The Chronicles of Kale: Dawn of Retribution (Book 2) (24 page)

Kale gave a silent nod; his jaw tightened and eyes narrowed with confidence.

“You are our master now.” Dibble interjected. “It is something that cannot be helped. As I’ve said before, our ancestors forged the armor and blade. Our kind was the first to discover the rare and powerful metal. We had no idea of its true ability at that time. The armor was a gift for the kingdom of Yan, on our homeland of Giladon. Their army had cleansed the valley of vicious beasts that had been picking off our kind as we foraged materials in the meadow. They saved us. As gratitude toward them, we delivered the armor ourselves to the King.

“The King in turn gave the armor to his youngest son—a noble man who fought valiantly within the royal army. Luckily for them, the armor bonded with the young prince. The armor provides unparalleled strength to those who wear it, and many have fallen to its power. In time, the warrior who is one with this armor has earned the title The Black Vindicator—a name held in the highest regard by many, striking fear in those unrighteous. Because of the noble deeds sovereigns of times past have fulfilled, we have willingly accepted them as our masters. We will aid the chosen one in any way we can.”

“If this suit seeks justice within the world, then why did it allow Jedah to cause such destruction?” Illadar spoke as he approached Kale and Dibble.

“When the previous warrior was slain in battle, the armor returned to a dormant state—it disappeared. Some say it returns to the realm of the Gods, and will only reappear upon the Earth when another has been selected. The armor was waiting for you, Kale Firehart. It is not the armor itself who brings salvation to the innocent—it is the one inside of the suit—it is you.”

“I do believe I’ve heard of a previous warrior who once wore the suit,” Thomas spoke. “When I was a youth, rumor spread fast of a mysterious, free-roaming knight. He travelled quickly and did not linger in one location for long. On one occasion, the knight was said to have passed through a small village to rest. On that very night, a group of bandits attempted to pillage—they could not have been more foolish. The knight revealed himself at once, standing against two-dozen men with his blade drawn. He gave the bandits a single warning to leave, and never return. When they refused, the knight unleashed his fury. He battled them alone—and won. This was only one of the many tales shared long ago about a mysterious black warrior.”

Neelan gripped Kale’s hand into hers and gently squeezed. “It sounds as though our lives are about to change. You have a responsibility to the people.”

Kale stood and turned toward her. His eyes shifted in thought as he momentarily paused.

Neelan raised her free hand and softly caressed his cheek, trailing her fingertips to his jawline. “Don’t even say it—I know what you’re thinking. I’m going to stay by your side, regardless of the future. If I didn’t want to be here, I wouldn’t. Life has been an amazing adventure since we’ve met, and I look forward to each new day we spend together—good and bad.” She smiled in assurance.

Without words, Kale pulled her into his arm. He released a breath of relief within his lungs and gently stroked her hair. “Thank you,” he whispered into her ear.

“Well then, Zasha, shall I accompany you to where it is you had earlier mentioned showing me? I believe now is a fine time to make our leave.”

“Indeed, Thomas.” Zasha chuckled, knowing he was anxious to see what was in store for him. “Illadar, would you please join us?”

“You don’t have to ask me twice. I’d rather go anywhere right now than to be stuck with these two love-birds.” He stuck a finger into his mouth, making it appear as though he was about to vomit.

Kale shook his head and silently laughed.

Dibble quickly followed Zasha’s lead and escorted the servant gords out of the room.

Silence engulfed the room as Kale and Neelan stood quietly together, unsure of what to do.

Neelan tucked a strand of her silky hair behind an ear and bashfully glanced toward the floor. “Maybe we should join them . . .” she softly spoke.

Without verbal response, Kale took her by the shoulders and pinned her against the wall. He leaned in until their warmth radiated against one another.

“You’re beautiful,” Kale spoke, his lips teasingly above hers.

“And you are amazing,” she replied, wrapping her arms tightly around his torso.

Kale slid his hands from her shoulders to the wall. His hair fell messily across his face as he peered into her eyes.

“My heart is yours alone.” He gently fell forward, allowing their lips to meet.

The kiss was passionate, and unlike anything he’d experienced before. He slid an arm around her back and pulled her into him. Kale guided her to the floor with his body supported atop.

She dug her fingers into his back, guiding him firmly against her body.

Together, they became one, in a state of bliss that would forever remain in their memories.

Chapter 23: The Library

T
homas carefully placed his foot on the large rock. The path was steep, and the tall stone building seemed miniscule from such a distance. He heavily panted, gripping his weary back as he prepared to ascend over the next large chunk of stone.

“I do hope this is worth the journey. At this moment, I feel as though I am the walking dead.” Thomas wiped the perspiration from his forehead.

“Come on old man—it’s not
that
bad. ‘Feels good on the legs.” Illadar replied.

“Simple for you to say! I’m nearly three times your age!” Thomas snapped back.

Zasha placed a hand over her mouth to stifle the laughter. “It’s nice to hear voices aside from Dibble’s in my ear each day.” She winked at the two men. “As for our destination, I can assure you, it will be worth all your efforts.”

The final steps were the most enduring as they cleared the orange sand, tangled with thick tree roots. A looming shadow cast upon their surroundings from the tall structure.

Zasha was the first to reach the red entrance. She firmly shoved her weight forward, nearly stumbling as the old doors creaked inward. A cloud of dust stirred into the air, leaving the group at a distance until it settled.

“Jumping balt toads—what is this place?” Thomas stood in amazement, his mouth agape.

“I hereby designate this tower yours, wise one,” Zasha replied while waving an arm out toward their surroundings.

“You’re giving all of this to
me
? But I do not quite understand . . .” Thomas replied while taking in the sight.

“Yes—it is yours now.” Zasha turned to Thomas and placed a hand upon his arm. “You have brought light to my son’s life. It is you who stood by his side—even as a beast. You truly are a marvelous friend, Thomas. I can see all this going to no better man.”

Illadar huffed in the doorway as he listened to her speak.

“I meant no disrespect Illadar. I fancy you will have little use for this tower,” Zasha spoke with a smile.

Illadar stepped inside to find each wall was filled with old books, coated in dust. “What are they? Research?” He questioned while tracing a finger along one of the book’s spine.

“Books of ancient magic—I can feel it. Someone placed an enchantment upon them. This place holds power unlike anything I’ve felt before. Not even at Romlit’s Academy did I behold such a sight,” Thomas replied.

“You are quite right, Thomas,” Zasha spoke as she plucked a book from the shelf. “They are the work of Oran himself. Only a user of magic, with virtuous intent can read the written words. Though they make little sense to me, I’m certain you will use the knowledge obtained to help my son—and the fate of the world.”

Thomas ran his tongue against his bottom lip as he paused in thought. “Zasha,” he broke his silence, “I am beginning to assume there is something you’re not telling me. It’s almost as though you are making preparations for something that is to come.”

Zasha connected with his eyes. “I . . . well, yes. I do not wish for my Firehart to know at this time, so it is important to keep what I say between us three. I am certain that if he did know, he would wish to leave this place at once, and you will not have adequate time to master your potential.”

“What is it? I insist you tell me. You are well aware that I have Kale’s best interest at heart.”

Zasha nodded. “I do hope the knowledge I’m about to bestow upon you is put to good use. Time is short and you must focus on what is necessary to win.”

“Win?” Illadar questioned.

“Great danger is on the horizon; it rises—hovering over your every move,” she replied.

Illadar stared blankly.

“Jedah—he lives well and is preparing his forces to destroy Kale. He desires to eliminate all who oppose him. He dwells on the island of Sundra, far from the frost elves citadel, though I am unable to determine his exact location.” Zasha reached out and took hold of Thomas’ hand. “His strength has increased since last you met. He is not alone in his endeavors. Someone is aiding his cause. This is whom I’ve been trying desperately to discover. The individual is more powerful than anyone I’ve felt since Oran. This person—this
being
—is able to conceal its presence from me, even in sleep.

“I cannot fathom why anyone would aid such a horrid man. I would take great caution, for I fear this person will make Jedah seem no more than a misguided child.” Zasha tightened her clasp on his hand. “The one who threatens my son is close—I can feel it—I am certain. This person can feel my eyes upon them and has used great power to conceal their identity. I sense that whoever seeks harm upon my son is able to strike now—yet waits for an unknown reason. Please Thomas, use these books to your advantage and help my Firehart. I fear he is not prepared for what is to come.”

“And what exactly is to come?” Thomas questioned.

“Death.” Zasha released her grip and walked toward the doors through which they had entered. “This place is now yours.”

There was silence as Illadar watched Thomas run a finger along a row of books. A single, tall ladder was attached to a cylindrical rod which allowed movement around the entire room. Illadar lowered himself to the floor and released a lengthy breath until his lungs begged for air.

“Might I ask
why
you are still here?” Thomas paused his inspection to face Illadar.

“It’s somethin’ I like to call, restin’. I don’t think there is anything of use for me here—I might as well recover my strength while you do . . . whatever it is you’ll be doin’.”

“You have far more important things to do—have you gone mad? Or is it just that you’re too focused on that woman whom you barely know and were oblivious to Zasha’s warning?”

“How dare you, old man.” Illadar stood. “Kale is stronger than you give him credit for. I have no doubt he will be fine.”

“Your words are filled with confidence, though your eyes reveal uncertainty,” Thomas replied calmly.

Uncomfortable silence filled the room as Illadar made way to the door.

“And just where are you going now?” Thomas questioned.

“To help Kale prepare,” Illadar replied while looking up toward a stained glass window. “I’ve told him, from the beginning, there’s always room for improvement—I must set that example.” He snickered, “Besides, hanging around a boring old man isn’t much for entertainment. Enjoy the books.” He flashed a grin as the large door shut.

Days fell to nights, and before long, a week had passed in Pan’s realm. Kale and Illadar worked diligently on improving their techniques by sword.

Kale found his newly acquired weapon to be brilliant in combat. He was able to brandish the blade, and swing with little effort or exertion. He was pleased to also discover that his armor was left with minimal wear after their sparring matches. Kale was able to force the armor within his body at will and use his own strength to repair any blemishes to the exterior. He felt more confident than ever to return to their world.

That night, they sat around a large, relaxing fire. Kale had grown accustomed to being catered to by the gords, knowing that any refusal would have resulted in bitter feelings. He thoroughly enjoyed the tender yellow berries that burst in his mouth with each bite.

Once full, it had become an amusing pastime between the group to bounce the berries upon the stone floor in hopes of landing one inside the fire.

Neelan was the first to succeed; the fire intensified, reaching its flames toward the sky, blazing brightly in a vivid yellow that was nearly blinding to the naked eye.

“You always win,” Kale muttered in a childish manner.

Neelan laughed. “I cannot help if the aim of a human is so terrible.”

“Illadar, aren’t you going to try? What is with you tonight? You haven’t said a word.” Kale tossed a berry at his friend’s arm.

“Kid . . .” Illadar slightly tilted his head to glance toward Kale, “I have somethin’ to talk to you about. You’re not gonna’ like this.”

Kale widened his eyes and gestured his head forward for Illadar to continue.

“Now, you’ve gotta’ understand, I haven’t told you what I’m about to reveal for your own benefit. You needed more time.”

“Time for what, Illadar? Get on with it.” Kale huffed.

“You know I’ve had an excuse for Thomas’ absence for days now. I’ve made it a point to keep you occupied with tasks so that you would not disturb him. He has been going through great lengths to ensure your safety.”

“My safety? What is exactly going on here? I want to see Thomas this instant.”

“Just listen, kid. It has come to my attention that Jedah h—”

“Jedah has escaped the frost elves,” Thomas interjected while standing in the glow of the fire.

“Thomas!” Kale and Neelan exclaimed.

“Where have you been?” Kale suddenly grew stiff as he spoke. “Wait a moment—what in Pan’s name did you just say?!” His body heat began to intensify with each passing second.

“I am sorry for not informing you of this sooner, however, Illadar stands correct—this was for your own protection.” As Thomas spoke, the light flickered against his face. The skin beneath his eyes were tinted with purple hues and drooped in heavy rings of skin. His eyes were unfocused, a glossy glaze covering his pupils.