Fan Fiction ❯ Forbidden Anamnesis ❯ Prologue ( Chapter 1 )

A raging storm loomed over the state of Fenejia. Thunder shot down from the heavens above, illuminating all within its radius. With the weather being as horrible as it was, one would think that people would not dare to venture out of shelters reach, but that was not the case with the Fenejians; If anything, this a rare training opportunity worthy of attention.

 

"Fenejians were a odd race; their bodies resemble the basic stance and features that humans do, just with more feature. Many believe that Fenejians were humans that under went nature's natural course of evolution; others believe that they were exposed to some for of Mana in a condensed form. Many theories have been made, yet none were determined due to the disappearance of the entire Fenejian race.

 

"Although resembling humans, there are several major physical features that separate the 2 races. Humans are naturally more skilled in magic then Fenejians were; yet a Fenejian is highly developed in physical capabilities. Possessing 2 metal blades sprouting from the forearms, Hand-to-hand combat is a Fenejian specialty. The blades can retract a few inches as well as pivot from pointing at the elbow to the wrist.

 

"Another feature was the odd tail. 2 crescent blades sprout from the tip of the tail, and the length is within 2 inches of the Fenejian's height. As dangerous as the Fore blades were, they are not as lethal as the tail. Fenejian's are remembered for their technology and for their breakneck speed.

 

"Fenejia was the worlds most technologically advanced state. The technology they held was far more advanced at the time due to Fenejian's being able to convert Mana to it's truest form and use it to fuel their inventions - Such as the Skycraft, the rumoured creation designed for travel in the air.

 

"A problem that lies in the Fenejian's blood is that their souls consume vast amounts of energy. The bodies rejected the souls by the moment they turn 5. In order to retain the souls, a crystallize form of condensed Mana, known as 'Soulstone' is processed and forged within a article of jewellery, Weapon sheath, or random article of clothing. The Mana develops a sort of shield that retains the soul of the wearer.

 

"After a traditional ritual to activate the Soulstones, the crystal shells out mana until it's reservoir has diminished and the soul is released from the body. The average period of time that the Soulstone lasts is 70 years before it wanes. Replacing a soulstone with another one cancels both of the mana fields a.nd destroys the energy field. After the energy diminishes, the crystal is then replaced with a new one"

 

Lhunroth slammed the book titled "The Fenejious: A legend within" shut. The humans that had written it proved they knew little of the knowledge of the race, and out of the information in the documentary, he hadn't got a single piece of information about the upcoming ceremony. Rubbing his eyes, he waved a hand in a lazy fashion over to the bookshelf. 4 more books on Fenejian background flew towards him and the pile of books upon his desk, levitating around him. Skimming each title, Lhunroth slammed his fist onto the table out of frustration causing the books to plummet the carpeted floor below.

 

Lhunroth was a seasoned warrior, one of the 10 warlords of Fenejia, Strategic advisor the Monarch of Fenejia, lead 12 campaigns upon opposing nations and won 9, 2 being ended upon a peace treaty, and although most did not believe it, he was a direct descendant of Ael'jian, One of the 4 ancients that founded Fenejia; Also known for his cunning on the battlefield. Luckily, no one would call him on it due to his strength. His face was rough and scarred from many battles, which in Fenejia, was a sign of respect.

 

His dark eyes reflected his worry. He ran his hand through his blonde hair, trying to relax after spending the last several hours reading, when his wife came in the library. Lhunroth had been so busy; he had not sensed his wife's energy presence until she laid her hand upon his shoulder. Lhunroth spun around to view his wife's deep eye's regarding him in a sense of worry.

 

"Is something the matter?"

"Routu, I'm concerned about tomorrow..."

 

She understood what he meant. Tomorrow was the "ritual of soul" in which the soulstones were assigned to fenejian's under the age of 5. At the same time it was their child Xyan's 5th birthday. They were feared that his body would reject his soul before the ritual was complete. Forcing the thought away, Routu responded.

 

I've spoken with the master of ceremonies; I'll go see if he can accelerate the ritual. In the meantime, why don't you go and take the children to pick out their host attachments?"

 

Host attachments were the term used for the artefacts that held the soulstones within them.

 

"Isn't it a little late though?" Lhunroth questioned.

"The sun is still above head, if you were to part the clouds." Routu replied.

 

Lhunroth got up and waved his hand over the lime coloured sand lighting the library. Instantly the lights died and the couple walked outside. Routu headed off towards the Ceremonial grounds, while Lhunroth head back home and into the massive garden.

 

A small rustle in the rain-soaked grass was seen as it darted away from him. Lhunroth playfully chased the runaway until a small "Oof" was heard. Parting some of the plants, he saw his 3-year-old daughter Zyn, lying flat on her face in the mud-soaked ground. Getting up, Zyn stared up at Lhunroth with large blue eyes.

 

"Hello!" She exclaimed as she ran towards him.

"Hello to you too! Where's..." Lhunroth quickly jumped back.

 

A small multi-coloured flame struck the dirt and exploded in a small blast of light where Lhunroth was previously standing. Peering in the direction of the flame, his son Xyan stood behind an untamed bush readying another ball of multi-coloured flame. Lhunroth waited until the attack was repeated. Again another flame flew at him, except this time he held out his palm and made a half crescent motion that sent the flame back at Xyan. He hopped to the side where Lhunroth had already ran and caught him right out of midair.

 

"Awe, no fair!" Xyan complained.

"No fair indeed. You never gave me any warning."

"I still missed..."

 

Lhunroth let out a small grunt in place of a laugh. Xyan had trained with that technique for many, many months and it was paying off. Before he was lucky to get a spark, let alone a full-blown flame.

 

"Where's Ciere?"

 

Ciere was not Lhunroth's child by blood, only by adoption. His parents had been slain fighting against the Fenejian's, and Lhunroth felt it was his duty to protect the human child and give him a chance for a life of his own.

 

"He said he was going to the Armoury" Xyan replied as Lhunroth set him down.

"What for?"

"Something about getting his own sword."

 

Lhunroth understood. The child had an unnatural urge to become a warrior. Only being 9 years of age, Ciere had already proved his natural skill with a weapon. Something very rare in humans, let alone any race for that matter.

 

"What a coincidence; we have to go there to pick out your attachments. We'll pick him up as we leave."

 

With that being said, Lhunroth lead the 2 children down the path; never forgetting that this could be the last moments he can spend with his son...

 

~*~

 

The door screeched in protest of being opened. The armory was an old building, yet no one seemed to have the time to bother renovate it. Lhunroth led the children inside, and down a damp stone corridor. After a few minutes of travel, the small group ended upon a stone door mark with symbols of an ancient language long lost over the course of time.

 

“Open up Nadar. There are two more that have not gotten their choice of host attachments.”

 

The old stone door creaked from lack of usage as a short, gray haired man forced it open with flick of his palm. At first appearance, the man was an old, scrawny being with small rectangular glasses and a large book in hand; but anyone who met him for the first time quickly realized his potential and place in Fenejia. He was the most accomplished sorcerer, as well as advisor to the Monarch. That alone was proof of his worth.

 

“Look who finally decided to show…How's Zyn's tail?”

 

Lhunroth sent a cold glare in Nadar's direction. Although as accomplished and intelligent as he was, Nadar was never a people person and had a horrible sense of humor. None the less, Nadar and Lhunroth stood on friendly grounds - Something rare to see in Fenejian background.

 

Zyn seemed to have a deformity in her genetic structure. Unlike other Fenejian's, her tail had not began to grow. Only her foreblades sprouting proved her race.

 

“Still hasn't grown. Doesn't matter, I'm sure she will not be in need of it come time for a fight.”

“Come along you two, we have work to accomplish.” Nadar said to the 2 children standing on either side of their father.

“What kind of work?” Xyan questioned.

“You both must enter into the chamber and listen to that little voice inside you.” Nadar said, pointing to Xyan's chest. “Pick out one of the relics that you find the most attractive, and return here. Is that alright?”

 

As enthusiasm kicked in, Xyan and Zyn stumbled off into the chamber Nadar had exited from. Lhunroth turned to Nadar and they began conversing in trivial matters in order to pass time. Lhunroth could still remember that day that he had taken his first few steps into the chamber. At that time he was as enthusiastic as ever, hoping that he would return with something to make his father proud. He fiddled around with the bracelet around his wrist with the Soulstone glistening in it. Out of all the artifacts that had been there, he had chosen this bracelet by no mere coincidence - Like something had called him to take it.

 

A few hours passed; other children returned, their faces illuminated with delight by the artifacts that they had collected. Lhunroth found himself in several conversations with other parents about the upcoming ritual. He couldn't help but feel better that he wasn't the only worried one. Soon after yet another conversation with a concerned mother, Xyan and Zyn emerged clutching accessories in their palms. Lhunroth arose and embraced his children before questioning them on findings.

 

Each child handed it over to Lhunroth. Zyn had collected a silver ring with 3 small Soulstone fragments on it. Nadar explained that the ring had once been possessed by an oracle that was able to foresee danger within 3 days of its happening. Xyan had chosen an amulet in the shape of the sun with a moon overlapping it. In the middle rested the Soulstone as well as a few ancient runes. Nadar refused to speak of the origin of the Amulet; even to Lhunroth. After trying for some time to get a decent word on its background, Lhunroth gave in and bid him farewell; reassuring him he'd find out.

 

Rushing the excite kids to bed, Lhunroth took the 2 artifacts and brought them to show Routu. She had just returned from her visit - the Master of Ceremonies was a very busy person, and there was little time for any conversation. Routu's facial complexion showed that she was not given a single exception. After spending a while studying the design, Routu bid Lhunroth to bed for tomorrow was the day they had worried over for many months.

 

~*~

 

Xyan stormed in the bedroom awakening his parents. After a few groggy minutes of awakening, Lhunroth and Routu readied themselves for the day. Being a warlord, Lhunroth was expected to be on one of the sides along with the rest of the warlords; and dressed well at that. He put on clothes lined with golden embroidery and a decorative breastplate that was for looks only, and probably couldn't hold it's own against a single strike. Placing his twin swords by his side, he exited the room, and fetched a meal for the family. After the fast meal, they left the door in the direction of the lord's court. Routu was dressed in a kimono, while Zyn was dressed in simple garb; the same as Xyan and the rest of the rituals participants.

 

After few hours of setting up the stage and getting in line, the ritual began. Lhunroth stood 2 men down from the left hand of the Monarch. Xyan and Zyan stood side by side in the grouping the Master of Ceremonies had placed them in. Crowds of spectators grew to the point were the seating was over whelmed causing others to resort to levitational means to view the event.

 

Due to Routu's provoking on the Master of Ceremonies, Xyan was the first to go. Lhunroth's worry had reached his height and was crossing into paranoia. Xyan knelt before the Sorcerers conducting the ritual. One holding the amulet in hand murmuring lightly with the other standing behind Xyan casting other things, oblivious to Lhunroth's knowledge.

 

The amulet began to emit a striking golden aura that filled the spectators with a feeling of purpose and confidence. Nadar, standing behind the Monarch used the arts of his trade to communicate with Lhunroth telepathically.

 

*I knew it…*

*Care to share your thoughts; or are you going to leave me to guess…*

*Are you telling me you don't recognize the design as well as runes upon the amulet?*

*I haven't the faintest clue what you are speaking of.*

*If I am correct, that amulet was that of Ael'jian. There are many legends that it was, in fact, put in the host attachments chamber.*

*So what was your purpose of keeping this a secret?*

*I didn't believe it was true. How could a legend of such little proof be correct? I have been proven wrong. The artifacts are supposed to glow a cyan shade. That is not cyan…*

 

Lhunroth took this all into consideration. The ritual was continuing and by the appearance, the aura was growing deeper. Soon, the Amulet levitated, and made its way until it rested around Xyan's neck to which the aura faded. The ritual was complete, and his worries have been for nothing. Xyan stood off to the side and Zyn was presented. The ritual went the way it should have, with the ring glowing cyan, and floating until it reached Zyn's ring finger. 3 younger fenejian's underwent the ritual before Nadar spoke to Lhunroth telepathically again.

 

*We're screwed. It would be best to keep your hand on your hilts and get ready to make a beeline for your kids. I'll assist.*

*What the hell are you talking about?*

*We're about to be ambushed by…something…*

 

Lhunroth didn't dare question. Nadar's predictions were generally always on key; and if he was serious, Lhunroth refused to take him lightly.

 

*They can't attack here can they? We literally the entire populace of Fenejia in this one area - Someone can't honestly expect to assault the state…Do they?*

*Look at the stands. Easy assassination of the Monarch. That and the fact that there are hundreds of people crammed in one tight space. Magic could wipe around half of the entire state's population. Best time to strike will be in the next few minutes. Be prepared.*

 

Lhunroth's worries grew back as his foreblades extracted. He had no regards for his safety, let alone the states. Fenejian's lived by the code of “Protect yourself”, yet it was only natural to be concerned for his children. He planned for the assault.

 

As right as Nadar always is, the attack came. The sky clouded over and vision was completely cut off. Lhunroth knew the distance between him and his children and dashed off, catching them both off guard and pinning them to the courtyard floor. The Darkness wore off and Lhunroth saw the devastation. Nadar spoke true, for half the population had died at the hands of a massive combination of Orcs, Trolls, Drows and Humans. Turning his head, he managed to see an axe preparing to come down upon him and whipped his tail blade out, separating the arms from the body of the attacker.

 

Pulling both children to their feet, Lhunroth dashed towards the stunned Monarch. 30 yards…20…15…10…Lhunroth then halted. A bolt from a cross bow in the chest had sent the startled ruler propelled off the dais. The state of Fenejia was falling, and all Lhunroth could do was protect his children. He dashed off at the breakneck speed of a true Fenejian in the direction of the barracks. He thought that hopefully Ciere would be wise enough to head that way. The armory was safe, but the barracks had Skycrafts; just the thing to protect Xyan and Zyn.

 

Sure enough, Ciere was there wielding a sword for his first time with precise aim. Few invaders had gotten as far as the barracks, but there seemed to be only one servicing Skycraft left. The attackers had destroyed the rest before Ciere and a score of warriors reached it and dispatched them. The remaining Skycraft was a cargo runner, but it was looking highly appealing. The remaining soldiers entered and took the children inside, while Lhunroth and more soldiers defeated the ever increasing enemies.

 

“Hurry! We can't stay here much longer!” A soldier screamed at Lhunroth.

 

Lhunroth impaled a Troll on one of the swords while decapitating a drow behind him. Freeing his blade from the stomach of his opponent, Lhunroth dashed towards the Skycraft now lifting off the ground. Throwing his swords inside the Carrier, Lhunroth lept up to enter the open door. What he failed to realize was a jolt of ice fly from the hand of a wizard on the ground. The ice but into Lhunroth's side and his jump was cut short. He struck the rough ground hard as the Skycraft harboring his children flew off out of distance.

 

He quickly stumbled to his feet extending his foreblades and poising his tail for a strike. Surrounded by hundreds of enemies, Lhunroth understood his position. The infernal creatures refused to move which meant one of two things. They either mistaked him for someone, or they were ordered not to.

 

“Now, now Lhunroth…Is that anyway to greet your old friend?”

 

Lhunroth stared into the crowd. Drows, Humans, and even the goblins parted for this figure. He wore a Black cloak embroided in protective runes and a hood covering the top half of his face. A smile grew on his face, and Lhunroth recognized him immediately.

 

“Nadar, you bastard! Why? Why betray your home?!” Lhunroth demanded through gritted teeth. His anger was controllable only through his desire to know the cause of betrayal.

“Come now Lhunroth…There's no need for insensitive words. I'll explain as you vent your anger.”

 

Lhunroth stared at him coldy. Nadar was never one to fight one on one, so why did he wish to now? Was he that arrogant that he underestimated him? Lhunroth saw no point in confusing himself. All he saw was the betrayal of his friend, something he would make Nadar atone for with his life. Lhunroth hopped, spinning around to strike him with his tail. Nadar neatly ducked the attack and fired a ball of condensed shadow, striking Lhunroth in his back. Steam flew from Lhunroth's back as a burning pain erupted from his spine. He landed flat on his stomach, hot tears of emotion and physical pain searing his face.

 

“Look at me Lhunroth. That Monarch coward couldn't deal with the responsibility of leading a nation…I can. I now control the entire state of Fenejia, as well as a loyal army of my own as well as the technological advancements of the Fenejian's. I hold all the cards.”

“That's it…All for power…Typical Nadar, really typical…Here I was thinking I misjudged you…Why warn me of the assault? There's no point of assaulting anyway; you're nearly 60. A few years more and that Soulstone is dead.”

 

Nadar fired a blast of condensed air at Lhunroth's steaming body. The surrounding army readjusted themselves to surround Lhunroth yet again.

 

“I warned you to put you in this position…If only I had gotten here sooner to relieve you of your family…Well…What's left of it.” Nadar grinned yet again; an insane smile that sent chills down the spine of nearly everyone that gazed upon it.

“That's were you are wrong `friend'. I studied Ael'jian's abilities and understand how to increase it horribly long without severing any ties. I'm already able to survive for another Fenejian lifetime…All I need is Ael'jian's amulet - The one around Xyan's neck, as well as the blood of Ael'jian.”

 

Lhunroth flipped back onto his feet and lashed out at Nadar with his foreblades. Striking him in the cheek leaving a small cut, Lhunroth went for a spin with his tail before Nadar sent his own Foreblades plunging in Lhunroth's stomach. Lhunroth fell to his knees clutching his abdomen in a futile effort to hold the blood now pouring along his hand back.

 

“So now I have the full power of Fenejia at my disposal as well as the forces of evil that reign chaos upon men for god knows how long. I can survive for eternity, and my magic is unmatched. To be completely honest, I knew you'd see me casting the spell that destroyed so many souls - That is why I warned you. You kept your attention on your children while I destroyed so many…All of this could have been prevented, but I'll slay you for your ignorance. I'm assuming your next question is why I'd hunt Xyan and why Ael'jian means so much to me?”

 

Lhunroth gasped and made a small nod. He felt horrible…He was the cause so many had died. He put his conscience at easy - He was to join them soon.

 

“Inside that amulet holds the soul of Ael'jian, greatest magician of Fenejia. All one must do to harness his full strength to be able to do amazing feats. You're a direct link to him, which mean's Xyan is as well. All I must do is find him and remove it - Killing him painlessly, leaving me with eternal life as well as unimaginable magic capabilities. My only concern in the matter is Xyan harnessing the power himself, in which case his death shall be slow. You made the search very difficult to find him. Now, unless he does something to attract attention, it will be several years to find him. Don't be concerned about that - Perhaps the gods will take pity on you and lengthen the search. What ever happens, I will kill him; I promise you that. Have a peaceful afterlife Lhunroth.”

 

Nadar as well as his company of warriors left the premises leaving Lhunroth to his wound. Dark red fluids now covered the floor around him, as he collapsed and laid on his side. Only one thing mattered now, and that was beyond his control. All he could do was pray to the gods above they would pity him and protect his children from the hand of Nadar. It was all he had left. A feeling of peace passed through him like the sun on summer's eve as he closed his eyes and drifted off into the eternal slumber…