(This work [which is the property of Keiran Gomlok] is dedicated to Salem Samuelson for her many helpful proof reads)

He could not see, he could not hear. He was surrounded by darkness. He could not feel, nor smell, for the darkness engulfed him. He could barely think. On the rare occasions in which he found himself conscious, he thought about his childhood and the cleansing ocean he had heard about in that time.
The Shadow often came to talk to him, taunting him for his weakness. It had been so long ago that it had captured him. Now it was the only one who saw him. He could always sense it, a lingering shadow at the back of his mind. Nimrolav, it called itself, took joy in paining him. Paining Valormin.
Yes, that was his name: Valormin. When had he last used it? He now knew not for he had lost count of his days in shadow. All that was left for him was false hopes and broken dreams that he would someday escape and go to the redeeming shores, leaving his dark bondage behind.
Then, one day, Nimrolav did not return. He could no longer sense it. Slowly, he became aware of the fact that he was sitting in a dimly lit tent.
Blinking quickly, he realized that he was actually seeing. He was not in the dark, nightmarish trance he had been in for so long. Looking around, he drunk in the limited sight around him. A staff lying by the entrance, a few swords and shields in a corner, and three cloaks hung up on a wooden stand as well as some bedding that was strewn across the room.
Voices could be heard outside, strange voices, it almost sounded as if each voice was two voices saying the same speech in perfect sync.
Carefully rising to his feet, Valormin took an unsteady step forward and fell on his face near the cloaks. An angry reproach from his famished stomach told him he hadn?t eaten in a while.
Pushing off the ground to try again, Valormin caught sight of something deathly pale under him. Jerking in horror, he fell once again. Slowly, he moved his hand in front of his eyes, finally taking in the unhealthy hue of it. Why were they so white? They were not a pure white, more of a morbid grey.
Ignoring his hands, he grabbed one of the cloaks and threw it around his shoulders, welcoming the warmth and realizing how cold he actually was. With renewed determination, he staggered to the swords and attempted to lift one. To his surprise, the sword was an unearthly weight, seeming to be forged of gold. Abandoning the heavy blade, he grabbed the staff and moved out of the tent. He had no thought of where he was going but he felt compelled to leave the tent and it?s immediate surroundings as soon as possible.
Outside of the tent it was late evening and a full moon was illuminating the sky. The tent he had left was surrounded with five similar tents and two huts arranged in a haphazard clump and were, in turn, surrounded by more permanent buildings of the same chaotic arrangement. From inside each of these came a deep glow of unnatural green and horrible chanting that assaulted his new found senses. Outside of one of the tents he spotted two squatted figures talking in the dual voices he had heard inside the tent. Their skin was the same hue as his and their hair was a despairing coarse black clump on their heads, only styled to be grotesque rather than interesting.
Feeling panic engulf him, Valormin bolted through the dark city as fast as his clumsy legs could carry him. The chanting became howls of delight at anguish, reminding him of his time with Nimrolav. Desperate, he heightened his pace.
At last he came to the city gates, panting from his exhausting sprint. Taking the last stretch at a feeble walk, he started out of the cursed city. As he approached the dark guardians of the chaotic land, he felt his steps falter. Keeping his eyes to the ground, he stepped forward.
The motion was painful but in such a way that it rekindled his determination. His next step became easier, but he felt tension in the air. Something did not want him to leave. Setting his feet out to steady himself, he continued on. The air came more easily and his pace became less labored. As he stepped out after what seemed like an eternity, he looked to the star lit skies.
When he was some distance from the foul settlement, he stopped to rest under the branches of a tree. It was the most beautiful thing he had ever laid sight upon, its bark was smooth and crimson and its branches reached out like welcoming arms, bidding him to sleep under their protective covering.
Laying down his weary head, he was almost asleep when he felt it. It was not quite like Nimrolav, but it was similar. Two of them, watching from the shadows, waiting for something?
?He is rather restless, isn?t he?? The first one said, stepping forward, He was a powerfully built fellow who resembled the humans in the city. At his side was a scythe whose blade gleamed in the moonlight.
?Who are you?? Valormin croaked, clutching his staff.
The man laughed, a supernatural gleam in his eyes, ?It matters not, Nimrolav, though I was rather hoping you?d remember. What are you doing out here??
?Out here?? The attempt of innocence was unbelievable even to Valormin?s ears.
?Yes, outside Ramador, where we are supposed to be gathering to plan with the others? The man sneered, drawing his weapon from his belt, ?You were always arrogant Nimrolav, I suppose your defiance of Gorban should be expected. For that we finally have a reason to kill you.?
?What?? Valormin exclaimed, ?No! Please! I?m not Nimrolav! Nimrolav is Dead!?
The man stopped, ?You killed your Galdrood, eh? Well I guess we?ll have to avenge Nimrolav whether we liked him or not.?
Lunging forward, the dark man hacked at Valormin who rolled to the side and smacked his opponent across the skull with his staff. The man roared, now more creature than human, overwhelmed with hatred for Valormin. ?You will die! You cannot escape us! I will??
His ranting was cut short as Valormin reached down into his deepest reserves of strength; his newfound freedom fueled a sharp hit to the beast?s stomach. It doubled over on the ground and gasped, it looked up at Valormin with hate in its eyes, and then something completely unexpected happened. From the creature was spewed forth a creature entirely of shadow, with eyes like embers. It leapt and clawed at Valormin, who was now completely exhausted and could do little to stop it. Biting his hands and grasping for his throat, finally achieving a stranglehold on him.
And as Valormin struggled in vain, the creature taunted him. ?Filthy Human! You are a Zalian! You were in allegiance with us! Now die knowing what a fool you?ve been!?
Suddenly, the shadow screamed out in anguish and dissolved as the blade of a scythe broke through its writhing body. All that was left was the man with the scythe, standing battered and bruised. Looking at Valormin with desperate eyes.
After a hesitant moment, Valormin sought out the courage to speak, ?If you?re going to kill me, would you be merciful and do it now??
?Kill you?? The man laughed, or at least attempted to, ? My dear rescuer, I have no such intent. Though it seems you are a little too late. I fear my time is at its end, for Enesäm did not leave me without crippling my body. My name is Mäsene Turinil, I was once a great man, but a lust for power consumed me and I joined the Zalians. It was then that I met Enesäm and began to hate it.
?Yes, that?s right,? he continued as he noticed Valormin?s interest in the subject. ?You weren?t the only one enslaved Enesäm and Nimrolav are creatures called Galdrood. They are the ones that keep us in the dark. Enesäm disclosed many things to me, some of which I will tell you now. A Galdrood can only be killed by its ?Host? or at the hands of a Chronic Guardian. Know this, the Zalians are a wicked people; they have merged with their Galdrood. This leads to many adverse effects such as our pale skin tone and eventually a wiry frame completely dependent upon its Galdrood for survival.?
Valormin kept silent as Mäsene continued to explain many things. But as the night drew on, Mäsene?s strength waned and he neared his end. At last he asked two things of Valormin, to escape the Zalians and tell his tale, and to find his brother Bemaldar and bring him his last apologies.
Thus, the life of Mäsene Turinil ended. But part of him lived on. A young man with a wandering heart had taken his first steps into the world. He was headed for all he could remember, the cleansing waters of the great bay. His name was Valormin Korlon, and his life had just begun.


Valormin took a breath and pulled on the rock ledge. Just over the ridge was the ocean. Valormin had never seen the great bay and now he was only a few short bounds from looking upon the thing that had inspired so much.
Just one more tug and he would be there, surveying the majestic waves and breathtaking beaches that he had longed for all his life. The rock felt steady beneath his grip and with a final heave he pulled himself up to the top of the sheltering ridge.
The sight that greeted him was awe-inspiring. The sun began to rise over the shimmering waters and the clouds loomed overhead like a protective blanket as the morning mists blew out of the bay like specters fleeing from the dawn.
Valormin felt himself take a half involuntary, half embracing step forward as the beautiful sight enticed him to join it, calling with the voices of a thousand waves. Suddenly, as his foot set down on the further soil, he felt the cliff shift beneath his weight. He came to his senses just in time to grab for stable ground as the cliff gave way beneath him. It was too late, however. The rockslide carried him toward the beach at the foot of the cliff.
The ride was rough, needless to say, and Valormin did not escape without a large collection of bruises and welts. But, as he skidded to a halt, found himself still in his right mind and, reassured by that, he began to patrol the shores cautiously, though limping a little on his left ankle.
He now recalled he been told in his childhood that the ocean was dangerous but now it was hard to resist the temptation to leap into the regal turquoise waters heedless of the peril. And indeed, soon he could no longer keep from the chorus of the waves.
Thus, Valormin, wanderer of the grey lands, took his inevitable first step into the waters of the great oceans.
The cool green waters greeted him with an icy embrace as he waded in, leaving the stable sands of the beaches behind. He closed his eyes and savored the chill, was this what it felt like in the north havens of the Elves? For the first time in the two weeks since Mäsene had died he gave himself to the rush of liberty.
However, his silent enjoyment was suddenly interrupted when he felt something brush passed his leg. Upon instinct, he jumped back with a yelp of surprise before he noticed it was a bottle. Intrigued, he lifted it up and peered inside at what appeared to be a tightly rolled piece of parchment.
Could it be a message in a bottle? By chance he had come to the beach and miraculously received a message from some far off distant land! With vigor, he seized the prize and scanned its contents. Strangely enough, he found he could read it, though he could not remember the last time he had seen written language of this form. It was a poem, but it seemed to carry something deeper within it; a further message was hidden in the simple words. But for now, he could only guess at what that might be and thus the poem read:

From the far off shores of Kädorin,
A sleeping power lies within.
A hero yet to realize might,
A royal yet to take his right.

My memories are deep and dark,
But from the shadows I must embark,
To find for myself this far off land,
And protect it gently with my hand.

For fear of loss, of moments wasted,
I think of fruits not yet tasted,
That lie far off forevermore,
Upon the sands from distant shores.

-Ginrial Duladún

The words rang in Valormin?s ears as thousand thoughts raced through his mind. Who was this Ginrial? What significance did this cryptic message hold? Did it hold any connection to him? And lastly: What would happen should he find these distant shores? It seemed that something beyond imagination was waiting for him. He needed a purpose, ever since he had been set free he had felt the emptiness inside that came from a lack of direction.
A slow smile spread across his face, tucking the message into his pouch, he raced up the beach. If he went far enough East he would eventually find civilization.
And from there? there was no telling where he would go. He feared the thoughts of what he might encounter on his quest, yet he could not deny the urge he felt to leave the enclosed world he had once known. He now knew a purpose. The line had been crossed; there was no going back. Some day he would make it. Somehow, he would find those distant shores.


?What will we do when we get to Xanlow?? Joria asked, looking out of the window, her brown hair blowing in the mountain breeze.
Nafilas shrugged, placing plates on the table of the village leader. ?Perhaps the elders there will be able to tell us. Things have become more and more dangerous as the tensions have escalated. Word has it that the Halthact are on a war path to the Skaranite palace.?
?Don?t worry,? Xölwin told them over his shoulder, his tall frame bent over the fireplace. ?If we do run into trouble, Cioellen and I can probably take them. Besides, I doubt the locals would interfere with Elven matters.?
Nafilas cast her gaze to Xölwin?s back, wondering if he was being overconfident or if he was simply trying to reassure her. Even a party of five Elves was no match for a Halthact war host.
?My people will protect us,? Garmt, the leader of the village of Cabat entered the room. ?No matter the cost. We are a strong people. But for now, let us be calm and feast. For the shadows have not yet reached us. Call in your friends before they catch cold.?
Joria complied with his wishes and soon they were seated around the wooden table. There were six of them, including Garmt. They were a group of five Elves headed for the Southern citadel Xanlow. At the head of the party were Xölwin and Joria, Elf warriors and siblings, sent to escort Cioellen and Lisean who were both apprenticed to a mapmaker and were along to chart a new route for other young Elves since the older paths were becoming infested with the advancing Halthact.
Nafilas was their pathfinder. It was her duty to find a way through the wilderness and keep them in semi agreeable terrain. She also had the task of reading the weather. She had first volunteered to accompany them at Volnora Londe. She had been naïve then, only knowing her craft from the training of her master, Cilomë. Yet she had had confidence in those untested abilities, confidence enough to leave on a journey where peril was ensured. They had already faced the wrath of the great ocean and now they were making their way across the countryside of a disputed land plagued with war.
They were on the journey that all young Elves took as a rite of passage. Though it was not mandatory that Elves between the age of eighteen and twenty-one went to one of the great chronic citadels in order to prove themselves, many did it to show their independence.
?So tell me, Elfinty,? Garmt said, as they finished the meal, his gloved hands resting on his long brown beard that was cut down the middle by a silver streak. ? How long will you stay with us??
?Actually,? Joria explained, a hint of hesitancy coloring her voice, ?we were planning on leaving as soon as possible. We?d like to get through the mountains before the dry season comes in.?
?Oh, I see,? Garmt replied, somewhat more subdued, ? I was rather hoping that you would stay and help us. The Zalians on our borders have become more restless than usual.?
?The Zalians?? Xölwin inquired, his light eyebrows furrowed in thought, ?What are the Zalians? Certainly a new species cannot have risen in these older days.?
The uncertain look that Garmt gave them was somewhat less than reassuring, ?We do not know, but they have long been near us. Something is vile about them. As if they are immersed in darkness.?
?So you Fear that the clouds of war are about to burst?? Nafilas asked, studying Garmt?s face. He seemed tense, as if the fragile safety around them was about to go up in?
?Look out!? Lisean cried, pushing Joria down as the walls burst into flames. ?Cabat is under assault!?
Jumping to their feet, Xölwin and Cioellen simultaneously drew their swords. ?Separate in combat?? Xölwin started.
?? Together at heart.? Cioellen finished. ?We will protect you Garmt. Ready your people.?
Nodding to each other, they split up: Garmt with Xölwin and Joria and Cioellen with the remaining two. For the last time in a long while, they entered battle as one.
Nafilas, who was an archer by choice, took up position behind Cioellen and Lisean who were both armed with Elven blades. The village burned around them, lighting the deep night sky. Villagers ran about, some bringing forth swords and bows to stand their ground and others fleeing for the woods at the far side of the village.
Quickly, Nafilas attempted to evaluate the situation, Lisean was not as adept as Cioellen at the art of swordplay but she could hold her ground well which was all Nafilas needed to shoot efficiently. Cioellen was better with a sword but only when pushing forward, so he would take the offensive. It was not the best combination but it would have to do. She winced as the war howls of the approaching Halthact saturated the night air with terror.
For the one moment before they were overwhelmed, the three of them locked gazes. ?Together at heart,? Nafilas whispered to herself, forcing down the fear that was fighting for control of her actions. A Halthact ran around the corner, followed by ten more. She loosed her first arrow?


Valormin looked over the village with a slight air of disdain. It was the first settlement he had seen since Ramador and after a month in the natural world he was somewhat reluctant to return to society.
The smoke of a thousand cooking fires stained the overcast sky that hung overhead. Though Valormin loathed the thought of entering the gloomy settlement, he knew that he would have to obtain a boat sooner or later and the earlier he got into the ocean the sooner he would leave behind whatever might hinder him on land. The sea called to him and it was futile to resist. He had nothing else to believe in.
Taking a deep breath, he stepped onto the stone paved streets hoping it was friendly than Ramador had been. Judging by the heavy smell of baking breads and roasting meats, a local celebration was going on. Unfortunately, that probably meant delay.
Wondering if the local customs would interrupt business, he headed for the docks, which were full of small vessels. ?What is the occasion?? he asked a villager near the docks. The villager looked at him blankly, clearly not understanding his words.
Puzzled at the villager?s non-responsive attitude Valormin cleared his throat and tried again. ?Could you tell me what celebration is occurring??
Once again, the villager stared at him before pointing to another man at the docks, murmuring something incomprehensible then turning back to his work and casting a furtive glance back at Valormin.
Taking it as a sign to talk to the other local, Valormin continued on and addressed the civilian.
?It is the winter festival,? the man stated, studying Valormin carefully. ?A Zalian like you wouldn?t understand. What brings you out this far anyway??
?I am in search of a vessel,? Valormin answered, thankful for someone who responded to his speech, but somewhat unsettled at the man?s accuracy. ?I tried to talk to that dock worker, but he didn?t seem to understand.?
?Of course he didn?t understand. I?m the only local who can speak Zalian,? the man stated, his green eyes gleaming with amusement of Valormin?s ignorance. ?Most of the populace can only speak Skaranite as it is the trade language in these parts.?
Valormin abruptly began to feel very wary about the man's understanding. ?Then how did you learn Zalian??
The man grinned, showing sharp needle like teeth. ?I learned it from Gorgrómith. You may want to see him at the Serpent?s Bane Inn. He arrived about a month ago.?
Getting an eerie feeling about the man, Valormin said a quick thank you before heading off in search for other means of transportation. If it really came down to it, he could try his hand at making a raft but he preferred the reliability of an actual boat.
?You were looking for me?? The voice startled Valormin, as it seemed to come from nowhere. ?I heard you talking to Rithan.?
Valormin turned to see a slim young man with dark hair like his own and the same Zalian style clothes too. Perhaps this was Gorgrómith. He certainly seemed Zalian, which was all the more reason to be careful. However, Valormin did not sense a Galdrood in him. So what was he? Another escapee?
?Rithan?? Valormin asked, taking a wary step away from Gorgrómith.
Gorgrómith gave him a chilling smile and stepped closer. ?The Vampire you talked to a moment ago, he said you might look for me so I decided to save you some trouble. You appear to be Zalian. What brings you out this far??
?I am searching for something,? Valormin replied, trying to keep the growing nervousness out of his voice. ?Might you be willing to help me??
?Perhaps,? Gorgrómith answered, studying Valormin as if he was wild animal, ?Depends on if you comply with my instructions or not.?
?What are your instructions?? Valormin inquired, wishing he had passed the village when he had the chance.
Gorgrómith contemplated the question before giving him a sidelong look, ?Keep all Zalians from passing the border until the coming storm.?
?When will the storm arrive?? Valormin asked impatiently, eager to vacate the premise. Here on the coast it shouldn?t be too long before any rain fell, but he still felt anxious.
At Valormin?s question, Gorgrómith laughed, ?When Nabrog returns the storm will start. Until then we will consolidate here.?
The answer was nowhere near as direct as Valormin would have hoped. However, he was not exactly in any position to bargain with Gorgrómith. ?What then will we do while we wait??
?It is my task to train you during that period,? Gorgrómith answered patiently. ?I am surprised that you came this early. Tmrag said you wouldn?t be coming for a few more weeks.?
Training? There was going to be a gathering of Zalians and Gorgrómith was going to train them for??
Suddenly it dawned on him: Gorgrómith thought he was a recruit of some sort. The Zalians were going to war. Darkness was about to march on the world.
?So sorry then,? Valormin said quickly, his mind racing for means of escape. ?I was sent as a messenger to the next village. All I need is a boat and I?ll be on my way.?
Gorgrómith?s demeanor suddenly changed from pleasant to unusually dark. ?Well then I suppose I?ll just have to change your orders, Valormin.?
?What?? Valormin started, completely baffled by Gorgrómith?s insight. ?How do you know about???
Suddenly, his vision exploded into a sea of stars and his knees buckled under his weight. Before he fell into darkness, he heard Gorgrómith talking with Rithan. Unfortunately, he could only make out a few of their words. Something about a fortress, the other prisoners? He was fading fast.
Falling, falling into darkness?


When Valormin came into consciousness, he found himself in a dark, stone room, lit only by a small lantern with dirty panes that withheld the light.
Attempting to stand, he received a sharp bump on his head as rebuke from the low ceiling. Rubbing his dark hair and checking his hand for blood, he decided that keeping low was a good idea until he could see his full surroundings.
What happened last? He vaguely recalled Gorgrómith and the Vampire, Rithan. But aside from that he had no recollection of how he had gotten into the cramped room.
?A little dazed, are you?? Spoke a woman?s voice. It came from beyond what Valormin perceived as a make shift, but sturdy, wall.
?Yes,? He replied hesitantly, ?How do you know??
The woman attempted to laugh, though it was a pitiful sound to Valormin?s ears. ?You make so much noise I would be worried if I didn?t hear you.?
?Well I can barely hear you now.? Valormin said, puzzled and a little irritated at his cellmate?s acute sense of hearing. ?Were you listening through the ground??
?Forgive me.? She replied, seeming to apologize for the confusion. ?I keep forgetting that you are all humans.?
We are all humans? Valormin did not quite like the inference. ?What might you be then?? He asked, wondering what his unseen companion could be.
?I?m one of the Elebán.? She explained. Then, seemingly as an afterthought; ?I am a Wood Elf. And, by your speech, I assume you are Zalian.?
Valormin did not answer for a moment. A Wood Elf? Elves had all but disappeared from the face of Tharis almost nine hundred years ago. They were a dying legend, soon to leave the memories of all that lived under the sun.
?How did you end up here?? She asked, after an uncomfortable silence.
?I was about to ask you the same question,? Valormin answered, his fingers searching the wall for a weak point. ?I thought that Elves were extinct.?
?No, not extinct,? She replied, an amused tint in her voice, ?Just in hiding. There are few of us left in the world. After the great fall we retreated to our many Londes.?
Suddenly, a thought struck him. If he could get to the Elves he would almost certainly be able to employ their vast knowledge. And if he could use that to find the shores of Kädorin? ?If we get out of here, could you take me to one of these Londes??
?I?d at least need to know your name.? She stated, a hint of apology in her tone, as if she was sorry to inconvenience him.
?Very well, my name is Valormin Korlon, and you??
She hesitated for a moment before answering; ?Nafilas, Elven path finder.?
?Pleasure to meet you,? Valormin said, trying to visualize what she looked like in person. ?But, if you don?t mind my asking, how did you?? He trailed off, thinking of how to phrase the question correctly.
?Get captured by Gorgrómith?? She finished for him. ?I was with a group of Elves crossing through a mountain village when we were ambushed by Halthact. Two of my companions were slain and one was left for dead. But Xölwin and I were taken captive and brought to a borough near the village of Miklem. We escaped but as we passed through Miklem in search of a ship we split up. That?s when I met Gorgrómith. He attempted to deceive me into coming to this place voluntarily. When that didn?t work, he had Rithan come up and take me by force. I was no match for his Vampiric strength and thus I was captured. I can only hope that Xölwin escaped when he noticed I was gone but I can?t be sure.?
Rithan, now he remembered. He had been attempting to get away from Gorgrómith when Rithan had apparently knocked him unconscious. The Rat! While he had been trying his best to handle the situation with skill the snake must have come up behind him and bashed him senseless!
?So how were you imprisoned?? She asked Valormin. ?It seems strange that Gorgrómith would capture a fellow Zalian.?
Valormin did not answer; he was too caught up in his thoughts. Only a few weeks earlier, perhaps a month at most, he had escaped the Zalian city of Ramador when his Galdrood was slain. He hadn?t known at the time but now he strongly suspected he had been spotted as he fled the premise and was now a wanted figure in Zalian circles. How ironic that his search for freedom had brought him right back into the Zalians grasp. But how had the word spread so fast? So many questions and so many of the answers were out of reach.
?If you don?t mind,? Nafilas tried again, a little more pointedly this time, ?I would like to know how and why Gorgrómith captured you.?
?He had orders from Gorban,? Valormin replied, partly guessing at the truth. ?I was about to escape when he intercepted me.?
Nafilas fell silent for a moment, most likely contemplating Valormin?s words. ?So you were escaping?? She asked, a strange note in Her voice.
?Yes,? He answered, a little wary of her questions.
?Would you like to have another chance at freedom??
He sighed, absently observing his breath in the cold air, ?More than anything at the moment.?
?Good, then be ready tomorrow. We shall be gone before day break.?


The preparation for their escape was delicate. If they were caught before hand they would be doomed. Nafilas, who had considerable skill in metalworking, unmade her lantern so as to make use of the iron frame and fire. Placing one of the metal sticks into the fire she whispered softly in an ancient tongue, coaxing the flames to engulf the metal and reshape it. It was not magic, or at least, not the sort of magic most people engaged in. It was a natural ability to the Elebán, who had immersed themselves in nature.
Pulling the fragile newly forged blade out of the fire, she cut a small hole in the wall through which she would trade resources with Valormin.
The night wore on and somewhere around midnight Nafilas extinguished her lantern. Its purpose was complete.
?Are you ready?? Nafilas asked Valormin. Her hands grasped the broken lantern pieces that had been delicately reshaped into lock picks.
?Ready,? He affirmed from beyond the wall. Though, to her superior Elven hearing, he sounded doubtful of her plan. He was so unsure, yet he held so much potential. She could sense in him an overwhelming inner strength that was yet to be awakened. Perhaps she could bring it forth?
Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps coming down the hallway outside her dungeon cell. The touch was too soft to be Gorgrómith thus it must be Rithan. She was disturbed about his dishonor and lack of morals. He was a Vampire but he still seemed a little extreme.
Taking a deep breath, Nafilas fit her make shift tools into the door and began working. It was a risky job and she was not altogether confident in her own skills in this area but she couldn?t let that stop them. Freedom was just beyond the door and Rithan?
Suddenly, Rithan?s footsteps ceased. He had heard her. Hoping Valormin was ready, Nafilas made a few final adjustments to the doors lock before coughing loudly and leaning back against the cell wall, hugging her knees to her chest and assuming a downcast gaze and demeanor.
As planned, Rithan came in. ?Trying your hand at escape, eh?? He asked, favoring her with a feral grin that exposed his Vampire teeth. When she made no response he stepped closer, ?To bad,? He said in a hoarse whisper near her ear, ?Your time just ran out. Gorgromith sees no further use for you. You?re taking up valuable resources and thus I?ve been ordered to dispose of you.?
She looked up. Her light copper hair slightly obscured her vision as she tried to make sense of Rithan?s words. It was obviously a lie about their intentions since they barely fed her anything as it was and they had access to a major trade route. The only thing that she could think of that would give them proper reason would be that they intended to stop her from saving Valormin. However, as her acute hearing soon revealed to her, it was to late for that. What she suspected were Valormin?s footsteps slightly echoed as he took his first steps into the hall.
?Naturally,? Rithan continued, an insane light behind his eyes, ? We aren?t going to waste this opportunity.?
?So you?ll make an example of me to the other prisoners who still dream of freedom?? She inquired quietly, forcing some resignation into her voice. Behind Rithan she saw Valormin step into the room wielding two short pieces of iron. Was this really Valormin? She had never actually seen him in person and now she couldn?t help but wonder if it was just one of Rithan?s accomplices.
Rithan shook his head, his crazed grin widened. ?No, not in the way you?re thinking. We were more leaning toward having you on our side.?
?What?? Nafilas blurted as Valormin stopped in mid step. ?How do you intend to do that??
Rithan?s teeth sparkled white in the moonlight. ?It will only take one bite, I promise.?
Finally realizing Rithan?s true intentions, Nafilas yelped in horror as the Vampire leapt upon her. However, his teeth never touched her skin. Valormin deftly knocked the creature aside with his iron weaponry.
For a moment, they just stared at Rithan, his limp form on the dungeon floor. ?Thank you,? Nafilas said after a few moments of silence, ?We should get moving before he awakes. Get a sword from the armory; along with my bow and arrows, we will need them desperately. Then meet me at the gates. If you run into Gorgrómith then find me immediately.?
?I?ll do my best,? Valormin said hesitantly, still staring at Rithan. ?Is he???
?Dead?? Nafilas completed the question. ?No, he is merely in Hynkari, a Vampire form of Hibernation. He is recovering at an accelerated rate from whatever harm you may have dealt him. Now go, we haven?t much time.?
Finally, Valormin turned from the Vampire and went his own way. Nafilas watched him the first few steps before investigating the corridor. There were many cells present. However, judging by the conditions, it had not always been a dungeon. What was it then? The whole thing looked of Alimirian design?
Her thoughts were interrupted by a child?s cough. Curious, she peered into the cell across the hall. Inside were two human children, one about twelve or thirteen and the other approximately five, huddled together on the solitary cot in the corner.
?Gorgrómith is capturing children?? she said aloud to herself, surprised at the Zalians horrific total lack of virtue. Were all humans like this? Garmt had seemed nice enough, but?
The older of the children lifted his head, ?Who?s there?? he asked, feebly climbing off the cot.
?Nafilas, of the Elves,? She answered, feeling a deep urge to bring the child with her on their way out. ? And you??
?You don?t work for the Vampire, do you?? He probed, staring right back at her with desperate eyes. He was so young, so helpless, so in need of someone to look after him.
She shook her head, ?No, my friend and I are escaping. Perhaps you could?? She stopped suddenly, was there enough time? It was now or never, if Rithan awoke and found her about he would kill her for sure. But the child?
?You need to go, don?t you?? The boy asked, a grave look coming over his features. ? You can?t take me or my sister.?
Nafilas held his gaze for a moment before looking away; she could no longer face him. She could not tell the child she would leave him. ? I? I?ll come back for you someday. Just?? She felt her voice crack.
?It?s okay,? He said, consoling her with a forced smile, ? I trust you. I?ll tell Erima when she wakes up.?
?Erima?? Nafilas asked, ?Do you mean your sister??
?Yes, she?s sick.? He replied, a shadow of pain passing over his face, ? But she?ll be glad to hear of you. She always adored the stories about the Elves??
They gazed upon each other and for an instant Nafilas felt closer to the boy than anything else in the world. ?So, I?ll see you again?? He asked hesitantly, as if he feared he would deny him his request.
She smiled, an expression that now was foreign to her, ?I promise you, neither nature nor beast will prevent me.? She quoted, thinking of the legend of Alimira.
The boy sighed and fell back onto his cot beside his sister. ?Until the clouds part, I?ll remember you.? He said, completing the quotes. ?Farewell.?
She took one last long look at him before heading off in the opposite direction and climbing an immense staircase. At long last, near the top, she found a window.
As she suspected, they were being held in a mountain fortress. Only two escape paths were visible; one through a mountain pass and the other to a sheltered harbor with a few buildings. By leaning out the window, she could see a door at the base of the tower that lead to a courtyard that in turn led to the gates that led to the harbor.
Turning around, she fled down the stairs and found her way to the courtyard. To her discontent, it was getting light and it was now apparent the Zalians did not keep stables. She had hoped they would have escaped by this time but there was really nothing she could do. Where was Valormin? She was becoming quite anxious.
As the sun began to rise above the mountain peaks, Valormin finally showed up carrying her bow and a sword of Kivarian make. Those first rays of sunlight illuminated Valormin as Nafilas got her first good look at him.
His skin was pale, though not nearly as pale as a Zalians, and his hair seemed to be a brown just one shade lighter than black. His grey eyes were powerful, they could have had a piercing gaze but she saw to much indecision in his features. He could be so powerful?
?Here,? he said, shoving her bow toward her after a few moments under her stare, his voice colored with impatience. ?We?d better get out of here before the fiends awake.?
?Of course,? She said, looking away from him and facing the sea. ?Our freedom awaits.? Silently, she wondered if he would care to help the Elves and the children in captivity, and if he would want to know her other names. But, of course, those held little significance at the moment.
After all, who had ever heard of Ginrial Duladún?


Collection of brief lists of background

1: Description of Tharis (Geographical):

Tharis is a world with 5 main continents: Northern (Nith Vala), Southern (Xan Conten), Eastern (Tarth Koten), Western (Forrún Kanta), and the Dark Lands. All the continents (save for the fifth) are separated by the great ocean and its many rivers which flow to the other side of the world. One side of Tharis contains four of the continents and is inhabitable by most creatures; the other side is a barren wasteland with seas of lava and mountains of ash. It is said that this was once a fertile land of great joy but during the great fall it fell into darkness. It is here that all Galdrood are spawned and eventually leave. Separating the two sides are numerous diamond forests and light lakes that serve as a border to keep large numbers of Galdrood from entering the other side at one time. From Distant Shores takes place entirely on Xan Conten, which is the home continent of the Humans, Drolcif, Halthact, and other interesting creatures. It is currently in turmoil due to constant military action on behalf of the Galdrood, Halthact, and Zalians.

2: list of locations in From Distant Shores:

1: Ramador:

Capital of the Zalians, this dark city has been thriving unknown to the world for quite some time now, though some believe it began around the end of the third age. It is more a military camp than a city though and consists of tents, seige towers, and a few permanant buildings such as dungeons.
2: Humsoran:

A coastal region in a failing kingdom, this is the location in which Valormin first sees the great ocean. Garmt?s village (Cabat) is also in this area.
3: Koksil:

The coastal village in which Valormin is captured by Gorgrómith. It is across the bay from Nosga, a thriving trade port for the kingdom of Skaran.
4: Lutholian the Gray?s fortress:

The castle in which Gorgrómith has taken up residence and Valormin finds himself to be imprisoned. It once belonged to an Alimirain named Lutholian who helped keep the peace within the Human kingdoms. But after the fall of the Chronic Guardians it was thought to be abandoned.

3: List Species mentioned:

Wood Elves(Eléban):

Also called forest Elves, once were the most common type of Elf but now are very rare. They used to reside mostly in Forrún Kanta and the northern regions of Xan Conten but now are mostly based in the isles off its coast.
Kivarians (Half-Elves):

A species that dwells entirely in the northeast, beyond Xata Jen. They have strict codes of honor and produce the best swords (Save for Chronic Blades) in all Tharis. They are quite reclusive and are known to shun contact with other species, supposedly in retribution for being disowned by both their parent species.
Humans: The chosen people of Kithur, the humans of Tharis are extremely variable in their cultures and dwell on every continent. They are often represented by the element of fire as they are the elements of change, short lived, and the most passionate of all the high-born.
Alimirains:

A mysterious peoplem based in Tarth Koten, they were once the first-born of Tharis but now they have fallen and very few pure ones are left in the world. It is suspected their fall is some how connected to the rise of the Vampires but not much is known of either and thus speculation is the only source available for such notions.
Halthact:

In essence, they are nothing more than mutated Drolcif created in the Gwither war. They have the distinct ability to regenerate limbs two fold and are much more irritable than their root species. They have been at war with the Humans and Drolcif for some time now, trying to carve out a place in the world where they may retreat from the cold reality that they were not meant to exist.
Drolcif:

Sentient Lizards the size of humans with the ability to walk upright, Drolcif have long shared Xan Conten with the humans. Drolcif dwellings are often referred to as Burroughs, though this belies the extent of their underground networks in which they live, labor, and die. They are usually quite tame, though rather unrelenting in their logic which has earned them the term "Cold Blooded".

Impressum

Tag der Veröffentlichung: 18.11.2009

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