The Power of the Sea

By K.R. Hawkins

Avie is bored of her mundane life on Caslend Island. She wants to leave and see the world of Ezeron. However, her uncle will not let her leave for mysterious reasons. She never knew her parents. The only thing she has left of them is a strange pendant that has a sea maiden engraved on the casing.

Truth is revealed to her, and she discovers that a deranged captain is after her and the necklace. Avie and her necklace are keys to finding the power of the sea. Avie soon finds herself on a journey to discover what she must do and what she must become before it is too late.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
• Release date: Jan 18, 2024
• ISBN: 9798891120662

Book preview

Table of Contents

Title

Copyright

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Epilogue

About the Author

cover.jpg

The Power of the Sea

K.R. Hawkins

ISBN 979-8-89112-065-5 (Paperback)

ISBN 979-8-89112-066-2 (Digital)

Copyright © 2023 K.R. Hawkins

All rights reserved

First Edition

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods without the prior written permission of the publisher. For permission requests, solicit the publisher via the address below.

Covenant Books

11661 Hwy 707

Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

www.covenantbooks.com

For Uncle Wesley. You were always a fun, loving, great uncle.

Chapter 1

Time to Go

Caslend Island, the island of wonders, Avie's uncle used to describe their home to her as a child. It was full of wonders. Although as she grew older, the wonders seemed to go elsewhere. Today Avie had everything ready. Ready to take leave from the mundane. I must tell Uncle Barnaby, she thought. As she looked into the mirror that morning, trying to press down her wrinkly teal blouse, the conversation she will try to have with him played in her mind. She took a breath.

Okay, she said to her reflection.

Avie stuffed her peculiar round pendant under her shirt. She's had it since she was a young child. Uncle Barnaby told her that her mother gave it to her. She had never met her mother, not that she can remember. The pendant has a bronze metallic spiral on the casing and a sea maiden holding a small sun on the back. Very peculiar indeed. Whenever she'd ask about her mother and father, Uncle Barnaby merely said, They're gone. We can't dwell on the past, my dear Avie.

Clinging to her necklace, she whispered, Mother and Father, give me courage to tell Uncle Barnaby that I'm leaving. She briskly moved her fingers through her short auburn hair and got the tangles out. Taking a deep breath, she walked down the spiral staircase to the first level of their lovely three-tree dwelling. Uncle Barnaby? she called out.

He wasn't in the commons room. Avie entered through the doorway to the next room, which was the largest room in the house. Metal contraptions and whatnots that her uncle worked on were dispersed around the room. Uncle, where are you?

Suddenly, a large animal bounded toward her from the other side of the room and practically knocked her to the floor. The giant of a dog licked Avie's face to death. Urhh! Mo Mo, get off of me!

Woof! he barked and clambered off her. It was almost a fight every day trying to keep the large furry canine away from her. She stood back up. She heard footsteps coming down a staircase. Uncle Barnaby came through the opposite doorway on the other side of his workshop. He was wiping his hands on a towel. Today he wore his yellow goggles on top of his head. He had on a leather vest and brown breeches and a rather dirty apron. His blond handlebar mustache stood out as usual. Morning, songbird! How'd ya sleep? He had a different nickname for her every week.

Morning, Uncle. I slept well.

He smiled that quirky smile of his. Great. I made ya breakfast. It's up in the kitchen. He went to his table with the bronze beam ray gun as he called it.

Uncle Barnaby, can…we talk?

He looked at her curiously. What, Avie? I must work on the gun. I will for sure finish this one this time and for sure make it work!

She nodded. All of his failed and unfinished inventions were up in the loft across the room.

Uncle, it's important.

He turned to her and gazed at his niece with his grayish-green eyes. I'm listening.

I… Come on, Avie, say it. Say you are going on a trip on the hover boat you have been working on for two years and that you must see the world of Ezeron. Avie took a breath. I am going to—Avie panicked—to…make dinner tonight.

He looked at her, a bit bewildered. Oh well, if it is that important for you to cook, then by all means. I certainly don't mind the break from the kitchen.

Of course.

He winked at her and turned his back to her, picking up a tool to work on his latest invention. Avie let out a sigh and entered through the next entryway. She trailed up the other spiral staircase in the tree house and entered the kitchen. The smell of eggs and hog meat permeated the air. She sat down at the small round table where her plate was already fixed. She began eating. Blabberbogs! Why couldn't I tell him? Avie swallowed and washed it down with a sip of juice. I must tell him at dinner tonight, she thought. At least I have a little more time to think about it. She continued eating, still lost in her jumble of thoughts. I ought to visit Shayla. Perhaps she can help me with what to say to my uncle.

There were other inhabitants on the island, about fifteen people, until a young woman named Raylen had her baby. Avie was acquainted with some of the other people, but she was only close to Shayla and her uncle. She began to wonder if any more pilgrims would sail to Caslend and make it their home. Perhaps it would make the island more interesting, she thought. After finishing her breakfast, she practically ran down the staircase to the first level.

Uncle Barnaby, I'm going to see Shayla! I shall be back in a little while! she said as she brushed past him.

All right, Avie, watch out for blue-tail serpents!

She rolled her eyes. He told her that every time she left the house. After exiting the back door, Avie climbed down the ladder to the far ground below. The three trees that held up their house were enormous. The largest trees in the Caslend forest. Of course Shayla's house sat under a particularly vast tree. Avie trailed toward the Caslend forest that surrounded the tree house. A path split past the trees that led to Shayla's house. It was a lovely morning. Sunlight filtered through bluish-green leaves. Perhaps I can see other trees on lands faraway, she thought to herself.

After trekking a little while, Avie finally reached the path. Round stones the size of her palm made up the path. Fernon, who considered himself the leader of their island, made the trail, to make it easier to get from one dwelling to another. After about a ten-minute walk, Shayla's house came into view.

The tree's roots curled around her house as if a claw were about to pluck her dwelling from the ground. Small arched windows went along the walls of the round cottage.

Only one window revealed a light burning. Good, she is awake, Avie thought. She approached the door and was about to knock when the door opened. A woman with long brown hair and a few silver strands greeted her at the doorway. Avie was startled for a moment but then relaxed. Shayla was still a pretty woman for her to be in her early forties. Avie's uncle fancied her. He's just too timid to be with her and caught up in his work. Shayla smiled.

Hello, dear Avie. What are you doing here so bright and early?

Avie smiled. Good morning, Shayla. Can we talk?

Shayla grinned. Well, if I said we can't, I'd be a terrible neighbor, wouldn't I? Avie laughed.

Shayla gestured for her to enter. Of course, Avie, come in. She let Avie pass. Avie had always admired the interior of her home. There were all sorts of valuables and things that Shayla explained she had received from traveling to other parts of the world. This was partially why Avie wanted to leave. After shutting the door in place, Shayla led Avie to her sitting room. Have a seat. Would you like some Harenba? I made a fresh pot this morning.

No, thank you.

She smiled warmly and sat down across from Avie. What's on your mind, dear?

Well, remember when I told you how I am planning on leaving?

Yes, you've been talking about it for weeks now.

I do not think I can tell my uncle about it. I tried speaking with him this morning, but the words would not escape my mouth. All I said is that ‘I will make dinner tonight.'

Shayla crossed her legs, and the skirt of her burgundy dress moved about as she did so. She laced her dainty hands together. Are you concerned about what he will say?

I'm concerned that he won't let me go.

Shayla let out a sigh. You know your uncle doesn't want to see you get hurt, especially sailing the seas by yourself!

I can take care of myself. Of course if my uncle would agree to go with me, I would not be alone.

Shayla gazed at her intently. I see.

Shayla looked toward a dark round table with a small brown box sitting on it. Could you fetch me that box over there, Avie?

Um, sure. Avie stood from her chair and picked up the shoe-sized wooden box with the golden trim. She handed it to Shayla and sat back down.

Shayla placed her hand over the lid of the box.

I want to show you something. Your uncle did explain to you that you and he are not originally from this island?

Yes. He told me we were from a small country called Ryethon. I know we moved here when I was small because of some sort of catastrophe that occurred. Uncle is not keen on details, I'm afraid.

Shayla held the box gingerly. I once knew a man who lived in Ryethon. He was my brother. He was a merchant, you see. However, he decided to settle down there to sell knickknacks. He would send me letters telling me about his adventures in Ryethon and the people he had met. But there was this one letter… Shayla opened the box and pulled out a piece of parchment. One letter that was the last he would ever send me. He said in the letter that Ryethon had been invaded. Invaded by people from the air and sea. The invasion happened about sixteen years ago when you and your uncle came here. She was silent for a moment.

What happened to your brother? Do you think this was the catastrophe my uncle spoke of?

Shayla looked to the floor. I do not know what became of my brother. I fear the worst. The year the invasion occurred, I dwelled on Zeron Island. A few months after the invasion, I took a passage on an airship and traveled to Ryethon to see if I could find him. I searched everywhere for him. I went from village to village and searched the main city, but he was nowhere to be found. Ultimately I gave up. I came to this island shortly after you and your uncle arrived.

She placed the letter back in the box. She stared at Avie with sad blue eyes. Yes, I do believe the invasion was the catastrophe as your uncle had put it. There may be a reason why you haven't ventured far from the isles of Gethwyn. I know you want to see what else is out there, Aviana, but there is danger afoot when one travels alone.

She said her full name. She must really be concerned about her. Avie sighed and shook her head. Shayla, I can't stay here until I die. I understand there is danger, but I also know there is adventure. There are lovely places to explore, good-hearted people to meet.

She slowly nodded. Yes, but please if you must go, try to convince your uncle to travel with you.

I doubt that he would, Avie thought. Avie gave her a nod. Okay.

Shayla smiled with a look of satisfaction. Good.

Wait, why don't you come with us?

I…will not leave, Avie, Shayla explained.

Oh, come now. You have been on this island for a good long while, same as I have. You don't want to travel with me?

It is not that I don't want to go with you, but I have already seen the world. I traveled with my family around the world selling merchandise. Same as my brother's occupation.

Avie nodded solemnly. Well, will you at least join me and my uncle for dinner tonight? I am going to try to inform my uncle that I will be leaving. Perhaps with you being there, I'll have some courage.

Of course I'll join you, Avie.

Great. I will be cooking tonight. I will be making my famous meat biscuits. She gave her a grin.

Sounds delightful.

Avie stood from the chair. I must get back. I've got to get packed for the journey. I will see you in the evening then.

Looking forward to it, dear, she heard her say. After saying goodbye, Avie left Shayla's dwelling.

Once Avie approached her uncle's tree house, Avie moved past it to a grove of trees just on the other side. A few bushy vines hung down from the branches. Avie pushed them to the side. She looked to a boatlike dull-colored machine she kept hidden in the center of the grove. She approached it and placed her hand on the side of it. The Zip was painted in bold letters in dark blue. Avie built the ship herself. She called it a hover boat.

I think you are all set, she said to herself. She had run so many tests on her seafaring machine, but everything seemed to be in working order. Being the niece of an inventor, she picked up on some things. Avie returned to her uncle's house. She ascended the steps and entered past the blue-painted door. Mo Mo practically pounced on her the minute she came into the living room. Ahh! Down, boy!

Woof woof! He wagged his big brown tail and bounded through the other doorway that led into her uncle's workroom. Avie followed him into the next room. She found Uncle Barnaby sitting low in his leather armchair looking glum. Oh no, the gun must not have worked. Avie set herself in the chair across from him. What's wrong, Uncle Barnaby? The ray gun didn't work?

He glanced up at her. No, it has a short. You know, Avie, I'm starting to think I am a lousy inventor. I believe my inventing days are over.

She shook her head. Don't say that, Uncle. You have invented other things that work well.

He gazed at her. I have had three inventions in my life that work well. And when I made those, I had help. He was talking of the navigation system he invented for airmen way back when.

That does not mean you give up. Inventing is your passion. What would you do if you quit?

He peered out the window. Perhaps gardening is more of a job for me, he murmured.

Uncle Barnaby, I believe you will have yet to invent the most wonderful invention. Do not let that dream die.

He turned to her. You always knew how to cheer me up, Avie.

She smiled at him. I can't have you down and out. Not when you are on the precipice of inventing something for the good of all of Ezeron.

He pointed at her. That is going a little too far, I believe.

She laughed and stood from her chair. Well, you just may. So I invited Shayla to come over for dinner tonight.

Shayla? Wha…t. I can't have her seeing the house like this! Seeing me like this! her uncle stammered.

I think you look dashing, Uncle Barnaby. I'll have the house cleaned by tonight. Not to worry, she said and winked.

Well, all right. I wonder if I should put on that wooden fragrance aroma, he mumbled.

What was that? she asked.

He shook his head. Oh, nothing.

Avie grinned and stood. I will be up in my room.

He nodded. Well, I suppose I will get ready for tonight. He motioned.

Avie left her uncle in his workshop and headed up to her room. Her room was round and had a window seat, small bed, tall mirror, and wardrobe. It was small, but Avie liked it that way. She pulled out a leather-bound suitcase from underneath her bed and plopped it on top of the quilt she has had forever. She began packing clothes, shoes, and other items from around the room. The last she packed was a compass contraption Uncle Barnaby invented. The device gave exact coordinates as well as direction. He was good at creating things for air and seafaring life. He began trying to invent unique weapons. Not his greatest achievements. Avie closed her suitcase and sighed. I wish he and Shayla would go with me. She began to wonder if she could make it on her own. Avie shook her head.

I can manage, she said to herself. She felt she was ready. She had read several books on sailing, navigating, airships, and hover boats. Avie even had some maps aboard her hovering machine. Avie left the suitcase on her bed. She wanted to head to the beach. Do a little drawing before tonight's supper. Avie placed parchment paper, ink pens, and a blanket in a shoulder bag. Avie headed back downstairs. I'm heading to the beach! she called out to her uncle's workshop.

All right, watch out for green Radergen plants!

Avie paused. That's a new one. She only shrugged and headed out the door. Avie practically ran down the steps that led from the porch. She wanted to catch a glimpse of the sun before it went down. Avie reached the ground and began to head west. She thought the west beach was the loveliest. As she trailed through the Caslend Forest, she heard a bark behind her. Just as soon as Avie turned around, a large dog leaped on her and tackled her to the ground.

Ah! Uncle Barnaby must have let him outside.

Woof.

Get off of me, please! Mo Mo licked her on the cheek, then got off her. Avie huffed and straightened out her skirt. She stood from the ground. Go home, Mo Mo! she yelled. He looked up at her with big brown eyes, wagging his tail. She glared at him.

Do you want to go to the beach with me?

Woof! He wagged his tail excitedly.

Fine. Come on! she grumbled. Avie turned from him and began heading to the beach. He pranced alongside her. The duo moved along a winding stone path. Fernon had paths made all over the island. Even to the beach. After about a fifteen-minute walk, Avie reached the beach. Black and gray boulders sat on the cream-colored sand. The teal ocean waves steadily met the beach as if they were breathing in and out.

Avie went to one of the flat-looking rocks jutting from the sand. She unrolled her beach blanket on the slab of rock. Avie sat down and pulled out her parchment paper and ink pens.

She peered out toward the sea. Blues and purples swirled together, creating a serene waterscape. It was a breathtaking view. Mo Mo sat beside her for a little while, though he seemed to get bored and started to chase after little creatures popping out of the sand. The creatures had a lot of legs and shiny-looking shells. Uncle Barnaby called them sand crittens. Avie began drawing the waves on her parchment paper. After a little while, she began to get hungry. She snacked on sweet and salty things like crackers and pastries. She took a swig of a water pouch and gazed at the horizon. Perhaps leaving the island, she could find her calling. What am I meant to do in life? What could be my purpose? If only someone could tell her what she was meant to do. As Avie was lost in her thoughts, Mo Mo began to bark at something. He got her out of her trance. Mo Mo was barking at the tide.

What is it, Mo Mo? He kept on barking, then began to growl. Avie searched the waves.

She didn't see anything. That dog must be losing it to be barking at ocean waves. Avie shook her head. In the distance, an emerald tail broke the water and quickly whipped back under. Avie was astounded. That was a rather large fish tail!

What sort of fish was that? she questioned. Mo Mo whimpered as he sniffed toward the water. Avie inspected the spot the tail manifested. Whatever it was, it was gone. Avie recalled Uncle Barnaby telling her stories of sea people along with other mythical creatures. Avie had never seen any creatures her uncle spoke of. She figured he told her those stories just to get her to go to sleep. She had never seen a fish tail that size. It could have been a Gladiah fish.

Those fish are quite large. Avie bent down and picked up the parchment and pen. She stuffed it in her satchel. She checked the time clock she had in her satchel. Half past five. Well, I'd best get back to the house to clean and start supper. What do you think, Mo Mo? Mo Mo barked once in agreement. Avie began to trek along one of the paths toward the woods unaware of the pure-green eyes watching her from the tide.

Chapter 2

Truth Be Told

Avie headed back to her uncle's tree house. Mo Mo trailed behind her. The duo ascended the winding staircase to the front entrance. Avie entered the sitting room and left the door open for Mo Mo to venture into the house. After he sauntered in, Avie shut the door and placed her things on the couch. She glanced around. The realization came to her that the room was clean. She checked Uncle Barnaby's workshop. His inventions were neatly stacked in the corner, and his equipment was put away in toolboxes under his worktable.

Her uncle entered the room from the other doorway. Oh, hello, dewdrop. I decided to help you tidy up since you will be cooking tonight.

Avie nodded. Thank you, Uncle Barnaby.

He gestured behind him. "The kitchen is ready for you if you would like to begin.'

I will…get started then. Avie crossed the room. Avie smiled at her uncle as she walked by him. She took the spiral wooden steps to the kitchen. After clapping her hands together, Avie said, All right, I need meat, dough, butter, eggs, and whatever else I need. She pulled the ingredients out. She hauled a medium-size slab of meat from the cubby hidden beyond the floorboards. They stored meat in the chamber. Uncle Barnaby invented a cooling machine for the small chamber. One of his better creations. She placed the meat on the wooden board, took out a knife, and began cutting it into smaller pieces. Once Avie got into the rhythm of cooking, she maneuvered around the kitchen humming an old Ezeron tune.

After placing the meat in the pot, she began to cook the meat. Avie sprinkled some spices in the meat and mixed it together. She chopped some vegetables, made the dough for the biscuits, and placed them in the oven. Avie enjoyed cooking; it just depended on if she knew what she was doing. After placing all of the vegetables in a saucepan, she began frying them together. Within the hour, everything was done. Avie placed all of the food on platters.

Avie took a couple of the platters and carried them down the stairs. She entered the dining room, which was below the kitchen, and set the food in the center of the table.

Uncle Barnaby had already set the table. Avie returned to the kitchen to retrieve the remaining platter and grabbed a pitcher of water. She came back down and set the remaining food on the table. Her uncle peeked around the corner. Is supper done already?

Of course, Uncle. I always have supper ready in a timely manner, she said profoundly.

He grinned. Yes, I suppose you do. He and Avie sat down at the small wooden dinner table. Uncle Barnaby twiddled his thumbs. So when do you think Shayla will arrive?

She'll arrive, Uncle. Not to worry. Avie realized Uncle Barnaby had changed into his best shirt and slacks. His unruly blond-tinted hair was slicked back. "Why