Odder The Demon Hunter - The Blood Curse

Odder lifted his hood over his head to protect him from the drizzly, overcast morning. He walked on the cobblestone road leading to the Pitzana arena. He admired how precise each stone fit next to each other, some large, some small, but each in its place.

“Watch where you’re going servant,” said an elf, pushing Odder out of the way. “You’re blocking the path.”

Odder glanced up to get his bearings. A bell resonated throughout the Elestus Township followed by elves flooding into the entrance of the arena.

“You elves think you own the roads.”

Odder recognized the taunt voice. “Finkle.”

The gnome ran up behind him and socked him in the calf.

“Crimy!” Odder turned and tried to grab the gnome. “Why would you do that?”

“Where ya been?” Finkle asked with a broad grin.

“Thanks to your little prank, I had to pay the healer a visit.”

“And what prank was that?” Finkle asked, scratching the fuzz on his chin.

Odder pulled up his sleeve.

“Holy Tears of Titan!” The gnome jumped back and shielded his eyes. “That’s not my work.”

“You told me it was a spell that allowed me to conjure magic, not a maiming prank.”

“I’m tellin ya. I didn’t do it.”

“Did you already forget the spell you cast on me this morning or was it poison since spells don’t work?” Odder pulled his sleeve down.

“Bu - Bu - But,” Finkle stuttered.

“We can talk about this after the announcement.”

“I’m coming with you,” said Finkle, straightening his pointy red hat.

“Sorry, gnomes aren’t allowed,” replied Odder.

“I’m not a pathetic outcast,” the gnome said, wrinkling his round nose.

Odder peered down at Finkle and winked. “No, I’m the outcast and you – well, you’re a gnome.”

“You know I hate it when you look down at me.”

Odder chuckled. “I can’t help it. You’re only a foot tall.”

The gnome gripped his green vest and flared his nostrils. “And stronger than a chimera.”

“Indeed mighty Finkle from the Tonk clan.” Odder laughed. “I won’t be long. Just have to meet my master and run an errand for him but I should have some time on my way to the castle. Let’s meet in the market at our favorite merchant.”

Finkle winked and gave a nod. “The prank merchant in an hour.”

“Sooner I hope,” Odder said. “Oh wait, I have to meet the healer again right after the announcement, but it won’t take long.”

“Better not,” the gnome said, skipping up the road.

“I wouldn’t have to if it weren’t for you,” Odder said, glaring.

He approached a sentry dressed in his standard leather armor, guarding the arched granite entry with a pole ax.

Odder removed his hood. “I’m Odder, servant to the Prince.”

The sentry’s belligerent glare made Odder cringe. “Weapons?” the sentry asked.

He pointed at his leather belt. “Just this stick.”

The sentry eyed the piece of wood shaped like a sword. The belligerence faded, and his lips twitched. He stepped aside. “Don’t hurt anyone, servant.” The sarcasm in his voice had Odder hunching his shoulders – as did the underlying pity.

Odder walked in and looked for a seat. Benches cut from granite surrounded the stage and ascended a hill in a circular pattern. Crowds made him uneasy like ants crawling underneath his skin. He pulled his dull dark-gray servant’s cloak in tight, kept his eyes hidden, and strolled to a seat in an upper row.

“Move to another bench,” said an elf, sitting next to the open spot.

Odder moved to the next row and tried to take a seat.

“Not here either.” The young elf, around Odder’s age, motioned back with his thumb.

Odder groaned and spotted an entire vacant row near the top of the arena. He took a seat, removed his hood, and watched the townsfolk fill in the empty seats near the stage.

He felt a sudden sharp slap to the back of his neck. He jerked his head around.

“Nice hair swamp slug.”

“Renzt!” Odder narrowed his eyes and rubbed his neck. “I like my hair short. It’s better than looking like a lassie.”

Renzt growled. “Jumping off the top ledge is a far better seat.”

“Leave me alone.”

“You’re so pathetic.” Renzt puffed out his lips and tipped his head side to side. “I’m a vekart, and I can’t even spark a candle.” His expression turned sober, then derisive. “You have no business here.”

Odder sneered and turned back to the stage. “I’ll be sure and let the Prince know.”

“A jelly worm has more of a spine than you. Don’t you have a chamber pot to empty?” Renzt slapped Odder’s neck again before walking away.

Odder flinched but kept his eyes forward attempting to calm his rising temper. If I wielded magic, the town would know who the real coward is. The first thing I would do is-

“Take your seats,” the overseer announced.

Everyone hastened to their seats and then fell silent as they gazed at the stage. After several minutes, when nothing happened, voices began to mutter in the crowd once again.

“Ahem.” The overseer cleared his throat. “Soon we will announce our Proprius who is representing the House of Elestus. He will compete in this year’s Champion’s Quest. But first, we have a guest speaker. He has traveled to our city from the island township of Skyger. I introduce to you the High Wizard Edan.” The audience clapped as the overseer stepped down from the stage.

Everyone became silent as they waited in anticipation. Several minutes went by when an elf pointed to the eastern sky and yelled, “There, there, a large bird.”

“Yes I see it,” confirmed another elf. “It’s a giant raven!”

The bird flew toward the elves and descended on the marble stage. Some of the elves gasped, others trembled with fear, and a couple even fell off their benches. The eerie raven landed, and peered at the crowd with its black pearl eyes. It raised its wings and opened its ebony beak to let out a loud squawk. A thick mist formed near the talons then circled upward around the body, head, and finally engulfed the wings. A flash of light dissipated the haze, and a figure of a tall elderly elf with a long gray beard, dressed in a midnight black robe, emerged. Translucent wings unfolded behind him, which gave off a glowing blue hue.

Once the initial shock passed, the crowd erupted into applause. The ability to morph into a creature and take on its essence confirmed the power of his magic.

Odder rubbed his eyes and leaned in for a closer look. His lack of magic abilities grew into cynicism, but he envied this impressive manifestation. He never left his city of Elestus, but he read the history of the Seven Houses and was familiar with the celestial magic the wizards of Skyger wielded.

“I am the High Wizard Edan,” he said in a raspy voice. “Once again, we are in the age of a great celestial event known as the Tetrad. A few chosen High Wizards have kept the day and time a secret.” He whispered into his hand and lifted his arm to the sky while making a circular gesture. A giant glowing orrery, made of blue light, formed above him. Twelve arrows, set in an intricate gear system, pointed toward magic symbols, and above those symbols rested celestial bodies. “Every four thousand two hundred years, our world of Arcaina, along with our small blue sun, Ophelia and yellow sun, Kellas, align perfectly with the Eye of Adeit.”

Edan lifted his arms above his head. His wings brightened as light pulsated down their veins. His hands burst into flames and fire shot up into the dark gray clouds causing them to glow yellow and crimson. With a wave from his wrist, the sky became clear. “Behold, the Eye of Adeit.”

A celestial body far in the heavens revealed itself above the northern horizon. The elves gasped at the sight. Odder clenched his left fist as he felt the familiar sharp pain invading his forearm. He clasped his arm with his right hand and peered back toward the beautiful object. A scarlet red flame surrounded the radiant middle that blazed as brilliant as the two suns. On either side, a luminescent gold gas-cloud fanned outward. The object truly resembled a cosmic godly eye.

The hovering orrery rotated then shifted a celestial sign to align with the phenomenon. The sign illuminated to reveal an infinity symbol. Odder’s arm throbbed, but he refused to let the pain tear his eyes from the amazing sight.

The high wizard pointed toward the suns. Kellas rose from the east, while Ophelia descended in the west. “House of Skyger began tracking this event millennia ago. In twenty-two days the Tetrad - the direct alignment of our world, Kellas and Ophelia, and the Eye of Adeit - will begin.”

Edan dropped his arms and the light in his wings dimmed. “As these heavenly bodies converge, their magic bends the distance between our realm and the spirit realm forming a portal. Rumors say evil creatures will advance to the entrance in an attempt to acquire the limitless spiritual magic found on the other side. This onslaught is exaggerated.” He waved his hand in front of the audience creating a scene showing goblins amassing their armies. The crowd muttered. “Our spies do report increased goblin movement on the border of the Miserah, the goblin forest, and in the shadow region where the Xenduri reside, but do not be troubled. After the Miserah war, over two hundred years ago, the Seven Houses made a treaty with the Xenduri to attack any goblins crossing into the shadow region in exchange for Silq.”

“Now we cannot fully trust the Xenduri,” the wizard continued. “Although, they despise the goblins, evil flows through their veins. “We have taken necessary steps to reinforce our borders as a precaution.” The High Wizard walked to the right side of the stage and motioned for a hooded figure dressed in a plain tan cloak to approach. “As you know, the Seven Houses of Arcaina created a game in which the greatest fighter and magic users from each House compete yearly to win the title of Champion. This year’s winner of the Champion’s Quest will receive a distinctive honor. The hero will stand guard at the entrance to the portal wielding the flaming sword of Maha’De.”

A sudden burst of chatter filled the air. “The Demon Killer,” yelled one elf.

“I thought the mystical sword was only a legend,” said another. The whispers continued.

A hooded figure climbed the stage and made his way to the center. Edan held out his palm to silence the crowd. “Elves of Elestus, I present your Proprius to this year’s Champion’s quest, Prince Destin Arcus; Son to King Gralon.”

Destin lowered his hood and removed his cloak revealing a fine linen green vest, which showed off his chiseled physique. A distinctive House of Elestus sash wrapped around his waist. Brown leather pants, custom brown leather boots with shiny beads, and a silver buckle completed his ensemble.

Odder lifted his head as his spirit filled with pride.

The audience stood and cheered. Odder jumped to his feet and madly applauded. Destin’s skills of fighting and conjuring magic made him the most gifted young wizard in Elestus and possibly all of Arcaina.

Renzt leaned into the elf next to him. “His overbearing confidence and self-reliance are his weaknesses.”

Odder overheard and gnashed his teeth at Renzt’s disrespect.

The High Wizard again quieted the crowd. “The game will begin in six days. Once we have a victor, we will prepare for the Tetrad. For added protection, designated wizards will teach citizens protection and attack spells.”

As the wizard spoke, the skies became cloudy once again, hiding the Eye of Adeit. The orrery faded from sight.

“Now, with help from your Prince, I will demonstrate a few of the spells you will need to learn.” The High Wizard closed his eyes and held his hands together. “These are dangerous times.” He parted his hands, and while doing so, a fireball formed. “Seek knowledge, memorize these spells, for your lives may depend on what you learn. You are at different levels of wizardry, so be careful. Some of what I will teach you are high wizard spells.”

Odder crossed his arms and glanced away. He would rather wrestle with a bog witch than sit through a lecture on conjuring. He gently made his way between the benches, his gray eyes fixed forward to avoid eye contact.

He approached Renzt who made a ridiculous face, his eyes crossed, head tilted, and tongue dangling out to one side. Odder smiled at the thought of elbowing Renzt in the face. Maybe if no one’s looking… He frowned and sagged his shoulders as he noticed the stares.

As he passed, Renzt slipped his leg in front of Odder’s step. Odder’s legs gave way, and he tumbled, falling like a large sack of beans tossed onto the ground.

Renzt laughed between snorts. “Nice one slug.” The entire area erupted in laughter.

Rage pounded in Odder’s head. He clenched his fists and rose to his feet. Anger blinded all his thoughts except one; I will bury you! He spun around, and while doing so drew his wooden sword, smashing Renzt’s leg. The cruel blow sent Renzt to his knees. Odder swung in the other direction and thrust the blunt edge into his opponent’s neck.

Renzt fell to the ground. He gripped his neck and held out the other hand to block another attack. Odder stood over him huffing, his heart pounding. His embarrassment and anger boiled in his skull. He raised his sword and prepared to strike a severe blow. Renzt chanted a few words which created a red magic beam that launched at Odder, causing him to fly back into the crowd. The elves scattered while Odder jumped up and raised his sword once again.

His wooden sword vanished, and a sudden surge of wind surrounded him, lifting him into the air. He held his arms out to balance while levitating several feet above the crowd. As his fury departed, his thoughts became clear. Feelings of remorse and guilt grew dark in his heart. He stared eye to eye with Renzt who also hovered in midair.

Renzt flared his nostrils. “How dare you attack a noble! I’m going to find you and rip your heart out.” His icy stare gave Odder a cold chill.

The audience remained silent as they watched Odder and Renzt floating toward the stage. The High Wizard Edan guided them with his wand and placed them on the marble floor. He sent a rigid stare at the two. Odder’s stomach turned.

“Who are you and why have you insulted me with your interruption?”

“Renzt.” He pointed his finger at Odder. “This vekart attacked me,”

“He tripped me!” Odder rebutted. “And he disrespected the pri-“

“Enough!” Edan commanded. He pointed his thin bony finger at Renzt. “Renzt Arzard the Archwizard’s son?”

Renzt coiled in contempt. “Yes,” he mumbled.

“Your father will be disappointed.” He summoned a guard to approach. “Take him to his father and notify him of his son’s actions.”

“And you…” Edan moved his finger toward Odder.

“High Wizard.” Destin interrupted and stepped forward. “He’s my servant. I’ll have him escorted to his quarters so I can deal with him later.”

Edan held up his palm. “You may be the Prince of this township, but I am a High Wizard.” He pointed back at Odder. “What is your name?”

Destin bowed his head and stepped back.

“Odd…” He cleared his throat. “I’m Odder.”

Edan squinted while moving his hand down his coarse gray beard. “Odder the vekart?”

“Yes High Wizard,” Odder said, hiding his face.

“I have heard of you. Who are your parents?”

Odder cowered. Hiding behind his emotional wall. “I don’t know.”

“An orphan as well.” Edan said, with disdain. “Have you always lived without magic?”

“For as long as I can remember.”

Edan tapped his lips. “Have you been examined?”

“By our finest healers,” Destin interrupted.

The high wizard gave the Prince a harsh glare.

“Odder, the name fits you, it is a crime to attack a noble. If you acted with this disrespect in Skyger, you would be caged,” Edan said, never taking his cold stare off of Destin. “What punishment am I allowed to give for his crime?”

“Flog him,” bellowed a voice from the crowd. Odder shuddered.

“High Wizard, I understand and respect your authority, but this is King Gralon’s kingdom, and I am the Prince. I ask again, without argument, that you would release my servant to my guards.”

More voices from the crowd murmured, “Flog him, flog him…”

“It appears your vekart is disliked,” said Edan. “Very well. I trust he will be punished for his crime. At this moment we have more pressing matters to attend.”

Destin bowed and motioned to his guard.

In a quiet tone, Edan whispered to Odder, “An elf who cannot wield magic, you are a disgrace to elven kind.”

“I know,” Odder’s inner voice said.

The High Wizard held out his wand, and Odder’s wooden sword appeared in its place. He moved it back and forth, skimming the length of the dull blade. “This poorly crafted wooden sword, why do you carry it?”

“Servants are not allowed to carry steel weapons in this township,” Odder said, in a small, meek voice

“Dezus, old elven for Spirit. Why is this engraved into the blade?”

“I don’t know, High Wizard. My master found the sword wrapped and bound to my back.”

“Interesting.” He handed the wooden sword back to Odder. A guard stepped up to the servant, took his arm, and escorted him off the stage.

Destin followed, “I will have a few words with my servant and return.”

Edan aimed his long crooked finger at the Prince. “It is in your best interest. You are the favorite to win the games and nothing else is as important.”

“Winning is my highest priority,” Destin said, with his back toward the wizard.

“One last thing.”

Destin paused and turned his head back.

Edan crossed his arms and pulled his fingers through his beard. He stared at Odder. Their eyes met with mutual displeasure. “I have a theory on why he does not have magic.” He tapped his nose at Odder. “I wish to have an audience with the King this afternoon.”

Destin nodded. “Yes High Wizard, I will see to it.” He walked off the platform and followed Odder out of the arena.