From Peasant's to Kings

[Mistress]

She was terrified, and she felt helpless and unsure of what to do, she continued to cry and wouldn’t dare look him in his eyes for the fear of being drawn into him. It was an unnatural feeling to her, she felt as if she was suppose to give it and at the same time she knew that if she did it would destroy more lives then what has already been destroyed by his power. She did not want what ever her destiny was to be filled with darkness and intense magic, it would drive her insane to know that she bore the child that carried so much power that it could destroy the surrounding kingdoms if trained and developed as in the prophecies rumors. She could feel him closer to her; holding her, begging her to give in to the power, to be with him as his Queen. She trembled; feeling the magical lust tug at her, shaking her head she looks down and whispers, “I can not.” Taking in a ragged breath she repeated the words even softer, “I can not. Please, do not make me, I am not ready.”

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

He nearly trembled. He could tackle her right now, steal the child from her. Gunther would not intervene, no matter what she cried. And surely she would give in to him at some point...

...but what if her child would be strongest only if she lend her own magic to the cause?

"Not... ready." He set his jaw and nodded slowly. "Yes, my Lady De'Lavoney. I am your servant... if you will dare to command me." He stood slowly, and compassion tinged his eyes again. "I only wish to show you your power. I understand you fear me, fear the things that I can do and have done... I can only hope that you will realize how important our union is to the world... and to your own power."

He frowned. "I had hoped you would be able to practice you magic in the coming battle. I will charge Gunther to keep you save... we will be travelling through their ranks." He smirked. "Even if you cannot see me, I will be there, watching, my dear Iris."

"Always there. And always watching. From inside you..."

He walked away, preparing to camp for the night.

The young blond soldier hastened forward to her and rolled out a bedroll, and then hustled back to the carriage, drew away an oiled cloth, and removed a mattress and a pole from underneath. He grunted, plopping the mattress onto the bedroll, and then shoved the pole powerfully into the dirt, draping the cloth over it to create a large makeshift tent for her.

"It isn't much, my Lady, but it was all we could bring," the soldier mumbled, his face down. "My Liege is sleeping on the grass."

"Is there anything else you desire?"

 

[Mistress]

Her skin tingled and she still did not look up; nor move from her position for a few moments then slowly she shook her head no and crawled over to the makeshift tent. Once upon the mattress she curled up and glanced around at the dimming light, she sighed lightly. Her pale eyes lifted up to the top of the thin cloth, she wonder if what Sara said was true, if there was a God watching down over everyone taking care of them, helping them, a merciful God. She knew when she was younger her parents had believed in multiple Gods, with so much conflict between beliefs she had taken it upon herself to not have any beliefs in Gods. She wonder what was in store for her, how long she would be able to hold off Balron, and how long she would be able to hold off the new urge she was feeling regarding her own attraction not only to Balron but also for this magic he has seem to be awakening in her. Wiping at a tear as it made a path down her cheek she shivered, “I don’t know what to do.”

 

[Roughneck]

Bristol staggered back, his head full of so many images. What was it that he saw, how horrible were those things. Bristol sank to his knees, face in hands, trying to wash away the images that were shown to him.

He weakly stood up as he saw Trianna return, trying to compose himself, he didn't want Trianna to sense anything was wrong with him. He quickly looked to Dolson, giving him a nod to assure him that he was ok.

" I'm ok Dolson, not a word of this to Trianna."

Dolson looked a bit puzzled, but gave Bristol a nod, indicating he understood. Both men drew their attention to Trianna, as she dismounted and walked over to the masked man. Both men looked on as they watched her try to remove the mask that was on the man.

"Malhambrian," She said and then added,"A nobleman at that." Again she looked over the man, then turned to her companions."From the East. Margaritta perhaps or somewhere close by."

Standing and dusting herself off she mused,"Now what would one such as he be doing here? And in such a state?"

"Malhambrian?" asked Bristol, scratching his head, looking quite confused.

Bristol paced about for sometime, his mind was deep in thought. He never considered himself a bright man, more a man of common sense. Yet, none of this made sense.

After some time Bristol looked up at his companions, " I can not make any sense of this, nor this fellow here. Trianna, seeing how you know more about this. . . nobleman then I, I will entrust him to your care. Your ability in healing far exceeds any of ours, and your knowledge on him as well."

Bristol walked over to his mount, turning to the others, " We'll make for the pass and . . . . . "

Bristol stopped in mid sentence as the images came pouring back into his mind.

A castle beyond all reckoning in the shape of a ten pointed star; a black mask and a staff of dread power, a mass of fetid flesh moving across the stars, a deep groan reverberating through the cosmos, a caustic laugh in a hallowed place, a child unborn in the womb, and vast red oceans. . . Bristol placed his hands on his head, groaning, falling to his knees.. . a word began beating in his head like a drum, Savout, Savout, Savout, Savout, Savout. . . .

Bristol let out a scream, his head throbbing in pain. As soon as it had begun it was over. His mind clearing, he looked up, seeing Trianna and Dolson standing over him, his men surrounding them.

"Bristol. . .your face" said Dolson

Trianna quickly knelt down to him, pulling out a small cloth, wiping blood off his face.

Bristol quickly pulled back, placing his hand to his face, feeling the warm blood that was pouring from his nose.

Trianna pushed his hand aside, placing the cloth to his nose, trying to stop the bleeding.

"What's wrong Bristol?" whispered Trianna.

" I don't know, my head, such pain, was throbbing so hard, I can't. . I can't . . I can't think."

Bristol stood up, his bearings quite shaky. The bleeding had stopped, but he looked quite pale and weak. He slowly mounted his horse, his lack of strength showed.

" We must make hast and rejoin the main group, we have to find that wizard."

Bristol pointed over to the slumped figure of LuRoe. " Trianna see to him, I am fine for the time being. I will let you attend to me latter, after we have reached the main group. Dolson, grab your scouting group and ride ahead."

A few minutes latter the group began to make their way across the plains. Trianna rode close to Bristol, keeping an eye on him, and an eye on the slumped figure of LuRoe in the saddle beside her. Bristol smiled at her, trying to look strong. He knew he couldn't hide his weakness to her, his attempts to do so were fugal, but for the sake of his men he had to. He began to draw himself back to the task at hand, could they find this wizard. . or would all this effort be for nothing?

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

LuRoe woke up and found himself in unusual company, he was mildly put off having expected to be within the Chateau de Margaritta taking care of some affairs at home and visiting his family. He was instead in the midst of miniscule army of unmasked, beside an elf no less. He was not restrained and did not feel like a prisoner so he ventured a question to the elf-female riding beside him.

"Excuse me but who are you and where am I?"

 

[SecretDesires]

Trianna kept a close eye on Bristol. She knew that he was not as well as he said he was but she also knew she could not make a fuss of him in front of his men. She understood his need to show no weakness. Did not agree with it but understood.

When she was hailed by the Malhambrian she fell back a pace and looked him over. For the first time he seemed to be completely awake and coherent.

"I am Trianna, daughter of Arvin, head of the elvin councel. You are in the company of Bristol and his men. More than that I cannot tell you." To tell the truth she did not dare to tell him more. Malhambrians were known to be friendly with Orcs, sworn enemy of the elves and she would not say any more to him than she had to.

"What is one such as yourself doing wandering around in that state?"

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

Balron smiled and closed his eyes.

My armies should be ready. I shall punch through, straight to the Fortress Dazaboul, and then ravage my way to the capital, Rizele. Magincia does not stand a chance. Once I break into Rizele, I will go to that legendary college and astronomical viewing center "Tower to the Heavens," the pride of Rizele, and find what I need there... discover where I need to go...

And on the way there, I shall take out my frustrations.

He glanced idly back to where Iris curled up on her mattress, underneath warm blankets, twenty yards away.

If only I could take out THOSE frustrations... but no. I will not sully myself with other women until I can have HER... because then I shall need nobody else.

Once she sees my power in battle, she cannot refuse...

Balron slept.

Yet the dreams came again.

Only that one night had they not, but they returned full-force...

<<--->>

They walked up the chipped stone stairs, the dust of ages surrounding them as the two male figures, bloody and weary, struggled to the dais high above.

"I wonder what happened to Karnon," panted Gideon. "He was one of the Ancient Ones, you know."

"Really?" huffed Nammil. "He founded magic?"

"Well, necromancy," corrected Gideon. "Y'know, he was the first to capture souls from returning to heaven, or whatnot. Something like that. I'm not quite sure how magic works... nobody is, anymore." He smiled. "I suppose that the books here, on Karnon's research, will be worth a fortune. No Ancient's castles remain that we know of."

"How come nobody else comes here?" asked Nammil.

"A curse, supposedly," said Gideon with a shrug. "But I can handle it. I'm strong enough."

"Gideon, where do you get your power?" pressed Nammil.

Gideon's face suddenly became serious -- a transition that would surprise anyone who didn't know him. It was the expression he took whenever he was in danger...

"That's not important," he said, his voice somewhat deeper, and more mysterious.

Nammil sighed and nodded. They continued.

But Gideon... if I learn your sword techniques, on top of the secrets Karnon might have... I will be invincible!

<<--->>

There they were. Nammil's father and mother.

Amazingly, they weren't fighting, or drunk. It was one of those few images where they were happy, yet one that made him even more uncomfortable than all the others -- because it wasn't normal.

Then they faded away.

And in their place... a white expanse... no, not white... flecks of color everywhere... white and rainbow and everything... it's everything...

There were disturbances everywhere. Many, many little parasites milked this expanse, some small, some very, very big; but there was one being that was superimposed over all the rest, that none of them saw except him.

In his dream, he blinked, feeling drugged and confused.

"Fa...ther...?"

<<--->>

The rest of the night was tortured, and empty...

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

At the Fortress of Ten Points

LuBasque chuckled warily, his eyes rolling back and forth making his Provost Mask into some vision of madness.

"So you understand then, this is most reassuring. I thought that, like LuQua you would not truly grasp the genius of my plan. Yes...we must hurry, harken to my calls that our great lord and master will come and save us! You did the right thing, what?"

He rambled on, speaking to the two that stood before him: Marquis Ramman LuZahir of Montesse and Marquis Julian LuHessia of Mohamb, the two were dead; their souls having been shattered by the Staff of Karnon . They had come to investigate LuQua's death and like him had voiced their objections. The battle had been fierce but the Provost Mask garunteed their defeat from the start.

LuBasque had raised them, and reformed the body of LuQua from the ashes and transformed them into slave-wights. Three of the ten were now slaves to the power-maddened Pontifex. LuBasque remained coherent long enough to send nearly the entirety of Holy Malhambria's armies away. The White and Grey Masks had poured into Magincia and Occlo subduing much of the countryside and working towards their respective capitols at a slow but steady speed. Even the ten knightly chapters that guarded the Malhambrian states had been ousted, sent to protect the borders. The Black Masks however had been called to defend Ten Points , every last one of the hundred thousand strong had been called to join Ten Point's guards. Shortly after this LuBasque declared Ten Points to be sancrosect and sent all of it's residents to other towns and cities, leaving the great capitol of Holy Malhambria a fortress both in name and function.

"Oh Savout, great and terrible. I call out to the Heavens and give to you this Earth. Come now and deliver us from imperfection, as you freed us from evil long ago. I offer you this unfit sacrfice of the nations of Ocllo and Magincia for I am thy servant, and adore thee."

In the skies above

To those who looked up at night a new star appeared in the night skies, a great star that was of many hues. Some saw this is an auspicious omen but the wizards staffing the Tower of the Heavens were alarmed, when the headmaster attempted to divine the cause of it's changing colors he was blinded by what he saw. No magics could restore his sight and any student who tried to view the star of many colors was blinded in the selfsame fashion.

Savout roared across the heavens, although it had been said by wizards that no sound could be heard in the void between heaven and earth, his cosmic bellowing resonated across the stars. Like a great cosmic slug-leech he oozed towards the shining Earth. Little remained of the great God-King who raised his sword at the gods and said, "I shall surpass you!" just a desire to consume, absorb, obtain. He was miles long, changing in substance and color. Parts of him would be soft flesh before changing into draconic scales even as another portion might have been stone or rainbow feathers. And at his very front, where his "forehead" might have been was a tiny porcelain mask cracked and split in two.

Prince Gillian's camp

Gillian was most displeased, as if the losses at Ironbreak hadn't been bad enough it seemed that Holy Malhambria decided to go apeshit. His brother's forces had been completly destroyed and he was down to a third of his. The Magincians had completly pulled out, scouts reported Malhambria and Balron had invaded them. It seemed as if they weren't working together anymore though, as one of Balron's armies had been destroyed by the 8th company of the White Masks. He had never dreamed that Holy Malhambria was capable of this, a war on three fronts, and no sign of losing. He had taken his remaining forces to hide in the caves of the Worthington Heights. Barricaded and trapped, they could keep Malhambria and Balron out, and they had supplies and fresh water.

There was a glimmer of good news though. He fooled his idiot brother into taking the last of his men, numbering at a pitiful hundred, to Karnon's old citadel.

"There will be magical artifacts we can use," he had told him, "And it can be easily defended. From there we can reconnoiter and coordinate with our Magincian allies."

He regretted letting Camlaan take all of the hundred as they would have been handy to keep around but having his brother killed by some of Karnon's traps or by a Malhambrian patrol would be worth the loss. Hell, the fool was a marvelous warrior if nothing else, he would at least take out a few of those masked lunatics.

Elsewhere

LuRoe smiled underneath his mask, Elves, honestly. "I was...wrenched, for lack of a better word from the astral by the cosmic scream of a dear friend. You don't trust me, you needn't worry, I'm not some backwater Mahnse villager. I am from Margaritta, considerably more civilized I assure you. I sensed you and two others earlier, when I was still, shaken. I know none of these soldiers around us are them, where are the two. Those touched by destiny?"

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

(OOC: yarg. tripple post. Somebody delete this thing.)

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

Grrrr....Quadruple posting. Isnt there a mod who can get rid of this crap?

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

god dammit, delete this.

 

[SecretDesires]

Trianna gave the man a hard stare. "I do not even know your name, Malhambrian, and trust does not come easy between our two races. Trust does not come easy for anyone these days."

Her glance changed from the masked one to Bristol who rode ahead of them seeming unheading of the conversation between her and this man.

"And what do you know of those bound for destiny? And why do you wish the information? Civilized men have fought wars and betrayed others just as savages have. And hiding behind masks does not make trust any easier to come by."

Trianna set her chin as she spoke. "First I will have my answers before you will have yours."

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

"WHAT!?"

The messenger swallowed.

Balron's eyes had never been so large.

"They... they can't have... but I gave them..." He shuddered and turned away. "Why did I trust him...?" I must have been immune to his spells. I must have been. Why didn't it occur to me, then, that LuRoe would take everything? Damn! Damn! This was all his plan!

But... I am King secondmost... even if I am fool enough to be used like this, I must triumph! I must still be the Chosen One!

"The Minister of War is in charge," said Balron quietly. "I will take the capital myself."

"M-My liege?"

"You hear me?" roared Balron. "Take all the armies and return to Greensoar immediately! Expel the Malhambrians from our nation! I will take Rizele myself, find out what I need to know, and return to Occlo with enough power to beat them back."

"Yes, my liege," said the messenger, and immediately mounted his horse, speeding to the army.

It was nearing dark, and Gunther had just settled down when Balron stomped over. "Gunther! Iris! We're leaving!"

Iris had barely wiped away her tears before Balron approached and ripped the top of the makeshift tent. "A change of plans!" he grated, his jaw clenched. "We head for Rizele... immediately!"

Gunther stumbled around, getting everything ready, while Balron gently but firmly brought a confused Iris to the carriage.

"Holy Malhambria has betrayed us," he said quietly. "But my mission is of the greatest importance. Rizele is close. We will drive forward... Magicnia has no army left."

<<--->>

It was midnight when they arrived.

"Yes," said the head of the college calmly, "I imagine you could destroy the city by yourself."

"Then tell me what I need to know," grated Balron. Gunther and Iris waited outside the door; both of them were exhausted, but the dark king seemed full of livid energy.

The old man, now blind, shook his head slowly. "Have you looked at the stars recently?" he asked, conversationally.

Balron breathed deeply. "I'm sorry, normally I am quite civil, but I really do NOT have time for this! Tell me how to activate the Tower to the Heavens!"

Despite his blindness, the old man looked into Balron's eyes. "Young man," he said quietly, "I will activate the Tower to the Heavens if you wish. If your mission is not an important one, you will die instantly upon reaching the land of the Gods."

"Consciousness," breathed Balron quietly, in a worshipful manner.

The old man looked interested. "Consciousness? I've never heard the home of the Gods called that. Is that of any relation to the aether theories?"

Balron nearly laughed. For all their work, these old fools only needed to read the books of Karnon, the only journals of the Ancient Ones that remained, to discover the truth. But he had no time to teach them all about how magic REALLY worked.

"No," said Balron simply. "Now bring me to the Gods."

The old man glanced downward. "Are you prepared to face their stares?" he asked gently. "Will you be torn to pieces as they view your innermost soul? If you have any regrets, make them known and rectify them. Otherwise, if the Gods find out unworthy, you will be blasted into oblivion."

Balron opened his mouth angrily, and then...

...the memories overwhelmed him...

<<--->>

"We made it," breathed Nammil.

"The Staff of Karnon," said Gideon, grinning. "And the journals we found! These books are priceless treasures of magical lore that will speed the process of humanity by millenia!" Then he smirked. "Not to mention all the pretty jewels."

Saying nothing, Nammil walked straight to the largest book. It was titled, "Consciousness." He removed it from its pedestal...

...and the room began to shake.

"Damn!" hissed Gideon. "Let's grab the shit and run!"

Nodding frantically, Nammil dashed to scoop up some jewels and some extra books. He wanted to get all the journals, but he couldn't carry them all. Then he felt the world spin, and the earth cracked, and he turned.

There, at the newly created crevice, Gideon dangled.

"Nammil," he roared, "save me, please!"

Nammil lunged forward...

...and saw, on the opposite side, the Staff of Karnon rolling towards the hole.

Everything seemed to go in slow motion.

"Nammil!" screamed Gideon.

The staff rolled.

Slowly, slowly...

...slowly Nammil jumped...

...for the staff.

"NAMMIL!"

Gripping the staff, Nammil turned.

Gideon was gone.

<<--->>

And now the staff was gone. And nothing was left for the power-hungry Balron.

Balron glanced at the old man.

"...yes," he whispered. "I have some... unfinished business before the eyes of the Gods."

"We all do," the old man said softly. "We always will."

"No," said Balron, shaking his head. "This is different. I'll be back soon."

He walked out the door, leaving the blind old man behind. Balron closed the door behind him and turned to Gunther and Iris, his expression subdued.

"Gunther, my Lady," he addressed his two companions. "Both of you will wait here. I need to make a short journey, and will hopefully return in a day." He turned to Iris, and his expression softened. "My Lady De'Lavoney," he said gently. "you will be in my thoughts..."

He turned, his dark cape whipping about him. "I go."

<<--->>

Gunther bowed low as he ushered Iris into her room. It was the best room in the inn, and was seperated into two junctures, for slight privacy for the Queen-to-be. "Y-Your highness," the private said nervously, "I hope you will be comfortable. I will guard you with my life."

The handsome young soldier then seated himself by the door, his sword in his lap. "Your bath is ready," he said quietly. "The area is draped, so please fear nothing. I am your faithful servant."

The unspoken addition: unless you try and leave.

<<--->>

Balron landed softly. He hadn't flown in a while.

The Citadel of Karnon, surrounded by rocky desert, stood before him.

The dark king smiled grimly.

"Remember me...?"

 

[Roughneck]

Silas sat in his chambers, staring weary eyed at the map on the wall.. How long had it been since Bristol left, nearly five days? He had hoped to receive some word from him, something that would indicated their progress.

The last few days had been tiring for Silas, reports of Margaritta forces pouring into Ocello did not sit well with him, added to that was the slow response form the messages he had sent out. The nobles of the land had began to arrive to Puritian a few days back, but there seemed to be many who would not come. He had delayed any meeting till all were gathered, but the message from the city of Tyvola deemed he wait no longer. he sat in his chambers now, gathering his thoughts, waiting for the arrival of Duke Bethany, from the city of Easton.

Silas stood up, stretching his arms, looking about the room somewhat confused. How did things come to this, what ever happened to the care free days of old. Just then a knock came to his door.

" Enter" said Silas, again fussing over the map against the wall.

" Lord Pantheras, the Duke from Easton has arrived"

" Good, have you directed the others into the meeting hall?"

" Yes my Lord, all are waiting on you."

Silas turned from the map, giving the young guard a tired smile.

" Well then, I must not keep them waiting, least they think I'm rude and decide to leave."

Silas leaned over his desk, grabbing a folded note, then proceeded out of his chambers towards the meeting hall

 

[Roughneck]

Duke Bethany made his way down the long corridor towards the meeting hall, his composure was stern, his eyes held a fridged stare. He did not approve of the idea of holding a council of war, his feeling for Lord Pantheras was even far less.

" This is utter madness, no nobleman in his right mind will heed to this call." thought the Duke as he neared the door to the meeting hall. He was quite sure that most of the nobles in the land would ignore or at the very least delay any response to Pantheras. He too would have done the same thing, but decided against it. He would show his respect to Lord Pantheras and come to this meeting. Pantheras was a powerful allie and the trade between the two city's was great. To do anything foolish to jeopardize such things would do more harm then good. Besides, he could use this to his advantage. If Pantheras came across as a war mongering mad man, he could then press his families rights to the city of Puritan. A wicked smile formed on the Dukes faced as the doors to the meeting hall were opened.

As the Duke entered, he quickly scanned the room. A few dozen men were seated, very few the Duke recognized. It seemed that only the country Nobles; as he often referred to the lower class nobles, had bothered to come. Though two men on the far side of the room caught his eye, they were dressed in a somewhat barbarian fashion, could they be from the North Land Kingdoms? The Duke was now a bit intrigued, he hadn't figured on Pantheras including them.

A sly grin crossed his face as he eyed another person in the room, quickly he made his way across the room, sitting next to the nobleman.

" I'm quite surprised to see you her Finnegan, I didn't see any flea bitten mule outside." said Duke Bethany, in a cold and caulis tone.

" The same can be said for me, I would have figured your desires for parties and endless pleasures would have been more important then something such as this.", snapped Finnegan, his face twitching.

" Now Now, no need to be angry at the state of my being, I can't help your family rules a backwater mountain town.Your wishes and desires to have a city like Easton, is well beyond your reach. Besides, you're little better then peasants, why Pantheras would call on you is beyond my understanding."

Finnegan quickly turned to Duke Bethany, his face red with Anger.

" Now you see here, Ridgeland is not a backwater town, its a beautiful city. Further more, if it wasn't for Ridgeland's quarry's, Easton would be a city of mud huts, rather then of stone."

The Duke rolled his eyes, ignoring Finnegan's remarks.

" Unlike you Duke, my people respect me. Because my family refuses to tax and burden it's people does not make me less noble. Unlike you, we don't believe its a noblemen's right to take from the weak, it's our duty to protect them!"

Finnegan paused a moment, " Guess you wouldn't know any better, seeing how your family is nothing more then well dressed bandits"

The Duke held his composure, but inside he was burning with anger. Finnegan's words stung deep, the pompous pride he held just moments earlier, now lay tarnished.

" You best bite your tongue Finnegan, or I will spill your guts onto this floor!"

Before Finnegan could respond, Silas entered the room. "Gentlemen, sorry to keep you waiting."

Silas gazed over the room, looking at the few dozen men who had answered his calling. Silas knew most would not show, but was encouraged with those who had, mainly the Duke from Easton.

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

Balron swept quietly through the Citadel. He was heading to the crevice. And once he went there... he knew he might never return.

Then he stopped, his eyes wide.

...noise? Have subhumans returned? He narrowed his eyes. I pray the minotaurs have not resettled the area...

Silently, he cast out a spell of aura detection. No... these patterns are Human in nature. Who could they be? Bandits?

They were near the entrance to the Citadel, and apparently had not yet ventured forth into some of the more dangerous caves. Fortunately, Balron remembered exactly where he needed to go -- he had no time for nostalgic exploring. Even so, he was uncertain how to deal with the intruders...

...until he opened the door and walked in.

The large, domed foyer was filled with men, a hundred or so. Every single one looked up in surprise to see Balron's cold, curious stare.

And then one, a well-dressed man with a look of intense surprise on his face, stepped forward.

"U... Uncle...?"

Well, well. I'm impressed they were able to follow me here. Good work... 'nephews'.

Balron cocked his head and showed a small smile. "Camlaan... what a pleasure to see you. I didn't think my travels here would meet any resistance. Are you a welcoming commitee, perhaps?"

Camlaan blinked, and then grinned. "Ah! This is why my brother sent me here! Not for artifacts... but for vengeance! He knows I shall triumph!" He then spun back to Balron, and his eyes glinted with cold fury.

"I am Prince Camlaan, son of Bardic. You killed my brother. Prepare to die."

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

The elf's comments struck no chord with him, she did not say anything he did not already know; but her ignorance of the value and importance of Malhambrian masks almost sparked annoyance, almost.

"Your glances betray you madam, that one in the lead there is the second, and my the potential of that soul. I'm surprised I didn't see it before. I am the Marquis Gui LuRoe. Second Seat of the Sacred Council of Holy Malhambria and protector of Margaritta. The titles are strictly ceremony though, do call me LuRoe."

He took another look around, from what he could tell he might not even be that far from Puritian, meaning he had only been in the astral for a fraction of a second before LuQua's deathcry knocked him out.

"I had been sent to find the True King of Ocllo and raise him to the throne, the Princes were unfit. Camlaan was too ignorant and petty, and Gillian...something about him. Balron's means could have been construed as 'evil' by you maskless but he had the makings of a True King. I felt others outside of a small village called Attla. You three I believe, one amongst you is fit as well though lacking noble blood. But then the masked have always put more stock in worth than in blood."

He looked at the ground momentarily before looking the elf in the eye, "There is something wrong though, three of my friends are dead and I can hear the steps of tens of thousands of masked warriors plunging into Ocllo and Magincia. It is my hope that the proper course can be maintained."

He glanced at a star visible in the daytime sky, a nebulous sphere of many colors falling to the earth, LuRoe didn't know why but he was frightened.

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

Things were looking bad for Malhambria's new enemies. The 1-4th Companies of the White Masks and the Rough Riders of Mahnse were laying seige to Greensoar. The Grey Masks that had destroyed Ironbreak now blasted away at the Worthington Heights, hoping to bury Prince Camlaan and his men. Meldama's knightly order; the Sanguine Knights had taken over several small border villages in provincial Magincia and were supplying the 7th and 8th Grey Mask companies that were marching to the Magincian capitol. The Lord of Puritian would soon be informed that his meeting was going to be interrupted in two days by 9th Gray Masks and Margaritta's Sacred Band Knights.

The Pontifex himself sent astral projections to the various capitols, castles, and state houses delivering his doomsday message.

"Do not surrender for my warriors will take no prisoners, I the holy Pontifex LuBasque have grown sick with your grandstanding hubris, your refusal to admit imperfection and hide your faces like decent, clean people. I have called our lord and master, Savout to clean the Earth. I will prepare for his coming with a sacrifice, your cities will be burnt. Giant altars to the glory of He who is Perfect, the Worthy Unmasked, King of Kings, and Usurper of Godly Might, Savout LuJengan!

 

[Emotionless]

"You lads continue to search around. Im heading back to report," Dolson said to the small scouting party. "If you find anything interesting, send a runner. If not I'll meet up with you again later." The men nodded and Dolson rode off to meet the main force. In truth he really didn't have much to report, just a couple of markings on a rock and a river valley that looked promising. He was more interested in seeing if the masked man was awake and talking.

It wasn't long before he reached the van of the main force. He nodded to the soldiers as he passed, and was glad that no one scoweled back. He still wasn't used to such courtesy.

He saw Bristol before long and he reigned in his hourse to match his friend's stride.

"Find anything?" Bristol asked. He was looking much better, not near as pale.

"A possibilty. There were some strange markings on top of a clif. Looked almost like runes. I have some scouts searching that area for anything else they may turn up. And below that was a forested river vally that looks like it may be the kind of place a wizard may take up shop. Much more hospitable then this barren rock."

"Did you have a look around the valley?" Bristol asked. Dolson shook his head. "No, its a pretty trecherous path down and I didn't want to risk it with such a small group. I thought we'd wait for the main group to catch up and try the path on foot."

He looked back over his sholder and saw the masked man was looking at him. "Oh, he's awake." he looked to Bristol. "Learn anything interesting?"

 

[SecretDesires]

The look that Trianna gave LuRoe told him she was not impressed though there was feeling for his loss of his companions.

"You masked ones play other races in order to arrange things as you would see fit. You use all the talents your gods give you to steer destiny as you see it should be. Destiny is not a child to be played with and, if things have gone wrong, than it is of your own making."

Her back stiff and her head high she turned to look at Bristol. "His destiny is to raise and be the head of an ancient army of knights. Dolson's is to be at his side."

She shrugged her shoulders and added. "As for my own destiny it is just that. My own. I will follow it as I see fit and will not let man nor elf disuade me from it. I follow a path that is not of my forefathers which vexes my father to no end. And yet I am compelled to go down that road. My goddess has given me sign after sign that this is the road to travel and I do not question her wisdom for it is that of the ages of elves."

She gave the masked man a sharp look. "What will you do with the knowledge you have just gained from a mere elf?" She asked letting him know she knew what he and those of his race thought of anyone outside of it. "Would you now calculate how you can move them away from their destiny to complete one you feel is better? At least when my people look down on others we keep to ourselves and do not try to change them for we know better. You will challenge the gods once to many one day, Masked One, and the payment will be severe. I advise you to leave them be and let them do what they must. Who is king is for the humans to decide amongst themselves. We have no part in their destiny but what small part we are given now."

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

And they rushed.

Balron smiled and drew his blade. "Pathetic fools," he hissed. "Demon Slash!"

His sword glowing red, the dark king swung his weapon in an arc, casting runic patterns across the air. The ground trembled, and a purple haze arose, creating images of strange geometric shapes of four dimensions or more.

"Worthless!" he snapped, and drove his sword into the ground. An explosion of dark light--

--and fifteen men fell, stricken.

They were not rushing quite so fast, then.

Balron could feel the Fighter's Trance; the staple of any warrior. He felt his adrenaline pulse, and it combined with his aura to create a hazy mist in his mind. Gripping at that mist, he fused it into his blade and formed another Desperate attack.

"Die! Soul Reaver!"

His battle cries were short and clipped, raising a surprising amount of Ki for such a weak Kiai. He thrust out his palm, and a burst of dark light was ushered forth, flanked by the cackling of malicious spirits desiring to drink from Consciousness once again. And they did -- the necromantic energy engulfed Balron's opponents, dropping eleven or twelve more.

Balron recalled the mage he had stabbed on his way to Greensoar, and nearly laughed. They must be surprised at his short chants.

Even so, his attacks would never reach the power of the Gideon Slash...

Gideon...

Fine then! Magic!

"Out of my way, scum!" Balron roared, and flames ignited in his palm. "Energy of nature, channel your force! Flamecast!" he chanted, and then swept out his arms in a semi circle, trailing fire in their wake...

...and then the flames rushed outward in a fiery orb, engulfing the rest of the foolish soldiers who had tried to blitz him. Nearly twenty died in that moment, charred to the bone.

The remaining sixty or so soldiers were crowded around him, leaving him a twenty foot radius free. Their collective thoughts were obvious: One man? Killing fourty men? In fifteen seconds?

Camlaan snarled and pushed his way to the front. "Balron, enough! I challenge you to a duel!"

"I don't suppose I'll get free passage when I win," murmured Balron, his eyebrow lifted drolly.

Camlaan slammed his sword into the ground, cracking stone.

"You WON'T win, murderer."

Balron almost felt a moment of sympathy -- remembering how he had acted when LuRoe had approached him... he had made a comment about mothers. Perhaps he should exercise his sensitive side...

Yet Camlaan was a fool, and unworthy. There was no going back.

Balron twirled his sword and slid back into his stance.

"Prove it."

 

[IDreamofBunnies]

LuRoe did not begrudge the elf her tantrum, elves were used to bossing humans around as were dwarves. Both of the races had given many of the primitive human tribes and clans gifts of magic and metalworking. But Malhamb and his get politely refused, stating that looking upon the gifts was enough, knowing that they existed.

"What is percieved can be achieved, Me and mine, we shall learn on our own. Our thanks for your genorosity."

And for decades the Children of Malhamb struggled, while they experimented with bronze their neighbors wages war with Dwarf-Steel. While Malhamb's magic produced only parlor tricks while the Magincians could turn water to fire and summon beasts. But every accomplishment had been theirs, never accepting handouts from anyone. And now? Holy Malhambria was the peak of human achievment. Ten Points would put the Dwarves to shame with its invulnerability and the Elves with its sheer grace. They had earned their place tooth and nail, even the most noble Masked family can recall an ancestor who felt a lash at his back and chains around his ankles when their "neighbors" used their gifts to enslave them.

It was for this reason they pitied the orcs, for unlike them the orcs had never even been offered the gifts for some reason unknown, the elves said nothing and the dwarves merely stated that "the only good orc was a dead one". The pitiable greenskins lacked intelligence and would have been eventually wiped out if not for the kind heart of Malhamb. Malhamb wished for a day when the orcs could be a proud and civilized people and taught them much of the ways of peace and commerce, offering them succor and legitimacy. Who knows that if not for the interference of the Greyrock Clan of Dwarves, the orcs might be tending to their crops or tending their books in an orc-city rather than pillaging and looting.

No, LuRoe did not begrudge the elf her tantrum but he begrudged their wastefulness. The gods saw fit to give them power beyond the ken of mortal man and they squandered it so. Their emphasis on absolute freedom of the individual destiny was sickening. A man might make use of his destiny to kill a hundred men, what of their destinies? No Malhambria's way was the right way. Direct the course of the world to a road of progress and minimal violence. This is why Malhambrians worked so hard in their chosen fields. They could control markets and conquer nations, influence kings and win the support of the peasantry.

The commoners of Holy Malhambria were not left out of these machinations, they elected amongst their nobles who would be their Marquis and represent them at Ten Points.

What he sensed now, the terrible wrongness that came from his homeland...It did not feel like the work of Holy Malhambria. It felt like one man who was out of control, one man who would use his own destiny to deny others of their own. This madness would be a great setback in Malhambria's efforts to usher in the Golden Age of Peace but the Pax Malhambria could wait. It would have to. Stop the threat at hand, rebuild, and resume.

"Bristol. His name is Bristol. I was riding to Puritian when I heard the men call his name. The lord of that city told me that he would put his faith in a myth. These Knights you speak of could quell the conflict on this side. If I could only return to Ten Points on the astral I could work to stop it on the other side. Make no mistake elfling woman, my only wish is that peace reign supreme and that a worthy king occupies the throne of Ocllo. Their people can know great happiness after this black time with the right man or woman on the throne, one who rules justly and acts as a proper servant of the people."

He looked ahead for a moment, "There is something else at work though, a dark puppeter with many strings to pull. There is one about Balron the Dark and another in sacred Ten Points and two more, but I cannot say where they may lie. But soon these strings will form a black web that will choke our world."

 

[SecretDesires]

Trianna said nothing for long moments after the Masked Man had spoken. She chewed on his words and tossed them about in her mind. If what he said was so than the elves along with all other nations were in trouble and it was time that they stepped away from their neutrality. But would they be convinced.

"Than Balron is no longer the threat to the humans and this very world?" She said at last. "And what of the others? You speak as if they hold more power than Balron did and he was able to call up the ancients." The ancients were what elves called dragons and they were a force that not even an elf with their knowledge and understanding of magic would dare call upon. The fact that Balron had done so was an indication of his power. If there were others with even more power...

Facing LuRoe she said,"If this is so than I shall help you get to the astral plain again. There is no love lost between our people, Malhambrian, but one thing is known by elves of your kind. Your word is binding as is our own. I am a student of a druid who has taught me how to open plains into other realms for the purpose of travel. My healing wares will make your body well enough to endure so that you may complete your task at hand. I do not wish this world destroyed any more than you and if it means we shall have to put aside our differences and work together than so be it."

Looking at Bristol she sighed deeply. "I have already gone against almost every elven dictate there is...this shall simply be one more instance of defying the councel for what I believe is the greater good."

Her sharp gaze swung toward LuRoe again. "But if there is decete from you than I shall also be the one to bring about it's end even at the cost of my own life. I will not be the cause of more suffering and I will not see Bristol...or any other...harmed because of my bad judgements."

 

[Jacobo_Curious]

"Light of vengeance, come to my aid and infuse my blade! Crush Punch!" Snarling, Camlaan rushed forward, sparkling with the Fighter's Trance...

Balron smiled mildly as he slashed with his sword, blocking the attack with a burst of energy and countering with an elbow shove that sent the already-surprised prince reeling back.

Camlaan's jaw dropped. How...?

"I don't have time for you, Camlaan," said Balron quietly. Lunging forward, he slashed with amazing speed, cutting and slicing. Camlaan, completely astonished, attempted to block but was disarmed within seconds.

"You underestimated me," murmured Balron... before stabbing Camlaan in the stomach.

The sword pierced through front and back. Quietly, Balron removed his sword, and watched his supposed nephew double over in extreme pain. The prince slumped to the ground, wheezing. Blood leaked out of his abdominal area, and his eyes began to glaze. Shuddering, he shook his head, and slumped lower.

"Uncle..." hissed Camlaan, gasping for breath. "How did you become... such a swordsman..."

Balron walked past him. The soldiers, nervous, made way for him, and let him pass.

"We all have our secrets," said Balron quietly.

Then, slowly, he turned.

"Pathetic fools!" he snapped. He began to glow with power, and hatred was in his eyes. "Demon Slash!"

The soldiers began to back away, fearful, as the purple haze returned.

"WORTHLESS!"

Balron felt the energy discharge, weakening him, and he turned, not bothering to see the final conclusion. He had no time for this foolishness.

Gideon... I'm coming for you...

Behind him, only twenty soldiers remained standing.

No... twenty-one.

Camlaan struggled to his feet.

"You can't kill me, Balron," snarled the severely wounded prince, as the few remaining soldiers slowly got to their feet, checking to see if they really were alive or if they were dreaming, and clearing the blinding purple light from their bespotted eyes.

"Let's get out of here," Camlaan wheezed. "We have to get medical treatment for our soldiers..."

He slumped again. "...and me..."

Damn, Balron! You can't be my uncle! My uncle was never that powerful...

<<--->>

The dark king stood at the crevice.

"Gideon..."

He raised his hands.

"Gideon, return to me!"

 

[Roughneck]

" Gentlemen, it seems the time has come that we must stand up and unite, our time of neutrality has come to an end"

The group of men mumbled at Silas's opening statement. Silas paused a moment, again looking over the group of noblemen.

" I know you all must wonder why I would call a council of war, and for those of you that have answered my call, I thank thee. I have come upon grave news, information which I deem very creditable."

Slias paced the floor for a few moments, collecting his thoughts.

" Five days ago I received word that the city of Tyvola had fallen to the Princes army's"

" We have heard that as well, and that is no concern to us !" yelled one of the nobles in the back of the room.

" Is that so Lord Courtney? Does not your city of Penns lay on the Sagmaton river? Further more, does not that same river run near Tyvola?"

Lord Courtney stood up " Yes it does, but I have signed a non aggression pact with the princes, as have the rest of the nobles in this room, so I care not what the princes do. Had the Lord of Tyvola done the same he might still be living!"

Silas laughed softly, " Will Margaritta honor your deal with the Princes, now that they control the city?"

A look of shock came across Lord Courtney's face, as he slowly sat down.

" Yes that is right Lord Courtney, Margaritta now controls the city, or should I say whats left of it. The truth is gentlemen, the city's people and its army's are destroyed, slaughtered by Margaritta's army's."

" I have heard no such thing Lord Pantheras, what proof do you have of such things?" Said Duke Bethany.

" Proof. . . the proof I have sits before you."

Silas turned to a man sitting up front, gesturing to him . The man stood up, removing his cloak, revealing the uniform of a Tyvola officer.

" Gentlemen, let me introduce you to Sir. Roger, Commander of the Tyvola Knights, a general in the once army's of Tvyola. Please Sir Roger, tell them what you told me, relay to them the horrors you saw."

" I. . I don't know where to begging Lord Pantheras."

Silas gently placed his hand on the young mans shoulder, " Start from the begining."

Well. I. .I am Sir Dean Roger, Knight and commander of the Knights of Tyvola, General of the third division, of the once great city of Tyvola. Eight days ago the Princes took control of the city, killing the lord and assuming control of it's army's. Most of the officers did nothing, instead they pledged loyalty to the Princes"

" And you didn't?" shouted a voice.

" No I didn't !" snapped Sir Roger, a bit of anger showing in his voice.

" It is a duty of a knight to serve the Lord of the land, no matter who they are. Unlike my fellow officers and knights, I saw the murder of the Lord of the city as a crime to the people, therefor I would not pledge my loyalty to them. I instead moved the Tyvola Knights out of the city, setting camp on the banks of the Sagmaton river."

" You broke your oath as a Knight, you have no honor before my eyes to speak." snapped one of the noblemen.

" Be silent Daniels! His honor was with the Lord of the city, murder is murder, and no Knight would serve a murderer." said Duke Bethany, the room in shock at the lashing and support for the Knight.

" Please finish Sir Roger"

The man gave a thankful nod and continued, " We lay in camp for two days on the bank of the river, watching the activity of the city. Then on the third day, we saw the banners of Margaritta, their army was great, and quickly lay siege to the city.

Sir Roger hung his head, fighting back the tears and emotions that welled up inside him

" The city. . .the city. . fell in less then a day. Thirteen thousand soldiers slaughter, five times that in citizens. We. . we. . we tried, we tried to do a holding action, tried to save those who made it out of the city, but. . they were to strong. We. . I. . . . . .

Sir Roger began to sob, the grief and pain were to much for him to bear. Silas placed an arm around the Knight, comforting him as best he could.

" Barley three thousand made it here gentlemen, thats all that remains of the army's of Tyvola. The fate that Tyvola suffered now bares its sights on Puritian, and unless we act, the same fate will befall us.

Silas pulled out the folded note and held it high for all to see.

" This letter details the destruction of the western city's."

Silas read the letter, and when he was done a grave silence covered the room.

" You see gentlemen, in two days we will have no choice but to fight, but to fight alone will only seal our destruction."

Silas drew his sword, the emotion running through his body.

" Who will stand and fight with me! "

Finnegan stood up drawing his sword, " I and the army's of Ridgeland will stand with you Lord Pantheras!"

" Aye, so will the army's of Penns!" shouted Lord Courtney

One by one each noble rose, drawing his sword, pledging his allegiance, all but one. Duke Bethany remained seated, all eyes focusing on him. Slowly he rose, very calmly looking at everyone.

" There seems to be no turning back, may the Gods show mercy upon us." said Duke Bethany, drawing his sword.

" The army's of Easton shall stand with you Lord Pantheras"

With that the whole room erupted in cheers and shouts.