Ascendants of Ancients Sovereign

CHAPTER 29

Two Weddings

And A Funeral

The City of Brandor

SAM LEFT THE MEETING with the officers of the king’s army and hurried into the city to find Shalee. He was shocked at how hard it was to find a woman who stuck out like a sore thumb. When he finally found her, she was with Helga inside the store of a local jeweler.

Sam entered. A heavyset man was reaching across a polished, wooden counter to place an elegant, emerald-covered gashal on Shalee’s head as the corgan bell above the door rang.

Everyone turned to look.

Sam smiled and took a moment to admire Shalee’s radiance. Her eyes showed her delight by his presence. “Hey, good looking,” she called out.

How ironic, Sam thought. Of course she’d be in a store filled with rings right now. It’s befitting to the conversation. “Hey,” Sam said as he crossed the room to give Shalee a quick smooch. “Nice headpiece.”

Shalee removed the tiara and handed it back to the proprietor. “It’s not fashionable to call it a headpiece, sweetheart. The correct term would be a gashal or a tiara. I’m just looking for something to spend your hard earned coin on. How was your little meeting? How did Mosley do?”

“He did alright. He scared the king’s officers half to death, and he looked twice his size.”

Shalee gazed over her shoulder and grinned at Helga. “I bet everyone freaked.” She looked back at Sam, “Did they?”

“Yeah, but that’s kind of an understatement.”

The older sorceress chimed in. “I bet it was a wicked scene.”

Sam could only grin at how Earthly Helga was sounding. She was definitely hanging out with Shalee too much. “I’m sure you guys would’ve enjoyed the moment if you would’ve been there.” He took Shalee by the hands, turned her to face him and then took a deep breath. “Mosley said something that has stuck with me all Peak.”

It was easy to see Sam’s hesitation. Whatever it was, it was big. “What did Mosley say to get you so worked up? Do I need to take you back to the castle and chase you around with Precious?”

Sam’s expression did not change.

“I’m sorry, sweetie.” She reached up and caressed his cheek. “What’s bothering you?”

Sam cleared his throat. “Mosley said you were my betrothed. I think the wolf thinks we’re going to get married.”

Shalee did not know what to say.

Helga chimed in again. “Just leave it to the mutt to meddle in the affairs of others. If that mongrel wasn’t a god, I’d peel` his fur right off him.”

Sam held up his hand. “No, no, no ... it’s not like that. Mosley wasn’t meddling. Shalee, did you say anything to him about us getting married ... maybe when I wasn’t around or something?”

“For heaven’s sake, Sam, I wouldn’t do something like that.” Shalee pulled the army’s future second in command close. “But I’ve gotta say, I kind of like that. Being hitched to you is not the worst idea I’ve ever heard.” She smirked. “I suppose a girl could do worse.”

“Hmpf,” Helga grumbled. “A lot worse.”

After hearing Shalee’s response, Sam sort of smiled. “Gee, thanks ... I think.”

Shalee stepped forward and threw her arms around him. “We’re only kidding. I want you, stud. I’ll hitch up with you, if you’d like.”

All the concern Sam had about talking with Shalee vanished. He was now able to be his usual, bold self and approach the rest of the conversation with confidence. “I also like the idea. Come on. Let’s go find Keldwin, and ask him to marry us.”

A huge grin appeared on Shalee’s face. “Oh Sam, I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do.” She looked down at the gashal that the proprietor had set on the counter. “But if you want me to marry you, you better buy me that. I might need it. I’m just saying.”

Rather than ask how much it cost, Sam pulled a Yaloom out of his pocket and tossed it on the counter. “Will that cover it?”

The proprietor shook his head. “Sir, that’s not enough. You need an additional Yaloom and one Jervaise.”

Sam rolled his eyes and then pulled the coins out of his pocket. “I feel like I just got robbed.” He looked at Shalee. “But you’re the hottest thief I’ve ever met. Put that thing on, and let’s get going.”

Shalee snatched the gashal off the counter and placed it on her head. “Getting married by a king sounds so romantic. Don’t you think?”

“Sure,” Sam shrugged. “Let’s get going.” He clapped his hands to show his enthusiasm. “We don’t have any moments to waste. Keldwin will be leaving us soon. I think we should ask him to unite us this very second.”

Helga screamed and started to run around the store. “My babies are getting united! My babies are getting united!” She stopped dead in her tracks and then turned to look at Shalee. “Hey! What’s a ‘second?’ Does that mean you want to do it now?”

Shalee laughed at the woman’s antics. “I’ll explain later. Let’s go.”

“Okay, Child! Let’s scoot!”

Shalee kissed Sam on the cheek. “I guess we’re getting hitched. Mom has spoken.”

The brilliant-minded doctor, fighter, lover, soon-to-be second in command, and friend was suddenly engaged. He grabbed Shalee, lifted her, gave her a big kiss and then pulled the ladies out of the store to find the king. As they hurried to the castle, Helga was sent to find BJ.

When they entered the throne room, they sent a servant to fetch the king, making sure he relayed the message as urgent. They knelt and waited. It seemed like forever, but on this occasion only a few moments passed before Keldwin entered. The king had been sleeping due to his illness.

“Sam, what is it? Why did you wake me?”

“Keldwin, do you remember saying you wanted us to treat you as a friend when others were not around?”

“I do.”

“Okay, okay. That’s good. We’re here to do just that. I’ve decided to form a union with Shalee, and there’s no one we want to perform our ceremony more than you. We can’t think of a better friend to give this honor. We would like this to be our gift to you before you pass.”

Keldwin was speechless. Never had he been so touched. For the first series of moments, other than his personal friendship with Justin Graywind, he felt like he had real friends.

“I ... I feel honored ... and blessed.”

BJ and Helga barged into the room and quickly stopped to bow.

Keldwin smiled. “Please stand. Everyone come here.” He motioned the group to embrace. When the hug was finished, he kissed Shalee on the forehead and then placed his own against Sam’s. “You’ve honored me. I would be pleased to perform the ceremony to honor you in return.”

The king pulled back and clapped his hands. “We have much to do.” A slave ran into the room. “I want my seamstress, cook, jeweler, and driver brought to the throne room. Hurry!”

The slave ran from the room.

The king turned to face the group. “This union will be one to remember. I shall marry you at the start of my tournament. You shall stand before thousands of my subjects from all over my kingdom to proclaim your vows. A union has never been performed in the arena. Everyone will know your names throughout the land.”

Shalee shouted, “Howdy-doody! Another group hug, y’all, and high-fives all around!”

Sam looked at BJ. As usual, the trainer rolled his eyes.

Shalee did not let BJ’s lack of enthusiasm ruin her mood. She turned to Helga and slapped hands with the older woman.

Keldwin, seeing the joy in the ladies’ eyes, reached out with both hands and exchanged his first set of high-fives.

BJ rolled his eyes again, “Ohhh, brother.”

Eventually, Keldwin excused himself and went back to bed.

Sam and BJ headed out of the palace. Just like many men do when the moment comes to plan a special occasion, they figured they would leave the planning of the wedding to the women, and they mindlessly headed into the city to grab a few ales.

Shalee would have been upset, but Precious would make quick work of the tasks at hand. The young sorceress had a special style of wedding dress in mind—as most women do when they plan their weddings as young girls. She ordered the seamstress to bring an assortment of fabric to the throne room.

When the woman returned, she was carrying 10 bolts of assorted colors. Shalee lined them against the wall to get a good look and then huddled with Helga until they agreed on the perfect combination—a predominantly white dress with a dash of pink. Shalee raised Precious into the air and spoke her words of power.

The seamstress stood in disbelief as the fabrics lifted off the floor and disappeared into a ball of light. When the light faded, a flowing masterpiece was left floating in the air. The women exchanged a bouncing embrace, pulling the seamstress into the celebration.

Shalee retrieved the dress and tried it on. She was stunning—a mortal beauty without equal. The lines of the dress accented every curve and the pink brought out the glow on her face. She took off the dress and gave it to the seamstress. “Please put it in a safe place. Thank you ever so much.”

Next, they were off to the kitchen. When they walked through the doors, the head cook seemed displeased that the ladies were invading his domain.

Shalee winked at Helga. “Chefs on Earth were grouchy, too.” Grinning, the younger sorceress scanned the entrance to the kitchen to determine how big a cake she could make.

Each requested ingredient was produced—with the exception of cinnamon, since no one had a clue what it was. Even the pile of wood she requested was stacked next to the counter.

Once again, she lifted Precious and spoke her words of power. The magic created a blinding light. Many moments passed before the light faded. A cake like no other was left behind on a large table with wheels. The creation was nine layers, each supported by shaped, wooden columns. Shades of icing worked in unison to tell a story of love while angels in yellow robes made of sculpted sugar were sitting around the edges of the cake with their legs draped over the side, wings spread, and hands folded in front like they were praying.

Nine of these heavenly figures sat on the first level, their numbers reduced by one with each level as the cake ascended until a sole angel rested on top. This angel was dressed in a red robe, also made of sugar. His white feathered wings were spread and circled forward to protect two figures within them—the figures of Sam and Shalee.

The head cook was astonished by the beauty of the confection. At two and a half paces tall, the bottom layer had a diameter of nearly two paces wide. Shalee had even created a small cupcake for the chef to taste. The chef’s delight was so abundant, he left Shalee with a standing invitation to come into his kitchen whenever she pleased.

Next, the women made their way to meet with the jeweler. Again, Shalee used her magic to create the rings, but the lady who brought the gems screamed when she saw Shalee’s magic work. Her chunky backside bumped against the frame of the door as she darted from the room. Despite Helga running after her, she would not return.

All in all, the Peak was productive. When Shalee retired for the night, she lay her head on Sam’s chest and fell asleep. It was the middle of the night when her eyes popped open. She had forgotten to make Sam’s tux.

Rubbing the sleep from her eyes, she rolled out of bed and sent a servant to deliver a message to the seamstress. She was requesting materials fit for a groom. When the lady arrived, Shalee created the garment with a single command and then thanked the seamstress with a hefty tip of two Owain.

Wedding Peak

Sam and Shalee were scheduled to be married after the Peak of Bailem. They dressed together, agreeing that the old Earth tradition of the groom not seeing the bride prior to the ceremony was ridiculous.



Helga and BJ had already left for the arena. The moment had come for Sam and Shalee to join Keldwin, Justin, and Aaron in the king’s carriage. Other than Sam being in a tux, the other men were dressed in their best military regalia.

The king was the first to speak. “Shalee, I’ve never seen a gown like the one you have on. I’m impressed. I wish my kingdom shared more of your tastes.”

“Why, thank you kindly, Keldwin. If you’d like, I could whip you up something special for the final Peak of your tournament, and I’ll even command Precious to enhance your good looks. The ladies will flock in your direction.”

“I’d like that, but it’s tradition to wear our best armor. Perhaps you could do something special to make it stand out.”

“I’d be honored.”

Keldwin smiled. “What a bride you’ll make on this wondrous Peak. Your beauty would make the gods jealous.”

“Hear, hear,” the general responded. “Sam, you’re a lucky man. If ever you have a Peak when you need a break from such grace, you can send her my way.”

Sam laughed off Justin’s slight and then looked at the prince. “How are you, Aaron?”

“I’m fine, thank you. I would like to know the name of your attire.”

Shalee did not give Sam the chance to answer. “Oh, Aaron ... you’d look handsome in a tuxedo ... sexy even.”

“Tuxedo?” The king laughed. “A funny name, but if you say it will enhance his appearance, I would like you to create him one as soon as possible.”

“Agreed,” the general responded, chuckling. “The boy needs help.”

The pleasantries of the conversation continued until the group arrived at the arena. As they passed through the massive gates, the people cheered for their king. The women who lined the walkways marveled at the beauty of Shalee’s dress. Even the men admired the couple’s outfits.

“Shalee,” Keldwin said, pulling her close. “I believe the people are admiring your dress rather than recognizing their king.”

Shalee kissed Keldwin on the cheek and whispered in his ear, “What can I say, Sire? A bride can’t be upstaged by anyone on her Peak of union. Not even by a king. When you look this fab, they just love you.”

“Yes ... you’re stunning, and the Peak is yours.”

Shalee slid her hand sideways through the air and snapped her fingers with sass. “You can say that on a thousand separate moments, you sexy beast, and you’d be right on every one of them.”

The king chuckled. “Your mannerisms are growing on me, Shalee.” Keldwin placed his hand on hers and continued walking with her arm resting atop his.

When the Peak of Bailem arrived, trumpets sounded to signal the start of the tournament. The king, along with Aaron, Justin, Sam, and Shalee, walked to the center of the arena and waved to the crowd as they waited for Mosley to make his appearance.

The sunlight turned to darkness as the clouds dropped from the sky to hover over the arena. They looked threatening, and lightning struck the arena floor. The clouds filled the arena and settled onto the sandy surface. Nothing could be seen as the frightened crowd stood in absolute silence.

Sam was unable to see Shalee even though he was holding her hand. When the clouds dissipated, all that was left was the larger than normal wolf-god.

The crowd’s fear vanished with the haze, and the bewildered looks on their faces were replaced with hesitant applause. Mosley realized his entrance, though grand, was less than desirable for the occasion, and dust was covering everyone—and more importantly, Shalee’s dress.

Shalee looked up at the wolf. “Mosley, have you lost your mind? Lightning, really ... and there’s dirt everywhere? You better fix this mess right now, or I’ll ... or I’ll...” She lifted her fist and shook it in Mosley’s direction. “Ewww!”

The wolf cringed, and then he scanned the crowd. Another grimace followed. “I’m sorry, Shalee. Perhaps my entrance was a bit over zealous.”

Shalee barked, “You think? Do you really think so, Mosley? I swear to the gods if I had a rolled up newspaper right now, I would tan your hide.” She dropped her hands and placed them on her hips. “No Scooby snack for you on this Peak, mister.”

Sam grumbled. “Would you just fix this already? Get the dust off everyone, and straighten Shalee’s hair. It’s a mess.”

Shalee reached up. Her hair was everywhere. All she said was, “Ewww!”

Mosley opened his mouth and took in a long breath. The dust that covered the crowd lifted from their garments, flew across the arena and was ingested by the wolf. After swallowing the dust, he nodded. Everyone’s hair and attire was readjusted. The crowd now looked as good as they did before he arrived.

Shalee looked down at her feet. Much of the sand that had covered the arena floor was now missing. The wolf had consumed it. She tapped her toe against the exposed wood. “What are you going to do about this, Mosley? Sucking it in like that has left holes everywhere. I don’t want to be able to see the wood at all. Do you get me?”

Rather than respond, Mosley nodded. The sand of the arena floor was instantly replaced. The entire fighting surface was now covered with sparkling, golden sand. “Will that suffice, Shalee? Again, I’m sorry.” The wolf gave his most innocent grin. “Are you still fond of me? I hope I haven’t ruined our friendship.”

Shalee decided to make the best of the situation and kicked off her shoes. She pushed her feet into the golden sand and smiled as the warmth appealed to her senses. “I think I’ll let you stay.” She winked. “I still love you, you big mutt.”

“But I don’t,” Sam chided with a big smile. He lifted his arm and pretended to sniff his pits. “You forgot to make me smell better.”

The king held up his hand to shut everybody up. “Can we please get on with this union? In case anyone has forgotten, I’m going to pass soon,” he jested.

Keldwin signaled for the announcement to be made. A large man standing at the top of the arena shouted to let everyone know that Sam had taken the position of second in command. As expected, there was quite the commotion as the crowd buzzed about the decision. This was Mosley’s cue.

Shalee held up her hand. “You best be smart about what you’re about to do, Mosley.”

Mosley nodded. He decided to make his point on a larger scale. The wolf expanded to a height of more than 20 paces. The horror could be seen on the faces of the people as he grew in size.

Shalee just rolled her eyes and whispered to Sam. “Yeah ... that’s just so much better. Oh my lord in heaven, just shoot me.”

“Beings of the Kingdom of Brandor, hear me!” Mosley shouted, his voice matching his giant size. “The gods are aware of your king’s decision. Know this, Sam Goodrich will strengthen the leadership of Brandor’s army. The kingdom will benefit from his command.”

Keldwin admired the god’s ability to make a point. The king turned toward Sam and motioned for him to bow, and then he unsheathed his sword to swear Sam in. “Rise, Sir Goodrich, The Head of all Legions.”

When Sam stood, the crowd welcomed him with enthusiastic adulation. Only three people in the kingdom possessed more power than Sam—the king, the prince, and the General Absolute. Since the king had refused to select an advisor, there was one less person at the top.

After seeing the success of his message, the moment had come to move on. Mosley motioned for the king to continue with the union, and Keldwin signaled for everyone to take their places.

BJ and Helga made their way to the center of the arena. Thirty well-dressed men, carrying trumpets, formed two lines that faced each other and stretched away from the king. The trumpets were made of silver, and they were long and thin. The men were dressed in black with silver ruffs that extended from their chin to the bottom of their coat. Matching shoes gleamed with perfection in the sunlight as they contrasted against the golden sand on the arena floor.

Sam and Shalee were given room to stand in front of the king to speak their vows. The prince and the General Absolute took up positions behind Keldwin. They lowered their arms and stood at attention while the giant wolf-god stood behind them. Mosley looked powerful, and his size completed a scene that those in attendance would never forget.

After BJ and Helga took their places next to Sam and Shalee, Mosley took it upon himself to give the couple a gift. He lowered onto his haunches and kept his head held high. In a thunderous voice, the wolf announced, “This union has been blessed by the gods!”

The people cheered, and then the wolf used his power to amplify Keldwin, Sam and Shalee’s voices so that they could be heard by all. Once Sam and Shalee’s vows were complete, the king motioned for the couple to kneel and place their hands side-by-side with their palms upright. “The moment has come to seal your union!” The king reached for his left hip and removed a dagger that had a jewel-covered pommel and cross-guard. He separated the blade from its sheath and then placed the sheath in Shalee’s palm and the dagger in Sam’s.

Sam looked at Shalee and grinned as he slid the weapon back into its sheath. The crowd erupted.

Keldwin enjoyed the look on Sam’s face as he commanded the couple to stand. He announced, “You are now bound for life! Rise and enjoy the rest of your seasons as united beings!”

The trumpeters lifted their instruments. A tunnel formed as the music filled the air, indicating the moment had come for Sam and Shalee to leave the arena. The king kissed the couple on their foreheads and then motioned for them to begin their first walk as husband and wife.

Keldwin, Aaron, Justin, BJ, and Helga, followed in a single file line. Once the musicians had cleared the sand, Mosley was the only one left. He made a grand exit. He lifted his head and howled. As the mob grabbed their ears, the wolf vanished.

After the crowd settled, the first fight was announced. The stadium cheered as the tournament began.

Sam and Shalee went back to the castle to celebrate the start of their new life together, and later that evening, royalty filled the king’s ballroom. Sam stood on a table that sat at the center of the ballroom and called for a toast. He tapped his mug of ale to command the group’s attention.

With the guests’ eyes fixated on the groom, Sam looked at Shalee and began his toast. “To my beautiful wife, you know my most intimate mind and my weaknesses. I cannot hide my gratitude that you’ve allowed me to love you. I embrace the sharing of our secrets, and I will be forever blessed. Here’s to my wife, my companion, my heart, and my soul. I’m grateful for the privilege of loving you.”

Shalee could not wipe the smile off her face as she leaned toward her husband. A long, passionate kiss followed as the room filled with applause.

Sam lifted his mug. “It has come to my attention that the people of Brandor have never seen a wedding cake. My wife has prepared this special gift for you. With your permission, My Great King, let’s allow the cook bring it out for these people to partake.”

The king agreed and clapped his hands. From between a large set of double doors, the massive cake appeared on a freshly polished, wooden cart. The room gasped at the grandeur, and the delicacy was a hit.

After saying a few words of encouragement to the newlyweds, BJ and Helga managed to sneak away. Helga’s staff lit the way as they moved through the night to the center of the royal garden behind the king’s castle. They rolled on the grass, laughing as lovers do. They enjoyed the idea of the garden being off limits to commoners, but being naughty was only heightening their experience.

Helga commanded her staff to go dark. They sat up and pulled each other close. They remained quiet and waited. Eventually, the flowers throughout the garden illuminated. Thousands of puffs radiated as they floated from one flower to another. The couple kissed as the melody produced by the flora filled the night.

With the mood now set, passion followed. No words were uttered as the couple’s personal interlude sang a song of its own. The lovers’ bodies discovered their own special brand of happiness.

After a lengthy series of moments, BJ reached up and wiped the sweat from his brow and then looked into Helga’s eyes. He whispered so the flowers would not go dark. “I love you more than I’ve loved any other. You’ve taken my broken heart and given it back ... whole and renewed. You’ve allowed me to feel again. My heart has been hard for too many seasons since the passing of my wife, but you’ve softened it. I’ll cherish you forever for this.”

Helga’s heart melted as she whispered back, “I love you, too, you big grouch.” She smiled as she nestled into him. “With all my heart, I’ll love you as you deserve to be loved.”

The rest of that night would be filled with childlike games as they quietly chased each other around the statues scattered throughout the garden.

The Town of Lethwitch

George and Athena were also due to be married that evening. When Late Bailem arrived, George finished the running around he had to do and then rushed to get dressed. Though it was later than expected, he eventually found himself in light that was being cast by torches. He and Athena were standing in front of a senator’s assistant to speak their vows.



Athena’s mother had tried to get the senator himself to perform the ceremony, but most every member of the government was at the king’s tournament.

Mary and this particular senator had been friends since childhood. Even though he was from a royal bloodline, they had found each other irresistible, often running off together despite the laws that forbade it. They continued in secret until his parents found out and put a stop to their relationship.

Royals did not like to mix bloodlines with commoners, despite what the king had done seasons ago. Mary often wondered what her life would have been like with Ralton Brandor. But as she looked at Athena on the Peak of her union, she realized this was the life she was meant to have.

The ceremony was simple, and George’s heart was filled with happiness. He would no longer use women for the items he sought to acquire. He would have to rely on his charisma to get what he wanted without the added bonus of sexual favors. He would be loyal to Athena and give her, at least in his mind, the respect he felt she deserved. There was a child on the way, and he was not about to give this one a broken home.

The assistant kept the vows short, but sweet. The family applauded, and the after-party was held in Mary’s barn. The atmosphere reminded George of some kind of hillbilly square dance, and everyone enjoyed the festivities. There was even a potluck that had been laid out on many of the tables that lined the back wall of the barn. All that was missing was a wedding cake—and a whole lot of class. George told himself he would renew his vows with Athena once he had the moments to do it properly.

George took Athena by the hand and knelt on one knee. He handed Athena her new treasure box. “You can use this to hold the memories of our life.”



He opened the lid. Inside was one of the flowers he had picked near the gazebo. Its petals were still glowing, despite being plucked from its bush.



“ Oh, George, how did you manage to do this? It’s beautiful.”

“I’ll tell you later. Do you like it?”

“I do. It’s perfect.”

George smiled as he listened to the ladies’ comments nearby. They complimented Athena on how romantic her new mate was. George thought, It was easy to pick the flower. Hell, all I did was teleport next to it and pluck it before it realized I was there. I can’t believe the damn thing is still lit. What luck!

George took Athena for a walk just before midnight. Since the family was there, Maldwin sent his vision to them all. They saw how great it would be to live with George and Athena in the Barbarian Kingdom, and as they did, smiles appeared on their faces.

With the family occupied, the newlyweds went to the bridge that spanned the river just outside of town and dangled their legs over its side. Under torchlight, they tossed pebbles into the water.

George loved Athena’s voice. He kept the conversation going as he held his wife close. Everything she said was important to him, and his love for her was selfless. They stayed there talking and laughing for most of the night.

When George decided Maldwin should be finished projecting his visions, they prepared to leave. After kissing Athena, he said, “I’ve got a surprise for you.”

“Another one? What is it, honey?”

“I’m able to do something special that will allow me to see you more often as I travel. I need to show you what it is. I want you to understand how I can find my way home to you every night. But I want you to keep this surprise between us. Will you keep this secret for me?”

Athena looked puzzled. “I thought you said your travels would take you north?”

“I did.”

“Then how do you expect to be with me if you’re there, and I’m here?”

George pulled her closer. “I’ll show you, but you have to promise not to tell anyone ... not even your mother. Will you do that for me?”

Athena was hesitant to agree, but she nodded and put her head on George’s chest, her favorite place to be. “If it lets us be together, then I promise.”

George smiled. “Close your eyes.”

“Why?”

“Trust me. Just close them.”

Once she had complied, he closed his. When they reopened them, they were standing in his mother-in-law’s guest home.

Athena shrieked and backed away from George. “What kind of sorcery is this? How can I be in my mother’s home? Where’s the bridge? Where’s the water?”

George expected her reaction. “Babe, please sit, and I’ll explain.” He took her arm, guided her to the table and then pulled out a chair.

Athena’s face twitch as the chair’s legs screeched across the floor. “Are we really here? How’s this possible?”

The mage pulled out another chair and took a seat. “I thought you’d be happy that I can come home at night. Once I get where I’m going, I’ll be able to teleport back and forth until the moment arrives for you to be with me. Doesn’t this make you happy?”

Athena started to cry. “Why didn’t you tell me about this before we said our vows, George?”

George was taken aback. “Let me ask you this. If I had told you, or shown you before our union, would it have changed the fact I’ve always loved you and have been good to you since the first moment we met? Would it have stopped you from uniting with me?”

Athena looked into his eyes for a long series of moments before she answered. “George, I love you. I’d die if I couldn’t be with you.”

“Well, if you love me that much … and your love is unconditional,” he said, brushing his hand against her cheek, “then why are you so upset about something that will allow us to be together? I have the ability to do so much more than what I’ve just shown you, but it has nothing to do with how much we love each other. I’m sorry I’ve upset you. Will you forgive me?”

Athena melted at his plea and then stood. She motioned for him to stand, and they embraced. With her head on her favorite spot, she cried, “I’m happy that I’ll be able to see you so often, but this scares me. Whatever it is that you can do, whatever these things are, it would be best if you showed me. I’m your wife, and I should know what I’m dealing with.”

“Babe, you have nothing to be scared about. I’ll always protect our family. Just know this ... when I leave here, I’ll be going to set up a wonderful home for us. I won’t let you or our baby down.”

Athena whispered, “I’m glad I have you. I’ve never been this happy. I want to be with you. I want you to do whatever it takes to make sure we have a happy home. Just give our baby a good life, and I’ll follow you anywhere.”

George lifted his bride into his arms and carried her into the bedroom. He would enjoy the night and leave in the morning for Gessler. Since he no longer had Amar at his side, he did not have the authority to fly on the hippogriffs. There were 13 Peaks left before Kepler would be in Gessler, but it would only take him 7 Peaks to get there. He wanted to become familiar with the village and then teleport back to Lethwitch.

As they went to sleep, George dreamed of Abbie. The dream was sad, and his little girl kept screaming, “Daddy, save me!” He tried to run toward her, but was unable to. The dream was hellish, but thanks to Lasidious, it was cut short as the Mischievous One asked to be allowed into his mind. George gave him access.

“George, we need to talk.”

“You could’ve shown up a little earlier. The dream I was having was awful. Are you sure Abbie is okay, Lasidious?”

“Yes, George. Like I told you, her soul is in the Book of Immortality. I’ve given her many good thoughts. You don’t need to worry about your daughter. She’s fine.”

“Then what do you want?”

“First, I think congratulations are in order. I see that you have a fine woman lying next to you.”

“How do you know I’m lying next to Athena? Are you here?” George was starting to feel uncomfortable. “I’m dreaming, right?”

“Yes, George, you’re dreaming. I know many things, and I keep track of my favorite subjects.”

“Favorite, my ass. And I’m not your subject. What do you want?”

Lasidious chuckled. “You’ll always be the same old George. This visit is not about what you can do for me. It is more about what I can do for you. I have come to enlighten you on the extent of your power. You’re about to become a force on Southern Grayham.”

“Force, huh? I like the sound of that. Do I need to do anything?”

“All you need to do is lie there. I’ll enlighten you with everything you need to know. When you wake, you’ll be famished. I know your journey to Gessler begins in the morning, but it may take a while for you to recover and feel strong enough.”

George agreed to let Lasidious do his thing. As the Mischievous One was prone to do, he drug the process out and made George beg for him to get to the point. Eventually, George’s mind was filled with the details he needed to use the full extent of his power, and then the god left his dream.

George woke with an awful thirst. He asked Athena to prepare him a meal. He guzzled the pitcher of water in the guesthouse, and then stole the pitcher from the main house as well.

Athena was surprised at how much he ate. It took until Late Bailem the following Peak before George was able to get on the road. He said goodbye to his beautiful wife and made sure Maldwin understood he was leaving.

In parting, George had one last comment for the rat: “Everything is A-okay, man.”

The Next Peak

Just After Late Bailem

Double D had made his way into the city of Brandor just after the height of the Peak, and it took until Late Bailem to reach the arena. As he approached, the number of guards walking the streets increased.



It had taken quite a while to get to where he now stood. As he looked up at the top of the arena, the crowd was cheering. Once the massive torches lining its circumference were lit, the final fight of the evening would be announced.

The assassin knew the perfect moment to kill the General Absolute. He had learned from previous trips to this city that the general always fought the tournament’s winner on the ninth Peak. He would take that opportunity to dispose of Justin, but until then, he would scout the castle for the best moment and place to slaughter the prince. He wanted to make a statement, and the king’s son deserved to pass in front of as many beings as possible.

This assassination would not be an ordinary killing. This murder needed to be horrific, disgusting enough that every kingdom on the entirety of Grayham would talk about it forever. He wanted word to spread and for tales to be told about how sadistic the slaying of the prince was. This event needed to be legendary. This killing had to be his ultimate statement of artistry.

Double D was unable to find a place to stay. All the inns were booked for the tournament. To avoid further inquiries, since he wanted to speak to as few people as possible, he scouted the area until he found an old man who had left the tournament by himself. He watched from a distance, careful not to step into the light cast by the scattered torches throughout the city and followed the man to his home.

After ensuring the man was not going to be joined by other company, Double D opened his pack to retrieve his mask. After pulling it over his eyes, he vanished beneath a veil of magic and walked up the steps to the front door. He opened it, stepped quietly inside and carefully pushed the wooden door closed.

Double D could hear the man in his bedroom. The older gentleman was singing as he prepared to get into his bathing tub. The assassin ignored the man’s jovial song and moved through the rest of the home, looking into five bedroom chambers that had not been opened for nearly a season.

Nothing was out of place, the beds were made, and a layer of dust was on the night stands that stood next to them. This was the home of an unwed man. Even the bathing room meant for the woman of the house had nothing in it. This sad, old man was perfect, and from the look of things, no one would be coming to visit any moment soon.

Double D’s expression turned dark as the assassin waited for the old man to fall asleep before he made his move. Without a sound, he put his pack on the floor and shut the door to the room behind him. He walked toward the bed, stalking it like a cat, focused to ensure his breathing remained normal. He had done this so often that it was second nature.

He reached down and pulled the covers back to get a better look. He now had his target in sight. He reached forward with both hands, but he had to pull them back to stop himself from sneezing—a close call. Once again, he reached forward and concentrated on his target. During this series of moments, there would be no interruptions, and he would finish the job.

He snatched and squeezed. There would be no struggle. His victim was not strong enough. Double D relaxed his grip on the pillow he had grabbed off the bed and then fluffed it up. He quietly crawled beneath the covers and drifted off to sleep with the old man sleeping in his own room three doors down. The assassin had much to do the following Peak and wanted to be up and gone before the old man woke up. He would hate to be a source of irritation because the old man deserved better.

Over the next six Peaks, Double D scouted the castle and settled on the perfect spot to assassinate the prince. He moved around the royal house with his mask on and remained invisible to everyone. His plan was perfect and required just the right set of circumstances to carry it out. But first, the general needed to be ended.

Gessler Village

George arrived in Gessler with Kepler not due for another 6 Peaks. There was still plenty of sunlight. The mage asked around until he found the Bloody Trough Inn. He figured out which window would be best for Kepler to enter and paid the owner of the inn to reserve that room before leaving to survey the area. The mage needed to find the perfect spot to teleport when returning to the village.



After a while, he stumbled across the entrance to a mine just east of the village. About 20 paces to the left of the opening was a tree that was tucked against the hillside. He walked over, looked around its base, and realized there was enough room between the hillside and the branches to teleport. To ensure the spot was perfect, he watched how many people came and went from inside the mine. There was little traffic.

Using his sword, George created a pocket within the limbs and cleared away the branches he felt would interfere. At the base, he smoothed the ground to make sure it was level. By the moment he finished, he was familiar enough with the area to avoid a mistake. Just to be sure, he stood inside his wooden cocoon to memorize every detail.

Once confident his surroundings were committed to memory, he walked to the other side of the village and took a practice run. Crossing his fingers and taking a deep breath, the mage closed his eyes. When he opened them, he was standing behind the tree, tucked in his branched alcove.

A smile crossed the mage’s face. Satisfied with his success, the next stop was his mother-in-law’s guesthouse. George closed his eyes and disappeared.

The General Absolute Prepares for Battle

The City of Brandor

Double D arrived at the arena early and hid beneath the stadium where the fighters prepared for battle. He was invisible and had worn his mask since leaving the old man’s home. He hid in the wooden rafters above the staircase that ascended to the fighting surface. He was waiting for the moment when the trumpets would sound.

The assassin reached inside his pouch and produced a dart. He had laced its tip with his finest poison, Polasadis—a poison extracted from asp harpies found in the forest of Kyll, a dark forest on the world of Trollcom. He put the dart into a slender tube that was four hands long, lifted the weapon to his mouth and then waited.

The trumpets sounded. As expected, the general ascended the dark staircase. There were torches on the walls, but they cast just enough light to keep the men from stumbling.

As the general passed beneath him, Double D blew into the tube as soon as he saw the nape of Justin’s neck. The dart flew through the air, hit its target and delivered its wicked poison into the general’s bloodstream. Justin reached back and swatted at the back of his neck and knocked the dart into the shadows.

“Are you alright, General?” one of his bodyguards questioned.

Justin held up his hand to see if there was blood, but the darkness of the passageway prevented him from seeing it.

The assassin was apprehensive. He felt as if the general was going to investigate.

Instead, the general shrugged. “I’m fine. Let’s get going.”

With the prick of the dart being pushed aside as a mild irritation, the murderer relaxed as Justin continued up to the arena. Double D’s smile widened as the crowd erupted at the sight of their champion.

Justin Graywind absorbed the screams of the mob. He had been in this position on many occasions, and his nerves were chiseled from the hardest stone. He walked into the sunlight and took his spot where no other fighter had been allowed to stand. After lifting his sword in the direction of his opponent, Justin pulled it back in front of his face and bowed to honor his next victim.

The general watched as the king gave the signal for the battle to commence. He turned to face his new enemy.

The man began his assault and darted toward him. Justin met this advance with equal measure. The warriors’ blades clashed. They spun in unison, as if their actions had been choreographed before their blades met again.

General Graywind backed away and nodded, acknowledging the skill his enemy displayed. He attacked again. A series of rapid, metal clashes followed from many angles before the general’s foot made contact with the man’s chest and sent him rolling.

Justin motioned for the man to stand, and smiled as the fans screamed with pleasure from the exchange. He circled for a bit, feeling his excitement growing. He lived for this atmosphere. It was his heartbeat. He circled and held his arms high, absorbing the chanting of his name, waiting for his enemy to engage.

As Justin turned to face his foe, his eyes began to dim. He tried to rub the cloudiness from them, but this did not have the effect he was after. What’s wrong? he thought.

Through the fog, the general caught a glimpse of his enemy’s attack. His instincts took over as he stepped to the side to deliver a crushing, left hand to the side of the man’s face. The impact was enough to send his enemy to the ground, hurt and disoriented.

The general realized he did not have moments to waste. It would not be long before he would be unable to see, and now his chest was beginning to pound. Toying with his opponent was not wise while in this condition.

He moved over his opponent and thrust his sword into the back of the man’s head. The point of his blade passed through his skull, exited his foe’s right eye and stuck into the wood of the arena floor beneath the sand. The mighty Graywind left his sword buried in his victim’s skull as he reached up to clutch his chest.

Unaware of the poison coursing through the general’s body, the crowd erupted with sadistic joy. Despite his weakened condition, Justin raised his hands to acknowledge the mob.

The general stumbled toward the center of the arena. His eyesight was almost gone, and now his breathing was extremely labored. Justin dropped his arms and stood motionless. He was frightened, the way a young boy is when he believes something is under his bed. The beast in the general’s own chamber closet was emerging to steal him in the night.

The crowd continued to cheer, but Justin was not comforted by it. His body was cold as his heart slowly thumped against his ribs. He grabbed at his chest again and lifted his voice to shout for the king’s healers, and then he collapsed to his knees.

The crowd instantly silenced.

The king rose to his feet. “Healers! Make haste!”

Justin’s breathing was becoming shorter by the moment. Every breath he took was a gasp to fight for the air he needed to survive. His lungs were filling with blood, and the weight of his body was now too much to bear. He crumbled onto his side and rolled to his back. As he looked toward the sky, he could no longer see the brightness of the sun, and the only sound he could hear was the blood that bubbled in his lungs.

With the healers taking too long, Sam jumped from the king’s box and ran to Justin’s side. He stretched out Justin’s legs to ensure the leader of the army was flat on his back and then put his ear to Justin’s mouth. He could hear the blood gurgling, and Sam knew he had made a mistake by leaving the Soresym’s essence in his chamber. There was no other medicine on this world that could save the general.

Sam turned toward the king’s box and shouted for Shalee. The sorceress floated down to the sand and then ran to his side.

Sam pointed at Justin and said, “Teleport back to our room and grab the griffin’s essence.”

The sorceress vanished. Only a moment or two passed before she reappeared and handed the pouch to Sam.

Sam pulled the cork and poured the urine into Justin’s mouth, but it was too late. The general’s muscles had shut down, his tongue was the size of a small apple, and with his jaw locked, he was no longer able to swallow.

“Use Precious!” Sam ordered. “Make him swallow it!”

Shalee lifted Precious, but no words came out of her mouth. Her arm dropped, and the butt end of the staff buried into the sand. “I don’t know the words for that, Sam. I can’t do anything for him.”

“Teranay!” Sam responded. “Teranay means swallow.”

Without hesitation, Shalee lifted her staff. “Precious, teranay!”

Justin’s body began to shake as the magic tried to force the essence beyond his tongue to make him swallow it, but it did not work. The general’s tongue was too large. It was so swollen that it defeated Shalee’s magic.

The horror in Sam’s eyes served as his reaction.

Shalee dropped to the sand and landed on her knees. Her guilt was epic as she lifted Justin’s head onto her lap. “I’m sorry. I wasn’t strong enough.”

The general’s ears did not hear Shalee’s apology as the king rushed across the sand and dropped down next to his friend. Keldwin was not diplomatic in his actions as he shoved Shalee aside to take the general’s head upon his lap.

The king recognized that his moments with his beloved friend were short. He leaned over to whisper in Justin’s ear, not realizing his voice could not be heard. “You’ll always be my champion, my friend. You’ll be remembered in the pages of old. Pass well, mighty Graywind. I shall be with you in Mosley’s Heaven soon enough.”

The general’s last moment on Grayham would not be peaceful. His powerful hand reached up and grabbed the collar of Keldwin’s armor as his body convulsed.

The king’s eyes were filled with sorrow as the last bit of life abandoned the general’s body, and his eyes closed forever. The mighty Graywind’s grip relaxed, his arm went limp, and his powerful hand dropped to the sand.

A long series of moments passed as the arena sat in silence, but Keldwin’s mind was churning. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. You deserved a noble end. As the silence continued, the king began to question. How could you pass when no one touched you? The king’s eyes captured a glimpse of the blood that was smeared on the side of Justin’s neck. Have you been betrayed?

The king took a closer look. He slowly rolled Justin to his side and noticed the welt that had been left behind by the dart. The king rubbed his finger across the back of his friend’s neck. As he did, he became convinced that the reason for his friend’s passing was, indeed, betrayal. Keldwin stood and shouted, “Guards! Secure the arena! No one leaves until everyone has been searched!”

The king redirected his attention toward the healers. They took the brunt of his anger. “What good are you if you couldn’t stop the general from passing? I should weigh you down and cast you into the depths of the sea.”

The pain in Keldwin’s heart was agonizing. He and Justin had been friends since they were boys. Justin’s father had also served under the late King of Brandor as a high-ranking officer, and as children they shared the same teacher while studying the arts of war. During countless sparring engagements, Justin had often thrown Keldwin to his back.

The boys had done everything together: hunting, fishing, riding, playing, and when they were old enough to appreciate women—hunting of a different kind. The general had always been the better fighter, and when Keldwin ascended to the throne, he watched Justin fight his way to the position of General Absolute. When Justin slew the previous general, Keldwin felt honored as he appointed Justin the new leader of the army. Their friendship had come full circle, and the memories of their lives together would be his until he passed.

Keldwin would make everyone wait until the general’s body was cleared from the arena. One by one, the spectators were searched as they left. The guards desperately searched for any clues that would pertain to Justin’s passing, but they found nothing.

The people who waited in line were filled with anxiety. They had no idea what the king might do or what royal power Keldwin would invoke to appease his tormented mind.

The search for an explanation lasted through the night while the king found solace with Sam and Aaron in a small, secluded room beneath the arena. Keldwin collapsed in Sam’s arms.

Sam motioned for Aaron to give him a moment alone with the king. “Keldwin, I need you to listen to me. I know you’re hurting, but remember how Justin would’ve wanted his king, his friend, to remember him.”

The king pulled away. “I don’t know what to do, Sam. My heart is destroyed. No one knew how close we were. We’ve been friends since we were boys. I confided everything in him. When my queen passed, Aaron was just a babe. It was Justin who helped me be the father I needed to be. What do I do?”

“I think you know what Justin would say. He would tell you to be strong, and remember him with honor. He would tell you to live and enjoy the last few Peaks of your own life and not to waste them living in sorrow. Look forward to being with your friend in the afterlife that Mosley said he would provide for you.”

Sam paused, smiled and then reached up to place his hand on the king’s shoulder. He squeezed. “The general admired you, Keldwin. He spoke of it more than once when he was preparing me for my position.”

The king’s face softened. “Did he say why?”

Sam grinned. “Of course. He admired you for your military mind. He admired you for your strength and honor. He told me of the things you did as children. I believe he could have had no finer friend than you. If Justin was in your place, he would be just as devastated, and I would tell him what I’m about to tell you now. Be strong and honor the fallen. Celebrate Justin’s life, and have the bards write and sing songs to eternalize his memory. He would do the same if fate was reversed.”

“You’re right, Sam. I shall honor Justin and hold my head high. Thank you for your counsel. When I pass, Aaron could not have a finer advisor.”

“Thank you. It will be an honor to serve Aaron.” Sam responded. He then walked with Keldwin to the room where Justin’s body was laying. Until now, Sam had not realized the situation he was in. The king had all but said he was going to command Aaron to make him his advisor. Sam would become the second most powerful man in the kingdom. He shook his head. This is happening way too fast. A one in a billion opportunity and it’s happening to me. Mosley, where are you when I need you? I know something’s not right around here.

The king would not allow the morticians to prod, knowing Justin would not have wanted to be torn apart to satisfy their need for answers.

After a while, Sam encouraged the king to leave the arena. He reminded Keldwin that there was 1 Peak of his tournament left. Even though the general had passed, Justin had still won his battle. Sam could think of no better way to honor the general than to have his Passing Ceremony in the arena Graywind loved so much.

Keldwin liked the idea and called his slaves. He ordered them to spread word throughout the city that the ceremony to honor the general would be held after Late Bailem. The slaves scattered.

Sam walked the king to his carriage and comforted Keldwin during the ride back to the castle. He was exhausted when he entered his room, and Shalee was waiting. They embraced. But they avoided talking and went to bed.

When Late Bailem arrived the next night, the arena was filled with royalty, nobles, and the members of the Senate. The adoring fans of the general filled what was left of the seats.

Two hundred of the king’s personal guards lined up in four formations around the platform at the center of the arena. The king entered, followed by Aaron, Sam, Shalee, Helga, BJ, Michael, and a few other officers who had made it back from their assignments.

Keldwin led Sam and Aaron to the top of the platform to stand next to the general’s body. They took turns saying goodbye and touched the warrior’s sword before they left Keldwin alone with Justin’s corpse.

The king knew the general would not want words to be spoken. He would honor his friend this way for one last moment. He bent over to kiss Justin’s forehead and then lit the fire before he descended the stairs.

The arena sat in silence as the blaze consumed the structure. No one was allowed to leave until the flames subsided. This was the Kingdom of Brandor’s way of showing respect, and the dying of the fire signified the ascension of the general’s soul.

The next Peak, Sam was brought into the throne room and sworn into the General Absolute’s position until Keldwin passed. Michael returned to the position of second in command, and Sam sent word for his officers to return to Brandor immediately. Observing Keldwin’s demeanor, Sam knew the king did not have many Peaks left to live, and it would not be long before he was advising Aaron.





5 MORE PEAKS OF BAILEM have passed since Sam sent slaves to retrieve his officers throughout the kingdom. They have returned. The senators who remained in the city after learning of their king’s failing health have been directed to the throne room with the officers of the army. The king is weak and wants to make an announcement before passing. What he will say to his men is of utmost importance. The king has spent much of the last 2 Peaks working on the details of passing his crown to Aaron.





DOUBLE D is hiding in the castle, waiting for the perfect moment to kill the prince. He was sitting in the corner of the throne room, with his mask on to hide his presence when he learned of the king’s failing health. Keldwin told his subjects where he wanted his viewing to be held. The way the king described how his casket would be placed was the perfect set-up for Double D.





GEORGE kissed Athena goodbye and teleported back to Gessler to meet with Kepler. He is napping in his room at The Bloody Trough, waiting for the jaguar and his brothers to enter through the window.





CELESTRIA is only 40 Peaks of Bailem from giving birth. She sat the elven witch family down to have a long conversation about how they are wearing on her nerves. They have promised to change their attitudes because of this stern talk.





MOSLEY is going to attend the passing of Keldwin’s crown and wants to ensure the transition of power is perceived as supported by the gods. His team has also decided to take an interest in this event, and they are now en route.

The gods know Double D is in the city, and they are curious. Although they cannot intervene, they want to show their support of the king’s decision to turn his crown over to the prince before he passes.





LASIDIOUS plans to entice the Serpent King, Seth, to visit George in the city of Bloodvain. He knows George is now only 7 Peaks from the Barbarian King’s city.





SENCHAE BLOODVAIN is training harder than ever. His mind has not been able to rest.





ONLY 4 PEAKS remain until the people harvest their crops across the Kingdom of Brandor. The oversized harvest wagons are finished, and the barns are complete. Sam has dispatched part of the king’s fleet to the coastal cities to wait for the wagons to arrive with their cargo.





Thank you for reading this edition of the Grayham Inquirer