The Wizard King of Avianous

Thrown away by his father, young Travis Larkson must endure the hard life of growing stronger and surviving alone if he is to be the strongest magic wielder on Metratin and all of Avianous.

The Wizard King of Avianous

 

By Shaun Denard Pugh

 

“He became an unstoppable force with the power to destroy kingdoms and any who stood before him. No one could stop him or withstand his wrath. Now, he holds all the power in Avianous to become the next ruler.”

 

 

Chapter 1

 

            The darkness drifts away as the sun comes over the horizon to brighten up the landscape. Yesterday, it was long for many since it was Fooday. Payments had to be given to the hardworking people as they finish up their tasks. Thanks be to Abadorn that today is Sutruday. It is only going to be a half day of work for some and leisure for everyone else. Many hands are wiping away the crust from their eyes, and there is movement in the bed. It is a wonderful and pleasant feeling to stay resting; however, the errands must be done before the evening time. The day is glorious, but that is not the case for one man.

            Mr. Larkson wakes up with a bottle in his hand; he grumbles and rubs his head, moving out of the bed. The soft moan of his wife catches his ear, but he goes to another room. It is important to wake him up. The youngest son of the Larkson family must be awakened to do his daily work. Travis Larkson is in bed, dreaming of nothing. Everything is peaceful and dark. It is a well-deserved rest until he feels his body hit the floor. Travis didn’t expect to wake up on the hard floor. He opens his eyes and sees his father standing over him with his hard, glassy eyes. As always, Papa Larkson speaks gruff and looks like a mess from last night. Travis slightly sighs and can expect the obvious for today.

            “Get yourself up and together,” said Papa Larkson. He adds, “The morning chores must be done before you can sleep anyone more. The pigs and chickens must be fed.”

            Travis replies, “I overslept a little. I’ll take care of the chores now.”

            Papa Larkson grumbles, “Your brother could do the work around here, but he left. He thought being a knight of Menade was a great idea. I assure you he is living in a back alley. I’ll be cutting up some wood and resurfacing the roof.”

            Travis stands and fixes his bed as his father leaves. It is going to be long and rough day. He understands the frustration from his father each time he talks about his brother, but it is obvious. Travis goes to the bathroom and washes his face. The cool water feels refreshing on his face; there is noise coming from another room. It must be his sister jumping around again. Karina needs to slow down before she falls over again. Now, there is an invigorating smell floating through the house. Mama Larkson is making food for the morning and evening. The aroma is pleasant to the nose; the Larkson family starts their day. Far from the Menade Kingdom and even further away from the Avirok and Pojo Kingdom, this small town is perfect; many traders and travelers pass through with items to sell. It is easy to build a home here and stay minus the zero protection it has. Travis goes outside and grabs the buckets of chicken feed and pig slop; he hurries to feed the animals. It is Sutruday, and Travis didn’t want to spend it doing errands or chores. After the animals are fed, Travis goes to find his father. He sees him chopping the wood and checking the materials. Papa Larkson is grumpy as he chops the wood. Every hack is heavy and strong with him grunting. Travis nearly laughs and wonders if his father is a wild boar.

            “Dad, I’ve fed the animals. Is there anything else that needs doing?” asked Travis, hoping the answer will be no.

Papa Larkson turns to him and replies, “Yes, there is more that needs doing. You didn’t pick up the spices and herbs from the shop yesterday. I need you to go and get them after you check with your mother. And make sure to pick up more supplies we need. All of this should’ve been done Fooday.”

            “But dad, we do have enough supply for the roof,” said Travis before his father interrupts him.

            “It isn’t enough! Do not waste time talking! Get the supplies! If you are not back soon, you will resurface the roof,” roared Papa Lackson.

            The conversation is worthless, and Travis goes inside the house to get the money from his mother. Papa Larkson is hard on Travis, but Mama Larkson makes a problem disappear with gentle words and love. Travis comes to his mother, and she is cooking the meals. The smell tickles his nostrils and causes the mouth to water. There are some holes in the ceiling and walls, but the house is still full of joy. Travis didn’t mind stepping inside the kitchen if mom is making food. She knows how to make the kitchen be exquisite. Before Travis can hug his mom, little Karina rushes by and blocks the way. Typical Karina is hyper, and it is still too early for play time.

            Karina cheerfully says, “I want to try! I want to try! Travis can wait for his own. He is strong like the ox.”

            “And you can wait until I get what I need,” said Travis as he hugs his sister tightly.

            Mama Larkson turns to them, “Both of you, behave please. You both can have some bread. And yes, I have the money for you. I know you have been working hard so I’ll make sure you have extra for your meal tonight.”

            “Thank you, mama. I’ll try to make it back before night. Papa is giving me the harsh treatment again,” said Travis with some sorrow in his words.

            She gives her son a smile and hands him a bread roll. The taste melts his sense as he experiences the flavor. Travis takes the small bag and rushes out the door, bumping into his father. He keeps going without looking back with words of promise; the wind feels amazing today as he hurries to the shop for supplies. Travis has his hands full but anxious to return home. The bread leaves a linger taste in his mouth. Mama Larkson always did make the bread perfect with her special touch.

            At the shop, Travis picks up spices for the food and supplies for the house repair. He pays for everything at the cost of twenty gold and ten silver coins. It takes most of day for the supplies to be given. The shop owner had to remake more of the sludge he needs. Travis hurries back only to be met by his father at the front of the doorway. Papa Larkson looks annoyed and disappointed.

            Papa Larkson says, “You are late. I thought we had an understanding, but I guess not. You are going to handle the resurfacing of the roof. I want it finished before nightfall. After you are done, then you can do as you want.”

            The statement causes frustration as he tightens his fists; Travis wants to throw his hands up, but it won’t help him complete the long task. Papa Larkson takes the spices and herbs inside to enjoy the feast while spending time with the others. As the others relax, Travis gets the three buckets he will need. One bucket has a thick, black sludge; the second has a clear liquid in it. The final bucket is for him to sip water. The day is long for him, and it just got longer.

            He adds wooden planks to sections of the roof and takes a brush to dip in the black sludge. The planks are covered in the black sludge, and the last ingredient is applied to finish up the roof. The black sludge connects the wood together while the clear liquid solidifies the substance into a hard material. This takes him long hours of the day to finish each area. From the roof and walls, Travis makes sure the areas are heavily reinforced. Once he is done, the day is nearly over with only four hours of daytime left. He takes the supplies and buckets back to storage. The smell and spots cover his clothes as he walks to the door. Before he can eat, Travis must wash away the sludge and pieces of wood from his body. As tired as he is, there are clothes to take off and new ones to put on.

            Travis walks through the kitchen. It was a long day, and the time for food is on his mind. Exhausted and weak, Travis goes to the bathroom and washes his body to clean the filth off. Each time he gets the black sludge or clears the liquid on him, the smell of it reminds him that his brother. They would spend the whole day making the house strong to endure the long seasons. After throwing on some clean clothes, Travis returns to hear his father’s rant about his brother yet again. Papa Larkson consumes his favorite alcoholic beverage and remembers to never forgive his oldest son.

            Papa Larkson shouts with a slur in his voice, “If your brother was here, the housework would be finished before noon. No, he wanted to go to Menade to be a knight. He hasn’t sent us a damn thing. He made us a promise to send us coins; Vance swore to write us each time; now look at where we are. No letter, hardly any coins, and no visits from him. I bet he is broke and living in an alley, begging for coin from the wealthy. Or he is living it up and has no care in the world. He forgot about us. Ha! He won’t get any sympathy from me. He made his choice.”

            “Must we hear you gripe about Vance each week on a Sutruday or a Tukaday?” said Mama Larkson. She continues, “Each time you have a drink or more, you constantly remind us of him. I love Vance regardless of his choice. He left to have a different life, and I am sure he is still trying to send us money. Why is it that you can’t get over the fact he left to be a knight? Do you not remember his words? Can you recall how much he cared? Is there any love for him in your heart?”

            Rather than answer the questions or show any emotion, Papa Larkson leaves the table to go outside. Travis joins his mother and sister at the table. Mama Larkson serves him a bowl of soup and bread. Karina looks at her brother with a disappointed look in her eyes.

            “He made you do the rest of the work, didn’t he?” said Karina with a sad tone.

            Travis swallows some water and annoyingly answers, “Yes, he did. He didn’t like how late I was with the supplies and spices. The problem is they had to make some of the sludge and gel. Then, the spices were almost out, so I was fortunate to get what was left. I wish he used what we had on hand than send me on an errand.”

            “Don’t mind your father, Travis. He is still mad at Vance for leaving,” said Mama Larkson with a smirk, “I understand why he left, but your father must learn to let go. The more he holds on, the stronger the hole in his heart will be. Sif will not give us a blessing if we become just like Nubile.”

            “At least you have the easiest job of all. You get to eat and stuff yourself until you erupt!” Karina hugs Travis.

            The trio laugh at the wonderful amusement Karina expresses; they sit back and laugh at the good old days. All the memories of family time were full of joy and happiness until Vance wanted to be a knight of Menade. The day is over for a wonderful Sutruday. All the work is finished and the errands are completed as each person spends time alone; Papa Larkson takes in the pleasure of alcohol and his wife tonight. Though she knows it is the drink causing him to be rough, Mama Larkson takes care of her lover’s urge and desire. Karina goes out with her friends to hear stories at the tavern. Every traveler has wonderful tales of adventures that she always had an interest in. Outside on the porch, Travis looks at the sky and smiles with hope in his heart. He just finished reading his favorite book and writing down notes on what can be done to make life easier. Despite his father’s alcoholic mood, Travis feels at peace with everything.

            He thought, “Brother, I know you are out there. You’re alive and keeping the Menade Kingdom safe. We will meet one day and celebrate as a family.”

            The night rolls on, and Karina returns from her night out. She joins her brother, tapping his shoulder.

            “You miss him, don’t you? I miss him too,” said Karina. She continues, “I know our brother is doing fine, but it aches my heart. We have not seen him for two years. I pray to Xat that our brother is not dead from a foolish war.”

            “Our older brother is strong. Vance is not fighting a pointless battle. Our father is wrong, and he knows it. Vance shall return to us with coins beyond measure. If he doesn’t return, then we shall save up from our farming and go to see him in Menade,” said Travis clinching his fist.

            Karina asks, “Remember that time you and him fell into that pig slop after you both didn’t agree on who would do it? I guess the pig made sure you both would have no choice.”

            Travis lowers his head and laughs. The day they fought was the same day they both were spanked. As tough as they were to each other, their parents made sure to equally punish them with the same beatings. By the time they were done, both had to wash up, eat very little, and sleep until morning. The memories of their young life always came as joy to Travis. Before they can talk further, Papa Larkson comes out and sends away Karina. She already knew how the rest of the night ends.

            He takes a long swig of alcohol with one gulp. The taste is strong and Papa Larkson looks at Travis, “I understand you miss Vance, but you must remember he left us. Vance didn’t want to stay; he wanted to fight for some rich person’s war and die for a worthless cause. Heh, maybe he wanted money than us to throw in our face. Do not waste your time trying to wonder if he shall return to us. He will never…come back.”

            “My brother didn’t leave us. Vance said he would return,” said Travis with a strong conviction. He adds, “And when he returns, we will be a family again. You must see the truth in it. Vance is not dead, and he didn’t desert us to live better.”

            Papa Larkson widens his eyes with rage; he throws down the bottle of alcohol and roars, “Your brother left! He is never coming back! The sooner you get that through your head, the faster you will wake up! Stop dreaming!”

            Travis calls it at night by agreeing and goes to his room. The last words his father yells: “Your brother is dead! He won’t come back even if Dukhan lets him go! He’ll never come back!”

            Sutruday is finally over, but Travis is mentally exhausted from the constant rants of his father; he closes the door and tries to read his favorite book. The constant nagging of Vance’s disappearance is an irritation with the same pitiful story. Ever since Vance Larkson left to join the knights of the Menade Kingdom, Papa Larkson has been nothing. He will wail every three days about how Vance left for wealth. Travis looks out his window and rubs his hands together. Knowing that tomorrow is Seediday, he will have nothing but time to rest, pray, and be thankful. He can enjoy time at the tavern to hear the stories of the travelers. For now, he pulls the quilt over his body and lets his mind drift off before falling asleep. The last thing on his mind is hearing a great story from a traveler about the many places to visit and food to try.

            It is a peaceful dream of color, darkness, and laughs. The noise is soothing and ends with the sound of birds chirping in the morning. Travis rolls out of bed to bathe in the sunlight coming through his window; he stretches his arms and legs. Instead of waking up to be thankful for the light on this Seediday, he hears screaming outside. Travis jumps out of bed and rushes to the door barefoot, seeing a horrible view outside. There is a man running his sword through the body of a woman. A handful of men carry out food, supplies, and clothing to several carts.

            Travis finds his father standing in front of a heavily armored man with Mama Larkson and Karina behind him; the mother and daughter cower as they pray to Abadorn. Papa Larkson nervously stands before the armed man, nervous and frighten. A sword hangs from his hip as he rubs his beard while looking around for any useful items; the man looks into the eyes of Papa Larkson as he waits for the next move. The man has a rough complexion, but he shows that he can be reasonable.

            “I am Lord Markallow from the Unclaimed Lands of Banrofin,” said the man. He continues, “We are here to take some supplies for our journey home. And we will need a few strong men to assist us up north.”

            Papa Larkson shouts, “You are just here to rob us and take what you need. The knights of…”

            A man from Markallow’s left steps forward, pulling out his sword. The act causes Papa Larkson to step away out of fear. Travis watches the armored men and women ransack various buildings for food, coin, and anything of value. He notices the markings on their chest plate; it is the bandits of Banrofin. Not many villages survive the encounter with these outlaws.

            “You will be mindful of your tongue, good sir,” said Markallow, “We are here for a purpose and signs of resistance are highly ill-advised. But you seem to be a man of understanding. Let’s start with your wife and daughter. Can they cook? Are they good at sewing?”

            The very idea of his wife and daughter being made slaves sent a shiver down his spine. Papa Larkson turns to see three men circle around his family, eyeing them with great intent. Travis leaps from the front door and gains their attention. He roars loudly, swinging a stick to keep them at bay. Papa Larkson didn’t want to relinquish the wife and daughter, so he does the unexpected. He looks at his son and doesn’t hesitate.

            “Take him! You can have him but leave my family alone!” Papa Larkson shouts, pointing at Travis.

            The words shatter and crack through their ears. Three more outlaws circling around Travis with swords drawn; Mama Larkson and Karina are stun by fear. They make sure he can’t escape as Travis looks to his father. The words barely leave from his mouth as he tries to comprehend what is happening. Markallow stares at the young son and shrugs his shoulders. Before they can shackle his wrists, a small protest comes forth.

            “Dad! Why are you allowing this? Why not fight and…” Travis said before receiving a surprise from his dad.

            Papa Larkson twists on his heels and leaps at his son. He crushes his voice with two powerful slaps to the jaw, “Do not speak to me! You must give yourself to them! Family must come first!”

            The action causes an impression on Markallow, but he can see the hurt forming. Travis locks his eyes on his father and sees fire; he reaches up only to feel his wrists shackled together in iron cuffs. Mama Larkson and Karina want to speak, but they are shoved inside their home and can’t do anything. Papa Larkson gave up his last son like a pair of boots. The three men grab Travis as he begs for release; Travis tries his best to break free, but a bandit crushes his fist into his stomach. The pain causes Travis to caress himself as he is thrown inside a metal cart. He watches the carnage continue with the bandits collecting and pushing more prisoners into other carts. They cut down a handful of people that try to fight them. Once everything is done, Markallow orders the outlaws to leave. Karina and Mama Larkson cry as they watch Travis be taken away with Papa Larkson thanking Abadorn for keeping them alive at the cost of his last son.

            The bandit caravan has over fifty men with each group hauling three carts. They have prisoners, clothes, food, weapons, and various items. Travis looks at the heavily armed men chat and celebrate their foray; the journey back to the Unclaimed Lands is full of joy for the bandits and misery for the prisoners. Twenty-five new recruits will endure a new life they did not choose to be part of. Along the way, three prisoners are executed as a warning for any that tries to escape. The prisoners are fed bread and some water to keep them stable until they arrive at the fortress. It is one week and three days of traveling. On a beautiful sunny day, all prisoners gaze at the stronghold.

They call it Banrofin. It is the Bandit Fortress of the north in the Unclaimed Lands. This territory is full of cold and hot moments with over two hundred men and women here training new recruits. Every prisoner serves their new master until they prove themselves worthy or death takes them. The cages are hit on the side to wake up the prisoners. The loud, metallic ring startles every prisoner awake, and they stare. The walls stretch to the sky and are made of wood; there are towers around the front that can see as far as the eyes will. A few camps are at the entrance as men and women shout at the new stock they have. Some bandits slam their weapons against carts; there are handfuls of cutthroats picking out who they want. Though they put on a show, there is more inside waiting for the prisoners.

            Lord Markallow comes to Lord Rivan and presents him with a bounty that causes a smile. Both men are pleased with not only the recruits and slaves, but they have more than enough. The moment ends with Lord Rivan ordering others to present the recruits to their new cottages. The supply carts are moved to the main buildings; the metal carts bring the prisoners further inside. Everyone looks at the tall and medium-sized buildings as the outlaws hang outside next to mercenaries. Travis and others are terrified and amused that the worse people built up a place with grand fortifications. Nearly each building is made of stone with wooden towers nearby. The structure is meager, deteriorating, and has openings all around. It may be unpleasant to newcomers, but the buildings around them are housing the vile scum.

            Every mercenary, outlaw, bandit, and thief calls Banrofin home when they have no other of their own. The carts stop and doors are open; Travis and every prisoner are told to go inside their new place. They give orders as everyone is shown where they will eat, sleep, and wash up. The slave carts pass by and send elsewhere. Inside the building, there is a horrid smell in some areas, but it is their residence. One person speaks out against the way things look. Many people look to see the man wearing princely clothes and beautiful garments.

            “This place is filthy for a man of my status,” shouted the man. He continues, “If I were in charge, every slave, prisoner, and recruit would be sleeping in better conditions than rotting in horrid conditions. Look to me and know my name. I am Hugadin of a royal family. I’m from the Menade Kingdom. I can’t allow such an offense stain my lineage nor will it cover you. Those that follow me shall be reward upon my ascension.”

            The groups gather around Hugadin and hope his words will carry weight, but Travis looks at him with some disgust until a new person calls to everyone. The next man is large, wearing rags and flexing his muscles. He is tall enough to fight a bear if he wants to. Though the words from Hugadin are impressive, this man sees royalty as a joke. He calls to everyone as they look in his direction.

“Ha! The families of the Menade kingdom are quick to toss away one of their own if it means keeping their fame,” said the large man, “Your words are only as strong as your skill. I, Goan of the Pojo region, will show you all that might is right. When you look at me, know that my way means power. Anyone that follows me will see that true power will give you everything you need. Join me and become stronger than mere royalty.”

With the followers of Hugadin and Goan gathering at their side, Travis finds a spot in the back room to be alone. It is still a painful experience for him that his own father discarded him. Not once did he fight for him or tried to resist the bandits. The words and view of his father occur constantly in his mind. It aches his heart to know that Papa Larkson gave up his last son.

Travis thought, “Why would he throw me away so quickly? Did he not love me? Did he stop loving me after Vance left? Why do this to me?”

The words keep ringing in his head until he feels a hand tap his shoulder. Travis looks to see someone just as hurt as he is. He is slightly built, but they stand together in the back room away from the others. The new person washes his own cuts and offers Travis a towel. It is certain that this is another unfortunate soul.

The person says, “You look more than just hurt by wounds. It shows on your face like clothes on a person’s body. My name is Barok of Avirok. What is your name? What’s your story other than being here?”

“I am Travis Larkson,” said Travis. He continues, “I’m from a small region that is surrounded by the kingdoms of Metratin…my father gave me to them. He let me go to protect my sister and mother from suffering slavery. Heh, I was given away without a fight. How funny is that?”

“Well, at least you are not dead. That is what matters,” said Barok with sadness in his voice, “You have a chance to survive and be the one on top. Let us nurse our wounds and get some sleep. Tomorrow will be worse than today.”

Travis sighs and didn’t speak about anything else. The painful experience of Seediday from last week still haunts him. The others wash up their own cuts and take care of their hygiene; Barok and Travis lay out their bed mats, but they know sleep won’t help them. The floor is hard and hot, making it nearly impossible to sleep. Today was Wekinday, and all prisoners worry about tomorrow. It is a long one, and the night is the start of a new challenge. Some people whisper of Hugadin being of a royal family with hope that he will save them; many more speak of Goan and his strength being as strong as a deity. The torches are put out around the house with the guards standing by. There is some light shining inside the building, but it is not enough. This is their new life, and they will all be playing one role among the bandits of Banrofin.

The air becomes cool as rushes through the hollow openings. Some people are tossing on their mats to be comfortable. No one wants to wake up from their wonderful dream of happiness; it is a moment of peace until the door opens wide from a vicious kick. The sunlight shines inside from the doorway and voices are heard. The shouting and yelling wakes everyone up from a dream to face reality; the handfuls of outlaws and bandits bring buckets of water to dump on the heavy sleepers. In their hands are belts with small blades attached to them. The words they speak shatters all thought of having an easy morning. Each person can see the belt high over their head as the outlaws crack them across their legs; the bandits assist as they reinforce their words with abuse for the timid individuals.

“Wake up! Your mother is dead! Your sister and brother are dead! You are dead! We are your new family now! We will help you be strong and love the way you are supposed to be loved.”

It didn’t take long for the new masters to beat the fight out of the others in the main room. The cries for help and pain force Barok, Travis, and others to wake up immediately. Three bandits enter the back room and force them to walk. Along they walk out the room, water is thrown on them to wash away terrible smells. They comply quickly and head outside; the sun is bright on their face as seventy-five prisoners stand before Lord Rivan, Lord Markallow, and Lord Lufkin. All around them are heavily armed guards waiting for anyone to try a foolish stunt. The three Bandits Lords of the Banrofin look at the prisoners. Lord Lufkin is displeased with the men and walks away. Markallow and Rivan look closely at each set, thinking they will find good warriors.

Lord Rivan steps forward and gazes into the eyes of every person, “Good morning, I am Lord Rivan of the Bandits. To my right is Lord Markallow and Lord Lufkin walked off. This is the day you are blessed by Xat. You are all going to be warriors for life in Banrofin. Your former life is over, and there is no going back. Your former family was the farmers and fishers; they have suckled the milk from Avianous and taken from Metratin; they have told you lies to make you believe that you can be great. They are wrong. If you live under them, there will be no gold or silver given to you. As one of the Banrofin warriors, you will find glory, fame, food, and more money than you can count. You belong to the Unclaimed Lands. You are men with a great destiny.”

As Lord Rivan leaves, Lord Lufkin returns to see the miserable lot. It is confusing as Travis, Barok, and others about how they will be warriors. They didn’t know how to fight and knew nothing of war. This tough Thuliday is starting off terrible, but there is more. Lord Lufkin and Markallow walk by the prisoners with expectations for some.

“Lord Markallow and I will give you the best care,” said Lufkin. He adds, “You will be great and stronger if you survive. By the time you are finished, the world will remember your deeds if you reach out and take them. It is time for you all to be the men you were meant to be.”

They order bandit commanders to take groups of five to ten with them. There is some resistance, but everyone keeps their aggression low out of fear of death. Travis, Barok, Hugadin, and Goan all end up under the steady hand of Lord Markallow. Though his hand is resting on his sword, the bandit lord swears to not kill them unless they beg for it. Every prisoner is nervous and afraid. To their surprise, Markallow shocks them.

“You all can relax. I am not brutal as Lord Lufkin nor unforgiving as Lord Rivan,” said Markallow. He continues, “I like to give everyone under my command a chance to survive and improve. As for the others, they will do as they will. Your training begins with a simple task. I have twenty-five. The fortress needs water. Each of you will carry two buckets to the river. You are to go and gather water. Do not come back with any empty buckets. My second-in-command officers will go with you. You have at least three hours to get this done. Now, go.”

The buckets are brought to them. Hugadin refuses to carry any bucket, and Goan decides to flex his muscles. Of the twenty-five prisoners, there are thirty-six buckets. The bandit officers of Markallow guided everyone to the river. Along the way, Hugadin rushes to the lake with one officer keeping up. Goan keeps ordering the others to move ahead of him. In the middle of the group, Barok and Travis carry two large buckets on their shoulders with a wooden pole. Before they can get far, Barok falls. The officer orders him to stand, and Travis helps him up.

Barok smirks, “Thanks for the help. I doubt the others are willing.”

“This isn’t the time to fall or roll over unless we are sleeping. Lord Markallow is giving us a chance. And that is his first mistake. We need to do whatever it takes and when the moment comes, that will be our time to flee.”

After thirty minutes of traveling, the bandit officers and recruits arrive at the river. Hugadin watches how beautiful the water is and brags about its appearance; Goan manages to fill up half of the buckets. The other recruits, Barok, and Travis quickly fill their buckets. To everyone’s surprise, the bandit officers of Markallow order them to drink from the river and rest. Many recruits plunge their head into the river while others take handfuls of water into their mouth. The bandit officers laugh as they rest easy for a full thirty minutes.

Once the time is over, they order them to head back. Before they can move, Goan and Hugadin knock over buckets of water. The bandits laugh and watch as four more buckets are thrown at Barok and Travis; the cruel, overbearing nature from Hugadin and Goan is infecting the others. They point and blame the water loss on the pair.

Goan laughs and points, “You both should learn to do more work if you want to be stronger. We will take these buckets.”

Hugadin is further away with the other bandit officer. Travis and Barok had to refill the buckets again, and one bandit stays behind to watch them. Goan and the others hurry back to the fortress.

“Stupid, Hugadin. He barely did anything and only carried the pole. I swear by Abadorn, I’ll…” said Barok angrily.

“Don’t worry about it,” said Travis. He adds, “We are still doing fine and once we bring this back, we will get more credit than they will. Plus, we can take our time to get more water on our body if we need it.”

After the buckets are full and water is splashed on them, they each carry two buckets back; the bandit officer follows them closely. It takes them longer to make it back, but they deliver the water. The bandit officer informs Markallow of the progress; he comes to see the hard work done by the group. Though the task is easy, Markallow looks over at the four buckets next to Travis and Barok.

Markallow examines the buckets and praises them, “Ah, I see you all did well. But it looks like these two out did all of you. Four buckets while using a wooden pole is not easy.”

Barok snarls at Hugadin, “We would’ve been here sooner had someone not throw water at us and knock over our buckets.”

“I am from an esteemed family. Unlike this man, I do not bring dishonor to my name with tasteless acts,” said Hugadin.

Markallow steps to Travis. Though he is calm, Travis takes notice to the sword at his hip. Travis says, “It is true. Goan and Hugadin knocked over our buckets and only carried one back. But…”

Before another letter comes from his voice, Markallow looks at the buckets. Instead of favoring either side, he gives them all a new method of training to show his appreciation.

“You all did well despite someone trying to prove something,” said Markallow. He adds, “There is one more session of training to do before you can rest. You are to run around this area for the next hour. If you don’t finish, no one gets any water. All of you must finish. Now, get started.”

The bandit officers encourage the recruits with whips slashing at their heels. They all run around the massive courtyard until their legs burn from the constantly heat. Goan is annoyed yet pushing himself; Hugadin is not too far from him, complaining every step he takes. Only Travis and Barok receive angry glances from the others. Many of the other recruits would attack them if the bandit officers weren’t present. An hour goes by and everyone collapses from the running exercise.

Markallow did promise everyone a single bucket of water after some goes inside various water pouches. Everyone scrambles to drink and pour the rest on their body. The taste is exquisite and refreshing. They had a rough morning, but it is far from over; Markallow brings his recruits to the next area. As they walk through the camp, many bandits gloat and bark at them. A few women stare at the recruits and yell insults. It is enough to stir the recruits into a violent mood, but Markallow gives them a word of advice.

“If you try to do anything to the others here, then they are within their rights to take you as their own property. If anything, they can kill you too. It is in your best interest to not fight them unless you want to see Dukhan soon,” said Markallow.

Travis finds this hard to accept as he keeps up with the others. Though many outlaws urge him to fight, he keeps going. Upon arriving in the next section, Markallow presents the recruits with weapons. There are spears, short swords and various other tools for combat; he orders them to take any weapon from the racks. Out of all the weapons present, Goan picks a large axe and Hugadin grabs the only rapier left. Everyone else has a short sword or spear. Surprisingly, only one wooden staff and two daggers are left. Barok picks up the daggers, and Travis takes the staff in hand. They grumble under their breath.

“The weapon you have is yours to keep and train with. That fine steel in your hands is all you get, or the wooden object you hold,” said Markallow. He giggles at some and continues, “You will use it for all combat training. After you spent an hour training with it, you are free to roam alone. But be aware, you can be killed for trying to escape or upsetting the others. So, do be mindful of all your actions.”

With Markallow gone, the bandit officers watch them swing their weapons; they swing with aggression and handle them until it is easy. After minutes go by, everyone can swing a sword and thrust a spear. Travis and Barok feel foolish with their weapons. Half of the time is over and everyone leaves, but Barok and Travis continue to train. It is a frustrating challenge for them to use weapons they have little knowledge of. They spend two hours practicing before giving up.

Barok grunts with fury and says, “I need to get stronger. I must be stronger.”

“We both need to be strong,” said Travis patting his shoulder, “I will get stronger to leave from here…but I won’t be getting stronger with this damn staff.”

He stands up and uses a strong thrust. Suddenly, a small light flashes in the staff. They look at it and see light sparkling from within. Travis and Barok are amazed yet confused to see it shine brightly. Travis swings the staff again and more light beams from it. The same light continues to appear with each swing, thrust, and strike he performs.

“Are you able to wield magic?” Barok asks.

Travis answers, “I don’t know how to use magic. No one in my family is a magic user or has any heritage that knows of magical spells.”

He rubs the staff and feels the energy through it. The magic has a soft pulse as he holds the staff. Unsure, Travis swings the staff again. He can feel the pulse is strong; Barok steps back as he witnesses the magic from the staff slide up his arm. Rather than be fearful of what is happening, Travis breathes easy; he keeps up the motion and blocks out everything until Barok calls him.

“That was interesting,” said Barok. He asks, “What did it feel like?”

Travis replies, “It feels calm and relaxing. The magic flowed through me like water was falling from my body. I don’t know what to say, but I’ll keep the staff for now.”

The day for them is tiresome and painful. From running, fighting, and gathering, the recruits of Lord Markallow and Lord Lufkin are thoroughly broken in and must learn the ways of the bandits. Lord Rivan is grateful to see the success despite some people that try to run away or die against others in combat. For the whole day, the prisoners train, work, and endure every challenge that is given to them. The shadows slowly cover the landscape and torches are lit to brighten up the surroundings. The bandits secure the entrance and start the entertainment.

Many prisoners are sent back to their room; however, they are given more rules to always remember. The most important rule: Do Not Challenge. It didn’t take long for Hugadin and Goan to ask for a fight and prove to Markallow that they belonged by his side. The pair come to the Bandit Lords, asking Markallow, Lufkin, and Rivan to give them their best warriors; in fact, they announce their intention to the people who are fourth to the Bandit Lords. During their battle, the crowd watches for a death strike to be made. It is a long trial of strength and skill both men display.

Elsewhere, Barok and Travis enjoy a campfire only. Travis looks at the wooden staff with more curiosity while Barok is struggling to be skillful with the daggers. As they relax and make small talk among each other, both men look up to see two women named Helgda and Rinda. Both women are strong, eager, and very much interested. The women drop their weapons and heavy sacks. Although one of them is feeling good, the other has something else in mind.

Barok looks up to find Helgda hanging over his shoulder, “Heya! What are you two doing tonight? We need some fun.”

“We are new here; I doubt we would be very entertaining for you two,” said Travis as he signals Barok with his eyes.

Rinda smiles, “I don’t know about that. You may surprise us. I am Rinda. This is Helgda, and she is interested in you, Mr.…?”

Barok answers, “I am Barok, and this is Travis. I’m from the Avirok region. And…”

“When I am done, you won’t go back to your home. I’m Helgda, and you get two to three hours to show me,” she said pulling Barok up.

“Oh no, I would not be good for two hours,” said Barok. He adds, “I’ve been training all day, running, and gathering. You will be disappointed in me. Let another else fulfill your needs.”

Helgda forces Barok down and seductively replies, “Oh I had worse than you. And after we are done, I promise you will be able to go more than four hours.”

Rinda laughs at the pair while Travis giggles under his breath; a few other bandits notice and call Helgda to be their entertainment, but she ignores them. As much as Helgda desires to have fun, the moment comes to a brief pause when slaves bring items to burn. Helgda pulls back as a slave drops some books in the fire. Upon dropping the books, a blue flame shoots up to the sky. The surprise causes them to pull back, but Travis sees a unique book burning away slowly. With no caution about the flame, Travis pulls the book out. The blue flame disappears as everyone looks at the fire with wonder; they gaze at Travis for being so reckless. He is slightly burnt, but nothing a few days of rest won’t cure.

“Hey, be careful Travis. You don’t need to have your hands on fire,” said Rinda

“Hey, what is with the book you got?” Barok points at it.

Travis looks at the book and answers, “I don’t know. I believe it was the cause of the blue flame.”

“Who cares about some stupid blue flame or book? I need to be satisfied tonight,” said Helgda locking her arms on Barok, “You are my choice. If you will excuse us, we need to spend time together and alone.”

Travis and Rinda wave goodbye to them. Barok prays to Xat that Helgda will be pleased after the first hour. The look in his eyes is terrifying as others wonder what he did to receive her attention. Travis looks at the book with care and notices the edges of it are burnt. It has magic pulsing from it like the wooden staff. The feeling is amazing and wonderful. He opens the book and sees strange woods inside it. He attempts to read it until Rinda captures his attention.

Rhinda leans on him and says, “I am glad to see one of you like to read. But no, I won’t be doing anything rough. I have been taken care of tonight; however, Helgda is picky about her partners. Besides that, what kind of book is this?”

“That is good to hear, and yes, I do prefer to read on a daily basis,” said Travis with a smile, “I have never seen a book like this. It looks strange.”

They stare at the book as an orange and blue magic swirl around the edges. Though burnt at different spots, Travis opens the book and to see words written. He didn’t comprehend any word, but there is one that reads: “Vurika”. Rinda touches the pages and feels the book beat like a heart. Even Travis didn’t deny the fact that the book feels like a human heart.

She says, “I have seen some things but that is bizarre. The book feels like a human heart. Do you study magic?”

Travis answers, “No, I don’t know any magic, but the word says something. It says: Vurika.”

Upon saying the word, a flash of white light swirls around Travis. He looks at his hands, arms, and legs to see the bruises and cuts disappear. The fresh cuts and bleeding wounds close as though they never exist. Rinda is shocked with joy and amusement.

Rinda asks, “Are you sure you don’t know magic? You just healed yourself.”

A few bandits walk by and scoff at Travis. One of them says, “Hey, Rinda. You better break this one in before Markallow takes him from you.”

Rinda sarcastically laughs, “Unlike your bunch, I don’t require pets like the ones you want to drag with you. Now, piss off.”

The group leaves them to the fire, but Travis is still unsure as to what happened. He feels the book beat softly in his hands as more orange and blue light flashes on the outside. This is interesting and scary for Travis.

He says, “I’m going to go back to my bunk tonight. Goodnight, Ms. Rinda?”

Rinda stops him for a moment. She presses against him softly and drags her finger against his body.

She says, “If you like, I can show you how to see your magic properly.”

Before Travis can reply, Rinda kisses him goodnight and leaves with a smile. Travis gathers up his pole, the burnt book, and hurries back to his room. Upon arriving, he sees Helgda walking out and adjusting clothes. She looks up and down at Travis with joy.

Helgda walks by and says, “Your friend lasted longer than I expected. I hope you will do the same if I look in your direction one day.”

She walks away and Travis goes inside. He comes to his room and finds Barok covering his body with his rags.

Barok clears his throat, “She was extremely gentle for someone that appears rough. But, I had better than what she offers. Not to mention, her arms can use some more work if she ever hopes to win at arm wrestling.”

Travis smirks, “Ok, thanks for sharing that wonderful moment of your life. I need you to see this. Watch carefully.”

Barok turns to Travis and hears the word Vurika. Like before, a flash of light wraps around Travis and ends quickly. They both check to make sure they are alone. No one else is within the area.

Barok says, “How did you do that? More importantly, why didn’t you do it sooner?”

Travis answers, “I didn’t know I could do that. No one in my family ever studies magic or uses it. Tonight was my first time using it.”

As a few people come in, they hear a loud and joyful cheer come from the main room. Travis and Barok come to the main room, seeing people around them. A group of people chanted two names after what they saw tonight. There are people around Goan from the majestic Pojo Region; however, many surround Hugadin of the Menade Empire. Both men have done something worthy to have Markallow with them by the entrance.

Markallow proudly presents, “These men, Goan and Hugadin, are more than worthy enough to serve beside me. Goan is the strongest among you; Hugadin fights with the speed and grace of a deity. Because of their great skill and strength, these two men are no longer recruits nor shall they be slaves or prisoners. Recognize them as my right and left hand.”

Hugadin stands proudly, “I suppose I can teach you lot a few things that didn’t come to you with ease.”

Goan flexes his arms, “Those that can survive my teachings will be worthy to have the might I possess.”

Markallow bids the trainees goodnight; he invites his new commanders to join him in a private home for pleasurable company and enjoyment. Everyone goes to their bed and floor mat to rest. Many still hold on to the idea that Hugadin and Goan will uplift them from the bottom. Barok and Travis turn away from the others; there is success for many, but they have something better than proving how strong they are.

Barok expresses his joy, “This magic is our way out of here. If you can use it to heal our wounds, we can escape by daylight during any session.”

Travis says, “It depends on what we do during the daytime. Our best chance is to go back to the river and escape from there.”

They both agree to do the task in the morning. Barok looks for his bed, but Travis looks over the book. He says the word again, but nothing happens. He looks at the burnt pages and views only half readable words. Instead of saying the word again, Travis looks at the first page again to see a similar word next to the first one he spoke.

Travis says, “Vurika-Muri!?”

The spell appears in the book and around it. It heals the outside and restores most of its appearance. It is an amazing sight for Travis to see; he opens the book to find the pages in terrible condition, but his desire to read and comprehend it is unsatisfied. Travis turns to his bed and smiles at the items he has within his hands. There is a staff with some form of magic in his possession. Now, he has a book with power pulsating. Both items are a part of his inventory. The night is over and tomorrow shows great promise for him. As time goes on, Barok and Travis endure the same treatment each day from the bandit officers. Many other prisoners accept the new life they had while others die from being overworked or tried to escape. It was four long months of harsh treatment, dangerous training, and daily beatings. The only difference is that Travis and Barok were waiting for the right moment to escape.

Author's Note

This is just a sample of what I am still working on, but please leave your remarks.