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Part 1: The Beginning











Chapter 1: Festival of Gbomuguahz

Kazn Mbyzzwyb (Cah-zin Ma-beez-weeb)was an average fifteen year old farm boy. Together with his foster father, Bae (Bay), he worked the land for food. While they barely had enough, all was alright. Today was the Festival of Gbomuguahz (Gib-ahm-oog-ew-ah-z), the one day in the year when the village of Qyhuo ( Key-who-oh) celebrated the legend of the Banishers of Darkness. The Banishers were eight warriors who were the only people who could use the elemental magic of light.

The Banishers lived four thousand years before, and supposedly tried to kill the king of the land, Towrogabuq (Tow-rogue-a-book). But they failed. They only mortally wounded Towrogabuq by removing his whole left arm, and half of his right leg. But Towrogabuq was eternal, for one reason and one reason only. He had the ring of Uddabgowuge (Uddah-big-oh-oo-gay), a ring that granted him immortality to old age, but not to death. As Kazn and Bae made their way into town, Bae handed him a small pouch full of gold pieces. “Go on. Have fun.” Bae said. Kazn accepted the gold and ventured off into the village.

Many tents with merchants trying to sell their goods lined the cobble stone streets. As Kazn passed them he began to hear the village’s historian, Rbad, telling the story of the Banishers. Kazn ran his hand through his short brown hair as Rbad was finishing the story. Rbad (Rib-odd) was a tall, skinny man with short gray unruly hair, and black eyes. He had a long beard that hung down to his waist and sort-of curled at the bottom. Kazn’s tanned white skin shivered as the cold autumn wind blew across his back. His blue eyes burned with fatigue.

Rbad approached him with a cup of hot cider and said as he handed it to Kazn, “Here take this. It’ll warm you up.” Kazn took the cup and took a sip of the cider before asking, “Rbad, I have always heard the legend of the Banishers more than once yet, I have never heard their names. Would you know them?” Rbad took a deep breath before replying, “For the men there was: Syiz (See-is), Nomyz (Gnome-ye-zz), Dobz (Doe-bz), Dabr (Dah-bur), and Jaggz (Jag-giz). For the women there was: Nybo (Knee-bow), Huho (Who-ho), and Tyyma (Tie-E-muh). These were the Banishers.” Kazn took another sip of his cider and said, “I knew that you’d know their names. Listen, I have to go. Bae is probably waiting for me.” Kazn then walked to the village’s main gate to find Bae. The two then walked out of the village and went home. As soon as they reached the farm, Kazn went straight to bed.









Chapter 2: Vision of the Kyluzn Monk

Kazn was in a deep sleep as his mind dared to dream. He seen the image of a tall man with bulging muscles standing before the great Kyluzn (Kyl-ooz-in) temple of Ro’Dub (Row Dub). Kyluzn was a religion, where the believers only believed in one ultimate god instead of five. The god was, Vwiga (vv-wee-guh). The man had blonde hair and blue eyes. “Who are you?” Kazn asked. “I am Owyh Ryod (Oh-we Re-odd), Protector of the Royal Seal.” The man replied. “What do you want with me?” Kazn asked. “I am here to warn you. Leave Qyhuo, or suffer.” said Owyh as his blonde hair rustled in an unfelt wind.

Suddenly the dream ended, as Kazn woke up covered in a layer of perspiration. “I won’t leave Qyhuo, just because that guy told me to in my dream.” Kazn told himself as he looked toward the window. It was early dawn and Kazn decided to get up and grab something to eat. So he got dressed and headed into the kitchen. He took a chunk of bread off of a loaf and headed outside. He still had about four hours until he had to help Bae in the field, so he decided to walk into town. He was unaware that hundreds upon thousands of ravens were behind him.

Suddenly the ravens flew down in front of him in the form of a giant slender man. “Who-what’s going on?!” Kazn shouted. The man raised a giant fist and swung it at Kazn. Just seconds before it hit, Kazn’s body glowed a strange golden light and his eyes glowed white. As the man’s hand collided with Kazn, his hand and body began to turn into a black mist. As Kazn returned to normal, he fell unconscious.
Chapter 3: Legacy

Kazn woke up in his bed. “Was that a dream?” Kazn asked himself. He told himself, “It has to have been. How else would I have gotten back in my room?” So he got up and headed for the fields. But as he exited the house, he seen no field, only Bae weeping. “What happened here?” Kazn asked as he inspected the charred ground that once was the field. Bae replied, “Honestly Kazn, I don’t know. It appears that someone burnt down the field while we slept, but surely it would have waken one of us up. All that remains is this thick black liquid on the ground.”

Kazn froze. Could it be? As he looked at the liquid, he realized it was the mist from that giant man. It wasn’t a dream after all. Kazn then ran to town. He reached there out of breath, but continued on until he reached Rbad’s house. He knocked frantically until Rbad answered the door. “Kazn? What is it?” Rbad asked. “May I come inside? I’d rather not talk here.” Kazn said. The two entered the house and Kazn explained everything that had happened since the festival.

Once he was finished, Rbad thought long and hard before whispering, “So the bloodline still runs strong.” Kazn asked, “So, do you know what’s going on?” Rbad smirked slightly as he replied, “Kazn Mbyzzwyb, you are a Banisher.” Kazn was stunned. Him a Banisher! “You see, last night when you fought that creature, your power had awakened. When it did, that’s what destroyed your field. It is also what put you back in your bed. But the dream of that monk you had worries me. In the future, you should heed your warnings. That is…if you have a future. By what that monk said, you should have run far from here. I fear it may to late to do so now.” As the two went outside, Orcs(Orange skinned creatures with gnarled fangs, long white spikes that can come out of their forearms, and are seven feet tall) bolted out of the surrounding forest with the most muscular leading the rest.

He shouted, “In the name of the King I, Rar, am to search for the Juhtaprohuznybz (Jewt-a-pro-who-zeni-biz). Where is he?” Rbad turned to Kazn and said, “It appears that time has run out. Here take this.” With that Rbad handed Kazn a sheathed sword. Kazn unsheathed the sword only to find that it had a gold colored blade made from a mixture of gold and steel. “We mustn’t let these fiends kill the townsfolk. We have to fight them.” Rar then grabbed a woman by the throat and held the point of his spike to her throat. “Come out now Juhtaprohuznybz, or see her die.” Kazn then approached Rar and said, “Tell your king that he will die by the hand of Kazn Mbyzzwyb!” Rar released the woman and whispered, “So you’re the Banisher!”








Chapter 4: Crimson Terror

The weapon in Kazn’s grasp seemed heavy and awkward in his calloused hands. He had never used a sword before. But for some reason, the sword felt as if his hand was where it belonged. “The King suspected you’d refuse. If you did, he gave me the order to kill you. Prepare to die!” Rar said as his right-arm spike shot out of his forearm and straight at Kazn.

Kazn barely raised his sword in time to block. Rbad wielding a quarterstaff ran at Rar and swung his staff into Rar’s ribs. As Rar’s left hand clenched his ribs, Kazn’s eyes began to glow white and his body began to glow gold, and Rbad swung his staff towards Rar’s neck in an attempt to paralyze him. But Rar grabbed the staff with his left hand and threw it along with Rbad over his shoulder, harshly to the ground. He then walked over to Kazn with his arm drew back. As he thrust his spike towards Kazn, Bae ran in front of the spike as it impaled itself in his stomach. “K-Kazn…never…l-lose faith…in yourself. N-Never lose your courage.” Bae said in his last breathe as Rar pulled his spike out of Bae’s stomach.

Anger, fury, sadness, and power began to flow through Kazn’s veins. He then said as if instinctly, “Wutng Areugyboguah (light obliteration)!” Suddenly a massive blast of light shot from Kazn’s body in all directions that was the last thing Kazn recalled as he passed out.

Chapter 5: Training Session

Kazn woke up in a bedroll in the middle of the forest. As his vision finally came into focus, he seen Rbad sitting on a fallen tree whittling with two boards. Without even looking up from his whittling, Rbad said, “Good to finally see you up. You might not want to get up too fast. You hit your head pretty hard when you passed out.”

Kazn slowly got up and rubbed his aching head. “What happened after I passed out?” Kazn asked. “Your blast knocked Rar into his own men where he slaughtered them out of anger. As he did that, I grabbed you and a few supplies and headed for the forest. I’ve had to drag you all the way to Dyhsa (Dee-zza), which is where we are now.” Rbad said. “Dyhsa? Isn’t that an elven city?” Kazn asked. “It is. And it is also why we are in the forest. The elves are skeptical of humans no matter their role. We’ll have to earn their trust before we are allowed inside. Thing is, we have to go through Dyhsa in order to pass through the Ryab (Ree-ob) Mountains. But before any of that, I need to explain to you all about the Banishers. Things that most people don’t know. While both men and women become Banishers, their father is the one who must be a Banisher in order for them to become a Banisher. It matters not if the mother is a Banisher or not. But the Banishers were more than those eight, they were their own race. But there were actually nine Banisher heroes instead of eight. His name…his name was Towrogabuq.” Rbad said as Kazn interrupted, “T-the King is-was a Banisher?”

Rbad smiled slightly and nodded, “Aye, he was. You see, Light can easily turn to Dark if used for the wrong reasons. That is what he did. He used the magic of Light to slaughter innocent people who got in his way. Everyone had high hopes for him. Dabr’s skill was nearly the same as Towrogabuq’s. He then claimed his role as King , and his crimson reign had begun. When the eight heroes faced him, he easily killed seven of them; Syiz, Nomyz, Dobz, Jaggz, Huho, Nybo, and Tyyma. Dabr’s skill is what helped him survive that battle.” Kazn the interrupted, “Wait, Dabr is alive?! He would have to be at least four thousand and twenty two years old! So do all Banishers have long lives?”

Rbad, still whittling the boards, replied, “They do. While many believe that the king has a ring that gives him a long life, he doesn’t have one, it’s just his power. Dabr was dramatically changed after the battle, however. He became a nomad of Owfobuo (oh-fah-boo-oh), our beloved continental country, and soon grew old. As he passed through Qyhuo, I became a close friend to him. He then gave me his sword, Sob’Bov (sob-bah-v), the sword I gave you. He told me, ‘Give that sword to a person you deem worthy to wield it. But be warned, only a Banisher of great power can use my sword.’ ”

The statement dumbfounded Kazn. He felt power suddenly coursing through his veins. “Dabr said that?? How did he know that more Banishers existed? I mean, the Banishers are a dieing race. How did they start to become extinct?” Kazn asked. Rbad held up the board he was whittling up in the sunlight then went back to whittling as he replied, “Towrogabuq hunted down and killed all of them except Dabr, or so I thought until I found out you were a Banisher. Very few must have survived or evaded the King’s blade. Maybe Dabr knew because he was the father of some unknown Banisher. We may never know. Listen Kazn, as the only known living Banisher, a great burden has been placed on your shoulders. No matter how dark the world seems, never falter from your path, for your legacy is to be told of you as a person, not you as a Banisher.”

A hard, solid lump then formed in Kazn’s throat. “Before we can earn the trust of the elves, I’m going to have to train you in sword craft and on how to control your magic. Can’t have a Banisher killed during combat because he can barely use his sword. Here catch.” Rbad said as he tossed to Kazn one of the boards he had been whittling. The board now looked like an exact replica of the sword Rbad had given him during the battle. Rbad too had one of these wooden swords. Over the next few hours, Rbad had taught Kazn all of the moves and combinations of sword craft until they stopped briefly for a light meal of bread and dried meat.

As soon as he was done, Rbad stood with the wooden sword in his hand. As Kazn finished the last piece of his dried meat, Rbad yelled, “Defend yourself!” Before Kazn could react, Rbad swung the sword into his ribs. Kazn fell to the ground clasping his side as Rbad said, “Too slow. Your reaction speed determines everything in battle.” Kazn picked himself up off the ground and yelled, “What was that about?! I wasn’t expecting that!” Rbad replied, “In battle you may not expect everything, so you should at least try to expect the unexpected. Learn this lesson, and learn it well. That is all for today.”

As Kazn rubbed his bruised side, Rbad pulled a thick book from a bag near by and said to Kazn, “Now to help you control your magic. This book contains all the spells of all six elemental magics and explains what they can and cannot do. I want to try and have you do the first exercise, light manipulation. You see our fire? I want you to use the Hodyz (Ha-dee-z) words; wutng dohufiwoguah, meaning light manipulation, to take away the light from the fire but not it’s warmth. The Hodyz language, is a language laden with magical properties. While you can’t tell untruths or lie while speaking it, you can manipulate the words to say an untruth if you have no knowledge or weather or not it is true. That is why magic is focused through the words of the Hodyz language, so the meaning is clear. Now try it.”

Kazn held his right hand out in front of him and yelled, “Wutng Dohufiwoguah!” Suddenly the light from the fire disappeared leaving slowly disappearing logs. Kazn smirked at his newfound ability. So this became their routine. They’d spar in the morning, go hunting for food by midday, and would practice magic in the evening. Soon Kazn could wield a sword with great skill, both quickly and effectively. He was also able to create huge shields and shoot blasts of light magic. “You’re doing well Kazn. Now as a test to all of your magic practice, I want you to use only magic and fight me. I will use the wooden sword while your weapon is your knowledge and understanding of Hodyz. Ready? Begin!” Rbad said as he charged at Kazn.

Kazn backed up slightly and said, “Wutng rwozg (Light blast).” The blast hit Rbad in the shoulder and knocked him to the ground. Rbad rolled close to Kazn then thrust his sword at him, but Kazn quickly said, “Wutng Robbuyb (light barrier).” A huge translucent yellow orb engulfed Kazn as Rbad’s wooden blade approached Kazn’s skin. As the sword collided with the barrier, the sword shot out of Rbad’s hand to the ground about forty feet away. Kazn then laughed, “Ruhmuht Wutng (Binding light).”

Kazn’s shield suddenly turned into a huge hand and quickly forced Rbad to the ground. As Rbad accepted defeat, Kazn released the spell. “You…you have done well Kazn. I…have nothing left to teach you. Now, however, we must find a way to the trust of the Elves. I just have no idea how to do so.” As the two sat quietly thinking, Kazn heard the faint sound of a horn. “Wait, that was the sound of an Orc war horn! They’ve found us!” Kazn yelled. “We must warn the Elves!” Rbad said.

The two bolted towards the village in a frantic speed. As they approached the gate, and Kazn yelled up to the Elven sentry, “Orcs are quickly approaching the city. They’ll be on us all within the hour. I am a Banisher, I can help with this battle!” The sentry replied, “ Orcs? A Banisher? …Okay, I’m opening the gate“. As the gate opened, the two walked in and were greeted by a tall muscular man with brown eyes, black hair, and long pointy ears. “I am Kabdihmab, and this is my village. I founded this village seven hundred years ago, when Towrogabuq’s power was still growing. Why now of all times would he send his legion of Orcs here?” asked the Elf.

“Because I am a Banisher.” Kazn replied. Kabdihmab gasped at Kazn’s words. He then said, “As King of Dyhsa, I Kabdihmab welcome you Banisher into our home, in this, the time before a great battle. I’ll have all women and children sent to the caves in the mountains, while the men prepare the village for battle.” Kabdihmab then turned his attention to Rbad and uttered, “Rezd is that you?” Rbad replied, “Eya, oy op.” Kabdihmab laughed, “As always your knowledge of the elven language impresses me. Come, let us talk more in private as we ready for battle.” The two then went into a large stone building as an Elf approached Kazn and asked, “You’re the Banisher, right? Before the battle, I could show you around town and get you something to eat.”

Kazn sensed something wasn’t quite right about this particular Elf, but quickly took up the offer. “By the way, I’m Ohtywo(oh-tee-woe).” said the Elf. “I am Kazn.” Kazn replied as Ohtywo gave him a bowl of meatless stew and a tour of the village. As soon as they had finished both, the sentry yelled, “Orcs are approaching in Five…Four…Three…” Suddenly the loud sound of an Orc war horn sounded before Rar and his army came crashing through the gate. “Find the Banisher, kill everyone. Leave none alive.” Rar growled to his troops. Kazn unsheathed his sword, Sob’ Bov and charged at Rar. “So the Boy comes to us. Perfect.” Rar murmured as his spikes extended out of his forearm.

“You will die for all you have done!” Kazn yelled as he swung his sword at Rar’s waist. Rar blocked the strike and tried to stab Kazn. Kazn quickly yelled, “Wutng Robbuyb (light barrier)!” As Kazn’s orb engulfed Rar’s spike, Ohtywo unsheathed a small light-weight katana and stabbed it into Rar’s back. As Rar roared in pain, Kazn said, “Ruhnuht wutng (binding light)!” As Rar was thrust to the ground, Kazn lifted his sword above Rar’s head and said, “I hope you rot in oblivion.” He then brought his sword down into Rar’s head killing him. Together, Kazn and Ohtywo killed many of the Orcs, until the Orcs decided to flee. Kazn then turned to Ohtywo and said, “Thank you Ohtywo. You are a good warrior, and a good man.”

Ohtywo’s face turned solemn as he said, “About that…I-I am no man.” Ohtywo then removed his helmet, revealing long blonde hair and blue eyes. The Elf then said, “I am Ilytmi Tirub(elite-me T-rube), princess of Dyhsa.”

















Chapter 6: a death, an alliance, a confrontation, a choice

“P-Princess?” Kazn asked dumb-founded. “Yes. My father Kabdihmab, wanted me and all the women and children in the village to flee. I pretended to be a man so that I could fight. Looks like it paid off.” As they walked, the sight of a broken, twisted body caught their eyes.

Kazn knew who this was. He ran over to the body to find it breathing faintly. “Rbad! Hold on, I’ll try to heal you!” Kazn said as he gathered his magical energy. “I-It will do no good. But…but before I die, please…please call me by my real name…Dabr.” said the dieing man. As shock filled Kazn, he asked, “You’re Dabr? That would explain a lot old friend. Now rest. Though your journey of life will soon be coming to an end, your journey of death hath yet to begin.”

Kazn then found a tear running down his cheek. Today died a man who forever changed the face of Owfobuo. Kabdihmab approached Kazn and his daughter in haste. He was glad to have won the battle; angry at Ilytmi for disobeying him; and sad for Dabr and some of his people’s deaths. As he looked at Dabr’s body, he yelled for all to hear, “Great people of Dyhsa! Though this is a victorious day, it is a day of mourning for one of Owfobuo’s greatest heroes. We will give him the proper burial, worthy of a man of his stature.” Ilytmi placed her slender hand on Kazn’s shoulder and said, “I’m sorry about the old one. He was very dear to you wasn’t he? At least he’ll receive the proper burial.” As if he had gone crazy, Kazn murmured, “Two lives….two lives. Two lives have they taken from me. Both like father’s to me. The King will pay for every life he’s taken, in blood! Ilytmi, I’m heading to the Kyluzn temple in the mountains, and from there, to the Imperial city. Towrogabuq will get the punishment he so deserves.”

Ilytmi thought then said, “And I will accompany you.” Kazn jumped then said, “What?! It’ll be too dangerous and I don’t want to put you in harm’s way.” Ilytmi replied, “Don’t worry, I can take care of myself.” So the two agreed and waited two days after Dabr’s emotional funeral before leaving. They walked into the mountains around daybreak and continued on until midday when they stopped to eat a small bowl of stew. As they walked, Kazn noticed that it was growing colder and snow had begun to fall. But still they continued on until the snow was coming down so hard that it blinded them.

The temperature still grew colder until the rocks on the ground were turned to ice. “We need to get out of this storm!” Kazn said as he stumbled upon a cave in one of the mountains. They both quickly entered the cave and waited for the storm to die down. But instead, it grew stronger. On the opposite end of the cave, Kazn saw a faint light followed by the sound of voices. “There’s someone else here!” Kazn said as he and Ilytmi began walking towards the light.

Dwarves filled the cavern. One Dwarf was singing, “Xy toky ok mvy tifkokq. Xifn. Xy toky ok mvy yhykokq. Xifn.” As the two approached the singing Dwarf, the Dwarf stopped and gazed in awe at the two. “What be a Human and an Elf doing up here in the mountains?” asked the Dwarf. So Kazn explained to the Dwarf all that had happened up until then. “Qfyum Qijl, you’ve been through a lot. I , Dalmok Qaptuk(dal-mock cap-took), shall accompany you, oh great Banisher.” The Dwarf said. “Please. Call me Kazn. This here is Ilytmi” Kazn said as he gestured towards Ilytmi. “To oppose the strongest kingdom in Owfobuo is a deadly task, neigh impossible with just the three of us. We’ll need allies.” Dalmok said.

Dalmok then lead the two, to a large shaft inside the cavern. The three got in the shaft and suddenly it started to lower. “Where are you taking us?” Ilytmi asked paranoid. Though allies, Elves and Dwarves had always been skeptical of one another. “A place where many surface dwellers fear to go, for many end up dead. This is the home of the Dark Elves, also called Mbal in Hodyz. We must be careful down here. Only prince Vame Znywwye allows surface dwellers safety in his palace. His people, however, go around killing one another without remorse. Death surrounds us from all sides.” Dalmok said. “Why are we going to see this Prince Vame for?’ Kazn asked. “Vame, son of King Eediq and heir to the throne, is not as ruthless as his father. He tries to protect us surface dwellers and to overthrow the surface’s King Towrogabuq, so that his people may return to the surface world.” Dalmok said.

Ilytmi shivered at the thought of the Mbal. Mbal despised the surface Elves because they managed to stay on the surface, while they were forced to the second surface world of Ihmyb Mobj. Now was the first time Kazn had gotten a good look at the Dwarf now leading the party. He had a naturally tanned skin, brown eyes, long black hair that hung to his shoulders, and a long braided beard that hung to his waist. He then looked at Ilytmi who was standing beside him. She looked as though she were the same age as Kazn, though her blue eyes looked as though she had seen quite a lot in her life time. But then again, so had he. He studied the slender Elf as the party moved on.

He then looked back at Dalmok trying to determine the Dwarf’s age. He looked ancient, but he had just seen that all Dwarves looked like that. “Dalmok, how old are you?” Kazn asked. Dalmok replied, “Seventy nine and still young. Now how old you two be?” Kazn replied, “Fifteen.” Ilytmi then replied, “I too am fifteen.” Dalmok laughed, “Two youngsters and a geezer are trying to overthrow Towrogabuq. This may be harder than expected.” The trio then began to see a large stone-carved castle-looking building ahead of them. The closer they approached, the larger the building became. “This is the Mbal palace. Try to do nothing to get us killed.” Dalmok said.

As the three entered the palace, Kazn had gotten the odd feeling that they were being followed. Kazn unsheathed his sword and continues walking. As they reached the door to Vame’s throne room, hundreds of tall, azure skinned, long pointy eared, red eyed, Mbal with a variety of hair colors and styles, seemed to come out of the walls and floor. “It’s an ambush!” Kazn yelled as he ran his sword through the heart of one Mbal. Dalmok then took out a large hammer from a carrier on his back and knocked one Mbal into many others. Ilytmi held her hands out in front of her in the form of a circle and said in Elvish, “Kdq iyd aqawoap ki pkiqa!” Suddenly the Mbal began to turn to stone and their eyes rolled back into their head. “I didn’t know you could do that.” Kazn said impressed. “What on earth did you say lass? “ Dalmok asked. Ilytmi replied, “I said, turn our enemies to stone.” Suddenly the throne room door swung open and a Mbal with burgundy eyes, light red hair and no facial hair approached them. “ I apologize for the way my people treat you. Such a fate is right for them. Please come in to the throne room. We can talk more there.” said the Prince as he lead the three into the large room. “It is good to see you again Dalmok, it has been a while.” Vame said as looked upon the old Dwarf. “Ten years to be exact. Yes it has been long. Last time I seem you, you were nineteen years old.” Dalmok said. “And still heir to a throne I don’t want.” Vame murmured. “Pleased to meet you Prince Vame.” Kazn said as he bowed. “Please, I need no such formalities here.” Vame said. “These two be Ilytmi and Kazn.” Dalmok said as he made his way to a simply carved stone seat.

Dalmok then explained everything that was going on. After the many hours of telling the story had passed, Vame replied, “This could explain why the Orcs have been spotted in so many places. Though I would never be able to come back to Ihmyb Mobj, I am coming with you. If I stay I am cursed, and if I go I am cursed. I want not to be the future king of such ravenous murderers, so I think that going with you would be a better choice.” Vame said. “That is good, we could use allies.” Kazn said as he helped Dalmok out of his seat. “Behind my throne is a tile that will transport us to the Dwarven Caverns. From there we will head for the Kyluzn temple, and from there to Gyubd.” Vame said as the four stepped on the tile and were sent to the Dwarven cavern. But all wan not right. All of the Dwarves that were once living, were now dead.


Chapter 7: Vbolpabm Habdoh, of squad Mywgo

Vbolpabm Habdoh was just an average Goblin. He had dark olive green skin, large orange oval eyes, a huge nose, short flexible pointed ears, two dull teeth that always hung out of his mouth on both sides, and he had long black braided hair. He continued his trek through the Fwotiym Swamp, and sighed. His squad mates restricted him from ever fulfilling his true potential. He was the best archer in all of Owfobuo. He could shoot off fifty arrows all at once, and all of them would hit his intended target. But still, he could improve.

He walked until he reached a large chapel-like building. He strode into the temple looking for one specific person, Owyh Ryod. Vbolpabm walked into the central chamber where Owyh waited. “So here you are again Vbolpabm. Here again to curse upon those who raised you? Who saved your life? If not, then why are you here?” Owyh asked. “This reunion has just started and already you throw countless accusations at me. I didn’t turn my back on the ways of the temple, Owyh. In fact, it was very much the other way around. But, what’s done is done. Let’s put the past behind us and focus on the now. I am here because the God of Kyluzn wanted me to be here.” Vbolpabm said. “Did they now? And for what reason?” Owyh asked.

Vbolpabm replied, “That is why I’m here, to discover that reason.” Owyh then muttered, “Well, God does work in weird ways. A Banisher will be coming here in a matter of days. That is if nothing kills him however. I sense his power rapidly approaching. Your fate, as well as mine, may be tied in with that of the Banisher. We’ll have to wait and see.”






















Chapter 8: The Silent Killer

“Who could have done such a thing?!” Kazn asked. Vame’s face became solemn with shock and hopelessness as he said, “So my people have released the Jbojyh (jib-oh-jee)
upon you. The Jbojyh, however, attacked not you but the Dwarves. This is horrible.” Kazn tensed then asked, “What is the Jbojyh?” Vame replied, “It is a serpent with silver skin, black eyes, a dragon head, and blood stained fangs. It levitates through the air and makes no sound as it approaches you. Nothing can kill it.”

Kazn then replied, “With my power, I can kill it! I will avenge the Dwarves who were killed by that thing!” Vame shook his head and replied, “Just because you can do something, doesn’t always mean you should.” The Jbojyh is resistant to light magic, but is vulnerable to sunlight. Hurry, we must make it outside before it tries to kill us!” So together the four ran towards the exit to the cavern. But blocking the entrance to the cavern was the Jbojyh.

The creature looked at Kazn with it’s big glorious eyes and said in a voice that only Kazn could hear telepathically, “What is it you want Surface Dweller? You are not one from Ihmyb Mobj. What do you want?” Kazn then heard Dalmok say, “He has yet to attack us. Let’s attack him before he tries to kill us!” Kazn then yelled, “No! He is confused, he wants to know what we want. H-He asked me telepathically.” Ilytmi then asked, “Was that all he said?” Kazn replied, “Yeah it is…wait.” The Jbojyh then said to Kazn, “If you can best me in a test of the mind, I will allow you all to go free but if you lose I must kill you. We will test each other using riddles. When either of us lose, the other has won and may do as they wish. I’ll go first: You and I are one and the same, though I grow by the time of day. Though sometimes unseen, still I am there.” Kazn thought then replied, “A shadow.” The Jbojyh growled and replied, “Correct, you turn.”

Kazn then said, “A ruby is to blood, as water is to sapphire, as green vegetation is to what?” The Jbojyh laughed and replied, “A weird riddle this is. But clearly the answer is an Emerald.” Kazn sighed, “Correct, your turn.” The Jbojyh’s head came closer to Kazn’s as it said, “Blazes escape my mighty maw. My tail a rudder through the wind, with wings of destiny.” Kazn thought long and hard before replying, “It is a Dragon.” The Jbojyh huffed and replied, “ Correct, your turn Kazn.”

Kazn then asked, “If one is sixty four and those sixty four travel to the Capital City to kill another one whish is sixty four and are victorious, how are there now?” The Jbojyh shook it’s head and replied, “In all of my years, I’ve never heard anything like this before. But my answer is sixty four.” Kazn smiled and then said, “You are incorrect. The answer is one.” The Jbojyh laughed and replied, “So it is. Well then Kazn Mbyzzwyb, Banisher of Darkness, you have passed. Now may you go.” Suddenly the Jbojyh just disappeared into thin air and Kazn told the others what had just occurred. They then headed for the Kyluzn Temple.



Chapter 9: Party Of Six

The four reached the temple in a frantic, two day, nonstop journey. Upon reaching the temple, they were greeted by Owyh Ryod and a Goblin. “Welcome to the Kyluzn temple, Banisher. Please, let us know the hardships of your journey here,” Owyh begged. Kazn then explained everything to Owyh in excruciating detail. After many hours had passed and Kazn had finished, Owyh replied, “So it is as I feared. Towrogabuq has the Maffwytohtybz under his command.”

Kazn tilted his head to one side and asked, “The Maffwytohtybz?” Owyh replied, “Maffz for short, these creatures are just like the man made from birds you fought when your power first awakened. With the Orcs and the Maffz, Towrogabuq truly has an unstoppable army. Our only hope of standing a chance against him would be the weapons of Pogy (Pah-jee). They are locked away in the tallest tower of the largest castle in the farthest island from the mainland. Guarded by the Dragon’s of Osab (oh-sob), they will not be easy to obtain. But still, we must try.” Kazn then asked, “Does that mean you’ll be traveling with us?”

Owyh smiled and replied, “It does. I believe that my…friend…here will be accompanying us as well. He goes by the Hodyz name Vbolpabm. Speak with him if you like, though his kind are…different than most.” Kazn then walked over to the Goblin and asked, “ Owyh said you’d be traveling with us. Is that true?”

Vbolpabm stared straight into Kazn’s eye’s and replied, “Could be, though I don’t want to. Why would I, a Goblin, want to travel with the likes of you, a Human? Truth is, I don’t. Just because you’re a Banisher doesn’t mean much to me anyway. Though no one is truly created equal, everyone dies in the end. No matter what.” Kazn then asked, “Why such a negative outlook?” Vbolpabm then looked past Kazn’s eyes as if looking back into his past before replying, “ People…dear to me…were killed right before my eyes. I tried to help them recover, but to no avail. They ended up dieing for nothing. I won’t let that happen to me again. I’ll go with you Banisher, but my reasons are my own.” After a few days of rest and relaxation, the six began their journey to Abgnuom, the castle that held the weapons of Pogy.













Chapter 10: Mboz’ Wyaho

After a week of traveling, the six reached the prosperous city of Mboz’ Wyaho. The city had a mill, a ranch, a farm, a grocer, a weapon shop, a healer’s hut, a large river, and a historian. As they walked, Kazn noticed Ilytmi’s beauty. He also noticed her unique smell of cedar and pine needles.

Ilytmi noticed him eyeing her and asked, “What is it Kazn?” Kazn blushed slightly as he turned his gaze elsewhere and replied, “Nothing.” As the party disbanded, a human-like cat person with dark blue fur, gray stripes, and purple eyes approached Kazn and said in a masculine voice, “ You’d best be leaving this pathetic excuse of a town. There’s nothing here except slavers and murderers By the end of the day, you will see Mboz’ Wyaho for what it truly is.” The creature then walked past Kazn and out of the city.

As Kazn continued walking through the city, he seen many more of the creatures doing back breaking work for the Humans. “This isn’t right,” Kazn whispered. As he made his way to the town’s center, he heard a moderately older man saying, “Good people of Mboz’ Wyaho, listen to my words. The filth of the non-humans will plague our streets no more! This glorious day we have managed to capture an Elf, a Dwarf, a Goblin, and a Mbal who rummaged through our streets. We will show our Habh slaves the result in revolting against us! We will kill these non-humans as well as our slaves. No longer will non-humans be a problem for Mboz” Wyaho!” As the man began showing the captured prisoners, Kazn realized that the prisoners were actually his friends.

Owyh then came running toward him and said, “ We have to free both them and the slaves. I’ll free the slaves, you worry about the others.” Kazn held out his hand and said, “Izy wutng ga rbyoj gny rahms gnog ruhm de pbuyhmz (use light to break the bonds that bind my friends)!” Suddenly the ropes binding the rest of the group broke, allowing them to draw their weapons. The man yelled, “Kill them! Kill them all! Leave none alive!” As the entire village attacked, Kazn drew his sword and ran at the nearest villager.

As he cut the villager in half, Vbolpabm began shooting numerous arrows at the villagers. As many of the villagers fell over dead, Ilytmi beheaded one of the villagers while stabbing another in the process. Dalmok smashed the skulls of several villagers before he swung his hammer into another villager’s ribs. Vame moved lethally and agilely through the fluidity of his movements, as his dagger impaled itself in the flesh of one villager, cut open their veins, and moved on to do the same to another. Kazn impaled his blade through the stomach of one villager, pulled it out, and quickly said, “Gnbyy nihmbym zuqge mytbyyz wutng rwozg (three hundred sixty degrees light blast)!”


Suddenly from his body shot a blast of light that engulfed the enemies running towards him from all sides. Now only the man who started the riot was left alive, standing at the town’s center. As Kazn approached, the man screeched, “P-please don’t kill me. I’m sorry for my actions!” Kazn re-sheathed his sword as he grabbed the man by the collar and used his free arm to point to the carnage as he said, “Now your sorry, as soon as you see danger heading your way? Look at this, look at all the innocent deaths you have caused. These people followed you because they believed in you as a true leader. All you led them to was death.”

As he let go of the man’s collar, the man said, “But you were the ones who killed them.” Kazn replied, “Because you had them attack us!” Suddenly there was the sound of the snap of a bow string and the man fell to the ground. Kazn immediately turned his gaze towards Vbolpabm, who held his bow out stretched. Vbolpabm replied, “He was reaching for the bottle of zymurgy oil on his belt. He planned on throwing it to the ground and killing us all. You see, on impact the bottle would shatter creating a slight spark that would light the oil and engulf us all. I had no choice but to kill him.” But the sounds of battle still rang on as Kazn realized that Owyh was still trying to free the Habh slaves. As the group ran towards the sound of clashing swords, they seen Owyh wielding a large iron claymore, cutting through countless villagers.

Though nearly all of the slaves lay dead, four of the surviving slaves stood behind Owyh. “By the power of Kyluzn, I , Owyh Ryod, will not let you kill these Habh!” Owyh yelled as he swung his blade in an arc that decapitated three of his opponents. As the villagers tried closing in on the five, a raging lightning storm suddenly began striking the villagers, leaving everyone else alone. As the last villager fell dead, the storm ceased and the five slowly approached the group. “How did you do that lad?” Dalmok asked. Owyh replied, “By provoking the power of the Kyluzn god, I can sometimes get help out of tight situations. But only randomly does this work.” A female slave then approached Kazn and asked, “Have you seen my brother? He managed to escape before this…this slaughter. He has bark blue fur with gray stripes, and purple eyes. Please tell me, have you seen him?” Kazn thought back to the first Habh, as Owyh and the man had called them, and replied, “I seen him leave the city if not moments before this slaughter began. It appeared as though he was headed towards the Imperial City, but I can’t say for sure.”

The Habh looked at Kazn and said, “Then I am coming with you, for I Jemuazza Gymtassa (gem-u-ah-za gym-tah-ss-ah), youngest of the last two surviving members of the noble Jognob (jog-knob) blood, will find my brother, Cpyskap!” Kazn replied, “The road we walk is a dangerous one; filled with peril and death. You may come with us Jemuazza Gymtassa, but just know that as soon as you walk our path, there is no turning back.”

Jemuazza looked at him with her pink eyes as the wind stirred her black stripped purple fur, before replying, “I have seen battle, experienced it. I-I want to embrace it. Owyh didn’t kill all of those villagers, I killed most of them until one of them badly wounded my shoulder.” Owyh then spoke up and said, “ ’Tis true. The girl is extremely talented in the wielding of a whip.” Kazn looked at the girl and asked, “How old are you Jemuazza?” She replied, “I am twelve years old. Old enough to fight!” Kazn smiled and said, “Well Jemuazza, welcome to the team.” Jemuazza hugged Kazn as he tried to pull away from her and the others laughed. Afterwards, the seven continued on their way to Abgnuom.

Chapter 11: Assassin’s Hand

The seven traveled for what seemed like weeks, when in truth it had been just a few days, until they came upon a large cave opening hidden by some trees. There was also a faint glow coming from inside the cave. “There is an odd chill coming from this cave.” Dalmok said. “Some one practices the dark arts within this cave.” Vame replied.

He was right. Kazn could hear the faint sound of Hodyzian incantations being read aloud. “…Rbuht rovj go wupy gnazy lna nocy muym pbad gny nohmz ap o Rohuznyb (Bring back to life those who died from the hands of a Banisher)!” Kazn repeated the words to the others, and the seven thought about what should be done. “Maybe we should check this out.” Dalmok said in a boisterous and proud voice. “I don’t know, the dark arts are said to be able to do such things like erasing one’s mind and giving them a whole new identity. It is a very powerful and saddening power. We’d best leave well enough alone.” Vame said matter-of-factly. “And what if the inhabitants work for Towrogabuq? Hmm? In the end we’d only be hurting ourselves.” Ilytmi said.

Vbolpabm then spoke up and said, “Whatever we do, we’d best do it now before the inhabitants of this cave notice that we are here.” Kazn then said boldly, “So it’s settled then. We go inside.” The seven ventured inside the cave where many black hooded robe wearing people stood on either side watching them as they made their way to a separate chamber where a lone robed figure stood among fourteen unlit torches. The group then heard the figure utter from under his hood, “Wutng” Suddenly one by one the torches lit, until the whole chamber was fully lit. The figure then turned toward them revealing a pale whit disfigured face.

“Why do you come here and disturb the teachings of the Assassin’s Hand?” The figure asked harshly. “Assassin’s Hand?” Ilytmi asked. “Yes. It is a rare trait that few possess which allows only them to use the dark arts. Now I’ll ask you again; why are you here? Did Towrogabuq send you?” If so then I will not be an easy target to kill.” The figure replied. Kazn tasted a faint taste of bitterness at the mention of the King’s name. “We do not work for Towrogabuq, quite the opposite really. We had only seen the light coming from this cave from the outside. I-I heard Hodyzian runes.” Kazn said.

“Ah, I see. So do you always stumble into caves with a strange light coming from inside them, or is this one the first?” The figure asked sarcastically. “Who are you? You look awfully familiar to me, even with your disfigured face.” Dalmok said.

“I am Cigduweg Ql. Jiggeq (ss-ihg-do-weg keel-jig-eck). Cig for short.” said the man. “S-I-G?” Jemuazza asked spelling it out. “No, C-I-G,” Cig said. “Now I remember you! You fought un the last attempt to overthrow Towrogabuq, right?” Dalmok asked. Cig replied, “That’s right. I was among the first legion sent to attack Towrogabuq’s forces. Most of us made it into the throne room when you Dwarves where supposed to charge the castle and fight your way into the throne room. You guys never did.” Dalmok hastily replied, “Because the Orcs ambushed us with such skill, we couldn’t reach the throne room until it was far too late! When we got there, there was no one left alive.”

Cig replied, “And that my friend is where you are wrong. I was left alive. And surprisingly, Towrogabuq spared me. If only because I had the Assassin’s Hand. He taught me the dark arts, and was going to give me a drop of his blood making me a Banisher of Light.” Kazn then asked, “So…are you?” Cig replied, “God no boy! I ran! But before I made it to safety, Towrogabuq found me and used his power against me, That is what left me disfigured, and nearly dead. I ran to this very cave, and have remained here, teaching others with Assassin’s Hand, ever since. I hold no grudge against you Dwarves, but against myself for joining the attack. I want Towrogabuq to die, to die as painfully as I died. I died not literally, but my soul was ripped from my body by that beast. I sense that you too hate the king and wish to de-throne him. I’m coming along, whether you want me to or not. You are going to need some serious allies. While I am gone I will have my apprentice take over.” Cig said.

“Alright, but what of the incantations?” Vame asked. “I was trying to amass an army of fallen warriors killed by Towrogabuq. But I have to be where their remains are to do so. If I can, we might just stand a chance against Towrogabuq’s forces.” Cig replied. “Then you can raise all the enemies that fall to my blade. For I am a Banisher.” Kazn said. “I’m not surprised. Few can truly understand Hodyz. Now let us go, Banisher, and let us hope we are victorious in our quests.” Cig said. The eight then walked out of the cave and continued on to Abgnuom.


Chapter 12: Gyubd

Though it had taken them nearly a month, the group had finally reached the ocean side city of Gyubd. In the town’s center were three unlikely looking creatures who were dressed like pirates. The first was an Imp (one foot tall creatures with a long rat-like tail, eyes of a cat, feet of a rabbit, ears of a Goblin, and a chubby face that looked like that of a bulldog’s. They had tiny claws for hands, could walk on two legs, and could speak any given language. They are also very proficient in magic.) with yellow fur, orange eyes, wearing a pirates vest and had a large hoop earring on the tip of his tail.

The next was a Puznfybzah (pu-zin-fee-biz-ah)(a creature with navy blue skin and baby blue eyes who could live in water or on land do to their gills and lungs. They are usually tall and scrawny but have very weak upper body strength. They make up for this in speed.) wearing no shirt, raggedy brown slacks, a large hoop earring in his left ear, and yellow and orange stripped pirate bandanna around his head.

The last was a Harpy (human-like creature with winged arms, long claw-like fingers, and talons for feet.) wearing an all black pirate bandanna around his neck, a blue pirate’s vest, a big hoop earring on his right ear, a gray eye patch over his left eye, and a captain’s hat sitting above a thick layer of greasy slicked back blonde hair.

Suddenly the Imp asked, “Hello traveler, what brings you to Gyubd?” The Puznfybzah then asked, “Come looking for wares?” The Harpy then asked, “Or are you looking for a couple of ship hands?” Ilytmi and Jemuazza giggled at the trio, as Kazn said, “Actually, we need a ship.”

The Imp and Puznfybzah’s gaze looked down at the ground as the Harpy said, “We may be able to help ye with that. I’m Bin (bin), the Imp is Raui (rah-oo-ee), and the Puzn is Osdyicf (aus-dee-ick-if).” Vame then asked, “Puzn?” Osdyicf replied, “It is an abbreviation of my people’s title.” Cig raised his visible eyebrow and asked, “How is it that you can help us?”

Bin smiled and replied, “We can commandeer a ship, but we’d need a ship first. You can get one in the harbor, but till cost you some serious money.” Cig asked skeptically, “And so what do you propose?” Bin smiled a toothy smile and said, “There is a ship in the harbor that id not for sale. It is owned by the Imperial guard for naval travel. If you can manage to free the boat, we can pilot it for you.”

Dalmok asked, “Why this particular ship?” Bin Replied, “That ship is the Rwovj Fyobw (rr-wah-vv-j fee-oh-bow), the fastest ship to ever sail the sea. It be every seaworthy soul’s dream to sail a ship as fine as ‘attin. We’d be happy to assist yous in freeing the Rwovj Fyobw. The ship is heavily guarded from the dock, but not a soul was on it’s surface.” Raui then said, “Looks like all we have to do is manage to climb aboard.” Vbolpabm then said, “Raui, I could get you into the ship. You can then unlock the door on the back of the ship that leads to the captain’s quarters. Osdyicf can then swim underneath the water and climb aboard. From there, the two of you distract the guards as Kazn knocks them unconscious with magic. The rest of us climb aboard, and we’re sailing free.”

Vbolpabm then picked up Raui, and shot him like an arrow through an open starboard window. So far his plan was working; Osdyicf distracted the guards as Kazn said, “Wutng jhavj-aig (light knock-out)!” Suddenly the guards fell unconscious and the others climbed aboard. After putting down the sails, raising the anchor, and cutting the rope to the dock, the eleven then sailed out into open sea. But unknown to them, they were being watched.




Part 2: The Bloodline


Chapter 13: The Pweuht Migvndoh (pu-way-oo-t mig-ven-doh)

The eleven had been sailing for a month out in the open water. It was strange; the wind itself had stopped a few days earlier, and not a breeze had blown since. The sky’s were clear and the sun beat down upon the ship. There were four sections of five roomed crew quarters on the ship. Kazn, Owyh, Vame, and Vbolpabm shared the first one; Cig, Dalmok, Raui, and Osdyicf shared the second; only Jemuazza and Ilytmi shared the third; and Bin used the captain’s quarters.

Kazn stood out looking at the sea as Ilytmi approached him. “I do not trust the one in black.” She said. “Why is that?” Kazn asked as he looked into her beautiful blue eyes. “He followed Towrogabuq once, he may fail in not doing so again. If I were you, I’d keep a close eye on that one.” Ilytmi replied as she looked out at the sea. “Beautiful, isn’t it?” Ilytmi asked. “Aye, it is.” Kazn replied. Jemuazza then walked toward them with Raui on her right shoulder and asked, “So, what’s going on with you two today?” Kazn replied, “Not much more than what’s been going on for the past couple of days.” Raui sighed and asked, “Wonder what’s for dinner tonight?” Jemuazza replied, “Whatever it is, Dalmok is cooking.” Kazn then said, “I just hope it’s better than his dried meat covered in Dwarven ale.” Raui then laughed, “I’d rather eat the bottle the ale was in, tan eat that stuff.”

Raui then jumped from Jemuazza’s shoulder to Kazn’s, as Jemuazza and Ilytmi started a conversation about dinner. Kazn walked to the opposite side of the ship and Raui said, “I see how you look at her, the passion in your gaze. After you have lost so much, you still look for something to keep you from breaking down. She is what your heart and your mind clings to for some form of motivation. Have you told her?”

Kazn then asked, “ Told her what?” Raui replied, “That you love her. Have you told her that she is all that fills your heart and dreams? Believe it or not, she feels the same for you.” Kazn then asked, “How do you know this?!” Raui smirked and replied, “Jemuazza spoke with her about it as I am with you. Jemuazza and I are great friends, we tell each other everything. We are trying to get you two to meet under the mast tonight when the moon is full.” Kazn then replied, “Then…I-I’ll be there.” Raui then jumped from Kazn’s shoulder to the deck below and smiled as he winked at Kazn and said, “Good luck.”

From then until dinner he was in good spirits until he seen that Dalmok had made his usual dried meat covered in Dwarven ale. He ate the meal begrudgingly then headed outside for the mast. The night was dark, lit only by a ribbon of moonlight, as the hypnotizing rhythm of the water slapping against the side of the ship seemed to calm Kazn’s nerves. He peered over at the mast to see a lone figure standing under it. He walked over to it to see that it was Ilytmi.

“Ilytmi, I-I have feelings for you. Feelings of passion. In fact Ilytmi, I believe…I believe I love you.” Kazn said. Ilytmi’s eyes seemed as though they were about to burst with tears as she murmured so softly that only Kazn could hear, “I love you too.” Suddenly two blades forming an x under Ilytmi’s neck appeared and the scarred face of a man said, “Make one move and the girl dies, Banisher.”

A second man with a silver Mohawk seemed to walk out of the shadows towards the three. “At long last, I have found you Banisher of Darkness. But I Osjiw (ahs-jew), disciple of Towrogabuq Banisher of Light, have found you in order to kill you.” Said the man as he held up his left arm revealing that half of his forearm was gone. “How did you on this ship?!” Kazn demanded.

“About that…Byowyzy gny mobj znbaim (Release the dark shroud)!” Osjiw yelled as a pirate ship appeared beside the Rwovj Fyobw. Osjiw then snapped his fingers and said, “Men, I want all passengers on this ship out here on deck immediately.” A moment later, all of the others were outside, all in a line beside Kazn. As Kazn turned to look at the others, he seen Cig mouth to him, “Don’t worry, I have a plan.” Osjiw began to walk down the line until he stopped at Cig. He pushed Cig’s hood down and gasped as Cig yelled, “Fobowezuz (paralysis)!”

Suddenly blue sparks shot out of Cig’s hand and into Osjiw. The other man with the scar dropped his guard as Vbolpabm kicked the pirate behind him to the ground, and then shot an arrow into the scarred man’s right shoulder. The scarred man dropped the sword in his right hand, allowing Ilytmi to draw her sword and run over next to Kazn. As the others fought off the pirates, Kazn and Ilytmi prepared to fight the scarred man. “To think that you can defeat me, Vnaku (Vin-ack-oo), is deadly. But to face me in combat is suicide!” Vnaku laughed. As Vnaku charged at them, Kazn leaned back, with his head nearly touching the ground, and tried to spear Vnaku. Vnaku jumped over Kazn and begun a series of sword flurries towards Ilytmi. Ilytmi blocked, parried, dodged, and evaded Vnaku’s attacks as Kazn built up his energy.

Suddenly Ilytmi fell back dropping her sword. Vnaku smiled and brought his sword, with the blade pointed down, over his head. As he began to thrust it toward Ilytmi, Kazn yelled, “Wutng Rwozg (light blast)!” A huge blast of light then shot out of Kazn’s hand towards Vnaku’s head. For a brief moment it seemed as though time had stopped. Suddenly the sounds of a sword hitting the deck and the thump of a body dropping to the floor were heard. Kazn walked over; helped Ilytmi up, picked up her sword, and looked over at the others. They had killed all of the pirates. Kazn then looked over at Osjiw. The Banisher of Light managed to bend his fingers before breaking out of Cig’s spell. “Mobj yhybte hyqiz (Dark energy nexus).” Osjiw said as a whirl-wind looking black energy came out of what remained of his left arm. “What is that thing?” Ilytmi asked. “This,” said Osjiw, “is a Dark energy nexus. It can do anything and everything. It is all I need to end you.”

Osjiw then turned the nexus into an all black sword and charged at Kazn. Kazn rolled out of the way only to roll into an invisible wall. It was then he realized that he was alone in this fight. Osjiw walked over to Kazn, picked him up by the throat, and said, “I come with one last proposition from the King. Join him, or die. Know that if you refuse, I will not hesitate to kill your friends.” Kazn’s head was pounding as he gathered his energy. Weakly he smiled and murmured, “Wutng hyymwy robboty (light needle barrage)!” As hundreds of glowing white needles shot out of Kazn’s body, Osjiw’s sword returned to it’s nexus form and absorbed the blast. “You cannot kill me. You can never kill me. My power is superior.” Osjiw said as his nexus absorbed Kazn. Kazn felt at though he was falling until he hit the ground. Wherever he was, this place had no light, no color. Everything was black.

Suddenly Osjiw appeared before him and said, “This, Banisher, is the Realm of Darkness. Here, your power is useless, for I am one with this Realm!” Osjiw’s body then rose into the air as bolts of Dark energy shot into his body. Mustering all the courage he had left in his body, Kazn ran at Osjiw and threw his sword, like a spear, at the Banisher of Light. Kazn’s aim was true and the sword impaled itself in Osjiw’s left shoulder. Suddenly traces of white cracks began appearing in the Realm as Osjiw fell to the ground on hands and knees, gasping for his breath. The sword then fell to the deck as Kazn ran over, picked it up, and re-sheathed it.. “Th-that sword…i-it’s poison to me. It’s infused…with the power of Light. C-curse you Kazn Mbyzzwyb!” Osjiw screeched as the Realm shattered and the two were back on the ship.

Osjiw murmured something, then he along with his ship disappeared. Kazn had a feeling that they’d be seeing Osjiw again, sooner than expected. Ilytmi ran over to him and hugged him as she said, “I thought I lost you, just as soon as I found you. I-I love you Kazn.” Kazn returned her embrace with one of his own as he replied, “And I you. Come, let us be on our way.” And so the eleven continued on their way to Abgnuom.

Chapter 14: Prisoner

Within a few days, the eleven had reached the port city of Afovni (af-ah-vin-ee). They docked the ship then headed off to explore the town. As Kazn headed towards the town center, a group of Guards ambushed him and said, “You’re under arrest Banisher!” They then blew tranquillizer darts from there dart-shooters at him. He fell unconscious and the guards took him to the Afovni prison.

Kazn awoke with his head pounding, and his hands and feet unbound. He dizzily looked around at his cell. It had no windows and the cell was mostly composed of brick with a steel bar door. He heard the sound of running footsteps and hard breathing coming form somewhere outside his cell. He stumbled to the door to see a man in his late forties carrying Kazn’s sword sheathe, running towards Kazn’s cell.

The man’s dark brown hair stood out from his unclothed torso and his tanned white skin seemed to clash with his dark gray robe bottoms. He stopped in front of Kazn’s cell, unlocked the door with a key, and handed Kazn the sheathed sword, in one flawless movement. He walked over to the bed and moved it over revealing a brown oak chest. He unlocked it with a different key and took out two large crescent blades as he said, :Look kid, I know you’re a Banisher. The whole town does. We’re going to have to work together if we are to get out of here. The name’s Foiw (foy-oo).” Kazn replied, “Kazn. So, why are you in here anyway?”

Foiw replied, “Why? Because some reward seeking idiot turned me into the Royal Guard for being like you, a Banisher of Darkness. You know those darts they shoot you with? They’re filled with Magic restricting potions that cause us temporary loss over our power. As of now, until these potions wear off, we are no different than normal humans. What’s worse is that the Empire is making a treaty with the Trolls and Ogres. Together with the Banishers of Light, the Ogres, the Trolls, and the Orcs, Towrogabuq and his men cannot be stopped. That’s why we have to leave this place.”

Kazn drew his sword and said, “Alright, let’s go. My friends may be looking for me.” Foiw looked at him from the corner of his eye and said, “That odd group of a Mbal, a Dwarf, a Surface Elf, a Habh, a Harpy, an Imp, a Puzn, a Goblin, a Monk, and a man in a black robe? They were taken to Towrogabuq’s castle to be dealt with as the King sees fit. At least that’s what I’ve heard from the guards. I think the King believes we’ll escape and by taking your friends, lead us straight to him. But he doesn’t realize that both of us are Banishers. We can go in, free your friends, and quickly get back out. But first, we need to get out of here.” Kazn nodded and the two made their way out of the cell into a hallway. They ran down a hallway to a room where seven guards sat around a table eating meats off of large brass dishes.

One of the guards seen them and yelled, “The prisoners are escaping! Attack!” Foiw caught one of the guards in the chest with his first blade as he brought up his second blade towards the guard’s neck, beheading him. Kazn kicked the helmet off of another one of the guards, then impaled his sword into the guard’s chest. Foiw then moved his swords so that they formed a complete circle, from tip to hilt, around him. He then charged into the remaining five men, severing their arteries as he did so. When the last guard dropped dead, the two ran towards the metal barred exit.

“We can’t get through!” Kazn yelled as he tried shaking the bars. “Vibzyz (curses)! Let’s see…guards here use corroding salt as a torturing device on their prisoners because it can rot flesh, bone, and organs. If we could find a flask of it, we should be able to throw it at the gate to make the bars corrode enough that they perish when we hit them with our blades.” Foiw said. Kazn waited near the exit as Foiw disappeared the way they had came. A few minutes later, he returned with a flask of corroding salt in hand. He threw the flask at the bars and they quickly rusted and shrunk in width. Kazn then struck them with his sword and suddenly the bars turned to dust. The two made their way through the gate and outside to Afovni. They ran out of the town and headed for the Imperial City.









Chapter 15: Exile

Alone, sitting cross legged on the floor of his pitch black room, Osjiw could feel nothing but a flicker of Dark magic flowing through himself. No longer did he have control over the Magic of Darkness. He had begun to feel the Magic of Light. Ever since Kazn’s blade had wounded him, Dark Magic poured out of him like water in a sieve.

He had been stripped of his title of Osjiw, Banisher of Light. He had to go by his birth name, Kozah (co-zz-uh), Banisher of Darkness. He was banished from the Imperial City many weeks ago. And since his exile, he had begun to see the past and small bits of the future. He also sometimes seen the thoughts of those around him. Slowly his door opened and a single ray of light shone upon his face.

“Exile…come forth.” said a Banisher of Light. Kozah walked over to the man with his eyes gazing down at his feet. “I Oobah (oo-bah), Banisher of Light…” said one of the Banishers as another interrupted, “And I Rbezah (rib-ay-zz-uh), Banisher of Light, will be the sole deciders of your fate.” Kozah closed his eyes and awaited his imminent fate. “Seeing as to how we are ‘brothers’ we are willing to allow you a second chance. Go to the castle of Abgnuom. There your ‘wound’ will truly be healed.” Oobah said. “So leave us and do not return until you are ‘healed’ in Abgnuom.” Rbezah said. As Kozah exited the ship to the dock and began walking on the mainland, Rbezah asked, “To where does he walk brother?”

Oobah bowed his head and replied, “Our way, our exile, walks his own path. You too felt it; a great amount of power lies within him, yet it is but a whisper: nearly silent but extremely deadly. He alone decides the fate of the Banishers of Light He will come back, and when he does, we will be victorious.”



















Chapter 16: Exile’s Path

Kozah had been journeying the mainland for a month when he had found the corpse of an Elven man with a steel longsword, still sheath