The Lightstone

Chapter 1

The Time Before

A lone figure walked down a dark, clammy corridor. His eyes pierced through the absence of light and he could plainly see the stones that made the walls and floor. The numerous trips through the corridors had burnt each crevice into his mind. His life-long dream was to walk them no more.

Halloc walked along the secret passage that led to the humans that were waiting for him. He was not human, but a wizard in service to King Togin. His footsteps had worn down the cobblestones. He had traveled the path so many times the rocky surface was smooth and indented from his footsteps striking the same location on every trip. Halloc caught himself intentionally changing his stride, forcing his foot to strike a part of the stone walkway that had never before been touched. He was not superstitious, and he chided himself for obviously allowing a human sentiment to effect him, but even a wizard can grow tired of the same continuous outcome to his quest.

For countless generations, a baneful sorcerer would awake at fifty-year intervals to challenge the land known as Purati. Halloc would confront this evil with the aide of a lone human. Descendants of the same bloodline had fought by the wizard’s side for as long as anyone could remember. Only a very secretive circle of friends knew of The Turjim. To aid in keeping the truth from the general populace, both the royal family and Halloc had decided that the Turjim would serve the king as Captain of the Guard. This is as it had been since the beginning.

It was not with wicked intent that the common folk knew nothing of the nefarious magic that threatened the land. It was determined a long time ago that ignorance could best serve the subjects of the realm. Only a selected few knew the truth; only one knew the whole truth, and it was this absolute truth that ate at Halloc’s heart. Only he understood what was really at stake; not just the kingdom, not just the innocent lives that were oblivious to the evil that threatened them, but something more important than life itself was part of the secret that the wizard had kept from the humans. He was not disloyal to the monarch, but he was a slave to a higher purpose.

The wizard did not age, and he had seen so many of his friends die that sometimes he had to ask himself if it was worth the sadness he felt. Was it worth having to keep secrets from the king? He always concluded that the fight must go on, but not for the sake of the kingdom, or for any one human life. It had to continue and end successfully, or he would be nothing but a failure. He would be nothing, but so would all in the kingdom if he ever floundered.

Both the wizard and the Turjim had never actually failed, but neither had they achieved total victory. Evil and good had fought with each other and it had always been a stalemate. Halloc and the Turjim had battled the Dark One and the hoards of monsters he created and they always managed to survive, but so had the evil sorcerer known as Collah, and it took both wizards fifty years to regenerate their powers after each conflict.

The corridor was dark, but the wizard’s sight was acute enough to make out the stairwell that would lead him to three humans. He would soon face King Togin, Prince Rivor, and Kuric, Captain of the Guard and the only living Turjim. In the past, there had already been an offspring of the current Turjim, but this time it was different, and it was this difference that caused Halloc much anxiety. He had never faced Collah with the only living Turjim. There was always a son, usually very young. Nonetheless, it was at least someone to carry on the fight if the unimaginable happened to the one who fought by the wizard’s side. He had to protect this human at all costs.

King Togin, Prince Rivor, and Kuric were inside a private room within the castle and all three watched as the secret entrance glided to the right. The wall easily slid back and then to the side. All three of the humans knew who was coming. Today was the day of reckoning.

The king was hopeful this would be the last time the gathering would have to take place. The only person who knew more truth concerning this war was the wizard. Secrecy was paramount to the king. It would not be wise to have the countryside in mayhem when discretion could better serve all. King Togin knew they had been lucky so far. Halloc and the Turjim had always prevented the malfeasance from spreading. They had always faced Collah within his domain. The king always shuttered when he thought of the possibility of fighting the evil wizard in public, but Halloc had always stopped the sorcerer before the fight could leave Collah’s caverns.

The king’s son, Prince Rivor, received the best education and training the kingdom had to offer. His knowledge of literature was unequalled. He was the second best swordsman in the land. He knew today was not his day; this day the Turjim would fight. Since he was the heir to the throne, his father informed him of this secret battle and the history of the conflict. At least, he knew as much as his father. The kingdom could not have a better successor to the crown.

Kuric was the only one with perspiration on his hands. He caught himself wiping his tunic to rid his palms of the extra moisture on numerous occasions. His squarely built body was strong and resulted from his daily training and exercises that often included friendly sparring with the prince. He raked his hand through his thick, dark hair, pushing it from his face. His training for this day began the day he could lift a sword. His father had instructed him and Kuric was the best swordsman in the kingdom, but he also knew that a common sword could not harm the evil wizard. That is why he waited for Halloc; he waited for the lightstone that the wizard carried.

Halloc emerged from the darkness of the secret passageway and gazed into three pairs of human eyes. The wizard knew each man’s thoughts in an instant and those thoughts saddened the wizard. Knowing the king was living a partial lie by keeping this conflict a secret from his subjects tore at Halloc’s heart. The wizard also knew that it must be this way. Seeing the pain within Prince Rivor almost melted the shield that protected Halloc from human emotions. Observing Kuric’s anxiety almost persuaded the wizard to tell all, but now was not the time.

My liege, spoke the wizard in a hushed voice while bowing slightly.

Halloc, it is good to see you again, replied the king. This is my son, Prince Rivor.

Your highness.

And this is Kuric, continued the king.

The wizard stepped directly in front of Kuric and peered deeply within the human’s clear, blue eyes, perceiving the sea of integrity as well as the loyalty that dwelled within Kuric’s heart. The wizard also saw caution on Kuric’s strong face, and justifiable anxiety.

Kuric, on the other hand, could not see Halloc’s eyes clearly. The wizard wore a cobalt blue robe with a cowl that obscured his features, offering only an occasional glimpse of his face for brief periods when he turned his head. Kuric was taken aback by the height of the wizard. It was a little distorting to see a lanky shape, no more than bones loosely bounded together, that commanded respect from being three hands taller than anyone in the room.

It is an honor to meet the adult Kuric, the wizard said in a soothing voice.

It is impressive to see you at last, but I don’t think we have met. Kuric replied, puzzled by Halloc’s words

It is true that this is the first time we have talked, but I have had the honor of meeting you and Price Rivor some time ago.

Halloc was present at each of your births, interrupted the king.

Indeed, interjected the wizard, and I have been looking forward to this day as I do every time there is a chance to rid this world of the one named Collah, Halloc finished as he lowered the cowl.

The physical features of the wizard fascinated Kuric. The thin, ascetic face appeared almost human within the cowl, until one saw the eyes. It was his eyes, a deep swirling azure that appeared to hypnotize all three men. Kuric felt he could lose himself within those eyes. The wizard’s gaze hid as much as the oceans.

We do not have much time, your majesty, said the wizard breaking the moment of awkward silence.

Yes, of course, replied the king. May your quest finally be fulfilled.

Thank you, sire, the wizard replied while placing a hand upon the Turjim. Kuric, it is time to go.

Both Kuric and the wizard bowed as they backed out of the room into the secret corridor. The wall slid back into place. The king and his son remained in the silent room; each hoping the two men returned safely and in victory. They did not have a single thought of their own security.

Wait one moment, Halloc ordered as the wall closed and darkness descended.

Kuric anxiously waited for the wizard to lead him down the murky corridors, but he became bewildered by the faint, but growing light. It did not take long for Kuric to determine that the luminescence emanated from the wizard. With a single hand raised into the air, Halloc produced enough light for the human to see normally.

Draw your sword, commanded the wizard.

Kuric obeyed, watching as the wizard slipped his free hand into his robe. At first, Kuric thought the wizard withdrew nothing, but soon he saw the faint outline beginning to form. The wizard held the object close to the light and Kuric knew without doubt that it was the lightstone. The dim light was just enough for the stone to glimmer to the human eye. It was the first time Kuric had seen the stone. It was the stone that made the Turjim almost invincible. Cylindrical in shape with many facets, it collected the rays of whatever illumination was available. The stronger the light, the more powerful became the stone. Within the crystalline rock, Kuric could see fabulous colors created by the trapped light bouncing off the inside walls.

Do not be afraid of the power, the wizard said as he handed the stone to Kuric.

The last of the Turjim was still in awe of the brilliant stone as he compliantly accepted it from the wizard. Kuric’s body recoiled slightly. He gazed deeply within the stone; the power flowing into him overwhelmed his body and mind, and it took a few moments for the soldier to regain his bearing. Kuric’s eyes flickered from the stone to the wizard.

It is that power that will keep you safe from Collah and any magic he has unleashed, the wizard pronounced. Now, place the stone within the hilt of your sword.

Kuric slowly obeyed the wizard. Although he knew of the stone and its power, it was with great awe that he slowly slid the stone into the hole located near the handle of his long sword. Twisting the stone slightly, Kuric heard a very light click as the stone lodged firmly within the hilt of his sword.

Here, place this cloth over the end of your sword which will cover up the stone and tie it off, the wizard commanded as he handed a slim, black sack to Kuric.

The last of the Turjim did as he was told and he felt the power diminish as he tied the end of the sack with the drawstrings sewn into the end. He sheathed his sword and actually drew a breath of relief. None of his teachings prepared him for the power that he felt.

The power.. .will get stronger if exposed to more light? Kuric asked in almost disbelief.

Yes, though it is still dark outside, it is best to keep the stone covered until needed.

But I cannot withstand any more power than I felt with the little light you created.

Yes you can and will. It will be easier for you next time. You will become accustomed to its power as it flows through you. With the stone, you can propel fireballs toward your enemies.

I have some sense of your meaning, but how is this possible?

The primary purpose of the stone is to heal. In a way, it has healed your mind to accept it for what it is and what it can do.

But if it is a healer, how can I destroy or kill with it? Asked a perplexed Kuric.

Come, we had best hurry, replied the wizard as he started walking down the passageway. The evil we seek is healed by death. Collah calls forth his demon hoard from beyond this world. It is back to their domain we send them.

So I can destroy Collah?

No! Yelled the wizard as he suddenly stopped and turned to face Kuric, It is not the stone’s fate to kill the wizard. But it will trap him long enough for me to complete the task at hand. I am sorry my friend, the wizard said as he resumed walking, I did not mean to startle you, but I do wish to warn you that Collah is very powerful. He lacks creativity, but you must not underestimate him. He will try to trick you. You must trust me, and not what you see or hear.

I understand, came the short reply.

The wizard led Kuric down the cavern. Although Kuric knew most of the secret passages within the castle, it was his first time within this one. Only the wizard could access this concealed hallway. Halloc knew there still dwelled a little doubt within the mind of the Turjim, but he also knew that doubt would die when Kuric felt the full force of the stone. Halloc could feel the questions racing through the mind of Kuric. He could also feel the obedience and sincerity within the soul of his new champion. The wizard wondered if this would be the final battle. For countless generations, the wizard had led the Turjim into the abyss of absolute evil. They had always returned, having neither won nor lost. He had been able to protect the land by attacking Collah within his domain. Halloc almost grew weary of the same outcome for so many years, living for the day of total victory. He hoped with all of his heart that today would be the end of this conflict.

Kuric followed the wizard in silence. He had spent all of his life learning about the wizard, and the stone. Still, it was one thing to know of the power of the stone and another to experience it directly. His teachings had prepared him intellectually for this day, but not emotionally. He had doubt, but no fear. He intently gazed at the wizard ahead of him. Halloc was still producing the light that allowed Kuric to see the cavern walls and ground. Kuric knew that light would protect him; the stone made him powerful.

It was not long before they arrived at the entrance to the secret passageway. Kuric stepped out of the tunnel to see the faintly moonlit sky; the sun would rise soon. Behind him the door slid back into place. Though he knew the location of the hidden entrance, it would be impossible to locate just by observation. He continued to follow Halloc down to the royal docks where a ferry waited for the travelers to carry them across the lake.

Surrounded by water, the island castle was almost impervious to attack. Any ship that dared attack would face the catapults and their pulverizing rain of boulders. Even if the attackers made it to land, the outer and inner walls of enormous size separated the enemy from their prize. Some said the standing army of the kingdom was superfluous but luckily, the wise outnumbered the shortsighted. The soldiers doubled as sailors who ferried the people to and from the island castle.

It did not take long for the duo to reach the dock. A lone soldier approached as they stopped at the edge of the water.

Captain Kuric, we have been expecting you and your guest. All is prepared, said a young, lanky lieutenant with slight bow, giving them a view of his bright red locks

Thank you, Lieutenant Kent. Make all speed across the lake, ordered Kuric.

Every soldier aboard the medium sized ship knew Kuric well, but Halloc received numerous stares. It was not often that the mortals saw someone who towered over them as a small tree. Both Kuric and Halloc could hear the murmurs among the crew as they crossed the gangplank.

They are just curious, Kuric whispered to Halloc.

I understand, my friend, replied Halloc.

Both sail and rowing tonight, interrupted Kent.

A slight groan came from the crew, but some of them obediently rushed below deck. Kuric understood Kent’s order. The Lieutenant overheard both the murmurs from the crew and the hushed words between Kuric and the wizard. A slight smile appeared on Kuric’s face. Soldiers must keep their poise to remain effective. He breathed in a deep breath after he remembered to apply the same principle to himself.

The wizard and Kuric stood at the bow of the ship feeling it jerk as the dock crews pushed the ship away from the dock. The giant oars locked upright until the ferry was a safe distance away from the shoreline. The slight breeze cooled the air, but not uncomfortably so. Kent shouted directions at the crew, and it took only a few moments until the oars lowered to meet the surface of the water. The ferry started to pick up speed with each beat of the timing drum. To Kuric, each row was one step closer to his destiny.

Halloc, how is it possible for this conflict to have continued for so long? Kuric asked when he knew they were alone.

Direct, aren’t you? But I cannot be so direct in answering your question.

Yes, I have been told of your riddles.

No, my friend, I can only answer your question by saying that in some way I have failed. This is no riddle.

You! Fail! Out of the question! Stated a stunned Kuric.

Ah, I see your faulty premise. You think of me as invulnerable. It is true no mere mortal can do me harm, but Collah’s magic matches mine. One false move, one incorrect choice, and the outcome could be disastrous. Perhaps that is where I failed; I have been too cautious.

With so much at stake it is wise to be careful. But being overcautious can defeat you just as rapidly as a false move. I cannot judge you in this; I am not privy to all the facts.

Indeed, would you be surprised to learn that I could easily stop this war?

Kuric was overwhelmed with emotion; he could not believe that this wizard could allow this secretive conflict to continue for so long. Why have you not done so? He asked defiantly, but still in a lowered voice.

Partly because of something you call self preservation. Collah and I would cease to exist.

You, die? Unacceptable, blurted out Kuric, then blushed slightly at his outburst.

It is, nonetheless, a viable alternative to losing. Rest assured, Kuric, Captain of the Guard, I would assign myself to oblivion if I ever believed the Dark One would win.

Kuric remained silent for the remainder of the trip across the lake. As a soldier in the king’s army, he was proud to serve along side of one that was willing to give up his life for the kingdom. As Captain of the Guard, he was embarrassed not to expect as much from the wizard that had served the kingdom since anyone could remember. Kuric now respected the wizard as a loyal servant to the kingdom. He now trusted Halloc with his life.

The ferry approached the docks of the mainland where most of the citizens of Purati lived, but not too far from the island castle. The farmers, smithies, and traders would all accumulate within the first inner wall of the castle to trade and barter for goods, and used the larger ferries to transport all of their wares. The people accepted the watchful eye of the government on all trade activities. There was little danger of thieves stealing any property on the island and hardly any disputes arose in this manner. No one dared steal in front of the soldiers that roamed throughout the outer courtyard. There were rumors of a band of thieves near the desert, although to the commoners they were just rumors.

However, to Kuric, the thieves were real. Several times during the year, the royal guard reconnoitered near the mountains before the desert. They never actually fought with the thieves, but they saw numerous signs of their existence. The presence of the royal guard kept the thieves on the outskirts of the kingdom. Kuric received several reports of livestock missing from the locals and he blamed the thieves. He never understood why anyone chose such a life when the kingdom offered a much better existence. No one within the royal family considered the thieves to be much of a threat, and the guards kept it that way.

Kuric heard Kent giving orders as the ferry approached the docks. The ship safely moored with a gentle thud with the strong ropes flung to the waiting dockworkers. The sun had not yet risen, but there were already a few tradesmen and farmers present with their goods waiting transport to the island castle. Only Kuric and the wizard left the ship.

Kuric noticed a few stares from the folk gathered at the docks as he walked just slightly behind the wizard.

Halloc quickened his pace as they continued on the road away from the docks. There was a reason for the wizard’s rapid step. He glanced slightly over his shoulder to see Kuric trotting just to keep up with him. When they were a safe distance away from the docks, the wizard suddenly stopped.

There is a problem, Halloc said to Kuric.

What is it? Asked Kuric, catching his breath.

I can feel Collah’s’ powers growing. I thought that we would have two days to reach his domain, but now we must reach him before the end of this day.

But from what I have been told the trip is at least a day and a half from here, replied Kuric.

That is true, but there is another way.

And will this alternate route take too long as well?

No. We could make the trip before sunrise.

Then what’s the problem? Asked Kuric suspecting something terrible.

We must pass through the witch’s domain.

What witch? I know of no witch, replied a bewildered Kuric.

Only the king, Prince Rivor, and I know of the witch, my friend, replied Halloc in a soothing voice.

Why the secrecy?

That is for another time. I must warn you; Anarita is extremely clever, and as mischievous as she is intelligent. To pass through her domain may be more perilous than facing Collah.

I just love surprises, replied Kuric, not knowing what else to say.

Halloc chuckled ever so slightly, Just as much as I love to deliver them.

Then if we do not take the alternate route, Collah may have time to leave his domain. If we do take the other path, we might die? Kuric questioned.

I will take care of the witch if need be. It will be dangerous; however; I fear Collah more than the witch.

Then what are we waiting for, said Kuric.

For you to catch your breath and have as much of the truth as I can tell you, replied the wizard with a note of affection in his tone.

I follow you at the order of the king.. .and as a friend.

Kuric thought he saw a faint smile appear upon the wizard’s face, but it was only a flicker and he could not be sure if he imagined it. He watched as the wizard turned to his left and then he started after Halloc. They were off the main road now, and heading for the dense growth of trees that separated most of the villages from the shore of the lake.

Halloc, you said you feared Collah more than the witch, but you also said she may be more dangerous than Collah. I do not understand.

The witch serves her own purpose. Sometimes her deeds benefit me, sometimes Collah. In this sense, sometimes she is a friend; sometimes an enemy.

Ah, it is better to know your enemies than to not know your friends.

Appropriately said, responded the wizard.

They were in the forest now. Kuric had to stay directly behind the wizard to avoid walking into the trees and shrubbery. Sunrise was a short time away, but the heavily laden limbs prevented most of the moonlight from reaching the forest floor. Kuric kept telling himself that he had nothing to fear. The Turjim had always returned from the duel with Collah. Still, there was this new threat of the witch that added a measure of apprehension to Kuric’s subconscious.

When do we get to the witch’s lair? Kuric asked, wanting the confrontation to be over with quickly.

We are here, replied Halloc calmly.

Kuric watched in amazement as the wizard stopped in front of an outcropping of huge rocks. The wizard touched stones in a particular sequence; the grating sound made Kuric jittery. The centerpiece of the boulder slid back and down into the ground. Kuric could see nothing but absolute black emanating from the entrance.

You must keep hold of my robe. Inside is utter darkness. You will not be able to see, the wizard informed.

But how will you see? Kuric asked then attempted to take the question back.

I’ll be able to see. However, whatever happens, whatever you hear, you must not release your grip from my robe. Do you understand?

Yes, came the reply.

Kuric approached the wizard who had turned to face the entrance. The Captain of the Guard grabbed a fistful of bluish fabric, clutching it so tight to cause mild pain. The wizard headed for the entrance; Kuric drew one last breath of open air.

They descended into the blackness. Kuric was holding fast to the wizard’s robe. Halloc was stepping slowly to allow the human to keep up without making any unnecessary noises. Kuric could not see a thing; the entrance had shut behind them. The total absence of light made the Turjim uneasy. Kuric was grateful as he felt the ground leveling off; they were no longer descending, but the apprehension returned when the wizard stopped abruptly.

Make no more noise, not even a whisper, the wizard hissed softly in Kuric’s ear.

Kuric did not even reply, but he continued as the wizard led. The air was stale, but breathable. A damp cold permeated his bones sending shivers down Kuric’s spine. Kuric knew they had been making frequent turns, but he had lost his sense of direction. He wished he knew how much farther until they exited this foul place.

Halloc continued to lead Kuric through the maze; his mind raced back to a time long ago. He remembered these caverns for what they used to be in that time, almost losing himself in his thoughts. He had made one mistake and now the once beautiful caverns had turned into a labyrinth of depravity. A small, but passionate tear attempted to form in his eye.

Kuric’s hand ached from clutching the wizard’s robe. The absence of light and loss of bearing began to affect him adversely. He used all of his training and experience to control his fear. It was not fear that was his worse enemy. The darkness and silence affected his stability.

His foot hit the protruding rock. In an instant, Kuric lay upon the ground. Worse, for one brief moment, his grip upon the wizard was gone. It was all the time the witch required.

Kuric felt lighter as if he feet did not touch the ground. He was in the process of chiding himself for being so clumsy when he realized that the caverns were illuminated. The light was not coming from the wizard, but from rings of fire surrounding the Turjim. Kuric’s mind was confused. He wondered how he could be floating off the ground inside circles of fire. He was in a mild case of shock. He failed to see that there were now three beings in the caverns; his ears did not fail him as he heard a screeching voice.

Why have you entered my domain? The witch demanded in a hideous, hissing voice.

Release him immediately! Demanded the wizard

Ah, so you are in command of the dark passageways? Fool! You should not have come here, especially with such a handsome gift for me. Not the youngest one I have seen, but he will do.

The witch stepped in front of Kuric. The fiery rings were about a width of a hand apart. Kuric could have inserted his hand through the bands, but at considerable pain. The rings were far enough away not to seriously damage the Turjim, but he was captive within their power. He could see the repulsive face of the witch. Folds of skin covered her cheeks; it appeared as dripping flesh with eyes as black as the darkness of the caverns. He tried to wince back from the sight of the witch, but could not. He was floating in air, unable to control his movement except for his limbs. He learned rather quickly to keep perfectly still since the flames singed the hairs on his forearms when his hands flailed wildly while he attempted to move.

Kuric wanted to close his eyes, but the hideous face of the witch somehow captivated him. He thought she was smiling at him, but the wavy tissue made it difficult to tell. He then noticed the wizard attempting to get his attention. His eyes darted from the witch to Halloc. He saw the wizard motion toward his own shoulder. Kuric finally realized what the wizard was trying to tell him, and so did the witch.

Not today! The witch screamed as the rings of fire grew closer to Kuric.

Kuric had solved the clue from Halloc a second too late. The fire circle was shrinking and the heat began to cause considerable pain. The wizard’s attempts to remind Kuric of the stone were in vain. The encroaching flames prevented any movement and the sword strapped across the Turjim’s back was unreachable. Kuric could only scream from the pain. It was the first, and last, outcry of anguish the Turjim would utter.

Enough! Demanded Halloc.

He is no good to me dead, for now. But beware, I fall for no tricks today, Halloc, replied the witch.

The circle of flames grew larger, expanding away from Kuric. His skin was a deep red; his tunic was smoldering. His strength was almost gone. There was no way he could reach his sword even if the fire did not prevent him.

The wizard was in a dilemma. He could end everything now, or allow his friend to suffer more. He thought desperately for any solution to this problem. Today might by the time for final victory. For his own reasons, he could not destroy all that he fought for; all that mattered to him.

What is it you want? Halloc asked the witch in a defeated voice.

So, you have come to your senses. Very well, for this intrusion, I demand his first born.

Kuric could hear the words between Halloc and the witch, but they made no sense to him. Not only because he was in shock, but also because he was childless.

And if I refuse? Halloc queried.

The wizard saw the ring of fire closing in on Kuric again. He saw the pain on his friend’s face. He promised himself that today would be different when they faced Collah.

Agreed. Now, let him go! Halloc yelled, almost not believing his own words.

If you do not bring the child to me, I shall find it, the witch said as she disappeared in a haze of smoke.

The fire ring entrapping Kuric vanished with the witch leaving Kuric helpless and falling limp to the ground. At first, he thought he had passed out, but he soon realized the darkness was back. For a moment, he welcomed the pain. The pain was the only thing that told him he was still alive. He felt arms lifting him. He sensed he was moving rapidly. His eyes slammed shut from the light. He felt himself laid upon the ground gently. Outside, he said to himself. They were out of those dreadful caverns.

Lay still as I get the stone and heal you, Halloc said softly.

He saw a shadow reach behind his head. Kuric knew it was the wizard. His eyes grew accustomed to the light. The sun had just peered over the horizon. It was astonishing to Kuric that such little light blinded him. He raised his hands into the air and glanced at them. He saw the red blisters forming on his hand. His arm dropped back to the ground; for all practical purposes, he was dead.

He saw himself floating in the air. He could not understand how it was possible for him to view himself, but nonetheless, there he was drifting aimlessly through the clouds. He felt no more pain. No thoughts cluttered his mind; he was at total peace. It was something he had always wanted to do; he had watched both sparrow and eagle fly and soar high into the clouds until they vanished. By mere thought, he changed his direction. Gliding through the clouds revitalized him. There was nothing he could not do; nothing could stop him. A gentle hand brought him back to reality.

Kuric! You must awaken.

The voice sounded familiar. He awoke as if he was asleep at some stranger’s house and not knowing how or remembering why he was there. His eyes slowly opened to see the face of Halloc peering into his eyes. His senses returned almost immediately. He would forever remember the image of the wizard’s face. The compassion within the wizard’s eyes was overwhelming.

Halloc, the witch...

Easy, my friend, the wizard interjected. We are safe for the moment.

Kuric finally noticed the lightstone. The wizard was creating artificial light with his left hand as he held the sword with the stone in his right. Kuric could see the light emanating from the stone. It took him only a few moments to recognize that the light from the stone was entering his body. He sat up, looking over his body, and saw himself engulfed in a glow. He comprehended what the stone had accomplished; it healed him. He looked down at his hands; the burns and blisters were gone, and his clothing mended. There were no signs of fire anywhere. He was totally recovered.

I feel as if I could lift a horse, Kuric said with a new vigor, and while standing to his feet.

The power of the stone knows no boundaries. Only it’s master’s limitations confine it. Halloc explained as he stopped producing light, and he covered the stone with the black cloth.

What of the witch? Is she unaware that I have no wife, no children?

Not as yet, my friend.

The wizards’ words were like a transparent knife driven into his naive heart. What can we do? I will not allow the witch to have my unborn child.

I will do everything possible to foil her plans, but now, we must hurry. Much time has been wasted. Halloc explained as he offered the sword back to the Turjim.

Kuric re-sheathed his sword and then he noticed they were deep within the Klug Mountains. The mountains were the only things separating the green, fertile valley of the Purati from the great desert expanse.

Halloc, it would take two days to get here. How did we come so far in so short a time?

The witch’s domain acts as a shortcut, replied the wizard as he hurried to the West toward a wall of granite.

Kuric followed Halloc but somewhat in a daze. He was in full control of his mind and body, but there were unanswered questions; puzzles riddled his mind, How long before we reach Collah?

We are here, said the wizard as he stopped in front of a huge cliff of granite.

We must climb this wall of rock? Kuric asked in disbelief.

No, my friend, but you must collect yourself. Draw your sword and remove the cloth from around the stone. Remember to allow the power of the stone to go through you. It will do the rest.

Kuric obeyed the wizard and inhaled deeply as he drew his sword from its sheath. He removed the black cloth that covered stone. The morning sun had risen enough to power the stone. It was not long before Kuric began to feel the energy surging through his body.

Now, prepare yourself, Turjim. We enter into darkness, but I shall produce the light you require. Be ready for anything. Be afraid of nothing.

Kuric listed attentively to the words of the wizard, and he actually thought he could handle any situation. He was somewhat taken back as the mountain wall began to disappear as the wizard raised his arms. The opening was small at first, but soon grew into a rather large entrance. Kuric watched as the wizard lowered his hands and then saw the darkness that lived inside the mountain. Black as the heart of the witch, Kuric said to himself. Night dwelled within the cave, but the wizard was present to bestow light.

They entered the passageway the wizard had created, Halloc leading Kuric. The artificial light from the wizard was illuminating the cavern walls. They continued down the long corridor. Kuric’s heart was pounding rapidly. He was not afraid, and his experience as a soldier was well planted