A Short Novel - Torn into two - Chapter 4 -

Chapter 4 – Village of Soha


I and Khaj took a moment to drench our eyes for the first time over the city's rugged and strong architectural beauty. The view would have only been a dream to us before we crossed the border.

The capital Jarenguard is also known as the 'giant iron plated turtle'. Giant because it is the largest and strongest city in existence, it could be seen on all the edges of Falsian.  

Iron because all if not, most of it is made from valuable metals mainly refined light grey iron, tall skyscrapers reach the clouds from the lower part of town all the way up, leaving no trace of natural terrain to be found. There were big majestic airships and huge air station docks held by Falsian decorated zeppelins scattered around above the clouds, they were barely visible due to the thick grey smog produced by many large factories down below.

The origins of the city down below the upper section of Jarenguard have rusted since Jarzals reign and are now the homes to many poor citizens. There have been sudden mysterious events which indicated that life underneath refuses to die and wilt. Grand elvern trees and other native plants had resisted against man and broke through the weak bolted rusty metal plates. The glorious reborn plants had spouted out carrying large sources of kessin which rained over the broken floors. It enhanced the growth of the small plants. Sooner or later the very foundations of Jarenguard had been cracked and natures roots had ruthlessly tore and forced the metal flooring apart which allowed life to flourish once again. The lower town is now infested with most of the neutrally behaved mutants who were once humans and elves but they devoted their lives to Mother Nature, the sudden change in habitats caused them to evolve and adapt to their new surroundings they also behave like plants and rely on the process of photosynthesis to live.

The mutants are known as 'the shunned'. They can live among every other citizen. However there is discrimination against them because of pro Jarzal cultists, they despise the reincarnation of Mother Earth under their very feet and blame the shunned for these occurrences. The shunned are formally known as the Kirin'Di. They are all taller than the average height for their original race, their skin is pale green due to the lack of light and it takes the formation of leaves layered over each other. Their hair is brittle and a neutral green colour and their eyes are a glorious yellow colour with decorated irises.

The lively city of Jarenguard is centralised by large crystal monuments of the founders who have deceased and had an iron heart placed in each of them. The history of the city is very grim there was a dwarf by the name of Jarzal, from reading history books I had learnt that he was very stubborn technological inspired person and he wanted to enhance the future of mankind to thrive with technology instead of living with the norm. At the time when Jarenguard was only a small traditional city Jarzal was not pleased at the dismissal of such potential with the land and the abundant source of metals that Falsian homes under its very roots. There was no decided leader at the time so the country of Falsian was divided into 3, one third which belonged to Jarzal.

From then he had the title 'Jarzal the Tainted' because of his radical ideals. The people followed whoever they thought carried the best traits and had the best ideals. From then on large amounts of bloodshed occurred and had been due to the ongoing civil wars which prolonged for centuries because of petit disagreements. One side was lead by a human named Entom he wanted to remain to his Falsian traditions of Mother Nature nurturing the great stretches of land and providing food and shelter, while another leader was a female forest Elf called Shanith and she wanted to follow the paths of the elven Goddess Sharrl she wanted a peaceful land with architectural beauty and everything sourced with the spiritual power of kessin. Her ideals were heavily based on a popular religion of humanoids working symbiotically with nature for a better life.

After many civil protests about the lack of peace and the increase in war the people within all 3 regions revolted and caused mayhem, many people were killed. The action taken to this event was that Jarzal made a phony alliance with Shanith and built relations with her. Once trust was stabilised they both worked together to destroy the remaining region led by Entom. The whole city was destroyed and tarnished by the unforgiving flames of war, the echoes of screams and terror remained scarred with the survivors. Causing misery and woe but eventually the people settled down and adjusted to their sudden change in life.
Jarzal was a very sick and wicked person due to his thirst for power and would do anything to annihilate any that opposed his conquest. He initiated a secret plan before hand. He had created revolutionary machinery and destructive vehicles no one had ever seen before. Big bulky intimidating tanks, the size could be compared to two homes. It possessed a cannon that could pierce the hardest of metals. He also created the airship which could drop the most destructive bombs and escort the hundreds of blood thirsty war mongers who were ready to carve into many innocents and enemies.

While the elvern people were just being accustomed to their share of the devastated war torn land Shannith left herself vulnerable and her original region unprotected. Jarzal took this priceless opportunity to unleash the full force of his power and launched a heavy assault on the elvern capital. People of the way of peace and tranquillity were obliterated nothing but malfunctioned kessin machinery and spiritually haunted ruins are left to this day from the war and exterminations, but many escaped to tell the tale and rebel in future.

We arrived at the village of Soha, I didn't think it would be too small but it was bigged than expected it had a very big open space, the buildings where very traditional styled cottages but they were made with iron and other artificial materials. There was a beautiful centre piece in the middle of the village. It was a very big pond with a crystal statue that took form of a beautiful elvern forest. It gleamed with illustrious beauty as the sharp radiating rays of light touch it and released a spectrum of soft colours onto the pale blue water.

A lot of rustling and happy cheers were all going around the market place which was scattered around the middle of town. It was approaching evening so we were just on time to find the alchemist to turn in this carriage and try selling our items we picked up.
"This is a beautiful country isn't it Khaj and this is only just the beginning" I smiled at him as he sat in the carriage this time.

He replied. "Definitely without a doubt, but back to our mission we were told that the alchemist would be waiting outside his potion shop."

Couple of minutes later after asking for directions we found the robed alchemist leaning against a wooden pole outside the shop. Candles and oil lanterns began to be lit in the village as darkness encroached, the owls had begun hooting and the rustle in the foliage meant the vicious beasts beast's of the night began to hunt anything in sight.
As we approached the articulate figure a smooth, quiet and angelic voice came towards our direction.

"You're late... But at least you made it"
There was almost no emotion that came from the lifeless body.
"Come into my shop, it's dangerous out here" she lifted her hood as she turned around, a large flock of curled pale green hair unfolded into the darkness and down her brown robe.
I and Khaj looked at each other in anticipation. We knew that she was a Kirin'Di. Khaj jumped off the carriage and began tying the horse to the pole and I removed the vials, herbs and other miscellaneous reagents and carried them inside.

The shop was a small and quaint there was a second floor and a large fireplace downstairs which submerged the shop with warmth. The silence was nonexistent as the flames flicker and the cauldron bubbles. There was a long polished wooden counter with a nice sheen and natural wooden grains. On top of it there were potions sitting on top and a box full of reactants from newt's eyes to ground ogre bones.

I looked at the young woman and apologised with a kind gesture.
"Sorry for our delay m'am, Jaeh and Khaj here at your service" I smiled at her. I couldn't take my eyes off her beautiful golden irises and her long gentle elvern ears. Her hair was quite long and curled and decorated with angelic white bows.

She looked at me blankly I wasn't sure if she was shy or displeased with our presence, the flames from the chandelier and fireplace where quietly roaring away. A moment later she grabbed a bag of money from under the counter and gently placed it into my hands.
"Thanks to you both, please take these potions aswell. You're welcome to ask any questions as I see you seem curious" She gave us a faint smile.

I was surprised but I didn't hesitate to ask. "I was told you are a very renowned alchemist and enchanter, I have this necklace that was passed down by my father and it glows every so often. I wonder if you know anything about it." I untied my necklace and by the time I did she was a hands length away from me.

Khaj was alarmed and pulled his weapon out.
"Khaj stop you idiot, its okay." I calmly said to him and gave him a confirmed glance.
The young lady gently grasped my hand and I opened it for her revealing the abstract silver necklace with engraved gems and a glowing kessin crystal hovering in the gap.

"I see" She said and nodded.

"The necklace you possess is very rare to find. The kessin crystal only naturally glows depending on how many beasts and evil souls it witnesses fall. Your father must have been a very strong and noble knight" She said firmly and twirled her hair in curiosity.
"The crystals engraved are for aesthetic beauty however they are expensive nonetheless, the more interesting thing is the shape of the piece itself and the ancient markings scarred onto it"

I and Khaj were both speechless but I wanted to know more about this phenomenon, I was a little angry that I didn't try to find out sooner. The cauldron in a single room began to bubble vigorously alerting the young woman to run in.

I was fascinated by the details of this small item. She was stirring the large cauldron as it bubbled and added various ingredients as she whispers magical words, followed by a poof of purple smoke as she walked back out.

"Apologies Jaeh" She smiled.
"Allow me to continue. The shape and the markings are only recognized by a small group of eternal monks who reside in a large temple located on a isolated island off the coast of Yin. The markings allow large amounts of kessin to flow through and depending on your capabilities of unlocking the power the shape of the necklace could temporarily transform you into a legendary guardian"

I was speechless of what responsibility I had possessed and put on my necklace straight away.

"Thank you young alchemist" I gave her some of the herbs that Khaj gathered in return. She seemed very pleased.

"Thank you, my name is Eliza by the way. If you wish to seek advice again please seek me. But for now if you wish to stay in Soha for the night please go to the 'Howling wolf inn" She smiled and gave us a little wave.

We walked out of the door and walked along in the village. "She was a keeper wasn't she Jaeh I was slightly jealous when she was that close to you" Khaj jokingly nudged me.
"Shush you, I got what I wanted and we should rest and plan what we do tomorrow" I laughed.

We arrived at the tall painted inn and the moon was full, it was a like bright crystal dotted in the sky with trailing twinkling stars around the dark purple of nothingness. The smoke from Jarenguard slowly shrouded the light which vanquished the darkest of demons.
The inn was quite big and it was aesthetically beautiful with a touch of elvern styled architecture. There was a front courtyard with trimmed vibrant green grass and blossoming colourful flowers blissfully swinging in their flower bed. There were gamblers and drinkers scattered around the big round tables with cards and money thrown down the middle. The smell of the smoke of lit cigarettes flooded into our noses as we walked down the pathway, it was very unpleasant. The Inn was at least 4 floors tall and had a long pathway leading towards it. The tall double cased lanterns along the side were delicate and carefully carved by skilful hands, inside where fireflies flickering and emitting a lime green light against the dark night sky.

We both got threatening looks from the inn mates but we went on to enter the inn. Once we were in we were met by a sense tingling smell I reckon it was the food being cooked. I could tell by Khaj's expression that he fell in love as well. Or maybe it was that sexy bar maid that caught his attention.

"Khaj, I'll go book the room and I'll leave you to do whatever you want, don't start any trouble please." I patted him on the shoulder.
He winked back at me and walked in a fast pace towards the busy bar. Loads of voices travelled across the room to my ears.

"Drinks on me lads! Haha!"
"How much do you cost young lady, hic"
"You're down already?!"
"That's my wife you sleazy bastard!"

I approached the counter and was greeted by a well dressed young man.
"How can I help you?" He smiled.
"A room for two just for one night please, we're going to be in Falsian for a little longer so we may be back"
He seemed surprised and intrigued. "You're not from these parts are you? I bet you're interested in Jarenguard and the many ancient cave ruins of elves." He began to draw a rough sketch.

I titled my head in confusion and was trying to get a good look at what he was doing. He seemed to be really secretive as he speedily drew.

"Yes you are right me and my brother are from Tiryll and just arrived here to finish a mission. We plan on black marketing some items as well and do some treasure hunting.
I was ignored for a few moments so I looked over to Khaj, he was already chugging down pints of ale and flirting with the barmaids.

"I beg your pardon soldier" The young man suddenly lowered his tone of voice to the point where he was whispering.

"I've recently heard many rumours from other adventures and treasure hunters of the where abouts of bountiful ancient ruins. I've just sketched a map and in return I'd wish for you to accompany me and share the treasure." He looked at me with a slight plea of desperateness in his eyes.

"Are you capable of protecting yourself? If not we won't be held responsible for your death." I was enticed by the sudden offer but I had to ask Khaj as well.

"I am a well known hunter around these parts. I've killed beasts from dreaded shinzu to the might of the hordes of undead. I'm more worried about you two" He smirked.

I was slightly offended though I still laughed with him.
"The name is Jaeh by the way, my brother is called Khaj but before we set off tomorrow we have some things to do in the village"

"That's fine Jaeh and nice to meet you, my name is Jardal"
We finished chatting and then he insisted me to go and ask Khaj about this deal. There was a lot of uproar in the background and the crash and smashing of pint glasses. Me and Jardal quickly ran to the bar.

I couldn't believe my eyes, what I told Khaj not to do, he did. Khaj mindlessly had his arms around the helpless bar maid who was screaming in distress. The few people that were there all tried to get Khaj off her. As soon as we got there Jardal took out a mysterious blow pipe and shot a needle at Khaj. He suddenly stopped and tipped over onto floor as his head thumped on the wooden floor, he became unconscious. The bar maid looked disheartened and scarred by this.

"I am so sorry for his behaviour young lady, please take this as a token of apology from the both of us" I smiled softly at her and handed her a bag of gold pieces.
She smiled back but I could still see the fear in her eyes and blushed. "Thank you stranger" she said with a jittery voice.

I dragged Khaj and plonked him onto my shoulder and gave him a punch to the gut as well out of disgust.

"Once again I am sorry for the commotion everyone" I wanted to bite my tongue off as I said it and sighed.

I approached Jardal. "I bet you can guess who this is..." We both chuckled at this awkward moment.
"I guess I have to postpone asking him about this treasure hunting business tomorrow"
Jardal nodded at me "I understand, let me take you to your room"

We were in our room after climbing three flights of stairs. It was very cold and gloomy yet beautiful at the same time. There was a glass panel above our beds displaying the night sky, not that Khaj would notice. I chucked him onto the bed carelessly and began undressing for bed. This has been the longest time since I've seen Chrysi and Spring I miss them both dearly especially Chrysi and everything about her. I decided I'd hire a messenger to try and keep in touch with her soon.

It was morning and we were awoken by a rhythm of knocks each time it got louder. The loud horns echoing from the air ships also awoke me. My eyelids were heavy and refused to open so I let out a yell at the door.
"Yes who is it?!" I moaned
"It's Jardal, are you planning to stay in all day? I'll give you an hour to get ready."
I looked over to Khaj, his body looked like it was mangled by a bear and he was half slouched down the bed side. There were loads of drools marks across his face and the strong smell of alcohol woke me up straight away. Today was a miserable grey day and specs of rain began to hit the glass. The smoke from Jarenguard has already flooded over the skies of Soha, there were flying winged beasts in the sky attacking the airships and the loud gunfire echoed to all directions which were followed by a loud roar as the beasts fall to their deaths.

I finished getting ready and finished my stretches, by then about 30 minutes has passed and Khaj was still in bed sleep talking and rolling around.

I wanted to speed up the process so I kicked him that still didn't work. All it did was make him hide under his duvet like a turtle and its shell. I noticed that he still had the needle wedged into his thigh. I hoped that this would work so I pulled it out without hesitation.

Khaj popped up with the blanket flying off the bed like a jack in the box and yelled. "What the hell did you do that for?!" He looked confused and held his head in pain and moaned.

"You were drunk and being a pervert last night you fool. What did I tell you? All the time." I sighed. "Anyway I agreed with a treasure hunter that we aid him for a share of the treasure, I take it you'd be up for this?"

He agreed to it as expected but I suggested that we see Eliza for some potions to cure his hangover. All along the way to the Eliza's shop he was tripping all over the place pushing stalls down and accidentally bumping into people. The centre of town was alive again and buzzing just like bee's working in a beehive. We arrived at the shop and we were greeted happily by Eliza.

"It's nice to see you again, how can I help?" she removed her hood and smiled at me.
I was speechless about her mystical beauty again and blushed but I managed to spit some words out.

"My brother drank too much and got a hangover over night, I was wondering if you have a cure? We're also kind of short on time in Soha. I was wondering if you can do us a favour and buy these swords and reagents we gathered over our travels."

She took her time deciding but agreed, I helped her unload all of the items and then made Khaj drink the potion. Suddenly Khaj's face had green polka dots scattered around his face. I couldn't help but laugh at his misfortune and Eliza laughed too.

"I forgot to mention there may be temporary side affects" She giggled with pleasure.
Khaj got incredibly uncomfortable and tried to go at us both but he calmed down.
He reluctantly said thank you to Eliza as he walked towards the door and put his hood up.
"What did I tell you Khaj, this is what happens when you get insanely drunk" I had a final laugh and thanked Eliza as she handed me a bag of gold coins.

Me and Khaj both rushed to Jardal who was already waiting at the outskirts of Soha. He was casually dressed in a Falsian fashion which consisted of some worn goggles over his blonde hair and a mechanical tool belt. He wore a long tanned leather coat. He was holding a very large crossbow which was half the size of his body and he had a fierce looking companion by his side. It was very similar to a wolf but it was much larger and had tribal patterns painted onto it.

"Tsk tsk, late as usual" He nodded "Me and Rex were getting very bored of waiting but were glad you're here" he smiled.

Rex snuck up to me and pounced onto my body and licked my face. I tried to shrug him off but it tickled too much.

Khaj laughed and petted Rex "I sure didn't expect him to be this friendly, nice to meet you by the way, sorry about last night". He shrugged and continued shrouding his face.
Jardal yelled in a soft tone "Rex off!" and rustled his thick fur coat.

Khaj helped me up and I brushed off a bucket worth of dirt from my armour. Jardal began to discuss what was going to happen.

"So I redrew the map in detail last night and we are heading to the ruins of the elvern lands in the east of Soha. I have heard that there are many underground chasms where ancient treasure is buried. Rex can sniff it out so all we have to do is survive whatever lies below the depths of Falsian"

We both agreed to this objective and were determined to get the treasure.
I interrupted as something was on my mind.

"Do we pass anywhere that has messengers for hire? I really would like to send a message to someone back home."

Jardal tipped his hat and said "Yes, we'll be passing a town"

Khaj interrupted and said "Chrysi? I have to send to Spring as well. Our examinations are in a few more weeks and we cannot be late."

Rain began to pour and the barmaid from last night ran out of the courtyard stables with three horses and handed them to Jardal as she runs back inside.

"I've hired three strong horses to hasten our journey, let's make a move now we've wasted enough time today"

We mounted our horses and began to gallop over the horizons leaving the peaceful city of Soha while Rex was full of energy and sprinted along with us.
I put the letter that I wrote last night into my chest pocket.

It read:

---------Dear Chrysi---------

Its Jaeh, I hope you and Spring are doing well back in Tiryll and training for the final exam.

I'm sorry that I couldn't spend this time with you, it's only been a week but I greatly miss you and your happiness.

I wish to see you as soon as possible. I want to take you to a beautiful place in Yin sometime before the exam to make up for my absence.

Me and Khaj have seen amazing things while we were on our mission, we are in Falsian right now and we've witnessed Jarenguard. I'm coming back after finishing one final thing.

---------I love you, from Jaeh---------