14. The Longest Day

Nothing felt worse for Greg at that moment. Yesterday he laid in bed recovering from a horrifying ambush, reeling in the sympathy from friends and all the while a bigger, larger army was marching straight to what could cripple the haven of Souvanence. He sat in Malk’s front room watching his tutor pace up and down on the creaky floorboards. He was thinking hard; Greg wished he knew what his plans were. He knew they would not be leaving the city today, but he also knew Malk would not be part of the Mayor’s guard if he could help it. He had hoped Malk would have planned his day before he got there.

“I’ve got it!” Said Malk suddenly.

“What is it?” Asked Greg.

“We’ll… We will… No wait, that won’t work.”

Greg could see the frustration on Malk’s face at feeling useless, “Maybe they will still let you fight?” He tried to sound comforting. He was glad that he was not able to fight, it would not be right if he was sent out after the lecture he had given the others about going into the woods. However he could see in Malk’s eyes that his mentor wanted to be out there.

“No they won’t. They think we are heroes from yesterday, tired heroes at that. As a retired General I won’t receive authorisation to leave these walls until this threat is passed. They don’t see this battle threatening enough to allow me.”

Malk’s best strength, thought Greg, Always abiding by the law.

“Why don’t we just ask the Mayor what we can do to help?”

“No. I will not go to the Mayor until the day this war comes crashing down on the city hall,” said Malk stubbornly.

Greg could never understand why Malk hated the Mayor so much. Sure, he was not very good at his job in their eyes, but Greg always assumed that people with power over others were never that good at anything they did, or the choices they made.

Malk scratched his shaven head, “The citizens are what’s important.”

“There you go. We can stand in for the Elites while they are out there,” said Greg, praying the problem was solved.

“No that won’t work either, for today at least we are classed as part of those citizens that need protecting. Captain bloody Fishrual’s orders,” stressed Malk, “The one guy who can’t see the real threat!”

There was knock at the door, Greg stood up and walked to it.

“Good morning Kelsic,” said Greg as the old advisor walked through the door.

“Morning young man,” she replied before turning her attention to Malk.

“It turns out you were right,” said Malk as a greeting.

“Indeed. I am sorry I did not pay attention to the signs.”

“There is no one here you need to apologise to,” said Malk firmly, “So for what do I owe the pleasure?”

“I am here to offer you a chance to do what is right.”

“An offer?” Malk perked up a bit, “Go on?”

“Well I need your boy here, and in return I offer you a place in the ranks,” said Kelsic smiling innocently.

“Me?” Asked Greg, “What do you want me for?”

Both Kelsic and Malk ignored Greg.

“What’s the catch?” Asked Malk sceptically, “Why do you want Greg?”

“Your teachings Malk are just what I need for a young man who will need guidance in this battle.”

“Who is this fool you speak of?” Replied Malk.

“A lively fellow, very strong with unbelievable power. He will do well with someone like you by his side.”

“So you want me to baby-sit?”

“You could put it like that,” said Kelsic.

Malk sighed; the offer did sound tempting, “What do you want with Greg?”

“I have personal errands that I think young Greg here may be happy to help out with,” replied Kelsic.

“Errands? I could help with those,” said Greg eagerly.

“How do you expect me and this young idiot to get into the army? I am nothing short of banned from there today, and I’m assuming this lad isn’t of age yet,” asked Malk.

“Do not worry dear friend. I have my ways now that you have agreed,” smiled Kelsic.

“Who said I agreed?” Asked Malk puzzled.

“Your eyes did when I first walked in here,” replied Kelsic.

“What do you want me to do?” Asked Greg eagerly.

“Later Greg, later,” replied Kelsic, “This next matter involves your fire friend.”

“Chad?”

“Yes, that’s the one, Chad Wizardman. Malk, this boy holds the key to the city’s safety. It is him I want you to escort into battle.”

“Why Chad?” Asked Greg.

“He’s just a child,” said Malk.

“A child with a gift many of us have dreamt for in hundreds of years. Do you think his power happened by chance?” Asked Kelsic persuasively.

“It is a risky move you’re planning Kelsic. What if it doesn’t work?” said Malk doubtfully, “You are putting the boy at great risk for this.”

“I have witnessed his skills. There is no other like him.”

“You cannot possibly get Chad involved!” Protested Greg. He now doubted his own thoughts. Greg knew Chad would be one of the best fighters out there. Was he trying to protect him so he could take Rogue to the woods and find the Lumis? He thought back to the night before when he and Chad mentioned fighting.

“What will Greg be doing while I am gone? If I go,” asked Malk curiously.

“He will be getting a good taste of being an Elite. He will do for me a quest, away from the battle that will help the aftermath of it,” Kelsic strayed from the truth as much as possible without lying.

“Such as?” Questioned Malk.

“Do you not trust me anymore old friend? Greg will be quite safe under my care,” said Kelsic innocently.

“I hope you have already planned this out as much as it sounds like you have,” said Malk still unsure about it all.

“Of course I have. You will be marching alongside the Lord’s Arms. You’ll be replacing two of my unit, who will then play as my close personal Guards.”

“I thought you had already sent those guys out,” said Greg.

“They are still on standby outside the main gate. A message has already been sent to Corporals’ Gread and Turen to return for more instructions.”

“So there will be at least one more good fight out of me yet then,” smiled Malk, “Even if it is as a Corporal.”

Kelsic nodded, “I will be back with the arrangements shortly. Follow me,” she indicated for Greg to follow.

“What shall I do till then?” Asked Malk. He bit his lip, knowing he sounded like an eager puppy waiting for his next order.

“Clean your sword,” said Kelsic. She left the room with Greg following closely behind.

Outside Kelsic walked quickly. It was obvious to Greg she was in a rush, Did she know Chad was heading for the woods? Does Chad know he was going to be fighting? He thought as he followed silently.

“I suppose you are wondering what’s going on?” Asked Kelsic without looking at him.

“Yes, I would like to know,” he replied.

“I am fully aware of what it is your friends are attempting today, and I must say, it’s not a bad idea,” said Kelsic.

“Huh? What do you mean?” He asked.

“The reason I got you away from Malk, is because I want you to take Chad’s place in helping his young friend,”

“You want me to go to the woods with Rogue?” Asked Greg.

“Yes, that would be correct,” replied Kelsic.

“I can’t do that. I’ve been trying to stop her from going there. That place is dangerous.”

“Only in theory,” said Kelsic calmly, “People say the trees are scary, but out of those people, which ones have actually been there to call them scary? Answer me that young Thornton.”

“I… Err… No one I guess. But it’s your lot that are supposed to advise us not to go.”

Kelsic sighed, “You have been with Malk far too long,” she said mainly to herself, “I am a strong believer in all the prophecies and one does state ‘Those that enter the forbidden will see their destiny shaped before them.’ Those words are from the Lumis, the key to the Guardian. The key is in those woods.”

“But how can you be so sure?” Asked Greg more than curiously.

“I have read your reports from school and Malk. Chad’s and Rogue’s too. You three and that potion sorceress have a strong bond. You are all very much top of your class in every thing you do. Chad is the first person ever to use fire magic legally since Lord Scenrio’s last breathing moments. You honestly think this does not mean anything?”

“It means I am a little confused. Are you saying Chad or any of us is the Guardian?” Greg was more than a little confused.

“Sadly not, I believe he or she is yet to be found. I do believe however, that you four are strongly linked to the great protectors. Scenrio’s personal guard.”

“There are only four of us. The prophecy states there are five strongly bonded friends at Scenrio’s side,” said Greg taking it all in.

“Perhaps you know who the Guardian is then. Someone you know with friendship values above all else,” said Kelsic coolly, “Perhaps you have not come to meet the last two yet. Who knows?”

“Oh Scenrio. I was only asked to help find the Guardian. Now I could be one of his or her bodyguards,” Greg took a deep breath, “How do we know the Lumis is in the trees? It makes the task seem almost easy. What does it look like anyway?”

“Not many can see the true form of the Lumis, but to you and me, it may look a bit like an old ball. That is from what I have read anyway. I guess that your friend has the power to sense and locate it.”

“So it was the Lumis that drew her attention to the woods from her window? I didn’t see anything though,” it made sense although he did not want to believe it.

“There you go then. The power has awakened, the Lumis has chosen its lead protector in its quest to find the Guardian.”

“Rogue? How?” Asked Greg desperate to know.

“The stranger, Bolgama. When he received enough interest from the young sorcerers, it must have felt their eagerness. It chose the one that would find it.”

Greg was lost for words; he fiddled with the hilt of his sword.

“You must take your friend to the Lumis and she will lead you to the Guardian, to the end of this war,” said Kelsic, she spoke coolly the whole time as if describing tonight’s supper, “Now come, we have a lot of work to do.”

Greg followed Kelsic, unsure where they were going. To trade places with Chad he assumed. He could not help but think Kelsic was right. He did believe they all had superior powers for their age, even if it was not as obviously shown as his best friend’s fire abilities.

* * *

Chad felt the cold stonewall. The woods lay on the other side but he could not find a way to get to them. He had tried magic, but the ancient protective spells were still very much in place. The only option left was to feel for a loose rock or slab. Anything that might reveal a secret entrance. The outline of where a gate used to exist was still clearly visible.

Rogue sat further back, polishing her staff. She kept an eye out for guards, but doubted any would come anyway, They should be leaving for battle any minute, she thought.

“I hate being trapped like this. Whatever happened to freedom,” moaned Chad.

Rogue ignored him. She listened to the distant shouts of the soldiers. They really were beginning to march. Their parade echoed through the buildings, “They’ll be leaving in waves I expect,” she said to herself.

“This is absolutely useless,” said Chad hitting the wall, “What now?”

Rogue stood up and walked over to the wall, “This is just the first of many challenges we will face. Now, what are our options?”

Before Chad had time to answer something struck the wall between them. They both jumped backwards, almost tripping over. They both looked up and saw a familiar sword sticking out of the wall.

“Greg,” said Rogue excitedly. She ran towards him, “And Kelsic,” she said less enthusiastic.

“I’ve always wanted to do that,” said Greg holding the shadow sword.

“If you’ve come to stop us, you can forget it,” said Chad.

Greg watched his friend walk towards him, “I’m not here to stop you from going.”

“Your not?” Replied Chad and Rogue, both confused.

“In a way,” said Greg glancing at Kelsic who shrugged her shoulders in return.

“What do you mean?” Asked Rogue.

“Chad, I will be taking your place. I’ll be going into the woods with Rogue.”

“You are actually gonna go? We could all go, couldn’t we? It will be easier.”

“I am afraid not Chad Wizardman,” said Kelsic.

Chad blinked, “Sorry, what will I be doing then?”

“You will be coming with me. There is a lot we must do. So please hurry,” said Kelsic.

“What? What do you want from me?”

“There is no time Chad. They are starting to leave already,” said Greg walking over to Rogue.

“Hang on a minute, now I am confused,” replied Chad.

“Chad, your skills are exceptional. Your power is very strong. It is you that will tip this battle today. I am taking you to war Chad Wizardman,” said Kelsic informatively.

“Me? You want me to go to battle?”

“Yes,” answered Greg before Kelsic could.

“Quiet boy,” Kelsic told Greg, “You have the gift of fire Chad. You were chosen for this. Don’t you feel most comfortable in the heat of battle?”

Chad had to admit, he did feel ready for this, “Can you get these two into the woods?”

“Chad, you can’t go to war!” Pleaded Rogue.

“Why not? This will be my chance to prove my strength,” his right hand lit up, “You go and get that Lumis, if it does exist. I will be ok, this is what I want to do. I’ll be back before you know it.”

“Swallow your pride for goodness sake and think about what you are doing,” said Rogue desperately.

“We really don’t have time for this,” said Greg.

“The gate is open,” said Kelsic suddenly. The three students turned to face Kelsic who was now stood by the wall. A doorway was now open for them to walk through. It led to a large open field, and beyond that were the Souvanence woods.

“How did you do that?” Asked Chad annoyed.

“That is for a later time. You kids better hurry, it won’t stay open forever,” said Kelsic ushering them to go through.

“How will we get back?” Asked Greg.

“The door will reopen just once, only for you two on the other side. Now please hurry,” Kelsic nodded and passed him his sword back.

“Thank you Kelsic. I hope Scenrio is on your side,” said Greg before turning to Chad.

“Good luck Chad. May your halo burn brightly still,” said Rogue pulling him into a tight hug, “You better be careful out there.”

“Thanks,” replied Chad, Why does she have to say that.

“Give them hell buddy,” said Greg shaking his hand.

“Thanks mate, hope you find the Lumis,” replied Chad glancing at Rogue.

After a final wave Greg and Rogue stepped through the doorway. It closed immediately behind them, leaving Chad standing with Kelsic.

“I hope he will be ok,” said Rogue softly.

“Don’t worry, he will. Chad will probably be one of the strongest fighters we have out there. Those orcs won’t know what’s hit them once he is let loose,” replied Greg confidently.

They walked onwards to the woods. The Lumis was in there, alongside the foulest creatures and a group of outcasts. A thought came to Rogue’s mind; a rumour she had heard many times of a child living alone in the woods. A feral girl who was also a great assassin. Rogue had always wanted to meet her, but on this occasion she hoped it was just a rumour.

* * *

Near the main gate stood the newly converted med unit. It was the old watchtower, the largest deserted building in Souvanence until now. The bottom floor was an enormous hall that had been lined with hundreds of beds and medicine tables. Large groups of the best potion experts crowded around shelves lined against the walls. They each added their favourite mixes, ready for the injured.

Outside, Kirsten sat on a wall near the med unit. She was taking a break from her own mixtures and watched the soldiers marching in formation, leaving the city. She saw two soldiers being led back into the city by a messenger dressed in brown. It seemed odd that she found that interesting.

Some of the younger soldiers smiled at her as they passed. A couple of them received slaps to the back of the heads by senior officers. A boy wearing a long brown coat came to sit next to her. His brown hair was short and tidy, and his eyes looked like chocolate good enough to eat.

“Hello,” said the boy, “Come to wave the soldiers off too?”

“Hi, I’m volunteering at the med unit. Making potions for the injured,” replied Kirsten.

“Sounds like a big responsibility,” the boy replied.

“Very big,” said Kirsten, “You here to see someone go?”

“My dad will be walking out soon. He fought in Dekra just two years ago. His brother is still down there.”

“Oh, ok. My brother is down there now also. What’s your name?” Asked Kirsten.

“My name? My name is Bretcher, Bretcher Thomas. May I ask yours?” Replied Bretcher.

“My name is Kirsten Britton. I study potions at the school. I’m in my final year,” said Kirsten.

“Well Kirsten, I wish your brother the best. I finished school last year. Scored a ten in my potions exam.”

“A ten? Out of twelve? You should really sign up to help. They are looking for more masters,” said Kirsten excitedly.

“Sorry, I wish I could. My two aunties are working in there. We don’t get on,” said Bretcher sadly.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” replied Kirsten.

“Don’t be, it’s not your fault some families don’t work out.”

“I have to go back inside now. It was nice talking to you,” said Kirsten as she pushed herself off the wall.

“Yeah, you too. Maybe I will see you again sometime,” said Bretcher watching her leave.

“Maybe,” she replied. Kirsten did not notice the grin creep across Bretcher’s face, nor did she see the Elites approach him and bow like he was a prince. She stepped back into the converted med unit thinking of the young man, his chocolate eyes really could melt someone’s legs as if they were also chocolate. She walked over to her own desk and inspected the liquid filled containers. She was proud of her work, although she wished it were unnecessary to need them. Despite how the boy made her feel, war was coming and she had to make the potions. She just prayed her friends made it to the woods ok.

* * *