With keys in hand, Leywinn goes to open the doo- it is stuck. As early risers head towards the market for that famous breakfast roll full of eggs, meats, and chesses, Leywinn struggled with the door. During his struggle, Leywinn felt the looming glances by the eyes of passerby’s, “First day!” Leywinn said, “New Owner,” he finished as their eyes rolled around, steadied back onto what lies ahead. Having enough with the jiggling, wiggling and fidgeting with the door, Leywinn finally gave it a good twist, push, and kick. While avoiding the sudden fall from the momentum of his efforts, the whooshing of the door introduced a gust of wind curing the stale dusty air that plagued the building.
The store is in bad shape, but he knew it would be a fixer upper. Besides the door, this mess was about what he expected. Granulated dust freely flew throughout the store, becoming blobs on the cobwebs that blanket the countertop and shelves. While examining the open layout the store presents, the floorboards started to bend a little with each step. As he precariously moved towards the register, Leywinn was taking it all in.
Strong bones
Two great glass panes were hiding under the caked-on dust, easy to clean and shine, to intrigue who walk by. The shelves, thankfully, have remained sturdy with no sign of rot as moisture was not able to worm its way through any cracks. And finally, the display case. Made with the intention of enticing buyers to dig deeper into their purse, providing a great view for his potions.
Fine design
After a few days the shop was in tip-top order. As the only son from an esteemed elf family, Leywinn went against the wishes of his father and decided to open a potion shop, a less than favorable business to run too his father would throw in.
To explore
To be free
A Dangerous, some say deranged, dream Leywinn had would be casted aside by the ever-changing tide of city life. “Adventurers are fools,” his Dad would clamor on, “Running away from responsibility. Like a child blinded by imagination, stuck forever in the mud of life.”
Freedom to be, was a philosophy Elves, particularly those who were viewed as highborn, threw away. Over the last few centuries elves became sterile regulating themselves towards certain professions, hence the buildup of resentment for those that wanted to live a life not marred by confinement. Instead, Leywinn decided upon being a successful businessman in Cokom City, the city between worlds. A business that would create a new blend of potions and medicine he learned from his teachings with a new flavorful addition. The store would also sell any other necessities, like scrolls or maps, for those who were new to adventuring or forgot their supplies at home. Placed near the main gate, Leywinn knew this store’s location could mean financial success plus, allow him to live vicariously through the stories of adventure through the mouths of customers.
Though who knows? Orcs may besiege the city or an army of the dead and damned would rise and sweep the city. Perhaps wicked monsters from a new realm will scare everyone into a frenzy; either way, Leywinn had a slim chance to have an adventure. Though deep down inside, nothing would beat a journey across the lands.
As his thoughts drifted through the bold lettering of “Leywinn’s Popping Potions,” the little bell rang above the now oiled door, opening without any reservation.
Smile, greet, and ask questions, ran through his head. Before Leywinn could even let loose on his practiced spiel, the smell and soon the sight silenced any further thought. A hunched man, with dripping greyish hair covering his face, slowly moves about the newly added glass shelve cases, hiding any further detail. As he comes about, Leywinn spots a necklace with an amulet crudely made from ragged leather and animal skin. Perhaps an ancient or family heirloom, at the very least a subject Leywinn can start a conversation with. After seeing the stained, torn outfit Leywinn utters, “Hello, sir! Welcome to the opening of ‘Leywinn’s Popping Potions.’ How may I assist you today?” The man’s feet continue to slither across the reinforced floor, meandering about. Ding!
Thank you, Maker.
“Hello! Welcome to the grand opening of ‘Leywinn’s Popping Potions’ how may I help you today?” A knight waltzed in, recognizable by the steel armor tinged with battle experience. “Ah yes, a grand opening.” The knight says, his eyes distressed by the smell, wishing he could cleanse his senses. He stays clear of the mess, now outside his purview and said, “May I ask, good elf, why do your potions, pop?” A great time for Leywinn to bust out his practiced spiel for success. “Well good knight, they pop because they are made with flavor in mind, popping your mind with sensation.”
Nice.
The knight heard Leywinn’s excitement and began forming a scheme. Gazing through the clear glass display case the knight said, “Interesting flavors.” Blinded by making a sale, Leywinn was unaware of the knights’ intentions laced within his words.
“I will take six potions good elf,” The knight said, his eyes dot around, skipping over the gnarled mess nearing him, “A variety please. Of the smaller size too.” Leywinn picked a nice box and filled it with his favorite flavors: Apple Overload, Sprinkle of Pumpkin Spice, Vanilla Cream, Blueberry Blitz, Cinnamon with Cream Swirl, and Sweet Cherry.
“Total will be forty pieces,” Leywinn said. “Forty pieces?” the knight said, “Well, yes.” Already a fair price, Leywinn anticipated what would follow and said, “These potions are made from fine ingredients and better than ever with flavor infused. All without weakening the effects.”
A firm delivery almost shocked the knight out of his con, “My fair elf, is this not a grand opening?” “Yes, my firs-” “It is risky to be full of hubris. Why would I take a chance on such an important buy, when I know Buddy will give me a fair price.” As Leywinn was going to refute the knight continues, “If you would accept, let’s say, thirty pieces, I will swear by my Knights’ order that this shop is worth the money. And in no time you will have a line wrapping around the corner.”
The way Cokom City is there are only the two potion stores which have their clientele all figured out. ‘Buddy’s Bargain’ the name explains itself leaving ‘Rambler’s Refuge,’ where the price privies those who want a guarantee in the effects. It was time for the knight to lay down the finishing blow finish from the top rope and seal the steal.
“I, Arthur the knight will spread this new business to East, South, . . . West and North, for thirty pieces.” Robbery. Though word of mouth about the new shop may mean better business. “Okay.”
When the word ‘okay’ fell faintly from Leywinn’s mouth, broke what little hope was left of fulfilling his dream. How could he lean towards being an adventurer if he could not hold firm on a fair price? Through every step of this journey, this “adventure”, he felt sure till now. Ding!
Leywinn tallies the odd, smelly man for twenty-five pieces worth of potions and a map. Finally, the unsettling man can get out of his store giving his stoic face a split second of relief. Leywinn was able to observe the other customer. Firm in stature, covered in a blackened brown fitted robe and a fine leather backpack with two sturdy straps laying over his shoulders.
Removing his hood, Darthamere drifted toward the register when his eye caught a glimpse of this odd man walking at a crawl pace toward him. That symbol. The way the lace was strung through the rumpled leather and skins of various animals, crisscrossing into an intricate ritualistic symbol. His eyes confirm what his ears only heard before. An awakening of power he sensed proving his intuition at last. A power that Darthamere could bring back pride to the Sun-Wayfarers who long ago were robbed of their joy and whisked into a state of depression.
As the man waddled by him Darthamere whispered a phrase in the soothing language of the elves, catching the man in a sudden stop. “Speak,” Darthamere’s firm tone caused the man to stand upright. His attire which was folded over his body now stands tall and wide amongst the sun beams through the glass windowpanes. As Leywinn was about to do his best to stop a fight, the man whipped around with a vicious scowl grunt falling from his mouth, drawing in haste a stained, serrated knife.
“Wait!” But it was too late. Darthamere signed a spell of air tether and whipped the man into a whirlwind sending the man through the glass windowpanes. The people walking by were rightfully startled, though resumed their day shortly after. "Sorry about that!" Darthamere said to Leywinn, who quickly ran out front to confront the man further.
Darthamere pinned the man down with his brown worn-leather boots and stripped the amulet from the man's neck. Darthamere’s eyes doled with disdain as the Cokom City guards arrived in their clunky attire. Leywinn could not believe that on his grand opening the guards were called in to handle an incident. Right away, the guards looked to Darthamere to explain. “What happuned here elfy?”
“See that man right there?” Darthamere replied, “He pulled a knife on me in the store.” He nods his head back towards the shattered window. “All because he picked a fight being rude to me and my friend.” The guard squinted his face at Darthamere as he was trying to gather information and put together a case. Leywinn stared straight, standing in disbelief as he caught the guards curious eyes.
“Uh. Yes. That is right, sir, guard.” Leywinn said on his way to the front. “I rang that man, right there on the ground, and before I know it, he yells this horrible sound and pulls that knife.” The guard darted his eyes around the scene: checking the window, the knife, and the elves standing in front of him. “Alrighty.” He said. And like that the investigation is done. “Claim yer losses with the council. They will git back to yer soon.” As the guards trot away, one last thing was said, “And clean that up will yuh.”
Darthamere glanced at Leywinn who stands like a statue looking at his store. “Sorry about that.” Darthamere said, tapping Leywinn on the shoulder, “I couldn’t disclose what truly happened. They would’ve never left nor would they understand the significance of this.” Leywinn got a chance to see what the hunched man was wearing around his neck. Darthamere pulled the amulet out for a quick second.
“It is a symbol of an elven mage who died trying to save the Sun-Wayfarer Clan.” Caught staring to long, Darthamere shoved the amulet back into his robe pocket, “Why did he get so, erratic? What did you say to him?” Leywinn said. Darthamere signaled Leywinn to get back into his store, avoiding the mixture of glass and small puddles of flavorful liquid that littered the walking area.
“I loosely said, ‘where did you get that?’ In our tongue.” Darthamere said as they crossed through the doorway. Leywinn knew there had to be more, “And, what else,” Leywinn replied, Darthamere grinned at Leywinn’s response, “I have been tracking down a book which has that symbol engrained on the cover. Curiosity got the better of me. A man who is wearing an elvish symbol, tied to a powerful elven mage, as a necklace. Wouldn’t that pique your interest too?” Leywinn agreed with gestures of his body and threw in, “But did you have to pick a fight in my store?”
Leywinn got him there. “Perhaps not. But thank you for backing my story.” With such fierce eyes and demeanor, Leywinn was caught off guard with how soft Darthamere replied. A man of his stature being graceful, or at the very least, honest with his apology.
“Well, us elves have to stick together, right?” Leywinn said, his words put Darthamere at ease, though guilt came to the forefront for ruining his store on the grand opening. Darthamere knew of a dwarf repairman within Cokom City who owed him a favor, “I'll get the window fixed on top of a bundle of potions too.”
While Leywinn was getting the bundle together a thought sprang to mind. “Fifty pieces.” The money clanked on the glass as Leywinn spoke up, “And I get to join you.” Entertained by the sudden assertiveness, Darthamere gave Leywinn a good look up and down. “Have you ever been anywhere outside your fancy castle city?” As Leywinn was about to respond Darthamere interrupts, “Besides Cokom.”
“No.” Leywinn replied. Darthamere was not expecting to see that signet here, especially around a man’s neck. What was a simple exploration trip to the surrounding roaming hills East turned into a need to uncover the truth. The wearing of that symbol means the book of Tetamine may have been discovered and he needs to be the one to get ahold of it. “Do you know any magic at all? Or any useful skills that can be applied.”
“I studied alchemy along with minor healing magic.”
“Do you know how to use a spell scroll? "
"Yes.”
“Good. We leave first thing in the morning.”
Throughout the day adrenaline almost overwhelmed Leywinn. On top of finally going on an adventure, the window incident brought in crowds of all types: those who were eager for drama searching for rumors, adventurers who were wise enough to explore a new shop, and fresh arrivals from the West tempting their hands at glory themselves. With such a speedy start to his business, he could coast off this hubbub and stay safe. Yet, his mind remained fixed on the adventure that lied before him; his dream of being an adventurer is mere hours away, what a thrill he thought.
Dear Dad,
The ink dried, ceasing any other thought of what to add next. The sun splashed against his window, highlighting Darthamere below in front his store. It was better for that letter to be written after he has lived his dream, no need to stir any worry. Leywinn grabbed his worn fabric coat from the hanger plus the modified potion carrier that was beside it.
Someday.
As Leywinn locked his store up, Darthamere could sense the depth of Leywinn’s dismay, an invisible enemy that he too faces. A feeling of despair that rains down upon people who forget they have an umbrella, they just need to open up.
“Here are some spells I have prepared for you.” Leywinn almost crumpled the scrolls with his excitement as he put the paper into his pack. “Only use them when I say too. A last resort.” Darthamere continued. Catching a look of concern from Leywinn, he finished, “Worst case scenario that is. This trip is to investigate, not fight.” Relief filled Leywinn as he double checked his pack, making a mental note of where his supplies lie in case of emergency. Although, Darthamere thought, if the book is with the barbarous men of the East, his power alone should handle the threat.
Breathe in-n-out.
A useful reminder for Leywinn embarking on his dream. His first steps out the rusty elegant main gate were a welcoming one. The smell of dew streamed welcomed Leywinn with the wind.
“Just wait, that freshness dies out soon,” Darthamere said, and smiled as he walked toward the stables. Unfortunately, Darthamere was right. The only sense of relief from the smell was the sun, glistened on the trees and the streams of water they passed along the way. Farmlands passed them first, which gave way to the Great plains, a sight which sent Leywinn into a trance. Endless lands of beauty occasionally interrupted by flowing forests, meet their ends at the start of mountains that stand on end and touched the sky. An otherwise ordinary day came to an end the two set up camp. As Leywinn gathered wood, the sun settled across the horizon. As one light dies, another takes its place.
Provided by the unending night sky, Leywinn saw the scattered stars and bold moon set the scene for a beautiful sight. “Hey, it’s going to get cold soon, hurry up.” Darthamere said, as Leywinn snapped out of the trance and brought logs over.
“Sorry!” Leywinn replied, snapping back to life like a kid caught in a daydream by a teacher. “No need to apologize.” The pile of wood Leywinn carried over crumpled together as they dropped. “I don’t blame you; it is beautiful,” Darthamere said lighting the fire. After both finish their ration of jerky, Leywinn spoke, “What exactly are we looking for?” His eyes wafted from the fire to Darthamere. Darthamere met his eyes in kind, “What the man was wearing is a symbol of Tetamine.”
“Can’t be.” Leywinn said. A nod from Darthamere solidified certainty, creating a sense of dread within Leywinn.
An elf that lived in the land of Sun-Wayfarers, a clan that lived amongst a sandy coastline with clear waters brushing upon the land, soaring through the sea seamlessly with distant islands dotting the horizon. A paradise unlike any other. However, the Destiny War started when the meager Empire cried out to unify the West with the East and connect the world though their roads. Tetamine grew up with his heaven dying before his eyes. The sun withered away from the lands as the Empire detestably advanced, stripping away the joy of life for many.
“The Book of Tetamine,” Darthamere continued, bringing out emotion, “A collection of spells containing powers many dream of. If it is true the book has been unearthed, I need to get it.” Darthamere waved his hand to stoke the fire into motion, “With that power, I can bring the wrongs to light and claim the land once again.” Leywinn wanted to reply, in part because Tetamine is evil, though he could not. He had the freedom to chase his dream and make his own choices. Maybe Darthamere will use the power for good. He could not bring himself to question another elf’s dream. He had to trust Darthamere, rather trust himself to decide when the time came. Therefore, he kept his curious concern to himself, keeping his eyes open with fright, his mind dulling on doubt. As the fire slipped away, so did Leywinn.
This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.
“Get up, I want to make it to the inn by night,” The good kick to Leywinn’s feet stirs a response, “An inn? That would be nice.” Plopping their packs onto the horse’s as. . . body, they make their way to the inn. The scenery was not enough this time to dispose Leywinn’s worries about Tetamine.
Dangerous and deranged.
Words which have new meaning now. Maybe his dad was right. The straddling motion of riding mirrors the battle inside Leywinn’s mind. Tee-tottering up and down to decide if he will turn back or not. He shot a glimpse up at the sky in hopes for Nature to settle his mind, instead is met with the sun's light being muddied by clouds. “Don’t worry, we will be at the inn before the storm reaches us.” Darthamere said. Leywinn turned his head back to see the encroaching clouds rolling forward in their direction. Perhaps the inn will provide an opportunity to explore his doubts further. Eventually, Leywinn’s thoughts joined the warm winds whispering by, in attempts to avoid succumbing to the storm. Gentle drops soon fall as they see ‘Wanderer’s Inn,’ the last respite before one’s journey to the Forgotten lands.
“Wander on in-n,” shouts a wide, meaty man behind the worn-wooden bar. Leywinn smiled at the wonderful use of word play as Darthamere's eyes rolled. Leywinn appreciated the use of space as a fellow business owner. As he panned his head, Leywinn saw tables evenly spread out on both sides with plenty of room for those to walk without worrying about incidents. The bar counter indeed had seen better days, same with the nine stools that line it. Stress lines streak freely across due to constant use, but with enough polish therein lied the charm.
An eruption of singing almost blotted out what Darthamere wanted to say, "You are in room five, and I am room seven." A firm finger signaled to Leywinn to sit down at a table near the end, away from the others. Leywinn found it hard to keep his eyes from darting around. From the three dwarves singing with a man in the corner near their table, to eyes of curiosity and grumpiness that peered in their direction. It was not from a source of malice, Leywinn thought. He felt as if it was a natural and necessary instinct when out of the city. Instead, he admired the variety of drinks on the wall, a collection brought together by trade, and the torches which were dotted evenly throughout the inn. A surprise though dispelled Leywinn’s wandering eyes onto a lady dwarf strutted up. A buffed brunette, with bubbly beautiful blue eyes made both Leywinn and Darthamere mute, “Welcome to ‘Wanderer’s Inn, may I interest you with some fresh mixed mince pie and some amber ale?” She asked.
Darthamere with some sense to snap his gaze, replied for both, “Yes, thank you.” A smile from her adds to the length of Leywinn’s silence, so Darthamere continued, “Any bread, and if by any chance too, any fruit?” “Yes! We have both. I will bring those out now.”
Leywinn broke his unmeant stare when she made her way to the back. Yet another surprise, this time on the finely furious pace of service. Two wooden bowls of fresh-ish fruit and puffy bread, with another flurry of delivery which brought their pies and ales. The bread tore easily. Strands of goodness screamed as the bread is pulled apart. The ale lightly golden with red tingling in the background. The pie, deep-dished slice, a firm crunchy bottom absorbed the gravy. A flakey top comfortably cracked into the mix of carrots, potatoes, lamb, and meat all provided by farmers living in the surrounding areas. Mid way through his meal, Leywinn could not shake that earlier feeling. Like a worm through an apple, anxiety ran through his stomach. It was not the pie, a lie he quickly squashed. It was a mixture of fear and desire that slithered to his brain.
He looked up to take another glimpse around the inn, his eyes reclined back to his plate. “Maybe we should ask people here for help or the very least any information.” Darthamere leaned back in the chair swallowing the deliciousness, though what followed is sour. “I said we were scouting the area. Nothing more, nothing less.”
A white lie indeed, it is what will come after the scouting is finished that Leywinn felt was causing his nerves to signal concern. “Yes, but.” A pause gave time for Darthamere to chime in, “Look. At worse, it will be a rabble of hills-men that stumbled upon that signet in the dirt and wore it. I assure you; I have been up and down this world making a name for myself. If you can incantate those scrolls at a decent speed for support, there will be no problem.” His words reached Leywinn’s ears, but his face did not convey a sense of relief, “Here, take this.” Darthamere untangled a black strap from his waist, “Since I am most likely casting, you can have this.” Inside is a steel dagger hidden within the black sheath. The handle was firm with micro bumps woven together for better grip. It was enough to burrow the anxiety-- or at least enough to finish the meal.
The scraps were being cleaned up with leftover bread when the man who was with the dwarves swung over. “Hey-y-y, how is it going?” A sentence sure, though the slurring was not far behind. “What are a couple of elves doing out here in the East?” Darthamere’s eyes did not want to entertain the man, leaving Leywinn to appear welcoming. “Name is Barry.” “Leywinn,” who nodded at Darthamere, “Darthamere,” who slammed the rest of a half-finished drink down in one gulp.
Barry knows a displeased person by sight, “I’ll leave if you are,” “No, please stay,” Leywinn spoke up. He sensed Barry would be bothering Darthamere, though Leywinn was curious about Barry, in chance possibly to share some adventure wisdom. “Good, I’ll be back.”
Before Barry came back Leywinn winced a grin at Darthamere.
It will be fun.
The legs of the chair Barry dragged over collide with the legs of the table as Barry turns the chair around. “Sorry about that,” Barry started, “Darthamere you said?” He rocked his glass subtly, the foam of freshly poured ale jiggled a little, “I have heard that name, once or twice in my travels,” He took a swig from his drink, “Whatcha doing out here?”
“Wild men,” Darthamere replied, “Checking the situation out here that is all. See if there is anything worthwhile.”
“Interesting.” Barry threw in. “There was this fellow. . . Arthur, that’s a name.”
“The knight?” Leywinn said.
Both Darthamere and Barry looked at each other making eye contact before both laugh out, “A knight?” For once, Darthamere laughed and continued, “Wait, wasn’t he at your store?” The ale taking effect in his words, “Yes,” Leywinn said while he took a swig of his drink. “Your store?” Barry replied looking at Leywinn. “Yes, I recently opened my potion store, ‘Leywinn’s Popping Potions.’” Leywinn saw Barry struggled a little as the conversation dragged on, “He was my first customer. He said he was heading East too.”
“He went East alright. Dead though.” Barry chimed in. Leywinn was the only one who was shocked at the news. Is he that gullible? No, he knew there was something off about Arthur. What kept eating away at him was this lingering thought of imposter syndrome. “The armor he got, the one with all kinds of marks and rust? He bought that at a cheap armor store. He thought people would take him seriously, a cheap cop out.” What Darthamere said striked Leywinn hard. Was he kidding himself this entire time? He knew Arthur was not a real knight yet, allowed Arthur to walk over him. A core issue of ineptitude Leywinn thought. Darthamere finished the last of his drink before he added to the conversation, “But, the two of us should be good.” His eyes glanced at Leywinn to instill assurance as Leywinn reciprocated with a slight grin. “I am heading off to bed, we will leave early again, tomorrow.” After stacking his plate and cup for the server Darthamere heads upstairs.
Barry called over for another pitcher of ale as he scooted into Darthamere's spot. "So. First time out of the city?” Barry asked, “Yes.” Leywinn replied. The pitcher arrived as Barry swiftly poured first, offering to pour one for Leywinn, who nodded, and Barry obliged. After a clink of the glasses Barry went on, “Darthamere, huh.” His dry fingers combed his brown, lofty hair. “Pretty tough guy.” Leywinn nodded again and took a sip from his cup. “Heading East huh?” Barry offered to start the conversation, “Yeah.” Leywinn responded, hoping Barry will continue talking to put his mind at rest with a decision to continue forward or not.
“Yeah-h-h. Heard some rumblings out that way. Rumors though, just rumors.” Barry rolled the bottom of his glass skillfully enough not to spill, as if to helped his thoughts flow, “Some big shot, Raka something, the dwarves were talking about em. Told em leave the wild men alone. Crazy men, spouting shouts of some evil.” Barry slowed down on his rambling, giving Leywinn time to think. If the dwarves have heard about the rumors, who else? This adventure of his might get him killed. “Rakamore!” Barry uttered out, happy the name came to mind. The mood shifted, leaving Leywinn to contemplate, while he played with his glass . Barry leaned back, drank more his ale, and breathed between the gulps.
“Why did you leave your store?” Barry shot out. “I wanted to have an adventure,” Leywinn replied. “I guess I wanted a story to tell. Whether it be of my shop’s success or one of adventure.”
To be free
Rumbled in his head. Like a book, Barry read Leywinn’s composure and measured his response. “To be free, right?” Barry might have had a lot to drink though he speaks with a somber mind, “It’s worth it though.” A hopeful thing to hear as Leywinn looked at Barry whose eyes of a drunken man turned serious, a light of truth formed in Barry's words. “Sure. There is danger around the world. Raiders, thieves, crazy murderers, the works.” Barry took a small sip to refresh his lips, “But man, is it beautiful. You and the road. Trees sing in the wind and the clouds tell you a story every time you look up at em. Hell, you see the dwarves over there? Just met them. Singing loudly for all to hear, having a good time.” The words jolted clarity back into Leywinn’s mind, awakening a fire within. It was not the fear of the world that bothered him, rather the fear of being complacent. Freedom means finding oneself on the journey of life, both great and ugly. It is how one evolves from these choices accepting what may or may not be controllable in the world.
Through the many peaks of life one can always move forward in fairness to oneself without fear. This is the freedom Leywinn desired and knew to be true. For example, Barry sang with the dwarves; he was not thinking about people interrupting or worrying about a scene developing. He could tell in his interactions with Barry that no matter what happened Barry would find his way to resolving it. Same with the dwarves, who have no clue about Rakamore having ties to Tetamine. They sing for all to hear not enamored about what tomorrow brings. Fear is not an inhibition for Barry or the dwarves for that matter. They find joy in the moments. A clink of glasses brought Leywinn back to reality, his eyes now filled with spirit. “Well, that was the last one for me. May I run into you on the road, Leywinn. I’m sure together we can have plenty of adventures.” At this point, his words were an amalgamation of syllables though Leywinn could gather the gist of what Barry was trying to convey through body language and guesstimation. He too finished his drink and headed to bed.
A knock on the door prompted Leywinn to get out of bed and get dressed. It was time to go at last. The inn was cleaned up from the night before, the rest of the occupants sound asleep as the two make their way outside. “No horses, there is not a good place to tie them up the way we are heading,” said Darthamere in the breezy wind. He looked back and sees that Leywinn carried the knife along with his bags and said, “Wrap the strap so the dagger is on your side, lets people know fighting is not your first thought, but you are ready for one .”
“What about behind me?” Leywinn asked, "That way it is a surprise.” Darthamere grinned and replied, “Because they can see from a mile away your intentions the moment you reach back.”
The pair head a little further East arriving at a path trotted down by others, sleek with recent mud from the storm. Arrived at an incline the two made their way down as Leywinn updated Darthamere with the information he got from Barry last night.
Concerned dwelled in Darthamere as he waited for Leywinn. He looked up at Leywinn as he was at the end of the slope, “Could be a lie, dissuade us from looking into the matter,” Darthamere said. “Why would the dwarves lie though?” Leywinn said.
“Minerals or such in the hills, who knows.” Darthamere replied, hoping Leywinn will drop the conversation soon.
“Barry also knew of the danger, he told the dwarves too.”
“And you trust Barry?” Both stood still and looked at one another, “Barry said he’s heard your name before, said you were good, is that a lie too?” What a retort thought Darthamere as he smiled, “Yes, I am that good. It is why I know we do not need Barry’s help, let alone dwarves.” A firm turnaround from Darthamere means the discussion was finished.
Further down the path, trees in distraught of care, littered both sides of the path. The clouds remain united, left-overs from the storm, pushed the sun into the background. The mud hardened a little as the temperature cooled down, adding a subtle thump to their steps. A sudden fist stopped Leywinn in his tracks. Darthamere saw withered white smoke, a fire on its last limbs and nodded his head to Leywinn the direction of the smoke. With caution they made their way to the top of a hill mound.
“Through the groves, look,” Darthamere said. Firm outlines confirm men from a distance. Darthamere pointed to a lull in the hills, perfect defilade to scout and get further details. A group of twelve, lapsed with cleanliness, roamed a tattered camp. Makeshift weapons to maim and kill cling to their waists. A sliver of shadow from a cave entrance was spotted. There notes Darthamere.
The book is likely in there. “I say we go back and get-”
“No.” Darthamere said. “We move in fast; I will take out most of them. Use your speed. Trust your instincts.”
“No," Leywinn said. Darthamere's eyes go irate as Leywinn continued, “We should go back, get Barry and the dwarves, we need-”
"No!” Darthamere responds. A strong whisper that almost climbed over the hill. “You may be afraid, ‘high elf’, but I have been doing this alone my entire life. And I will continue too.”
As Darthamere climbed back up to the vantage point, Leywinn had a choice to make. Either put together the spells from the scrolls and fight, facing death, or run. As he looked up at Darthamere who was willing to risk it all, confident in himself for his dreams. The words dangerous and deranged rang around again.
Yeah
Leywinn understood. “Wait,” Leywinn said. The air tether and fireball spell scrolls were whipped out from the pack as Leywinn started to incantate. His fingers flexed into contortions, words sprinkled in brought the magic to life. His hands must be placed just. . . right.
Fawoosh
He felt the magic throughout his body, with instinct of use built in. He was ready to fight. A jerk from Darthamere’s head made Leywinn act in haste, sensing anger was still boiled inside Darthamere, “Stand behind if it gets too much,” Darthamere said. The practiced breathing became useful again for Leywinn. Before the two ran with the wind to strike swiftly, Leywinn breathed in deeply.
A flurry of fireballs blazed from Darthamere, making it rain upon the wild men. An uneven spread developed, as four men were crisped. Five went towards Darthamere, which left the remaining three to Leywinn. Darthamere’s experience and style flowed evenly as he switched spells between hands to dispatch the five enemies within seconds. Leywinn took advantage of the stunned men in front of him and attacked. His right hand, crackled with fire as he threw a blazing fireball at one. Without thinking Leywinn continued his attack, with the air tether spell in his left hand, Leywinn pulled the man to him and plunged the dagger with his right. The dagger pierced the chest of the ragged man. The last wild man ran for his life towards the North. Right when Darthamere aimed his short for the fireball, one flame blast flew from the mouth of the cave.
“No!” Roared from within the depths of the cave. Out came a man who stood tall with salt-n-pepper hair down to his shoulders, a beard to match. The symbol of Tetamine seared into his chest. Pants patched with black and red spots with a book precariously attached to the hip-- Rakamore.
“Get down!” Darthamere said within time as fire flayed from Rakamore’s fingers spontaneously, a flame blast followed and bellowed at Leywinn and Darthamere. A nearby rock grouping provided enough cover though the roar of fire whooshed over both of their heads. Laughter erupted from Rakamore, which emphatically grew louder with the fire. Darthamere dashed out from behind the rock, using air tether to launch himself like catapult. With both hands, Darthamere Conjured a firebomb. Darthamere flew at Rakamore and landed acritical hit on the upper torso of Rakamore. As Rakamore drew his last breath, Darthamere firmly took possession of the book.
Leywinn stepped out from behind the rocks, his eyes play witness to Darthamere standing still. His demeanor off. “Wow, you are good," said Leywinn. As he stepped closer to Darthamere, Leywinn spotted a difference about him. Leywinn saw a struggle brewing in the eyes of Darthamere.
The power
“Now is my time to show everyone. Every Man, every dwarf, everyone. The power of the Sun-Wayfarer elves.” Darthamere said as he casually flicked through the pages and continued, “I will bring back the pride that has been stolen years ago.”
“You have. You stopped Rakamore with ease. ” Leywinn said.
“Enough!” Darthamere said. “You do not get it. Stowed away in your castles, high elves, pffft. Your appeasement left us to fend for ourselves against Mankind. Our crystal-clear skies and waters were soiled while you stayed safe, played as scholars.” Leywinn was frozen because he could not argue. “Run now,” Darthamere said, “When the time comes, I will spare you and your store.” The clouds got darker as gusts of wind started to whirl around the encampment, “I will not leave you," Leywinn said. "You don’t need to do this alone,”
“Enough,” Darthamere said as he flicked his left hand to shoo Leywinn away with an air blast.
Leywinn’s instincts were telling him to run but not in terror. He knew the only help nearby was Barry and the three dwarves. Leywinn made his way back to the main road in a sprint. Four silhouettes appeared on the far side of the road. “Hey Leywinn, told you they were heading East,” Barry said riding on a bright-brown horse, hushed mumbles stemmed from the dwarves as they wanted to keep their journey a secret. As Leywinn attempted to talk, he kneeled over to breathe. “This is Dorguin with black hair. Dorthos the red head, and Dorikith with uh, brownish hair. The three dwarven brothers.” Barry said. The three dwarves burrowed their eyes at his simple introduction. “Sorry, it’s just an easy way to remember you and your matching beards.” Barry concluded. The three dwarves got rowdy and started to utter in their native tongue, most likely insults, at Barry. “Darthamere needs help,” Leywinn said. The dwarves step aside puzzled, “Darthamere?” “His companion,” answered Barry. The three sigh collectively on command.
“He has the book of Tetamine.” Leywinn said. The eardrums of the dwarves rang in terror. Barry for once was silent too. “So, it was true,” Dorthos said. “The book was here all along. And now an elf has it. No offense,” Dorthos added.
“Aye, what can we do about it?” asked the other two dwarven brothers in tandem. Leywinn glimpsed at an intriguing item behind Dorthos’ fine white, green robe. “Are you a rune master?” Leywinn asked. “Perhaps,” replied Dorthos as he is weary of new people. “Good,” said Leywinn as he takes a step back to think of a plan. Dwarves used their knowledge of magic and rock to create powerful stone tablets. If this dwarf is as good as he seemed, they have a chance.
Dorthos' tablet is laced with tiny emeralds in a dazzling design. With their ancient language as the codex, only those who knew the dwarven language completely could wield the magic within. Leywinn noticed the other two brothers had axes and shields , provided more combat prowess. Then there was Barry. He had a combination of leather and chainmail mended together for a hearty chest piece studded with copper for durability. A sturdy-steel sword and dagger.
Strike fast and hard,
Leywinn thought, like the previous approach with the wild men. Barry stepped in, “Leywinn, I know Darthamere may be your companion, but I think we should head back and tell the Empire, at least they can prepare for Tetamine.”
“No,” Leywinn responded, an assertive tone which caught Barry by surprise. “He is my friend. It may have been a few days, but I know who Darthamere is. He is just stuck, afraid to let anyone else down.” Leywinn said. Leywinn understood the loneliness Darthamere battled within. No longer will Leywinn stand aside and let fear make choices for him. “I have a plan.” The stern words were heard as the group huddled together, “I’ll need your knife, Barry.”
The group made their way through the grove and back to where Leywinn and Darthamere originally made their attack. The wind howled as thunder provided the oomph, which rolled throughout the sun-blotted sky. Each of them popped their heads over the hill to see how far Darthamere was in the ritual. A purple bolt of lightning struck the book.
Too late.
Arisen from the book, in a deep purple aura, was Tetamine. The air thinned out as a dark purple aura surrounded Tetamine, fear flickered from the aura. Pulsated in droves as the sensation spilled into the rescue party’s lap. Panic spread like wildfire in the group as they catch a glimpse of the dark ethereal form which took shape. A body disfigured through years of corruption and hate that fueled himself. An astral cape spawned shorty after, fluttered at his feet. The three dwarves pumped their chests with hearty blows in order to break the hold of fear on their bodies. Barry and Leywinn both take deep breathes. Leywinn gave the signal, which sent the dwarves into a frenzy, their war cry followed suit as they crested the hill. Leywinn dashed off to the right. Barry followed the dwarves as Dorthos unveiled his stone tablet of magic. The table sprang to life as ancient dwarven chants filled the air. A rich teal color filled the brittle words embedded on the tablet casting a shield in time to save them from a sporadic lightning attack from Tetamine. “Dwarves,” Tetamine said, “Never understood the true might of magic.”
The group did their best to keep Tetamine distracted as Leywinn maneuvered around to the backside of the cave to gain an advantage from the top. Tetamine focused his power with two hands, unleashed true fury, which broke the dwarven shield in an instant. Barry, Dorguin and Dorkith rushed in but to no avail. A whisk from Tetamine’s ghoulish left hand sent the three flying. Dorthos started to channel the fury of his soul, the tint of the stone changed with the words to a vibrant red. Flames rippled from Dorthos’ hands toward Tetamine who proceeded to swipe it away as if it was a flea. “Pathetic,” Tetamine let out. Leywinn tipped-toed to the top of the cave entrance biding his time for a perfect strike. Barry with the two other dwarves slowly got up and saw leywinn was in position. “Finally,” Dorikith let out. “Thought he got lost,” Dorguin added. Together, they all rushed toward Tetamine yelling, but he was aware of their ruse all along. Right as Barry and the dwarves got in range Leywinn leaped. “No,” Darthamere yelled but it was too late. Tetamine pushed the rushing party back and snatched Leywinn mid-air, and threw him to the ground.
“Traitor!” Tetamine said, “I have grown tired of these games. You will all die, now!”
“Wait,” Darthamere interrupted, “He helped me get here. He is an elf, I thought you wanted to-” Tetamine latched his eyes onto Darthamere and stared into his soul.
“He is a traitor. Any elf who will not join by my side as I conquer this world is worthless waste.” Puzzled by his decree Darthamere responded, “Conquer? What about being a protector of the Sun-Wayfarers?”
“Fools too weak to act, faltered to an inevitable end. The only way to save our kind is claiming the world as ours, through me.”
Bitterness and hate. An ugly combination that Darthamere sees the folly in at last. Tetamine was not the one to save his people, only ruination. Darthamere glimpsed at Leywinn, who in motion reached to the back for something.
A knife.
If he could distract Tetamine, Leywinn had a shot. Their eyes linked up, a wink from Darthamere was all Leywinn needed to know. With a fast fireball beamed at Tetamine’s head, Leywinn leaped again and plunged the dagger into the exposed torso striking the lungs.
“Fools!” Tetamine said as he blasted a concussive wave sending the two hard into the nearby rocks. Tetamine took a few steps and grabbed Leywinn by the throat. Darthamere crawled with all the strength he had left towards the book.
“I will finish you off first, scum.” The clouds above left, a line of sunshine lingered down to Darthamere as he shouted, “No! You are the traitor.” Tetamine whipped his head around, letting go of Leywinn to conjuror up a powerful spell to counter. “I will show you the true power of the Sun-Wayfarers’.” The meager line of sun became a beam. Gold lightning swerved through the beam as Darthamere channeled the power. A bright flash occurred, a tremendous, booming roar followed. Golden lightning from Darthamere’s fingers penetrated the purple aura of Tetamine, dispelling his power of hate. The wind cracked and reverberated as a howl was heard faintly. The sun started to shine onto the dust of Tetamine as the clouds withered away.
Finally, an adventure worth telling Leywinn thought as he got up wincing in pain. “Thank you,” Darthamere said to Leywinn. Barry and the dwarves got up and soon started to bicker. Darthamere picked the book up as he walked toward Leywinn. “What are you going to do with that?” Asked Leywinn, “I know the perfect place to hide it.” Darthamere said and laughed, as Leywinn found out on their way back to Cokom City his store was the hiding spot.
A few days had passed since the fight with Tetamine. Barry and the dwarven brothers came by the shop to restock and head back East to search for any more missing artifacts that may be hidden in caves. Darthamere stopped by to check out the window he busted, before restocking as well for another adventure back to his home island. As the others went their own way, Leywinn worked on his shop, with one last goal to finish. At night, Leywinn grabs that piece of paper with the dried ink and wrote:
Dear Dad,
You were right. Within the first day I almost faltered. I allowed a phony to barter robbery from me and had to deal with the Cokom Guards on my first day. But I went forward. Going on an adventure taught me something I wish for you to know. There were times where the vast beauty of the world could not keep your words, dangerous and deranged, out of my mind, my soul. I was afraid I would get stuck in the mud, blinded like a child chasing my dreams, and perish without you knowing what I thought. Between the incident on the first day and our successful adventure, the freedom I had allowed me to find my inner self. Without your words burrowing in my head, I would have never been able to dig down deep to fight for myself and move forward. When I faced fear itself- Tetamine, I was not afraid. I knew with the help of friends I made along the way we could put an end to his scheme. I write not to flaunt my success but to say thank you. Without your words to fuel my dreams, I was able to find myself freely without limiting inhibitions. I knew all along you cared for my wellbeing, and I am happy for your concerns. It was time for me to journey outwards in this great life, an odyssey I would love to tell you one day. Hope you and mom are doing well, can visit one day as Cokom has had a resurgence of life. I think you both will be surprised too.
Love you always,
Leywinn.
