From Peasant's to Kings

[IDreamofBunnies]

sThe shadows that hid LuRoe's eyes seemed to grow darker, "Do we believe in Perfection; that it is attainable? Yes, we do. To say otherwise would imply that we know more than the Gods, this sort of hubris has doomed many in the past. I cannot say why you have grown to hate the Gods so; perhaps you think they have some sort of duty to us or should serve as an example, I don't know. But Holy Malhambria's pursuit of Perfection gives us incredible power and resolve. Not since before Savout put down the Malhambrian Empire have we known defeat; it would be folly for you to think that such a thing would be possible. Not while you count on abominations to do your fighting."

LuRoe clenched a gloved fist, "Do you truly wish to draw out the spirit of the True King and make it your own? Can you tell me in justice and in faith that you believe you are right, that your designs are superior to those of the Gods? Are you willing to prostate yourself before the will of this capricious and most elusive spirit?"

 

[SecretDesires]

Trianna shook her head. She had no intention of running. The suggestion had been put out there simply because she knew the human was not yet healed after the battle of the dragon. She sighed as he gave his statement but did not move from the spot. Her father often said that humans were quick to give their lives away and that was why the gods had not blessed them with the long lives of elves.

Standing back, Trianna felt that Bristol must do this thing for himself. She would step in to help if it looked that he was on the losing end and afterward to heal him for she felt he would need it.

Her sharp eyes followed the breif battle and she was off her horse in a moment when she saw him collapse. Taking his arm, she helped him rise and moved him over to the Grey, helping him mount. Sliding in behind him she steadied him on the horse. They had no time to allow him to heal here. The enemy knew they were here and more Phell Knights would come.

Calling out in elvin once again, the stallion with the star upon his head came trotting out. "I need you to take this man on you. We must escape to where these foul creatures cannot find us." The horse nickered and lowered it's head waiting for the half elf to mount.

"Come if you wish to live," She said riding into the trees. Her village was days away but there was one that would take her into h is home and it was surrounded by magic even the Phell Knights could not pass through. In fact, no one who did not know the way could get to the place and only one who could use magic and was blessed with the god's favor would be able to find the place. Once they were through the portal to it it would be as id they had vanished from the face of the earth.

Riding into the trees, Trianna saw what she was looking for. A large clearing with the brancehs of trees entangeld above to surround and protect the ground below.

Paushing, she reached in and took a golden powder from her many pouches and, chanting in a sing song voice spread the powder in a circle in the clearing. Upon the last word a breeze sprung up and the leaves of the trees began to blow and bend within it but only those within the clearning. Other trees aonly a few feet away were completely still.

The air around them began to bend and warp and a whirling fog appeared in the spot. Not hesitating a moment, Trianna's arm tightened about Bristol and she urged the Grey into the open portal. Once all who was going had passed the air in the clearing calmed and the mist dispersed leaving the clearing exactly like it had been before.

They entered a place of perpetual spring. Trees were streatched as far as the eye could see, birds and animals darted about none of them trying to harm the other and green grass streatched out, giving the animals a soft place to lay. In the near distance a cave opened from a small hill that was decorated in the same living green with multi colored flowers springing up all over it.

Urging the horse on she called out as she road toward the cave. "Merse," She said,"Teacher, I need your aide." And as if summoned by her voice a small figure cloaked in white came from the entrance. It was a man, an elf and druid that had dedicated his life to preserving nature.

Slding down from the horse she helped Bristol down and into the cave. "There is much to tell you," She said to Marse, the teacher who had been more than just a tutor but had been a friend and advisor as well. "But first we must get the human healed. We are being chased by evil and this was the only place I could think of with strong enough wards to prevent that evil from finding us until he was healed."

Marse nodded, not saying a word. He did not speack much but when he did the wisdom of the ages seemed to come from the simplest of sentences.

"My herbs and powders," He said and Trianna placed Bristol upon the small cot that was at the side of the cave and went to fetch what was needed. Once Marse was busy tending to Bristol she left to look for the half breed to make sure he followed into safety.

 

[Emotionless]

Following the racing horse into the clearing, Dolson slowed his step when he reached the portal, he had little experiance with magic and was leary with it. The portal began to close however, so the half elf dove through.

Dolson steped into a vast forest, and immediatly became disoriented and lost his ballance. His head spinning, it took him several minutes to stand up properly, and when he did he came face to face with the female elf. "Uhh, hi," be began, still dizzy "I'll be with you in a moment.." and promptly vomited

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

Balron laughed, harshly and spitefully.

"Designs of the Gods? What designs of the Gods?" he sputtered. "They fight amongst themselves as we do. They are humans, or elves, or the lost dwarves of the underground, or what-have-you, with power. Great power." He turned to LuRoe with frustration and fury blazing in his eyes. "And I love my abombinations, as you call them, as much as you love... your mother." The slight pause there was evident, as his gaze flickered slightly.

"Hate the Gods? You come to a hasty conclusion," he chuckled mirthlessly. "I am embarassed by the Gods. With their power, they might do us all a favor and rip away the illusion of the universe, returning us to where things do not matter. Because nothing really matters, except our delusions of hope that for some inexplicable reason, things get better after a while. Don't you see?" he spun, his inner fury seeping through once again. "This reality is a joke! Life is meaningless! Perfection, a delusion of those who do not want to face the terrible reality that no man can ever be perfect! The Gods, deluded themselves, into deciding to sit on their asses in their demiplanes and be worshipped! You might as well live life for the sake of dying and going to Heaven -- which is what half the peasant population does! It's disgusting! And only I can do something about it!"

"Justice, yes, at any cost," he finished. "Faith?" He smirked. "I question myself every night. It keeps me sane when the pressures around me convince me that I must be insane. But if I didn't have faith, I would have ended my time here in this petty world long ago, in the vain hope that I would return to Consciousness. So I have faith. Strong faith... for you will never meet another man like me."

"But most important of all, truth. Not the truth of the Gods, or the truth of the people, or the truth of this perpetually disturbing universe. But truth. It's there. I'll find it."

His voice raised slightly. "I don't know how I can prove it to you; you can name your price! But for some Gods-forsaken reason, I want you to believe me! I would do anything for the truth, to make life less miserable! If I am wrong, I swear to kill myself immediately for misleading the world, but damn it, I know without a doubt I am right!" His voice subsided and he began to rub his head. "I am sorry. But nothing less than experiencing true return, back to the Greater Soul, will convince me I have aided humanity."

"After all," he said wryly, "it's as a farmer once told me." He gestured to a few farm plots in the distance from the fort that was being constructed, where a nervous farmer was applying manure to a field. "It has always been, and always will be, the same old shit."

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

LuRoe was not put at odds with Balron's wrath, having expected it earlier in fact. He had mentioned his "Mother" however, how very droll.

"You are...misinformed Balron. I refer to the Gods. The Gods are not like mortals; they are so alien, so vastly powerful and unknown. It is true that there are mighty beings in the heavens who could make the earth tremble with their might, beings worshipped by ignorant masses, creatures you despise so. But no, I talk of the Gods. They whisper to the marquis you see, for we listen. Their words are painful medicine and all too often we cannot make sense of their vastness; it is they who pass the spirit of the True King to the worthiest soul, and take it away if the soul wanders. I cannot understand all that they would tell me but I think they would see you as the True King. The problem is that you deny souls destiny, the souls you have consumed with that vile staff, snuffed out forever...it cannot continue. Give me that staff and topple the Phell Ones and the spirit may yet come to you. If you fear losing this war without them then I offer the succour of Holy Malhambria. With a word I could have ten thousand Grey Masks marching to Occlo. What say you Balron; are you willing to sacrifice this temporal power in exchange for a chance at the eternal spirit?"

Perhaps Balron was the name the Gods whispered to him in his dreamless sleep, or perhaps it was another but this one had too great potential to ignore. Great enough even, to stir Malhambria like a dragon from it's slumber to lay waste to the two Princes.

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

This man... why do I trust him so?

Wordlessly, King Balron the Dark, the Mighty Soul of Occlo, rose to his feet and handed the staff he had fought so hard for to Gui LuRoe, Marquis and Ambassador to Holy Malhambria.

"I will follow the Gods," he said softly, "for I must play this game, lest they strike me down before my time." He closed his eyes and looked down. "Do what you will with the Staff of Karnon. I have relied too much upon its power."

"I must not drain souls from Consciousness if I wish to attain it..." Sighing, Balron shook his head and raised his black-glove-clad hand to the sky, watching sparks of magic rise from his fingers. "You have made me a worthy trade, Marquis Gui LuRoe." He gave LuRoe a rather sad smirk. "Perhaps, someday, you will finally call me King Balron."

Perhaps, someday, you will call me King Nammil Greenleaf... perhaps, as I let my magic of dead pass, so shall I let the wrongful acts of the death pass, and forgive... but not now. Now I must be strong.

<<--->>

A soldier cowered in the brush. Gibbering madly, he shuddered and raised his hands, begging for mercy that would never come from the demonic soldier before him. The Phell Knight raised its sword...

...and fizzled into the air.

Balron had saved a life, and might never know.

<<--->>

Balron lowered his eyes, and then glanced back to Gui LuRoe. "I must speak to these Gods," he said finally. "I must learn whether I live a lie or not. What else must I sacrifice?"

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

LuRoe accepted the staff most graciously and bowed his head, "You need sacrifice nothing further at this point, just be sure that you never deny one their chance at destiny; death is no barrier but never must you repeat the vile sins of Karnon. The third company of the Grey Masks will be upon the Princes within the week, worry not for your war. And give these peasants a home, to give these humble folk such a disadvantage is...wrong. I shall be off Balron, may you be King when next we meet."

LuRoe turned about and walked off. He held the staff as if were diseased, his disgust with it was transparant even though his mask was not.

"Tend to your lady Balron, she is strong but she is caught up in such concepts as 'good' and 'evil' that the unmasked hold in such high regard. She cannot understand..."

He turned a corner and was gone.

 

[SecretDesires]

Trianna waited for the half elf to finish. She well knew that magic, when you were unprepared for it, could cause a sickness. He would feel better once he was done.

When he finished, she bent down and helped him to his feet guiding him to the cave and a seat at the table there. Ladling out some of the broth that her mentor had been heating she handed the cup to him.

"Drink this," She said as she made sure he had secure hold of it,"It will settle your stomach and calm your nerves."

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

Vile sins of Karnon, hmm...?

Balron brushed his dark hair out of his eyes, giving himself a rather fetching windblown look. He always cut a rather dashing figure, but he never admitted it to himself. It embarassed him. It was... kind of a thing a king was supposed to have. But he wasn't supposed to look so youthful.

Iris can take care of herself, and my spy can take care of her. For now. I want to wait here a bit longer, and I plan to hold the frontier until the Army of the Grey Masks arrives. Then, while the world is surprised, I shall sweep into Magincia. I will fight myself, on the front lines. I will show them my power... and when I am strong enough, I will travel to visit the gods. In Magincia, they will help me find a way.

"You there, Private," called Balron, sending a nervous footsoldier scurrying toward him.

"Yes, my Liege?"

"The peasants are getting living space in the fort, correct?"

"Yes, my Liege. We have brought sufficient wood."

"...give the peasants a gift of food."

"Yes, my Liege."

Balron paused. "...how many did we kill?"

"Five, your Majesty."

"...then reward their families fifty golden crowns each."

The footsoldier was so aghast, he could not help but question. "F-Fifty Suns, sir?" He made twenty-five crowns a year, with little left over to spare.

"Yes," said the king calmly. "And award yourself five."

The footsoldier gulped and knelt. "T-Thank you, my Liege."

"What's your name, soldier?"

"G-Gunther, my Liege."

"...go carry out my order, and then train with me."

"W-What, my Liege?"

"I want to see what they teach you about swordfighting..."

Completely surprised, the private only nodded and sped off to give the king's order to the captain there.

Well, I'm being unfair. He doesn't deserve five crowns of tax money. But I need to sharpen my skills... and if I can sharpen my skills enough to prevent the deaths of my soldiers, I will save far more than golden suns, silver moons, or copper stars...

 

[Emotionless]

He took the brew from the elf with trembling hands, the effects of the magic were still clinging on, but the aroma comming from the cup began to settle Dolson's stomach. The half-elf drank deeply and instantly felt better.

After finishing what was left, Dolson looked at the other occupants of the room. "My thanks," he began "I guess an introduction is in order. My name is Dolson, I was untill recently...uh...a slave in the service of a merchant of Aldridge." He looked into the eyes of the female elf, " I say untill recently as the caravan I was in was slaughtered by one of those things, those riders. I entered the wood with the intent of anbushing it on the road when I happened upon your little battle. I guess you know what happens after that."

He spread his hands and shruged, "Now, what might have those riders been?" he asked the room.

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

Meanwhile in Holy Malhambria

It was a rare meeting: the assembled astral forms of the Council of the Marquis and the Pontifex himself were to hold a conclave at the Fortress at Ten Points; the most hallowed site in all of Malhambria. In the highest spire peaked above the clouds the enigmatic figures who ruled over Malhambria would plan their next move.

"You bring much honor to your state of Margaritta, LuRoe. The Staff of Karnon is in our possession and we shall destory it at the holy of holies, the very breast of Savout's fortress."

"My humble thanks for your high praise oh great and wise Pontifex. Long have I watched the events in Ocllo and I do sense the spirit of the True King is soon to come unto Balron."

Marquise LuQua of the state of Mahnse snapped his head aside, "I do believe it was foolish to promise that unmasked one the aid of the third company; that is an entire tenth of the Grey Masks!"

Marquise LuFaux of Meldama was quick to rebutt, "Holy Malhambria has remained aloof for too long, the unmasked were beginning to believe that we were weak, living off ancient glories. This is the right time to put the fear of Malhambria back in their blaspheming hearts! We will crush these two princes and Magincia as well!"

LuRoe lifted his head and tilted it slightly to the left, giving a look of curiosity, "You are most hasty LuFaux, we have not decided to go to war with Magincia and already you speak of victory? Surely we would..."

The Pontifex silenced them with a gesture, "Enough! There are threats on the myriad planes that require my attention. LuRoe, I entrust you with the third company to destroy the princes of Ocllo and I demand that the staff of Karnon be sent to the Fortress for destruction. LuFaux, take the first and second companies of the Black Masks to the neutral ground between Malhambria and Magincia, we will not war with them. Yet. Now go!"

The astral projections were snuffed out like candles and the chamber went dark.

 

[Roughneck]

A new Myth

Bristol opened his eyes slowly, he felt like death warmed over. Slowly he raised himself up, trying to make out his new surroundings.

" Well good morning there young man, welcome back to the living." said an old man." For awhile we thought you wouldn't pull through, but your spirit is strong, and your will to live even stronger."

Bristol looked somewhat confused, " Where am I and where is Trianna."

Bristol attempted to get up, the old man shook his head, " You need your rest friend, stirring about won't help. As far as Trianna is concerned, she is getting herbs from the forest."

As Bristol stood up, he noticed the strange man from the battle, sitting in the corner. Bristol gave him a nod, " Thank you for what you did back there, I am internally grateful for your courage.

The man blushed, hanging his head down, " It was nothing, besides I didn't do much, your the one who sleighed them."

" Nonsense, we worked together as a team, and because of that we survived."

Bristol walked over to him, placing his hand on the mans shoulder. " You will always be a friend to me. . . .I don't even know your name, where's my manors. My name is Bristol, and its an honor to call you friend."

The man raised his head, a big smile on his face, " My name is Dolson, and I happily except your friendship!"

The two men smiled at each other, then exchanged hardy handshakes. Bristol noticed that the small cave was littered with vials, bottles, books, and many different contraptions. " This is some place ya have here old man, quite a bit of junk."

Marse's face reddened, " My name is Marse, and this is not junk, these are my experiments and studies. These books are older then you could ever imagine." Marse quickly gathered his composure, " Feel free to look around, but be careful with what you touch."

Bristol gave Marse a nod, " Thanks. . . .Marse, I must admit I am quite intrigued. These books really interest me over here." Bristol walked over to a pile of books. Carefully he picked one up, quickly thumbing through it. He then placed it back, only to pick up another and repeat the process.

" Marse how old are these. . . ."

Before Bristol could finish his sentence, the pile of books fell over, creating a huge mess.

" Ummm, I. . kinda. . . sorry?"

Bristol quickly began to restack the books, when something caught his eye. Out of the pile of books stood one that was rather large, and looked older then the others. Its leather binding looked worn and beaten, it almost seemed as if the book was calling out to him. He gently picked up the book and opened it, slowly thumbing through it.

" Marse !" said Bristol as he turned around, only to find the man standing right behind him.

" Sorry, didn't realize you were behind me. What is this, this picture, and what is this strange writing?"

Marse took the book form Bristol's hands and examined it closer, his eyes lit up, then looking at Bristol. " Oh my, how long has it been since I have seen this book. That picture, is a picture of a Griffon. It was once an mystical beast ridden by a group called the Talon Knights. You see Bristol, this book is the history of the Knights, a record of their past."

He handed the book back to Bristol, a slight smile on his face, " I don't want to bore you with legends and Myths, those are better left for children." Bristol ignored the words from Marse, he was thumbing through the book feverishly.

" Hey. . hey, I know this map, I mean I know what this map is here in the book!" said Bristol, pointing into the book with excitement.

Marse and Dolson, leaned over looking at what Bristol was pointing at.

" You see, those are the North Land Mountains, and that there is the free city of Easton, and that city is the free city of Puritian."

" What are the free city's?" asked Dolson.

" Those are the city's in Ocllo that were allowed to govern themselves. You see, those city's are so far to the west that the king allowed them to govern themselves. This allowed the King to keep the country intact without a problem, and all they had to do was pay the yearly tribute to the kingdom."

Dolson gave Bristol a confused look, " And those are the city's on this map?"

" Yes, and that's the Sagmaton river that cuts through the western plain"

" How do you know so much about maps?" asked Marse.

" When I first joined the Kings army, I learned to read and use to practice by reading maps. I use to dream about all the places i wanted to go to, all the city's I might see. I had always wanted to visit the Western part of the kingdom, they said many enchanted things still roamed there."

Bristol continued to look through the book, pointing things out and answering Dolson's questions. Marse looked hard at Bristol, he sensed something new, something he did not see before. Quickly Marse went over to a bookshelf containing scrolls and maps. He began to rummage through them, tossing many to the ground.

" Bristol come here" said Marse as he rolled out a scroll onto the table. " You come too Dolson, I want you both to see something."

Bristol and Dolson made their way over to Marse, both began to look at the rolled out scroll.

" This is an old map, a map to somewhere special. You see gentlemen, some myths and legends were once real, and only wait for someone to rediscover them. That book there Bristol, is older then you think, it was written by a wizard named Agapios some 1200 years ago. He would be the only one who could tell you what those words are, further more he would be the only one to lead you to the Hall of the Griffons."

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

Prince Camlaan's personal battle group was stationed at Ironbreak Tower, Camlaan himself was in conference with his generals when a scout burst into the room, panting.

"What is the meaning of this intrusion! We are at a war council, guards!"

"Hear me Prince Camlaan," gasped the scout, "It's Holy Malhambria, an army comes from Malhambria to take Ironbreak!"

"Impossible! Those masked nonces haven't seen battle in ages, how many are there?"

"Ten thousand, and their support staff. They'll be here by mid afternoon tomorrow."

The Prince's eyes nearly bugged out of his head, "Ten thousand! We can't hope to match that and the rest of my forces are battling against Balron and Magincia! Scout! Prepare an escort, I'm going to get reinforcements from my brother. General Wainright, take over for me here!"

The prince left the war room with the scout, leaving the generals to plan. Wainright seemed rather grim,

"Ten thousand Malhambrian soldiers to our twenty-five hundred. We will likely be facing Grey Masks, they're the ones you usually see on the Ocllo border. They might have allied themselves with Balron or they could be entering this on their own. Either way pray that they don't have any reserves with them."

The worked quickly to coordinate their defense, they had less than two days.

miles away...

The Malhambrian army's march was devastating in and of itself. The soldiers were arrayed in a seemingly endless number of 100 man blocks. Five thousand in the front marching in perfect unison, even the calvary units seemed to move in synch. Behind them were the various baggage trains, seige weapons, cook wagons, and coaches containing executive officers and wizards. And bringing up the rear was the other half of the army; their marching was timed differently so in the gap of thundering footsteps left by the front was filled in by the rear. It could be heard all the way at Ironbreak.

boom. boom. boom. boom...

 

[Roughneck]

" Hall of the Griffons, this is a map to there?" asked Bristol, looking closer at the map.

"No, this is a map to Agapios, he will be the only one to show you the way."

Bristol began to laugh, then Dolson joined in as well. " That's funny, travel all the way across the Kingdom, at least a two week journey. . . to find a myth. . .a Griffon?" said Bristol, as he laughed.

Dolson added, " Yeah, and look for a 1200 year old wizard named Agapios."

" Wack " "Wack"

Marse smacked both men on the head with a long staff. " This is no joke, there is nothing funny in what I have said."

Bristol rubbing his head, " Then what's the point of all this, what's this have to do with us?"

Marse turned his back to the men, rummaging through the pile of scrolls. " It has everything to do with you, I should have seen it sooner. You see, its not by chance that you met Trianna, that she brought you here, and out of all the books I have you find that one. You see, you are the Lost Knight." Marse turned around, rolling out another scroll.

" This scroll tells the tale, the tale of the Lost Knight. Marse began to read,


A MAN FROM THE EAST SHALL APPEAR, A MAN OF HUMBLE ORIGINS. HE WILL BE A FARMERS SON, BUT WILL CARRY THE SWORD OF A WARRIOR. HE WILL APPEAR WHEN THE HOPES OF MAN SEEM DOOMED. HE WILL RISE THE TALON KNIGHTS FROM SLUMBER AND LEAD THEM BACK TO THEIR FORMER GLORY. HE WILL BRING JUSTICE AND HONOR BACK TO A TROUBLED LAND, INSTALLING A NEW KING. HE WILL TURN THE TIDES OF EVIL, STRIKING DOWN ALL THOSE WHO WOULD DO HIM HARM. THROUGH HIM WILL THE GODS RESTORE ORDER, THROUGH HIM SHALL THE WRONGED BE AVENGED,HE WILL BE THE SAVIOR OF MAN


Marse looked up from the scroll, staring Bristol in the eye.

" Weather you want to except this or not, it is your fate. You can not go back Bristol, but only forward. You will take this map and the book, and will journey to the city of Puritian. From there you will journey into the North Land Mountains and find the wizard Agapios. From there I can not say, I can not foresee the future, but know what I must do to get you on your way.

Bristol looked stunned, Marse's words still burned in his mind, he was totally confused at the events laid before him.

" How can I be it, I don't fit the role of a savior. Not to mention, the journey would take weeks through hostel territory. Finally, what makes you think a 1200 year old wizard is still alive?"

Marse smiled, " No need to worry your mind Bristol, I have it all taken care of. A little magic can go a long way, if you catch my drift."

Bristol looked at Dolson, who just shrugged his shoulders.

" What about the wizard?" asked Dolson

" He's very much alive, how sane he is . . . well that's another question all together." said Marse, franticly shuffling through the pile of scrolls.

" Ahhh. . I found it ! It has been awhile since I have tried this spell, but Im sure I remember the correct words."

Dolson's face turned white, " No more magic, if you don't mind I will sit this one out, once is enough for me."

" Nonsense, you will go with Bristol and so will. . . ."

Just then Trianna walked into the cave, all three men stared at her.

" What. . . why is everyone staring at me?"

" Trianna will accompany you as well Bristol, their fates are sealed with you, though their paths will part from yours. They too play a role, I am afraid I can not say what that roll is."

Trianna looked confused, " Can someone explain to me what is going on, and what Marse is talking about?"

Both Bristol and Dolson looked at Trianna, both just shrugged their shoulders.

"Enough just standing around here, we don't have time to waste, all of you follow me outside."

The three companions followed Marse to a small clearing outside the cave. " Now let me see. . . which spell is it that would send you to Puritian? I know its somewhere on this scroll. . .Blast my memory !"

Trianna leaned over to Bristol and Dolson, " So you guys going to let me in on what's going on?"

" Im the savior of Man. " said Bristol with a grin

" And I am going to help him find a 1200 year old wizard" said Dolson, nearly ready to burst into laughter.

" Oh, I guess while were at it, well just stop over and have tea with the Gods." said Trianna, shaking her head in disgust.

Marse turned around sharply, raising his staff and giving all three an angry eye, before returning to his task at hand.

 

[SecretDesires]

Trianna recognized the look on her mentor's face. He was dead serious. Rasing her hands up in defeat she said,"Okay, okay. We are going to find this wizard and help Bristol become the savior of man."

With a sigh she added,"I suppose this is not going to be a couple of days kind of thing. Father is going to be livid." Shrugging she continued. "Marse, will you send word to my father about what is happening?"

The druid nodded not looking up from his scroll. Standing there Trianna wondered how she had gotten into all of this by simply trying to help a war weary soldier. Her thoughts were interrupted as Marse looked up from his scroll with an 'AH HAH!' and began chanting the words that were on the scroll.

The very air crackled and waivered around them as all three felt as if they were caught in a whirlwind. It took all of their breaths away. The magic enclosed them, went through them and wrapped tight about them.

The world went hazy, then dim and then all of them felt as if they were thinning into nothingness and then the glade and everything in it winked out.

OOC: Roughneck, I am going to stop here and let you explain where we were transported to.

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

Ironbreak never stood a chance, the Grey Masks poured over it like a river over a pebble. The masked soldiers were abnormally good, they moved like a machine; tearing down the gates and engaging the defenders.

General Wainright stood at the battlements of the inner keep, alongside the archers that rained arrows down upon the steely armor of the Grey Masks.

"It's no use my lord, their armor is complete! Our arrows are useless."

"Aim for the masks, the masks are made of simple clay! How fare the soldiers below?"

The archers did their best to shoot through the masks and on occassion they would lay low one of the mighty Grey Masks.

"Not to well, they have been pushed out of the courtyard, they are currently defending this tower! On the bright side the enemy simply can't get any more people in here right now."

"They didn't come for a siege! They've come to wipe us out!"

In the Malhambrian camp, one mile away...

General LeVasque of the Third Company looked over the war table with his officer core, the table had a disturbingly accurate map of the area and tiny flags representing their own units as well as those of the enemies.

Nearby the signal corp. projected the orders of the officers through the use of banners and horn calls. The 2nd Battle Group; the other half of the Third Company waited at the camp; the brass wanted to clean out Ironbreak with the 1st Battle Group and have the 2nd occupy it.

 

[Roughneck]

In one brief moment the three companions found themselves standing in the middle of an open field, the wind blowing strongly against them. They all looked about, somewhat confused about their new surroundings.

"Well I'd say the spell worked, just wish we knew were we where?" said Bristol.

"Well, would that city over there be any indication as to our whereabouts?" said Dolson, pointing to the left of them.

Standing in the distance was the city of Puritian, the great city of the west.The city was a shining example of human achievement and an engineering marvel.
The city was surrounded by a great wall that stood nearly a 100 feet high and 50 feet wide. So great was this wall that many of the homes and businesses of the city were built into it. In the center of the city was a grand structure, a large Keep. The Keep was designed as a last defense for the city should it's great walls fall, it's large structure casting an eerie shadow over the city.

The three companions made their way towards the gates of the city, but as they neared them, a group on horseback met them.

" Halt right there!" yelled one of the riders.

Several of the men quickly dismounted, drawing their weapons. Trianna looked at Bristol, " Seems like were not welcomed here."

" I would think your observation is correct." said Bristol, looking at the men who surrounded them.

Quickly the group was disarmed and striped of their possessions, only to be thrown into the cold dark dungeons on the Keep. Inside they found themselves surrounded, not but beggars or thieves, but by soldiers. The men who filled the cells of the dungeon were soldiers of the Princes army, men who deserted in hopes of finding safety, only to find the cold cells of the dungeon.
Bristol sat there in the cell with Trianna and Dolson, along with two dozen other men. He felt depressed, how could he have been so foolish to believe Marse. Now he was sitting in a dungeon cell, more then likely to be handed over to the Princes or Balron. Trianna saw Bristol's despair and sat close to him, trying to reassure him.

" Please Trianna, you have done enough, in fact you have done to much. Ever since I met you, my life has been one constant nightmare!" snapped Bristol.

Trianna smacked Bristol across the face, " You ungrateful bastard! Who do you think saved your human ass from death, who nursed your wounds? Do you think I have stood by your side because I had nothing better to do?" Trianna's face was red with anger, she quickly got up and moved to a different area of the cell.

Bristol shot a glance to Dolson, " Hey now, don't be looking at me, I had nothing to do with this." said Dolson, quickly moving away from Bristol.

" Damn this to hell!" yelled Bristol

" Keep it down lad, no sense getting everybody rowed up now, is there?"

An older gentlemen came forward, sitting down next to Bristol, gently patting his back.

" Were all just as upset as you, who would have known they would lock us up. We all just wanted to escape this endless bloodbath. My name is Louis Tinley, private in the 3rd infantry, 2nd division. Where about might you be from lad?"

" My name is Bristol, a Sergeant in the heavy infantry, 11th division. . . . Southern Army."

" Southern army you say. . . we were told the Southern army was for the most part. . wiped out?"

" That it was, I just happened to be lucky enough to live. . . though I wonder if its luck or more like a curse."

Louis patted Bristol on the back, " Keep your chin up lad, if you lived through that, then the Gods must have something planed for your life. Now you just sit there and relax, you'll be here for awhile."

" How long might that be?"

" Well lad, I've been here for over a week, some of these boys been here longer. So its safe to say you'll be here for some time."

Bristol sighed after hearing the last few words, everything seemed hopeless to him. Bristol stretched himself out, leaning his back and head against the wall, slowly dozing off into sleep

 

[Roughneck]

Bristol was abruptly woken by someone kicking his feet. Bristol looked up to see a well dressed man standing before him, surrounded by several armed guards.

" Is he the one?" asked the well dressed man to one of the guards,

" Yes my lord, him and those two over there. They were captured just outside the city yesterday."

The well dressed man knelt down, looking Bristol in the eyes, " And what might your name be. . . and what would you be doing with this?"

The man pulled out the book, handing it to Bristol. " Tell me what a soldier would be doing with something like this?"

Bristol stared at the man, unsure of what to say or how to go about saying it. He stared deeply into the mans eyes, he sensed a truth about him. . a peace.

" My name. . . my name is Bristol. . . I am a Sergeant or was a Sergeant in the army of the Princes.

The man nodded, " Go On."

" I was given this book by a man named Marse, he's the one who sent us here. He told us we could find a wizard named Agapios. . . he's the one who wrote this book, and then he would. . . ."

The man raised his hand, stopping Bristol. " You need not say anymore, I think it would be best."

The man stood up and began to walk about the cell,drawing his eyes on Trianna. " I don't think I have ever seen an elf before, but I must say their race does intrigue me."

Turning back to Bristol, " You keep strange friends Bristol, even stranger is that book you hold. Do you know who I am, do you know why I am interested in that book?" The man paced back and forth for sometime before speaking again.

"My name is Lord Silas Pantheras, Steward of the city of Puritian, as was my father and his father before him. The Lords of this land have strived to maintain the independence we cherish, it is for that reason we have not chosen sides between the Princes and Balron. It is also the reason why you and the rest of the men in here have been locked up. If word was to surface that we were aiding the princes or harboring deserters, then that could very well bring both sides down on us."

Silas paused a moment, reflecting on what he would next say. "Until today, I cared little about what happened outside my domain. . . .that is. . until that book was brought to me. Upon my reading of that book, I came across something very interesting. What I found not only perked my interest, but brought me here before you.

Silas bent down, staring Bristol deeply in the eyes. " You know what I found in that book? Do you know what's in there, what could cause me to want to meet you?"

Quickly Silas opened the book, flipping to through the pages till he came across a picture of a medallion.

" That is what interests me, that picture, and this is the reason why."

Silas slowly pulled a chained medallion out from under his shirt, the same one pictured in the book.

" This has been passed down to the Steward of the city for hundreds of years. Though nobody knows what or where it came from, it has been the symbol of leadership. Seeing this, means it does hold a key to something, something far greater then just a symbol, and i want to know."

Silas looked deeply into Bristol's eyes, placing his hand on Bristol's. " I don't know what your purpose is in all this, but I will not hinder you, for I do not want the wrath of the Gods before me. All I ask is that you do me one favor, find out what this medallion is and what role it plays in all of this. . . . will you. . help me?"

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

Gunther thought desperately.

Uh, thrust, parry, swing, parry, counter, thrust...

King Balron was not attacking. He had not broken a sweat. Through simple technique, he had forced the private around the field. He could have attacked easily, and won the fight, but he was lost in thought.

"Your name is Gunther?" asked Balron calmly.

"Uh, thrust, parry! I, I mean, yes, my Liege! Counter!" The private's helmet had been flicked off a few moments ago, and his rakish blond hair was exposed to view as he fought wildly.

Gunther... how...

<<--->>

"Thrust, parry!"

Nammil sweated desperately, being forced back.

"Go on! Swing! Counter!"

Nammil fell to one knee, gasping.

His blond foe frowned down on him, raising his sword. "Giving up already? So--"

The man was silenced by a thrust kick to the chest, sending him stumbling back. Nammil struggled to his feet and rushed forward, only to be disarmed. He didn't stop, however, and finished with a spinning kick, knocking his enemy back.

"Hah!" laughed his opponent, shaking his head wearily. "Very impressive! You're never fazed, Nammil! I like your spirit!"

"Thank you, Gideon..."

"Now! Thrust! Parry...!"

<<--->>

...how very... strange...

"Counter! Swing!"

Balron's eyes softened as Gunther continued, now thinking aloud. In one swift movement, he disarmed the inexperienced soldier, causing Gunther to fall on his butt.

"Uhh..." murmured Gunther. "I didn't know you were so good a fighter, my liege..."

"I had a good teacher," Balron said softly, and he paused. "...and so will you."

"Wh-what do you mean, your Majesty?" The private looked hopelessly confused as he scrabbled on the ground for his helmet while still trying to look respectful.

"...you remind me of somebody, Private Gunther." Balron turned away. "We leave for Greensoar, and Castle Occlo, in the morning. Prepare for a journey."

"A... journey?"

"Yes," Balron said quietly. "We are leaving for Magincia."

<<--->>

"A... journey?" asked Nammil, surprised. "Already?"

"Yes," Gideon said quietly. "We are heading to the ancient Citadel of Karnon."

Yes, thought Nammil. And if the rumors are true...

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

At Ironbreak

The battle at Ironbreak was over all too quickly, Camlaan's soldiers lay dead to a man and only the officers had been spared. The 2nd Battle Group had already burned the bodies and the chaplains performed Malhambrian rites to purify the ashes and send the souls of the dead to try again. The 1st Battle Group had been dissolved into it's 100 man phalanxes and sent to secure the region.

At the Fortress at Ten Points

Pontifex LuBasque, the mighty ruler of Holy Malhambria held in his hands the Staff of Karnon, behind his jewel adorned mask his lips were turned upwards in a rares smile.

"I do not see the need to destroy this artifact just yet, my mystic vault will keep this safe for now and the Marquis needn't be the wiser.

Between Greensoar and Puritian

Gui's astral projection returned to his body and he awoke, "All is well, the Staff of Karnon is with the Pontifex; he will be sure to destroy it under the light of the cresent moon. Now for other matters, I must find where the free cities stand. They are close to Malhambria but they have yet to do anything of import in these struggles."

His coach pushed onwards, the flags identifying him as an ambassador ruffled with intensity due to the speed.

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

"My Liege! Scouts report Ironbreak has been taken!"

Immediately, everyone in the room except for Balron gained an expression of immense surprise. "I didn't know we were attacking!" said Sir Lance Keral, the High Commander and Minister of War.

"We weren't," said Balron softly.

"Yes!" agreed the scout. "The Malhambrian Grey Masks have taken it!"

"H-Holy Malhambria?" exclaimed Hierophant Pontius Lapon, Minister of Spirituality, who immediately shut his mouth. He still had no idea why, but he knew that King Balron really, really disliked him.

"Yes," said King Balron coolly. "The Malhambrians have decided to prove how perfect their abilities are. They are aiding us in return for a magical artifact of my own personal possession."

"Then what shall we do?" asked Lance.

A second scout burst in. "Sir! There's been a sneak attack on Greensoar! Teleportation magic, sir!"

The group inside the tent could not have been more stunned. "The Princes? Using magic?" sputtered Hathar Doubledark, Minister of Aetherial Affairs. "How could they have obtained a mage that skilled?"

"They didn't," said Balron. "It was Magincia."

At this point, everyone was staring at him. "My Liege," grunted Lance gruffly, "with all due respect, how do you know all this?"

"Guessing, dear Lance," responded his Majesty, smiling. He turned back to the group, addressing everyone. "Our contract with Magicnia is nearly over, and now that we have overextended ourselves, they have decided to cut off our line of supply, though Greensoar will be able to defend itself for a while." He frowned sternly. "However, they apparently did not know that currently, none of our units are occupied."

"And," he continued, now smirking, "what no one knows at ALL knows is that now we are going to mount a full offensive on the invaders of Greensoar, and then plunge into Magicnia. We shall devastate them."

"Leaving the Princes behind?" said Lance weakly, still surprised by the turn of events.

"No," said Balron calmly. "The Malhambrians will take care of them." He sighed. "I'm not certain if they will give the land back to us... but if I act quickly, and impress them, they may decide I deserve it. Malhambrians have... interesting beliefs."

"So you need to prove to them you are the True King?" said Hierophant Pontius, too smart for his own good.

Balron glared at him, and Pontius immediately quieted.

"Yes," he said finally. "I do." He turned away, getting up from his chair. "I will go ahead and get through the walls, and set up supply trains. As you hit the Magincians from behind, we will already be prepared to send out reinforcements and supplies with you, so there will be no wait and no warning before you move to attack Magincia itself."

"S-Sir?" asked Sir Lance, surprised. "You'll go... yourself?"

"I shall take Private Gunther..." The King glanced around. "I am... impressed by his abilities."

"Private who?" said Lance, confused.

"Never mind," said Balron. "Yes, I will go alone. I can handle myself. And then, when all is ready, I will head the strike against the country of Magincia. And I shall take my future Queen with me." He looked at his Ministers, who were still bewildered by Balron's new intent to bring himself into the fray. "After a while, I will split up from you. There are things I need to know."

<<--->>

"Gideon, why do you trust me?"

By the flickering light of the dying fire, each in his own bedroll, the blond warrior responded.

"Nammil, you saved my life. I know it was repayment for trying to kill me, but you were desperate, and I know... you hide things. And that's alright. But you saved my life, which shows me you have a sense of duty and of justice, despite our rude encounter." Gideon smiled, though his companion could not see. "And sometimes, traveling with a friend is better than traveling alone. Sometimes."

You shouldn't trust me, Gideon... I'm not as dumb as you think...

Both were silent for a while.

Ah, Nammil, thought the blond warrior. One day you'll stick a knife in my back, you clever bastard, but I hope that you'll learn something from me, someday... like never to underestimate me...

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

Smiling softly, Balron glanced in the mirror in his tent. Dark hair, dark eyes, and lightly tanned skin -- somewhat powerful build, somewhat tall, and more than somewhat handsome.

Through the past three years, he had let his disguise slip, bit by bit. People would sometimes remark he looked stronger, or younger, but most of the time, nobody noticed. For Nammil had looked the same way -- dark hair, and eyes as dark as the deepest pools of molten adamantine... bottomless pits of impending doom...

Which is why every time he looked at Gunther, Balron expected him to say, "There you are, Nammil! It's been a long time! Looking dark and mysterious as always."

In fact, Balron had not been nearly as intimidating, or as handsome. But then again, he had died.

Ah, Gideon... I still haven't forgotten you... the Malignant Staff of Karnon is gone, now. Now it all seems like a waste...

<<--->>

The two men stood at the opening to the cavern, the mountain ahead spiraling into various man-made crests and ancient domes. The Ancient Citadel of Karnon, where none dared tread -- except for Sir Gideon, Knight-Errant, and his squire Nammil Greenleaf.

"In the name of King Bardic," exclaimed Gideon, "we will oust the monsters of the dark from this place, and bring back the Staff of Karnon in triumph!"

"Yeah," murmured Nammil. "Whatever you say, Gideon."

Gideon chuckled, his blonde hair giving him a rakish, dashing appeal. "Come on, Nammil. Aren't you excited? We're going to do serious battle!" He smiled. "I'm going to depend on your magic, buddy."

"Yeah, no problem," agreed Nammil. (Heh... that's right, he used to call me buddy..., thought Balron, reflecting back.)

Snapping his fingers, a ball of light sparked forth and grew until it gave off more light than a sizable torch.

"Nice," said Gideon, adjusting his breastplate and chain suit one last time before strapping his steel helmet over his head. He shifted his kite shield, and drew his sword. "Never had any talent for Aura or Faith, myself. Glad to have you around, buddy."

"I'm right behind you, Gideon."

They entered.

I'm right behind you, Gideon...

(...right behind you...

...behind you...)

In a flash, the scene changed.

"Behind you!" screamed Nammil, ducking a wild swing from the snarling minotaur warrior.

"Damn their whole tribe!" roared Gideon, spinning and cutting mercilessly. "Prepare yourself! Gideon Slash Mark III!"

And the cyclone commensed...

<<--->>

The funny thing was, thought Balron, there was no Gideon Slash Mark II, or Mark I. Just Mark III. It was amazing, though... for a man who said he had no Aura, his Mystic Sword Techniques were astonishing, and quite obviously capable of harnessing magical energies. Truly, he was the best Errant-Knight the Kingdom had...

"Had..." Balron repeated, aloud.

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

"Gillian, you must listen to me!"

Gillian looked at his brother and waved his hand, "Camlaan, there is no need for these histrionics. Holy Malhambria doesn't enter wars anymore and last time they did they were on our side."

"No, they were on our grandfather's side. And when the war was over they killed our great uncle Denarius and put father on the throne."

Gillian was surprised, Camlaan had never been up on his history before Balron had started all this, "So, you finally hit the books, father would have been proud. However I simply cannot spare the men until my own scouts report."

A moment later a pair of guards came in, leading a pale looking rider. The guards proceeded to explain, "One of our scouts sir, he said he rode for a day without stopping. His horse died at the gates."

Gillian calmly moved his bishop across the board, he would be victorious within the next three moves. Camlaan didn't see it.
"Report."

"Ironbreak is lost my prince! The Grey Masked warriors of Malhambria destroyed the entire garrison. They have sent five thousand warriors in our direction, they have been wiping out every one of our independent and scout units along the way. My unit was guarding a supply train heading this way from the north, I was the only survivor."

His words were jumbled and spaced with gasps but the message was clear enough. Gillian held his chin and thought for a moment, Camlaan seemed to be on the verge of a tantrum.

"Well?!?"

"Well what?"

"What in the hells are we going to do?!?"

"You are going to pull your forces residing in the village of Harpers' Hollow and bring them up here. I'm going to arrange a distraction for our Malhambrian friends."

"But I need those men there! I lost my forces in Altec only the other day! And how can you possibly hope to distract them?"

"Did you EVER go to class brother? By now Balron's contract with Magincia will be up; he wont move his forces while he is renegotiating their alliance. Magincians are treacherous dogs who have always been hoping to expand into Ocllo, if Balron leaves the Magincian border unattended they will undoubtedly move in. As for Holy Malhambria the best way to distract them is to pray on that bizarre religion of theirs. I have kept hidden from the divinations of our enemies a very powerful illusionist. He will transform Harper's Hollow into an orc village then make our soldiers appear as a band of raiding elves. Those Malhambrians have such pity for vile creatures that they will divert to stop the 'elves' putting them four days off course from this fortress."

"What do we do with that time?"

"Coordinate my defenses and plan a counterattack. That and offer Magincia Greensoar for their assistance."

 

[Roughneck]

Bristol looked up to Lord Pantheras, a slight smirk on his face.

" I would never have dreamed a noble would ask a peasant for help, but I guess its just a sign of the times. I will be willing to negotiate with you on your request."

Silas stood up, a look up disgust on his face, " Me negotiate with you, ha, what a joke. It seems to me your not in the position to be making demands . . . but humor me with your terms."

" They are quite simple, release all the men you have imprisoned here, under my command. . . and we have a deal."

"Wwwhat !!! Release nearly 2,000 men to you ! You are truly mad to think that I would release a mob to your command, what reassurance do I have that they wont pillage the country side? You ask to much, and offer nothing in exchange!"

Just then a guard came into the cell, quickly he made his way to Silas, whispering something into his ear.

" You will have to excuse me, I must attend to something"

Quickly Silas exited the cell, a look of deep concern was on his face.

" Well, you tried lad, but you shouldn't give up your chance for freedom at our expense."

Bristol looked at the man, as well as the others that shared the cell with him. He could see in their eyes the respect and admiration they had for his feeble attempt at gaining their freedom.

" Then we sit here together, either he allows us all to go or none of us. I'll be damned to see my fellow brothers in arms be sent to their fates, while I walk away unscathed."

Just then, the cell door opened an an armed guard walked in. "Bristol, you and your two friends are to come with me, Lord Pantheras wishes to speak to you in private."

As they were led out of the dungeon and through the court yard, Bristol saw men scurrying about, he also saw several riders take off, messengers no doubt. Bristol looked over to Trianna, who had remained silent for the most part, he wondered what she was thinking, weather she was still mad at him. He would need to talk to her at some point, try and mend the fence with her.

" This way please" said the man as he opened the door into a small room. Inside stood Silas with several other men, all pouring over maps, while Silas was busy writing something down.

" Here, take this message to the city of Easton, and waste no time." said Silas, as he handed the man a peace of paper. The man quickly darted out the door, it was then that Silas noticed the three companions were standing before him.

" I wish to be left alone with these three, everybody leave now !"

Quickly the room emptied out, leaving just the four of them alone. Silas plopped himself down in a chair, letting out a huge sigh.

" It seems the time of our Neutrality has ended, seems the war is coming to us."

Silas looked up at the three companions, " Bristol if I were to allow those men out, would you keep your word?"

" I pledge it upon my honor, and further more, would give my life up if anything bad were to come from it."

" Your life? You would be willing to give up that for the sake of them? That is quite nobel. . . . as well as brave."

Silas stood up, letting out another sigh. Slowly he walked over to a map, staring at it for a few moments.

"Ironbreak fell five days ago to some invading force, the details are still sketchy. We believe its forces are loyal to Balron, though we could be wrong."

Silas pointed to a spot on the map indicating Ironbreak.

" That is about a weeks journey from us, but that is not all. The city of Tyvola, which is merely a 3 day journey form here. . . . has been taken over. The reports I have at this time indicate that the Princes have taken over the city, killing the lord and assuming control of its army's. Tyvola has always been considered the gateway city to the west, and just like us, has remained neutral. It would seem the princes are in a state of panic to do such a thing, and it could very well be possible that this city could be next. . . or maybe Easton."

Silas moved closer to the group, sitting on the edge of the table. The man seemed deep in thought, the current state of matters were worrying him.

" Bristol I am left with very few options. I can sit back and hope that whatever is attacking the princes will not set its sights on us, as well as hope that the princes do not move in this direction. Yet in my mind I do believe that neither will be the case, and in the end we will be left with little option but to go to war. I have already dispatched riders to call up the musters from the surrounding towns and villages, as well as dispatched riders to Easton and to the North Land Kingdoms. I will not sit by and wait, to do so will only mean the same fate Tyvola has succumbed to. I have already gone about releasing the men from the dungeons, I hope that my faith in you has not been misplaced. I pray and hope you find what your looking for. . . . before it's to late.

Silas stood up and placed his hand on Bristol's shoulder. Then grabbing Bristol's hand, he placed the medallion in his palm. " Take this as well, I believe it will serve you better then me at this current time."

" Guards!"

Two men came running into the room.

" See to them, and make sure that he has the supplies and equipment that are needed."

As they left the room, Bristol heard Silas call out to him, " Fair thee well Bristol, I believe we will meet again."

 

[Roughneck]

Several hours latter Bristol found himself standing in the court yard, looking at the men who stood before him. Before him were nearly 2,000 men, their uniforms tattered and dirty. Yet he could feel a pride over the men, admiration and respect showed in their faces.

" Bristol, Bristol, Bristol, Bristol !" shouted the men.

" Were with you too Bristol, to the very end." said Trianna

" Yes, to the end and beyond" said Dolson

Bristol looked at his two companions and smiled. " A man could never ask for better friends."

From a small window in the room Silas watched as Bristol led the ramble of men out of the city, hearing his named being chanted by them.

" Fare thee well chosen one, and for the sake of my people. . . . may the Gods bring you back soon."