The Unknown Man: Book 1 in The Keepers of the Orbs Series (4 page)

Tuk exited the doorway and found himself in a dark room that must have been a cathedral at one point in time. The stained glass windows depicted images of horror. One looked to be an old vampire draining the blood of a beautiful, young, blond woman. As he gazed at the images, Kos almost knocked him over as he suddenly appeared right behind him. Perturbed, he dragged Kos out of the way, so the cloaked man wouldn’t knock them both over with his entry. They continued to take in the large, vaulted room. The air felt very stale and smelled of decay, matching their surroundings. The light through the stained glass windows cast a very dark, red hue completing the ominous aura. It didn’t provide any more illumination than the hundreds of candles lit throughout.

They stared at their surroundings when the cloaked joined them. He grabbed the pair and headed toward a large wooden altar sitting in the front of the room. He forced them to sit in a row of old and worn pews, the only remaining in the abandoned cathedral.

“I shall return after I find my master.” He glared at the Goblins, “You cannot get up from the pews, so don’t even try to. You will harm yourselves.”

His footsteps echoed throughout as he walked away, magnified by the expanse of the tall, vaulted ceilings. He walked through an arched doorway and disappeared out of sight. Kos tried to move but couldn’t. With every advance he made, invisible bindings tightened around him and pulled him closer to the pew, growing ever stronger from his strain.

“Confounded sorcery! There be no place fer it!” Kos exclaimed, as he yelped in pain.

Within moments, he returned with another cloaked man. This one looked much thinner than the one who had brought them. As they drew closer to the Goblins, Kos and Tuk couldn’t see much of him. He kept his face shrouded well, they could only make out his eyes. They had a red glow about them; blood red. A shiver ran down both of their spines and they realized they should’ve kept their mouths shut back at the tavern. They should’ve never ventured out with this man at all.

“I’ve released your binds! Now kneel and acknowledge the true master of Askabar, and soon the ruler of all of Nithor, Master Lutheras.” He paused and the two Goblins knelt down. “You two should feel lucky. Few have had the honor of being in his presence and lived long enough to realize it.” The cloaked man took a step back so Lutheras could address them.

“Thank you, Eldrin. I knew you, if anyone, would find information.” He nodded toward Eldrin, and then turned to face them. “As for you two, he has told me some of your story, but I would like to hear your account of it. Spare me no details.” Lutheras stared at the two, as Tuk and Kos exchanged glances.

Tuk opened his mouth and was ready to speak when Kos cut him off and told the story instead. He even exaggerated a bit about the hardships of bringing the knight in, to get a larger reward.

Lutheras’ anger rose while he listened to Kos. He had anticipated this, but had hoped it wouldn’t happen. He began to pace back and forth, mumbling to himself.

Kos figured this was as good a time as any, “If that be all Luth... I mean Master, we be takin’ our gold and be on our way, it has been...”

Lutheras interrupted him. “Gold? What gold are you expecting?”

Eldrin smiled and offered, “That’s right, I promised they would be
rewarded
for coming with me to explain what they had seen.”

“I see. You came here and told me my biggest adversary has arrived,” Lutheras’ voice rose in ire. “The one man I despise, the one man who can stand in my way has found out where I am and has followed me, and you expect a reward.” His agitation reached the boiling point. Kos and Tuk were ready to flee, backing up while Lutheras grew nearer. “You gave me the information, and now here is your reward!”

Tuk and Kos both dropped to their knees. Screaming in agony, Tuk put his hands on his head and started clawing at his face. His unkempt fingernails left long gashes from his scalp to his chin as he tried to rip the flesh from his bones. Their minds filled with visions of death, not of themselves, but of loved ones being tortured and harmed in ways unimaginable. The Goblins carried out the deeds themselves. Kos clawed at his face and ripped out his eyeballs. The left one gone, while the right dangled by the optical nerves—hanging down even with his nose. The torture persisted as the Goblins defiled their own bodies. When Lutheras let his anger subside, so too did the attack on the Goblins.

Tuk and Kos both dropped to the ground, unconscious from the pain, and the sudden attack. Blood pooled and became larger where Kos’ body lay. It trickled out of the old Goblin's eye sockets, like a river flowing down a mountainside. Lutheras eyed the unconscious pair with disgust as he said, “There is your reward, foolish Goblins! Eldrin, wake the young one.” He glared. “Do it!”

Eldrin walked over to Tuk. He conjured an invisible stream of energy that brought the Goblin to his feet. The many scratches he’d inflicted upon his face dripped with blood. He shook the Goblin, but Tuk's head just hung forward. When normal tactics were unsuccessful, he once again harnessed his powers. He uttered an incantation and a waterfall appeared out of nowhere. The cold water cascaded off Tuk’s head and brought him to consciousness. Satisfied he had done what his master asked of him, he took a few steps back and joined Lutheras' side, leaving the Goblin suspended in air.

Lutheras—with his red eyes flashing in the abysmal darkness—walked forward toward the Goblin. “What is your name?” He waited patiently, or rather, appeared patient. When no answer came from Tuk's lips, he reached for his spark and struck at the Goblin with invisible energy. Horrid visions filled Tuk's head again. “I won’t ask you again.”

Tuk fought the visions. He could feel a force lashing his back. He didn’t want to comply, but felt he had no choice. “My name be Tuk, master. TUK! And that be Kos.”

Lutheras took a satisfied walk toward Tuk. “Good...Tuk. Very good.” He inspected the unconscious form of Kos, and walked around the pool of blood surrounding the body. “Do your friend Kos here a favor, and take this dagger and end his misery. If he wakes with these wounds, he will be in unfathomable pain.” A dagger materialized in his hand. From where, Tuk didn’t know, and he didn’t want to ask. “Now take it, and do as I say.” He handed Tuk the dagger, hilt first.

Tuk stepped forward and accepted the small blade. The hilt felt good in the palm of his hand, almost refreshing. He eyed the dagger, then Kos, then Lutheras. He wanted to comply with Lutheras' wishes, but didn’t know if he could. Lutheras eyed him. Suddenly Tuk’s hand with the dagger drifted up in the air toward his neck involuntarily. He tried to fight the movement. With the dagger at his throat, he could feel the cold steel penetrating his soft flesh. He felt a small amount of pain, like a pin prick, and felt a warmth spread across his hand. It had to be his own blood.

“I told you I wouldn’t tolerate any hesitation. I don’t need you, but you need me.” He let out piercing laughter made him sick with fright. “It will be you or your friend.” He paused to let the Goblin think this over while his laughter subsided. “DECIDE!”

Tuk had no choice. It wouldn’t be as though he killed his uncle, as much as he wanted to, Kos would be dead soon anyway. He felt control return to his arm. He pulled the dagger away from his own neck, and grasped the wound with his other hand. He walked forward and plunged the dagger deep into Kos' chest. It was easier than he thought to break through the bone and cartilage of the rib cage. Without even thinking about it, he stabbed Kos multiple times. Filled with rage, he kept thinking about how caused all of this.

Lutheras stepped forward and grasped the Goblin's flailing arm. “That is enough. No more use will come of you stabbing that lifeless body.” He pulled the dagger out of Tuk's hand and wiped it on Kos' cloak. “Outside these doors you will find a camp of Minotaurs. They are faithful to me and shouldn’t harm you.” His lips curled in a grin. “Take Kos' body to them. It will serve as an afternoon snack.” He turned and faced Eldrin. “See that he’s cleaned up. He might have worth to us after all.”

Eldrin walked over to Lutheras and said, “Very well.” He bowed before continuing. “At least some good came from all of this,” he said. “He has followed you here, but he doesn’t know who he’s. We can hope this is a permanent setback for him.”

Lutheras pondered this for a moment before replying. “While I see your point and suppose you’re correct, I had hoped we wouldn’t have to deal with him at all.” He glanced at Tuk as the Goblin lifted Kos' body, then toward Eldrin and turned to walk out, “See that he disposes of the body.”

“As you wish,” Eldrin bowed as Lutheras stopped one last time.

The man stood and peered out the window of his temporary quarters. He could see out over the inner and outer rings, to the eastern gates of Havenbrook. For the last three days, he had witnessed a steady stream of people entering the city. How he yearned to be on the road, to find Norlun. He wanted to learn his identity and why he had appeared here in this familiar, yet unknown city. He couldn’t help but feel that Norlun could be the key to the answers he sought. He didn’t care what it took, he would get his answers from the wizard. He had had a few interesting dreams that left him even more confused. All of them pointed to Norlun though, lifting his spirits and leaving him ever more hopeful.

Liniana had yet to arrive back in the city, postponing his plans thus far. He headed to the kitchen to eat his breakfast, which had become customary so he could eat in peace without any probing questions. After he finished his meal, he decided to stick to his normal routine and strode toward the courtyard to watch the young soldiers in training. He had done this to help pass the time during his stay.

As he wound his way through the palace, he realized he had never felt so lost. He hated not remembering his own life. He kept his eyes straight forward, so he wouldn’t have to deal with the stares he received from people passing. When he made it down to the training grounds, relief overwhelmed his body. Somehow, combat seemed his only release and nothing made him feel so at ease.

He walked over to an area of gravel where around a hundred recruits practiced different postures. He watched the group and found his favorites from his previous outings. Only a hand-full had the understanding and nimbleness to make good fighters. The rest would all be good soldiers, but wouldn’t last long in true combat. A split rail fence surrounded the training grounds. He leaned forward and rested his elbows on it. They practiced for over an hour, when they reached his favorite point of the afternoon—single hand-to-hand combat drills.

The first few rounds of combatants took their turn, using practice swords. He found nothing noteworthy he could take from the session. About halfway through, Captain Markel noticed him leaning on the fence, intently watching the practice drills. Markel motioned for him to come closer so they could converse.

“Good afternoon, Captain. Quite the group of recruits you have here.”

This forced a sarcastic snicker from Markel and he said, “Yeah, out of the entire group, only a couple will make adequate soldiers.”

“I count about seven, especially in hand-to-hand combat.” He smiled at the captain.

“Good eye. I came to the same count myself.” He glanced at the recruits, before continuing. “I know you don’t remember who you are, but do you remember how to fight?” A grin crossed his face. “Perhaps you would like to face these seven recruits yourself?”

A smile parted his lips. “Nothing would please me more captain.” He had hoped for an invitation such as this, so when the captain mentioned it, he was ready. He donned his helmet, called for a practice sword, and marched to the center of the ring.

Markel ordered the seven recruits into the ring when four soldiers approached. A smirk crossed the captain’s face and he said, “On second thought, I have a different adversary for you to face, if you’re willing.”

The man nodded his head, excitement coursing through him. Markel walked over to the new soldiers and had a quick conversation. The captain turned and to the man’s amazement, the smallest of the four soldiers accompanied him.

Markel strode up to him. The captain’s gaze shifted to the smaller soldier. “The challenge has been accepted, but be wary, this was my most prominent student. I won’t obligate you if you don’t feel up to it.”

He followed the captain’s gaze. “If he’s ready, so am I.” He closed his visor and prepared for the fight.

The man stepped back in a defensive posture, and motioned for his foe to begin the attack. The soldier bowed, reset, and immediately charged. The soldier displayed lightning-fast speed, making it evident he needed to switch up his tactics for this fight. He parried the initial lunge, spun, and counterattacked but the solider met it with a parry. He hadn’t expected it. Before the soldier could attack, he feigned and swung back with a blow that would have knocked men twice this soldier’s size on their backside.

He couldn’t believe how he didn’t have to think about his movements. They came naturally and he relied on nothing but pure instinct. The battle went on testing their endurance and skill.

The repeated blows to his sword wrung down his hands, irritating his wound. With the pain, he decided to end this now. He attacked, parried, lunged, parried, spun, and attacked; all the while, he drove the soldier back. With the soldier up against the fence, he thought he had him cornered, but his opponent blocked the attack with his sword and spun, switching positions with the man. He thrust the practice sword against the man’s chest.

The man dropped his sword knowing he had been defeated. His hand didn’t help matters. The irritation grew. He removed his gauntlet, and clutched it.

The pain became too much and he dropped to the ground, still clutching his hand. He rolled over onto his back and opened his visor. His foe dropped the practice sword and slowly walked over, almost with a swagger. When he drew close, he removed his helm. Golden brown hair cascaded over the soldier's shoulders, revealing a beautiful face. The soldier had porcelain white skin, with red pouty lips, and blue eyes. The face was breathtaking, and nothing the man had seen before compared. He wasn’t a man at all, but a woman; and a beauty to behold at that. This explained the smaller stature. A smile crossed her lips as she reached out her hand to help him up.

“I gather from your look I’m not quite what you expected.” She chuckled. “Don’t feel bad. Many soldiers have fallen to my sword. I’ve been training since I was four years old.”

He removed his own helm, and blonde curly locks dropped to his shoulders. His eyes were bright blue, with a young, clean-shaven face, and a chiseled jawline. He was quite the male beauty as well, and not what she expected. “I thank you for the compliment.” He bowed his head. “Who do I have the honor of speaking with?”

She smiled before responding, “I’m Liniana, the daughter-heir to Havenbrook.” He seemed startled by her words. “I understand I’m to accompany you to Riverfell.” She glanced down and noticed how he clutched his hand. “Are you hurt? “ She reached out to him.

He outstretched his left hand and offered it toward her. “You’re burned... and it’s infected.” She looked the wound over before speaking again. “I can do nothing to heal the burn—it will still exist—but I can take care of the infection.”

She clasped both of her hands over the wound and uttered words he didn’t understand. He felt a numbing sensation as it covered the wound. After a moment, she removed her hands. The burn still existed in the form of a scar, but the irritation and infection had disappeared.

He shifted his glance from his hand to her. “You’re a healer?” His glance flew back to his hand in amazement. He flexed it and felt no lingering discomfort at all. “I don’t understand. How can you fight, and be one who heals at the same time? Don’t they contradict one another?”

She shuffled her footing while she looked at him and said, “My father believed anyone who would one day inherit the throne should know how to fight with the sword, uphold what we believe in, and protect those who believe in us.” She turned around. “It wasn’t until last year that the power of the light filled me and I realized I could also heal. We’ll have plenty of time for discussions, though, Riverfell is a month’s journey.” She turned and strolled away. After about five paces, she looked back and said, “We’ll leave at first light tomorrow. Tonight we’re asked to attend a reception welcoming me home, and marking the beginning of our journey.” She turned and continued walking.

He pleaded with Liniana. “Can’t we set out today? I’ve already enjoyed your parent’s hospitality and would like to be on our way.”

Without turning to look at him, she replied, “Tomorrow! Tonight we dine.” She made her way to the palace as the man sat awestruck by what had transpired.

Captain Markel walked over to him. “She’s something, isn't she?” He waited until the man acknowledged him. “I’ve trained her and watched over her since she could walk. Very independent, that one. I would be careful if I were you. She has a way of getting what she wants. I don’t envy you one bit.” He chuckled. “It would be best if you prepared for dinner. You don’t want to be late.” The captain looked at him again and turned, dismissing the recruits as he walked away.

The man reached his quarters and found that the servants had drawn him a hot bath. He surveyed the room and walked over to the bureau. Upon opening the drawers, he found an array of clothing that would fit his build. He selected a pair of black breeches and a crimson silk tunic decorated with the crest of Havenbrook.

He stripped off his clothing and laid down in the bath. The hot water soothed his muscles and put him in a state of total relaxation. He found himself lost in thought.
Warriors are not supposed to be healers. Females are not supposed to be warriors.
He couldn’t resist as his thoughts continued to drift back to her beautiful face. A woman had never captivated his attention quite like this; at least not any woman remembered. He tried to shake it off.
I’m young, but what if I’m already married, or promised to another woman
? He made the decision that no matter how beautiful and engaging this woman seemed, he would not pursue her.

With this new reality recognized, he stepped out of the bathtub and put on the clothes he had selected earlier. Donning his new attire, he felt even more uncomfortable. He sighed, flattened out the creases in the clothing, and proceeded to the dining hall. Once he reached the hall, a servant directed him toward a seat on the dais.
Oh great,
he thought to himself. Already feeling embarrassed by wearing these ridiculous clothes, now he would be the center of attention for all of those dining in the hall. He wondered if the situation could get any worse.

The aromas in the hall overwhelmed him and made his stomach growl. The table appeared to be set for a long dinner with multiple courses. He glanced to his left and noticed a servant walking in his direction with a pitcher of red wine. Hoping this would help to ease his stress, he grabbed his goblet and motioned for the servant to pour him some. With the glass filled, the servant started to leave. He placed his left hand on her shoulder, which surprised her, and she tried to skirt away. He emptied the goblet and brought it back down for her to refill. She obliged and left the vicinity before he put his hands on her again. He shrugged and finished half of the goblet in one gulp.

As he started to sit, three trumpeters blared out, marking the arrival of someone important. Everyone in the hall stood at attention. He turned to face the entryway leading to the dais. Several guards filed out, and stood flanking the doorway itself. Liniana entered and was adorned by a light blue, silk dress stretching to the floor. Intricate silver patterns and milky white pearls decorated the gown. Several braids curled around her head before trailing down over her longer straight hair. She looked stunning; the image of beauty itself. She must have had a team of servants working to prepare her for the dinner. Remembering his thoughts from earlier, he shifted his gaze to the guards so her elegance wouldn’t overwhelm him. Following her were her lord father, and mother. They smiled and waved at the hundreds of citizens who gathered to partake in the evening’s dinner.

Liniana approached him and stood behind the seat to his right. “You clean up nicely, for a soldier.”

He tried to avoid the conversation, but realized her comment warranted a response. “I must say you do as well.” He said while the lord and lady stood behind their seats to Liniana’s right.

A round of applause swept through the room. Lord Brukahn raised his hand to quiet them and said, “I thank you all for joining us tonight to welcome the return of my daughter.” More applause erupted, and he again tried to quiet them. “As most of you know, she left to learn the ways of healing, harnessing the powers of the light. I’m happy to report she returns to us after completing her training. I invite you to enjoy all the comforts I can offer from Havenbrook, and ask you to raise your glasses.” He grabbed his goblet, as others in the room copied his movements. “To my daughter, you have brought me much joy, and I’ve never been prouder. This dinner is for you, and whatever road your life might lead you down.” With that said, everyone took a sip of wine. It seemed obvious how much the citizens of Havenbrook loved Liniana. “Now we dine!” He took his seat, and everyone else followed suit. Servants filled the room to distribute the first course; a couple of thin slices of roast duck over spinach leaves, topped with a tart dressing.

Lord Brukahn ate his first course and glanced over at the man. “I thank you for allowing us to hold this ceremony before the two of you set out. She deserves this.”

The man finished chewing before responding. “It’s my pleasure,” he said. “I have to say, I’m quite impressed with your daughter’s skills in combat.” His gaze shifted to Liniana, “She surprised me to say the least.” He let his gaze linger a bit too long. He couldn’t himself as he became enthralled with her beauty.

Lord Brukahn chuckled. “I’m glad to hear her years of training haven’t been wasted.” The lord must have been hungry. He stuffed his mouth with the duck.