Ascendants of Ancients Sovereign

CHAPTER 39

Surrounded





Griffin Cliffs

Southern Grayham





MOSLEY WAS SITTING WITH SORESYM inside the mouth of the griffin’s cave below the Temple of the Gods. “Sam is walking into a trap, and there is nothing I can do to help,” the wolf complained. “His Peaks as the leader of Brandor’s pack are numbered. To have the power of the gods and be bound like this is frustrating.”

“What kind of trap are you referring to, wolf?” Soresym questioned while looking across the beauty of the valley far below where they sat.

Mosley’s eyes questioned. “You do know Sam is the King of Brandor?”

The griffin fluffed the feathers on his head to allow the breeze to refresh his skin. “I do. Information of this nature travels quickly.”

The wolf scratched the back of his ear. “Sam is leading Brandor’s pack toward the Serpent King’s lair. He has no idea that he’s about to be attacked from all sides...” The wolf continued to divulge everything he knew.

When Soresym finally responded, the Griffin Lord looked confused. “Why would the Minotaur and the bears break their alliance with Brandor? Brandor has allowed them to live in peace for many seasons. They’ve even been allowed to compete in the arenas.”

“Sam was the one who defeated their champions,” Mosley replied, “both of them.”

Soresym cringed as a griffin would. “I knew the Minotaur fell by Sam’s hand, however, I didn’t realize it was Sam who defeated the bear. This doesn’t bode well for Brandor, but this doesn’t justify breaking their alliance.”

“Did you know the Crystal Moon was stolen?”

“Stolen? When?”

“When is unimportant. The Crystal Moon is missing, and its pieces have been scattered. Two of them are on Grayham.”

Soresym tapped his talons against the floor of the cave. “What do the missing pieces of crystal have to do with the bear and Minotaur?”

“A trick has been played. They believe Brandor plans to destroy all beasts on Southern Grayham who have an established monarchy.”

“Why would they believe such foolishness?”

Mosley took the moments to explain.

After the griffin digested what the wolf had said, he wondered, “Why would a piece of the crystal be inside the scorpions’ nest?”

“Lasidious put it there.”

The confusion on Soresym’s feather-covered face magnified. “Why?”

“My friend, why is not important. Lasidious does things for his own reasons. What is important ... his actions have started a war, and a human named George has secured both pieces of the Crystal Moon. He has claimed to have hidden them somewhere within Seth’s den. Brandor marches to fight for them.”

Soresym nodded. “Then the temple must have been sealed to keep the faithful from knowing.”

Mosley nodded. “Indeed. I’m concerned for Sam’s life. It looks as if he will perish while trying to retrieve the crystals. I’ve been watching Southern Grayham with a keen eye. The movement of the armies suggests only one outcome. Sam is in a hopeless situation.”

Soresym shrieked to release his agitation. “Sam is a good human! It can’t be his season to pass. The gods must do something to stop this.”

Mosley moved to the edge of the cliff. “The laws of the gods are clear. I cannot intervene. Soresym, you’re the mighty leader of your pack, yet even you are bound by your laws. I’m sure you understand.”

The griffin stood and stretched his wings. After a moment, he shook his head in disgust. “Sam is the king Brandor has always needed. I’ve come to know this human, and something must be done.”

“But who is left to help?” Mosley rebutted. “There’s nothing anyone can do on this world or in the heavens. I’ll say it again. Sam’s Peaks are numbered.”

Both Mosley and Soresym stood in silence for a moment before the wolf continued. “I must take my leave, my friend. There are matters to which I must attend. I will find you again when the pyre for Sam’s passing is lit.”

The griffin looked out across the valley in deep thought. “I need to prepare my mind to accept this loss. Good Peak, wolf.” Soresym leapt from the edge of the cliff and fell more than 1,500 paces before he opened his wings and swooped out over the mist.

As Mosley watched the griffin soar, he laughed. A moment later, the image of the wolf morphed into a more mischievous persona. The god’s eyes glowed red, and his teeth turned to sharpened, fine points. “Celestria, my love, my part is finished.” Lasidious vanished.

Ancients Sovereign

The Home of Lasidious and Celestria

Lying in bed, Lasidious reached up to adjust his pillow, and then he put his hands behind his head. “George masterfully manipulated Southern Grayham. He was always two steps ahead and made the most unlikely, but useful allies, wouldn’t you agree?”



Celestria rolled over and cupped the Mischievous One’s face in her hands. “I’ve missed your smile, my love. I cannot tell you how often I thought of the fun you must be having. I would love to have watched your scheming mind carry out our plans, my pet.” She licked the lobe of Lasidious’ ear. “So ... you sent George to Western Luvelles to take care of our baby?”

“I did.”

“You are a clever devil-god. Susanne will be a wonderful mother until we’re able to bring our son to the god world. I hope George gives the baby a strong name.”

“If I know George, our child will be given the perfect name.”

“What about the war?” the goddess queried. “Will the distraction be enough to capture the attention of the Collective?”

Lasidious kissed Celestria’s forehead. “This war will be the biggest Southern Grayham has ever seen. I’ve kept the gods busy. Mosley managed to sneak away now and again, but he doesn’t know anything useful. I have a solid idea of what everyone is thinking. None of the gods know that George is on Luvelles. It’ll be a fair number of Peaks before they figure it out.”

“It gives me comfort to hear your confidence, my sweet.”

Lasidious ran his fingertips along the contour of Celestria’s body. “I’m pleased you’re comforted. The Head Master of Luvelles isn’t scheduled to meet with George for nearly 100 Peaks. After George kills the witches, there will be no need for him to use his magic. There will be nothing to draw attention to his family.”

“How close are they to Floren?”

“They should arrive in Floren by the end of the Peak.”

“Good. I don’t imagine the others will divert their attention from the war because of the death of a few useless witches.” Celestria frowned. “They drove me mad, my love.” She nestled into Lasidious’ arms. “Nevertheless, I knew you had everything under control. Please! Never make me have another child without using my power. The pain was excruciating. I don’t think I could suffer it again.”

The goddess reached up and touched the end of Lasidious’ nose. “But on a more positive note, I did relearn how to bake. I shall make you an ospliton pie, my pet.”

The gods enjoyed this simple thought as they began to ravage the night away.





The next morning, Lasidious woke and without saying a word. He left his goddess lying in bed and vanished. When he reappeared, he was standing in front of a large group of rats. As instructed, Keller was guiding Maldwin’s family to the cliffs of Latasef.

Seeing the man appear out of nowhere, Keller took a defensive stance and growled at Lasidious. The demon was about to pounce when Lasidious held up his hand and spoke in the ancient language of all demons. “Ered’nash ban galar.”

Keller snarled. The phrase Lasidious used was a command to elicit conversation. The cat was obligated to respond. “What do you want? This family is under my protection. I won’t allow their journey to be hindered.”

“You are a mighty escort,” the Mischievous One responded. “I’m not here in search of conflict.” He looked down at Maldwin. “I need to speak with the rat,” the god said in the rodent’s language.

Maldwin replied, “Who are you?”

“A friend. George informed me of his promise to provide your family a home.”

“Where is George? Kepler’s brother said he was taking us to the cliffs of Latasef, but he has no knowledge of what we’re to do once we arrive.”

Lasidious smiled. “George has seen to your comfort. You’ll be taken care of. He has asked me to give your family a home like no other. Follow the mountains east until you come to a small opening just before the mountains drop into the ocean. What you will find there is a glorious existence. Your new home is protected by my power. Your family will always be safe.”

Maldwin’s nose twitched. “Thank you. I did not know George had such powerful friends. When you see him, please tell him I’m honored, and I’ll be there for him if ever he needs me.”

Lasidious squatted and waved his hand over the ground. A huge wheel of cheese appeared. Moving out of the way, he smiled as he watched the Maldwin’s family swarm. Again, the Mischievous One waved his hand, and Maldwin floated into his arms. He positioned the rat so he could see the rodent’s eyes. “You can tell George yourself. I’m sure you will see him again.” With that, Lasidious lowered Maldwin to the ground and then vanished.

Keller looked down and watched as the rats ate. He growled, “You could’ve left me something!”

The World of Luvelles

When George arrived in the village of Floren on Western Luvelles with Athena’s family, it was just past Late Bailem. The mage loved this new world. Everything he had seen since their arrival had been created with magical influences. The magic on this world was much, much stronger than anything he had seen on Southern Grayham. In some areas, the air carried the sweet smell of it.



The people seemed friendly, but George and Kepler noticed that there was a dark side. Two-faced whispers and passing glances told a story of a deeper, darker nature that lurked below the pleasing surface that many of Western Luvelles’ inhabitants presented.

This journey had taken them through other villages of similar size, but they did not appear on George’s map. The general look and feel of this world’s smaller homes exuded class, and magic was used to create many items that did not exist on Southern Grayham. It was nice to have a cold drink instead of a warm ale.

As the family entered Kebble’s Kettle, Kepler did not need to hide. Along the way, they had seen many elves walking through the countryside with various breeds of animals.

The inn was comfortable, and Kebble’s Kettle was like an upscale boutique hotel from Earth, but with many magical upgrades. The walls looked as if they were made of any normal construction material, but upon a closer inspection, George realized that they were made of flesh—the structure was alive.

As George passed his hands across the surface, millions of tiny hairs tickled the palms of his hands. The walls possessed a natural warmth, just like the human body.

This is fascinating, George thought. I wonder how this is done? The magic on this world must be disgusting. How cool is this?

Aside from a small check-in counter to the left of the entrance, the dining area and the tavern occupied the rest of the spacious room. George watched as one of the patrons ordered a drink. The man reached out and pulled the beverage from mid-air as the drink floated over to his table. “Now, that’s what I call service,” George said as he nudged Athena. “I’m going to like this joint.”

Athena tugged at George’s sleeve and whispered, “George, my family is scared. What should I tell them?”

George pulled her close. “Tell them I’ve got everything under control. I won’t let anything happen to them. Besides, look at this place. It’s amazing. Let’s pass judgment once we’ve finished looking around, not before.”

The colors of the inn were earth tones. They were pleasant to the eye, as was the vaulted ceiling that shot up above the fifth story. There were no stairs leading to the remaining levels of the structure, nor were there elevators. They watched a woman step onto a small circular platform and vanish. She reappeared on a balcony three floors up.

“No freaking way,” George boasted. “This is like some kind of Star Trek garesh. The magic in this place is nuts.”

Athena slapped George’s arm. “George Nailer, watch your mouth.”

George would have responded to apologize, but a dustpan flew past his head. As it did, it asked to be excused as it made its way to the far side of the room. A small, brown broom had followed close behind, and it pushed the dirt off the floor and into the pan. The tools then disappeared through a set of double doors on the far side of the inn. You’ve got to be kidding me! Even the cleaning is done magically. This is some Cinder-freaking-rella garesh, he thought.

Again, Athena tugged on George’s shirt. “Honey, wouldn’t it be great if our new homes cleaned themselves?”

“That would be cool, huh?”

“Hello, friend,” the innkeeper said after suddenly appearing on the other side of the counter. “I see we need a number of beds for the night.”

A short, wobbly man, barely able to see over the counter, climbed up a set of booster steps. He had long, narrow, pointy ears, a pudgy nose, and a billowing pipe sat firmly pinched between his teeth. The sweet cherry-flavored tobacco had stained his graying mustache yellowish-brown over his seasons, yet somehow, the stains managed to complement his rosy cheeks. The smell of the tobacco was pleasant, and George could not help but notice the point of the innkeeper’s ears that protruded through his hair.

The mage smiled and approached the counter. “Yes. We do need rooms. Thank you. My name is George, and this is my family. And your name is?”

“If you saw the sign out front, then you know my name,” the innkeeper responded with a jolly grin. “I’m Kebble. You can call me … well, Kebble works. Everyone in this village calls me Kebble. Welcome to Kebble’s Kettle. What can Kebble do for you? He’s in a delightful mood.”

George turned to look at Kepler as if to say, Is this guy for real? He turned back around and reached out to shake the elf’s hand.

Kebble stopped chuckling and took the mage’s forearm. He counted everyone in George’s group, doing it on three occasions since he kept losing count. After a while, he said, “I see you need enough beds for 31 and one giant kitty.”

Kepler growled, “I’m not a kitty! We need beds for 34 humans, not 31, and one jaguar.” The demon then thought, What an imbecile.

“Whoa!” Kebble responded as he looked at George. “Looks like you have a testy little p-ssycat on your hands. You can keep him in your room, but we have a special place for goswigs to relieve themselves. If you’d like, you can take your feline to the sandbox to the right of the inn.”

“Goswigs?” George repeated with a confused look as Kepler continued to growl. “What’s a goswig?”

Kebble stopped a moment to look at the human. “How could you not know what a goswig is?”

“Should I know?” George shrugged.

“Of course. If you travel with one, you should know something so trivial.” Kebble pointed to Kepler. “He’s larger than most, and I’m sure his garesh will fill my sandbox, but he looks goswig to me.”

“Kepler isn’t a goswig. He’s my friend. We’re new to this world, and we have no clue what you’re talking about. We’ve recently arrived by way of the Merchant Angels.”

Kebble’s fat cheeks wrinkled as his smile widened. “Now I know who you are! You’re the one who has come to study under the Head Master. I’ve been expecting you. It’s an honor to meet you, George. Allow me to give you and your family complimentary rooms for your first night. I have a substantial sum of coin waiting for you as the Head Master requested.”

George leaned over the counter. “Perhaps you and I could speak of the coin during some other series of moments. I’d like to get my family settled first.”

“By all means. I also have a package for someone named Mary. Is she in your group?”

Mary heard her name and approached the counter. “I’m Mary, but I doubt you have a package for me. I’ve only just arrived.”

Kebble grinned. “I think we’ll let the package decide if you’re the correct being it seeks.”

“I don’t understand.”

“You don’t need to understand, young lady. There are many things a young woman of your seasons has not experienced. Give me your hand.”

Mary looked at Athena. “He called me young. I think I like this place.”

Susanne pushed Athena aside. “Mother, give the man your hand. I want to know if the package is yours.”

Mary stuck out her arm. The elf’s hand was much smaller than hers as he pulled it toward him. He removed the note from the top of the package and placed her fingertips against it. Sure enough, the paper changed color from a bright yellow to a passionate red. The package was for her.

As George watched the note change color, he thought, Holy freaking Harry Potter.

Kebble puffed his pipe, then nodded. “Yep, yep, yep ... this is yours, madam. A parchment’s magic is never wrong. Someone has their eye on you.” He leaned in and winked. “Someone important.”

Mary was not sure if she should be happy or scared. She had never had anything like this happen before. “Thank you, Kebble … I think.”

“You’re welcome, my lady.” The chubby elf turned his attention back to George. “You must be a talented apprentice to be given such an honor. To be invited to this world by the Head Master is a rare occurrence. I’m sure you’ll be assigned a goswig. You’ll be able to learn about them for yourself.”

“Ohhh, Mother!” Athena exclaimed as Mary lifted the lid off the package.

Mary gasped. “I know! Have you ever seen anything so beautiful?” Mary held up an elegant dinner gown. “Blue is my favorite color. And...” She gasped again. “And it’s my size. I wonder who it’s from. How could this person know so much about me?” She looked at the innkeeper. “Mr. Kebble, do you know who sent this? Should I be concerned?”

“I do know the culprit, my lady, but I cannot tell you his name. I will say this ... you have nothing to fear. Your admirer is not a threat to you or your family.”

Kebble looked at George, leaned across the counter and whispered. “As I was going to say earlier, tell your kitty not to pee on the floor. I don’t normally allow animals who aren’t goswig to stay inside my establishment. But I’ll make an exception since you’re new to this world. I know it’s hard to keep an un-bonded animal in line. Filthy little critters, don’t you agree?”

George could feel the jaguar’s agitation. He thanked Kebble for his generosity and asked for the keys to their rooms. The family stepped onto the circular platform and appeared in front of their doors on the fourth level. Once inside, George familiarized himself with every detail.

As soon as Athena was settled, George gave Kepler the nod. “Are you ready to go?”

Kepler lifted from the floor and stretched.

George shook his head. “Damn, you’re a big S.O.B. It’s a good thing this room is huge, or you wouldn’t fit. I’ll meet you out front in a bit. I want to say goodbye to Athena.”

The demon left the room without responding. Kepler jumped over the top of the railing on the fourth floor and landed next to the front desk on the first.

George grinned as he shut the door behind the cat. “I wish I could do that.” The mage walked into the washroom, put his arms around his beautiful wife and then rubbed her belly. “I’ll be back in a little while. I’m going to go pick up Susanne’s baby.”

“Ahhh, that sounds wonderful, honey. Take me with you.”

George had to think fast. Taking Athena was impossible. “You know, babe, I just need some moments to myself. I’ll make it up to you later. Can I do this on my own, please? I need to chill for a bit.”

Athena smiled. “I just can’t get over how funny you talk, George Nailer. I know our trip has been stressful on you. Just try and hurry back with … with … ummm. That’s strange. I can’t remember the baby’s name. Honey, I’m a terrible aunt.”

“Garrin. His name is Garrin,” George replied as he kissed his wife on the cheek. “Tell your sister I’ll be back in a bit. I’m sure you’re going to be the best aunt this world has ever seen. The whole family will be happy to see the little guy.”

George hated lying to Athena, but he could not figure a way around this one. The lie was necessary to get Abbie back. If he had to raise Lasidious’ kid to get his daughter’s soul released from the Book, then so be it. But he would be damned before he would allow lying to his wife to become a habit. He desperately wanted to protect their relationship.

Once downstairs, George found Kebble. “Do you know where the Rolfe family lives?”

“Sure,” the innkeeper responded. “Kebble knows everybody. They’re Ashdown. It’s not a far trek. When you leave the inn, take the road south. You’ll come across two bushes. You’ll know they’re the right ones because they fight a lot. The—”

George interrupted. “Kebble, you want me to look for fighting bushes? Aren’t there any signs or something better to navigate by?”

“Well, of course, but this is far more fascinating. Trust me. The roses think the blushel berries have no right to be planted on their side of the road. Just between you and me, I agree. The roses are far more pleasant. I’ve seen the blushel berry bush throw its rotten berries at the roses on many occasions. It’s not very neighborly.”

Again, George stopped the elf. “Kebble, perhaps you could just tell me the signs I need to look for.”

“Kebble could do many things, but let him write it down for you.”

After a while, Kebble handed George a parchment. Everything was written in the Elven language.

You’ve got to be kidding me. I can’t read any of this crap, George thought. He looked up and smiled. “Thanks. I’m sure this will help. I’ll have to visit the Rolfe family one of these Peaks. I’ll find you in the morning and get the package that you said was left behind for me, if that’s okay?”

“That’s fine by Kebble. He has a safe place to store your belongings. The Head Master asked me to give you anything you needed. I wouldn’t want to keep that much coin on my person if I were you ... especially in this village. We have many shady characters come through here. I’m sure you understand.”

George nodded. “Thanks again, Kebble. See you tomorrow.”

Once George stepped outside, Kepler was quick to speak. “Kebble is an irritating man. Can you believe the nerve of that elf? He has called me a kitty more than once. Ever since I watched you torture the Saber Lord, I’ve hated that word. I have half a mind to go back in there and devour him. ‘Tell your kitty not to pee on the floor,’ he said. ‘It’s hard to keep an un-bonded animal in line.’ The nerve of that guy! The sound of his voice makes me long for blood. If his soul didn’t smell innocent, I’d have my first skeleton on this world.”

George reached up to pat Kepler’s enormous back. “Once we kill these damn witches, we need to lay low for a while. We’ve got to chill out until we’re contacted by the Head Master. Let’s not do anything stupid until we hear from Lasidious.”

Kepler snarled. “But I refuse to garesh in Kebble’s sandbox.”

George grinned as they continued their midnight walk toward the witches’ home, his magic lighting the way.





Later that night, George was standing over the stone bodies of the elven witch family as he studied their gray faces. The mage had used his magic to keep them silent while Kepler feasted on parts of each of them before the mage had turned what was left to stone. After a moment of staring at his handiwork, George looked for the baby. He found the god-child in one of the bedroom chambers and then lifted Garrin into his arms.

On his way out of the home, the mage waved his free hand over the witches’ statues. They crumbled to the floor into mounds of powder. He opened the front door and commanded a small whirlwind to enter the home. After gathering the piles of dust, the funnel disappeared into the night to scatter their remains across a nearby field.

George looked down at the baby’s innocent eyes. “Hey, little guy,” he said, holding the child’s tiny hand in his palm. “I’m your Uncle George, and this is your big kitty-cat, Kepler.”

The demon growled, “That’s not funny, George!”

George reached up and scratched Kepler’s chin. “Can’t you just let a guy have some fun?” He looked back down at the baby. “Anyway, I’m going to take care of you. Let’s go find your new mother.”

The mage reached up and placed his hand on Kepler’s neck. After teleporting back to the room at the inn, he handed the baby to Athena. He smiled at the joy the newborn brought to his wife’s face. Soon the entire family was in their room, loving and ogling over the god-child, Garrin.

Southern Grayham

The Serpent King’s Kingdom

Sam’s army crossed the Snake River as they headed west. The legions had to pass through an enormous mire. It was cold, wet, mossy, waist-deep in spots, and it slowed the pace of the army significantly. The men were not able to sleep that first night while in the mire. The area was full of predators, and any man who traveled alone would have been attacked and devoured. However, due to the size of the army, those same predators fled—all, that is, except the leeches. They attached to the men’s legs, feet and other places considered more private. It was not until the army reached dry land that a tent could be pitched, and the men were able to burn the blood suckers off of their skin to get some sleep.





The underground city of the Serpent King sat beneath a vast area of lava stone. Sam could not figure out how the serpents burrowed through the rock, but since his arrival on Grayham, he had seen many things he never thought were possible.

The General Absolute was nervous about the army making camp in such a vulnerable location. Michael feared a surprise attack, but one never came. It was as if the snakes wanted to stay below ground to wait for Brandor to enter their lair—or better yet, they did not know the army was approaching. Either way, their absence did not bother the general’s king.

Over the next 2 Peaks, Brandor’s army moved into position. As Sam looked up, the sun had reached its highest point. “General, I want a report.”

“Sire, the four legions you ordered to meet the barbarian army should be in position by Early Bailem. I sent Dreston and his legion into the serpent’s lair. We have another 5,500 men waiting outside the entrance. They’ve been given the order to attack once Dreston flushes them out.”

Sam patted the side of his horse’s neck as Michael maneuvered his stallion into a better position from which to converse. They had hoped to find a tactical location with high ground to command the army, but the area was fairly flat, and a single, small hill was all the terrain offered.

The heavy trunks of large trees had broken through the lava stone, blocking any chance at having a clear line of sight. Sam and Michael would need to rely on their scouts to deliver updated information. It was a miserable battleground.

The Serpent King’s Lair

Dreston and his legion descended into the opening of Seth’s reptilian hideaway with torches held high. Their swords were drawn and every man’s eyes searched for the enemy.

The air was putrid with the sound of dried snakeskin crunching beneath their feet. Every so often, a rattle or hiss could be heard, but their origin could not be determined. It was as if the serpents were toying with them.

Many moments passed before they came to a path that was no more than 12 paces across. To the left was a drop into darkness with no visible bottom and to the right, more of the same. The path of lava stone was too narrow, an impossible crossing for 2,300 men. The ceiling was too high to be seen, their torches not strong enough to penetrate that far into the darkness.

By Dreston’s estimate, the men had descended nearly 300 paces. Something was not right. He held up his scar-covered hand. “This will have to do,” he whispered. “We can go no further.”

Dreston was a strong man, with nine previous battles to his name, all of them with barbarian scouting parties. His legion was Sam’s finest, and his men were known for their fearless acceptance of impossible assignments. This Peak’s task was no exception. “Lieutenant, bring the barrels forward and place them every 15 paces on either side of the ledge.”

The lieutenant sheathed his sword and handed his torch to one of the sergeants. “How many?”

“All of them!” Dreston snapped. “I want them opened and their wicks set. We’ll burn the bastards out.”

The lieutenant hesitated. “All of them? There are over 80. The cavern will become toxic. The men won’t be able to breathe.”

Dreston looked over the ledge. “When the barrels hit the bottom, our men will be clear of this pit. We can outrun the smoke to the surface. The serpents will be left with no choice, but to come to us.”

The lieutenant turned and looked at his sergeant. He nodded, “Make it happen. Spread word to prepare to run.” The sergeant smiled and did as instructed.

With barrels in position, three men were assigned to each to ensure they were pushed into the pit. Once again, Dreston moved to the edge and held his torch over the side. Something moved toward the ledge, trying to escape the light. “Lieutenant, they’re beneath us. They’re under our damn feet. It’s an ambush. We’re right where they want us.”

Dreston signaled to light the wicks. As the torches were lowered, he took hold of the lieutenant’s hand and leaned over the ledge. His eyes widened as hundreds of holes covered the surface of the wall below, and twice as many eyes were beginning to climb toward them.

Dreston shouted, “Get those damn barrels over the edge! Prepare for battle, and retreat to the surface!”

As the legion leader finished his orders, the first of the giant snakes crested the ledge and used its powerful body in a whip-like fashion, knocking three of Dreston’s men into the darkness. Their hopeless cries echoed throughout the cavern as they disappeared.

As the barrels were pushed over, some of them splashed onto the serpents’ coils and the liquid burst into flames. The heat against their skin sent the snakes into a frenzy that worked against both Dreston’s men and the serpents. As they thrashed wildly about, they knocked members of each army off the ledge.

Dreston pulled his sword from the eye of his first kill, then turned to look for another as two fangs bit down on his lower body from behind. Agony filled his eyes as the serpent snatched him up and slung him from side to side. The legion leader’s leg gave under the pressure and shredded at the hip as if it was an overcooked piece of chicken being picked apart. The serpent swallowed the appendage and then turned to find the rest of his delicacy.

Dreston’s fall knocked two more of his men from the ledge as he landed in an awkward position, his left arm breaking beneath the weight of his body. The coils of the giant snake scooped him up as the snake’s head lifted to a position above him.

The legion’s leader maintained his wit and with his last ounce of heart, he thrust his blade into the upper palate of the serpent’s mouth as it struck. The creature cried out in a bloodcurdling, hissing scream and then twisted into a tight ball of death as the smoke from the exploding barrels billowed over the top of the ledge.

The serpents disappeared as the toxic fumes turned into a black fog, and the men who could run retreated.

Back on the Surface

“Sire!” a scout shouted as he stopped in front of Sam. “The barbarians have allied with the giant cats of the north, and that isn’t the worst of it. I saw unicorns hidden among their numbers. Their magic is enough to destroy all of us!”



“How many, damn it?” Sam snapped.

“Hundreds of cats and at least 40, maybe 50 unicorns,” the man answered. “We can’t fight this kind of force. Our men will perish. Sire, we need to retreat and establish a new battle plan.”

“Hold your tongue!” Sam ordered. “Who are you to tell me what we need to do?” Sam thought for a moment, and then he turned to Michael. “General, let’s get out of here.”

Michael had not given the order before a second scout rushed up from behind, screaming and nearly out of breath. “Sire!” the scout blurted as he bent over to capture the air he needed to continue speaking. “The Minotaur approach from the northeast. They travel with the skeletons and the cats of the plains. Their numbers are impossible to determine. The skeletons can’t be destroyed. The cats ended four of us as we retreated, but I was able to break away and remain unseen.”

“More cats? How many?” Sam questioned. “Speak man!”

“Perhaps 300, My King. I cannot be sure.”

Sam shook his head and turned his mount toward Michael. “The Minotaur? I know they’re angry, but still. They’re supposed to be our allies!”

Michael shook his head. “This doesn’t make sense. Perhaps their king has decided that vengeance is preferable over peace.”

“Bah! I beat his champion fair and square. Retreat to the southern shore. We’ll work our way home from there. Sound the horn.”

Michael had no sooner raised the horn to his mouth when another voice called out. “My King, the bears are coming!” The third scout announced from horseback.

“What the hell is going on here?” Sam snapped. “Are they angry as well?”

Michael steadied his mount. “No, Sire. There was no dispute over your victory. They’re allies. This is a blessing. We can use this to our advantage. We can ask for their assistance.”

“No, My King,” the scout cut in. “The bears have killed two of us already. They approach as enemies. They’re thousands strong, and they’re angry.”

Sam looked at Michael. “We’re surrounded. Any bright ideas?”

“The majority of our army is too far north to be of any help.” Michael lowered his head. After a brief series of moments, he lifted it. A fire burned in his eyes as a smile spread across his face. “This Peak appears to be a good Peak to perish, Sire.” The general ripped his sword from its sheath. “It has been a pleasure to know you, My King. But the moments for plans have passed. I say we fight to honor Lord Mosley and give Hosseff many souls to reap.”

The king ripped Kael from his sheath and lifted the blade high above his head. He commanded the sword of the gods to bring forth its fire. The blade screamed with joy at the thought of the pain they were about to inflict. “You’re right, Michael! It is a good Peak to perish!”

As Sam faced his horse in the direction of the Minotaur King, he thought of Shalee and his unborn baby. He knew there would be many wonderful joys that he would miss—his child’s first step, first smile, first word, and the happiness they would bring to Shalee’s face. He could only hope his queen would be strong enough to raise their baby on her own. He looked to the sky and was about to proclaim his love for Shalee, but he noticed a dark, fluttering cloud. He dropped Kael to his side. “General, look!”

“My Lord, it is the griffins and the hippogriffs. It looks as if every creature on Grayham is coming for us.”

“Don’t be so quick to judge!” Sam barked. The king lifted Kael into the air and commanded the blade to burn bright. “Soresym!” he screamed.

From high above, Soresym’s eagle eyes spotted the King of Brandor’s signal. Before altering his course, he ordered his family of more than 250 griffins and 600 hippogriffs into battle.





Meanwhile, to the north, the dark-gray steeds, with pure white horns, had been ordered to act as the first wave of Senchae’s attack. The unicorns had moved ahead of Kepler’s giant cats and the Barbarian King’s army. Numbering 50 strong, the magical steeds galloped into battle as lightning erupted from their horns. The magic arced between Brandor’s men. The joints of their plate and links of their chain armor were welded solid as they fell to the ground, charred and lifeless.

The magic was overwhelming, and Brandor’s men were forced to retreat, dodging from side-to-side to avoid an electrical death. But on this Peak, at this very spot, Nathan, a sergeant, and four of his men would hold their ground. They would not run. They had found an alcove within the lava rock to hide, and they were waiting for the unicorns to pass.

Nathan’s father, Fordamus, had been a tactician of war for most of his life, and he had advised the late King of Brandor, Keldwin, for many seasons. Fordamus was essential when it came to planning battle strategies to protect the kingdom. These strategies had also been embedded into Nathan as a child and allowed him to recognize a helpless situation when he saw one. He knew their current location was without an exit strategy, but he would not go down without a fight. The sergeant and his men would attempt to narrow the odds before they perished.

The five men removed their armor and crept up behind the magical steeds after they passed. Their approach was fast and silent. From a stealth-run, the men plunged their blades deep into the necks of an equal number of unsuspecting unicorns. As the steeds fell, the men quickly chopped off their horns and clenched them in their hands.

Realizing what had happened, the rest of the herd stopped.

Nathan shouted, “Hold the horns tightly! They’ll protect us from their magic! Ready your blades and fight together! No matter what ... no surrender!”

“NO SURRENDER!” the men shouted in the direction of the unicorns.

The steeds encircled the small group. Lightning, fireballs, and storms of ice were used against them, but the horns’ magical resistances kept them safe. The eyes of the unicorns were filled with rage, knowing their magic was useless against their own power. They scuffed their hooves across the lava stone and tightened the circle.

Nathan shouted, “Pass with honor! No surrender!”

“NO SURRENDER!”

Suddenly, from above, Soresym’s mighty family plowed into the unicorns. One after another, like meteors, the griffins dove with their wings tucked tight to their bodies. Just before impact, they spread their razor-sharp talons on their front legs and claws on their back paws and drove the unicorns into the ground.

Blood sprayed in all directions as if bombs of red liquid had been dropped from a tremendous height. The force of the spray stung the faces of Nathan’s men.

The screams of the unicorns filled the air, matched only by the shrieking battle cries of the griffins. The smallest of the winged attackers—weighing more than 4,900 pounds—buried its talons deep into the flesh of one of its enemies and severed the unicorn’s spine.

Thirty unicorns perished with no chance of defending themselves. The others, though injured, responded by using their magic to teleport home to the Dark Forest. The strongest threat to Brandor’s army had been disbanded in a matter of a few short moments.

Nathan’s men lifted their swords and cheered for their winged allies. The moment had arrived to turn their attention to the next big threat. Kepler’s feline subjects, which included the support of the barbarian archers, were the next wave they would face.

The rest of Brandor’s army stopped their retreat to rejoin the battle while Nathan and his men climbed back into their alcove of stone to retrieve their armor.

Once again, the mighty griffins and their family of hippogriffs dropped from the sky. Forty of the giant cats perished—another 52 lay injured and unable to fight. However, the winged army was not without casualties. Many of the giant cats were ready to pounce, their quick reflexes allowed them to avoid being crushed. They leapt onto their assailants’ backs and tore into the feathers covering the back of their necks.

The arrows of the Barbarian archers darkened the sky, causing little damage to the griffins whose thick hides protected them as they descended for another attack. The hippogriffs were not so fortunate. Their hides were not as resistant to the projectiles. Forty-seven hippogriffs fell in an uncontrolled spiral, their blood staining the ground as they splattered.

The largest of the griffins snatched the cats up with their talons. They carried them high into the air and used the felines’ bodies as projectiles against the barbarian archers. The men of the north were in tight formation and could not avoid being crushed beneath the weight of the giant cats as they rained from the sky.





Soresym shrieked as he landed in front of Sam. “It appears I’ve come at a moment of need, King of Brandor.”

Sam let out a sigh of relief. “I can’t tell you how happy I am that you’re here. We’re outnumbered and surrounded. I could use your help.”

Soresym shrieked again. “The unicorns are no longer a concern for your army, but I fear the hippogriffs will be no match for the barbarians’ arrows.”

The griffin shifted and looked over his back as he scanned the area. “Order your army to the north to assist your legions. We will deal with the serpents since they have no airborne weapons. I, on the other hand, will fly south and speak with Groth. I’ll convince the bear to fight with us. The Minotaur should stop their attack once they realize I’m fighting at your side.”

Sam pulled back on the reins of his mount. “The Minotaur are angry about their champion. They may not listen.”

“Do as I say, King of Brandor!” Soresym ordered.

Sam nodded. “I’ll do that. But separate the horns from the unicorns and use them against the serpents. The snakes should come to the surface. We planned to smoke them out. The unicorn horns should tip the scales.”

Soresym raised his massive eagle head and called out in a language Sam somewhat understood. Another griffin, flying overhead, responded and departed to relay the orders to gather the horns and fly south.

Sam shouted, “General, take the troops north to join the attack!” He turned his attention back to Soresym. “I’m in your debt. I don’t know how you knew I was in trouble, but you’re a sight for sore eyes.”

“I suggest we speak of this later. There’s a fight upon us.” With that, the griffin launched into the air.





The serpents were making quick work of Dreston’s men as they fled from Seth’s underground city. The snakes, most 30 paces long, out-slithered the running men and delivered their deadly poison. For every serpent to fall, five men perished. Hope was almost gone. With more than 7,200 Brandorian troops ended by the serpents, only 520 soldiers were still standing when relief finally came.

With swords held high and voices raised, they watched as the snakes burst into flames. The griffins and the hippogriffs descended on the serpents with unicorn horns grasped in their talons. With each swooping pass, their slithering bodies disintegrated into piles of ash. The serpents’ retreat was inevitable as they hurried to the safety of their underground lair, only to realize the toxic fumes would not allow it.

Since staying topside was hopeless, Seth called for his army’s surrender.





The Bear King stopped his army when Soresym landed in front of him. The griffin spoke in the bear’s language. “Groth, you will stop your advance! You have been deceived. Brandor isn’t your enemy. We must work together to stop the Minotaur from attacking Brandor’s army. You have no real enemy. Brandor does not plan to attack your kind.”

Groth grunted, “You’re wrong, griffin! I saw the body of the Scorpion King! Brandor attacked his island!”

Soresym thought back to the conversation he had with Mosley. “Yes, Brandor was there, but with good reason. This war isn’t necessary.”

“What reason would justify Brandor’s attack against a group of beasts who live separate from all others?” The bear’s posture shifted as he pointed a claw at the griffin. “If this wasn’t an act of war against all beasts, then what was it?”

“Brandor’s actions were necessary to save our world. A piece of the Crystal Moon was hidden in the Scorpion King’s cave. Brandor went there to save us all. They would not have attacked if the scorpions had peacefully greeted them. On my honor, I assure you this is true. You know I live in the service of the gods. I would not lie. We don’t have the moments necessary to debate. Join me in talking with Horace. Don’t fight this war against Brandor.”

Groth growled as he pondered Soresym’s words. “I trust your service. Take me with you, griffin, and I’ll stand at your side.”

Groth turned to face his army. “Head north to join the Minotaur! Go now!” Facing Soresym, he roared. “Shall we go, griffin?”

Soresym took the bear into his massive talons and carried him off to find the Minotaur King.





Horace and his army were following the southern edge of Lake Zandra when Soresym landed in front of the beast-man. The Minotaur lifted his hand to stop his army and then shouted in his own language. “What is the meaning of this, griffin? Why do you carry Groth? There’s blood to be spilled. He should be with his army.”

Soresym took note that Kepler’s giant cats were no longer traveling with the Minotaur. “Where are they?”

The Minotaur’s brows furrowed. “Where are who, griffin?”

“Kepler’s cats. Where are Kepler’s cats?”

“I know not. They abandoned us only moments ago. They headed east.”

The griffin looked at Groth. “The cats must have seen their kind being dropped in the distance.”

The griffin’s attention was redirected toward the hollow eye sockets of the skeleton commander’s skull. He was standing only paces away from Horace, and the nervous chattering of his teeth gave the griffin pause.

“Why are you here, griffin?” the Minotaur King demanded.

Soresym responded. “You will stop your advance. Brandor is not your enemy.”

Horace raised his head and bellowed. “I will stop nothing! Blood must be spilled.”

The griffin approached the Minotaur King and lowered his beak next to Horace’s ear.

After a fair series of moments, the Minotaur King turned and shouted at his scouts. “Spread word throughout the army! The skeletons are traitors! Wait for my orders to attack! We will—”

Soresym interrupted, “The skeletons cannot perish. A plan is necessary before the order is given.”





Meanwhile, Sam shouted, “General, sound the horn and pull the troops back! Night is coming! We’ll regroup and attack as a single unit in the morning! The barbarians will most likely follow our lead! We’ll attack at first light! Signal the griffins and the hippogriffs to land and rest amongst us!”

“Yes, Sire!”

Once Sam’s orders had been carried out, Michael approached. “The barbarians are regrouping and making camp. They won’t attack in the dark. We have an opportunity to use this to our advantage.”

“How?” Sam inquired. “It’ll be pitch black. What advantage are you referring to?”

“I have spoken with Goss. He’s the brother of Soresym, and he’s a respected leader amongst griffins. I’ve asked him to meet with us.”

“Okay, okay. But how will this give us an advantage?”

Goss landed. “Because, King of Brandor, my kind can see through the darkness. Also, the fastest of our kind will arrive in a matter of moments with your queen. I can’t imagine why you would’ve left her in Brandor.”

Sam’s face tightened. “I left her because she’s pregnant! I don’t want her here, damn it! Whose bright idea was this? I swear, it better not be yours, Michael!”

“No, Sire. Blame the queen.”

“What do you mean? I don’t want the future of our kingdom on this battlefield.”

Goss settled next to the king and folded his wings. “If you fail to obtain victory, there will be no future for Brandor. Your queen is strong. Soresym has informed me of her sorcery.”

“How could Soresym know the full extent of her power? He’s never witnessed it.”

The griffin reached out, and with a single flip of one of his talons, he thumped Sam’s breastplate. After watching the king fall off his horse, he responded. “Calm yourself. Let us agree that Soresym has been informed. ‘How,’ matters not. Your queen will be helpful in this battle. Besides, she was already on her way to join you. She was just south of Angels Village when we found her. Your queen had already ignored your order to stay behind. You should thank Soresym. He was the one who convinced your queen to wait until we had the opportunity to fly her in unharmed.”

Sam picked himself up from the ground. “How could she possibly—”

A screech from above filled the air. Sam watched as a griffin settled down a short distance away. He covered the distance between them to help Shalee from its back. “I asked you to stay home. We can’t risk our baby like this.”

“For heaven’s sake, Sam, take a pill. I missed you, too.” Shalee put her hands on her hips. “Don’t you think that I know I’m pregnant? I’ve gone bonkers while I was sitting in Brandor.”

Sam sighed. “Okay, okay. You know I’m happy to see you. I just don’t want you to get hurt.”

“Me? Get hurt? What about you? Who do you think you’re kidding? From what I’ve heard, you could’ve died. Without the griffins, I wouldn’t have a husband. Don’t you be telling me about danger! You walked into a trap ... a trap that George set, I might add. You’re lucky Soresym decided to make sure you had help.”

“But—”

“But nothing. I’m here, and I don’t care what you say. I’m not leaving. So, you might as well let me use my magic. That’s why I teleported to Angels Village to hitch a ride. I can’t keep crying over Helga and BJ anymore. I need to be here.”

“I’m the king, Shalee. I ordered you to stay home.” Sam turned and looked at Michael. “Get her out of here. I won’t let her risk the baby’s life.”

Shalee’s right brow lifted as she grabbed Sam’s shoulder and forced him to face her. The sorceress leaned in and whispered in his ear. “If you think I’m leaving, you’re crazy. Who do you think you are, telling me what to do? I have half a mind to teleport your sorry ass home and return without you. You just try and play the king card on me, stud. I’ll give you what for. I’m here to help whether you like it or not.”

The queen’s whisper softened. “Sam, please ... I need you to believe in me right now. I can’t go home. I can use my magic to fight from a distance.”

Sam pulled Shalee close and hugged her tight. “Just promise me you’ll teleport someplace safe if you get into trouble. I couldn’t bear the thought of losing you, too. I’ve lost too much already.”

“You have my word.” Shalee followed the promise with a kiss.

“Sire,” Michael interrupted, clearing his throat. “We need to plan.”

Goss interjected, “Yes. Though this is a tender moment, we should be planning. Have your army gather large pieces of lava stone. We’ll fly through the night and drop them. I’ll take your queen on my back and head north. She can rain down her magic from above. This should keep Senchae’s army from resting through the night and give Brandor the advantage in the morning.”

“Sire, this is a good plan,” Michael confirmed as he dismounted. “The queen will be safe while on the griffin’s back. She’ll be hidden within the darkness. Her magic will end many, and she’ll never need to set foot on the ground. If we’re lucky, the barbarians will retreat by morning.”

Sam thought a moment. “General, you fly with the queen. If you feel she’s in danger, I want you to fly to safety. She carries the future of Brandor in her womb. I won’t risk her life.”

“Yes, Sire!”

Shalee kissed Sam again. “Thank you.”





As the griffin ascended into the night, Shalee lifted Precious above her head. Her voice was strong as she commanded meteors of fire to rain from the sky. The tents scattered throughout the barbarian camp exploded as the griffins and hippogriffs released the lava rock.

Panic filled the camp as the men of the north scattered for their lives. Bodies fell lifeless, burned, and crushed.

Senchae looked toward the darkness. Realizing the hopelessness of the situation, he shouted for his general. “Order the army to attack Brandor’s camp. We need to merge the armies so the griffins will be ineffective. Set the trees on fire to light the battlefield.”

High above, Goss observed the barbarians’ movements. He turned his eagle head to look over his shoulder to inform the queen.

Shalee teleported. When she reappeared, she was standing next to Sam. “The barbarians are headed this way. They didn’t retreat like we thought they would. They’ll be here soon. You need to prepare.”

Sam shouted to his legion leaders. “Prepare the army! We attack now!”

“Yes, Sire!”

Shalee called the legion leaders to her. After touching their shoulders, she explained, “Have each of your men touch you. Once they do, their eyes will be able to see in the darkness. This should give you the advantage.”

“Yes, My Queen.”

As the legion leaders ran off, Sam placed his hand on Shalee’s shoulder. “That’s a nifty trick.”

Shalee smiled. “I know, I’m a bit of a freak, huh?” The queen vanished.

It was just before the height of midnight when the cry was given. “Charge!” the legion leaders shouted as they ordered the army into battle.

From the king’s hip, Kael screamed with glee, his sharp edges begging for action. When the king did not unsheathe the blade, Kael quieted once he realized that Sam would not be entering the fight.

The king turned and ascended a large mound of lava stone to keep watch.

Shalee had hitched a ride on Goss’ back, sending her fireballs into the advancing barbarians. More than 300 bodies were torn apart before Senchae’s army collided with Brandor’s.

Swords, maces, war hammers, shields, and bodies plowed into one another as blood saturated the earth. The griffins, along with the hippogriffs, once again descended upon the rear of the barbarian horde, smashing them like grapes. But soon the fight became too tight, and the winged warriors had to pull back.

Not long after, Goss landed next to Sam. “We can no longer assist. The rest is up to your army. My kind is too large to fight in close. This form of combat would hurt your men as much as the barbarians. We will take to the skies and keep watch. If an opportunity presents itself, we will seize it.”

“ Thank you, my friend,” Sam replied. “Brandor owes you a debt.” The king looked up. “Shalee, hop down and stay with me. I need your help.”

Shalee floated to the ground and then patted the feathers on Goss’ neck. “Be careful.”

Goss took to the sky.

Sam tossed his torch to the ground. “I need you to use your power on my eyes. I need to be able to see through the darkness.”

“Why?”

“Just do it, please!” Once Shalee’s magic took effect, Sam lifted his bow and began firing arrows into the night.





By the next morning, the bears and the Minotaur had torn apart Kepler’s undead army. Hundreds of skeletons had been tossed into three large piles. Each skull was furious, cursing and calling out orders for their arms and legs to work their way from their respective piles back to their torsos. The shifting of the piles caused a frightful clattering as the bones bumped against one another. Despite the noise, the Minotaur and bears enjoyed the spectacle as they picked the wriggling arms and legs off the ground and tossed them to the top of the pile. Every moment this happened, a much stronger curse filled the air from the head of the skeleton that owned the bones.





The Peak of Bailem had come and gone, and the moment had arrived for the General Absolute to create his legacy—or solidify his passing.

Michael lifted his sword horizontal to the ground and pointed it at the Barbarian King despite his exhaustion. “You and I can settle the outcome of this war!”

Michael’s plate armor was battered. His blue eyes were bloodshot, and it took every last ounce of his strength to stand in front of the Barbarian King and call him out.

Senchae dismounted, his hard, leather armor covered in blood, and moved to a position in front of Michael. The barbarian stood more than a pace taller than the General Absolute and outweighed Michael by 300 pounds. Though a large man, the general appeared diminutive next to the Barbarian King.

The horn of the Barbarian General sounded. Both armies stopped fighting and turned their attention toward the two men.

Senchae was the first to speak. “I admire your courage, swine. I’d like to know the name of the man I intend to end.”

It took everything within Michael to claim his bravery. “Knowing my name seems insignificant. When you’re dead, that memory will be unnecessary. But if it appeases Your Highness, I am Michael, the General Absolute to the Kingdom of Brandor.”

The men of Brandor who had gathered cheered at their general’s response.

Senchae waited for the noise to die. “You seek a fool’s death. After today, you will no longer have a tongue. You will be unable to address a king by name. Tonight, my officers will feast on the meat of my best bull once it has been cooked over the flames from your bones.”

Senchae lifted his heavy blade. His army stomped their feet as the men from both sides cheered.

With shield in one hand and sword in the other, Michael engaged, rolling forward, and slicing at one of Senchae’s legs. The king lifted his foot and smiled as the blade passed beneath it.

“You have a quickness about you, but it won’t do you any good. Nothing will spare your life.”

Michael thumped his sword against his shield. “I won’t miss again.”

“There won’t be an ‘again.’” The barbarian lunged forward and smashed his two-handed sword into Michael’s shield. The force sent the general backward to the ground. Senchae followed this assault by kicking Michael on the right side of his chest as the general tried to recover. The force of the impact lifted Michael off the ground.

The leader of Brandor’s army cried out as he heard two of his ribs crack.

Senchae backed off. “To think, once you have passed, I’ll be in command of your army. Your men will serve me.”

Michael gathered his last bit of strength and lunged toward Senchae with his blade extended. The barbarian stepped to the side, grabbed Michael’s wrist, and lifted him into the air. The king squeezed until the general was forced to drop his blade.

Michael tried to hit Senchae with his shield, but the Barbarian King simply dropped his sword and caught its edge with his hand. Pulling it free from Michael’s grip, Senchae threw it to the ground.

After securing the General Absolute by the throat, Bloodvain pulled Michael close. Spittle from the barbarian’s speech landed on Michael’s face. “You’re weak. You’ve failed your army and brought shame to Brandor.”

Senchae threw the leader of Brandor’s army against what was left of a tree that had burned throughout the night. The general fell to the ground, spitting blood into the ash that surrounded him.

The Barbarian King moved to stand above Michael. “I never thought a pile of garesh from the south would have this much heart. It’s a shame you must be ended, but all garesh must be disposed of.”

The Barbarian King retrieved his blade and raised it high above his head, but before the heavy, metal blade began its descent, the tip of an arrow exited the front of Senchae’s throat. The Barbarian King’s eyes glossed over as he gasped for air. He stumbled backward and then fell to his knees and grasped his throat.

Michael pulled himself to his feet and lifted his blade. He buried it into the Barbarian King’s chest, skewering his heart. The general screamed, “Attack!”

Brandor’s army reacted, fueled with renewed vigor. Their blades moved with swift conviction as the battle resumed.

From across the battlefield, Sam lowered his bow to his side. He grasped Kael, summoned the blade’s extended fire and then charged down the mound of lava stone into the chaos.





It was not until Early Bailem the next Peak that Sam found Soresym. The last thing Sam imagined he would ever see would be hundreds of skeleton arms inching along the ground as they tried to reunite with their torsos. To his delight, he saw nine piles being watched over by both Minotaur and bears—three for their heads, another three for their torsos, and the remaining three for their arms and legs.

The separated limbs were being tossed back onto their respective pile, again and again, as they tirelessly tried to reunite with their torsos. The skulls were becoming more frustrated, and they screamed yet another curse with each failed attempt.

The Bear and Minotaur Kings met with Sam, along with Soresym. Sam was the first to speak as Soresym translated his words. “My Lords, it appears there has been a grievous misunderstanding.”

Groth responded, “Why did you attack the Scorpion King’s island?”

Sam took a deep breath and explained. After a few moments, the shock of the Crystal Moon’s disappearance settled in.

Horace spoke. “If we can help in any way, we’re at your service.”

“We are as well,” Groth added.

Sam thought a bit. “It looks like we have some bones to deal with. Any idea on what we should do? We can’t leave them here.”

Soresym agreed. “We need to separate their parts to ensure they’ll never be able to rejoin. I know of no other way to stop them. If they’re allowed to unite, they’ll attack Brandor as ordered by Kepler. They won’t stop until this has been accomplished.”

Sam unsheathed his blade. “Kael, do you how to destroy these things?”

Kael responded, “I do. Fire.”

“It’s that simple?”

“Simple if you know the answer. Put my blade into the piles and command my flame. I’ll do the rest.”

Sam moved to the first pile. Soon, all nine piles were ablaze. The sounds of the skulls’ screams were hellish as the temperature rose. One by one, each skull cracked, releasing the soul that had been trapped inside it. The soul ascended into the atmosphere until it was out of sight. It was not long before every spirit had found its way to the pages of the Book of Immortality.

Sam tossed an inanimate arm onto the fire and then turned to Soresym. “We need to find Kepler. He’s responsible for this. Will you ask the griffins to take to the air to search for him? I want to ensure his evil is stopped from running free throughout Southern Grayham.”

The griffin nodded. “You should order the army north into barbarian territory. Bring Southern Grayham under one monarchy.”

Sam agreed. “I shall do that. But first, we have snakes to deal with.”

Michael added, “And we need to find George, My King.”

As Sam nodded, Soresym spoke out. “The snakes are no longer a concern. Seth has surrendered. Your army can search for the pieces of the Crystal Moon without interference.”

Sam turned to Michael. “Create a search party for George as well. I want his head brought to me on a pike.”

Meanwhile, Ancients Sovereign

The Home of Lasidious and Celestria

Celestria backed away from the green flames within their fireplace, the visions of war fading as she turned to cup her lover’s face in the palms of her hands. “I can’t wait to see Sam and Shalee’s faces when they realize that Seth doesn’t have the crystals.”



Lasidious sat down and put his feet up on the table. “Yes, their expressions will be entertaining. I must admit, I didn’t think the griffins would offer assistance. I wasn’t sure if my ruse worked. I thought I was going to have to save Sam myself.”

Lasidious lowered his legs to the floor and motioned for Celestria to sit on his lap. “I think there’s enough confusion across Southern Grayham to keep the gods watching.”

Celestria reached down and rubbed her favorite part of her devil-god as she spoke. “I agree, my love. You are conniving, my pet.”

The Mischievous One smiled as he brushed her hair clear of her neck. “Our baby is safe in Susanne’s care. The moments have come to turn our attention to Luvelles. Everything is going better than we could’ve hoped for. The next stage of our plan is ready to be implemented. But first, let’s offer George a well-deserved rest. When the moment is right, I’m sure he’ll make us proud once again.”

Lasidious lifted his goddess and carried her into their bedroom. “Allow me to show you how much I’ve missed you.”

Celestria laughed as the door shut.

THE END