Echoes of a Shattered Age (27 page)

“I’ll be fine.” She smirked at him. “If I can get the rest of you to quit slobbering all over me with your worry.”

The islander laughed for the first since time since their fight with the horde. “So you think you can keep this pace until the horses catch us?”

“Whether I think I can or not is no matter. I must, and that is all there is to it.”

Kenyatta looked at the woman with admiration. She could be touched by a dark power and face a tortured death, yet still remain in good spirits.

The others awoke moments later and began gathering the few supplies they had brought. There was not much to clean, for their stay had only lasted a few hours and there was no need for a campfire. Shinobu looked up at the sky and frowned. “Visibility will not be in our favor.”

“Maybe not,” Kita responded, “but we have to press on. For all we know, Takashaniel may already be under attack.”

Kenjiro moved beside Kenyatta. “No sign of anything?”

“Nothing,” Kenyatta answered. He looked at the siblings standing on either side of him, remembering a question that he’d meant to ask some time ago. “I admit my ignorance in affairs that concern the dark realm, but I found it strange that those demons move so freely in daylight.”

“Human folklore stems from truth and fiction intertwined,” the ninja said. “Daylight means nothing to them, although they do prefer darkness. Quentranzi in particular are resistant to everything in this world. The hottest magma from the core of the earth would not burn them, and the coldest bite of the arctic would not freeze them. The cut of an earthly sword might remove a limb and cause pain, but nothing more. Only by the means available to us, can they be sent back to the abyss. This is why the Drek that Iel speaks of is the first to make such an attempt in so long a time.”

Kenyatta looked at her and frowned. “So, someone has tried this before? What person could be capable of summoning such evil as what we’ve encountered?”

“I will tell you this and then we must go.” Akemi looked out at the open fields, but her gaze went farther still. “Once, I was told of a powerful mage that lived before the Age of Technology. It was during this time that many different forms of life inhabited the world, and magic was more commonplace than now. This mage was the most powerful of all mages of the world, or so it has been said. In time, however, he succumbed to temptation, and the power corrupted him.

“His peers realized that he was becoming too powerful too quickly and they warned him to be careful. Growing ever more powerful, however, the mage took their warnings as a sign of weakness and jealousy, and ignored them. The more powerful he became the darker his mind grew. Soon he began to study more of the dark arts, believing them to be the source of true power.

“Every mage must study some of the dark arts,” the ninja continued. “But they usually study only enough to understand them so as to be able to effectively defend against it. When one studies the arts out of personal interest and desire, that is when things go ill and the mind becomes vulnerable. This mage had walked the line between light and dark for so long for so long that his developing interest in the dark arts crossed the line. By the time the others of his order realized how far he’d fallen and decided to move against him, the mage had a fully developed knowledge of necromancy and demon summoning.

“It started with summoning an imp or two, something all mages are capable of. Then he summoned a tryte demon, a great deal stronger than an imp, but not so powerful that he could not control it. He would send these fiends on small tasks while maintaining a strong ‘leash,’ or ‘tether’ to them. After much success in using these creatures, he became more and more confident and his summonings became more and more ambitious until he was able to summon a Tasarien. Although the force of such a fiend was vastly overwhelming, he was able to hold it in the seal he had created, and that gave him even greater confidence.

“He had one day discovered through one of his imps—a familiar, as they are called—that the other members of his Order were conspiring against him. The man was amused by the discovery, and sensing his growing arrogance, the imp suggested that he summon a demon from the most powerful race of demons in the dark realm.

“By that time, he had grown to trust his familiar, since it was incapable of harming him. But in his arrogance, he forgot that an imp’s power lay not in its physical or magical prowess, but in its power of suggestion. It subtly manipulated his thoughts and finally, after some coaxing, convinced him that he was more than capable of summoning a Quentranzi demon.”

Akemi looked at the ground and then back to the path where she and the others now walked. “That was his undoing. Powerful he was, but no human is powerful enough to summon such a terrible monster. The imp knew this, and waited patiently as the foolish human grew in confidence and arrogance.

Finally, the mage summoned a Quentranzi, and although it was among the weakest of its brethren, the beast was still far more powerful than the dark mage could have imagined. Its presence was overwhelming but it appeared to be held by the seal.”

She smirked. “He was a fool. He didn’t know that Quentranzi are adept at manipulation. This fiend was no different, and in its infinite patience it let the human plan and prepare for the destruction of his Order, all the while feeding his ego and awaiting the opportunity it needed. After some time, the mage ‘unleashed’ the demon on his peers, and despite the combined efforts of the mages, it destroyed them all.

“The fiend had been taxed in the fight, but was far from weak, and when it returned, it laughed at the mage’s attempt to send it back to the abyss.”

Akemi seemed on the brink of utter disgust. “The demon let him believe he was in control until it was ready to strike. The mage’s prowess held him in the fight for a short time before the demon prevailed, torturing him in unspeakable ways. In the end, it took another faction, some ten monks from the Order of Dasha to send it back. Since then, it has been taboo to even speak of summoning a denizen of the abyss. Not even a simple imp.”

Her features darkened. “The power of this Drek has all my respect. If we come to fight him, it will be our greatest challenge, and we still have not felt the power of the Quentranzi general. Compared to the one known as Kabriza, the demon the dark mage summoned was nothing.”

Shinobu frowned. “How many of that horde of demons we fought were Quentranzi?”

Akemi turned a look on the strider that spoke of laughter. “The four pit demons could almost be considered equal to the lowest level Quentranzi demon … almost.”

“Oh, is that all?” the strider responded in mock cheerfulness.

“Sounds like we have our work cut out for us,” Kita said. “That last fight was tough enough, and we still have yet to face a real Quentranzi?” He looked at Kenyatta. “Gods help us.”

Akemi smiled and cupped Kita’s chin in her hand. “If it makes you feel any better, the Tasarien and the pit demon are not much different than lower Quentranzi, only more simple-minded. Tasarien are much smarter than pit demons, but less powerful overall. If we had fought a lower level Quentranzi, I believe the battle would have ended much the same.…”

“That would be comforting if our enemy was summoning a horde of weak Quentranzi,” Kita said.

Akemi shrugged. “We will be ready.”

Kenyatta thought about the growing taint he could see through the ninja’s eyes, and his tone was uncharacteristically sober. “If you think so.”

***

Chapter Thirty-Two

Brit walked to the balcony at the highest point of his fortress and looked out at the blight that encompassed the area. His thoughts were directed at that irritating tower and its unexpectedly resilient allies.

“Any more flawless plans, oh mighty Drek, destroyer of Takashaniel and conqueror of the world?” Kabriza’s mocking tone seemed commonplace at the fortress for some time now, and Brit’s patience was beginning to wear.

“Had I known I had employed forces that could not destroy five small humans wielding earthly weapons, I might have planned differently.” Brit eyed the demon towering over him. “The only thing impressive about your brethren is how efficiently they managed to die.”

Kabriza rumbled deep in his throat. “And yet the mighty one enlists such help, for he cannot achieve his goal alone.”

Brit refrained from grinding his teeth at the insufferable creature. Since he had summoned the Quentranzi general, it had been a constant battle of sardonic comments and outright insults. The fiend was obviously waiting for him to lose his temper, and thus his control.
But why not openly challenge me if he thinks he can destroy me?
That was what puzzled him the most about the demon. “Is there another reason for your visit with me or did you merely come to pollute my ear with foolishness, Kabriza?”

The floor began to shake, and doors and windows rattled. Red flames danced in the Quentranzi’s murderous eyes. “Perhaps I came to inform you that I have come to alleviate you of the burden of your life.”

Brit turned a flat, unconcerned look on the fiend, then turned his back. “Perhaps,” he replied. “But perhaps I could travel to your realm and destroy you all.” He smirked. “Perhaps, but not likely, my demon friend.”

“The humans move toward the tower,” Kabriza growled. “If they succeed any further I shall find amusement in your improvising of this situation,
tether
.” The demon spat the last word.

Brit kept his back turned. “That is not your concern. I summoned you for reasons that you are already aware of. Save your counsel, animal. I have made arrangements for every situation, should it arise.”

“Of course you have,” the demon chuckled, much to Brit’s irritation. “I doubt not that you have thought of everything and left nothing to chance. I am sure you are prepared for anything to happen, mighty Drek. I feel lucky to have such an ally as you by my side. Us lowly ones should kneel before such a power. Perhaps if I am lucky, you may feel kind enough to show me what true power is. I would be most grateful.”

Now Brit did turn, having reached the limits of his patience. The beast was gone. He stood for a moment, pondering this last conversation. Kabriza was not subtle with its challenge, and he was certain the fiend would attempt to undermine him at a very inconvenient time. Perhaps he could send it back to the abyss?

He expelled that thought before it had time to take root. The only reason he was able to maintain such a large host of fiends in this world was because Kabriza aided him. Not to mention a breach in contract with Grala would bring devastating results. Further, if he did fight and defeat Kabriza, he did not relish the thought of living with the vengeful wrath of the two most powerful Quentranzi hanging over his head.

There was only one course of action and that was to play his plan through, and watch his back. He smiled to himself.
Quentranzi may be powerful and cunning, but underestimation has always been one of their shortcomings.
If his powerful ally did decide to oppose him, he would be prepared.

* * *

Zreal and Szhegaza entered the large circular room and dropped to one knee as Zreal spoke. “Apologies for the disturbance, Master,” he began.

“No need for apologies, my friend,” Brit responded. “Your return is welcomed. What have you for me?”

Surprised and wary at the Drek’s uncharacteristic kindness, Szhegaza stood and moved forward. “We have done as you instructed, Master Brit,” she said. The Zitarian presented a dark crystal that pulsated between green and blue. She started to hand it to Brit, but before her arm was completely extended, the orb levitated from her palm and floated to rest in his. Without a word, she returned to her place by Zreal’s side.

“No need for such formalities,” Brit said, eyeing the crystal. “Stand.”

“Wards have been set about the entire fortress,” Szhegaza said. “If even one of the smelly things decides to act against you, you will know.”

Brit smiled. “You remind me of my wisdom in having you beside me, Zitarian.” He then looked at Zreal who was making a great effort to mask his irritation.

Szhegaza offered a narrow-eyed smile that seemed to stretch more in Zreal’s direction. “I am here to serve if it pleases you, Master Brit.”

“I am sure,” Brit replied, his expression hardening. The Zitarian warrior found her gaze dropping to the floor under that gaze.

“Understand, Szhegaza,” Brit continued. “I know well, and appreciate the nature and talents of the Zitarian race.”

At that moment both Szhegaza and Zreal felt a tremendous weight pressing down on them. The moment their knees started to buckle under the crushing force, it released. Szhegaza gasped and stumbled forward, but managed to keep her feet. Beside her, Zreal also panted, half doubled over.

“The Zitarian value alliance only with those worthy, Master Brit,” Szhegaza said in response to the obvious warning in regard to her treacherous race.

“And what does Szhegaza feel about such an alliance?” Brit asked.

“Honored,” she was quick to reply.

“You speak with sugar on your tongue, but poison can be disguised with sweetness.” Brit turned his back, motioning for them to follow. They entered a lightly decorated room where each section of a wall held a different piece of history that happened long ago. Zreal shut the door and looked over the wall paintings, focusing on one featuring a being that looked much like Brit, manipulating some unseen force against a spear wielding foe. Once his attention was fully focused on it, the painting animated, becoming a moving historical account of depicted conflict.

At the end of the room was a tall mirror. Brit motioned them closer. “The Quentranzi believes that its Bachatttas are my only means of monitoring our progress. He is wrong. I see everything.”

Zreal wondered if that statement was directed at more than just Kabriza.

They looked watched as their reflections in the mirror faded, then transitioned into the image of sprawling host of fiends the like neither Zreal nor Szhegaza had ever seen. They moved with remarkable speed toward the tower of light, leaving destruction in their wake.

“Do you think they will be able to get near the tower, Master?” Zreal asked.

“You don’t know the Quentranzi, Zreal,” Brit replied. “Takashaniel will hold them for a time, but no ward on earth can stop that horde from stomping that tower into oblivion. Although magic can defeat them, it takes powerful magic to do so, and I don’t think the Ilanyan will be able to work fast enough to draw such a power from the tower. Takashaniel will fall soon, and then the only concern I will have will involve our
allies
.” He left them to ponder his words.

Szhegaza was just opening her mouth to speak when Brit returned, standing halfway in the door. “If the two of you are ready, I have considered sending you to the tower if things turn ill. You would do well to prepare.” After he’d left again, Zreal and Szhegaza looked at each other.

The Zitarian shrugged. “I know you don’t trust me, Zreal, but considering the company surrounding us these days, I am the least threat to you.”

“I doubt that,” Zreal retorted. “But I don’t have much choice. We must look after each other in the midst of those things.” His face twisted in disgust. “Especially since the master plans to send us into battle with them.”

Szhegaza laughed. “You do have a point, my dear Zreal, but consider this. Why do you think he would send us into battle with such powerful monsters as those? Do you really think he believes the two of us could tip the scale any more in his favor? Of course not! Our usefulness lies on the path that crosses with those troublesome humans.”

Zreal smiled as she left the room. “Pest control,” he hissed. Standing there, Zreal considered his situation.
Strange times,
he thought. Never would he have imagined aligning himself with one of the most deceitful creatures he had ever known. Ironically, he trusted her more than his master’s demon allies, but he knew to keep his disapproval to himself.

Although there was never much trust between Zetsuans and Zitarians, he had often wondered what it would be like to battle alongside his cousin species. He found himself excited at the prospect.
It has been a while since I have been in a good fight,
he thought. And after all, they were only humans.

* * *

The five warriors maintained a swift pace for several hours, moving from open field to wooded patch and through the many hills that dotted the landscape. Kenjiro could hardly believe his eyes at the surroundings he now looked upon. So different, were these lands when he was a child. Sensei Akutagawa was right, the world was changing at a rapid pace and it seemed that in time, they would hardly be able to recognize it. As his mind wandered, he thought of the other possibilities. That huge thing swimming in the lake that had grabbed the Krindra back at the patch of woods they’d rested in some time back. The Krindra was a massive beast, but the water creature had little trouble snatching it into the water as if it were a small dog. Would animals like those come to inhabit the world in addition to the other changes? The samurai frowned. It was a grim possibility.

Akemi focused on nothing but keeping up, but dark thoughts and intentions kept creeping into her mind. It was a constant battle to push them out. At times when her mind was unclear, her judgment wavered under the weight of what seemed a great burden resting on her shoulders. At one point her eyes began to droop as a pervasive sleep crept on her. With an effort, she shook it off and increased her speed, but only for a short time before she fell back to a slower pace once again.

Kenjiro and Kenyatta noticed her inconsistent pace several times and kept a watchful eye. The taint was becoming stronger in her again, and neither of them knew what to do. Somehow, the two friends doubted another treatment like the one Kenjiro had used before would be effective this time.

Still the ninja ran on, more determined than ever not to let the evil overcome her. She looked into the distance and smiled in relief.

They were within a few miles of a canyon that stretched out to the right. From their vantage above, they could see its depths scored with ravines and trenches so deep, they gave the place the look of a labyrinth. Already they could feel the winds increasing. As they approached, the open fields were replaced by mounds and hills sprinkled with trees, shrubs, and outcroppings.

Suddenly, the wind shifted to an awkward angle and turned against them. Not only did they work twice as hard to maintain their speed against the wind, but also to remain in a straight line. The struggle became increasingly difficult as the wind constantly shifted, causing them to lean forward into it, then shifting again sideways and then in their favor, causing them to stumble at the unexpected ease.

Kenjiro stole a glance at the others. Navigating these constantly shifting winds was tiring, and they would need to rest soon. The wind gave a harsh shift, and Shinobu stumbled. With quick reflexes, the strider rolled with the motion and came smoothly back to his feet.
There has to be a better way to do this,
he thought.

Tree branches and bright green and orange leaves swayed in the howling wind. High above them, a bird glided in the cloudless sky. It looked only as big as a crow at such a distance, but crows were not known to hover in place, as this bird was doing. Gracefully, the bird of prey glided, shifting its tail subtly and allowing the wind to carry it this way and that, while maintaining control.

At the sight of the large bird, Shinobu realized their error. They could use the wind to an advantage at times, and move against it with efficiency at others. In order to prove this theory to himself, he waited till the wind shifted in their favor again, then he leaned slightly back into it, straightening a bit. Although he still kept pace, he was using less energy than before. Knowing that the wind would change again soon, he waited. As soon as he felt the wind shift against them again, he leaned forward, low to the ground. The wind passed over him more easily, and he was able to exert less energy moving against it. He overtook Kita, and then held his pace. With a nod from the strider, the other warrior watched.

Once the wind shifted at an angle but in their favor again, he straightened a bit and allowed himself to be pushed along.

Kita followed and found it much easier to accept help from the wind instead of using the same energy no matter the direction. Shinobu also used the powerful winds to his advantage by speaking in a slightly louder than normal voice to the others in front. Although no one else spoke, in order to conserve energy and breath, the strider remembered the very reason they were traveling to this particular place. The winds were strong, and would carry sound much farther than normal.
Why not try now?
he thought. He spoke in a voice only a bit louder than normal, and called for the others to follow his lead and watch. To his confirmation and amusement, the others glanced over their shoulders at him in response.

He and Kita easily overtook the others and Shinobu took the lead, rising with the wind that aided them, and lowering under the wind that pushed against them. He found that the others not only adapted, but fell into line behind him, allowing each other to absorb more of the force of the pushing wind, and then spreading apart so that everyone could benefit from the wind when it pushed at their backs. Once they had established a technique, they moved like a flock of birds, shifting this way and that in unison, zigzagging across the land but still making their way to the canyon ahead.

They alternated as the head of the group, allowing the previous leader to rest behind him when the wind pushed against them. Akemi was the only exception. The others signaled for her to remain behind and not take the burden. When she did not argue for her turn, Kenjiro knew she must be struggling.