Death from desert E-Book

Báthori István

• Herausgeber: WS
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 338

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Beschreibung

In the ancient sea of sand that is the desert, legends and deadly secrets lie hidden. King Ezra, ruler of Calah, refuses to accept the inevitability of mortality and embarks on a quest to uncover the tomb of King Odrex—the enigmatic monarch whose name is entwined with forbidden power. The journey is fraught with peril, and alongside loyal companions, Ezra's mission is overshadowed by traitors and sinister intentions.
Yet, the threat does not come from external forces alone. The desire for power and the yearning for immortality demand a price that could seal not only Ezra's fate but also the future of the entire kingdom.
Death from the Desert is a captivating tale of courage, betrayal, and the boundlessness of human ambition. This epic journey, filled with twists and unforgettable characters, is a perfect choice for fans of historical fantasy.

Leseprobe

Báthori István

Death from desert

Fantasy novel

Nusfalău, 2024

Warning! The book is not recommended for readers under the age of 16!

1. Beginnings

Mesopotamia, the fortress of Calah, 3200 BCE.

Chief Advisor Villen stood on one of the upper terraces of the royal palace, gazing out over the city. Beyond the city, to the southwest, the silhouette of the Mantra Mountains was clearly visible. Deep in thought, Villen barely noticed the approaching king. Accompanied by two armed guards, Ezra, the king of Calah, stepped forward. The sunlight glinted off his royal garments, adorned with shimmering gold and jewels, marking his noble status unmistakably. In his mid-forties, Ezra bore the traits of both a battle-hardened soldier and a reflective ruler. His dark brown hair, falling onto his shoulders, framed a face etched with ambition and responsibility. His well-groomed beard accentuated a sharp jawline, while his steely gaze seemed to weigh the world. Dressed in deep red and gold royal attire, richly embroidered and adorned with gemstones, he exuded wealth and power. His golden crown, inlaid with rubies and sapphires, rested heavily on his forehead—a symbol of authority but also a burden. His tall, broad-shouldered figure presented a man equally at home on the battlefield or in the council chamber, embodying unwavering resolve. Yet beneath this regal exterior lay a restless energy, the shadow of an unyielding desire for immortality. He stood silently beside Villen for a few moments before breaking the silence.

"Have you ever wondered what will happen after us?" he asked.

"Sire, I believe everyone has pondered that at least once in their life and likely reached the same conclusion," Villen replied. "Namely, that we will never know or see it!"

"I want more than that!" the king declared. "I don’t want to simply die, leaving behind empty and ever-fading memories. There must be another way."

"Perhaps through poetry and the arts, your memory may endure longer than as a ruler," Villen suggested.

"Advisor, surely my father, when he was king, did he not commission statues of himself, scattered across the realm? And what is their fate? Statues, too, crumble into dust over time, just as the king does in his burial chamber. Or perhaps in odes and verses, in tales, his memory might live on? Possible, but it fades, and he gradually becomes legend, like Odrex of old, once the most renowned ruler of the desert, whose existence is now doubted. And where is he? Three centuries have passed since he vanished, and his name, his memory, slowly disintegrates."

"With respect, Sire, perhaps yes, perhaps no. Though he no longer lives, three centuries have passed, and people still speak of him," Villen noted.

"I want more than that, Villen! I am forty-six years old now and have only reigned as king for ten years," Ezra declared, gazing into the distance. "I will find a way for my story not to end like anyone else's."

At that moment, new footsteps echoed from the entrance to the terrace. Chief Advisor Mardek approached with his apprentice, Elek. Mardek, though a member of the king’s inner circle, was a divisive figure. Renowned at court for his sharp insight and quick wit, he was equally infamous for his calculating nature and self-serving attitude. His dark hair, meticulously combed back, was streaked with gray, a testament to years spent navigating the web of court intrigues. His black and deep green attire, seemingly simple, revealed subtle finery and hidden embellishments upon closer inspection, hinting at his concealed vanity. His face, stern and expressionless, often bore a rigid smile, more suggestive of mockery than genuine goodwill. His searching gaze seemed always to look for opportunities to turn situations to his advantage. For Mardek, power was not just a tool but an ultimate goal, and he rarely hid this. While he appeared loyal to King Ezra, many at court believed Mardek prioritized his own advancement. His advice often carried hidden agendas, cloaked in persuasive words. Rumors abounded of his involvement in intrigues against other court members who posed a threat to his position. Despite this, the king frequently sought his counsel, valuing his practicality and decisiveness, especially in times requiring swift action. This duality—the appearance of loyalty coupled with covert ambition—made Mardek one of the most dangerous figures in the court. Beside him stood Elek, his nineteen-year-old apprentice, brimming with enthusiasm and curiosity. Slender in build, Elek moved energetically, his bright blue eyes constantly sparkling. Though prone to rash decisions, his sharp intellect and diligence set him apart from his peers, promising a bright future.

"Sire, with your permission, the Grand Council is ready for the meeting and awaits your presence," Mardek broke the silence.

"Very well, let us go, Villen," said the king. He began to walk slowly toward the council chamber, Villen by his side.

Meanwhile, General Wolcen and his entourage arrived at the royal court, clad in gleaming armor with gold-hilted swords at their sides. They left their horses with the stable boys at the gates. Wolcen, the feared master of the battlefield and the most renowned general of the kingdom of Calah, commanded respect and fear merely by his presence. His tall, powerful stature and sharp gaze spoke volumes. His short, patchy hair and scarred face told the story of countless battles fought. His shining armor and gold-hilted sword reflected his rank, while his calm and decisive words demonstrated his character. Wolcen was not only an experienced general but also a loyal advisor, always prioritizing the king’s safety. A strict but just leader, he earned unwavering respect from his men and never wavered from duty. Upon entering the courtyard, he immediately inquired of the guards where King Ezra could be found. The captain of the guards quickly sent a messenger into the palace to find out. Soon, the messenger returned.

"King Ezra is currently in a council meeting," said the messenger, "but before he entered, he left instructions that if Lord Wolcen arrives, he should wait for him in the royal quarters."

"Very well," replied Wolcen. "See to it that my men are provided for and allowed to rest," he instructed the steward, Derek, who had just arrived.

"Of course, my lord," Derek, the king’s steward and caretaker, responded.

Wolcen began walking slowly toward the palace. Ascending the long stairs, he reached the throne room doors, greeted the two royal guards standing there, and was saluted with bows. Turning right from the throne room, he headed to the upper level of the palace, where the king’s quarters were located. Two royal guards stood firmly at the entrance, allowing entry only to the king, the queen, Wolcen, Villen, or those with explicit permission. As Wolcen arrived, the guards stepped aside, granting him access.Inside, the familiar royal opulence awaited him: gold-encrusted couches, exquisite ivory tables and chairs, luxurious tapestries, and the finest silks everywhere. Sitting on one of the couches, he began eating the grapes laid out on the table, one by one.

In the meantime, as the brief council session concluded, footsteps echoed from the hallway, and the door swung open to reveal Ezra and Villen. Wolcen stood out of respect for the king, but Ezra motioned for him to sit, and they seated themselves opposite him.

"What news do you bring?" the king asked.

"I believe the best news in recent times," Wolcen replied. "We have discovered the most intriguing tomb so far during our excavations, far in the southern reaches of the Fenri Desert. I think you must see it, Sire. It may even date back to the time of the late Odrex and belong to him. Our men are still working there, supervised by Azar. We’ve unearthed an enormous chamber from beneath the sand dunes, and one discovery leads to another. Over four hundred workers are on site."

"Could it truly belong to Odrex?" the king asked in astonishment, his eyes lighting up. "Then I must see it. Chief Advisor Villen, what do you think?"

"Sire, if I may, I believe we should first confirm its true value before traveling for days to the distant desert," Villen suggested.

"I am certain it is valuable!" Wolcen declared. "Otherwise, I wouldn’t have set out immediately with some of my men to cross the desert myself—I would have simply sent a messenger to inform you of my arrival. But I am convinced there is something significant under the sands."

"Very well," the king nodded and called out to the guards at the door to summon Derek, the steward. Meanwhile, he rose and walked to the window, from where the majestic descent of the setting sun could be seen. I refuse to vanish into nothingness like this, he thought to himself. I must do something to ensure that doesn’t happen.

Shortly after, Derek arrived. The steward, the embodiment of order and discipline, was a middle-aged, short, and somewhat stocky man. His quick movements and sharp eyes missed nothing in the palace. His dark hair was always meticulously combed, and his attire, though simple, was impeccably clean, reflecting his precise nature.

"Steward!" said the king. "Ensure that the royal carriage is prepared by dawn tomorrow, and inform the commander of the royal guard about my upcoming journey, as I will be leaving for a time."

"As you wish, Sire!" Derek bowed and hurried away.

"Wolcen, get some rest. At dawn, we depart to cross the desert again—I hope this time not in vain!" said the king, recalling their previous expeditions.

"Certainly, Sire. This time, I am confident we have found something valuable," the general said confidently. He then bowed, bid farewell, and departed.

Meanwhile, Chief Advisor Villen sat quietly, stroking his silver hair. Villen, one of the king's most esteemed advisors, was an aging yet commanding figure whose appearance reflected decades of wisdom and service. His crimson cloak, a personal gift from the king, symbolized both his rank and loyalty. This attire distinguished his venerable presence amid the bustle of the royal court. His silver hair shone like a crown, framing a sharp mind and deep knowledge. His dark brown eyes mirrored lessons of the past and the burdens of the future. Tall but slightly stooped, his stature hinted at years of trials and devotion. With his composed demeanor and wise words, Villen commanded respect in every situation. His deep, steady voice carried deliberation and insight. Though younger and perhaps more energetic advisors surrounded him, Villen was the most reliable due to his authority and experience. He was the one the king often turned to when making the kingdom's most critical decisions. Villen thought not only of the present but also of the future; every piece of advice he gave was aimed at preserving the kingdom's stability and the king’s legacy. Outwardly calm, he was driven by a deep concern for the security and future of the realm.

Soon, the door opened again, and Queen Miriam appeared. Queen Miriam, with her beauty and grace, was the jewel of the royal court. Her long, golden-blonde hair and finely sculpted features reflected a wise and strong woman who had won not only the palace but also the hearts of the people. Her eyes radiated a gentle yet firm gaze, underpinned by deep love and selflessness. Though delicately feminine, Miriam’s courage and quick decisions in moments of danger made her much more than an adornment by the throne. She was a queen who would do anything to protect her son and her kingdom. Villen stood as she entered.

"I hear you are leaving again, Sire," she said sorrowfully. "How long will you be away this time?"

"I do not know yet, my dear," the king replied. "In my absence, you will oversee the kingdom's affairs, with Advisor Villen's assistance."

"Say goodbye to Prince Alexander before you go. The journey is dangerous, even for a king!" Miriam said with concern. "He is already in his room, about to retire for the night. Please go now, Sire, I beg you."

"Very well!" the king agreed. "Villen, come with me!"

Miriam remained behind, staring ahead as Ezra and Villen left the royal quarters together. She was uneasy about the king's growing obsession with his quest for immortality. After a short walk, Ezra and Villen reached Prince Alexander’s quarters, located next to the royal suite and guarded at the door. Alexander was the king's only child. Unlike many other monarchs, Ezra maintained neither a harem nor any other wives apart from Miriam. The young prince had recently turned seven and had begun his military training as was customary. Entering the room, they found Alexander on the carpet with Lizi, his nursemaid, playing with wooden blocks. Upon seeing his father, the prince ran over to him immediately. Unfortunately, Ezra's royal duties left him with little time for his son. Lizi stood and bowed.

"With your permission, my lord, I will take my leave," Lizi said.

"Of course, you may go," Ezra replied, taking a seat on the couch beside the table.

The prince’s quarters, like the rest of the palace, were a display of royal opulence and splendor befitting one of the richest kings of the East. Alexander quickly climbed into his father’s lap and began asking questions.

"Sire"—even he had to use the formal address—"are you leaving again tomorrow?" the boy asked with curious eyes.

"Yes, my son. The king has important matters to attend to, so I will be away for a time. But I promise it won’t be long, and I will return soon," Ezra reassured him.

"Where are you going now?" the prince asked further. "Can I come with you this time?"

"No, my son, I am sorry," Ezra said gently. "For now, you must stay here and continue learning about the world. Life outside the palace, especially in the desert, is not without danger. But do not worry about me; I know my way even beyond these walls!"

"Sire, pardon the interruption," Villen interjected, "but I should notify the treasurer to set aside an appropriate sum of gold denarii for your journey tomorrow."

"Ah, of course, Villen," the king replied. "I don’t know what I’d do without you—I had completely forgotten. Please inform Treasurer Fenir to prepare seven thousand gold denarii."

"Understood. With your permission, I will take my leave," Villen said with a bow.

The king waved him off, remaining with his son. They continued talking for a while about the king’s journey. Villen quickly made his way down the palace's grand ivory staircase, its edges gilded in gold, which stretched sixty meters from the palace courtyard to the uppermost floor. The palace itself, with its eight levels, was one of the tallest buildings in Calah, surpassed only by the city library and its central tower. Reaching the second floor of the palace, Villen soon arrived at the treasury. The guards promptly allowed him entry, where Treasurer Fenir was still present with his assistants. Fenir, the palace treasurer, was a strict and calculating man, his every thought revolving around gold and expenditures. His stern demeanor and meticulously kept records were the bedrock of the kingdom’s economic stability. Though not particularly amiable, his expertise and precision made him indispensable at court.

"Treasurer!" Villen greeted with a formal hand gesture. "By the king’s order, I instruct you to prepare seven thousand gold denarii for the king’s journey tomorrow morning."

"Advisor Villen, greetings," Fenir replied. "I will have it prepared. May I know where the king is traveling?"

"He has matters in the southernmost part of the desert," Villen replied. "Please ensure the sum is ready in full by morning for the king."

"As His Majesty commands," Fenir answered and signaled his assistants to follow him.

Villen turned and left. Upon reaching the courtyard, he noticed that night had fallen, and it was likely quite late. He summoned a servant and instructed him to inform the king of his departure and that he would return before the king’s departure at dawn. Villen then boarded his carriage and left the palace, escorted by eight mounted guards, heading to his home just seven hundred meters from the palace.

Meanwhile, on the highest level of the library tower, with its open terrace, a young man lay on a couch, gazing at the stars. A deep yet gentle voice called out from inside:

"Dreaming again, Henry, my boy?"

It was Benett, the librarian, a man of immense knowledge who had dedicated his life to books and had now passed seventy years of age. In the city of Calah, where no fewer than forty-eight thousand people lived, everyone knew him. His wisdom, however, reached far beyond the city's borders, as he was often invited as a guest by neighboring kings. Although Benett had no children of his own, he regarded his apprentices as such, especially Henry. Henry, a young man of barely twenty, was intelligent and sharp yet also a great dreamer.

"Master Benett, do you think humans will ever get close to the stars?" Henry asked curiously.

"My boy, you’re pondering the intangible again! Unless mankind learns to fly, my answer is no!" Benett replied with a hint of humor, stepping out onto the terrace.

"But they’re so beautiful and wondrous! Why do they shine like thousands of tiny torches? And why do they seem to shift positions night after night?" Henry continued, his curiosity unabated.

"I don’t know, my boy. Of all the sciences, astronomy is not my strong suit. But if you’re truly interested, I could recommend you to the Astronomers’ Guild," Benett said with a laugh. "Why not delve into the books and the wisdom and knowledge within them instead of pondering the stars? This is one of the world’s largest libraries, with tens of thousands of books and documents." His tone turned serious.

"You know, Master, I spend nearly all day reading and copying manuscripts, but it would be wonderful to experience things, to journey into the unknown—to go east, west, north, and south and see where the edges of the earth lie!" Henry exclaimed.

"I understand," Benett said, much to Henry’s surprise. "I believe everything has its time in life. That time will come for you too, when you’ll have your adventures. No one expects you to spend your whole life in this library. But tell you what—if you’d like, I’ll go to the king tomorrow and recommend you as an envoy. Despite your youth, you’re well-versed in the sciences and fluent in five languages. It shouldn’t be difficult to convince him to send you along with his envoys to another country. That way, you can see the world."

"Would you really do that, Master?" Henry leapt to his feet.

"Of course," Benett replied. "Perhaps you’ve learned enough from books. Maybe you’re right, and it’s time to see the world. Upon your return, you can tell me all about it. Who knows, even old Benett might learn something new in his old age."

"That would be wonderful!" Henry said, his excitement palpable.

"Very well, but I think it’s time for us to rest now," Benett suggested.

"I’ll stay a bit longer and watch the stars; the sky is so clear tonight," Henry said, lying back down on the couch.

Benett nodded and left. Henry continued to watch the stars for a while longer before sleep finally overtook him.

2. The Kingdom

At dawn, the royal palace courtyard buzzed with activity. The master of the stables and his attendants were bringing out the prepared horses and hitching them to the carriages. Villen arrived just as the royal carriage, ready for departure, stood gleaming in the early sunlight. Four additional covered wagons were being loaded with barrels of water, beverages, and non-perishable food for the journey, which was expected to last 8-10 days.

The route would pass through several cities and settlements within the kingdom, and fresh messengers had already departed on rested horses, carrying written orders to prepare for the king's reception. On the far side of the courtyard, the sunlight caught the polished armor of the knights, who were preparing to escort the king. General Wolcen was addressing them, ensuring their readiness. The royal carriage would be accompanied by seventy knights, providing both protection and spectacle.

Near the palace steps, Villen noticed Chief Advisor Mardek deep in discussion with two other council members. Approaching them, Villen greeted them and inquired:

"Gentlemen, what’s the matter this early in the morning?"

"Not long ago, a man—some kind of soothsayer—appeared at the gates," one of the advisors explained. "He told the guards, who didn’t let him in, that the king must not embark on this journey because it would bring only death. That’s why we’re debating so animatedly."

The advisor continued, "We believe the king should be informed, but Chief Advisor Mardek insists it was just a drunken fool rambling nonsense and not worth troubling the king before his departure."

"Hmm, interesting," Villen mused. "How would a fool know that the king was leaving at dawn today? No one outside the palace was informed."

"Well, he may have seen the decorated royal carriage being prepared and guessed it was for the king. Perhaps he thought if he offered a blessing for the journey, he’d be rewarded. When he wasn’t allowed in, he started spouting nonsense," Mardek suggested dismissively.

Villen pondered this silently until the king and queen appeared on the steps, descending toward the courtyard. Wolcen joined them, and together they waited as Ezra and Miriam approached. The king greeted everyone with a wave, prompting bows from all present.

Stopping near his advisors and Wolcen, Ezra said, "I see everything is ready for my journey."

"Yes, Sire," Wolcen replied. "Your carriage is prepared, the royal knights are in place, and I’ve assembled the finest warriors for your safety."

"Excellent. We’ll depart shortly!" the king ordered.

"As you wish, Sire," Wolcen replied, bowing before heading to the knights to finalize the arrangements.

The king exchanged a few final words with his advisors about kingdom matters, then walked with Queen Miriam to the carriage. Miriam’s displeasure at her husband’s departure was evident, but she accepted his decision with grace. They spoke briefly beside the carriage before the king climbed inside.

Wolcen issued commands, and the knights mounted their horses. He arranged the escort: thirty knights at the front, thirty at the rear, and ten on either side of the carriage, with Wolcen leading the procession. The gates opened, and the royal party began its journey. Miriam stood watching until they disappeared from sight.

Across the city, people emerged from doorways and windows, speculating on the king's destination and the purpose of his journey, given the large escort. The commotion roused Henry from his sleep on the rooftop terrace of the library tower. Still groggy, he looked around and saw the procession glinting in the sunlight as it wound its way out of the city. He headed inside, searching for Benett.

"Master! Master!" Henry called out.

"What’s the matter, sleepyhead?" Benett’s voice replied from behind a bookshelf.

"Master Benett, I think the king is leaving the city right now," Henry said, his tone slightly downcast as he recalled Benett’s promise from the night before.

"Is that so?" Benett said, stepping out from behind the shelves.

"Yes! Come up quickly and see for yourself!" Henry urged, already leading the way back up the stairs.

On the rooftop, the royal procession was still visible, nearing the city gates. Benett shaded his eyes with one hand to get a clearer view against the bright sunlight. Together, they watched as the royal party slowly disappeared into the distance.

"My boy, I’m an old man; I can’t see that far. Perhaps it wasn’t the royal carriage you saw, just a delegation leaving the palace for somewhere," Benett remarked.

"No, no," Henry insisted. "I’m certain it was a decorated carriage surrounded by many knights."

"Very well, I’ll look into it. I’ll go to the palace shortly," Benett assured him.

"Can I come too?" Henry asked eagerly.

"Why not," the old man nodded. "But first, we’ll wait for the apprentices to arrive and assign their tasks for the day, then we can go."

Benett and Henry descended to the library’s lowest floor to have their breakfast. Just as they finished, the apprentices began arriving, forming a line by the door. Henry opened the library door and greeted them.

Master Benett oversaw about thirty young apprentices at the library. Their duties extended beyond studying and reading; they maintained the library by cleaning, dusting shelves, and copying books and documents as needed. These were considered fortunate tasks compared to working in the scorching fields, and their income came from the royal treasury. The library itself was funded by King Ezra, who was known to spend considerable time reading.

After Benett assigned the day’s tasks to the apprentices, he and Henry changed into more appropriate attire and set off toward the palace. The library building stood about two kilometers from the palace on the far side of the Haren River, which split the city of Calah in two. Several bridges spanned the river, and the two men crossed through one of the bustling city markets.

Amid the noise and chatter, they overheard rumors: the king had indeed left the city, and no one knew where or why.

"It seems you were right, Henry, my boy. The king must have departed; everyone in the market is talking about it," Benett said as they approached one of the bridges spanning the Haren River.

"I told you, Master!" Henry replied triumphantly.

"Well, we’ll confirm it while we’re out. And since we’ll pass back through the market, we should pick up a few things we need," Benett said, continuing onward.

Before long, they reached the palace gates. The guards recognized Master Benett, greeting him respectfully and opening the gates. Inside, the courtyard was much quieter than usual. The royal servants were tending to their routine tasks, and Derek, the steward, was handing coins to some servants, instructing them to purchase supplies for the kitchen from the market.

Spotting Benett and Henry, Derek approached them.

"Greetings, Master Benett!" Derek said warmly.

"Greetings to you as well, Derek," Benett replied.

"How may I assist you?" Derek asked courteously.

"Could you inform Advisor Villen that we’re here, if he has returned to the palace?" Benett inquired.

"Of course. I saw Advisor Villen here this morning. I’ll send someone to notify him immediately," Derek said, gesturing to a servant.

"Go and find Chief Advisor Villen, and let him know that Master Benett is waiting for him in the courtyard," Derek instructed.

The servant quickly departed. Meanwhile, Benett and Henry took a seat on a bench in the courtyard, near a splendid flowering bush.

On the road, the royal carriage and its escort had already left Calah, heading south. Looking out of the carriage window, King Ezra observed the fields, where workers toiled like industrious ants. He sat alone in the carriage, accompanied only by several scrolls and books he had brought for the journey.Tiring of the view, he picked up one of the scrolls and began to read, immersing himself in the words as the carriage moved steadily toward its destination.

"Odrex was not only wise but also mad. His thirst for power completely clouded his judgment, leading him to conduct extensive research into weapons development, poison mixing, and so on. Many successful weapons innovations are associated with his name. He decided to conquer, if possible, the whole world, although his kingdom's territory was very small compared to others.Toward the end of his life, many despised him for this; no diplomatic relations were maintained with him, and his envoys were not even admitted to many royal palaces. However, Odrex remained adamant. He constantly sought ways to expand his kingdom and solidify his power in the entire region. He turned to occult sciences, employing all sorts of sorcerers, quacks, and shamans within his palace walls, and his people feared him greatly.Over time, his obsession worsened, and rumors circulated about the experiments conducted within the palace walls, claiming that the king experimented on both humans and animals. Those among his principal advisors who did not support his plans were either imprisoned or executed. Toward the end of his life, he locked himself in his palace and no longer cared even for his children. Everyone was merely waiting for the inevitable end.However, the king's health held on remarkably well. One day, he unexpectedly summoned his firstborn son and suddenly transferred royal authority to him. The kingdom didn’t know what to make of it, but the people ultimately breathed a sigh of relief.Odrex then disappeared. Rumors spread that his sorcerers had discovered something—something that represented greater power than royal authority—and that the former king and his followers had departed into the desert. Their location has never been found since.Legends circulate about how they may have uncovered the secret of immortality and that somewhere, Odrex might still be alive to this day. Others believe that the mad king perished in the desert along with his followers. His secret has not been unraveled, and perhaps it never will be, remaining hidden in the eternal sands of the desert."

Dated: 3482 BCE

The king set down the scroll and stared into space for a long while. He found himself increasingly sympathizing with Odrex, a thought that unsettled him, even frightened him slightly. Yet he brushed these feelings aside, focusing instead on the idea that perhaps Odrex had discovered something of immense value—something that could also serve Ezra’s purpose.

He picked up the report from Wolcen's researchers, which detailed their findings. The tomb they had uncovered contained numerous mysterious and unknown symbols, as well as inscriptions and stone tablets pointing to Odrex. One of the statues was even believed to depict the mad king himself. I must see this for myself, Ezra thought.

The royal carriage continued its journey, flanked by its escort. By midday, the sun was high, and Ezra ordered the party to halt. Wolcen rode up beside the king’s carriage.

"Wolcen, let’s stop here. Let the horses and people rest and have something to eat. Make sure the horses are fed as well," Ezra commanded.

"Yes, Sire!" Wolcen nodded.

The group formed two semicircles around the carriage and wagons, setting up a temporary camp to eat their provisions. Ezra motioned for Wolcen to join him in the carriage. The general dismounted, tied his horse to a nearby wagon, and entered the carriage, seating himself across from the king as a servant served them lunch.

"Have the patrols been doubled?" Ezra asked.

"Yes, Sire, as always when the king or queen travels beyond the city. Patrols between settlements along our route have been doubled. Messengers were sent with orders last night after I arrived at the palace," Wolcen replied.

"Excellent. Hopefully, our journey to the southernmost part of the kingdom will be uneventful. If I’m not mistaken, I’ve never been that far south myself," Ezra remarked.

"A splendid region, aside from all the sand," Wolcen joked, then turned serious. "But in all seriousness, I’m confident we’ll find something there. Tomb raiders haven’t reached that area."

"I sincerely hope so," Ezra said, furrowing his brow.

After lunch, Wolcen rejoined the escort, and the party resumed its journey toward their first overnight stop, the village of Tarat.

Meanwhile, back at the palace, Villen was bidding farewell to Benett and Henry, who had been guests at the palace throughout the morning. Villen informed them that the king had headed south to the Fenri Desert following the discovery of a tomb by Wolcen, believed to be connected to Odrex. The news was troubling to Benett, who had known Ezra since childhood and had even taught him to read and write. However, it seemed as if the king had changed of late, becoming consumed with fear of mortality despite being only forty-six years old. Ezra’s growing obsession with discovering the secret of immortality had driven him to excavate ancient royal tombs in search of answers or knowledge to aid his quest.

Henry followed Benett, disappointed that they had been unable to speak with the king. For now, he remained in the library’s service.

"Don’t be upset; the king won’t stay away forever," Benett reassured him.

"I know, but I was so eager to see the world!" Henry lamented.

"You’ll have your chance, plenty of it. You’re young—unlike me at seventy years old," Benett encouraged.

As they reached the market, they bought the items they needed and then returned to the library.

In the eastern part of the kingdom, near the Balt Oasis, three riders were racing to see who was the fastest. Their goal was a large palm tree on the edge of the oasis. The sand billowed behind the horses as they charged forward. First to reach the tree was a muscular young man with brown skin, brown hair, and dressed in white robes and a turban. Close behind were the other two riders.

"I won! I won again!" he declared triumphantly.

The other two riders slowed to let their horses catch their breath. One was a stunning young woman with long blonde hair and blue eyes, dressed in noble attire adorned with gemstones. The other was a young man whose windburned face betrayed the harsh conditions he lived in.

"That’s not fair, Samir. You only won because your horse is faster than ours—not because you’re more skilled," the woman said.

"That’s not true! Erik, you saw it, right? My victory wasn’t just because of my horse," Samir said, seeking support from his friend. "Nooba just doesn’t want to admit I’m better than her."

"It’s all your horse’s doing, and you know it!" Nooba teased.

"Let her have it," Erik said with a grin. "Otherwise, you’ll be stuck listening to her complain all day."

The three young riders dismounted, tying their horses to the large tree. They sprawled in its shade. Erik took out his water flask, filled from the oasis spring, and drank deeply.

"It feels so good to lie here in the shade and do nothing," Nooba sighed.

"That’s easy for you to say, being the daughter of the Sevola tribe’s leader," Samir retorted. "You’ve got servants to do everything for you!"

"That’s not true! I’m not some spoiled princess!" Nooba protested.

"Alright, alright, I’m just teasing," Samir said with a laugh. "But you must admit, Erik and I grew up differently among the nomads. Work and battle, battle and work—that was our entertainment while wandering."

"Speaking of which," Nooba said eagerly, "you both promised to teach me how to fight with a sword and shield—and archery too. When can we start?"

"It’s all we need, for your father to see us putting a weapon in your hands!" Erik replied.

"Why? I’m not a little girl anymore; I’m nineteen years old. I need to learn how to defend myself!" Nooba insisted.

"Then convince your father, because otherwise, we’ll be the ones to blame, and he’ll kick us out of the oasis!" Samir added.

"Alright, fine," Nooba conceded. "But you both know my father likes you and is glad you joined us."

"Maybe so, but it’s better to ask," Erik agreed.

"We should head back before they start looking for us," Samir suggested. "They might notice the princess is missing."

"I’m not talking to you anymore today!" Nooba pouted.

The three stood, mounted their horses, and rode back.

The Balt Oasis, located in the eastern part of Baltmor Kingdom, was the largest oasis in the region. It was a lush haven of greenery and palm trees surrounding three lakes fed by fresh springs, making it an ideal home for the semi-nomadic Sevola tribe. Phil, the tribe's leader and Nooba’s father, had an agreement with King Ezra granting the tribe the right to live in the oasis in exchange for strengthening the kingdom’s eastern border defenses.

The Sevola tribe’s warriors had often repelled raiding nomads from neighboring territories. Although these skirmishes occasionally came with losses, the tribe considered the oasis a paradise worth protecting. The fresh grazing land for their livestock and arable land around the lakes were invaluable. The Sevola tribe numbered about 1,400 members, skilled in combat from a young age and formidable foes in battle.

Despite its wealth, Baltmor Kingdom faced challenges. Spanning approximately 140,000 square kilometers, two-thirds of its land was desert, unsuitable for agriculture or livestock. The Mantra Mountains, the only mountain range in the kingdom, rose to a peak of nearly 980 meters and were visible from the capital, Calah. The kingdom’s prosperity was partly due to the wealth of iron, copper, and silver ore extracted from the mountains. Gold was also discovered during the reign of Ezra’s father, leading to the establishment of a small gold mine under strict military supervision. However, the kingdom lacked a coastline, a fact that Ezra often lamented.

Baltmor’s largest lake, Odea, spanned about 180 square kilometers, fed by the Nai River, one of three rivers traversing the kingdom. The rivers Darena, Nai, and Haren shaped the kingdom's agriculture and livestock industries, with most settlements situated along their banks.

Samir, Nooba, and Erik soon arrived at the Sevola tribe’s camp, located between the three lakes of the oasis. Phil was giving instructions to the warriors when they arrived, as news of raiders had reached them.Phil, Nooba’s father, was a proud and experienced leader, embodying wisdom and strategic thinking. His tall, muscular figure exuded authority, and his long black hair, often adorned with battle decorations, added to his imposing presence. His sharp eyes conveyed determination and unwavering commitment to his tribe.

"The selected men should prepare. We depart for the border tonight to track down the raiders!" Phil declared as the young trio approached.

"Another incursion into the kingdom, Father?" Nooba asked.

"Yes," Phil replied, "and don’t even think about coming with us!"

"Then at least let Samir and Erik teach me how to handle a weapon!" Nooba insisted.

"The last thing I need is the tribe leader’s daughter wielding weapons. Go to your mother and the women, and learn from them!" Phil said sternly.

"And if we’re attacked while most of the warriors are away? They could just abduct or kill me, right?" Nooba argued.

"Enough! Don’t test me. There will be enough men left to defend the oasis if necessary. Your friends can stay behind too!" Phil declared.

"Fine," Nooba muttered and stormed off in frustration.

"Samir, Erik, watch over her," Phil instructed the two young men. "I trust you because I know how stubborn she can be."

"Understood!" the two replied.

"I must prepare now. Go and help the others," Phil said.

"We’re on it!" Erik answered, and the two headed toward the tents to assist with the preparations.

3. Odrex's legacy

The sun had already set by the time the royal carriage and its escort reached Tarat. The village was little more than a small agricultural settlement, home to barely four hundred people. The village leaders awaited the king’s arrival and, after greeting him, escorted him to his designated lodging. However, dinner was served before they retired for the night. Wolcen divided the escort for night watch and then also went to rest.

At dawn, they were ready to continue their journey. The horses were well-rested, their water supplies replenished, and amidst wishes for safe travels, the group departed the village.

The next stretch of their journey followed a river, offering the travelers a pleasant view. Lush green landscapes lined both banks, dotted with olive and palm trees, and occasionally overgrown with reeds, bulrushes, and other aquatic plants. Fish leapt playfully from the water, catching the sunlight on their scales, and here and there, crocodiles could be seen near the banks.

Their next stop was Zubin, a sizable city with a population of about ten thousand, where the king owned a summer residence. As the royal carriage rolled onward, Ezra sat studying papers and maps. He examined a map of Odrex's former kingdom, which lay far from Baltmor, raising doubts about the connection between the tomb they had found and the infamous king. Why would Odrex have been in the desert? Ezra wondered. So many questions, so few answers. Still, the fact that Odrex’s tomb had gone undiscovered for over three centuries offered some hope. Perhaps the king had never truly died, as legends suggested—after transferring his kingdom to his son, Odrex had disappeared with his sorcerers, never to be seen again.

Following the usual midday stop for a meal, the party resumed its journey, reaching Zubin before sunset without incident.

At the entrance of Ezra's summer house, the city leader, Keiron, awaited the king with other dignitaries.