Nimeyah's Awakening

PROLOGUE

Aberon was a vacant land that never gained the attention of any of the prominent kingdoms. However, rich with fertile lands, it became a beacon of hope for those struggling to make a life for themselves in either of three kingdoms, and so the small piece of land became an independent nation of farmers and blacksmiths.

While their professions were not so lucrative, it was enough to keep roofs over their heads and food in their bellies, which was far better than what the three kingdoms were offering. They were a simple people whose way of life was not as advanced as that of kingdoms that neighbored them, but their lives were nevertheless fulfilling, and they lived contently in what seemed to be their own little corner of the world.

This happiness, however, was short lived; shortly after rumors spread of gold being on the outskirts of town, King Madreef soon thereafter announced his claim to Aberon, which came as a shock to the town, but what was more shocking was when King Eloden challenged Madreef's claim, which was quickly followed by King Phadron's.

Thus, the Dreaded War ensued. For the last 10 years, with no end in sight, the war terrorized the people of Aberon; women and children were either lost to their families or fell victim to the violence of war. Seeking refuge proved to be futile as all three kingdoms denied the people of Aberon safe haven. With Phadron's army to the east, Elodan's to the south and Madreef's to the north, the only way was west, and no one dared to venture west.

No one knew much about what lay to the west other than the  tales spewed by the leaders, but it was enough to frighten them more than the uncertainties of war. To the west was the Black Forest, no one knew of the land beyond it, nor of what dwelled in it. All they knew were tales of its evil-the reports of dreadful screams heard bellowing from the forest, and the stories of people who dared to venture in and never come out.

None of the townsfolk ever went near the Black Forest, nor did they ever see the ferocious creatures that reportedly inhabited the forest, creatures that could not be tamed, unfit to be seen, and most vile towards humans.

Although no one every bore witness to what dwelled in the forest, the tales were enough to keep them away from it, the stories instilled enough fear that a wall was built, separating the town from the forest.

No one ever questioned why-why did the kings suddenly care so much about the people that they would warn against going into the forest only to terrorize them with war? No one asked why, at least not until...

Nimeyah.