SETH - By Reimundt Augustyn

Written By: Reimundt Augustyn

Category: Sci Fi, Fantasy

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Embark on an epic journey with Reimundt Augustyn's "SETH," a captivating entry in the Creative Writing category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This tale weaves fantasy and science fiction to immerse readers in a world of demonic vengeance and timeless battles. Augustyn, a skilled craftsman of narratives, invites us into a realm where creativity knows no bounds and imagination reigns supreme.

About the Work

"SETH" unfolds in a kingdom besieged by dark forces, with King Garlock and his allies standing against the evil Barfistela. Reimundt Augustyn crafts a richly detailed narrative, blending intense action with vivid imagery. The story is a tapestry of heroism, sacrifice, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they journey through this fantastical world.

Seth- Means to an end

Original Submission by Reimundt Augustyn

SETH

Means to an end-

A Demonic Vengeance

All Copyrights© are reserved.

All Copyright of this book or series or characters are reserved by the Author Mr. R. Augustyn. Authorization must be obtained in writing before any work can be used.

Chapter One

Silence falls over the majestic Garlock city, as King Garlock and Barfistela comes face to face.

The kingdom had been under siege since noon the day before, when the Dark lord Barfistela, escaped from Irkalla his interdimensional prison. The portal used to escape remains open and soldiers of the dark lord keep entering Seth’s domain. “May the Creator help us!” Cried King Garlock as he saw the demon emerging from the prison in which they had trapped him, thirteen hundred years ago.

He called he’s general to assemble all the men he could find, but battle was upon them. Men living in the city made it to the castle to help defend it. Most people who took refuge behind the castle walls, joined in the fight against this unexpecting and unwelcomed demons.

Everyone fought as hard as they could and gave everything in their power to keep the demons from bridging the castle’s gates but was unprepared for battle. The gates where rammed by sunrise on this day.

People shouted in terror as Barfistela, and his army of soulless creatures attacked and killed senselessly making their way into the castle. King Garlock knows all too well there will be no negotiations with the foul demon, but he still tries…

In an accountancy more of sorrow than anger.

King Garlock: “You are not here to negotiate terms Barfistela, why are you here?”

Barfistela’s demonic voice sends a chill down the back of the Great King of the past thirteen hundred years.

“Your powers still serve you well old King, but we both know what I am here for.”

King Garlock: “You may not have my kingdom, nor are you welcome on Seth! For as long as there is life in me, I will send you back where you came from.” Barfistela starts laughing, King Garlock only sees all the innocent lives taken by this demon in his eyes.

The Great King is shivering inside but will not show fear and draws his sword.

Barfistela: “Without the creator by your side, your power does not compare to mine! Your worthless followers shall watch you die!”

As Garlock attacks with everything he has the demon simply counters and strikes the King down.

“You’ve grown weak Garlock!” The demon shouts: “I was hoping for a good battle, but it would seem you won’t deliver.” As King Garlock gets up covered in dust, he launches his next attack.

His sword starts glowing crystal blue. As Garlock’s sword is about to pierce the chest of the demon, he vanishes. Completely surprised and in disbelieve, the King’s heart is stricken with great fear.

Barfistela appears behind the King armored and with his sword drawn. Whilst the King turns around the Demon’s sword pierces through his chest armor and he is lifted above the Demon’s head. Hanging by the sword the King utters with a painful breath “You will only bring chaos!” The smirking Barfistela replies “That’s all I want for Seth. Chaos like I’ve been in for the last Thirteen hundred years!” As he rips the sword from Garlock’s chest, the Great King plummets to the dusty floor.

Not able to breathe King Garlock turns on his back his eyes glowing a crystal blue. Barfistela amused by his great strength places his foot on Garlock’s chest “You look exactly like our brother did before I took his life, only difference is that in his slumber he was still stronger than thee!”

The demon raises his sword, Garlock mutters something, as the black blade slices through the air the king closes his eyes just before the blade separates head from limb.

With the head separation there was a soft dull imploding sound that sent a dust cloud over the King’s body. A crystal blue ray of light ascended into the sky. As the dust settled, where once a body, only dust remained. The sun disappeared behind a dark blanket of clouds and darkness fell from the heavens.

The people of Garlock city started running in terror. Most of them captured, only a handful escaped, but only to mourn the ones that have been caught, for the captured will be slaves to the Demon for entertainment and sacrifices.

Chapter Two

[In coherence to the Great Kings death, in a small town called Ore-dale]

Augustus sat up in bed sweat running down his face. He had just seen the King die in his dream. Not giving much thought to his dream he goes to check on his father who is still recovering from a back injury whilst taking care of the animals. Since the accident he has not been able to walk, and they hope that his ability to walk would soon return. But for now, Augustus must take care of his father and the land on which they are farming.

Whilst walking back to the field to gather his cattle, he thinks about the strange dream he had whilst taking his afternoon nap. He had met King Garlock once when he was just a small boy. He remembers this like it had happened the day before.

His father worked in the stables of the King and his mother was a servant. With the birth of Augustus, his mother passed away. When he was four years old, he started shadowing and helping his father in the stables.

One day whilst they were tending to the Kings great horned horse “The only one of its kind on Seth.” The King entered the stables. The boy very frightened by the size of King Garlock, hid behind his father. The King kneeled before the boy making him just a little taller than his father, and said to the boy “Don’t be afraid son, no harm will befall you here, what’s your name?” Augustus did not answer and kept hidden. The King turned to his father to discuss prospects.

Augustus started to warm up to the big King’s presence as he gazed numbingly. When they were done the King kneeled back down in front of Augustus and said “I am Garlock the King of Seth, who might this strong little boy be?” “Augustus!” shouted the little boy laughing whilst taking refuge behind his farther. “Well Augustus!” The Great King said. “I am sure that someday, you will be of great importance, and I thank you in advance.”

His father told him this story many times before and always said “You are destined for greatness.” But how can he be? He is just a normal man that looks after his father and stays in Ore-dale where nothing ever happens.

Chapter Three

[Garlock city prison.]

Thorn, King Garlock’s adopted son hides from Barfistela and his demons. The prison was the best place to hide as it has been abandoned for more than a thousand years. It was close to the forest and far from the castle. He could not see the battle from the prison, he only saw his father’s soul ascending. Though heartbroken, Thorn must keep calm and avoid making any noise, in order to fulfill his father’s wishes.

He eats the food given to him by the castle servants to build strength for the journey ahead. He lies in the corner of the cell so that if someone enters, they could not see him, if he is caught all hope for Seth is lost. Thorn must rest for his escape from the city but struggles, all he hears are screams and cries echoing through the city streets. Somewhere in all this chaos he finally fell asleep.

On the throne of the past king, Barfistela calls for all the cities remaining prophets and priests. He tortured the priests and killed them one by one until only the highest prophet remained.

“Tell me prophet?” Barfistela said. “What prophecies do you have?” The prophet terrified of the hell unfolding in front of him does not answer. “Prophet!” Barfistela shouts. “What do your prophecies say?”.

The shivering prophet starts speaking:

“The prophesy is said that…

Once there were three sent by the Creator himself.

To rule over Seth and all its wealth.

One king possessed by hatred and greed,

slaughtered his brother for his soul to feed.

The Creator disgusted at what he has become.

Created Irkalla for his demonic son.

Garlock who’s heart remained true.

The only heir to Seth, left to rule.

One day again if darkness appears.

Garlock will leave Seth to prepare.

Whilst his gone there’s no need to fear.

One shall rise to meet darkness here.

This is Seth, evil haven’t place here!

Raged! The demon grabs the prophet by the neck and feeds him to his pet. “Abaddon just leave the head.” Barfistela Said annoyed.

“A foul demonic beast, Abaddon the destroyer he is called and for good reason.”

“Kill them all!” Barfistela shouts whilst walking to the throne. The demon king felt tired. Something he did not know in his prison; he couldn’t sleep as it was part of his curse. Close to sunrise the demon who had his fill of women and whine fell asleep. This is the first slumber since his imprisonment.

Chapter Four

[Back in Ore-dale]

Augustus woke up again covered in sweat. He checked on his father and went to start his morning chores. He noticed he that he is bigger than usual when his head hits the door frame on his way out. This is very strange to him. He keeps thinking about what the king said all those years ago about how he is destined for greatness.

When Augustus got back in what suddenly seemed like a small wooden house. His father noticed that Augustus is way bigger than usual and said. “So, the King has died. It’s time to prepare for the darkness that is upon us.”

“Father what are you talking about, how do you know the king has died and what darkness is coming?” “Augustus my son, help me outside. I need to feel the sun on my face.”

They settled on a green patch of grass. His father again started telling the story of when Augustus met the Great King Garlock. “Father” Augustus interrupts, “I know this story, you have told me this story a hundred times.” “Indeed, I have, but not all of it.” His father explained.

“You see Augustus, whilst you took refuge behind me King Garlock and I discussed something of great importance. King Garlock who I have served and grown close to all those years ago, trusted me with the with the greatest responsibility and gift.

Five years before this day, your mother and I were deeply in love. The King one day walked in on us flirting in the kitchen. Immediately we stood away from each other like two naughty children red with embarrassment… He already knew we were in love. Just before he walked out, he said; “Join me for feast tonight. We have a matter to discuss.”

Your Mother and I baffled by the invitation; we are merely commoners. But tonight, we will feast with the Great King Garlock. At sunset both anxious and nervous at the same time, we joined the King at his table. “Are you all settled in?” asked the King “Yes,” we replied.

“Everyone, please leave the room.” Garlock Instructed. Your mother looked at me with a thousand questions blooming in her eyes, now we were worried about this feast we had to be in trouble if he asked everyone to leave. “Well let’s get to it?” Garlock said.

“Firstly, ease yourself you are not in trouble but what we need to discuss is of great importance. I Have the ability to see the future as you already know, but only of life altering events. With that said, I had a vision this morning of the two of you. I am not going to tell you everything that happen except that you truly love each other, the kind of love that even the purest soul would envy.

The matter that needs discussion is the reason I had this vision. A week ago, I had a vision of evil returning to Seth, people being slaughtered for no reason other than pleasure. When this evil comes it will destroy my body and I will no longer walk among you. I will go back home to my father, the Creator.

This is where you come in and I apologize if I am ruining the surprise, but I have no other choice. Cathleen and Augustus, you will be blessed with a child. But before you jump for joy, please listen to me very carefully. You will give life to a baby boy who will be the key to saving Seth from this evil.

When I am defeated, I will bestow on him my powers. He’s body will not be able to handle more than half of my power, so it shall be divided between him and another. Together they will be able to fight back against the darkness so you will at least have a chance to keep Seth safe.” “King? If my son is going to get half of your power who will get the rest? You will know when the time is right,” Answered the King with a sad tone of voice. “Just know that I will do everything in my power to save Seth. If you have concerns, please let me know, then we will schedule another feast?”

And so, we did. We had many nightly feasts with the King, and we became like family. Until the night of your birth. King Garlock and I were standing outside whilst the women assisted your mother inside our small wooden house.

The waiting felt endless then finally, I heard your cry, I rushed inside to meet you. The midwife that assisted your mother looked very worried, when I took my first step through the door. “What is it? What’s wrong?” Tears ran down her face. She looked at me and said absolutely nothing, she just pushed you into my arms. She stood back and turned her head towards your mother.

I shall never forget as her head was turning, it hit me like a colossal stone falling from the clouds.

“Cathleen, my angel, the love of my life!” So excited by your birth, I had not even checked on her… It’s terrifying how long it can take you to turn your head when you realize that you haven’t heard anything from your beloved partner. Her eyes were closed. The other women that were assisting her. They all just stood there looking at her lifeless body. I froze for a second, even though it felt like a lifetime… The midwife ran out past the King, who stood outside the door. He just stood there, like he knew this was coming.

Not knowing how to react, I carried the product of our love towards your mother and showed you to her as if she was still alive. One of the ladies took you from my arms and told me that there is nothing they could do to save her.

When my arms went free, I grabbed your mother and held her to my chest for as long as I could. The King standing just outside the door kneeled, placed his head through the doorway of our small wooden house and said: “I am deeply sorrowed by your loss, Augustus.” Soon after they came to take your mother’s body for preparations.

Standing outside with the King holding you in my arms and waiting for them to take your mother was by far the longest I have ever waited for something in my life. Whilst passing the doorway the King placed his colossal hand over my shoulder. When they walked past us the King announced to prepare her for a royal passing ceremony. The King softly took you from my arms and placed you in his hand. “Augustus my friend, you have been through a lot today. I will look after your son through the night.” I did not answer, nor could I say anything. I was completely heartbroken.

The next day I went to the throne room where the King always sits and conducts his business for the day. You were right next to him in a small rocking crib warmly wrapped, King Garlock rocking you side to side with his finger.

After the passing ceremony we went back to our home, the King extended an invitation for us to live with him in the castle. I declined the offer because I wanted to be at home where your mother’s essence lingered. Every day was a struggle but over time things got better.

When I was working, you were at the castle’s maidens. Until that day you saw the King for the first time, in the stables. The King told me that our main priority would be to keep you safe. He gave me this piece of land here in Ore-dale and said we have no choice as for the key to the safety of Seth is within you Augustus. We needed to move here… He gave me a sword that I believe is for you. It is far too big and heavy for me to yield.”

Chapter Five

[Back at Garlock prison]

Garlock cities prison is covered with dust as Thorn wakes up from his slumber. For a second, he felt like he was back in the castle in his bed. The sound of a women screaming close by sends Thorn upright. He looks through the small crack in the wall but doesn’t see anything, by the amount of light he sees it’s close to nightfall and he must be ready to escape.

Fear triumphs the day, and the night came with horror. Screams were loud and never-ending as people were consumed by the Demon’s army. Thorn could do nothing but listen until finally it all seemed to be quiet. The sun is starting to set, and Thorn takes the last swallow of water from his water skin. He must escape now; it can no longer be stalled. He must get out of the city and start the quest his father bestowed upon him.

Thorn slowly opens the crackling heavy steel door, just far enough to see outside. All seems clear. He slowly moves out as low and fast as he possibly can to the closest building. Dagger in hand just in case its needed.

The forest is about six hundred paces from him. He makes his way closer to the forest building by building. He sees that the streets are covered in blood spills. The horrid, sickening iron smell of blood in the air makes breathing nauseating. Horrified by the body parts lying around, he makes his way to closer to the forest, there are still three buildings about thirty paces away from each other. He runs to the first one and hides behind the wall. Softly and slowly observing his surroundings.

He moves towards the second last building, two of Barfistela’s demons sees him. When Thorn saw them, he tried to stop but slipped on a blood spill and fell. He jumps up and runs towards the closest wall. He stands around the corner, waiting for the right moment.

As the first demon comes past the corner, he is met with Thorns dagger to the throat. He looks down the street but does not see the other demon. He knows that he must get out of the city now or he will never be able to.

Thorn starts running as fast as his legs can carry him. He starts passing the last building the other demon comes around the corner in front of him. He tries to draw his knife but in panic forgot to remove it from the previous demon’s throat. “Through you it is!” Thorn shouts as he approaches.

The demon lifts his sword into a striking position. The demon strikes towards Thorn’s head, but Thorn is too fast for the soulless creature. He blocks the demons strike, steps under the arm holding the sword and slides into a back-to-back position with the demon. Thorn grabs him by the head and rips it with everything that he has. You could hear the crunching neck bone of the demon breaking as his body passes over Thorn’s shoulder and he falls face first in front of him.

Thorn knowing that there will be more demons, runs for the forest.

He finally makes it to the border of the city. Thorn hides behind a bush whilst catching his breath. It is nightfall and he is searching for the moon or stars to know the direction he must run to, but the skies are covered with a thick blanket of dark clouds.

Thorn decides to run and get as far from the city as he can and hopefully make it far enough to see what direction he needs to take. His Father gave a simple instruction “When I die, go west and find a small village called Ore-Dale”. This would have been a lot easier if he could see past the clouds.

Chapter Six

[Ore-dale]

Augustus and his father sat by the fire, his father told him the stories and legends the same way he had always done. But tonight, every legend, every story led down to this day, to this moment. He listened with great anticipation taking in every word his father had said. Suddenly it was all clear to him. “Make us some tea son.” His father said. Augustus ripped out of his imagination, got up and went into the small wooden house to get the pot and water ready.

Augustus?! Augustus?! Hillary’s voice echoes in the distance… “Father! She cannot see me like this!” Augustus whispers hard with panic in his voice from the house. “Let me speak with her son, I will do my best to explain to her what is happening with you”.

As Hillary approaches the fire.

Hillary: “Good evening Mr. Thornwood, is Augustus around?”

Mr. Thornwood: “Mr. Thornwood you say? No one has called me that in years (laughing). Sit with me child we have a matter to discuss, Augustus will join us shortly.”

Whilst Augustus is waiting in the kitchen, he can’t help but lean his head against the wall. “How could I have forgotten that Hillary would be back today?” Augustus sighs. She is the keeper of his heart, but how could she not be. She had long dark hair, eyes summoned from the night lights, sun kissed skin and fit to perfection.

As Augustus looked at her, sitting by the fire. He can see the surprise and disbelieve tearing through her face, whilst his father explained. Augustus turned back into the house thinking she would leave.

Hillary listens carefully but cannot help to think that Mr. Thornwood is making all this up. She looks towards the house and sees a shadow movement. She jumps up and runs into the house. Augustus hearing her fast footsteps stop. He can’t help wondering what will happen. He turns around and sees Hillary out of breath, the light of the fire reflecting from her skin as she just stared at the big man in front of her.

He used to be only a little taller than she was, now he is almost two feet taller. Broad shoulders and extremely masculine. Augustus felt like a monster inside not knowing what she is thinking but he remains still and silent, whilst thinking that just two weeks earlier they were planning to build their own home on the farm when she gets back from visiting her elderly.

Hillary: “Well your father told me everything, but I thought he was joking.”

Augustus: “He was not.” “I can see that.” Hillary interrupts…

Augustus: “Hillary, I would understand if you walked away. I mean look at me.” “I see you just fine.” Hillary interrupts again.

Augustus: “I know we were planning to build our home, but as you can see that is not going to happen soon. Not that I don’t want to, but I must do everything in my power to save Seth from the darkness at hand. I did not choose this, nor would I ever have chosen this over you. I had no choice in the matter.” As Augustus tries to explain, Hillary runs towards him, jumps up and laces her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist. Looks him in the eyes, “You are my home” said Hillary, “I love you for who you are, not what you look like. Wherever you go, I will be by your side, always.” As they embrace in a kiss.

“Augustus? I am still waiting for that tea.” Mr. Thornwood calls from the fire. As he and Hillary came out of the house. Mr. Thornwood said, “I told you nobody tells a story better than me.” “Thank you, father,” said Augustus. He places the pot of tea on the fire. They drank their tea and Augustus held Hillary against his chest and said. “This is one of the happiest moments of my life.” Augustus said. “And there will be many more” Mr. Thornwood replied. “But for now, we have to start training you for what’s to come, so off to bed we go.” Augustus helps his father to bed and joins Hillary by the fire.

Hillary can’t wait for him to settle down. She jumps on top of him and starts kissing him. Sitting upright with Hillary on his lap, he kisses her in the neck, and she lays her head back. Augustus slowly sliding his hands under her chiton. She removes the belt under her chest, Augustus lifts the chiton of her body. And kisses down to her breasts…

When Augustus awoke, he noticed that they fell asleep by the fire. It is dawn and he is feeling amazingly good. He has a world full of knowledge that he did not poses the day before. He remembers what his mother looked like, and he sees how happy they were. “I must be getting some of the king’s memories …” He rushes off to the barn. He had just had a great idea.

Chapter Seven

[Meanwhile in the forest not too far from Garlock city.]

Thorn falls, what feels like the twentieth time he had fallen during the night. He managed to get some distance from the city. As he falls, he rolls over on his feet and continue to run as fast as his legs could carry him. He is being chased by a wild animal. It has been chasing him the whole night. As he runs into a field where all the trees had been cut down, he can finally see the sky. But there is no time to stop, he must get away from whatever is chasing him.

Thorn running for his life, looks behind him to see if he can see what it was that was chasing him. Suddenly his feet were no longer under him, he tripped over a tree stem and rolled in the dust. It was silent, all he could hear was his own breathing and the breathing of something else.

Thorn lied very still with his hands covering his face slowly rubbing the dust from his eyes to see what it was. As he looked up standing in front of him was a creature of legend. Thorn believes he is morgen feast to this massive long-haired black and golden yellow striped beast with two long canine teeth and big retractable nails on every paw. Thorn covers his head and waits to be eaten.

“I am Sager.” Thorn hears whilst waiting to be impaled by those massive teeth. Slowly lifting his arms from his head. “What did you say?” “I am Sager. Not a longhaired beast, like you’re thinking.” How is this even possible, how can you speak?” Thorn asked. “I cannot speak, you hear my thoughts. King Garlock sent me to help you, but you wouldn’t stop running.” Sager replied.

“Wait, you knew my father?” Thorn asked. “Yes, all mythical creatures on Seth knew Garlock. let’s go, we can talk more on our way to Ore-dale.” Sager instructs. “Your right Sager, let’s go.” Thorn says as he starts running.

When Thorn looks back, he saw Sager standing.

“What’s wrong Sager? I thought you said we need to go.” Thorn asked confused. “Indeed, but I also said that we have no time to waste. I don’t know how you can call that running? Get on my back, let me show you how to run.” The smirking mythical beast said. Thorn feeling a bit insulted but amused by Sager’s comment, walks towards him and climbs onto his back.

“Hold on!” said the mythical beast. As he lifts his front legs and jump into a run. Thorn almost falling of pulls himself forward, he had never moved so fast in his life. At this rate they would surely reach Ore-dale the next day.

Chapter Eight

[Garlock city]

Barfistela on his brothers’ throne, calls one of his generals: “Kane!” The doors of the throne room open, a few seconds later Kane walks in. “You called for me Dark Lord?” kneeling in front of the demon. “I did, take a group of my finest and find me the one, they spoke of in the prophecy.

The witch will direct you where to go.” The Demon King stands up from the throne and walks towards Kane. Barfistela places his enormous hand over the head of Kane. “If you fail me don’t bother returning.” The dark demon said. Between his hand and Kane’s head appeared a red glow that looked like molten metal. Kane screamed in anguish but could not remove his head from the massive hand of the demon. Barfistela lifted Kane into the air and dropped him to the ground.

His body plummeted to the ground lifelessly and his head hit against the floor, his eyes flared opened a molted metal red. “I gave you some of my power, but your body will never function without it again. Fail me and I will take it back.” The demon advises Kane. “Now go to see the witch” Barfistela said. He grabs one of his men that is standing around by the face and throws him to Abaddon.

Chapter Nine

[Back in Ore-dale]

Augustus so busy with his idea that he had completely forgotten to help his father out of bed. Hilary walked into the barn and saw that Augustus is very busy. She sneaks up behind him and slowly wraps her arms around him. “Good morning my love.” Hilary says. Augustus turns around, “Morning love.” He wraps his arms around her body and looks her in the eyes.

“What are you busy with?” Hillary asks. He lifts his hand and scratches his head whilst speaking uncertainly. “I am not really sure what to call it, but it will assist my father to move around whilst he heals.” Augustus explains.

“Speaking of your father my love, are you not forgetting something?” Hilary asks seductively sarcastic. He looks at her confusingly, his eyes open wide as he realizes that he completely forgotten about his father. “I’m a dead man!” Augustus states. He quickly let’s go of Hillary’s waist and runs out the barn.

He could see his father struggling towards him by pushing his body forward on his arms and dragging his legs. Augustus red with embarrassment runs towards his father. “Father, I am so sorry about this!” Augustus said. “Do not waist your emotions on me son, I can take care of myself.” His father replies. “Have you started training?” Mr. Thornwood asks as Augustus picks him up from the ground and carries him into the barn.

“I have not started with training father. When I woke up this morning, I felt different. I saw the world in a different way. I could feel my surroundings and I had knowledge of things I haven’t ever seen before. One specific thing that I remember is feasting with you and mother.” Augustus said.

“Can it be? Tell me son, when was the first time you saw me?” his father asked. “I was riding through the city on my great horned horse. You were playing in the streets with the other children. Everyone ran out of the way when they saw me approaching but not you. You just stood there. Amazed by the horse’s majestic beauty. It seems that you are getting the Kings memories son” Mr. Thornwood replies.

Augustus not knowing what to say changes the subject. “I made something for you.” Augustus said excitedly.

He revealed an odd looking very small carriage to his father. It is about chest height; it had a box fitted on top of it with a straw padded Knox skin seat. “Now you can go around how you see fit father!” Augustus said excitedly.

He latches the two wheeled carriage to their Fhurse.

“Fast creatures built like a horse, his six legs provide power enough to pull a wagon and his black and grey scaled skin offers less resistance to wind, the blade long tail used to make fast turns manageable”.

His father emotionally commenting “I haven’t words son.” Augustus placed his father into the carriage and said, “Let us see how you fit.”

Chapter Ten

[In the forest to Ore-dale]

Thorn hanging on for dear life, even though he is tired he cannot fall asleep at the speed that Sager is running. If he had to fall, it would most certainly be tremendously painful. Thorn still hasn’t realized that he is growing stronger every minute that passes, but Sager feels his power growing.

“Get ready Thorn” Sager said. “Get ready for what Sager?” Thorn asked. Suddenly Sager slammed his front paws into the ground and went into a sitting position and coming to a halt. The momentum sent Thorn flying. When he meets the ground, he tumbles over a few times and jumps up.

“Why did we stop”? Thorn wants to know, feeling angry but relieved he is still alive. “Be quiet.” The Mythical Beast said.

“You see behind those trees. It is the road that would lead us to Ore-dale. I sense darkness behind those trees.” Sager explains. “Can’t we go around them?” Thorn asked. “We can Thorn, but if we do not stop them many innocents shall perish.” Sager answers.

Suddenly they hear a woman screaming. As they look towards the trees the woman emerges. She is running frettingly. What she was running from they do not know but they start running towards her. Suddenly demons, emerge from the tree line. “It’s demon soldiers!” Thorn shouts whilst he counts them.

“There are seven demons Sager!” Thorn Said. “Easy fight! Thorn, you take them I will help the woman.” At that moment the woman collapsed. The demons behind her, caught up and started kicking her. Sager jumps into the air and lands with a mighty roar. You could feel the ground trembling as his roar pushed the long grass to soil. His mighty roar knocked the demons of their feet.

He ran in, lifted her with his canine teeth and moved her to safety.

Thorn is still running towards the demons. As the first demon made it to his feet, Thorn was a few steps away. He took the last step before the demon, he jumps into the air and lifts his knee, connecting it with the demon’s jaw. The demons head snaps back with the tremendous force of the impact and he plummets to the ground. Landing next to the demon’s body, Thorn bends down and draws the demon’s sword from its sheath.

He erects himself, and sees the other demons are surrounding him. He can’t help but notice that these demons are smaller than the one’s he fought in the city. Although that did not make them less of a danger. “Sager a bit of help here?” Thorn asked nervously. As the grinning demons started moving closer. “Sager!” Thorn repeats more nervously. But Sager does not respond.

The demon in front of Thorn runs towards him and attacks. Thorn steps towards him and kicks the demon on the chest, sending him back a few paces.

He puts his foot on the ground and aimlessly swings his sword in a circular motion, Thorn hears the beast laughing in his head. “Sager, this is not amusing!” Thorn cries. “From where I am standing, it’s very amusing!” Sager replies laughing. “Relax Thorn, your speed and strength exceed theirs tenfold. Just stay calm, trust in yourself and react!” Sager instructed.

The situation makes it hard to focus but Thorn tries. With the next demon attacking, he simply reacted on instinct. As the demon swung his sword, Thorn strikes with an upwards sideways motion. The dull and rusty blade whistling in the wind and chisels through the armor just under the right arm of the demon and stops under his left shoulder. Thorn rips the sword from the demons’ body. Thorn went into a complete offensive state. With a turn, a whistle and thunder, the blade pierces through other demons helmed. Whilst grabbing another demon by the face and throwing him into another with a turning slingshot motion. He rips the blade from the demon’s skull and throws it at the last standing demon piercing him in the face. All the demons are down.

Thorn breathes heavily whilst he observes what had just happened. “Good Thorn, you have done good…” Sager said whilst the demons fade to ash. “Good? How can something this brutal be good Sager?” Thorn Replies disgusted with himself, whilst looking at his hands.

“You saved an innocent woman from demons who would not take a second thought to destroy you for their own amusement. They are soulless creatures that leeches on everything that lives. The fact that you feel remorse, even for a demon gives me great hope, but your remorse is not needed for they have no souls.” Sager explained.

Sager turns towards the unconscious woman lying on the ground, he lowers his head to the arm that has a brutal cut and breathes over it. Though the day is not cold, his breath was steam like with a purple flair. The wound on the arm of the woman closed and she regained consciousness. Frightened about what happened to her and by the beast in front of her, she jumped up and ran away.

As Thorn approaches Sager, he said “to Ore-dale then?” But the beast replied, “Do you feel that Thorn? It feels like a sad, bitter, lifelessness encaged in chaos.” “Yes, I feel it everywhere.” Thorn replies “That is the darkness that you feel around you. When you have this feeling, it means demons are near. There is a town close by called Unger, we first have to ensure everyone is safe before we can continue our journey towards Ore-dale.”

“I agree Sager, let us aid them in their need.” Said Thorn, as he mounted himself on top of the beast.

Chapter Eleven

[Back in Ore-dale]

Augustus comes running towards Hillary and his father, who have sent him to retrieve the sword that was given to him by King Garlock. As he reaches them, his father instructs him to remove the sword from the wrapping cloth. Sitting in his new cart Mr. Thornwood could not help but feel proud of his son. “We waisted enough time son, let’s start training” he said.

Whilst Augustus started pulling the sword from its sheath, it started glowing emerald green and so, did the eyes of Augustus illuminate emerald, green. Augustus was lifted into the air by a whirling gust and a single lightning bolt of the same tint struck down from the heavens.

Mr. Thornwood and Hillary moving backwards as the gust got stronger. A second lightning bolt struck down on Augustus as he screams in agony.

“Augustus!” Hilary shouts whilst tears run down her face as she sticks her arm out towards him. Hillary tries to get him out of the whirl gust but is knocked away by the lightning in the gust. She could see him through the gust as she looked in horror at his head hanging over backward and his body in a crucifixion pose. He was holding the sword pointed upwards in his right hand and the swords sheath in the other.

The wind speed was increasing, Augustus slowly spinning in the same direction, his head looking to the sky. The dust lifted by the Wind made the light fade away, then suddenly there were more lightning striking down on Augustus. He was motionless with this strike, as the rumbling thunder echoes through Ore-Dale.

The wind suddenly falls away with the dust descending, Augustus falling in a lifeless backwards rotating position towards the ground. He stopped in midair for what seemed to be a second and accelerated in green light towards the ground. The impact of his landing generated a bold sound.

Hillary crying whilst running towards Augustus standing erected about fifty paces away, just staring at the heavens with his green illuminated eyes. “Augustus!” Mr. Thornwood (in a panic state) trying to get his neighing fhurse under control to go to his son, the fhurse frightened by the lightning storm.

Hillary stopped ten paces away from Augustus. She just stared at him with confusion and tears in her eyes. Augustus’s body looks godly, he is armored from head to toe in a black and green metallic pointy scale armor. The green areas in his armor are illuminated and lightning runs over his body in circular pulses.

Afraid to be struck again, Hillary tries to talk to him. She took a few steps forward and called him again. Hillary froze, when suddenly he stood right in front of her, staring into his eyes Augustus said, “Fear not my love”. As he places his sword into his sheath. When the sword locks into place inside the sheath, the lightning fades and so did his armor, revealing Augustus.

Hillary in a complete state, tears running down her face embraces him. “I was so scared.” Hillary said crying. “I am well, my love.” Augustus answers as he calms Hillary.

“Well, I was not expecting that!” Mr. Thornwood said whilst scratching his head. He had finally got his fhurse under control.

Chapter Twelve

[Whilst this occurrence, back in Unger]

Upon entering Unger Thorn and Sager starts fighting of the demons, when they heard the thunder echoing through the fields. “Death is upon you demons! My King has come returned!” Sager said excited and full of laughter. As he bites a demons’ head off.

“Is it my father? Is he Back?”. Thorn asks anxiously. “No Thorn, this is Asathor the King of Cockaigne!” Sager replies. Thorn, very confused stood there staring at Sager. He doesn’t notice the demon attacking from behind. “Behind you!” Warns Sager… Thorn reacts quickly and crushed the demon throat with his fist. “We are in battle Thorn, I will explain later, fight!” Sager instructs Thorn. As Thorn and Sager cleared the streets of Unger, the darkness retreats.

When they had gotten rid of the immediate threat, Thorn called for all the occupants of the town to gather at the town water well. The town people came together at the well. They were afraid, sad, confused. Thorn starts walking through the crowd. He stops when he realizes everyone had become silent, they stared at him like he was an oddity.

“Why are you staring?” Thorn asked them. No one answered for a few seconds, and then a small boy said, “You are enormous Mr.” Thorn looked at himself, his hands; his body; everything looked the same to him, but he was standing a lot taller than before. “I haven’t even noticed.” Thorn replied to the boy.

“Whilst I have everyone’s attention, please listen carefully. You are all in danger. I am sure some of you saw the demons. There will be more shortly. What I need you to do is the following: Those of you who has wagons, you must get them ready and place them on the corners of the streets. The biggest wagon must be placed here in the center of town. All your metal belongings must be gathered and placed in the big wagon. All the food and drink you have must go to the other wagons. Women take water as much as you can comfortably carry, and take your children, and walk towards Ore-Dale. The men will gather everything, and they will follow you shortly. Make heist the darkness is upon us.”

“Why should we listen to you?” a man shouts from the crowd. “Yes, why listen to somebody we don’t even know?” shouts another. “I am trying to help you but stay here and perish, Thorn replied annoyed. “We don’t have time for this, stand aside Thorn” Sager instructs. Thorn amused at what he thinks is about to happen stands to the side.

“Oh, Sager would you please do me the honor…” As the crowd look stunned at this mad man talking to himself. Sager starts speaking with the crowd telepathically. “I never believed that you people were so thick minded, nonetheless I am not like Thorn. I shall not ask to help you. Pick up and move immediately or stay and meet your demise. Suits me either way… Now move!” Sager roared whilst making himself visible to the crowd. The crowd started following Thorns instructions immediately. “Oh, now you move?... next time you do the talking Sager.”

The women gathered buckets and waterskins and filled them up at the well. The children all staring at Sager as he entertained them with a story whilst the women got ready. When the women were ready, Thorn called for the children, and they went off towards Ore-dale.

As the men loaded the last of the food and metals, they hear an explosion. “They are here!” shouted Augustus. “Go, Go, Go, get out of here, take the carriages and go. Now!” Thorn instructs.

The leather latches screeches and the wagon crackling as the broxsen and fhurse’s pulled the wagons. Only a handful of men were brave enough to stay with whatever they could find to fight with. Only one or two of them had a sword. A second explosion echoes through the town. “Sager, do you feel this darkness? It is different.” Thorn asked nervously. “Thorn, I am not sure. Yes, it seems different. It’s a lot more powerful than the last time. I have only felt dark power like this when we trapped Barfistela in his prison”. Sager said.

“Then I shall kill him, like he did my father!” Thorn shouted whilst running towards the fire. “No! Thorn you are not yet ready”. Sager tried to stop him. But the stubborn Thorn acted with his broken heart and not his mind. The few men that stayed to protect their homes, follows Thorn like cattle for slaughter. Sager can’t help but see the same stubbornness in Thorn that Garlock had as he runs after them.

Chapter Thirteen

[Back in Ore-dale]

Augustus exhausted from the day’s events, helped his father to bed. As he walked out of the house, he sees Hillary sitting in the kitchen side overtaken by thought, just staring at the floor. “Hillary? Are you well?” Augustus asked in a concerned tone of voice, whilst walking towards her. She doesn’t respond, still consumed by her thoughts. Augustus kneeled in front of her and placed his hand on her leg. “Hillary?” He said. Hillary snaps out of thought as his big hand touches her leg. “Are you well my love?” Augustus asked again.

She lifted and placed her hand on his cheek, “As long as you breathe, I breathe. If you heart beats, so does mine. No matter what we face tomorrow or the years to come as long as we do it together.” Hillary said. Augustus smiles and embraces Hillary.

Augustus stood up and took Hillary’s hand and they walked outside. Augustus placed more wood on the fire and sat next to Hillary. “I have to start planning for what is to come, I have to draw the sword again.” Augustus said. “Is this the only way you could know what to do?” Hillary asked worried. “I have no other choice; you will have to hide and observe first. If it is dangerous, you stay away but if not, find out as much as you can. Now go please.” Hillary jumps up without a word, she looks him in the eyes for a second, shakes her head slowly in disbelief and starts moving away from him.

Augustus who had seen the worry in her eyes, can’t help but worry himself. He does not know what will happen if he draws the sword again. He stands in a steady position. Takes a deep breath then places his hand on the sword. Hesitantly he starts pulling the sword from the sheath. He holds the sword upright with both hands, but nothing happened. Staring at the sword very confused. Augustus starts noticing the green glow from the sword as it got brighter. Suddenly he is clothed in armor. Hillary, standing behind the sidewall of the small wooden house, staring at the man. Not following the instructions given by Augustus, she walks towards him.

He hears her approaching. He turns towards her and says. “Who goes there?”. “It is me, my love.” Hillary desperately answers. “My love? You must be talking about the man’s body that I am currently possessing?” He asked Hillary. “Yes, I am, who are you?” Hillary anxiously asked.

“I am Asathor!” He said, waiting for her to realize who he is. “I am King of Cockaigne, the land of plenty. I am the King over all the land and growth on Seth?” He said feeling insulted. “Do you not have any legends of me?” he asked Hillary. Hillary thinks for a moment… “Are you the one ancient King that was defeated by that Demon?” She asked.

“Yes, that’s me… wait what? Me defeated?!” Asathor asked insulted. “You know nothing of your history, but nonetheless you will all soon get to know me. I must go now. Tell Augustus that he must not draw the sword again before dawn. I am still bonding to him and soon he will feel my presence inside him then we will be able to communicate. Let him rest for when we wake up, we have a lot of work to do.” Asathor instructs whilst placing his sword back in the sheath.

A green light runs from his feet to his head and Augustus is back. “What happened?” Augustus asked confused. Hillary walked towards him and started explaining what had happened in his absence. Overwhelmed by this, Augustus took a few minutes to clear his head.

“I haven’t the faintest idea what is on the horizon Hillary, but for now, all I want to do is spend my last alone moments with you.” Augustus said. “Cast your doubt to the wind, you shall be the savior of Seth.” Hillary tried to ease him. “I am not in doubt, but in fear for us. I do not carry the knowledge of tomorrow, nor do I possess Garlock’s wisdom of the past it faded when I touched the sword. I have been only a farmer. Now I must keep thee safe from the oncoming threat. Evil like we have never seen before. Now I shall be possessed by an ancient King. I have not chosen this life; my path was laid out before my first breath. Should harm befall thee, Seth shall be doomed.”

“Calm yourself Augustus! Nothing will happen to me. I will be by your side like always.” Hillary corrected him.

Whilst wrapping her arms around his waist. “Let us forget about our responsibilities for the night, for the dawn will bring new light.” Said Hillary as she took his hand and led him to the barn. She had lit the lamps, which had a soft touch to the light in the barn.

She picked up the milking chair and placed it in front of Augustus and undressed him. As she stepped on to the chair, he noticed the soft light of the lamps reflecting of her skin, she only had lust in her eyes. He stood in silence and admired the portrait unfolding. He feels his heartbeat rising. Hillary slowly unbinds the ribbon under her chest whilst looking at him. As she pulls off the ribbon, the chiton slowly falls off her body. Augustus still silent in admiration steps towards Hillary and places his hands on her hips. He lifts Hillary toward him, and her legs laced around his body. Consumed by lust, they embrace each other.

Chapter Fourteen

[Back in Garlock’s Castle]

The dark lord is surrounded by naked women, intoxicated with a water and wine mix. The barbaric demon drinks his wine clean, from the skull of the high prophet. Barfistela senses that Kane is about to go into battle. “Out!” he shouts. Whilst everyone is running to the closest exist, he mutters again, “Close the door!”

As the demon is alone in the throne room, only accompanied by Abaddon. “Make sure no one enters” Barfistela instructs Abaddon. He sits on the throne and lies his head back. When he opens his eyes, they are molten metal red like the eyes of Kane. He can see everything Kane sees. Looking over hundreds of demons. Kane catapults another flame ball towards the town.

Thorn along with a handful of men run towards the demons. “Stay behind me, you will be safest here!” shouts Thorn, just before he engages in battle. He runs faster and clashes into the crowd of demons, sending some flying through the air. Still using the blade, he took from the other demons earlier that day. He swings it around with all his might, the blade chisels through the demon armor. “Death to you demons!” Thorn cries as he strikes again and again. Some demons plummeting to the ground, whilst others lift to the air. The dull and rusty blade not slicing through most perfectly. Ash is everywhere as the demons perish at the hands of Thorn, strike after strike.

When he is no longer surrounded by the demons, he runs deeper into the crowds. The handful of men assisting, struggling with one or two demons that escaped Thorns’ fury. He fights like a blood drunk warrior, leaving no demon to spare. He wants the demon that killed his King, his Father.

Sager jumps into the crowd next to Thorn. “You need to stop; we need to retreat. You are not ready to face this demon. He is too powerful.” Sager desperately tried to bring Thorn to his senses, whilst fighting back-to-back with him. “Spare your thoughts Sager, I will defeat him.” Thorn shouts as he gave a mighty battle cry.

“I will not be a part of this. Your father’s plan was not your death.” Sager replied irritated as he jumps out of the crowd and into the shadows.

Kane shooting strings of fire into the trees so he can better see what’s happening, until he sees Thorn. “There you are, oh chosen one.” Kane said to himself humored. He catapults another fire ball towards Thorn. Thorn striking at the demons, sees the fire ball lighting it’s path towards his head. He swings the sword in a circle striking the demons close to him. When he looks, the fireball is upon him.

He blocks with the sword. Thorn cries in agony as the fire ball strikes the sword from his hands! The tremendous force of Kane’s attack sends Thorn ripping through the crowd of demons. Thorn comes to a stop. He jumps to his feet and starts attacking again, even more aggressive than before.

He grabs a demon by the face and easily breaks the neck. He grabs the sword and throws the demon into the crowd. He rips another sword from a demons’ hand, whilst the demon was striking. Blood running from Thorns’ hand but he doesn’t notice, he fights on adrenaline.

Acting out of pure rage and hatred for the demons. The guilt feeling for killing these soulless creatures got lost as soon as he heard Barfistela. The smirking Demon King is amused by the chaos he sees unfolding through Kane’s eyes. He takes a swallow of wine from the prophets’ skull. “Kill him!” Barfistela instructs Kane. “Gladly master.” Kane replied.

“He is mine!” shouts Kane towards the demon army. The demons stop and look towards Kane.

As he approaches, they make a path through the chaotic crowd, towards Thorn who is still fighting like a deranged animal.

Thorn noticed the crowd of demons started chanting something as Kane walked down the path. “Amna Kane; Amna Kane; Amna Kane...” a chill runs down the spine of Thorn as he looks around for Sager. The handful of men that wanted to stay and fight, fought very bravely but was swiftly overwhelmed by the demons. “You hear the chanting?” Kane said amused as he came before Thorn. “That is for you. Amna Kane . . . Death by fire. Death by me!” Kane shouts as he hurls a flame ball towards Thorn.

Thorn swiftly jumps to the side, missed by an inch, the flame ball hits into the crowd of demons circling them. Thorn wastes no time and runs towards Kane a few paces away from the demon he jumps to the air in a “sideways: front flip” motion striking first with the sword in his left hand and then the one in his right.

In coherence to Thorns attack Kane draws his sword to block Thorns attack. Kane holding his sword in his left hand over his head, in a blocking position. Thorns first strike hit against Kane’s sword sliding off as the second-strike slices through the air. Thorn yields all his power into the second blow, as the swords collide and forces Kane to his knee.

Complete silence after the strike. For a moment all you could hear was Thorns heavy breathing. Kane suddenly retaliates with a thunderous right fist to the chest of Thorn, sending him through the air. Thorn had never felt such power, as he gasps for air, rolling on the ground holding his chest. The treetops burning and the clouds of smoke making breathing even harder.

Kane walks towards Thorn, grabs him by the chest and pulls him up from the ground. Kane’s fist inflamed as he delivers another thunderous blow to his face whilst holding him with the other hand. The blood and sweat streaming from his wounds run into his eyes. Only managing to stay on his feet by Kane’s hand, mostly lifeless.

Kane pulls him closer. “Seth is ours now. Your woman and children shall be dealt with as we please. They will all know that their savior was a failure.” Kane whispers in the bloody ear of Thorn.

Thorn tries to break free but haven’t the strength. “Want more do you?” Kane said before he humiliatingly slaps Thorn to the ground. “Amna Kane!” he shouts to the crowd of demons lifting his hand to the air as they cheer him on. He prepares to finish Thorn. Aiming for his head as he pulls his arm back to throw a massive fireball at Thorn.

Suddenly Sager lands over Thorn and delivers his mighty roar. As Kane stumbles over backwards the beast locks Thorn in his jaw and runs off, disappearing as he runs.

Barfistela shouting in anger whilst throwing the wine filled skull of the prophet against the wall. “Find him!” Shouts the Dark Lord as he breaks the connection with Kane. He lowers his hand and rubs it over the head of Abaddon, he asks rhetorically: “Are you the only being that never disappoints?” Abaddons’ eyes darken as he faintly smiles.

The frustrated Demon King calls to the people waiting outside. “Wine and new women!”. One woman does not entertain the sick demon for long. In his prison he had only one who was not there by will, but he had his way with her for more than a millennium. Thus, enraging his recent hunger for different women daily. “It’s best you entertain me woman!”. He said whilst grabbing a frightened woman by the cheeks. “Before my foul mood turns its attention to thee.”

Chapter Fifteen

[Ore-dale]

Augustus and Asathor’s link had been completed.

“What is this?” Asathor asked as he looked around him. He was in the woods and Infront of him was Hillary backed up against the tree flirtingly pushing her long dark hair behind her ear whilst softly and slowly biting her bottom lip. Asathor suddenly very confused and nervous, realizes this must be a dream… Hillary grabs him by the chest and pulls him closer… “Wake up!” He nervously shouts.

Augustus flew up from the straw in the barn out of breath. He looks around the light of the lamps still burning. “We must have fallen asleep.” He thinks to himself whilst looking at Hillary still sleeping. “You think? Please keep your personal dreams to yourself!” Asathor replied in thought. Even though Augustus was expecting something, the voice in his head took him by surprise. He walked out of the barn and stood outside.

“I Know I was chosen for this, but I do not know why, who are you?” Augustus asks. “I am Asathor, the King of Cockaigne. Not that you even know what Cockaigne was but if you would allow me, I can show you?” Asathor explains. “You may proceed.” Augustus answered. “Good let us proceed then. You might want to be seated for what is about to happen.”

(Asathor uses Augustus’s body) He looks to the ground in front of him. Sticks out his hand fully open to the ground. His eyes faintly glowing as he turns his palm to the sky whilst lifting his hand slightly. The ground starts to rise in the form of a chair. Asathor felt like Augustus suddenly had a million questions but swiftly puts him at ease. “Calm down Augustus.” He instructed. “All will be explained soon enough. Sit down and look to the stars. Calm yourself.” Asathor instructs.

As Augustus sits down, he feels the ground like it is a part of him. Not knowingly, he moves the ground around so that he sits more comfortably. “Now look to the sky Augustus and close your eyes. I will control your mind for this part, but you will still be able to use your body normally.” Nervously Augustus follows Asathors’ instructions. “When you are ready you can open your eyes” said Asathor.

Augustus opens his eyes the stars were larger than before. In a way he felt connected to the moons around Seth as he looked around. “Look at the moon, the northern moon and focus on it.” Asathor instructs. Augustus focuses on the moon; it got closer and closer until he suddenly felt like he was inside the moons’ core. He is surrounded by a white light and everywhere were images, playing like memories.

“Welcome Augustus to my Seth soul vessel. You are the first mortal or anything that has been here except for me. Inside here you will be able to see everything I have done in my life on Seth. You see, if you look from there (pointing in a direction). You can see when Seth was merely a few days old when the Creator sent us here to take care of Seth. And so, it goes on until my last memory on Seth.” Asathor explains. “What are the black memories?” Augustus asked intrigued. “Those are called slumber memories. Or dreams if you will. Every seven days I must rest for two days. Those are not important. I remove them because my two days of slumber is spent in here. Looking at what I have done and where I want to go from there whilst my body rests. You see Augustus. All souls my father creates are immortal however to be able to stay on Seth, we had to have bodies far superior to yours, but mortal, nonetheless.” Asathor still explaining.

“Seth has three moons: the northern moon; southern moon and the mid moon. There is one for me and the other two for my brothers: Barfistela and Garlock.” “But I have only seen two moons in the sky?” Augustus interrupts. “Yes, you only see two. That is because whilst I was still living on Seth one night, I noticed that the moon of Barfistela had gone blood red.

A few weeks later he suddenly attacked my kingdom I defeated him of course, but from there on it started turning black until it could not be seen. Enough of this, we will return in your slumber, our slumber. Now we need to train and prepare for the battle that is upon us.” Asathor said. Asathor was done talking.

Suddenly Augustus was falling towards Seth. As he is waving his arms and legs around screaming, he could hear Asathor laughing in his head. “The best I have found to be is training by doing. Placing someone in an impossible situation and see what happens.” Asathor said humored whilst Augustus had slipped into a panic state, not moving just falling… “Snap out of it! I will guide you! Now stick out your arms and legs to stabilize your rotations!” Augustus does what he is told and straightens his arms and legs, his rotation slows down until it stops.

“Good! Now hold your palm open towards the ground and focus on it. Feel Seth running through you. Then whilst turning your palm toward the sky, lift the ground up to catch yourself!” Asathor instructs. Augustus does as he is told but it is all failed attempts. “You have to focus!” Asathor instructs. “How can one focus when falling to his death!” Augustus shouts, as he continues trying.

Hillary wakes up from the ground bursting as a rumbling sound flows through the barn. She swiftly runs outside to see what is happening. What she saw she could not explain. The sun had just risen and everywhere it looked like the soil was jumping.

She runs to get Mr. Thornwood who is calling from the house. As she runs the ground spits into the air and falls back down leaving small craters the size of wagon wheels. She makes it into the house safely and runs towards Mr. Thornwood. “Where is Augustus?” Mr. Thornwood asks. “I have no idea.” cried Hillary. “Help me!” Mr. Thornwood shouts as he drags himself from bed to go outside.

As they get outside the door, there is dust everywhere and pieces of ground lifting to the air and falling again.

Augustus still falling towards Seth, “Help me!” He shouts to Asathor as the ground came closer and closer by the second. “Just draw your sword!” Asathor disappointedly said. Augustus tries to reach for his sword. In a few attempts he manages to grab the sword’s handle and rips the sword from its sheath. The sword glows green and Asathor takes over, as the armor flairs up over Augustus’ body.

“Now observe my might!” Asathor cried to Augustus as he rips from Seth’s surface a tower towards them. As the tower almost reaches them, Asathor pushes it down again in order to lessen their impact. As they meet the tower in the air you could hear the massive impact rumbling through the air, the ground is shaking like a quake.

Mr. Thornwood and Hillary gazes numbingly at the tower of soil that moments ago lifted towards the heavens. “It’s coming down again!” Hillary hysterically shouts as she grabs Mr. Thornwood’s hand. He pulls her down towards him and holds her calmly. The noise generated by the ground’s movement is terrifying. Not having the faintest idea where Augustus is. Dust is everywhere. They could barely see the tower. Then suddenly it all went quiet…

Asathor managed to save him and Augustus from falling. The tower he erected brought them to the ground safely. The dust surrounding them was thick. Asathor stuck his hand out before him and turned in a circular motion and ordered the dust to soil. The dust settled.

Hillary saw the armored body of Augustus and ran towards him. When Asathor turned around he was met by an angry Hillary punching and slapping on his chest. She was like a woman possessed! “Stop scaring me like that!” She said crying as she wrapped her arms around him.

Asathor not having the faintest idea how to react to this, stands there like a statue “Could you stop standing there and ease her!” Augustus said.

Chapter Sixteen

[Somewhere in a field outside of Unger]

Thorn faintly wakes up, but all is blurry. He sees the ground moving and Sager’s paws rushing back and forth as he drifts off again… Suddenly Thorn feels nothing under him. He is thrown in a river as water engulfs him. A few seconds passes as Sager stood there looking at Thorn sinking in the stream. Suddenly Thorn comes flying up for a breath of air and splashes around like a person drowning. Sager angerly walks back and forth.

When Thorn calmed himself, he felt that the bottom of the stream wasn’t deep and stood up. He looked at the beast. For a second Sager stopped and looked at Thorn and continued to pace up and down. The skin on Thorns arms is red and he feels like he is on fire. But he is glad to be alive and asked Sager. “What’s the matter?”. “What’s the matter you ask?” Sager replied in sarcastic anger.

“That demon must have hit you harder than I thought, but there is hope at least something can penetrate that thick head of yours.” Sager said whilst pacing around. “What are you angry about?” Thorn asked confused.” “You, you’re an idiotic fool. Maybe your father’s last days had not been wise to leave the faith of Seth in the hands of an ape! I told you, you were not ready, but you did not listen. You ran on rage; anger and hatred, emotions Garlock had no place for. You haven’t the right to gamble away the people of Seth’s chance to live. Your father trusted you with his power, but with great power comes great responsibility. You cannot blindly run into battle! If it had not been out of respect for Garlock, I would have left you there. I will leave your thoughts to this before we continue our journey. If you had not been like a deranged blood drunk demon and thought clearly before acting. You would not have to explain to all those families why their men were lost for no reason.” Lectured Sager angerly.

Thorn remained silent not looking anywhere but at the rippling reflection of himself on the water. He had no words for his actions. The rage inside him was like nothing he had ever felt. Though he was powerful, he realized he was no match for this darkness. “From this moment forward, you will be my guide Sager, if you would?” Thorn self-consciously said. “We will have to find the people of Unger then lead them to Ore-Dale. Hopefully you won’t get yourself killed. Let us go now and find them.” Sager instructed.

Chapter Seventeen

[Garlock city]

Garlock’s castle quickly grew into a dark place. The beautiful gardens were caught in winter. The absence of sun leaves nothing but a dark lifeless city. King Garlock’s great horned horse had turned to stone in his absence. Barfistela called his witch. As the dark witch entered the room, a foul smell of death entered with her. Her body reshaped of all the dark magic and a voice like a razor blade, she slowly struggles towards Barfistela.

“You summoned me from my chambers?” The witch asked. “I have.” Barfistela answered, whilst he gets off the throne and greets the witch. “There were portals before I was imprisoned. Portals that connected the kingdoms. In order to keep them a secret we had to build our castles over the portals. The portals could only be used by the descendants of the Creator, in other words me and my dead brothers.

Garlock’s’ portal is under the throne room, but it is dead. I believe that when they imprisoned me and my kingdom in Irkalla, the portals were closed as they did not align anymore. I need you to find a way to bring these portals back to life. If we achieve this my city will be restored on Seth and we can close the portal to Irkalla for good.

Each King of Seth had two portals. The one linking our kingdoms and the other one known only to the king of his domain. I had a portal to water and the underworld; this was mine to manage and protect. My brothers had their own. To my believe Asathor was master of the land and growth. Garlock was master over all beast roaming the land and sea and wind. If we could manage to activate those portals, Seth will be under my rule. But it would seem that the portal master ignores my summons.” Barfistela explained to the pale witch.

“One more thing, I am about to enter my slumber so keep an eye out for Abaddon.” Barfistela instructed as he walked out of the room. The witch waiting for Abaddon as he walks towards her. She turned and walked to the portal room.

The portal was dark. The witch lifted her hand and chanted, the four torches in the room lit up. She stuck out her hand towards one of them and it levitated into her hand.

In the room there was nothing but a big upside-down triangular stone on a rectangular stand. The witch walks towards the portal and holds the light of the torch to the portal. She sees writing on the front head of the portal. She also notices that there is writing on the sides and foot stone. “I have never before seen this writing, but something tells me you have Abaddon.” She curiously said looking back at him.

Chapter Eighteen

[Back in Ore-Dale]

Augustus explains and manages to calm Hillary. He looks over the field and all he can see is craters of his previous failure. “Asathor lets try again but start small.” Augustus thought.

Mr. Thornwood sitting in his carriage looking at his son. “I have to train.” Augustus said as he started walking towards the field. “I hope fixing my field is part of your training son. What does this cart help if I cannot use the ground to move on?” Mr. Thornwood said. Augustus looked at him and shook his head up and down. “I shall tend to the land after training father.”

Hillary is busy preparing lunch, whilst she was busy emptying a bucket of water, she got lost in thought again. Asathor stopped Augustus in his tracks, “Do you feel that?” Asathor asked. “Yes, what is it?” Augustus answered. “It means that there is someone close by that has manipulative power, but it is of no threat, so let us start training.” Asathor said.

“Now clear your head, close your eyes and breath slowly. Find a calm place in your head where everything is perfect, then use that as an anchor point. When you find it, you will know! Stick out your hand towards the ground and feel the ground and the plants. You will know you’re ready to try when you can see the ground and plant life even with your eyes closed. Then you can attempt to move the ground.” Asathor explained.

Augustus did exactly what he explained and as he got closer to his second attempt, Asathor instructs him to stay calm; turn and lift his hand. So, he did. He rose the ground higher in front of him. “Open your eyes!” Asathor said. “You have done it lad!” Asathor cheered him on. “But before you get all happy and excited, remember this what you create from the ground must be undone when you have no need for it. So, in the same manner you have done you can undo it. Give it a go!” Augustus focusses although he is bleeding with pride. He cleared his head and sunk the risen ground.

Mr. Thornwood not being far from his son watches in admiration. He moves closer to Augustus. “So now you can persuade the ground, is it?” Mr. Thornwood asked. “It would seem so father.” Augustus answered. “Great son! Now you can persuade all those craters you made to level ground!” His father sarcastically said whilst laughing.

Augustus smiling but not really meeting his father’s amusement looks at the field full of craters whilst scratching his head. Asathor is completely silent as he observes Augustus’s movements. As he continued closing craters one by one. Until he started moving in a corrugated movement for a few seconds and closed all the remaining craters together. “That’s how it’s done lad” Asathor cheering Augustus.

Chapter Nineteen

[Field from Unger]

Sager had caught sent of the people of Unger. “They can’t be far now” he said. Whilst racing around a turn. Suddenly he stops as fast as he can, pushing his paws out in front of him. The sudden change in momentum sends Thorn flying. One, maybe two seconds passed before you could hear wood breaking and hollow metals falling on the ground making Sager smile. Thorn said nothing, he knew that Sager was still unpleased with him.

As the dust cleared the people of Unger surrounded the wagon. The men, woman and children all dusty, looking at Thorn lying in the dust covered by cutlery, buckets and spoons from the wagon. Thorn got up and looked around, no one said anything. He gazed at a small boy that was looking sad and lost. The boy had white hair and brown eyes. It looked as if he was expecting something or somebody. Maybe his father was one of the brave handful of men that had fought with him the previous night.

Suddenly the guilt overwhelmed Thorn. As he was about to speak and tell the people of Unger what had happened, Sager interrupts. “Even the best trained men would have fallen at the hand of Kane, the demon general and his army. Though we fought as hard as we could we were outnumbered. We barely escaped with our lives’ but not before trying to save the men that gave everything, so that you could live. To the families who had lost their loved ones. Know that it was not in vain. Know that we will never rest until Kane is sent back to the hell he crawled from. I understand that the loss is great and that every one of you have done nothing to deserve this evil, but we need to keep moving.” Sager explained to the people of Unger.

Everyone was sad of the loss they had suffered, some women held on to their children crying. “They need not know the truth, if we are to succeed. But you must own that guilt you’re feeling it was you that caused it.” Sager said to Thorn.

The goat path they were following wasn’t ideal for wagons and it took a toll in breakdowns. After they had fixed the necessary problems, they ate soup which the women had prepared for them, and they were on their way. It was close to sundown, and they still had far to travel. As you look back towards Unger you can see the dark cloud growing. From the bushes there were people joining in the movement.

Some had been running for days; some injured, but most souls did not manage to run from the evil. According to the stories running around amongst the villagers. Thorn’s head was on fire as he dealt with the problems. The ungerians were tired and they needed to rest. Thorn called for Sager to assist in the instructions as he could telepathically speak to them all at the same time.

“All the children and women starting with the elders first must get into the wagons. For the men, those who can, should assist the broxsen.”

(Big short legged creatures, bred for their strength, popular for pulling farming equipment and offers plenty of good meat. Their floating wool like fur is great for blankets and clothing during the cold seasons and their thick short horns are often hollowed for a drinking scoop”) and Furse’s in moving the wagons.

Five men behind each wagon will have to push, we will rotate at midnight. Take a few minutes to prepare and get the animals water so we can go again with heist!” Sager instructed on behalf of Thorn.

“Sager can you see well after sunset? “Thorn asked. “As well as I can see now.” The beast answered. “Good then it would be upon us to find water nearby. We will cast the water over the men and animals to help them stay fresh and awake. What other powers do you have?” Thorn asked “I agree we can help the men, but I will see to the water, you can assist in pulling a wagon. As for my powers they are mine and not yours to use as you please. But you have seen all my powers: I have speed, I can blend into any environment making me invisible to the Setherian eye; and I can heal someone like I healed that woman that was attacked by the demons, and like I healed you from being an overcooked piece of meat. The healing comes with a price. The injuries the person I heal will not reflect on me, but I will carry their pain. So only I will choose who or what I heal.” Sager grumblingly answered. As the sun sets the people were ready, and from the back they could hear Thorn instructing them to move.

Chapter Twenty

[Garlock city]

The darkness continued to grow, more so at night than during the day. One would almost say that the demons despise sunlight. The Demon King still in his slumber, gives the blood on the walls time to dry. The witch is looking through her spell book in the portal room. “It took me a thousand three hundred years to create the portal that got us out of that dreadful place. I haven’t the faintest knowledge on how to bring this portal to life.” She said. Like there was someone in the room with her. Abaddon lying next to her feet sleeping. She still could not figure out what the writing said on the portal stone.

She tried using spells and sacrifices, but it wouldn’t work. She went through the library of the past King Garlock. Combed through every magic book she could find without success.

In anger she threw a book into the fireplace. “How will I open that portal?!” She shouts to herself. The crazy witch walking up and down back and forth, but with no help to her cause, but only her frustration.

Startled by the witch’s commotion in the library she looks from a small hole between the stones. “What is this mad witch baffling about?” She asks herself softly not to draw any attention. She had been locked in a room by Barfistela himself. The room had no windows, and her food was slid under the door for her. The light only entering from the small cracks in the door frame.

Chapter Twenty-One

[Ore-dale]

The heap of bones and corn cores lying next to Augustus is gaspingly huge. Hillary and Mr. Thornwood looked at Augustus dumbstruck by the amount of food he had eaten. “Oh, that was heavenly my love!” Augustus mumbled and ripped the last piece of meat from the bone. “I cooked for a few days in advance, but I shall slaughter a Knox tomorrow.” Hillary answered sarcastically. Augustus helped his father into the small wooden house and went off into the field.

Every now and again you could only see the bright emerald light flashing from the small wooden house as Mr. Thornwood lied on his back staring at the roof. “Hillary? Art thou around?” he called. “I am.” She said rushing to his bed side. “At ease child. Bring the lamp closer and sit with me,” he said. Hillary did as he asked and sat next to his bed. They sat in silence whilst listening to Augustus fighting with himself.

“Do you think he would be well after all this has passed?” Hillary worryingly asked. “I know not what to think or how to act my child, do I act like nothing is out of place? When then again so much has changed. I cannot simply ignore the fact that my only son is twice a normal man’s size, nor that he is possessed by an ancient king who I have not heard of…” Mr. Thornwood answered. “But you knew that one day this would come to be?” Hillary asked. “I have, but what King Garlock and I discussed is not what is happening here. Though I do not agree with his actions, I trust him.” Mr. Thornwood said.

As the night went on, they talked about everything from the birth of Augustus to Asathors reaction when Hillary said there is no history of him. Hillary sat with Mr. Thornwood until he fell asleep.

She walked into the field towards Augustus. As she got closer, she witnessed the most beautiful display of light; plant and soil movement as he was practicing his control over the soil element. Amazed by the astonishing display Hillary stood silently and watched. After a few minutes had past whilst Augustus was turning, he caught sight of Hillary.

Suddenly everything went black. Hillary’s eyes still adjusting to the abrupt darkness, in a fast motion Augustus grabbed Hillary around the waist frightening her. Hillary’s reaction was unexpected as she started slapping him on the chest. A moment past where they just looked at each other. “You will be the death of me Augustus.” Hillary said. Whilst they started laughing.

The display of light had drawn attention from the town. Soon a few men gathered in front of Augustus’s house holding their torches. He saw them approaching from a distance and went to meet them. He warmly greeted the men, but they did not react well to him. His great masculine body intimidated the men, they had never seen a man of his stature before. One man the biggest in the group stepped forward.

“We heard about the darkness lurking on Seth, and we are here to let you know that we will not stand and watch you destroy Seth!” He said. Suddenly Hillary rudely interrupted whilst marching toward the man. “Hold your tongue! Have you any awareness of the King in who’s presence your in.” Hillary said in anger. “That’s enough my love.” Augustus said smiling as he lashed his arms around her and moved her back. “I will handle it from here.” Augustus said whilst she was still staring the man in the eye.

“So, you heard the stories, and sadly it is true. There is a great threat wielding in the dusk but fear not as I am not one of them. Most of you know who I am, but you feel your eyes are deceiving you. I Have changed and if you sit down, I will explain everything shortly.” He said as he walked to the barn. The men sat down, not long then Augustus returned from the barn with wood for the fire. He threw a few stubs in the fire and sat down. He started explaining how he had become so big, and that King Garlock gave his father a sword for him and that he was possessed by Asathor. As the story went on for a few hours he told them the history and how it came to this point in time. He moved the ground in the middle of the circle to better demonstrate with the small soil sculptures. They sat there for hours discussing everything.

Chapter Twenty-Two

[On the goat-path between Unger and Ore-Dale]

The sweat is running down Thorn’s face as he alone is pulling the wagon full of metal. He is starting to fall behind. There is a torch on each side of the wagon burning lower by the second. The one torch lost flame. When Thorn saw it, he looked up and saw he was far behind the rest of the wagons. His vision distorted by the sweat running into his eyes. He stopped to wipe his face when he opened his eyes again the other torch had lost flame.

He hears something rustle in the grass. “Sager there is something here!” He shouted in a panic. Sager doesn’t answer. He grabs the ladle and start moving again faster than before to catch up to the other wagons. Something jumps over the goat path in front of him giving him a massive fright. Suddenly as he screams Sager stands next to him. “Could you be quiet, your chasing of my dinner.” Sager said annoyed. Thorn did not even respond to him. He was just glad he was there. Thorn started pulling the wagon again, as Sager walks into the grass he commented “you would think a man of your stature would not be so afraid.” “I am not afraid, just startled.” Thorn said as he picked up his pace.

When midnight came to be, Thorn stopped the Ungerians and gave them time to rest. Before they would swop with the other men. They re-clothed the torches and rubbed them with fat. The broxsen and fhurse’s were given time to rest and feed. Before they continued their journey to Ore-Dale.

The morning sun kissed the horizon, the Ungerian men that were pushing throughout the night were tired. They stopped to rest. The women prepared food whilst the energetic children played in the fields. When the food was ready the men were called to wake, they ate and continued their journey.

Chapter Twenty-Three

[Back in Ore-Dale]

Augustus and Asathor had cleared a massive field close to his home. Trees were moved and Augustus grew the greenest grass Hillary had ever seen to cover the soil. “It is beautiful, but what is it for?” Hillary asked Augustus. “Let me show you,” he said taking her hand and walking towards the field. Before they stepped on to the grass Augustus stopped and took of his sandals as did Hillary. “You will love this.” He said as he took her hand and stepped onto the softest blanked of grass she had ever felt. “It’s majestic my love,” as she lied down on her back looking to the sky.

Augustus lying half bend over her. “Your beauty is surely unmatched my love.” He states as he could see the sky reflecting in her eyes. “This is where all the Setherians joining in our battle will sleep. They should start arriving soon.” Augustus said. “As long as you do not expect me to prepare food for all of them.” Hillary said. Augustus fled up. “What will they eat?” He asked.

Asathor calmed him. Let us prepare more land. Augustus took Hillary by the hand, and they walked towards the end of the grass field. Augustus pushed his hands out in front of him and moved them around. Hillary stood like a statue just staring at the soil in front of her. All the field grass trees and bushes shrunk into the ground, leaving only soil. The soil started shaping into ripple rows. Hillary said nothing as this is mind blowing to her. “Wait here” Augustus said exited as he runs towards the house.

He looks around the campfire where they ate every night and finds a single corn seed. “This will work perfectly” he told himself as he runs to Hillary. “Hold this for me please.” He instructs as he placed the single seed in her hand and runs of again, towards the small lake.

Hillary watches from afar as Augustus is shaping a run for the water to the field. The water starts running towards the field. Augustus takes the seed from Hillary “Are you ready for this?” He asked her excited. “I hope I am.” She mutters in disbelief. Augustus walks into the field and plants the corn seed. He stands upright and holds his hands over the area he had planted the seed. Slowly emerging from the ground grew a large corn plant holding many corn heads.

When the plant was fully grown, he walked to Hillary. Standing next to her he raised both hands and everywhere in the perpetrated field the corn started to grow.

Chapter Twenty-Four

[Unger]

Once a beautiful town, Unger lies in ash. The smoke still rises from the burnt buildings. The bodies of the brave few that had stood with Thorn are but bones as the demons and wolfs had their way. One wolf still chewing on a legbone. One could not help but feel sad for the destruction lying in the demons’ wake. General Kane on the back of his mighty Alpha. “A ruthless and blood thirsty pack leader, howling to the moons. This beast’s mouth is stained by the blood of its victims and spiky dirty grey hair, covering its body, the fluffy tale hiding a razor-sharp dagger like spike.” They are out of range of the darkness, and the sun was brightly shining. They took shelter under the forest trees awaiting nightfall. In attempt to chase down Thorn and the ungerians.

Chapter Twenty-Five

[Ore-dale]

The people of Ore-dale who heard the story of Augustus, started to pour into the farm like Augustus anticipated. It took some convincing but most of them stayed and assisted, in preparations for war. Mr. Thornwood and Augustus started planning, looking at what was needed. The discussions endured for hours and by the next morning most of the needs where prioritized. They had to start with forging weapons for the men and brave few women who felt like they would be better fitted as war maidens.

Augustus gathered all the people together. “There are matters we need to attend to. First, we are not close to being ready for battle, so everyone except for the children and women who does not want to participate in battle have to meet with my father in the field.

Second matter is weapons: every one that knows the ways of metal needs to meet with me. There were six men that had experience with forging metals. Amongst them was Festus, a grey old man but he had the most experience in forgery. Everyone knew he was the best in the field. Augustus knew him from a young age. He always assisted them with their metal needs.

“Men, I acknowledge your sacrifice to the battle. We need to forge weapons as soon as possible. Mr. Festus, you will lead the forgery. Tell me what you need, and I will do what I can.” Augustus said. “Well, we will need assistants one for each forger. Two for sharpening and four to gather wood and metal. What weapons do you need?” He answered Augustus. “Swords; spears; arrows and bows. I have made wood models and clay casts for you, it’s in the pushcart.” He answered. “Then we shall need carpenters to accompany us.” Festus said. “Gather what you need Festus, I shall meet you in town by tonight.” Augustus replied as he walked to the field where the rest of the men and women gathered to fight.

Mr. Thornwood and the boy’s made dummies for targets. The people stood in line to test what they would be best at: close combat or archery. People were tested and sorted by Mr. Thornwood and his son. However, this task was more difficult than one could imagine. The people had no sense for battle. This was not something they grew up with. “We will not succeed in this manner. These people know nothing of the art of battle, we will have to teach them.” Asathor told Augustus. “Agreed, what would you suggest that we do?” Augustus replied.

“We need to teach them the basics of fighting, I suggest that we take a few bright young men and teach them, then they could teach the masses.” Asathor said. Augustus walked over to his father on the cart and explained what they required. Augustus always had great trust in his father’s judgment and asked him to hand pick twenty men he thinks would be good in learning the art of battle.

Mr. Thornwood wasted no time and drove towards the group of people. “Listen!” Mr. Thornwood addressed the group. “I call only the bravest and strongest among you. Those who would learn fast and those with the ability to teach fast. He who thinks he would be worthy may go to the tree behind me.” He instructs.

A few seconds had passed after he spoke then the first person stepped out of the group, red hair hanging on her back. Augustus wanted to intervene and return her to the group, but Mr. Thornwood stopped him. “Hold on son, leave her be.” Almost like he saw something in her.

Soon after a few men followed until there were twenty. “You see son, she is already the leader.” Mr. Thornwood said. Augustus looked at him confused, whilst Asathor is on his back with laughter in his thoughts. “There you go son; they are willing to learn and eager to lead.” Mr. Thornwood told Augustus. He just shook his head whilst walking towards them.

“You can take it from here Asathor.” As he draws his sword, everyone gasped in amazement at the transformation of Augustus into Asathor.

“Right then here we are.” Asathor said to them whilst removing his helmed and nodding his head up and down. “Here we are.” Still nodding like he forgot for a moment what must be done. “What are you lot standing here for get your weapons!” He instructs the group of “leaders”. They all scatter around picking up whatever they could find, one of the young men ripped a branch from the tree. Naturally this action did not sit well with Asathor, and he walked towards the young man and pulled him on the ear.

The man following his ear as he is lead around by Asathor “Do you like this? Can I rip it off like you just did to that tree?” Asathor said angrily. “Calm down, leave the man. He doesn’t know how you feel about certain things” Augustus said in his head. Asathor releasing the man’s ear from his unbreakable grip.

He looked around at the other nineteen and saw that the weapons they got would not suffice. “Lesson one, Seth is only borrowed to you. You shall not cause it any unnecessary harm. If you need something, you take it with respect.

Whilst placing his hand on the tree Asathor said “I acknowledge your sacrifice.” His hand on the tree illuminated green, where the branch was ripped off it grew back then there grew a proper straight branch from the tree stem. As it grew, Asathor cuts it off around arm length until there is twenty straight proper sticks they can use and issued one to each.

Asathor started teaching them about formations and movements, offensive strikes and defensive blocking strikes. “The person next to you is now your enemy, one will practice offensive and the other defensive. They fought against each other, and they were driven hard, training did not stop the rest of the day.

Chapter Twenty-Six

[The goat path]

Thorn and the ungerians were pushing hard to get to Ore-dale but they still have a day or two to go. Sager estimates just after sunset tomorrow if they would travel at the same pace than the night before. Sager was tired and needed to rest. He ran ahead, he laid down in the middle of the road to sleep. He believes that he would be able to get a few hours rest before they reached him.

Thorn and the people were strongly on the move, he could taste the aroma of the cooking soup a few wagons away. It is close to nightfall, but he had to eat something. He called for a break and allowed the men to change shifts whilst he ate. After he was done eating, he drank water; washed his face and called to move again.

With the sun hanging just over the horizon. The demons are ready to chase them down. Most would be riding on wolfs, wild boars and lizards. Enormous ugly white/grey colorless lizards.

As the mountain tops slowly engulfs the sun, Kane moves to the front of the pack on Alpha. He wouldn’t dare failing his master again. He knows he would suffer a fate death could not defy. As the drool drips from Alpha’s mouth and his flesh red eyes, reflecting the mountain range swallowing the sun. Kane calls for his demons and he races out of the forest like the possessed demon he is.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

[Garlock city]

In the dark storage room next to the library in Garlock’s castle you could only see her eye as she was looking through the crack in the wall. She had recognized some of the things the witch was trying to do. She knew this had to be the portals, she thought back to the day she and Garlock locked away a powerful spell book through his portal. “Maybe that is what the witch is looking for.” She thought to herself.

Abaddon is licking the blood dripping from the latest sacrificial spell. The witch busy cutting the ropes holding the body of the recently sacrificed. Abaddon takes the body by the foot and pulls it off the table. Around the corner, you could hear the bones breaking as he devoured her.

Bring me another pure soul the witch shouted to the guards. Not long after you could hear the screams of an innocent young woman fighting to break free from the demonic guards as they dragged her into the library. She struggles and fights fiercely.

The witch steps forward, with a wave of hand the witch places her under a numbing spell, so that she would come willingly. She placed the woman on the table over the salt pentacle and tied her down. The woman not realizing what’s happening to her. “She should feel everything.” A strange voice in the witch’s head advises. The witch’s wave releases the spell. The young woman stripped from her clothes, tied to the four ends of the table started screaming and fighting but her movement is limited by the ropes.

The witch takes the black candle full of hot melted wax and slowly pours it over the victim’s eyes. Whilst she screams in agony the witch pours a line over her body down the middle.

She takes a sharp-edged bone of some other poor soul that suffered her wrath and sufferingly slow cuts a symbol over the victim’s chest. A magic circle with the traveler symbol inside of it. Beneath she carved the symbol for a dark god.

The victim is screaming, crying and breathing heavily. The witch started chanting and moved around, then she looked towards the victim eyes black as hell. She cuts her between the legs an under her armpits. It was not long to which the victim bled out. The witch’s chanting sat the victim’s blood on fire. Suddenly a thunderous crash as a big hole opened under the table and it fell into a pitch-black pit and closed again.

The nature of this offering was so dark that it ripped the demonic king from his slumber.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

[Whist this occurrence on the goat path]

Thorn, Sager, Asathor and Augustus felt the darkness of the spell slicing through the air.

Thorn still learning but all he knows is that that feeling goes with darkness, as he cried for the ungerians to move faster. “They are closing in on us” he shouts, he tried calling for Sager but with no response he was too far ahead. Sager standing up with his head hanging low to the ground, he shakes off his sleep and starts running towards the ungerians.

The dark force of the spell took so much energy that it forced Augustus to a knee. “What was that”? Augustus asked Asathor. “I am not sure, but it was the strongest darkness I have ever felt, it is different from the darkness of Barfistela, this is stronger but seems familiar.” He worryingly replied. “We must go” Asathor said. “Just wait I have to tell Hillary” Augustus said. “With heist then as there is no time!” Asathor said.

Augustus ran to Hillary “I have to go my love; I shall see you soon.” He said as he kisses her on the forehead and runs off. “Wait, where are you off to? She asked, but he kept running. “Augustus?... Augustus?” Hillary called. As his silhouette disappeared in the dark of night.

He was running very fast and shortly after he was through the town and on to the old goat path towards Unger. “Faster Augustus! We have to reach them in time!” Asathor said. “I am running as fast as I can! Where are we going and who are they?” He asked. “Stop let me show you.” Asathor said and Augustus slowed down until he was able to stop.

“On your knees, place your hands in the soil and clear your thoughts, you will be able to feel the soil and the roots of the trees and grass will illuminate in your thought, like you see them, but your eyes are closed. Move beyond them move forward you will see wild animals walking around move far beyond them, you will see a group of people their footsteps and the lines of the wagon wheels moving.” Asathor instructs. A few seconds passed

“I see them!” Augustus said excited. “Good now move past them!” Asathor instructs. Augustus smiling with amazement. Another few seconds passed, and his smile suddenly faded. “What is that?” He asked as he felt the darkness in the ground. “That’s what we have to save those people from!” Asathor said.

Augustus jumped up and ran as fast as he could, even faster than before. It was as if the ground gave him an extra push with every step. “That’s good, hold your pace there, and pray we make it in time.” Asathor said.

Sager had reached the ungerians and called for them all to stop. “Thorn we won’t be able to outrun them. They are to close. Send the women and children ahead by foot. The rest of us will have to take a stand if we want to keep them alive.” Sager said.

Thorn called the ungerians together. “Men grab water and food and take it to the smallest wagon. Women gather your children and start running, stay on the goat path run as fast as you can. Take the fhurse’s for the elderly and run do not look back. Pray to the Creator it is we that find you. Now go!” The women greeting their men in a panic, gathered their children and started running. Grabbing the torches from the wagons as they go.

“Men, we have no weapons, hide behind the wagons. Sager and I will get you weapons as quickly as we can. You must work in groups of ten. If your group has weapons you need to join in the fight. One of you will have to be a runner to collect the weapons. Sager and I cannot protect you by ourselves, we need every drop of braveness you hold. Know that if we fail to meet the threat tonight, your women and children will be dead before sunrise!” Thorn said

“Hold, let us move the wagons to the side between the trees, leaving an opening in the middle. Thus, channeling them through a smaller opening, would make them easier to kill.” Sager instructed “I agree! Like Sager said and hurry we haven’t time!” Cried Thorn. They moved the wagons as instructed. The broxsen ate grass next to the wagons and the few torches that were left on the wagons was all placed on their side. Waiting for the enemy, waiting for their death.

The sweat on his face is blown off by the wind as Augustus runs. As he passes sharp turns the path is manipulated at an angle to help him turn fast as he runs. He can feel them getting closer.

“Oh, chosen one!” Kane calls as he sees the wagons blocking most of the path. Thorn’s heartbeat explodes as he hears the demons voice, but he keeps calm... The demon called again but no answer. He sees a figure running past the opening in the wagons. He signals his demons to go through.

The first demon riding on the back of his wild boar cautiously approaches the opening and slowly goes through, he doesn’t see anything and calls the rest of the demons. Thorn and Sager waiting to attack from the bush. “Hold it!” Sager instructs Thorn telepathically. As more demons came through, when Sager saw the demons were enough, he signaled to attack. “Now” Sager shouts telepathically. They attacked from both sides and easily defeated the demons. Two groups of men could join in the fight and so they did as more demons came through. Kane saw their plan and would not have it as he slings a fire ball towards the wagons. “I shall burn you alive.” He shouts as he threw another and sent in more demons.

All four groups had weapons they had sleighed half of the demons, but Kane had it with the wagons. “Enough!” Shouts the demon as he catapults another bigger fire ball destroying most of the wagon wall. “Kill them all!” Kane shouted to his demons. Kane is holding back for as long as he can, in hopes that the demon king would see him destroy the chosen one… Not one of the ungerians men lost their lives thus far, Thorn would not have the death of anyone else on his shoulders. They are still outnumbered two to one but fighting bravely.

Augustus felt the ungerians are close. He started slowing down when he saw the torches. The women and children were running. He stopped the first woman and asked her what happened. “They are behind us, the men stayed to fight them so we could get away!” Oddly staring at him. He started running again as fast as his legs could carry him.

Thorn jumped onto Sager’s back and they ran into a crowd of demons fighting with all their might. “Perhaps the demon lost his magic?” Thorn cried as Kane sat on Alpha waiting for Barfistela. “Are you ready for this?” Sager asked Thorn. “We haven’t any choice,” Thorn replied whilst looking nervously at Kane.

They fought their way through the demon crowd towards Kane. “I can wait no longer.” Kane said as he draws his sword and charges towards Thorn. As the demons make way. Kane and Thorn charges towards each other.

Kane shoots a string of fire towards Thorn and Sager. Sager dodges the attack and continued to charge towards Kane. Thorn stood up on Sager’s back and a few meters before they would meet, he jumps to the air with a rusty demon blade held over his head ready to strike.

Thorn knows Kane is incredibly stronger than he is, so every strike must count. Moments before Thorn’s strike meets the already expecting Kane’s sword blocking, Sager swiftly steps to the side allowing the Alpha to pass, Sager strikes Kane with a thunderous paw to the chest. The force lifts Kane from the wolfs back as Sager’s nails rips his chest armor clean off.

Sager’s action had thrown Thorn’s calculation off, and he meets the soil without landing his strike. Kane in the dusty goat path is still looking towards the sky. “I planned that attack, why would you?” Thorns tries to ask. “Quiet! “Sager instructs. Kane started moving. Both focused on Kane, he started laughing whilst lying in the dust.

“What would be so amusing?” Thorn asked the demon… When he opened his mouth to ask again, the wolf rammed them from the side.

Thorn tumbling a few paces into the demon crowd. Sager rolling over once and attacks the wolf again. In coherence to the wolf ramming them Kane started laughing hysterically holding his stomach. Thorn being kicked inside the crowd by the demons, can’t handle the fact that this soulless creature is laughing amid battle.

Kane makes his way to his feet. Just as he picks up his sword, Thorn finds his feet and push the demons away. Turning towards Kane. “You should have seen your face when you realized your attack was all for nothing.” Kane said very amused. Thorn attacked with his sword. Kane quickly blocked and they started sword fighting back and forth.

“When will you realize that your defeat is inevitable? This is merely child’s play!” Kane said as he struck the sword from Thorns hand.

Kane toying around with Thorn tosses his sword to the soil. Thorn lays a blow to the chin of Kane, but it would find no effect. Kane hits him around one thunderous strike after the other. Sager and Alpha is still fighting.

These mythical beasts are fighting on a completely other level. You could almost not see them move around. The wolf bites Sager; Sager bites the wolf. Sager falls; the wolf falls. Everything slowed down when Sager started sensing his master, distracted from the battle the wolf bit sager behind the neck. Sager roared in pain. The roar trumpets through the mist.

Kane is tired of playing, prepared to finish Thorn for good. Thorn being dragged by the foot to Kane’s sword, whilst Kane’s hand is glowing red hot burning Thorn’s ankle. Thorn screams in anguish. The brave men still fighting demons from the burning wagons. “Does it hurt?” Kane said. Smelling the flesh burning in his hand. “Let me help you with that.” Kane said amused as his sword rips through the wind and separates Thorn’s leg between knee and ankle. Thorn cried hysterically as the blood runs from his leg, words fading as he lost consciousness. Kane lifting his sword to finish him.

“Only a coward strikes a man when he is down.” Kane heard a voice; smiles and looks around. But he can’t see who it is. “Who was that? Come meet your demise.” Kane challenged. “It was me,” the voice coming from behind him. As he turns around, he sees the splitting image of Thorn. He looked down towards Thorn who is unconscious. Augustus saw that Thorn was bleeding out, he knew he had to do something and fast.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

“Well, killing you twice is even better. This night is exceeding my expectations.” Kane said confidently. Whilst his hand started heating the sword. Kane looking at Augustus as he notice’s his sword. “Perhaps I am underestimating you, at least you managed to bring a sword.” Kane said stirringly. Augustus looked Kane dead in the eyes, not moving an inch, completely calm. “I shall give you this one chance to return to your master, recall your flock and go.” Augustus warned Kane. Kane found this warning very amusing and laughed it off. “I shall call my “flock”, but only to watch you die!”

As the demons started circling them, Sager and Alpha was still fighting in the background. “Let me have this sack of swine, I can feel my sword running through his chest.” Asathor amplified inside of Augustus. “You will have your chance, just hold on. I have to do something first.” Augustus said.

“Well, are you going to stand there the whole night demon? I have better things to do.” Augustus taunting Kane. The sword in Kane’s hand is red hot as Kane’s anger levels increase. Augustus is breathing heavily but keeping his focus. Kane charges with his sword, Augustus standing ready to fight. As Kane pulled back his sword to strike, Augustus ripped the soil from Seth entrapping Kane’s legs. A small pillar of soil strikes the hot sword from Kane’s hand.

Augustus rips of a piece of his chiton and pics up Kane’s sword. Whilst Kane is still struggling to break free, Augustus quickly seals the wound of Thorn to stop the blood. Thorn wakes up in screaming agony as he feels the hot metal against his open wound and rips away. Augustus has no time to struggle with him and knocks him out with a fist to the front of the head. He continues to seal the other half of the wound.

Kane break’s free from the soil, he runs towards Augustus kneeling at Thorns leg. A massive knee to the side of Augustus’s head keeps Asathor quiet for a second as all that Augustus could see is a white flash.

Augustus regaining sight a few paces away from where he was, only to be met by the boot of Kane. Augustus is lifted to the air by the devouring power of Kane’s right foot in his face.

“You must draw the sword! … Let me give to this scoundrel the gift of battle!” Asathor cried in the head of Augustus, whilst still airborne from Kane’s attack and plummets face first into the dust. Turning on his back whilst trying to draw his sword, but with no success as Kane one handedly lifts him to the air. “Oh, want to draw your sword? Let me assist you with that.” He launches a thunderous right hook with his sword in hand to the already bleeding face of Augustus.

He lets go of Augustus and he falls to his knees. Kane draws Augustus’ sword from his sheath. “Is this what you want?” Kane tauntingly holding the sword for Augustus, as he tries to take the sword. Kane pulls it back whilst Augustus stumbling over his own feet.

Augustus is in tremendous pain and his sight distorted. “You have to focus Augustus; we need my sword; you have to focus!” Asathor instructed Augustus. Augustus pushed himself up on his hands and knees. He looks up at the figure of Kane as he feels Kane’s movement in the soil. As Kane approaches to lay another blow, he lifts his foot to strike Augustus in the face. Augustus shoots up soil engulfing and holding Kane’s leg in a bent position.

Kane loses balance and falls, releasing the sword from his hands to block his fall. Augustus crawls towards his sword whilst Kane is breaking down the soil holding his leg with his fist. Augustus sticks out his hand towards his sword, he is just an inch shy of touching it, then Kane steps on the hand of Augustus. “Was that your best attempt?” Kane said amused. “Not that it would matter. You are no match for me but have at it then.” Kane said lifting his foot from Augustus’s hand.

“Just take the bloody sword!” Asathor raggedly shouts. Augustus pushing himself forward with everything his got. “Here we go! Here we go!” Asathor getting excited as Augustus finally manage to lace his fingers on the sword… A few seconds passed… “What! Why am I still in here?” Asathor confused. “Of course! Augustus you must sheath the sword and draw it once again. If it was drawn with someone with an impure heart it shall mask its power.” Asathor said.

Augustus sighs… he pushes himself from the soil. He makes to his feet, with his head hanging, every bone in his face feels broken. He feels on his side where the sheath is and slowly re-sheaths the sword.

Kane Is annoyed with Augustus. Augustus standing up straight with his head still hanging. “It seems you can no longer amuse me.” Kane said as he walked towards Augustus to end the fight. When Kane lifted his sword, Augustus stuck out his arm palm facing towards Kane. “Stop!... Just give me one more second.” Augustus muttered as he placed his right hand on the sword and ripped it from the sheath.

Chapter Thirty

Strike of green lightning came from the soil and Asathor appeared armored and ready for battle. “Oh, thought the battle was over, did you?” Asathor sarcastically said as he got into fighting position. Confused by the sudden different appearance of Augustus, “Your armor will not aid your defeat, it will only prolong your suffering.” Kane strikes with tremendous force, but Asathor meets him with ease, blocking his strike.

In coherence to Asathor’s appearance, Sager felt his master and looked towards Asathor. “I am pleased upon your return Asathor.” Sager said. “My dear friend the feeling is mutual. Shall we extend our condolences to their black souls?” Asathor replied to Sager whilst blocking Kane’s strike. “How about it, lad? Let’s have a proper battle!” Asathor said to Kane as he jumps to the air landing on the back of a bloody but powerful Sager.

Kane enraged, howls for Alpha as he started running after Asathor. Kane grabbed onto the neck chain as Alpha came past and jumped onto his back. As they chased of towards Unger. Naturally were Alpha goes, the other would follow, and a demon without a master is a dog chasing his own tail. So, all demons chased after Asathor and Sager.

“Shall we take care of his flock first?” Asathor asked Sager. “Your thoughts were a great absence, let’s do it!” Sager replied as he ran off the goat path into the forest. Asathor jumped off his back and placed his hands in the soil. “To ash demons! He shouted as he ripped the crust of Seth open just behind Kane. Though you could hear the tremendous noise of Seth being ripped open, you could not see it, as the dark and mist provided coverage.

Asathor and Sager hear the demons cry as they fall into the dark crack. The lizards managed to escape from the crack but for the rest of them the crack would be their grave. Asathor closed the crack and jumped on Sager’s back just in time as Kane was closing in on their cent. They rode back to where the battle started.

Thorn still laid in the dust unconscious. The few men that were left from the battle standing around him. “Move him, behind those wagons.” Asathor instructed the men. “Sager protect the men.” Asathor instructs. Asathor dismounted from Sager to meet the demons.

The massive Alpha and Kane charges towards Asathor. Kane is furious and catapults flaming balls. Asathor strikes down the fire balls as if they were nothing but simple rock. Alpha is charging directly towards him. Kane’s sword is on fire when he dismounts to the air to deliver a fatal strike.

Asathor busy with a choreographed movement as his sword started to illuminate.

The Alpha wolf went for the throat of Asathor! Asathor stepping to the side, kindly greeted the beast with the sharpness of his blade slicing right through it.

He then flipped in a circular front-flip motion, both hands firmly mounted on the handle of his sword until he releases it towards Kane, piercing through the demon’s stomach. The impact of the sword against the body of Kane sends him dropping like a ton of stone to dust.

Kane slowly pushing himself up to his knees sitting on his legs. Asathor walks towards Kane whilst lifting a soil wall behind him. He lifts Kane to his feet and thrusts him against the wall pushing his sword into the wall to keep Kane upright.

“Call your master demon?” Asathor instructs Kane. Kane just laughing in agony as he chokes on his black blood. Asathor grabs him by the face and slams his head into the soil. “Call your master!” Asathor demanded once again. Kane’s eyes lit up into molten metal red.

Barfistela who was busy with the witch in the library, felt Kane’s connection. “Have you killed him?” Barfistela asked, whilst he opens Kane’s eyes to see.

“Evening brother!” Asathor said as Barfistela saw him through the eyes of Kane. “I am coming for you!” Asathor rips the swords from Kane’s stomach, swinging it around than slices through the eyes and skull of Kane.

Chapter Thirty-One

Asathor’s return struck fear deep into the black heart of Barfistela. The sharp emerald-green blade slit trough Kane’s eyes. Stumbling backwards onto a table in the library. The Demon King outraged slings the table into one of the bookshelves. The table splinters into pieces upon impact, and the untouchable Demon King yells out of frustration!

Abaddon noticed Barfistela’s reaction and so did the witch, but she dare not ask. He kicks the bookshelf over starting a domino effect, the bookshelf’s slowly tumbling over. In hopes to comforting his rage.

[Goat path]

The remaining flock of the demons retreated like the heartless cowards they are, upon their master’s demise.

The town of Ore-dale will be save for now.

But what new adventures awaits our Heroes?

To Be continued…

Biography

Reimundt Augustyn is usually found busy building or fixing something. Other than that, he is also a poet, writer and author of the new book series “SETH”. With an overactive imagination, Reimundt offers a unique way of capturing readers into the world of fiction. Professionally trained artisan, manager and father of two and husband to the most beautiful wife. Reimundt loves entertaining and capturing your thoughts, with that said the second book in the “SETH” series is ready for editing and may follow sooner than you might think.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the art of storytelling, bringing together voices from around the world. This prestigious event invites writers to showcase their talent, creativity, and unique perspectives, offering a platform for both emerging and established authors to share their work with a global audience.

Thank you, Reimundt Augustyn, for sharing "SETH" with the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your tale of demonic vengeance and courage captivates and inspires, highlighting the power of storytelling. We look forward to witnessing more of your creative endeavors in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.