your son, he is safe and well, can I trust you to follow me? Amba was one of Tori’s best warriors; she was under strict instructions to protect Queen Amega at all costs and she would kill this man if she thought he were a threat, regardless to Queen Amega’s requests.

Yes, I shall listen but know this young Amba you threaten me again, and it shall be the last you ever make Raymond did not like being spoken to like this, especially by a young slip of a girl.

Amba smiled follow me

She led him through the narrow galley of the boat to a door, it was at the farthest end of the boat, expecting to go straight through the door, Amba turned right, and disappeared down stairs, at the bottom of the steps was another door, Amba knocked and then opened it, she walked inside,

Mistress, Raymond Cresteven is here

Raymond heard Amba say, Amba moved to show her the stocky looking man.

Thank you Amba, you may leave Amega was studying Raymond with her big brown and gold flecked eyes. Come in She said softly

Raymond was still a strapping man, his eyes were icy blue, his face was rugged and weathered a typical feature for a fisherman, and he had short brown hair, darker than Joshua’s but just as straight, She also noticed the three slits behind his ears, and that his hands were like boulders and they too she noticed were webbed, she wondered if his feet were.

Well, well, here we are she said at last realizing she was staring you need not worry about Joshua, he is fit and well, we mean you no harm Raymond she looked at his face he was not convinced Amega didn’t blame him, if it had of been her spirited away in the middle of the night she doubted she would have been this cooperative especially if her precious daughter had been taken, Raymond spoke, she could see it was taking all of his self restraint not to lose his cool,

Where is my son? And what have you done with my aquadine? I have had her since she was a pup! Raymond’s temper sizzled just under the surface

I apologize for Amba’s behavior Amega offered, noting how irritated Raymond was she is short tempered, and as for your aquadine she is still alive, peace Raymond Cresteven all of your family is well Amega put her hands together and rested them on the table she was sat at, she gestured for Raymond to sit, maybe then he would relax, He did so, noticing again the strange green and purple plant sat in the corner.

Its leaves were touching the ceiling and spreading across the walls, suddenly he felt a lot calmer, he looked at Queen Amega, she was beautiful. Dark hair that fell past her elbows, half up and half down, held up by a striking gold ribbon, entwined in her hair, her eyes were a rich brown with golden flecks sprinkled in them, a man could drown in the those eyes, she wore a striking purple dress with long sleeves the neck line was high covering all of her body but flattered her rounded breasts, a gold oval shaped locket hung around her neck. It was Raymond’s turn to stare; she spoke, breaking his gaze,

You have heard of the prophecy? she said in a more serious tone

Raymond nodded, I have heard of many Raymond replied But am I to assume you speak of the Key of life?

Yes she replied curtly

Raymond smiled his most sarcastic smile It would be He replied dryly

Queen Amega looked incredulous This is no joke Raymond Cresteven, the darkness has come, and I need your help, as we speak, our ship is taking us back to my homeland, Hen Coed, where I shall gather my finest warriors, from there we shall travel to the sea, and you and your son shall take us to Morfa

At this Raymond sat up straight By all the gods! How do you know of Morfa? That is our secret hiding place! Stop playing games with me woman and tell me what the blazes is going on! all pretence had been lost Raymond wanted answers and answers he would get!

By Ada he swore it!

How I know does not matter, however it is important that we find this key, we must find the key, before it is too late! Amega looked straight into Raymond’s eyes she took a chance this next sentence could tip the man over the edge, she had no choice there was no other way to soften the blow, well he wanted the truth, so the truth is what he would have! I believe your son is the only one that can help us find the key and help us to use it! there she had said it, this was not going to go well,

Ha ha, you’re mad! Do you expect me to believe all this? The key, The Darkness, and now my Son!

Yes She replied smoothly

How do you know that the key exists? How do you know that these prophecies are true? Raymond replied looking incredulous. Hold on to your temper Raymond Raymond told himself! As soon as you’ve got Joshua and Minga we’re off this crazy boat!"

It was foretold

Raymond stifled a cry It was foretold my eye! he laughed I have not seen this darkness! Next you’ll be telling me that you’ve seen the key, no wait the key is your necklace, and when you open it we’ll all go blind!

ENOUGH! Amega shouted, and banged her hands on the table, she rose,

I know it is true! And I know that your people in Morfa have got her! They are keeping her safe! Waiting for the right time to let her go! This is no joke Raymond Cresteven, leader of the Seaton’s, YOU! Are strong, you are the best hunter in your tribe, I know this, it was foretold in the stars that your people would save us! Save us all and protect the key, I need you and your son! How could she make him see she was not a crazy half wit, she needed to try harder, he answered her now but with less confidence in his voice,

Still more mumbo jumbo! How do you know about Morfa? There are only the elders who live down there, there is no girl

Queen Amega smiled she had made him think You have been to Morfa? You and I both know you have seen a girl, do not lie to me Seaton! she pressed

Raymond struggled to think about the last few times he had been to see Nerae, then it dawned on him Yes I’ve been to Morfa, but how could it be? Raymond had seen her, the thought betrayed his face

You have seen her? Queen Amega acknowledged

Raymond could not lie to her now so he admitted I’ve seen her, but she is the daughter of our head Elder, I mean I took it for granted, they’re the elders, you don’t ask questions, I thought maybe the gods had blessed her, but they’re old, too old to have babies, the girl has never been to the surface, he was in shock, could it be true? What else did this prophecy say?

Amega looked at him Only that a Seaton boy born to a Seaton leader would be needed for the Key to prevail, apart from that nothing, we worked the rest out for ourselves

But why my son, why must he be involved, you said he could help you use the key, how? Raymond was tense now,

Again I am not sure, all I know is that time is running out, soon we shall all see the darkness, I have told Joshua what must be done, I have asked him to help, he is brave, just like his father Amega looked at Raymond, hoping that this would help him say yes to helping her, Raymond was slowly piecing together everything she had said, She smiled and said, You are brave, aren’t you?

He laughed Yes he said but I am not stupid, so you expect Joshua and I to get you and your warriors to the bottom of the sea?

She nodded, Raymond laughed out loud, it was a hearty laugh it would have been contagious if not for the severity of the situation, he thought for a moment,

I could take at most one person, Joshua maybe one; it’s a long journey, not to mention dangerous, and what if we’re attacked? You’ll be helpless! No, it is too dangerous! I’ll need more men! Why can’t we just get the girl and bring her to you?

So he is taking this seriously she frowned and held her hands together Because it is not safe! And do you really think the elders will just let her go? No we need to go and only you and your son can take us, we shall have to be cautious, there are ways of overcoming these obstacles, I am confident Raymond Cresteven that we can do this! We must do this! Amega looked stern, there was a knock at the door Enter she said.

Joshua came in, and saw his father, his face lit up, Father he cried your safe Raymond rose up from his chair, and embraced his son. He couldn’t believe he was even considering this or that he would let his only son sway him, if Ada was here she would do more than scold him, a smile crept over his face she would be standing next to the pan on the fire holding her favorite wooden spoon, waving it in the air, shouting what a dim wit of a son she had and an even bigger fool of a husband, but Ada always had the knack to understand him and offer good advice, if only she were here, Raymond wrestled the thought away from his mind and focused on his son,

I’m fine He said but for how much longer I do not know, I hear you have agreed to help Queen Amega, are you sure Joshua? It will be dangerous Raymond was looking hard at Joshua he knew he was as pig headed as he was and when he had set his mind to something there would be no stopping him, the boys eyes had lit up with purpose

From what the prophecies say it would be more dangerous not to! Joshua smiled his mothers smile, Raymond could never say no to that smile besides Joshua said we’ll have Minga!

Arianna come here please asked Nerae

Arianna stopped what she was doing, and walked over to her mother Yes mother what is it? Arianna was tall and slender; she had long white blonde hair that fell to the bottom of her back landing on her behind. Her eyes were sparkling bright green, her lips were thick and rose bud pink, and she was striking.

I need your help, I can’t find the maps have you seen them I need to check something? Nerae was very old she had reached her hundred and sixth year, her vision wasn’t very good anymore, and her hand sometimes shook, Nerae knew it wouldn’t be long before she left this world, and moved onto the heavens. That is why it was so important that everything was in place, that her daughter was strong and clever. She knew that someday soon she would have to tell Arianna the truth; it would break her heart but it must be done.

I am sure Rassell had it I’ll go and get it if you want Arianna smiled at her mother

No, no it’s fine I can check it later, have you been practicing your fighting techniques, you know it’s important you need to be strong when you go to the surface

Yes mother I’ve been practicing, although I’m still finding it hard to block blu’s throws in the water he’s quick! she laughed he still surprises me with new moves

Good, well you must continue practicing in and out of the water, have you been through the passage way today? Nerae asked.

No not today, I shall if you want me to, mother what’s wrong? I’ve checked the passage way almost every day for the past ten days, nothing has changed, the door is still working, there was a small leak there but blue mended it, and it has been dry since, I am not sure why you wanted another door into Morfa, it’s not half as brilliant as the gates she replied.

Nerae smiled for although Arianna was clever she had not realized it was not another entrance but an exit, for one day she would have to run. But she did not want to think about that now.

Everything is fine Arianna, I’m just tired, perhaps I will go and have a lie down, yes, and you young lady you can continue practicing and Nerae walked towards her room. Nerae knew she was pushing Arianna hard but she had too, for the past few days she had a distinct feeling that time was running out and she wanted Arianna to be ready, Nerae herself had had to come to terms with the fact that her health had been deteriorating, she was finding it hard to concentrate and retain information, hence the constant questions, and worse every time Nerae tried to focus on a task it drained her physically so she found herself constantly in need of a lie down or strength inducing sleep, so here she was again taking herself off for a lie down, growing old was tedious and very slow.

Arianna sighed, once again her mother was off to have another one of her lie downs, they seemed to be increasing recently, Arianna couldn’t shake the feeling that her mother’s health was fading, continuous questions about the same things, over and over again ugh living here was so lonely, and sometimes very boring, Arianna sighed again and decided she would go to her room and study, she had never had anyone her own age to talk to, her mother was a hundred and six and blu seventy eight, the others who lived here the same, but she loved blu, he always cheered her up, she had not known her father he had died when she was born. Her mother had always called her a special gift from the gods.

Morfa was a huge under water cavern, everything was carved out of stone and marble there was a large library here where Arianna practiced her hand writing and read all about her people and their history, she loved reading about the stars she found it fascinating, she had never seen the sky or the stars, but one day she would her mother had promised her. There were several rooms in the cavern all decorated in blues and greens, it was beautiful, her training area with Blu was not as lavish it was plain but bright, weapons hung onto the walls and pictures of warriors past. She was not fond of that room. Arianna arrived at her chambers.

Her room was small, she had in it her bed that had beautiful Aqua colored sheets, around their edges ran a thin line of gold her cushions were aqua and pale green, again edged with gold. She had a magnificent marble display cabinet that stood quite high, to reach the top shelf Arianna had to stand on a stool, she had placed all her books on the top two shelves, she loved to read and look at pictures, how else would she know what tree’s looked like or birds, even the sky, On the third shelf down she had a model of the solar system and the stars, the sun was in the middle shining brightly, that was her favorite piece. One day she would see that too. She knew all the planets names off by heart and all the stars. Underneath this shelf were two doors, once opened they displayed all her favorite weapons, her sword glistened brightly, her two daggers sat underneath they looked lethal; When she eventually came to use them, death would come swiftly.

Her sword was long and straight it came to a sharp point at the end, the blade had inscriptions on it and her name engraved into the handle. Her daggers were a lot smaller so that they could be hidden discretely under her clothes, the first one had serrated edges so that once stabbed it would rip and tear the flesh when it came out, the second was very slim and like her sword ended in a sharp point, this had been designed to puncture internal organs, mainly the heart she was extremely good at using this one the other dagger seemed more brutal this was quick and less messy. Opposite this were a dressing table and chair, and a huge square mirror so that she could see her whole body at once, it was framed in gold, a pale blue and green ran through the gold in swirls it was a beautiful design next to this a small chest that held all her clothes. She did not have many she didn’t need them. Where would she go? Who would she wear them for? yes Arianna was lonely and longed for something and someone. She could not wait for the day when her mother would take her to the surface.

Little did she know that, that day was approaching and quickly.

A farmer was outside harvesting his crops; he could not understand why they were growing so poorly this year. There was not enough here for half of his deliveries.

As he bundled his precious cargo of vegetables into his cart, he noticed they looked like they were going rotten.

He felt totally miserable, like he should just give up, what was the point in all of this?

He had felt like this for days now, when would he feel happy again?

He worked hard all year round ploughing his fields, nurturing them so they would grow food for him and his family and the rest of the community.

Why should he work so hard and have nothing?

Why should his wife and son sit on their backsides and do nothing to help?

Yes it was their fault.

He stopped what he was doing and looked at his house.

It was a good house, a house that he had scrimped and saved for a house that had taken him many years of hard work to buy, pain staking hours, standing in bitterly cold rain, wind that was so cold it was hard to breath, yes he had earned that house, his house,

Yes they were probably sat down in his house now doing nothing, laughing at him slaving away.

Well they would pay.

He started walking towards the house; he knew what he must do.

He was so tired, so sad; he pushed open the door to see his wife standing by the kitchen table preparing food, and his son of eight years playing with his toys in the corner.

Stephanie was stood at the kitchen table preparing the vegetables that Elden her husband had harvested with his own hands. She remembered when she had first set eyes on him he had been handsome and strong, she had fallen in love with him instantly.

They had been so in love, even when the doctor told her she could never carry a baby, Elden had held her in his arms and promised he would never leave her, that they would always be together. Then to their utter delight she had fallen pregnant with Tom, they were so happy.

But now she was unsure, the past few weeks had been difficult, Stephanie was never sure what kind of mood her husband would come home in, one minute he would be his happy loving self the next bitter and loathing of everything and everyone.

Stephanie had tried everything she could think of to cheer him up and now again she stood at the kitchen table making his favorite meal, she knew she could get her old Elden back.

The man she had fallen in love with, she smiled to herself.

Elden walked in to his house and over to his son, rage in his eyes. How dare they he muttered, there was Tom sat down playing happily while he, Elden broke his back! No this had to stop; he would make it stop,

Father smiled the boy, and stood up to greet him.

It happened, in a blink of an eye,