"Chronicles of Hunter-Coming of the storm" by Marijan Sruk

I hope you remember me. I told you my story about unnatural forces, about my teacher Malechai and his end, about my schooling. Yes, it's me, Hunter. I am older now, near forty and I feel lousy . I am not strong as I used to be, I am not quick as I use to be and I am not brave like I was in the past. Or maybe it was not bravery at all, maybe it was foolishness? Recklessness? Anyway, I had a few interesting encounters from the last time I wrote. At first I though that I will never write down those things but now as I am getting older I changed my mind. I am not sure why. Now I will tell you about one of them.
As you probably know, Malechai died and left me alone on this world with dark forces lurking all around. I never finished my schooling and Malechai never talked about others like him. So I tried the best I could. I didn’t meddle with strong and dark forces, although I often saw them. Later I returned to my parents in Doogort. I never told them about my adventures, not the real story anyway. I got a job in a local sawmill. Pay was ok, work was hard. The usual.
At my free time I read about paranormal themes from Internet or library. But there was nothing there that I already didn’t know. Sometimes I exercised curse removal or similar things in secret, for my closest friends. I hid it because I didn’t want for people to know, to mock me or to call me in the middle of the night for exorcism. I didn’t want to be different.
What I didn’t know then was that spirit fighting was my destiny, my real job. And so destiny caught up with me. I had a friend in a nearby village, Robert. One day I got a call from him. He was very upset and he had an amazing story. He was in Dublin over the weekend. When he returned almost half of village disappeared. The survivors told him what happened. In the deaf hour of night storm came from nowhere. Strong wind started to blow, and shortly after thunder and rain followed. Blizzard had hit the last. Even the oldest in village didn’t remember that kind of strong storm. Rooftops flew from houses and trees were torn from earth. Every now and then lighting would hit the ground. Fires spread. It was total mayhem. It lasted about an hour. After that village was destroyed and half of its populace was missing. Police organized a search. A week passed from that day and no one was found. That was strange. Normally, at least one body would be found. Robert knew something about my background and my interests in this kind of things. So he asked me to come to him, to visit and to see situation for my self. I took a weekend off from work, packed my bags and went to him. He lived in a farm house. His family was in corn business. Luckily, none of them was hurt or missing. But Robert’s second cousin who lived few kilometers down the road was missing. His house and barn were almost completely destroyed and no trace was found to what happened to him.
I have to say, the whole village was pretty creepy sight. All buildings were damaged, even cemetery was devastated. From a few graves remains of the deceased were sticking out. Headstones were broken, as if lighting had hit them. There were branches and trees everywhere, streets were full of garbage. Robert was thrilled to see me. We were pals from childhood. He changed from the last time I saw him. I think it was four years ago. He had cut off his long, blonde hair and he wore glasses. I remember how he looked funny in his “country” flannel shirt. Anyway, almost instantly after greeting me he gave me a tour through village. I looked at the sky. There were still dark grey, almost black clouds circling above. Robert diverted my attention to earth. It was also amazing. The ground was also black, not a normal color for these parts. It looked like it was torched. I could see people in their yards just sitting or assessing damage, weeping for their loved ones. The whole situation looked grim. One thing I didn’t saw was the police. No authorities.
Later that day I unpacked my things at Robert’s and started my research about this phenomenon. First I looked at local weather prognosis for that day. The weather was supposed to be clear and warm. The clouds came and formed from nothing. That was, unfortunately, the peak of my research. Nothing else was known about this phenomenon, except that it had already happened few times though history. Two days passed and I didn’t have anything. The locals were organizing another search party for tomorrow. They were heading North, in a nearby forest. They hoped that maybe there they will find someone. Or something. I didn’t join them. I would only slow them down. Instead, I went to the pub. To cool my self off a little, maybe to get a different perspective of things. The pub was almost empty. Few local drunks were playing poker by the back table. The bartender was sitting and reading newspapers. There was some kind of game on TV but nobody was watching it. While I was drinking my scotch a man came from behind and set next to me. I didn’t even saw him, he came from the dark corner where the lights were not working. He was old, dirty and smelly. Oh, and he was also drunk… very drunk. He ordered another drink. I didn’t really pay any attention to him until he started to talk. -You know, there is a legend…- He started. I turned to him. His face was wrinkled and covered with old scars. His skin was hard. He had dark brown eyes. His look was like of a wild animal. He had big, dirty hands with long nails.
-A legend?- I asked and tried to appear uninterested.
-Yes.- He took a sip of his drink. –Not many people have heard of it though.-
-And?-
-It’s about this man. Stranger. A Wanderer. Nobody knows exactly who he is but he appears here and there. Where he passes the storm destroys everything. It’s like bad weather follows him. Or he controls it. The funny thing is if he was a human he should be dead by now. This legend is few hundred years old. It is said that he is sad, that you can see tears on his face. He also takes lives, live humans. He turns them into thunders and winds, into blizzard and rain.-
-That’s a dull legend.- I answered.
-Maybe. Maybe it is not legend at all?- He said.
In that moment he looked completely sober to me.
-What do you mean?-
-Well, the legend had to have some kind of beginning, a truthful root in history.-
-And why are you telling this to me?-
-Because you need to know it. Because it is your job.- He was right. I don’t know how he knew who I was. I got up and prepared to leave.
-You know… few weeks ago. A stranger passed through this town. He didn’t stay in any hotel or at any home. People just saw him standing in the streets. He appeared lost and confused. Then he just disappeared.-
I thanked the drunk, and went back to Robert’s farm. I tried to learn more about this legend. I didn’t find anything on the Internet. Then I went to the library. At first I didn’t have any success there either but then I found small scrapbook with the clippings from old local newspapers. In one of these articles the legend was mentioned. The article was about old Irish legends. The character was simply named Wanderer. He was some kind of embodiment of old storm god. When Christianity came to Ireland the god was put in human form. Some sect still continued to worship him in secret. It is said that from then on he wanders the earth, confused about who he is. He cannot control his powers. From time to time he captures human lives and turns them into storm elements. At once I returned to pub. But the drunk who told me this legend wasn’t there anymore.
-Where is the man who talked earlier today with me?- I asked.
-You mean that wild one? He left.- Bartender answered.
-Do you know who he is?-
-I have no idea. He comes here from time to time, but I don’t know anything about him. He orders a drink, sits down and doesn’t talk to anyone. Except with you then.-
I got out of the pub. The night was coming. An owl was sitting on the pine tree that was next to the pub. I felt a strange feeling that someone was watching me. Someone that wasn’t human. I knew there was something in this legend. After Malechai’s training my instinct never failed me. Next day, after the search party returned with no results, I started to ask around about this stranger that was in the town before storm. No one could tell me much about him. I went to sleep that night confused and disappointed. And then…a shock! I felt unsettling feeling, someone’s stinking breath on my face. When I opened my eyes I saw that drunken man over me. I started to scream but he covered my mouth. His eyes were eerie, they didn’t look human. His irises were orange in color and his pupils were enormous and black, like in some animals. He scared the hell out of me! I tried to fight him but he was too strong. He kept me pinned by the bed with no trouble at all. And then he spoke.
-Don’t be afraid, I won’t hurt you. I will let you go now but please don’t scream and don’t run. I am here to help you. I know who you are.-
He let me go and I did as he said.
-OK. I’m listening.- I said.
-You found the article in the library. But that is not the whole truth. The wanderer’s name is Marduk. He was the storm god in Babylonian mithology. I don't know the whole story but for some reson he was imprisoned by powerful mages assisted by some divine being. Then he was bound down in human form. I guess they were trying to find a way to destroy him. They hoped if they capture him in human form that he would age and die in the end. But that did not happen. He became immortal. He managed to escape. From then on all traces of him disappeared. People were talking that he had found some kind of hidden place and went to sleep. And he slept from then till a few hounded years ago. I don’t know what but something woke him up. He has some kind of mission. The trouble is no one can follow him to find out what it is. Also, he has no associates.-
-OK, now I am impressed. This makes more sense than that story from the bar.-
-Yeah, sorry about that. I had to find out is it really you and are you dedicated to your call.-
-How do you know who I am?-
-My kind of people knows lot of things.-
-Your kind?-
-Yes, but I don’t want to talk about it now. I told you enough.-
-No, you did not! What now? You said no one can follow him, so I guess I should just quit?-
-No. Wait here for a few days. The answers will come.-
After that he turned around and jumped out through the window. When I got to the window there was no one on the ground. I could only hear the sound of owl somewhere in distance. I did as he said, I stayed in village although I was annoyed by his hiding of information. After three days my questions were answered. You see, he appeared. Marduk. Again. It was another cloudy day and I was on my way to buy some milk. He was just standing on crossroad. I felt strange wave of feelings through my body, like a mild electric surge. He had totally white hair which appeared to be glowing. He was smiling. Hysterically smiling.
-I will come to you tonight. Just to talk, no fighting.-
He said with his thunderous voice. A great lighting had hit from the sky, right in him. He disappeared in a moment. I think it is not necessary to mention that I didn’t go to sleep that night. He appeared about three o’clock in the morning. He arrived by soundless lightning, just as the way he disappeared in the afternoon. We talked in my room.
-I presume introductions are not needed since you already know my name and I know yours.-
He said and than he paused a little.
-But I have to admit, I have you in disadvantage. I know more about you than you know about me. So… you’re the one that the entire Mirror is buzzing about.-
-What…Mirror? What?!-
-Never mind. You see I was always considered to be crazy, even when I was a god and among my divine brothers and sisters. I love a good challenge. The thing is we are enemies. And you are so ignorant to what is happening around you! You are like a lost child and how can a child be a worthy enemy? So I will make your job a little easier. I will leave you traces, I will discover some things to you. And then I will destroy you! Make no mistake, you will be obliterated.-
He turned around and tried to leave but I charged at him. He stopped me without any effort. He had hit me and knocked me out with lighting bolts that came out of his fingertips. When I woke up I was in my bed, again in the company of strange man from pub. He was sitting in the chair nearby.
-And so you have met him.- He said calmly.
-I am so confused…- I murmured.
-Yeah, I guess you are. My friends call me Snowy.- He said and shook my hand.
-What to hell are you?-
-I am shapeshifter.-
-What the…?!-
-Oh, c’mon! Don’t tell me you don’t even know who shapeshifters are?! What kind of spirit warrior are you?-
-I am not spirit warrior, and I know who shapeshifters are. Only I thought…- -That we don’t exist. That it is only a legend. God…Malechai really did pass away too early.-
I sat up.
-Kid, you yet have a lot of stuff to learn…-
I knew that what he was telling is truth, but I didn’t know is he here to help me or destroy me. There was a wild force trapped in him. Is he trustworthy?
-Tell you what, I’ll go away now and leave you to think on it till tomorrow night. Then I will come back and explain you few things. After that it is up to you to decide if you will trust me or not.-
His eyes were strange again, big and orange. And his face was a little changed… Suddenly he turned around and jumped out through the window.
-Jesus…I got to board up that window!- I said to myself. When I looked out Snowy wasn’t there anymore. I only saw a beautiful, snow-white owl in flight.
-Shapeshifter… and I thought I saw everything.-
Snowy kept his word. When the last rays of golden sun left the sky, when the dark cape hugged the earth, Snowy made his appearance. I was sitting in garden in back yard on the stone bench. Before that I barely got rid of Robert. He was suspicious about recent events. I don’t know, I guess he had a feeling that I know something. I told him that I have few personal problems and have to think about it. He finally gave me peace. Snowy appeared quietly behind me. I heard him when he was only few steps behind me.
-Good evening, friend! It is a beautiful night indeed. Look at those stars. Like millions of tiny lights, shining just for us.-
-Are you here to talk or write poems?- I asked sarcastically.
-Point taken. Is there something you want to know specifically?-
-Yesterday when I talked with that ***** Marduk…he said the whole Mirror is talking about me. What was he talking about, what is Mirror?-
-Mirror is the name that is used among people who understand supernatural or who don’t belong to this world. Mirror specifies the “other world” or “other side”. The world of spirits and shadows.-
-So there are others like me?-
-Yes…and no. Unfortunately you are the last spirit warrior. I don’t know if Malechai died by natural causes or did some dark force had its fingers in it but he died too soon. He didn’t finish your schooling. But there are others who posses the knowledge and can pass it on. I am one of them. My spirit was not designed to fight big battles with the dark ones but never the less I can help you. You have to understand, there is more than ghosts, vampires and witches in this world. There are demons, pure evils that inhabit human bodies and minds. You also have to understand that not all ghost, vampires or witches are bad as are not all humans, shapeshifters or other creatures good. Good and evil lies in ones heart or soul, not in his kind or species.-
I was kind of impressed with his knowledge. It’s been a while from the last time I heard someone spoke about paranormal with understanding.
-And why is this…Mirror talking about me than?-
-Because you are the last. There are no more spirit warriors on this world. Not for now. A new one’s will be born but no one knows when. The thing is if they can destroy you, the world will fall into despair. It would be the beginning of the end. They could roam freely through this world with no force to stop them. You see, there is force opposite to darkness. We call them Guardians. They have similar function like angels in Christianity. And as long as there are spirit warriors on earth this force protects humankind to some limit. It interferes when strong, dark forces try to take over the world, when their insidious plans get too big. But if there were no warriors left…who knows what would happen.-
-Let’s say I believe you… what then?-
-Then I would say you have to follow Marduk. He is not a grater evil. Actually no one knows his role. And you have to be careful. You’ll have help from Guardians, but not always. My self and few of others would follow you on jour journeys. We wouldn’t be with you all the time, we would stay in shadows.-
He paused a little, like he was thinking of something.
-It wasn’t always like this.- He continued. –There were times when thousands of spirit warriors existed on this world. Whole brotherhoods and sects were formed for more efficient fighting against dark foes. Dark and Light side were equal in fight and Mirror was in balance too. Those were much calmer times. You can see reflection on human world. In those times wars ware sparse and short. Brothers loved each other and families stayed together. People fought for honor, food or survival. These days the situation is totally different. Wars are raging all over the world. Hate has become a normal and familiar feeling. Brothers are slaughtering each other. People fight over money, oil and other unnecessary treasures. Dark side is taking over. They are pouring into this world from everywhere. They are gathering on abandoned and shaded places. But soon they will be strong enough to invade all human space, even in daylight. They will transform this world into hell, into kingdom forged with pain and sorrow. Oceans will be filled with tears and blood. At least so it’s foresaw.-
-I have two questions. First is, are we safe during daylight? You said that they still don’t have enough power to invade during the day. Second is, what is foreseen… and who foreseen it?-
-Yes, we are safe during the day…to some limit. Black foes have spies that listen for them, and also the haunted places are never safe. Not even by daylight. Usually, on those places there are portals that are invisible to most humans, that grants them entrance to this world and unlimited power in that small circle. And to answer your second question, prophets foresaw the end of the world. Real prophets. They all have the same vision. Mankind is defeated and bounded by its sins. Shadows roam freely and master human space.-
-Then what is the point?- I asked disappointedly.
-Nothing is certain. Prophets see only one of million possible futures. They see the strongest one, the future with strongest emotions, the future that is most likely to come true. But destiny is not sealed, there are variations and possibilities.-
-So there is still hope?-
-There is always hope.- The more time passed, the more I believed him. The more he told, the more everything seemed complicated but it also made more sense. I was thinking in silence for a while. He didn’t say anything, didn’t interrupted me. And so I decided to trust him.
-I will do as you say. I trust you.-
-Then I want you to meet someone.- He took me then into the back of garden. It was a very quiet night. It was strange, no sound came from anywhere. And Robert and his family were fast asleep. That also was strange, they didn’t hear us. When we entered the garden I was admiring the beauty of the night but then I screamed like a little child! -There, on the edge! Enemy! Look!- I screamed. I saw a person, a woman. She had long and wavy hair, red in color. Her skin was milky, almost creepy white. Eyes were also red, glowing in the dark and she had no pupils. She was sitting by the tree, surrounded by black wolves. They were standing there, looking at me with their green, almost transparent eyes. The woman was just smiling.
-No, wait! She is not a foe, she’s a friend!- Snowy yelled.
-What?-
She stud up and then I saw how beautiful she really was. Her body was exquisite, you could say perfect. She had a tight, dark green dress on here. Boots were black in color. She had a few necklaces and chains around her neck.
-She is a friend, don’t worry. Calm down. Her name is Hebe.-
She came closer to us. Wolves followed her.
-I always make men scream for me, one way or the other.- She said with a smile on her face.
-Hebe, this is Hunter…Hunter this is my loved one, Hebe.-
We shook hands.
-What are you? Clearly not human…-
-You got that right. She is a wolf witch.- Snowy said.
-A what?-
-A wolf witch, dear.- She repeated.
I never heard of these creatures.
-I’m a witch that has the control and love of these beautiful beasts. You would be amazed how loyal, intelligent and strong they are.-
Hebe said while petting one of wolves.
–I’m the only one. There are few other similar witches, but they control other kinds of animals or elements. This is Argento. He is alpha male of my pack.-
She said and pointed at largest of wolves. The animal was terrifying and beautiful at the same time. It was much larger than classic wolves, and its fangs were sticking out of its mug.
-She will help us. We leave tomorrow after sunset. It is best to travel by night, it’s more safe to be awake when foes are awake too. That way they will have a hard time sneaking up on us. Oh, pack only necessary things.- Said Snowy.
And so it was. The next day, with the last rays of blurry sunlight I sad farewells with Robert and his family and I thanked them for their hospitality. I packed two bags of things. The air was moist and rain was falling. There was low fog all around. My newfound friends were waiting for me at the edge of the garden. They looked beautiful, like avenging forces of nature. We greeted each other.
-Where to now?- I asked.
-I don’t know. Marduk said that he will leave clues for you, didn’t he?-
-Yes, but…He didn’t leave or give me anything.-
-But he is talking to you now.- Hebe said.
-What?-
-This weather, you think it is natural? He is communicating.-
-We should go in direction of lightings.- Said Snowy.
So we embarked on our journey. Coldness embraced me, but didn’t seem to have effect on Snowy or Hebe. We followed flashes. I guess I could write a few dozen pages about uninteresting parts of travel, about sightseeing, about looks of nature and everything else. But I will not, I am not that kind of writer. It was sixth night when troubles began. We were deep in some kind of forest. I don’t know where exactly we were. I remember that earth was squishy and full of water, almost like a swamp. A foul smell imprisoned our senses. It was so familiar and yet I didn’t recognize it… I stopped. I could tell that Snowy, Hebe and even here wolves smelled the same.
-It’s the…- Snowy begin.
-…smell of death.- Hebe finished. Of course! It’s the same thing you can smell and feel on graveyards, only ten times stronger. Soon we heard a taping sound. It got closer. It was the sound of horses in gallop. And there it was, a sight no one could forget. Four headless horses, blue in color and shining in dark dragging black carriage. You could hear sound of chains and quiet, distant sound of human cries in background.
-Ah, it’s my old “friend”, soul collector.- Snowy said sarcastically.
-Soul collector?-I asked confused.
-Yeah. Invisible to human eyes, he sometimes takes this form while collecting souls of those who died in rage or by violent death.-
The carriage stopped about ten meters from us. Door opened. He stepped out. Indeed he looked terrifying. Like his horses, he also was headless, but he carried his head in his right arm. He was kind of transparent, greenish in color. His face had mixed look of confusion and madness. He had rare, curly and long hair. In his left arm he was holding yellow dagger. He was wearing clothes from about 16th century. And then his companions also exited from carriage. They were hideous ghost of humans who died violently. They were all armed. First was carrying a Scottish board sword, second was wearing some kind of gloves with spikes and third was armed only with his sharp teeth. -So, my friend, we meet again. I guess I am just irresistible to you.- Said Snowy. The apparition didn’t answer, it only grinned. Hebe didn’t wait for them to attack first. She said something and in next second her wolves were charging and attacking. They fought fiercely and fearlessly. Earlier, Hebe told me that her wolves are actually souls of passed away warriors from ancient times. The fight was raging. Soul collector joined in. He was strong, but not a match for numerous, wild wolves. Soon, his followers were banished. Soul collector couldn’t hold on for long. While he was lying and disappearing he said in his deep, hellish voice
-You are true fools. You have been graded now. The darkness will unite against you. You may be stronger than me now, but one day all of your souls will belong to me. And then you will see what the true hell is!- Then he totally disappeared.
-Is he dead?- I asked.
-He is dead for the long time. You can’t kill something that is already dead. At least not that easy. He has just returned to his kingdom.-
We rested for a while and then continued forward. By the end of the day we made it to some small town. Almost everything was shrouded into sleep. We found some small motel that was opened 24h. Hebe didn’t come with us. She said that she cannot sleep in closed spaces. When I said I was worried about her she only smiled and went back into forest. Later, in room, I noticed a change in Snowy’s behavior. He was edgy and more tense than usual. So I asked him what’s wrong. At first he hesitated and didn’t want to say anything but after a short persuasion he shared his problem with me.
-I have to disembark form you for a while. I have a few problems that are in need of solving.-
-What? We just started the journey, and after the attack of some headless freaks you will leave me?! I can’t believe it!-
-Hush down, man! I won’t leave you alone, don’t worry. Hebe will stay with you, and in short time one other of my friends will join you.-
-I just can’t believe it…I mean, I don’t know either of you and…I don’t…it’s all so confusing.-
-Don’t tell me you still don’t trust us. We could have killed you when ever we wanted…but we didn’t. And we won’t.-
I settled down but I was still confused. It all happened so fast. From curses, small evils, vampires and shadows to unspeakable evils, headless spirits, invisible forces and potential end of the world.
-It’s best you get some sleep. I will hold guard and wake you up.- Snowy said. At firs sleep was something unthinkable at this moment but after a while I felt tiredness. Some time before dawn I fell asleep. Few hours later I had a very strange wake up call. I heard Hebe’s voice calling me.
-Wake up. Your presence is wanted.- When I opened my eyes I saw her and Argento standing next to me. She had a worried expression on her face.
-What’s wrong?-
-Just come.-
I put on the robe and followed her. We sneaked into the basement. While we entered I noticed a strange flicker on the walls, like there were dozens of torches burning inside. I was close… In there a strangest creature was standing next to the furnace. It was humanlike but then again nothing like us. I guess the right description would be it had a shape of human body. But it was in flames. The whole being was made of flames. His skin, his hair and eyes, fingers…all was fire. He looked magnificent, glowing. When I entered I just stopped in shock. When he saw me he smiled at me.
-This is Exavier. I guess he could help.- Hebe said with the drop of distrust and unrest in her voice. Argento was standing next to the door and growled.
-I can understand that you are unconfident. After all we might be on opposite sides. But then again, you can not be sure.- Exavier said. He was making gestures with his hands and it looked like you would wave with torch or candle through air. He continued
-My master sent me here do deliver you message.-
-And your master is…?- I asked.
-Marduk.- Hebe answered instead of him.
-My master wishes to meet with you. Here.-
He handed me a business card.
-He will be in this place for the next three days. If you don’t show up, he will understand. But he will be disappointed. He assures you with his word of honor that you will not be harmed.-
-And what does he want?- I asked.
-He said that he has new leads for you. And that he wants to talk to you.- After those words he turned into form of pure and shapeless flame, entered the furnace and disappeared. I looked at Hebe. I couldn’t tell what she was thinking. She seemed pretty confused.
-So?- I asked.
-So, what?-
-So, what we gonna do?-
-I don’t know. It’s your choice.-
-Great. Do you think it’s a trap?-
-I don’ know.-
-Oh, you are just of great help, aren’t you?!- I said with angry tone.
Hebe didn’t answer. The destination on Marduks card was old castle, not far from here. Castle had rich history. It was build as a stronghold in 13th century. Later, it became prison, and after that it belonged to eccentric earl. It has never been breached. Castle was in pretty good shape for its age. I guess it suited Marduk because it was on remote location. We went back to my room.
-What about Snowys friend, when is he coming?-
-Tomorrow.-
-OK. We’ll wait for him. After he arrives, we’ll go to visit my dear thundery friend Marduk.-
We spent that day in talk. I went to the grocery store and bought us few necessary things. Hebe told old tales about her world and about her kind. Once, sisterhood of animal witches was widespread and famous for their power. They were very secretly and closed clan. But then the war within clan broke out. After death of queen witch order split in three fractions. Those who controlled the powers of the beasts, those who controlled powers of the birds and those who controlled other kind of animals. It is not necessary to mention that that war was highly brutal and destructive. It brought witches to the brink of destruction. Only few were left. They forgot old feuds and moved on as lonely rouges. I went to sleep early. Hebe said that she will keep watch. She woke me around 5 am. Our friend arrived. He was very tall and extremely strong man. He was around 2m tall and I guess around 130kg heavy. He was partly dressed in military uniform. He had short, black hair and dark eyes. He had thick eyebrows and long eyelashes. His nose was obviously several times broken. He had a long scar along his neck. He was standing on the door, looking at us and nervously chewing bubble gum. I was still groggy and half asleep when I asked him
-What to hell are you spouse to be? What kind of powers do you have?-
He made a strange face, some kind of sarcastic smile mixed with anger and he entered the room. His massive boots made lots of noise while he walked.
-Look kid, my powers are stored only in these.- He said showing his fists. –They, and my brain are the only thing I need.-
-Man, *****…- I cuss out silently. –Have you even ever seen a demon?-
-Kid, I saw numerous demons, the kind that are worse that you ever know existed. I saw humans in their worst editions. I saw men killing each other over nothing, slaughtering children just for the taste of adrenalin, making choices to send thousands of men to their graves. I myself was that kind of demon for a long time.-
I knew what he was talking about. Sometimes humankind is much worse than any king of demons. Yet, I am not sure is that kind of great evil stored inside humans, is it in our nature, is it our choice or are we just marionettes of some higher and stronger beings? I would like to believe that the choice is ours to make. His name was Shaun. I didn’t like him, but I respected him. He was constantly angry, nervous and unfriendly. But he was honest. I could see that in his eyes. And he was a little more helpful than Hebe. He gave me his opinion about situation with Marduk immediately. He said that it is probably some kind of trap or that he is just using this opportunity to study his enemies. But if we don’t go, we’ll never know. So it was decided. We shall endeavor on this journey. We waited until nightfall. The time we had till than we spent in talk, getting to know each other. But most of the talking came from Hebe and me. Bloody sun started to descend and so did my courage. All the time I wondered what awaits me in that castle. Is this the end or the begging of the road? I thought about Marduk. Who was he really? What was his role in all this? I wondered if I would be happier if I never met Malechai, if I never saw “the other side”.
-We should get ready.- Shaun said.
-Yeah, I guess…- I said with uncertainty probing my voice.
-Don’t worry. The worst thing that can happen to you is that you get killed. And then you won’t have to care about anything.-
-Real soothing.- Said Hebe.
The air was cold, chilling my lungs. The first stars appeared on the sky. And the sky was a mixture of dark blue, light blue, reddish and black colors. Kind of fairytale like. We proceeded by graveled path to the castle. Here and there I would glance a shadowy figure by the road in the bushes. Those were Hebe’s wolves following and protecting us. I felt quite safe in that moment and glad that there are forces that stand on my side, on the side of good. If we are that… After about twenty minutes the castle’s surfaces unfolded in front of us. As was to expect, the silent lightings were raging in castle’s background. It wasn’t big. It was positioned on the top of the hill, surrounded by walls that were partly destroyed. Three towers still resisted the time but fourth was vanquished. All sorts of vines grasped walls. We got closer. In the inner courtyard we found old cemetery. I noticed the same thing I saw at village. Gravestones were cracked, and remains of dead were sticking out of the graves.
-Strange.- I murmured. We walked cautiously to the doors.
-What now?- I asked.
-Guess we knock.- Hebe answered.
Shaun strongly knocked on the door.
-Coming, coming…- We heard cheerful voice from inside.
-What the…That can’t be Marduk, can it?-
Hebe srugged her shoulders. The door opened with choirs of squeaky sounds. Of course, Marduk was standing on the other side. He had strangely happy and satisfied look on his face. He was actually smiling! The room behind him was neatly cleaned. Dozens of candles were burning, there was no electric light. There wasn’t electricity at all. It all looked authentic, like it was from 13th century. No one other than Marduk was inside.
-Come in, come in, my dear guests.-
We all looked at each other. What happened with raging and angry Marduk? We entered, still vigilant. There was smell of food in the air. The table was set for dinner. Old portraits, vases, sculptures and other valuables all around.
-So, this is where you were hiding all this time.- Hebe said.
-Um, not all the time. I traveled much of the world before I got here. But I spend most of the last two decades here.-
-Cozy.- Shaun added.
-Thank you…you…I don’t know you. My name is Marduk.-
-Ah, all you fiends look and sound the same to me. I have a common name for you. Vermin!-
-Such arrogance, such fury! If I didn’t know better I would said that you too served evil.-
-Better keep that pretty mouth of yours shut or I will shut them for you!-
Hebe looked at Shaun indicating him to calm down. He obeyed. While that happened I was distracted by one statue. It stood in left corner, near the door. It represented some kind of evil spirit or something similar. A mix of human and reptile. It had muscular body of man but with large, folded, pointy reptile wings. The head was also human, with little horns on the forehead. Instead of fingers and toes it had claws. The statue looked perfect. So lively! I kept expecting it to move.
-Please, sit.- Said Marduk.
-Why are we here? What do you want?- I asked.
-Right to the point…I don’t like that! Life is too dull without details and expectations! One could say that the magic of life lies in details. Especially if you are immortal. So I thought we could get to know each other better, have dinner, drink before we get to work.-
-You thought wrong.- Hebe interrupted him.
-All right…have it your way. But, please, sit. This will take a while.- And we seated. He circled around us, before he also sat at head of the table.
-Like a king.- He whispered to himself.
And then something strange and unexpected happened. A high pitched sound exploded in the room. It was so terrible, so strong that it left us paralyzed. I couldn’t move, I couldn’t cover my ears. I thought my brain will explode. In split second I looked at Shaun and Hebe. They also were affected. I felt dizzy and nauseated. And just before I fainted I could swear that the statue in the corner moved! Have I started to lose my mind?
-Pretty neat trick, wouldn’t you say?-
I woke up in a small, damply room. I was tied to the chair. Marduk was in front of me, staring and smiling. My head was pounding.
-Don’t worry, side affects are only temporary.-
-What to hell happened? You are a cheater. Where are Hebe and Shaun?- I said whispering.
I was feeling sick and weak.
-I’m sorry, but you made me do it, friend! I was trying to be kind. I even cooked for you, damn it! But you wouldn’t listen…so I had to use a little bit of force.-
-What was that thing? That scream?-
-Ah, yes. That was my friend. He’s cool. His real name is Nostram, but I just call him Wings. You know what he is, don’t you?-
-No, actually, I don’t.-
-He is a gargoyle. Yup! Amazing, isn’t it? One of the last. I’m not sure that any more exist. Some say they do, but I never seen them. Creatures of past. Ancient soldiers. He was carved from stone and then brought to life by blood magic. He was bound to creator by that magic, but when master died he was left lost and confused. And what a coincident, I found him!-
-Yeah, lucky for you…- I said sarcastically.
-Lucky for both of us.-
The light above me was swinging back and forth. It was hot in the room. No windows.
-So, now you met two of my friends and I met two of yours. We are like playmates!-
-You are sick!-
-No, friend, just bored!- He paused, looked to his left and right, got up from the chair and said –I’ll leave you in peace now, alone with your thoughts. I’ll come back later.-
-Wait, you son of a …!!!-
He left the room. I could hear his footsteps disappearing in the long hall. I was alone. In silence. My strength was returning to me. But headache was still there. I was looking at the old, moldy and wet stones surrounding me, wondering what happened to my friends, where was Snowy and what was to follow? Will Marduk kill us all? Time was unknown concept. No windows, no clock. I couldn’t tell if an hour or a day passed by the time Marduk showed his face again.
-How are you today?- He asked.
-So day did pass…-
-Yeah…time is funny thing, don’t you think so? If you don’t have sky or watch you can’t really tell how much of it had passed.-
I kept silent.
-I brought you some food. Hungry?-
I was famished, but I didn’t want anything from him. So I indicated with my head NO.
-You have to eat. Almost everyone has to eat…Anyway, I came here to explain you some things. First, let me say that your friends are fine. Better than that, they are free. I know that now you don’t believe me a thing but you’ll have a chance to assure yourself. My minions took them in to the city, about 100 kilometers from here and told them that if they try to save you I will kill you. Which, of course, is not true, but it’s enough to keep them of our back. So…now you are probably wondering what do I want with you. Will I kill you, for who do I work and so on. I know about the legend. But I will not kill you.-
He leaned forward, close to me, looking straight in to my eyes.
–I am not your real enemy. I don’t seek to enslave the world, to feed of sins. Those fools mean nothing to me.-
-I should have known better than to trust you. I should never come here. You are constantly changing your story. What about that part you told me about obliterating me? And how I was a lost child and how you like a good challenge?-
-All true. If you don’t join me.-
-What?-
-From the beginning of the time there were three spiritual sides. Aeon, Dorm and so called Anhar. Light, Dark and Neutral or Anarchic. Aeon and Dorm have its leaders, its kings. Only Anhars never had structural discipline, it never had a ruler. You see, I was considered god in ancient times. They tried to destroy me numerous times, but none succeeded. I am just too strong. Never had I come across a worthy foe. I am one of Anhars. Anhars serve no one and do not have concept of good or evil intergraded into them. We do as we please, when we please. And I want to rule Anhar! I want to make Anhar the third force of universe, one that will be respected and feared, that will not be build of rouges but of soldiers. I am not interested in human world, only Mirror. So; I scratch your back, you scratch mine. What do you say?-
-I…I don’t understand.-
-Anhar is not easy to unite. Many of us hate each other. Many resist any form of rule. That’s why the strongest entities exist in Anhar. So I thought that we unite. You and your friends help me to conquer those who oppose me and I will help you get rid of real enemy.-
-Real enemy?-
-Yes. Dorm is advancing in to your world. They have strong lieder on earth, a general of shadows. He and his actions are invisible to humans, and to most of blinded Aeons. But not to me.- He said with some kind of hidden smile on his face. He said it with the voice of wise man.
I felt like I was hypnotized. It made sense. I was confused.
-I need to think about it. I need to talk with my friends.-
-Of course.- He said and bowed to me.
He left the room and came back soon with his flaming friend Exavier. They set me free. We exited dungeons and got back in the main room.
-Wait.-He said. –I have something for you. Exavier…-
Exavier brought me a strangest thing. It was handle from sword, black in color with one red precious stone in the crossing.
-That is extremely valuable thing. It is so called sword of destiny.-
-Sword? This is barley a handle from it.- I answered.
Marduk smiled.
-Take it in your hand.-
I did that. And amazing thing happened. Flaming sword appeared before my eyes. It looked like someone light up a torch. It had just grown from the handle. It was similar to Turkish swords, scimitars. And it was light as feather.
-That is a special sword. Unique. No other sword can do what this one can. No Aeon, Dorm or Anhar forces can stand against it. It will cut them all down. It is made from purifying flames of destiny. Acient. And I want you to have it.-
-You will give me something that valuable? I’m sorry, but it sounds like a trap. Why would you give it away.-
-I told you, I am not your enemy. And I have a feeling that you will need it more than me.-
-So that’s it? I’m free?-
-Yes. Go and talk to your friends. And if you decide to help me, return here. The car is waiting for you outside.-
I left the castle, confused and doubtful. White Range Rover was parked outside. The keys were inside. I got in. While I was cruising down the highway to my friends I was wondering if he had some kind of tracking device put in the car. What are his real motives? Is it possible that he is telling the truth? For now, I was happy that I was free. The night was coming to its end. On the edges of the sky, light blue rays started to show up. The distant stars started to faint, giving in to the glory of morning. My friends are probably preparing to go to sleep. It will be hard to find them. The sword was on the co driver’s seat. It was truly amazing. It worked on the principal of mind reading. When I wished for it to burst to flames it did. When I wished for it to stop it did. Lines on the road passed fast beside me. Almost no other cars on the road. Just me and the morning. Traveling. Going into the mouth of the storm. The storm is coming.