Shadow Warrior

Chapter 19

Galadin had fought valiantly, but was not successful in escaping. The Concurrence had trapped him and restricted his powers. They had been torturing and beating him for weeks, but he wasn’t going to give up the location where he had sent Abby and Leo.

He hadn’t heard anything and felt some relief. They hadn’t found them. He had sent them to his home on a little island in the middle of nowhere. Out in the ocean. There they could find a way to fight Valak. In having not heard anything about Valak either, they must have been able to keep him contained.

Galadin knew going against the Concurrence was a death wish. He was going to be put to death, but he was okay with it.

His head was leaning against the cold wall when he heard the sound of a gong ringing. His eyes grew wide. It meant someone of great importance had passed on. They were now with the Angels. It rang out for 5 minutes.

His focus was solely on the gong that rang out. He didn’t notice the man walking towards the front of his cell.

“Warlock Galadin.” The man called out.

Galadin’s eyes met his and he could see great sadness in them. He recognized the man’s features. They were similar to that of Leo’s. In passing, he had met him a few times, but never held any conversations.

“That is I.” Confirming that man’s question.

“I see the recognition in your eyes. I am the father of Warrior Leo. I have come to you bearing news.” He took in a deep shaky breath. “You saved my son twice and for that I owe you two life debts. I am here to inform you Leo and Abby have perished.” His voice broke as he finished. Tears filled his eyes and allowed them to flow over. “They destroyed Valak and saved us all, but in doing so forfeited their lives.”

“What…” Galadin breathed out. Sadness ripped into his heart and mind. Thinking back to the last time he saw them. “When?”

“The same day you were captured. The Concurrence detected a very powerful energy burst in the east. Warrior teams were sent out to investigate. There was a residue of dark magic. They found a building completely fallen. Feeling a residual energy, they pulled apart the wreckage and found their bodies.” His cheeks now streaked with tears. The light had gone from his eyes.

“I feel for your loss. They were the very best of us all.” Galadin placed his fisted hand over his heart. A sign of respect.

“Had it not been for you, Valak would have gotten out. I have read the reports. Leo was losing. They knew he was going to give in soon. To make things worse, they found evidence the spell had been completed. They had released Valak into the world. I don’t know how, but Leo and Abby were able to destroy him.”

Galadin knew. He knew how. “This information cannot leave these walls. You understand?” Leo’s father nodded his head. “They loved each other. In their fight, they find the power the Concurrence is so terrified of. That’s how they beat Valak.”

Leo’s father’s eyes shone in shock at first. Then peace. “At least I know my boy passed on with love in his heart.” Wiping away his tears he straightened his posture. “I have petitioned the council to release you. They have approved with a condition. You shall be placed on our watch list. Should you make a single move against the Concurrence, you will be destroyed.”

Galadin sat back in surprise. “Why?” He couldn’t grasp why they would agree to such a petition. He had clearly moved against them.

“If it had not been for you getting them out, we would have had a Greater Demon destroying our world. Our world owes you gratitude.” He immediately turned the lock and opened the door. Motioning for him to leave the cell.

On unsteady legs, he stood. Spots appeared in his sight. A vision slammed into his mind.

Leo and Abby were standing in the heavens. Holding hands as they looked at him. Smiles bright and grand. Looking at each other, love shone through. The Angel Gabriel approached them and bestowed them with the greatest of honors. He blessed them with wings. They were beautiful and full. Strong and capable of taking them anywhere.

“Galadin…” Leo called. Pulling his attention to them, “Thank you.”

Abby’s smile was broad and gracious. “Tell them, we are okay.”

“I will.” Galadin whispered.

Watching as Leo and Abby turned, took hands and walked towards the light of heaven. Going to take their place at their side.

His vision coming back, he looked to find Leo’s father close to him. Concern filled his eyes.

“Leo and Abby have sent a message. They wanted you to know they are okay. Your angel, Gabriel, has bestowed upon them wings. They have been accepted into the heavens.” Galadin’s eyes filled with tears. After everything they had gone through in their life. They were finally rewarded for their courage and trust.

Galadin was taken to the council where he reiterated most of the story. Leaving out the parts where Leo and Abby were in love. Afterwards, he was released to live out the rest of his days.