REVISION 9

Pablo C. Agsalud Jr.

Three kingdoms. Two brothers.

One powerful Stone.
Who will decide their fate?

NO PART OF THIS BOOK CAN BE COPIED OR REPRODUCED

WITHOUT PRIOR PERMISSION OR CONSENT FROM THE AUTHOR

CHAPTER I

ANGELS OF LIGHT
THE BEGINNING
THE EYES OF LUNA
THE DIVINE HERALD
THE SHADOWLORD
THE MEDALLION
THE MEGAIA TREE

7
8
9
11
13
18
20

CHAPTER II

22

RISING SHADOWS
BROTHERLY LOVE
RUMORS OF THE STONE
A QUEEN FIT FOR A SHADOWLORD
WORRIED WILLIAM
PLEASURE ALLEY
THE BLACK FOREST
FIREFLIES
THE SEED OF DREKKOR
NIGHTMARE
AYAS WISH
TWO NEW NAMES

22
23
26
27
29
31
34
35
36
38
39
42

CHAPTER III

43

A GLIMPSE OF DARKNESS
DARK CLOUDS
THE AEONS MAKE A MOVE
A STRANGE DREAM
MARCUS OF ARCHAEA
AS ONE
VINCE
THE STONES CURSE
THE APPRENTICE AND THE LOWLY SERVANT
THE CHOSEN ONE
A POWERFUL SHADOW
WITHOUT A TRACE

43
44
45
47
49
51
52
53
55
57
58
61

CHAPTER IV

62

THE STONES MASTER

ULRICH
SOUCH!
APPLES
SLAVE
BENEATH THE SUN
LOVE AND SIMPLE THINGS
THE TRAVELLING MERCHANT
ONE LONG NIGHT
HER NAME

62
63
65
67
71
75
79
81
84
87

CHAPTER V

89

BROTHERS
PREDATORS
THE UNEXPECTED GUEST
GROWING SEEDS
THE SON OF DARKNESS
CAPTURED!
A NEW MASTER
DIVIDED
A VILLAGE MAKES A STAND
WORDS
NIGHTFALL
DISTURBING SILENCE
WEAK POINT
BACK TO BACK
LORCAN AVENGERS
THE FADING FLOWER
A FATHER GRIEVES
WAR CURTAIN
LONE AVENGER
THE MISSING HALF

89
90
91
95
98
101
104
107
110
114
115
119
121
123
127
129
133
135
137
140

CHAPTER VI

148

ECLIPSE
THE MYSTERIOUS ANGEL
SHEENA
A REWARD
AN UNUSUAL GIFT
DEMONS WING
THE WHITE KNIGHT
TWO HEARTS
WARRING ANGELS
FINAL CONFLICT
THE TWO INSCRIPTIONS
SHIVANAKTRA
RAMUJA
A FAVOR
THE THIRD INSCRIPTION
THE DEFENDER OF PEACE
REINFORCEMENTS!
TRIUMPH!
A HERO DIES
REVIVED!
FAREWELL

148
149
151
154
159
160
162
165
167
169
172
175
177
181
183
185
188
196
198
199
200

CHAPTER VII

203

TOWARDS THE FUTURE

THE END OF THE JOURNEY
A SHINING LEGACY

203
204
207

NOTES

210

REFERENCES
LYRICS: THE WANDERER
AEON ALPHABET AND NUMERALS
DRAWINGS
CHARACTERS
GLOSSARY
WORDS FROM THE AUTHOR

210
211
212
213
222
226
229

Chapter I

Angels of Light

The Beginning
[07-17-2011]

In the age before the existing human

civilization ruled the earth, the world was
divided into three great kingdoms.
From the sky, ruled the Aeons, winged men
and women with the power of Light. They
live in a majestic sky kingdom, watching over
the earth.
From beneath the earth, dwells the Shadows,
hideous creatures that feed on Darkness.
The ruthless Shadowlord, Drekkor, ruled over
them and the Underworld.
And right in between, lies the Human World.
The Humans lived peacefully in villages. And
every fifty lunar years, the villagers must
choose a wise man to lead the village. The
village leaders were called Elders; powerful
shamans and trust-worthy advisers.
The Humans believed that the Aeons were
actually Angels of God the brings rain to dry
lands. The rain makes trees bear fruit and crops yield a hundred fold. Thus, the Elders
warned the people not to cut the trees or they will bear the wrath of the holy angels.

My name is Sadji.
The great, great grandson of the Last Mystic.
And this is their story

The Eyes of Luna

[07-17-2011]

Luna, look! a young Aeon said. The crops look like glittering gold from this view!
Yes, it does, Althea, said Luna. And its almost time for harvest.
Mistress, the child asked out of the blue, do you think that the Queen would allow
us to mingle with the Humans?
I dont know, replied Luna. Why did you ask?
Althea smiled and said, I want to make friends with them!
Luna smiled back. Seeing how peace-loving the humans are, she thought that its
probably time to meet the humans.
Moments later, a couple of Aeon Sentinels came before them.
What is it? asked Luna.
Pardon us, Mistress, one of them said. The Queen would like the Aeon Guardians
to convene. Your presence is requested.
Ill be there shortly.

Soon, the Aeon Guardians gathered before Queen Rovelia.

The Humans have gained control of the land, said Marcus, an Aeon Guardian who
controls Lightning. We must stop them, or in time they would try to conquer our
skies as well!
The Humans pose no immediate threat to us, Marcus, Queen Rovelia said.
For now...
What say you, Luna? asked Rovelia. What do thou eyes perceive?

10

Luna, an Aeon Guardian who has the ability to see the future, closed her eyes for a
moment.
Darkness she said. I see Darkness
I fear that one of them will soon bear the seed of Hate Before long, there will be
war and destruction she warned.
And yet, she continued, lies something greater
What is it, Luna? asked Marcus. What else do you see?
The seed of Love, Luna smiled, and the fate of the entire Human race!
The Supreme Aeon Guardian, Rovelia, thought for a moment and said, Very well, its
time we send her down.

The Divine Herald

[07-17-2011]

Purple Valley. A village known for its gleeming line of purple flowers.
It was harvest season. A gust of wind blew over the crops from nowhere. The stalks
were swaying like an ocean wave forming into a massive whirlpool.
Suddenly, a burst of bright light appeared in the middle of the golden field. Then, the
farmers heared the sound of flapping wings. It was coming from a divine being
hovering over the yellow field. The farmers were covered with fear.

11

I am Megaia, the winged goddess declared. An Aeon from Archaea, the land above
the sky.
Then, one by one, six more bright lights came, appearing one after another behind
her. Aeon Legionnaires. Strong men that look like fierce heroic angel guards.
The farmers picked up their scythes, rakes, and sickles to arm themselves. There are
more than twenty of them. The Aeons seemed outnumbered, they thought.
Do not be afraid, Megaia said. We mean you no harm.
One of the Aeons stepped forward.
The strength of a single Aeon could take out half their number. The rest of them
would only take a short intimidation from the light of his terrifying eyes.
We come in peace, Vaughn, one of the six Aeons, said. So, please lower your
arms.

12

The village Elder came forth and held out his staff to signal his fellow villagers to
lower their arms.
My name is Ecron, and I am the leader of this peaceful community, he said. What
had brought you into our fold?
I came to give you a warning, Megaia replied.

Then, the Elder guided Megaia and the Aeons into his dwelling.
What is this about? Ecron asked.
Your people are in danger, Ecron.
My people?
The Shadows will be coming for you. You and the Human race are in grave
danger

Soon after, Megaia told the Elder about the prophecy that the Aeon Guardian, Luna,
had foretold

13

The Shadowlord
[07-26-2011]

Megaia placed her two fingers over the Elders forehead.

Close your eyes, Ecron, Megaia asked the Elder. I will show you everything
The Elder did what he was told and Megaia entered his mind.
The Elder found himself in a dream. And in this dream, Megaia began to show him the
past, where everything started

A hundred years ago, before your ancestors were born Megaia started to narrate,
everyone was living under one big paradise.
The gods ruled everything. They make the laws, and the people follow them.
Our ancestors were nothing but wingless mortal beings that plant trees and eat
fruits in order to survive. The Aeons were just like ordinary humans, trying to live
their way peacefully on land.
You see, your people and mine were one, Ecron. And everything was good, until this
man came along

14

Drekkor. He wanted nothing more than gaining more for himself. He got bored trying
to stick with the rules, and realized that it is much better to live a life without one. He
began to entice others about his wretched idea, and convinced some followers by
showing them what freedom from the law feels like.
See, I told you it was fun! Drekkor exclaimed after killing one of his own fellow men.
But, one of the gods saw everything that he did. She hurriedly went down and tried to
revive the fallen human.
Archaea. She was a merciful god who watches over people.
When Drekkor saw her, Drekkor hid himself and watched her closely.
I want that power, he said to himself.
Eating animal flesh gives him strength. But that is not enough.
If I ingest you, he thought, that would make me ever more powerful. But, how will I
do that?
Then, Drekkor did the unthinkable. He picked up a huge rock nearby and knocked the
goddess down from behind.
So, Drekkor said. Not all the gods share the same power. Archaea didnt even see
me coming.
Drekkor observed Archaeas seemingly lifeless body for a while.
In this state, Drekkor said, you look like a regular Human to me.
Afterwards, Drekkor dragged her body on top of a hill for all the people to see. He tied
her into a pole and started cursing her. With a big slap, he removed the gem-lined
circlet on her head. He tore her garments off, piece by piece, and stripped her halfnaked. Then, he dragged her up again, and placed her on a dais.
Look at your god, now! shouted Drekkor.
The men and women stood appalled. But when some onlookers saw that she was still
breathing, they shouted, Shes still alive!
When Drekkor saw that she really was still alive, Drekkor hit her again. He smashed
her head down repeatedly into the ground until her pretty face was far too difficult to
be recognized and blood gushed out from her mouth.
When he saw that she was almost lifeless, he held her up by the neck and laughed.
Wheres your power now, Goddess? he begins to mock her.
I thought you were a god, he continued. Why dont you try and save yourself,
then?
Archaea started to suffocate. Its getting even harder to get air.

15

You were trying to revive that man I just killed, said Drekkor. But, could you bring
yourself back to life as well?
The goddess was barely breathing. Who wouldve thought that things would end up
this way? Was her fate written by a more powerful being?
Then, Archaea lost conscousness again.
Pathetic.
Archaeas heart slowed down. A few heartbeats later, she was dead. Theres no more
time left to think.
Then, Drekkor threw her down.
Gods he said. They arent that powerful after all.
After witnessing a compassionate goddess die, the people got confused.
Why didnt the goddess protected herself, they thought.
Then, one of the people standing there yelled.
This is not good! he said. We just killed one of them! Theyll be coming for us!
Theyre gonna kill us and punish us all!
The people believed what he said. Most of them got frightened and ran away, fearing
theyd be next. Some headed for cover towards the farthest hills for fear of the other
gods wrath.
But, Drekkor stood still.
Yes, run! Drekkor yelled at them. You worthless cowards!
The people was in chaos and Drekkor was expecting this.
Hahahaha! laughed Drekkor. This is a wonderful site, indeed!

16

Then, Drekkor turned to his lifeless prey.

Now, said Drekkor. Its time to absorb those powers
Drekkor took some of Archaeas blood, and drinked it. After that, he grabbed a sharp
rock and cracked her chest open. He took out her heart, teared some of her flesh,
and ate them, too.
Come, join me! Drekkor called out to his followers. Come savor the taste of your
god!
His followers crawled slowly to the lifeless mutilated body of the goddess, staring at
Drekkor and wondering what a goddesss flesh tastes like.

When the two other gods, Ramuja and Shivanaktra, came, they were looking for her.
I thought I sensed her presence coming to this place, Shivanaktra said. But, where
did she go?
Lets go and ask somebody, Ramuja said.
When Shivanaktra saw a Human nearby trying to hide himself behind a big boulder,
he called on to him.
You, there, Shivanaktra said in a loud voice. Have you seen your goddess pass this
way?
The man was shivering in extreme fear and was speechless that he even tried to run
away.
You shouldnt have scared him, laughed Ramuja.
I didnt scared him, Shivanaktra replied. I just asked him.
Then, Shivanaktra disappeared and reappeared in front of the man who was trying to
run away.
Im going to ask you one more time, Shivanaktra said. Where is she?
Then, the terrified man slowly raised his finger and pointed it to a direction not so far
away. And then, he ran away.
Is that what I think it is? Ramuja said while looking at Drekkor and his followers who
were still eating at that time.
While Ramuja covers Archaeas remains with a protective sphere of white energy,
Shivanaktra instantly blew up the place and Drekkor and his followers were
immediately blown away.
When the two other gods knew about what happened, they were totally enraged.
Their powerful roars called upon a great earthquake and a huge flood.

17

The trees were uprooted like grass being pulled out rapidly from the soil. The rushing
water splashed with the voice of a hundred dying souls. Lightning fell from the sky
like rain. And the people ran to different directions, screaming in horror.
One of the gods, Shivanaktra, slammed the earths surface with his powerful hand.
Then, the earth crumbled and the land was torn apart. Those who were caught
between them did not survive.
These men must be vanquished! Shivanaktra said.
The God of Destruction, Shivanaktra, held out his hands, and Drekkor and his
followers were not able to move.
You have slayed one of the gods, he said in anger. For that, you shall be
punished!
Shivanaktra moved his hands again. At that moment, Drekkor and his followers were
like puppets with their hands raised in the air.
Your hands are stained with the blood of a divine entity! roared Shivanaktra.
Then, Drekkor and his allies felt twisting pain on their shoulders. Their arms were
literally being torn apart!
Suddenly, Shivanaktras lightning bolts struck their arms.
Arrrggghhh!!! they cried out in unbearable pain as their arms slowly disintegrate.
You dared to touch your gods face, Shivanaktra spoke with fury, and ruin it!
Fire lit up from Shivanaktras angry eyes and flames suddenly burst out from their
faces.
Arrrggghhh!!! they yelled as their faces began to melt.
Filled with wrath, the God of Destruction declared, You shall never lay eyes on
anyone ever again!
At that moment, flames on their faces lit up their eyeballs.
Arrrggghhh!!! they screamed in extreme pain. My eyes! What have you done with
our eyes?!
You and your deeds dont belong in the Human world! said the infuriated god. And
neither will you be called Humans again!
From this day forth, he added, you and your followers will embody the darkness of
the underworld!
In one final stroke, Shivanaktra made the earth open up. Then, he threw Drekkor and
his minions right into the depths of the earth and sealed it shut.
Meanwhile, the other god, Ramuja, chased after the other humans who failed to hide.
These men must be spared, the God of Preservation, Ramuja, said.

18

In one sweeping move, Ramuja zapped the fleeing terrified humans. She gave them a
pair of wings so that they would have a greater chance of escaping the wrath of the
other god.

When Shivanaktra slammed the earths surface, the big land was divided into several
pieces, and became islands. Ramuja raised one of them into the sky and set it afloat.
The island was called Archaea, in remembrance to the god that was slain by Drekkor.
Since then, the humans were scattered all throughout the world, and the gods had
never revealed themselves to them again.
The humans who were able to flee with their god-given wings were called Aeons, and
Archaea became their new home. A number of Aeons who received some of Ramujas
powers became the founding guardians of the Aeon Kingdom.
Whereas, those humans who were banished into the dark pit were called Shadows.
Noone knows what happened to Drekkor, or his followers. But, the truth that Drekkor
and his minions survived somewhere beneath the earth, is the greatest fear that the
Aeons and the Humans shared in common. It wont be long before he and his legion
could find their way out towards the surface.

19

The Aeon Guardian, Luna, had seen a glimpse of an ill future. Megaia said.
Darkness will cover the land and the Shadows will try to subdue it. The Shadowlords
seed of Hate will bring forth war and destruction. Disease and famine wont be far
away. And it will probably be the beginning of the end of the Human race.
But knowing the evil intentions of the Underworld, Drekkor wont stop there. Hell
come for more power. Hell go after the Aeons, as well. That is why we have to act
now, Ecron, for the sake of both worlds.

20

The Medallion
[07-17-2011]

The Elder opened his eyes and spoke with dismay, I understand
And this will happen soon? he asked.
Very soon, Megaia said without a doubt.
But, how are we supposed to thwart this kind of malice? the worried Elder asked.
Megaia stood up and walked towards the balcony. Then, she called forth the wind by
stretching out her arms. Ecron followed and watched her glide above the ground.
Megaia went up in the air, stopped, and opened her hands. Suddenly, water from a
nearby watersource formed into a big bubble of blue light. At the same time nearby,
a big fireball emerged from the hearths fire. Then, a short tremor shook the village
and the villagers saw a huge mass of earth slowly forming up into an orb.
A speck of light appeared on Megaias hand. Soon, the Spirit began sucking up the
sphere elements around her. Then, the orbs bound themselves together to form one
small glowing sphere.
Sentinel, Megaia motioned Vaughn.
Yes, my Lady? asked Vaughn.
You know what to do.
Megaias subordinate, Vaughn, borrowed Ecrons staff and turned it into a broad
sword with a white wooden handle. When the sphere stopped glowing, the Aeon
swung the sword back swiftly and strucked the sphere with full force. The swords
handle cracked, and so did the sphere.
Vaughn took the thing that emerged from the sphere and gently handed it to Megaia.
A medallion? Vaughn wondered.
Its not just an ordinary medallion, Megaia said. This sacred stone is a vessel
Megaia raised the Medallion and whispered something in an Aeon language. Then, a
stream of lightning from heaven struck the Medallion causing two inscriptions to be
written on it.

21

In the first sign of Darkness, the Medallion will choose its own master, Megaia
explained. And the Chosen One will carry the fate of the entire human race.
The Power of Light will cloak him from the Shadows of Darkness, she added.

22

The Megaia Tree

[07-17-2011]

Before the six Aeons left, Megaia gave the Elder unholy powers and the knowledge to
cast elemental spells.
From this day forth, Ecron declared, we are your servant.
Then, the Elder fell on his knees and bowed down to worship her. Ecrons apprentice,
Meshak, did the same.
Meshak didnt bowed down because he was trying to worship her, but he had so
adored her beauty. Who wouldnt bow down to this saintly figure? Megaias angelic
face alone could make anyone fall to their knees. Her holy eyes were like heaven
locked inside two irises. Her flourishing white dress conceals her perfectly-tapered
slender body. Truly, shes a goddess of flawless beauty worth beholding!
But then, Megaia turned away, looked around and marveled at the sight of natures
beauty.
Then, she said, No, Ecron
Afterwards, the Aeon Guardian touched one of the nearby trees. Then, she used her
powers to transfer some of her life energy into it.
Moments later, another intense quake shook the whole town!
Astoundingly, the tree grew rapidly and turned into a colossal fruit-bearing life form,
with roots crawling around and under the entire village!
When the tremor stopped, the tree stood as tall as the third highest mountain in the
land. Its enormous size can be seen from afar. Its peak soared beyond the clouds, and
vines go dwindling down from it.
From now on, you are a Mystic, Megaia declared. And we are your allies.

23

Since then, the tree became known as the Megaia Tree. The tree that blooms purple
flowers to signify the beginning of harvest season, and bears fruit abundantly in
times of drought.
Furthermore, the Megaia Tree became the symbol of alliance between the Humans
and the Aeon race. And once a year, the Aeons would go down to Earth to mingle
with the Humans, and the village Mystics would present offerings to them under the
Megaia Tree.
And I, Sadji, the great, great grandson of the Last Mystic, carry on this sacred
tradition of my forefathers up to this very day.

24

Chapter II

Rising Shadows

25

Brotherly Love
[07-29-2011]

I am one of the humans who followed Drekkor, because I happened to be his friend
before he became the Shadowlord.
He and I, we grew up at the same time during the era when the world was under the
rule of the three gods.
We were kids with a wide flare of imagination. But, I looked up to him as if he was my
star, and considered him a great visionary with a far-seeing ambition for our race.
When I was young, I never really had a big dream at all.
Wanna come with us? I asked.
Where to? said Drekkor.
To Purple Valley.
Pulley Valley?
Yes. Ive been planting purple flowers around it since yesterday, so I have decided to
call it Purple Valley. But, itd probably take me a few weeks to fill the entire place.
Why not fill the whole world then?
The whole world?
Yes. The whole world.
Hes just two years older than me but he talks as if hes twice as old as I am.
If you have such a dream, he added, then why dont you just dream bigger?
Bigger dreams?
Yes. Dont you have any bigger dreams?
No. Do you?
Well, Im sick of this boring life Im tired of having to follow all these stupid rules
And someday I will become the ruler of this world

26

So, when Drekkor told me about his dreams, his dreams became my dreams as well.
And from that day on, we were brothers.
After the God of Destruction, Shivanaktra, unleashed his wrath, we lost our eyes and
became prisoners of the abyss. Walking as blind tormented souls, we couldt help but
hate the way we look, because we end up with disfigured faces and monstrous
appearances.
We wandered in the depths of the earth for decades. We almost lost our minds but
we never lost sight of our dreams.

Underneath the earth, food was scarce. Foul creatures that creep, crawl, and slither
through caverns became our meal.
For the sake of our dreams! we said to ourselves as we feed on olms, worm lizards,
and burrowing squamatas.

27

Acquiring hunting skills by smell kept us alive. Our sensitive ears and nose became
our eyes in the dark.
The caverns were used to be dominated by snakes. But now, their blood is just like
another drop of water to us.
There was also a time when the only available food in front of us were Shadows
themselves. But, brothers dont kill each other. So, in order to survive, we took a little
of piece of each other without getting the other killed. Our life was as important to us
as getting back to the surface.
I followed Drekkor wherever he went, and nearly never left his side. He appointed me
as the first and only Shadow Historian, for reasons I never seemed to realize, until it
was the end. And for that, I owe him my entire life.

I am Marduk.
And these are the articles that lie in my account

28

Rumors of the Stone

[07-17-2011]

Stories about the Purple Valley incident spread across far countries and foreign lands
like wild fire.
The forest speaks. Even the ground whispers.
The Stone of Destiny
The Medallion of Power
Soon, the rumors reached our world the Underworld.
Some say it has the power to wipe out the Shadows, an eyeless Underling
whispered to a fellow Shadow in a distinct language.
My Lord, a Shadow Binder said, the Medallion that the Humans received from the
Aeons is a source of great power.
Very well, find out more about its power and report back to me, the Shadowlord
commanded.
My Lord, I believe the Mystics probably have it, Zorrgahn, the Shadow Binder said.
Aside from them, no ordinary man could ever control such tremendous energy!
I see, the Shadowlord said.
Drekkor realized that it would take a much more powerful being to wield the
Medallion. So, he disguised himself as a man and went into the Human World.

29

A Queen Fit for a Shadowlord

[07-21-2011]

Elmdour.
A small village lying at the base of Blood Mountain.
There was a huge gathering. A feast. People from nearby villages flock to find
enjoyment.
A lot of outsiders from various regions joined the merrymaking, making it easier for
someone with an unknown face to blend in.
A series of fireworks exploded in the sky. Soon, people were gathering around the
foreign traders in the marketplace, hoping to get a great deal for some good and rare
stuffs.
Drekkor made his way through the crowd under the disguise of an oil merchant.
Then, he found himself locked on to the scent of a lovely young woman, who had just
been married to a fellow townfolk.
She was looking around, wondering what she could buy as a present for her beloved
husband.
A perfume perhaps, Miss? the oil merchant said while trying to make her an offer.
Im sorry, she said. Im already married.
AahhhIve got just the right one for you!
The oil merchant took out a set of potions from his small bag.
You dont seem to have a child yet, do you? he asked.
The woman, Aya, felt a sudden sense of danger, and asked him back, Whos
asking?
Suddenly, Drekkor grabbed her hand and tried to drag her away.
I am the Shadowlord, he whispered to her with a slithering tongue And youare
going to be my Queen!

30

Aya accidentally dropped her wedding flower necklace while trying to resist the
stranger. She was trying to make a run for it, but Drekkor held her back and forced
her into a corner. Within a while and without the people around him noticing, he was
able to place her under a spell using one of his concoctions.
The foul dust and the virulent fumes made Aya dizzy. A potent sleeping potion. Aya
lost her consciousness. She wont be awake for quite a long while
Then, Drekkor carried her and took her into the woods.

31

Worried William
[07-21-2011]

Back at the town center

William! a man called out to another man who seemed to be anxiously looking for
something. Come, join my family for dinner!
Thanks, but, said William, have you seen my wife Aya?
No, my friend, the man said. She probably headed for the marketplace.
Whats in the marketplace?
Oh, cmon! Its a feast! he replied. All people are eager to see whats at the trade
fair this year!
William hurried to the direction of the crowded marketplace.
Hey! Take this! he tossed him a bag of silver coins. You might actually find some
interesting things worth buying there!
When William reached the marketplace, it was crowded with people.
Merchants and traders. Street performers and onlookers. Everyone had a clever tactic
behind his sleeve.
From gunpowder to fireworks. From strange artifacts to wooden inventions. Rich and
poor people alike, came to find something new, unusual, and interesting.
William combed the marketplace twice and searched the alleys nearby. Nothing.
William sat down, trying to catch his breath. He looked around. Shoplifters and young
pickpockets. Swindlers and schemers. There are slave traders, too. This situation
makes him feel even more uneasy.
Then, something lying on the ground caught his eyes.
It was Ayas necklace.

32

Aya, William whispered.

Some of the beads were scattered westward, towards the direction of the old road.
Did somebody took her there?
What kind of trouble had Aya ran into? Where is Aya? And who took her?

33

Pleasure Alley
[07-21-2011]

Soon,
William
found
himself walking on a damp
street, lined with small inns
and filthy cottages.
Horses
tied
to
the
courtyard, on his left. More
horses on the right. A few
steps
further,
women
posing
to
get
your
acquaintance
were
standing on both sides.
The lights on the inns are
on. Theres a sudden burst
of laughter in each room. It
marks the vanishing sun
on the horizon.
Looking for a girl, Mister?
a luring voice called out.
Tempting
wild
whores.
Cleavages right between
them are just dying to
break out. Hes got enough
money to take two at the
same time. But, not now.
Theres plenty to go
around, a young voice
tries to ensnare him.

34

Then,
another
woman
caught his attention. Her
hand was sliding slowly
from her lips, down to her
chest.
She took out a cigarette
and asked, Got a light,
handsome?

35

Aya cant be here, he thought.

He hates the idea that a man might have dragged his nave young Aya into this alley.
Offered her some money for a few small favors. Trying to seduce her to thinking she
could buy her husband a set of fine clothes. Convincing her that she could turn a
blacksmith into a real gentleman like himself. Only if she says yes. Only if she could
be obedient for a moment. Only if she stops resisting
Unfortunately, none of these ladies faces seemed to look like the one hes been
searching for.
Two doors more and the next area would be the gambling and drinking block. He
definitely wont find her there.
But then, an innocent sound came out from the last door. A voice of a moaning girl
was screaming out to the pinnacle of her pleasure.
No, he said to himself. Not my Aya. She would not simply fall for something like
that.
But, where could she be? he said to himself, tensed.
Then, his eyes led him to the dark end of the alley, a crooked path that leads outside
the village and into the woods.
Something in the air made his chest hairs stood up.
Aya he said to himself. Im coming for you
Without hesitation, he grabbed a torch and took off with one of the horses nearby.

36

The Black Forest

[07-21-2011]

The thick black forest.

Tall trees. Some old. Some dead.
Its quiet.
This used to be the wolves territory. But now, the wolves are but a small part of a
larger food chain. There are no rules in this forest. Big preys become food for bigger
predators. And big predators fell prey for small creatures with a big appetite.
A fallen log. The footpath ends here. The horse refused to go a step further. Shes
scared. Her eyes is a wide black ball of fear. A wise man would know when to turn
back.
The forest could make anyone yield and run back. But not this man. Not someone
with a missing wife. Not someone who had a new ring on his finger.
William tied the horse to a tree, held out his torch, and started walking. The closer he
gets towards the middle of the forest, the darker it gets. Old trees begin to look like
disfigured faces staring at him. The rubbing leaves make it seem like its moving.
One gentle step, then a crunch. It was just a piece of broken branch.
Haaah the sound of a prolonged slow exhale reverberated in the air. Another
hungry predator found a prey.
William remembered what the old wives used to say about this forest.
Ah, yes a creepy old voice echoed in his head. The woods A creepy place
where a number of children had gone to never to return
Some who tried to search for their sons ended up lost for weeks, and never returned
without a scary story to tell
Even the hound dogs ended up as decaying matter for the ancient trees
The Black Forest is a home to the foulest of creatures The heart of darkness!

37

Fireflies
[07-26-2011]

A shadow moves along the trees. A small flickering source of light was moving
towards him.
Who goes there? William asked.
Then, suddenly a flock of resting birds crowed and flew away.
What are you doing, wandering out here, in this part of the forest? an old voice said
softly.
Im looking for my wife, William answered while his eyes were trying to catch the
persons face.
The elderly person carrying a small dying lamp walked towards him and into the light
casted by his torch.
An old woman with a bent back and a cloak made of strips of old cloth sewn together.
Then, an open hand was in front of him, waiting for alms. Seven pieces of silver coins
seemed enough.
This forest is huge. And anyone whos not familiar with this place, will soon find
himself lost, the old woman warned.
Im looking for my wife, he repeated.
I heard you, she said. But I wouldnt go farther deep, if I were you. This creepy
forest is a devourer of helpless souls. You must leave quickly!
William looked up and saw a string of dark clouds pulling itself away from the moon.
Momentary light. Its a good time to take a short rest.
William offered the old woman a drink and a piece of plain bread. The woman took a
small sip while watching a number of fireflies flew by. Then, the woman left and
walked away towards the direction of the fleeing fireflies.
Just remember, the old woman cautioned him. Stay close to the light

38

The Seed of Drekkor

[07-21-2011]

Further deep into the woods, the Shadows gather.

And the Shadowlord was there staring at an unconscious woman lying across the
wooden altar of sacrifice and marveling at her beauty.
The scent of a virgin was more intoxicating than a week-long meal. He could hardly
wait to taste the prey resting in front of him.

39

Drekkor worked his filthy fingers over the womans face. She starts to move.
Soon after, she woke up from the trance and felt herself a little dizzy.
The first thing she saw was a hideous face trying to lick her bossom. Her initial
instinct was to scream. But then again, a strong, dark, sinister hand was fixed on her
jaw.
She screams! But, noone could ever hear her cries from here.
A series of wretched laughters of the Shadows followed.
This part of the forest is closer to Purple Valley than Elmdour. But this place is way
too far from any village. Noone goes to this place.
Noones coming for you here, the Shadowlord said with a grin.
Then, Drekkor put his weight on top of her, and seized both of her hands above her
head. She felt powerless.
With one hand holding her, and the other tearing her clothes off into pieces,
Drekkors tongue slithered with vehemence.
Noooo!!!! Ayas scream filled the air. Stop!!!
Then, the Shadowlord began to rape her as he felt amused by the sound of her
shriek.
Ayas fine and perfect body, something meant only for her husband, was ravished by
a monster. Her prized possession her virginity consumed by the master of
darkness!
Aya cried in pain and lost consciousness. But then, Drekkor continued with sheer
enjoyment.
Before the light of the sun reached the deepest part of the forest, the delighted
Shadowlord left. And Aya was left naked, withered, and almost lifeless.

40

Nightmare
[07-21-2011]

William!!! a young woman screamed. Aya was crying for help.

Aya!
William woke up all of a sudden. He thought he heard his wife moaning and asking for
help. But, it was just a bad dream. A very bad dream.
Williams heart then began pumping adrenalin. The strangest fear made him all
worried and more anxious to find his Aya. Then, his feet started running towards the
direction where his instincts are taking him.
Bushes. And more bushes. Then, a broken tree branch.
Someones been here, he said to himself.
Footprints. He found heavy footprints.
This way, he thought.
Someone carried his wife and took her here. He kept wishing he was wrong.
Then, there it was Like a lifeless deer attacked by wolves, lying helplessly halfdead was his Aya.
William nailed his torch right into the ground and fell on his knees.
My Aya his mind whispered while his open mouth started quivering.
A long loud cry burst from his lungs. The forest heard it.
He took his cloak off and wrapped it around Ayas naked body. Then, he took another
small cloth from his pocket and wiped Ayas face, including her dead tarnished lips.
Aya woke up in disarray.
Please tell me, he asked, crying. Who did this to you?
But, Aya wouldnt say a word. Water from her eyes just kept flowing like an enraged
waterfall telling a story. Her better half could do nothing but share in her agony.
The moon witnessed it all. But, even the moon is powerless against the creeping
forces of darkness soon to come

41

Ayas Wish
[07-21-2011]

Who did this to you? William asked his shattered wife.

Ayas emotions had shut down. This isnt what he wished for.
Yesterday, they were just dreaming of a spending a week away in a faraway place.
Travel on a boat to a Meruvian paradise.
Yesterday, they were just asking each other how many kids they intend to have and
wild-guessing which child would probably have whos eyes.
Yesterday, he promised her that shell never be lonely againand that hell always be
there to love her and protect her, no matter what.
And now this
Aya
William grabbed his knife. Hes going for a kill. Hes really going for a kill
Williams rage was soaring like wild fire, a burning coal hot enough to melt an iron.
Hes going to hunt the one who did this to her. Hes gonna turn every stone and
every rock until he finds him! He wont tire until he finds justice for his beloved Aya!
No. Not just justice. Justice isnt enough!
Revenge. Thats what more his mind wanted to get. Hes going to slay the man who
left his Aya this way. No, hes going to kill all of them. Everyone in that mans family.
Every man, woman, and child. Every soul linked to his bloodline. He vows to bring
every single one of them to slaughter. No one will be left unscathed.
William will have his revenge. He will pierce their lungs and eat their hearts out. He
will leave their entrails tied to and hanging around their necks, in the gallows of their
own home. Then, he would burn their entire field down until the ashes read like the
word, Aya.
But then, Aya held Williams hand, and slowly directed his dagger towards herself.
William could hardly understand what she wanted him to do.
What does Aya wanted to say?
The blade was pointed at Ayas belly, just right below her ribcage. If he stab her now,
shell die. And he could just run away and forget about what happened, and live a
completely new lifeand then find another woman. Another woman, just like Aya.
What is he thinking?!

42

The knife is just right on top of a vital point! One sudden thrust, and everything about
Aya would end! No more smiles. No more warm kisses. No more running in an open
field of blooming bright red flowers!
But, what does Aya wanted him to do?
Before he could make up his mind, William saw a series of flashforwards from the
light reflecting from the blade...
A family he had always dreamed of
A handsome son and two beautiful daughters
And an unbreakable solemn vow to care for the woman he loves and be with Aya until
the end of time
The hand holding the dagger was shaking. Aya was waiting for it with a weary smile.
But, what does it mean? Forget about family? Forget about kids? Forget about
promises?
Is that what you wanted me to do, Aya? William asked himself.
Aya couldnt take what happened to her that she wanted to taste the face of death.
How could she ever face anyone, now that she had lost all her essence to the devil?
William stared at Ayas face for a moment. Her eyes were frozen and her mind was
blank.
Williams face was in torment.
I love you, Aya, cried William. Im sorry but I cant do it.
Then, kiss me, Aya suddenly asked him. Make love to me.
W-What? William said, taken aback.
Take me, Aya begged. I dont want any part of this, and everything that happened
here, in my memory.
Behind the warm cloak, lies Ayas naked body. An adulterated flesh waiting to be
cleansed by the flesh of a kind, loving heart.

43

William cried and gave her one big kiss. Then, he looked at Ayas face once more.
What better things could he do? How could he refuse such a wish?
William embraced Aya tightly, took the blade up, and pointed it against his wifes
back. Then, Aya gently closed her eyes

44

Two New Names

[07-21-2011]

Several weeks later after the incident, the couple left the village and vowed that they
would never set foot on Purple Valley ever again. They agreed to forget about the
misfortunes that had fallen upon them, and live a completely new life with a different
name.
William remembered the temptation of the blade on Ayas back. He knew he would
regret living a life without Aya, had he not thrown the knife away.
But, from now on, he wont be William anymore, nor his wife be called Aya
Several months later, the woman gave birth to male twins. Both were strong young
boys that looked like their mother.
However, one of them is a shedim. A Human carrying the tainted blood of the
Shadowlord. A new breed of Human who has the ability to wield the Stone.
It has begun! an evil voice, followed by laughter, echoed below the ground.
The end of the Humans is at hand!

Wild animals roam the earth. And the humans seemed to respect them. But, theres
one thing I just cant seem to understand
Shadows are predators who came from the Human bloodline, but why must the
Shadows limit themselves from wandering over the surface of the earth?

I, Marduk, the Shadow Historian of the Underworld, have left this account in the
hands of the Humans, for the purpose of preserving the truth, with the hope that one
day the Shadows Legacy will also be remembered.

45

Chapter III

A Glimpse of Darkness

46

Dark Clouds
[07-17-2011]

Archaea. The land above the sky.

There is darkness covering the land, an Aeon whispered.
"Drekkor had already sent out his minions to the human world, disguised as humans
themselves, Lunas apprentice said. What should we do?
The humans are powerless against his evil army, Luna replied. We must protect
them.

They call me Aysha.

I was born on the same day as my master, the Aeon Seer, Luna. And I am also her
Apprentice.
I was chosen because we share the same eyes. Eyes that can see through the future.
Eyes that can see through peoples hearts.
Many consider this ability a gift, but somehow I think its the opposite.
With these eyes, you could see the horror before the real thing happens. Everytime I
close my eyes, the nightmare begins. They reveal themselves to me, against my will.
Darkness. The Shadows beneath the earth. I sense them, too. I could hear their
whispers, their laughters, and the sound of the dying souls they devour on.
They say, I got Lunas eyes. But, my eyes are different.
And this is what my mystical eyes have seen

47

The Aeons Make a Move

[07-17-2011]

Luna called for the other Aeon Guardians to discuss about the Shadows imminent
attack on the Humans.
I will not give my life on the battlefield for the sake of those puny Humans! Marcus
demanded. Im not the one who forged an alliance with them!
Settle down, Marcus, the Aeon Queen, Rovelia, said. Well think this all through.
What is the current situation on earth? Rovelia asked an Aeon information officer.
The Shadows have disguised themselves as Humans and are making an aggressive
move against them. If this keeps on, the entire Human race will be wiped out
completely!
The threat of the Shadows will soon reach the Aeons, Marcus said. But, I will have
Drekkors head before that!
The Humans disgust Marcus. But, he wont tolerate the hostility of the Shadows
because they have already killed one of his men.
Ill go, Luna volunteered. I will settle this matter, once and for all.
No, dear Sister, Marcus said. Its far too dangerous for you to go.
I will kill Drekkor, Marcus added. I will end his life for the sake of the Aeon race!

48

Very well, I want you to give my warning to the Shadows personally, the Supreme
Aeon Guardian, Rovelia, ended the discussion.

49

A Strange Dream
[07-27-2011]

Please dont go, dear brother, Luna said as tears gently flowed from her eyes.
Have you seen my future, my dear sister? Marcus asked.
No, I havent, his sister replied.
Then, why are you crying like that? he smiled as he tries to calm her down. Stop
crying.
I want you to stay here, said Luna.
Dont worry, Marcus tries to ease her up. Ill be back. I promise.
But, Drekkor is too --- Luna wanted to tell him something.
Drekkor is blind! Marcus interrupted. Hes a blind, armless fool whose end is about
to come to an end!
Luna stood silent.
Im sorry for shouting back at you, he said to her after regaining his composure.
Marcus dried her eyes and embraced her.
The world is in danger, Luna. You know that. Even if I hate the idea of saving the
Humans, someone has got to do it. Thats what my job is.
Marcus carried her into her room and laid her down gently on her bed.
Besides, the Shadowlord killed one of my men, Vince. Its not a simple matter that I
could just easily overlook. Drekkor and I have a big score to settle.
Rest, my dear sister, he said. Ill be back before you know it.
When Luna had fallen asleep, Marcus left and prepared for battle.

50

Then, Luna fell into a deep sleep and dreamt

Marcus? she said. Is that you, my brother?
An winged being was standing in front of her. But, it was quite dark to get a good look
at his face.
She came closer.
It is you, she said.
But, why werent you answering me? she asked as she touches her brothers face.
Ive been waiting for you he said.
Suddenly, his face melted and turned into the face of the Shadowlord.
Luna!
No!!!! screamed Luna.
Then, the winged being laughed uncontrollably until he faded into the darkness.
Afterwards, Luna woke up and found that Marcus had already left. She was so worried
that she felt like something very bad is about to happen.
Brother

51

Marcus of Archaea
[07-17-2011]

Marcus gathered all his strength to draw the dark clouds together. Then, he
summoned a huge thunderbolt, enough to crack the earth wide open and break into
the Underworld.
Drekkor! the Aeon Guardian called out as he flew down to the Underworld.
You have lived long enough!
Well, well, well, loafing on his big throne, the Shadowlord wasnt so surprised. If it
aint the Aeon Guardian, Marcus!
Your presence here saved me a lot of time capturing an Aeon Guardian, Drekkor
laughed. I was expecting your beautiful sister, Luna, to come. Butyou will just
have to do.
What are you planning this time, Drekkor?! Marcus shouted.
You dared to enter into my kingdom all by yourself, the ShadowLord replied.
All the trouble just to ask me what you already know?
This is your first and final warning, Drekkor! Marcus pointed his fingers towards
Drekkors throne. Surrender yourself to me!
Oh My! Im so flattered, he said, laughing at him. Are you threatening me?
My underlings number to a thousand, and each one of them can summon a
thousand more, declared the Shadowlord. Now that you have made your point, how
do you intend to kill me?
Every Shadow obeys my every command, Lord Drekkor said as he walked towards
the Aeon intruder. One word from me and they wont waste a single second of not
slaughtering you.
Shall I finish him off, my Lord? a Shadow Sentry came to ask.
Shut up! roared Drekkor. Hes mine. I will deal with him
One-on-one, Drekkor? Marcus felt the advantage. Youre gonna need more help
than that!
Your mouth is quite larger than your brain, I presume, the Shadowlord said. But its
not one-on-one, poor Marcus

52

Marcus forged a lightning spear from his hand.

Ahhh the power of the Thunder Guardian said Drekkor. I would love to see
that.
But, what can a blind creature do to stop a weapon he cannot see or touch?
The sound of electrical sparks. The scent of an Aeon Guardian. But where will the
attack be coming from?
Marcus attacked Drekkor head-on, in one swift move.
Kssshhhhh! the Shadow underlings shrieked, knowing their master was in danger.
The ShadowLord was wounded. It seems Drekkors end was already clear.
Marcus got the upper hand. Hes not just able to recreate lightning. He moves just
quite near lightning speed as well!
Arggghh Drekkor cried in pain as he grabbed on tightly to Marcuss hand.
Youve clearly underestimated me, Drekkor, Marcus said.

53

As One
[07-17-2011]

A Shadow Sentry cried out, Your command, my Lord?

The enraged loyal Shadow Sentries began to circle around the duel between Marcus
and the Shadowlord.
The minions kept crying out from their caverns:
Command us, my Lord!
Please, let us have a piece of him!
Summon us, Lord Drekkor!
Master!
Arggghh Drekkor felt the pain and began to melt like a black ink.
But Marcus isnt winning. Drekkor allowed himself to be stabbed and his liquified
body began to stick itself over Marcus!
This is the only way to catch something that cant be caught. If the prey is just too
fast, then just let the prey come to you.
Not one-on-one, poor Marcus Drekkor repeated. but as One!
Marcus body began to shake involuntarily. Part of Drekkors being seeped slowly into
his mouth and then oozed out from his eyes.
I never underestimated you, Marcus, Drekkor said. You underestimated me.
After a short while, the trembling stopped. Marcus stopped resisting.
When I sensed that there was Darkness lurking inside you, the voice of the
Shadowlord echoed inside Marcus head, I figured that your powers wont work on
me.
You know, were the same, Marcus. We both hate the Humans. We both want to rule
the world. So, why dont you just join me?
But, Marcus could hardly speak.
Oh, Im sorry, mocked Drekkor. Just disregard my last question there. Because
from this moment further, Ill do the speaking for you, since
The assimilation is complete. Drekkor took over Marcus body, but retained his
hideous face.
Now, we are One!

54

Vince
[07-17-2011]

It took Drekkor a while to get used to his new host, the Aeons body. And while he
was resting, Drekkor gained access to Marcus memory and found something
interesting. It would seem like Marcus didnt only came here for him, but to avenge
his loyal subordinate that his minions captured.
So, Drekkor went deep down into the dungeon to talk to a rare captive. He wanted to
know what would happen if the two Aeons would meet one last time.
Vince. An Aeon loyal to Marcus. Many Aeons have presumed him dead. But now, he is
nothing but a prisoner of the Underworld. His wrists and ankles are covered in bruises
and still bleeding from the tight iron shackles that restrict his movements. The rest of
his body was bound by eleven chains above the ground. His left wing, stained all over
with his own blood. His right wing, mutilated and torn piece by piece by the Shadow
Underlings trying to make him talk.
What have you done with Marcus?! the Aeon subordinate, Vince, asked.
Alas! The prisoner speaks! laughed Drekkor.
Drekkor, then, shapeshifted into Marcus and asked, This Marcus, you mean?
Master Vince mourns as he could not be of any help.
A young underling found the scent of blood dripping from the captive. It was trying to
reach its half-winged meal. Drekkor kicked it away and began to speak his mind.
The Shadows live in darkness We have no eyes Thats why we rely on our other
senses.
For the Shadows, the scent of your blood your fear and your power is food.
Everything about you is, basically, the bottom part of our food chain.
Join me, Drekkor insisted, Or join him in his death.
Vince spoke his last words, My loyalty is to the Aeon race alone!
Very well
Drekkor stared at his minions. They know what to do next.
The Aeon Legionnaire screamed at the top of his lungs as the Shadow underlings
leaped in frenzy to bite a flesh out of him.
Feed my underlings Feed The Lord Drekkor commands you

55

The Stones Curse

[07-17-2011]

Belruth.
Small quiet footsteps had made its way inside the palace and into the Mystics snowy
yard.
The sound of the cold wind is frightening, Duncan said.
I agree, replied his worried master. Some say, the sound of the wind are voices of
angry and wailing spirits
I thought the Medallion would choose its rightful master, the Mystic Apprentice
asked. But, how do we know who the Chosen One is?
I dont know, Duncan the Mystic replied. Only time will reveal the master of the
Medallion.
But time is a luxury we do not have! You have to pass the Medallion to someone else
or your life will be in grave danger! Duncan exclaimed.
The Mystic showed the Medallion to his apprentice and said, My life is nothing
compared to the fate of the whole world in my hand.
Let me guard the Medallion, the young apprentice said as he was tempted by
tremendous power that the Medallion was rumored to hold. I will use the power of
the Medallion to get rid of the Shadows and avenge our fallen comrades!
No! the Mystic refused. The power of the Medallion is greater than any force a
man could ever handle! Anyone who dares to touch it dies!
Then, the Mystic started to explain.
Ive known a lot of people who tried to obtain the Medallion. Men who wanted power.
Men consumed by greed. Men who thought that if they obtain it theyd turn into
gods.
They came for it like a thief in the night. But, nobody was guarding it. It doesnt
need one. The Stone can protect itself from the likes of these men.
When they touched the Stone, they found out that they should never have done
otherwise. But, they realized it too late.
Most of them went blind. Probably because of the radiant light that emanated from
the Medallion. Some turned to stone. Some lived with their arms lost to scorching
flames. And some disintegrated, like metal rapidly destroyed by rust.

56

But, these men who are after the Medallion are different. They are powerful enough
to wield the Stone and use its power. If they gain possession of the Medallion, then it
will be the end for us all!
The Mystics strength is not enough to hold the enormous power within the Stone.
Neither can he command the Stone to serve him. The Stone choses its master.
You must understand. The Medallion cannot run away by itself. Thats why we have
to risk our lives to protect it, to keep it away from those creatures, until the Stone
finds its rightful master.
Suddenly, the door burst open.
The Shadows are after the Mystics! a servant interrupted their discourse. A group
of people who escaped from the nearby village said the Shadows came without
warning, and killed everyone in their village! They said the Shadows seems to be
looking for something!
Theyre looking for the Medallion! the Apprentice exclaimed. It wont be long
before they get here.
Then, he turned to his master and pled, Master, you must leave now!
Suddenly, they heard a rustling sound. The Shadows? No.
We have an intruder, Duncan said. I think someone followed you here.
Unfortunately, the cold weather catches on the intruder and he sneezes. Duncan
found out where it was coming from and caught the culprit. It was a young boy who
was evesdropping, hiding from the bushes.
What are you doing, snooping around like that? Duncan asked and looked around
wondering why nobody noticed him entering.
Please, dont hurt me! he said. I just want to see whats inside!
Im not gonna hurt you, Duncan replied. But, this is not a place for a boy like you
to play around. Go home!
But, I dont have a home
Duncan had no choice but to let the kid stay. But before he could ask the boy for his
name or how he made it inside, a serious commotion that was taking place outside
seized his attention.
Its them! cried the servant.

57

The Apprentice and the Lowly Servant

[07-17-2011]

Theyre here! a voice from outside screamed in terror.

Master, the Shadows will be here in a minute! Duncan, the Mystics Apprentice
said. You must leave quickly!
What about you?
Ill stay here and try to hold them off, the Apprentice said, bravely.
Then, he saw the boy who snuck into the Mystics yard.
What about the boy? When Shadows attack, they kill everyone, even the children.
They held them up by the neck like playthings and let the Shadow Underlings leap
over them, making them work for their food.
Wait! he said. Belruth isnt safe anymore. Please take this boy with you! Its his
only chance of surviving.
Duncan led them to a trapdoor with a secret passageway that leads safely out of the
village. Then, he sealed the door shut and guarded it.
The Shadows had made its way to the Mystics yard. Heads were rolling, literally.
Servants found themselves staring at the horror of being eaten alive. The white,
snow-covered yard turned all red and bloody.
Finally, the Shadow Hunter barged through the doors, riding an ugly, ferocious beast.
Krum. A fierce and merciless Shadow who served the Warbringer. A being with red,
dark, sinister eyes and small, numerous, jagged teeth. He rides a monstrous earthly
horde and drags four minions carrying his food and arms, including his heavy staff
and big axe. And under his command are vicious Shadow Underlings, ready to attack
anytime at his disposal.
Where is the Stone? the Shadow Hunter asked a lowly servant from the Mystics
domain.
The Stone was passed from Mystic to Mystic, to keep its power hidden from the grasp
of the Shadows. But, the Shadows never gave up their search.
Where is the Mystic? the Shadow Hunter asked again. Where is the Keeper of the
Stone?
The Shadow Hunter asked for his big axe. The young servant was scared, but he
never told them anything.
Please spare me, he said. I really dont know where they are!
The young Acolyte denied that he knew nothing about where the Mystic was hiding.

58

Im telling the truth! he added.

For the Shadow Hunter, he sounded really convincing. So, the Shadow Hunter
believed the young boy and spared his life. But then, the Shadow Underlings shrieked
and sensed that his heartbeat was lying. And the Shadow Hunter changed his mind.
Tie him up, the Shadow Hunter, Krum, commanded his nderlings. Tear his right leg
up slowly until he spit it out!
The Shadow Hunters underlings searched inside the premises and found the Mystics
Apprentice. The Shadow Underlings surrounded him while one of them ran back to
notify their master.
So, youre the young Apprentice? the Shadow Hunter came and asked Duncan.
Ive got nothing to say to you, Duncan replied while keeping his guard.
Really? the Shadow Hunter said and then made a gesture to tell his underlings to
bring another captive.
The Shadow Underlings dragged the loyal servant over by the leg. Hes got blood all
over him. His right leg was half-torn and his right foot was missing.
The Acolyte was bleeding profusely and could hardly open his swollen eyes.
Master the distressed lowly servant spoke. I havent told them anything
Tell me, where is the Keeper of the Stone? the Shadow Hunter asked him. Tell me,
or this young boy dies!
Servant, the Apprentice uttered. You have served your masters well
The irony of two cockroaches about to die.
Defiant creatures whispered the Shadow Hunter.
Then, the Shadow Hunter left. Finally, the hungry Underlings swarmed around the
young servant. And in a moment, the voracious Shadow Underlings leaped on the
terrified boy and ate him alive.
The Shadow Underlings nose caught another scent. Theres one more meal left.
Theres one more plate left unlicked.
Duncan made a step back to guard the trapdoor with his body. Then, he held his
sword upright with a very firm grip.
Farewell the Apprentice said, Master

59

The Chosen One

[07-17-2011]

While the Mystic was running halfway through the tunnel, he heard the loud scream
of his dying apprentice.
Aaaaah!!! a long howl echoed at the other side of the trapdoor.
Duncan! cried, the hopeless Mystic.
In fear, the Mystic panicked and dropped the Medallion by accident. The Stone fell on
the dark path and the Shadows sensed it.
But, before he could pick it up, the young boy took it, and handed it back to him.
Whats this? the Mystic stood astonished.
Unlike any other people who tried to get a hold of the Medallion, he was amazed that
the boy was not harmed in any way. Without a Mystics control , those who have laid
their eyes on the Stone have lost their sight. Those who have touched it lost their
limbs.
The Stone had spoken, he thought. The Medallion had chosen this kid as its
master!
The Shadows have found the trapdoor tunnel entrance and they are getting closer.
They went this way! one of the minions shouted. I could smell them!
The Mystic was scared for his life. But then, he was relieved to have found and met
the Chosen One.
Keep the Medallion and run! he told the boy. Guard the Medallion with your life!
But, what about you? the boy asked.
I will make sure that the Shadows never make a single step further from this place!
The Mystic watched as the boy ran towards the tunnels exit and vanish into the
heavy mist.
The Medallion, he said to himself, had chosen for a master someone who
doesnt want it.

60

A Powerful Shadow
[07-17-2011]

Krum!... Krum!... Krum!... the Shadows marched while chanting in a slow

monotonous beat. They have accomplished their primary objective.
A powerful Shadow entered the scene. The chanting stopped.
The Shadow Hunter, Krum, caught up to the Keeper of the Stone.
Give us the Medallion, he said.
The Mystic wont speak. The Shadow Hunter understood what it meant. With a
sustained snarl, he summoned forth young Shadow Underlings. Immediately, five
small Shadow Broods appeared from the dark and started crawling towards the
Mystics direction. They were about to pounce him.
The Mystic held out his left hand, and an insignia glowed on his palm and around his
hand. Then, a stream of lightning emanated from his fingertips and aimed for each
brood.
Never! he said.
At the same time, a cascade of lightning struck and caught the underlings in mid-air
and the Shadow Broods died instantly.
Hand over the Medallion! the Shadow Hunter repeated.
What do you intend to do with it? the Mystic asked.
My master, the Shadowlord, will use its power to turn light into darkness and make
this world our own!
And you think that I would let that happen? said the Stones Keeper.
There is no point in resisting. The Stone will be ours, one way or the other!
I will never hand the Stone to you!
Very well, the Shadow Hunter said, well have to do this the hard way
Dont take me too lightly
The Mystic held out his other hand to call forth a burst of lightning from his palm. The
Shadow Hunter stood unmoved. The first wave of lightning streams crawled towards
the Shadow Hunter, but missed its target!
Is that all of it? the Shadow Hunter said. Your age has caught up to you, Mystic.

61

I am the 13th Keeper of the Stone born from the seventh generation of powerful
Mystics! he declared.
I might be old, he added, but I wont give up the Stone as long as Im standing!
This time, he intends to use both his hands to bring the Shadow down.
Ammedelah! the Mystic casted a powerful lightning spell.
A ball of light glowed from his hands.
The Mystic aimed both of them towards the enemy. Powerful lightning strikes came
out of it.
But, the lightning surges just went right through the enemy!
You were saying? his opponent mocked him.
Shadows absorb the powers of the creatures they feed on, including the creatures
immunity to it. If this Shadow Hunter had been targeting Mystics for some time, its
almost impossible to tell how much power it has amassed from feeding on its prey!
The Shadow Hunter picked up a long dull blade.
This should be more than enough to kill you, the monster said.
You are the first Mystic who ever made it this far, the Shadow Hunter said. But, Im
afraid that you are also the last!
Die! the Shadow Hunter shouted to him. You puny Humans!
The Shadow Hunter aimed for his arms and legs.

62

Aaarggghh! the Mystic cried as he lie powerless against the Shadow Hunter.
The Power of Light will cloak you from the Shadows of Darkness, he said to himself,
while crawling helplessly towards the tunnels exit and thinking about the nameless
boy who now holds the fate of the entire human race.
A few seconds before the light in his eyes disappeared, the Shadow Hunter came
towards his body.
The Stones not with him, he said. He mustve passed it over to someone and tried
to buy some time for the new Keeper to get away

A horde of hungry Shadow Underling came towards the Mystics lifeless body. The
scent of oozing blood made the Underlings mouth water.
Its feeding time, the Shadow Hunter whispered, as more Shadow Underlings
emerged from the dark.

63

Without a Trace
[08-04-2011]

The Shadow Hunter ordered the Shadow Hounds to track the scent of anyone who
went past the tunnel.
The Shadow Hounds followed the trail. It leads to the river.
When they reached the bank, the Shadow Hounds stopped and waited for another
order.
Follow the river! the Shadow Hunter gestured and said. Find any Human scent and
track it down!
The rest of you, follow me! Krum ordered.
The Shadow Hunter crossed the river along with the rest of his underlings. The party
plans to go around the river and flank the Keeper from another direction.
Meanwhile, the Shadow Hounds followed the rivers path. They have a heightened
sense of smell. They can smell any blood from far away and track any scent that a
human or animal had left behind.
Even if the Human had crossed the river, said Krum. he cant hide his scent from
us.
The Shadow Hounds have picked up the Keepers trail and they are getting even
closer.
The Stone sensed danger coming to his master. Suddenly, the Stone glowed and the
young master vanished.
Master, an Underling came to report, we suddenly lost track of his scent!
Thats not possible! the Shadow Hunter said. Are you telling me that a Human with
a feet smaller than yours was able to evade us?
The Human might have used the Stones power to conceal himself, Master.
The new Keeper cant run that fast nor use the Stone and vanish in an instant, he
said after he lost track of the Stones power.
The Shadow Hounds were clearly disoriented, but the Krum wouldnt accept any
failures.
We cant return and face the Shadowlord without the Stone! said the Shadow
Hunter. Find it!!!!

64

Chapter IV

The Stones Master

65

Ulrich
[07-27-2011]

TWELVE YEARS LATER.

Hey! a man shouted. Come back here!
Running. It feels like Ive been running my whole life.
Stop right there!
Everyone seemed to be after me these days. Im just trying to survive. Cant they just
understand that?
Thief! a woman cried out.
Women. Theyre the ones who had the stones. Pearls. Rubies. Diamonds. You name it.
Theyve got it. The prettier they are, the more suitors they have. And what does that
tell us? More suitors mean more valuable gifts. Thats what women want. And thats
what I want about women.
But, I choose my victims carefully. You wouldnt want to mess around with a
mobsters mistress, would you? Theyve got stones all right. But, theyve got
bodyguards, too.
I wouldnt go after an officials wife, either. You have to keep your profile low or the
whole town will be after your ass.
Are you going to pay for that?
A lot of people have been asking me that question since I took this job. I dont
actually keep money. But, they do.
Who? Nobles. Rich people who turn themselves invisible in front of tramps and
vagabonds. Theyre the ones who transform this society into a habitat for ravens and
gluttons. Why do people keep so many of these things for themselves, anyway?
Heartless insatiable bastards. They make me sick!

66

My name is Ulrich.
But, thats not my real name. I just thought that I should call myself Ulrich, since its
what people used to call me before I ran away from the monastery, a few years back.
I dont like the idea of living in a secluded place. And since Im running away from
someone right now, I hate the idea of being locked away, either.
It seems that Ive lost them. They stopped chasing me.
Anything in this world can be obtained, if you just give it a try.
Yeah. Anything. Thats what I believe.
Until I met this woman

67

Souch!
[07-27-2011]

Another one of those jam-packed mornings. Fetching a bag full of goodies for
breakfast is a good way to start my day.
Running is my exercise. But, these guys who were jogging behind me got tons of
stamina with them.
Evasion. Thats my skill. Dont you know I invented dodgeball?
But back in my days, balls used to be knives and forks and pretty much any available
item you have around you can throw. And they come in all sizes, too! Of course, we
have chairs and pans and vases and garden pots. But we havent thought of putting
up rules for timeouts and ban for other sharp, dangerous, if not ridiculous, objects.
I led them to the rooftops. A few leaps here. A few leaps there. Jump down near a big
dogs house. And then, crawl like hell into a hole on a picket fence. The dog will hold
them off for a moment. But still, Ive got to run and be someplace else
Ooompph!!
Suddenly, my head bumped into something, and I fell.
Ouch! an alarming high-pitched sound stopped me.
I did bumped into something. And the first thing I saw was its feet. But it doesnt look
like it belongs to any man or dog.
Well, I guess its really hard to tell what you might run into when youre running away
with someone elses bag and trying to look ahead and behind you at the same time.
I sighed. I just wanted to get it over with.
Im s---, I started to apologize, S--Ouch!
My neck almost broke. A woman slapped me. She slapped my face so hard, before I
could even say the word sorry.
Thats what you get for not looking at where youre going, pervert Souch! she
said.
First of all, said I, Im sorry.
Well, you dont look like you feel sorry, she said.
Wait. Did she call me a pervert? So that is what I bumped right into! Thats why it
doesnt even hurt. On the contrary, it feels a little too good!
And my name is not Souch, I tried to make things clear to her. Its Ulrich. The
names Ulrich.

68

I pulled myself up to look at

what fate had brought me this
time. But when I saw her face, I
felt like wanting to fall right
back into my knees. She was
that lovely.
I havent stared at a womans
face before. Not in my entire
life. Not this long And
certainly, not this way
Ouch! my neck ended up
totally wrecked.
She slapped me again.
What was
complained.

that

for?!

You stared too much, she said

as she smiled, pervert Souch!
Somehow, I think I dont wanna
believe that I understand what
she was trying to tell me. But, I
think I knew what she meant.
I told you, my name is not
Souch! I said to her.
And Im not a pervert!
Then, she walked away.
I brushed off the dusts on my
pants, but I still cant find a
way to forget her face. Then, I
realized that I forgot to ask for her name.
Later, I figured that running away from everything made me feel so tired. Something
or somebody was always chasing me. Always the pursued, not the pursuer.
That crazy girl she had me all thinking. Something Ive never done seriously before.
I thought women are all alike. That they are all just noisy, annoying hens that lay
eggs and pick shiny stones all day long.
But this woman This woman started to changed everything. Everything in me and
what I believe in.

69

That woman was crazy. And I dont know if youll agree with me, but I think I have
come to like crazy women.
And so, I have decided to be the one chasing this time.

70

Apples
[07-27-2011]

I stole a nice pair of clothes. This would probably be the last time Id be doing this.
I washed it twice, hanged it, and watched it dry under the sun.
Thats what you get for not looking at where youre going, pervert Souch!
Her line replayed in my head. Remembering what happened back there, made me
smile a little more often.
Shes packs a punch, alright.
Where are you right now? I wondered, while rubbing my hand against my swollen
face.
The next day, I came back to the place near where I first saw her.
I stood next to a cart full of apples.
The peddler had his eyes all over me. He even forgot to tap the ashes on his
cigarette, just to show me his intimidating eyes that are telling me to mind my own
apples. He was looking at me like Im gonna steal one of his apples or something!
(Not that I did stole a bunch from him once, a few weeks ago!)
But, right now, I dont feel like stealing apples.
I took an apple. And then, I paid for it.
That was the first time I paid for something I want. You should have seen the look at
the mans face when I handed him the payment! It was very funny! He was like a
frozen scarecrow in the middle of an apple field!
I did throw in a big tip, though. It was for the apples I stole a few weeks ago.
I walked away towards the corner with a big smile on my face. But then, she was
right there The apple of my eyes.
I was really hoping I could bump into you again, I said thoughtlessly.
Did I say it right? I mean, not like the way I bumped into her yesterday.
I closed my eyes tightly. Oh boyhere it comes! She going to slap me again!
No?
I brought you an apple, I said in a rush, while showing her the apple on my left
hand and using the other hand to try to cover my face from her impending neckbreaking blow.

71

This girl is way too beautiful. But her hands are freaking me out!
Thank you, she said in a warm and gentle voice.
She didnt slap me. Im still alive!
Pheewh!!! Good thing, I brought her an apple. The apple saved my life.
Come to think of it, this is the first time she spoke without slapping me first and
breaking my neck!
Nice clothes you got there, she said. It makes you look smart.
Thanks! I acknowledged her flattering remark.
I am smart! I said, like I was trying to impress her with my overflowing self-esteem.
And youve got very good eyes
Then, she said, But, smart people dont steal nice clothes.
Gulp. She got me there! But, how did she knew that I did stole these things? Maybe if
I didnt steal something around her neighborhood, maybe she wouldnt easily
recognize a tailors unfinished new coat and a plus-size mans missing pair of
trousers.
And now, shes leaving?
All right, I borrowed it! I confessed. I mean, Id really like to borrow it
She turned back. I thought I saw her smiling.
A-and I t-took it, because he was still s-sleeping I began to stutter. Right?
Right, she said in a prolonged manner, like she wasnt convinced.
Obviously, I think I screwed up big-time trying to come up with a good reason that
goes between lying and telling the truth.
A-and I dont want to wake him up, because he might get mad.
Who? she asked.
My uncle, I replied abruptly.
Liar.
I guess a fool like me cant fool anybody. She walked away. I followed her.
Then, she starts to condescend me.
Yesterday, you were a thief. Now, youre a liar. Tomorrow, what else could y---
Whats your name? I interrupted.

72

I said it while looking right into her eyes real close. I said it like I wasnt really paying
attention to what she was saying.
She was talking too fast and she suddenly lost momentum because she could hardly
believe what I just asked her.
What? she asked.
Her face turned red all of a sudden, like she wasnt really expecting it. Everybody
knows what it could mean. And I believe we cant truly hide what we really feel, dont
we?
But, all I ever wanted was just to see her face again.
I was caught up in a little fuzz back there, yesterday, I said, and I never seem to
catch your name.
You wont! she said and turned away, playing hard-to-get.
And all I could do is follow her and explain my side and maybe put some sense into
her.
Listen, I dont know anything about you, or where youre from. And the fact that we
just met yesterday, makes both of us total strangers, I explained, But, at least tell
me something!
Ouch! my jaw was dislocated.
She slapped me again. Shes got really one powerful hand right there.
You talk to much, she said.
Then, she walked away with a smile. She was pleased to meet me again. I bet she
was so pleased at breaking my jaw.
Is that it? I said to myself.
Come on, Ulrich! Women are just like that! my ego tried to talk some sense into
me.
I never knew that her name was that too hard to get than colorful gems.
I watched her as she walked away. She walked away without looking back. Without
even waving goodbye.
She walked away without giving me her name. And yet, she was able to slap my face,
thrice since weve met, and for no good reason at all.
Purple Valley! she looked back and shouted. I came from Purple Valley!
Then, she grabbed a big bite from the apple I gave her, and went away.
How do I feel, you ask?

73

You should have seen the big smile on my face. Having your face slapped by that
kind of woman once in a while, doesnt feel so bad after all. Thats for sure!

74

Slave
[07-28-2011]

I followed her one day. But then, she vanished like a ghost right through the
marketplace.
Fruits. Flowers. Lots of them. I caught myself walking slowly right in the middle of a
busy place.
A woman fell. A bucket filled with liquid spilt across the brick-lined floor, making the
nearby customers rush to other shops selling flowers. The owner was infuriated.
Clean that up! he yelled.
The flowercart owner. A big fat man. I saw him drag the poor woman by the hair and
forced her to clean the mess she made. The woman cried. The other workers saw
what he did and they felt sorry for her.
What are you looking at?! he said to them.
Another slave, a pretty woman, tried to help her.
Are you alright, Maria?
Yes, Maria said while drying the tears from her eyes. Im alright.
Get to work you worthless slave! the angry man said. Get to work or Ill sell you to
some whorehouse!
Then, the pretty woman caught me staring at her crying friend and she walked
towards me.
What? she asked in an embarrassed tone as she walked past me. Cant believe
you fell for a slave?
Then, she left. There is nothing she can do to change their aweful fate than keep
selling all the flowers until she had paid her debt to that pig.
I stared at the man who yelled at Maria. He found another slave to veer his anger on.
A woman named Arbelle.
I dont mind other peoples business. Its not my style. But, Ive met a lot of guys like
him. Big guys who bully weak, skinny people. Guys like him are the kind of people
who gets right into my nerves.
I rushed towards him. His fat hand was about to slap her. My left hand was just in
time to keep his right hand from her terrified face.
Then, Arbelle crawled away and ran crying.

75

Now that the womans safe, theres nothings between us. Its just me and this big,
fat, and ugly, flowercart monster.
You bast---!
I thought he was strying to say something to me.
My right fist landed in the middle of his face and blood gushed out from his nostrils. I
thought I heard something cracked. His nose was broken. I was about to give him
another serving, but he was too scared just after seeing his own blood.
Then, the fat cow cried like a piglet.
I threw him a few rocks and he eagerly rushed for it; colored stones that Ive kept in
my pocket.
Then, I took a bunch of flowers from his cart and pointed it at him.
These slaves are free now, I said as I show him my flaming eyes. You hear me?
He understood. He knows the meaning of fear from now on.
And clean this mess up! my commanding voice reached to him.
He wont be bothering you again, I told Arbelle. Youre free now.
Then, the woman left and I walked towards another pretty woman. Pretty Little Miss
who slapped me a few times. Then, I gave her all the flowers that I got from that
monsters cart.
I didnt thought she was watching among the crowd who saw what happened. But
now that I have freed her and everyone from their horrible boss, shes got nowhere
else to go.
So, where do you go from here? I asked her.
Away, she said. Somewhere safe.
Can I come with you?
Why do you want to go with me?
Probably just to find out what your name is.
Why dont you ask the people over there? she said as she was trying to suggest
that I ask the slaves who were in debt to me. They know my name.
I knew I shouldve done that. But, something inside me tells me that it doesnt feel
that much of a thrill. The anonymity of her name makes this woman much more
interesting.
Youve got a point, I tried to catch up to her, but where exactly are you going?
Im going home she said. Back to our village

76

I was about to ask her another question. But then

So, stop follow me! she said.
I dont get it.
Women are really too difficult to understand. You save them. You please them. You try
to make a good lasting impression. But then, they turn you down so bluntly.
Clearly, it was a no. Why would I push myself towards someone who refuses me?
So, I stopped chasing her.
I stood there for some time, thinking about what she said to me, while watching her
walk away.
Purple Valley is due west. But, she was heading south!
Crazy woman. This woman is driving me nuts. Making me think twice and making me
chose between chasing her and going back to my afternoon nap.
I couldnt help but walk around in circles trying to figure out what to do next. I want
to follow her, but she already told me not to!
Can somebody please tell me what to do?! I yelled.
Then, the people around me stopped and stare at me. Did I just shout too loud?
Sorry.
A homeless old woman. I saw her eyes staring at something behind me. Then, I heard
the breathing sound of a horse tied to a wooden post nearby.
A horse! Right! Dumb little me. That crazy woman is messing with my mind, making
me a little dumber.
I looked around. The owners not anywhere near it So, I took it. I mean, I really
wanted to borrow her, but her masters just not around
The horse doesnt seem to like me. She knows that Im a stranger. How do I get on a
horses back without being thrown out?
Her master might return any minute now.
Hey, I said while trying to carress her face. I really need your help right now.
Oh, good heavens! I cant believe Im talking to a horse!
Easy! Easy!
How do you think I could talk some sense into this thing to let me ride it?
You know Im going to lose her if you wont allow me to go after her, I said sincerely.
You understand that, dont you?

77

She calmed down. I placed a saddle nicely on her back. Then, I got on the horse and
made her race towards the south.
Thanks, old lady! I said after I purposely dropped a ruby near the homeless old
woman.
Please, tell the owner that its an emergency and Im borrowing his horse for a day!
No, not a day, probably a week! No, wait! Tell the owner that theres a crazy girl on
loose and it would probably cost me his horse just to bring her back!

78

Beneath the Sun

[07-28-2011]

The galloping steed drove through a crooked road just right outside the village,
behind the marketplace. Me and a stolen horse.
A woman walks slowly down the hill. Its her. I recognized her back from here.
I kept the horse moving steady at a slower pace while I extend my right arm to grab
her.
She screams.
What in Gods name is---?!
She was stunned.
I pulled her weight up, while the horse was still moving. And then, she got a chance
to see the face of her captor.
You again?!
She was surprised to see me.
Where are you taking me?! she asked.
Shut up!
What?! she yelled. You abduct people now?!
She was upset. I knew she wouldnt like the idea being dragged away, especially,
lying face down across the horses back.
Just wait... I said as I took the horse southwest. Youll see
Red and brown fallen leaves cover the road. Were almost there.
Put me down, now! she ordered me. I said, put me down!
So, I stopped the horse. Then, I got off and helped her get down.
Ouch!
My face was hit.
You slapped me again! I yelled.
Who wouldnt?! she yelled much louder than I did. You You kidnapped me!
Kidnapped you? I said. I just ran away with you!

79

Whats the difference?!

Will you shut up for a minute?!
Jeez, what is this place?! she screamed. Were in the middle of nowhere!
Womens voices are really irritating and Im not used to having ear allergies.
For an inexperienced horseback rider, the short journey was a bit painful down there.
So, I sat down by the roadside and took a few breaths right beneath some trees, and
watched the sun go down. All the while, the crazy woman grabbed the opportunity
and went for the horse.
You know, this old road is really a hillside, I said.
Old road my ass, the irate lady murmured.
And the villages can be seen from up here
Stupid horse she mumbles again.
See that setting sun over there?
Who cares about the sun! she said out loud while trying to find a way to get on the
horse.
She tries to climb up the horse. Then, she falls. She tries again. And then surrenders.
How do you get on this thing, anyway? she asked.
I couldnt help but laugh.
Stop wasting your time, I told her.
That horse is a woman, I said. You wouldnt let another woman ride on top of you,
would you?
You bastard! she yelled as she ran towards me. Its your fault that Im stuck in this
stupid place!
Now, shes gone mad. That crazy woman ran towards me and tried to pulverize my
arm with her rock-hard hands.
Relax! I tried to calm her down. I didnt brought you here for nothing.
Crazy woman suddenly shut up after I pinned her down to the ground.
Im sorry, I said. I didnt really want to hurt you
For a moment, I was staring at her eyes. Then, she struggles. And before we knew it,
we were wrestling each other, like an alpha lioness violently playing with an alpha
male.
Finally, I was able to make her sit down right in front of me, right between my legs, in
a position where both of us can clearly see the setting sun.

80

Her hair dazzles me. This is the first time Ive been so close to marvel at its beauty.
What are you planning to do with me? she asked.
A piece of grass was stucked to her hair, something she knew all along.
Trust me, I whispered to her ears.
I placed my hand over her hair and tried to caress it. It was like touching a felines
coat. It was soft as a kittens fur, and light as a feather. It was dark as yesterdays
night sky, and shiny like the stars in it.
Her hair was like a breath-taking waterfall in front of me. And yet, when the wind
blew from her side, it was flowing like the oceans wave trying to lure me away.
Her angers gone. I guess crazy woman calmed down.
The piece of grass of gone. What are we gonna do?
I can tell her hearts pumping like never before. I can hear it from here. She closes
her eyes. Then, she breathes like shes falling for it. Like she wanted me to find more
pieces of grass stucked to her.
Is she still afraid? No. It wasnt fear. This is, without a doubt, a different feeling
Gently, I grabbed her by her shoulders. Shes a real beauty, no matter what angle
you put it.
Then, I slowly slid my hands over her arms, down to her hands, until my arms ended
up wrapped around her. I was expecting resistance, but I never met one.
She looked at me like she already knew why I seemed to have brought her here.
Then, she closed her eyes gently, like shes willing to give me her lips. How could I
refuse tasting such dry lips? Those pale red lips, dying to be saturated by mine?
Theres a little friction on the left side of my face. The right lateral part of her head
was causing it. I leaned on her, like I was trying to smell her perfume. Her neck was
totally exposed in this view. She really wanted this vampire to suck on it.
But then, I hate to think that you might be doing this because I released you from the
hands of that flower-cart monster. Because you seemed to owe me that much. Or
because I still have a few colored stones in my pocket.
She was tempting me. But, Ive got a different reason why I brought her here
You know, I began to say, that sun over there
Hmm? she opened her eyes. She probably felt bad that our lips failed to touch.
If you focus your eyes a little over that small thing that looks like a cloud under it, I
continued. Youll find out that its not really a cloud.
What? she asked. What do you mean?

81

When the sun gets behind it, I began to explain, it would look more like a tree.
A tree? she sounds surprised.
Yes, its a tree, I answered. A big tree.
The Megaia Tree? she whispered.
You recognize it from here? I asked. Your home?
Yes, she said. I see now.
She continued, I never thought that it can be seen from this angle this far
Then, she looked at me with a little tear in her eye, and embraced me.
Thank you, she said.
What for?
For showing me all this
Then, the sun vanished on the horizon. Another ball of light replaced it. Theres no
use holding back. It was time to set our lips free.
We spent the cold night trying to keep each other warm. The slope was the perfect
spot to observe the stars and tumble over each other. Were used to piece of grass
sticking to us, anyway.
Finally, our bodies became one and our catching breaths neutralized the tranquility of
the night.
The horse might get envy, so we covered her eyes.
Ill borrow a male one, next time. I promise.

82

Love and Simple Things

[07-28-2011]

We traveled for weeks. Were not in a hurry, anyway. We dont even care what day it
was or what time it is. We just kept walking and walking and followed where our feet
would come to take us.
We never even realized that this long wonderful journey would bring us even closer.
Weve never known love or anything like this feeling ever before. But now that we do,
were taking it really slow.
I guess, when youre in love, every piece of something you see around you becomes
special.
Like this one
You like that flower? I asked while referring to the bright red flower that shes been
staring at for quite some time, the one growing along the cliff. If you want one, I
could get it for you.
I took one flower and tucked it her hair, just right over her ear.
God, I said, you looked more beautiful now than you were ten seconds ago.
And then, she smiled at me like no stones or rubies could ever make her feel that
way.
And this too
She was walking far behind me, and I didnt know she picked up a dead twig along
the way. But then, I sensed her creeping slowly behind me. Suddenly, she was tickling
my ear with it.
You like this twig? she asked, smiling. If you want one, Ill get another one for
you.
You understand what I mean, dont you? Love consumes a lot of time. But still, every
short and simple moment we spend with someone whos very dear to us is worth
remembering.
Every minute of it Every second of it Every fraction of time you spend on love
would never weigh less than all the treasures in the world put together.

83

SEVERAL MORE DAYS LATER

We never seemed to worry about time. Maybe thats how it is when youre both in
love. But, time flew so fast and we ran out of supplies.
So, we went through a virgin forest to find some food. But then, we heard the sound
of rushing water and came across a waterfall.
Noone seems to have been here before, I said to myself. I bet the waters
freezing.
I dont want to have my feet wet. Thats what I meant.
But, she heard me. And she can guess what my minds trying to say. And right now, I
think I know whats going on inside her mind and I think I know whats going to
happen next.
You have to see for yourself to find out, she said.
But before I could get to turn around, she was all over me and laughing. She dragged
me by my collar and threw me off balance. Then, we fell into the pool.
Well? she asked.
Its no use worrying about your feet getting wet, now when half of your body is
already dipped in water.
Well, I answered. Its not that cold.
Then, we burst our lungs laughing.

I still havent had the luxury of time of asking for her name. Maybe its because my
eyes and my mind was too focused on her and enjoying every moment of being near
her

84

The Travelling Merchant

[07-28-2011]

We come across a traveling merchant along the way. And since we were heading
almost quite towards the same direction, we walked with him part-way.
The dark-skinned guy put up a small tent for himself and his supplies, and another
one for us. She gathered some firewood, then I set the fire.
The night was still young, so we started a small conversation.
So, how did you two meet? the merchant asked.
We looked at each others eyes. Theres pretty much so much to tell. How am I
supposed to explain it?
Then, she slapped me.
Yeah, I remembered. It was just like that.
The merchant got the idea. He knew that good acquaintances sometimes come out of
bad ones.
I dont think I want to know more, he smiled.
We shared the evenings meal. We shared a few stories, with a few laughs in
between. Then, I went out and followed the merchant to his tent.
So, what else do you have in stock, up for sale?
Ive got plenty of oil. I got matches, too.
How much for the oil?
Three silver pieces. Same goes for the matches.
How about three rontos for the oil and two rontos for the matches?
No.
Hmm I thought for a moment. Ill take it.
How bout four for all of them? she entered the tent and asked with a swagger.
Then, she gave him a wink.
Deal.
What?! I was trying to make an objection.
The merchant laughed.

85

Then, he threw me a big advice, I think you should always let the lovely lady deal.
She laughed away with her great deal of haul.
Whats that? he saw a big round piece of metal hanging over my neck and asked.
Oh, this one? I thought. This is my good luck charm.
Do you want to trade something for it? I asked.
Nah, he said. It doesnt seem to be worth reselling anyway.
I put it away, but his eyes was still on to it. He seems kinda bothered by it.
Be careful, he warned.
Then, I felt that it was necessary to listen to what he had to say.
I passed by a small village by the north, a month ago, he whispered. It was set
ablaze!
Word from other traveling merchants says, he continued, that monsters probably
did it. Almost everyone died. I mean, everybody! Men, women and children They
were all dead!
What does it has got to do with me? I asked.
Its not just one village, he continued. Theyre going from village to village,
searching for something!
The Medallion, she interrupted.
She was listening from outside the tent.
You know about these things?! I asked.
Butting in again like that makes me feel like I was being man-handled by a woman.
I heard rumors about it when I was still in town, she started to narrate. I was
selling flowers, and I overheard a few women talking about it, the powers it was
rumored to hold, and the creatures who were after it.
Creatures? he asked. So, the rumors must probably be true.
Both of them stared at me for a moment. Yes. Her eyes, too.
What? Do you think that I stole this thing?! I said while my face looked like I did.
Did I say that you did? she began to defend herself.
Anyway, I suggest that you two keep as far away as you can from the road as
possible, advised the merchant. Roads are very dangerous these days.

86

Look, I didnt stole it, I explained myself to her. Why are you still staring at me like
that?
Staring like what? she asked.
To the merchants view, it would seem that we werent paying too much attention to
his advice.
Hey, thats enough, the merchant laughed and intervened. Settle your thing
outside. Im going to sleep.

87

One Long Night

[07-28-2011]

The tree branches were swaying. The cast of its shadow can be seen from both sides
of the tent. Fire was still burning outside.
She was lying next to me. She was silent. Shes been like that for quite some time
now.
Look, I said while trying to make a conversation with her back, I didnt stole it.
I believe you, she said. And I never said you did.
Then, why are you so upset?
Im not upset, she said. Im scared.
I wrapped my arms around her, but it didnt seemed enough.
Do you want to hear me sing, then?
All of a sudden, she turned around and asked, You could sing?
Something about what I said got her attention and had her smiling.
No, not really, I said. But I guess I could try.
Okay, Ill try, I continued, But just this once, just because youre scared. Okay?
Okay.
Ahh-ah Ahh-ah I was seriously humming a few notes.
But then, she tried to hide her face under the blanket.
Youre laughing!
No, Im not!
Youre giggling!
No, Im not!
What was that smile, just then?
What smile?
That snigger! That chuckle!

88

I caught her laughing again. We were like kids being tickled by our own imagination. I
couldnt help laughing at myself, either. But, the good thing is that her mind is off
that Medallion now. I dont want to see her looking scared or worried like that again.
Ha! There it is again!
Crazy woman could barely hide it.
I thought you were scared? I asked.
I am scared, she said.
Scared that you might burst into laughter after hearing my wonderful voice? I said
while trying to find the weakest point on her body that makes her laugh.
I tickled her some more. She laughed harder.
So thats whats causing it! I smiled and poked her some more.
We laughed so hard. But then, she motioned me to stop because the merchant was
already trying to sleep.
I thought youre going to sing for me? she asked in a sweet-tempered tone.
Shes not scared anymore, but she still wants to hear me sing.
So, I mixed a couple of phrases together and sang:
I am the knight, whod protect and stay beside you,
I am your prince, and you are my princess;
Come hold me tight, Ill take you to the light,
Ill bring you to my kingdom and there well live forever!

Then, I had to repeat the lines:

Ahhh Ahhh Ahhh Ahhh

Youre laughing again!

No! Im not!
Yes, you are!
The other tent was just a few steps away. The merchant heard us.
Oh dear, he thought, This is going to be one long night.

89

Her Name
[08-14-2011]

After travelling for two days, going in the same direction, it was time to part ways.
Nice to meet you Mister Ulrich, the travellling merchant said. My trail goes this
way. So, I wish both of you a safe journey.
You, too. I said.
Pleased to have met your acquaintance, he said to her, Miss?
Its Vala.
Then, the merchant waved goodbye and went on his way.
Its not fair! I said.
What isnt?
How come you told that man your name but not me?
What? Are you jealous of Jamal? she asked as she cant help but laugh.
Jamal? I asked. You asked for his name?!
Why wouldnt I?
I couldnt think of a better answer.
What? she asked while wondering why I look dumbfound and speechless. Youve
been sharing stories with him last night and yet you havent gotten his name?!
Im just not g
Oh, I know! she interrupted. Youre not good at that, right?
Look, Ive been following you for quite some time, and you havent told me your
name yet! And now, this Jamal was able to get it without any effort!
Oh, come on, Ulrich! Hes too old! Besides, hell never get to meet another fine,
young, and beautiful lady like myself.
A fine, young, beautiful lady like yourself? I wondered. Like you?
Like me. Yeah.
Who said you were beautiful, anyway?
You did!

90

I did?!
I dont remember myself saying something like that. However, she never fails to
surprise me. She always finds a way to change the topic and get away with it.
I know Im quite a coward when it comes to saying what I really feel for her. But
saying something like that to her No way. It would be like an act of god.
Not unless
Yeah, she said. You were snoring last night and you said, Oh, youre so pretty!
She said that line like I was saying it like I was so in love with her.
I was probably talking in my sleep last night. But, how come I dont remember
anything about it?
Pretty is not synonymous with beautiful! I said.
Since when? she asked.
Since two seconds ago!
You said you love me, too!
What?! Did I say that, too?!
Damn it! It was probably because of the strong wine that that merchant gave me.
So, what will I do now? How will I tell her that my heart had already fallen for with
her, now when she already knew how I feel?
Vala. Now that the crazy woman had a name, what would it take to make her mine
forever?

91

Chapter V

Brothers

92

Predators
[07-31-2011]

A man clad in black armor got off from his black sinister horse and stood looking at a
familiar face from far away. His subordinates followed him closely.
The west side of a big village can be seen from this part of the hill.
There seems to be a merrymaking, Master, a Shadow Underling said. Now is the
time to seize control of this place. The great Shadowlord will be very pleased!
Youre all my loyal servants, arent you not? the black knight asked.
The Shadow Underling, Moloch recalled his former masters order.
My minions, the Shadowlord said, come bow to your new master!
Then, he came towards the Shadow Apprentice, his new master.
Yes, Master! they answered. We will follow your every command.
The Shadow Apprentice tried to remove his armor.
But Master, what are you doing? Moloch asked with respect.
All of you, stay here, he said. Ill handle this.
If I dont return by nightfall, he said to the Shadow who was second in command,
you will be their new master.
Then, he put on a cloak and headed for the village.

93

The Unexpected Guest

[07-31-2011]

Woman, the village

leader said, Do you
take this man to be
your lawful husband,
and promise to love him
with all your heart, for
better or for worse, til
death comes between
you?
I do.

By the powers of the

sacred vow that both of
you had sworn upon, I
hereby unite your souls
into one. And by the
grace of the unseen
gods, I now pronounce
you,
husband
and
wife!
You may now kiss the
bride,
the
village
leader, Aswald, finally
gave his blessing to
Vala and Ulrich.

94

Suddenly, she slapped him. The bride slapped the groom.

The witnesses and the honored guests. All of them were surprised.
Whats happening? the people around him seemed shocked by the sudden turn of
events.
The cheerful and noisy crowd turned silent.
Its alright, everyone! a drunk man said. Its just like how they first met.
Finally, Vala gave Ulrich a kiss. The crowd shouted altogether rejoicing and the
merrymaking continued.
But, there was a foul air amongst them. And nobody noticed it. The Shadow
Apprentice was standing from the crowd, watching
A normal life. The only thing thats missing from his life, before he chosed to follow
the fate that he has now. Looking at that happy man standing right there, who is a
spitting image of him, seemed like watching himself and what he couldve probably
ended up like if he hadnt ran away. But, its too late now.
Slowly, he moved across the crowd, staring at the woman. The bride came towards a
group of guests, a blend of friends and far relatives.
Shes pretty, he said to himself. The groom had good tastes.
The food was enticing, too. Its scent was crawling through the air.
But for the Shadow Underlings, all the food around here and all these people right
before them, are pretty much the same thing. One signal from him, and this day of
celebration will become Opposite Day. The smiles will be replaced by dread. The
series of laughters will turn into never-ending screams. White embroidered satins will
be like ordinary blood-stained cloths.
The Shadow Apprentice walked between the dancing crowd. The groom noticed him.
An unexpected guest, Ulrich thought.
The Shadow Apprentice moved away from the crowd and walked towards a dark
place. The groom followed him.
Brother? he called out. Is that you?
The hood cant hide those familiar broad shoulders, nor that recognizable stance. It
was Kane, his long lost elder brother.
Ulrich the Shadow Apprentice stopped and turned to him, saying.
Kane? Ulrich said. Oh, I am so glad to see you!
How did you found out where I am? Ulrich asked.
The tree.

95

The tree?
Mother told us that she doesnt want to set foot on this place again. So, I thought
that youd be curious and find out why. Isnt that the reason why you came here?
No, Ulrich replied. My wife Vala. She was born here. This is her home. And this is
my new home now.
I see.
You know something about this place? About why mother hated this place? Ulrich
returned with a question.
Theres no time to talk about the dead.
Where have you been all these years? he followed up with another question.
And theres no time to talk about the past, either.
The Shadowlords forces are going from village to village looking for something.
Drekkor will soon come for this village.
You know his name? Youve heard of him, too?
Every person who lost their loved ones whisper of his name. You must leave this
village and head for the mountains without looking back.
You know I cant do that, he said. My future is standing right there.
Ulrich looked at the direction where a beautiful lady dressed in white was.
Then, you must prepare this village for battle, he said, or none of them wont have
any future at all.
War. The truth that the villages future rest in him cant be denied. The Shadows are
after the Medallion after all. And he has it.

96

Its getting dark. The guests must be waiting.

Where are you going?
Its almost nightfall.
Yeah. Its almost nightfall. The Shadows are waiting for a second command.
But, you just got here. Arent you going to join us later for supper?
If you dont run away, and choose to go to the battlefield instead, his brother said,
then, I will be there to join you.
Then, Kane left. Ulrichs brother vanished into the dark.
What happened to you, Brother?

Moments later, the Shadow Apprentice rendezvous with his minions.

Lets go back, he said.
As you wish, Master! his underlings said and obeyed.
Then, the Shadow Apprentice stared at the moon and thought for a moment.
This is my parting gift to you, Brother. Had I stayed there a minute longer, my
minions would have acted on their own and swarmed the place and killed everyone
there, including your precious future. As your big brother, this is the least that I can
do. I dont have time to explain everything. And even if I do, you still wouldnt
understand.
The next time we meet will be in the battlefield, the Shadow Apprentice said to
himself. So take care, my little brother

97

Growing Seeds
[07-31-2011]

FIFTEEN YEARS AGO.

We were so helpless. Eversince Father died, Mother dont really know how keep the
two of us alive.
Kane, a woman said in a soft voice, did you stole something again?
My elder brother, Kane, became the head of the family. He never wanted any of us to
go begging on the streets. Thats why he had to steal, just to keep this family
together.
Ive always wanted to be like him, a young man trying to be a father. So, I did my
part. I raised a few Arwedian quails and made a few coins selling quail eggs. But its
still not enough to buy us enough food for the cold season. And sometimes, when
business isnt picking up, Brother gives me money to cover up for it.
Here, take this to Mother, he said.
Five silver piece. Five rontos.
He told me not say a word about it. He doesnt want Mother to worry.
I knew I could count on you, Mother said to me, not like your brother who always
bring nothing to this family but trouble.
Brother heard everything Mother said. He was standing behind the partially open
door.
But, Mother I began to say. Im not the---
Mother interrupted, Im so proud of you, my son.
We grew up together, but Mother had always felt differently towards him. I came to
suspect that we might not really be real brothers. But, Father never really told me
anything before he died. And even if everything would seem that way, hell always be
a brother to me.
Mother embraced me. At the same time, I saw my brothers face filled with both
gladness and jealousy. I knew Mother felt his presence. But, it seems like she really
wanted my big brother to see her that way towards me.
Kane turned away. He was trying to hide the tears in his eyes. He was trying to be
strong for my sake. And he was trying to tell me not to feel sorry for him.
I felt his pain. If only Father was still here, he would know what to do. Brother
wouldnt have to steal. He wouldnt have to suffer like this. Kane could have had
someone he could run to.
Later that evening, Kane and I talked. But not like young brothers, but as real men.

98

Im not mad at you, or Mother, he said.

Are you leaving us?
Sometimes, you have to face your own destiny by yourself.
Somehow, I thought he was Father, throwing a big advice like that with words that are
too vague for me to understand.
You want a smoke?
I really dont like the taste of cigarettes. And even if I wanted to, Mother would scold
me if she were here. Mother always treats me like a boy and she thought that Kane
would always be a bad influence to me. But, I think that Kane was never like that.
Kane treated me like man and offered me a cigarette because he believed that Ive
grown enough and I am ready for it and anything the world out there had to offer.
Yeah, I could use one.
So, I took it and tried it. I have a strong feeling that I wont be seeing my big brother
for a very long time. And maybe, this will be the last one thing well be doing
together as brothers.
In the morning, I found out that he left a pack of cigarette right on my bed, and a
large sum of money underneath it. But, I never saw my big brother again.
I told Mother the truth about everything. Mother felt sorry for what she did. She cried
so often, thinking about my big brother.
After a few years, I was able to make good use of the money he left for us. I did
everything to try to make up for my dead father, and my lost brother. So, even if I run
away, she wouldnt feel bad.
So, I ran. I ran away to find my big brother. Mother did ask me to find him.
I traveled from village to village as a peddler. I selled kamiri, a sweeter kind of
poormans ricecake made with purple yam, while asking if they have seen a man who
looked just like me. But then, I realized that it would take too long that way.
So, I ended up stealing. That way, I might make a big name for myself and people
would come to know me. That way, other thieves like my elder brother would know
my name.
Maybe those who worked with him might know where he went. Maybe Brother stole
from someone and they would come for me. Maybe Brother will find out that I ended
up just like him, and he would come looking for me and give me a scolding.
But, nobody came to mistake me for him. Nobody came to reprimand me. Not a sign
of my big brother.

99

THE PRESENT.
So you came here to just to say goodbye, Brother? I said to myself after Brother
left.
I never got the chance to tell him how much Mother missed him, how much she felt
sorry for what she did, and how much Mother loved him for who he was.

100

The Son of Darkness

[07-31-2011]

FIVE YEARS AGO.

In an undisclosed location.
There were rumors that the Shadows were looking for a certain medallion. But the
Underground Society of Thieves had another version of the story.
I was privileged to take part in their secret gathering. It was a rare opportunity for a
rookie like me to be invited.
It was a great honor to have a chance to sit down with renowned fellow thieves like
myself. But, everyone on the table seems to have masks. And Im getting more
curious which one of them is the greatest thief.
Then, another masked man came towards the table. He was wearing the Devils
Mask, a unique mask that was believed to be owned by an Aeon.
The mask speaks for it itself. How on earth did he get such a mask? Everyone
stopped talking and waited for him to speak.
Noone would dare keep such a thing that endangers his very life, he said. Not
even a crazy thief.
Forgive me for not introducing myself. I am one of the founding fathers of this
organization. I am Arkan. And those who dont have masks, are amateurs whose
loyalty is still considered unproven. But were not here to talk about loyalty but
obedience!
Many of you seemed to know that some thing out there is looking for some thing.
There is another breed of evil sweeping the land. And its not one of us. Im referring
to the Shadows and this rumored Medallion of Power.

He walked around the long table, while trying to look at each face across him.

101

Fools do crazy things. But, were not fools. Were thieves!

I cant explain how I was able to steal an Aeons mask. But Im telling you, those
angels have mercy. But, this thing, these vile creatures, they dont feel anything like
kindness or sympathy. Theyre just here to tell us that they like to eat people.
So, I am expecting everyone of you, not to steal the damned thing!
If you dont want those creepy creatures biting your ass and getting all of us killed,
then stay away from this Medallion!
You could steal the Megaia Tree for all I care! But not this thing Not this damn
thing Not on my watch.
Then, out of the blue, one of the members said, They say the Shadowlord might also
be looking for his son.
The Shadowlord had a son?
Yes.
But how?
I dont know. Maybe he stole somebody elses wife and did his thing. Thats what
you would do, right?
Everybody seemed be laughing.
Stole somebodys wife, you say? he seemed amused. The Underground Society of
Theives is a secret society that must remain secret. I wouldnt allow him to join us,
just because he was able to steal somebodys wife. Anyone can do that if they would
just put their backs into it.
Everyone laughed.

102

I left the room. But then, someone followed me.

Kane, he said. Someones been looking for you.
Who? The Shadowlord?
No, he said. Your brother.
My brother?
Yes.
Whats his name?
I dont know. My boys never got a chance to ask him.
Ignore him. He might be someone I stole something from.
Are you sure?
Yeah, I said. A lot of people are after me, these days.
Really? he said. Because they told me, he looks just quite like you.
Then, he left and I ended up thinking deeply.
Is it really you, Brother? I thought.

103

Captured!
[07-31-2011]

After a few months, I resigned from the guild. I told them that Im going to search for
my younger brother.
But then, somebody found me first.

104

Alas! I have found you! he said.

This guys presence is far too creepy.
Who are you? I asked while hanging on to my Executioners Blade.
This guy and his henchmen were all covered in hoods. Their faces were gray and all
of them got scars on their faces. They looked like villagers, but then their movements
are stiff and weird.
Youre not from here, are you? I dont think Ive seen your faces before.
Do you really want to know who we are? the stranger asked.
Then, he asked everybody with him to show me who they really are.
When they took off their hoods, I thought my luck just ran out. I wished that they
were the people who I stole something from. But theyre not.
Gross. They peeled of their human flesh right in front of me, like a snake casting off
its skin. I almost throw up just by looking at it.
Shadows. Most of them are formless creatures who carry human bodies as vessels.
They seemed to be the ones who are after the Medallion. They were the monsters
who destroyed an entire village looking for it. Theyre going to kill me, too!
I looked around. They seemed to be all over the place. There is no escape.
There is no point in fighting against a formidable enemy, especially when youre
outnumbered. But, if you know their true intentions and a little witty, maybe there
might be a chance for you to turn the table around.
I dont have the Medallion! I cried out in fear. I dont even know where it is!
But, Im not that witty and I really dont know where the Medallion is.
Of course, you dont! he said. Not yet!
Im a thief. Does that mean that theyre going to force me to find it and steal it for
them? Why? Why me? Why not Arkan? Or any other thief?
Then, I saw one of the underlings that had a string of masks tied to his waist. Seeing
poor Arkans bloody Devils Mask hanging like that, I got the idea. I hate to imagine
that these guys pulled Arkans mask, along with his head and spinal cord.
Come with us, they said.

105

Id really love to keep my Executioners Blade with me. But with that big axe next to
my neck, I couldnt do a thing. So, they grabbed my weapon and dragged me out.
Buy why were they after me?
Im going to die anyway. It wouldnt make any difference if I ask, right?
So, I asked, Why are you after me?
He sent us to pick you up.
Who?
Did I stole something from them? Do I owe them anything? I dont even remember
making a deal with anyone! And Ive never met anyone like them before!
Whos after me, then?
Your father.
My father?
Our master he said. The Shadowlord.
No, this must be a mistake! Youve got the wrong guy!
Shuddap!
My fathers been dead for years! You must be mistaken!
Then, a Shadow drove his fist towards my stomach.
Shut up and walk.

106

A New Master
[07-31-2011]

How could I be his son? I asked myself over and over the same question while the
Shadows made me walk for miles for days.
These things dont seemed to get tired.
Im exhausted, I complained. How long are we going to keep walking?
Just keep walking, he said.
And if I refuse?
Kid, youre the first person that I havent killed since we started this campaign, he
told me. So, dont tempt me.
If I die of thirst, what will you tell my father, your master, the Shadowlord?
Then he ordered one of his underlings, Bring the shedim some water.
Shedim? Are you referring to me?
Who else? he said. Are there any other creatures here besides Shadows?
We walked for a few miles more. Then, I fainted.
Why are we dragging his ass safely back to the lair? one of the Shadows asked. I
mean, everyones tired and hungry. Shouldnt we be skinning this piece of meat and
sharing his flesh with everybody?
This piece of meat is a shedim. He belongs to the Shadowlord and the Shadowlord
alone.
How can we sure that hes really a shedim? I dont sense anything special about this
guy.
Then, the leader showed his blade.
Are you questioning my authority?
No, of course not! Im just trying to make a point
How about this point right here?
The blade was dull, but the extreme size is enough to declare superiority.
He smells more like food. Thats what Im saying
Shut your yap and carry the bastard!

107

Somebody carried me up. It was too dark. I couldnt see a thing. And I was too weak
to move. Thinking about things made me feel a little more dizzy.
Welcome! the Shadowlord said. My son
What is this place?
Home, he said. Your new home
I looked around. A little light was coming from a big hole that extends from the
surface.
AhhThat one? the Shadowlord seems to noticed my curiosity. A little courtesy
from the Aeon who paid me a visit.
The faint light made it possible for me to see whats underneath the darkness.
Stalactites and stalagmites. Old rock formations. Water dripping from small cracks on
the rock. Its an enormous cavern deep underground.
Then, I saw holes covering a large space of a big wall of rock.
You wanted to see the rest of the family? he asked me.
What?
Then, he turned towards the cells and called out, Come, my minions!
A creepy noise came from the hollows. I stepped back. Suddenly, dark sightless
creatures slithered out from the cavities.
Come, my servants! he said. Come, bow to your new master!
Then, everyone of them gathered around me. They looked quite hungry. But then,
they bowed down to hide their disfigured faces.
What are they?
They are Shadow Broods, Drekkor said. And from now on, they are your servants.
What do I do with them? I asked.
Anything you wish
I thought he was bluffing so I asked for something that first came into my mind,
Bring me the Devils Mask!
Then, all of a sudden, they turned to one of the Shadows who had a string of masks
tied to his waist. Their teeth were gnashing. And their tongues, playing slyly.
The Shadow held up the Devils Mask, but the rest of the Shadows chewed him up
and not a piece of him was left. Then, one of the Shadow crawled towards me and
handed me the bloody mask.
Wonderful

108

Divided
[07-30-2011]

THE PRESENT.
Something tells me theres something bothering you, Vala said. What is it?
My mind was almost blank.
Its the Shadows isnt it? she tried to guess. The ones who are after that thing
wrapped around your neck?
I guess theres just one thing left to do.
Wait, she followed me. What are you trying to do?
I cant think of a better way to keep her safe.
Youre leaving? she asked. Youre leaving me, too?
The Shadows are after me, I explained. It would be dangerous for you and this
village if I stay here.
You cant just leave. We just got here.
If the Medallion stays here, they will definitely come for it," I said.
Then, Im coming with you! she insisted.
Holding her in my arms wasnt enough to make her understand.
Look, this village is your home. Its my home now, too. But, I have to do this alone to
protect the only home we have. And I want you to stay here so that there would be
someone waiting for me when I get back.
Then, dont leave! she cried out. Well make a stand for it!
Vala, you dont know what these creatures can do!
Then, why dont you just throw the Medallion away?!
Its not that simple
What do you mean its not that simple?! Youve been holding on that Medallion for
quite some time. Let it go!
I tried to recount what happened before the Stone came into my possession.
A lot of people had died trying to protect this Stone. They have risked all their lives
just to keep it safe safe until the Medallion finds its master.

109

And the Medallion chosed me I said while thinking about the fate that was already
written for me.
I took the Medallion from my neck, and placed it on a table made from a huge tree
trunk. She walked out.
This Medallion of Power is testing my allegiance to it by trying to tear this family
apart. But, Im the Stones master. Not the other way around.
Then all of a sudden, she came back charging towards me, carrying a big axe. Shes
gone mad!
Are you trying to kill me?!
I tripped on a chair and fell on my butt trying to escape the blade. The wedge of the
axe went deep into the tables surface, and stayed there. She stepped back, feeling
exhausted, and fell right on her behind, laughing.
She wasnt really aiming at me. She was aiming at the Medallion. She was trying to
destroy it!
Where is it? she asked.
But, the Medallion isnt anywhere on the table or anywhere near the broad axe.
As I turned, trying to stand, I saw a piece of metal partly hidden under the shelf. The
Medallion has been with me for years and I could easily recognize its edges from
anywhere.
The Medallion. The rest of it was hidden in the dark.
She missed. The Medallion probably ricocheted right from the table. The Stone, by
any means, cannot be destroyed.
I picked it up. Then, I felt a sweat running down my face. Its only half of it!

110

Then, I turned to her, looking at her eyes with amazement. She didnt missed after
all!
But, what shocked me more was, she was holding the other half of the Stone in her
hand! What's more, she wasnt harmed in any way!
I remember, now. The Stone harms only those who want it. Those who want its power.
Those with evil intentions.
Now, were both Masters of the Stone, she said.
Did the Medallion lost most of its power? Maybe the power was divided between the
two halves. Who knows? But, one things for certain: the Shadows had lost track of it
and the sense of its power.

111

A Village Makes a Stand

[07-30-2011]

Vala came towards her father, Aswald, who happened to be the village leader. Aswald
called for a great assembly and everyone gathered to lend their ears.
Ulrich explained everything to the Elders and the Elders whispered something to the
village leader.
I see, the village leader, Aswald, said.
Then, Aswald spoke to the crowd.
Everyone, Im sorry to have called you all at a very bad time to give you a
depressing news.
We have received word that the Shadows are marching towards Purple Valley, as we
speak. Many of you may probably have heard rumors of these vicious monsters
attacking several villages. And they are all true. The threat of the Shadows are
dangerous and real. So, we must act fast before our own village merely turns into yet
another frightening rumor.
We have also learned that this man right here, Ulrich, carries the very thing that the
Shadows were looking for. Ulrich just got here and he told me that he had to leave for
sake the of the village. Ulrich is a good man, like anyone of us, and as a friend, I hate
to see him go.
Truth is, the Stone that this man carries as a burden, was born right from this very
place. The Elders told me that the Medallion and the rumored lost artifact that was
created by Megaia as a gift to protect us Humans from the Shadows that we greatly
fear, are one and the same. They have confirmed it.
The Shadows are advancing quickly, too. Our commanders have confirmed that as
well. Frankly, a number of villages have been completely wiped out in a manner of
weeks. And the pattern of destruction are all moving towards this place, our home.
The very thing that the Shadows want is here. And the only thing that could
probably stop them is here, too. The question is, are we just going to let them have
it?
The villagers faces turned gloomy after learning the depressing news.
Then, the village leader turned to Ulrich.
Even if you leave with the Stone, Aswald said, the Shadows will still come this way.
The Megaia Tree is enormously huge. With its colossal size, it can easily be seen from
miles away. It will certainly draw their attention.
Afterwards, Aswald spoke again to the crowd.

112

Purple Valley will be in grave danger. But, the future of this village depends on what
each and every one of us would come to decide!
I am the leader of this village, but I will stand by him not as one! I stand by him as a
fellow villager, trying to help another fellow villager. Would you have done the same
thing if you were in my place?
The village leader paused for a moment waiting for an answer from the silent crowd.
The Shadows Those creatures Those monsters They cant be reasoned with.
They will kill every loved ones we have. Are we going to let them do what they do
best, before we act?!
We could run! somebody shouted.
Yes, we could run. We could hide! But, how long are going to keep running? How
long are we going to survive without getting one or two of us killed?!
The village leader walked around.
Those Shadows have already reduced a number of villages to ashes. They dont just
destroy homes or take away livestock. They slaughter men, women, and children.
This place is our home. This is where our fathers are born. This is where we are born.
And soon, our children will come to call this place as their home, too.
So my fellow citizens, I urge you. Bear with me. If we stop this threat now, our
children wont have to worry about it tomorrow.
What say you? he asked the crowd.
Then, one of them asked, Will you risk your life for someone who just came into our
village?
The village leader came to reassure Ulrich.
Ulrich, whispered Aswald, I will support you like a father who cares for his son.
Remember that
Then, he turned to the one who asked him.
This man Aswald said, is not just someone who just came into our village This
man just happened to be my daughters husband!
Some people who knew who he was tried to hide their faces.
Now, let me ask you all, he addressed the crowd. Will you risk your life for your
son-in-law? Or even for the sake of your own daughter?
The silence of the crowd turned to whispers and mild chatters.
Suddenly, someone stood up and said, Ill stand by you.
Then, one by one, each villager stood up and volunteered.

113

Me, too!
Same here!
Count me in!
The village leader placed his hand over his son-in-laws shoulder.
Ulrich, my son, he said, This village is our home, and your home as well. If theyre
after you, then theyre after all of us. If you fight back, youll fight back with us. Dont
worry. We got your back.
Besides, Aswald continued, this village has never let its people down.
You heard that men? one of the village army said, Prepare for war!
Gather every abled men who can pick up a sword, the tactician said. Were going
to need every help we can get.
The crowd shouted out in their favor.
I want to fight, too! a young man said.
Youre just thirteen.
But, the Shadows wouldnt mind if Im young. Theyd just kill me just the same.
I know. But, were fighting back to keep little ones like you from harm. If we were to
send you to battle and one of you dies on the battlefield, then we might lose this war
and come back alive with nothing left to treasure.
Listen up! he addressed the rest of the crowd. This young mans bravery is,
beyond question, admirable. However, you should know that we are fighting in this
war to make sure that the rest of our family --- our sons and daughters, our
grandsons and granddaughters --- survive. And that they wont have to fear the
Shadows ever again.
Can we defeat them with numbers? one farmer asked. Is there a way to
outnumber them?
Yes, we could arm the women and children. We could arm our wives with swords and
our little children with daggers. But even if we outnumber them, those Shadows
doesnt feel anything, not even fear. Those things are savage creatures. They wont
hesitate to kill or swallow us, because thats their primary instinct. If we arm those
people who we want to protect, then we will have nothing left in the end.
We could ask the other villages to give us a hand.
Indeed, we could. But the Shadows are closing in fast. They could be here by
nightfall.
What can we do to help? a woman asked.
Supplies, he answered. Were going to need food and supplies.
My sons will sharpen your blades! a woman shouted.

114

Spears! a group of young volunteers said. Well make you some spears!
What about shields? asked somebody.
Another crowd replied, Let us worry about that.
Very well the appointed commander of the force said and turned to his three
subordinates to give his first set of orders. Light up the beacon to notify the nearby
villages that we are at war. Then, have some of your men put up a watchtower on
every corner of this village and have a couple of guards take alternating shifts
keeping watch.
His subordinates acknowledged the command, Aye!
Dont forget your torches! Well give the Shadows a piece of our light!

115

The tactician left the crowd with an anxious face. His wife followed him.
Are you sure you want to do this? she asked.
It doesnt look like I have much of a choice.
But, what about us? she asked. What about your son?
I have already set up a place for you to hide. You two will be safe there.
What about you?
Its not like that I love the sound of war, but the dice had already been casted. This
thing before us is inevitable. If we stand here and do nothing, we are going to die for
sure. But if we fight, theres a chance that the ones we treasured all these years
would survive.
Im afraid she came forward and embraced her husband. Im afraid Im going to
lose someone in this war
Its alright to be afraid. Every living thing feels the same way right now. The only
thing left to do is wait for the rest of the other villages to decide what they want to do
with their fate.

116

Words
[08-02-2011]

The villagers were almost done with the preparations.

This is the time when warriors comfort their wives before saying their goodbyes. This
is the time when wives lend an earful and hear what their men have to say. This is
the time when words mean more than anything else
Listen, Ulrich said to his wife, theres something I have to tell you
Ulrich came closer and said, When this is over, Ill find a place for us in the forest
and build you a small paradise.
Really?
Yeah.
Vala replied, Ive got something to say, too.
What?
When this is all over, youre not going to be just a husband anymore.
What? A hero? he smiled, trying to guess whats on her mind.
Vala burst out laughing, No, Ulrich. No!
Then, she kissed him and said softly, Youre going to be a father soon
Really?
Ulrich held her in his arms. Vala took his hands and placed it on her womb.
I love you.
I love you, too.
This is the part where wives allow themselves to be vulnerable and the part where
husbands give it their all.
And theres one thing more Ulrich whispered something to Valas ear.

117

Nightfall
[08-02-2011]

Everythings ready, a villager reported to the commander of the defense force.

The commander issued another command.
Have all the women and children head for the shelter. Make sure noones left behind,
or it will be hard for us to fight the enemy and protect them at the same time.
Everyone watched as the sun vanished behind the western hills. They stood
adamantly with their unlit torches. But somehow, a small fear is creeping to their
arms. Its growing and travelling down their spine Night has come.
Commander! a soldier called, pointing at something gathering from the northern
horizon.
Theyre here, the commander said, Light it up!
The sub-commander relayed the order, Light it all up!
Flame-tipped arrows fly towards the top of the walls to light up the defenses.
Scattered piles of hay became rows of burning obstacles. Sharpened sticks are
propped ready like mounted spears.
Meanwhile, the Shadows stopped advancing. Theyve reached the fortified northern
entrance of the village.
A wide ditch goes around the walls. Its filled with tar and oil.

118

A blockade? the Shadow Devourer, Nordax, said.

Nordax examines the barricade. He sensed the trap. But, do the Humans really think
that the Shadows will move past the traps because theyre stupid? Within an hour,
the Shadows can overrun these defenses and destroy the village without leaving any
survivor!
Over the walls! Nordax ordered the Shadow Underlings.
A shallow and sticky ditch. The Shadow Underlings doesnt seem to mind them. But
somehow, it did slowed some of the advancing forces down.
A few seconds later, a flame went running through the oil-drenched ditch!
Arrrggghhh!!! the Shadow Underlings cried as they burn in the ditch.
Nordax saw that the Underlings couldnt stand the heat.
Tell them to retreat.

119

Meanwhile, on the northern tower.

Its working! the watchers said. Its holding them off!
The Shadows Underlings fell on the fiery trap and seemed to have stopped
advancing.
For now, another guard said. We have just delayed their attack.

In the meantime, Nordax stood enraged.

Humans, Nordax said, you have only postponed your deaths by a moment!
Then, a throne carried by twelve Manipulator-infested Humans came. The nearby
Shadows stood silent and afraid.
What do we do, sire? Nordax knelt down and asked.
Youre as careless and impatient as ever, Nordax, a deep voice said.
My Lord Nordax fell on his face.
A Shadow clad in heavy armor. A Shadow Warbringer.
Relax, this would be fun. If you rush things and kill them all at the same time, then
there would be nothing left for us to do, dont we?
Yes, Lord Feldgor
Feldgor, the Shadow Warbringer. A high-ranking Shadow standing in the middle of his
army of darkness.
Well take them by surprise, Lord Feldgor said. Well devour their weakness before
striking them head on.

120

Later, Lord Feldgor called for the Shadow Burrowers.

Your command, Lord Feldgor? the chief Shadow Burrower asked.
The Shadow Burrowers. They are weak and afraid of light. But then, their hands and
claws are made for burrowing and tunneling. They are responsible for building the
intricate subterrainian tunnel network of the Hive. They have no interest in this war.
But whenever they are summoned to do some work, they would answer their
masters call.
Our sharp claws are yours, my Lord, they said. Say the word and were ready to
offer our lives for the cause. We shall tear them apart!
I admire your loyalty, but I wont be needing your lives or your participation in this
war.
Then, what is it that you want us to do?
Then, the Shadow Warbringer gave his instructions.
Follow the roots towards the Great Tree, Lord Feldgor commanded. It leads directly
behind the Human stronghold.
Open up a path for the Underlings, he added. We shall strike fear into their minds
before we attack them.
Consider it done, Lord Feldgor replied the Shadow Burrower.

121

Disturbing Silence
[08-02-2011]

Meanwhile. Back inside the village.

Its too quiet, Ulrich said to himself.
I bet the Shadows cant find a way through the light, a man said.
Light wont be enough to drive these creatures away.
Ulrich sent someone up the tree to check the enemys position.
Theyre waiting up north. They dont seem like theyre going to attack tonight.
The silence is too deafening.
This feels bad, says Ulrich.
What?
Somethings not right, he said. The night is perfect to give them cover. What are
the Shadows waiting for?
Ulrich went up the tree to find out for himself. The roots of the Megaia Tree goes from
here to the north.
They dont mean to---
Ulrich went down hurriedly and ran towards the commanders.
Theyre underground!
One of the commander heard him.
Relax, if theyre underneath us, theyll have to come up soon enough
Then, the commander gave an order to his subordinates.
Keep your men in line! Tell everyone to be on their guard for a surprise attack from
below!

122

WaitDid you hear that?

Hear what?
Shhh! Shut up and listen!
A faint voice. Its probably coming from below the ground. No. Somewhere closer.
Somewhere in the village, something is taking place. Who knows whats happening
behind their backs? What are the Shadows up to? Where will they emerge? When will
they appear?
But, the battle has already begun. Shadow Underlings are on a feeding frenzy
tonight. Their fangs are nailed into tender meat. Their teeth are busy grinding. And
theres plenty of food to go around.
At the same time, souls are crying out. They are begging for mercy. They are howling
for help. They are dying fast!
Ulrichs eyes scanned the whole area. The armory? The barracks? Which one? Where
is that noise coming from? Where will the Shadows come out?
Calm down. Close your eyes. Dont force it to do what your ears job is.
Focus, Ulrich. Find out where the sound is coming from.
Think. What are the Shadows after? What do they want, aside from the Stone? And
what are we throwing our lives for?
Its the voice of screaming women!
The shelter!

123

Weak Point
[08-02-2011]

Ulrich ran towards the shelter together with a handful of armed men.
Open up! he yelled.
Noones answering. It was tightly sealed from the inside. The defenseless villagers
were ordered to lock themselves in, to keep themselves safe. They were ordered not
to open it for anyone, not until the battle is over.
Ulrich ordered the men, Break the damn door open!
The barricaded door collapsed. Nobody was standing by the door.
Lend me your torch! Ulrich said to one of the men with him.
Ulrich walked inside cautiously. Everythings a mess. Rations were scattered all over.
Then, the worst sign. A blood-stained blade and a big hole on the ground.
Blood trails. It gets thicker as it leads to the innermost room. There they are. The
treasures they were trying to protect.
Women and children But, they dont look like that anymore.
Pieces of limbs. Chopped body parts. Torn flesh. Opened ribcages. Blood. And more
blood. Some heads were missing.
The young soldiers vomited in the sight and smell of piles of exposed internal organs
and carcasses.
Ulrichs knees fell down on a pool of thick red liquid and his heart screamed in rage.
No, he cried. We were too late
They went underground, right underneath their noses. They went underground and
came out right where theres almost no resistance. They came out directly in front of
the only exit that their fearful prey had. The poor souls had nowhere to escape.
It only took a few minutes for those blood-thirsty flesh-eating monsters to slaughter a
bunch of trapped civilians. The only thing left for the villagers to do was to accept the
fact that theyre the main course for the Shadows dinner.

124

Shortly after, Shadow Underlings came out from the other end of the tunnel. With
them, are some of their well-kept prize from the Humans, to share with their fellow
broods.
Heads. Ear strings. A fetish for small and big eyeballs. The Shadows were very
pleased.
The Shadow Warbringer laughed while imagining how the humans might have felt
seeing the horrific end of their precious loved ones.
Now that weve shown them the meaning of fear, he said, well teach them the
basics of extinction.
Then, Feldgor gave his order, Advance!

125

Back to Back
[08-02-2011]

Ulrich rushed out from the shelter, shaking. His eyes were frozen, like he had seen
the most awfully disturbing scene in his life.
What happened there?! the commander ran towards him and asked.
Ulrich replied in a lifeless tone, Theyre all dead
Dead?! How?
The women and children All of them Dead.
The Shadows have breached the north gate! a tower guard shouted.
Curse you, Shadows! the commander was enraged.
Men, secure your posts! he said. Dont let a single Shadow walk past you alive!
Ulrich didnt saw any part of Valas body inside that room.
Did they took her away? he thought. My wife?
The Stone! he remembered. Half the Stone is with Vala!
Vala! Ulrich called out while looking towards high ground.
Ulrich began to recall the last thing he said to his wife before he left.
And theres one thing more I have to tell you Ulrich said.
The Shadows live underground, he explained. So, stay away from the ground!
The soldiers rushed to put up a defensive line. But, Ulrichs mind was still in shock
and he walked around aimlessly.
They took Vala! he said to himself, over and over.
Then, arrows started flying.
Get down! a commander came and pinned Ulrich down.
They took Vala! he said.
The commanded punched him once, hoping to bring some sense into him.
Then, what are you going to do about it?!
Ulrich! somebody called, Up here! Im right here!

126

Thank goodness, youre alive! he said to himself.

Then, he saw the Shadows staring at the source of the loud voice. A villager, right up
the Megaia Tree.
Get her! Nordax said. Kill everyone! Dont let a single soul escape!
Theyre coming for Vala!
Vala! Stay there! he shouted. Im coming for you!
Shadow Underlings stormed the camp. Everyones got something to keep them
occupied all evening.
The night was filled with sounds of parrying swords and endless clashes. The sound
of blood squirting out of headless villagers The sound of Humans, dying slowly
The moon witnessed it all.

127

The Shadows are using Humans as hosts. These bodies are people from random
villages. They are mindless victims turned into war-freak zombies. Shadow Puppets!
A Shadow Puppet aimed for a soldiers right shoulder. The soldier returned with a
punch, aiming directly at his opponents face.
They dont seem to feel any pain, he thought.
Then, he thrusted a sword directly right into his chest, followed by a blunt knife unto
the side. He gave it a sudden little twist. But then, the Shadow Puppet was still
standing.
Bloody hell! he said. These vicious savages are tough!
Here, a big man came to his aid. Let me try!
He whirled a big axe directly into the enemys head. The slash cracked his skull open.
His severed brain was exposed. Then, a black spineless thing crawled out. The real
enemy revealed himself.

128

A Shadow Manipulator!
The Shadow Manipulators are Shadows who infest their victims body by infusing
themselves into the victims skull to gain control of their nervous system.
Back to back, men! the commander yelled. Protect your comrades rear!

129

Lorcan Avengers
[08-04-2011]

The battle raged on.

It seems that the Shadow Puppets are dying. But, the Shadow Manipulators found
another set of hosts.
Run! Get away from here! soldiers cried out while they try to pull the Shadow
Manipulators off their faces. Theyre taking over our b---!
Its too late. Their eyes now reflect the eyes of a savage creature. Mouths became
ferociously hungry for flesh. Their heart beats a tad faster, turning them into
aggressive freaks of nature. Now, the Shadows are in control.
Father? an armed young villager asked.
Hes staring at a man who had a big knife on his hand. Hes staring at a reincarnated
beast trapped in a mans body. No feelings. No mercy. A true cold-blooded killer.
His father draws near. Hes totally heartless.
One of the wounded soldiers nearby yelled, Kill him!
I--I cant! he said, crying . Hes my father!
The soldier drove a sickle directly to the back of the Shadow Puppets skull. He came
just right before the young man got hurt.
Not anymore.
The villagers are turning to Shadow Puppets. The situation is getting worse by the
minute! There are plenty of Shadows to go around. But now, they have to deal with
their own men too!
Neighbor against neighbor. Friend against friend. Father against son. Blood for blood.
This is way too much for them to handle.
Spurts of blood. Piles of innards. The land is turning into a marsh of cadavers.
Its almost daybreak. The winner of this battle will be decided soon.

130

Just then, a number of galloping horses rushed from the south wing.
A flagbearer displays the crest of the Lorcan Hound. Men from the village of Lorca!
The leading rider stopped and said, I thought youd need a little help.
The Shadows destroyed our homeland and slaughtered our people. Some of these
men with me are people who barely escaped their onslaught. But most of them are
Danathar citizens who were born Lorcans. Were here to avenge our motherland.
Then, he motioned his men to give them some support.
The Lorcan reinforcements headed straight towards the battlefield and joined the
soldiers of Purple Valley in battle.
Aim for their heads! shouted the Lorcan leader.
His fellows cried, For Lorca!!!

131

The Fading Flower

[08-12-2011]

The sun is about to shine on the battlefield.

I saw Vala pick up a sword. I didnt know she could fight.
I didnt know you could fight! I shouted.
Neither do I! she said. It comes with the situation!
Valas got a couple of vile creatures to deal with. Im pretty tied up myself! These
three Shadow Puppets are getting into my nerves!
I slashed two of them and kicked one away. Then, I threw a knife towards a Shadow
Puppets head, behind Vala.
I thought I was able to reduce her detractors. But, I failed to notice a horde of Shadow
Underlings coming her way. A Shadow Hunter was with them, too.
The Shadow Underlings pounced on her. She couldnt take all of them out without
getting a scratch. A Shadow Hunter noticed the piece of metal hanging on her neck
and ordered the nearest Shadow Puppets to take her down.
I saw her. Shes clearly outnumbered. But then, more Shadow Puppets rushed over
me. I couldnt make a step without a blade or claw approaching my neck. She was
just a few meters away
No!!! I screamed on top of my lungs.
The Shadow Puppet drove a sword into her lower back. The tip of the blade emerged
up front. My bright little flower fell on the ground.
The Shadow Hunter rushed to get hold of the pendant. After confirming that its the
piece of the Medallion they were looking for, they left.
Master, the Shadow Warbringer said, I have acquired half of the Stone.
Wheres the other half? asked the Shadow Master.
The Humans must have hidden it somewhere. But, it wont be long before we find it,
Master.
The Shadow Warbringer ordered the Shadows to retreat.

132

The Shadows are retreating! I heard a soldier say.

Vala! I cried while running towards her.
My Vala She was lying there woundedand I wasnt able to save her
I held her in my arms. Blood was dripping into the ground. I cant believe this is all
happening.
I feel cold, she said.
I wrapped myself around her. I never thought things would end up this bad.
With her remaining strength, she pulled something from her pocket.
A dried flower.
You like that flower? I asked while looking at the bright flower growing along the
cliff. If you want one, I could get it for you.
You kept it, I said.
She could hardly breathe. Blood seemed to have entered her lungs.
Ulrich, she said. They took the Stone
Dont say anymore, I said. Reserve your strength.
The wound is deep, she said.
I tore my left sleeve and pressed it on the open wound. I put a pressure on the
nearest vein to keep the blood from coming out, but its still not enough. Vala is
losing too much blood.
My eyes ran from left to right and back, trying to find someone who could help.
Medic!!! I cried out.
Im sorry, she said. I wasnt able to do anything for you
You fought pretty well for a woman, my Love
I wasnt able to protect the Stone she said.
It doesnt matter now, said I. Just stay with me, Vala. Stay with me

133

Im scared, she said. Will you sing for me?

I remember the night we spend together, while travelling back to Purple Valley.
Im scared.
Do you want to hear me to sing, then?
You could sing?
No, not really. But I guess I could try.

Okay, Ill try. But just this once, just because youre scared. Okay?
Okay.
My tears were getting in the way. But, I sang, nonetheless.
Ahh-ah Ahh-ah
The Shadows had left, but the battle raged on for those who were left wounded. They
are currently fighting for their lives.
Blood seemed to have fallen like rain. But even before the war began, we had already
lost. Those happy memories and images of the past had already been replaced by
fear, dread, and hopelessness.
Right now, my heart is afraid. My eyes saw hundreds of downed men and the lives of
weakened men, vanishing. I could hear the cries getting louder. These men around
me are racing to their deaths.
Then, she moved. She tried to move her hand towards my face. I know what she
wanted to do. She wanted to slap me.
I held her hand and helped her place it on my face. She smiled. I used to feel a
tingling sensation whenever she slaps my face. But now, it seemed kinda different.
I wish we could do this again some other time perhaps she said.
Ahh-ah Ahh-ah
The song comforted her. It took away her fear. Her smile was proof of it. She was like
a little girl wanting a lullaby before her sleep.
Then, her heart stopped beating. Yet, her eyes stood half-open and the remaining
tears ran down her cheeks as if she was still alive.
Shes gone, isnt she?

134

Vala?
No response. She used to say something after slapping me. I know she was about to
say something. Because thats how it was supposed to! Because thats how we first
met!
Before, I was alone. I was always running. Running away from everything.
Thats what you get for not looking at where youre going, pervert Souch!
But when I stumbled onto her, everything about me started change. I learned to fight
back. I found the will to carry on because she was there. I realized that life wasnt so
bad after all.
Now, a part of me is whispering something to me, but I dont want to believe it.
You know how it feels like, dont you? When somebody leaves you without saying
goodbye? When somebody leaves you hanging? And probably not a single word from
her? You probably would have wished that she could have said anything good before
she left, so that theres something for you to remember, something for you to live by.
You know how it feels like, dont you? When someone dies right in your arms? When
all you could do is make yourself believe that hes just asleep but he will never ever
wake up
You wouldnt mind if you see a sad man crying, would you?

A silent scream. A burst of tears. Then, a long howl.

Valas gone

135

A Father Grieves
[08-13-2011]

I stood up and carried Valas lifeless body to a quiet place, away from the battlefield.
My daughter?! the village leader, Aswald cried out.
How do I tell him that I failed to protect the only thing that he ever had?
Im sorry, I said. Its the only word left to say.
Please, he said. Leave us
I went outside and gave him his exclusive moment with his daughter. Then, Valas
father wept in severe and utmost despair.
Vala
A flashback of his fondest time with his little girl appeared before him.

The sky is so vast. How far does the land goes, Father? little Vala asked.
The land goes far beyond the horizon, Honey. Way farther than your eyes could ever
reach.
Why is that?
The world is endless, Vala. Didnt your Mother told you that?
Father, is the world really that big?
How come you ask?
Because I want to go around it, and see all the beautiful places! Vala answered with
great optimism.
Thats my girl!

136

But, Im scared, father, she said with a long face. What if I get lost and find myself
unable to find my way back home?
The world is round, Vala
What do you mean?
What I mean is her father began to think. Now, how shall I put it?
If you stand here, and walk towards any direction or any path you wanted to take
away from this place, as long as you go straight, it will always lead you back home.
And Father will always be here waiting for you

Vala thought for a moment, pondering about what her father had said.
Then, she remembered her mother. She missed her so much since she went away.
Father said she went to a place where her grandmother is. But, will her mother ever
come back?
Do you think that I can also go to the place where Mother is right now?
Aswald lost his wife to a fatal disease and left him with the only memory of her. But
now, his last precious gem is gone. How would he be able to face his wife in the
afterlife?
Nothing could hurt a father more than living another day without his daughter.

Tell your Mother to wait for me he whispered.

137

War Curtain
[08-12-2011]

Valas Father. His silent words hit me pretty hard. I saw the deep sadness behind his
eyes.
HelplessnessSadness Resentment I brought the cursed Medallion into this
village into Valas life. Im the one to blame for all this.
Finally, it comes out inside me Fury Rage
The Shadows murdered my wife and took the other half of the Medallion. They didnt
just killed my wife. They stole the life of my unborn son, too!
I walked back into battle. Then, I stepped on somebodys arm. It was a dead one.
I stared at all the lifeless body lying around me. The Shadows caused all of these.
They must pay for what they did.
Most of the Shadows are retreating. Theyve got the valuable war prize their master
was aiming for. Half of the Medallion.
But, the war doesnt seemed to be over. Some of the Shadows were still on to it.
Shadow Scavengers creep out from the burrows. Slowly each one drags a lifeless
body to a safe distance. They drag them into the dark. Theyre not here to fight but
to chew on dead bodies and carcasses.
Indeed, there are plenty to go around. There is no need to fight over food.
Dead Humans. Dead Shadows. Theyre all the same to the Shadow Scavengers. The
scent of oozing blood tells the location of food. To the Scavengers, there is no
distinction between Human meat or Shadow protein.
In this war, the Shadow Scavengers are the real winners. They have been lying in
wait for each one to fall. Dead or half-dead doesnt really matter. Those twitching
hands and those flickering eyes could only mean theyre the freshest savory piece of
meat.
As a walk, the Shadow Scavengers hurriedly crawled away with their six-foot meal.
There are still a few Underlings around.
A Shadow Underling was about to jump me, but my hand caught it in mid-air by the
neck. Its claws scratched my arm wildly. Its big mouth seemed like it wants to take a
piece of me and get out from being strangled at the same time. A few seconds later,
it turned more aggressive. It was losing oxygen. Thats what you get for getting in my
way.
I walked aimlessly on the battlefield. Then, I saw a soldier was having a hard time
with a Shadow Puppet.

138

Hey, I said.
It was busy trying to wrestle with another Human. It failed to notice my presence.
Why dont you go back to where you came from, I said.
I pulled him by the hair. And while his hands are onto the weary soldier, I drove a long
dull knife right into his neck, up towards his brain.
Indeed, the Shadow Manipulator got my message.
Freaks
Moments later, the clashing sound stopped. The beautiful village of Purple Valley had
turned into a barren wasteland.
Its over, isnt it? the soldier asked me. Theyre retreating.
I doubt that. This is just the tip of the iceberg. And we lost.

The war isnt over.

And for me, this is just the beginning

139

Lone Avenger
[08-13-2011]

Im thirsty. My muscles are aching. I feel like I could lose consciousness in a minute.
A few steps later, my body fell onto the ground as if I have lost control over it. My
eyes dimmed half-shut. Did I pass out?
Hey, a man called out to someone, give that man some water, and fast!
A few drops of water ended up in my lungs, enough to wake me up.
Are you alright, sir? a young soldier asked me. Here, have some more water.
The water isnt enough to quench my thirst, but it will do.
Where are you going? a commander approached me. Lie down, let someone
attend to your wounds.
Im going to the Underworld, I answered.
What?! Are you out of your damn mind?! a commander said. Look at these people!
These men cant fight anymore because theyre still too tired from the previous
battle!
Im not taking any men, I said. Im going alone.
Are you insane?! You almost passed out, and you could barely stand on your own!
How long could you possibly walk from here?! Youll just lose consciousness on your
way!
What do want to have me do?! Stay here and grieve for all these dead people?!
I understand how you feel, but I dont understand why you---
Theres no use trying to explain things. So, I held him by the collar and stared at him
with my intimidating eyes filled with anger.
The Shadows killed my wife! She was pregnant! I cried. Now, which part of what I
said cant you understand?!
Im telling you, I wont rest until I made the Shadows pay for what theyve done to
my family! I added.
The commander could do nothing but offer his sympathy.

140

If I cant stop you, he said, then, take these.

He handed me a slightly heavy bag.
Its not much, he added, but it will be useful against those Shadow Underlings.
Thanks.
Take my sword, too. Its made of an alloy of tempered steel and atrocium. Its light.
And pretty sharp, too. It cuts almost anything It wont fail you.
Neither will I.
After I took his sword as my secondary weapon, I followed the tracks of the Shadow
Underlings. They went into the small cracks in the ground, gaps that only they could
fit in. The Shadow Manipulators, too. They left their brain-dead hosts behind and
escaped back into their underground den.
I found a hole, but it wasnt big enough for me to crawl into it. It doesnt matter. Even
if I had to dig the earth up just to bring the battle to their doorstep, Ill do it. I will
obliterate all of them!
I took out my sword and then started to dig.
Suddenly, a voice seemed to be coming from the other half of the Stone called out to
me.
What is your wish?
The Stone speaks.
Had I known the Stones true power long ago, I wouldnt have to run from those who
were after it.
They killed all the Mystics, and destroyed every village they ran into. They ruined my
new home. They ruined the only place my precious Vala ever wanted to be!
They killed my wife, my Vala and our unborn child. They will pay dearly for what they
have done!
Justice. I want justice!
Take me to the other half of the Stone! I said.
Then, the Stones half responded as it it had a life of its own. It glowed like it seemed
to have understood my deep longing.
Suddenly, A tremendous earthquake shook the battlefield. The earth beneath me
crumbled like it was opening up. Then, a sinkhole appeared before me
Moments later, the tremors stopped. A huge crack now lies before me. And the trail
leads to the Underworld!

141

The Missing Half

[08-12-2011]

I reached the Shadow Lair.

The Shadow Underlings failed to notice my presence. They thought I was a Shadow
Puppet because of the familiar scent all over my body. The blood of a dead Shadow
Manipulator.
A much sinister presence sat at the end of the dark cavern. There on the throne,
sitting, was the embodiment of evil, whom my revenge is allotted for.
Give me the other half of the Stone, I demanded.
A Human?
So, Drekkor said, it seems that you have my other half?
Give me the Stone, said I, or your life will end right right here and now.
A slight glimmer from the Stone in my hand shoved light across the darkness. The
Shadows felt the presence of the half-broken Stone. The Shadows are grinning for a
pounce. Drekkor simmered them down.
Ha! A lowly Human, ordering me? Drekkor said. You seemed to have a lot of guts
to threaten the Shadowlord!
Im not afraid of you.
People would usually scurry away after hearing my name. But you you came here
to face me with nothing but a nameless sword and a pinch of courage. Ill take
pleasure in tearing you apart!
Come closer, Human, he added. Ill promise to take my time in skimming your
blood!
I stayed on an area where light partially illuminates the cavern.
Why dont you come here so I could take a better look at your ugly face!

142

When Drekkor was about to come near me, another Shadow emerged from the
darkness.
I wasnt expecting to see you so soon, the Shadow Master said. Ulrich
Ahh, my son! Drekkor turned to ask him, You seemed to know this man?

Let me deal with him, Father, the Black Knight said. Ill take the other half of the
Stone from him.
So, Drekkors son is half Human? But, his face is covered with a demon mask. Pweeh!
His face might be disgustingly ugly and hideous just like his father.
I dont know how you knew me, I said, but I know you will regret that youve seen
this face!

143

You talk too much, he said.

Then, he laid his Crystal Sword down and prompted me to a hand-to-hand combat.
Lets see how good you are, he said.
The Shadow Master and I battled with our fists. His armor is tough, but my fist of fury
knows no pain. The Shadow Master was able to parry my attacks, while I was able to
evade his.
Is that all that you got, Shadow Master? I asked.
Were just warming up, he said.
He took off the weights from his black armor. Chunks of metal that are hindering his
movements.
Then, he attacked me. He moves a lot faster now. He was able to land two
consecutive blows right into my jaw, and I fell.
Giving up? he asked.
This Shadow freak is insulting me.
Lets see what kind of monster is right under that mask, I said to myself.
We continued to exchanged fists while giving each other everything weve got.
Finally, I found a short window of opportunity and landed a hard punch towards the
Shadow Masters left ear. He lost his balance.
The Shadow Master fell down and his mask was detached. His real identity was
exposed!
I couldnt believe my eyes. But, nothing is more horrible than the bitter truth.
Kane?
Not anymore, Ulrich, he said. I now go by the name, Shadow Master.
So, was it you who ordered the Shadows to kill my wife?
I already warned you, didnt I? he said while trying to stand up.
The Shadow Underlings doesnt care whos holding the Stone, he said, as long as
they acquire it.
Youre not answering my question! I shouted.
Then, I punched my big brothers face a second time and he took it like it was nothing
to him.
You shouldve just left the Stone and ran, Ulrich
Did you kill my wife?! I asked.

144

My fist landed on his face repeatedly while waiting for an answer.

Yes! Kane said. Yes, I ordered it.
I stepped back. Knowing the horrible truth made my knees feel weak. This Medallion
had caused me so much. What kind of misfortune had I picked up?
Then, I picked up my sword. I cant face Vala in the afterlife without taking this mans
head.
My sword, Caprice, knows no mercy. It has no feelings. It wont recognize a brothers
blood
But, can I actually kill my own brother?
Kane sensed me behind him. Then, he took out a concealed blade from his right boot.
Are you really going to kill me, Brother?
I guess, theres no other way to settle this matter with words.
From now on, its a battle within our minds. Anyone who lets the past get between
him will certainly sacrifice his guard, and eventually lose this battle.
You know, said Kane, one of us has to die, Ulrich!
I agree with you.
Kane cut a string from his neck. Then, he turned around while swinging the blade
towards me. I was able to deflect his attack with my sword. But, I know my elder
brother wont allow himself to be taken down.
I continued to move counterclockwise swiftly, to prepare for a counter-offensive. The
sword sliced through some flesh. But, whose sword is it?
It was painful, seeing my dear brother again in this way.
I began to remember the last time Kane bought something for me
Why do look so sad?
He saw my gloomy face staring at a man carrying his son on his shoulders.
Here, I brought something for you.
He handed me an odd looking chiseled piece of wood.
What is it?
Its a weird toy a merchant was selling at the fair.

145

Kane showed me how it was played. The vibrant colors painted on it looks better
while its spinning. It was a top.
Kane took away my sadness and stood as a father for me. He taught me so many
things until the day before he ran away.
Two warriors moved like spinning tops, with a sharp blade attached to each of them.
The first strike is critical. The first one to move will be the first one to stop. But, the
blade who touches the other first will decide the winner of this battle.
A reverse slash! Blood dripped from the tip of my blade.
My sword landed on my brothers chest, making a deep diagonal wound that goes
from the bottom left part of his torso towards his right shoulder.
Forgive me, brother
The attack was flawless. The Shadow Master wasnt able to feel any pain before
blood came out of his mouth.
Kane was able to get a hold of my collar. His eyes were opened wide, like he cant
understand how much blood the deep wound would take from his life.
Youve grown so much my little brother

146

What have I done?! I came to my senses, crying.

I realized the severity of the situation. Im losing my big brother.
I never meant to hurt your wife I didnt know it was her who had the Stone
I remember what he said to me back then.
The Shadowlords forces are going from village to village looking for something.
Drekkor will soon come for this village. You must leave this place and head for the
mountains without looking back.
Hes the Shadow Master, but he didnt attack the village back then when he had the
chance. He justed wanted me to escape with my wife.
Kanes hand was holding something for me. Hes giving back the other half of the
Stone!
Forgive me, brother repeated Kane.
Whats the meaning of this?! Drekkor was surprised at the sudden turn to events.
Run, Ulrich Kane begged me. Take the Stone and get away from here
Im not leaving without Drekkors head!
You cant defeat him, Ulrich... said Kane. Hes way too powerful even without the
Stone
If you dont run away now, hell take the Stone from you continued Kane, And
once he does, theres no other way of stopping him
Run, Ulrich Kane said as his body loses more blood. And dont look back!
I ran back towards the path I came from, but the Shadow Underlings had already
swarmed the place. Theres no other way out, except for an opening where light from
the surface was coming from.
I took out the contents of my heavy bag. Vials filled with highly flammable oil!
I threw all of it around the place and lit it up. The flames will keep the Shadow
Underlings away temporarily, just in case the Shadow Manipulators scent on me
wears out. Then, I began to climb up.

147

Meanwhile, the Shadowlord was very disappointed with his son.

You weakling! Drekkor said. I firmly regret the day I took you and made you as my
apprentice! You worthless animal! I never knew I had a traitor for a son!
Arent you glad now that Im as rotten as you are? replied Kane.
Then, Drekkor picked Kane up and tried to strangle him.
You and your mother had something in common. You and Humans are nothing but
garbage!
Ahhkk! Kane was trying to gasp for air. L-Let go of---
I brought you into this world, Drekkor said. I have every right to erase your
fruitless existence!
Drekkor turned to me and gave me a leery smile, as if he wanted me to watch what
hes about to do next.
I remember my brothers last few words.
Run, Ulrichand dont look back!
This world has no place for feeble creatures! Drekkor said.
No!!! I cried out while trying to get back down and ignore my brothers wishes.
Its too late!
The Shadowlord pierced Kanes heart. His long and sharp claws went right through
him, killing him instantly.
Then, Drekkor tossed my brothers lifeless body to his rowdy Shadow Underlings.
Now, the Shadowlords flying towards me.
The rock is slippery and the top is way too far. I wont make it!
Now, Drekkor said, hand over the Stone!
Never!
Then, die! Drekkor exclaimed.

148

The Shadowlord pierced my back to keep me from ascending.

Argggghh! I felt the pain.
The claws went right through my left shoulder. It hurts. At this rate, I would certainly
die in no time.
I got no other choice but to cry for help. But who will answer my call?
But, maybe Just maybe someone is listening
I hope Im not losing my mind and imagining these things again. Who would talk to a
rock, anyway?
Then, I tried to join the two halves of the Medallion together, hoping a miracle will
happen.
Suddenly, a powerful and blinding light shined beneath the earth! The Shadowlord
was forced to move back.
To think that Aya had two sons Drekkor thought. And hes able to wield the
Stone, too!
The light caused superficial burns on Drekkors body. But, the body of his host, the
Aeon Marcus, is giving him the ability to keep him from further harm.
Light isnt enough to stop me, Boy! Drekkor said as he fly towards me again.
Drekkor pressed his hand on my wounds and tried to grab the Stone from me. I lost
my balance and landed on a sharp rock. Afterwards, I almost lost consciousness.
Now, Drekkor said. the Stone is mine to take!
I felt so weakened. I cant get up. I couldnt move. I think I my ribs were broken.
All of a sudden, an extraordinary beam of light blinded us. Another being came from
above. An Aeon!
The mysterious angel attacked the Shadowlord from behind. The Aeon was able to
chop one of Drekkors wings off.
But then, Drekkor was able to strike back. The Shadowlord wounded the Aeons back
just before he fell into the darkness.
After that, the wounded Aeon grabbed the opportuned time to carry me and fly me
out of the Underworld. And then, I totally passed out.

149

Chapter VI

Eclipse

150

The Mysterious Angel

[08-04-2011]

Ulrich gained his consciousness. It was bright.

Where am I?
What is this place?
He looked around, and the only thing that first caught his eye was a wounded angel.
Shes unconscious.
Ulrich meets the mysterious angel who saved him. The Aeon who saved his life.
Moments later, the Aeon woke up, but she could barely move. A deep wound on her
back was the cause of it.
Hey, he said. Dont force it. Your wounds seemed pretty deep.
Take me to the light she whispered.
What did you just say? he asked.
But then, she passed out.
Who are you? Ulrich said to himself. And why did you save me?
Ulrich carried her and took her to the direction of sun.
Clouds. Clouds in all directions. He cant believe hes walking on billows.
Ulrich thought he was dead, that he was already in heaven
I must be dreaming, he thought.
Leaves. Flowers. Plants and trees visible from a distance.
Where the heck am I?
Then, he saw a huge wall. The suns rays hid it from view, from far away. The moving
fog cleared up the path, making the ground visible from Ulrichs sight. Its the Aeon
Kingdom!
Ulrich thought he was on a faraway land, some high structure above a tall mountain
somewhere Unaware that he just set foot on some faraway kingdom, floating in the
sky.
An Aeon Border Guard saw him walking outside the palace walls.
Who goes there? the Aeon Border Guard asked.

151

A Human! another Aeon Border Guard said. Stop right there!

Then, he saw that the Human was carrying a lifeless Aeon.
What have you done with her?
Shes still alive, Ulrich replied. She needs immediate attention.
Then, Ulrich passed out again.

152

Sheena
[08-04-2011]

The Aeon Sentinels took the Aeon to a healer while Ulrich was taken away to a
secluded place.
A Human! a woman said in shock. Why did you brought him here?
We ought to interrogate him, but hes still unconscious. What do you propose to
have us do?
The council treats Humans as allies but she considers them dangerous.
You must lock him up and chain him!
Wait! another female Aeon who saw him said. Shes injured, Mother. We must
attend to his wounds.
Sheena?! her mother cautioned her.
The Aeon Sentinel spoke, We saw him carrying a wounded Aeon, right outside the
palace.
Sheena came towards him and began to examine him closely.
If this man saved an Aeon, she said, then we must, at least, show him a little bit of
our gratitude.
Do as you wish! I will have no part in this! her mother said and left.
Sheena tore a piece of her dress and wrapped it around the mans wound.
Wha-What are you doing, Mistress?! asked the Aeon Sentinel.
Cant you see? she replied. Im doing what I can to help him.
B-but
Dont just stand there! Summon another healer here immediately!
Right away, Mistress.

153

SIX HOURS LATER.

Vala! Ulrich suddenly woke up. But, his fresh wounds kept him from sitting up.
Youre having a nightmare, an Aeon said as she tries to tend to his wounds.
You must lie down and rest, she added.
Where am I?
This is my home, she said. Im Sheena, by the way.
The Aeon I was with, he asked, where is she?
We took care of her wounds. Shes safe now.
Ulrich sighed.
Thank you, she said. Thank you for saving her.
No. Shes the one who saved me. I just carried her back here.
It doesnt matter. Her wounds were deep. If you hadnt brought her back here in
time, she might have been dead by now.
Ulrich kept silent.
The name you spoke of, a while ago, she began to ask, who is she?
Someone important to me.
A dear friend of yours?
She was my wife.
Was?
Yeah, was, Ulrich said. She is, until the Shadows killed her.
The Shadows?! she was shocked to hear it. What do they look like? And why are
they after you?
Probably because of this
Ulrich took out the Medallion behind his coat. Sheena stood dumbfounded.
MEANWHILE, SOMEWHERE INSIDE THE PALACE.
Lunas Apprentice, Aysha, came hurriedly to her master.
The Stone of Destiny she said, Its here.

154

Yes, Luna said. I sensed it too.

The Shadowlord will soon come for it, said Aysha. Youve seen it too, right?
Luna replied, The Shadowlord is after the Keeper of the Stone
And since that theyre both here, the Aeon Kingdom is in peril!
Lunas silence meant acknowledgement.
What should we do? asked the Apprentice.
Prepare for the inevitable

155

A Reward
[08-04-2011]

TWO DAYS LATER.

That healer did a really terrific job,
Ulrich said to himself, while looking at
the part of his body where blood used
to gush out.
There is still a little pain, but he could
stand and walk around now.
He went outside and began to look
around.
I cant believe a place like this could
exist in the sky, he thought.
Stone pillars covered with ancient
writings. Words engraved in the Aeon
language he could not understand.
Its a promise, a voice said.
A what? he turned around to see
where the voice was coming from.
A woman walked out from behind
another pillar to reveal herself. Then,
she came towards him.
A beautiful angel. The same face who
came to his rescue beneath the ground.
Its a promise made by a lover, she
said.
Ulrich started to listen.
Our ancestors carved these poems
into these marbles, in order to preserve
their culture.
This one she pointed out, is a story about two lovers. And this part youre
staring at a while ago, is his promise to his beloved.
Then, she looked directly at Ulrichs eyes.
Thank you for bringing me back, she said.

156

No, he insisted. Im the one who should thank you. If it wasnt for you, the
Shadowlord would have killed me and taken the Medallion. So, thank you. Im really
grateful for what you did for me back there.
A moment of silence passed while their eyes stared into each other.
Why? she asked.
Why what? he said.
Why are you staring at me like that?
Honestly, I was about to ask you the same question.
A few seconds later, the sound of clanking metal armors broke their conversation.
Eight Aeon Sentinels are moving towards them.
Are they planning on capturing me? Ulrich asked.
The mysterious angel went in front of him and said, Let me handle this.
Thats not entirely necessary, another Aeon arrived.
The Aeon Sentinels stepped aside to show their respect.
Im sorry, Ulrich said. I was just trying to look around. I havent stolen anything!
The Aeon Sentinels looked at each other and then drew their swords. Ulrich did the
same.
Stand down! the Supreme Aeon Guardian, Rovelia, said.
So, she said, this is the Human who saved you.
Why is this woman bowing before this woman? Ulrich thought. Who is she?
Yes, your Highness, she said.
Highness?
I am Rovelia, the Queen of Archaea, she said. You had caused a lot of commotion
here, Human.
Please forgive him, your Highness, she said. It was entirely my fault why hes
here.
I understand, the Queen said to her. There is no need to apologize, my dear.
Then, Rovelia turned to Ulrich and asked, What is your name, young man?

157

My names Ulrich.
Youre the first Human to ever set foot on this place, Ulrich, Rovelia said.
Hed probably be the last Human to do so, too, he thought. Theyd probably throw
him back down just for being Human.
And now that it has all come to this Ulrich thought that he might as well ask for the
name of the angel who saved his life, before he leaves for lower ground.
Ulrich stared at the mysterious angels eyes for a moment and then sheathed his
sword. But, before he could even speak, the Queen spoke.
You carried a wounded Aeon back to the palace, Rovelia said. We are in debt to
you for saving one of our own. Thank you.

158

Dont mention it, Ulrich said timidly.

Rovelia gestured an Aeon Sentinel to come and bring the small chest he was
carrying. The Aeon Sentinel opened it up. It was filled with precious gems and colorful
stones!
Please accept this as a token of our gratitude.

Ive seen enough colorful stones in my life he thought.

He remembered how he used to steal stones like these from rich people
But this is something he did not obtain by stealing. It was a reward.
Well, he said, thanks, but IuhI better get going.
Clearly, most Humans would be delighted for obtaining such stones. Doesnt its
number seem quite enough to you?
No, replied Ulrich. No, I think its too much. That is why I cant accept it.
Youre one odd Human, she said.
Tell us, Ulrich, she added. Tell us how we could repay you.
Huh? he said while trying to hide a big smile. Well, I dont necessary need any---
I know, another Aeon approached them and interrupted.
Luna? asked the Queen.
I know just the thing that he might actually find useful.
What do you mean?
Pardon my intrusion, your Highness. But, I think this man does not delight on
material things. Not anymore
Luna, the Aeon Seer, came towards him and held his hand.

159

Come Ulrich, she said. Ill show you

160

An Unusual Gift
[08-05-2011]

Luna took Ulrich into a big room somewhere inside the palace. Luna asked him to sit
down while she closes the door.
You look worried, Luna said. Its the Shadows, isnt it?
Its not just the Shadows Ulrich said.
Your brother, she said. Your brother is one of them, too.
How did you know? Ulrich asked with astonishment.
I know everything, she said. I see everything
A soothsayer, he thought.
And you know what will happen next? he asked.
I could see the future, she said. But the future changes everytime somebody tries
to change it.
You know about the Medallion, too?
The Shadows are after the Stones power, she said. All the Mystics died trying to
protect the Stone and keep it away from the Shadowlords reach. But now that the
Stone has a master, it is time for the Master of the Stone to unleash its true power.
But how? Ulrich said. How do I use the Stone?
Thats why Im here she said, to grant you your reward
Luna came closer to him and placed both his hands around Ulrichs head.
Consider this as my gift, she said.
Then, Ulrich felt a tingling sensation inside his head.
What did you do? Ulrich asked.
Luna answered, Youll find out soon enough

161

Demons Wing
[08-05-2011]

Im beginning to like this Aeons body, said the Shadowlord.

Drekkors body is beginning to respond to the Aeons power. The wounds are healing
fast.
Suddenly, his body began to change.
Grrraahh! Drekkor cried in extreme pain.
Master! his minion ran to his side. Whats happening?!
The unbearable pain of transformation temporarily made him lose control of his mind.
He shoved his minions away with a single stroke of his hand. Hes way physically
stronger than before.
Grrraahh!!! Drekkors howl resonated through the caverns.
The Shadowlords transformation continued. His claws and fangs grew longer. His
look is scarier than ever.
A new set of wings sprung out from his back. The pair of dark wings span wider than
that of an Aeons, yet it looked like those of a bat.
Drekkors metamophosis made him lose some blood. But, it was worth it.
The Shadowlord stood panting. The transformation was complete.
Are you alright, Master? a loyal minion asked.
Hahahaha!!! the Shadowlord laughed.
Splendid! he said. Growing these dark wings is far better than trying to manipulate
one like Marcuss.

162

Now, its time to pay the Aeons a visit

163

The White Knight

[08-05-2011]

Luna rushed to the Supreme Aeon Guardian.

The Shadowlord is coming for the Stone, she said.
How soon? asked the Queen.
Not long.
An Aeon Adviser uttered, The Aeons must hide! These people are not used to
battles!
There is no place for us to hide, Rovelia siad. The Aeons must prepare for battle.
Thats not necessary, Ulrich interceded.
I brought the Stone here, declared Ulrich. I must settle this thing alone.
This battle is not only about the Stone, Ulrich, said Rovelia, but the Aeons future
as well.
Then, an Aeon Elite Knight comes before Rovelia.
He turned to Ulrich and said, A mere Human cannot stop the Shadowlord by himself.
Hes got a lot of minions for you to deal with. And they cant be easily defeated as
you think. My men will join you to make sure that the Shadowlord will be gone for
good.
Have you fought with a Shadow once before?
No.
No? Ulrich said. So you dont really know what these creatures can do?
Actually, Luna told us everything ab---
No, Ulrich interrupted him. You dont know anything about them!
If your men join the battle, theyll only become new hosts for the Shadowlords
minions. Not only that, a Shadow under a powerful Aeons body is more than twice a
terrifying foe. If your men cant keep themselves from being taken over by the
enemy, they would be more than a liability to me in battle than help.
Very well, the Supreme Aeon Guardian said, come forward, Ulrich!
Rovelias eyes motioned him to kneel down.
It is rare for a Human to be granted this opportunity, the Queen said.

164

However, both your race and mine are going to be consumed by Darkness, if this
situation persists.
Then, Rovelia raised her hand and a long bright light appeared before her palm. A
divine sword began to materialize. Its the Sword of Purity!

I, Rovelia, Queen of the Aeon Race, a race that belongs to an ancient Human
bloodline, she stated as she placed her sword on his shoulder, dub you as Lord
Ulrich, Protector of the Stone, and Defender of the Earth!

165

166

Then, the divine swords power leaked onto him. A cloak of white light surrounded
Ulrich and a white armor began to materialize over his body. The Medallion became
part of his upper armor as a shining crest on his chest. Finally, a pair of wings
phenomenally appeared on his back.
Arise, Lord Ulrich, Rovelia said. Destiny awaits!
Without further ado, Ulrich went out and headed towards the palace yard.

167

Two Hearts
[08-05-2011]

AT THE COURTYARD.
An angel was waiting for Ulrich.
So, she said, are you leaving without even saying goodbye, Lord Ulrich?
The lovely Aeon was right behind a stone pillar.
I never thought that youd be here, he said. Im sorry. I never had a time to see
you because of all this...
I know, she said.
Ulrich came closer to her, staring at her eyes. Her face kinda resembles his wife. But,
everything about her is much better.
I never got your name.
Its Sarah.
Sarah had been watching over Ulrich for quite some time. Lunas Mirror made it all
possible. She could see him from anywhere because the mirror had the power to
reveal what the person holding it wanted to see.
Ive been watching you since you became the Stones keeper, she said. It seems
that I almost knew everything about you. And I just pretended not to.
I dont know what this feels like, Ulrich, she said to him. But, are you coming
back?
Ulrich had a feeling that he knew how she feels. He probably feels the same way, too.
Valas gone. And his empty heart needs something to fill up the void.
Sarah. Shes a beautiful young woman. Aside from the fact that this lovely angel once
saved his life, he probably feels that his life is already connected to her.
This is what he needs right now. Someone who could take over Valas place. Someone
who knows him. Someone who knows what he needs. Someone who needs him.
Ulrich touched her hair. Its lovely. He hasnt felt something this soft eversince Vala
died.
Are you coming back, Ulrich?
I dont know, he said. Ill try.

168

Sarah held his hand and placed it gently on her face. She wanted him to caress her
as much as he wants, like an arctic fox whos yearning to feel her mates warmth.
Sarahs lips were itching, longing to taste his. Her hands could hardly resist touching
his mighty white armor and imagine how carressing the chest beneath it would feel
like.
But, Ulrich had to leave. A destiny larger than him is waiting.
Sarah held Ulrich tightly one last time.
Ill be waiting for you right here, Ulrich, she said. So, please come back alive.
Then, Ulrich left and flew above the skies of Archaea.

169

Warring Angels
[08-05-2011]

The skys clear. The Aeon Border Guards were on full alert.
They say the Shadowlord will be coming for us, an Aeon Border Guard said.
But, how can he get here if he cant even reach this place?
I dont know, another Aeon Border Guard replied with a joke.
Maybe, hell put up a very long ladder or something!
Hahaha!!! they laughed.
Hahaha!!! another voice of laughter echoed in the air.
Speaking of the devil! the Aeon Border Guard called out. Its him!
Hahaha!!! Drekkor laughed. I guess you were all expecting me.
Im sorry. Did I made you wait that long? he asked while he hurled Shadow
Manipulators over their faces.
With two Aeons turned into Shadow Puppets, Drekkor invaded the Aeon Palace and
came looking for the Aeon Seer.
Where is your Oracle, Luna? he demanded.
Luna came to her fellow Aeons rescue, accompanied by four Aeon Sentinels.
Drekkor! Let go of them! she demanded.
Aaah My dear Luna Drekkor said. I was just looking for you.
Where is my brother Marcus?!
Oh yeah. Your dear brother Marcus. Hes just right Drekkor said as the dark flesh
in his chest opened up to reveal her brothers awful state, here!
What have you done with him?! asked Luna.
The Shadowlord restored his hideous form back to cover up his hosts body.
Marcus gave his body up in order to ensure my future.
What future?
More Aeon Sentinels came to the scene.
Please stand back, Mistress! an Aeon Sentinel said to her. Well take care of him!
Are you going to kill me? Drekkor asked. Are you going to kill dear ol Marcus?

170

What are you saying? the Aeon Sentinel asked.

Luna came to intervene.
Dont kill him! Luna pled. Hes got my brother inside of him!
Why did you come here, Drekkor? he asked. What do you want?
You know what I want, Drekkor said. I want the Stone! Give me the Stone. I can
sense its presence. Its here. Give it to me!
You cant have the Stone, Drekkor, he said. Return Marcus to us, and Ill let you
live and return to your dwelling!
Hahahaha! Drekkor laughed. You think you can destroy me?
Hahahaha! his sinister laugh continued.
Then, he took an Aeon as a hostage and said, Why dont you bring the Stone to me
and Ill let all of you live?
Thats enough, Drekkor! a white knight came towards him.
I see you got yourself a pair of wings too, Ulrich! said Drekkor. Hand over the
Stone!
Im afraid I cant do that, Ulrich said as he flew down towards the earth. Come get
it youself!
Ulrich lured Drekkor back to the earth. Drekkor released his hostage and followed
him.

171

Final Conflict
[08-24-2011]

Ulrich dived down and flew away. Drekkor chased him.

Ulrich dashed towards a ravine with great speed. Hes trying to shake him off.
The Shadowlord is far behind him, getting closer like a big bat chasing a young robin.
Then, Ulrich led him into the dense forest.
You cant escape me, Ulrich! the Shadowlord said.
Drekkor gave chase but Ulrich managed to elude him.
You cant hide from me, the Shadowlord said while he seemed to have lost him.
If you want to run away, you mustnt leave a scent.
Drekkor decided to land down as if he had sensed him nearby. Then, Ulrich, who was
hiding behind a tree, suddenly stepped out. And before Drekkors foot landed on the
ground, Ulrich pierced Drekkors arm with a wooden stick, in one swift move.
Who said I was running away? he said.
Gakhh! Drekkor felt a little pain. Whats this? A twig?
This twig wont be enough to kill me, Ulrich.
Ulrich remembered his wife, Vala.
You like this twig? she asked. Ill get one for you.
Thats for my wife, he said. The next one will be right through your heart.
Youre taking me too lightly, Drekkor said to Ulrich. You should have used your
sword and hit me at my vital point when you had the chance.
I would love to see you suffer first, he said. But, I will take your word for it and kill
you on my next attack.
While still holding on to the twig with his right hand, Ulrich drew his sword with his
left.
There wont be a next time! said Drekkor.
All of a sudden, Shadow Underlings burst out from the ground and went for his left
arm just before he was able to strike Drekkor!
Arise, my minions! the Shadowlord summoned his faithful followers.

172

More Shadows came from the ground. Hes outnumbered.

Get him! the Shadowlord commanded, And bring me the Stone!
Ulrich was wounded. His left arm was bleeding profusely. The Shadows sensed the
strong scent of blood. Theyre right on his tail.
He stopped for a moment to gasp for air. A few seconds later, the creatures were on
all directions. There is no other way out but up. He can fly. But, flying already took
most of his strength. And his back is aching.
The Shadow Underlings were about to jump him when flame-tipped arrows from the
east flew towards them.
We saw you flying a while ago and noticed that you were being chased by the
Shadows, a man from the nearby village said. Were here to help!
Who are you? Ulrich asked while trying to catch his breath.
Im Quaid from Danathar.
Thanks Quaid, but dont look at me like you think I cant do anything without my left
arm. I can still fight.
Youre wounded and youre bleeding, he said.
Its just a scratch. It wont happen again.
How do you plan on stopping him?
I have the Medallion, said Ulrich as he shows him the pendant.
I see, the man said. Thats the thing that the Shadows have been tracking all
along
Quaids medic came to Ulrich to patch up the torn arm and stop the bleeding.
Can you still fly?
I dont think so.
Very well, the man said. let us handle the ugly creatures. Well try to buy you
some time, enough for you to escape.
I cant just run away.
Beyond his pride and his ego, he knows he still cant find a way to figure out how to
use the Stone and unleash its power.
Then, why didnt you use the power of the Stone? asked Quaid.
Ulrich was silent for a moment. Quaid knew how much of a burden the thing he had
been carrying around his neck brings.

173

You must escape and find a way to recover. Then, you can fight the Shadowlord
another day. My men will handle it from here.
The Shadow Underlings came right out of the ground. Theyre weak but theyre quite
fast. Theyve got Shadow Manipulators, too. Beware of them. They might be others
more.
Dont worry about it. These people are ready to die.
How many men do you have?
Around twenty strong ones.
There are too many Shadows. Your men might not be able to ---
My men had already lost everything, he interrupted and began to narrate.
Their wives. Their homes. Their children. Theyre all gone. The Shadow destroyed
everything. Theyve got nothing else left to lose.
Now go before they could catch up to you!
Ulrich ran deep into the dense forest. The twitching pain in his wounded arm kept him
from flying without losing his balance. Several minutes later, he lost consciousness.

174

The Two Inscriptions

[07-28-2011]

Drekkors Underlings found Ulrich lying next to a hollow tree. The sound of growling
hungry Shadows woke Ulrich up. Hes surrounded.
Then, the Shadowlord came to him.
Give me the Medallion, the Shadowlord demanded. Hand them to me or Ill let my
Underlings tear your other arm!
Then, Ulrich remembered what the Mystic said about the Stone.
The power of the Medallion is greater than any force a man could ever handle!
Anyone who dares to touch it dies!
Ulrich surrendered the stone. He thought that Drekkor would probably disintegrate
because of the Stones curse. However, the Stones curse had no effect on him.
You thought the Stones curse would kill me, didnt you? said Drekkor.
So, Ulrich said, you know what happened to those who touched the Medallion?
Yes, Drekkor said. But, it wont have any effect on me.
Why?
Why? Drekkor said. Because Im using an Aeons body. Thats why!
This Stone was made by a powerful Aeon just before she died, he continued. The
Medallion of Power wasnt meant to be used against their kind. And Marcus is still
inside me.
Drekkor was pleased. The Power of Light is right in his hands. Now, he has enough
power to crush the Aeon race.
The Aeon race is in danger, Ulrich thought. Drekkor might find a way to turn the
Stones power against them. He must stop him as much as he can.
What are you up to? asked Ulrich. Youre not going to use the Stone against the
Aeons, are you?
And why not?
You said it yourself. The Medallion of Power wasnt meant to be used against their
kind.
Not now, perhaps. But, soon it will be! I will turn the Power of Light into Darkness!
And I will hold every one of them at my mercy!
No, said Ulrich. You cant do that.

175

Of course I can, replied Drekkor. And I will!

You know, the Medallions pretty much worthless, Ulrich said to Drekkor, if you
dont know how to use it
You dont have any idea about how much I know. So, shut up!
Do you know how to read, Drekkor? he asked.
Drekkor felt annoyed by the young man and came towards him.
Are you mocking me?
Drekkor saw the inscriptions behind the Medallion. It was written in an ancient
language, only Aeons could read.
Well, go ahead then! Cant dear Marcus read that for you?
What are you trying to tell me?
All Im saying is that, Ulrich said, youre just a filthy, sinister creature with a peasize brain who just happened to acquire the Stone but just dont know how to read its
inscriptions!
Ulrich laughed hopelessly. The Shadowlord slapped him.
I let you live because you handed the Stone back to me nicely.
Hahaha! Is that so? Ulrich laughed.
Im letting you live because I wanted you to see the end of it. But after that, you will
have no choice but to bow before me
So, what does it say? Ulrich asked laughingly.

176

Youre definitely not an Aeon.

No, Im not, Ulrich said. But, I just happened to know their language.
Tell me, Drekkor was impressed. Tell me and I might give you a piece of my future
kingdom!

There are two words written at the back of the Medallion he began to describe it.
Yes! Drekkor concurred, Yes, I see them! Now, tell me what they are!
Are you really sure you want to know what they are?
Tell me now, before I change my mind and feed you to my minions!
Ulrich paused for a moment.
SHIVANAKTRA! RAMUJA!
The two inscriptions started to glow.
What?! Drekkor was shocked to hear it.
It wasnt a spell. It was a summoning!

177

Shivanaktra
[07-28-2011]

The sky turned dark. Flashes of lightning came from heaven, without cease. Then
suddenly, a great earthquake shook the earth.
Drekkor was covered with fear, This cant be---!
History seemed to be repeating itself. Drekkor found himself doomed.
Why do you looked so scared, Drekkor? Ulrich asked. You asked for it.
Shut up!
Drekkor began to think. But, it seemed a little bit too late now.
The gods have arrived.
Then suddenly, time froze. Everything came to a halt. Everyone but the bearer of the
Stone and the one who summoned the gods.
Who dared to summon my name? Shivanaktras voice roared like a lion.
Ulrich fell into his knees. He was exhausted.
Who dared to summon us? the God of Destruction asked.
I, Drekkor, the Shadowlord, summoned you!
Drekkor? Shivanaktra seemed to remember. The one I banished into the pit?
Yes! the Shadowlord said. It is I who called upon you with the Stone of Destiny!
Drekkor was trying to turn the tides into his favor. He has the Medallion.
Shivanaktra asked for the Medallion and took a closer look at it.
Archaeas Stone! he said.
Archaea. He remembered. She was one of the gods who ruled the earth a long time
ago. The Stones emblem was the primary symbol on her crown. She was the
Goddess of Peace. But when Drekkor had slayed her, peace had never set foot on
earth again. The gods thought that Drekkor would change over time. So they
banished him, yet spared his life. Now, Drekkor has made his way back to the
surface.
Shivanaktra thought for a moment and said, I see.
Then, he handed the Stone to Ramuja.
What is your wish, then? asked the male god.

178

My wish?
One wish. I could grant any single wish from the one who summoned me.
World domination. This is Drekkors chance to claim the Human world as his.
No. Its not enough. Something higher. Not just the Human world The Aeons!
The Aeons are the only threat to him. If he could have a completely new powerful
body, he could crush the Aeons and rule over them!
Power. Immortality. Supremacy. He knew whats the best thing one could wish for.
Grant me Drekkor commanded, the power of a god!
Shivanaktra seemed surprised.
For the sake of the memory of the beloved god Archaea, he could do nothing but
grant the wish of the new master of the Stone.
Shivanaktra started the transcendental ritual.

179

Ramuja
[07-28-2011]

And who is this creature? asked Ramuja.

Ulrich was kneeling right before them.
A lowly human? Ramuja thought.
He was wounded. But, not after they were summoned, but before that. It seems like
there seemed to be a war between him and the Stones Keeper. He might be trying to
take the Stone from Drekkor. Nevertheless, shell find out soon enough.
Ramuja came towards Ulrich. With her powers, she formed a crystal dome barrier
around them to prevent anyone from interfering with what shes about to do.
Ramuja touched the humans head and began to search his mind. Ulrich felt a little
pain.
Shivanaktra! Drekkor called out. Grant me my wish, now!
Drekkor watched the crystal barrier closely. Then, he realized that Ramuja might not
be draining his mind, but trying to search his memory!
I shouldve finished Ulrich off when I had the chance, Drekkor said to himself.
And now that Ramujas crystal barrier is protecting Ulrich, I wont be able to go
anywhere near him. I must obtain divine powers now, before they could find out the
truth!
The Shadowlord glanced at Shivanaktra.
This divine ritual is taking too long he said to himself.
Minutes later, a theotransformation symbol appeared on Drekors footing.
Yes, thats it! the Shadowlord was delighted to see the development in the process.
Soon, Ill be the most powerful being in this world! he thought. And once I get my
divine powers, noone will be able to stop me!
Hahahaha! the Shadowlords laughter filled the air.
Hahahaha!

180

Meanwhile, Ramuja continues to explore Ulrichs mind.

181

Ulichs memory synapses are firing like crazy. His eyes moved rapidly and
uncontrollably. Ramuja is already inside.
Ramuja watched Ulrichs life unfold like a split-second flashback.
Keep the Medallion and run! Guard the Medallion with your life!
A Mystic
You may kiss the bride.
Love
A lot of people had died trying to protect this Stone. They risked all their lives just to
keep it safesafe until the Medallion finds its master.
The Stone
The women and children All of them Dead.
Shadows!
Ramuja removed the crystal barrier. She understood everything now.
Drekkor tried to get near the human and finish him off. But, Ramuja intervened.
A crystal barrier stopped Drekkors movements.
What are you trying to do?! said Drekkor. I have the Stone of Destiny!
Youre not the Stones Master, she said.
She already knows the truth.
Drekkor mocked her, Are you going to finish me off now, Ramuja?
The Shadowlord is was trying to tempt her.
Archaeas slayer is just right in front of her. And Shivanaktra failed to eradicate him.
He must be eliminated.
Thats it Drekkor was trying to entice her. Show me that youre not that weak
Ramuja was infuriated. She could easily destroy the Shadowlord now, if she would
allow herself to.
Then, Ramuja held up her right arm. The ground started to shake.
Dont, a weary voice said. Please dont!
Ramuja turned to where the voice came from.
You are the God of Preservation, are you not? Ulrich tried to pacify her.
Drekkor killed Archaea in cold blood. But, the power to destroy him doesnt belong to
her. If she destroys Drekkor now, then she wont be that kind of god anymore. Shell

182

become the God of Destruction, too. And if the same title belongs to two gods, it
wont be long before they would try to compete between each other. And thats what
Drekkor wants to let the gods destroy each other.
Yes, I am.
I saw your name written in one of the old pillars in the Aeon Kingdom, Ulrich said as
he recalls the Aeon inscriptions.
They referred to you as the God of Preservation. A merciful God he continued.
Ulrich tried to walk towards her. The quake is getting stronger.
You were the one who made the Aeons what they are now. The Aeons owe their lives
to you.
The ground is breaking. Structures begin to crumble at different parts of the land.
Ramuja is going to destroy this world!
But if you do that, this world will be destroyed with him uttered Ulrich. There are
too many innocent people living in this world. Theyre not a part of this, or anything
Drekkor had done. Please, leave them out of this.
Ramuja slowly put down her right hand. The tremors stopped.
What do you propose, Human? Ramuja asked.
Lend me the Stone, he asked, Ill take care of him

183

A Favor
[07-28-2011]

Drekkor was caught up in Ramujas crystal barrier.

What are you trying to do, Ramuja? Shivanaktra asked.
Hes not the one who summoned us, Ramuja said to Shivanaktra.
What?! Shivanaktra was infuriated. Fire lit up on his eyes.
The theotransformation symbol disappeared. Shivanaktra canceled the divine ritual!
Nooo!!! Drekkor could see nothing but his end.
You dared to claim you summoned us and then ask for infinite power! the God of
Destruction said in anger. You filthy liar!
Arrrggghhh!!! Drekkors mouth was opening, like somethings tearing his jaws
apart.
You dared to turn another god against me with your deceitful tongue!
Arrrggghhh!!! Drekkor felt an excruciating pain in his tongue, like there was an
unseen force pulling it from his mouth.
Why didnt you finish him off? Ulrich asked.
He is still one of our creations. His end must be brought by the fate he placed upon
himself. The power of Life and Death does not belong to me.
I see, said Ulrich. You can grant the wish of the Stones master, can you?
What is your wish?
This creature has caused everyone a lot of trouble. If you let him live, the world will
be placed in grave danger again.
So, you wish to have me destroy him then? But, I cannot grant that wish. I can only
wipe out a part of his body, but not annihilate him completely. I told you before, the
power of Life and Death does not belong to me.
Then, as a favor, Ulrich said, let me deal with him.
Ramuja healed Ulrich and restored his left arm. Then, she handed the Medallion back
to him.
What do you intend to do? asked Ramuja.
Vala he said, and the souls of the victims of this holocaust will never find true
peace, while this Shadow is still alive.

184

I will bring an end to this and bring Justice to those who were slain by the Darkness
of this world.
After Drekkor lost his tongue and bottom jaw, Shivanaktra let him go.
Then, Ramuja and Shivanaktra turned themselves invisible.
Ramuja recommenced time. And the battle resumed while the gods stood watch.

185

The Third Inscription

[07-28-2011]

Drekkor tried to escape to the Underworld.

Ulrich held the Medallion up to unleash its power. The Stone glowed for a moment,
turned into a blinding light, and then disappeared. All of a sudden, the markings on
the Stone reappeared as a glowing insignia on his forehead.
Now that the Stone obeys Ulrichs every thought, Drekkor, once more, found himself
unable to move.
Ulrich recalled how the Shadows killed his wife without mercy. And, just as Ulrichs
fingers were trying curl back into his palm, Drekkors body was being crushed by an
powerful unseen force. Ulrich was thinking about revenge. And Drekkor sensed his
rage.
Shadows have no real bodies. They live by feeding on darkness and the evil inside
their host. Without a host, theyre nothing.
Drekkor needs to switch bodies. And theres one, just right in front of him!
Drekkor left the Aeons body, and without delay, he rushed over to Ulrichs.
Drekkor reconstructed his lost jaw and regrew his tongue.
This is your end! Drekkor said.
No, Ulrich said. This is your end!
Then, Ulrich unleashed a blinding light from his hand.
The Power of Light. The power of the Aeons!
The powerful light from his hand turned the dark sky into day. The intense light wiped
out the exposed Shadow Underlings.
Fool! The Aeons Light cannot harm me!
Drekkor laughed. He had already absorbed Marcus immunity to it.
Who told you that the Aeons Light is all Ive got? asked Ulrich.

186

The third inscription appeared on the Medallion.

187

The Defender of Peace

[07-28-2011]

Ulrich saw the third inscription appearing on the Medallion.

Then, Ulrich cried out and summoned a powerful being.
ARCHAEA!!!!
Suddenly, a deafening high-pitched noise rang out. Nobody knew where it was
coming from.
Astonishingly, Ulrichs body lit up. His whole body flared up into a bright white flame.
The mythical bird insignia disappeared from his forehead. His wings disappeared, too.
Then gradually, the high-pitched sound faded and the white flame over him formed
into a familiar figure.
The other gods could hardly believe what they saw! Archaea did not die after all!
After Archaea was slain by Drekkor, Archaea roamed the earth as a Living Spirit. She
stayed at the Aeon Kingdom, in the land named after her, and revealed herself only
to the Aeon Guardians, Megaia and Rovelia. Right before Megaia died, Archaea took
the Medallion as a vessel and became the Spirit of the Stone. She made it possible
for the gods to be summoned, including herself.
However, Archaeas name was not visible as an inscription at the back of the
Medallion because she hasnt found the Chosen One yet. After she found the Chosen
One, she decided to keep her name from being summoned because the Master of the
Stone is not yet ready to gain full control of her powers.
But now, the Master of the Stone is in dire need of her help.
The Air Goddess, Archaea, borrowed Ulrichs body to rematerialize her spirit. After
Archaeas transformation was complete, she continued to float above ground and
then formally introduced herself.

188

I am Archaea, her voice echoed throughout the earth, the Defender of Peace.

189

Archaea came towards the Shadowlord. Then, she aimed her two fingers on his left
shoulder from a few meters aways. Afterwards, an arrow of white flames came out of
it. It flew towards him like a struck of lightning and went right through his shoulder
like a long spear, pinning him to the ground.
Arrrggghhh!!! he screamed in agony.
Drekkor felt the tremendous burning sensation caused by the white flames.
No I cant die like this not until I get those powers!

190

Reinforcements!
[08-03-2011]

Master! a voice from beneath the ground cried out.

The Shadow Binder, Zorrgahn, comes to his masters aid.

Behin Noctra Natadesh!

Zorrgahn called forth Darkness.
Moments later, a black smog covered the entire sky above the village.

191

The dark fog started moving down, towards the direction of the Humans.
The darkness seems to be alive! the people cried out.
The people started to run, but the thick fog moved fast until it swallowed them.
Everyone who were caught in it, inhaled the deadly gas and died.
Now, its heading towards Archaea!
Archea stretched her right hand up. Suddenly, dots of light from space began to show
up in the sky, like stars. The dark clouds hid them for a while. When the colossal wall
of black fog was about to reach her, a shower of white flames rained down over it.
Every ball of white flame consumed the darkness it landed on.
Archaea felt that Ulrichs body could not handle her overwhelming power. The
previous counterattack took a big toll out of Ulrichs life energy.
Archaea let go of Ulrichs body and Ulrich turned back to his usual self.
The Aeon Guardians stood watch from their sky fortress.
Ulrich is down! an Aeon said. What can we do?
The only thing you can do now is to trust Ulrichs words and wait.
But look at him! Hes already exhausted from the battle! His body cant take much
of the Stones true power!
Be patient.
The Humans are clearly outnumbered! Theyre dying down there!
Just wait...

192

Behin Mageo Nahushka!

The Shadow Binder, Zorrgahn, summoned gigantic hideous monsters from below the
ground. The Spined Earth Golems1.
A Spined Earth Golem is ten times the height of an average Human. Its skin is as
tough as rock, and its spines make up more than twenty percent of its body. Its
massive size could mean reduced agility, but it also makes it almost impossible to put
down. This massive beasts movement may be slow, but any creature that ends up in
its grasp will be squashed dead!

1 There are three types of Spined Golems in the world. Each of them has skin
pigments that correspond to their habitat. The Spined Lava Golem is fiery red, while
the Spined Ice Golem is crystal blue. All of them live in underground caverns, but the
Spined Earth Golem is the only one that can be tamed.
193

Graaawww!!! the Spined Earth Golems deep voice made everyone stood still.
Look at the size of that thing! a soldier said. How are we going to stop that?
Graaawww!!! another sound came from behind.
Spines came out from the ground.
Stand back! Theres another one!
Hit it while its still half-way out!
The spears arent working! Its skin is probably made of rock!
It cant be hard all over, a commander said. Aim for the eyes, men!
The Spined Earth Golem trampled every Human in its path. Noone was able to put a
dent on its face.
What do we do now? a soldier asked.
There is only one way to stop this creature.
How?
The ravens. The Elders used to believe that Spined Golems hated birds because they
swarm over them and attack their eyes.
But there are no ravens anywhere near this place!
Where are the messengers? Tell them to bring the messenger hawks over
immediately!
But, sire!
Dont but me, go now!
Sire, all the messengers are dead! We had just received word that a pack of Shadow
Underlings stormed them, including the messenger hawks.
Heaven help us!

194

195

Moments later, darkness covered the ground. The Shadows and Humans looked up in
the sky. More Aeons came flying down from the clouds!
Reinforcements have arrived! the Humans were so glad to see them.
An Aeon Legionnaire with a spear landed right next to a soldier.
You wouldnt mind if I give you a hand, would you?
The soldier saw a pack of Shadow Underlings running towards them.
No, he said. But, do you mind if we skip with the big introduction and see whos
the better fighter?
The Aeon Legionnaire smiled back and said, No, not at all.
Another creature flew above them.
Wait, did you bring that creature along, too?! another soldier asked.
No, theyre not with us, an Aeon Legionnaire said. And we certainly didnt invite
them.

196

Behin Setha Draconia! the Shadow Binder continued.

Gigantic flying reptiles with slithering tongues, came out from the crater of the
extinct volcano, Mt. Folken. It attacked the Aeons who were hovering through the air.
Watch out for those Lava Drakes! They spit up fireballs!
Use yor spears! another Aeon Legionnaire said. Take them down!
Theres too many of them!
Expect the worst, he said. There could be more!

197

A big spined earth creature from behind. Not to mention, flying fire-breathing reptiles
from above. Now, Shadow Underlings are springing from all directions!
Theres plenty of strong creatures to worry about. Yet, another huge creature came
up right above the battlefield.
A Shadow Breeder! The people on the battlefield could not move in terror.
Dont tell me, thats the mother of these things!
Look! Somethings coming out!
Kshh!!! a predator caught the scent of Human flesh and blood.
More Shadow Underlings came right out of its mouth. Everybodys going to become
food! Everyones going to die!

198

Looks like a storms comin

Then, on the horizon, a dark cloud appeared. It was moving towards their direction
and fast.
Thats not a storm!
As the dark cloud draws near, the thing started to take form.
Oh God! Look out!
Shadow Scourge. A swarm of destroyers. A horde of four to five hundred flying
demons.
The swarm went through the trees and all the trees were destroyed. The swarm went
through animals and cattle and they were all laid to waste.
Ulrich saw the forces of darkness gaining against the Aeons and the Humans. More
creatures are rising from the ground and the Humans are outnumbered. In a matter
of seconds, the Shadow Scourges reduced the Aeons number in half.
Everyone is dying, one after the other! cried one Aeon.
We need more reinforcements! cried one Human.
Ulrichs body is too tired to fight. Theres only one thing left to do
The Mystic said, Ulrich began to talk to Archaeas Spirit, that I hold the fate of the
entire Human race in my hands
I may not have enough power to bring down the menace that is sweeping the land,
alone, but with youtogetherthe world may have a chance.
My overwhelming powers will kill you, Ulrich, she responded.
It doesnt matter, said Ulrich, as long as more lives will be saved
Its probably not a wise one, but Ulrich have already made a firm decision to offer his
body to Archaea.
Very well Archaea said as she tries to use Ulrichs body one more time.
Arrrggghhh!!!
Ulrichs body could hardly bare the scorching pain of even just half of Archaeas
power.

199

Triumph!
[07-28-2011]

Without a moments notice, Archaea levitated from the ground and unleashed her
powers.
A huge burst of white flames exploded, like a huge meteor suddenly crashed on the
earths surface, with her as the epicenter. Not one Human or Aeon were harmed, but
the hideous monsters near Archaea were all annihilated.
Some of the Shadow Scourges who were able to fly to a safe distance came back to
attack Archaea. But before they could come any closer, the entire swarm perished
the moment Archaea moved her hand.
Then, Archaea approached the Shadowlord without any sign of overwhelming fury.
I am the Guardian of the Earth, she declared. And this is your end.
Nooo!!! Drekkor cried out in overwhelming fear.
Then, she laid her hands on his chest and her fire began to consume him.
Arrrggghhh!!! the Shadowlords voice echoed one last time.
The divine white flames devoured Drekkor until not a trace of him was left. This is his
end. The Shadowlords downfall marked the dawn of the Human races new era.
Archaeas flames slowly died down and her essence separated from Ulrichs
unconscious body. The Power of Light disappeared. And the light from Ulrichs hand
faded.
Ulrichs lifeless body gently fell down. The Medallion of Power fell near him.
The sky dimmed again. But, without the Shadowlord Drekkors existence, peace will
begin to settle on earth for good.
There was a long period of silence.
Youve done well, Ulrich Queen Rovelia whispered.
Tears flowed from her eyes. She saw everything that had transpired, from the land of
Archaea. Ulrich is a hero like no other.
Then, comes the rain. Water dripped down on peoples faces, both Humans and
Aeons.

200

Life began to emerge from piles of dead bodies. The wounded are rising up. The
people who were turned to Shadow Puppets are regaining their senses.
Father! a young boy cried after seeing his fathers lifeless hand move.
My son his father said.
The people are being restored to life! an Aeon shouted.
Archaea Queen Rovelia said to herself and smiled.
The battle is over.

201

A Hero Dies
[09-12-2011]

Is he dead? an Aeon Legionnaire asked.

Another Aeon Legionnaire came to check his pulse.
No, he said. But, his pulse is rapidly deteriorating.
The Aeon Seer, Luna, and Queen Rovelia went down as fast as they could to try to
save Ulrich.
Mistress, the Aeon Legionnaire called out. Is there anything we can do to save
him?
The Humans gathered around with a long face.
It will take some time for me to perform the restoration spell, Luna said. But, Ill
try.
Then, Luna felt that Ulrichs heart beat had slowed down significantly.
There isnt enough time! she cried.
Stand aside, Queen Rovelia said. Let me do it.
This is the first time shell be doing this. This is the only way to save the hero who
saved both the Human and the Aeon race.
Focus. Gather energy from within. Imagine it flowing through your hand, just like
Megaia did.
What is she doing? an Aeon Legionnaire asked. That doesnt look like a restoration
spell, is it?
No, replied Luna. Shes transferring her own life energy to Ulrich.
But then, Ulrichs heart stopped.
Queen Rovelia tried harder while tears flowed from her eyes.
An Aeon came to check his pulse again. Its too late.
Im sorry your Highness the Aeon Legionnaire said. But, I think hes gone

202

Revived!
[09-12-2011]

Then, Shivanaktra and Ramuja reappeared.

The Humans and the Aeons were all shocked to see them. So, most of them bowed
down and some hid their faces.
Why are these people gathered here? the Shivanaktra thought.
At this range, Ramuja could easily hear their thoughts.
He died an honorable death
He sacrificed himself for everyone
Poor fellowHe was too young to die like this
I see, Ramuja said to herself.
Ramuja picked up the Medallion and layed it on top of Ulrichs body. Shivanaktra saw
how everyone around him weep over his death.
Is there anything that you could do to revive him? a young soldier asked.
PleaseYoure a god, arent you? Please help him a villager pled.
The power of life and death doesnt belong to any of us, Shivanaktra replied.
Suddenly, an intense bright light emerged above Ulrichs body. Archaeas Spirit
reappeared and materialized into a luminous form.
The world needs a hero like him, she heard one of their thoughts saying.
How interesting... she said. You Humans put your faith into someone you dont
even know.
Archaea felt their sadness and responded to their prayers and immediately
summoned Ulrichs spirit back. Then, with her breath, she gave Ulrichs body life.
However, Ulrich was still unconscious.
Because you carried this burden all this time, Archea said, You will live
When Ramuja saw that Ulrichs body was badly burned and hurt, Ramuja healed
them and restored Ulrichs health until he gained consciousness.

203

Farewell
[07-30-2011]

Ulrich slowly opened his eyes.

Where am I? he asked. What happened?
Ulrich saw a lot of dead bodies on the ground. Humans Aeons Shadows
Then, he saw a number of Shadow Underlings escaping through the holes and cracks
on the ground.
We must stop them from esc--- Ulrich said as he tries to get up and chase them.
A gentle hand stopped him and said, Its over, Ulrich.
Ulrich stared at the luminous hand touching him and slowly moved his eyes up to see
the face of the person next to him.
The battle is over, Archaea said.
Vala he began to cry. They killed my precious Vala
I know, she tried to comfort him. But, her death was not in vain.
The leader of the Shadows is no more. And his powerful minions, died with him. It
was because of you that the world was saved, Ulrich. You saved, not only the Human
race, but the Aeons future as well.
Was all of this fated to happen? Ulrich asked.
Fate is when the Stone chosed you as its master... she said.
The rain stopped and a rainbow appeared near the horizon.
However, she continued, the moment you decided to keep the Stone, that is when
you started writing your own destiny.
The clouds spread away and the sun started to shine again. Somehow, deep in his
heart Ulrich felt relieved.

204

Then, Ulrich walked back and saw Ramuja standing quietly with her eyes closed. Her
hands were locked together and her fingers were interlaced.
Ramuja spread her arms wide and a hole in the air appeared. Its diameter is growing
by the second.
What is she doing? asked Ulrich.
Shivanaktra spoke, Shes opening a time rift.
A vortex appeared like a doorway to a portion of a far-flung cosmos. Ulrich saw a
bright expanse right through it.
So, gods do have a home, he figured.
Do you wish to come with us, Ulrich? Archaea asked him.
Valas gone. Theres nothing left for him here.
I dont know, Ulrich said. Theres still a few hundred Shadows out there.
Ulrich tried to return the Stone. Ramuja returned with a smile.
What? he doesnt seem to understand. Youre not taking it back?
The Stone choses its master, remember? she said.
The three gods shall never be summoned through the Stone ever again, and neither
will they interfere with human affairs for a second time, Shivanaktra declared.
As soon as he finished saying that, the inscriptions on the Medallion disappeared.
The portal is ready. Its time to say farewell to the gods.
Shivanaktra asked him, Tell me your name, young man.
Ulrich, he replied. The names Ulrich.
I will remember your name, Ulrich, Shivanaktra said as he passed through the
portal.
I hope we meet again, Ulrich, Ramuja said.
Archaea and Ramuja smiled as they entered the portal.

205

Ulrich almost forgot to ask something.

And you did took its powers, right?
Before the portal totally closed, Archaeas voice echoed.
You should see for yourself to find out

206

Chapter VII

Towards the Future

207

The End of the Journey

[07-30-2011]

Back in Archaea, an Aeon was patiently waiting at the far end of the sky island.
Mistress Sarah, an Aeon Border Guard said, you must return to the palace.
I wont leave til he comes back.
Your sister is waiting for you, another Aeon Border Guard said.
Tell her, Sarah said, that Im waiting for someone else.
Sarah held on to her white feather. A feather that belongs to her beloved Ulrich.
But she told us to---
Leave! she interrupted. I can take care of myself.
As you wish, Mistress
The Aeon Border Guards left as they were commended.
Are you coming back, Ulrich? Sarah whispered.
Moments later, another pair of wings landed behind her.
I told you, I can take care of myself! she said, thinking it was the Aeon Border
Guard again.
Sarah, the man said.
Ulrich? she utter with surprise, while she seems to know the familiar voice.
You came back! Sarah said. I knew youd come back!
Sarah ran into Ulrichs arms.
Im so glad to see again, Ulrich
I came here to thank you, Said Ulrich.
Sarah was saddened.
What? she asked. Youre not staying?
Ulrich was speechless. Then, Ulrich stood near the edge and looked down at the
clouds covering the ground below.
Why dont you stay here and live with us, Ulrich? Sarah asked. Why dont you stay
right here and live with me?

208

Then, Ulrich walked around and admired the beauty of Archaea.

This isnt the place where I belong, Sarah.
Sarah embraced him again and started to cry.
You could start a new life again, Ulrich. You know that.
But, Sarah
We could do it together Noones after you anymore
Ulrich sighed.
I waited for you, Ulrich I waited because I was hoping that youd return and stay
with me I waited because I lo--
Ulrich interrupted, I came back to tell you goodbye, Sarah.
But, why?
I cant answer that question right now
Ulrichs mind is still a whirlwind. And Sarah could do nothing but burst into tears.
But, where are you going?!
Ulrich kissed her and tried to dry her eyes. Then, he turned around and walked away
without looking back.
Sarah fell on her knees while holding close to her heart a feather that is the only
memory of her beloved Ulrich.
Ulrich jumped from the edge of the clouds while holding the Medallion. Then, he
placed the Stone right next to his heart and closed his eyes.
Home, he said. Im going home
They say, first love never dies. Maybe legends are true Ulrichs heart belongs to
only one woman and nothing could ever change that.
Then, Ulrich unfolded his wings and marveled at its beauty for a while.
I dont think Ill be needing this anymore, he said to himself.
The Medallion glowed and his wings began to disintegrate into glittering dust.
A series of flashbacks entered his mind as he was free-falling through cascades of
clouds. It was like he was seeing his whole life unfolding in a split second
His happy memories as a child. The adventures he had while wandering from one
place to another. The memories of his brother, Kane. The memories of beloved Vala.
The mysterious angel, Sarah. The Aeons and the Shadows

209

It has been quite a long journey for him

Suddenly, an intense bright light shined below him. He was smiling.

210

A Shining Legacy
[07-30-2011]

A HUNDRED YEARS LATER.

Somewhere near the ruins of Purple Valley.
A young man found his way into the middle of a dense forest. There was a wide open
space filled with blooming bright red flowers. It was a small paradise, like a pretty
oasis in the middle of a desert.

A monumental stone was at the center. It was a huge piece of marble, chiseled into a
portrait of a womans lovely face. Her name was written below, but the thick grass
had covered it. And the epitaph reads:
Vala
A Beloved Wife
There was a round impression at the right side of the epitaph. But, the piece that
used to be fastened into it was missing.
It must have been a big round gem or precious stone, he thought.

211

He took an old and thick book from his bag and scanned the pages quickly. Theres a
lot of valuable round items listed in the Rare Treasure Catalog. But, not one refers to
something from Purple Valley. Its probably not listed in this book.
He looked around the grass-covered area, trying to search for the missing item.
Nothing. Someone mustve taken it already. Maybe somebody got to it first.
Aleck came all the way here, searching for treasures. But then, all he ever found was
a tomb of a woman, named after the Goddess of Love.
In any case, he was very pleased that he had found such a lovely place.
Before he left, he decided to pick the brightest red flower on the field and placed it on
the epitaph. Then, he paused for a moment to pray.
Suddenly, a gentle wind passed by. He heard a few dead leaves crunching, like
somebody was walking towards him from behind. When he turned around to see who
was there, he never saw anybody.
A gentle wind went by again and the flowers swayed with it. Then, something lying
on the ground, somewhere between the flowers, caught his eye. It was reflecting the
suns light.
He picked up the piece of metal and wiped the dirt off. It was a medallion like nothing
he had ever seen before. And there was one inscription written behind it. It was
written in a very old language.
The medallion seemed to fit the round slot on the epitaph. It was the missing piece!
Then, he looked about, here and there. Nobody seems to be around.

I think Ill borrow it for a while

212

There was a legend about a traveler who came to Purple Valley. They say he went
there to marry a beautiful lady, but ended up saving the world.
They say, he defeated the Master of the Shadows and vanquished the Shadowlord
for good.
They say, the gods appeared once after he summoned them, and then disappeared,
never to be seen again.
And they say, he had wings. But then, he jumped from the clouds and died.

But now, a new breed of evil is lurking somewhere in the dark. Who will come to
protect us?

The inscription reads, Ulrich.

213

Notes

References

214

Lyrics: The Wanderer

[04-26-1997 09:35]

I am a wanderer, I
there. I have no
heaven or to hell. I
I travel day and
myself a purpose
crazy life

I
travel here and
destination, to
am a wanderer,
night. To find
for living this

Refrain:
Ahhh Ahhh I am a wanderer.
Ahhh Ahhh I am a wanderer
II
I went into a village and met this
pretty
maiden.
With
beauty
uncompared and gracefulness like
night. I made her my bride; we
kissed and then made love. But
theyre on a war so I told her these
few words:
Chorus:
I am the knight whod protect and
stay beside you. I am your prince
and you are my princess. Come
hold me tight, Ill take you to the
light. Ill bring you to my kingdom
and there well live forever.
Ahhh Ahhh Ahhh Ahhh
[Repeat Refrain]
III
And so the war began and I fought
on her side. I watched her beauty
stand and I thought that wed win.
But she fell like a flower; her blood
stains on the ground. Down on my
knees I kissed her, then said this
once again:
[Repeat Chorus]

215

IV
But then the earth just crumbled
and choked me into hell. But
luckily, I survived into where the
darkness dwell
And in darkness beyond, a light
shone from above. A beam
extraordinary; it took me to the sky.

I ran onto the clouds as if there was

a road.I carried her in my arms to
the place where the was light. And
when we were there, she thanked
me and said goodbye. And then I
made my way to my journey til I
die.
[Repeat Refrain]

[Repeat Refrain]
VII
And centuries do had come and
this legend had been told. 'bout a
knight who had traveled endlessly,
brave, and bold. His story has been
told and passed down until now.
But never once again these words
have been heard:

V
I opened the gate of heaven and
there I saw an angel. Sitting on the
clouds; with blood on her wings.
She cried out for my help and I
came to her aid. And then I held
her hand and uttered these few
words:

[Repeat Chorus]
[Repeat Chorus]
To Fade
Ahhh Ahhh

VI

216

Aeon Alphabet and Numerals

217

Drawings

Map

LEGEND
PORT
SEA

218

Spined Ice Golem

Very little is known about these timid creatures because they spend most of their time sleeping.
They live in the caverns of the snow-capped mountains of Arula and underneath the thick ice of
the frozen Naotiki Lake.
Spined Ice Golems come out at the peak of winter season and feed on Arulan cods when the fish
is abundant.
Spined Ice Golems are very protective of their territory and will attack anything that comes near
their habitat or disrupt their slumber.
Spined Ice Golems usually abandon their young, curled into a ball and frozen, making it look like
a giant sea urchin sealed in ice. Their mating habits are still unknown.

219

Spined Lava Golem

The Spined Lava Golems are believed to be found deep inside the craters of Mt. Folken and the
Red Mountain (called Blood Mountain). Although noone had actually seen these massive fire
creatures, the people believed that the Spined Lava Golems keep the volcanoes inactive by
digging lava tunnels and heat vents.
Like most Spined Golems, the Spined Lava Golem is territorial and will attack violently if disturbed
or provoked.
The Spined Lava Golems are impervious to heat. They have a thick, heat-resistant transparent
film covering their eyes to protect it from being scorched when dipped in lava.
Female Spined Lava Golems have fewer spines and live closer to the earths crust. They usually
give birth to six to eight grubbs or young, but only two or three of them survive the hot
environment.
The Shadow Binder was able to capture one of these creatures but failed to keep it under control.
The Spined Lava Golems cannot be tamed.

220

Olven

The Olvens are treefolks who were once inanimate old trees. Their age dates back from the time
of the three gods. They obtained anthropomorphic form after Ramujas elemental powers came in
contact with them.
These neutral creatures can be found in the deepest part of the Black Forest.

221

Meruvian Sea Serpent

One of the most feared creatures seafarers dont want to come across with are the Meruvian Sea
Serpents. They live in the deep trenches of the Meruvian giant oyster belt.
Whales and sharks are the primary sources of their diet. But for some reasons, the sea serpents
are often attracted to sea vessels and attack them, probably, thinking it is some kind of whale.
The sea serpents dont usually include Humans in their diet. But since the trade route between
Meruvia and Cusmin had been established, the Meruvian Sea Serpent had developed a taste for
sea travelers.
Many warriors had sought to slay the sea serpent but failed.

222

Arkans Collection

From left to right: [1] an Arwedian Phantom Mask, [2] the Mask of Bachilus, [3] a Droodan
Wooden Mask, [4] the Mask of Cornelius, [5] the Devils Mask, and [6] the cursed Iron Mask.
Arkan started as an acrobat in Arwedia where he met Diana, a theater actress. After knowing that
Diana was having an affair, Arkan killed her and her rumored lover. The Arwedian Phantom Mask
belongs to her suitor.
The Mask of Bachilus was made by a religious cult advocate who worshipped Bachilus, a water
god. Arkan stole it from their temple. The blue gem attached to it is actually a rare blue diamond.
The Droodan Wooden Mask belongs to the native chief warrior Drooda Azuka of the lost tribe of
Drooda. It was given to the 4th generation Elder of Elmdour as a present from the villages
wealthiest clan. Arkan bought it for 180 gold pieces from the Elders descendant.
Cornelius is a knight from a faraway kingdom who came to the land of Danathar in search for the
claws of a Lava Drake. He journeyed to Mt. Folken to slay one of them, but ended up severely
wounded and retreated. He lost his sword and his mask during the battle.
A traveling merchant found his mask buried in the nearby stream but his sword was nowhere to
be found. The merchant sold it to an antique collector. A thief found a way to steal it. But then,
Arkan stole it from him.
The Devils Mask belongs to an Aeon named Lea, whose lover is one of Drekkors followers. He
gave it to her before he totally abandoned her and became a Shadow. The mask is made from his
own cast-off skin.
The haunted Iron Mask from Cusmin bares an old curse. It was said to be worn by a wealthy man
who was kidnapped, tortured and turned into a slave. He vowed that he would seek his revenge
and that anyone who would wear his helmet will die a tragic death. After his death, it was rumored
that everyone who came to own the cursed Iron Mask died with a horrific end.

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Legendary Weapons

224

From top: Ulrichs well-known swords,

[1] Caprice, and [2] Impulse; [3] Queen
Rovelias Sword of Purity; [4] Kanes
Crystal
Sword,
and
his
[5]
Executioners Blade.
The Caprice is one of the conventional
double-edged swords that later gained
fame because of its wielder, the
Legendary Hero, Ulrich. The quillons
reverse hand guard was designed to
confine or take away the adversarys
weapon.
Impulse became the adapted saber of
Ulrich as the Legendary White Knight.
It is a light sword having an arched
hand guard and a tapered blade with a
one-sided cutting edge.
The Sword of Purity is a dimensional
sword that has the power to transform
ones state into anything its wielder
wishes. This enchanted double-edged
sword with a tapered slender blade is
owned by Queen Rovelia of Archaea.
The Shadow Masters Crystal Blade is
a light sword made of a hard cerulean
crystal cut to form a wide but thin and
extremely sharp blade. It has a long
snakeskin-covered handle and a
counter-balancing hilt. The quillon is
made from a pair of smaller cerulean
crystal blades that earned it its title as
one of the deadliest two-handed slicing
swords ever made.
The Executioners Blade is a slightly
heavy two-handed slashing weapon
that allows the wielder to cut through
almost anything. The chain at the hilt is
used to attach it to the users trunk as
a pivot to enable him to swing it with
one hand. The blade is entirely made
of atrocium, a rare mineral that is
considered to be the toughest metal on
earth. The blade was originally used
for executing criminals during the
ancient times, thus, gaining its
notorious name.

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Droodan Stonehead

This ancient Droodan Stonehead is one of the evidences that prove that the Droodan tribe
existed and that they had lived in underground caves. The entrances are marked by huge handsculpted heads, like this one, carved from an enormous rock.
One of the remaining sites still standing today can be found in the Northeastern part of Meruvia.
Art depicting the Droodan natives civilization are preserved as ancient wall drawings inside the
cave. However, most of the Droodan treasures and artifacts have long been raided by foreign
looters.

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Lunas Mirror

The Mirror of Luna has the power to reveal what the person holding it wants to see. Sarah used
this magical mirror to find the Chosen One and watch over him. But then, Sarah slowly fell in love
with the Stones Master while watching his life unfold everyday.
The Mirror of Luna has another unique power. It can reflect the true face of anyone who is under
a disguise or spell, including Drekkor. It can also deflect elemental spells, when used properly.
When Sarah tried to rescue Ulrich from the hands of the Shadowlord, she used this mirror to
bounce off sunlight into the Underworld, creating a powerful beam of bright light to distract
Drekkor and his minions.

227

Characters

The Gods
Archaea

Ramuja

Shivanaktra

the
the
the
the
the

Defender of Peace
Guardian of the Earth
Goddess of Life and Death
Goddess of Air and Spirit
Spirit of the Stone

the God of Preservation

the Goddess of Health and Healing
the Goddess of Earth and Water
the God of Destruction
the God of Fire and Lightning

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Characters

Humans
Aleck

the young treasure hunter

Arkan

co-Founder of the Underground Society of Thieves

Aswald

Valas father
a village leader

Duncan

the Last Mystics Apprentice

Ecron

the First Mystic

a Keeper of the Stone
an Elder

Jamal

the travelling merchant

Quaid

a Danatharian archer

Sadji
The Last Mystic
Ulrich
Vala

the great, great grandson of the Last Mystic

a Keeper of the Stone
the Wanderer
the Master of the Stone
beloved wife of Ulrich

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Characters

Aeons
Althea
Aysha
Luna

a young Aeon
an Aeon Seer
Lunas Apprentice
an Aeon Seer
the Aeon Guardian of Spirit

Marcus

the Aeon Guardian of Lightning

Megaia

an Aeon Mystic
the Aeon Guardian of Earth, Fire, and Water

Rovelia

the Supreme Aeon Guardian

the Aeon Guardian of Rain
the Queen of Archaea

Sarah

the Mysterious Angel

Sheena

an Aeon

Vaughn

an Aeon Legionnaire
Megaias subordinate

Vince

an Aeon Legionnaire
Marcus subordinate

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Characters

Shadows
Drekkor

the Shadowlord

Feldgor

the Shadow Warbringer

Kane

the Shadowlords Apprentice

the Shadow Master
Ulrichs elder brother
Drekkors son

Krum

the Shadow Hunter

Marduk

the Shadow Historian

Moloch

one of the Shadowlords minions

Kanes subordinate

Nordax

a Shadow Devourer

Zorrgahn

the Shadow Binder

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Glossary
Acolyte

Attendants of the Altar where the Stone is kept.

The servant of the Mystics Apprentice.

Aeon

Humans who were saved and given wings by the

god, Ramuja.

Aeon Border Guard

An Aeon Legionnaire stationed at the border to

keep watch.

Aeon Guardians

Powerful Aeons who ruled over the Aeon race

Aeon Sentinel

An Aeon Legionnaire stationed inside the palace

to stand guard.

Aeon Legionnaire

An Aeon soldier.

Archaea

A floating island in the sky, named after the slain

goddess.

Arwedian quails

Quails with a distinguishing blue feathered

abdomen that can only be found in Arwedia.

atrocium

A rare mineral that is considered to be the

toughest metal on earth.

Blood Mountain

A mountain formed from igneous red rocks.

Bachilus

A false water god worshipped by a secret religious

cult.

Belruth

A village that lies north of Purple Valley.

Danathar

A town west of Cusmin where most of the people

are immigrants from Belruth.

Droodans

A group of natives who were annihilated by a

horde of cannibals.

Elder

A powerful shaman and trust-worthy adviser of

the village.
A wise village leader.

Elmdour

A small village lying at the base of Blood

Mountain.

grubb

A Spined Golems young.

kamiri

A sweet ricecake made from purple yam.

Lava Drakes

A fireball-spitting dragon that lives inside extinct

volcanoes.

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Lorca

A village due south of Purple Valley.

Lunas Mirror

An antifact that belongs to the Aeon Seer, Luna. It

has the power to reveal what the person holding
it wanted to see.

Megaia Tree

An enormous tree that blooms purple flowers to

signify the beginning of harvest season, and
bears fruit abundantly in times of drought.
The symbol of alliance between the Humans and
the Aeon race.

Mystic

A Human who has the ability to cast elemental

spells.
A teacher in the art of sorcery and mysticism.
Sometimes referred to as Keeper of the Stone.

olms

Ghostly amphibians, with swollen heads and no

eyes, that live in underground streams.

Purple Valley

A village known for its gleeming line of purple

flowers.

ronto

The existing currency.

Equivalent to one silver coin piece.
One gold coinpiece is equivalent to twelve rontos.

Shadows

Humans banished into the pit by the god,

Shivanaktra.

Shadow Binder

A powerful Shadow that can manipulate darkness.

A sorcerer who can summon dark, sinister
creatures and turn living beings into Shadows.

Shadow Breeder

A large hideous creature that gives birth to

Shadow Underlings.

Shadow Broods

Young Shadow Underlings.

The Shadows offsprings.

Shadow Devourer

Powerful Shadows who knows nothing but

slaughtering Humans.

Shadow Hounds

An ugly, ferocious breed of dog with an

exceptional hunting and tracking ability.

Shadow Hunter

A Shadow skilled in tracking its prey.

Shadow Manipulators

Shadows who control their victims body by

infusing itself into the victims skull and gaining
control of their nervous system.

Shadow Puppet

A Human host that is directly controlled by a

Shadow Manipulator.

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Shadow Scavenger

A Shadow that feeds on corpses.

Shadow Scourge

A flying Shadow demon that is capable of

destroying anything in its path; also called
Shadow Destroyers.

Shadow Sentry

A Shadow that guards the Shadow Lair.

Shadow Underlings

Shadows who dont use humans as hosts but only

feeds on them.

Shadow Warbringer

A high-ranking Shadow commander.

shedim

The offspring of a Shadow and a Human.

Spined Earth Golem

A massive underground beast that is known for

the spikes that make up more than twenty
percent of its body.

squamatas

The order where snakes, lizards, and worms

lizards belong.

Stone of Destiny

The Medallion of Power. Also referred to as The

Stone.

Sword of Purity

An enchanted sword of unknown origin.

worm lizards

Slender, legless reptiles that spend their lives in

underground burrows.

Words from the Author

Ulrich hunted down the rest of the Shadows. The Shadows hid in extreme fear.
Soon, Ulrich made a pact with the remaining Shadows and abandoned his pursuit.
He spared their lives provided that they promise not to harm the Humans.
The Shadows agreed as long as they were allowed to stay top-side.
The travelling merchant, Jamal, went back to his home village.
He met a beautiful woman, a lamp trader, and married her. Her name was Kavala.
Jamal was so proud that he had met the legendary Hero, Ulrich, that he told wonderful tales
about him to his little children.
One of the most prominent tales tell about the Hero, Ulrich,
and the Goddess of Love named Vala.
The Aeons strengthened their ties with the Humans.
Some Aeons had decided to stay on earth, like Althea.
Sadji died at the age of 108, after writing his chronicles.
His great grandson, Aleck, has yet to read them.
The Shadow Historian, Marduk, left the Underworld.
Hes now living peacefully back in Purple Valley.
The flower buds of the Megaia Tree are starting to bloom.

234

Queen Aysha, herself, came to visit it.

What happened next?
Well, thats another story.

pablo.agsalud.jr@gmail.com

235