Roar Of The Dragon 1m553l

Other books by Michelle Mueller:

Spin

The Ice Princess, Book I of The Tales of Shalimar

The Return to Alcastar, Book II of The Tales of Shalimar

Roar of the Dragon

The Tales of Shalimar Book III

Michelle Mueller

Copyright © 2019 by Michelle Mueller.

Library of Congress Control Number: 2018901175 ISBN: Hardcover Softcover eBook

978-1-7960-6930-3 978-1-7960-6931-0 978-1-7960-6933-4

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Scripture quotations marked KJV are from the Holy Bible, King James Version (Authorized Version). First published in 1611. Quoted from the KJV Classic Reference Bible, Copyright © 1983 by The Zondervan Corporation.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only. Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Rev. date: 10/30/2019

Xlibris 1-888-795-4274 www.Xlibris.com 805120

CONTENTS

Dedication

Acknowledgments

Preface

Glossary

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Epilogue

All scripture is taken from The Holy Bible (KJV)

DEDICATION

T HIS BOOK IS lovingly dedicated to my family and friends who ed me in this journey. I cannot express in words how thankful I am for all of you and your prayers. You are the treasures in my h eart.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I AM ETERNALLY thankful to my Heavenly Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. I could not have written this book in my own strength, but with you, ALL things are poss ible.

PREFACE

M Y LOVE FOR the novels of J. R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis inspired me to continue the adventures of my beloved characters of Shalimar and write this trilogy. My desire in writing this book is to reveal the truth of the supernatural realm and God’s unconditional love for you.

“For it is written, He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee: And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.” ~ Luke 4:10-11

“Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me.” ~ Micah7:8

GLOSSARY

Humans

Aaron (Air-in): Son of Ayden and Katrina; brother of Adalein and Daniel; grandson of Lazar

Adalein (Ad-a-leen): Daughter of Ayden and Katrina; sister of Aaron and Daniel; granddaughter of Lazar

Alannah: Wife of Shawn; adoptive mother of Nova (Atara)

Amarisa: Princess of Alcastar; daughter of King Davion and Queen Nadia; wife of Croloch; mother of Prince Leon

Atara (Ah-tar-ah): Name given to Nova by Croloch

Ayden: Prince and knight of Shalimar; husband of Princess Katrina; father of Aaron, Adalein, and Daniel

Betsabee (Bet-sa-bee): Rabbage’s beloved

Caitiff (Cay-tiff) Croloch (Crow-lock): Wizard; Husband of Princess Amarisa; father of Prince Leon; former knight of Shalimar

Cara (Care-ah): Wife of Ryke; mother of Dante and Nova

Daniel: Youngest child of Ayden and Katrina; brother of Aaron and Adalein; grandson of Lazar

Dante (Don-tay): Knight of Shalimar; son of Ryke and Cara; brother of Nova

Davion: King of Alcastar; husband of Queen Nadia; father of Princess Amarisa; grandfather of Prince Leon

Dirks: Marauders in the land of Toradi

Eon (EE-on): A holy man of Shalimar

Fergus (Fer-guss): Brother of Shawn

Grace: Daughter of Lord Lancelin and Lady Jordanna; younger sister of Ayden

Katrina: Princess of Shalimar; daughter of King Lazar and Queen Kaylein; wife of Ayden; mother of Aaron, Adalein, and Daniel

Kaylein: Deceased Queen of Shalimar; wife of Lazar, mother of Katrina

Kean (Kee-un) Clan: Family belonging to a Nomadic People known as The Travelers

Kor (Rhymes with door): Leader of the Dirks

Lady Jordanna: Friend of Queen Kaylein; wife of Lord Trevonis (deceased); wife of Lord Lancelin; mother of Ayden and Grace

Lancelin (Lan-sa-lin): Lord and knight of Shalimar; husband of Lady Jordanna; stepfather of Ayden; father of Grace

Lazar (La-zar): King of Shalimar; husband of Queen Kaylein (deceased), father of Princess Katrina

Leon: Prince of Alcastar; son of Croloch and Amarisa; grandson of Davion and Nadia

Malefic (Male-a-feck): Wizard of Cinomed; leader of Ords in the other world

Nadia: Queen of Alcastar; wife of King Davion; mother of Princess Amarisa; grandmother of Prince Leon

Nicolin: King of Zantar; father of Prince Terric

Nova: Daughter of Ryke and Cara; adopted daughter of Shawn and Alannah; sister of Dante

Ords (Oards): Giants who live in Cinomed, in the other world

Patrick: Brother of Shawn

Rabbage (Rhymes with cabbage): Little creature, known as a Zork in the other world

Ryke (Rike): Husband of Cara; father of Dante and Nova

Shawn: Leader of The Kean clan of Travelers; husband of Alannah; adoptive father of Nova (Atara)

Terric: Prince of Zantar; son of King Nicolin

The Travelers: Clans of nomadic people living primarily east of the Toradi

Mountains

Rudi (Roo-dee): Little Zork son of Rabbage and Betsabee; brother of Tudi

Tudi (Too-dee): Little Zork daughter of Rabbage and Betsabee; little sister of Rudi

Yanzi (Rhymes with Pansy) Tribe: Indigenous people living on Dolphin Island

Zorks (Rhymes with Storks): Little creatures who live in Cinomed (Shimmerdale) in the other world.

Ships

The Infinity: Prince Leon of Alcastar’s ship

Angels

Aladio (Ah-la-dee-oh): Angel assigned to Fergus

Aloke (Ah-low-kee): Angel assigned to Kean Clan

Custos (Koos-tohs): Angel guarding the demonic portal

David: Angel assigned to Katrina

Elshanel (El-sha-nel): Angel assigned to Leon

Ezekiel (E-zee-key-el): Angel assigned to Croloch

Iri (Ear-ee): Angel assigned to Nova

Jakar (Jah-car): Angel assigned to King Lazar

Lekki (Leh-key): Angel assigned to Dante

Tekoa (Teh-coe-ah): Angel assigned over Toradi

Tikvah (Teak-vah): Angel assigned to Ayden

Trekon (Tray-con): Commander of Angels

Animals

Aven (A-ven): Unicorn of Brightendale

Creulon (Kray-lon): Dragon of Toradi assigned to protect Kor and his men

Grian (Gree-an): Ayden’s horse

Jubilee (Jew-ba-lee): Leon’s dog

Malum (Mah-loom): Dragon of Cinomed

Selah (Sel-ah): Cocker Spaniel belonging to Aaron and Adalein

Shannon and Shai: Katrina’s Irish Wolfhounds

Thunder: Croloch’s horse

Locations

Alcastar (Ale-ka-star): Motherland of Shalimar, an island west of Shalimar,

across the Falcon Sea

Brightendale: A land of in the other world; home of Aven, the unicorn

Cinomed (Sin-o-med): A land in the other world inhabited by the Ords; formerly Shimmerdale

Dayshire: village south of Croloch’s cave

Dolphin Island: Tiny island southeast of Alcastar

Elkrin (El-krin) Valley: Eastern valley of Shalimar and Zantar, west of the Toradi Mountains

Falcon Sea: Sea to the west of Shalimar and Zantar

Kaldor (Kale-door): Village of Dante and Nova, east of Shalimar, across the Toradi Mountains

Murky Mountain: Home of Malefic, the wizard and the Ords in Cinomed

Ordaxis (Ore-dax-is): World of the Ords

Rainbow Mountain: Mountain in Shimmerdale before the invasion of the Ords

Shalimar (Shal-ah-marr): Kingdom ruled by King Lazar, south of Zantar, west of the Toradi

Mountains

Shimmerdale: home of the Zorks before invaded by Ords

Toradi (Tore-ah-die) Forest: Forest that runs through the land of Toradi

Toradi Mountains: Mountain range that runs north to south, east of the Elkrin Valley

Toradi River: River that runs north and south, east of the Toradi Mountains

Winwood Forrest: Forest that separates the kingdoms Shalimar and Zantar, west of the Elkrin Valley

Zantar (Zan-tarr): Kingdom north of Shalimar, separated by the Winwood Forest

PROLOGUE

A LONG TIME ago , beyond the Toradi Mountains, lived an ancient dragon known as Creulon. The dragon had been appointed by the Ruler of Darkness, Satan, as protector over blood-thirsty outlaws, known as the Dirks. With the aid of the dragon, they pillaged villages to the east, leaving behind a wake of destruction and d eath. This day, their ruthless leader, Kor, sat on his horse at the top a hill gazing down upon their next intended conquest. The mighty dragon, Creulon, flew above them. Raising his sword, Kor gave a mighty shout and the band of marauders descended upon the tiny village of Kaldor in the land of Toradi. Clutching his sword, Ryke looked out from the small window of their home and saw the dragon flying above the outlaws as they swiftly approached. Fearing for the lives of their children, he and his wife, Cara, opened the trap door of a secret tunnel beneath the floor for their small son and daughter. The tunnel led to the forest behind them. “Take Nova and go to the river,” said Ryke to his son. The roar of the dragon and the sound of many horses’ hooves grew louder. “Da, I am not afraid. Let me fight,” said nine-year-old Dante. “You must protect your sister,” said Cara, weeping as they heard blood-curdling screams and shouts coming from outside. Hugging their children for the last time, Ryke slammed the trap door shut. Covering it with straw, he pulled a small table over it. Hurrying outside, Ryke and Cara fought bravely against the Dirks alongside the other villagers, but they were greatly outnumbered. The outlaws swept through the village, ransacking it. The dragon torched the homes and barns, feeding on helpless victims. Kor rode up beside Ryke and Cara as they fought the outlaws. Grabbing Cara by the hair, he tried to pull her up on his horse, but she fought him. While they struggled, Ryke lunged at Kor with his sword. While the two were engaged in combat, one of Kor’s men rode up behind Ryke, plunging his

axe into his back and slew him. Great flames of fire shot from the dragon’s mouth as it roared, igniting the thatched roof of their home. Spooked by falling embers from the roof, Kor’s horse reared up and struck Cara in the head with its hooves, taking her life. Hand in hand, Ryke and Cara’s spirits rose upward into the sky. Looking down, they saw their lifeless bodies lying in the dirt next to their burning home. As black, billowing smoke from the flames rose into the sky, their lifeblood seeped into the ground, crying out to God. Sparkles of tiny, brilliant lights crystallized before their eyes and the angel, Trekon, appeared before them, smiling. A glorious light emanated from him. The angel had shoulder-length, wavy, blond hair and piercing light blue eyes. He was clothed in a long, white robe and wore a golden sash around his waist. On his feet, he wore gold sandals and his translucent white wings shimmered with light. “Come, it is time,” said the angel, tenderly. Ryke and Cara smiled as they took his outstretched hand. Behind the angel, an ancient, winding stairway with translucent, pearl steps reached up into the heavens, disappearing into the clouds. Beautiful flowers of every color bordered the steps on either side of the staircase and a white dove hovered in the sky above them. As Cara and Ryke slowly ascended the steps, Cara turned and looked up into the angel’s face. “What will become of our children?” she asked. “They are in God’s hands,” said Trekon, reassuring them. Ryke and Cara nodded, feeling peace as the angel led them home.

CHAPTER 1

P LUNGED INTO DARKNESS, the air within the tunnel smelled dank and musty. It was hard for Nova and Dante to breath. Frightened, they fought claustrophobia as they began the long trek through the dirt age. Crawling on their hands and knees, they inched their way along, rocks scraping the skin on their palms and knees. Nova’s sobs were the only thing they heard as Dante urged his sister for ward. “Do not stop, Nova. We must keep going,” he said, urgently. Dante knew instinctively they had to put as much distance as they could between them and their village if they wanted to live. The fear of being discovered and the fate they would meet if found propelled them forward. Nova felt tiny legs crawling on her arm and cried out. “Shhh, they will hear us,” said Dante, in a loud whisper. “We are almost there,” he said, pushing her forward. In truth, he had no idea how long the tunnel was or how far they must go. The tunnel was carved out by the children’s father years ago as an escape route in the event of enemy attacks. It had taken Ryke three years to dig the narrow age beneath their home. From the time Dante was five years old, Ryke had taken him through the tunnel many times. He showed the young boy how to cover the exit in the forest with brush so it was not visible to the naked eye. “Pay attention and do everything as I have instructed you, Dante. Your life and that of your sister may depend on it,” Ryke had told his small son. Dante had heeded the words of his father, never forgetting. Panting, at last they saw a glimmer of light up ahead and crawled faster. When they came to the exit, the children pushed against the thick covering of branches and crawled out into the forest, a half mile from their home. They were covered in dirt and their clothes were torn. Nova’s dirt-smudged cheeks were stained with tracks from her tears. Quickly, they covered the opening. The distant screams and shouts filled them with terror.

“Hurry,” said Dante. Grabbing his sister by the hand, they raced through the forest down a steep slope to the river. There was no path and they fought their way through thick, overgrown plants, thorny bushes, and low tree branches. Nova tripped over a tree root and fell flat. Dante picked his sister up and they kept running, the cut on Nova’s knee bleeding down her leg. Finally, they reached the bank of the Toradi River. Dante looked for the tree that marked the canoe his father kept hidden. He spotted it a few yards to his left. “This way,” he said, pulling Nova. It had rained heavily the night before and the river was swollen. The banks were muddy and slippery, and they fought to keep their balance as they uncovered the canoe. Nova helped Dante push it into the river and he held it in place for her. “Get in,” he said, helping her into the small craft. Both children then turned and looked back one final time toward their village. The sky was bright orange and great plumes of black smoke rose in the air as their village burned. “Mama…Da…” cried Nova, bursting into fresh tears. Quickly, Dante climbed in, tears blurring his vision. Wiping his eyes with his sleeve, he pushed the canoe out into the body of water with the paddle. Please, God, help us, he prayed silently. The canoe moved lazily downstream as Dante and Nova paddled in silence. When they were a good distance away, Nova looked back at Dante, breaking the silence. Her eyes were full of worry. “When can we go home?” she asked. Dante did not know what to say. In truth, he did not know. “When it is safe,” he said, sounding more confident then he felt. Nova nodded, accepting his answer. They continued paddling in silence, each of them lost in their thoughts, unsure of so many things. Nova looked down over the side of the canoe at the fish swimming just below the surface of the water.

“I am hungry,” she said, as her stomach growled. “And thirsty,” she added, licking her dry lips. “We will stop after we go around the bend. We can rest and look for berries. I will catch us a fish,” promised Dante. His own stomach reminded him they had no provisions. Ryke had taught his young son how to hunt and fish. He had patiently taught him about edible plants, how to build a fire and make a lean-to for shelter. Thankfully, Dante wore the knife his father had made for him. As the canoe wound around the bend, the current became stronger. Dante had never been this far down the river. He and Nova maneuvered the canoe around uprooted trees and large rocks jutting out of the water. They heard the sound of rushing water as they approached the rapids. “Hold on, Nova,” yelled Dante, as the white-capped water carried them swiftly downstream. “Turn,” he yelled and began paddling backward. They tried to angle the canoe toward the shore. Nova dropped her paddle into the rushing water. Leaning over, she tried to grab it. The current grabbed the bow and spun the canoe around, flipping it over and tossing them into the water. “Nova,” yelled Dante as they were swept downstream. The tumultuous water roared in their ears as their small bodies bobbed up and down in the rapids, their arms and legs flailing helplessly. “Dante,” screamed Nova, sputtering as the water engulfed her. Suddenly, Dante was pulled down by an undertow. Jesus, help us! he cried, struggling. A dazzling light, more brilliant than a thousand suns, emanated from the Lord, God Almighty as he sat upon his Heavenly throne. Great peals of thunder and flashes of lightning came from the throne as he looked down upon the earth. Tilting his head, he heard Dante’s cry. Sitting at his right side, was his only begotten Son, Jesus. Next to Jesus was Holy Spirit. The Great Cloud of Witnesses were also gathered, observing the situation in Toradi. Among them were Ryke and Cara. All of Heaven prayed.

Two mighty warrior angels, Lekki and Iri, were summoned by the Holy One. They stood before him, dressed in radiant gold armor and their light, blue eyes blazed with fire. Their large white, wings were translucent and shimmered with flecks of gold. In their hands, they each held powerful swords. “Go,” said the Almighty, in a thunderous voice. “Thank you, Lord,” said Ryke and Cara and the great cloud of witnesses. They cast their crowns before him and worshipped him. The two angels bowed before the Lord and disappeared in brilliant flashes of light. Hurtling down through the heavens, they traveled faster than the speed of light. Bursting into the earth’s atmosphere, they streaked across the sky like two comets and plunged into the Toradi River. Wrapping their strong arms around the unconscious children, they picked them up and carried them ashore. Sitting on the left bank of the river, Lekki held Dante in his arms, comforting him. Gently, he brushed the curly blond hair from the little boy’s face and whispered tenderly in his ear. “God loves you, Dante. Take courage. Let not your heart be troubled for he is always with you and will always take care of you. You will do great and mighty things in his name.” Lekki kissed the little boy on His cheek and laid him gently on the ground. In the blink of an eye, he disappeared. Iri sat on the right side of the river bank, cradling Nova in his arms. Gently, he smoothed her long blonde hair from her face and comforted her. Touching the gash on the little girl’s forehead, he healed her. Leaning over, Iri whispered tenderly in her ear. “God loves you, Nova. Do not fear and let your heart be troubled for He is always with you and will always take care of you. You will do great and mighty things in His name.” Iri kissed the little girl on her cheek. Placing her gently on the ground, he ed Lekki. Invisible to man, Lekki and Iri sat on two large rocks drying themselves in the morning sun. There was a brilliant flash of light as the angel, Tekoa, ed them. Fierce and mighty, the warrior angel, Tekoa, was the commander of the angels over the land of Toradi. Tall, with broad shoulders and long, black hair, his complexion was reddish-brown and he had the appearance of an indigenous man. Upon seeing Lekki and Iri, his face broke out into a broad smile. “Well done, brothers,” said Tekoa, giving them bear hugs. “It is good to see you again.”

“I see you have earned another badge of honor,” said Iri, referring to the fresh scar on Tekoa’s face. “Hmm, yes,” said Tekoa, touching the scar on his cheek. “A nasty demon but he has met his fate.” “To God be the glory,” said Lekki. In times gone by, the three warrior angels had fought together in many battles against the powers of darkness. Under the archangel, Michael’s command, the warrior angels belonged to God’s angelic army that fight against God’s enemy, Satan. Satan was once the most beautiful angel created by God. He became prideful and desired to be exalted above God, rather than be his servant. Satan led one-third of the angels in a rebellion against God. There was war in Heaven as Michael and his army fought against Satan and his army. Satan was defeated and the Lord cast him out of Heaven into the earth. Satan’s deep hatred for God extends to all mankind. After the Lord created the heavens and the earth, he created the very first man and woman, Adam and Eve. They lived with God in the Garden of Eden. The Lord gave Adam and Eve the authority to rule and reign over his creation. He told them they were free to eat any fruit from the trees in the garden except the fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Satan tempted them and they disobeyed God. God is Holy and cannot be in the presence of sin. As a result of their sin against God, Adam and Eve had to leave the Garden of Eden. Their sin separated them from God and Satan stole their spiritual authority on the earth. God, in His infinite love and mercy, chose his only begotten son, Jesus, to be the perfect sacrifice for sin, once for all time. Through his sacrifice on the cross, anyone who believes in Jesus Christ can receive forgiveness for their sins and be reconciled with God, living with him for eternity. The spiritual authority Adam and Eve once had now has been restored to every believer. Satan is known as the father of lies and he opposes the truth of God. He seeks to deceive mankind, blinding the minds of unbelievers from the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ, in which they would be forgiven of their sins and be reconciled with God, spending eternity with their Heavenly Father. He hates all those who believe in Jesus. He is a thief who seeks to steal, kill and destroy them. Satan

knows when Jesus returns to earth, he will be defeated and cast into the lake of fire forever. Until then, God’s holy angels and believers must fight the spiritual battle against the powers of darkness. Knowing God’s plan for Dante and Nova, Satan sought to destroy them but his plan, for now, was thwarted. “How are the children?” asked Tekoa, concerned. It had been a close call for both of them. Lekki spoke first. “Dante suffered minor cuts and bruises. I was able to reach him before he drowned. He will regain consciousness soon. He is very courageous for one so young.” Lekki held a deep iration for the little boy. He had seen grown men buckle under fear in similar circumstances. “Good,” nodded Tekoa. “And Nova?” he asked, turning to Iri. “Nova’s head struck a rock, leaving a deep gash in her forehead but the Lord healed her. She will regain consciousness soon. She is quite a remarkable little girl and very brave, like her parents and brother.” “Excellent. Keep watch over them and protect them from harm. The powers of darkness seek to destroy them because the enemy knows the plan God has for their lives. We must ensure they fulfill their destinies in God,” said Tekoa, gravely. “So shall it be,” said Lekki and Iri. There was fire in their eyes and a fierceness in their voices. Tekoa drew his sword and held it up toward Heaven. “For the King of Glory,” he shouted mightily. “Forever without end,” replied Lekki and Iri, raising their swords. There was a brilliant flash of light as the three angels disappeared.

CHAPTER 2

L ARGE, BLACK VULTURES circled in the air above Ayden, causing alarm as he approached the village. Nothing could have prepared him for the sight before him as he rode through what had once been Kaldor. The stench of death was everywhere. Gagging, he held his sleeve over his nose and mouth, examining the annihilation of the small settlement. Charred bodies lay in smoldering embers of what once had been homes. Others lay slaughtered outside in the dirt, some of them still holding their weapons. Sheep and goats ran aimlessly about, bleating. He searched for survivors but there were none. What was to have been a pleasurable hunting trip had turned gruesome for seventeen-year-old Ayden. Never in his young life had he witnessed anything so gha stly. Who could have done this? he asked himself, deeply troubled. The answer came to him unexpectedly as he heard the audible voice of the Lord. The voice seemed to come from everywhere at once and startled him. “The dragon, Creulon, and the Dirks,” said the Lord, angrily. “Go to the river, Ayden. There you will find a young boy who escaped. His name is Dante. Take him home with you. Lady Jordanna will care for him and raise him as her son. Watch over him and protect him.” “Yes, Lord,” said Ayden. Obediently, he turned his horse and rode into the forest that led to the river. There was no path that led through the thick, overgrown forest to the river. Ayden walked on foot, leading his horse down a steep slope toward the sound of rushing water. Upon reaching the bank of the river, he noticed two sets of small footprints in the mud that stopped at the edge of the water. Ayden realized the young boy was not alone. The deep ruts in the mud made by the canoe told him they must have fled by water. Ayden looked upstream and downstream, wondering which way to go while his horse drank from the river. Again, the Lord spoke to him. “Look downstream.”

“Yes, Lord,” said Ayden. Obediently, he rode along the riverbank, searching for the boy. I wonder what God’s plans are for him. Who is he with? thought Ayden. After he had ridden several miles, Ayden saw a small form laying on the bank up ahead. As he drew closer, he could make out a small, still body. Dismounting quickly, Ayden ran to him. The boy was laying on his back, unconscious. Invisible to man, the angel, Lekki, stood next to him, protecting him. Ayden knelt down beside Dante, placing his ear on his chest. Relieved, he heard the faint thumping of the boy’s heart. “Thank God,” said Ayden. He carefully examined the boy for injuries but found only minor scrapes and bruises. Placing his hand on the boy’s shoulder, Ayden prayed for him to awake. Moaning softly, Dante’s eyes fluttered open and he looked up into the face of Ayden. His first instinct was to run. He tried to get up but was too weak. “Shhh, do not move. I will not hurt you,” said Ayden. “I am Ayden of Shalimar. I found you lying here. It is a miracle you are alive. Here, drink this.” Carefully, he helped the boy sit up and offered him a drink of water from his leather pouch. “Just rest,” said Ayden, helping the boy lay down again. “Thank you,” said Dante. He laid his head back down and then jerked up, suddenly. “Where is Nova?” he asked, alarmed. “Nova? Who is Nova?” asked Ayden. Then he ed the two sets of footprints. “My little sister,” said Dante, his voice rising in panic as he struggled to get up. “We fled the dragon and the Dirks in my father’s canoe.” With great difficulty, he then went on to tell Ayden of their harrowing escape. “The canoe overturned in the river. Have you seen her?” asked Dante, looking around frantically. “No,” said Ayden, sadly. “You are the only one I found.” “We must go back to the village. Maybe she is there,” said Dante, desperately, grabbing Ayden’s sleeve. Ayden looked at Dante and shook his head. “She is not there. I am sorry. I found

no survivors.” Dante let out an anguished wail. Ayden put his arms around the little boy as he sobbed uncontrollably. After a very long time, his sobs subsided. Wiping his eyes, he pleaded with Ayden. “Will you help me look for her?” he asked. “She is all alone.” “Of course,” said Ayden, helping Dante onto his horse. They searched downstream for three days but did not find Nova. Dante’s voice was hoarse from calling her name. On the fourth day, Dante woke up at their campsite, with a heaviness in his heart as he realized his sister was gone. He did not know if she was alive or dead. It was too much for him to bear and he hung his head and cried. “I give you my word we will keep looking for her,” said Ayden, putting his arm around the little boy. He understood what the little boy was feeling because his own father had been missing for many years. “I lost my father at sea when I was very young,” confided Ayden, sadly. “Come with me to Shalimar, Dante. It is a wonderful place to live and everyone will welcome you. My mother would insist if she were here,” said Ayden, smiling. Dante looked up into Ayden’s gentle face and nodded. Although his heart was heavy, he knew it was the right thing to do. He fingered the silver medallion of an eagle around his neck, absently. “That is an unusual medallion,” said Ayden. “May I see it?” Dante nodded, slipping the leather cord over his head and handed it to Ayden. “It is beautiful,” said Ayden, iring the craftsmanship. “Where did you get it?” he asked, handing it back to Dante. Dante slipped the necklace back on, holding the medallion between his fingers as his eyes filled with tears. “My father made it,” he said, in a small voice. “He made one for Nova, too. He is…was a silversmith. My mother was an artist. He made the medallions for us from one of her drawings,” said Dante. “He said it was to remind us that God is with us.” Dante closed his eyes, reciting a scripture from the Bible his parents had read to them many times. “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with the wings of eagles…” Ayden ed Dante in quoting the rest of the scripture.”…they shall

run and not grow weary, and they shall walk and not faint.” Dante opened his eyes and Ayden smiled at him. “Isaiah 40:31. It is a promise from God to us who follow Him. My parents read me the same scripture and had me memorize it. Do you know, it was the Lord who told me where to find you?” Dante looked up at Ayden, surprised. “He did?” Ayden told him about his first trip alone hunting and coming upon the decimated village. “I heard His voice telling me to look for you. He told me to look by the river and that is exactly where I found you. God talked to me like I am talking to you, now,” said Ayden, his eyes wide with wonder. “It was the most amazing thing,” he added, shaking his head. Dante was quiet, taking in everything Ayden had told him. One question burned in his heart. “Why have we not found Nova?” he said, his eyes filling with tears. “I have prayed and asked the Lord to help us find her. Is God angry with me? Have I done something wrong?” asked the little boy. Tears spilled down his cheeks as he tried to understand. Ayden put his arm around Dante, comforting him. “God is not angry with you, Dante. You have not done anything wrong. In fact, I believe God is very proud of you. You are very brave and I am honored He chose me to help you,” said Ayden. “We must trust God even when we do not understand.” Dante sniffed as Ayden continued. “Do you know what Proverbs 3:5-6 says?” he asked. Dante nodded, wiping his nose with his sleeve. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding…” Ayden recited the rest of the scripture with him. “…In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths.” He smiled, looking up at Ayden, encouraged and strengthened. “The Lord told me to take you home with me to Shalimar,” said Ayden. “He will work everything out for you and Nova because Romans 8:28 says…” “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose,” said Dante. “That is right,” said Ayden, hugging him. “Now then, shall we go?” “Yes. I will trust the Lord and not forget his promises,” said Dante, resolutely.

He got up and helped Ayden extinguish the fire and saddle his horse. “She is beautiful,” said Dante, throwing a blanket over the horse’s back. Stroking her soft, white neck, he talked softly to her. “Thank you,” said Ayden. “Her name is Grian. I raised her from a colt. We have been friends a long time,” he said, rubbing her forehead. Ayden adjusted the saddle and mounted Grian, extending his hand down to Dante. Dante took it and Ayden pulled him up behind him. “Tell me about Shalimar,” said Dante, as they began their journey. Ayden smiled, thinking of Katrina. “Shalimar is a Christian kingdom ruled by King Lazar…”

* * *

Three days later, Ayden and Dante rode through the Winwood Forest. “We are almost there,” said Ayden, unable to hide his excitement. He had missed Katrina and told Dante of his love for her. At last, they reached the edge of the forest and came to a meadow. In the distance, the castle of Shalimar came into view. Dante was speechless. Everything Ayden had described about his home paled in comparison to the sight before him. The castle of Shalimar was a magnificent, lofty structure, built upon the towering cliffs that ran along the coast of the Falcon Sea. It was built by King Lazar’s ancestors, who were explorers, a long time ago. Originally from the island of Alcastar, in the Falcon Sea, they discovered the land of Shalimar and settled there. As Ayden and Dante rode through the meadow near the castle, the boy observed the knights and squires training. Some practiced archery, aiming their arrows at targets propped against bales of hay. Some practiced their sword skills, using their shields to ward off blows. Dante watched with keen interest as others practiced jousting on horseback. “The knights and squires practice daily,” said Ayden, as they rode past them. “Daily practice is crucial for defending our kingdom.”

“I would like to be a knight,” Dante said wistfully. He had heard stories from his father and the men in his village about the Knights of Shalimar. “Then I will teach you. Sir Lancelin taught me when I was about your age,” said Ayden as they rode up to the castle gates. The guards standing on the castle wall looked down at them, recognizing Ayden. There were shouts and a flurry of excitement as they announced his return. “Lower the drawbridge. Open the gates,” shouted the guards on the wall. Ayden and Dante heard the clanking of heavy chains as the heavy, wooden drawbridge was let down. Grian’s hooves clip-clopped across the wooden planks of the bridge. Large wooden gates led into the castle courtyard. Ayden and Dante dismounted. While Dante looked about him, Ayden handed Grian’s reins to a young boy, who led her to the stables. “Come with me,” said Ayden, escorting Dante up the long, white, stone steps of the castle. They were met at the castle doors by two guards dressed in royal blue uniforms with gold trim. They stood on either side of the door, holding long spears. Upon seeing Ayden, they smiled. Bowing slightly, they opened the doors for them. Dante followed Ayden inside the castle and looked about him in wonder. Never before had he seen anything so grand. Beautiful paintings of Lazar’s ancestors adorned the walls of a long, wide corridor. Their footsteps echoed as they walked past several exquisite, life-size statues of Biblical figures, carved in marble. Finally, at the end of the long corridor, they reached another set of double doors that led into the great hall. Two more guards were posted outside the doors. Seeing Ayden, they bowed slightly and opened the doors for them. The great hall was a very large room. Made of blocks of stone, it had massive columns, tall archways, and two large fireplaces. Sconces on the walls offered additional lighting. The room had several, long windows with rich, blue drapes that fell to the floor. In the center of the room, between the two fireplaces, was a very long, wooden table and ornately carved wooden chairs. Seated at the table, enjoying their afternoon meal, were King Lazar, Princess Katrina, Lord Lancelin and Lady Jordanna. They looked up when Ayden and Dante entered the room. Katrina hastily put down her goblet and ran to him. “Ayden,” she exclaimed, throwing her arms around his neck, hugging him

happily. Smiling, Ayden picked Katrina up and twirled her around as they kissed. Placing her back down, gently, he held her in his arms and looked lovingly into her eyes. “I should go away more often,” he teased. “I think not. You have been away too long,” said Katrina, laughing. “Who is this?” she asked, noticing Dante standing shyly behind him. He was fidgeting with his hat, turning it nervously in his hands. Ayden turned, putting his arm around Dante, introducing him. “This is my friend, Dante,” said Ayden. Katrina smiled at the little boy. “Welcome, Dante,” she said. “We were about to have our afternoon meal. Are you hungry?” From where Dante stood, he could see large platters of freshly baked bread, sausage and fresh fruit placed on the table. Their tantalizing aromas filled the room, making his mouth water. “Oh, yes,” exclaimed Dante. Then, ing his manners, he bowed before Katrina. “I mean, yes, Your Highness.” Deeply touched, Katrina put her arm around Dante and seated him next to her and King Lazar. Ayden sat across from them, next to his mother and Lord Lancelin. Katrina placed a large serving of sausage, bread, sliced apples and oranges on Dante’s plate, setting it before him. Then, she poured him a goblet of fresh milk. “Thank you, Your Highness,” said Dante. Bowing his head, he folded his hands and offered a silent prayer of thanks to the Lord for the food. Looking up, he smiled at Katrina. Famished, the little boy ate everything on his plate, much to Lazar’s amusement. “Would you like more food?” asked Lady Jordanna. She could not help wondering, as they all did, why this young boy was alone. Something terrible has happened to him, she thought, judging from his dirty, tattered clothing. “No thank you, Lady Jordanna,” said Dante, politely. He appreciated their kindness and did not want to take advantage of their hospitality. Ayden cleared his throat, not sure how to broach the subject. “Sire, there is

something we must tell you,” said Ayden, as the servants cleared the table. Lazar looked at Ayden and nodded. He sensed from the Lord the boy needed their help and was willing to do whatever the Lord asked of him. “I see,” said Lazar. “Would you like to speak privately?” Katrina, Lady Jordanna, and Lord Lancelin rose, preparing to leave. “No, Sire. Actually, this concerns all of us,” said Ayden. Katrina, Lancelin and Lady Jordanna sat down, giving their full attention to Ayden. Dante folded his hands in his lap, sitting quietly while Ayden recounted the events of the last few days. As Lazar and everyone listened, he told them of the attack on Dante’s village. They were all filled with sorrow and had comion for the boy. “We were unable to find Nova,” concluded Ayden. Dante looked down, trying not to cry while Katrina and Lady Jordanna wiped tears from their eyes. “The Lord told me to bring him here.” Lazar nodded. He felt the presence of Holy Spirit as he spoke, addressing Dante. “We are very sorry for your loss, son,” said King Lazar, putting his arm around the boy. “We are your family now. I give you my word, we will not cease looking for Nova,” he promised. Overcome with emotion and gratitude, Dante threw his arms around King Lazar, hugging him tightly. “Thank you,” whispered the little boy.

* * *

Later that evening, Ayden offered to let Dante share his chambers. “After all, we are brothers now,” he said, smiling. Lady Jordanna went upstairs before bedtime and entered their chambers. There, she found Dante, bathed and dressed in clean night clothes. “All right now, Dante, time for bed,” she said, tucking the little boy in the bed

next to Ayden. “Shall we pray?” The little boy looked up into Lady Jordanna’s loving face and nodded. Lady Jordanna sat down on the edge of his bed. Taking the little boy’s hands in hers, they bowed their heads and closed their eyes. Together, they thanked the Lord for His goodness and mercy and prayed for Nova. Lady Jordanna smoothed the blond curls on Dante’s forehead and kissed his cheek. “Goodnight, Dante. Sweet dreams,” said Lady Jordanna, tenderly. Feeling the peace of God, Dante fell into a deep sleep and began to dream. In the dream, he found himself walking with Jesus in a beautiful garden with many different kinds of flowers in vibrant colors. Barefoot, Jesus was dressed in a brilliant white robe with a gold sash around his waist. On his head was a golden crown. Dante could see through the holes in his wrists and feet, where the nails had pierced him. Light radiated from his entire being. Together, they walked to a nearby gold bench and sat beneath a giant oak tree as a white dove perched in the branch above them. Jesus smiled and put his arm around him, hugging him. Dante felt the Lord’s love surrounding him. “I love you, son,” said Jesus. “I will never leave you or forsake you. Take courage, Dante, and do not lose hope. You and Nova will be together again. I promise.”

* * *

In the days and years to come, Dante adjusted well in Shalimar. Surrounded by people who loved and ed him, he returned their love and was devoted to them. He was a playful boy and made everyone laugh with his impersonations of people, mimicking their voices. He proved to be a quick learner and surprised everyone with his retention of knowledge from the books he read. Dante had a pure heart and loved the Lord. He was anointed by the Lord to be an intercessor. He spent hours in prayer and his prayers were powerful and effective. In time, with Lazar’s blessings, he began his training as a knight, ing the ranks of the pages. Ayden practiced with him daily, developing his skills in

horsemanship, the lance, and sword. Katrina helped him train, teaching him archery and developing his endurance in running and swimming. The three of them grew very close and were inseparable. Through prayer, the Lord delivered Dante from the nightmares that plagued him and brought healing to his heart. True to their word, Lazar and Ayden helped him search for Nova often. Although they did not find her, Dante never gave up hope. He would have the same dream of Jesus often, and each time, the hope of finding his sister was kept alive.

CHAPTER 3

F URTHER DOWNSTREAM, ON the other side of the river, the little girl, Nova, stirred and opened her eyes, staring up into a bright, blue sky with big, puffy, white clouds. As she lay there, watching the clouds drifting by, she became aware of the sound of rushing water near her. Turning her head, she saw the river and realized she was lying on the bank. Where am I? she wondered. She tried to sit up but felt dizzy and her head was throbbing. She lied back down for a few moments until the dizziness ed. Licking her dry lips, she realized she was thirsty. Slowly getting to her feet, she looked around her but nothing looked familiar. Her stomach growled and she looked down at her dirty, tattered dress. Oh, my, what happened to me? she thought as she walked to the edge of the river. Kneeling down, she cupped her tiny hands in the river and drank, bathing her dry throat with the cool water. When her thirst was quenched, she turned and looked at the forest behind her. Maybe I can find some berries, she thought, following a path through the trees. The wizard, Croloch, rode his black horse through the Toradi Forest on his journey to the kingdom of Zantar. Tall and slender, he was a handsome man with long, wavy, dark hair, dark eyes, and high cheekbones. As his horse rode through the forest, he thought about many things. His thoughts turned to Prince Terric of Zantar. Over the years, the wizard he had been grooming the prince in the dark arts of witchcraft, unbeknown to his father, King Nicolin. King Nicolin was an old friend of Lazar, the King of Shalimar. The two neighboring kingdoms lay west of the Toradi Mountains and were separated by the Winwood Forest. Now, after many years, Croloch intended to use Terric in the final act of a diabolical scheme that would overtake both kingdoms and destroy his longtime enemy, Lazar. While riding through the forest, his thoughts turned to his former life before he became a wizard. Once, many years ago, he had been a knight of Shalimar and the trusted friend of King Lazar. Back then, he had loved God and served him faithfully.

During that time, Croloch had been in love with the maiden, Kaylein and asked her to marry him. He ed bitterly that night long ago when she had tearfully told him it was not God’s will that she marry him. Whenever he thought of that night, Croloch felt a sharp pain in his heart as though a sword was driven through it. He had been devastated when Kaylein turned down his proposal. Deeply hurt, he felt rejected by her and betrayed by Lazar and God. Croloch became angry with God for denying him the one person he loved. In truth, he had not prayed and asked the Lord if it was his will for him to marry Kaylein. If he had, the Lord would have revealed to him he had chosen another maiden who was better suited for him. Together, they would have been happy and very much in love. Instead, Croloch chose his will over the will of God. In doing so, he became easy prey for Satan to deceive him and rob him of love. Believing Satan’s lies that Lazar and God had betrayed him, Croloch walked away from God, leaving his life in Shalimar behind. Deceived by Satan, he pledged his allegiance to God’s enemy and his kingdom of darkness. It was a carefully crafted plan of Satan to keep Croloch from fulfilling God’s plan for his life. Croloch’s bitterness and resentment toward Lazar grew over the years, generating a deep hatred for him and the things of God. And yet, God still loved him. Many people were praying for him, including Lazar. As a wizard, Croloch was well renowned in the kingdom of darkness. He was very knowledgeable and powerful in the dark arts, feared by man and demon alike. Still, there was an emptiness inside him and he was often lonely. Although he would never it it, he wanted to love and be loved. Over the years, he had managed, for the most part, to suppress those feelings but not this day. He came across the little girl plucking mulberries from a bush. The cracking of twigs and the neighing of his horse startled Nova and she looked up from her task. Seeing the wizard, she smiled up at him. “Hello,” said Nova, “Would you like some berries?” she asked, holding her tiny hand up to him. Croloch looked down at the small child. Her innocence and sweet nature tugged at his heart. This surprised him and he found himself smiling down at her. “Thank you,” said Croloch, dismounting his horse. Nova took a seat on a nearby log. She patted the spot next to her for Croloch to

sit. Amused, the wizard sat down next to her and Nova shared her berries with him. “What is your name?” asked Nova, looking up at him with big, blue eyes. “My name is Croloch. What is your name?” asked the wizard. Nova thought for a moment and shrugged. “I do not know,” she said. This caused concern for Croloch. “Are you lost?” he asked. Nova looked puzzled. “Lost? I do not know,” she replied. Croloch watched her closely, realizing something was not quite right. “Where do you live? Do you have a family?” he asked. Nova looked down at the berries in her hand, trying hard to . Croloch noticed the silver eagle medallion the little girl wore around her neck. “That is a pretty medallion. Who gave it to you?” he asked, hoping to jog her memory. Nova looked down at the medallion, fingering it gently. “I do not know,” she said, frowning. “Oh, my head hurts,” she said, placing her hand on her forehead. “May I take a look?” asked Croloch. Nova nodded and Croloch gently pushed her blond hair away from her forehead. “I do not see any cuts or bruises,” he said. He realized the little girl was suffering from amnesia. Although he wanted to continue his journey, he did not want to leave her alone in the forest. “How would you like to come with me? I have something I can give you to take away your headache,” he said. Nova nodded. “All right,” she said. “Do you have any food besides berries?” Croloch chuckled. “I believe I do,” he said. Taking her by the hand, he placed her on top of his horse and swung himself up behind her. “Is it far from here?” asked Nova, holding onto the horse’s mane. “Not too far,” said Croloch, turning his horse back in the direction he came from. All along the way, Croloch ignored the voices of the bat-like demons, invisible

to man, that accompanied him. “Abandon her,” urged the demons, circling around them. “She is of no value to you,” they hissed, flapping their wings. “She is just a miserable child,” they said, glaring at Nova with yellow eyes. Silence! he said, angrily, speaking to them with his mind. Fearing him, they obeyed. Hidden by the Lord, the angel, Iri followed.

* * *

Croloch’s cave was set inside the rock cliffs overlooking the Toradi River. Following a path through the forest, they continued on a trail that led up the cliffs along a narrow ledge to the cave. The cave was well hidden, concealed from view by the trees below them. “Is this where you live?” asked Nova, when they stopped in front of the cave. Croloch helped her down off his horse. “Yes. I assure you it is more comfortable inside,” he said, lighting a torch. “Why is this barrel here?” asked Nova, pointing to it. “I use it to catch rainwater,” explained Croloch. Taking the little girl by the hand, he led Nova and his horse inside the cave. Nova looked around her, fascinated. “I have never been in a cave before,” she said, looking up at the wizard, smiling. The cave was a single, large room with a high ceiling. Stalagmites of various shapes and sizes rose in columns from the floor. Some of them ed stalactites from the ceiling. Nova reached out and touched one of the odd-shaped columns, feeling its cool, rough texture. “Pretty,” she said, as they continued walking.

It did not take long to reach the heart of the cave, which was divided into three areas. To the left was a wood stall for Croloch’s horse. Inside the stall, fresh hay was placed on the ground. Two metal troughs for food and water were placed inside the stall, against the rock wall. Outside the stall, bales of hay and feed were neatly stacked along the wall. On the back wall of the cave, opposite the entrance, was a wooden bed frame. On top of the frame was a goose-down mattress made of grey canvas. A rectangular sheet of white cotton was placed over the mattress, neatly tucked under it. A soft, green, silk pillow filled with down feathers was placed at the head of the bed and a green, silk comforter was neatly folded and placed at the end of the bed. Next to the bed was a small, wood table and candle. At the foot of the bed was a long, low, wood trunk of clothing. To the right of the bed was a wooden table with a candle and two wood chairs. Near the table, a tall, wood, multi-tiered shelf leaned against the wall like a ladder. The shelves were filled with cooking utensils, plates, silverware and several jars of herbs and food. In the center of the cave was a round fire pit, surrounded by large stones. An iron tripod was placed over the fire pit to hold pots while cooking over the flame. Nova looked around her, curiously as Croloch lit the torches on the walls. Leading his horse to the stall, Nova gave the animal fresh hay while Croloch removed his saddle. “What is his name?” asked Nova, petting the horse’s neck. Croloch smiled. “His name is Thunder.” “He is beautiful,” said Nova, iring the black animal. “Thank you,” said Croloch. He was very fond of his horse and had paid a handsome price for the stallion. “Come and sit, while I prepare your tea,” he said, pulling a chair out for her. “It will relieve your headache.” Obediently, Nova sat down and Croloch scooted her into the table. Placing her elbows on the table, she propped her small chin up with her hands and watched as he lit the fire. Taking some ginger root from one of the jars, he placed it into a pot of water and hung it over the fire to make the tea. While the water came to a boil, he took from the shelf, two cups, two plates, a spoon, and a knife, placing

them on the table. When the water boiled, he removed the pot and sat it on the table. Taking a ladle, Croloch poured hot tea into their cups. “Be careful. It is hot,” cautioned Croloch, setting the cup before her. He handed Nova a jar of honey. “Thank you,” said Nova. She leaned over her cup, smelling the tea. “Mmm…this smells good. What is it?” she asked, spooning honey into her cup. “Ginger tea,” said Croloch. Taking a loaf of bread off the shelf, he placed it before the hungry child along with a small bowl of fresh-churned butter and some goat cheese. Slicing thick slices of rye bread, he buttered it for them and cut slices of cheese, placing them on their plates. Nova sipped the tea, slowly and took a bite of the bread and cheese. “This is delicious,” she said, in between mouthfuls. “Did you make this?” Croloch winked at her from across the table. “I am a man of many talents,” he said. He was enjoying the little girl’s company. “How is your headache?” he asked. “It is gone,” said Nova, smiling. “Good,” said Croloch, taking a sip of tea. “I believe you have amnesia,” he said, setting his cup down. “Do you know what that is?” Nova shook her head. “No,” she said, her eyes widening. “What is it?” “It is when a person suffers from memory loss. I believe that is why you cannot your name or where you live,” said Croloch. “Oh,” said Nova, alarmed. “Will I ever ?” she asked. “I believe in time, you will,” said Croloch, patting her hand and reassuring her. “Sometimes it takes a while. You may things slowly, in bits and pieces, like a puzzle. And so, my little friend, since you cannot your name, what if I gave you one?” Nova giggled. “All right,” she said, her eyes dancing with merriment. “What is it?” she asked, excited.

Croloch put his finger on his chin and looked up, thinking a moment. “I know,” he said, smiling. “I have the perfect name for you. I shall call you Atara.” “Atara,” repeated Nova. “What does it mean?” “It is the Hebrew word for crown,” said Croloch, smiling. “I like it. It is a beautiful name,” she said, happily. “Good,” said Croloch, pleased. “Now, I think you should rest. You have had a long day.” Nova yawned and nodded. Pulling the chair out for her he helped her into the bed. “Where will you sleep?” asked Nova as he covered her with the quilt. “Next to you on the floor,” said Croloch. I have another blanket and pillow,” he said, reassuring her. Sitting down on the edge of the bed, he gently smoothed her hair. “We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow,” he said. “I am going on a long journey.” “Can I come with you?” asked Nova, looking up at him. She trusted Croloch and was grateful for his kindness. “No, Atara. You cannot come with me,” he said, gently. “But why?” she asked. Suddenly afraid, she clutched his sleeve. “Who will take care of me?” She did not want to be left alone and began to cry. “Shhh, do not cry, little one,” said Croloch, gently. “I will not leave you alone. Tomorrow we will find you a good home. We will find a family for you who will love you and take care of you. I will come to visit you often,” he said, smiling down at her. Nova reached up and hugged Croloch tightly. “Do you promise?” she asked, sniffling. “I promise,” said Croloch, deeply touched. “Now, close your eyes,” he said, gently. Comforted, Nova laid down and closed her eyes. Soon, she was fast asleep.

Croloch looked down at the sleeping child, amazed at the feelings of comion he had for her and her trust in him. I have not cared for anyone since Kaylein, he thought. Before he fell asleep, he vowed to find her a good home.

* * *

The following morning, Nova helped Croloch saddle his horse. “Where are we going?” she asked, as she fetched his bridle. “The village of Dayshire is just south of here,” said Croloch. “I thought we would go there,” he said, helping her up on the horse. They rode at a leisurely pace, following the trail that led to the village. From there, Croloch intended to cross the Toradi Mountains into Zantar. Before long, they came to a small stream and stopped there to rest. A clan of nomadic people, known as Travelers, were camped in horse-drawn caravans nearby. This particular clan consisted of three brothers, their wives, and their children. They were known as the Kean clan. Kean was their last name, taken from their paternal ancestors. Traveler men made their living doing various jobs in different villages while the women cared for their homes and families. Some of them were saddlers, making and repairing saddles. Some of them were tinsmiths, who made and repaired things made of light metals. Others were hired as laborers. Some of them, like Shawn and his brothers, were buskers, who performed publicly for gratuities. Shawn and his brothers were singers and musicians. Shawn played the fiddle and gittern, an instrument similar to a guitar. As their father and grandfather were no longer alive, Shawn, the oldest of his brothers, was now the leader of his clan. He and his clan were kind and honest people living simple lives. They believed in God but did not know Him and had no knowledge of Jesus and Holy Spirit. They believed in treating others the way they would like to be treated and hoped their good deeds would earn them a place in Heaven when they died. Shawn was helping his wife carry buckets of water from the stream as Croloch and Nova approached. “Good day to you, Sir, and to you, Lassie,” said Shawn, smiling. He and his wife set down their buckets.

“Good day to you,” said Croloch. Nova smiled at the couple. “Do you mind if we rest here before continuing our journey?” asked Croloch. “Not at all,” said Shawn. “My wife has prepared a fine stew and we were just about to eat. Would you care to us?” “Oh, yes,” said Nova, hungry. Croloch chuckled. “There is your answer,” he said, smiling as Shawn helped Nova down. “My name is Croloch and this is Atara,” he said, introducing themselves to the couple. “Welcome. I am Shawn and this is my wife, Alannah.” They were soon ed by others and Shawn introduced them to his clan. Nova smiled shyly. “Please, sit,” said Shawn, offering them a place by the fire. Croloch and Nova thanked them, sitting on logs by the fire as two older children offered them cups of water. “Thank you,” said Croloch and Nova, gratefully. “With your permission, my nephew will water your horse,” said Shawn. “Thank you,” said Croloch. A tall boy with long dark hair led the horse to the stream, while Alannah served them bowls of fresh stew, from the large pot over the fire. The other wives and their families ed them, serving freshly baked bread with butter and apple cider. “This is delicious,” said Nova, smiling at her hosts. She liked them immediately, feeling comfortable with them and the others. Alannah brushed a lock of curly, dark hair away from her face. “Have as much as you like, love. There is plenty more,” she said, her green eyes twinkling. She could not help notice Nova’s dirty, tattered dress and wondered what had happened to her. After they finished their meal, Nova offered to help Alannah wash the dishes down by the river. Croloch and Shawn watched them leave as the others went off to do chores. When they were alone, Shawn spoke up.

“Where are you headed?” he asked. He, too, had noticed how Nova was dressed and was curious about his guests. He suspected they were not related. “I am headed for Zantar. I came across the child wandering alone in the forest yesterday near the river. She suffers from amnesia,” said Croloch, frankly. “She cannot her own name so I have given her the name Atara.” “Poor child,” said Shawn, sympathetically. “We ed through Kaldor on our way here. The village had been raided and burnt to the ground. We did not find any survivors. I suspect it was the Dirks. Perhaps the child escaped?” Croloch nodded. “That would explain things,” he said, thoughtfully. Leaning forward, he spoke earnestly. “I am very fond of this child but I cannot take her with me. I was hoping to find a good family to care for her. Now, I can see you and your wife are good, decent, honest people. Atara would be safe with you. Would you be willing to take her in? I am prepared to pay for her care.” Shawn looked at Croloch and laughed out loud. Then, he rushed on to explain. “Sir, you are the answer to our prayers! My wife and I have been praying for a child for a long time and I had almost given up hope. We would be more than happy to take Atara in and raise her as our own daughter if she is willing. I promise you she will be loved, protected and provided for.” Croloch smiled. He pulled a leather pouch filled with gold coins from his pocket and offered it to Shawn but the man shook his head. “No, my friend, you cannot put a price on the gift you are giving us.” “Very well,” said Croloch. “I only ask one thing from you in return.” “Of course,” said Shawn. “What is it?” “I would like to visit Atara from time to time. She is a sweet child and as I have said, I have grown very fond of her,” said Croloch. “Of, course,” said Shawn, smiling. “You are welcome any time, my friend. However, we are travelers. “How will you find us?” “I found you today, did I not?” asked Croloch, winking. They both laughed as Nova and Alannah returned from the stream. They were laughing together as they carried the dishes. Croloch called Nova over to him as Alannah ed her

husband. Bending down on one knee, Croloch took Nova’s hands in his own and looked into her little face, earnestly. “Atara, how would you like to live with Shawn and Alannah?” Surprised, Nova and Alannah both gasped. Nova looked from Croloch to Shawn and Alannah. Shawn and Alannah nodded their heads with tears in their eyes. Kneeling down beside the little girl, they looked earnestly into her eyes. “We have always wanted a little girl,” said Shawn. “Atara, will you be our little girl?” asked Alannah. Nova looked back at Croloch. He nodded, letting go of her hands. Nova threw her little arms around the couple’s necks, hugging them tightly. “Aye, I will,” she said, through her tears. Alannah looked up at Croloch, with tears in her eyes, thanking him silently. Croloch knew he had found the right home for Nova. After a while, he prepared to leave them. Nova threw her small arms around him, hugging him with tears in her eyes. Croloch bent down on one knee, holding her tightly, tears in his own eyes. He was sad to leave her, although he knew it was best for her. She had found a place in his heart forever. “Please do not forget me,” begged Nova. “I will not forget you, Atara. I will come to visit you as often as I can,” said Croloch, earnestly. “Do you promise?” asked Nova, searching his eyes with her own. “I promise and I am a man who keeps his promises, little one,” said Croloch. “Now, you must promise me to be a good girl and be happy. Can you do that for me?” Nova nodded, smiling. “I promise,” she said. “Good girl,” said Croloch. He stood and kissed the top of her head, and then nodded to the couple.

Shawn and Alannah came, putting their arms around Nova. Together, they waved to Croloch, watching him ride off until he disappeared from their sight. True to his word, Croloch visited Nova and her new family often and developed a close relationship with them. For reasons he, himself, did not understand, he had chosen to keep his powers hidden from them. They were always surprised he managed to find them. They welcomed him when he came and were always sad to see him leave.

CHAPTER 4

Twelve years later…

L ATE ONE SPRING morning, Shawn helped Nova saddle one of their horses. Their clan was camped outside the village of Dayshire. Every spring, they returned to the area to visit Croloch. At nineteen, Nova had grown into a beautiful woman. Petite and slender, she had long, wavy, blonde hair down to her waist. Her expressive eyes were almond shaped and the color of sapphire. She was comionate and tender-hearted, endearing her to everyone she met. Croloch had taught her from an early age about the medicinal properties of herbs and plants. Her knowledge of them was extensive and her reputation as an herbalist was known far and wide. Many people sought her out, seeking treatment for different ailments. More often than not, she would not charge for her services because most of the people she treated were poor. If her patrons could afford to pay her, she only charged a small fee to provide for her family. She was more interested in helping people than making a profit for herself. Wealthy patrons would insist on paying her generously thus providing for her family’s needs and those of her clan. Shawn watched his daughter put the bridle in the horse’s mouth. She is a treasure, he thought. He and Alannah believed in their hearts Nova had been a gift from God and they never forgot his kindness in answering their prayer. They had grown very fond of Croloch through the years he held a special place in their hearts. They made it a point to invite him to visit as often as he could. “I will not be gone too long, Da,” said Nova, as he gave her a leg up on the horse. “Wait,” said Alannah, carrying something from the caravan. “A little something for Croloch,” she said, smiling, as she handed a basket up to her daughter. “Just a loaf of fresh bread and the strawberry jam he likes. Tell him we are expecting

him to come for a visit soon. It has been too long.” “Thank you, Mama. I will tell him,” said Nova, bending to kiss her on the cheek. Waving goodbye, she rode off to Croloch’s cave.

* * *

Last year, Croloch had left his home on the small island of Alcastar and returned to his cave in Toradi. He had become a recluse, seldom venturing out of his cave. During his time alone, he thought often of his son, Leon, and his wife, Amarisa, whom he had left behind. He deeply regretted the choices he had made in his life that forced him to leave them. The great pain he carried in his heart was overwhelming at times. It was a heavy price he paid for his allegiance to the kingdom of darkness and he was painfully aware of the cost. The use of magic had taken a toll on his physical body as well, aging him considerably. His once dark hair and beard were now turning grey and the visible lines and wrinkles on his face made him look much older than his forty-five years. Through the years, he had managed to sustain his relationship with Nova and her family. Seeing her was the one thing he had to look forward to in his life now. He truly loved her like his own daughter. It will be good to see her again, he thought, as he prepared for their visit. He was proud of the person she had grown up to become and was proud of what she had accomplished in her life. They have done well raising her, he thought, as he cleaned Thunder’s stall. Suddenly, the air around him grew very cold. A sulfurous stench filled the air as the Ruler of Darkness appeared before Croloch. Tall and slim, he had chiseled features, short, dark hair, and red eyes. Dressed in black, he wore a red cape that fell to his knees. On his head was a black and red jeweled crown of gold. “Welcome, Master,” said the wizard. Surprised, he had not expected the visit. “To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?” asked Croloch. “I have a new assignment for you. It is one you will find most appealing,” said Satan, enticing him. Curious, Croloch listened intently as his master continued. “I have influenced the hearts and minds of the men in Toradi known as the Dirks. Their leader, Kor, readily accepts the suggestions I have planted in his

mind. He is preparing to lead his men across the Toradi Mountains and attack Shalimar with the dragon, Creulon. Your assignment is to help them succeed in conquering the Christian kingdom. Once Shalimar is defeated, her allies will be easy prey.” Croloch nodded, pleased with his new assignment. “Yes, most appealing…” said Croloch. Satan looked at Croloch, his red eyes boring into him. “There is one thing you must do before you take this assignment.” “Yes, Master?” asked Croloch. He had already begun to formulate in his mind a strategy to defeat his long-time enemy, King Lazar, once and for all. “It has come to my attention you have befriended a young, Traveler girl. You must severe all ties with the girl immediately. She will become a distraction to you and will interfere with my plans,” said Satan, firmly. The devil’s words stung Croloch. He looked at him in disbelief. Quickly he regained his composure. “I have carried out your orders faithfully and have not allowed my personal life to compromise any of your assignments,” he countered. Surprised, Satan raised one eyebrow as he looked at Croloch. He had not expected the wizard’s reply. “Have you forgotten all I have done for you? I found you when you had reached the lowest point of your life. That woman, Kaylein, rejected you. Your closest friend, Lazar, betrayed you. Even your God had forsaken you. If I had not saved you and made you one of my own, your life would have been one of utter misery. It was I who gave you great power, authority, and wealth beyond measure. I took you in when they abandoned you and became a father to you,” lied Satan. “I have not forgotten,” said Croloch, humbly. “I left my life in Shalimar to follow you and I have devoted my life to serving you. Even when my own son and wife crossed over into The Light, I did not turn back but pledged my allegiance to the Kingdom of Darkness. I have forsaken all others to follow you but do not ask me to forsake this girl for I cannot.” Enraged, Satan’s eyes glowed. “You love her!” said Satan, with disgust. There was a loud clap of thunder and everything within the cave shook as he spoke. “Perhaps I can persuade you otherwise,” he said in a low, menacing voice. He

pointed his finger at Croloch and a lightning bolt struck the wizard in the chest. “From this day forward, you will suffer greatly in your body until you relent,” said Satan. Suddenly, as though a hood had been placed over his head, Croloch’s vision turned black and he was no longer able to see. He fell to the ground, clutching his stomach in great pain as Satan disappeared.

* * *

High up, on the cliffs overlooking the Toradi River, the air was quite cool and a strong breeze blew. Nova wrapped her cloak about her, enjoying the late morning sun on her face as her horse tread carefully along the narrow path. She was happy she would finally see Croloch again. Her clan had traveled for many months and it had been almost a year since they journeyed back this way. I have missed him, she thought as she rode the familiar path to the cave. He spends too much time alone. It is not good for him. I will insist he come to visit Da and Mama. It will do him good to be around others. Now that she was older, Nova worried about Croloch. She was aware he spent much of his time alone and it bothered her. Their friendship had developed slowly over the years and she had grown to love him. She and her parents were aware of a deep sadness within him but he was a private man, sharing very little about himself with them. He was intelligent and knowledgeable, and very kind to them. Often, he would bring them gifts from faraway places he had traveled. Nova loved to hear him tell stories about the customs and cultures of the people he met in other lands. Around the age of seven, she had shown an interest in learning about the medicinal properties of plants and herbs. Croloch was delighted and spent much time teaching her as she accompanied him in the forest. Although her memory of her previous life had not returned, she never forgot the tea he had made for her headache the day he had found her. It had made a lasting impression on her and her desire to help others was birthed from that experience. He patiently showed her how to prepare different teas and what kind of herbs to blend together. He also showed her how to make plant poultices and plasters to heal different

ailments such as cysts and infections. He also taught her much about the animals and birds and also about surviving in the wild. “Knowledge is power. One day, you may find yourself in need of what I teach you, Atara,” he had told her. She had heeded his words and learned much from him. At last, Nova reached the cave. Dismounting, she led her horse slowly inside. The sun outside offered some light but Nova noticed no candles or torches were burning. That is odd, she thought and it surprised her. She knew Croloch was expecting her. They always met on the first Saturday in May. It was the anniversary of the day he had found her in the forest. In all the twelve years they had known each other, they had never missed celebrating that day together. “Croloch?” she called out. Thunder whinnied and Nova heard a groan coming from the direction of his stall. In the dimly lit cave, she ran and found Croloch curled in a fetal position on the floor beside the stall, holding his stomach. “Croloch, are you all right?” she asked worriedly, kneeling down beside him. Gently, she turned him on his back and gasped when she saw his white hair and beard. He looked as though he had aged thirty years. His face was pale and his shirt was soaked with sweat. “Atara, I cannot see,” said Croloch, recognizing her voice. “I am blind,” he said, wincing in pain. “What happened to you?” she asked as she placed a hand on his forehead. “You have a fever,” she said, her eyes troubled. “Let me help you to your bed.” Standing behind him, she bent down and placed her hands under his arms, dragging him to the back wall. With much difficulty, she half-rolled, half-pulled him onto the bed. Removing his boots, she sat down next to him on the edge of the bed. “How long have you been like this?” she asked, smoothing his hair from his face. In all the years she had known him, he had never been sick and she was quite worried.

“Since this morning,” said Croloch, groaning. “I will be back in a few minutes. I am going to make some tea to reduce your fever,” said Nova, soothingly. Croloch nodded, grimacing. Taking a bucket, she rushed out of the cave and filled it with water from the rain barrel. Taking wood from the pile along the wall, she made a fire, rubbing sticks together. Nova dipped a pot into the bucket, filled it with water and hung it over the fire to boil. While the water heated, she took some chamomile flowers from a jar on the shelf and tied them in cheesecloth. When the water was hot, she removed the pot and placed it on the table. Then she placed the cheesecloth inside the pot of hot water and covered it, letting the tea steep. While she waited, she applied cold water compresses to Croloch’s forehead. Croloch reached up and touched her cheek. “Not the welcoming I had planned,” he said with difficulty. He broke into a fit of coughing and Nova gave him a drink of water. “Shhh, don’t try to talk. Just rest, “said Nova, soothingly. After ten minutes, Nova poured some of the tea in a cup, adding some honey. She helped Croloch sit up and held the cup to his lips for him to drink. When he had finished the tea, she helped him lay back down again. All the while, she debated in her mind about staying with him or going for help. She decided her best course of action was to go for help. She realized Croloch would need round-the-clock care. He was too sick to ride. He would have to be carried on a travois, pulled by a horse. “I am going to get help,” she said, biting her lip. “Is it all right if I take Thunder? He is faster than my horse.” Croloch nodded. He knew her efforts to heal him were useless but he was in too much pain to explain. “Be careful,” he said, wincing. Nova nodded, kissing him on the cheek. Quickly, she saddled Thunder and placed her horse in the stall. Once outside the cave, she mounted the black stallion and began her journey. Invisible to man, the angel, Iri followed her with his sword drawn. The Lord had hidden him from the eyes of the demon sentries posted outside Croloch’s cave. Nova followed the path down the cliffs and

through the forest. It was an unusually hot day and she and her horse were thirsty. Dismounting, she led Thunder to drink by the river. Nova knelt beside him, cupping her hands and drinking the cool, refreshing water. Invisible to man, the angel, Iri, appeared next to her. He kept watch over Nova, protecting her. Seeing the angel, Thunder whinnied. Iri walked over to the horse and gently stroked his nose. Shhh, peace, my friend, be still, said Iri, speaking in his mind to the horse. Nuzzling the angel, Thunder obeyed. Suddenly, a bright orb arched across the sky. There was a brilliant flash of light as Tekoa, the commanding angel of Toradi, appeared before them. Iri smiled as the fierce and mighty angel folded his wings and sheathed his sword. “Tekoa, it is good to see you, brother,” said Iri, hugging him fiercely in a great bear hug. “And you, likewise, little brother,” said Tekoa, his light blue eyes twinkling. Although both angels were quite large, Tekoa stood a head taller than Iri. He was muscular with broad shoulders and a broad chest. His skin was reddish-brown, like an Indigenous man, and he had long, thick, jet black hair with two braids on either side of his head. Like Iri, he bore the scars from many battles fought against the powers of darkness. “It has been a long time,” said Iri. “I have not seen you since the battle in the east.” “Ah, yes,” said Tekoa, ing the battle they fought against a large, demonic army. “The enemies of darkness were fierce but no match for the Lord and His army.” “Glory to the Holy One,” said Iri, reverently. “Amen,” said Tekoa. He turned to look at Nova. “How did they fare at the cave?” he asked, referring to Croloch and Nova. Iri shook his head, sadly. “Not well. The Ruler of Darkness has stricken the wizard with blindness and insufferable pain until he agrees to break all ties with the girl,” said Iri, nodding to Nova. “She is distraught and travels now to her clan for help. She desires to bring him back to their camp where she can care for him.

She knows nothing of the wizard’s true identity and his allegiance to the kingdom of darkness. If only he would repent. Surely, the Lord would forgive him and restore him.” “Yes,” agreed Tekoa. “Croloch is held captive by the enemy and has been blinded to the truth, believing his lies. The Lord loves him and longs for him to return to Him. Jesus intercedes for him continually and many here on earth are praying for him. If it were not for their prayers, he would have been dead by now. The angel, Ezekiel, is caring for him now, as we speak.” Iri nodded, thoughtful. “What of Nova?” he asked. He was concerned about her welfare. The angel ired her selfless nature. She had a pure heart and cared more for others than herself. That was a quality he did not often see in mankind. “She is a warrior. Her greatest weapon, however, is not the spear or bow. It is love,” said Tekoa, with great iration. “She has found favor with God. He will use her in a mighty way.” Tekoa placed his hand on Iri’s shoulder, looking into his eyes. “You must protect her from the Evil One. She must fulfill her destiny.” Iri nodded solemnly. “So be it,” he said, fiercely. Tekoa drew his sword. “For the King of Glory,” he said, with fire in his eyes. “Forever without end,” said Iri, drawing his own sword. There was a brilliant flash of light and Tekoa disappeared.

CHAPTER 5

T HAT MORNING, ON the other side of the Toradi Mountains, twenty-oneyear-old Dante rode his horse through the meadow toward the castle of Shalimar. He was returning from hunting in the Winwood Forest. A bow was slung over his shoulder. His father had taught him to hunt from an early age and he was quite good at it. He was a handsome lad, tall for his age with short, blond, curly hair and hazel eyes. He had an infectious laugh and made those around him laugh with his jokes. He loved the Lord and frequently went off by himself to pray and intercede for ot hers. Invisible to man, the angel, Lekki, swooped down beside him. Hovering next to him, he whispered in Dante’s ear. “Pray for Nova and her family,” said the angel, urgently. Sensing danger, Dante immediately began to pray. “Almighty God, you are the Holy One and are worthy of all glory, praise, and honor. There is none like you, Oh, Lord. You are our shield, our fortress, and our strength in times of trouble. Cover Nova and her family with the blood of your Son, Jesus. Surround them with your warrior angels and protect them from all harm. Save them from the Evil One. In the name of your Son, Jesus, I pray. Amen.” Shimmering in gold, the words of Dante’s prayer twirled in the air like leaves in the wind as they ascended to Heaven.

* * *

While the great dragon, Creulon flew above them, Kor sat on his horse at the top of a hill, flanked by three hundred Dirks. He was a shrewd, savage man, skilled in battle strategies and fierce in battle. Armed with swords and battle-axes, they looked down at the unsuspecting village of Dayshire as Nova approached the village.

“Once we take this village, we will cross the mountains and take Shalimar,” he said to his men. While Kor and his men planned their attack, the Ancient of Days stood in his Heavenly War Room with the angelic army. It was here he planned battle strategies against the Evil One. His long hair and beard were whiter than snow and his eyes were as flames of fire. He was dressed in a long, white robe and the train of his robe filled the room. Wearing a gold crown, his Glory lit the room. The room was very large with transparent walls and doorposts. Transparent gold bookcases surrounded the walls, containing maps of various lands and continents on the earth and other planets. They also contained nautical charts of every body of water He created as well as astronomical charts of the galaxies. They were living maps and charts. Once opened, they offered a three-dimensional view of all the Lord’s creation on land, in the sky, on water, and below the water. Nothing was hidden from the Lord. He could see every living being, bird, insect, reptile, animal and sea creature as they went about their daily lives. In the center of the room stood a white, marble table, wider and longer than the human eye could see. The Lord removed a map of Toradi from one of the bookshelves and spread it out across the table. He pointed with his finger to an area on the map of a hill. The warrior angels leaned over the map and saw the great dragon flying above Kor and his men. “They are preparing to strike here,” said God, hearing the thoughts and words of the Dirks. He then pointed to the unsuspecting village of Dayshire. They observed Nova’s clan just outside the village as Alannah carried a basket of clothes on her shoulder down to the river and Shawn sharpened his axe next to their caravan. Just then, Dante’s prayer echoed across Heaven and the Lord heard him. Turning to his right, he spoke to the angel, Aloke. “Go now and warn the Kean clan. Protect them from all harm,” said the Lord. The angel bowed his head. “For Your Glory,” he said. Then Aloke disappeared in a brilliant flash of light.

* * *

Alannah carried the wash up from the river in a large woven basket on her shoulder. It was unusually warm for this time of year and drops of perspiration trickled down her neck. Her long hair was braided loosely, hanging down her back. A rope was strung between two trees making a clothesline. Placing the basket down beside it, she smiled at Shawn as he chopped wood. “Atara will be home soon,” she remarked, hanging a shirt on the line to dry. “Aye,” said Shawn. Raising the axe up over his shoulder, he swung it down powerfully on the log, splitting it in half. His sword drawn, Aloke flew down through the heavens faster than the speed of light and entered the earth’s atmosphere. Shawn and Alannah looked up as a great, glowing ball of fire fell from the sky, exploding in a blinding flash of light before them. Crying out, they fell to the ground trembling in fear as the mighty warrior angel appeared before them. Towering over thirty feet high, Aloke had shoulder length, wavy hair the color of copper and light blue eyes. He wore a gold breastplate of armor and gold armor sleeves on his forearms. On his feet, he wore gold boots that came up just above his knees. In his left hand, he held a large, gold shield bearing a red cross and in his right hand, he held a long, gleaming silver sword. The Glory of God shone about him and his voice sounded like thunder when he spoke. “Do not fear, Shawn and Alannah, for you have found favor with God. Take your people and flee at once for the great dragon comes with the Dirks to destroy this village. Go north to Kaldor. Send Fergus, your brother, to Shalimar. King Lazar will come to fight against them. Do not fear for your daughter. She is held captive by the Dirks but the Lord is with her and protects her. She will return safely to you.” Then the angel, Aloke disappeared. Shaken, Shawn and Alannah rose and warned their clan, telling them of the angel’s message. They all believed God had warned them of impending doom and hastily loaded their caravans. Fergus kissed his tearful wife and children goodbye and hugged Shawn fiercely before mounting his horse.

“When you reach Shalimar, tell King Lazar all that the angel has said. Take this map,” said Shawn, placing it in his brother’s hand. “You will find us there. God be with you, brother.” Fergus looked down at his brother and nodded. “And with you, also, brother,” he said. Then he turned his horse, riding swiftly away with the unseen warrior angel, Aladio. Shawn and his clan watched Fergus until he disappeared from view. Climbing into their caravans, the Kean clan began their long journey north to Kaldor. Invisible to man, the angel, Aladio, followed Fergus, protecting him while the angel, Aloke protected the Kean clan.

CHAPTER 6

T HAT SAME DAY, from atop the hill, Kor raised his sword and gave a mighty shout. Three hundred Dirks charged down the hill, the hooves of their horses sounding like thunder as Creulon flew above them, roaring fire. Taken by surprise, the villagers of Dayshire looked in horror as they saw them approaching. Pandemonium broke out everywhere. Women screamed and children cried, hiding in their homes as men rushed to grab weapons. The ruthless Dirks descended upon the village. Swinging axes and swords, they massacred innocent men, women, and children and the dragon devoured many alive. One farmer, defending his family, sliced Kor’s forearm with a wheat sickle before Kor slew him with his sword. The Dirks pillaged the village and the fire of the dragon burned up every home and barn, leaving a wake of destruction and desola tion. When they had ridden a short distance from the village, Kor and his men stopped to set up camp while the dragon, Creulon, kept watch over them. Though greatly outnumbered, the villagers had fought fiercely and several of Kor’s men were wounded. The men tended to the wounded as best as they could, without medicine or medical training. Kor sat on a log and removed his shirt. Taking a knife, he cut a strip of cloth from it and applied pressure to the gash on his forearm. The wound bled profusely as one of his men bandaged it. Nova saw thick clouds of black smoke rising in the air from Dayshire below as she crested the hill. The village is burning, she thought, alarmed. Panicked, she rode Thunder swiftly down the hill, fearing for her family. As she approached the village, the fires made it impossible for her to through to her family’s camp. Turning, she circled around the outskirts of the village, approaching her camp from another direction. She did not see one of Kor’s men as he rode out from behind a tree. Startled, Thunder reared up on his hind legs. Nova screamed as she was thrown from the horse. She landed in a soft pile of leaves, dazed, as Thunder galloped off in the direction they came from. “Well, well, well, what do we have here?” said the Dirk, looking down at Nova. He dismounted, taking the rope from his horse. Frightened, Nova tried to run

away. The Dirk chased after her. Grabbing her by her blouse, he wrestled her to the ground. Nova fought him, kicking and screaming but he was too strong for her. As she struggled, he bound her hands and feet. “You are a feisty lass,” he said, as he picked her up roughly. Laying her across his saddle, he held her as he mounted the horse. Digging his heels into the horse’s sides, he rode swiftly back to their camp. “Look what I found,” said the Dirk, throwing Nova at Kor’s feet. Seeing the dragon, Nova looked up into Kor’s cold eyes, terrified. Hidden by the Lord and invisible to man, the angel, Iri, crouched beside Nova. Placing his hand on Nova’s shoulder, he strengthened her, whispering in her ear. “Tell him you are a healer and you will heal him and his men in exchange for your life.” Startled by the voice, Nova obeyed. “Please, sir, I mean you no harm. I can see you and many of your men are wounded. I am a healer. I will heal you and your men in exchange for my life,” she said, humbly. Kor grunted, holding his hand over the bandage as blood oozed between his fingers. Looking around him, he saw a dozen or more of his best men wounded, including his two brothers. “Do it,” he said through clenched teeth, grimacing in pain. “Cut her loose,” said Kor to the Dirk on the horse. Quickly, the Dirk cut her free with his knife. Nova removed her satchel as Kor watched her closely. “I need to apply a tourniquet to stop the bleeding,” she said. “May I use your knife?” Kor nodded. Taking the knife, she cut a strip of cloth from her skirt and tied it in a square knot above his elbow. She then placed a stick over the knot to act as a lever to tighten the tourniquet and tied the loose ends of the tourniquet around it in another square knot. Twisting the stick, she tightened the tourniquet until the bleeding stopped. “Now I will clean your wound and apply some yarrow to keep it from getting infected,” said Nova. “I need hot water,” she said, turning to the Dirk next to Kor. He nodded and brought her a pot filled with hot water. Nova removed the bloody bandage and Kor saw the cut was no longer bleeding. Taking the water given to

her, she removed clean bandages from her satchel. Using one, she dipped it into the bowl of water and washed Kor’s wound gently. Next, she removed some yarrow powder and honey from her satchel and mixed it together, making a paste. Spreading it over the wound, she then wrapped it in a clean bandage. “The honey will keep the wound from getting infected and the yarrow will stop it from bleeding,” explained Nova, as she removed the tourniquet. “The yarrow will also relieve the pain,” she said. Kor looked at her, impressed. It was clear to him she was indeed a healer and very valuable to them. “With your permission, I will treat the others now,” said Nova. Kor nodded. Quickly, Nova istered first aid to the wounded men, making splints, setting broken bones, and dressing wounds. While she bandaged the last man, Iri spoke to her again. “Tell Kor some of his men are badly injured and need to rest for a few days. Your family is safe. Fergus, your uncle, has gone to Shalimar to ask King Lazar for help. This will give Fergus time to reach Shalimar before the Dirks cross the mountains,” whispered Iri. Greatly encouraged, Nova reported back to Kor, kneeling beside him. “Some of your men are badly wounded. They need time to heal. It would be wise to rest for a few days,” she said. “The girl speaks the truth,” said the Dirk who found Nova. He had watched her and was impressed with her skills. Iri whispered again in Nova’s ear. “Tell Kor your family is gone and you are alone. Ask him to take him with you. In exchange for his protection, you will be their healer.” Obeying the angel, Nova looked Kor in the eye and spoke. “My family is gone and I am alone now. I have no place to go and no one to protect me. Take me with you and I will be your healer,” she said. Kor grunted, impressed with the girl’s skills and her courage. “Agreed,” he said, gruffly. “See to it no one lays a hand on her,” said Kor to the man beside him.

CHAPTER 7

T RUE TO HIS word, Kor and his men did not harm Nova. In the few hours she had been with them, she had earned their respect and gratitude. Later that night, the Dirks bed down under the open sky. Kor gave her a place to sleep, next to the fire. “You sleep next to me,” he said, throwing her a pile of animal skins they had plundered to make a bed. Kor removed a knife he wore on his side and cut a long rope. The handle of the knife was made from a deer antler. On the butt of the knife was a round, silver disk with the letter “R” inscribed on it. On the silver blade of the knife were intricate designs. Nova watched as Kor cut the rope. The knife looked oddly familiar to her. She was certain she had seen it before although she could not where. Kor tied one end of the rope to Nova’s right wrist and the other end to his left wrist. “Do not get it in your head to flee, girl. If I do not kill you, the dragon will,” said Kor. The black dragon turned his head and look at Nova curiously with his two, red eyes and she shuddered. Creulon was enormous, standing well over one hundred feet tall. Two, long, black, webbed wings jutted out from either side of his body with two long, curved horns spiraling up from his head. He had pointed ears and a long snout and when he opened his jaw, it exposed massive, sharp, pointed teeth and a long, grey, forked tongue. His head, long neck, and body were covered in thick, diamond-shaped, black scales and his underbelly was grey. A long row of pointed, grey plates grew upright along his neck, back and tail, similar to a stegosaurus, and his long, thick tail was tipped with spikes. Each of his four feet had five, long, sharp claws. While Kor slept, the great dragon, Creulon, kept watch over them. Nova laid down, staring at the fire, unable to sleep. Her mind was racing as she listened to Kor snore. Where Mama and Da? she wondered. Will I see them again? She thought about the village of Dayshire burning as she looked up into the starry

sky. She had to believe the voice she heard that told her they were safe. They must be worried about me. I wonder if they heard a voice, too? Her thoughts turned to Croloch and she felt helpless. He is very sick and has no one to care for him. Thunder has returned by now. Is he going to die? Will I make it to him in time? Her thoughts then turned to the mysterious voice she heard that day. Who was it? she wondered. Was it an angel? She had heard her people tell stories about angels but she did not know if they actually existed. They talked about God sometimes but whenever she asked questions about who He was, no one was able to give her answers. Who is God? she wondered as she finally drifted off to sleep. Late that night, hidden by the Lord, the warrior angel, Iri, appeared next to the dragon and placed his hand on the dragon’s head, causing him to fall into a deep sleep. Then, he went quickly to Nova and Kor and placed his hand on Kor’s head. A deep sleep came upon him as well. Soon, Iri was ed by many warrior angels. Quickly going through the camp, they touched each man, and a deep slumber came upon the entire Dirk army. Not long after, Nova stirred in her sleep as she heard a voice. “Wake up, my child,” said the voice. The voice called to her again. “Wake up, my child.” Half asleep, Nova thought it was her father calling her. “Here I am,” she said, sleepily. Nova rubbed her eyes and sat up. Before her stood a man dressed in a long white robe. The light emanating from him was brighter than a thousand suns, illuminating the camp. Nova looked around her expecting the men to jump to their feet but everyone was fast asleep. Kor snored loudly beside her, unaware. The man dressed in white smiled at her as he sat down beside her. Nova was struck by his appearance. He was a handsome man of average height with brown skin, the color of sassafras tea. His hair was dark and wavy and came down to the collar of his robe and he had the most beautiful smile she had ever seen. Nova thought the most extraordinary feature about him was his eyes. They were almond-shaped and green like emeralds. Inside his pupils, Nova saw flames of fire. She could not look away from His eyes. As she looked into them, she felt his eternal love for her. She had never experienced such love in her life

and it took her breath away. Looking into his eyes, she had the startling revelation this man knew her intimately and nothing was hidden from him. She realized he knew her not just in the present time, but also in the past and even in her future. The revelation took her by surprise. “Who are you?” she asked, in awe. “I am Jesus, the Son of God,” said the Lord. “I have heard people talk of your Father, although I do not know much about him. Is it true he created the world?” asked Nova. She desired to know more about God and was curious about him and this man who was his son. “Yes,” said Jesus, smiling. “He also created you.” Nova looked surprised. “He did?” she asked, wide-eyed. “Yes, he did. He sent me here tonight to tell you he loves you and that you have been chosen by him for a specific purpose to carry out his will here on earth.” “God loves me? He wants me to do something for him?” Nova was surprised. She had never really thought about God loving her. She never thought about why she was born and if there was a specific purpose for her life. “Yes, he does, but you have been separated by him through sin. You cannot fulfill His plans for your life until you are reconciled to him. “What is sin?” asked Nova. She had never heard that word before and didn’t understand. “I am glad you asked,” said Jesus, smiling. “Perhaps we should start at the beginning,” he said. Suddenly, a white book appeared in his hand. “What is that?” asked Nova, curious. “This book is called a Bible. The word, ‘Bible,’ means ‘Book.’ It was written by my Father, through man,” he explained. Then he opened the Bible and turned to 2 Timothy 3:16-17, reading the scripture aloud for Nova. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly

furnished unto all good works.” “Oh,” said Nova, intrigued. “This book is divided into two parts. The first part is the Old Testament and the second part is the New Testament. the Old Testament describes the founding and preservation of My Father’s people, the nation of Israel,” said Jesus. “The nation of Israel must have many clans,” said Nova. “Yes. They are called tribes and there are twelve tribes in all,” said Jesus. “The Old Testament also foretells when I would be born on earth. The New Testament describes what I did here on the earth before returning to my Father in Heaven. Let us start at the beginning and I will explain to you why I have come here tonight.” “All right,” said Nova, sitting closer to Jesus. She loved hearing his voice and wanted to know everything she could. “In the beginning, my Father made the very first man and woman. Their names were Adam and Eve.” Jesus opened the Bible to the book of Genesis, and read chapters one and two to Nova about how God created the world and Adam and Eve. “The garden of Eden sounds beautiful,” said Nova, trying to picture it in her mind. “It is,” said Jesus. “Before my Father created the world, he created a heavenly angel named Lucifer. He was the most beautiful of all the angels my father created. Lucifer became prideful of his beauty and desired to be more powerful than God. He led one-third of an innumerable company of angels in a rebellion against God, sinning against him. Sin is anything that violates my Father’s laws. There was a great war in Heaven. The archangel, Michael, and his angels fought against Lucifer and his angels. Lucifer and his angels were cast out of Heaven to Earth and my Father changed Lucifer’s name to Satan.” “Satan is here on the earth now?” asked Nova, afraid. Jesus put his arm around Nova, comforting her. “Do not worry, My child. My Father is greater than Satan. He will protect you. One day, soon, Satan will be

punished eternally.” Jesus read Revelation 20:10 to Nova. “And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are and shall be tormented day and night forever and ever.” Jesus continued. “My Father gave authority to Adam and Eve to rule and reign on this earth, but it was stolen from them by Satan when they sinned.” “That is awful,” said Nova. “He is a thief,” she said. “He is also the father of lies,” said Jesus. “Satan came to Eve one day in the form of a snake. He lied to Eve and convinced her to disobey God and sin against Him.” Jesus then read Genesis, Chapter three to Nova about the fall of man. “Eve ate the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil my father told Adam and Eve not to eat. Adam also ate the fruit,” said Jesus. “When they ate the fruit, they disobeyed God and sinned against Him. Their sin separated themselves and all mankind from my Father. “How sad,” said Nova. “If sin is disobedience against God, why are we separated from Him?” Jesus patiently explained. “My Father is perfect and Holy. There is no evil in him. Sin is the exact opposite of my Father’s nature.” Jesus then read out loud Isaiah 59:2 aloud to Nova. “But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you, that he will not hear.” Jesus paused a moment before continuing. “As a result of their sin, Adam and Eve had to leave the Garden of Eden.” “It must have hurt God when they disobeyed Him,” said Nova. “Sometimes my parents punish me when I disobey them until I tell them I am sorry. Then they forgive me.” “Yes,” said Jesus, nodding. “There are consequences for sinning against God. My Father’s punishment is eternal separation from him in a place known as Hell.” Jesus read aloud Romans 6:23. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” “Death?” repeated Nova, her voice trembling. Jesus hugged Nova, comforting her. “That is why I died on the cross, Nova.” Jesus showed Nova the nail prints on his hands and feet and read to her about his crucifixion in the book of Luke. “I took the punishment for all mankind’s sin,

once for all time when I died on the cross.” He read Romans 5:8 out loud for Nova. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,” Jesus explained further. “When I rose from the dead, I defeated the work of Satan forever. All who believe in me are forgiven of their sins and reconciled with my Father. They are given back the authority of God here on earth Satan stole from Adam and Eve.” Jesus smiled at Nova. “All you have to do is believe in me, my child.” He read Romans 10:9 out loud for her. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Nova looked relieved. She did not want to be separated from God and spend eternity in Hell. She believed what this man, Jesus, told her was the truth. “God loves you,” said Jesus, tenderly. “That is why he sent me here to you tonight. He wants you to be reconciled with him and spend eternity with him. He also wants you to take back the authority of God stolen by Satan so you can fulfill his plan for your life. Would you like me to pray with you and ask God to forgive you for your sins?” asked Jesus. Nova nodded, tears streaming down her cheeks. Tenderly, Jesus took her hands in his and Nova closed her eyes. “Alright, my child,” said Jesus. “Repeat after me,” he said, praying out loud with her. “Dear Heavenly Father, I know I have sinned against you and I am sorry. I believe Jesus is your one and only Son. I believe He died on the cross for my sins and rose again on the third day. Please forgive me for my sins. Jesus, please come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.” As Nova prayed with Jesus, she felt the love of God wash over her, cleansing her. There was great rejoicing in Heaven and the angels blew their trumpets, announcing her salvation. The great cloud of witnesses cheered and God smiled. Nova was then baptized with the Holy Spirit, speaking in an unknown tongue. When she finally opened her eyes, she looked up at Jesus, smiling. “Thank you,” said Nova, hugging Jesus. “I feel different…brand new.” “You are brand new. You are a new creation,” said Jesus, smiling. “You never have to be afraid of Satan. As a believer in me, you now have authority over Satan.” Jesus read Luke 10:19 to Nova. “Behold, I give unto you power to tread

on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” He looked her in the eyes and smiled. “All you have to do is call on my name and I will help you. I will never leave you or forsake you. Holy Spirit now lives inside you. He will lead you and guide you in all you do. to trust in my Father and do not lean on your own understanding for his ways are perfect. My Father will lead you and guide you in this time. Do not be afraid for he is protecting you. I promise you will see your family again. Do not lose hope, little one; only believe,” said Jesus. “That is what is known as faith. Faith is believing in things hoped for and not seen.” “I will,” said Nova, smiling. “Thank you, Jesus.” Jesus hugged Nova. “I must go now. Though you do not see me, I love you and am always with you,” he said. “Trust in me.” Then he placed the Bible in Nova’s hand. “This is for you,” he said. Then, as suddenly as he appeared, Jesus disappeared. For a long time, Nova sat there by the fire, thinking of all that just happened to her. Opening her Bible, she read Psalm 91 and was immediately at peace. Finally, she grew sleepy. Tucking the Bible into her satchel, she laid down and closed her eyes. As she fell asleep, she thanked God for sending His Son, Jesus and for Holy Spirit.

CHAPTER 8

S HAWN AND HIS clan brought their caravans to a stop in a pasture next to the remains of Kaldor. In the distance, they saw thick, black smoke rising in the air from the direction they had come and they were overcome with sorrow for the people of Dayshire. With heavy hearts, the men unhitched the horses and set up camp. While the others remained in the pasture, Shawn and his brother, Patrick walked into what was left of the village. The regrowth of vegetation had been slow in some areas due to the amount of rubble, although young trees and wildflowers had begun to grow in the pasture. Judging from the remains, it was clear to them this had once been a thriving community. Everywhere they looked, there were blackened remnants of buildings. Charred fencepost stubs jutted from the ground that once surrounded the pasture. Broken pieces of pottery, weapons and the remains of human skeletons were found among the rubble. Shawn and Patrick returned to camp, reporting they had found the remains of the villagers. “We must bury them,” said Shawn and the others agreed. While the women and children remained in the camp, Shawn, Patrick, and the older boys searched the rubble, carefully gathering the human remains. Placing them on travoises, they used the horses to transport them to the pasture. There, they dug a mass grave under a charred tree and buried them. Fashioning a cross out of fence post, Shawn and Patrick placed it on the grave, while their clan watched silently. When they were through, Shawn ed Alannah, putting his arm around her. “This was once their home and Dayshire has met the same fate,” said Alannah, weeping. “The dragon and the Dirks must be stopped,” she said, burying her face in Shawn’s chest. “Aye,” said Shawn, holding her. “Fergus will bring King Lazar and the Knights of Shalimar to fight. Surely, God will be with them.” Comforted by the thought, Alannah looked up into Shawn’s face. “God is real

and he cares ,” she said, wiping her tears. This revelation had surprised all their clan and they desired to know him. “He sent his angel to warn us,” said Shawn. They had often heard people talk about angels but did not know they really existed until now. “I believe the angel is protecting us.” Alannah nodded. “I believe there is an angel protecting Atara, also.” Together, they held hands and prayed for the very first time, thanking God for his protection over them and Nova. They did not know how long they must wait in Kaldor, but they were strengthened by God’s promise to them.

* * *

It was dark inside the cave as Croloch laid on his bed, alone. Relieved of their duties by the Ruler of Darkness, his demonic army had abandoned him. Since he had been struck blind, he had no idea if it was night or day. As he lay there, helpless and suffering, he reflected on the wrong choices he had made with life and was overcome with sorrow. Filled with grief, memories of his former life as a knight in Shalimar flashed through his mind, as well as those of his wife and son. In a brilliant flash of light, the mighty warrior angel, Ezekiel, appeared outside Croloch’s cave as Thunder returned. Sheathing his sword, Ezekiel led the horse into the stall next to Nova’s horse. Removing his bridle and saddle, he gave Croloch’s horse fresh hay. Thunder whinnied, glad to be home. Hearing his horse, Croloch thought Nova had returned. “Atara,” he called weakly. Ezekiel turned toward Croloch. His light blue eyes were sad as he looked upon the sickly wizard. Drawing a cup of water, the angel helped him sit up and gave him a drink. “Thank you,” said Croloch, weakly. He grimaced with pain, holding his sides.

Filled with comion, Ezekiel placed cool compresses on Croloch’s forehead, praying for him silently. Delirious and feverish, Croloch mumbled. “I have done so much wrong,” he said as he writhed in pain, fitfully. Croloch grabbed the front of the angel’s robe and pulled his face close to his. “I once knew the Lord,” he said, hoarsely. “I should never have left him,” he gasped, falling back onto his bed. It is not too late for you, thought Ezekiel, looking down at Croloch with great comion. He continued to pray for him as he applied the cool compresses.

CHAPTER 9

T HE FOLLOWING DAY, Dante awoke early before sunrise. The recurring dream of Jesus was still fresh in his mind. He had not had the dream for quite some time, but lately, he had had the dream every night. He had never told anyone about the dream. As he lay in bed, he thought of his sister, Nova. I wonder what she looks like now? he thought, trying to picture her. I wonder what her new family is like? Does she ever think of me? Does she ever think of Mamma and Da? Does she miss us? He had so many questions unanswered. He wondered when he would see her again. He still felt an urgency in his spirit to pray for her. Kneeling beside his bed, he prayed for a long time until the sun came up. He had just lit a fire when there was a knock on his door. Opening it, he found Ayden, grinning at him. “I thought you would be dressed by now,” said Ayden, reaching up to tousle Dante’s unruly hair as he entered the room. Dante smiled sheepishly. “I was just about to do that,” he said. Pulling out a fresh tunic and pants from his wardrobe, he tossed them on the bed next to Ayden. Quickly, he poured water into a basin and washed his face. “Leon and Amarisa will be arriving soon,” said Ayden, throwing him a towel. “It will be good to see them again,” said Dante, as he pulled the tunic over his head. Ayden tossed him his pants and Dante put them on. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he pulled on his boots. “I cannot wait to hear about their mission trip.” “Neither can I,” said Ayden, as Dante stood, fastening his belt. When he had finished dressing, Ayden held the chamber door open for him. “We better hurry before the food is all gone.” Dante laughed. Quickly, they hurried down the corridor and raced down the long, winding stone staircase, taking the steps two at a time. Hurrying to the great hall, two guards opened the large, wooden doors for them. The great hall, next to the kitchen, was made of massive blocks of stone with

torches on the walls. The room had long, tall windows, thick pillars and high archways. A long, wooden table with several gold candelabras sat in the center of the room where everyone gathered for meals. Katrina’s two Irish Wolfhounds, Shannon and Shai, were curled up next to each other in front of one of two fireplaces with Selah, the children’s Cocker Spaniel. King Lazar sat at the head of the table in an ornately carved wooden chair covered with rich, blue velvet fabric. On the wall behind Lazar was a large portrait of himself and his deceased wife, Queen Kaylein. Seated at the table with him were Princess Katrina and Eon, his trusted friend. Eon was a blacksmith by trade and walked closely with God. He and Lazar had been friends for many years. Lord Lancelin and Lady Jordanna, also close friends of Lazar greeted everyone as they took their seats. Ayden and Katrina’s two children, Aaron and Adalein and Grace, Ayden’s younger sister, giggled as Dante and Ayden entered, hurriedly taking their seats. Bowing their heads, Lazar asked the Lord to bless the food on the table. The tantalizing aroma of hot cinnamon rolls filled the air as several platters of food was placed on the table before them. Dante placed two on his plate, along with fresh apple slices, ham, cheese, and scrambled eggs. “I see you are not suffering from loss of appetite,” teased Lazar, watching Dante consume the mountain of food on his plate. “No, Sire,” said Dante, smiling sheepishly, between mouthfuls. At six foot- three inches tall, he towered over the other men in Shalimar and was still growing. His frame was solid muscle, with no ounce of fat. Everyone teased him about the huge amounts of food he consumed. “If you want to be big and strong like Uncle Dante, you must eat your breakfast,” said Princess Katrina to the children. “Will I grow a beard, too?” asked little Grace. “Heavens, no,” said Lady Jordanna and everyone laughed. Half-way through their meal, one of the King’s messengers appeared and bowed before Lazar. “Your Majesty, the Infinity has arrived,” he said. “Thank you. We shall meet them on the shore,” said Lazar. The messenger

bowed again and left the room. “They are here,” squealed the children, excitedly. “Indeed, they are and we must not keep them waiting,” said Lazar, winking to the children. Leaving the castle, they hurried down to the bay. Leon and Amarisa waved to them from the ship’s launch as one of the crew rowed it to shore. Prince Leon was the grandson of Lazar’s friends, King Davion and Queen Nadia of Alcastar, Shalimar’s homeland. Princess Amarisa was Leon’s mother. Leon had become like a son to Lazar and the two of them were very close. Leon was loved by everyone in the royal family. They were all very proud of the young boy. Once the wizard apprentice to his father, Croloch, Leon had a supernatural encounter with Jesus that changed his life forever last year at the age of twelve. Renouncing the occult, he became a follower of Christ. When Leon learned of the wicked plan executed by his father to subjugate his people, Leon had sailed alone to Shalimar to enlist the help of King Lazar to free his people from the powers of darkness. His boat had capsized during a storm and he was rescued by Ayden and Dante. Returning to Alcastar with Lazar, Ayden, and Dante, they defeated the powers of darkness and freed the people of Alcastar. When Croloch lost the battle, Leon confronted his father and pleaded with him to renounce the occult and rededicate his life to the Lord. Tormented by demons and believing Satan’s lies, Croloch chose to remain in the darkness and disappeared. Heartbroken, Leon and his family continued to pray for Croloch. Lazar and his family also prayed for him, never giving up hope. Despite the tragedy of the loss of his father, Leon had answered the call of God to be a missionary. Now, at the age of thirteen, he and his mother sailed aboard the Infinity to other islands in the Falcon Sea, sharing the good news of the gospel to others and telling them of God’s love for them. Leon helped his mother out of the small boat and they were greeted with hugs and kisses. Leon’s little, black Cocker Spaniel, Jubilee, jumped out and ran to shore. Katrina’s dogs, Shannon and Shai, along with Aaron and Adalein’s dog, Selah, wagged their tails, barking happily as they frolicked with the little dog.

“Jubilee,” cried the children, hugging the little dog. She was a gift from them to Leon on his thirteenth birthday. “Where is my hug?” asked Leon, playfully. “Leon,” cried the children, excitedly. They ran to him and threw their arms around him, hugging him tightly. “How long can you stay?” they wanted to know. “As long as you will have me,” he replied, laughing. Over the past year, he and the children had grown very close and were like siblings. Ayden walked up to Leon, hugging him. “I see your ship is still in one piece,” he quipped, smiling. He would never forget last year when he and Dante rescued Leon at sea. His boat had been destroyed during a tropical hurricane as he was sailing to Shalimar. “By the grace of God,” said Leon, smiling as he hugged Ayden. He would that day as long as he lived. “It is good to see you again, Leon. We have missed you,” said Katrina, hugging him and kissing his cheek. “It is good to see you again, Princess Katrina,” said Leon, warmly. He would never forget the love and kindness she had shown him last year after he was rescued. It had been a very difficult time in his life and she had helped him immensely. Lord Lancelin and Lady Jordanna each hugged Leon. “We are so happy to see you again. The children have missed you,” said Lady Jordanna, smiling. “I have missed them just as much,” said Dante, laughing. “That is a beautiful ship,” said Lancelin, hugging the boy. “Thank you,” said Leon. “She is a gift from my grandfather.” “Are you ready for more training?” asked Dante, placing his arm around the boy.

He had made Leon his apprentice and was training him to become a knight. The boy had shown remarkable skills in horsemanship and the use of a lance and sword. “I am. You best beware. I have been practicing,” teased Leon and Dante chuckled. “Did you bring your bow?” asked Katrina. She was a skilled archer and had been teaching the boy archery. “I did,” said Leon, smiling. “It is good to see you again, lad,” said Eon, heartily. He wrapped the boy in a bear hug, lifting him off his feet. “Eon,” said Leon, happily. He and Eon had spent many hours in prayer together. Eon walked closely with God and had taught him much about spiritual matters, such as understanding his dreams and interpreting their meanings. He looked forward to spending more time with the holy man and learning from him. “We must fit you for a proper sword,” said Eon, placing him down. Eon was a blacksmith and a swordsmith, crafting all the swords for the knights of Shalimar. “Thank you. That would be wonderful,” said Leon. Leon saw Lazar standing behind Eon. He ran to him and threw his arms around the king, hugging him fiercely. “I have missed you most of all,” said Leon, his voice choking with emotion. When Croloch had deserted his family, Lazar had become a father to him and he loved the king with all his heart. Leon trusted him and confided in him, knowing the king would never condemn him or shame him. He respected Lazar and looked to him for guidance and counsel. Lazar was always willing to pray with him and his words of encouragement strengthened him. “I have missed you, too, son,” said Lazar, in his deep voice. King Lazar held the boy tightly. He loved Leon with all his heart and there was

nothing he would not do for him. He was an extraordinary gift from God and Lazar cherished him. Just as he had with Ayden and Dante, he became a father to the boy and considered it an honor and privilege to sow into his life. He was very proud of Leon. Lazar took a step back and held the boy at arm’s length, scrutinizing him. “You have grown since I last saw you,” said Lazar. “His appetite has grown as well,” said Amarisa, teasing. She stood next to Katrina, holding her arm, smiling. She was very happy to be here again. “I believe he is following in Dante’s footsteps,” she said and everyone laughed. “Come,” said Lazar. “You must tell us about your mission trip,” he said, as they walked up the path to the castle. Once inside the castle, everyone gathered in the great hall, eager to hear about Leon and Amarisa’s latest mission trip. Plates of food were prepared for them and Lazar prayed, giving thanks to the Lord for their safe journey, asking God to bless their food. “Where did you sail?” asked Lazar, while they ate. “We sailed to a tiny island southeast of Alcastar, called Dolphin Island,” said Leon, between mouthfuls of food. “What was it like there?” asked Ayden. He had heard of the island but had never been there. “It is beautiful,” said Leon, as Ayden ed him a plate of fruit. “It is surrounded by coral reefs and home to hundreds of dolphins who live in the bay.” “Did you swim with them?” asked the children, excitedly. “Every day,” said Leon, smiling. “I believe he is part dolphin,” said Amarisa, teasing her son and everyone laughed. “Is the island inhabited by people? Do they speak English?” asked Dante,

fascinated. “Yes, there are people who live on the island but they do not speak English,” said Leon. “How did you communicate with them?” asked Katrina. “We communicated with sign language at first. Mother and I taught them some words in English and they taught us some words in their language,” said Leon. “How exciting,” said Lady Jordanna. “What language do they speak?” asked Lancelin. “I have never heard this language before,” confessed Leon. I call it “Yanzi” because in their language, “Yanzi” means dolphin,” said Leon. “We call them the Yanzi tribe,” said Amarisa. They are indigenous people and are very friendly.” “We plan on visiting them again and bringing them supplies…simple things like fishnets and machetes, flint and medical supplies. When we can understand each other better, I want to tell them about Jesus,” said Leon. “We are very proud of you, and I know the Lord is pleased with you,” said Lazar. “We could not do this in our own strength,” said Leon, humbly. “It is the work of Holy Spirit.” Eon listened to the words of the young boy, nodding. “The Lord has given you much wisdom,” he said and everyone agreed. They were interrupted when a messenger appeared, accompanied by a stranger. They bowed before King Lazar. “Your Majesty, this man has come from beyond the Toradi Mountains with an urgent message for you,” said the messenger. Lazar frowned. “Thank you. You may go now,” he said to the messenger.

The messenger bowed once again and exited the great hall, closing the doors behind him. Fergus fidgeted nervously with the hat in his hands. “Lady Jordanna, please take the children to play,” said Lazar. “Yes, Sire,” said Lady Jordanna. “Come children. You can help me prepare Leon and Amarisa’s chambers.” “And a bed for little Jubilee,” said little Grace. “And a bed for little Jubilee,” said Lady Jordanna, ushering the children out of the hall. “I will help you,” offered Amarisa, getting up. Leon started to rise but Lazar stopped him, placing his hand on his arm and shook his head. Obediently, Leon sat back down. There was a resounding thud as the doors to the great hall closed behind Fergus. His brown hair was damp and his shirt was drenched with sweat from the long, hard ride. Holding his hat in his hands, he looked down at his dusty boots, feeling the eyes of everyone in the room upon him. The only sound he heard was that of his own rapid breathing and he felt as though his heart would explode out of his chest. Let him believe me, he thought, nervously. Unaccustomed to being around strangers, Fergus had never traveled this far alone before. The stories he had heard about cruel kings and dungeons did not comfort him in his present situation. He hoped, for his own sake and for that of his clan, this king was fair and just. Still, he had a small measure of faith to believe the angel really did appear to his brother, especially after they narrowly escaped death. He did not know much about angels or God, really, but he did know unless the Dirks were defeated, they would continue to leave a wake of death behind them and no village would be safe. Lazar studied the man standing before him, carefully. Having discernment, he found no threat in him. Judging from his appearance, it was obvious this man had ridden all through the night. His face was pale and haggard and he looked exhausted. Having comion on the man, Lazar spoke in a gentle voice. “Friend, you must be thirsty and hungry. Come, sit with us. Refresh yourself with food and drink.”

Fergus looked up, surprised. Relief washed over his face. “Thank you, your Majesty,” he said, taking a seat near Lazar. Katrina poured him a drink of water and placed a heaping plate of food before the weary traveler. His throat dry and parched, Fergus drank the water Katrina offered him and when his cup was empty, she poured him another, which he also drank. When his thirst was quenched, he looked at Lazar, gratefully. “Please, eat,” urged Lazar. “You must be hungry.” Fergus nodded and ate the food before him. He had not eaten since the morning before and was famished. When he had finished eating, he looked at Lazar. “Thank you for your kindness, your Majesty.” The color had returned to his face and he was feeling much better. Lazar nodded. “Now then, tell me who you are and the message you bring,” said Lazar, focusing his eyes intently on Fergus. Fergus returned Lazar’s gaze; his blue eyes troubled. “Your Majesty, I am Fergus of the Kean clan. We are Travelers who live beyond the Toradi Mountains.” “Travelers?” asked Dante. He had never heard of Travelers before and was curious. “They are a nomadic people,” explained Lazar. “Please continue,” he urged Fergus. “Aye, we are,” said Fergus. “I was sent by my brother, Shawn, to warn you and ask for your help. My clan was camped outside the village of Dayshire. My niece, Atara, was away, visiting a friend. An angel appeared to my brother and his wife warning them of the Dirk’s attack and told them we must flee. Had it not been for the angel’s warning, we would surely have perished. The Dirks plan to cross the mountains and attack your villages with the dragon, Creulon. They seek to conquer your kingdom and the other kingdoms around you.” Katrina drew a sharp breath in, putting her hand over her mouth as she looked at her father, her green eyes wide with horror. “I have heard of this dragon you speak of and also of the Dirks. You said an angel warned you?” asked Lazar, leaning closer to Fergus.

“Aye,” said Fergus, solemnly, realizing how amazing his story sounded. “He appeared to my brother, Shawn and his wife, Alannah. The angel told my brother to take our clan to Kaldor and wait there. The angel also told my brother I must bring this message to you. Will you help us?” He withdrew a map from his coat pocket and opened it, spreading it on the table for Lazar. “My clan is here, at Kaldor,” he said, pointing to its location, “and the Dirks are camped here,” said Fergus, pointing to the location of Dayshire. Lazar studied the map as the others gathered around to examine it. “Did you say, Kaldor?” Dante asked, shocked. “You have heard of it?” asked Fergus, surprised. “It was once my village until it was destroyed by the dragon and the Dirks many years ago. I was only a child, then,” said Dante. “I was orphaned. Ayden found me and brought me here. King Lazar was kind enough to give me a home here.” “My niece, Atara, does not know what has happened to us or where her family is. The angel promised my brother she would be reunited with them,” said Fergus. He paused for a moment before continuing. “She bears a striking resemblance to you, lad,” said Fergus. Dante paled, unable to speak. Lazar looked at Dante, solemnly, as he quietly folded the map and placed it in his pocket. Then he turned to Lancelin and issued an order. “Assemble the knights and meet us in the chapel.” “At once, Sire,” said Lancelin, leaving hastily. “We must seek the Lord for His guidance,” said Lazar. Without a word, everyone rose and followed him to the chapel. They entered the chapel through massive, intricately carved, wooden doubledoors. Over two stories high, the chapel was a large, half-circular stone structure that faced the Falcon Sea. Smooth, wooden pews sat on either side of a center aisle, leading to the altar. Behind the altar, suspended from the rafters, hung an enormous, rough-hewn wooden cross. Three wide, stone steps led up to the altar, that sat on a wide platform. The base of the altar, made of walnut, was made by the best artisans of Shalimar. Lovingly carved on the front of it was a reproduction of the Ark of the Covenant. Two cherubim sat on top of the ark, facing each other, their wings spread to form a canopy. The top of the altar was

made of smooth, white marble. Tall, elaborate, stain-glass windows of Biblical scenes surrounded the chapel on three sides. Sunlight streamed through them as Lazar knelt before the altar to pray. The others knelt beside him and were soon ed by the Knights of Shalimar. Fergus bowed his head, folded his hands like Lazar and closed his eyes. He had never prayed before but he realized this was something the others did often. After a time of praying quietly, Lazar raised his voice and prayed out loud. “Heavenly Father, we worship you and exalt you. You are our God and we magnify your Holy name. To you, alone, belong all honor, glory, and praise. There is none like you, Oh, God. We thank you, Lord, that your righteousness and mercy endure forever. Look down upon your servants and hear our prayer. Strengthen us in this hour, guide us and lead us by your Spirit. Help us defend and protect those who cannot help themselves. Let your justice prevail on earth as it is in Heaven. May you be glorified through us as we take up this cause for your name’s sake. We ask this in the name of your son Jesus. Amen.” Suddenly, there was the sound of a mighty, rushing wind. A bright light filled the chapel and Jesus appeared to them in front of the cross. His appearance was radiant, brighter than a thousand suns. The light shone in Him, through him, and all around him. Lazar and everyone in the chapel could not look upon the blinding light. Shielding their eyes with their hands, they knelt and bowed their heads before the Lord as Jesus spoke to them. “Beloved, my Father in Heaven has heard your prayer. He has chosen you in this hour to rescue the girl belonging to the Kean clan held captive by the Dirks. He is protecting her. You must take a stand and fight against the great dragon and the Dirks.” Jesus walked down the steps, placing his hand on each of their heads. “It is my Father’s anointing that breaks the yoke of the enemy,” said Jesus. They felt the power of God surge through their beings, strengthening them and equipping them for their mission. After Jesus had anointed the last knight, He spoke again. “Do not fear for I am with you. Look, My Father has given his angels charge over you to protect you in all your ways.” Lifting their heads, Lazar and the others saw a multitude of angelic warriors appear in the chapel, too numerous to count. Fierce and mighty, the Glory of God shone all about them. Dressed in gold armor, each of them carried a gold shield with a red cross in one hand and a blazing sword in the other.

“Go now, for the time is at hand,” said Jesus. Then He and the angels disappeared in the blink of an eye. Lazar and the others slowly rose to their feet, still feeling the presence of the Lord and His angels. Lazar placed his hand on Fergus’ shoulder. “I will see to it you are given a fresh horse. You will ride with us until we take the route to Dayshire. When you reach Kaldor, tell your brother Shalimar will fight,” he said, gravely. “Thank you, your Majesty,” said Fergus, very grateful. Lazar called for one of the pages to escort Fergus to the stables. Fergus bowed before Lazar and departed. Lazar then turned to Eon and spoke. “Call the people of Shalimar to fast and pray,” said Lazar. Eon nodded wordlessly and left, relaying the King’s command. Somber, Lazar stood before his knights and addressed them. “Prepare for battle. We leave at once,” said Lazar issuing his command. The Knights of Shalimar nodded, gravely. As they were leaving the chapel, Lazar called Dante aside. When they were alone, he motioned for Dante to sit in one of the pews with him. Dante sat down next to Lazar and looked up at him, fighting back tears. He had not been back to Kaldor since the raid. The mention of his village brought back painful memories for him. Lazar put his arm around him and spoke gently. “I know this is difficult for you, Son. What happened to you and your family is tragic. That is why we must fight against this evil.” Dante nodded. “I know you are right. But why did the Lord send them to Kaldor? There is nothing there but ruins.” “I do not know why. It is a mystery to me, also, but we must trust him,” said Lazar. “There is something I must tell you I have never told anyone,” said Dante. Quietly, he told Lazar of the recurring dream he had with Jesus. “He promised me I would be reunited with my sister. Could this girl, Atara, be my sister?” He could not forget the words of Fergus.

“It is possible,” Lazar itted. “The ways of the Lord are mysterious and wondrous,” he said, smiling kindly at Dante. The young man hugged Lazar. “I love you,” he said, in a husky voice. Deep down in his heart, Dante knew the Lord had brought him to Shalimar and given him a family when he had none. This man had become a father to him and Dante was very thankful. “I love you, too, Son,” said Lazar. Together, they left the chapel and made their way down the long flight of stairs to the armory. Not long after, Katrina and Leon met Lazar as a squire helped him with his armor. “Father, we must come with you,” said Katrina, holding her bow. Lazar met their gaze and nodded for the Lord had already revealed this to him. “Move quickly. There is no time to waste,” he said. Dressed for battle, Lazar and the knights walked out into the courtyard and were met by Eon and everyone within the castle. The stable hands brought out pack horses loaded with supplies for their journey and the war horses to ride for combat. Each war horse wore armor known as a bard. A bard consisted of several pieces. A crinet protected the horse’s neck and a crupper covered the horse’s rump. A tail guard, attached to the crupper, protected the horse’s tail. A flanchard, attached to the saddle, protected the horse’s flank. A peytral protected the horse’s chest and a chanfron covered the horse’s head and face. Mounting their horses, Lazar and the knights lined up, side by side, in a single row across the courtyard. On the end, Fergus sat upon a fresh horse. Holding their helmets, the King, his knights, and Fergus faced Eon. One by one, beginning with the horse farthest to the left, the horses bent their forelegs and kneeled, bowing their heads. Lazar, the knights, and Fergus bowed their heads as Eon raised his arms to Heaven and prayed. “May Almighty God bless you and keep you, protecting you from all harm. May He strengthen you with His mighty right hand and give you victory against His enemies. In the name of our Lord, Jesus, we pray, Amen.” “Amen,” said everyone, reverently. Beginning with the horse farthest to the right, each horse raised its head and stood. Lazar and his knights put their helmets on.

Lazar raised his sword and gave a mighty shout. “All for God,” he shouted. “And for the cross,” thundered the knights, raising their swords. Next to Eon, invisible to man, the mighty warrior angel, Trekon, stood, dressed in gold armor, holding a blazing sword. He faced an army of warrior angels, too numerous for man to count. They, also, were dressed in gold armor and held blazing swords. Trekon raised his sword toward Heaven and shouted with a voice like thunder. “For the King of Glory.” The army of Heaven raised their swords and shouted in one accord, “Forever without end.” The two armies turned and faced the castle doors, riding out single file. Dante rode in front of the knights, holding the blue banner of Shalimar. Lazar gave a command and the heavy, wooden doors opened. Heavy chains clanked as the great drawbridge was lowered. There was the steady clip-clop of horses’ hooves on the thick, wooden planks. Lady Jordanna and Amarisa put their arms around the children, comforting them as the wooden gates thundered shut. Word of the king’s message spread quickly throughout Shalimar. Wherever they were, men, women, and children of all ages fasted and prayed. Women and children in their homes paused during their chores to bow their heads in prayer. Farmers stopped while plowing their fields to pray for the king and his knights as did shepherds while tending their flocks. Everyone inside the castle gathered in the chapel to pray. The people humbled themselves before the Lord, asking him to protect their king and the Knights of Shalimar in battle and give them the victory.

CHAPTER 10

L AZAR AND THE knights rode swiftly from Shalimar with Fergus. Following a road east, they rode through the Winwood Forest to the Elkrin Valley. Riding through the valley, the Toradi Mountains loomed in the distance. As they rode up into the mountains, they reached a fork on the trail. One path led to Kaldor and the other led to Dayshire. Lazar rode up alongside Fe rgus. “May God be with you, Your Majesty,” Fergus said, bowing his head. “And with you also,” said Lazar, placing his hand on Fergus’ shoulder. They watched the Traveler ride off, praying for his journey. Then Lazar and the knights continued their journey up the winding path. When they reached a plateau, Lazar held his arm up, signaling for them to stop. “We will rest here,” said Lazar. Dismounting his horse, he surveyed the area. The plateau was wide with lush, green grass and yellow wildflowers. A mountain stream coming from above them cascaded over rocks to the right, forming a small pool below the little waterfall. Tired from the ride, the knights dismounted and led the horses to drink while they filled their waterskins. Dante took Lazar’s to fill while the king took out the map Fergus had drawn them from his saddle bag. He spread the map out on a large, flat rock and examined it. “We do not have much farther to go,” said Dante, peering at the map as he handed Lazar the waterskin. Lazar took a long drink. The water was ice cold, due to the winter snow melting. “We should arrive at Dayshire before dusk,” he said, looking up at the sun. Rolling the map up, he put it back in his saddlebag. He ed the others seated in the grass, eating fruit and dried strips of beef. The food was much needed to replenish their energy and everyone was thankful for the brief rest before resuming the journey. Conversations were serious as they planned their attack.

Dante chewed on an apple, listening to Lazar when he saw something move out of the corner of his eye. Turning his head, he saw a furry little foot, shaped like a man’s, appear out of thin air next to Lazar’s horse. Dante rubbed his eyes, not trusting what he saw. Next, a furry, little hand and part of a shoulder appeared. In the blink of an eye, the little creature stepped through an invisible doorway. The creature was approximately three feet tall and had the appearance of a man, except for his ears, that resembled the ears of a goat. He was covered in brown fur, the color of walnuts, and had short, curly, black hair. His two, dark eyes were large and round, with long, thick eyelashes. He had bushy eyebrows and a long goatee, that fell midway to his chest. Barefoot, he wore only a tan shirt and brown pants with suspenders. Spying the map poking out of the saddlebag, the furry, little, creature reached up, timidly, and snatched it. Looking around, his eyes met Dante’s and he smiled at him, mischievously. Then, he turned and darted back through the invisible doorway, disappearing. “Did you see that?” exclaimed Dante, jumping up. Katrina, sitting next to him, looked up, bewildered. “See what?” she asked, nonchalantly. “That furry, little creature!” said Dante, his voice rising in panic. “He stole the map!” “What,” exclaimed everyone, jumping to their feet. Lazar checked his saddlebag. “It is gone,” he said. “Where did he go?” he asked. Dante ran quickly next to Lazar’s horse. “Right here,” he said pointing. Dante waved his hand around in the air but there was nothing there. “That is strange…I do not understand it. He just disappeared into thin air…” “Hmm…Perhaps he went through a portal,” suggested Leon, rubbing his chin. “A portal?” asked Ayden, curious. “A portal is a spiritual doorway. Unless it is opened by the Lord, we must not go through it. It would be demonic,” explained Lazar.

“High-level witchcraft,” added Leon, solemnly. “What should we do?” asked Dante, looking at Lazar. “We need the map.” “We must pray and ask the Lord,” said Lazar. He began to pray silently and the others ed him. After a while, the Lord spoke to him. “An unholy portal has been opened in this place, which you must not enter. I will open a portal for you to through and recover the map. Take Ayden, Katrina, Dante, and Leon with you,” said the Lord. “The others will remain here to pray and guard the horses. I will send a messenger to you who will reveal my plan.” “Your will be done, Lord,” said Lazar. Then the Lord gave him a vision of a large, gold door with a white handle next to them. A brilliant, white light shone all around from behind the closed door. The mighty hand of God reached down from Heaven and pulled the handle, opening the door. “Thank you, Lord,” whispered Lazar. When the vision ended, Lazar opened his eyes and told them of all the Lord had instructed him. “Pray for us and do not leave this place,” he said to his knights. “Yes, Sire,” they replied, solemnly. Then Lazar instructed Ayden, Katrina, Dante, and Leon. “Arm yourselves. Fill your satchels with food and fill your waterskins. I do not know how long we will be gone,” he said. They nodded and set about getting the things they needed quickly. A short time later, Lazar stood with Katrina, Ayden, Dante and Leon before the place the Lord showed him. The Knights of Shalimar layed hands on each of them and prayed over them, asking God to equip them for their mission and to protect them from the powers of darkness. As the knights prayed over them, they felt the blood of Jesus cover them. Lazar looked into the faces of his knights as they prepared to leave. They were more than his comrades. They were his brothers. He was thankful the Lord had given him these noble, courageous men. They had been faithful to him on and off the battlefield, serving the Lord wholeheartedly. “God be with you, Sire,” said the knights as they hugged Lazar. They had a great

love and iration for Lazar. He was their brother, their friend, and their king. They would willingly give their lives to protect him. “And with you, also,” said Lazar. After they said farewell, Lazar stood before the Knights of Shalimar and drew his sword, raising it toward Heaven. The Knights of Shalimar drew their own swords, raising them high. “All for God,” shouted Lazar, mightily. “And for the cross,” thundered the Knights of Shalimar. Then Lazar and his party turned and walked through the Holy portal, vanishing. Immediately, the knights began to pray. Invisible to man, the angelic army watched as they stepped through the portal. Trekon, the mighty warrior angel, assigned angels to watch over and protect the knights. Then he turned and spoke to Custos, the angel on his right. “Guard the unholy portal,” he said, solemnly. “Let no being enter or exit.” Custos nodded, drawing his sword. “The Lord be with you, brother.” “And with you, also,” said Trekon, drawing his own sword. Raising his sword toward Heaven, Trekon gave a mighty shout. “For the King of Glory,” he cried. “Forever without end,” thundered the angelic army, raising their swords high. There was a brilliant flash of light as he and the angelic army crossed over into the other world.

CHAPTER 11

A S LAZAR STEPPED through the portal, a vortex of brilliant, white light swirled around him and he was sucked through a vacuum into the other world. A moment later, Katrina, Dante, and Leon appeared next to him inside a cave. Lazar, Ayden, Katrina, Dante, and Leon looked about them in wo nder. “It is beautiful,” whispered Katrina, looking around her. She had never seen a more lovely cave. “It is unlike anything I have ever seen before,” marveled Ayden. The cave was floored, roofed and walled with turquoise, blue, and lavender crystal. The crystal sparkled and glowed, illuminating the cave. The cavern was quite wide and not very deep. Looking around them, they ired the turquoise stalagmites that rose from the ground. looking up, they saw lavender stalactites hanging from the ceiling. Some of the stalagmites and stalactites had ed together, forming columns. Leon reached out and touched one of the columns, iring their beauty. “I wonder what kind of crystals these are,” said Dante, running his hand along a wall. “I wonder if it looks like this outside,” said Leon, picking up a small, crystal rock and examining it. “We are about to find out,” said Lazar, walking to the mouth of the cave. Invisible to man, the angelic army followed. Stepping outside, they walked into a whimsical world of color and beauty. “Oh, my,” exclaimed Katrina in amazement. It was breathtakingly beautiful. Everyone stood in awe of the beauty of the world. It was unlike anything they had ever seen before. Mint green puffy clouds floated across a lemon-yellow sky as a turquoise sun shone brightly above them. Gentle, rolling hills covered in navy blue grass surrounded them. Beautiful willow trees with purple bark and

fuchsia leaves grew beside a small brook with water the color of pink lemonade. Katrina and the others looked all around them as little red rabbits hopped in the grass. Suddenly, she gasped. “Look,” she said, pointing. Lazar, Ayden, Dante, and Leon turned, following her gaze. A beautiful, white unicorn stood drinking from the brook. The animal had a long, flowing white mane and tail. In the center of her forehead was a long, spiral, crystal horn that came to a point. Hearing their voices, the animal’s ears twitched and she looked up, regarding them calmly. Katrina was enthralled. It was the most exquisite creature she had ever seen. Slowly, she walked toward the unicorn, talking in a soothing, gentle voice. “Easy, girl, I am not going to hurt you,” said Katrina softly. Much to her delight, the unicorn walked slowly toward her. When she reached Katrina, the animal nuzzled her affectionately. Delighted, Katrina reached up and petted her, stroking her soft, white neck. “You are beautiful,” said Katrina, hugging the unicorn. “Thank you, my dear. So are you,” said the unicorn, nodding her head. “You talk!” exclaimed Katrina, surprised. “Indeed, I do,” said the unicorn, chuckling. She nodded her head again, shaking her mane as she gently pawed the grass with her hoof. “My name is Aven. Welcome to Brightendale.” Too surprised to speak, Lazar, Ayden, Dante, and Leon walked up beside Katrina and stood quietly, iring the beautiful animal. Recovering from her surprise, Katrina introduced herself and the others. “This is my father, Lazar, my husband, Ayden, and our friends, Dante, and Leon.” “It is my pleasure to meet all of you,” said Aven. “The pleasure is ours,” said Lazar. Ayden, Dante, and Leon were too surprised to speak. They simply nodded their heads and smiled.

“Did you come through the Holy portal? asked Aven. “Yes,” nodded Lazar. “That is good,” said Aven, nodding her head in approval. “Where have you come from?” “We are from Shalimar,” said Lazar. “A place on Earth?” asked Aven. “Yes,” said Lazar. Now he was puzzled and not sure exactly where he was. “Is Brightendale in another world?” asked Katrina, incredulously. “Yes, my dear. Brightendale is in a world far from your Earth, in another galaxy,” explained Aven. “Earth is a beautiful planet, from what I have been told,” said Aven. “You have heard of it?” asked Leon, surprised. “Indeed, I have,” said Aven. “God has told me it is one of His favorite creations.” “You know God?” asked Dante, shocked. “Why, yes,” said Aven. “He and I are old friends. He visits quite often. Why do you look so surprised?” she asked, seeing the looks on their faces. “Is he not the God of all universes and creator of all things?” “Yes, he is,” said Katrina, finally finding the words to speak. “I just never thought of him visiting other worlds,” she said. “Are we really in another world?” Aven nodded. “Yes, my dear, quite so,” she said, chuckling. “God is infinitely full of surprises. As you seek his face, desiring more of him, he will reveal great wonders and mysteries to you that your natural mind cannot comprehend.” “Yes, that is true,” said Lazar, thoughtfully. The idea that the Lord had created life in another world had never occurred to him before.

“I never thought of it that way before,” said Dante. “Me, either,” itted Leon. “He is the God of wonders,” said Ayden, in awe. “Tell me, my dear, where is Rabbage?” asked Aven, looking around her. “Rabbage? Who is Rabbage?” asked Katrina, curious. “Why, I sent him to invite you to come here. How odd,” said Aven, puzzled. Suddenly, they heard a sound near them and the furry little creature, still clutching the map, peaked out from behind a willow tree. “Hey, you! Give us back our map!” shouted Dante, chasing him. Frightened, the furry little creature skirted past him, cowering beside the unicorn. “Please do not hurt me,” he begged, frightened. “Rabbage, no one here is going to hurt you,” said Aven, soothingly. “I sent you on an errand. Please explain yourself as we are all thoroughly confused.” “Well…I…” stammered Rabbage, looking down and shuffling his feet, “…I was going to ask them to come, but I was afraid they would say no. I took the map so they would follow me here,” he explained. “I see,” said Aven. “But that is not what I asked you to do, now, was it? I asked you to extend an invitation for them to come. Good Heavens, have you forgotten your manners? Please apologize and return the map immediately,” said Aven, chiding him in a motherly tone. “I am sorry,” said Rabbage, meekly. Katrina had comion for the furry little creature. It was obvious he was sincerely remorseful for his actions. In many ways, he was not much different from her own children. “We forgive you,” she said, speaking for everyone. Katrina bent down, looking Rabbage in the eye. “Tell you what,” she said, gently, “I will trade you my bracelet for the map.” She took off the silver link bracelet and held it out to him, smiling.

Rabbage’s eyes lit up when he saw it. Eagerly, he made the exchange. Slipping it on, he looped it twice around his small wrist, iring it. “Thank you,” he said, smiling up at Katrina. “You are welcome, Rabbage,” said Katrina, kindly. She handed the map to Lazar, who tucked it in his satchel. “You must be the messenger the Lord spoke of,” said Lazar, ing the Lord’s words to him. “He said he would reveal his plan to us when we came through the portal.” “Yes,” said Aven. “He promised to send help for us. That is why I wanted to invite you here. I wanted to ask for your help.” “We have been waiting a long time,” said Rabbage, solemnly. “What kind of help?” asked Lazar. This was an unexpected turn of events. He was thinking of their return to the Toradi Mountains and their plan to defeat the Dirks. “It is a long story,” said Aven. “Please, make yourselves comfortable.” Folding her legs under her, Aven lied down in the grass. Lazar, Ayden, Katrina, Dante, and Leon sat down next to her and Rabbage sat next to Katrina. “When God created us and our world, He made two lands, Brightendale and Shimmerdale. Brightendale is the home of the unicorns and Shimmerdale is the home of the Zorks,” began Aven. “Who are Zorks?” asked Dante, fascinated. “I am a Zork,” said Rabbage, proudly. “Oh,” said Dante. He leaned forward, totally intrigued. Aven continued. “Shimmerdale was once a beautiful land, like Brightendale. The Zorks lived as farmers and their land was rich and plentiful with crops. Birds of the air and many kinds of animals made their home there. In the center of Shimmerdale are mountains. The largest was a beautiful mountain made of crystals of many colors.”

“Rainbow Mountain,” said Rabbage, nodding his head. “Yes,” said Aven. “Not long ago, Shimmerdale was invaded by the evil Ords. In fear for their lives, the Zorks fled their little homes and now are hiding underground.” “How awful,” said Katrina, putting her arm around Rabbage. “Who are the Ords?” asked Lazar, frowning. “The Ords are a giant race from another world,” explained Aven. “How did they enter your world?” asked Leon. He was reminded of the time when his own land had been invaded by pirates. “They entered our world through an unholy portal opened by the wizard, Malefic. Now that he has invaded Shimmerdale, he seeks to conquer Brightendale and rule our world,” said Aven. “Oh, no!” said Katrina, horrified. “I am afraid so, my dear,” said Aven. “His magic has defiled our land,” said Rabbage, angrily. “How so?” asked Ayden, concerned. “Magic has polluted Shimmerdale, turning it into a wasteland,” explained Aven. “The crops have all died and the streams are either polluted or dried up. As a result, the birds and animals were forced to come here to live because there is no food or water for them in Shimmerdale. The Zorks refuse to give up their land and are forced to hide underground. Thankfully, underground streams provide water for them but they have very little food supplies. Brave ones, like Rabbage, risk their lives to come here and bring food for them,” said Aven, sadly. “Oh, how tragic,” said Katrina, with tears in her eyes. “He has changed Shimmerdale’s name to Cinomed,” said Rabbage, angrily. “Cinomed…What an odd name,” said Katrina. “How do you spell it?”

“C-i-n-o-m-e-d,” said Rabbage, frowning. “C-i-n-o-m-e-d…” repeated Katrina. Then the revelation came to her. “That is ‘demonic’ spelled backward!” “Interesting,” said Lazar, surprised. “How does Malefic open the portals?” Knowing the wizard had opened a portal to their world alarmed him greatly. Ayden, Katrina, Dante, and Leon all shared the same thought. “The necklace he wears gives him the power to open the portals and through into other worlds. The necklace can only be destroyed by the horn of a unicorn,” said Aven. “The Lord has chosen for this task,” she said. “Where are the Ords?” asked Lazar. It was not the first time he had fought against a wizard and the powers of darkness. Now he understood why the Lord had sent them here. “Do you see the large, black mountain in the distance?” asked Aven. They all turned, looking in the direction Rabbage pointed. “That was once Rainbow Mountain. Now it is known as Murky Mountain. You will find them there,” she said. “Will you help us?” pleaded Rabbage, grasping Lazar by the arm. Lazar looked into Rabbage’s eyes and nodded, feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit. “Yes,” he said, resolutely. Ayden, Katrina, Dante, and Leon also nodded in agreement. They understood now the Lord had sent them here to free Shimmerdale. Rabbage was overjoyed. “Thank you,” he said, his voice choked with emotion. “We will accompany you,” said Aven. “It is good you brought the angelic army,” she said, nodding to Trekon. “We will need their assistance to defeat the Ords.” “You can see them?” asked Dante, surprised. “As plain as the nose on your face,” winked Aven. Trekon chuckled and Dante blushed. Wasting no time, they prepared for their journey.

CHAPTER 12

T HEY SET OUT at once on the long, arduous journey to Murky Mountain. Word of their quest spread quickly among the birds and animals in Brighten dale. A little green fox bounded over the blue hills and ran up to Katrina. “Is it true you have come to help us?” he asked, excitedly. “Yes, it is true,” said Katrina, smiling down at him. She was still unaccustomed to animals talking to her and found the experience wondrous. As they ed a tree, a little red squirrel overheard them. Quickly, she scampered down the trunk. “You are very brave,” she said, peaking at Katrina. “Thank you,” said Katrina, smiling. “Beware of the dragon,” said the yellow owl perched on the branch above them. “Oooo…the dragon,” squealed two little, pink chipmunks, hugging each other tightly. Katrina gasped and Leon and Dante’s eyes grew wide. Lazar and Ayden exchanged looks. Lazar raised his eyebrows. “Dragon?” he asked. “Malum,” said Aven, nodding. “He guards the castle.” “Of course, there is a dragon,” quipped Dante, shaking his head. “And just how big is this dragon?” he asked, already knowing the answer. “Very big,” said Rabbage, matter-of-factly. “Tell us about the Ords,” said Lazar as they walked along. “The Ords are fierce and ruthless and are skilled in weaponry,” said Aven,

evenly. “They look like Zebras,” added Rabbage. “What do you mean?” asked Leon, curious. “Their bodies resemble yours,” said Rabbage, “but their skin is grey, with black stripes. They have ears like Zebras and have short, black hair.” “How tall are they?” asked Lazar. “Roughly three times your height,” said Aven. “Malefic is the tallest.” Dante let out a low whistle and Katrina and Leon’s eyes grew wide. “I see,” said Lazar, not flinching. He, himself, was six-feet tall. “Oh, Lord, help us,” said Katrina, taking hold of Ayden’s arm. “No victory is won without adversity,” said Lazar. “It is not by our power or might, but by His Spirit,” he reminded them. They continued on their journey in silence and prayed. After a time, they topped the last hill and looked down upon the valley of Cinomed. It was, indeed, a bleak and dreary land, as far as the eye could see. “Oh, Rabbage,” said Katrina, sadly, putting her arm around her little furry friend. Rabbage sighed. “It was not always like this,” he said, tears in his eyes. Descending the hill, Murky Mountain loomed before them. A black castle, barely visible, sat on top of the mountain, shrouded in a grey mist. The lush, green grass had withered and died and the black ground beneath them was cracked and dry. Katrina looked up at the dead branches of the black trees, trying to imagine the colorful leaves they once had. A pungent odor hung in the air and grew stronger as they drew closer to the mountain. “What is that smell?” asked Leon, as they covered their noses and mouths with their sleeves. “Witchcraft has polluted the air,” said Aven, shaking her head and snorting.

“Peppermint oil helps,” said Rabbage, removing a vial from his pocket. Taking his finger, he applied some under his nose and then applied some under the unicorn’s nostrils. Then he ed the vial to the others. Reaching the base of the mountain, they hid behind a small grove of barren trees. “We will wait here until nightfall,” said Lazar.

* * *

Inside the castle of Cinomed, Malefic and his comrades sat at a long, black table, drinking and feasting. Full, he pushed his plate away and sighed, content. His companions laughed and joked and Malefic smiled to himself, very pleased. Things have turned out well for us here, he thought, smugly. Looking down, he fingered the yellow jeweled necklace he wore. You have served me well, he thought. He thought of his former life in Ordaxis. In his world, the dark arts of the occult were ed down from father to son. The highest rank of a wizard in a wizard family was a Master Wizard. When the Master Wizard no longer lived, the title was ed down to the firstborn son. When that son no longer lived, the title was then ed on to the second son, and so on. Malefic was the seventh son in his family. It would be a very long time before he assumed his role as a Master Wizard, as wizards on Ordaxis can live hundreds of years. While out and about one day, he and his comrades came across an Ord who offered to sell Malefic the necklace for a profit. This particular Ord had stolen the necklace and had no idea of its value or power. After reading the inscription on the necklace, Malefic readily agreed and paid the thief handsomely for it. With the necklace in his possession, Malefic explained to his comrades he now had the power to open portals into other worlds. Although they, themselves, were not wizards, he vowed to give them wealth in exchange for their loyalty to him. His comrades readily accepted his offer. Reciting the ancient, unholy prayer engraved on the necklace. The dragon, Malum, appeared before them. He told Malefic he was the protector of the one who possessed the necklace. An unholy portal was opened and they stepped through into Shimmerdale with the dragon.

It did not take them long to suppress the Zorks and take over their land. The sheer size of the Ords and the dragon struck terror in the hearts of the little Zorks and the furry little creatures fled for their lives, hiding underground. “Malefic, when do we take Brightendale?” asked one of the Ords. “Soon. Very soon,” said Malefic. “Once we slay the unicorns, it will be ours.” “And after that?” asked another Ord. “We have worlds of possibilities,” said Malefic, with an evil laugh. The Ords laughed. “To Malefic!” said an Ord, toasting him. “To Malefic!” said the others heartily, raising their mugs.

* * *

The sun set over Cinomed and as night fell, a tangerine moon and stars appeared in the black sky, illuminating the winding path up the mountain. Inside the castle, Malefic and the Ords continued to drink heavily and finally ed out in a drunken stupor. Hugging the side of the mountain, Lazar and the others followed the narrow path until at last, they reached the top. Taking cover behind large, black boulders, they looked up at the tall wooden wall, surrounding the castle. The wall was made of very large posts made of tree trunks. The tops of the posts were sharpened to a point. Two, heavy, wooden doors gave entrance into the courtyard. On the other side of the wall, they heard loud snorting. They felt the ground beneath them shake and heard the swish of a giant tail as the great dragon, Malum, patrolled his territory. “That is Malum,” whispered Rabbage. “We must find a way to sneak past the dragon,” whispered Lazar to the others.

“There is no need for that. I have a secret weapon,” whispered Rabbage, patting the large bag he carried. “What is it?” asked Lazar in a low voice. “Stewed apples cooked in poppies and valerian root, coated in honey,” said Rabbage, removing a slingshot from his bag. The cooked poppies and valerian root would induce sleep. “There is enough here to put him asleep for a while.” Lazar looked at Rabbage with iration. “You are a very resourceful fellow,” he said, patting Rabbage on the shoulder. “Once the dragon is asleep, we can scale the wall with a rope.” “I will stand guard,” whispered Aven. “Good,” whispered Lazar. “Let us pray.” Huddled together, they bowed their heads as Lazar whispered an urgent prayer. “Father, we exalt you, for you, alone, are our God and worthy of all praise. Our times are in your hands. Cover us with the blood of your son, Jesus, and protect us from the powers of darkness. Give us victory over your enemy for the sake of your name, according to your will. Be glorified through us. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.” “Amen,” they whispered. As Lazar prayed, his prayers mingled with the prayers of his knights in Toradi and all those in Shalimar. Each prayer sparkled in gold and twirled like leaves in the wind as they ascended toward Heaven. Angels of intercession, dressed in brilliant, white robes, saw their prayers rising. Spreading their translucent white wings, they descended from Heaven and tenderly gathered the prayers in golden bowls. Flying upward, they ascended again to Heaven. There, they poured them into a large, golden vessel before the throne of God. The vessel, filled to the brim, tipped over, releasing a sweet fragrance before Almighty God. The great I AM, seated on his Heavenly throne, heard their prayers. “Go,” said the Lord, in a voice like thunder. Invisible to man, Trekon and the warrior angels heard the Lord’s command and obeyed. The Glory of God shone about them as they drew their swords. Feeling

the presence of the angels surrounding them, Lazar nodded at the others and they crept stealthily up to the castle wall. Rabbage reached into his bag and pulled out a sticky apple. Placing it in his sling-shot, he pulled the rubber band back as far as it would go and released it. The apple sailed high into the air and landed with a dull thud on the other side of the wall. The great dragon, Malum, lied in front of the castle, his front legs stretched out before him. His head rested on his front legs as he kept watch in the night. His ears twitched when he heard the thud. Growling, he rose quickly on all fours, his eyes narrowed into yellow slits. The pleasant aroma of apple and honey wafted through the air as he sniffed. Following the scent, the ground beneath him trembled as he ran and found the apple. Malum extended his long, sticky tongue and snatched the apple up, placing it in his mouth. Swallowing it whole, the dragon belched loudly. Encouraged, Lazar whispered, “Excellent! Proceed!” Rabbage nodded and fired another apple over the wall. Excited, the dragon sniffed about him eagerly until he found the potent treat, gobbling it up. Soon, Rabbage emptied his bag. He and the others held their breath and waited. Before long, having eaten fifty pounds of the sleep-inducing apples, the dragon grew drowsy and yawned. Cross-eyed, he took four wobbly steps toward the castle and fell over with a great thud beneath the window, snoring loudly. “It worked!” whispered Dante, patting Rabbage on the back. Wasting no time, Lazar removed two ropes from his satchel. Forming a noose at one end, he swung the rope above his head and lassoed the top of one of the posts, pulling the rope taut. Then he formed another noose on the other rope and coiled it, placing it on Ayden’s shoulder. “You go first,” whispered Lazar. “Secure this rope on the post and throw it down on the other side. Be careful,” he cautioned. Ayden nodded. Gripping the rope in his hands, he pulled himself up, reaching the top of the wall. Slipping the noose of the second rope around the post, he let it fall down on the other side. Holding onto the post, Ayden swung himself over the wall and repelled down the other side. There was a soft thud as he landed on the other side. Next, Dante, Leon, and Rabbage quickly followed him over the

wall. Lazar turned to Katrina. “You can stay here with Aven,” he whispered. “Father, I must go. You may need me,” she said, adjusting the bow and quiver on her shoulder. Lazar nodded, relenting. She was an excellent archer and her skills were valuable. He and Aven watched her climb up the wall. “She is very brave,” said Aven, with great iration. “That she is,” agreed Lazar, never taking his eyes off her. When he heard her drop down on the other side, he took hold of the rope, gripping it tightly in his hands. “God be with you, Lazar,” said Aven, as he placed his foot on the wall. “And with you, also, my friend,” said Lazar. Aven looked up, watching Lazar scale the wall. Invisible to man, Trekon stood next to her with the warrior angels. He patted her affectionately. “Do not worry, my friend. They are in God’s hands.” Aven nuzzled the angel, lovingly, nodding her head. “There is no better place for them to be,” she said. Then Trekon and the warrior angel spread their magnificent white wings and flew over the wall. The angels surrounded Lazar, Ayden, Katrina, Dante, Leon, and Rabbage while Aven prayed.

CHAPTER 13

T HEIR SWORDS DRAWN, Lazar and his party crept cautiously toward the sleeping dragon. Malum’s eyes were shut and he was snoring quite lo udly. “He snores as loud as a cannon,” whispered Dante. “He is enormous,” whispered Katrina. She had never been this close to a dragon and the sheer size of the mammoth creature was staggering. “His body is longer than our ships,” whispered Ayden. “And his horns are taller than the masts,” added Leon in a hushed voice. Two, long, rough horns, like those of a gazelle, sat on top of the dragon’s head. Smaller, thicker horns grew out from the sides of his jaw and head. The creature had two, short, pointed ears beneath his horns on either side of his head. His eyes, now closed, were almond-shaped and yellow. He had a long, scaled snout with two large, oval, nostrils. Inside his mouth were a double row of razor-sharp, pointed teeth and a long, black, sticky, forked tongue. Thick, red, diamondshaped scales overlapped one another covering the creature’s head, long neck, and body. His two, red, webbed wings were folded closed. Malum had four legs with clawed feet. Each foot had five long claws, the size of an elephant’s foot. His long, thick, tail tapered to an arrow-head shaped point and was very sharp. “We must hurry,” whispered Lazar. “He will not sleep long.” Lazar looked up at the castle door, blocked by the dragon. He looked from the dragon’s horns to the window beneath him. The horns were tilted at a forty-five-degree angle. “We will climb his horns and go through the window.” “I will go first,” volunteered Rabbage. Lazar nodded. “If you see the Ords, come back. We will find another way inside,” whispered Lazar. Rabbage nodded and Ayden gave the furry little creature a boost up. Placing his

foot on one of the dragon’s scales, he quickly climbed up his head and the horn beneath the window. When he reached the window, he peeked over the edge. Seeing no Ords in sight, he waved to the others to follow. Quickly and quietly, they climbed up the dragon’s horn. Inside the castle, heavy, blue drapes hung from the window. A thick, braided cord, attached to the wall with gold rings, looped around each drape, tying it back. “If we unfasten the drapes, we can climb down the cord,” whispered Rabbage. Lazar nodded. Reaching through the window with his sword, he lifted the ring off the hook, letting the cord fall. It nearly reached the floor. “Go,” whispered Lazar, standing guard. One by one, they quickly climbed down the cord inside a torch-lit hall of the castle. The castle was massive with very high ceilings. It was eerily quiet. Lazar looked up and down the hall. Far down the hall, on the right, light spilled onto the floor from a doorway. “This way,” whispered Lazar. Hugging the wall of the hall, they stealthily followed the light that came from inside the great hall of the castle. Two, massive, wooden, doors, stood open on either side of the hall. Lazar and the others peeked around the door. The great hall was quite large, with tall, narrow windows. It was well-lit from the many sconces that hung on the walls. An enormous fireplace with smoldering ashes was against one wall. A massive, long, wooden table sat in the center of the hall. Large, ornately carved wooden chairs were placed around the table. On the table, copious amounts of food were heaped on silver platters. Great silver pitchers and goblets half-filled with amber liquid sat on the table. Seeing the Ords, Katrina covered her mouth, stifling a scream. They were huge, powerfully built creatures, approximately eighteen to twenty feet tall. They indeed looked like Zebras but with the bodies and faces of men. Their skin was smooth and grey with black stripes and the area around their noses, mouths, and chins was black. Their ears were like that of a Zebra, black on the outside and grey inside and they wore their short, black, hair combed upward. Dressed in clothing similar to a man’s, they wore dark shirts, tros, and boots. Each of

them was armed with long, gleaming swords fastened at their sides. The Ords sat in their chairs, ed out in a drunken stupor. Their heads and arms rested on the table. Some of them lied face-down in their plates, still holding their silverware. At one end of the table, seated on his throne, was Malefic. His head was tilted back against the chair and his mouth hung open. His thick, muscular arms hung loosely on the arms of his chair. Around his neck, on a silver chain, hung the yellow-jeweled necklace. Malefic and the Ords were snoring quite loudly. Lazar surveyed the room, gauging the distance between him and Malefic. Turning to Dante, he whispered, “I will lift the necklace over his head and you grab it. The rest of you stay here. If they wake up, run. Do not wait for us.” Everyone nodded, wide-eyed. “Be careful,” whispered Katrina, clutching Lazar’s arm. Lazar nodded solemnly. Silently, he and Dante crept into the hall. Massive, black, marble columns, towering over fifty feet high, lined the great hall on both sides. Katrina bit her bottom lip anxiously as Lazar and Dante stealthily darted from column to column. Ayden gripped her hand firmly, never taking his eyes off them. Huddled together, Rabbage clutched Leon’s arm tightly as the four of them prayed silently. Lazar and Dante peered around the column closest to Malefic, observing the Ords. There was no movement at the table. They were sound asleep. Dante looked at Lazar, waiting for his command. Their shirts were drenched in sweat and they tightened their grip on their swords. Lazar nodded; his expression fearless. Crouching low, they darted to the chair closest to Malefic. Hiding behind it, they looked up at Malefic. Malefic mumbled in his sleep. “It will be mine…all mine,” he slurred, his head falling forward. The Yellow-jeweled necklace hung loosely around his neck. Pointing, Lazar motioned for Dante to climb up the right side of Malefic’s chair. As Dante climbed up, Lazar crept around to the left side. Placing one foot on the rung of the chair, he placed the other onto the back of the chair, balancing himself. Drops of perspiration glistened on his forehead as he reached up behind Malefic with his sword, carefully lifting the necklace up over his head. The

necklace was half-way over the giant’s ears when Malefic belched. Startled, Lazar almost lost his balance but steadied himself. Clenching his jaw tightly, he managed to slide it off. The Yellow-jeweled necklace dangled from his sword, in front of the sleeping giant’s face as Dante climbed onto the table. Opening his satchel, Dante caught the necklace as Lazar let it slide off his sword. Quickly and quietly, they climbed back down. Darting behind the columns, they made their way back to the others. Katrina threw her arms around Lazar and Dante, relieved. “We must hurry,” whispered Lazar, urgently. Quietly, the snuck back down the hall to the window, Dante clutching his satchel tightly. “You go first,” whispered Lazar, handing Dante the drapery cord. “If anything goes wrong, do not wait for us. You must reach Aven.” Dante nodded. Quickly, he climbed up the cord and peered out the window. Seeing the dragon still asleep, he lowered himself out the window, slid down the dragon’s horn, and climbed down Malum’s head, waiting for the others. Lazar kept watch as everyone followed Dante. Once everyone was safely out, Lazar climbed up the cord and lowered himself out the window, sliding down the horn of the dragon. Malum opened one yellow eye and stared at Lazar as he climbed down his head. “Run!” screamed Lazar, jumping to the ground. The dragon stood to his feet and roared, shaking the castle. Great flames of fire shot from his mouth as he thrashed his tail angrily. Lazar and the others ran for their lives toward the gate. In a brilliant flash of light, the mighty warrior angel, Trekon, appeared with the angelic army. Dressed in radiant, gold armor, the Glory of the Lord shone about them. They stood shoulder to shoulder, forming a line in front of the mighty beast. Raising their shields, they protected Lazar and the others from the flames. Malefic and the Ords woke with a start, hearing the dragon roar. “What the …” said Malefic, sitting upright, shaking his head, groggy. Instinctively, he reached for his necklace but felt nothing. Malefic looked down, alarmed. “My necklace is gone!” he shouted, jumping to his feet. Hearing Malum roar and shouts coming from the courtyard, Malefic stumbled to the window and peered outside. He could not believe his eyes. Angels, too

numerous to count, stood shoulder to shoulder and held their shields up, protecting Lazar and the others from the dragon’s fiery blasts as they ran toward the gate. “Intruders! Seize them!” shouted Malefic, enraged. There was mayhem in the great hall as Malefic roused the Ords and they scrambled for the castle doors. Lazar looked over his shoulder as he ran. “Hurry! They are coming!” he shouted. Dante, the fastest runner of the group, ran ahead as Ayden, Katrina, Leon, Rabbage, and Lazar followed. Rabbage ran as fast as he could go but his short, little legs could not keep up with them. Ayden saw he was falling behind and stopped. “Climb on,” Ayden shouted, bending down. Rabbage climbed on Ayden’s back and Ayden carried him as they ran. Malefic ran out into the courtyard with the Ords, enraged. The Ord wizard shouted the words to an unholy prayer and a bolt of lightning appeared in his hand. Drawing his arm back, he aimed for Lazar and threw it with all his might. As the lightning bolt whizzed over the dragon’s head, Trekon spread his wings. Raising his shield above his head, he flew high into the air. There was a thunderous crash as the lightning bolt struck the shield and the sound of breaking glass as it shattered into a thousand pieces, falling to the ground. Raising his fist, Malefic cursed, powerless against the mighty angels of God. On the other side of the wall, Aven paced back and forth, praying as she heard the commotion. The unicorn looked up as she heard boots thumping against the wall. Panting, Dante’s head appeared. Quickly, he climbed over the wall and repelled down. “I have the necklace,” he said, breathlessly, patting his satchel. “The Ords are coming.” Katrina, Rabbage, Leon, and Ayden soon ed them. Looking up expectantly, they held their breath, waiting for Lazar. A few moments later, Lazar’s head appeared. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief. He looked behind him as he climbed over the wall. They heard the thunderous crash and the night sky lit up as bright as day as the lightning bolt struck Trekon’s shield. Quickly, he repelled down. When he was safely over, the angels disappeared before the Ords.

Relieved, Katrina hugged her Lazar tightly. “We must hurry,” said Lazar. “They will come after us.” “Follow me,” said Aven. “This way.”

CHAPTER 14

D ESPERATE, MALEFIC SHOUTED, frantically waving his arms at the Ords. “Saddle the Horses!” He did not know who the intruders were or where they came from but he was determined to recover his necklace. With the necklace in his possession, he could take whatever he wanted from other worlds, coming and going as he pleased. Supplies, weapons and wealth were unlimited. Without it, he would never rule this world or any other. The Ords ran to the stable and saddled their black stallions. Shouting unholy words, Malefic waved his hand in front of the wooden doors leading outside. The heavy bolt slid back magically and the doors flew wide open. “After them!” shouted Malefic, furiously, hatred in his eyes. Charging out of the courtyard, Malefic led the Ords in pursuit of the friends of God, their black, hooded capes billowing around them.

* * *

Trekon and the mighty, warrior angels surrounded Lazar and the others as they ran. Aven led them swiftly across the mountain top, in the opposite direction of the path they originally took coming up the mountain. They stopped to rest briefly, hiding behind large boulders, keeping a lookout for Malefic. The sky above them was growing lighter and day was beginning to dawn. “Where are you taking us?” asked Lazar. “To the bridge between the mountains. We must cross it to reach the smaller mountain so I can destroy the necklace,” said Aven. The bridge was a geological formation with a natural arch leading from Murky Mountain to a smaller mountain. It was the remains of the roof of a cave through

which a river once flowed. Over one thousand feet high, the length of it spanned over a mile. “Why not destroy the necklace here?” asked Dante, peering over the boulder. “Because the Lord told me to destroy it on the other mountain,” explained the unicorn. Lazar nodded. He knew it was wise not to deviate from the Lord’s instructions and they must be obedient, even if they did not understand why. “How far is the bridge?” “Not far,” said Aven, her ears moving, listening for sounds. “Hurry,” said Lazar to the others. Guided by the light of the tangerine moon, they followed Aven to the bridge.

* * *

Malefic pulled back sharply on the reins of his horse when they reached the path down the mountain. Dismounting, he examined the ground for fresh tracks, finding none. He cursed, realizing they had gone the other way. Mounting quickly, he shouted, “Turn around! Go to the bridge!” Jerking the reins, the Ords sharply turned their horses around. As they rode swiftly toward the bridge, the dragon, Malum, flew above them.

* * *

Lazar and the others heard the thunderous flap of Malum’s wings as they reached the bridge. “There!” shouted Malefic, pointing.

Spotting them, they spurred their horses on as Aven, Lazar, Katrina, Ayden, Dante, Leon, and Rabbage began running across the bridge. Malefic’s eyes glowed an eerie red as he shouted the words of an unholy prayer. A lightning bolt appeared in his hand and he threw it with all his might. Whizzing over Lazar’s head, it struck the bridge a few feet before them. There was a great rumble and the ground beneath them quaked. Great cracks spread across the stone beneath their feet. “Get back!” shouted Lazar. Turning around, they ran as the middle of the bridge collapsed. Large chunks of stone sounded like thunder as they fell, leaving a vast gulf between the two mountains. Cracks in the rock snaked between Rabbage’s feet as the bridge gave way beneath him. He fell, desperately holding on to the edge of the cliff. “Help!” shouted Rabbage, his fingers starting to slip as he dangled in the air. Katrina and Ayden knelt down at the edge and pulled him up while Lazar and Dante held on to them. They pulled him up as the dragon above them roared, blasting a great flame down from the sky. “Jesus!” they cried, covering their heads with their arms. In a great flash of light, the mighty, warrior angel, Trekon, shot straight up in the air above them. Raising his shield, he protected them from the flames of the dragon. Malum lunged at Trekon, opening his massive jaw, exposing his razorsharp teeth. Trekon ducked, stabbing the dragon’s shoulder with his sword beneath his scales. The dragon roared with pain and a thick, green substance flowed from the wound. The angels, Elshanel, Jakar, Lekki, Tikvah and David ed Trekon in the battle against the winged beast. The remainder of the angels surrounded Lazar and the others, covering them with their shields. Seeing the intruders had nowhere to run, Malefic and the Ords rode swiftly toward them with their swords held high. Malefic’s eyes burned with hatred and he cast aside his sword. As fast as he could utter the unholy prayers, he pelted them with bolts of lightning. The Lord opened the eyes of Lazar and the others to see the angels protecting them. They covered their ears as the lightning crashed against the Angels’ shields. The wizard’s arsenal shattered like glass and they were unscathed. Seven powerful angels picked up Aven, Lazar and the others and carried them across to the smaller mountain, surrounding them.

Protected, the friends of God watched the fierce battle between the angels and the powers of darkness. Malum thrashed his head and tail about violently. The angel, David, circled around Malum from behind. Raising his sword, he brought it down swiftly, severing the end of Malum’s tail. The dragon roared in pain as his blood fell from the sky. Tikvah and Lekki struck the wings of the dragon with their swords leaving long gashes. Elshanel and Jakar flew around the head of the dragon, blinding him with their swords as Trekon flew swiftly toward him with his sword. Plunging his sword beneath the scales, he pierced the dragon’s heart. Malum’s yellow eyes rolled back in his head as he took his last breath. His tongue protruded from his mouth and his head lolled to one side. His giant wings crumpled and he spiraled downward, falling from the sky, landing with a great thud before Malefic and the Ords. As the Ords watched in horror, the dragon’s body cracked into thousands of pieces, crumbling into black ash. A sulfurous stench filled the air. Taking a deep breath, the warrior angels blew away his remains. Radiant in all the Lord’s Glory, the mighty warrior angel, Trekon, swooped down in front of Malefic and the Ords, striking the cliff they stood on with his sword. The rock beneath them quaked violently. Spooked, their horses rearing up on their hind legs and the Ords fought to control them. “Retreat!” shouted Malefic, but it was too late. Cracking, the rock beneath them began to split apart and great chunks of the cliff broke off all around them. Panicking, the horses roared in terror throwing their riders as they fell downward. Malefic screamed in terror as he fell to his death, a thousand feet below. Great boulders fell on top of the Ord wizard and his army, burying them forever. From the ground where they lay, A giant, black, mushroom cloud rose up into the sky and then dissipated. Raising their swords triumphantly, a thunderous cheer arose from the angels and the friends of God, praising the Lord for the victory. The Lord God Almighty looked down from his Heavenly throne and nodded his head, very pleased as all of Heaven rejoiced. “We are free!” shouted Rabbage, triumphantly. He danced a little jig as he sang “We are free! We are free! God is good! He set us free!”

Lazar and the others clapped their hands and sang along with him as they danced. Out of breath, they fell to the ground, laughing. After a time, they quieted. With tears in his eyes, Rabbage turned to them and spoke. “I don’t know how I can ever thank you for all you have done,” he said. Lazar looked at Rabbage and spoke earnestly. “I have no doubt if the situation was reversed, you would have done the same for us. You are very brave, my friend,” said Lazar, placing his hand on the little Zork’s shoulder. The others nodded their heads in agreement and Katrina hugged her little friend. Aven walked over to Dante and stood before him, regally. “One final act of obedience remains,” said the unicorn. Dante nodded. Carefully removing the Yellow-jeweled necklace from his satchel, he held it out before her. The unicorn’s horn glowed brightly as she lowered her head and pierced the yellow jewel. There was a brilliant flash of light and the necklace disappeared as God closed the demonic doors forever. The light was seen by Custos and the knights in Toradi, and the angel sheathed his sword, smiling. Then, a wondrous thing began to happen. As Lazar and the others looked on in amazement, the land of Cinomed began to change before their eyes. Blue grass appeared beneath their feet and wildflowers of every color grew up all around them. The grey sky above them turned a lemon yellow and the dark, ominous clouds turned puffy mint green. The turquoise sun burst through the clouds, shining brightly above them. Then, to their amazement, the grey stone cliffs turned to red crystal. Growing out from both sides of the two cliffs, they ed in the middle and the bridge was restored across the two mountains. The black castle of Malefic slowly dissolved before their eyes like dirt being washed away. In its place was a lush meadow. Murky Mountain transformed before their eyes and Rainbow Mountain stood in its place, sparkling with crystals of many colors. Rabbage clapped his hands, joyfully, pulling a flute from his bag and played the most beautiful melody. Echoing across the land, it was heard by each and every Zork. Before long, little Zorks pushed aside the rocks that hid the entrance to their underground tunnels and popped their heads up. Climbing out, they began to dance and sing, much to the amazement and delight of Lazar and the others.

Following Rabbage, they walked down the mountain path and over the hills of Shimmerdale, iring the beautiful land. Little Zorks ran up to greet them as they walked along, thanking them for helping them. Cresting a hill, they saw below them little candy-cane striped houses surrounded by pink, picket fences. “Come on,” said Rabbage, pulling Katrina by the hand. “There is someone I want you to meet.” “Who?” asked Katrina, picking up her pace to keep up with him. “My Betrothed,” said Rabbage, shyly, his fur turning bright pink. ‘Why, Rabbage, I do believe you are blushing,” said Katrina, smiling. “There she is,” he said happily, spotting her. A little Zork Miss stood outside in one yard, wearing a bright yellow ribbon in her hair and a matching yellow dress. She was watering the flowers in her garden. No longer able to contain his excitement, Rabbage ran down the hill as fast as he could, the others following quickly behind. He shouted excitedly, waving to her. “Betsabee!” he cried. Seeing him, the little Zork Miss cried out and ran to him. Rabbage picked her up and kissed her as he twirled her about. She laughed as he placed her back down. Putting his arm around her, Rabbage proudly introduced everyone to her. “It is a pleasure to meet all of you,” said the tiny Miss shyly, curtsying. “They helped us defeat the Ords,” said Rabbage. “Now we can have our wedding,” he said, smiling at her. “Oh, yes,” said Betsabee, overjoyed. “Thank you all so much for helping us and bringing Rabbage home safely. You must all come to our wedding,” said Betsabee, shyly. Katrina smiled and looked at Lazar, hopefully. “It would be our pleasure,” said Lazar, smiling.

* * *

The following day, all the little Zorks followed Rabbage and Betsabee in a grand procession to a lovely, little meadow for the wedding. Aven, Lazar, Katrina, Ayden, Dante, and Leon were special guests of the bride and groom. With Katrina’s permission, their wedding bands were fashioned out of two links from the bracelet Katrina had given Rabbage. Betsabee looked radiant, wearing a crown of delicate, white flowers and a long, white gown. Rabbage wore a black top hat, a black tuxedo, and a little black, bow-tie. As was the custom of the little Zorks, they wore no shoes. “They look positively adorable,” whispered Katrina, squeezing Ayden’s hand, as they exchanged their vows. Ayden smiled and nodded. After the ceremony, a feast was held with lively music and dancing. Aven stomped her foot, keeping time to the music as Lazar, Katrina, Ayden, Dante, and Leon danced with the little Zorks. Katrina laughed as Rabbage taught her how to do the Zork jig. They celebrated with the little Zorks until it was time for them to go. “We must be on our way,” said Katrina, hugging Rabbage and Betsabee. She had grown very fond of them in such a short time. “You are always welcome in Shimmerdale,” Rabbage told them, placing his arm around Betsabee. Betsabee smiled, nodding her head. She was very grateful for all they had done for them. The little bride reached up and slipped a rainbow necklace over Katrina’s head. “A little gift to us by,” said Betsabee, kissing Katrina’s cheek. “It is fashioned from the crystals in Rainbow Mountain,” said Rabbage, smiling. “Thank you,” said Katrina, returning the smile. “I will treasure it always.” She was deeply touched. Finally, Lazar and the others said goodbye to their little friends. Rabbage and Betsabee stood arm in arm, waving until they disappeared over the hills. They

would never forget them.

* * *

Before long, Brightendale came into view and Katrina felt a sadness in her heart that increased as they drew closer. Aven sensed her sadness as she walked beside her. She had grown very fond of the young woman. She knew Katrina had a pure heart and loved God. In Aven’s eyes, that was a rare find in any world. As they all stood near the little brook where their adventure had begun, Aven turned to them and spoke. “You have accomplished all God has asked of you,” said Aven, “and for that, we are eternally grateful.” As she spoke, she was ed by many unicorns, too numerous to count. Katrina and the others looked in wonder as the noble creatures surrounded them. “It is all for the Glory of God,” said Lazar, humbly. Then Lazar and the others said goodbye to Aven and the unicorns for they knew it was time for them to return. Katrina was the last to say goodbye to Aven. She threw her arms around the unicorn’s neck, weeping. “I am going to miss you most of all,” said Katrina. “I will never forget you.” “And I will never forget you, my dear,” said Aven, nuzzling her. “When two hearts are knitted as one, there is no distance in space or time,” she said, comforting Katrina. “You are always welcome here, Katrina. , my dear, with the Lord, all things are possible.” Katrina nodded, wiping her tears. “Yes, you are right,” she said. She kissed Aven on her nose and ed the others. Sadly, they all waved goodbye before walking into the cave. “With the Lord, all things are possible,” whispered Katrina as they stepped through the portal.

CHAPTER 15

T HE KNIGHTS OF Shalimar had been praying continuously for Lazar and the others. Their absence seemed like an eternity to them but in truth, only an hour had ed. Their prayers were answered when they saw a bright flash of light and Lazar stepped through the portal. A moment later, Katrina appeared, followed by Leon, Dante, and finally, Ayden. Relieved to see them, the knights rushed toward them. Their voices clamored as they asked a barrage of quest ions. “Are you all right?” asked Lancelin, hugging the king fiercely. Lazar nodded, smiling. “Yes, we are all fine,” he said, reassuring them. Relief washed over their faces. “Did you recover the map?” asked another knight, hopeful. Lazar patted his satchel. “Yes, we recovered the map,” he said, and the knights cheered. “Where did you go? What was it like? Did you see anyone?” they asked, excitedly. Lazar, Ayden, Katrina, Dante, and Leon looked at one another, at a loss for words. Chuckling, Lazar held his hand up, silencing them. “We had quite the adventure. Come and sit and we will tell you everything.”

* * *

About the time Lazar and his party returned to their world, Fergus rode into Kaldor. His son, chopping wood next to their caravan, was the first to see him.

“Da! Da!” he shouted, running to his father. The young boy threw his arms around Fergus, hugging him tightly. Fergus hugged his son, kissing the top of his head with tears in his eyes. Hearing her son’s shouts, Fergus’ wife opened the door of their caravan, holding their small daughter. Seeing her husband, she ran to him, sobbing, hugging him tightly. Fergus embraced his family in a tearful reunion. Hearing the shouts, Shawn, Alannah, Patrick, and his family came running. Seeing Fergus, they hugged him, grateful he returned unharmed. “Thank God you are safe,” said Shawn, hugging his brother tightly. They were all anxious to hear details of his journey to Shalimar. “Has Lazar agreed to fight against the great dragon and the Dirks?” asked Shawn. “Aye,” said Fergus nodding. “He and the Knights of Shalimar ride to Dayshire as I speak.” Relief washed over their faces and the Kean clan was greatly encouraged. “They must be defeated,” said Shawn and the others agreed. “What sort of man is the King of Shalimar?” asked Patrick, curious. It seemed incredible to him a king across the mountains would risk his life and those of his knights to protect people outside his kingdom. “Well…” began Fergus, looking at their eager faces. “He is a humble man, not at all what I expected,” he confessed, looking down. “He is a good man…just and fair. His people are loyal to him. He is a man of great courage and faith. He truly knows God. Something extraordinary happened while I was there which I will never forget as long as I live,” he said. He then told them of the visitation of Jesus in the chapel. “I saw the Son of God with my own eyes,” he said. The Kean clan were amazed and in awe as they listened to Fergus describe the Lord’s visitation. “God has shown His mercy to us,” said Shawn. “Aye, He is a Holy God, powerful and mighty,” said Fergus and the others agreed.

“It is not enough to know about God. We must know Him, personally,” said Shawn and the others nodded their heads in agreement. “We can pray and ask Him,” said Alannah, smiling. ing hands, they bowed their heads as Alannah led them in prayer. “Dear God, thank you for the mercy you have shown us and for your protection. We desire to know you. Teach us your ways and give us understanding. Amen.” “Amen,” said everyone, quietly. Invisible to man, the mighty warrior angels Tekoa, Aladio, and Aloke nodded their heads and smiled. “Amen,” they said.

* * *

About the time of Lazar’s and Fergus’ return, the inside of Croloch’s cave had grown chilly. The warrior angel, Ezekiel, placed more logs on the fire and filled the watering trough for Thunder and Nova’s horse. The horses nickered, nuzzling him affectionately. Ezekiel petted them, talking to them in a soothing voice before closing the stall. As he placed the bucket down outside the stall, he heard a loud groan. Turning, he saw the wizard clutching his belly as he lay on the bed. Going to his bedside, he sat down beside him. Dipping a cloth into a pot of water beside the bed, he placed a cool compress on the man’s forehead. Prolonged by the curse, Croloch’s fever had risen significantly. That, coupled with severe pain and blindness had left the wizard vulnerable and helpless. Croloch felt the angel’s hand on his forehead and grasped it, weakly. “Who are you?” he asked, in a raspy voice. “I am the angel, Ezekiel. I was sent by God to care for you,” said the winged servant. Croloch opened his unseeing eyes wide in surprise and turned his head toward the angel’s voice. “Why would God send an angel to me? I serve the powers of darkness,” said Croloch, coughing.

Placing his arm around him, Ezekiel helped him sit up and gave him a drink of water. Then he gently layed the wizard back down on his bed. “God loves you, Caitiff. He longs for you to come back to him,” said the angel. “It is too late for that,” said Croloch, shaking his head. “I made a covenant with the Ruler of Darkness.” Ezekiel looked down at Croloch tenderly. “You have believed the lies of the Evil One. It is never too late to repent,” he said, gently. “It is written in his Holy Scriptures, ‘For the Lord, your God is gracious and merciful and will not turn away His face from you, if you repent.’ The blood of Jesus will cleanse you, Caitiff, and deliver you from all evil.” Croloch shook his head, sadly. “I am near death. I regret the path I have chosen but it is too late. I have ruined the lives of the ones I cherish most in this world.” His voice was full of sorrow and anguish. Ezekiel felt the pain in Croloch’s heart and had comion for him. He spoke to him in a loving voice. “Believe in the power and the work of the cross, Caitiff. God is your healer. He can heal your body and your broken heart. He is the God of redemption, restoration, and reconciliation. Nothing is impossible for Him to those who believe. You have been forgiven by the ones you have hurt. Indeed, they pray fervently for you,” said Ezekiel. Upon hearing the words of the angel, Croloch shut his eyes tightly. In his mind’s eye, he saw the faces of those he had hurt…Lazar, Katrina, Ayden, Terric, Nicolin, Davion, Nadia, Amarisa and Leon. Knowing they prayed for him in spite of all he had done was overwhelming. Godly sorrow flooded his soul. He let out an anguished cry and broke down, weeping. Tenderly, Ezekiel held him in his arms and comforted him.

* * *

That same morning, Kor walked among his men. Assessing their overall physical condition, he concluded they were well enough to cross the mountains. When he was done, he sat down next to Nova by the fire.

“You have done well, girl,” he said, praising her. He drew his sword and examined it, running his forefinger along the flat side of the blade while Nova watched him. Then Kor handed the sword to his brother, next to him. “Tell the men to sharpen their weapons and mine as well. Make ready for battle. We leave at first light.” “Aye,” said Kor’s brother, taking the sword. “And what of the girl?” Kor patted Nova’s knee. “She comes with us. She is one of us now,” he said, winking at his brother. Laughing, his brother left. Kor got up and left a few minutes later to check his horse. Nova watched him walk away and shuddered, fighting back her fear. Hidden by the Lord from the dragon and invisible to man, the warrior angel, Iri, placed his hand on Nova’s shoulder, strengthening her. “The Lord is with you, Nova. Trust in him and pray,” said Iri, whispering in her ear. Nova felt the hand of the angel and was comforted by his presence. She felt the peace of God come upon her and she was not afraid. Silently, she began to pray. She prayed throughout the day and long into the night. Iri also prayed.

CHAPTER 16

L AZAR AND THE Knights of Shalimar broke camp and continued on their journey across the Toradi Mountains. Just before dusk, they reached a hill overlooking the valley of Dayshire. Taking cover in a large wooded area, they peered from behind trees at Kor’s camp below. Dante stood next to Lazar, his heart pounding as he searched for Nova. “Look, that must be her,” he said, pointing to the left. A small figure in blue stood out from all the brown-clad figures. He frowned as he saw the vast number of men. “How will we rescue Nova? We are greatly outnumbered,” said Dante. He was certain the girl held captive was his sister. Lazar, who had been watching the camp below silently, was already formulating a plan. He turned to Dante, placing his hand on his shoulder to comfort him. “The Lord is with us. He will protect us. Nothing is impossible with Him. You and I will sneak into their camp while they sleep and rescue her. We will bring her here, where she will be safe. Then we will attack.” “There is Creulon,” said Ayden, pointing to the creature on the right. The dragon laid near the camp. His forelegs were stretched out before him like a dog. Alert, he watched the men sharpening their weapons. “He looks ferocious,” said Katrina. She shuddered and Ayden put his arm around her. They watched the winged beast silently and then Lazar spoke. “We must pray and ask the Lord to hide us from the dragon.” Gathering together, Lazar led the knights in prayer. “Heavenly Father, we exalt you and give you praise. You are our refuge, our fortress, and our strength. We trust in you, alone, Oh Lord. Hide us in the shadow of your wings. Let your truth be our shield and buckler. Give your angels charge over us and protect us from the Evil One. Deliver this young girl from the hands of your enemy and give us victory in battle. Let your Holy will be done through your servants, that you may be glorified. Thank you, Lord. In the name of your Son, Jesus, we pray. Amen.”

“Amen,” said all the knights.

* * *

Far away, across the mountains, the blacksmith, Eon, dipped the hot tongs inside a barrel of water to cool and then placed them on his worktable. He wiped the sweat from his brow before removing his leather apron. Hanging it on a hook beside the door of his shop, he quickly walked up the castle steps to pray in the chapel. Lady Jordanna soon ed him, along with the children, Grace, Aaron and Adalein. The servants of the castle also came and together they knelt before the large, wooden cross, praying for their King and the Knights of Shalimar. All across Shalimar, the people fasted and prayed. In the evening, candles shone from every window in every home as they prayed long into the night. Their prayers mingled with the prayers of Lazar and the knights. Their prayers sparkled as they floated gently upward, twirling in the air like leaves in the wind. Not one of them fell to the ground. Angels of Intercession, watching from Heaven, spread their shimmering, white wings and descended swiftly toward earth. Tenderly gathering the prayers in golden bowls, they ascended to Heaven. There were great peals of thunder and flashes of lightning around the throne of God as the angels bowed before the Holy One. Reverently, they poured the prayers of the saints into a large, golden bowl before his feet. The bowl, now full, tipped over, releasing a sweet aroma before the Lord. Jesus, sitting at the right hand of his Father and Holy Spirit, sitting at his left, smiled. The Ancient of Days beckoned the warrior angels, Trekon and Tekoa, standing before him. “The prayers of my children have reached the fullness of time. Go now and wait for my command, for I am answering them.” A great cheer arose in Heaven from the Great Cloud of Witnesses. Bowing before the Lord, Trekon and Tekoa disappeared in a brilliant flash of light. Hurtling through the heavens like shooting stars, they descended to earth. Hidden by the Lord from the eyes of the great beast and the Evil One, their feet touched ground in the land of Toradi. Folding their wings, they stood before the mighty warrior angels. All of them were dressed for battle in gold armor. Each of

them held a gold shield bearing a red cross in one hand and a large, silver sword in the other. Their expressions were fierce and there was fire in their eyes. Trekon and Tekoa issued the angelic army their orders, asg them their posts. “Do not strike until I give the command,” said Tekoa. Raising his sword to Heaven, he gave a mighty shout. “For the King of Glory.” ‘Forever without end,” thundered the angels, raising their swords Heavenward. Invisible to man, they dispersed quickly. Angels, too numerous for man to count, surrounded Lazar and the Knights of Shalimar. Other angels infiltrated the enemy’s camp, surrounding them, awaiting the Holy One’s command. When the angels were in position, Tekoa reported to Trekon, who stood beside the dragon. Creulon, oblivious, was napping. “We are in position,” said Tekoa, his expression fierce. “I have sent Iri reinforcements to protect Nova.” “Good,” said Trekon, the fire in his eyes burning brightly. “She must be protected at all costs. The Lord has assigned a special mission for her. She must fulfill her destiny.” “Thank God for the prayers of the saints,” said Tekoa. He could feel their prayers. “Amen,” said Trekon. Together they kept a watchful eye, waiting for the Lord’s command.

* * *

Nova watched the men sharpening their weapons as she went about her chores, praying silently. Oh, Lord, I put my trust in you for you are my God. Hear my prayer and deliver me in your righteousness for my times are in your hand. Let not the works of these wicked men prevail. Have mercy on the people of this

land and bring your justice on earth as it is in Heaven. Let your name be glorified in this hour. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen. As evening fell, she gathered more firewood and prepared a stew for Kor over the fire. When it was ready, she poured some into a bowl and handed it to him. Grunting, he took it, eating hungrily. Holding the bowl up to his mouth, he tilted it, drinking the broth. As he did so, he looked at her over the top of the bowl. “It is good. Eat,” he said, gruffly, setting the bowl down and wiping his mouth with his sleeve. “You will need your strength.” “Thank you,” said Nova. She helped herself to a bowl of stew and sat across from him. Gathering up her nerve, she looked at him calmly as she spoke. “I have no horse when we ride tomorrow. How will I travel?” “With me,” said Kor, taking a drink from his waterskin. “And when we go into battle?” she asked, pressing for more details. He grinned. “Wear this,” he said, tossing her a breastplate. “No more talk,” he said. It was now dark and the men were settling down for sleep. Kor took the rope from his pocket and tied it around Nova’s wrist. Then he tied the other end around his own wrist. “Go to sleep, girl,” he said, as he layed down next to the fire. Nova layed down but did not sleep. As Kor snored, she prayed.

CHAPTER 17

S OMETIME AFTER MIDNIGHT, Lazar and Dante crept down the hill to Kor’s camp. The Lord hid them from the eyes of the enemy and the great dragon. The night air was crisp and cool and a full moon shone brightly, guiding them. The only sound they heard was the chirping of crickets and the occasional hoot of an owl. As they reached the bottom of the hill, they crouched down, seeing the vast army of Kor sleeping. Stealthily, placing one foot in front of the other, they carefully stepped around the bodies, being careful not to wake them as they approached the fire. Two bodies, one big and one small, lay next to each other, as leep. Lazar held his hand up, signaling Dante to stop. The wood crackled in the fire as he watched the chest of the bearded man slowly rise and fall. Confident Kor was asleep, he pointed to the rope tied to their wrists. Dante nodded. Lazar drew his knife and knelt behind Kor, protecting Dante as he approached Nova. His heart beating wildly, Dante leaned over Nova. An animal fur was tucked under her head. Wrapped in a wool cloak, her long, blonde hair spilled over her. Gently, he tapped her on the shoulder. Nova’s eyes flew open. As she was about to cry out, Dante covered her mouth with one hand while holding a finger from his other hand to his lips, signaling her to be quiet. As he did so, the medallion he wore around his neck fell out of his shirt, illuminated by the light of the fire. Nova’s eyes grew wide as she recognized it. Looking up into Dante’s eyes, she nodded. Dante removed his hand over her mouth and began cutting away the rope that bound her to Kor. When she was free, he looked over at Kor and the handle of the knife he wore caught his eye. Dante drew a sharp breath in as he recognized his father’s knife. White hot anger flooded him as he realized this was the man who murdered his mother and father. Desperately, he fought the urge to slit the man’s throat. Instead, he reached over and carefully removed the knife from the scabbard, tucking it into his belt. Unrolling the banner of Shalimar, Dante silently stuck it into the ground next to Kor. Then, taking Nova’s hand, the three of them stealthily ran up the hill.

* * *

Hidden behind the trees, the Knights of Shalimar watched the camp below. Katrina was the first to spot them. “Look,” she said in a hushed voice, pointing. The knights saw three silhouettes running uphill. When they reached their hideout, Katrina threw her arms around them, hugging them tightly. “Thank God you are safe,” she said, her eyes filled with tears. Placing his arm around Nova, Dante led her over to a fallen log. “You are safe now. Here, sit down and rest,” he said. He handed her a waterskin, offering her a drink. Nova gratefully accepted the water and drank. “Thank you for saving me,” she said, looking up at Dante and Lazar. “Fergus told us where to find you,” said Dante, sitting down next to her. “Fergus? You saw him? Is my clan safe?” asked Nova, anxiously. Lazar looked down at her nodding. “They are all safe. They wait for us at Kaldor,” he said, reassuring her. “Thank God,” said Nova. Overcome with relief, she began to weep. Katrina sat down on the other side of Nova and put her arms around the girl, comforting her. “Shhh, it is all right now,” she said, soothingly. She spoke to her in a gentle voice as Nova wiped the tears from her eyes. “The Lord sent Fergus to Shalimar to ask for our help,” said Katrina. “We have come to fight against the great dragon and the Dirks,” said Lazar, gently. One by one, they introduced themselves to her. Nova smiled at all of them. “Thank you for coming to help us. My name is Atara,” said Nova.

“Atara?” asked Dante, surprised. He looked up at Lazar, puzzled. Yes,” said Nova. “I belong to the Kean clan. I was away tending to a sick friend when the Dirks raided Dayshire. I was going for help when I was taken captive. Had I not listened to the voice of the angel, I surely would be dead.” “An angel spoke to you?” asked Katrina, surprised. “Yes, it must have been the voice of my angel. He gave me the words to say to Kor so my life would be spared,” said Nova. She then went on to explain to them how she used herbs to treat infections, wounds, and illnesses. “Kor spared my life in exchange for my services as a healer.” Nova took a breath and then continued. “Jesus promised me I would be reunited with my clan.” “Jesus spoke to you?” asked Dante, wide-eyed. Nova nodded. “Yes, He appeared to me shortly after I was kidnapped.” She then went on to tell them of her salvation experience. Everyone listened with great interest. “He gave me this,” she said, holding her Bible up for them to see. “Glory to God,” said Dante. Everyone praised God for his loving kindness and mercy. Nova smiled at Dante. Seeing his medallion, she reached up and held it gently in her fingers. Then she let go of it and took hold of her own, tucked inside her blouse, showing it to him. “How is it we have the same medallion?” she asked. “You do not ?” asked Dante, puzzled. Nova shook her head. “No. The earliest memory I have is as a small child waking up alone on the bank of the river. I do not know how I got there. I had the most terrible headache,” she said, looking off as she ed that day so long ago. “A kindly man found me and took pity on me. He told me I had amnesia. He took me home with him and cared for me. He made some herbal tea for me. After I drank it, my headache was gone. He is the one who gave me my name,” said Nova, smiling. “I wanted to stay with him but he told me he was going away on a long trip and he could not take me with him. He promised me he would find a good home for me. The next day we rode to Dayshire and came across the Kean clan camped outside the village. I met a couple there, Shawn and Alannah. I liked them immediately. They told me they could not have

children of their own and asked me to be their daughter,” said Nova, her eyes filling up with tears. “They are my family now,” she said softly. Dante fought back tears as he listened to Nova’s remarkable story. He was very thankful the Lord had given her a family. “As a young boy, I was lost by the river, too,” he said, quietly, as he began to unfold his story to her. “The great dragon and the Dirks were about to raid our village, Kaldor. My parents hid my sister and me in a tunnel that led to the river. We escaped but our parents did not,” he said and Nova wept softly. “From there, we sailed in a canoe down the river but it capsized in the rapids and we were separated. Ayden found me on the river bank, much like your friend. We looked for my sister for days but did not find her. He finally took me home with him to Shalimar. There, King Lazar and everyone welcomed me. Ayden’s mother, Lady Jordanna and her husband, Sir Lancelin, welcomed me into their family,” said Dante, looking up at Ayden, Lazar, and Lancelin. Then he looked down at Nova and held out his necklace to her. “This necklace was made by my Father. He made two of them. One for my sister, Nova, and one for me. You are my sister,” said Dante, softly. Shock ed on Nova’s face as she heard the incredible news. She threw her arms around Dante, hugging him tightly, laughing and crying. Everyone was overcome with emotion as brother and sister were reunited. “Would you like me to pray for your memory to be restored?” asked Dante. Nova nodded. Dante gently placed his hand on her forehead and prayed. “In the name of Jesus, I command your memory to be restored.” Nova felt a tingling sensation in her head and instantly her mind was flooded with memories. She ed everything. Then she ed crawling through the tunnel with Dante and seeing the black smoke rise in the air as they fled by boat. “Momma…Da…” she said, mournfully. Dante held her as they both wept for the loss of their parents. “We will be with them again one day,” he whispered, comforting her. Yes,” whispered Nova, sniffling. “We will be with them again one day.” At last, she wiped the tears from her eyes and looked up at Dante, smiling. “We have each other, now.” “Yes, we do,” said Dante, happily.

After some time, Lazar finally spoke. “We need to prepare for battle. It will be daylight soon,” he said, looking up at the sky. The knights nodded. “Nova, you must remain here,” said Lazar. “We will come for you when it is safe.” Nova nodded. “Yes, Sire,” she said. “I will pray for all of you.” “Good,” said Lazar, placing his arm around her. “We will need it.”

CHAPTER 18

T HE SKY WAS tinged with streaks of copper as morning broke in the village of Dayshire. The fire next to Kor had burned out sometime during the night leaving a heap of cold, white ash. Shivering, Kor opened his eyes and sat up, sti ffly. “Get up, girl,” he said, turning to wake Nova. Surprised, he discovered her bed empty. He cursed as he examined the cut rope dangling from his wrist. Hearing something flapping in the breeze behind him, he turned his head. His eyes grew wide when he saw the blue and gold banner of Shalimar staked in the ground. A sense of dread filled him as he turned his eyes and looked up the hill. Mounted on war horses, Lazar and the Knights of Shalimar looked down on his camp. Startled, Kor jumped to his feet, shouting, kicking the men around him awake. “Enemy in sight! Prepare for battle!” Panic ensued and there was utter chaos in the camp as the Dirks were roused from their sleep. Shouting to one another, they hastily girded their swords, grabbing their axes, clubs, and shields. Frantically, they attempted to saddle the frightened horses. Bright flashes of lightning, rumblings and great peals of thunder came from the throne of the Holy One as he looked down from Heaven upon them. Two, mighty angels stood before him, waiting for his command. Dressed in brilliant, white robes, they each held a golden trumpet. Across their chests were gold sashes with the word “JUSTICE” written in red letters. Simultaneously, warrior angels, too numerous for man to count, stood before their commanders, Trekon and Tekoa, in the Dirk’s camp. Invisible to man and the great dragon, Creulon, they stood shoulder to shoulder, dressed in golden armor. Each of them held a glowing sword and a golden shield bearing a red cross. Fierce and mighty, their eyes blazed with fire. Trekon and Tekoa addressed them. Speaking in unison, their voices sounding like thunder.

“This day, we fight against spiritual wickedness and powers. This day, we fight against the Ruler of Darkness in the name of the Holy One,” they said. As Trekon and Tekoa addressed the angels, Lazar addressed the Knights of Shalimar. Riding his horse down the line of knights, his expression was fierce and his voice was strong and courageous. “This day, we fight for justice in the name of our Lord. This day, we fight against evil not by might, not by power, but by the Spirit of our God,” he said. The Holy One seated on His Heavenly throne nodded to the two angels standing before him, extending his right arm. “Go!” he thundered, releasing them. Bowing before the Lord, the angels of Justice departed in brilliant flashes of light, swiftly flying to the earth below. As they broke into the first heaven, their brilliant lights streak across the sky of Toradi like shooting stars. There was a loud clap of thunder and lightning cracked the sky as they sounded their trumpets. Looking up, the angelic army saw them, hearing the trumpets. Raising their swords toward Heaven, Trekon and Tekoa gave a mighty shout. “For the King of Glory.” “Forever without end,” thundered the angelic army, raising their swords high. Simultaneously, Lazar raised his sword to Heaven and gave a mighty shout. “All for God.” “And for the cross,” thundered the Knights of Shalimar, raising their swords to Heaven. Then the Lord in Heaven removed his wing that had hidden both angels and men from the eyes of the great dragon. Upon seeing them, the great dragon, Creulon, stood on all fours and roared, shaking the ground beneath him as he breathed great flames of fire. Surrounded by warrior angels, Lazar and his knights were dressed in shining armor. They were mounted on their war horses, also dressed in armor. Holding their swords high, they shouted mightily as they charged down the hill. Holding

their heads and tails high, their horses snorted loudly as their hooves pounded the ground, digging up clumps of grass and soil. There had not been enough time for Kor and his men to saddle their horses. Arming themselves with shields, clubs, swords, and axes, they braced themselves for battle. The great dragon, Creulon, stood in front of them, in all his fury. As Lazar and the knights charged down the hill, the Lord opened the eyes of the knights and Dirks to see the great angelic army all around them. The knights were encouraged but the Dirk’s eyes widened in fear. “What do we do now?” asked Kor’s brother, afraid. Kor turned to him and narrowed his eyes, clenching his jaw. He was unwilling to surrender or retreat. “We fight!” he said. Raising his sword, he gave a mighty shout. “Attack!” Shouting with fury, the Dirks ran toward the knights. Katrina squeezed her knees tightly against the sides of her horse to keep her balance as she rode. Holding her longbow with one hand, she reached down with the other and pulled an arrow from the quiver strapped to the saddle of her horse. Placing it on the arrow rest, she drew the bowstring back, using the first three fingers of her hand and felt them brush her cheek. She held her breath as she pointed the arrow upward and released it. Riding beside her, Leon loaded his bow with an arrow and released it. The arrow flew high into the air with hers. The two arrows whizzed through the air on either side of Creulon. Furious, the dragon roared. There was a thud as they hit their marks, striking the two men beside Kor. Clutching their chests, they fell over dead. Other Shalimar archers released their arrows. One pierced Kor’s thigh. Screaming in pain, he fell to the ground. Creulon roared great blasts of fire and thrashed his tail angrily as the knights charged toward him fearlessly. “Go right! We will distract the dragon,” shouted Trekon to Tekoa, as they flew upward. Twisting his neck from side to side, Creulon lunged at the angels, breathing great gusts of fire. Holding their shields in front of them, the two angels struck him with their swords. They called for reinforcements and many more angels flew to assist them in battling the dragon. Swords clashed mightily as the knights fought the Dirks. One of the Dirks ran toward Lancelin. Grabbing the reins of the horse, he tried to pull Lancelin off as

he raised his club to hit him. An angel holding a bow near Lancelin saw the Dirk about to strike the knight. Taking aim, he released his arrow. The arrow pierced the club through, knocking it out of the man’s hand. Arrow and club sailed through the air. There was a loud thud as the arrow pinned the club to a tree several yards away and Lancelin slew the Dirk. Another Dirk with a patch over his eye threw an axe at Dante from behind as Dante fought a bearded Dirk. Lekki, Dante’s angel, turned and held his shield up, protecting the young knight. There was a bright flash of light as the axe struck the angel’s shield and fell to the ground. Turning, Ayden saw the Dirk as he threw the axe at Dante. Charging forward, he raised his sword and swiftly slew him as Dante slew the bearded Dirk. Surrounded on all sides by Dirks, Lazar fought bravely, using his shield and sword. They were no match for him and he slew them all. The battle raged on as knights and angels fought against man and beast. The blood-curdling screams of the Dirks filled their ears as the knights wielded their swords, slaying them. Roaring, Creulon flapped his giant wings and took flight, soaring high into the air and many warrior angels pursued him. Shielding the knights below with their shields from his great blasts of fire, a great battle took place in the sky between the angels of God and the great dragon. Taking hold of the horns on Creulon’s head, Trekon and Tekoa wrestled with him as other angels struck him with their swords. Leon and Katrina watched as Creulon rose into the air, flying above them. Elshanel, Leon’s angel, and David, Katrina’s angel, protected them from the Dirks around them as they placed arrows in their bows. Taking aim, Leon released his arrow. His arrow flew straight, piercing Creulon’s left eye. The dragon howled in pain. A moment later, Katrina’s arrow pierced his other eye. Again, the dragon howled. Blinded by the arrows, Creulon shrieked as the angels struck his wings with their swords, crippling him. Broken bones protruded from his leathery wings. A thick, green substance oozed from his wounds and his wings crumpled. His head lolling to one side, the great dragon, no longer able to fly, spiraled downward. “Look out below!” shouted Trekon. Hearing the angel’s voice, Lazar and the knights looked up and saw the great dragon falling from the sky. Riding swiftly, they moved out of the way. Kor and his men did not hear the angel’s warning. Seeing the knights flee, they thought

they were giving up the battle. Raising their fists and weapons, they shouted mightily, jeering at them. “I am Kor!” shouted their leader, cursing them as he beat his chest with his fist. An enormous black shadow fell across the ground where they stood as they cursed the knights. Looking up, Kor and the Dirks screamed in terror and tried to run but it was too late. The great dragon fell on top of them with a thunderous thud, crushing them. Creulon lay on the ground, severely wounded and blind. Large gashes from the swords of the angels covered his body. The warrior angels surrounded Lazar and the Knights of Shalimar as they faced the dragon. Jakar, Lazar’s angel, stood next to him. Looking down at Lazar, he held his sword out to the King. Lazar took the angel’s sword and felt a tingling sensation in his hand as he held it. To his surprise, Lazar realized the sword was alive. Turning it over in his hand, he examined it. The handle was gold, inlaid with exquisite jewels not found on earth. The two-edged blade was long and glowed brightly with the Glory of God. Gripping the sword firmly, Lazar held it out before him like a lance and charged the dragon. Hearing the horse’s hooves, Creulon turned his head and roared weakly but there was only smoke. There was a brilliant flash of light as Lazar thrust the angel’s sword into the heart of the great dragon, Creulon, and slew him. Suddenly, a bolt of lightning came down from Heaven and struck the enemies of God, turning them to black ash. Then, a great gust of wind came and Holy Spirit swept away their remains. Lazar handed Jakar his sword and a beautiful rainbow appeared in the sky above them. A thunderous cheer arose from all the warrior angels and the Knights of Shalimar. Nova ran down the hill and threw her arms around Dante, overjoyed. Leon began to sing a hymn, praising God, and the others sang along with him. The warrior angels sang also, and their voices blended with those in Heaven. The Great Cloud of Witnesses and the angels around the throne of God danced and sang before the Holy One. Among them were Dante and Nova’s parents, Ryke and Cara. Kneeling before his throne, they cast their crowns at his feet, worshipping him. When they sang the last song, Nova and Dante, holding hands, searched the

faces of the angels around them. “Do you think the angels who rescued us in the river are here?” asked Nova. “I was wondering the same thing,” said Dante. They knew in their hearts without God’s intervention they surely would have perished. Hearing them, Lekki and Iri, Dante and Nova’s angels, stepped forward from the ranks of angels, smiling at them. Nova and Dante looked at each other, delighted. Smiling, they walked hand in hand to thank their angels. Along the way, Nova stopped to pick two, blue wildflowers. Looking up into the loving faces of the two angels, she handed them each a flower. Overcome with emotion, they hugged their angels. “Thank you,” whispered the brother and sister. Deeply touched, Lekki and Iri held them close, enveloping them with God’s love. “Always God loves you and is with you. He has given us charge over you,” they said in unison. Smiling down at them, Lekki and Iri tucked their flowers in the gold sashes they wore around their waists. There was a small, bright spark of light and to Dante and Nova’s amazement, the flowers became a beautiful design on their sashes. Winking at them, Lekki and Iri reed the ranks of angels. Everyone watched as the angels raised their swords to Heaven. Extending their beautiful white wings, they flew upward, disappearing before their eyes. Lazar walked over to Nova and Dante, putting his arms around them as they all looked up at the beautiful rainbow in the sky. Nova hugged Lazar tightly. “Thank you for helping us,” she said, smiling up at him. “Do not thank me, thank God. I am in his service,” said Lazar, smiling. “Please come to Kaldor. My family and clan will want to meet you,” said Nova. “I would be honored,” said Lazar. “What about me?” asked Dante, teasing her. “Well…perhaps if you are nice to me,” said Nova, her blue eyes twinkling

mischievously and they all laughed.

CHAPTER 19

F ERGUS WALKED SLOWLY from the river bank, balancing two, large buckets of water on a shoulder pole as Lazar and the Knights of Shalimar rode into camp. Seeing them, he dropped the buckets. His face broke out into a big smile seeing them. “Lazar!” he shouted, waving to the king. Excited, Nova slipped down off Dante’s horse, quickly. “Uncle Fergus!” she shouted, happily as she ran to him. Seeing her, Fergus was overjoyed. “Atara!” he said, scooping her up off her feet and hugging her tightly. “Ahh, it is good to have you home, Lass,” he said, tears in his eyes. “Atara’s home,” he shouted as he set her back down. He looked up at Lazar who was smiling broadly. “Thank you,” he said, putting his arm around Nova. Hearing shouts, Shawn and Alannah ran from the woods to the campsite. “Mama! Da!” Nova yelled, running to them. “Atara! Atara!” shouted Shawn and Alannah. Nova ran into their arms and they hugged her tightly. “Thank God you are safe,” sobbed Alannah, smothering her with kisses. “We have been so worried about you,” said Shawn, wiping tears his eyes. Lazar and the Knights of Shalimar smiled at the happy reunion. Fergus took Lazar by the arm and led him over to Nova and her parents. “This is King Lazar,” he said, introducing them. “Thank you for bringing our daughter home safely,” said Shawn, his voice choking with emotion. “You are welcome,” said Lazar, warmly. Nova looked up at her parents and said, excitedly, “He slew the dragon. The

Dirks are dead. They will never harm anyone again.” “We owe you our lives. Thank you,” said Alannah, smiling through her tears. “The Lord gave us the victory,” said Lazar, humbly. “Aye, that He did,” agreed Shawn. Nova saw Dante standing near them, shyly. “Mama, Da, there is someone I want you to meet.” Taking him by the hand, she introduced him to her parents. “This is my brother, Dante,” she said, smiling. Alannah gasped, covering her mouth with her hand. Shawn was speechless and his eyes grew wide in surprise as they looked from one sibling to the other. Their resemblance was unmistakable. Both had the same shaped eyes, nose, mouth, and chin and both had blonde hair. Overcome with emotion, Alannah hugged Dante. “You look just like her,” she said through fresh tears. Dante put his arms around Alannah and hugged her. “Welcome, son,” said Shawn, smiling broadly, giving him a bear hug. “Thank you,” said Dante, smiling. He was both relieved and happy they welcomed him. “How on earth did you find each other?” asked Alannah. “I am a knight of Shalimar,” said Dante. “He rescued me from the Dirks,” said Nova, proudly, hugging her brother. Dante blushed. Nova could not wait to tell them everything that happened, rushing on with her words, excitedly. “Dante prayed for me and I have my memory back,” she said, grabbing their hands and smiling happily. “You do?” asked Alannah, surprised. “Aye, and I even my name,” said Nova, her eyes twinkling with merriment. “Well, child, do not keep us in suspense. Tell us!” said Shawn, smiling.

“My name is Nova,” she said, happily. “Nova…Nova…” whispered Alannah, in awe. Shawn threw his head back and laughed heartily. Taking Nova by the hands, he did a happy little jig with her. “Nova! “Nova!” he shouted, twirling her around, as they all laughed. “Come, this calls for a celebration,” he said, waving to everyone merrily.

* * *

Katrina and the women went about preparing a celebration feast. Alannah told Nova and Katrina about their visitation by the angel and Nova told them of the angel’s voice she had heard when she was captured. Shawn also recounted the story of the angel’s visitation to Lazar and Dante and of the burial site in Kaldor. At last the meal was prepared and they sat down to eat. “Will you pray a blessing over the food?” Alannah asked Lazar. Lazar nodded and they all bowed their heads. “Heavenly Father, we thank you for the victory over your enemies and for reuniting Nova with her family. Thank you for this meal you have given us today. Bless this food and the ones who have prepared it. In the name of your Son, Jesus, we pray. Amen.” “Amen,” said everyone, reverently. As they ate, the conversation was lively as Nova, Dante, and Lazar told them about Nova’s rescue and the fate of the great dragon and Dirks. The Kean clan listened in awe of what God had done. “We could not have defeated them in our own strength. God protected us and gave us the victory,” said Lazar. “Aye,” agreed Shawn. “Fergus told us about the Holy visitation with Jesus in the chapel.” He shook his head, marveling at the incredible experience they had. He

leaned forward and looked Lazar in the eye. “We know of God but we do not know Him. Do you think we could know Him?” he asked earnestly. Lazar smiled at him kindly, nodding. “I do, indeed. I believe Nova can help you. She had a personal encounter with Jesus, herself.” “You did?” asked Nova’s clan, excitedly. “Tell us about Jesus,” they said, giving her their full attention. Looking at the eager faces of her people, Nova felt God’s anointing as she spoke. She told them about God’s love for them and about Adam and Eve, Satan and the Holy Trinity. While she spoke, Lazar and the knights prayed silently. After a while, she removed the white Bible Jesus had given her from her satchel. “This is the Bible Jesus gave me. It is the Holy Word of God,” she said. She opened it and read 2 Timothy 3:16-17 out loud for them. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction for righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” She then turned to John 3:16 and read the scripture. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Begotten Son, that whoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Nova closed the Bible gently, holding it in her lap as she looked at them all tenderly. More than anything, she wanted her people to experience God’s love and have a personal relationship with them. “God sent Jesus to earth to be the perfect sacrifice, once for all time, for our sins because He loves us. He is waiting with open arms for all mankind to be restored to Him. All we have to do is believe Jesus is the Son of God, He died on the cross for our sins and rose again on the third day. We must confess our sins and ask God to forgive us. Then, His Holy Spirit will live inside us and help us to be like Him. Then we are no longer separated from Him by sin. We have the assurance we will one day spend eternity with Him in Heaven. Would you like me to pray with you?” she asked. The faces of Nova’s family were wet with tears and they nodded their heads. Softly, she prayed out loud with them and they repeated her prayer. “Dear God, I it I am a sinner and have sinned against you. Please forgive me for my sins. I believe Jesus is your only begotten Son and died on the cross for me. I believe he rose from the dead on the third day. I accept Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior and I give my life to you. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit and help me to be the person you created me to be. Thank you,

Father, for loving me. In Jesus name, I pray, amen.” “Amen,” they said, reverently. At once a mighty, rushing wind came and swirled all around them. As on the Day of Pentecost, cloven tongues of fire rested over their heads. With tears streaming down their faces, God baptized them with His Holy Spirit and they spoke in other tongues as Holy Spirit gave them utterance. Overcome with joy, Dante put his arm around Nova and they all began to sing hymns, praising God for His great love and mercy. It was a Holy moment in eternity. Invisible to man, Trekon stood next to Tekoa with all the warrior angels listening as Nova prayed with her clan. They were in awe of God and His great love for them. A mighty cheer rose up from all the angels when Nova’s people were born again. Tekoa put his arm around Trekon’s neck, hugging him. “This is why we fight, brother,” he said, happily. Trekon smiled broadly. “Now they are in God’s Kingdom.” The battle for their souls had been fierce, but God would do it for the sake of one precious soul. “How is your arm?” asked Tekoa. Trekon pulled up his white sleeve and looked down at the fresh scar, now turned gold, from Creulon’s claw. “Good as new,” he said, flexing his arm. “If you had not shielded me, I would have been severely wounded. Thank you,” said Tekoa. He was very grateful for Trekon. “You have done the same for me,” said Trekon, reminding him. He thought of the last battle they had fought together. Tekoa had shielded him, protecting him from a particularly large, foul demon. Tekoa chuckled, ing. “We are brothers in arms,” he said, as they watched Nova and her family. “Our mission here is nearly completed,” said Tekoa. “Yes. We have one more assignment,” said Trekon. “We leave tomorrow at first

light.” Tekoa nodded. “We will be ready.” Together, the two angels convened with the angelic army, devising their strategy as Nova’s family hugged her, thanking her for praying with them. “I feel brand new,” said Shawn. There was a look of peace on him that had not been there before. Everyone in her family expressed the same feeling. “That’s because you are. Welcome to the family of God,” said Lazar, smiling. “It would be an honor if all of you returned to Shalimar with us tomorrow and be our guests. Stay as long as you like. You will always be welcome.” “Thank you. We accept your gracious offer,” said Shawn. His brothers and their families nodded their heads, smiling. “That would be wonderful,” said Alannah, happily. She turned to Nova and noticed the worried look on her face. “Nova, what is wrong?” “Mama, Da, we must go to the cave. He is very sick. I must take care of him,” said Nova. “Oh, Nova, I am so sorry. He has never been sick in all the years we have known him. Of course, we will go,” said Alannah, putting her arm around Nova. “Aye,” said Shawn. “We will leave at first light. Do not worry, we will take good care of him,” said Shawn. He and Alannah were very fond of Croloch and alarmed to hear his health had taken a turn for the worse. “Who is sick?” asked Dante. “An old friend of ours who lives alone in the mountains,” said Alannah. “He is the one who found Nova by the river,” explained Alannah. “He cared for her and treated her for a concussion. He traveled a great deal and could not take Nova with him. He promised her he would find her a loving family. The very next day they rode into our campsite and she has been our daughter ever since,” said Alannah. “We have remained friends over the years and are quite fond of him. He adores Nova and she loves him.”

“I went to visit him the day of the attack. He was too sick to ride. I told him I would go for help and then I was captured. He is all alone,” said Nova, tears in her eyes. “Perhaps we should all go. You may need our help,” said Dante, looking at Lazar. He placed his arm around Nova, comforting her. Lazar nodded. “Of course. How far is the cave from here?” he asked. “Perhaps three hours from here,” said Shawn. “I need to build a travois to carry him.” Lazar nodded. “That is a good idea. I will help you build it while the others pack supplies.” Wasting no time, they set about making preparations for their journey.

CHAPTER 20

T HE FOLLOWING MORNING, everyone rose early. Katrina helped Nova and the other women prepare breakfast. Standing next to her outside at a small, wooden table, she helped cut thick slices of ham, bread, and ch eese. “I have been praying for your friend,” said Katrina, as they placed them on plates. “Thank you,” said Nova, wiping her hands on her apron, smiling gratefully. She liked the princess very much and the two of them were growing close. After their meal, the women went about cleaning up and packing the caravans for their journey. Lazar and the knights saddled their horses while Shawn and his brothers hitched the horses up to their caravans. Shawn poured a bucket of water over the fire, putting the flames out. When he was done, he walked over to Lazar and the knights, mounted on their horses. “We are ready,” said Shawn, wiping the sweat from his brow. “Good. We will follow you,” said Lazar. He waved his arm, signaling the knights to move out. Surrounded by warrior angels, they followed the path that led to the Toradi Mountains. Nova sat on the wooden seat of the caravan between her parents. As the mountains came into view, she grew anxious. Clasping her hands tightly in her lap, she was visibly worried. “Hurry, Da! I sense he is near death,” said Nova. Shawn gave his daughter a sidelong glance and slapped the horses’ reins, spurring them on. Sensing the urgency, they all prayed for Croloch. When they reached the base of the mountain, Shawn brought the horses to stop in a small grove of trees and the others followed. Lazar quickly rode up to him. “The path up the mountain is too narrow for the caravans. Nova and I can drag

the travois behind one of our horses while you wait here,” said Shawn. Lazar looked up at the mountain. “I will come. You may need help.” Shawn nodded. “Aye. Thank you.” Just then, Dante rode up alongside Lazar. “I would like to come,” he said. “All right,” said Lazar. Shawn and Lazar informed the others of their plan. The brothers unhitched the horses from the caravans and led them to a small stream to drink and the Knights of Shalimar followed with their horses. Afterward, Shawn removed the travois and hitched it to one of his horses. Katrina walked over to Nova and handed her the reins of her horse. “You can take my horse,” said Katrina, smiling. “He handles well on mountain paths.” “Thank you,” said Nova, hugging Katrina gratefully. “Do you have everything you need?” asked Shawn as she mounted the horse. “Aye,” said Nova, patting her satchel. Alannah walked over to Nova and gave her daughter a hug. ‘We will be praying,” she said. Nova hugged her mother tightly. “Thank you,” she said, with tears in her eyes. Leon sat down under a tree and began to pray when he heard the Lord whisper in his ear. “Go with them,” said Jesus. Leon jumped up and ran over to Lazar as they headed out, tugging his sleeve. “Wait for me! The Lord said I must go with you!” he said, excitedly. Lazar looked down at Leon and nodded. Immediately, the young boy ran and got his horse, ing them. Katrina put her arm around Alannah as they rode away. Invisible to man, Trekon, Tekoa and many warrior angels surrounded the small

riding party.

* * *

Nova led them up the narrow mountain path. Their horses were sure-footed, moving easily over the uneven ground. Small, loose rocks kicked by their hooves fell over the edge several hundred feet below as they ascended higher and higher. As they rode, the five of them prayed silently to the Lord. “Lord, why did you ask me to come?” asked Leon. “Lord, why did you ask Leon to come?” asked Lazar. “Lord, is he still alive?” asked Nova and Shawn. With each of them, His answer was the same. “Trust me,” said the Lord. At last, they reached the cave. Nova’s heart pounded as they tethered their horses to bushes beside the cave. She bit her lip nervously as Shawn unhitched the travois. As they entered the cave, they noticed the torches were lit and they heard the whinny of the horses in the stall. “The torches are lit. Maybe he is better,” remarked Nova, hopefully. Invisible to man, the angel, Ezekiel waited for them beside Croloch. Nova, Shawn, Lazar, Dante, and Leon looked about them, curiously as they walked inside. A fire burned brightly in the fire pit and the scent of fresh hay and feed filled their nostrils. Candles had been lit and they found the dwelling neat and tidy; not at all what they expected. They heard someone moaning at the back of the cavern and Nova rushed to the bed where Croloch lay. She was shocked to see he had aged considerably since the last time she saw him. His skin was greyish in color and he was feverish. Ezekiel looked up and nodded to Trekon and Tekoa. ‘Croloch, Croloch, I am here,” whispered Nova soothingly, placing her cheek against his. Her eyes filled up with tears. “Atara…” whispered Croloch, weakly. His breathing was shallow and labored

and he spoke with great difficulty. “I knew you would come.” Hearing his name, Lazar, Leon, and Dante looked at each other and drew closer to the bed. Shock ed on their faces when they recognized Croloch. “Father!” cried Leon, rushing to his side. He knelt beside the bed and took his father’s hand. Tears spilled down his cheeks as he looked upon the sickly man. Shawn looked at Lazar, surprised as Leon rushed to his father. In all the years his people had known him, they never knew Croloch had a son. It was a shock to Nova as well. “Leon? Leon, is that you?” asked Croloch. “Yes, Father, it is me,” said Leon, weeping. “He is your father?” asked Nova, her eyes wide with surprise. Holding his father’s hand to his cheek, Leon looked up at Nova. “Yes,” he said. “He left my mother and me a long time ago. We did not know he was here.” “If only I could see you, my son,” said Caitiff, reaching up and touching his face. Leon looked at Nova questioningly. “He is blind,” she said, softly. “Blind! How?” asked the young boy, alarmed. “A curse,” said Croloch. He had a fit of coughing and Nova helped him sit up. “Drink this,” she said, holding a cup of water to his lips. Croloch drank from the cup. and she gently laid his head down on the pillow. “Thank you,” said the wizard, gratefully. “Atara, please forgive me for not telling you. I betrayed my wife and son and could not bear to speak of them,” said Croloch, sadly. “Shh…it is all right. Do not try to speak,” said Nova, but Croloch continued. “Leon,” murmured Croloch in a raspy voice.

“I am here, Father,” said the boy, squeezing his hand gently. “Leon,” said the wizard, weeping. “I betrayed you…your mother…your grandparents. I deceived all of you with my sorcery for my own, selfish desires. I have brought so much suffering and pain upon all of you. What I did was wrong. Many times, I have wished I could go back and be the man all of you deserved. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?” “We all have forgiven you, Father. We love you and have never stopped praying for you,” said Leon, tenderly. Croloch sobbed. Leon hugged him, crying softly as his father hugged him. “Father, there is someone here to see you,” said Leon gently, nodding to Lazar. “Hello, Caitiff,” said Lazar, kindly, taking the sick man’s hand and patting it gently. Croloch immediately recognized the voice of his former friend and king and groaned. “Lazar,” he said, fresh tears flowing down his withered cheeks. “My days have been cut short and my time draws near. I have led a wicked, sinful, selfish life. I regret I betrayed you and brought great injustice to you and Shalimar. My heart is filled with remorse,” lamented Croloch. “Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?” Lazar looked down upon Croloch with love and mercy. “I already have,” he said, tenderly. “We all have.” Kneeling beside his father, Leon spoke urgently. “Father, it is not too late for you to repent. Ask God to forgive you for your sins and renounce the occult. Jesus can save you.” Suddenly, a brilliant light from Heaven shone down upon Croloch. It was a Holy moment in time, and everyone in the cave knelt and bowed their heads as God’s presence filled the cave. The warrior angels, now visible, knelt in reverence to the Most High God as he spoke. His voice was audible and sounded like that of rushing waters. “Caitiff, Caitiff, why have you forsaken me? You have turned away from your first love and given your heart to another. Yet, I have not abandoned you. Repent and return to me for I love you with an everlasting love. I desire to make you

whole and give you life abundantly,” said God. Filled with Godly sorrow, Croloch cried out to God. “Father, I have sinned against you and my sins have separated me from you. Please forgive me for my sins. I do not want to be separated from you any longer,” said Croloch, weeping. “I renounce the occult, all its practices, and all the works of Satan and his demons. I believe Jesus is your only begotten son and that he died on the cross for my sins. I believe you rose him from the dead on the third day. I believe he is alive and hears my prayer. Jesus, please be my Lord and Savior and deliver me from all evil. Rule and reign in my heart so I can live my life for you. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.” There was a brilliant flash of light, greater than a thousand suns as Jesus appeared before them. Shining in the light of his Glory, his eyes were filled with infinite love and mercy as he looked down upon Croloch. Gently, he took Croloch’s hand. Croloch rose from the bed, weeping and fell into the arms of his Savior. Jesus hugged Croloch, comforting him. The old man felt the power of God coursing through his body as the Lord healed him and delivered him from all evil. The evil medallion he wore disappeared forever and the curse was broken. His sight was restored, and he no longer had the appearance of an old man. Then, Jesus looked down at Croloch and smiled as he took his hands. “You will no longer be called Caitiff. You will be called Christopher for you will carry me always in your heart,” said Jesus. “Know that I love you for it is everlasting and without end. Seek me always. I will lead you and guide you in all you do for great is your destiny,” said Jesus. Then, as suddenly as he appeared, the Lord disappeared in the blink of an eye. All of Heaven and the warrior angels cheered as Christopher turned to face the others, now redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Weeping with joy, Leon and Nova ran to him, hugging him tightly. Lazar, Dante, and Shawn also hugged him, with tears of joy. Together, they worshipped the Lord, thanking Him for His great love and mercy.

CHAPTER 21

N OVA AND LEON were exuberant. “There is so much we have to tell you,” said Nova, her eyes dancing with excite ment. “So many extraordinary things happened to us on our way here,” added Leon. “And you must hear the story about how Nova and I were separated and reunited,” said Dante, enthusiastically. Their whole story was so incredible, and they all marveled at God’s plan. Christopher threw his head back and laughed heartily. “I cannot wait to hear all about it,” he said. Lazar chuckled. “The knights are in for a surprise.” “Hmmm…yes. Now I know how the apostle, Paul, must have felt,” said Christopher. “Perhaps it is best you lead the way,” he said, winking.

* * *

Lazar led the way down the mountain. There was quite a stir as the Knights of Shalimar saw Christopher. Shouting, they drew their swords, ready to attack. Lazar held his hand up and spoke loudly. “Lower your swords. He comes in peace.” Shocked, they obeyed his command. Katrina rushed to Lazar. “Father, are you all right?” Then, she looked at Christopher. “Have you put a spell on him?” she demanded. Lazar placed his hand on Christopher’s shoulder as he spoke to them. “This man is no longer our enemy, but our brother. He has rededicated his life to God. The

Lord has given him a new name. His name is Christopher.” Relief washed over their faces and a mighty cheer rose up from the knights. Katrina was the first to hug Christopher. “We have been praying for you,” she said, sincerely. Though he had tried to destroy her and Ayden, she had long ago forgiven him and prayed for him. “Welcome home, brother,” said Ayden, hugging him. He had not forgotten what Christopher had done but had chosen to forgive him and pray for him, as Katrina did. Christopher looked at Katrina and Ayden and tears filled his eyes. He was overwhelmed by their forgiveness. “Thank you for praying for me. I would not be here today if it were not for your prayers.” “This calls for a celebration!” announced Shawn, merrily. “Aye!” said the Kean clan, happily. Together, the women prepared the food while the men hunted for game and built the fire. They laughed, ate, played music, sang and danced long into the night. As they sat around the fire, Lazar, Katrina, Ayden, Dante, Leon, and Nova shared their amazing story. Everyone marveled at God’s goodness. Shawn turned to Christopher, pouring him a drink. “What will you do now?” he asked. Before he could answer, Lazar spoke up. “You must come with us to Shalimar,” he said. “I believe there is a certain dark-haired woman there who would very much like to see you,” he said, teasing. Christopher smiled. “I was hoping you would ask.” That night as he lay down to sleep beneath the starry sky, Christopher thanked God for all He had done for him. For the first time in many years, he slept peacefully.

* * *

As they rode through the gates of Shalimar into the courtyard, there was much excitement. Everyone in the castle rushed out to greet them. King Davion and Queen Nadia of Alcastar had made a special voyage to Shalimar and were waiting for their return. Katrina’s dogs, Shannon and Shai, along with Selah and Leon’s little dog, Jubilee, barked excitedly, wagging their tails. The children ran to Ayden and Katrina, hugging them. “We missed you,” said Adalein. “Did you see any pirates?” asked Aaron. Katrina laughed, happy to be home. “No, but we did see a unicorn,” she said, her eyes twinkling. “Tell us! Tell us!” cried the children, excitedly. “I will. But first, I want you all to meet someone very special,” she said, placing her arm around Nova. This is your Uncle Dante’s sister, Nova.” The children squealed with delight. “Nova!” they cried hugging her. As Katrina introduced the Kean clan to everyone, Leon ran to his mother, Amarisa and hugged her. Christopher stood at a distance, watching them. Looking up, Amarisa caught her breath when she saw him. Instinctively, she pushed Leon behind her, trying to shield him from her husband. Leon tugged at his mother’s sleeve to get her attention. “It is all right, Mother. He follows God now,” said Leon. A look of surprise came over Amarisa’s face as she looked into her son’s eyes and her own eyes filled with tears. “It is true,” said Leon, smiling. Amarisa ran to Christopher and he caught her in his arms, holding her tightly as they both cried tears of joy. Davion and Nadia put their arms around Leon, smiling. Christopher and Amarisa had never stopped loving each other. Even though their marriage had been based on deception, Amarisa had forgiven him a long time ago. She and Leon and her parents had prayed fervently for God to save him. Deep down, Amarisa knew he was a good man. When he had left them, it hurt her deeply.

Christopher had never stopped loving Amarisa or his son. All the time he had spent away from them left an aching in his heart that never ended. Tormented, he never thought he would see them again, much less be forgiven. He was overwhelmed by God’s love for him and his redemptive plan. “I love you,” said Amarisa, weeping. “I never stopped loving you.” “I love you,” said Christopher. “I always have, and I always will.” Leon ran to his parents, hugging them, tears streaming down his face. Davion and Nadia also hugged him, crying. “Welcome home, Son,” they said. “It is good to be home,” said Christopher, through his tears. Their happy reunion was interrupted as two unexpected guests rode through the gates. “It is King Nicolin of Zantar,” exclaimed Katrina. “And Prince Terric,” said Ayden, surprised. This was turning out to be quite an extraordinary day. “Welcome,” said Lazar greeting them. “We were not expecting you.” “The Lord told us to come,” said Nicolin, smiling. “I dreamt last night Croloch was with Jesus,” said Terric. “And so, he is,” said Lazar, smiling. “He has rededicated his life to the Lord.” He waved Christopher over to them. Nicolin and Terric stood looking into the face of the man who had nearly destroyed their kingdom. He had brought much suffering and pain to them, but they had forgiven him long ago and had prayed for God to save him. As they stood looking at him now, they only had the love of God in their hearts for him. “Welcome home, brother,” they said, hugging him. This was the very best news they could have hoped for. ‘We have been praying for you.” Tears filled Christopher’s eyes as he hugged them. He was very thankful for

their forgiveness after all he had done to hurt them. “Thank you,” he said. Christopher stood in the middle of the courtyard with his arm around Amarisa and Leon. Looking around him, his heart was full of joy as he saw all the faces of those who had forgiven him and prayed for him. He was overwhelmed. He was amazed by how quickly God was restoring his life. It was truly a miracle. Thank you, Father, he said, silently.

* * *

Later that night, a great feast was held in the great hall of the castle. As they ate, Lazar, Katrina, Ayden, Dante, Nova, and Leon once again shared their amazing stories, testifying of God’s great love and redemptive plan for their lives. Everyone was amazed and filled with wonder. Christopher sat next to Lazar, enjoying his rekindled friendship with his old friend. Turning, Lazar spoke to him, his tone quite serious. “You realize, your marriage is no longer valid as your name is no longer Caitiff…” said Lazar, matter-offactly. “And then there is this other matter of your knighthood…” said Lazar, his voice trailing off. Everyone in the great hall fell silent, watching them. Lazar placed his hand on Christopher’s arm and smiled. “Therefore, we will have a wedding and knighting ceremony tomorrow,” he announced, merrily and everyone cheered.

* * *

The following day, everyone gathered in the chapel for the marriage between Christopher and Amarisa. Invisible to man, the warrior angels filled the sanctuary. Dressed in brilliant, white robes, they were smiling. Amarisa, looking beautiful in a long, white gown, stood beside her handsome husband, dressed in blue, as Eon performed the ceremony.

“I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride,” said Eon, smiling. Looking into each other’s eyes, Christopher bent down and tenderly kissed Amarisa. As they turned to face everyone, a great cheer arose from everyone in the chapel. Then Lazar, wearing his robe and crown, stood on the platform in front of the altar and Christopher knelt before him. Leon stood on one side of the King and Amarisa stood on the other. “Do you, Christopher, pledge your allegiance to God, to love Him and obey Him, serving Him all the days of your life?” asked King Lazar. “All for God and for the cross,” said Christopher, repeating the Kingdom of Shalimar’s motto. “Do you, Christopher, pledge your allegiance to your earthly king, to obey him, to serve, protect and defend Shalimar in the name of the Lord against all evil?” asked Lazar. ‘All for God and for the cross,” said Christopher. Lazar then tapped Christopher’s shoulders with the flat edge of his sword. “I knight thee, Sir Christopher, in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You may rise,” said Lazar, smiling. A great cheer arose from all the people in the chapel. All of Heaven and the warrior angels rejoiced as Sir Christopher turned, facing them. Leon and Amarisa hugged him smiling. Then, suddenly, there was a bright light as God opened the eyes of everyone there to see the mighty angelic army. Smiling, Trekon and Tekoa raised their swords to Heaven and shouted with a mighty voice as one. “For the King of Glory!” The angelic army raised their swords to Heaven and shouted as one. “Forever without end!”

EPILOGUE

S IR CHRISTOPHER REMAINED faithful to the Lord all the days of his life. His testimony of God’s great love for him and redemptive plan for his life was powerful. In sharing his testimony with others, the Lord used him greatly to deliver many people from the occult and bring them into God’s Kin gdom. Leon continued to preach the Word wherever he went and was accompanied by his mother and father. God used them powerfully to share God’s love and the good news of the Gospel on different shores. He completed his training as a knight with Dante and was knighted by his grandfather in Alcastar. There, he trained men and women to become the Knights of Alcastar. King Davion and Queen Nadia were blessed by the Lord with much commerce and trade, enabling them to fund the many mission trips of their daughter and her family. They shared God’s love with the traders, leading many into God’s Kingdom. Christopher and Amarissa’s love for one another grew stronger and deepened over time. They spent many happy years together with Leon, dividing their time between Shalimar and Alcastar, in between mission trips. The Kean clan made lifelong friends with Lazar and everyone in Shalimar. They spent much of their time there, between their travels. Wherever they went, they always shared God’s love with others, bringing many into the Kingdom of God. Nova and Dante were inseparable, not willing to be apart ever again. Nova taught Dante about medicinal herbs and Dante taught Nova swordsmanship and took her sailing on the Falcon Sea. While visiting other lands, they shared the Gospel with others and collected new species of medicinal herbs to bring home. Eventually, they married and had children of their own. Dante fell in love with a pretty, dark-haired girl from another clan of Travelers and Nova fell in love with a handsome knight from Shalimar. Their children never tired of hearing the story of how they found each other.

Sir Lancelin and Lady Jordanna took an interest in teaching the young children of the Kean clan how to read and write. Their teaching was not limited to the children and they taught their parents, as well. Eventually, their love for teaching led them to invite other clans to come to Shalimar where they held classes whenever they ed through. As she grew older, Grace helped them teach. Always, they shared God’s love with them, and many people were brought into God’s Kingdom. Eon was blessed by the Lord with good health and long life, serving God faithfully. He delighted in being surrounded by children of all ages and loved spending time with them. The children adored him. Often, they would come to his shop and he would make toys for them and teach them about the arts of blacksmithing and bladesmithing. As he had done with their parents, he patiently taught them about walking with God and hearing His voice. King Lazar continued to walk closely with God all the days of his life. The Lord blessed Lazar mightily, increasing his wisdom and his wealth. Using the resources God had given him, he rebuilt the villages of Dayshire and Kaldor, with the help of the Knights of Shalimar, Ayden, Katrina, Dante, Nova and her clan. Word of his generosity spread throughout the land of Toradi. The people surrounding the areas of Dayshire and Kaldor begged him to be their king and his kingdom increased beyond the mountains. Lazar appointed Ayden and Katrina to be his representatives in the new territories beyond the Toradi Mountains. Like Lazar, Ayden and Katrina walked closely with God, showing the people of Toradi God’s love, mercy, and justice. Training their children, Aaron, Adalein, and Daniel grew up in the ways of the Lord. They taught them to be servants with humble hearts, helping the poor and needy and protecting the people from evil. The Lord returned Katrina many times to Brightendale and Shimmerdale where she visited with her old friends, Aven, Rabbage and Betsabee. Aven let her climb on her back and together they traveled many places in Brightendale and Shimmerdale where Aven showed her new wonders. The little Zork couple, Rabbage and Betsabee, proudly introduced Katrina to their two, small children, Tudi and Rudi. Every time Katrina visited, the children begged her to tell them the story of how she met their parents. Sitting by the fire

in their cozy little cottage, the children snuggled next Katrina as she began to tell them the story. “Once upon a time, in a land called Shalimar, far, far, away…”