Whispers in the Wood

*Whispers of the Wood*

In a land where the trees were old enough to gossip and the streams knew every secret, young Linden the elf was sleeping soundly. It was his fifth birthday, a very big deal among elves, because it meant he’d have his first *real* forest dream. His grandmother had wrapped him up snug in a blanket woven from spider silk (the spiders had grumbled about it, but everyone knew she could charm anyone with cookies).

As Linden lay there, the forest creaked and stretched like an old grandparent. Moonlight filtered through the leaves, casting a soft glow on his bed, while his pointed ears twitched slightly with every night sound.

The dream began with a shiver of laughter. The forest spirits had finally arrived—though a bit late, as spirits tend to be. They were tiny, glowing things with wings like cobwebs, and they hovered above his pillow, discussing their plan.

“Are you sure he’s old enough for this?” one spirit whispered, glancing down at Linden. 

Another spirit shrugged. “Old enough to sleep through Gran Willow’s snoring, so… close enough.”

They fluttered down, and one tapped Linden gently on the nose. Instantly, he found himself in a strange woodland world, with animals he’d only ever heard about in stories. A fox with spectacles sat reading a tiny newspaper, while a rabbit with a monocle inspected his paws with great importance.

“Welcome, youngling,” said the fox, in a voice so wise it could have belonged to a very forgetful professor. “I am Fenwick, the Keeper of Forgotten Socks.”

“Why do socks need keeping?” Linden asked, rubbing his eyes in the dream.

“Oh, they’re terribly mischievous,” Fenwick said, adjusting his spectacles. “One minute they’re on your feet, the next, *poof*, they’ve vanished. Someone’s got to keep them in line.”

Linden giggled, though he wasn’t sure if he understood. Next, a turtle wearing a top hat shuffled over. “I am Lord Slowpoke,” he introduced himself, “Guardian of All Lost Keys. Takes me three days to find one, but that’s the charm of it.”

The dream meandered on, with Linden meeting more curious creatures: a hedgehog who hummed lullabies to tired leaves, a squirrel who bragged about once stealing a human’s shoe, and a choir of sparrows who sang off-key just to be rebellious.

Finally, the tallest of the spirits floated down, her voice as warm as a crackling fire. “This is your gift, young Linden. Tonight, the forest has shared its memories with you.”

Linden scratched his head, which felt oddly lighter without all his usual thoughts. “What am I supposed to do with them?” he asked, a little sheepishly.

“Oh, nothing. Just enjoy them,” the spirit chuckled. “And maybe don’t try to understand all of it. Even *we* don’t quite get why socks disappear.”

The morning light crept into his room as the dream faded, and Linden awoke, smiling. He couldn’t remember much of the dream, but he was left with an inexplicable urge to find his other sock—and a warm feeling, like he’d been given a hundred secret hugs by the forest itself.

 The third and last book in the Fate's Foe series is now out. Order a copy from your favorite book vendor. I'll soon have some copies for direct sales too. Here is the 1st chapter for you enjoyment.

Jas Cutter's boots clapped against the cobblestones of Valen's bustling marketplace, weaving through the throngs of people with an agility that came from years of navigating the crowded streets. Luka bounced beside him like a sparrow, his eyes wide with the excitement of their secret mission.

"Bet you can't swipe an apple from old Manfred's cart without him noticing," Luka challenged, a mischievous twinkle lighting his eyes.

"Please," Jas scoffed playfully, flipping a lock of brown hair out of his face. "Manfred's eyes are sharper than a hawk's. But I'll take your bet just to see you do the chicken dance in front of Tovan when you lose."

A hearty chuckle rumbled from behind them as Tovan, more like an uncle than a mere bodyguard, kept a watchful eye on the pair from a respectful distance. His presence was both comforting and slightly smothering to Jas, who yearned for just a smidgeon of freedom.

"Alright, but no magic this time," Luka insisted, knowing full well about Jas's clandestine abilities.

"Wouldn't dream of it," Jas replied, a grin tugging at his lips.

“Remember you’re retired,” Tovan called up to the two boys, “You promised your father no more stealing.”

“I wasn’t going to keep it. Just staying in practice,” Jas called back.

Their banter was momentarily paused as they passed by a stand draped with vibrant textiles, the air tinged with the scents of exotic spices and fresh pastries where a group of soldiers were shopping. It wasn't long before the chat turned serious again, their voices dropping to a hushed tone as they navigated around a pile of crates.

"War's coming, Jas," Luka said, his youthful face suddenly lined with worry. "I heard my parents talking. The Necromian Kingdom and the Elvish Kingdom...they're really going to do it, aren't they?"

"Seems like it," Jas murmured, his gaze sweeping over the market stalls as if the very shadows hid the impending conflict. "That's why we're leaving with the handcart company. Dad says it's not safe anymore, not even for Necromians like my dad."

"Or humans like us," Luka added softly.

"Exactly," Jas agreed, clapping a reassuring hand on Luka's shoulder. "We'll be okay, though. We've got each other, and our families.”

They continued on, their mission leading them to scrutinize various shops for supplies needed for the arduous journey ahead. Barrels of salted meats, wheels of cheese wrapped in cloth, and sacks of grain were all inspected with a critical eye.

"Hey, Jas?" Luka's voice held a hint of hesitation. "What do you think about your dad marrying Alix? She's...well, she's an Elf."

Jas paused, considering the emerald-eyed woman who had entered their lives with a quiet grace. He shrugged noncommittally, though his heart warmed at the thought of her gentle smile.

"She's okay," he admitted, allowing himself a small smile at the memory of her laughter echoing through the halls of the Cutter residence. Alix is...well, Alix. She is nice. And it was fun saving her from the angry mob that day we first met. It’s just weird after it being just me and my dad for so long."

"Yeah," Luka nodded, understanding flickering in his young eyes. "She is nice. I like all the gadgets in her shop, too."

"Nice doesn't begin to cover it," Jas corrected, and then quickly added, "But don't you start calling her my mom. She’s just Alix.”

"Wouldn't dream of it!" Luka chuckled, nudging Jas with his elbow.

With their list nearly complete, Jas felt a sense of accomplishment. They were doing something important, something that mattered for their families' future. And as the afternoon sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the market, Jas felt ready for whatever lay ahead. With his family, new and old, they would face it together.

The rich aroma of roasting nuts wafted through the air, mingling with the musky scent of leather from a nearby stall. Jas's fingers brushed over the rusica, the ancient elvish glove known as Fireweaver, warming his hand both literally and figuratively. Fireweaver was a fieles, a magic item created from a piece of a person’s soul. It was then that the faintest whisper tickled his mind, a voice only he could hear.

"Jas," Fireweaver murmured, its tone urgent yet calm, "beware. A young cutpurse approaches from behind."

"Got it," Jas replied mentally, not missing a beat as he feigned interest in a display of ornate compasses. “I already noticed him. He never would’ve made it in Aguares.” Without turning, he felt the presence of the would-be thief edging closer. Just as a small, tentative hand slipped towards his pocket, Jas whipped around, capturing the boy's wrist with practiced ease.

"Whoa there, little fish. The sea's far too rough for you to be swimming without learning the currents first," Jas said, a playful glint in his eye as he looked down at the boy whose wide, frightened eyes darted up to meet his. The boy was human and judging by the olive-colored skin he was Bettsian like Luka was. Maybe 6 years old?

"Sorry, sir! I..." the boy stammered, words tumbling out in panic.

"Relax," Jas soothed, releasing his grip but keeping his voice firm. "I'm not going to turn you in." Memories flashed before him—hungry days, cold nights, and the fateful encounter that changed his life.

"Here's a tip: don't go for the bulging pockets; they are often a decoy." He winked, ruffling the boy's matted hair. 

Luka watched in awe; his mouth slightly agape. "You're not mad at him?"

"Mad?" Jas chuckled softly. "Can't blame a stray cat for trying to snag a fish from the market. Besides, this is how I met my dad."

"Really?" Luka leaned in as if the tale were a secret meant only for him.

"Yep. Tried to pick his pocket, just like our friend here." Jas's gaze softened as he beckoned a vendor to hand him a meat pie, which he offered to the trembling child. "What's your name, kid?"

"Remy," the boy murmured, accepting the pie with hands that shook like autumn leaves.

"Who do you live with, Remy?" Luka asked, his brow creased with concern.

"No one," came the quiet reply before the boy took a ravenous bite, crumbs cascading down his chin.

Jas exchanged a look with Luka, the unspoken question hanging between them—what next? But the decision was swept away as swiftly as Remy after his meal, the boy bolting through the crowd, agile as a sparrow.

"Should we... do something?" Luka asked, his voice trailing off as Remy disappeared into the throngs of people.

Jas sighed, watching the space where Remy had vanished. "Sometimes, all you can do is give someone a chance at a better choice. After that, it's up to them to take it." His gaze lingered, thoughtful, before returning to the task at hand. "Come on, let's finish up here. We've got a long journey ahead."

The clatter of wooden wheels against cobblestones filled the air as Jas and Luka made their way back to the Cutter residence, a sturdy stone building nestled at the edge of Valen. The market's vibrant chaos retreated behind them, replaced by the orderly bustle of the family compound.

"Think your dad will like the extra ropes we got?" Luka bounced on the balls of his feet, a bundle of energy even after their long day.

"Knowing Mathen, he'll say we can never have too much rope," Jas replied with an easy grin, shrugging off the weight of the supplies they had promised to deliver.

Alix Cutter emerged from the house, her red hair catching the afternoon sun like a beacon as she directed the loading of the wagons. Her sharp green eyes softened when they landed on the boys. "Back already? I hope you didn't forget the flint."

"Got it right here." Jas patted his satchel, where the metallic tang of the flint mingled with the scent of leather.

Nearby, Luka’s mother, Ovelia, folded blankets with practiced hands, while his father, Bram, checked the harness on the draft horses, his brow furrowed in concentration. Their movements were a finely tuned dance of preparation, each step crucial for the journey ahead.

"Where's Tia?" Luka craned his neck, scanning the courtyard.

"Here!" A small voice piped up from beneath a wagon, followed by the sight of two tiny feet kicking as they tried to push a barrel into place.

"Careful, little sprout," Mathen's deep voice rumbled as he lifted the barrel with ease, setting it onto the wagon bed. His dark hair was peppered with gray, but his arms bulged with strength that belied his age.

"Trying to help," Tia said, beaming up at him. At 10 years old, or five by Necromian aging, her eagerness outshone her size.

"Helping is good," Alix chimed in, smoothing Tia's unruly curls. "But let's leave the heavy lifting to the adults, okay?"

Tia nodded vigorously; her wide eyes fixed on Alix with adoration.

Jas couldn't help but smile at the scene, a warmth spreading through his chest. This was what family looked like—chaotic, mismatched, and utterly perfect.

"Supplies are sorted. They'll be at the staging area by dawn," Jas reported, pulling himself back to the present. 

"Excellent work," Mathen nodded with approval, clasping Jas's shoulder in a firm grip. "Let's finish up here. We've got a safe haven to build. Tovan, help me hitch the oxen to the wagons."

Together, they heaved the last of the crates onto the wagons, securing them with the newly purchased ropes. Each knot tied was a promise—a vow to protect and preserve the life they all cherished.

"Ready, Tia?" Luka asked, offering his hand to his sister.

"Ready!" she squealed, her small hand disappearing into his as they climbed aboard the wagon.

With a final check, the caravan rolled forward, leaving behind the only home they'd known. Ahead lay uncertainty, adventure, and the unyielding hope of a new beginning. As the gates of Valen closed behind them, Jas felt the weight of his past lift. He was no longer just a boy who had tried to pickpocket his future; he was a part of something greater—a family forged not by blood, but by choice and love. 

https://books2read.com/u/meGjPE

The Reunion in Aguerius Forest

 With a skip in his step and Crusty bounding alongside him, Almas made his way into Aguerius Forest. It had been some time since their last encounter with Ulec, and Almas was eager to reunite with his elvish friend.

As they ventured deeper into the forest, Almas looked all around before calling out as loud as he could, "Ulec! We're here!"

"Over here," Ulec called back. Almas turned and saw Ulec sitting on a moss covered rock that he could've sworn had been empty just a second before. Ulec's eyes sparkled with delight as he waved to Almas and Crusty. "Almas! It's wonderful to see you again, my friend. And I see you've brought Crusty with you!"

Crusty wagged his tail, his excitement evident. Ulec reached into his shoulder bag and carefully released Metal, the slimy creature plopping onto the ground and assuming its blob-like form. Crusty approached with curiosity, sniffing the peculiar creature.

Almas grinned. "Metal, this is Crusty, my loyal wolf companion. Crusty, meet Metal, Ulec's slime friend."

Metal jiggled in response, emitting a soft, gurgling sound. Ulec chuckled. "They're going to be fast friends, I can already tell."

As the trio ventured deeper into the forest, Almas noticed a glimmering light dancing through the foliage. "Ulec, do you see that? It looks like a hidden treasure!"

Ulec smiled with mischievous excitement. "A treasure? Let's go investigate!"

Crusty barked eagerly, his tail wagging in agreement. They followed the trail of sparkling lights, their laughter echoing through the forest.

They soon stumbled upon a clearing, where an enchanting waterfall cascaded into a crystal-clear pool. And there, around the pool was a sea of bright flowers their colors mixing giving the appearance of a bed of sparkling gems.

Almas gasped, his eyes widening with wonder. "Ulec, it's even more beautiful than I imagined!"

Ulec grinned mischievously. "Indeed, it's a treasure worth discovering. But remember, true treasures lie not in gold and jewels, but in the simple moments with friends in nature."

Crusty, with his tail brushing against the flowers, seemed to understand, his gaze fixed on Almas and Ulec. They basked in the magic of the moment, cherishing their friendship and the hidden treasure they had uncovered within themselves.

As the afternoon wore on, the sun cast a warm glow upon the forest. Almas, Ulec, Crusty, and Metal reached a tranquil stream, its gentle current inviting them to play.

Ulec's eyes twinkled mischievously. "Almas, Crusty, how about a game that uses my ability to communicate with the animals of the forest? Let's call it the Mind-Link Game!"

Almas gave Ulec an intrigued glance. "How does it work?" Almas asked, his curiosity piqued.

Ulec explained with a grin, "I will close my eyes and connect my mind with a forest creature. Without speaking or making any physical gestures, I'll try to guide the animal to find you. It's your job to stay hidden and see if you can outwit our furry friends!"

Crusty wagged his tail, eager to participate. Almas nodded, excitement bubbling within him. "That sounds amazing! Let's do it!"

Ulec closed his eyes, his brows furrowing in concentration. Slowly, he reached out with his mind, seeking a connection with a forest dweller.

After a moment, Ulec's eyes fluttered open. "I've established a link with a mischievous squirrel named Nutmeg. Prepare yourselves, my friends!"

Almas and Crusty hid behind a cluster of bushes, their hearts racing with anticipation. Ulec focused his thoughts, mentally guiding Nutmeg towards their hiding spot.

Minutes ticked by, filled with suspense. Suddenly, a rustling sound echoed through the forest, drawing closer. Almas and Crusty exchanged glances, trying to suppress their excitement.

Then, with a triumphant chirp, Nutmeg leaped onto the bush, landing right in front of Almas. He burst into laughter, delighted by the squirrel's clever sleuthing.

Ulec clapped his hands in glee. "Well done, Nutmeg! You've found Almas!"

Crusty wagged his tail, barking his approval. Almas stepped forward, patting Nutmeg gently on the head. "You're a brilliant detective, Nutmeg. Thank you for playing with us!"

Ulec beamed with pride. "The forest creatures are incredible allies and friends. We can share adventures and games like this, any game you can think of."

And so, they continued their game, connecting with different forest creatures through Ulec's mind-link. From playful squirrels to wise old owls, the animals of Aguerius Forest joined in the joyous pursuit, making memories that would last a lifetime.

As the day drew to a close, Almas and Ulec sat atop a mossy log, their faithful companions by their side. The sun cast a warm, golden hue upon the forest, bathing everything in a tranquil glow.

Almas sighed, a mix of happiness and longing in his voice. "Ulec, this has been the best day ever. I wish it would never end."

Ulec placed a hand on Almas' shoulder, his voice filled with warmth. "I feel the same, my friend. But remember, the forest will always be here, waiting for our return. And who knows what new adventures await us?"

Crusty nuzzled against Almas, as if in agreement. Metal gurgled softly, its slime quivering with contentment.

Almas smiled, his heart brimming with gratitude. "You're right, Ulec. We'll come back to this magical place, with Crusty and Metal by our side. Until then, we'll carry the memories of today in our hearts."

And with a promise to return, Almas, Ulec, Crusty, and Metal made their way back through the forest, their laughter and whispers blending with the rustle of leaves, creating a harmonious melody that would linger in Aguerius Forest, a testament to the enduring bond of friendship.

Adventures in the Sacred Forest

A week had passed since Almas and Ulec's last adventure in Aguerius Forest. Almas couldn't contain his excitement as he stood at the forest's edge, waiting for Ulec to arrive. His father, High Lord Gidon Aguerius, observed his son's restless anticipation with a chuckle.

Almas fidgeted with a leaf that had fallen on his shoulder. He glanced at his father and said, "Dad, do you think Ulec will remember me? It feels like forever since we last saw each other!"

Gidon smiled warmly as Almas brushed off another leaf that had fallen on his shoulder. "Oh, my dear Almas, a week may feel like an eternity to an eight-year-old like you, but I'm sure Ulec remembers you. After all, he's been eagerly awaiting this reunion too. Not to mention you never forget friends who risk their lives for you."

Just as Gidon finished speaking, a mischievous giggle filled the air. Almas looked up to see Ulec perched on a branch above him, a wide grin spread across his face. Almas burst into laughter, realizing that Ulec had been hiding in the tree, playfully dropping leaves on him.

Almas climbed onto the lowest branch to join Ulec, his laughter still echoing through the forest. Ulec's eyes sparkled with mirth as he greeted Almas, "Hey there, buddy! Missed me, didn't you?"

Almas chuckled, trying to catch his breath. "You bet, Ulec! You've got quite the talent for surprising entrances."

Ulec hopped down from the branch, landing gracefully on the forest floor. He glanced at Almas and said, "Well, I couldn't resist a little prank. But now, let's have some real fun!"

Almas looked to his father who nodded and said, "Go have fun, just be back home by supper time."

As Almas and Ulec wasted no time and took off. They ventured deeper into the forest and soon Ulec's ability to communicate with animals and plants became evident. They encountered a family of deer grazing peacefully, and Ulec projected his thoughts towards them, sharing a silent conversation. The deer responded with gentle nods and playful leaps, conveying their joy to Almas through their graceful movements.

As they made their way through a shimmering meadow, Ulec's gaze shifted to a group of singing birds perched on a branch. He switched to speaking aloud, addressing them directly f or Almas' sake, "Lovely tunes, my feathered friends! Mind teaching us a few notes?"

The birds chirped in delight and began a melodious chorus. Ulec and Almas joined in, their laughter and voices intertwining with the bird's song, filling the forest with a joyous symphony.

As evening approached, Ulec turned to Almas with a mischievous glint in his eyes and asked, "Can I make a request, Almas?"

Curiosity sparked in Almas' eyes. "What is it, Ulec?"

Ulec's voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper, "I've heard that your father is quite the skilled warrior, just like me. How about a friendly sparring match? I've been told I'm a formidable opponent."

Almas' eyes widened in excitement. "You want to spar with my father? He's a master swordsman!"

Ulec grinned. "Well, I've been around for quite some time, and I've honed my skills. What do you say? Shall we put our swordsmanship to the test?"

As they arrived to the place he had arranged to meet his father, Almas quickly asked his father if he would spar with Ulec. Lord Aguerius agreed and so Almas led Ulec and his father to a clearing on the edge of Aguerius Forest. They armed themselves with short swords and prepared for the friendly duel.

Ulec's movements were lightning-fast, his elven agility allowing him to maneuver with grace. Almas' father met his strikes with skill and precision, their swords clashing in a flurry of metal.

The forest echoed with the sound of their blades, the clash and clang of their intense bout. Almas watched in awe as Ulec matched his father's every move, his elven reflexes giving him an edge.

As the duel continued, Ulec's skill and finesse shone through. His movements became fluid and mesmerizing, as if he were dancing with the sword.

With a series of swift strikes, Ulec disarmed Almas' father, sending his sword flying through the air. The duel had reached its climax, and Ulec stood before Almas' father, victorious.

Almas' father laughed heartily, a mix of surprise and admiration in his eyes. "Well, Ulec, it seems you truly are a weapons master. That was an impressive display!"

Ulec bowed respectfully. "Thank you, High Lord Aguerius. It was an honor to spar with you."

Almas' father extended a hand to Ulec, a warm smile on his face. "The honor was mine, Ulec. Your skill with a sword is unmatched, and I can see why Almas holds you in such high regard."

Ulec accepted the handshake with a grin. "Thank you, High Lord Aguerius. It was a pleasure to test my abilities against such a formidable opponent."

They shared a moment of camaraderie, the forest filled with laughter and respect. Almas felt a surge of pride witnessing the bond between his father and his elvish friend.

As the sun started its descent, painting the sky in hues of gold and orange, Almas knew their time together was drawing to a close. He approached Ulec, a mixture of excitement and sadness in his voice.

"Ulec, this has been an incredible day. I don't want it to end."

Ulec placed a hand on Almas' shoulder, his gaze filled with warmth. "Fear not, my friend. Our paths will cross again. Aguerius Forest will always be here, waiting for us to create new memories."

Almas nodded, a smile tugging at his lips. "I can't wait for our next adventure, Ulec. Until then, take care."

Ulec nodded in return. "You too, Almas. Stay curious, brave, and kind."

With a final embrace, Almas bid farewell to Ulec. As he walked back home with his father, the echoes of their laughter and the memory of their sparring match filled his heart, fueling his anticipation for their next meeting.