Chapter 1

 

High atop the waterfall’s edge, Codan watched the rising sun. Its warmth kissed his skin as the sky bled into gold and red, yet he found no peace in its majestic radiance. Lush green forests swayed at the foot of the mountains, but to Codan, the world felt hollow. The building storm in Codan’s mind, however, was solid, intimidating, and all too real.

He lowered his gaze, setting his sights on his village of Woodbourne. “What would you do, Father?” he whispered into the cooling breeze.

Codan searched for calm in the clear waters running beside him. The roar of falling water playfully danced against his eardrums, washing away stained memories.

Grabbing a fallen tree branch, he gracefully swung it as a weapon. His father had taught him how to handle a sword, but using one now seemed impossible.

He jumped from stone to stone in the river, swiping the sword-like branch in all manner of patterns. Overstepping, his foot slid sideways as he crashed face-first into the icy river. His muscles constricted and his breath lodged in his throat. I’m just not good enough, he thought.

He slapped the water hard before rolling onto the bank. From the flat of his back, he whispered, “I can’t protect them, let alone avenge your death, Father.”

Rustling in the undergrowth cut through his static-filled thoughts, calling him to his feet.

“Knew I’d find you here,” Katherine said. Emerging from the bushes, her messy auburn hair masked her delicate face. Although a head shorter than Codan, her athletic build made her seem taller. “You should try being less predictable. Not a secret hideout if everyone knows about it.” Her eyes inquisitively washed over him. “Been swimming?”

He dropped to the ground, shrugging. She sat beside him, tucking her dress under herself as her emerald eyes twinkled with joy, her carefree smile almost soothing Codan.

Katherine gently pushed her shoulder against Codan. “Shouldn’t you be sweeping out someone’s outhouse?”

Codan rolled his eyes with a sigh. “Life seems to only be about chores, and today of all days, I just can’t face it.”

Katherine chuckled. “Well you’ll have to face Kassandra for not helping out. I mean, she always goes soft on you being the son of Varcas, but you really shouldn’t aggravate the village elders.”

Codan knew he got away with a lot. He was convinced it wasn’t just because of his father; Kassandra was the gentlest soul he knew, and her kindness let everyone off the hook at one point or another.

Katherine turned to the technicolor sky. “Beautiful, isn’t it? Makes you wonder what else is out there.”

Her distant gaze seemed thoughtful, but her smile remained. “You’re always smiling,” Codan said, “but what if something goes wrong today. They could ruin everything. Again.”

Katherine leaned harder into him. “So it’s the Moderatus’ visit you’re worried about.”

He grunted, pulling at the grass.

“Cheer up,” she said, elbowing him gently. “The world’s not going to end today. Besides, it’s a little exciting. Nothing else ever happens.”

Codan’s eyes narrowed as his cheeks burned. “Katherine Rayne. You of all people should understand.”

“Uh oh, someone’s grumpy.”

“Grumpy?” His tone shifted as a hard edge lined his words. “You know what this could mean. What if they want to take you and I can’t stop them?”

They sat uncomfortably. Codan was unsure if he was angry, embarrassed, or both.

“I haven’t forgotten, you know,” Katherine said. “I think about the Moderatus taking my mother every day.” She took a deep, slow breath. “But I know she’s still out there. Somewhere.”

Codan stared at his hands, wishing he could have done something. “I won’t let them take you too, Katherine.”

Katherine smiled, her lips twitching as she fluttered her eyes. “I know, but maybe I don’t need saving,” she said, sliding her hair to the side. “For all you know, I could be the most powerful Crystallum user of all time. Stronger than your father, even.”

Codan bellowed an uncontrollable laugh. “My father was the size of an oak tree. You’re no bigger than a shrub.” He opened and closed his hand, remembering the cold of his father’s Crystallum shard. “Besides, not everyone can use Crystallum, and your inability to use their magics may be an issue.”

Katherine stuck out her tongue, scrunching her face. “Don’t be mean. I’ve been reading a lot about Crystallum in my grandfather’s study. As an elder he has quite the collection.”

Codan’s heart sank. Katherine’s mother was taken for her Crystallum abilities, and he very well knew how it ran in families. “You shouldn’t be exploring that stuff. You won’t find anything good.” He recoiled as he heard his mother in his words, her warnings to him, and what happened to his father.

Katherine squeezed her eyes as her lips danced. “I need to tell you something. Please don’t be mad.” She paused, turning to the rushing waters. Her smile faded as she bit her lip, avoiding eye contact. “I think I… I’m leaving Woodbourne.”

Codan paled as the blood drained from his face, ice chilling his core. His skull throbbed as every question battled to get out. How could she? Why leave the village? “That’s dangerous, you could be killed, even turn-”

Katherine pressed her finger to his lips. “Look.” She reached into her pocket and pulled out a polished pebble-shaped blue crystal. The engraved spiral on top sparkled as it refracted light. “I found it amongst my mother’s belongings.” Her expression dropped, sorrow clouding her eyes.

Codan’s anger dissipated as he recognised her stare. The one reserved for when she thought no one was watching. “Katherine, what’s going on? That’s Crystallum.”

She stepped away, grasping the stone as it glowed through her fingers. “I can use it… I’ve been practising.” Katherine’s soft face turned cold.

Codan bolted to her side, covering her hands as he looked around. “You can’t do that, not even here.”

Katherine smiled, longingly holding her gaze on Codan’s hands around hers. “No one will see us up here,” she whispered.

Unable to label the explosion in his gut, Codan locked eyes with Katherine. “Why are you telling me this now? Today.” His jaw quivered, searching for lost words. “The Moderatus. What if they take you.”

Her eyes softened, a sadness glazing them. “I have to find my mother. I know she’s alive.” She pulled away, clutching the crystal against her chest. “If I reveal this to the Moderatus they will take me for training. I’m sure it will lead me to my mother.”

“What!” Codan stared. The desperation that clung to her voice was new, and it scared him. “It’s been two years. Anything could…” His voice faltered as his chest burned; the thought of losing Katherine was unbearable.

“I’m not asking you to help,” Katherine said. “You know I need to find her, and they could teach me more about my powers. This could be the only opportunity I have.” She took a breath, stepping back. “I can already create a barrier that lasts half an hour.”

Codan tried to move, but his knees were locked tight. “That’s impressive,” he murmured to himself. His father had encouraged his Crystallum abilities away from his mother’s fearful gaze. Although unable to control the Crystallum well, he knew what it took. After Varcas’ death, Codan’s mother forbade him from training further and concealed his abilities from anyone who might try to take him away from her.

“But…” he started. “It’s different when you’re being attacked.”

Codan was so lost in the revelation that he didn’t notice the bushes twitching beside him.

“What’s goin’ on ‘ere then?” Lilith leapt from the undergrowth, almost catching Codan off balance. “You two ‘aving a lover’s tiff?”

“Sing a different tune, Lilith,” Codan snapped.

Lilith swept her flowing black hair behind her ears, removing a leaf as she danced over. She was a small girl in every aspect, compensated by her enthusiasm. Her smooth pixie-like cheeks framed pale blue eyes, radiating an unspoiled innocence. “Jeez, lighten up. So, what’s on the agenda for today, my fun-lovin’ chimps?”

Katherine and Codan looked at each other with confused frowns.

“You know what today is, right, Lil?” Katherine said. “We explained this.”

Childishly, Lilith’s eyes wandered as though searching her memory. “The Moderatus thing? Yeah, I don’t really get it.” She scratched the back of her head as if picking her thoughts. “Maybe I should ask Brother Ralphus about it?”

Codan knew Lilith could never understand. She had only been with the village a few months, but his blood still boiled. “You have no idea how monstrous the Moderatus are!” he began, stepping closer with each statement, “Had you been born here, as opposed to being found in the Wastes; had you spent seventeen years growing up in the village; witnessed the devastation; families torn apart; lives extinguished for trying to resist. Every-”

“That’s enough!” Katherine barked. “Look what you’ve done!”

Lilith’s eyes had glazed over, her expression vacant as her body gently swayed.

“She’s in one of her trances again. Why did you have to bring up the Wastes? You know it,” she rolled her hands in search of the right words, “breaks her.”

“Good!” Codan said gruffly. “What if Lilith had seen you using Crystallum? No one can know. You have to keep it hidden.”

Katherine sheepishly looked at the ground. “Well… Lilith… kinda knows.”

Codan’s jaw dropped into his chest as anger, jealousy, and fear collided.

“What’s goin’ on ‘ere then?” Lilith burst from her trance. “You two ‘aving a lover’s tiff?”

Codan kicked the ground, frustrated Lilith had lost time again, conveniently resetting herself.

“Not quite, Lil,” Katherine said, “I’ve told Codan about the Crystallum.”

Lilith slipped a devilishly playful grin. “Did you tell him our plan to find your mother?”

“I don’t believe it!” Codan knelt by the raging river, splashing the cold water over his face, hoping to wake from a bad dream.

Lilith wrapped her arm around Katherine and smiled as she pulled her close. “Don’t you worry, Codan. I’ve got ‘er back.”

Codan scoffed. “And what are you going to do? Talk people to death? Or are you a Crystallum user too?” he said sarcastically.

“Nope,” Lilith laughed. “I’m just an average teenage girl with no memories… I think,” she smirked. Tilting her head skyward, she appeared deep in thought. “You could ‘ave something there though. The talking them to death, that is. Think I’d be good at that?”

“Oh, Lil,” Katherine laughed, “don’t get any more ideas. I just need you to keep Codan out of trouble.”

“Keep me out of trouble?” Codan jumped to his feet, grabbing her by the shoulders. “You’re the one who needs to stay out of trouble. You need to stay hidden.”

Lilith embraced the pair. “Don’t worry about a thing. You’re my best friends, as far as I recall. I’m not goin’ to let anything bad ‘appen to either of you.”

“We’re your only friends,” Codan said, “gods only know why.”

Lilith tightened her brow. “It’s like fate brought us together. I know nothin’ about myself or how I got here, but I do feel we were meant to find each other.”

Codan pulled away, looking to the village for guidance. The waterfall pooled into a great lake before coursing through the heart of Woodbourne. A stone statue of his father, Varcas, stood proudly in the centre of the common, a memorial to the fallen hero. “I know you want to find your mother, Katherine. I just don’t see how we can do anything. Besides, what would your grandfather say?”

Lilith grabbed her jaw, humming in thought. “I like your thinking. We should talk with Brother Ralphus.”

“That’s not what I said.” Codan narrowed his eyes, unsettled by her eagerness. “You know he’ll stop you, right?”

“Well,” Katherine said, “he is a village elder. Maybe he’ll understand and help.”

Codan clenched his jaw. “He’s just as crazy as Lilith if you ask me.”

“Who said I was crazy? And that’s no way to speak about him!” Lilith’s brow thundered with offence. “He’s been good to me, taking me in the way he did. I’m sure it’s not easy for him to take care of Katherine and me.”

“Look!” Katherine yelled, pointing to the horizon. “The Moderatus?”

Codan’s heart sank as a faint trail of dust rose from the treeline. “Who else would it be?” Codan steadied his breathing as he considered every eventuality of their arrival.

“Codan?” Lilith asked. “You scared? Is that why you don’t want to help? You’re not the best… well, anything, but-”

“Hey!” Codan’s face burned red.

“No, it’s all right,” Lilith said softly. “Katherine and I got this. Who in their right mind would mess with a crazy girl, let alone an inexperienced Crystallum user? We don’t need you.” Lilith’s tone almost felt sarcastic, but there was a truth that stung.

“That’s ridiculous! You wouldn’t last five minutes without me to point out your stupidity.”

Lilith grinned. “It’s settled then. You’re with us; gods forbid you leave us girls to get into trouble.” She whipped around to Katherine and chuckled before skipping back toward the undergrowth. “Come on, love bugs.”

“What just happened?” Codan asked, feeling duped.

“She’s learning.” Katherine smiled gently. “You don’t have to, you know.”

Codan lost all thought as he looked into her eyes, the urge to keep her safe the only thing remaining. “I’ll be damned if I allow Lilith to have the last word. Come on, let’s go find your grandfather. Lilith may be right; she’s as crazy as they come, but I’m sure he’ll talk you out of this ridiculousness and hide you.”

Katherine ran after Lilith as Codan turned to the dust cloud edging closer. An icy breeze permeated his damp clothes as a strange presence brushed against him, almost forming a whisper. He dismissed the sensation, but something wasn’t sitting well with him. Taking one final look toward the approaching Moderatus, the strange presence brushed against him again. He knew, with cold certainty, that something was wrong. There’s something different about them. But what?

 

 

Chapter 2

 

With every pounding footfall, Codan’s heart beat in his throat, his thoughts a stampede of fear and urgency. The feeling that danced in his stomach only grew deeper as he willed himself to control it.

“If we’re doing this, we need to move faster,” he grunted, overtaking the girls. “I expect Ralphus will be in the common with the other elders already.” I just hope he can talk some sense into Katherine.

“Aye, aye, captain!” Lilith said. “We should sing follow the leader.”

Katherine’s giggle brought Codan to a sliding halt. He turned to find the pair arm-in-arm, ready to burst into song. “You can’t be serious!” Codan protested. “The Moderatus aren’t a joke. People could die.”

“At least we’d die with a smile,” Lilith grinned. “Stop being so melodramatic.”

Every inch of his chest burned as he ground his teeth. “You’re so infuriating!” Codan turned his focus to the path he had carved out on his daily visits to the falls. This has to be a bad dream.

Dense undergrowth whipped Codan as he raced down the hillside, leaving them behind. Weaving through the trees, his mind wandered, ignoring the sting of the branches and brambles.

As he arrived at the village outskirt, a memory flashed: the Moderatus ripping a boy from his family, smoke in their wake.

Codan stopped, squeezing his eyes tight as he failed to empty his mind. His frustrated fist slammed into his chest as he tried to steady his breath.

Waiting for the others to catch up, he struggled to tame his rampaging thoughts. His father’s voice boomed in the back of his mind, distant and unintelligible. I wish you were here to tell me what to do, father.

Freshly baked bread flooded the air, pulling Codan back into the now as the girls emerged from the undergrowth. His empty stomach echoed as it yearned for food.

The dirt track streets were empty, except for Orin, who was locking up his butcher’s shop. A gust of wind set the sign above him squeaking on its iron hooks. The paint had long since faded, leaving only the ghost of a pig against the sun-bleached grey wood. Orin refused to repair it, never admitting why. But Codan knew. He could still hear his father’s cavernous laugh as he helped Orin paint and hang it; they were inseparable. To repair it, would be to erase his memory.

“Morning, young blood,” Orin called to Codan. “You look hungry. I promised your father I’d always keep you fed, you know.”

A smile slipped through Codan’s lips. Orin’s calm demeanour always rubbed off. “Morning, Orin,” Codan said. “Always hungry when you’re around.” Although his feet itched to carry on to the common, one thought dominated: breakfast.

“I can’t see how,” Katherine said, staring through the butchers window in disgust. “Why anyone would eat an animal is beyond me.”

“That’s a shame,” Orin said, reaching into his satchel, “because I have bacon rolls.”

Codan’s eyes bulged as saliva flooded his mouth. Lilith had few manners and didn’t wait for permission before snatching a roll and taking a large bite.

“Katherine,” Lilith spat, her mouth full. “I love you, but you can’t not like these. They’re sooo good.” She continued to slap her lips together as she devoured every crumb.

“Thanks, Orin,” Codan said, taking a roll. “These really are the best.” He rolled his eyes in embarrassment toward Lilith. “Sorry about her.”

“That’s quite all right.” Orin let his gaze wash over Lilith as curiosity furrowed his brow. He seemed to catch himself, steadying his gaze. “I appreciate a satisfied customer.”

Katherine grunted in protest, arms folded.

“Don’t you worry, lass. I have something for you too.” Orin entered his satchel again. “Here.” With a crooked smile, he gently threw an apple at her. “Tastes better with pig, but no one’s perfect.”

Orin softened his voice as he leaned in closer to Codan. “I smell bad omens. You should head to the common. Your mother will be worrying today. You know how she gets.”

Codan nodded. For a moment, he felt his father’s warmth. Orin always left him feeling safe, almost as much as his father had. He wanted to confide in him, but there wasn’t time, and he knew Katherine wouldn’t listen to him anyway. “Yes, we’re headed there now. Thanks again for the roll.”

Orin smiled, but as he turned to remove the key from the shop door, a darkness clouded his brow, his fingers nervously twitching. He must be wary of the Moderatus too.

A brief silence fell between Codan and the girls as they made their way past the old worn stone and straw buildings. Codan’s mind wandered as he considered whether the mosses crawling up the stone were trying to claim them as their own.

The village felt insignificant compared to the towns and cities Codan’s father had described to him as a young boy. Still, there were plenty of people to be self-sufficient here, with only the additional luxuries needing trade.

Codan thought everyone had already made their way to the common, but there were more than a few curtains that twitched as they passed. He didn’t blame them. His mother would have him do the same.

Varcas’ statue at the centre of the common came into view, an old white-haired man—statuesque himself—sitting to the side. His long beard hung over his robe of browns and creams as he appeared deep in thought, leaning into his wooden staff. The sight of Brother Ralphus filled Codan with both hope and fear. Please make her see sense, he thought.

“Hello, children.” Ralphus’ face brightened as he stirred.

“Hi, Brother Ralphus,” Lilith announced as she ran to him.

“I’d ask where you two disappeared to this morning, but I see you are safe with Codan.” Ralphus smiled.

“Yeah. Sorry. I saw Katherine sneaking off to her boyfriend and just had to follow.”

Katherine grumbled in protest as her eyes darted between Codan and her fidgeting hands. “Lil’, stop. For the millionth time, we’re not together.”

Codan didn’t have the patience to enter a debate this time. He ignored Lilith, feeling no desire to explain they were just friends again.

Ralphus grinned. “No harm done. As long as you all had fun playing.”

“Oh, we’re a bit old for ‘playing’. We’re plotting a rescue mission,” Lilith said excitedly.

Ralphus chuckled, wiping a tear from his eye. “Gods bless you, child. And who would you be rescuing today, the hedgehogs or the birds?”

Katherine stiffened, visibly holding her breath. “My mother.” She spoke with such conviction that her grandfather almost fell over.

Catching himself with his staff, Ralphus regained his balance. His eyes, however, glazed over, consumed in shadow. His jaw wobbled as his lips spoke silent words. He finally found his voice, but it trembled, uneasy. “Does this have anything to do with the Moderatus, perchance?”

“Yes, sir,” Codan said. “It would appear Lilith’s craziness has rubbed off.” Codan searched Ralphus’ face for any signs of discouragement but found only furrows of deep thought.

“I’m not crazy,” Lilith huffed. She turned to face Ralphus. “The Moderatus can ‘elp Katherine, right?”

Ralphus raised an eyebrow. “I fear this is too complicated to discuss now.”

“Grandfather,” Katherine interrupted, “I need to find my mother.”

“This is not the time, nor place,” Ralphus snapped. “We should discuss this after the Moderatus’ visit.”

A relief washed over Codan, thankful Ralphus wasn’t going to entertain anything until after the Moderatus were gone.

“That’s the thing,” Katherine said, “I’m planning on getting their attention. I need them to take me to be trained.”

“Trained? Crystallum?” Ralphus’ eyes bulged as he looked Katherine up and down. The fear shaking his pupils put Codan on edge.

“She’s good,” Lilith said. “I’ve been helping her practise.”

Ralphus squirmed before driving his wooden staff into the ground, creating momentum to stand. “I’m sorry, my child. I fear it would only lead to death. I suggest you stay away for their visit. Only a small group are coming to collect some things this time. Nothing more.”

Codan’s stomach threatened to empty. “Why do we allow them to just take from us so easily?”

“Calm yourself, my boy,” Ralphus said. “Look. Here comes your mother. She’s been chewing the ears off Kassandra again.”

The warning bell rang out across the village, and the rest of the villagers packed into the common as Codan’s mother rushed over, Kassandra following close behind. “Where have you been? I’ve been worried sick. Why are your clothes damp? The Moderatus are coming. Keep your head down.”

“Stop mauling the boy, Athena,” Ralphus said.

Kassandra stood beside Codan’s mother, smiling to everyone as she rested her hand on Ralphus’ shoulder. “Codan, I missed you this morning.”

Codan’s heart sank. Even now, as his mind raged, he felt guilty to have evaded his chores. “Sorry, Kassandra. It won’t happen again.”

She smiled, notably holding back a chuckle. “Oh, I’m sure it will.” Her forgiveness and acceptance was second to none, which only fuelled Codan’s guilt.

Codan’s mother tightly clung to Codan’s arm. “He’ll be doing double time every day next week to make up for it.” Her words softened as she looked around. “But for now, I want him out of sight.”

He knew if his mother had her way, he’d be hidden away long into his grey years.

Ralphus leaned into Kassandra, whispering something that forced her to raise an uneasy eyebrow.

Ralphus pointed his staff toward the bakery. “Maybe the children should go and wait in there.”

“But-” Lilith was cut short.

“Go,” Ralphus said, “the back door is always open. Stay there until we come get you.”

That was all Codan needed. “Come on,” he said, tugging on Katherine’s arm. She wouldn’t budge. “Please, I just want to keep you safe.” She turned to him, a deep sorrow in her eyes. Her smile slowly returned as she held his gaze. “I know you do.” She gripped his hand tightly as Codan wasted no time leading her away from the growing crowd.

Lilith and Ralphus exchanged tempered words before she followed. “Well, that could ‘ave gone better.”

Codan turned back to his mother, her face filled with concern. He couldn’t be more grateful she missed the conversation about Crystallum; gods know she would have locked Codan away for good.

Inside the bakery, they went up to the first-floor bedroom to watch over the common and the Moderatus’ arrival.

The warning bell echoed into silence as Codan looked out the window. Kassandra moved through the crowd, her smile and kind words settling them as she took her position with the other elders.

Codan folded his arms on the window ledge, sinking his chin into them as the ache in his stomach built into a raging storm. “They’re here,” he whispered.

A broad man rode a white horse into the common. The thoroughbred steed was decorated in the finest purple silk cloth, while the man was head to toe in polished armour. Upon his chest, the crest of the Moderatus rested. An eclipse of black and gold penetrated by a silver dagger, the hilt shaped as a lion’s head in full roar. The surrounding soldiers were forcing the villagers to bow.

“That’s new,” Katherine said, joining Codan at the window. “And I thought it was supposed to be a small group.”

“Something’s wrong.” Codan held his breath as he fixated on the man’s armour, its frame familiar.

A squire rolled out a purple and gold trim carpet, as the man stepped down. He removed his helmet, thrusting it into the squire’s hands. “Polish this up, boy.”

“That voice. Can’t be.” Codan shut down, battling fear and unbridled rage as Katherine sank her nails into his arm.

“Guys, you look like you’ve seen a ghost,” Lilith said. “Who’s the block ‘ead?”

Katherine made an inaudible sound before Codan quietly said, “Fuge.”

“Wait, isn’t that…” Lilith’s voice trailed off as her brow twisted thoughtfully. “That’s the bastard that handed your mother over to the Moderatus, Katherine.”

“Yes,” she barely whispered.

Codan bit his cheeks, the tang of blood igniting a wave of heat through his body. “He was exiled after he betrayed my father. Murderer.” Codan’s rage overpowered his fear as he grit his teeth. “Those aren’t the Moderatus with him. This is something else entirely.”

 

 

Chapter 3

 

“Katherine?” Codan asked, resting his hand on her shoulder.

She held her silent gaze on Fuge’s dominant gorilla-like frame. His face was angular and rough. Grey hair meticulously cut, growing tall from his widow’s peak. A long angry scar stretched from his jawline to the bridge of his nose; his eyes were so intense they almost glowed.

“You’re right,” Katherine said. “That may be Moderatus armour, but it’s not them. Fuge vowed to destroy them, remember?”

A flood of memories drowned Codan as he fixated on his father’s murderer. “He said a lot of crazy things.”

Lilith rambled incoherently to herself, pacing the room a few times before pulling the pair away from the window. “This is unreal. I feel so… awake. Like I’ve been struck by lightning.”

Codan eyeballed Lilith, acknowledging she seemed more wired than usual. “He killed my father; I have to do something.”

“That’s madness,” Katherine said. “Look at him. He’d pop you like a pimple.”

“Something doesn’t make sense to me,” Lilith said.

“Does it ever?” Codan asked.

“Seriously, something’s off. Why is he ‘ere? Are the Moderatus still coming?”

Codan returned to the window as doubt consumed him. “Maybe we should leave. Get my mother and Ralphus, run away. Fuge is beyond insane. He believed all kinds of nonsense to turn on my father.”

Fuge’s voice boomed outside, ordering his men to contain the villagers.

Lilith hunched over, wincing. “Can you ‘ear that?”

“Lil, you OK?” Katherine asked.

“She doesn’t look good.” Codan sprang forward to catch Lilith as she cried out in pain, her fingers bone white as they gripped her head.

Katherine knelt beside them, her eyes wide. “What’s happening to her?”

Lilith writhed in agony as she struggled in Codan’s arms. “They’re in my ‘ead, get them out! Please. Make them stop!”

“This reeks of Crystallum,” Codan said.

Katherine ran to the window with such force she almost fell through. “Fuge has the elders pinned against the statue. We have to do something!”

Codan wasn’t concerned with Mandrake, as an elder, he was the weakest of the three and the most useless. Kassandra and Ralphus, on the other hand, were the backbone of the village. Kassandra understood the people, sharing nothing but love, while Ralphus provided wisdom.

Lilith screamed, begging for relief. “Please. They can see me. They’ll find us.”

“We need to find what’s affecting Lilith,” Codan said.

“Maybe there?” Katherine pointed frantically.

Codan grabbed a cushion, placing it gently under Lilith’s head as she battled with herself, muttering unrecognisable words.

Katherine motioned to three hooded figures dressed in long black robes toward the back. Two shone a dull amethyst beneath their hoods, the other a shimmering golden yellow.

“The guards are protecting them,” Codan said, “it has to be them. They’re using some form of telepathy attack. Katherine, your barrier. How strong is it?”

“What!”

“Katherine, how strong!”

She stalled, her words lost behind quivering eyes.

Codan grabbed her by the shoulders, forcing her to look at him. “Katherine. Listen carefully. My father once told me how his team overcame enemy telepathy: they surrounded themselves in a barrier that was strong enough to prevent even thoughts from passing through. Do you think you could do the same?”

“I’ve only ever tried on myself.” Her eyes darted wildly in contemplation. “Lilith throws small stones, but I can’t stop them all. How can I possibly block an experienced Crystallum user?”

“We have to try. Hold Lilith.”

Katherine hesitated as she embraced Lilith, tears forming. “But-”

“Trust me!” Codan wiped a tear from Katherine's cheek.

“What if I get lost in the Crystallum? What if it consumes me?”

Codan was well aware of the consequences. He’d seen his father drained of energy, bordering on death. What’s more, his father had warned countless times not to overuse Crystallum, or run the risk of becoming a monster, lost in its grip.

With a deep breath, Codan smiled softly, fighting to hide his fear. “Just trust. I’ll always find you.” He pressed his head to hers as he wrapped his arms around her.

Katherine pulled out her blue crystal, placing it between her trembling hands.

Codan nodded reassuringly as he stepped back to sit cross-legged facing them. “Create your barrier around you both. Don’t think about its strength.”

Katherine closed her eyes as her entire body tightened. A dim translucent sapphire surrounded the girls, bolts of white energy slowly dancing along the surface of the freshly formed cocoon.

Codan’s heart missed a few beats. Amazed at her accomplishment, yet terrified of what it could lead to. “You’re doing great. Clear your mind, leaving only my voice and the barrier.”

Katherine took a deep breath and released it slowly as Lilith continued to rock uncontrollably in her arms.

“Feel the barrier, your compassion and desire to help Lilith. Imagine waves of energy bouncing, never passing through.”

“I can feel them. They’re so strong.” Katherine winced as she screamed, her barrier fading away.

“What happened? Katherine?” Beads of sweat coated Codan’s forehead as his stomach churned.

“I can’t do it. They squashed my brain until I stopped.”

“But Katherine, you’re the only one who can stop them.”

Sadness flooded her eyes. “That’s not true, and you know it. You could help. You’re putting all this on me while you run from yourself.”

Codan stared blankly as her words cut like a knife. He was so afraid of failing that he refused even to entertain the idea of using the Crystallum himself.

He closed his eyes as a memory of his father played out behind them. He knew it was possible to share a connection to Crystallum; share the burden.

“Don’t you care? Codan, please… Help me?” Her hand reached out longingly.

All he could hear was echoes of his mother’s voice. I shouldn’t. I can’t. A well of emotion pushed against Codan as his mind cried for him to run.

“Please… trust me,” Katherine whispered.

Before Codan could acknowledge his feelings, he took her hand. They enclosed the Sapphire Crystallum between their hands while Lilith struggled. “I’ve got you if you’ve got me?”

“Always,” Katherine said.

Codan channelled his energy into both the crystal and Katherine, hoping it would be enough to sustain the barrier.

The swirling energy returned to surround them, growing brighter as Katherine smiled. “I won’t let them in, Lil, I promise.” The blue shimmer filled the room, stronger and stronger as the two worked together.

Lilith calmed as her eyes opened, releasing the grip on her head to form a subtle smile. “Just look at you two love bugs.” Her body became limp as she practically sank against Katherine, her energy depleted.

“We can’t hold this forever,” Codan said.

“You need to physically stop them.” She closed her eyes. “I can feel your energy flowing in me. I think I could hold it myself now.”

“I’m sorry,” Lilith said, “they know about you now, Katherine. They showed me horrifying things. I couldn’t help it. My mind just opened to them.”

“It’s OK, Lil. We got you.” Katherine ran her fingers through Lilith’s hair as she looked Codan in the eye. Her face said it all: Codan could see she was scared, unable to hold the barrier for long by herself; the Crystallum would leech her life force, strip her of all her energy. Consume her.

Codan jumped to his feet. “Stay here.”

“Not much choice,” Katherine said, weakening.

Codan ran downstairs and out through the back. Hiding behind a barrel, he watched Fuge confront the hooded Crystallum users. His anger was palpable as he yelled at his men. Needing to get closer, Codan slipped into the crowd.

“Tell me!” Fuge yelled.

“She’s here,” said the golden glowing figure, “but there’s interference. Another Crystallum user. The girl’s mind is strangely empty; she doesn’t know of us.”

Fuge stormed toward the village elders, scowling through a red face. Mandrake, Kassandra, and Ralphus stiffened as he approached. “You lied about the girl!”

Kassandra sheepishly spoke. “Fuge, we-”

Fuge swiped a dagger across her throat. Her body crumpled to the floor as blood pooled around her. “That’s Lord Fuge now, filth!”

Time stood still as silence befell the village. Even the wind died down in respect. Hundreds of mouths gaped with bulging eyes. Codan didn’t know where to look or what to do.

Kassandra was the village’s soul, and it had just been torn apart like paper. Even the buildings appeared greyed, their soul slipping away as the once warm joyful stone now appeared cold and lifeless. Codan shivered, repulsed by Kassandra’s slaughter. She never hurt a soul. Why?

A child’s scream broke the deafening silence, allowing the crowds to cry out in anguish. Something stirred across the weeping crowds. While most froze in fear, an underbelly of anger was swelling.

“I grow weary of these games, old man,” Fuge spat. “What’s left of these Moderatus soldiers are mine. You will give me what I need, or you will join their fate.”

“Lord Fuge.” Ralphus cleared his throat. “We don’t have any orbs of resurrection, and we know not of this girl you seek.”

Fuge tore Ralphus’ staff from him, beating him relentlessly to the ground. “Stop lying to me!” He faced Mandrake, the youngest of the elders. As they stood nose to nose, Codan could feel the terror in Mandrake’s eyes.

“Mandrake,” Fuge said in a sly tone. “You will help me. We go way back; one could even say old friends.” Fuge tilted his head, whispering something. Codan edged closer to hear as a rotting stench oozed from the soldiers.

“Tell me what I need to know,” Fuge said.

Mandrake’s eyes wandered as his breathing became erratic.

“Still nothing, aye. Let me tell you what will happen. That sweet-looking child over there. I believe she’s your granddaughter, yes?”

Sweat poured from Mandrake’s brow as he nodded.

“You see,” Fuge continued, “I will take her with me, while the rest of you burn. Just look around. Your village is worn, tired, irrelevant. I suspect some would even be happy to watch it turn to ashes, but you can stop all that, Mandrake. Save these people. Just tell me what you know; then I will leave in peace.”

“Alright.” Mandrake barely made a sound. “There was a girl. Months back.”

“Go on.”

“She had an orb, but I don’t-”

“Lord Fuge!” The hooded figure revealed her face, a bruised and beaten canvas calling to him. “I have regained connection.”

“Where is she!” Fuge pushed Mandrake aside, marching toward the woman.

Codan’s heart sank as Lilith howled in pain; her cry was so intense the villagers contorted in sympathy as they turned to the Bakery.

The woman guided Fuge, alarmingly following Lilith’s original footsteps.

Codan seized the opportunity to rush to Ralphus’ side. “Ralphus, what’s-”

“No time,” Ralphus’ voice was weak and broken as he struggled for air. “We have to stop him… must protect, Lilith. Stop evil’s resurrection.”

“But the Moderatus?”

Ralphus smirked through painful gasps. “Moderatus? What’s left of them are already here.”

Codan scanned the twenty or so warriors, poised, ready to take arms. The soulless expressions on their faces revealed the true horror of the bodies that stood before him. “They’re dead?” Some still had their true faces, while others had been beaten to the bare bone.

“Yes, my boy. Crystallum controls them; like marionettes, the undead rise. Remove the head, and the body dies. Know what I mean?” Ralphus turned his attention to Orin, who had quietly rallied a following. “They will form a distraction, while you get the girls to safety.”

“I’m not strong enough. I’m not my father.”

Ralphus smiled, placing a hand on Codan’s shoulder. “You’re more like him every day.”

Fuge burst from the bakery. Under each arm, the girls dangled unconscious. He threw Katherine hard to the ground, her body sliding across the dry dirt. “Put her on my horse. She comes with us.”

Two of the dead regained life as they strapped Katherine to a horse.

“As for this one.” Fuge held Lilith high into the air. “We have work to do.”

“Codan,” Ralphus said. “You must go against your mother.” He pulled a ring from his robe, thrusting it into Codan’s hand. It was encrusted with a small black crystal, cold to the touch, reverberating with power.

“In the open? No way!” Codan protested, looking at his mother.

“You must!”

Codan had no time to respond as Ralphus nodded to Orin. A battle cry sounded as Orin’s group bounded toward the undead. The men threw rocks, swung sticks and farming tools, fighting off the ravenous warriors as the villagers tried to flee in panic. It took three men just to overpower one of them, but seemingly, you can’t stop a man who is already dead. Orin hacked through several warriors with his meat cleaver, only to find their limbs reassembled from the heap within mere moments.

Fuge dropped Lilith’s limp body as he pulled two swords from his horse’s saddle. Slowly, he slithered toward the action. His face twisted in delight as he skewered his first victim. He seemed to savour the moment before kicking the man from his sword. “You dare resist me! You’ll all burn for this!”

“Codan!” Orin grabbed his arm, yanking him to his feet. “You need to move!”

Codan became lost in the tornado that ripped through his world. Fright consumed him, shock taking hold as bodies littered the floor.

“Snap out of it, kid!” Orin yelled.

Codan helplessly watched the villagers and undead mangle into one mass of slaughter around him.

“I’ll keep as many off you as I can.” Orin looked Codan square in the eyes. “I believe in you just as much as your father did. You can do this.” He gripped his cleaver tightly as he yelled, returning to battle.

Ralphus tried to pick himself up, begging. “Codan, you have to help them.”

Codan reduced all incoming sound as he fought to find himself. A deep fear coursed through his veins, heightened to new levels. His sight fell on Fuge as he cut down another innocent.

Codan’s head frantically whipped as he desperately searched for his mother. He half expected her to be running over to him, preparing to slap the Crystallum ring from his hand. She was nowhere to be seen, but her voice still reverberated deep within him. ‘You can’t. You must hide.”

He stared at the ring in his open palm. “What if I fail, Father?” he whispered.

A flash of his father filled his thoughts as he clenched his jaw. “You wouldn’t let them down, father. I must do something. I have to try, even if it leads to my end.”

A spark ignited within him; all care shed from his soul. As he channelled all the day’s frustrations, he placed the ring on his right ring finger. “Forgive me, mother.” His eyes bored into Fuge as a adrenaline surged through him.

Fuge twisted in surprise to form a menacing snarl. “Codan! I thought you were as dead as your father. No matter, I shall reunite you both.” The cold steel of his swords, stained in blood, ploughed toward Codan’s neck.

Tightly clenching his fist, Codan tapped into the crystal’s power. A floodgate burst open as his muscles tensed, doubling in size as a grey aura engulfed him, allowing him to deflect Fuge’s blade.

Fuge laughed maniacally. “Like father, like son.” He recalled his blades to his hips. “Well. Let’s see what you got, boy. Although I can use Crystallum too.” He held his swords out wide as he growled. The surface of each blade shimmered a crimson red, waves of energy engulfing them, his demonic appearance complete.

Codan allowed the flow of energy to take hold, a burning desire to fight as he lunged at Fuge. He landed several solid blows to his torso, damaging Fuge’s armour, before landing a thunderous shot to his jaw, catching Fuge off balance. Driving another fist into Fuge’s breastplate, the impact left only a minor dent as Codan was unable to hold his newfound strength, rapidly losing energy.

Fuge laughed again. “You can’t even control it. You probably don’t even know what you possess. Let me show you what I can do.”

Each attack blurred into the next, forcing Codan to evade faster than he thought possible. I have to succeed. I have to protect Katherine.

Fuge’s attack intensified, clipping Codan on the arm. The pain gave birth to a focused hatred as he felt the Crystallum press against his soul, desiring more as it sucked the very life from his being. Codan knew the dangers of using Crystallum, but he didn’t care.

His body surrendered to the small crystal leeching on his finger, the power alien. As it invaded his thoughts, he grew to like it. Every emotion morphed into one entity; it was unrecognisable. Searching deep within himself, a cold darkness took hold. The life force of the Crystallum penetrated his very being as it guided him through renewed eyes. He didn’t feel himself anymore. All that existed was pain and Fuge.

Over Fuge’s shoulder, Codan’s mother stood. Her haunting gaze fixated on her son; torment and terror clear for all to see. She held a fear that morphed into disappointment as she turned and ran.

Can’t be distracted; I can explain to her later.

He refocused on Fuge. He coiled his body tight, ready to release all his power into one attack. His vision blurred as his eyes burned, tunnelled on his target.

“Your eyes,” Fuge said, “you really can’t control it!” He was taken aback; unease tainted his words. Focus and determination radiated from his brow as he lunged at Codan, body and blades as one.

Codan failed to find an opening to attack as he evaded the shimmering red steel. Something guided his focus to Fuge’s blades. I should knock them from his hands. Codan swung his fists wildly as he aimed for Fuge’s hands; instead, they found the edge of a blade.

The blow shattered the crystal. A burning desire overwhelmed Codan as his shadowy aura exploded, raw power pulsing through his veins.

He collapsed in a heap, a single thought surviving. I failed, again.

Fuge turned to leave Codan crumpled on the floor, survival painted across his face. “Impressive, boy. I’ll have to keep an eye on you.”

Codan felt all connection from the darkness dissipate, leaving him empty and broken. No strength to stand. His consciousness clung tightly to the world as fire roared around him, smoke filling his lungs. Orin locked blades with Fuge as Codan’s vision faded.