The Hero’s Right Hand

The next few days were spent volunteering with the guards in helping Dawncaster recover from the undead attack. The city was searched on the off chance that any monsters survived. It didn’t take long to confirm that Makani’s attack eradicated all of them. Damaged structures began to rebuild. With the creation of empowered ballistas, a plan was put into effect to improve the structural integrity of all districts. Missing persons were searched and accounted for. Many were reported dead as they didn’t disappear like the summoned monsters. Corpses were collected for examination before families could retrieve them. A ceremony honoring the dead would be held after the King reported what happened to other rulers the world over.

To finish gathering information our party and Albert were called to Dicoris Castle. Aisha reported everything that happened against Elmud. Though I was accustomed to reporting to superiors, she was our leader.

“They mentioned that their plan is global. Undead were summoned everywhere. Also that soldiers and civilians alike, will need to be ready to face whatever is coming,” she explained.

King Nasim nodded silently. His focused gaze turned to me.

“Is it true Elmud turned to embers?” he asked.

I nodded. “Yes, your majesty.”

He turned to his wife and let out a slow breath. He then looked to his son and they shared a silent moment. All three rose from their thrones and stepped forward. 

“An onslaught of undead creatures on a global scale is enough for us to believe this is connected to the prophecy you seek,” King Nasim said. “Not only was it perpetrated by an unknown cabal but their leader is spoken of with no name.”

Queen Lyra continued, “Furthermore, the embers left behind by Elmud were common remains found during the demon king’s uprising. Before we discuss any further, it is important you learn who Kharim faced.””

Victor knew what was coming as he retrieved a scroll from his pocket and handed it to Aisha. She unfurled it as the Dicoris’s spoke simultaneously.

 

“Aeraza, once vanquished, shall rise from depths below,

To claim dominion again and leave the world hollow

From humble origins, a Hero shall emerge,

Alongside, allies of like will converge

Born of mortal blood, yet touched by powers divine

Each trial overcome, fates intertwine

Against almighty darkness, heroes makes a stand

The fate of the realms rest in their hand”

 

Once completed, they looked at Aisha. Tightly gripped, she intensely stared at the scroll. 

“A random disaster wasn’t why Valefor woke up. It was because Aeraza came back,” she said. 

“Yes,” King Nasim said. “However many are wary of you as they do not know if you are deserving of the sword or simply lucky.”

Aisha kept a straight face but the light in her eyes dulled. “Right.”

Queen Lyra huffed at her husband. “Dear, you must be clear.” She turned to Aisha and continued, “You have proven, without a doubt, to be not only worthy of Valefor but our respect. We will spread the word of your heroic deeds in an effort to diminish the doubts of naysayers. I cannot guarantee it will help but you have shown that such fears should not hinder us from making an effort.”

“Though, I still think it was foolish no one mentioned Aeraza to you before,” Makani grumbled.

“Allow me to explain,” King Nasim said. “Upon Aeraza’s defeat, those present were bound to secrecy. They may only inform others in order to prevent the loss of history. By revealing this secret to your party, all present may now speak and hear Aeraza’s name. Discussion is only possible when within specific magic circles; one of which is beneath this very castle.”

Presumably, it matched the one drawn at the bottom of Aisha’s scroll.

I muttered quietly, “Aeraza.”

The others similarly uttered our enemy’s name. Sariel’s eyes flashed. She grabbed her arm nonchalantly but I could see her gripping it tightly. Our eyes met and she shook her head. A calm blink and nod assured her I would not pry.

“You believe he is leading Elmud and their group,” Aisha said. “And if undead are present throughout the world, their agents will be too.”

King Nasim nodded. “It is not a presumption. Though we haven’t officially debriefed, some other countries’ leaders have made me aware of a higher undead presence in the wild.”

Vofric hummed. “I find it unlikely that you expect us to hunt them all down.”

“Elmud is our first step towards stopping whatever Aeraza is planning,” Sariel grunted.

“He’s been active at least fifteen years if we consider when Aisha was chosen.” I added.

Aisha rolled the scroll up and stowed it in a pouch on her hip. The room fell silent as she whistled softly to gather her thoughts.

“Elmud may not have been recruited from his hometown but people there could help us learn more about them. Retracing steps would help us get closer to Aeraza’s group. Maybe not physically but in understanding their motive,” she explained. “It looks like our time in Dawncaster is over.”

Albert whined. “You’re gonna need to prep before you go, right?”

“The journey is long,” Queen Lyra said. “Regardless of which route you take, months will pass before you arrive at Gromsev. Not only will you need to prepare supplies but we would like to request your presence at the honoring ceremony. Afterwards, we will send you off into the new era.”

Makani furrowed his brow and said, “But it’s Ocmir. Shouldn't a new era start in Unmir? We’re two months away. Not to mention, the world government would have to agree upon a new era. I don’t think the undead attack is something we should recollect every time someone asks the date.”

King Nasim nodded. “I agree. But, as you said, the world government decides on a new era. If they so choose, the future will be defined by the nightmare our people faced.”

Makani frowned and slowly glanced around the room. While physical wounds would easily heal, mental ones would take longer. With a reminder hanging over the citizens they would have trouble moving forward.

“We’ll simply have to help others overcome the memory.” Makani said assuredly. Then he turned to Albert and awkwardly asked. “If Aisha and her party are leaving… will you be joining them?”

Albert absentmindedly rubbed a wound on his arm. Aisha turned to him expecting a response but he hesitated. Before she could say anything, Queen Lyra interjected.

“Before you make a decision, we have an offer for you. I’ve seen many warriors in my life. It is rare to see one as skilled as you at such a young age. That is nothing compared to your ability to overpower the lycanthropic gene,” she exclaimed. “Taking this into account, we would like to offer you a position as Makani’s retainer. You would be given time to help your family but your primary role would be similar to Victor’s. We do not expect an immediate response—”

“Wait!” Albert interjected. Doubt turned to annoyance and he glared at Makani. “I’m sorry but I didn’t help the Queen or King. I helped you. What do you want?”

Aisha looked away and shut her eyes. A smirk betrayed her calm demeanor. All of us had realized there was little chance the boy would join us. What mattered most was if Makani would speak up. King Nasim didn’t hide his smile and looked at his son. I expected Queen Lyra to be upset but she seemed to expect Albert’s reaction.

“I…” Makani stuttered and looked towards his parents. Then he looked at Aisha and I. Something clicked and he continued, “I don’t want a retainer. I don’t want to be a king who simply receives the throne. My abilities are more vast than I knew and I want to train. I want to adventure!” He turned to Albert and said, “I don’t want you as a retainer but I’d like you by my side. As a friend and companion, Albert. Is that acceptable?”

“You’re not going to give me time to think like the queen?” he asked.

Makani stammered, “Oh, of course. If you need time—”

“I’m joking!” Albert laughed. “You’re too easy to tease, Makani. Of course I’ll have your back.”

King Nasim cleared his throat and pulled everyone’s attention. “That is all well and good, however we must discuss logistics. We can do so at a later time with your mothers present. It must be kept secret from the citizenry as a security measure.” He turned his attention to Aisha and said, “I do apologize that my son has taken one of the members of your party for himself.”

“No, no. Everyone in our party chose to join me,” Aisha replied. “If Albert is choosing to join Makani, who am I to stop him?”

“Thank you, chos— Aisha,” Queen Lyra said. She and her husband shared a look before she continued, “I believe that is everything we had to discuss today. The celebration honoring the fallen and your send-off is in three days. Please enjoy your remaining time here.”

They instructed Victor to show us out. We bowed and were led through the castle. It was the first time we exited normally. Without the warforged’s help we would have easily been lost.

“Kargon is the man you spoke of during training, am I correct?” he asked Aisha.

She nodded. “Yes, sir.”

“He’s far more reliable than Elder Niko described.” Victor chuckled. “Not even genasi’s elemental affinity provides immunity.”

I wanted to ask what he was talking about but Aisha lightly punched my arm to stop me. She often mentioned her teacher’s going off on tangents. More accurately, she complained they never explained why. I was simply unaware that my abilities were rare. Fire was an element many people were resistant to regardless of affinity. Regardless, I disregarded the comment.

We stepped out of the main gate and faced the stairs to the city. Our guide stopped us one last time. He cleared his throat, nodded to himself, and said, “I serve the Dicoris’s due to my history as Nasim’s ally. Thus I am sure they expect much from each of you. Do not let them down.”
“We won’t, sir.” Aisha replied as the door shut.

We stepped into the city’s bustling streets. People I’d never seen greeted us with warmth. Guards spoke to Sariel with the same reverence they carried for their captain. She saluted some and shook hands with others. Folks from Ramshorn and Rivermouth ran to Vofric excitedly. He responded in kind, giving hugs and high fives. Some guards nodded with a fist out which the dwarf bumped with familiarity. Shopkeepers tossed food in Avant’s path as they called his name. Joyful leaps caught them in the air. Trilled chirps brought a smile to the faces of his fans. Even Albert was being recognized from his brief transformations back to human form. Guards were especially impressed by the young man. 

Aisha was approached by citizens with the same shy demeanor they always had. She was accustomed to being treated as too special to interact with. Thankfully, the civilians simply didn’t know what to say. They thanked her repeatedly for saving them and their home. More people noticed and joined in. Tears welled in the Hero’s eyes but she remained stoic. Nods, hugs, handshakes; everything was met in kind by the benevolent savior. Then she pointed to me.

“It was him. He took down the dragonborn,” she said.

The group turned to me and a child wiggled through. She stared at me intensely then yelled, “YOU DIDN’T GET BURNED!”

I was taken aback and looked at my arms.

“You’re right.” I chuckled

“Thank you for fighting in our stead,” another person said.

Others chimed in with commendation of my abilities. Some were intrigued by my fighting style. As they showered me with praise, my heartbeat rose. I could feel it in my throat. My vision was blurry and my face warm. Recognition was a foreign concept to me. Aisha smirked at me as our group was forced to split up by the loving crowd. How long I interacted with them was lost to me but I wouldn’t soon forget the overwhelming feeling of pride.

 

***

 

Stalls filled with knick knacks lined every street of Dicoris district. Travelers who’d heard of Dawncaster’s victory came to celebrate its revitalization. Citizens already partook in events while waiting for the opening ceremony and our send-off. A massive crowd gathered at the foot of the stairs leading into Dicoris Castle. Guards set up a barricade of shields while engaging with the excited civilians.

Victor led the royal family and our party to the platform outside the castle. King Nasim preferred being close to his people. Thus the castle wasn’t built with a high balcony that looked down at the citizens. The more time we spent around the royal family, the clearer it became why their empire approved of them. Mesmerizing weapons were held by the king and queen. The jeweled sheath in King Nasim’s hands held a magnificent longsword. Queen Lyra, on the other hand, gripped a simple quarterstaff. Its wooden hilt was bound together by molded metals. We had no opportunity to ask about them before we reached the entrance.

The doors of the castle slowly opened and I whispered to Aisha.

“We’re not running this time?”

“Neves was celebrating me before I’d done anything. The Dicoris’s are showing thanks to all of us for protecting the city,” Aisha explained. “I refuse to feel shame for accepting it.”

Vofric patted Aisha’s arm. “You deserve it.”

“I believe we all do.” Sariel grunted.

As we stepped out of the door, horns sounded from nearby platforms. Spellcasters cast lights overhead that took the shape of the king and queen as they stepped towards the top of the stairs. The image slowly became clearer. Cheers erupted from citizens waiting below. I could see stalls had paused operation while everyone turned to face the castle. I noticed Rusty and Captain Julian standing with other similarly dressed guards and marines. They shouted for attention and the guards slammed their shields against the ground. The scattered voices died down. King Nasim cleared his throat. His voice was amplified to carry through the city.

“Citizens, travelers, and all others, I am King Nasim of Dawncaster,” he announced. The crowd cheered but quickly quieted down. “I thank you for joining us after our fair city faced a devastating attack. We know little of who attacked us or why. But today, that is not what matters. We come together to honor those who are no longer with us. In order to defend us they gave their lives.”

Whispers spread across the crowd. It was clear the wounds were still fresh regardless of how everyone celebrated. Yet many kept their eyes trained on the royalty. It mattered most how the Dicoris’s would honor the fallen.

“To honor those who protected Dawncaster, we have erected pillars throughout the city,” Queen Lyra said. “Each district’s saviors will be carved into the very stone that bolsters us. May we never forget their names and bravery.”

The crowd cheered as the starry image overhead turned into a map. Specific points glowed to represent each pillar. Simultaneously, beams of light shot up around the city. Seven stone pillars stood ten feet high with silver embellishments along the edge. The cheers grew louder until the lights disappeared. The image changed back and King Nasim continued.

He took a deep breath and explained, “Attacks of this scale are rare and often predicate important moments in history. I have never experienced something like this in my centuries of life. According to the world government, it is customary to announce a new era during this time.”

With a simple gesture Makani knew to join his father.

“Prince Makani showed concern in the coming era being defined by a haunting memory. Upon further discussion, the world leaders and I came to a decision,” the king said. “While the undead left quite an impact on us, so did the future king.”

King Nasim didn’t turn to Makani even though the boy stared at his father with wide eyes.

“His light shone brighter than the sun,” King Nasim said. “A power that not only eradicated the threat but spread throughout the world. Moonlight now flows within the very air we breathe. It empowers us. Brings us hope.”

The king choked up and shut his eyes tightly. The crowd murmured but understood a father’s pride. Tears welled in the queen’s eyes as she glanced at her son. Makani breathed slowly as he looked between his parents.

With a soft smile Queen Lyra announced, “As this year ends, so shall the current era. When the coming year welcomes us, so shall we welcome the first year After Light. Whatever threats may come are no match when we have the future king's blessing.”

Makani was nudged forward as the queen handed over the staff. His father nodded in support. The prince hesitated, stunned by the cheers starting in the crowd. Quick glances into the crowd confused him. Until he saw a familiar face past the barricade. Albert stood with his mothers and made eye contact with his friend. A tight fist to his chest and nod signaled confidence.

The prince smirked. Gripping his staff tightly, he thrust it upward. A ball of light launched forth and exploded like a firework. The crowd screamed excitedly. Thunderous chants drowned out any words attempted to be spoken. As long as the staff was held, the cheers continued. Makani used the chance to think carefully about what to say. He slowly planted the weapon and the crowd quieted.

“I am honored by your praise. But, I could not have done this without help,” he said. “As I’m sure you’re all aware, the chosen one and her party fought for our city. They took to the frontlines when I needed time. The light we have would not be possible without them!”

Aisha guided us forward. The magic replication expanded to fit the entire group. The Dicoris’s stepped close to the edge of the platform while we took one step down. Aisha stood at the center with our group spreading out on either side. It was hard not to feel nervous with hundreds of eyes staring at us.

“You will collect many titles during your journey,” King Nasim said. “Let us honor you with our own before you depart.”

The sound of an unsheathing sword was never so hallowed. Even from my periphery I could see its radiance. Pressure emanated from the blade and shook me to the core. Tightly closing my fist kept me stable but I’m sure others noticed my nervousness.

“Ramshorn would have fallen if not for the guidance of the Emissary of the Starcaller,” King Nasim said as he placed the flat of his blade on each of Vofric’s shoulders. The dwarf took one more step down the stairs then stood at attention.

King Nasim continued, “Dawncaster could not have battled with newfound might if not for the Sylvan Dragon.”

Sariel followed Vofric’s lead. I expected myself to be next but didn’t feel the expected presence. Soft chuckles from the crowd helped me deduce who garnered the king’s attention.

He said, “Unexpected power bolstered those blessed by the Guardian Beast.”

Avant roared as he stepped forward. Children in the crowd happily cheered until they were instructed to stop. Suddenly I felt a large presence behind me. Though I’d stood near the king before, it was never so daunting. Obviously the king and I weren’t equals but now I felt truly small. His aura was more imposing than anything I’d ever felt. Yet I felt no fear, only reverence. Other leaders wished for the kind of respect King Nasim garnered.

“Few can say they have withstood the flames of a dragon like the Firebrand,” he siad pridefully.

The blade was heavy on my shoulders even though all the weight was in the king’s hands. My spine tingled as I stepped forward. It couldn’t be a coincidence that my relationship with fire was brought up again. But this was no place to ask questions. Instead I looked towards the crowd who waited with bated breath. The chosen one’s time had come.

Aisha held her head high and exuded a mighty aura. An unabashed smile appeared on Victor’s face. Pride in his student was nothing to be ashamed of.

“I am not one to easily admit when I am wrong,” King Nasim said. “When the opportunity came for you to leave, you refused and chose to help us. You led not only your allies but our guards. At every encounter you found a solution. I am proud to say you are more of a hero than I could have ever expected. So much so that you have elevated your allies to the same status. This city will never forget what you did for us. Thank you, Champion of Dawncaster.”

The crowd cheered as Aisha waited for the blessing. I couldn’t stop myself from yelling and turning to face Aisha. Sariel shook her head with a smirk and clapped. Vofric and Avant whooped for our leader. Rusty and Captain Julian ignored decorum and roared in excitement. Albert and his family howled loud enough to drown out anyone near them.

Queen Lyra joined the king in holding the sword as they blessed the Hero. Aisha couldn’t hide her tears as she stepped forward. The city cheered even louder upon seeing her humility. They continued for a moment longer until King Nasim sheathed his sword. He had little else to say and gestured for his son to speak.

“As you continue on your journey, you will face many difficulties. Dawncaster came together to ease your burden,” Makani said.

He nodded to Rusty who then gestured toward the guards. As the barricade opened, the crowd stepped aside. Albert, Mia, and Louise signaled us forward. The royal family stayed behind as the barricade closed behind us. In the middle of the crowd was a carriage surrounded by guards.

Makani continued, “Sariel provided us with a strong base for the carriage but that alone wouldn’t be enough. The artificers of Zeffari crafted an engine and steering system so you may travel without need for a horse.”

“I shall pilot the vehicle first,” Sariel said readily.

“You’re the only one trained to,” I replied.

Vofric cleared his throat. “I expect us all to learn the intricacies of the carriage.”

Aisha was still focused on the prince.

“Smiths and leatherworks provided tools that will survive any weather you encounter,” Makani explained. “Alchemists packed tonics to assist in times of need. Finally, a map has been provided to guide you on your way.”

We were showered in gifts and gratitude while slowly making our way to the carriage. I couldn’t imagine how much it would cost to commission such a vehicle. Mia opened the thick wooden doors on the back of the carriage to check our equipment.

“Looks like you gave my kid some ideas,” she said, fighting against the crowd’s chatter.

Vofric laughed. “He would have stumbled upon it in time. Thankfully he will not be alone.”

“Wouldn’t have been able to help as much as I did if not for you,” Albert said.

“None of us assisted you in befriending Prince Makani.” Sariel added.

Albert shook his head. “I just followed Kargon’s lead. He’s always supporting the Hero. Figured I could do the same.”

I scoffed, “I don’t remember instructing you. Just make sure to keep up with him. So he doesn’t feel alone at the top.”

The boy contemplated my words and nodded.

“You take care of yourselves, okay?” Louise instructed. She hugged Avant and whispered, “I packed some extra snacks for you.” He nuzzled against her before being placed in the carriage. 

“Thank you for giving us a place to stay while we were here,” Aisha said.

Louise tightly grabbed her hands and smiled. “You’re welcome back any time.”

She stepped into the carriage followed by Vofric. I thanked the Greycastles and joined my party. Sariel readily took the wheel and started the engine by cranking a lever on her right. The crowd cheered one last time as we drove out of the gate. A row of guards saluted as we passed.

“Thank you, heroes!” King Nasim and his family bellowed. A powerful gust of wind pushed us forward. It signaled the start of festivities.

I shut the wooden door and moved towards the front of the carriage. Vofric hummed softly while Avant sniffed the bags in search of food. Aisha sighed and wiped her tears. Her dream of visiting Dawncaster went differently than either of us expected. But something told me to let her peacefully reminisce. I stepped out of the carriage hood and joined Sariel. There was a long, unpaved road ahead.