CHAPTER 1.

The sound of metal against metal filled my ears, only thing I could calculate of it was swords. My vision was blurry and couldn't feel Seth's hand anymore. I don't know why I was still able to think but not able to move. Maybe it was the fact that I wasn't on a plane 3,500 feet in the air but on ground, maybe in a different world.

"You will never rule this planet, fool!" called out a rather loud voice of power and determination. I wondered where it was coming from as the slashing noise went from one direction to the next.

Another voice called out in unison, "I have ruled this planet since the dawn of time, sir! What makes you think I will NEVER rule it???" This voice sounded evil and ragged, a picture of a lizard-like animal speaking it was all I could think of. It was weird that I even thought so.

With nothing but the continuous sound of slashing against the echoing air, I pushed my face up from the ground. Instead of expecting brown dirt and yellow weeds I was standing on firm stone. My view was overwhelming.

Two figures stood away from the stone platform I had myself on, holding great swords and fighting rather skillfully despite the massive size. Taking further focus and thought I could make out the outline of spiky armor and human legs and arms. Where the hell would you see this on Earth??? The most astonishing thing is that when my mind finally comprehended it was they weren't standing, they were floating.

Moving around and ducking each other's fast blows as if it was some sort of game of tag. Not seeing anything different about the scene 30 seconds later I looked around for my familiar acquaintance, Seth. No where in sight was he.

That didn't really matter though as I was astonished by this planet.

I guess it was new because the whole face of it was covered in black volcanic rock save the for the platform I stood on. A railing surrounded the circular stone I stood on, and when I turned around I saw that a space of 3 feet of emptiness separated me from a massive throne placed in the center.

It was well over 10 feet higher then my own elevation, making it seem hard to stare up at it against the fiery red clouds. As my well known fear of heights was growing fast, I backed up away from the railing and closer to the throne. Looking down I saw the power of elements at work; lava and steam making itself noisy and well noticed.

It was as if a hole had been put in the side of the planet. I could obviously see the inside at work. Even the feeling of my flesh and bones melting in the lake of fire was present. Damn did it make me cringe.

I couldn't bare the stupid confusion anymore. the fact I was probably in another dimension or even billions of miles away and that no one acknowledged my presence. Was that a good thing? Maybe those two warriors up above me were merciless brutes that were starving of meat to hunt.

I don't know! My mind is a pathetic thing, controlling every fear and question I have inside my head. is it not possible to be emotionless and afraid of nothing? Able to just let time take it's course and help me take into account what was going on? Gosh, things are never simple!

"My name is Morgan Thermopolis and I'm from the planet Earth." I recited while walking along the platform. I had to say something. At least I knew one thing, they all spoke English. Unless it was just voices in my head letting me at least comprehend the fact that they hate each other. I wondered what was so important about this planet anyways, not even vegetation grew on it. Just some large throne in the middle of a big black desert was present. Was this the throne of Hell?

I've pictured Hell's throne like this many times. Or even the Lord of the Ring's Sauron having a throne like this. Making up my mind I nicknamed the planet 'Mordor' because it was resembling the area pictured in the movies too well. I was very sure this was no location on that Earth would possess, especially floating suits of armor.

Sighing of boredom I watched the 'men' fight with no slowing down or a brief moment of breath. Is this what they did all day? Maybe this planet was burnt to a crisp from so much devastation and hatred. I swear Earth will end up like this.

Soon it was becoming ridiculous, almost 2 hours laid itself on my shoulders as I watched both men speechless, hit each other with rather broad bladed swords. After thinking over my approach I stood up and looked over the railing. 15 feet below was solid molten rock, I guessed it had just recently dried a year ago.

At least the foundation from my platform to the ground wasn't a complete vertical fall. actually it sloped rather smoothly. Made me want to slide down into it but I could see myself crashing into the hard rock below.

What else was I going to do? Starve or bored myself to death? I'm very sure I wasn't going to find food on this hell hole alone without the strong manly men above me. Hah, I hope they didn't have too big of an ego for me. There seemed to be a lack of women on this planet.

As I started to climb over the 4 foot railing to my sliding slope below I was grabbed by the hair by an iron hand. Screaming loud enough for even the two men to hear I was pulled back down to the stone floor.

"Lack of women on this planet, huh?" came a strong voice that sounded with no fear but complete positive energy. I was now shaking again. people can read my mind!

Looking to see my captor I was astonished. a elf with purple hair is all I can describe her as. She had even purple-blue eyes that were larger then normal but I could say it was the black eyelashes that were also longer then my own.

"What are you staring at?" she snapped, ready to pounce me with more questions. I couldn't do anything but stutter. who was there to save me from the ugly looking blade on her sword? "I'm sorry, I'm new around here."

The girl snickered which revealed a humor she possessed I prayed. "I'm so very honored to meet you, Lady Thermopolis." Maybe she was spying on me as I rehearsed my lines. "Uh, and you are.?"

"Maylen. You don't really need the luxury of knowing my surname at this moment. I'm sure The Warlock will reveal that information if it happens to be of importance," she said with more air. Maylen in my opinion was a pretty different name, who would name their kid that?

Then again, this was Weirdo World. "How dare you call such sacred grounds such common riffraff," she announced again, years of military training were in her voice. I shrugged my shoulders, "I'm clueless on the whole purpose of this planet, milady. It just appears so useless-."

"USELESS?" Maylen yelled. "Don't you notice the fighting off to the distance of you??" I nodded, I even heard a pint of Irish accent in her voice. Why was this so . Earthly yet not? "I'm sorry. I have completely missed the reason you value this area so highly," I admitted again.

Maylen looked kind of annoyed and frustrated. was everyone here on busy schedules? "I'm sorry, maybe I should take the time to look past my nose." Then the thought of Seth appeared on my conscious, "Can you tell me the whereabouts of a man named Seth? I was transported here with him off an airplane." Maylen was now the one confused but she shot a look of mystery, you know those ones where they have warning and signs they hold great burdens of secret on their shoulders.

"The Warlock you mean! And don't give me any mumbo jumbo about airplanes or transportation spells because I'm not very smart about either," Maylen announced. I finally stood myself up because I was getting sick of her feeling so great staring me down. At least the stupid elf was about my height, I was really tall myself. 5' 9''. "Oh don't you make fun of my short height, missy!" she barked. I was breathless, "Short??? You are NOT short!" Maylen laughed and she gave me a face of glee, "Oh, well, you aren't familiar with my hearty race. Most women are 6'0'' on average. a tall elf is maybe 6' 5''." I wanted to drop my jaw that sounded so extremely ugly.

"You are only 3 inches shorter then a 6 foot lady." I commented. Maylen rolled her eyes.

With a bit of thinking I finally wanted something to happen, "Take me to the Warlock or whatever you people call him. Please." Maylen was laughing like I was some sort of idiot, "You overwhelm me, stranger. The Warlock is not easily contacted, no not at all."

That's where I got mad! "THEN WHY THE HELL DID HE DROP ME OFF IN SUCH A DUMB LOCATION? I don't care what you people THINK of this place!" Maylen actually got into a defense position with her hand on sword hilt. "Promise me you will NEVER question his Lordship or speak so rude of these grounds."

I nodded, didn't promise. She took it as one though.

"Why do you speak of The Warlock, Maylen?" came one of the warrior's voices from before. Maylen shot him a smirk that I swear was meant for flirts. "This rag here thinks she can talk about him and the planet like some sort of garbage." The floating man set himself down on the stone ground about 4 feet from me, his sword was still free from sheath.

"Who are you? I've never seen the likes of someone so . unexpected," he asked with curiosity, I could see blue eyes behind a helm. "Morgan Thermopolis, at your service," I scoffed.

They didn't catch it though and took it as some sort of old fashioned greeting crap. "Well, many of the People have heard of the likes of you. What does his Lordship think of you?" I guess he meant Seth, "Um, you know, I don't really know. I'm sure I bugged the shit out of him on the airplane because he dressed so funny."

Maylen was now spazzed out, her breath was frantic and she was walking back and forth. What was so big about this man anyways? "Can you two tell me what is so important about this planet and Seth? Please. I barely met him only an hour ago."

The other warrior suddenly appeared which I thought was completely insane. Had this guy been stupid enough to let him go so dead in defense against his foe? "FORCIAN!" came a loud voice that boomed through what seemed like a valley, against the atmosphere above and off to unknown eras.

Suddenly what seemed like a nuclear explosion of cloud erupted all around me. I briefly heard the cusswords of Maylen and a yell of surprise from the warrior under attack. I went flying, with my vocal cords vibrating of my shrieks, and welcomed with a blind view and hard thrust to my back.

Ash was flying everywhere and the sound of sword against sword continued. Stupid imbeciles. I didn't ever figure out how I kept myself in a stable mood at this whole messed up coincidence.

I recognized Maylen's dark outline in the light colored smoke, she had her sword still in sheath and her hands up in the air in some sort of gesture. I could hear the muffled call of her voice and then a sound of flesh in pain.

Were both those two ganging up on the other warrior? I didn't know who to side with on this matter. Was it better to drag myself off into the desert and wish myself best of luck for even surviving?

In my own fear I did run but also my fear of big empty spaces took over and stopped me short. I didn't know what to do because now the whole area was covered in a grey mist from the damn spell. What if there was wild creatures running amuck everywhere? Well, I didn't want to be part of it.

Instead I ran alongside large boulders that were freshly dried, even some lava was still viewable underneath the big rocks. I couldn't help but wonder why was this planet so new but yet so precious to these people? Was it because it was new territory to concur? I'd say it wasn't much in helping people live on or even taking over. it was a small planet.

3 hours of walking with my pathetic red Converses on was hard, the bottoms are thin and flat which doesn't welcome hard rocks that jut out of the ground. I didn't really take time to complain though because at the time I could barely take it I was suddenly stumbling on short grass growing in new soil. Completely weird I'll say.

Then the sound of a typical swamp was heard. I could hear the cooing of birds, chatter of crickets and other annoying bugs and the brush of wind against leaf. Even after stepping over many large tree roots and slicing through bushes with my own hands I finally figured I was actually in a life- friendly environment. The grey mist was still present but it wasn't unwelcome in my opinion, this planet is hot and damp and the mist is cool. Keeping it about even at least.

I have watched so many fantasy swamp movies including The Brave Toaster, Princess Bride, and Lord of the Rings. None of them really have a great time in a swamp. One has them falling into sinking sand, another they get attacked by a giant rat with the bonus of falling into a sand pit and the last is filled to the brim with orcs that want your head. I mean c'mon, even if I've only seen human-type beings already it doesn't mean there isn't sinking sand and giant rats running about.

I hope I don't get to tired to have to let myself sleep here.

Out of complete blind luck I found a skeleton nailed to a tree with a rather pretty sword. Even if the fact that dead guys are my worst fear I needed protection. Many gems that you'd find in a museum store were present on the hilt along with nice black leather to give me a good grip. The blade was stained with old blood that was getting kind of black as time rolled on. I guessed the body was only 10-20 years dead but still decayed quite enough.

Pulling the large sword out of the tree I was greeted with great weight. It was a long while before I was used to swinging it around or pulling it over my shoulders and slamming down like they did on my brother's computer game. At least I'd have something to scare any predators off with. even if the smell of blood would attract any animals already.

It wasn't much longer before I ran into another rather unique situation. It started with the sound of well. spell casting or fireworks, how else can I put it? Since I was complete desperate to find a solution to my problem of being lost and hungry I went straight for the noise. It got louder and louder as I walked on, only a few times did it make me want to plug my ears.

Even the trees were giving me clues, they thinned out and the grass became trim cut and simple again. I was not having to step on 3 foot leaves or weeds as often or slip and slide on vines that hit the floor. It wasn't very nice that tree branches were becoming less common at the bottom of the trunk. I had to rely on complete luck and just forcing myself to crawl across the ground.

Oh well I figured. Might as well risk the hide on my back to at least see the last of civilization. I'm beginning to wonder if Seth or Mr. Warlock was even suppose to transport me on purpose. If he did he would have taken me with him or introduced me to somebody. That Maylen chick knew my name and sounded expecting though.

Heck if I'll even ever find out. Maylen and those bullies are far behind now. I'm sure they've have had their big important plans about me messed up big time. I just hope this isn't a stupid situation that's going to make me have to hold a whole race on my shoulders. You never know! This only comes once every blue moon.

Well, soon the trees were completely gone and I was hearing the sound of voices. along with the fact that I was viewing four very large spires jetting up into the sky. They were standing at four 'corners' quite like the shape of a square. There was tiled marble floor in this space of a 'square', it was white and weeds grew in some cracks here and there. The spires themselves were made I guess of ivory or very white stone, covered from head to foot in carvings that still amaze me today.

The most spectacular part of this scene was the flashing lights of spells being cast, yes it was actually spells that I came to a conclusion of. What else would it have been? The people casting them were robed figures, some VERY tall ones too. Very few were fat or plump looking, only stocky figures stood here and there. But most of them wore robes that hit the ground with bold colors and pretty engravings that I'm clueless of meaning. These symbols would glow light blue every time the spells were cast though.

I was so scared to say anything. as if I'd interrupt the fabric of design. The continuous habit they were doing was weird, I didn't want it to stop. That would change too much. people would probably shock themselves to death.

Then again I'm sure this world was welcomed with many weird visitors, some making me seem like a blank piece of paper. What the heck? I have great confidence, good social skills I guess and a curiosity that killed more then the cat.

Even as stupid as I looked saved the cape and matching colors I walked in among the commotion. Many did stare at me probably just to be aware of what I was and where. Many eyes were different colors then you'd suspect. Purple and green eyes were common though. I don't think I saw any with my eyes which are a very light color of blue.

An elf dressed in a maroon colored robe with black outlines on his sleeves and bottom of the garment walked up to me, I guess he wasn't busy casting spells like a robot. "You have very pretty eyes but don't possess pointy ears. I can't say you are an elf, correct?" I nodded, I had to tell the truth, "No. I'm human I guess if that is what you call my type. From planet Earth, name is-."

"Now, now. You don't have to discredit yourself and call yourself scum," beckoned the kind elf even though it was an insult. Geesh, was he pale with light blonde hair that was only a couple inches past the ears. His eyes were a light green and very soft.

"I'm sorry but it is true, sir," I said more quietly. The elf laughed, "My name is Emperies, I assure you, and you aren't unwelcome here just because you aren't the most common looking type of elf." I sighed and shot him a disapproving look, "Emperies, I'm a human and full blood at that."

"Full blood human from Earth she is, Emp," came the familiar voice of Maylen. I turned around very quickly and gave her a look of scorn, "Oh so you like to stalk people now don't you?" Maylen looked angry too, "I'm not the one who ran away like a little baby. Certainly wouldn't have searched for you on THIS planet." Emperies interrupted her speech, "Maylen, please explain yourself."

Maylen cleared her throat, "I'm just here because I had to teleport myself back from Irocinus. You know my duties I hope." Emperies rolled his eyes which looked funny on a male, "I'm one of the more involved members of our guild, thank you very much. I just want to know what is the meaning of a HUMAN doing around the spires?"

I felt insulted again. Maylen laughed, "Don't worry. That isn't no pathetic mortal, Emp. She's Lady Thermopolis you bloke." Emperies was instantly bowing to me then another elf anointed my head with oil. I was completely shocked but stayed respectful all the same.

"Maylen. what is the big hype about my surname? I even asked Seth that," I asked with complete impatience. "SETH? QUIT calling The Warlock such dirty names!" she commanded me. I kept my mouth closed after that even though Emperies was boring a gaze into my eyes.

I didn't know why he was looking at me so rudely. Was it what I said about The Warlock or was it that I didn't stand up to the grumpy elf? "Your surname is not really what is important because the lot of us have one. It is your ANCESTORS that you should be very aware of."

Now I was confused. my 'ancestors' is a drunk parent and confused mom. And if you'd like to know who my SIBLINGS are, well, he's a sex driven bastard.

"Can't you then explain to me what is so important about my. ancestors? WHY AM I HERE?" I asked, even if about 25 other people had quit casting spells and were listening to me. Maylen sighed again, "That is why I have to take you to The Warlock. I hate having to waste my time doing it but I'm sure I'll get paid extra somehow." Emperies shook his head, "No Maylen. You've done enough, I'm the wizard here anyways. I'll transport her with me to Del."

Yahoo. More new names to learn about. Del and Irocius. who the hell would come up with such stuff? All of a sudden a tremendous hunger pain filled my stomach and I let myself collapse to the ground.

Many gasped but I didn't care, grumbling and complaining I waited until someone would ease the pain. "Please, someone, I'm hungry."

Emperies snapped his fingers and the sound of metal against marble filled my ears. Being lifted up I caught sight of a rather beautiful elf. With long white hair that was curly and running down to her waist, a nice color of peach in her skin, a pointy straight nose, grey eyes, and pink lips. What she wore was very neat too: gold and shiny armor with a pure white cape cascading down her back and a black mace in hand.

I felt a rush of fatigue leave my body as more energy just like Seth's filled my veins. Then the lady offered me a bag of bread, "Be good in your visit, my friend. The Warlock is more then he seems." she whispered, her voice like soft classical music.

Suddenly I saw the girl back up and so did the rest of the crowd, I was leaning against Emperies in a complete dream. In a instant I saw flashing colors of blue and red go before my eyes, a circle of the mana from the spell surrounded me, as soon as it shrunk enough to touch me and Emperies we both vanished from the area. It was instant like going into an elevator and closing the door then opening it to see a new room. Except it was a matter of half a second, a blinking of the eye.

I soon found myself in a great place. a place that deserved to be told in tales and rewarded with its service.