Zaguaron

Contents

Prologue

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

Chapter: 22

Chapter: 23

Chapter: 24

Chapter: 25

Chapter: 26

Chapter: 27

Chapter: 28

Chapter: 29

Chapter: 30

Chapter: 31

Chapter: 32

Chapter: 33

Chapter: 34

Chapter: 35

Chapter: 36

Chapter: 37

Chapter: 38

Chapter: 39

Chapter: 40

Chapter: 41

Chapter: 42

Chapter: 43

Chapter: 44

Chapter: 45

Epilogue

Prologue

As guardian of the world, he is known as Herald. He is the god man wedded to the godwives Malta the goddess of Zaguaron Sol and Cardalla the goddess of Lunar Zaguaron. The goddesses are entrusted to him, as he is to them. However between the two goddesses, there is a struggle for dominance of the world. Herald keeps the struggle balanced. But even a god does not see all. Goddesses have been known to cheat, that is how this story came to be.

The prayers of the high king Garshram, ruler over the entire western region of the continent Zaguaron came to be heard by the ears of Cardalla herself. The western region of Zaguaron, also known as Zaguaron Lunar was fashioned in the likeness of Cardalla. Cardalla preferred the cold so Lunar Zaguaron remained mostly dark. The sun barely appeared there and the people were usually pale and with light colored hair. It was crude and mostly unorganized between the kingdoms. But war against the east often unified them.

Garshram’s prayers called for the summoning of the great demon lord Drackaur Meteorus. He was the mightiest demon and the general of all of Cardalla’s legion. He was the lord of heaven’s fire. He was heartless, also mighty and fearsome with skin made of the hardest metal known. His talent for destruction was legendary. Meteorus stood a full fifteen heads in height. His skin was black and shiny. He wore no armor, nor did he need it. His mane was a full head of hair and beard that were white in appearance. His face resembled that of the mighty cats that ruled the forests of Zaguaron.

However, direct intervention by goddesses on behalf of mortals was strictly forbidden by universal law. But Cardalla called on the favors of the demon lord herself knowing that it was forbidden. This action would later prove to forever change the world and the destiny of all who dwelled in it.

The ever powerful Meteorus’ most common attack was a brilliant and powerful shower of hellfire. But Meteorus had been starved of battle for an entire millennium and desired destruction on a physical level. So instead of his hellfire shower, he transformed his mighty body into a giant meteor and careened himself through heaven. He was aimed directly at eastern Zaguaron.

This display of Meteorus’ power shook the heavens to her core. Heaven shook fiercely and all who inhabited her were made known of his presence. Heaven tilted and shuddered as Meteorus passed through her. All in heaven stood by shocked, as Meteorus careened himself toward the earth. However, it didn’t go unnoticed. For Gabrious the young and strong godchild of Herald and Malta was awakened by it. Gabrious was drawn to the cries of the galaxy and curiosity drew him to towards Meteorus and Zaguaron.

Gabrious was growing strong in the image of his father. His god-light radiated fiercely. Although not yet fully matured, his strength had become legendary throughout the heavens. Gabrious was as tall as his father and a whole head and a half taller than his mother Malta. He was cloaked in the finest armor of the heavens. Because it was said that he was being groomed to become the god of war in preparation for when his father and his wives departed the realm to spend their days in glory.

Gabrious had only heard of Meteorus and of the greater demon’s great power. He glimpsed the giant demon careening through heaven towards the earth. Gabrious manifested his sword in that instant and he flew majestically into the path of the demon lord to confront him. Theirs was a battle of legend.

Blinded by his self-manifested rage, Meteorus had no intention of being thwarted by a mere god-child. He would have battled Herald himself in the state of mind he was in. From the moment of impact, the young godchild was mortally wounded. His armor could not withstand the force of Meteorus. He had turned his right shoulder into Meteorus to try and halt his momentum. His shoulder was crushed by the force and he became blind in that eye. His god-light was pouring out of his wounds. He felt his life’s blood seeping out of him. But the blow also damaged Meteorus, for he changed back into his original form. Nevertheless, Gabrious grasped the hilt of his godsword with his good hand and with earth shattering force, he trust the blade to the hilt through the mighty chest of Meteorus. As Gabrious’ god-light and Meteorus’ devil’s blood merged together the explosion thereafter destroyed them both and they became no more. Now it was said that the battle could be seen on Zaguaron. The sounds of the battle were unlike anything heard before. It was also said that a fireball fell to earth and disappeared in the mountain of the dragons. They were the northern point of the Ajabeb Mountains. It separated Zaguaron into Lunar and Solar.

In that instance that Gabrious was no more, an overwhelming grief struck the godwife Malta. She lost a piece of her and the sun dimmed with her grief. Gabrious, her child young and strong was no more. Without the sun’s brilliant light eastern Zaguaron would become vulnerable.

As by universal law, gods must by no means be involved in the death or destruction of other gods. It had become apparent that Cardalla had broken this law and a trial was set. Cardalla’s furious treachery had caused a godchild his death. By law, a god’s death must be answered in turn by another’s life given in penance. So it was the unborn Alandria’s life, for Cardalla was with child which had to be given as payment. However Herald grieving over the death of one godchild, couldn’t sentence the other to immediate death. Instead he gave Alandria over to mortality. For even though a mortal life was fleeting to a god, he would see her in her beauty even for it was for an instant. The choice was made.

Alandria was placed in the care of the priests and priestesses at temple Haldiem. Haldiem was just beyond the northern point of the Ajabeb Mountains. It was the only neutral point on Zaguaron. The most respected priest and priestesses made Haldiem their home. It was there that they worshipped their gods in harmony and peace. Therefore it was Haldiem where the daughter of gods Alandria, spent the beginning years of her mortal life. But Cardalla vowed that her daughter would rule the world.

Chapter: 1

Garshram Degron sat on his throne in the mighty hall of Balvador. It was the imperial city that governed all the kingdoms of the west. His throne was made of black metal. It was hard and uncomfortable, but not to the king. He sat slumped over as he caressed his brows with his large, hard hands. He had just sent for Clarval, his advisor.

It had been twenty long winters since the mighty battle of heaven. If Garshram’s hair was graying no one would know, for his long braids were already white. Garshram had ruled the realm for twelve winters, since the death of his father who was struck down by his general for merely defending himself as the king attacked him over a concubine.

Clarval entered the chamber through the towering black metal doors. He was dressed as an advisor was costumed to. He had a long purple robe that touched the black marble floor of the throne room. His robe was ordained in yellow, matching the many rings he wore. His long white hair was pulled back. For a man forty-three winters, he looked like a school boy. He had a slim and handsome face except for a hooked nose that dominated his features.

My king, said Clarval spreading wide his arms as he walked up with his head bowed. Why have thou summoned me? I was in the middle of supper. Clarval didn’t like to be hindered when supper was set. He also didn’t like to walk into the throne room because he lost his appetite just seeing the ghastly statues of demons that ordained both sides of the marble walkway.

I have just received word, said Garshram. That a very vast and powerful secret is being held at Haldiem. A weapon so powerful, it can turn the tides of this stalemate into our favor. Rothless of the advanced scout has had a spy held up there for years. He says that the temple has become restless and the time to move and seize it is at hand.

Clarval looked up surprised. Seize Haldiem? Even Cardalla could not deliver us from Herald should such a thing occur! We have no one that can complete such a deed, my king, he stressed.

But Clarval we do, said the king.

Who, responded Clarval? It has been many winters since you have named a champion in Balvador. Who is trustworthy enough and who has the talent needed for such a task?

Garshram let out a laugh, a mighty cackle as he raised his head out of his hands. Who indeed, Clarval, who indeed? You know him well. After all, you were there when he killed my father.

Chippadom, screamed Clarval! My king, he killed your father. He is said to commune with devils. It is even said that he has made love to a succubus and lived!

Yes, yes I’ve heard these things, my dear Clarval, replied Garshram. It really was an impressive tale indeed. So tell me who better to go and bring back this thing, this weapon that can turn this stalemate into full blown war? The east is ready to fall. All they need is a little push.

As Garshram suited up in his battle armor made to match the black marble that was Balvador, he grinned again at Clarval. We have a trump card here, no need to worry. Guards get into formation. Lead us to the dungeon. There were twelve guards about the king and his advisor as they headed to the dungeons. Garshram was every bit as big as his biggest guards, probably stronger too. For it was customary in the west for the successor to the throne to be trained vigorously in battle. Garshram’s armor barely had a scratch even though he led Balvador’s army on twenty two missions to chastise the disorderly lower kings when they forgot who they answered to.

As they approached the dungeons, the guards clustered together as if afraid. The long winding stairways leading to Balvador’s dungeons made most of the guards winded. Clarval was visibly fatigued and laboring to breath, but the king barely broke a sweat. When they reach the large wooden doors that lead to the dungeon, the first guard stopped and looked at his king. Are you sure you want to do this, your highness?

Garshram grabbed the keys from the guard as he smirked at him and eyed him up and down. For a man born at Zol a son of king Mirdad, you have no spine. He looked around at the other eleven guards and said, Don’t worry. I can take it from here, Clarval, let’s go. Clarval let out a squeal as he followed his king further into the dungeons. As he passed the first floor, they saw that the prisoners were ripe for the demons of Balvador to feed on. Balvador had become infested with demons that ate souls of its prisoners. Chippadom’s lair was further down another winding staircase. As they neared the oversized doors of his lair that were intended to keep the mammoth of a man at bay, they heard the screams of a woman moaning in ecstasy. Clarval whispered in the king’s ear, How did a woman get down here? The king looked forward blankly, probably as perplexed as he.

The king boomed on the door and announced himself to Chippadom. I am your king and I intend to have an audience with you. My advisor and I are entering, be prepared. The king put the large keys into the door and unlocked it. He hesitated for an instant then struggled to push the huge door open. As he and Clarval stood there, they couldn’t believe what they were seeing. The room was supposed to be a cell, but it was three times the size of the mess hall. There was a huge bed in the center of the room. It was furnished. The room was almost as nice as the kings. On the bed in the middle of the room was Chippadom laying on his back, where he was mounted by the most beautiful woman that the king had ever seen. Her hair was red as blood and her hips were so curvy that she appeared to have the figure of a statue. Chippadom had his hand on her hips as she rode his manhood, he didn’t even seem to acknowledge that his king was there.

The king simply stood there as Chippadom took his woman, turned her over and continued to mount her this time with him on top. As the time passed, Garshram wondered how a man could last that long. Finally after what seemed like an unnatural time of love making Chippadom fell on her large perfectly shaped breasts. The room was drenched with the smell of sex. After resting until his and her breathing had died down, he finally got up and didn’t even bother to cover himself, as the beautiful woman simply vanished.

So the tales were true then? The king asked. You are the only mortal man that has the love of a succubus?

I am, boomed Chippadom. Why have you come to my lair? Looking down at the king with eyes as cold as mountain wind in the winter. I care nothing about the affairs of you petty men. The king himself was a big man, but Chippadom was even bigger. It was said that Chippadom had slain over a thousand and twenty men, enemies and allies alike and that he was well on his way to becoming a demon himself.

Are you here to mock me king? I did not know that that little wench was the favorite of your father. But if I did I would have slit her throat before the news of her jealousy reached the ears of your father. I despise most men, but I did love him. It pained me to snap his neck. I have served your father diligently as his instrument of war. No other king had a greater champion. While I still hunger for the blood of men, I do not miss the politics in war. As you can see, my succubus has made my life comfortable down here. Sometimes she even brings extra for my pleasure. Why have you come Garshram? I see that Clarval is still advisor to the king, replied Chippadom as he nodded towards Clarval.

The king cleared his throat. Chippadom Arsa, I release you from this dungeon. I have come to call on you. There are important matters that need the special talents you possess. No other man can see this thing done. I have your armor cleaned and prepped, your battle axe and claymore sharpened. What say you Chippadom, will you once again become the champion for your king?

Chippadom reached down and took the tub of ale that the king had brought with him and drank mightily. First thing you should know king, is that I like my armor filthy and stinking of the blood of my fallen enemies. I like my axe dull, like a blunt weapon, so that I can maim and crush. What is it you have in mind? He asked as he took a huge swig of the brew that was brought to him.

As long as she could remember she’s been here, at this temple. With her room overlooking the white capped peaks of the Ajabeb. The temple was far from plain, one could even say it resembled a castle. The walls were thick and made of ivory. There was a massive iron door that protected the entrance to the courtyard. This in turn was quite a ways off to the entrance of the temple itself. The gardens seemed to go on forever to her. She imagined that if she could fly and flew above the temple, it would look like a perfect oval inside of oval inside of oval type of structure. With its massive oval shaped walls, protecting its oval shaped gardens and encompassing the temple, which was also oval.

Alandria always wondered how she, herself a simple orphan had come to dwell here. Because the way she was treated was with such respect. Even as she was groomed in western Zagouron culture and was native to them, the eastern priests and priestesses always treated her with the utmost respect. Priests from both sides bowed to her as she passed. Bowed to her, imagine that. She always felt weird and awkward when they did because she never knew why. She was an orphan after all.

She always found it funny that while she was a westerner, her mannerism was not common of the average westerner. It was rumored of the westerners being pompous and overzealous, but she was nothing like that. She didn’t like to be the center of attention, even in the slightest. She was quiet and soft spoken.

Her morning teacher was on her way to collect her. She could hear her footsteps as mother Renish came closer to her door. Renish was half a head shorter than she was and had pale, almost whitish hair and skin. If you were far away from her, it would be impossible to tell where her hairline began. Mother Renish was really protective of her. Alandria sensed that this was because of their western roots more so than anything else.

Alandria opened the door as Renish was about to knock. Good morning mother, she said with a slight bow.

Good morning my child, replied mother Renish. You must remember dear, that you bow to no one. Renish was dressed as a common western priestess. Her robes were full length and the sleeves came down to her wrist. All western robes were made in the colors of Balvador, purple and black.

But mother, answered Alandria. "Surely it isn’t right for an orphaned child to not bow in respect, especially in regards to the lord’s priests and priestesses. Regardless of where they hail from, whether it be east or west.

Oh my, chuckled Mother Renish heartily. Your heart is unusually kind for a westerner. Come now, there are some things that you must be taught, she finished as she waved Alandria over.

As Alandria followed mother Renish down the winding stairs, she couldn’t help but recall her reoccurring dream. They came more frequently as of late. They all started after her cycle had begun. She started late, at seventeen winters. Although she was a late bloomer, her body started to develop rather quickly almost as if it had to make up time. She chuckled to herself as she remembered how the boys rarely paid her any attention and the girls left her out of their groups. As soon as her cycle began and her figure blossomed, all that had changed. Her legs seemed to go on forever and her bosom doubled in size. Maybe that’s why the easterners were friendlier towards her, she thought. After all she more resembled easterners in attitude than that of her western counterparts.

Back to her dream for her mind often drifted, it was of a tall man, very powerfully built. Although he wasn’t overly bulky, he was defined and dark, with lean long muscularity. He was definitely eastern in look. His hair was dark and shoulder length and he had the complexion of the eastern red bone. She was cradling his head as if they were something more than just strangers. She couldn’t say why, but it always seemed like he was protecting her, but was terribly injured. However as she was holding him, it was her that in fact had the power to protect him. She also knew that she wanted to, but didn’t know why or how. As she held him to comfort him, there was always a large shadow, something evil. Which she felt was the cause of his suffering. She hated it for that. She also knew that she would do whatever it took to protect this man, just like he had tried to do for her.

Alandria my dear, said mother Renish. Today you are not going to class. It is time for you to find out who you really are.

But mother, replied Alandria confused. I’m just an orphaned child.

Come, come, Alandria, I know you’ve been having dreams my child. I have been consulting with mother Chalasi of the east. She has sensed that your dreams are of the future and wishes to speak with you. After all, times have been bad lately here on Zaguaron. The sun has been growing increasingly dimmer, there was a time when it shown bright, but since the battle in heaven it has weakened and with it Eastern Zaguaron as well. That has affected the balance of the world and that is a dangerous thing, finished mother Renish.

So you mean Mother, that there was a time when the sun was brighter than this, asked Alandria?

My child, before you were born the sun was always bright in the east and the kingdoms were at peace. Eastern and western Zaguaron were not as restless as they are now, answered mother Renish.

Wow, I can’t seem to picture brighter days, what were they like Mother, asked Alandria?

Honestly Alandria I myself have almost forgotten. I am not getting any younger and my mind isn’t what it was . . . . Ah, here we are, she continued! Go inside, I have some things to attend, I will be back shortly, with that she was off.

As she entered the doorway, Alandria wondered why the room was underground. It was a plain looking study. Aside from the huge oak doors and solid oak table and chairs, it was indeed bland. One thing was for certain, mother Chalasi may not have cared about how plain her study was, but she was definitely a reader. For her collection of books were vast. Every wall was lined with shelves upon shelves of books and other reading material. Most were polished. Even the obviously older books were well maintained. It looked as if they were hand cleaned, maybe more than once a day even.

Sitting at her desk was mother Chalasi and what a sight she seemed to be. Even as she was seated Alandria could tell that this lady was as tall as she. Her hair was very dark and it was pulled back into a tale. Alandria had never seen a head of hair full of so many waves, which was odd because it seemed oddly familiar. Simply looking at this woman, Alandria was awed by her appearance. She had to have seen at least fifty winters because her ivory colored robes had all the stars of a head mother. But the lady didn’t look a day over twenty five winters. You would have to be in her face to see the crow’s feet around her eyes. Probably from squinting in the sunlight she and mother Renish had just talked about. The color of her skin was golden. She was very attractive.

Sit Alandria, mother Chalasi’s words startled her out of her daydreaming. She stumbled over herself from surprise.

Sorry ma’am, replied Alandria clumsily. But when I was told that I was meeting a priestess from the east, I didn’t expect such an astounding woman. Forgive my boldness mother, but you are simply beautiful!

Mother Chalasi chuckled at that. I’ve been told that all of my life. But surely you realize Alandria that your beauty surpasses mine or anyone else’s for that matter, don’t you?

But mother, I’m young and in my element. You have seen many more winters than I. However your beauty is still radiant, cried Alandria!

Well let’s just say that we are both blessed and move on to the really important matters, offered Chalasi with a pleasant and reassuring smile.

‘Yes mother, Please tell me why I’m here", replied Alandria.

First off Alandria, let me start by saying that I have not always been a woman of the cloth. I was a young woman in love once. I ran away from my mother to my shame. The reasons for my actions were the dirty rumors of her purity. You see my mother swore she had never been with a man, but yet I was conceived. This made it hard for her and me. We were both outcast in our village because of it. Finally she was tormented to the point of turning to prostitution. Her beauty was forever tainted. I couldn’t bare the shame so I ran away and left her, admitted Chalasi.

I found work at a farm near the forth city Adajahar. It is the border city of Zaguaron Sol or eastern Zaguaron if you will. On the farm I was immediately attracted to the young lord of the land and he was to me. He let no one talk down to me and always helped me carry water from the family well. He was young and strong and smelled so much like a man. I will never forget his smell. But he was meant to be a warrior, because that’s what Adajahar was, a forth city that bred soldiers. His father wouldn’t let us be, because I was the child of a whore and his son deserved a woman of noble birth or at least not a bastard.

"He defied his father and built a house for us on the edge of his father’s estate. We branded ourselves husband and wife. There we lived for about nine winters past. I was with child on the tenth winter. That is when it begun, for there was a savage battle in heaven. The ground shook and lighting and thunder owned the sky for a day. That’s when my dreams began. Just past my son’s second winter, a tall man, a mixture of Zaguaron Sol and Lunar came to me.

He said Chalasi, I am Herald, I am your father. I saw your mother from heaven and her beauty smote me. I came from heaven and soiled your mother’s purity with a god’s seed. For my weakness your mother’s innocence was taken and her life ruined. This is my shame and secret as a god. But they are no longer mine alone, they are now ours.

You may consider me selfish Chalasi, for I have come to ask a favor of you.

What would Herald the god of Zaguaron want with me? I asked him.

Please he said, in your presence, I am your father and undeservingly so. Will you my child, leave your family here, your man and your child and go to the temple Haldiem?

But why father? I asked him. My family is here and I love them.

My sweet, sweet child, he said. I ask this of you because I can ask no one else. Remember that trail in heaven? My son defended Zaguaron Sol from the great demon lord Drackaur Meteorus. Their battle was fierce and my son died from his wounds. Cardalla’s treachery caused the death of a godson. And for her actions, my unborn daughter Alandria had to pay the price with her life. Will you go there, go to Haldiem for me Chalasi? For you see, my daughter is now a mortal like you. Go there, protect her and when your time on earth is done, your man, your boy and you shall have a seat at my table in heaven. When their time is done here on Zaguaron, this I promise you.

He told me to come here Alandria and when the time was right, tell her who she really is. So you see Alandria I am your keeper and you are the daughter of Lord Herald and his lunar lady Cardalla. Yes Alandria, you are the full blooded daughter of gods, cursed with mortal life.

Chapter: 2

I, I’m a godling mother Chalasi, asked Alandria? I mean I’ve always believed in the gods and I believe that I am destined to serve them. But to be told that I am one is a little overwhelming mother. What do we do now, asked Alandria?

I don’t know myself, replied mother Chalasi. Herald did not give me instruction concerning this. His duty is to oversee the godwives and keep the world in balance. But since the death of Malta’s beloved Gabrious, the world has been anything but that. I am just as in the dark as you are my dear.

There was a knock on the door. Please, open the door for mother Renish, replied mother Chalasi. There are many things that we three must discuss.

Alandria got up and stumbled a bit to the door. As she opened it, she fell onto mother Renish’s bosom. Oh mother, Alandria cried. What am I supposed to do now?

For starters, answered mother Renish. We must go back inside and see this conversation through to the end. After all this study isn’t underground for simply no reason at all.

As the three women sat, all were quiet until Mother Renish finally spoke up. I will begin, first with this. Alandria there has been great movement from king Garshram of Balvador in Lunar Zaguaron. Rumors have reached the temple that he knows you are here, the both of you Chalasi. We must realize the lengths that he has gone to, to try and conquer the world. There are not one, but two women at this temple that has the blood of gods flowing through their veins. We really can’t say exactly how much the king knows, but he does know something. Our high bishop believes that Balvador has had a spy here for some time. Anyway, it has been decided that Haldiem cannot simply sit around idle as a man as dangerous as king Garshram has his eyes set on us. Staying here will likely put you both in danger.

And if that’s not bad enough, countered mother Chalasi. Zaguaron Sol has no high king since Swell drunk himself into a stupor and fell out of his tower. The eastern kingdoms are terribly unorganized and weak. The other kingdoms have no one to lead them and have forgotten their alliances.

Both Zaguaron Lunar and Sol were once civil since trade was necessary, Said mother Chalasi. But in these times with the west having no problems with their trades and the east faltering with the lack of the sun to fuel the farms and produce, the west have crippled the eastern kingdoms abilities to thrive. Without the full power of the sun, Zaguaron Sol will surely fall. The world will lose balance and Garshram will probably destroy the world and the gods with his lust for power. We simply cannot allow that to happen.

The dreams, whispered Alandria. What part do they play in all of this? My dreams are just of a man, whom I interpret as trying to protect me. But from what, I don’t know.

Can you describe him to me Alandria? Mother Chalasi asked genuinely interested.

I can try mother, I can try, replied Alandria.

He was dressed in gold and red armor. His cuirass had a picture of the sun on both shoulders. His complexion was eastern red-bone. He was tall, with black hair. Wait, cried Alandria! His hair, it’s very similar to yours mother Chalasi. That is why I was so drawn to it. The man, he seemed to resemble you. I don’t know mothers, does this make any sense, asked Alandria?

Hmmm, muttered mother Chalasi scratching on her chin. You say the man wore the gold and red iron cuirass with an image of the sun on both shoulders, correct? That is clearly the armor of the knights of Adajahar. While gently rubbing her chin, mother Chalasi added, that is a promising place to begin deciphering our dilemma.

Excuse me added mother Renish. But in your dreams Alandria, what is this man doing?

Trying to protect me, replied Alandria.

Exactly, offered Renish. Exactly!

That is the most important message that I’m getting from this, continued Mother Renish almost urgently. But who is he and why would he want to protect you? Should we send word to Adajahar, mother Chalasi?

I . . . I don’t know, stammered mother Chalasi. I have a history there and I left so abruptly. There are people there who I’ve hurt and I don’t know if I have the courage to face them, even if it is just by message.

What choice do we have Chalasi, countered Renish? You know we expect action from Garshram. We cannot sit idly by and do nothing, because of your past. There is more at stake here. You and I both know that Garshram is capable of great evil and as long as he is king, this world will not be safe.

You are indeed correct Renish. I shall send word directly to Galdon, for if he is the same man he will listen, admitted Chalasi.

Galdon, cooed Alandria. Isn’t that the man that you fell in love with?

Alandria my dear, you say that as if it is in the past. I still love him and with all of my heart. I still remember his smell, his touch, so powerful but yet so gentle. My skin burns just remembering the man he is. I long for him even now, believe me. It took the beckoning of god himself to take me away from my man and my child!

Alandria saw the tears welling in Chalasi’s eyes and immediately felt pity for her. After all it was because of her that Chalasi had to abandon her family. No wonder there were tiny wrinkles on the outside of her beautiful face. Her life must have been hard. After losing her mother to prostitution, then finding love, but being beckoned away by a god that confessed that he was the cause of her mother’s suffering. But even worse, it was her, Alandria that was the cause of mother Chalasi being here now. Alandria also became overwhelmed with grief.

Snap out of it you two, cried mother Renish! You both have the noblest lines running through your veins. Stop pitying yourselves. I am the only person in this room that has mere mortals for parents. I’ve been here since I was fourteen winters. I’ve never known love to have lost it. I should be the one in tears not you two. There are vast and tremendous powers at your disposal. But believe me. We are going to exhaust them all before this is done. Lunar Zaguaron was always a little uncivilized, but the kings of old were reasonable. They realized that they needed the east as the east needed them. But the west is now ruled by a tyrant and as long as he rules, the world will never know piece again!

The east has grown weak Chalasi, but if your man is as honorable as he sounds, we may have an ally. This is the only hope we have ladies. If we fail, Zaguaron Sol falls and then all of Zaguaron falls with it. Now mother Renish may have been a small woman, but she was capable of sound reasoning and chastising. Even if it were the daughters of gods she did it to.

Forgive me, muttered Chalasi. Thinking of my past and possibly reuniting with my love and my son has made me rather anxious. Maybe even fearful of what may come of it.

I understand, offered Renish. However this is necessary and it may be a good thing for you.

Through the tears in mother Chalasi’s eyes, Alandria saw the beginning of hope. This made her feel comforted because she was willing to do anything in her power to help mother Chalasi find whatever it was that was taken from her.

So Alandria spoke up. Mother Renish and Chalasi, we shall send word to Galdon . . . . Josiah you said his name was right mother?

Yes my dear, answered Chalasi.

Yes continued Alandria. We shall send word immediately to Galdon Josiah and to Adajahar. Mother Chalasi, you shall write directly to your man. You will tell him everything. Then you will tell him to prepare us an escort of his finest soldiers. After, we shall go there and from that mighty city we shall reach out to all of Zaguaron Sol. That this world shall be saved and mother Chalasi, you can mend your broken heart.

Both mothers Renish and Chalasi looked at each other and couldn’t help but smile. Mother Renish then said, You see Chalasi? That is how the daughter of gods is supposed to behave! Then they all laughed long and hard. They laughed hard because they knew perilous days were ahead. But each woman was strong enough to face whatever evil stood before them. Especially Chalasi, seventeen winters was a long time to be without the love of the one you desperately desired. He was the one person that was put unto the world to love and beloved by her. It was a long time, but even though she was scared, she was brave and she believed without a doubt that he still felt for her as she felt for him. Prepare yourselves ladies. We will try to leave by weeks end.

Evil men die and good men also, but villains and the heroes who fight them live on forever in legends. If legends are anything like history, as time repeats, so will legend. New adventures will abound and the courage of men will be tested and the valiant will achieve or exceed those legends and become greater still.

On a night when thunder boomed and lightning danced across the sky, in the south eastern border of the Ajabeb Mountains, a legend would be born. When the light dimmed and hope might seem lost, honor and courage would seek heroes. Heroes would be found and their surname would be Josiah.

Amidst the lightning and thunder, Galdon Josiah was content. Here in the Forrest of creatures. More than twenty winters ago, a man could not walk so freely through these woods. The bush was lush and thick, so thick that a man needed a spare blade to navigate through the thick. It was wise not to us the first weapon for the thick sap would ruin a fine blade.

Galdon sat on large stone drinking mead and watching his son Falen gut and skin the twenty three point stag that they had tracked together. Galdon was very proud of his boy. He was half a head taller than his father, but not quite as wide. His face kept its color even though the sun wasn’t as bright as before. The muscles in his forearms bulged and relaxed as he worked. Hurry up, shouted Galdon. Do you think that we have all night?

Listen Pop, smirked Falen. If you think that I’m working too slowly, he’s all yours old man. He tried but couldn’t hide his grin. Falen looked up to his Pop for everything. His father sitting there on that bolder, his broad shoulders hunched over, never failed to smile while idle talking.

Nah my boy, you’re doing just fine, offered his father. I’ll get the fire started. We should sleep out here tonight I think.

Sounds good to me father, was Falen’s response.

As the old commander leaped up, Falen couldn’t help but smile inwardly. Fifty four winters his father had seen but yet he moved like he had barely seen twenty. Most of the soldiers his father’s age barely set foot in the fields or lifted their swords other than for show. But not Poppa, no he still trained his soldiers. Hell he dominated the whole company with sheer skill and finesse.

Falen watched as Poppa lifted his wood ax with the ease of a veteran and started hacking up some dry brush for the fire. Then his heart sank as he thought about his mother, of how she abandoned them. Of the hurt she caused Poppa. How could a mother simply leave them? He was barely three winters. Did Poppa treat her wrong, because he didn’t see it? Was it him? Was he a bad child? What happened? All these questions, but he had no answers. Falen watched as father consumed himself with the soldiers, He watched as Poppa excelled in everything. With the defense of Adajahar, as he rose in rank and as he continued even now to outperform his company.

Falen then thought of himself. The only man he knew that was stronger than his father. He wondered why he was given this strength. He remembered that at six winters he could pull a horse cart by himself. Of how his father would constantly caution him about restraint. Restraint so he wouldn’t hurt his brothers in arms. His father was more skilled than him with the blade, but because of his strength and endurance, even Poppa was no match for him.

Falen, said Poppa. Are you daydreaming again?

Yes, replied Falen. Tell me about Momma again. He watched as his father froze in mid swing.

What, um, what is it that you want to hear again? That you haven’t heard already, murmured Poppa?

Well father, you always say that you and Momma were helplessly in love. But I’ve never understood that. If her love was so strong, why did she leave so suddenly and why didn’t she ever come back?

Oh my boy, said Galdon, rubbing his forehead as he looked down with his eyebrows furrowed together. He rubbed his hands through his hair as he looked up at the sky and sighed. His hair fell over his shoulders as Falen spied the tiny greys that were creeping unto the relatively black hairline. But as far as his dad goes, slightly graying hair didn’t mean anything. He was still as energetic as a young man. I guess I will never know son. She simply said that she loved us and that she hopes I find happiness even if it wasn’t with her.

You still love her, don’t you Pop? The son asked.

Of course I do, snapped Galdon. The kind of love we shared doesn’t just simply fade away.

But Poppa, you’ve seen the widows and the women over thirty winters, all the lady’s look at you father. They know you’re a good man and I can name about three or four that have expressed their interest in you. Why won’t you move on and forget about her, just like she forgot about us?

It’s not like that boy, answered his father in the tone he used when a conversation needed to end. "She loved us, but something happened. Something made her leave. I still remember the morning it happened. She was sitting at the edge of the bed with tears in her eyes. Her face was swollen from the crying. She said that she had a vision that night and our lives would change forever. She said she had to leave, but that she loves us dearly. She said she would pray that I forgive her and to move on if I found someone worthy of me. I haven’t found another woman that can compare. But she left me you son. No other woman could have done that. Don’t you see son, your strength is amazing. Look at me, fifty four winters and I have yet to meet my equal in battle. These were gifts from her, I know it. She loved you son and she loved me too. She was just . . . .

Look out father, said Falen as he leaped past his Poppa! Galdon dropped and rolled out of harm’s way faster than an aging man should be able. As he sprang to his feet, he drew his sword simultaneously. He finally saw what drove his son to action. There, where he stood a moment before was the unnaturally large hand of a Balvadorian Pale bear.

Balvadorian bears were large. They stood roughly about eight heads high. This one was even bigger still. It walked on its hind legs. Balvadorian pales were known for their supernatural strength. The earth trembled under the blow of the bear’s hand. He found it strange that the beast had humanlike hands. Galdon watched as his son leaped again at the great beasts head. Falen yelled a mighty roar as he delivered a great bare-handed blow to the beast’s skull.

There was a huge crash as the beast stumbled back. But the beast seemed more surprised than hurt. Its eyes were bright yellow and its fangs were as long as Galdon’s dagger. It had broad shoulders and it was shaped like a man. ‘It must have been breed with demons", Galdon thought. Falen immediately followed the first attack with an elbow to the beast’s nose. But the beast was prepared and grabbed Falen’s free arm. Galdon launched back into the fray and swung a mighty blow at the beast’s arm that held his son. He felt a shock climb up his arms, but the flesh gave way to his blade. He had cut the arm of cleanly. The beast yelped in pain as it lifted its head skyward. Falen drew up behind the beast and jumped up and grabbed the great beast around its muscular neck. He squeezed and lifted with every ounce of strength that he had left. There was a crack and the beast fell limp. It gurgled and shuddered, then was no more.

Are you alright Poppa? The words were barely audible as Falen looked upon his father.

Yes my boy, are you alright yourself? The father asked himself.

Poppa, this bear isn’t a natural thing. Its shape is that of a man, how can that be? Asked Falen clearly perplexed.

I’ve heard rumors my boy, of some kings of old that bread these Balvadorian bears with demons. But I’ve never seen one until now. What is the west thinking? If there are more of these running freely in Zaguaron Sol, others may not be as lucky as we.

You see my son, said Galdon confidently. These are the gifts that your mother has left us. No mortal man should be able to wrestle with a beast such as this. Yet you toppled this monster and we slew it with nothing but my sword and your strength. No one knows the will of the gods. But I know that your mother loved us and she has given us awesome strength. We have this power for a reason my son. Come, let us skin the beast. It will make for a fine fur.

As they walked back towards their estate, Falen spoke up. "Poppa, you are right. Your ability to stay so strong and agile while others show their age is truly amazing. Then there’s myself. Why do I possess this strength? This shouldn’t be natural. Sometimes I do wonder why everyone else seems so weak. But the reality is that they aren’t weak. It’s me that’s different.

Son called Galdon. We’ll figure these things out together. The world is in need. If we have the power to help, then we will do just that.

They were both silent on the rest of the way home. Galdon was a few steps ahead and Falen just listened to the crickets sing their songs as the leaved crushed under his feet. He looked up at the night sky and wondered why the moon was always bright. It seemed unfair that the sun couldn’t be as bright in the day as the moon was at night. He wished that someday he would see the sun shining brightly as his father said it did. He felt it deep inside. He knew that he had a bigger destiny than this. He’d find his way. His father would someday be happy. He’d make sure of it. And if he ever found his mother, she’d have some explaining to do.

Little did he know that all the questions he had, his strength and purpose were about to be answered. The world herself needed a hero. Malta needed a champion. Wills would be broken and spirits would be tested. The name Josiah to him meant power. The father seemed not to age, the son had otherworldly strength, there was a reason this was so. This is how the legend began.

Chapter: 3

Galdon . . . . Galdon . . . . Galdon.

What? Who . . . . who is calling me? Replied Galdon sleepily. By Herald, is that really you? Galdon rose up as he rubbed the sleep out of his eyes. He still stayed in the modest home he built for him and Chalasi at the edge of his estate. It wasn’t big, but it was sturdy and he couldn’t bring himself to leave it. It was rather warm, warmer even more so than the main house. When Falen was a boy, he allowed him to go stay with father in the main. But not Galdon, he wouldn’t abandon his decision. He was simply stubborn like that. The house was made of wood, a cabin maybe. It consisted of a kitchen, a living area and a bedroom.

Yes, it’s really me, answered Chalasi. My love, May I call you that?

You can call me whatever you wish, it’s been a long time Chalasi. Have you been happy? I’ve waited seventeen winters to see your face again. How is it that you’re here?

I have that ability my love, I can travel in spirit.

Why haven’t you come before then? And how is it possible that you can do this?

Because of the reason I left. I’m so very sorry for leaving you my love. I didn’t tell you then because I didn’t think you would believe me. Galdon, I am the daughter of Herald.

Daughter of Herald, what do you mean? He asked her surprised.

I mean my love that my mother was pure, I mean that it was Herald who fathered me. I mean that it was Herald who came to me the night before I left. I mean that because of him, I can visit you in your dreams. I didn’t before because I was scared. I was scared that you wouldn’t want to see me. I may have never had the courage to visit you, but I’m desperate. I was going to send a courier to you, but I decided that it was safer this way. The world is in danger Galdon and I need you.

So you only came because you had to? If you didn’t just need me, I would never have seen you again then? On top of that you say that you are a demi god? Usually I’d question this. But seeing you here, but not here can’t be explained any other way. I’m a reasonable man Chalasi, tell me what is happening. But before you do, answer one thing for me. Do you still love me and did you miss me as much as I’ve missed you? Do you really look like this? You look the same. Beautiful, the most beautiful woman that I’ve ever seen!

Oh Galdon, I’ve missed you so much! I wanted to, I really did, I never wanted to leave please believe me, cried Chalasi! But Herald needed me. How do you say no to a god, a god that is your father?

Why did Herald need you? He is a god. Can’t he look after his own errors?

It’s not that simple. Do you remember the battle in heaven? When lightning danced and thunder boomed like never before? Gabrious died that day. That is the reason the sun has dimmed. Malta has been in mourning since then. Lady Cardalla was also with child. But her child was sentenced to death because of her treachery. Herald made her mortal so that she wouldn’t be killed at once. So she will die, but at least she’ll have a life to live even if it is just a mortal one.

Herald called on me like I told you. He asked me to go to Haldiem and look after her. That is why I left my love. But now we are in danger. King Garshram knows about us.

How much does he know? How does he know and what are you going to do, asked Galdon?

I know you Galdon, you’re a good man. We have discussed these matters and that’s why I came to you. Send for us, come yourself if you must. I know that you will keep us safe. I know it isn’t fare, but the world is in danger and you can help us, help me.

If it is true that Garshram knows about you, Haldiem itself may be in danger. How long have you known? Be accurate so that I can know how much time I have. It will take at least a day to assemble the men. Should I send a small elite company or bring my entire legion to fortify Haldiem?

Haldiem can defend itself, if it gets that far Galdon. But it may not be wise to risk open combat at the temple. A small company of your best men should do. That way we can be discreet as we travel back. I don’t believe Garshram would attack the temple if he believes that we are not there. Furthermore, Adajahar is a fort city and all of the finest soldiers in Zaguaron Sol are there.

Yes Chalasi, you are right. Adajahar would be a safer city to defend. No one has ever breached our defenses. I want to come myself Chalasi. I want to come to you myself. But I think that I should send Falen. So that you may see him, he’s grown now and strong, so strong. That’s it, isn’t it Chalasi, cried Galdon! That’s why he’s so strong. His mother has the blood of gods. I will stay here and prepare the city. Falen commands an elite branch of my company. He can keep you safe and bring you back to me".

Haldiem is far north. We won’t be there for at least twelve nights. How much do you know about Garshram’s plans? Balvador is closer to Haldiem than we. If he has departed already, we may never reach you in time.

Galdon you simply must. But it is as you say. We weren’t able to intercept as much information as we would have liked. Garshram is not stupid. There are very few around him that he would tell the extent of his plans to. We aren’t even clear on what it is exactly that he knows. All we do know is that he knows something. We believe he has a spy in Haldiem. But we don’t know who it is, or how long they have been there. I am feeling fatigued, traveling by spirit is tiring. Besides I’ve never communicated while doing it before. I will visit you again Galdon and I cannot wait to touch you in person. Have I told you that you’ve aged well? You are still as handsome as I remember. I have always loved you and I’ve never forgotten you, thank you for understanding.

Don’t thank me just yet. I believe you owe me a lot more than just an apology. I intend for you to fully make up for what happened between us these past seventeen winters.

You can bet our lives I will. I love you Galdon and I’ll see you soon, that’s a promise, goodbye.

As the dream ended, Galdon realized he had been right the entire time. He knew that Chalasi wouldn’t have simply walked away from what they had without reason. He lay back down for a time. His body was still trembling from the encounter. Although not physical, it had an effect on him. He couldn’t wait to touch her again.

But as good as that felt, he also knew that the treat that King Garshram projected was real. That may have been why there was such a large dangerous Balvadorian bear running unchecked in Zaguaron Sol.

To make matters worse, He also knew that Falen was not as forgiving and he wouldn’t take too kindly to being sent to retrieve his mother. Falen wore his feelings on his shoulder. There wasn’t any need to guess what he felt. However he felt was clearly readable. Galdon needed to consider how he brought about the subject at hand without infuriating his son. But he needed to realize as well that Falen was the only man that he trusted to fulfill this mission. There was a lot at stake and Falen he trusted like no other. He finally slipped out of bed and made his way to the kitchen. He grabbed some bread, meat and cheese along with some tea. He had things to do. An empty stomach wouldn’t be much help. As he sat there thinking, he felt relieved, but also he