You see a little boy. He walks into a cave with food. He walks over to a dragon that is slumped on the ground. The boy hands meat over to the dragon to feed it.
"You shouldn't be here boy. You know what'll happen if they find me" The dragon says humbly as it slowly eats the meat while clearly in pain.
"I dont care. You're my friend. I help my friend." The boy says while hugging the dragon.
The boy moves his hand over a large wooden spike that is impaled into the dragons side. The boy continues to clean the blood and try to cover the wound.
"That wont help. Dragons die slowly, I have a few months but my fate is sealed."
"I wont give up. I wont" The boy continues cleaning the wound.
5 men walk into the cave, all armed with spears and wearing cavemen clothing.
"Get away boy! NOW!" The front man says with a spear raised in the air.
The boy gets in front of the dragon with his hands spread. "No! You dont have to hurt him! He protected me!"
"Barlon, talk sense to your boy. Now!" The front man with the spear screams with it raised.
Another man in elegant clothing walks over to the boy and hugs him.
"Dad he is not bad! Please! He doesn't deserve to die! He helped mom remember?"
"I know son...but we need to go. Im sorry." The father drags the son away regretfully. (edited)
The front man gives the others a look and he whistles. The other men with spears stab Barlon through the chest and throw him on the ground.
"I'm tired of you and your weak boy Barlon. If anyone asks, the Dragon killed both of you. Dont worry though, we'll avenge you." The front man begins stabbing the dragon over and over in the neck.
The dragon cries in agony but does not take its eyes off the boy. The boy begins getting beaten down on the ground while crying. The boy tries to run to the dragon but is stabbed through both his legs.
The dragon screams in anger and agony. The dragon, making his decision, has all his skin disappear. A final voice speaking into the wind "Live for me boy.
"Use this strength for good. More than I ever did."
The entire room is blown with flames as everyone is disintegrated. The boy stands in the room alone, legs healed and crying in anger. He stands with a yellow gem stone shining from his inner chest.
"Father!?! Daxianoius!?! Anyone!?!?" The boy looks around, and yells in anger.
Before long...The boy roars...louder than any Dragon heard by man.
This boy would come to be known as...Galloran.
Galloran's eyes open, his body tense, and a strange warm feeling on his forehead, as he gets up to look around. Nothing but the wind, ashes, and the silently standing people stand at the village next to him. His memories come back to him, he defeated The Army of the Magical Revolution and The Army of Faith. He expected to die along with the war. He wanted to, his wife Natalia, the women who he knew since childhood. The girl who cared for him after his father died along along with the Dragon he loved. He remembers it all too well.
After Galloran roared for the first time, he had no idea what to do. His father, his only family, was dead along with these hunters from his village. At the age 10 he had no idea what to do, he simply knew that his chest felt hot as a the Orange Dragon Stone kept shining with its power. Galloran sneaked back into the village, wanting to get back to his house and grab food, and then go on the run. He did not think he would last long but he had no choice. Galloran walked into his home and looked for food to stuff into his bag. As he kept searching, he saw a picture he drew when he was younger. A picture of him, his mother, and his father, all outside on a sheet with food. He remembered that day, the day he had a picnic. The day that the Draxonius flew through the sky and stopped my mother from being struck by lightning. I'll never know how Draxonius knew it was coming, but he did. And he saved her. Not that it mattered, she died of sickness a year later. Galloran's father always blamed the dragon for this but Galloran knew better. All these images flooded through his mind as the stone grew unstable. Before long Galloran's house caught on fire, he stammered out of the smoke and onto the floor outside his house. The villagers hadn't noticed him yet as they surrounded the house in ager and confusion. Galloran knew if they caught him here he was as good as dead.
He laid on the ground scared and ready to die when he heard those words...words
that he would never forget.
"Well hi stranger...Let me help you" It was Natalia, a girl he never met before, extending her hand out to help him up. She hid him with her family. He married her and loved her. These events play in his mind as he witnesses a woman with a royal caravan approach him. She steps out and says the words he'll never forget. Words that in some ways made him realize he wanted to enjoy his second life. Wherever it came from.
"Well hi stranger...Let me help you" Spoken by a woman I would come to know as Katharyn.
The woman I married at the end of this Holy War...that I stopped at the cost of my first short life.
You see Galloran standing in a small village, huts with holes, trees across barns. Kids coughing, Galloran going to heal them.
Old women crying and suffering, Galloran comforting them, l “it wasn’t for nothing. Your childrens’ deaths meant something to the war.”
He was standing in the middle of the town, standing next to a woman, pale skin with long blonde hair, clear purple eyes. She’s dressed super elegantly, of royalty.
Townspeople asked “please you have to accept your offer.”
“I understand what you’re asking, but I am no leader. ” Villagers wanted him to lead, as he fought wave upon wave of others, and Galloran protected them! Asked him to be their mayor. “I really don’t see myself doing this. I’m not a leader, I don’t want it. I just want to be a simple man,” Galloran says.
Some kids approach, “But we don’t want you to leave. Thanks to you, our friends are feeling better and my mother doesn’t cry every night.”
Galloran shakes his head. The women stands next to him. The blonde princess.
"You're quite the crowd" She says happily.
"I dont want it" Galloran says.
"Doesn't matter. They need you...Accept their offer and I'll help you. We can lead it together. I've grown tired of a castle...a village seems nice." She says.
"I dont even know who you are"
"I am Princess Katharyn, of the Tamberoon Kingdom. Rule this village with me...Let me help you. I think its your turn to accept it." Katharyn says.
Galloran nods. "I will lead under one condition. We maintain democracy for leadership in the future. And I want this to be a proper village. As mayor of this village, I declare we name it Felrook."
"You're quite charming when you show that you care" Katharyn whispers in his ear, already falling in love.
Galloran is teaching students in class about the mysteries of Edomic. Explaining that its a natural energy in this world produced by love and happiness. Humans were never able to harness it until the God of Magic wanted to give humanity a gift. He showed us that we could use magic by speaking through his sacred language. This language would be known as Edomic. Only few humans have the capability. If you attempt to use Edomic, and you feel pain...stop immediately. If you do not then you may very well die.
As Galloran is teaching the class, there is a huge lightning strike outside the class.
Galloran runs outside and listens to the screams of agony by fellow villagers who just watched a woman be struck by lightning and die instantly. Galloran rushes to the woman, and a grieving mother begs him to save her.
Galloran summons all his power but declares that the woman is already dead and there is nothing he can do. As the villagers grieve. A man in a large hooded robe appears and puts his hand over the dead woman. All her burnt skin heals and she comes back to life.
"Death isn't the end. I thought the Prodigal Savior of the Holy War would know that. Are you really Galloran?"
"I am indeed. Just like how you're Zyra. The reason I had to kill hundreds of Wizards that were hurting innocent people. Think saving this woman changes that?"
Zyra- "Not at all. I am not a man trying to right his wrongs...I am a man who wants an apprentice. And who better than the one who is playing Mayor to a small village when you have talent then even myself."
Galloran: "Not interested"
Zyra: "Not even if I could teach you how to stop death? To live an infinite life with Katharyn"
Galloran: Looks at him with curiosity in his eyes.
Vision 5
Galloran is in elegant clothing as music blares all around him. He stands before a man in holy clothing along with a book. There lays a red carpet. A blonde woman, Katharyn, walks down the aisle. Multiple people sat in wooden chairs in happiness and silence. Katharyn walked to the aisle and stood in front of Galloran. She made vows as to how she loved him.
"I will love you until the end of time Katharyn. And thanks to Zyra, that will never end between us."
Zyra stands and cheers for them. They kiss and everyone cheers as they are now married.
Galloran whispers in Katharyn's ear "We'll make a good world for our daughter. I'm so happy my love."
"I want to see a world in your image dear. You complete me." Katharyn says and kisses Galloran.
Galloran is swarmed by people telling him how thankful they are for all the people he has healed and making Felrook prosper so much.
Katharyn walks away and sits next to her father who is in royal clothing with a crown.
"Was this wedding glamorous enough for you father? The King of Tamberoon is a hard man to please I imagine" Chucking to herself.
"It was beautiful. For my beautiful daughter". He leans in and whispers "Is it done? The poison is ready to place into the drink? Fealty says it must be done tonight. Or the world may very burst into flames my dear."
"Yes its done. I have it on me. I will give him a pleasurable night and then slip it. He will die happily."
"Good. I know it must be difficult Katharyn but our family faith is clear. Fealty is all. We must save the world."
Both their heads explode. Salina hovers above them. Eyes glowing red. Everyone scrambles and stares at their headless necks having no idea the Creator of their World floats above...Seething with Rage and Desire as she stares at Galloran who cries over his Newly Wed Wifes Body.
Galloran sits with a shirt off and raggy pants and an untrimmed beard. He sits in what appears to be a small cave on which he seats upon a flat rock perfect for sitting. Galloran just sits there, looking at a letter written signed by Katharyn.
The letter states: "I love you truly my dear. I will be coming home soon when buisness is over. I wanted to tell you in person...but I am pregnant! I feel that it is a girl. I am blessed with happiness. I'd want no other man to be the father but you. I will be home soon my love." Signed by Katharyn Tancer, Princess to the Tamberoon Kingdom.
30 men, all wearing fur clothing and armed with battle axes and swords enter the cave and stand about 20 feet from him.
"I do not desire to kill anyone. Please turn and leave. I promise I'll die on my own soon if revenge is what you seek."
The men chuckle and separate a bit for one person to emerge forward. A skinny man with elegant robes and a yellow colored book in his hand and a wooden staff in the other.
"The legends I have heard about you. The man who ended the Holy War. And then disappeared for...we're going on 100 years now? I thought you'd look scarier Grand Wizard Galloran."
Galloran just starts tossing a pebble up into the air and catches it with the same hand.
"I remember you. Enterial. When the Wizard Academy disbanded, you were developing medicine. Why have you come to my death bed?"
"Well thats easy. I want your power. I've heard the stories. The only wizard to survive a Dragon Stone Transmutation in centuries. With your power, I can finally get work done."
"I will give you my power if you can answer one question. What is the most important thing in life?"
Enterial smirks and pushes his glasses back and calls out "Well thats easy! Thats Edomic! Without it, men like you and I couldn't ascend to be Gods!"
Galloran tossed the pebble up one last time, moved his lips, and every single man, including Enterial dropped dead as their heads were impaled by a flying pebble.
Zyra walked in whistling.
"You killed them faster than I thought you would. I figured you'd have let them stab you a few times to realize you can't die first. Now THAT would have been funny." Zyra chuckles to himself.
Salina appears sitting in a celestial chair behind Galloran.
"She's still there?" Zyra says in disbelief.
Galloran instinctively turns around and shoots large waves of lighting at Salina. She screams frantically as her skin boils. Galloran eventually runs out of energy and is out of breath.
"She's been here 100 years. And yet I still can't kill her".
Galloran stands above Salina, all of her skinned burned to a black crisp
"YOU TOOK HER FROM ME! YOU HAD NO RIGHT! SO HELP ME I WILL FIND A WAY TO KILL YOU! YOU KILLED....you killed my baby daughter...my hope..." Galloran is out of breath and slowly crumbles to the ground clutching his chest, emotional and exhausted at the thought of his daughter.
Behind Galloran, floating above him, was a being with elegant clothing, a trimmed beard and blonde long and cared for hair. Holding a trident in his hand glowing with golden and luminescent energy.
Salina puts her hand out and speaks for the first time in a century of being in this cave with Galloran. "Dont...hurt...him..." Salina says between gasped breaths as she is still healing from Galloran's attacks.
Zyra reacts by throwing his stick into the air along with screaming edomic phrases. His staff glows purple and over a dozen sharpened rocks hover around the man with the trident.
"Trust your eyes boy. I am the reason you can threaten me with the magic I gifted your kind." The man with the trident says.
Zyra's eyes widen and immediately drops all his weapons.
"You're....its...My god you're Dominik. The God of Power. I...I didn't know"
Galloran turns in shock at Dominik. And immediately tries to shoot a bolt of lightning at him. Brawn absorbs the lightning with his trident and then flows it back at Galloran 100 times stronger. Galloran hits the ground, his skin melted off.
Salina yells and heals Galloran immediately in anger.
"But mother...Why? This man is nothing but a worm under our feet." Dominik says in confusion.
"Go to your room, we need to talk."
"But...." Dominik begins to say.
"NOW" Salina's voice booms in a demonic volume that is so strong that Zyra and Galloran hear it in their minds.
Dominik disappears into the wind as though he was never there.
Salina looks at Galloran.
"I didn't want to kill her... but you need to live...the world demands it..." Salina says while putting her hand on Galloran cheek who can barely
move right now.
"The world demands it...or you do?" Galloran spits back and looks up at her in anger and discontempt for her. "Do not try to make excuses. You are a Goddess. You could've done so much but you chose to kill the woman I love with my unborn child. I will never forgive you. Never."
Salina looks at Galloran, the hate in his eyes, and with a single tear coming down her cheek, disappears into thin air.
Zyra walks over to Galloran and puts his hand around his shoulder.
"Honestly I don't get her taste...I am much more charming than you".
"I am in no mood for your jokes Zyra. What do you want?"
"Ah yes, yes. I forgot. You're a bit impatient what with having such a busy schedule." Zyra motions his arounds around the empty cave.
"Well I have a proposal brother. One that can get you what you want and give the world what it needs. Its the year 240, I say its time for change."
"Zyra I dont want to hear it. Leave before I make your lips disappear."
"Before you remind me of you being stronger than me Galloran, allow me to ask you what you think of two phrases?"
"What are they?" Galloran puts his hands out prepared to force Zyra to leave.
"Enough power to kill Salina. An Empire. Interested yet?"
Galloran Steps outside his cave with Zyra following behind. Shirtless, Galloran feels the sun on his chest and the breeze.
“What year is it again?” Galloran asked.
“Year 162 my friend. You’ve been cooped up for a 100 years now. Ever since the wedding. Ever since Katherine…” Zyra says matter of fact.
“Why was that Wizard here for my power. What happened to the Wizard Academy?” Galloran asks.
“Fell apart. That tends to happen when the Founder disappears.” Zyra says.
“You could’ve ran things" Galloran says and puts his hand out to feel the wind.
“Not really my style. You’re the only student I'll ever be able to tolerate.” Zyra says.
“Stop trying to appease me. They probably didn’t listen to you…How ifs Felrook?” Galloran asks.
“Oh your city? A shit hole now. Ran by a slave trader. Guy named Maldor.” Zyra says.
Galloran's eyes begin to glow purple with power.
“Slavery…a disgusting tradition. If we're going to form an Empire to kill Salina. I need Felrook first. Lets go" Galloran begins to float.
“I can ask the God of Fear for help. Hes…more helpful compared to the other Gods.” Floats with Galloran.
“I don’t want help from your trickster God, lets go.”
Galloran and Zyra fly into the wind towards Felrook. They get there quickly and stand in the town center.
People are gathered all around the city square. All with rope leashes attatched to their necks and forced to carry a statue. One child falls to the ground after carrying a heavy rock. A man in a red robe walks forward and raises his whip to hit the child. Galloran teleports in front of the child and disintegrates the whip.
“Why have you enslaved these people? What are you having them do?” Galloran asks.
“I enslaved them because they are mine. They listen to me. I am Mayor Maldor! And they are working on my statue! Now get lost Wizard freak.” Maldor says.
Zyra chuckles at all of this.
Galloran's voice booms in anger “YOU TORTURE THESE PEOPLE FOR A STATUE? THE ONLY STATUE YOU DESERVE IS ONE OF ASHES.” Walks forward with power
Maldor looks scared and desperate “Slaves! Protect me! Now!”
Dozens of people with chains walk in the way of Galloran. This angers Galloran as he uses massive Mage Hands to move the people out of the way while charging a bolt of lightning to fire at Maldor.
“This man is scum. He does not deserve your loyalty. Stay out of the way and I will free you and this town. Simply listen to my words. Stay out of the way!” Galloran yells and fires a blast of lightning at Maldor. One woman manages to jump in the way of the lightning bolt, dying immediately.
Maldor laughs at this and is happy. Galloran immediately shoots a second bolt of lighting killing him on the spot.
.Galloran breaths heavy in anger and walks to Maldors body.
“Nobody seems to listen to me…just like the Holy War. Perhaps…its because of who I am. Maybe…I need to be someone new…” Looks at all the people in Felrook. Picks up the red cloak that Maldor was wearing.
“Well this is getting interesting “ Zyra says.
“All of you…a man named Galloran freed you from Slavery. You now may leave if you choose. However I am no longer Galloran. I am the man who will lead Felrook to success for those who choose to stay.” Puts on the red cloak.
“I am Maldor.”
In the Year 170, Maldor now sits on his throne. Ruling over Felrook, trying to maintain peace but is always facing problems. A young boy approaches him and thanks him for his service to justice and doing the right thing. Maldor continues to scour Felrook dealing with criminals, arresting them, but crime still continuing on anyway. Zyra told Maldor to ask the God of Fear to help, to which he refused. One day Maldor has a man arrested for attempted murder and puts him to trial. The man brought to him for the charge is a young man of 20, who begged and pleaded that he was drunk and it would never happen again. Galloran, believing in mercy set him free. Maldor that night got an alarm that a family had been murdered brutally, Maldor immediately found who the killer was. The same man that he had given mercy to. He found the family dead, the boy that had praised Maldor for justice in the first place. Maldor screamed.
"WHY!?! WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS! I SPARED YOU!"
The man replies while laughing manically.
"I heard you liked this kid, that you were giving his family extra food. So I figured...why not?"
Galloran killed the man on the spot and asked for the God of Fear to appear. He asked Sin to help erase crime from Felrook, that he will rule in fear if thats what it takes. Sin grins and agrees, implementing fear in the people through his image. Galloran sighed and accepted Sin's help, unknowingly becoming more and more like Sin. Matching the nightmare he asked Sin to create. All in the name of keeping the people safe.
In the Year 175, Maldor sat upon his throne. Speaking to a long line of people, one by one, fulfilling their wishes and helping the sick.
One person would ask for his wife to no longer be dying from an illness. Maldor would heal the wife.
One person would ask for the gardens to produce food. Maldor would make the garden blossom.
One person would ask for their husband to stop beating them. Maldor would make the man melt into goo.
On and on it went, all while Zyra, the one he appointed to be his Army Commander, was building up the military for Felrook. This process had been going on for over a 100 years now. Felrook, which was once in deep poverty, is now thriving in the year 300 of Lyria.
One man in fancy clothing approaches the throne.
“Emperor Maldor…I have dire news.” Bowing to him.
“On with it then sir” Maldor says impatiently seeing the thousands of people behind the man in line.
“I witnessed Tamberoon soldiers at my farm field. They were scouting the terrain. They did not notice me watching at first.”
“Hmm…and how do you know they were Tamberoon?” Maldor asks.
“Well…they noticed in the end I was watching” Man takes off his shirt and shows his back to Maldor. Its carved with scar spelling out “You will pay for Katherine”.
Maldor growls in anger at seeing this. His past haunting him. He immediately stands up. “Did these man say anything to you?”
“Just that Felrook will burn along your sin your grace.” Bowing again to show respect.
“Very well. Come here and I will heal your scars. Sir Axios, give the man a barrel of Gold. Hes earned it. I am sorry you suffered this way.” Maldor says and then heals the man. Immediately walking out.
Maldor proceeds to find Zyra, explaining to him that he wants to send a spy to Tamberoon. Zyra agrees and sends someone. After a week, they give the order for the spy to return. Zyra smug about this whole situation.
“Tell us what you found Sir Ferrin. I trust my advanced training prepared you for this.” Zyra says and puts his feet up on the table. “Im sure its been annoying over there, I hear their women are ugly and their food Is worst.”
“Zyra…Enough of that. Sir Ferrin, please speak. What did you find? Is the King intending to start war? Can we sue for peace?” Maldor asks sincerely. Clearly wanting peace.
“I…May I have a drink? And we should get the war council in here your grace. They need to hear this” The spy for Maldor says sincerely.
The war council enters the room and all sit down. Sir Barlon stands up, grabs the flail of wine, and begins pouring it in the cups. Claiming that he does this because if relaxes him to speak more clearly.
Zyra grabs a cup, Sin whispers in his ear not to. Zyra gets ready to warn Maldor not to drink it but Sin tells Zyra not to tell Maldor. Zyra nods in agreement, grinning at the idea of Maldor dying now. Taking the power of Felrook for himself.
Everyone at the table drinks, Maldor included.
“So…I discovered that Tamberoon has a strong military, and that they want Felrook to fall. That they want you to die…for being a Wizard who abuses his powers. And after recon…I can say that they are right!” Stands on the table with a sword out. All of the war council stumble and fall out of their chairs. Choking on their throat as they die.
“Excuse me?” Maldor exclaims.
Sir Ferrin charges Maldor and swings his sword at his neck. The sword shatters before it reaches his neck.
“You are truly an imbecile if you thought the likes of you could kill me. I’m immortal. And all I’ve done is try to help this land and its people.”
“No! You’re nothing more than our owner and we deserve to be free!” Ferrin tries to punch Maldor.
Maldor makes the young man explode. His guts all over the room. A instant and painless death.
“Why didn’t you drink Zyra?” Looking at Zyra now.
“Didn’t feel like drinking” Zyra shrugs. “So now what?”
“Now we send a new spy. As we prepare for an invasion.” Maldor brushes his cloak which has some blood on it.
“Again? We just did that.”
“No. Theres only one kind of good spy…one you make yourself. I think its time for my first magical creation of life. A loyal spy.” Maldor says.
“A created spy? Have a name for this snake race?”
“I do. Displacer…rings off the tongue and is what I need. Someone loyal and to fit in. And I think the first one I make…I’ll name him Ferrin.” Looks at the room full of blood and bodies. “The things we do for peace."
It took Maldor over a 100 years to create his own race, known as Displacers. He had pulled from his own life force to create a Displacer known as Ferrin in the Year 305. 5 Years later, Ferrin began being used a spy. Ferrin, at the age of 5 years old. Sits in a room with a man, woman, and two children. It’s the year 310 of Lyria. Ferrin sits at a table as he eats a bowl of food ambitiously. Chomping on the bread as though it’s the first time he has ever tasted it. As he eats the food, the man of the table chuckles at Ferrin.
“You okay buddy?” The man said.
“Be careful dear, theres plenty more food where that came from.” The woman said.
“Ferrin eat faster! When you’re done we can play in the backyard again!” The older girl says, about 7 years old.
“Thank you so much for making me in Mr. and Mrs. Fisher” Smiles and slurps up the rest of the soup in the bowl. Now eaten all his food.
“Its no trouble Ferrin. You were starving at the gate, its only right for us to take you in and take care of you.” Mr. Fisher says.
“Im so happy you are here Ferrin!” Lial, the older sister says.
“Daddy can he play catch with me too?” Mania says, the younger sister, with her eyes sparkling.
“Of course honey. Stay as long as you like Ferrin.” Mr. Fisher says smiling.
“Actually…sir I need to go outside, my stomach is stuffed.” Expressing he needs to use the bathroom. Ferrin walks outside, but instead of walking to the hole, walks over to a massive gate at the entrance of the village.
Ferrin stealthily climbs the ladder and hides amongst the boxes, listening to the soldiers talking.
“Im telling you man, we gotta follow the orders.” One guard says.
“But these people…they’re innocent” Other guard says.
“Doesn’t matter, the boss wants to make an example. Those loyal to Maldor have to die. You want Felrook to have a new leader don’t you?” The guard says.
“I guess…you’re right…but it just seems wrong. Maybe we could convince these people to oppose Maldor?”
“Wow you really are out of the loop on guard duty all the time huh? They all know. They all oppose Maldor. This is good sacrifice for them.”
“So be it” The guard says.
Ferrin removes himself from hiding, and pulls out a small wooden stick that he has sharpened. It’s a stick given to him by the little girl that wanted to play catch with him.
“Hi” Ferrin swings with insane precision as both men’s throats are slit. Falling to the ground dead. Ferrin looks at them dead and proceeds to open the main gate. 100’s of Maldor’s soldiers storm through. Soon an alarm is blared but its far too late as Maldor’s soldiers begin taking control. Maldor appears in front of Ferrin.
“You did good my son. Are they all traitors?” Maldor asks.
Ferrin hesitates as he thinks of the family that took him in. “Not all of them father. We should spare citizens. Only kill the warriors.” Ferrin says.
“I agree completely. I already gave the order to only kill those with blades in their hands. Everyone else will be arrested.” Maldor says.
Ferrin sighs with relief. “Im happy I did good father…I love you…”
Maldor looks at Ferrin and wants to say he loves Ferrin…but he keeps pondering his daughter that was killed by Salina. Instead he puts his hand on top of his head patting him. “You did good. Go help Zyra.”
Ferrin runs to find Zyra as Maldor’s soldiers slaughter the rebels.
Zyra is beating Mr. Fisher mercislessly on the ground. His wife and children are crying as they try to help.
“You think you can get away with stabbing my foot with your stupid trap? I’ll burn your kids in front of you for that” Zyra says.
Ferrin runs and gets in the way. “Don’t hurt them! They haven’t done anything!”
“Excuse me?” Zyra says in shock.
Maldor appears. “Whats going on?”
“Your son is interfering with orders. He tried to stab me” Zyra lies.
“What!?! No…father…!” Ferrin screams.
Maldor gives Ferrin a cold look. Accepting his beliefs that he cant trust Ferrin. “I knew you were too good to be true. You aren’t loyal to me. Its my fault for using my own energy to make you. I learned my lesson…Im going to make you a brother Ferrin. Someone much more loyal. Zyra, gather 200 of the prisoners into the ritual circle Ive drawn.”
“Ritual? Father no! Please don’t send them away! Not all of them are guilty!”
“Ferrin! You’re with them? I hate you. This is your fault! You’ll burn for this!” Mania screams.
Ferrin is dragged by Zyra to the spectator zone to the ritual circle. 200 people are dragged in there. Mr. Fisher and his family included.
“Don’t worry little Ferrin…your friends will always be with you…they’ll be in your new brother. And all the ones after that I imagine.” Zyra says.
Maldor glows as he casts the spell. The 200 people all melt into goo as they combine to form the 2nd Displacer of Lyria.
“Ferrin, meet your younger brother. Sylar.”
Maldor walks into a room full of dead bodies. It is now the year 320 of Lyria. 100’s of bodies are slumped on the ground. Normally Maldor would be disgusted by this, and have pity for these souls. Despite the coldness within him that’s grown, his compassion for humanity is still strong as he wishes it didn’t have to go this way. Sylar stands in a corner of the room, punching a head that’s hanging by a rope. The head was removed from the neck of the body that is on the ground. Presumably cut off by Sylar.
“This head is bouncy! Oh man this is fun!” Sylar exclaims.
“Stop that. Its barbaric” Maldor says.
“Oh come on pops. Its just a bunch of baby killers. Remember the last village they raided in Felrook? They deserved this” Sylar says while smiling and stabbing his dagger in the severed heads eye smiling.
“That…I did not raise you to enjoy matters like this” Maldor says strictly.
“No. You made us…not raised…and made us to win the wars you don’t want to be public. To do the dirty work. Ferrin and I have done that. In spades. Remember the Stallion Resistance? The Deadly Woods? We even tried killing that wizard…the one with the stick…Gars was it?” Sylar says.
“You’re missing the…” Maldor sighs. Not knowing how to say the words. How to tell his son, who is not really his son, what it is to be human. “Where is your brother?”
“Oh hes over there near the water supply. The raiders had a prisoner woman, I wanted to kill her but Ferrin wouldn’t let me. Shes got a baby or something…I don’t know. Oh wow! Look how his cheek bleeds!” Sylar still mutilating the head.
Maldor sighs and walks over to Ferrin who is sitting with a woman. Maldor looks at her, and she returns his gaze, their eyes locking. Maldor finds himself to be in shock…this woman…she looks exactly like Katherine. He immediately falls back to the man he was. The one in love.
“Ferrin…who...who is this?” Maldor barely able to get the words out.
“Shes…an innocent woman sir. I…I thought we could protect her. She was kidnapped from her home, Wodan. The land of men on horses?” Ferrin says.
“Can she speak?” Maldor says.
Sylar laughs at this. “Oh she can talk? Shes got a bit of a mouth. Came close to cutting off her bitch tongue…until Ferrin choked me out…again.” Says with bitterness that his big brother is stronger than him.
The woman stands up. Holding a baby in her arms, a baby that is crying loudly.
“Your son saved my life. You raised him well…Thank you.” She says.
“They aren’t my sons their…” Maldor sighs.
“Well maybe that should change…maybe they need a father…like how my baby needs a mother.” She says confidently.
“What is your name?” Maldor asks being impatient to know.
“My name is Rachel Monroe. And this…” Looks at her child with affection “Is my son Hunter”.
It is now the year 335 of Lyria. 15 years have passed as much gone on within Maldor’s life along with the people connected to him. Maldor continued shaping Felrook into his paradise, making it into a place with almost no crime, schools for the young and plenty of work opportunities for everyone around. Maldor could not take full credit for this, as his magic helped in forming the crops and structures. The God of Fear continued making the criminals and scum of Felrook terrified of Maldor. Everything at the time seemed to be perfect. Maldor was now standing on the altar, engaging in his third marriage, with Rachel Moneroe. Maldor gave her homeland 1000’s of livestock, gold, and crops in return for being able to keep her. In these 10 years she proved to be worth it. She became the mother his creations needed. And she filled him with warmth, life was better now. Even Zyra had to admit things were looking good, although Zyra loved having his private meetings with the God of Fear.
Maldor stood at the altor, speaking his vows to Rachel Monroe.
As this went on, Ferrin who was now 30 years old, Sylar who was now 25 years old, and Hunter who was now 15 years old, all dressed in their wedding party clothes, drinking and dancing. Sylar, as usual continues his shenanigans.
“Trust me brothers, it will be a sight you will not want to miss” Sylar says as he smirks at a bag he left on the table of the bridesmaids of the wedding. The bag a flock of bats in it.
“Sylar, you cant do that, its right to harass those women like that” Ferrin says.
“I have to agree with Fer Fer, Sylar.” Hunter says and nods.
“Oh by the gods are you still calling him by that stupid nickname?” Sylar groans.
A scream erupts from the bridesmaid table. 4 of the woman run off screaming, one of them, walks up to the Displacers in anger. A beautiful young woman. Sylar and Hunter immediately ditch Ferrin as Ferrin just keeps watching.
“Of course Im the one to get blamed for this” Ferrin says to himself.
The woman walks up and immediately slaps Ferrin across the face.
“Who do you think are?!? Have you no shame or decency? Scaring a bunch f defenseless people half to death?” The woman is screaming at Ferrin in anger as she continues. “You’ll be smited by Percival if you keep this up. Heed his words ‘A life of cowardice will end in…”
“A life of loneliness. He said that during the Holy War of Year 48 to 52” Ferrin finishes calmly.
The woman looks at Ferrin with a shocked expression and for the first time notices his good looks. Frustrated by liking the way he looks, she punches him in the gut.
“Its rude to interrupt a lady! Have you no manners?” She says.
“Manners…I never…” Ferrin decides to stop arguing and do what he always does, take the blame for his brothers actions. He gets on one knee and bows his head. “Please forgive me. It was wrong and I will keep others feelings in consideration next time”
“Next time? Bold to think I’ll give you that opportunity young man” The woman says with a smirk.
“I do not consider myself young, I certainly don’t feel like I am. I am 30 years old.” Ferrin says gently.
“Young to me then. I’m 31 years old, rude of you to have a lady state her age before you even tell her your name” Punches Ferrin in the gut again but this time holds his gaze. Looking into his eyes, the gentleness of them freezing her.
“Please forgive me…My name is Ferrin. I’m a weapon of Maldor’s.” Says sadly.
“A weapon wouldn’t be able to have this affect on with a single glance…My name is Hope.” She says.
Ferrin looks at her, not sure what to do with these strange words. He has never had a woman look at him that way.
Suddenly a bomb goes off as fighting ensues, Tamberoon soldiers come out of their cloaks and attack Maldor and his newly wed wife. Maldor kills over 30 soldiers at once but one of them fire a stray arrow aimed at Rachel’s heart. Hunter screamed and jumped in the way dying on the spot with a arrow wedged in his heart.
Hope stares at all of this and looks at Ferrin “Ferrin? Whats going on?”
A Tamberoon soldier stabs hope through the back killing her. Ferrin screams in anger and kills the man with a single punch. Then drags her body next to Hunters. Everyone around is crying. Maldor screams at Zyra “Save them! My resurrection spell isn’t working!”
Zyra nods “I imagine it wouldn’t. They marked their weapons with Necrotic substances. They knew what they were doing…We cant bring them back to life.”
Everyone begins to sob and cry.
Ferrin remains firm as he looks at everyone else. He looks at Hope and Hunter with a ferocity and determination.
“Father. Teleport me to the Sacred Tree in Gars Wood. I will save Hunter and Hope.”
Ferrin quickly finds himself to be surrounded by a shroud of magical lightning. Maldor teleported Ferrin, and the corpses of Hope and Hunter, to the Sacred Tree. Ferrin blinked and appeared within the Sacred Tree.
Maldor coughs blood as a teleportation of this scale and distance takes it out of him, he is out of breath. Rachel is crying and in a panic as all this is going on. She puts her arms around Maldor in a panic as she cries in his shoulder.
“What are we going to do?” Rachel asks in a panic.
“I…I need a moment to catch my breath…” Maldor heaving in exhaustion.
“Breath? Our children are gone! We need to save them…and then we need to burn Tamberoon to the fucking ground” Rachel yells full of rage as she kicks a dead Tamberoon soldier on the floor.
“You think I don’t know that? I plan to teleport there in a few hours. I can’t teleport there right now, it would kill me” Maldor exclaims.
God of Fear appears. “I can help them…if you’re willing to agree to giving more of that juicy power of yours”
Maldor sneers as he grabs Sin’s throat and presses him against a wall, making it difficult for Sin to breath.
“You dare try to bargain with me? You think I don’t already suspect you’re behind this? Think I didn’t notice you didn’t alert us about these soldiers? Im not a fool Sin. All of you Gods are the fucking same.”
Sin coughs as he scrambles under Maldor’s hand. Begging for mercy.
“I…I didn’t! They had help! The blessing of Fealty. That’s how I didn’t notice! I wouldn’t betray you!” Sin croaks.
Maldor sighs and releases him.
“I’ll save them Maldor. Consider it done” Zyra says as he steps up.
“You can do it?” Maldor says.
“You’re not the only Wizard here” Zyra teleports away.
Meanwhile Ferrin finds himself to be standing inside of some strange endless room with nothing but whiteness around him. When suddenly he is face to face with a man with a beard and a wooden staff. Its clear this is the man Ferrin has heard of before. The man named Gars.
“Gars?” Ferrin asks.
“Close but not quite. I am the memory of Gars…before his end” Gars says to Ferrin as he looks at Hope and Hunter.
“I…I don’t understand…you look exactly how father described Gars to be…” Ferrin is confused.
“Gars…He created this place. Filled it with fruits and wonders…but was betrayed by his own family. His own people. They tried to destroy him, in his shame he created this Sacred Tree. And then killed himself. I am his memory. His legacy. I have been watching the development of his people…it has been interesting. You’re the first person I’ve spoken to since my creators suicide.”
Ferrin absorbs all this information and notices a man with the body of a tree, wrapping his arms around a dead body that’s glowing black. It appears to be decayed.
“Whats that?” Ferrin asks.
“That’s the dead body of Gars. His flesh decayed within the Sacred Tree and slowly formed its own consciousness, contrived of all of the hatred and disgust Gars had with humanity before he died. I call it the Gravemind. The Guardian, my creation, is keeping It restrained. However…you aren’t here about that, what do you need Blessed One?” Gars Junior asks.
“Blessed one?” Ferrin asks.
“My creator blessed you. That is why I will grant you a single wish. But then I must ask you to leave” Gars Junior says.
“My friends! Please…I need to bring them back!” Ferrin says in desperation.
“They are dead. I cannot bring the dead back to life…”
“Please! I’ll do anything! They…they don’t deserve this! Its all my fault. Please I beg you!” Ferrin cries as he begs.
Gars Junior sighs. “There is a way…your bleeding heart has made me realize its possible. But I must warn you…you may not like what they become when they come back to life.”
“I don’t care! Just do it! Please!”
Gars Junior shoots a tree root straight into Ferrins heart and connects it to Hunter and Hope. “You’re spare hearts will bring them back…however they will change. They will be Displacers like you. Created out of love but the hatred of your father comes along the package as well.”
Ferrin remains still as he watches Hope and Hunter slowly open their eyes. Tears of joy running down his face, as he cares little for the fact that his extra heart is being devoured.
Zyra suddenly appears, with an evil grin on his face. “Perfect. I’ve been waiting for this…Gars we need to talk” Says as he’s eyeing the Gravemind, how its being protected. “And I have a feeling only one of us will be leaving here happy”.
Zyra enters the room of this sacred tree. Ferrin, Hunter, and Hope all awake now, stare at Zyra in confusion. Gars 2.0 himself looks confused as he gazes at Zyra, not sure what to expect.
“What can I do for you?” Gars asks In confusion.
“Now that’s a question. The better one is what can I do for you to return these three? They’re quite valuable” Zyra says but smirks with words. As though this were all a game.
“I was going to return them now anyway. You can have them back for free” Gars says.
“Free? That’s just bad business Zyra says.
Ferrin smiles at Gars, impressed by how kind he is.
“Thank you Gars. I will speak to Maldor about your kind deed. Surely he will reward you for this, I will ensure he does myself” Ferrin says and helps Hunter and Hope up who are both groggy and exhausted.
“Maldor? You’re with Maldor?” Gars says remembering the past now, suddenly looking at Zyra now.
Zyra glances at the Guardian restraining the gravemind with intent.
“You…I recognize you. You are Zyra, you were with Maldor when I…My creator was defeated and lost his home for a time because of you.” Gars appears to be angry now.
“Good…So you do remember. Gods its scary…you sound and act so much like him.” Zyra says and chuckles then curls his fingers. “Makes this easier. Truth is I’m not here for Ferrin or his brat friends. I’m here to give you what you want, justice. I offer you Maldor’s head.”
Ferrin and his friends stand in shock starng at Zyra, unsure what to make of this situation. Hope and Hunter are both still too weak to say or do anything right now.
“Zyra what are you doing? You betray my father now?” Ferrin asks in shock.
“Speak again Cockroach and I will squash you. Now Gars…My patience is running thin…Do you want revenge?” Zyra asks.
“I don’t. Revenge is not my way. Love and peace are” Gars says with finality.
Zyra shrugs “Very well. I suppose you’ll have plenty of peace when Maldor goes through with his plan to burn this place to the ground. I felt sorry for you but oh well” Zyra says. Lying through his teeth but sounding like his words are gospel.
Gars stops. “He…Why would he do that?”
“He wants your power. Felrook is suffering. Hes low on magical power and intends to burn down your land and absorb the roots energy.”
Gars sighs and looks at Zyra “How could we kill Maldor?”
“Simple. I know you have a way to communicate with the Lord of Time. Summon him here, I have a plan to kill Maldor without Salina knowing about it.” Zyra says.
Ferrin wants to speak but is scared of what Zyra would do. He decides to stay silent for now.
“Very well” Gars extends his hand in a the shape of a circle and waits. After a few minutes Tundra appears.
“What do you need Gars? Is your power out of control again?” Tundra asks.
Zyra positioned himself near the Guardian and casted a mind control spell on Tundra. “Hear my words Tundra, Gars intends to kill you. Restrain him…now”
Tundra eyes glow as he falls to the spell immediately due to his guard being lowered. Tundra casts a time bind spell that freezes Gars.
“No wait!” Gars yells and then freezes.
Zyra in the meantime placed a hand on the Guardian and melted it to the ground and then gazes upon the Gravemind. Striking a bargain.
“You…You’re who I came to see. Sin told me of you. The Gravemind. The negative energy left behind after the real Gars died…but I suppose you’re the real Gars aren’t you.” Zyra smirks trying to flatter him.
“Soft words do not help me human. Unless you can free me from this Sacred Tree, I do not wish to speak.” Gravemind says.
“My plan involves you becoming free. But I need you to trap Tundra and Gars here. Do that and I will free you, I will have Maldor march his people into these woods and burn this damn tree to the ground. That will free you right?” Zyra says.
“Indeed” Gravemind says and smiles. His decayed vines wrap around Tundra, restraining him, doing the same with Gars proves not to be an easy task as they find themselves to be restrained to each other.
“What have you done!?! Now neither of us will be able to leave this tree unless someone frees us or…” Gars trails off.
“Or someone destroys this tree. Killing you and saving me.” Gravemind says and smiles.
Ferrin screams as he runs towards Gravemind with his sword to stop him. Zyra points his finger and shoots a shard of ice through Ferrin’s eye, his eye explodes immediately as he screams in pain and falls to his knees.
“I’ll fucking kill you for this Zyra…” Ferrin pants in anger.
“Oh Ferrin…you won’t even remember this.” Zyra chuckles as he walks over and places his hand on Ferrin, Hunter, and Hope. Wiping all their memories of recent events.
“I think this Hope girl is too fond of you…lets fix that” Zyra manipulates Hope’s memories, making her more cold and ruthless. “Alright then, lets go.”
Zyra teleports all of them out of there and appears in front of Maldor and Rachel Monroe. Ferrin Hunterm and Hope all unconscious.
“What happened?” Maldor asks.
“Gars attacked Ferrin. Destroyed his eye, you’ll have to make him a new one.” Zyra says.
“Gars did that?” Maldor asks.
“Indeed. He wants to invade Felrook…the world really. It’ll happen soon.” Zyra says.
“He attacks my child and threatens to invade my home? No. We will make the first move. I didn’t want this but theres no choice now. We gather the armies and prepare to march into Gars Wood. We’ll find Gars but I do not want us damage any of the wildlife, they are innocent in this, that includes the trees. No fires or destruction” Maldor says cooly.
“I couldn’t agree more. I’ll lead the charge but Maldor…I’m going to need something for this invasion” Zyra says.
Maldor asks what he needs.
“Its time to make more Displacers.”
The War of Felrook against the Gars Wood has begun. Maldor has managed to orchestrate a ceasefire with the Tamberoon kingdom. Giving him time to attack Gars Wood. Ferrin awoke confused as to what was going on, but obeyed his orders as he was told that Gars tried to kill him and his family and that Zyra saved his life. Ferrin now stands inside a village on the outskirts of the Gars Wood terrain. He is speaking to a bulky man with a Suffoko tattoo on his arm.
"We need this village as our Forward Operation base." Ferrin says.
"What? This is our home. We've been here for decades." The man says.
"I understand but you need to go deeper into the woods. And I recommend going far west. We plan to invade from the east. Get the word out, I dont want any civilians on the east when the war starts." (edited)
"Invasion? What the fuck are you talking about?" The man says and then glances at all the Maldorian soldiers.
Sylar approaches and whispers in Ferrins ear "I'm setting up the sacrifice circles for father. Theres about a 5000 dirty Suffoko in this village. We've got about 10'000 Soldiers surrounding the village."
"Excuse me for a moment..." Ferrin says and looks at Sylar. "We're not sacrificing anyone. We'll get to the Sacred Tree without anymore Displacers. We dont need them."
Hunter stands by and chimes in "But brother...Zyra said..."
"I dont give a damn what Zyra says" Ferrin says.
"Well you should." Hope says as she chimes in as well.
"Its my call. We aren't hurting these innocent people. Final decision." Ferrin says and then then tells them to get lost. Ferrin turns back to the Leader of the Village.
"We are going to take the Sacred Tree. We have to stop Gars from invading Lyria."
The man scratches his head. "Invade? We just wanna live...You cant take our home" The man says as he looks at spectators among his village. He gives one of them a look and nods his head.
"Look...I dont want violence. Please just leave. We'll give you a few days to pack your things and get out of here." Ferrin says.
The man nods agreeing with Ferrin.
Meanwhile, Maldor and Rachel Monroe speak near the village.
"Maybe this is wrong. Maybe we should keep focusing on Felrook...it doesnt feel right to invade or make more Displacers." Maldor says.
"I understand but we need Gars power. With it we can wipe out the Tamberoon. Make them pay..." Lip quivering "For almost killing Hunter." Rachel Monroe said.
"I know but...there has to be another way. I cant..." Maldor puts his hand to his face. Deciding not to hurt these people, deciding that this was all unnecessary. Regardless of what Zyra said, these were people. Not cattle. They didnt deserve this.
"I wont. If they attack us then we'll handle it but I wont hurt innocents" Maldor says.
Rachel Monroe is sad
Looks disappointed but nods in agreement
Ferrin is smiling as the leader walks away and multiple Suffoko woman walked up and kept giving Ferrin quality food.
Ferrin eats it while smiling and he watches as Hope, Hunter, and Sylar all walk away towards the exit of the village. A smile on his face appears, happy he achieved peace.
"Excuse me...Are you a Displacer?" A little boy walks up and looks up at Ferrin.
"Yes" Ferrin says fearing an insult.
"Thats so cool. My dad said you're a hero...could you raise me and fly me like one?" The kid says.
[10:42 AM]
"Of course" Ferrin smiles, glad that the people were beginning to trust him and had never held a kid before. He raised the kid up and looked at him and noticed that the kids neck was glowing.
"Hey buddy? Why is your neck shining?" Ferrin asks looking at some kind of needle in the kids neck.
"My dad said all outsiders must die. And that he'll meet me in the After, as Gars himself honors my sacrifice" The glow shines brighter.
"NO!" Ferrin yells and quickly pulls the needle out. A massive explosion goes off as Ferrin's arm and is blown off. He lays on the ground but was able to push the child away, saving his life.
Mador hears the explosion in the distance.
"Looks like these savages dont deserve our mercy. Lets go...I want our marriage to be within that Sacred Tree. The beginning of our victory against all who oppose our dream of a utopia." Rachel Monroe said as she marches towards the village.
Ferrin remains on the ground as Hope and Hunter come to his aid immediately. The villagers all take out spears surrounding them. Sylar walks up and looks at Ferrin and then looks at the kid.
"This brat the one who did this brother?" Sylar asks.
Ferrin stutters on his words as his ears are still ringing and he stumbles on his feet as he tries to get up. "He...didn't do anything. They're just scared...calm down." Ferrin says.
"Right. Calm down. Lets..." Sylar raises his sword..."Calm..." Standing above the childs unconscious body now
The kid wakes up and says before he opens his eyes "Daddy...did I do good?"
"Down." Sylar says with finality as he pierces the kids throat killing him.
"Sylar!!!!!!" Ferrin yells.
"ATTACK!" The Suffoko surrounding them yelled raising their spears and preparing to throw.
Maldr appears, activating the conversion circles drawn by Sylar and turning all the Suffoko into dust. Creating 4 more Displacers. Establishing the original 7 Displacers. The 7 Displacers that would the war against Gars Wood. Ferrin, Hunter, Hope, Shadow, Rook, Valerie, and Blank.
"Our family is complete. And now we burn the Sacred Tree. And save the world" Maldor says.
"Anything for family." Sylar says with a smirk.
15 months have passed. The Felrook's soldiers have continued trying to invade Gars Wood only for it to grow more difficult fight after fight. In the beginning many of the natives, were slaughtered as they were surprised and overwhelmed by the Soldiers and Displacers. Towards the beginning the Raxconians surrendered to the soldiers, Ferrin accepted their terms of surrender and Maldor ordered for them to all be locked in cages until the war was over. The war progressed forward as Hope found a chieftan of the Suffoko who surrended and was willing to give information.
"Where is the portal to the Sacred Tree?" Hope asked with a sword near the eye of the chieftan.
"Please! Have mercy!" The chieftan yells.
"Playing tough are we?" Hope says and stabs the man in the eye while laughing.
The chieftan screams in pain as he holds his bloody face.
"The southern trail! The southern trail! Theres a pit there with a portal at the bottom of it!" The chieften screams. "The portal will take you to the Sacred Tree!"
"Thank you" Hope skirks and slams her sword through his head killing him.
Hunter marches up and grabs Hope by the sleeve. Pinning her up against the tree.
"This war crime bullshit needs to stop Hope. If they surrender...we do not kill them. If I see it again I'm telling father."
Hope laughs. "You think hes your father? Who do you think we are Hunter? We're monsters. Thats all we are. In case you forget that count how many hearts you have pumping."
Hope claims and walks off. "Hey! New plan of action, I know where these fuckers tree is. And someone kill this fucking weird wooden pet baby" Hope walks towards a massive bunch of soldiers. Roughly 1000 in count. In the span of these 15 months, over 5000 Maldorian soldiers have died within these woods due to both the trees themselves becoming strange monsters and the natives who proved to be difficult except for the Raxconians.
On the ground lays a small Groot, hunched on the ground with tears in its eyes.
"Groot...?"
The Displacer known as Shadow, steps forward with his sword raised and about to stab Groot to death.
Hunter immediately stands in the way. "You are not killing this creature" Hunter says firmly.
"But her orders were..." Shadow says.
"I dont give a fuck about her orders. We dont kill the defenseless" Hunter stands tall against Shadow. "Most of us dont anyway, unlike sick fucks like you".
Shadow immediately punches Hunter in the face and kicks him down to the ground. And begins beating him brutally. Ferrin walks by and notices this fight and starts to walk towards them to stop it but by Sylar grabs him by the arm.
"If you swoop in to be the hero again then hes never going to learn brother. You want him to a defenseless brat for as long as you're willing to jump in? Let him fend for himself" Sylar says calmly.
Ferrin grinds his teeth in frustration but believes Sylar is right, that Hunter has been having a hard time within these woods and would need to toughen up if he was going to survive. He a took a breath and just wanted this war to be over. To take overthe Sacred Tree and return home.
Hunter was beaten for another 2 minutes, left on the ground by shadow looking like a mess. Blood all over him and barely breathing. Hunter was screaming for Ferrin's help the entire time that he was being beaten. Feeling betrayed when glancing at Ferrin who was standing there the whole time. Hunter got up and begin walking with pain with the soldiers.
"Hunter...I..." Ferrin begins to say.
"Save it brother. I get it...every man for himself right?" Hunter says bitterly as they march towards the spot they were told would take them to the Sacred Tree.
After a days march they made it to the spot where the sacred tree. They scouted the area to check for any traps but it appeared to be clear. They approached a wooden hatch rooted in the floor in the middle of this field within the Gars Wood. Ferrin walks up to it and opens it with Hope at the same time. Underneath is an empty pit and a sign inside that said "Fuck Displacers" and suddenly a horn went off and multiple Suffoko and Kanchi came out of the tree and from hidden spots within the surrounding trees. Firing arrows and throwing mass amounts of Orantium bombs, 100s of soldiers dying instantly. Chaos ensued as soldiers all around were fighting against the Suffoko and Kanchi.
The Displacers performed well as they took down dozens of the fighters in seconds but the explosions overhwhelmed them as suddenly massive trees falling to the ground and slamming upon Displacers. The Displacer known as Valerie died from impact and Hunter was trapped under one of the trees. Sylar, Hope, Shadow, and Blank all began retreating from the ambush but Ferrin knew Hunter was still in that mess but couldn't see him. All that there was to see was smoke. Hunter tried to call for help but a Suffoko slid under the tree and pressed his hand over Hunter's mouth while both were hidden from the smoke.
"Do not move. I am Regnar of the Snake Tribe, and I will snap your neck if you do anything boy." Holding Hunter tightly.
Ferrin ran into the smoke and staring into it. His Displacer siblings yelled at him to retreat but he refused. He would not leave Hunter behind, but then he heard a voice, it was Maldor.
"You need to leave. Now" Maldor says.
"I will Father but Hunter is missing! I have to find him first...."
"No. He is dead. I sensed his death. Now return to the others...NOW."
Maldor says with certainty.
Ferrin nods with a tear in his eye and slowly begins to turn away. Little did he know that Hunter was no more than 10 feet away from Ferrin, pinned to the ground by a tree. Hunter tried to scream but Regnar's gag was too firm. Tears came down Hunter's eyes as he watched Ferrin, the person he looked up to the most....Walk away.
The worst day of their lives for the brothers.
"I'll make you pay....I'll make you all pay..." Hunter says as he closes his eyes and falls asleep.
The rain strikes hard. Rain, an event that rarely happens in Gars Wood. Especially after Maldor casted a spell to kill any cloud that would hover above Gars Wood. Hoping it would kill the trees, imagine everyone’s surprise that the trees themselves have water inside them. A seemingly infitie amount for anyone to drink.
Yet rain strikes as Maldor is distracted with the most intense battle yet within this war. Ferrin walks through the soggy mud as he witnesses the battle around him intensifying. His ears ringing as he knows that he just lost Hunter. His brother. As Ferrin is walking, he sees the Displacer Shadow, the same one that beat Hunter earlier, dangling a dagger above the small creature named Groot’s head.
“Hey Ferrin…Check this little guy out…He doesn’t know where to go. I guess everywhere’s a mess for a weird tree monster huh?” Shadow says this while chuckling.
Like a string, Ferrin just snaps. His entire life of being used as a weapon. Being used as a tool. Never having a choice of his own than to guide the path of impossible choices. Hunter was the closest thing he ever had to a real brother. Not one who wants to kill, or torture, or worst. No, Hunter was just a kid that wanted to live a peaceful life in the woods. The look on Shadow’s face reminded Ferrin of how he failed. Of how he didn’t act as the big brother when Hunter was being beaten by this man. Shadow became the object of Ferrin’s rage, the object of his failures. And the victim of all the hatred in his heart at this moment.
Ferrin steps forward and immediately punches Shadow across the face knocking him down on the ground. Shadow looks up at him in shock.
“Wha…What are you..” Shadow begins to say.
“SHUT UP! SHUT UP! YOU NEVER FUCKING SHUT UP! YOU DID THIS TO ME FATHER. YOU DID THIS TO ME!” Ferrin yells as he punches Shadow again, this time knocking out three of his teeth out.
“Father…Im not father Im…” Shadow begins to say.
“SHUT THE FUCK UP!” Ferrin begins punching Shadow over and over, harder with each swing of his fist. The sounds of pummeling echo in the air.
“YOU’RE FATHER! YOU’RE GARS! YOU’RE HUNTER! YOU’RE SYLAR! YOU’RE EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING WRONG WITH THIS WORLD! ALL OF IT! NONE OF IT MAKES SENSE! I WAS MADE TO KILL SO LOOK FATHER! IM KILLING! ARE YOU HAPPY NOW!?! ARE ANY OF YOU HAPPY!?!?!” Ferrin at this point is punching the ground as he punched straight Shadow’s head. Shadow, now lifeless on the floor, his head mashed into the dirt like a broken watermelon.
“I’m happy. That you’re tired of Maldor.” Zyra says, standing nearby.
“Zyra…what are you doing? This isn’t part of the plan..” Whispers in Zyra’s ear.
Zyra ignores him and approaches Ferrin.
“Your father is close. I say we ask him why Hunter had to die. And deal with him together” Zyra smiles.
Ferrin breathes heavily but calms down as he glances at Zyra.
[1:52 PM]
“You…you would help me…Really?” Ferrin says, desperate to have this nightmare end.
“Yes. Lets go” Zyra says and walks with Ferrin further into the woods. Soon finding Maldor and Rachel Monroe arguing with each other.
“Father…Why? Why did you summon me?” Ferrin asks, anger on his face.
“Summon…what are you talking about?” Maldor asks but notices Ferrin’s face. “You are not allowed to look at me like that Ferrin.”
“Allowed? Like Im some kind of pet. You…you never cared did you? Me. Hunter. Uncle Zyra, you don’t care about any of us. I thank the gods Hunter died before he could see what I see.” Ferrin says with bitterness.
The room freezes. “Hunter…is dead?” Rachel Monroe says with anger and sadness on her face.
“Yes…and its because of Maldor. He…forced me to come here…I might’ve been able to save him otherwise..." Ferrin says.”
"I didn’t…” Maldor begins to say but groans at being questioned so much. “This is war…people are going to die.”
“I agree completely. You shouldn’t question your father Ferrin.” Zyra begins to say.
Ferrin glances at him in shock at these words.
“Yes…my husband is right…he knows all…” Rachel Monroe has a single tear in her eye as she hugs Maldor in grief. Her eyes dart towards Zyra’s as she nods and mouths the word “Now”.
Suddenly Zyra runs forward and grabs a hold of the back of Ferrin’s neck and presses him to the ground. “Sorry about this Ferrin…Gars Blessing on you will make this a lot easier…”
Ferrin doesn’t struggle. Numb to it all. “Will it…kill my father?”
“Yes” Zyra and Rachel Monroe say in unison.
Ferrin nods “Do it.”
Maldor struggles as he feels that his magic suddenly isn’t working. “Whats going on?”
“Don’t act surprised. Zyra told me your plans for me Maldor…I didn’t believe you could be so sick but now knowing you got my only son killed…I know this has to happen. Kill him!” Rachel yells.
“With pleasure.” Zyra says as he creates a portal using Ferrin’s blessing. A blue energy portal appears with Tundra unconscious and tied to a wooden pole appears. “Time for you to die Maldor…” Zyra says.
Tundra’s body shoots a beam of light at Maldor. Causing his chest to burn as though lava were being poured on it. “This won’t work…Salina made me immortal Zyra.”
“That’s true…but Tundra is her brother…I’m thinking that counters your immortality.” Zyra says.
Maldor begins screaming in pain as his skin slowly stops healing and his heart is getting closer to being killed by the blue beam of light being shot from Tundra’s body. Rachel stands to the side and watches with sadness. “I’m sorry it had to be like this…I truly loved you…but you have to die…” She says,
Ferrin smiles, wanting this nightmare to finally end.
[1:52 PM]
“I’m sorry too…that I didn’t learn my lesson. That my life…isn’t a life meant for love…only absolute peace…” Maldor says.
A sword pierces through the back of Rachel Monroe’s head and through her mouth, killing her instantly. The weilder of the sword is Hope. Zyra sees this and panics. “Fuck! Come on! Die!” Zyra screams as he is second from melting Maldor’s heart, when suddenly the God of Fear appears and waves his hand. Closing the portal. Zyra stares in shock.
“Wha…whats happening?” Zyra screams. Maldor turns and uses his power to force Zyra to the ground and walk upon him.
“He made a better deal. And now he will watch as I feel sorry” Maldor says.
“Fuck you! And you’re pity!” Zyra screams in pain.
“Oh you misunderstand. I’m not sorry for you…I’m sorry that there isn’t enough epxxierences in the world for me to express how much I want you be in…but I suppose we’ll try. You and my failure of a monster Ferrin” Maldor’s tone and demeanor have changed. His morals have gone to the wind as he looks at Ferrin and Zyra, with nothing more than the desire to make them suffer.
“I cant wait to watch” Hope says with a smile.
I am nothing. I am something. I am dirt. I am death. I am regret. I am life. I am love. I am darkness. I am light. I am roots. I am seeds. I am vibrations. I am death. My body remains covered in bugs and decay as I cannot move within this coffin. A coffin that I am forced to share with the body of my father. The true Gars, the one who may have been able to save this cursed world, is dead and used as a source of power for the monster that was born from it. The Gravemind. Day by day I feel the bugs slowly digger into my flesh faster and more thoroughly by the second. I use my pure magic to repulse it over and over, year after year I do this. My desperation grows as I feel my weapons be created over and over, given to the Suffoko again and again. I would send messages to the Suffoko through my weapons over and over, but it would never matter. They either never listened, or they couldn’t do anything about it. I had managed to get out of this coffin multiple times, it had become easy after my father, Gars, body completely decayed into the dust. That was 200 years ago. As I grew stronger, after that monster crippled me using Tundra’s powers, it then proceeded to use Tundra to keep me trapped. Over and over I would break out of the coffin and be restrained by Tundra’s powers. As time went on, and I got stronger, and then found myself to finally get past Tundra’s defenses. He then finds himself to be facing the Gravemind, face to face.
“This…needs…to end…” Gars 2.0 says weakly while leaning on a cane.
“NO. IT DOESN’T.” The Gravemind speaks through its host.
“Please…our home…its plagued with civil war and worst…we have to help…” Gars 2.0 is desperate in his words.
“NO. NONE OF IT MATTERS….IT WILL ALL BECOME ME…THIS WORLD WILL BECOME ME…I CONSUME…THAT IS ALL I AM AND ALL THAT IT IS MEANT TO BE” Gravemind roars at Gars 2.0.
“I….I need to stop this…all of this…I need to wake Tundra up….” Gars says and races over to Tundra who is tied to the wall. Breaks him free and begins walking with him. “Come on…we need to get out of here…wake up and teleport us…” Words spoken desperately in the air.
“YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND…ALL IN HERE ME OR WILL BE…” Gravemind says.
Tundra’s eyes open and appear normal.
“Hi old friend…how are you?” Tundra begins to ask.
“Good! You’re awake! This is good! Lets get out of here!” Gars asks in relief.
“Yeah…it is good…isn’t it?” Tundra asks but his eyes begin to dull with a smirk. Proceeds to stab Gars through the stomach with a vine.
Gars screams in pain and shock. “What…how…you can only control the dead!?!”
“EXACTLY” Gravemind says smugly as it confirms that Tundra is dead. “THIS IS YOUR FINAL CHANCE. TELL OUR PEOPLE TO SURRENDER. TO SUBMIT TO THE SACRED TREE. AND THIS CAN ALL END.” Gravemind says.
“No…” Coughs. “I’ll stop you…I’ve left dozens of messages within all of my weapons. Someone will stop you…they’ll kill you…” Gars says breathing heavily.
“I WANT THEM TO COME. I WANT ALL OF THEM TO COME. I AM STUCK IN THIS TREE UNTIL a Host of the God of Fear enters our home. I need it to reverse the curse placed on Gars long ago. When the curse is removed…I will be completely free. You will be free as well” The Gravemind says.
“I don’t….” Gars begins to say when there is a white light shining within the room. The God of Honor appears.
“I can sense the malice within this place. I want it to end. I am here to vanquish you Gravemind, my brothers wont bother but I will” *Holds a lighting bolt in his hand. Pure power coursing through him.
“I WILL DEVOUR YOUR FLESH. AND YOUR BROTHERS. AND YOUR MOTHER SALINA.” Gravemind says and slowly moved its roots towards Percival.
Percival steers the lightning towards gravemind. “THIS IS A BOLT OF HOLY JUSTICE. IT WILL END YOU OR ANYONE FOR THAT MATTER. NOW DIE”
Gravemind suddenly changed his body to appear like Johana, the Moon Elder, the woman Percival had fallen in love with. This made him falter and misfire the lightning bolt. It instead flies through the air at insane speed and hits Gars 2.0 straight through the heart. Killing him. Multiple of the gravemind infection spores climb onto him trying to take him over. Percival panics and runs away, not realizing that his lightning bolt not only killed Gars but made a small hole in the Sacred Tree, which allowed Gravemind to slowly let his infection into the outside, despite him not being able to leave himself just yet.
The God of Honor left in fear of being taken over.
The Gravemind smiled wickedly as it now took control of Tundra and Gars bodies and made them rise like puppets. The gravemind, like a puppet master had Tundra glow and moved its lips to say a single sentence.
“I can defeat Maldor…if you destroy the Sacred Tree.”
Then it moved Gars body to say a sentence.
“Find me and break me free. So I can restore balance to Gars Wood. Please”.
“IN THE END…ITS ALL ME…SUFFOKO…KANCHI…RAXCONIANS…ALL WILL BECOME ME AS I CONSUME THE WORLD KNOWN AS LYRIA.” The Gravemind says, happy with itself at how its able to control the dead bodies of Gars and Tundra.
The Gravemind sat and waited. Slowly infecting more of the Gars Wood. For centuries this went on. Waiting for a host of the Mark of Fear to arrive. Using the Gars Trial as a way of testing any who arrived to see if they had the mark. A wide smile coming across its face the moment it watched Ellis enter the Gars Woods.
“THE BEGINNING OF THE END.”
It is now the Year 350 of Lyira. Gars Wood managed to reject Maldor's forces. Forcing them to retreat. Maldor left the woods, many of his forces dead…Hunter among them as he would believe. Maldor now walks down steps into darkness. The weight of his boots echoing across the steel walls of the dungeon that he is walking down. Maldor steps down the steps into the cell that has both Maldor and Zyra shackled to the wall.
"Ferrin…I brought you a meal. A special order this time" Maldor says, trying to be kind to Ferrin.
"This should be good" Zyra chuckles as he watches this exchange between father and son.
"Shut your mouth before I hae your tongue removed again" Maldor says.
"Sure. It'll just grow back anyway…You're not the only immortal one old man" Zyra says stubbornly.
Maldor sighe and feeds Ferrin slowly.
"Ferrin…Its been 13 years. 13 years that I've tried molding you to what I need you to be. After your betrayal…In that time I've managed to make Felrook into a trude paradise. No crime. No starvation. The God of Fear has helped me in making everything I've always wanted…" Maldor looks down. "But none of it matters if I'm all alone. I miss you Ferrin…you're the closest thing I have to a son. I am sorry about Hunter…but that wasn't my fault. It was Zyra's. I had nothing to do with it. Please believe me! I can force Zyra to confess if that will prove it to you! I just want your loyalty back. And if you can give it…I can be better. I can give my love to you. I…I just want to love you. Please" Maldor pleads for the first time since his first family died. All the feelings flooding out as he had held a celebration in Felrook but still felt an emptiness in him.
Ferrin ate the food calmly as he listened to Maldor speak. And then very calmly says
Ferrin ate the food calmly as he listened to Maldor speak. And then very calmly says
"I know. I know Zyra killed Hunter…I know that wasn't your fault. And I know that I hate you. That I'm going to kill you one day. That my biggest regret was being made and that I will correct the world by killing you and then myself."
Zyra begins laughing hysterically.
Maldor snaps his fingers and Zyra's head explodes.
"But…Ferrin…theres so much more to your life. You can eventually find love…and be happy…Hope asks about you all the time. There can be a future for you, even if I'm not in it. Dont be reckless…I…I know how you feel. In a past life…My name was Galloran. And I wanted to die…but you can be in love. Be happy" Maldor pleads again, more emotional by the second.
"I'll never fall in love because I was made as a monster by a monster. My lifes purpose is to kill you. I see that now…Immortality or not…I will end your existence Maldor. Consider that the promise of a monster" Ferrin says coldly.
Maldor begins to cry "Stop! It doesn't have to be like this! I want to be better! I want to be the father you need. The man this world needs. But I need your love…I want to give you mine son. Please!" Maldor hugs Ferrin now.
Ferrin immediately bites Ferrin's jugular and rips it out of his neck. Killing Maldor on the spot. Maldor rises after a few seconds and shoots lighting at Ferrin in anger. "WHY!?!" Maldor knocks Ferrin unconscious and then leaves the cell.
Maldor stands outside, crying to himself in anger. "Whats the point of saving the world if I'll be alone when I do it!"
"Father! You're not alone I…" Sylar begins to say as he walks up.
"Walk away and make sure you give that womans head a proper burial" Maldor says bitterly.
Sylar sighs and walks away, the freshly cut off head hanging by a ponytail in his hand.
Maldor weeps deeper. Knowing he ruined the closest thing he has to a son, that Ferrin will always hate him.
"It doesn't have to end this way." Salina appears and speaks softly to Maldor.
Maldor suddenly stares at her in shock and raises one of his hands to shoot lighting at her.
"You can continue to try to kill me…but I won't be able to give you what you desire." Salina says.
Maldor stops and looks at her. "You…you killed my pregnant wife…"
"I had to…she was going to give you a Holy Poison. One capable of killing you. I couldn't it happen" Salina says.
"WHY!?! Why couldn't you have just let her! At least my child would still be alive!?!?!" Maldor yells.
"Because…" Salina says and gets close to Maldor pressing her lips to his. "In the name of love I couldn't. You're the only man of Lyria that I truly do not know. You aren't my creation but I love you. More than any other…and for that I will give you what you desire. The love of a son" Salina disappears.
"Wait…" Maldor watches as she disappears and runs down to the dungeon with Ferrin again. Zyra's head already regrowing.
"Salina! Dont hurt him please!" Maldor yells.
"Father? Why am I restrained? I thought we were going to hunt together. You promised" Ferrin asks confused.
Maldor walks up to Ferrin. "You…you want to go hunt with me?"
Ferrin smiles lovingly. "Of course I do! I've missed hunting with you Dad. I love you."
A year has passed. Ferrin is sitting at a table with Hope, enjoying a very nice meal with all kinds of luxuries. Ferrin looks at Hope with more curiosity than anything, all the while Hope wishes that Ferrin looked at her in another way. Hope finally makes a move on Ferrin as she places a hand on his. She confesses her feelings for him, recalling her past with him. She tells him that she loves him.
Ferrin is confused by this confession, admitting that he likes Hope and that he loves her because he likes her. He asks if thats how it works, and Hope confirms that it is. She heavily influences him to be close to her, to be with her for the rest of their lives. As they are about to kiss, their lips about to meet each other, Ferrin suddenly sees Athelisa in place of Hope. In shock, Ferrin backs away, all the while this person named Athelisa, that he doesn't even know, is trying to ask him if he is okay. Ferrin more confused, hears Athelisa tell him that she is his soulmate, that he is meant to spend his life with her.
Ferrin panics and runs away from the scene, crying heavily as he does not know whats going on. Maldor sees all of this, and walks over to Hope. Maldor asks if Hope is okay, and she explains that she is confused at what just happened. Maldor comforts Hope and pushes her to be with Ferrin because he wants his son to be happy. Maldor hands a vial to Hope, a love potion to make Ferrin fall in love with her. Hope takes the vial.
Maldor walks away and hears a voice, and then speaks with Salina. Salina is telling Maldor that what he did is not right. That Ferrin is destined to be with Athelisa, that she is his true love and that Maldor cannot change the fate of love. Maldor is upset as he wants his son to have someone to love now, not 500 years from now as Salina as foreseen for Ferrin. Maldor reveals that Ferrin can have a child, that he is the only Displacer that is capable of this. Maldor asked Salina to convince Ferrin to be with Hope. Salina agrees to this and goes to talk Ferrin.
Ferrin is now sitting in a cave, crying to himself at how strange he is. That he is tired of being a monster. Ferrin wants a simple life in which he can just love Hope and live his life with her. Salina appears and talks to Ferrin. Salina reveals to Ferrin that he is meant for Athelisa. That he will not be with Hope. However she does not tell him who Athelisa is or any details as it is meant to be authentic. Ferrin is confused by Salina's informaton, and she declares that Maldor will be thankful one day for her telling Ferrin the truth. Salina ultimately explains that Ferrin will be the only one who can truly stop Maldor if he ever becomes Evil. That is the end of the vision.
10 Years have passed since the last vision. Maldor and Salina sit together at a table eating together and smiling. They seem very happy with each other, when suddenly they see a massive group of rioters charging them. Maldor stops and questions them. They tell him that they are starving, that Felrook is overpopulated with not enough food or water because the population has been growing so quickly. Maldor is in shock as he cannot make more food or homes at the moment, unsure what to do now that his people are starving and sad. The mob does not believe Maldor's inability to help and try to attack him.
Suddenly thousands of bugs fly by and all the people that were in the mob drop dead. Thousands of them dead. All from strange black pores on their skin that clearly show they died of some kind of disease. The God of Disease introduces himself to Maldor and Salina. Both surprised by his appearance. He declares himself to be a God born out of necessity. That Lyria needs it to control overpopulation. The God of Disease tells Maldor that one day he will need to take more land to maintain his peoples health and safety as they will need more supplies. Disease also gives a gift to Maldor, a hybrid creature created from the Seeds of the Amar Kabul and his power of Death. He gives the seed to Maldor to have a child that is both human and Amar Kabul.
This child would be a boy that has great gifts and abilities. Someone capable of powerful actions. This boy would come to be known as Galloran the Gallant. The God of Disease continues to help Felrook but then decides to take a rest afterwards. Salina is shocked that a God could be born without her even knowing it. The God of Disease is a true mystery. Maldor declares that that he will grow the seed and name it after himself. A hero. Galloran, who he used to be. Maldor explains that he will wait for a future time to lay the seed, when the world is ready for a man like who the seed would produce. That is the end of the vision.
Takes place 30 years after the last vision. Ferrin is wearing his Empirial clothing, moving along with soldiers, an organized team as Ferrin is leading them. Hope, Rook, and Blank along with others are there is they move into a village that is on fire. Ferrin orders his troops to search the village for survivors, and to look for the cultrips afterwards but that saving lives is priority. They keep looking but don't find anyone after 20 minutes. They move towards the edge of the village where the water supply is. Ferrin finds it strange that all the water, food, and horses are still there. Ferrin suddenly dodges an arrow as a horn blows in the air. Three men with axes charge Ferrin wanting to fight. Hope jumps in and defends Ferrin by brainwashing the three attacking men.
Ferrin is thankful for Hope's help but mad that Hope killed the three men. Ferrin keeps an eye out as he orders his men to give him something they found, its an orantium crystal. Rook figures out that this is a trap. Ferrin blocks the clash of a sword as an invisible man appears and begins fighting Ferrin. Ferrin orders his men not to interfere as he continues to fight against the man who has purple eyes. Ferrin pleads to stop the fighting and that he only wants to save the citizens. The man finally calms down, and is impressed with Ferrin being able to hold his own against him. The man introduces himself as an Amar Kabul, surprising Ferrin.
The Amar Kabul man has a message for Maldor, that they want their seed back, the seed that Galloran is. They want it back, they have been looking for it ever since the God of Disease stole it. That they are willing to go to war to get it back. Ferrin asks why they would kill innocent people just to give this message. The Amar Kabul reveal that they didn't kill them, that they are good people. The Amar Kabul identifies himself as Jasher and that he wants the seed returned. Jasher leaves with his people and clarifies there will be a war if they do not get back that seed from Maldor. Jasher expresses how Ferrin is nothing more than an Empire puppet. Rook tries to convince Ferrin to go after them while their backs are turned, Ferrin refuses. Ferrin walks back to the castle, sad at how things have turned out, seeing himself as a slave while walking to Maldor.
Ferrin gets to the castle to find Maldor but Maldor is meditating and says he must go somewhere. Maldor leaves to go somewhere that he senses he needs to be. He suddenly is ambushed by the Gods. They try to kill Maldor because of his connection to Salina. They claim he is making her worst than who she is. Maldor is almost dead but Salina appears and saves Maldor. She is furious that Fealty, Dominic, and Percival all tried to kill Maldor. Salina expresses that Maldor is the answer to the flaws of man and needs to live. The three Gods disappear after Salina snaps her fingers. Salina tells Maldor that she is sorry that her children have grown arrogant and that they defied her. She says Maldor is meant to be the God of Lyria. She kisses him and heals Maldor through the kiss. Saving his life. Maldor falls in love with Salina finally, unable to help himself. Salina takes Maldor somewhere to help prepare him for the next time the Gods attack. They go to the Abyss together, to create a Goddess, the Goddess of Memory. To protect Maldor from the other Gods. Explains that this new God will only be summoned if Maldor asks for help or if a God dies. The two of them walk through a portal into the abyss. Gone from existence. Ferrin talks to General Carmine, who explains that Maldor is absent but that they will go to the Amar Kabul themselves and handle this potential war situation without Maldor's help. Carmine is a Warforged creature.
In the Year 392 of Lyria. It took over 6 months to travel through lands of murderers, thieves, and worse as they had a limited party with them. Ferrin, Carmine, Blank, Rook, Sylar, and Hope all walked together as they approached the Sacred Gate to the Seven Vales. Otherwise known as the land of the Amar Kabul. Much mystery surrounded their culture and history.
“They will never let us in" Ferrin says as they get close to the gate and notice they are surrounded by high edges from the Mountains.
“You underestimate the power of our Emperors word.” Carmine says as he keeps walking.
“Don’t you mean his appearance? My brother finally gets to accomplish his dream of literally being our Dad.” Sylar says and snickers to himself.
“This is not a joke Sylar. Behave…the sake of Felrook rests on us. I brought you all in case things go bad but we must maintain the appearance. Of diplomacy.” Ferrin says.
“I don’t see why we are so scared of these plant people. I’ve seen at least three supposed lookouts so far. Certainly not experts at being discreet.” Rook says while walking.
“If you see them…then they wanted to see you.” Hope says matter of factly.
“Well if their so impressive then maybe we can leave you here with them. Would certainly be doing us a favor.” Rook Scoffs.
“If only your skills were as high as your ability to hear yourself talk Rook. When we fought in that village…Ferrin's skills shined while you just watched. Perhaps you can learn from these people in regards to combat.” Blank says.
Rook snaps at this and gets in Blanks face. “If my skills are so low then perhaps I bring you to my level Blank…See whats in that head of yours" Rook stares in Blanks face, concealed by his helmet.
“As expected. When your weaknesses are called out…you resort to your one ability to manipulate minds. Like a bug with one trick" Blank says emotionless.
Ferrin, who has shapeshifted into Maldor, steps in between them. “Enough. If they see us divided…that will just make this harder. I need you both to get along. I expected trouble from Sylar but not from you Rook. Remember…Obey the law.”
Rook's eyes narrow when he hears that and goes back to focus.
“Hope…If any Displacer here jeopardizes the mission…You have full permission to make them suffer" Ferrin says.
“Ohhhh with pleasure” Hope smirks brandishing her blade.
“You’re an annoying bitch, you know that right?” Rook says annoyed.
“Bitch or not, I’ll have your balls in my hand if you don’t shut up and do as Ferrin ordered. Not his fault hes a man unlike you. Pathetic” Hope says.
Sylar and Blank both laugh at this, Rook looks furious but holds his tongue. They finally get to the gate, they see a massive stone wall with multiple sentry towers watching them. Ferrin approaches the front as Maldor.
“Excuse me! We request diplomatic entry! I was invited by a man named Jasher!” Ferrin yells.
No response comes back.
“Perhaps they see through your disguise” Carmine whispers to Ferrin.
“That’s impossible…I was careful to make this appearance perfect.” Ferrin says.
“In order to use Diplomatic status upon our land you must pass one of our two trials. Either a Trial of Heart or a Trial of Combat.” Kane says, an Amar Kabul standing at the gate.
“A trial of hea…” Ferrin begins to say but is cut off.
“Trial of combat. Give me your best fighter. I’ll earn my Emperor passage” Rook says and steps up.
“Well this should be good” Hope chuckles.
Kane nods “Very well”.
A woman in a robe walks up and unwinds the string and allows her robe to drop. A tall and slender woman with a muscular build and purple eyes steps forward with a metal staff.
“It will be a pleasure cleansing Lyria from the existence of one of you Displacers.” Steps up and sizes up Rook. “I am Nilfhana Venti. Daughter of Phylnar Venti and Sofina Venti. Lover of Drake Vohenheim. And faithful servant to the Vale of Knowledge.”
“The names Rook. And all you need to know is that you’ll be begging for your life soon.”
Nilfhana Venti steps up, releasing her robe to reveal her armor garments that cover her body but gives good flexibility. Rocks the size of heads cave in as she approaches him.
“Speak your prayers to your Cockroach lord” Nilfhana says as her swords glisten from the reflection of the suns light on her steel.
Rook grits his teeth. “Better a roach than a fucking talking plant bitch.” Pulls out his own sword.
Drake suddenly walks out and looks worried for Nilfhana. Steps forward while wearing his ceremonial armor, brandishing him as someone on the path to becoming an Elder of the Amar Kabul. Blank steps in front of him.
“Easy friend. This is a trial of passage. No interference, our peoples rules, not yours” Blank says.
“Hmm…You’re kinda cute. Reminds me of Ferrin” Hope says and waves at Drake.
Drake sneers at this and watches the battle resume.
Rook uses his sword to sweep up the dirt into Nilfhana’s eyes.
“Agh!” Covers her eyes with her wrist.
Rook smirks and goes for her heart. The killing blow.
Nilfhana smirks as suddenly drops her wrist and dodges Rooks attack easily, revealing that the sand didn’t affect her as much as Rook thought. Immediately knee kicks Rook in the groin and slices her sword against his right arm, pushing him back on his ass with his sword flying off into the distance.
Hope, Blank, and Drake all smirk at Rook scrambling on the floor looking for his sword.
Carmine and Ferrin frown at this.
Nilfhana smiles with pure satisfaction as she watches her prey scramble. “Submit, and I will spare your life” Walks up stands above Rook with a sword pressed against his heart and pierces slightly to draw blood.
Rook flinches but slowly reaches his arm to grab her ankle. “You don’t seem to know much about Displacers…like that we have more than one heart bitch” Lunges his body forward as her sword punges deeply into one of his hearts. He grabs her ankle and suddenly Nilfhana goes completely limp as she cannot move.
“Swords aren’t really my thing…but breaking your seed brain certainly is” Smirks with pure satisfaction “Now….Cut off your own hand” Rook says calmly.
Nilfhana shakes in fear “Please no” but cannot control her body as she cuts off her own right hand with her sword. Blood gushes out as Rook stands up and punches her across the face. Making her fall to the ground. Rook stands above and begins kicking her over and over, giving her bruises all over her body.
“Think you were so tough huh? Oh don’t worry. I wont kill you fast…I’ll make it slow you dumb bitch” Continues hitting Nilfhana while commanding her to bite her own tongue to increase the pain she is feeling.
“Rook that’s enough…” Ferrin begins to say while shapeshifted into Maldor but Carmine stops him.
“She must submit for the battle to end and for us to get passage. Otherwise we will not be able to go inside” Carmine says.
“Carmine hes not going to let her submit. This is sick…We have to stop this” Ferrin says as he prepares to interfere with this when suddenly Drake screams.
“STOP IT YOU DAMN BASTARD!” Drake screams as he begins approaching with his golden long sword. \
“Drake stop! You cannot interfere with the Sacred Tradition of our people. You’re about to become an Elder…You can get banished for this” Kane says to Drake.
“I…” Drake doesn’t even bother saying the words to explain his actions, he moves at insane speed as he efficiently slams his knee into the side of Rooks face, knocking teeth into the air.
Rook falls onto his back and says “Nilfhana! Slit your throat and destroy your seed!”
“NO!” Drake yells and tries to stop Nilfhana from slitting her throat but he’s too late. He manages to save her seed planted in the back of her head however.
Rook cackles with laughter. “Nothing but a bunch of seeded savages. Go back into your mountains”
Drake with a cold stillness turns around to face Rook with massive anger.
“Uh…sir? Should I extract Rook?” Blank asks.
“No. Let him reap what he sows.” Ferrin says.
Carmine shakes his head. “Maldor would protect his own.”
“I may look like him…but I am not Maldor” Ferrin says as he watches Drake exact righteous vengeance on Rook.
Drake proceeds to stab Rook over a dozen times ruthless and cuts off his head from his body, holding it up in anger as he roars at it. Blood dripping down his arms as his other hand holds Nilfhana’s seed in his hand tightly.
Jasher suddenly walks through the gate and sees what Drake has done. “DRAKE!”
Drake suddenly snaps out of it and bends a knee to Jasher. “Father…”
“ELDER! I am not your father in these robes. I am your Sacred Elder and you…you have broken our sacred law.” Looks at Drake with disappointment.
“I was protecting…” Drake begins to say.
“Give me her seed. Throw them the Displacer head, and then go home.” Jasher says calmly.
Drake sighs in anger but hands over the seed for Nilfhana to be grown back to life over time, then throws Rooks head for Carmine to catch it.
Drake begins walking back to the gate but Jasher suddenly stops him. “Your flower of Initiation…drop it on the ground”
“But I…” Drake begins to say.
“YOU ARE DONE! Consider your rite of Eldership revoked. Thank the Gods I don’t banish you here and now. One more word and I WILL! Go back now” Jasher says.
Drake drops his flower onto the ground with tears, knowing hes giving up something hes wanted his whole life. He walks away.
Jasher looks at Ferrin with disgust in his eyes. “Emperor Maldor…Welcome to the Seven Vales.”
It has been 3 days since Ferrin and his diplomatic escorts arrived in the Seven Vales and got through the gate. They now stand in a massive arena pit setting, with Seven Individuals sitting on a high arch above the Arena stare down at them. Jasher is among one of these 7 people. They are the Elders of the Amar Kabul, each one represents a different one of the Vales.
“I thank you for having us as your humble guests” Ferrin says and bows disguised as Maldor.
“Humble is not the word I’d use. Your subjects have already shown a complete disregard of life” Jasher says coldy.
“At least our people know how to follow orders” Rook says while rubbing his face, his healing has been a slow constant. Now only a few bruises remain on his face.
“What did you…” Jasher begins to say in anger but is stopped by the 8th man, who is standing above all the others. This is signified by his helmet, the helmet of the original Amar Kabul. Only the Soulkeeper, the chosen leader of all the Seven Vales can wear this.
“Enough. Why are you here?” Jonry Pykell says, the soulkeeper.
“We do not wish for war. Felrook is a peaceful place with a peaceful military. We have no intention of invading anyone. I request a truce” Ferrin says.
The Seven Elders all whisper to each other.
“You ask for peace but you stole something from us, something precious. A gift from the Goddess” Jonry says.
“A gift? We were told by the God of Disease that he created the seed and gave it to us” Ferrin says.
“Hes lying. That seed was created by my daughter, she received a blessing. That Child of Prophecy belongs with us. The Mighty Galloran.” Jonry says.
“Incomprehensible. What are the odds they named the child by that name of all names?” Carmine says to himself.
Hope winks at one of the Amar Kabul citizens who is clearly checking her out.
“I count about a 1000 men with bows aimed at us. Its been over an hour and they have not wavered on their nock. I’ll certainly enjoy the challenge if we go to war” Blank says.
“Challenge? We’ll burn this place to the ground, it wont be like Gars Wood” Sylar says while giggling to himself about the thought.
“All due respect. That Holy Seed belongs to us. We are willing to trade whatever it takes for it…” Ferrin says.
All Elders and the Soulkeeper declined immediately without even considering it.
Ferrin grinds his teeth as he knows what he must do, he must project strength, he uses the hidden cannisters in his sleeves to put on a good show.
“DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE ME! I WILL TAKE WHAT IS MINE FOR MY NAME IS MALDOR!” Ferrin says while triggering murple smoke to flash out of his wrists from the cannisters, faking magic essentially.
The Amar Kabul do not react the way Ferrin thought they would as they immediately fire thousands of arrows at them.
“Uh Blank…” Ferrin says nervously.
“Yeah, yeah, I know.” Blank raises his hand and all the arrows suddenly stop and fall to the ground.
“War it is” Rook says as he readies his sword.
“Wait!” A woman steps out onto the arch and stands next to the Soulkeeper.
“They deserve to know the truth…especially if it can keep peace father. I’m the one who gave birth to this seed, allow me to make the decision.” The woman says.
The Soulkeeper sighs. “Very well. My daughter Launa Pykell, vouches for our guests and wishes to reveal to them the truth. You may stay with her at her home, but when she says its time to leave you will do so…and if you harm her…you will never leave here alive. Understand?” Jonry says firmly.
Ferrin nods slowly not seeing much other choice.
“Bring your things to my home and you….” Points her finger at Rook. “I want you to have dinner with me tonight. Meeting adjourned.”
Its been a week of Ferrin and his diplomatic party being inside the Seven Vales after their meeting with the Council. They have been residing in their guest home, a beautiful sanctuary. Rook is currently on his 4th date with Launa Pykell, the daughter to the Grand Elder. They eat dinner together as they discuss different philosophies.
“If someone is created by someone else…aren’t they soulless?” Rook says while enjoying a glass of wine.
“If that’s true…then how would you be able to answer that question?” Launa asks.
“Perhaps a form of torture by the one who created me?” Rook asks.
“Well humans are born from their mothers wombs. Whether the creation was magical or by bodily functions…I believe it doesn’t matter.” Launa says matter of factly as she eyes Rook carefully, enjoying his appearance.
“What if…You feel like a monster anyway? If the temptations always win?” Rook says somewhat ashamed of himself.
“Everyone is a monster then. And I believe you being aware of it you makes you the only monster who can be more than the fake that everyone else is.” Launa says sincerely.
Rook’s eyes widen as he looks at her in shock. A deep blush forms on his face. He takes her hand in his and looks at her with passion. “I…I want to know you Launa. Truly and completely”
“You…You really are a monster…” Launa says and blushes deeply and kisses Rook for the first time. The two of them share a night of love as they sleep together. In the morning Launa looks at Rook and says that she is ready to tell Ferrin and the others the truth.
Launa explains the truth to Ferrin and the others now at a meeting later in the day in the living room.
“The truth is…I was dying. I desperately wanted to have my own child…but my seed was corrupted. It was impossible for me to have a child. This is considered a rare disease for few woman in the Amar Kabul. I tried everything to find a way to have a child…Nothing ever worked. Before long I found ancient texts our old Master and Creator Zeeka wrote about the History of Lyria. I read the stories of how Salina cared for the hero named Galloran. How his destiny was to face down a man named Maldor, his brother. The book had many missing pages and pieces of information but ultimately I understood it. Before long I found a piece of the book in which Zeeka wrote about a powerful God that knew about all Diseases in the world. In my desperation, I used a spell described by Zeeka to summon this God. At the time I felt so clever…but I had no I was summoning the God of Disease. He appeared before me in anger and declared that I would die for my insolence. That he was enjoying his slumber. He inflicted a disease upon me so that I would die within a few days in agony. I cried and cried…my own people shaming me…” Launa says and looks at Rook with a sense of love and understanding.
“If that’s true…Then how did you end up…” Ferrin begins to say but Hope puts her hand over his mouth to keep him quiet.
Hope had become much more close with Launa over this week. The two of them often talking together and enjoying different activities together.
“After reading all of Zeeka’s texts…The only hero I could think of was Galloran. I cried and cried, imaginging the boy described as Galloran Lawrence from the texts in the books. Before long…Salina appeared before me and told me that my child would be the Galloran she had once loved in another life. I didn’t know what that meant…But before long I was pregnant and healthy again. I produced another seed to grow Galloran into the ground…Yet I could not bring myself to do it…I was waiting for the right moment. For when I had a man to help me raise him properly…Then the God of Disease showed up furious. Claiming that I embarassed him to the Goddess of Love Salina. He took the seed from us…I am telling you all this because I want our nations to be allies. Rook gave me the seed for Galloran. Which is why I am giving you all this info and believing I should trust you.” Launa says clearly exhausted from saying all of that.
Rook looks at her with love. “Launa…I’d like to talk to you tonight” Rook holds a wedding ring box in his hand.
Launa agrees as Ferrin and his diplomats all process this information amongst themselves. Later that night Launa shows up to Rooks room in his own small apartment, given to him at Launa’s request from her feelings for him. She walked inside after being let in and sees her father tied up and on the ground with a gag and blindfold on.
“What is the meaning of this? Rook?” Launa sounds scared and confused.
“You thought I was going to propose tonight right? I was quite obvious with that wedding box” Rook says.
“Rook…whats going on? You’re scaring me…” Launa steps back looking at her tied up father.
“I do love you Launa. And that’s why you’re going to forever be a part of me. And make my father finally notice and love me…Don’t move” Rook says coldly as Launa is forced to be still. Walks over Launa’s fathers throat. He ignores her crying and walks up to her now. “You’ll always be a part of me. As I bring doom to the Amar Kabul” Slams his hand through her chest and grabs her heart. “Thank you…For accepting me as the monster that I am”
Launa falls to the ground dead as Rook absorbs her heart inside of him. Rook proceeds to make a copy of himself in front of her. His copy shapeshifts into the Grand Elder. “All of this will make Felrook stronger than ever” Rook says coldy watching her drop dead. Him and his clone smirking.
“Rook…This is against Ferrin’s orders…This is wrong!” Hope walks into the room furious and looks at Rook.
“Perfect. Another mind to take.” Rook says.
Rook stands over Hope and begins to beat her brutally, making her more delirous. Rook then begins to manipulate her mind as she begs him to let her go. Rook ignores her as he declares that he will be the Ruler of the World. That he plans to take over the world through the Amar Kaul and his mental manipulations. He brainwashes Hope, breaking her brain as he becomes a shell of herself serving Rook and working for Ferrin and Maldor as they do not know what has happened to her. Rook tells Hope to get the others to all go the meeting Room while sending a copy of himself with Hope and keeps his original self disguised as the Grand Elder of the Amar Kabul. Rook calls for a meeting as Hope convinces Ferrin and the others to attend the meeting. Rook, disguised as the Grand Elder makes an announcement to all the members of the Amar Kabul, that they will never interfere in the affairs of the world. Many are outraged but accept it, they accept that the Maldorian Empire is to not be trifled with, because Rook, who is disguised as their Grand Elder says so. The meeting ends, Ferrin and his group all travel back home, with no idea at what Rook has done nor that Hope’s mind has been broken.
The year is unknown. We return to the Void at which Salina and Maldor went into together. They stand above clouds of purple and pink mist with bolts of lighting shooting through them with meteors flying through the air. The whole scene is like a Inception Movie dream.
“Salina…Why did you bring me here? I have to ensure the safety of Felrook. Of my people” Maldor says impatiently.
“You have lived for 100's of years. You have fought in wars, conquered Felrook, created an entirely different race, opposed Gods, and tried to invade Gars Wood…Yet you cannot wait for me to show you how to ensure you never die again?” Salina says.
“When you put it like that…I haven’t accomplished much. Much of my energy goes into protecting Felrook” Maldor says.
“Its time to change that. Time to explore what’s in here” Salina taps Maldor’s chest.
“My heart?” Maldor says with disgust.
“No…Your Dragonstone. The one given to you when you were a child. You have depended on the power that comes from it but haven’t questioned the History of Dragons.” Salina says.
“Dragons…Aren’t they extinct?” Maldor says.
“No…They just live somewhere nobody in Lyria can see. They live in the clouds” Salina says.
“The clouds…Is that where we are going?” Maldor asks.
“Indeed. I want you to achieve true power. I want you to spread your dream my love. And I will show you how” Salina gets close…Nearly kissing Maldor.
Maldor looks away, avoiding the kiss.
“I haven’t forgotten what you’ve done…I just want to make sure my childs death won’t be in vain” Maldor says.
The Gods watch in anger at a distance, also in the void but knowing better to interfere. To try to attack with their Mother Salina there.
The Gods of Disease, Memory, Honor, Faith, Fear, and Magic all stand watching.
“This is disgusting. Why does our mother love a man like that?” The God of Faith says. “He stopped me from restoring religious faith in Lyria.”
“You were in the wrong their Fealty. We have no right to harm humans for our own ego.” The God of Honor Percival says.
“I don’t see anything wrong here. Especially if it will lead to more death” The God of Disease says with a smile.
“All of this is so strange…I have all the memories of our Mother…Of the History of Lyria…Yet I feel as though there is something that comes before Lyria in time.” The Goddess of Memory says mostly to herself.
The Gods ignore her words, all with their eyes focusing on the scene before them.
The God of Fear watches the most closely while clenching his fists in anger. Grinding his teeth.
“Why does he get to live…Why is his life worth more than Katharyn’s…She was so beautiful…So perfect…” The God of Fear says in anger and bitterness as he watches Salina with Maldor.
“Its been centuries. You really still care for that human woman?” Percival says to Sin.
“I do. I loved her…More than anything I did. And our mother killed her for him. When she has lectured us so many times not to harm mortals for our own selfish desires. I…We all know what hes doing. Hes corrupting Salina. We have to kill him” Sin says.
Fealty steps up and says “We’ve tried numerous times. Our mother has placed her mark on him. That and the Dragonstone infused with his chest make it impossible to kill him…And besides. You tried to kill him before and failed remember? You’ve served him now more than anything.”
“I did that hoping to find a weakness. A way to kill him” Sin days.
The God of Magic finally walks up with his cool demeanor and says “Maldor is a naturally gifted man of Edomic. You simply don’t understand it the way I do. Or the mortals that use it.” Dominic says.
Sin’s eyes suddenly widen as he gets an idea. “I will be back. I think I know how to kill Maldor” Disappears.
Meanwhile Ferrin and his group have returned to Felrook. It was a long trip as there constant battles and villages being raided. Ferrin refused not to help those in need resulting in it taking a year to get back to Felrook. While there, General Carmine resumed command in Maldor’s absence. Sylar walked downstairs into the dungeon room. And as he walked up to Zyra’s cell, he saw the God of Fear about to break him out.
“Stop!” Sylar yells and pulls out a horn.
“Damn…You’re Sylar correct? The Sadistic Displacer?” Fear says.
“I…” Sylar doesn’t know what to say.
“If you forget what you saw here…Never tell anyone…Then I will grant you a backup life. A demonic egg if you will. You will hatch out of it if you ever were to die.” Fear offers to Sylar.
“If Zyra is missing then they’ll know anyway” Sylar says, cautious but interested.
“I am only borrowing Zyra. I need him in the Void for a moment. He will be back in minutes” Fear says.
Sylar can’t resist the chance to have a backup life incase he were to die. So that he could return and make whoever killed or tortured him suffer for it. “Deal” Sylar says.
The Year is still unknown as Maldor and Salina travel through the Void. Before long they arrive at a Volcanic Island in the clouds. Lave leaks down the land as Dragons of various colors and styles fly around or sleep upon the ground. Maldor watches in shock, believing that all Dragons were extinct. The history states that Fealty killed all the Dragons of Lyria for refusing to worship him.
“When my son Fealty decided that Dragons did not belong in Lyria…I simply put them someplace else. This place is Skull Dragon Island. The dragons have multiple factions among them. At the moment…they are at war with each other.” Salina says calmly.
“War…Over what?” Maldor says. Watches as three massive dragons climb to the top of three different volcanoes. A Poison Dragons. An Ice Dragon. And a Fire Dragon.
The Fire Dragon speaks up to a mass following of Dragons. He is known as Phyelrax.
“MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS! I BECKON YOU TODAY TO REMEMBER WHAT THE GODS AND THE HUMANS DID TO US! TO OUR ANCESTORS! I have heard of the Kingdom Trensicourt adopting a Tournament called the Dragonslayer Tournament! BWAH! LIKE THEY COULD EVER KILL A DRAGON!” Roars.
The other Dragons all yell in anger as they are outraged by the Fire Dragon statements.
“LET THEM HAVE THEIR FANTASIES! WE LIVE IN PARADISE! THEY ARE NO THREAT TO US, IF WE ATTACK THEM THEN THEY WILL ATTACK US! WE SHOULD CONTINUE OUR SLUMBER HERE!” The Ice Dragon Umalyndia declares.
“YOU ONLY SAY THAT BECAUSE OF THE HUMAN THAT PRAYS TO YOU. A PEST KNOWN AS Emilia Cinder. The Ruler of Trensicourt!” The Poison Dragon Zlyrex says in amusement.
Maldor stands next to Salina. “If I am to accomplish more…Then I need control of the Dragons”
“Your Edomic will not work on the Legendary Dragons.” Salina says.
“Manipulation is the key then. This…could be an opportunity for two things at once. The Dragonstone within me grants me power…The Dragons would sense that and probably want to kill me. No…I need to give them someone innocent but can earn their loyalty. Someone skilled and able to be reborn again and again. Someone half human and half Amar Kabul.” Maldor smirks at his thoughts.
“I AM DONE WITH THESE GAMES! I SHALL TAKE THOSE WHO WISH TO SEE TRENSICOURT BURNED TO THE GROUND AND GET IT DONE!” The Fire Dragon declares.
“WE WILL STOP YOU BROTHER! STOP THIS MADNESS!” The Ice Dragon would declare.
As the Dragons argue amongst each other, Maldor takes a stepback and casts a spell. Suddenly a seed appears in his hand.
“It seems my son Ferrin was able to retrieve the Golden Seed from the Amar Kabul.” Maldor says.
“I always knew that would end up in your hands. I blessed a woman who could not give birth with that seed…I implanted certain memories that I can’t find inside that child. I sense he will be great. A true warrior.” Salina says.
“Of course he will, he is my son. And since hes my son….Theres no other name he deserves than the best one this world has had.” Maldor says ignoring how much of a egomaniac he sounds like right now.
“Maldor then?” Salina asks.
“No. His name shall be Galloran.” Maldor says with finality as he casts a spell and suddenly the seed turns into a human baby.
The Dragons all argue amongst each other until a human baby suddenly appears on the Volcano with the Ice Dragon. All the Dragons stare in shock as the human baby, wearing a cloth outfit, with magical boots, begins to walk up the volcano while laughing as a baby would.
The Fire Dragon roars “WHAT IS THAT FILFTH DOING HERE!?! KILL IT!”
The Ice Dragon picks up the baby “You are truly a disgrace to our race. This child…is not ordinary.”
The Poison Dragon speaks “Well if that child is so special…Then I call for the Dragon Dance Rite of Passage. See if it belongs here or if we throw it down the clouds.” A majority of all the other dragons appear.
All the Dragons seem to agree on this, as its part of their ancient tradition.
“What is your name little one?” The Ice Dragon asks.
“Galloran” The baby says.
“Now we watch my son make me the Emperor of Dragons.” Maldor says with a smirk.
Trensicourt was a thriving Kingdom known for its warriors. Little did it know that soon they would never be the same again.
Zyra walks along with the God of Fear. They walk within the Void. However their surroundings look different than seen before. What is usually a plane of random energies warping around is instead a hall surrounded by cracked mirrors.
"This is the best I could do without getting the attention of my mother. Maldors past...In fragments." Sin says.
"Its perfect...All I need" Zyra says as his fingers lace over one of the mirrors. An image of Maldor saving peoples lives, protecting them from Zyra. "I don't even know who the villain in all this is anymore" Zyra says and shakes his head.
"I don't believe in Villains. Only Revenge. I failed you the first time you tried to kill Maldor but now...Now I want this nightmare to end. My Celestial powers do nothing to Maldor. You told me you could kill him so...How? Magic?" The God of Fear says with concern.
"No, no. That wont be enough to kill Maldor. Hes more than just a man now...Hes a love story. The Righteous Wizard and the Love Hungry Goddess. Its a story that was started with Love...and could only be ended by Love." Zyra says as he walks along with him.
"He...He killed Katharyn. She was the only Mortal I considered to be worth your kind. When my Mother killed her for him...I knew he had to die. I joined him against you hoping I could find his weakness and kill him myself...but he has no weakness. That man loves no one but himself" Sin says bitterly.
Zyra looks at a Mirror Image of Maldor as a Child, hiding in Natalia's house. The two of them playing with toys together. Maldor cooking for her family and always helping out. How he would listen to Natalia ramble on about her issues for hours on end and Maldor listen to every word supporting her."
"No" Zyra says.
Zyra looks at another mirror image of Maldor crying for a century after his Wife Katharyn died with his child in her stomach. Another image of Maldor caring for Rachel Monroe as she had an illness and he cared for her and cried even as she betrayed (edited)
him.
"You're wrong. Love is what created Maldor. His love for his Dragon friend. His love Natalia, Katharyn, and Rachel Monroe. And his love for those that impacted him. The only difference now....Is that he loves Salina. And that love has turned toxic. And I will use that to destroy him from within." Zyra says.
"That does not make any sense Zyra! We are running out of time, if my mother senses me here, displaying a mortals memories like this...She'll kill us both!" Fear says in frustration.
"I'm almost done" Zyra says as he moves 7 mirror fragments together into a collage of different images. "From what I have seen Maldor has 7 people throughout his life that he sees as his greatest loves.
1. The Memory of his Past Self Galloran
2. Natalia
3. Katharyn
4. Ferrin
5. Jessica
6.Daxianoius
7. Ramona.
I will take random letters from each of these 7 names and form them into a Single Magical Word. One that will Dismantle Maldor completely. He will die the moment he hears the word spoken outloud." Zyra says as he makes the 7 mirror fragments form into a single glowing object.
"Incredible! What is the word? I'll use it right now!" Fear says excitedly.
Zyra shakes his head. "Its a word of Mortal Love. Only a Mortal can retain the word in their memory or even say it outloud. I'll use it on Maldor myself." Zyra says.
Fear nods and begins forming a Teleportation circle. "Its more difficult to teleport a mortal out of the Void. I will need a few moments. In the meantime...Who is Ramona and Jessica? Those names don't sound familiar. And...What if his loves change by the time you use it?" Fear says.
"Ramona was the name of Maldors mother. She died young. Jessica was the name of his unborn child that died with Katharyn. And it doesn't matter if his loves have changed, so long as he loves 1 of the names I've applied to the spell even in memory then he will die. Hurry so I can end this" Zyra says.
"I'm trying I..." Fears eyes suddenly widen in shock. "Salina...My mother..." (edited)
Zyra eyes widen "What!?!" He says.
"My mother is coming. I can't teleport you out. Shes restricting it...Shes going to find you here!" Fear yells.
"Can you get out of here yourself?" Zyra asks.
"Yes but what does that matter? She'll force you to talk! To expose us!" Fear is panicking.
"Listen to me carefully. You need to wipe my memory and get out of here." Zyra says.
"But the word!?! We've come too far now to just dump it damn it!" Fear is furious.
"I said listen you damn God. You will wipe my memory and take my Magical Word. You can't retain it but you can seperate it into seven syllables of the word. When put together by a Mortal it will work but can only work once before its wiped from the mind of anyone who writes it or says it forever. You must hide these Syllables into 7 places of Purity in Lyria. Sign my name next to it...I want people to know I ended this madness" Zyra says Smirking but nervous.
"But...I..." Fear says in nervousness.
"Theres no time! Take it and mark the 7 Syylables in 7 places of Lyria that having purity in them. Afterwards wipe your mind as well. That way Salina can't know." Zyra says.
"THEN WHATS THE POINT IF NOBODY KNOWS!" Fear yells in anger.
Zyra's hands glow as he touches his chest. "I've casted an ancient spell on my mind immune to Celestial Interference. I will remember the Syllables and where they are when I lay my eyes upon one worthy of finding them." Zyra says.
In a few moments Salina appears and Fear is gone. Zyra lays on the ground sleeping. His memories now empty. Salina sighs and return Zyra to his cell in Felrook.
Roars echo through the clouds, louder than that of a thousand drums playing in unison. Maldor has remained hidden among the clouds and watched the Volcanic land shimmer with activity now that a human baby named Galloran stands at the top of a crater. He barely stands as hundreds of Dragons crowd around the crater and watch as Galloran looks down into the pit of the Volcano.
The Poison Dragon, the leader of his faction, hovers above Galloran while the Ice Dragon watches. The Fire Dragon is missing from this Dragon Dance ritual. Galloran begins walking along the edge until eventually he jumps off the edge into the lava. The dragons watch in fascination as Galloran rose from the lava back onto the surface of the Volcano. Ryuu, the Dragon King, flew up from the lava while carrying Galloran above. Ryuu stood there fiercely in his human form while looking at all the dragons.
“This child…Carries a heart of true innocence. And potential…” Ryuu says as all the dragons cheer.
“Ryuu! You have not risen from the Lava since Fealty exiled us here. To what do we owe the honor?” The Ice Dragon says in confusion.
“I was inspired by this child…If humans like him exist…Then perhaps Dragons and Humans can coexist afterall.” Ryuu says.
“Its Phyelrax, the Fire Dragon! Hes returned!” The Poison dragon exclaims. He yells as the Fire Dragon appears from the sky.
“I bring news my brothers and sisters! I have gazed upon Trensicourt and their tournament…They have captured your son Ryuu. He volunteered to help me scout the humans and they used magic to ensnare him.” The Fire Dragon says.
“Are you…” Ryuu says in a bit of concern.
“They have your son. He tried to escape through the clouds home but was shot down. I couldn’t save him.” The Fire Dragon says.
Ryuu stands there silently.
“I can organize his release. Let me speak to the Cinder family my king…They respect my words.” The Ice Dragon says.
Ryuu nods and walks over to Galloran. A child who is smiling. Ryuu lifts his hand and incinerates the child. Turning Galloran into nothing more than an Amar Kabul seed on the ground. Maldor is able to retrieve it before its destroyed.
“Damn! What is going on?” Maldor says to himself.
“Its time they respect my words. A worthy human awoke me…And now I will awake Trensicourt to the reality that I still exist. I am getting my son back” Ryuu says with finality and flies down to Lyria from the clouds.
“I shall follow our King. Fire Faction, follow me and lets destroy Trensicourt! For the Silver Flamed Son!” The Fire Dragon yells.
“Wait! I am going down there, I can prevent all of this quickly with just a few words from…” The Ice Dragon passes out. Sleeping now. Unknowing that Maldor is the one who put him to sleep.
“Trensicourt has never been an awful Kingdom to me but I need to know what these dragons are capable of. So lets see what this Dragon King is capable of. And do not worry Galloran…I will plant your Amar Kabul seed one day." Maldor says with finality. Galloran suddenly returns to the form of the Amar Kabul seed. The Dragons too distracted to even notice. They only have blood lust, and it would be a shame for this baby Amar Kabul to die here. Maldor converted him back to his magical seed form.
Salina nods with Maldor.
“Lets see who wins. Banished Dragons or humans. Lets go watch the show” Maldor follows Ryuu.
"I must attend to my children. Ensure they no longer interfere with your development my love" Salina says as she prepares to leave the Void.
Maldor suddenly grabs her wrist and then his hand wraps around her throat.
"Do not confuse my need for your help to save this world with love for you Salina." Maldors words drip with anger as he remembers that Salina killed his wife and unborn child.
Salina remains still and gazes upon Maldor.
"You've said you've loved me before" Salina says.
"Only because I've needed you to stay alive...The Gods of this world are corrupt. I have to create a Paradise for my people since the Gods fail to do so." Maldor says sincerely.
Salina nods "I shall give you that Paradise. And you can kill me if you like afterwards"
Maldor releases her. "Get out of my sight" Maldor says bitterly as Salina leaves the Void. Maldor follows the Ryuu and the Dragons following him to Trensicourt.
Trensicourt at this time is under a Monarchy in which the Dragons storm the Capital Castle. The roof is torn off as Ryuu enters the throne room with the Queen of Trensicourt. Emilia Cinder. Guards surround the Dragons, roughly over a dozen Dragons fill the massive room or fly above in the sky.
Many of the guards panic and fire arrows at the Dragons which do nothing but upset them as they begin clawing at the guards and killing them brutally. Ryuu, the Dragon King, begins to walk up the Blue Carpet to the seat of the throne.
“What is the meaning of this?!?” Emilia Cinder yells in fear and shock.
“You took my son. And now I will take your city” Ryuu says in anger. \
“Took him? He was injured by Fire! His wing was burned off, we took him in to care for his wing.” Emilia says with sincerity.
Ryuu keeps walking but glances at the Fire Dragon, leader of the Fire Faction for a moment before turning his attention back to Emilia. “You lie. Dragons do not harm each other. We are not as primitive as you Humans.” Ryuu suddenly grabs Emilia and lifts her off the ground, choking the life out of her. Her legs begin to flail in desperation.
Many of the Guards beg for their Queens life to be spared as they exclaim that shes telling the truth.
“Its true! Your son Tobias is in the Dungeon. Our doctors are caring for him now!” Emilia barely gets the words out as she can barely breath.
“YOU DARE SPEAK MY SONS NAME IN MY PRESCENCE! YOU TRY TO ACT INNOCENT! ARE YOUR DEATH BATTLES WITHT DRAGONSLAYERS INNOCENT?!?” Ryuu roars in true anger.
“I…I’ve been trying to stop that barbaric tradition put in by the merchants…Please…” Emilia begins to lose consciousness but before she does she says “Please use your strength for good. More than I ever could” She says.
Those words reawaken something in Maldor. His passion to help others despite their loyalties comes back as Emilia reminds him of a better version of himself in the past. Maldor can no longer spectate as he appears in a bolt of lightning that pushes Ryuu back with the rest of the Dragons. Maldor stands before the Dragon Army.
“The Immortal Wizard…What business do you have here?” Ryuu says in confusion.
“I claim Trensicourt as mine. No Dragon can fly here anymore. Leave now” Maldor says coldly, standing in front of Emilia and protecting her.
“You…You dare..” Ryuu begins walking up in anger.
“One more step” Maldor says and puts his Middle finger and thumb together like hes going to snap his fingers. “And Tobias dies…Along with at least half your Dragon Army. Or…You can return home and listen to the Ice Dragon…Not the Fire Dragon who hurt your son in the first place.” Maldor says coldly.
Ryuu growls and stares at Maldor. He knows well of his powers, hes seen them used before. Ryuu gives the order to his dragon army to leave and discuss this.
“I will be back for my son Wizard. And if you stand in my way…I will burn Felrook to the ground as well.” Ryuu says as he leaves.
“That…You…Aren’t you supposed to be an evil Wizard?” Emilia says as she massages her neck where theres a bruise on it now from Ryuu.
“I’m an evil Wizard who wants to talk” Maldor says calmly. “Tea?” Maldor asks with a bit of humor.
“Sure…But you’ll have to make it as I doubt help with be nearby now” Emilia says matter of factly.
“We all need help. And we all deserve it” Maldor says surprising himself, he means it. Steps forward and kneels to Emilia respecting her status as Queen.
It is now the Year 700 of Lyria. 100's of years have passed since Ferrin and his Diplomatic party travelled to the Seven Vales to make peace with the Amar Kabul. Time works remains still in the Void so for Maldor no time has passed but he has been in there with Salina from Year 391 to Year 700. Maldor has emerged from the void and saved Trensicourt from the wrath of the dragons for now. He now sits in an elegant room with fancy silverware, fresh food, and shaking servants inside the room as they stand near the infamous Wizard known as Maldor. Emilia Cinder, the Queen of Trensicourt sits at the table enjoying a glass of wine while her hand still feels around the bruise on her neck from Ryuu choking her hours ago. Maldor keeps his red hood over his face as he eats, not wanting to reveal his scar covered face. The Gods may not have killed him, but they left scars on his face that not everyone would find to be elegant. Portraits fill the dining room of past Queen’s of Trensicourt. The largest one in the room is a portrait of Lizralda Cinder, the founder of Trensicourt and a powerful Wizard. Emilia’s eyes narrow as she looks at the portrait, the powerful Wizard, and then her eyes dart back to Maldor, wondering if hes anything like her.
“Lizralda…You ever hear of her?” Emilia asks casually.
Maldor stops eating and wipes his mouth with a napkin before speaking.
“I know of all Wizards in Lyria. I like to be informed…Even if none of them have ever wanted anything to do with me.” Maldor says.
“Well to be fair…The first Wizard Academy you were in…burned down to the ground. At least that’s what our history shows…Though it may be roughly 400 years ago.” Emilia says as she takes off her wedding ring and plays with it. Gazing at it a few times.
“History has a funny way of leaving parts out. First-hand experience is the best source of information in my opinion.” Maldor says as begins cutting another piece of the steak on his plate.
“Parts out? Our librarians have sourced their information with connections to the Oracle. I highly doubt it would all be inaccurate…Though a man like you would want that wouldn’t you?” Emilia says with a bit of a challenging tone. Her black hair is long and rests over her right shoulder as she leans on her elbow on the table. Her other hand still playing with her wedding ring.
“The Oracle is mortal like the rest of us. Although my Displacers have told me she’s not a fan of me, so I suppose it makes sense she would leave out the part where rumors spread of me being possessed by the God of Fear and that I had to die. Or the part where all the students coordinated a plan to kill me in my sleep? All the while I had just lost my second wife and the child inside her?” Maldor notices the shock on Emilia’s face. “No I suppose she wouldn’t include those parts. I suppose its fair, we all keep secrets. Like the fact you hate your husband.” Maldor stops cutting and glares at Emilia.
Emilia stops playing with the ring in shock.
“How did you…?” She says in shock.
“The way you methodically play with the ring while you hover your finger over the scratch marks. You look at it with accepted anger. And the bruises…Your fashion team did a good job of concealing it…I almost didn’t notice.” Maldor says.
“You sit in my Royal Families dining room, eat our food, and dare cast judgements on…” Emilia begins to say sounding outraged as she suddenly stands up pushing her chair back.
“How long has been hitting on you? Is the belt a new feature? Those marks are more fresh than the bruises from his fists.” Maldor says calmly.
“You…You don’t know…” Emilia says in denial.
Maldor shrugs and stands up and walks up to the portrait of Lizralda Cinder.
“You come from a strong line of Woman who have ruled this Kingdom with both compassion and class. I never once dared to come to Trensicourt not out of fear but out of respect. Your ancestors would be ashamed to see their living descendant now” Maldor says bitterly as he walks past Emilia and towards the door to leave.
Emilia in anger grabs the steak knife and lunges towards Maldor to threaten him, anger fuels her from being insulted. Maldor’s eyes glow as her hand remains frozen by a red mist of magical energy. Maldor looks her in her eyes now.
“Finally. The real Emilia Cinder is here. The Queen who would never let a man disrespect her…Where has she been?” Maldor says cooly.
“Let me go! Let me fucking go!” Emilia yells in anger with tears in her eyes.
“Done” His eyes stop glowing and his power stops.
Emilia comes closer and presses her knife against Maldor’s throat. She stops herself from slitting his throat as her eyes get caught in his. So bright, yellow, and filled with pain. Her hand slowly moves towards the edge of his hood and takes it off, showing his face to her.
“I don’t have a face for diplomacy anymore. The Gods made sure of that” Maldor says bitterly knowing his face is covered with scars.
“You’re wrong. They tell a deeper story than any book does about you” Emilias hand calmly traces over the scar on Maldors face.
“Are you done being a victim?” Maldor asks.
Emilia nods slowly and shakily. “He…He controls the nobles…He won’t listen to me.” Looks away. “I don’t even know if I can convince him to stop the Dragonslayer games…”.
“You told the Dragon King that…” Maldor says actually being surprised.
“I lied. My husband created them…Hes…He is a sick man and people get hurt everytime I try to stop him” Emilia says with tears in her eyes.
“Where is he?” Maldor says calmly. He keeps trying to tell himself not to care, that it doesn’t matter. That he needs to go back to watching the Dragons. But Emilia…Her eyes…Her fear…It reminds him of himself when he was scared and needed help. Emilia Cinder…she reminds him of his first love, more than anyone else ever has. He shakes his head bitterly. He isn’t doing this for love. Love is dead to him. All that matters is that he gets the power to create a paradise. One that doesn’t need the Gods. He convinces himself of this but finds himself wanting her cool hand on his face again, helping him forget about his scars.
“In the dungeon. He…” Emilia chokes on saying the words. “He’s torturing the dragon we captured. He’s torturing Tobias…I begged him not to and he did this” Lifts her shirt and shows that he placed an iron on her stomach and branded her. “He…He said weak woman don’t deserve to have children” She says beginning to break down a little.
“Stop crying. You’re not a victim anymore. Keep that knife in your hand and follow me” Maldor begins walking down the hall.
“Where are we going?” Emilia says as she follows Maldor clumsily.
“To make your husband the victim.” Maldor says as he walks down the hall. Deciding to make sure the entire Kingdom will hear the screams of Emilia’s husband.
Tobias was always the favorite among Ryuu’s children. The King often held favoritism for the Ice Dragon Faction due to his wife Jelavi being an Ice Dragon herself. Ryuu had three children with the Jelavi, back then there were no factions to the Dragons of Lyria. They were all of a collective group. However before long Ryuu’s three Children, would grow up to lead the three factions of Dragons. The division began after the Holy War. Many of the Dragons were killed by Zyra’s Army and the God of Faith in an attempt to replicate the power Maldor got from his Dragon Stone Transmutation. These three sons consisted of Tobias (A Ice Dragon), Phyelrax (A Fire Dragon), and Zlyrex (A Poison Dragon). Tobias was always considered the special one compared to the others but this was proven when he began having both Ice powers and Fire powers. A true Hybrid Dragon. Tobias, being the good natured person he was, stepped down as leader of the Ice Faction and decided to help both the Fire and Ice Dragons when they were both in need of help. He appointed Umalyndia, his best friend to be the new leader of the Ice Dragon Faction. Tobias was betrayed by Phyelrax in a ploy to enrage Ryuu into going to war with the Humans of Trensicourt. One that Maldor ruined or at least stalled for now. Maldor explains this to Emilia Cinder as they walk down the steps.
“How do you know all of this? We virtually have no history about the Dragons other than that Salina the Goddess of Love made them…Not even the Oracle has given us any information about them” Emilia says as she walks behind Maldor slowly.
“The Oracle, whoever she may be, likes to pretend to be all knowing but I see through her and her Society of Visionaries.” Maldor says calmly.
“Her? How do you know if it’s a woman?” Emilia Cinder says confused not even sure herself.
“Just a hunch…Ready your knife” Maldor says as the sound of his metal boots echo off the walls.
As they walk together down the stairwell, they hear the screams of Tobias grow louder.
“STOP! PLEASE STOP! I DON’T MEAN YOU ANY HARM! AGHHH!” Tobias begs and pleads as the sounds of electricity pop in the room and Tobias’s flesh burns.
“It’s a wonder there aren’t any electric dragons isn’t it? Its such a power don’t you think?” Carver, the Husband of Emilia and King of Trensicourt said while laughing and standing at the face of the dragon chained to the ground.
Tobias is in full dragon form, metal spikes stab through his wings and keep them pinned to the ground. Blood forms all around his body as he screams in pain. Other nobles are in the massive dungeon room drinking from their cups and eating elegant food. Laughing at Tobias suffering while hes begging to be released.
“Please! It doesn’t have to be like this! Let me go and I’ll tell my father to leave humans alone. That’s why I came here in the first place! To make peace!” Tears roll down his eyes as he says this sincerely.
“Peace? You moungy mutt…Listen to me” Carver says this as he places his electric tool in Tobias left eye making him suffer. Tobias screams.
“I am Carter Cinder. King of Trensicourt. I am the man who destroys traditions. Trensicourt has always been ruled by Queen’s…Until I came along. Woman are weak, they’re are unfit to rule. So I broke the wheel…Now I rule. One of my future sons will rule. A man will always rule Trensicourt.” Says this proudly.
The nobles, all men, all cheer to Carvers statements.
“I’ll raise one of my whores children to be my son since the Queen is too pathetic to give me a child. As for the Dragons…That’s another tradition that needs to end. The times of humans cowering from Dragons is over! I will slaughter you mutts hahahaha!” Carver exclaims this in giddiness and laughter as he shoves the electric stick into Tobias eye knocking him unconscious from the pain.
“Pathetic excuse of a man…” A voice says behind Carver, a voice from a body that appeared out of nowhere.
“Sorry?” Carver turns around confused.
Maldor backhands Carter, knocking him to the ground with such an intensity that his teeth fly out and his tongue is scarred to the point he cannot utter sentences anymore.
“No. No you’re not. But you’re going to be” Walks up and presses his boot on Carvers chest, cracking a few ribs. Carver screams in pain.
The nobles all step back in shock. Emilia walks into the room now and looks at all of them.
“Listen to my words for they may be the last words your pathetic ears ever have the pleasure to hear again…I am Maldor. I am the ruler of Felrook and the Strongest Wizard of Lyria. I despise all of humanity except for those loyal to me. I hate you all equally. Man. Woman. It doesn’t matter whether theres a dick between your legs or not. And if you care about that…Then you will like even more of a fool while I rip your spines out of your bodies and through your disgusting mouths.” Maldor says calmly as he rises his hand and all the Nobles remain frozen as they are in extreme pain and shock. Their literal spines being ripped through their bodies.
Carver speaks clumsily “Please. Just me…Kill me and let them be your servants” Barely able to utter the words.
Maldor stops the pain for a moment for Carver and the Nobles.
“Do not misunderstand me. I am a Ruler of Felrook. Trensicourt is not my home. This land only has one true ruler. Emilia…” Maldor calls out to Emilia and looks at Carver. “The Queen, a member of all the woman of Lyria you view so lowly, will be the one to kill you and your pathetic meatsacks in fancy clothes. Trensicourt will only be ruled by a Queen until the end of time. Lizralda Cinder earned that in my eyes.” Maldor says calmly.
Emilia Cinder hesitates, taking in this whole scene in front of her.
“I…I can’t kill him…Hes my husband…” Emilia says, having a hard time getting over the hold he has over her.
“Hes not your husband. Hes a misogynistic piece of shit that has abused you for years. Take your power back Emilia. Im just another man controlling your life if I’m the one to end this nightmare.” Maldor says compassionately to Emilia.
Emilia hesitates and stares at Carver.
Carver begins to laugh. “She can’t do it! Once a weak bitch…Always a weak…”
Emilia “SHUT UP! SHUT THE FUCK UP! SHUT YOUR SICK FUCKING MOUTH UP!” Emilia screams as she stabs Carver over and over with the knife. Killing him brutally. “I am Emilia Cinder! Queen and Ruler of Trensicourt. Ward over all men and women. All bow beneath me!” Emilia says with pride as she stands above the bloody body of Carver. Her gaze flicks to the nobles.
“Kill them Maldor. Make it hurt” Emilia says as she looks at the nobles.
Maldor lifts their spines out of their bodies and kills them.
Emilia walks up and places her hand on Maldor’s face. “You helped me” She looks into his eyes with a look Maldor recognizes. A look of love and excitement.
“I…Emilia…Theres a history when it comes to the Women who are this close to me…To the ones who want me…” Maldor hesitates. Trying to resist how nice it feels not to be alone. To for just a single moment, not have to be the Ruler of Felrook, creator of Displacers and Conscriptors, or to be the Immortal victim of Salina and her children. In this moment…He’s just a Wizard who helped Emilia.
Emilia places her hand on Maldor’s chin and steers him to look her in the eyes. “I’m the Queen. And I get what I want…History be damned” Emilia brings her lips to Maldor’s and engages in a passionate kiss. As they kiss, magic pours out of Maldor without him realizing it, not even being aware of how this act of love morphs his Edomic into celestial powers. Tobias, a massively sized Dragon, gets rewinded in time and is turned into a Dragon egg.
None of this noticed as the Queen and Evil Wizard kiss in a way that even the Gods would be jealous.
A week has passed since Emilia killed her Husband. Tobias remains an egg in the dungeon and the Dragon Army has not returned to attack yet. Maldor and Emilia spent the last week together in her chambers. They enjoyed their time together without worrying about anything else going on outside. Maldor's servants in Felrook wondered where he was. And Emilia's family and servants awaited her new orders. All they knew was that the King was missing at the moment. Finally, Emilia woke up and got out of bed, she began getting dressed accordingly.
"What is your plan?" Maldor says this while laying in bed. His ambitions at a rest as he finds himself falling for Emilia more and more.
"To do what is necessary. You were right about my family...They would be ashamed of what I've allowed. Today is Sunday. Tradition dictates the family meet today in the throne room...I intend to tell them the way things are going to be." Emilia says calmly as she puts on a beautiful blue corset dress. "Be a dear and tie the strings?" She says with happiness in her voice. She enjoys Maldor being close to her. His darkness. His power. She felt empowered by him...And it didn't hurt he was good in bed.
"Of course" Maldor says as he stands up and ties the strings behind her back. "I...I have to find out more about Dragons. I want to harness their power...Felrook deserves that much." Maldor says more to himself than anything.
"Not Salina...The Goddess who loves you?" Emilia says with a bit of malice in her voice. Maldor told her of his relationship with Salina. It sickened her. Maldor deserved better than to be the plaything of a Goddess.
"No. She means nothing to me. I can't kill her. So I work with her. For the good of my family and home" Maldor says.
"You mean the one she hasn't killed yet?" Emilia says.
Maldor frowns at those words as his old anger boils up. "You challenge my affection for you Emilia." Maldor says.
"In my castle, you adress me as Queen.
Unless you've earned to say my name...Have you?" Emilia says as she turns around and looks into Maldor's eyes with a glint in them. She enjoyed this game of theirs. She knew he was powerful...But deep down he was a good man. Even if he didn't know it.
Maldor doesn't take the bait of her teasing. He changes the subject. "What are you going to tell your family?"
Emilia giggles. "So serious Mr. Maldor." Smiles at him. "Well Mr. Wizard. I'm going to tell them the truth. And you will accompany me...as my Fiance." Emilia says matter of factly.
"I...I dont remember proposing." Maldor says.
"You didn't have to." Emilia says and grins. "Think of it...The Olympic Knights and our warrior culture combined with the Magical and Good Natured element of Felrook. It would make Lyria better than its ever been." Emilia says all this with wonder.
"Would we...Would we help others?" Maldor finds himself to be going back to who he used to be. His anger of the past, all his bitterness, is disappearing at the thought of a better future that he doesn't have to spend alone.
"We'll help everyone my love. First I speak to my family and servants...Then we figure out what to do with the Dragon egg of Tobias and the relations with the Dragon Army. It'll all come together" Emilia smiles and kisses Maldor.
In the span of 15 minutes. Maldor, the 13 Olympic Knights, all the Guards of the Cinder Castle, Emilia's 3 younger sisters and 1 younger brother. Are all present inside the throne room.
Emilia sits on the throne. "Hello my beloved family and those who have been so faithful to me." She smiles as she speaks to them.
The younger brother Anthony steps up "Emilia...Wheres the King? Everyone has been worried." He says.
"My Husband, along with the Nobles of Trensicourt, plotted to kill me and statt a new dynasty. This man...Who is also now my Fiance...Put an end to that." Emilia says calmly.
The siblings all stare in shock. The secondborn sister Marissa steps forward "What...What are you talking about? He...He wouldn't do that! Please tell me this is a joke!"
"Shut your whore mouth Marissa. I know you were fucking him behind my back...Hell I saw you two going at it on our wedding day." Emilia's body shakes a bit with nervous excitement but powers through. "If you weren't my sister...." Emilia trails off "But you are so lets not worry about that. However...Before I explain how things are going to work. Olympic Knights!" Emilia calls them to attention.
The Olympic Knights all stand at attention. They have all sworn an oath to obey the Queen of Trensicourt until the day they die. A mantle passed on for centuries. They are rarely gathered together, but are rumored to be worth an army individually.
"Find the families of the nobles. I want their wives, children, and anyone else with relation brought in here and restrained." Emilia says calmly. Maldor slowly gives her a look unsure of why shes asking for this.
"Why? For what?" Anthony asks.
"Well to have them all killed of course" Emilia smiles as she stands up and pulls out the Legendary Cinder Family sword out of its sheath attatched to the throne. "Now hurry and bring them here. And be quick about it Knights!" Emilia giggles as she says.
Lizralda Cinder watches from the obyss as her descendant restablishes that a Woman shall always rule Trensicourt, she didn’t agree with Emilia’s methods but the results were clear. Everyone in the throne room stood in shock at Emilia’s orders to the Olympic Knights. Maldor spoke abruptly and loud enough for the others to hear.
“My Queen…Isn’t that going too far? They’re innocent” Maldor says as he himself is grapsing what Emilia said. He’s had men executed hundreds of times in Felrook but that was for extreme crimes. He’s killed innocent people but that was during war and was collateral damage. What Emilia wants…its cold blooded murder.
Emilia smiles warmly and whispers to Maldor “Mr. Wizard…I admit I owe you breaking the collar off my neck and I do find you quite desirable. However…If you question me in front of my family again I’ll have you killed right here.”
“You…You threaten me?” Maldor’s magical energy rises as his clothes begin to float a little bit like air was shooting from the ground.
“I do. And you’ll take it. And you’ll help me. Trensicourt will rise stronger than ever and we can merge our Kingdoms.” Emilia says with a smirk.
The Olympic Knights have marched out of the room. The miliary remains in the room and in salute position. Anthony walks up closer and bends the knee.
“Your grace…Is that truly necessary? If they plotted to kill you and they are dead now…Why can’t it end there?” Anthony asks.
“I’m pregnant. With our child” Emilia says to Maldor ignoring Anthony, her older brother, pleas.
“Pregnant…How is that possible!?! We slept together only for the past week!” Maldor exclaims.
“With all due respect your grace. I would like an answer” Anthony says as he nods towards some of the guards that are loyal to him.
“I am the descendant of a powerful wizard…You think I wouldn’t have an aptitude for magical prowess. And before you ask…I know because I can feel it.” Looks at Maldor with a fire in her eyes as she grabs him by the collar of his shirt.
“I…” Maldor is in shock. He never thought he could have a child again. He was filled with both happiness but fear at how Emilia was changing before his eyes. His love won out as he wanted a son or daughter more than anything.
“Hello?” Anthony says again.
“My brother is going to be a problem. He influences a good number of the military. He invested in it after he walked me down the aisle to my garbage Deadman of a Husband. I need you to take care of it” Emilia says matter of factly.
Maldor grits his teeth as he knows that he’ll listen to her. That the idea of having a family again…With a woman that he loves regardless of her apparent hunger for vengeance…It was enough to make him listen to the Queen of Trensicourt.
“You want me to kill your brother?” Maldor asks with doubt.
“Of course! Just need you to make him dull. Erase his brain if you will?” Emilia says with innocence in her voice.
“Fine” Maldor turns around and points his finger at Anthony. “I’m sorry” Maldor says as gives Anthony a lobotomy.
Anthony falls to the ground, laying on his back with dull eyes and a drooling mouth.
“Anthony! Oh my gods!” Marissa screams as she scrambles to the ground and looks down at Anthony. “Emilia! This has to stop!” Crying as she begs. Emilia’s two other sister crowd around Marissa all crying.
“Kill all my sisters” Emilia says with no emotion.
“You…You…” Maldor says in deeper shock.
“Oh I’m just kidding! You must really have a sense of humor dear after we married” Emilia says with a laugh.
The Olympic Knights enter the room again with 8 groups of different people. 8 Families of the Nobles killed. Men, woman, and children within these families. All shackled and kicked to their knees in the throne room. They all are crying and begging the Queen for mercy.
Emilia Cinder stands up and addresses the room once again.
“Trensicourt was built to be a haven for those who want to be warriors like the Olympic Knights, or scholars and wizards like our founder Lizralda Cinder. But above all…It was created as one of the only places in Lyria in which women can thrive…And your Fathers, Husbands, Uncles, or any other form of blood relation tried to ruin that. They laughed at my abuse…And now I shall laugh at the deaths of their families.” Emilia walks up to Marissa with the Cinder family sword in her hand. “I know you are all innocent…And the crown is forever thankful to your sacrifice to cleanse this Kingdom of the bloodlines of abusive and misogynistic men. Take solace in knowing that my dear sister Marissa will make your ends merciful.” Emilia kneels and hands the sword to Marissa.
“Swing hard and true my dear sister” Emilia says with a smirk.
“I…I cant do that! I’m not a killer…Please…Stop this… Aghhhh” Marissa cries heavily as she still hovers over Anthony’s body.
“Oh so you draw the line at murder? Funny…You didn’t see any line when you were fucking my husband. You knew of the things he did to me…But you didn’t care because he was a good lay? Or was it that he never laid a finger on you hm?” Emilia slaps Marissa hard.
“I didn’t know…that you knew…I’m sorry!” Marrisa says through tears.
“The saddest part is that I was happy you were fucking him on my wedding day. He was so repulsive…But he had so much money that would support the crown. I forgave you because I was grateful I wouldn’t have to sleep with him…But then the beatings started. And you looked away…My sister.” Emilia says as her anger and bitterness grows by the second.
“Emilia I am sorry! I was scared of him too…In my own way!” Marissa says as she looks up at Emilia. “But I won’t kill anyone!”
“Then I suppose I’ll have to pluck that child from your stomach. Since your morals are so strong…Why would you want the child of an abuser?” Emilia says as she stares into Marissa eyes.
“You…You wouldn’t” Marissa says in shock.
“Sister…” Emilia leans in and whispers in Marissa’s ear. “If you don’t stand up in the next 5 seconds then I will have my men pull that baby out of you and put it on display for the entire kingdom to see. The child of the Queen’s whore sister.” Emilia’s eyes blacken as she goes deeper into her anger and wrath.
“You….You won’t get away with this.” Marissa says bitterly.
“Oh…But I already have. History is written by the victors and today is a victory for our family and Trensicourt’s legacy.” Emilia says.
Marissa finally walks up and cuts the heads off all the families. Shes crying the entire time as she does it. The room is silent but the wails of the families as they beg for their lives. Maldor clenched his fists the entire time and looked away. Eventually walking down into the Dungeon to find Tobias egg sealed in a room. Maldor walked up to the egg and placed his hand on it.
“I can’t betray my fiancé by returning you to your father. But if I let you stay here…I don’t know what she’ll do to you. And I don’t know if I could stop it…” Maldor looks away. “You won’t survive as a Dragon. Most worlds hunt them from what I’ve seen…” Maldor’s eyes glow. “I shall merge your Dragon form with this” Maldor holds a feather in his hand. “It’s a feather from an Aasimar I met a long time ago. He was a good man…I suspect this will ensure you are one as well.” Maldor looks sad in what he is about to do. “The time connection between worlds is at a constant rate of change. I haven’t mastered the spell to connect the bridge of time…So forgive me for whatever time in history you end up in.” Maldor uses the feather and Tobias egg morphs into a human baby. Maldor snaps his fingers and Tobias teleports away, appearing in Sol’s world during her time era. He looks down, contemplating whether Tobias was worth the Dragon Sealing Necklace he put around his neck in case a dragon comes after him.
It is now the Year 700 of Lyria. Maldor is still gone, who knows where. In the meantime Ferrin stands in the throne room of Felrook. The Warforger Carmine, the Beyonder who gained Maldor's trust and respect. Sits on the throne reading through different reports. Ferrin stands next to Hope, Rook, and Blank. The other Displacers are predisposed now.
"99 percent of Felrook has had no crime it seems. Any criminal activities as of late have been happening at this one location...Svurn Hells?" Carmine says.
"Yes...Just bar fights. Drunken behaivior and all. Nothing to be concerned with" Ferrin says calmly.
"My head is like a rainbow in the clouds" Hope says and then giggles.
Rook smirks at her presicement knowing it was done by him.
"I see. Well in that case...Ferrin assume a new identity and infiltrate this bad. Find the culrpits responsible and kill all of them. Then burn the tavern to the ground." Carmine says matter of factly.
"That seems too excessive Carmine. I dont think Father would..." Ferrin begins to protest.
"Emperor Maldor. Not your Father Ferrin. Do not forget your place as I rule until he returns. Which he will" Carmine says with threat in his tone.
"Hes still my father. And Emperor? Emperor of what? Felrook is not an Empire. Its a Nation like any other. I fear you're becomming too ambitious Carmine" Ferrin says as he steps up.
Rook laughs at Ferrin. "Can we just skip to the part where you do what he says or he'll kill your precious Hope?"
Ferrin is taken a back by this. "You...You wouldn't." Ferrin says.
"Displacer Rook is correct. You will follow orders or the brain damaged woman known as Hope dies." Carmine says calmly while still looking at reports.
"I like to dance in the water like a birdie" Hope says.
Rook laughs harder. Ferrin punches Rook across the face in anger.
"Enough! Leave and fufill your mission. Kill all the outlaws. NOW!" Carmine says.
Ferrin sighs and leaves the room. Rook wipes off his face.
As he stands back up, Sylar enters the room. "What did I miss?" He says.
"Just Ferrin being a coward dog like he always is." Rook says.
"Ferrin is alot of things. But he isn't a coward. Rather a tool that needs to be shaped. Rook arrange to have Hope sent back to Gars Wood." Carmine says.
"But...They'll kill her won't they?" Rook says confused.
"Indeed. They will kill her. And Ferrin will know." Carmine says coldly.
"Very well" Rook smirks and leads Hope out of the room.
Carmine proceeds to go over a map he is drawing out of the world.
"So what did you need me for?" Sylar asks as he walks up.
"I wanted your opinion on this map of the known Settlements of Lyria. Among these...which would you want to invade first?" Carmine says.
Sylar becomes confused. "Invade for what? Whats the goal?"
"To ensure our Emperors love is spread to the entire world." Carmine says.
Sylar laughs. "You really have gotten ambitious Carmine."
"Does this not interest you?" Carmine asks.
"Of course it does! Imagine all the games I'll be able to play. War is the funnest stage! I can't wait!" Sylar says.
"Then answer my question." Carmine says.
Before Sylar can answer, The Goddess Salina appears in the throne room. She has tears in her eyes. "Why? Why is he doing this? Do any of you know?" Salina asks.
Carmine and Sylar both look at her in shock and confusion.
"Doing what? Who? The Emperor?" Carmine says.
Sylar stands nervous, hoping Salina doesn't know about his deal with Zyra.
"Maldor...He was meant to gain more power...So he could be safe from my Children...But now hes closed me out. I can't watch him anymore....I think hes found a woman." Salina says in sorrow and despair.
"Another one! Dad sure likes to get around" Sylar says jokingly.
Salina's eyes glow blue and she lifts Sylar up choking him. "That man is the greatest man to ever walk upon this disgusting world. He is a gift that I shall maintain for the need of beauty in the world demands it" Salina says all of this in anger.
"Where is he? He's been gone for too long." Carmine says.
"Trensicourt. He resides in the Royal Castle of the Cinder Family. Thats all I know. I'm not able to watch him...He won't let me." Salina says.
"Aren't you THE God? How is that possible" Sylar chokes out.
releases him. "Hes grown stronger from my power...And I've gotten weaker." Salins coughs lightly.
General Carmine has a dark look as he looks at Salina. Maldor is needed here. His dream must be realized. And Trensicourt...This could be an advantage for us. Sylar...You are to infiltrate Trensicourt.
Change your appearance to whoever is necessary. And do anything it takes to ensure our Emperor returns home." Carmine says.
"And if hes married and happy?" Sylar says.
"Do whatever is necessary to ensure he returns home. I want to show him my plan to Unite this cursed world. We will never tell him of your involvment of getting him home." Carmine says calmly.
"Very well. Sounds fun...I always wanted to get to kill a Queen" Sylar smirks as he says this and leaves the throne room.
"Love is all I want. Give me my love" Salina says more to herself than anyone. And then disappears.
After what many of the Citizens of Trensicourt were calling the Blue Cleansing. Many expected tensions to get worse, many knew of how weak the Queen was compared to the King. They had grown used to the way things were, the environment had been one of a Warrior Culture. Constant battles in the Royal Collosieum and the Induction of Dragon Slayers despite their not being any actual Dragons to fight. So when Queen Emilia Cinder killed all the Male Nobles and took the throne by storm...It was surprising how smootly it went. Much resistance came at first however Maldor, to help her, used his powers to produce mass amounts of food and medicine for the citizens. Times were better than ever. Many had grown to love and accept the Queen. What they didn't know...Is that it wasn't as smooth of a Transistion as you would think.
"Why in the Gods names would you let Tobias go? He was our only leverage!" Emilia yelled at Maldor.
"I..." Maldor looks away, unable to get the words out.
"You what? You lost your mind? Rather convenient time as I'm in the middle of a fucking Cleansing." Emilia said with Anger.
"I was worried of what you'd do. The Dragon child was innocent. I sent him away, he wont be back. Hes not a threat to you." Maldor says.
"Worried? Of what?" Emilia asks as she gets closer. "What kind of monster do you think I am? You think I'm the kind of Woman to torture a child? An infant?" Emilia scoffs. "Give me some credit Maldor. I've heard the stories of you. The Evil Wizard. The man who enslaved those of Felrook. The man who made his Wifes head explode for trying to poison him. The man who tried to destroy Gars Wood. I heard all the stores but I gave you the benefit of the doubt. So what kind of woman do you think I am?" Emilia says with innocence in her confused tone.
"The kind who have innocent children killed." Maldor says bitterly.
"Oh for fucks sake!" Emilia Groans. "They would've grown up to oppose me anyway. I killed their Fathers...You think kids get over that?" Emilia says in anger.
"You gave me the benefit of doubt because my actions went against how the stories painted me. Your actions right now...How rash and fast to judgement that are...It reminds me of Salina." Maldor says.
Emilia immediately pulls out a dagger and presses it against Maldor's chest, where his heart is. "Dont you dare compare me to that bitch! I would never use you. I love you Galloran." Emilia says with a tear.
"Thats not my name anymore." Maldor says.
"Well maybe it should be. I like the name Galloran...its a good name. But back to topic...I am only going to do what is necessary. And I need you by my side."Emilia says. "I forgive you for Tobias. But I need a United Kingdom for when the Dragons return. I am the Queen. And I need a King...Will you be that for me?" Emilia says as she looks into Maldor's eyes.
"No more murders. Not without my permission. Promise me" Maldor surprised himself at his words. He was trying so hard to be the man he used to be. Whether it was because of his ability to block out Salina or his newfound love, it was hard to tell.
Emilia nodded and kissed Maldor. "No more murders" Blood suddenly trails into the cellroom. "Ok starting now" Emilia says with a blush.
In the hallway there is a dead body. Its the Husband of Emilia's Pregnant sister.
"Emilia!" Maldor says.
"He grabbed my arm...He had to die. But hes the last death. I promise" Emilia says.
At the time, she meant it. Things went well as Maldor began producting wealth, food, and medicine for Trensicourt. Maldor and Emilia were married by ceremony a Month later. Maldor and Emilia together put an end to the Dragon Slayer games a day later. Things were going smoothly. Emilia's family seemed to get in line as well. Everything seemed so well...Perfectly well. So who would think the beginning of the end of this paradise would be during a birthday party.
"Oh...Hello..." Maldor says with embarassment.
"How old are you anyway? 35?" One of Emilia's cousins ask Maldor.
"Just a bit older" Maldor says with a smirk.
Emilia grabs his arm and walks him away. "I know you hate surprises but I thought maybe this would be nice" Emilia says warmly.
Maldor smiles. "It...it actually is nice. I...I haven't felt this way before" Gazing upon Emilia's family. "Your family really seems to have warmed up to us."
"Well of course they have. You've made us thrive more than ever. I would hope..." Emilia begins to say.
Suddenly an explosion goes off as a wall is ripped open. Ryuu the Dragon King appears and behind him...Is a Legion of Dragons transformed into Humans. The scariest part wasn't how many there were to Maldor. No, the fearful part of this is how they knew the Capitals shield wouldn't keep human forms out.
"WHERE IS MY SON?!?" Ryuu the Dragon King roars in anger.
Maldor stares in shock as the Dragon Army, all in the forms of Humans, begin piling into the Royal Banquet room, crashing his birthday party. He found it amusing to himself that he actually was enjoying the party, that it was the first birthday party he had in centuries. Anger rised in him as he faced them. Emilia and her family all shuffled about and stood behind Maldor in fear.
“Ryuu, you are bold to face me head on like this” Maldor says as he puts his hands out. He speaks Edomic and tries to cast a spell but realizes that its not working. He is not able to form any magic.
Ryuu smirks at this as his confidence grows. “It seems you are out of your depth Wizard.”
Maldor looks shocked as his gaze meets with Emilia’s.
“How….Whats…?” Maldor trying to grasp the words.
“I…I gave you a Ancient Cinder drink. It loosens the body…but it also takes away your ability to use magic. I just wanted to loosen you up for a night I didn’t know this was going to happen!” Emilia yells in frustration.
“How fitting. Love created what you are and now love is what ends you.” Ryuu says with a smirk as he suddenly roars and charges Maldor. He grabs him by his collar and lifts him up, slamming him into the ground with an intense force. The stone floor beneath cracks as Ryuu slams his face down over and over with brute force. All the guests watch in shock.
The Rest of the Dragons stand and watch in anticipation. All smirking as their King tramples upon the Mighty Wizard they have all feared.
“My love!” Emilia yells as she runs forward with her sword and tries to stop Ryuu but Paul grabs her from behind, stopping her from getting to Maldor. Paul grew up with Emilia but went travelling when they were teenagers, he came back to the capital when Emilia’s husband died. Paul is for sure just a friend…But he may want to change that.
“Emilia stop! They’ll kill you” Paul says holding Emilia a bit too long, not knowing that just his touch repulses Emilia immsensely.
“I’ll fucking kill you! LET HIM GO!” Emilia yells in pure anger.
“No need. Hes already dead.” Ryuu stops slamming Maldor down. He leaves his body on the ground, Maldor’s face is gone, crushed completely. He is not breathing anymore.
“You have 60 seconds to bring my son Tobias to me or I will kill all of you. Not even your Dragon Slayers will be able to face us.” Ryuu says.
“I hope they show up, I’d love a challenge Pherylrax says, the Fire Dragon son of Ryuu.
“You say that like our brother the Poison Dragon doesn’t fly above ready to fire poison on anyone who shows up” Umalyndia, the new Ice Dragon Leader says.
“You are not our brother! Tobias chose you, nothing more.” The Fire Dragon scoffs.
“Enough!” Ryuu yells as he stares at Emilia.
“There are no Dragon slayers. We ended that practice! And your son is not here! He’s gone! Having a better life!” Emilia exclaims with tears as she looks down at Maldor’s body.
“LIES!” Ryuu yells in anger as he raises his fist to backhand Emilia but suddenly he hears a whistle.
A man in black armor stands behind Pherylax with a knife to his throat.
“Easy there you scaly monster. One more move and you lose another son.” The man says.
Suddenly the known 12 Olympic Knights of Trensicourt appear and face off with the dragons. Each of their uniforms glowing in one way or another except for the Protean Knight. Ryuu is in shock to see all of this happening.
“You dare!?! Who are you!?!” Ryuu yells in anger.
“The Shadow Knight of the Olympic Knights. And your worst nightmare.” The Shadow Knight says and cuts a bit of blood in which the Fire Dragon begins to burn.
“Play nice Fire Dragon, or I’ll tell daddy the way you were looking at him. I bet you’re just itching to be in charge huh? Can’t do that if you’re dead. And no matter how this goes…You won’t see it with a open throat.” The Shadow Knight says.
“Father. I think we should retreat for now” Pherylax says bitterly.
Ryuu grinches his teeth but is satisfied with at least killing the Wizard. “We will be back.” The Dragon army disperses.
“Well done Olympic Knights, you will all be rewarded for this.” Emilia says.
“Thank you my Queen…But who are you? You…I sense something…You aren’t quite right…” The Protean Knight says as he approaches the Shadow Knight. Theres always only been 12 Olympic Knights. Never a Shadow Knight included.
The Shadow Knight smirks as he suddenly slams his sword through the Protean Knight’s chest killing him.
“No I can see why you’d say that. I’m not quite like the rest of you. I am the Knight meant to punish the Knights that do not fufill their duties. The Protean Knight was the one to betray you my Queen” The Shadow Knight says.
Emilia nods, not caring for the details at the moment. “Paul, help me take him to my room!” Emilia picks up Maldor with Paul and takes him to their room.
The Olympic Knights all saw the Protean Knight as the weakest link and didn’t care much when he died. They respected the Shadow Knight and welcomed him here to the capital. The Shadow Knight was given his own room to rest.
“Emilia…Hes gone…” Paul says as he slowly tries to put his arm around Emilia.
Maldor suddenly breaths again as he comes to with a shock.
“What the fuck!?!” Paul screams.
Emilia smiles with love.
“I guess the Dragons don’t know….that I can’t die.” Maldor says as his body looks as good as new.
While the Capital recovers and tensions rise with fear in the air. The Shadow Knight enjoys his room and wishes to clean his blood stained armor. He enters the restroom and removes his gauntlets and helmet. He gazes upon the mirror and smirks with evil glee.
“Its just too easy. I really was born for this” The self appointed Shadow Knight says as he gazes upon his real face. The face of a Displacer. The face of Sylar.
Maldor woke up and looked at Emilia, love in his eyes and as he felt a rush of euphoria at being alive again after Ryuu smashed his face in. He feels Emilia quickly embrace him and kiss him warmly. Hes still in a weakened state, and distracted by Emilia, that he doesn’t notice Paul close his eyes and cast a spell using a ring his hand. A spell that places Maldor into a deep slumber. Zyra would laugh at the fact Maldor got beat by a weak spell like this.
“My love?” Emilia says in confusion as she stares at Mador comatose.
“What…What happened?” Paul fakes as he tries to do compressions on Maldor to bring him back.
“My love! Maldor!” Emilia screams in desperation as she pulls out a magical potion and pours it down Maldor’s lips. It seems to only make him worse.
The Shadow Knight. Also known as Sylar enters the room suddenly.
“My King! Allow me my Queen!” Sylar yells as he runs up and presses his hand to Maldor’s forehead. His breathing returns to normal. He is now sleeping peacefully.
“How did you do that?” Paul says in shock.
“All part of my training sir. I live to serve her Majesty.” Sylar says.
“Thank you…How could this have happened?” Emilia says.
“I believe I know how your grace. The Proteon Knight was not working alone. He was an assassin that poisoned the King. And allowed the Dragon Army inside. He was working for your sister.” Sylar says calmly.
“Her!?! That fucking bitch!? I want her killed immediately!” Emilia screams.
“Emilia wait! Shes pregnant and we do not know if it was her who did this. How do we know we can trust this man?” Paul says.
“He saved our lives! Why would he lie!?! I need to confront her myself. I want to know why…..I NEED TO KNOW WHY! Please stay and protect my husband.” Emilia says as she runs out of the room.
Paul is beside himself with this situation. He had planned it all perfectly. He’d allow the Dragons to enter and kill Maldor, take Tobias, and establish peace between the Dragons and Trensicourt. Then he could be there to comfort Emilia and they could fall in love. This was what was best for everyone. She doesn’t deserve a man like him. He has to die. I have to be with Emilia. These thoughts swarm inside Paul while stares at Maldor sleeping peacefully.
“It wouldn’t of worked ya know. My father literally cannot die” Sylar says casually.
“What are you…” Paul begins to say.
Sylar brings a dagger to Paul’s throat and removes his helmet revealing his face.
“We both know what you actually want. And it isn’t Maldor’s death.” Sylar smirks as he shapeshifts his face into that of Emilia’s. Then shifts it back.
“You’re a Displacer. A disgusting race” Paul says.
“Careful Paul. I need your help…But that can change. I can give you what you want…If you are willing to do as I say.” Sylar says.
“What do you want out of this?” Paul asks defensively.
“I only want my father to return home…Maybe a bit more inspired for other plans as well” Sylar smirks knowing that he has to make Maldor angry enough to work with Carmine towards planning to conquer the world.
Paul nods. “Very well. So long as I get Emilia…I will help.”
“Good. The first step to this plan….You need to tell me everything you know about the Queen. I have to be the perfect Actor. My father will wake up soon afterall.” Sylar says with a smirk.
“But Emilia…What about her?” Paul says confused.
“Oh I have it covered.” Sylar says.
Meanwhile, Emilia races to the room of her sister to confront her. Little does she know, that her sister died hours ago. Her throat slit by Sylar. As she approaches the door one of the Guards approach her and grab her wrist. She recognizes his armor, it has a red stain on the right wrist. Its Ryell.
“My Queen…I am afraid you cannot go in there. You must come with me. To a special place” Ryell says.
“You are hurting me! Stop it!” Emilia yells as she reflexively places her hand on her stomach.
“You…You’re pregnant?” Ryell stares at Emilia.
“Unhand me this instant. That is an order from your Queen.” Emilia says.
Ryell sighs removing his helmet. Revealing his real face for an instant.
“What…have you done with Ryell?” Emilia says in shock.
“Oh I am Ryell…Only I don’t serve. I serve my creator Maldor…And I am afraid he can never know about the child he has inside you.” Ryell knocks Emilia out, kidnapping the Queen.
Maldor’s eyes slowly open as his vision returns. Blurry for a few moments as he gazes at a woman with blonde hair. For the briefest of moments she looks like Emilia. This is quickly proven wrong as his vision grows less blurry and realizes he is looking at the pregnant sister of Emilia. Marissa looked upon Maldor with tears coming down her eyes.
“Thank the gods you are okay!” Marissa screams as she hugs Maldor.
Maldor allows her to hug him but does not hug back and is confused by this. He gazes over her shoulder and sees his wife. Emilia sits at the edge of the window and looks outside towards the sunrise.
“You really are so weak…” Emilia whispers in the air.
“What…Whats going on?” Maldor says.
“Emilia is acting strange. And Paul…he had a scary look on his face when he walked out. I don’t know whats going on” Emilia whispers to Maldor.
How ironic Maldor thinks to himself. Marissa is the black sheep of the Cinder family, it’s a wonder that she isn’t killed by Emilia already considering the mistakes she’s made. She had an affair with her late Husband, allowed Emilia to be abused for years, and even then cried for the man when Emilia killed him. Perhaps her pregnancy is what kept her alive now but surely she must knew that already. So why would she help him now? She must want something.
“Marissa…What are you doing?” Maldor is tempted to investigate the claims she is making but decides to confront Marissa flat and directly.
“I…I didn’t forget your kindness during the Purge. Emilia…She killed anyone she considered a traitor. But you…You defended me. I hear the stories, the Immortal Wizard…but like my sister I know theres more to you then that. Theres always more” Marissa speaks those words elegantly but fiercely as its clear she means them.
Maldor sighs as his gaze fixes on Emilia more closely. Horror fills his mind as he knows immediately that this Emilia is a fake. That its Sylar in disguise. The fool thinks he can trick me with such a ploy when I am the one who created him. Every Displacer I have created carries a hidden magical mark that Maldor can detect with ease. His first instinct is to burn Sylar alive…but then he realizes that if hes here then Emilia must have been taken. Murder is not the answer here, he has to play along for now to find Emilia.
“Will you help me find your sister? That person is not her” Maldor says lowly and calmly.
“Of course” Marissa says without hesitation.
“Really?” Maldor asks surprised by how easy it was.
“I failed my sister before…I could give hundreds of excuses but it doesn’t change that I failed her. But I won’t fail her now. Just tell me what to do” Marissa says.
Maldor nods and whispers in her ear instructions. She nods and leaves the room. Maldor then gets up and approaches Sylar.
“Hello my love…I am happy that you are alright” Maldor says calmly.
“Happy when you turn out to be so weak? You allowed some Dragon to treat you that way.” Sylar says disguised as Emilia.
“I suppose we all have our limitations. What happened after Ryuu killed me?” Maldor asks.
“The Olympic Knights arrived. Fine Knights they were” Emilia says with a bit of lust in her tone. Sylar trying to invoke bitterness in Maldor. He understands Sylar’s plan now. Sylar is cunning. He will never let Emilia go unless he gets what he wants. If Maldor tries to force him then it may lead to Sylar running all together. His survival has always come first, a trait Maldor valued until now.
“If they are so fine then they you will enjoy what comes next.” Maldor says.
“Oh?” Sylar says with surprise.
“The way you gaze upon that other man, upon Paul. Its clear to me where your loyalties are. I’ll allow your own people to deal with you. And when its done…I will burn your Kingdom to the ground” Maldor grabs Sylar face firmly with one hand.
The Olympic Knights enter the room, guided inside by Marissa.
“Olympic Knights, I King Maldor, Immortal Wizard, declare your Queen has broken Trensicourt law and has slept with another man than me. She is to be arrested and prepared for execution by my hand at Midnight.” Maldor says with wrath in his tone.
Sylar is in shock but has a small smile crept on his face, this is working better than he could have hoped.
“What are you talking about!?! This is insane!” Sylar yells playing the act of Emilia.
The Olympic Knights move towards Emilia, all 12 of them, they shackle her. Maldor whispers in Emilia (Sylar)’s ear “At Midnight…You will understand who I am.”
The Olympic Knights drag Sylar away from the room.
“So what now?” Marissa asks as she stands close to Maldor.
“Wait for it” Maldor smiles as he knows what comes next.
Paul enters the room.
“You had Emilia arrested!?!” Paul yells.
Maldor smirks at this. “She will be killed by my hand tonight. Do not say a word or I will kill you as well” Maldor says to him.
Paul is enjoying this moment, the moment that Maldor fell for him and Sylar’s plan. This was easier than he thought. Maldor walks out of the room and into the hallway. Marissa follows him.
“Now what?” Marissa whispers to Maldor.
“Now I need to meet Umalyndia. Things are changing tonight. For all of us” Maldor says with a smirk.
Hours later. Emilia finds herself to be shackled to the floor, in shock and confused at how shes gotten here. She pulls at the chains to no result. The Shadow Knight enters the room and stands in front of her. Breathing heavy.
"Does it ever get exhausting? Knowing that no matter what you do...You'll die in the same world that you were born in? That it'll be worse for that child in you?" Sylar says disgusing his voice and pretending to be the Shadow Knight.
"Let me go! Let me go now!" Emilia yells in shock at whats going on.
"Oh Emilia...Trust me....You wont want to be free...Not after I give you my proposal. Give me your child...The one cooking inside you...And I'll spare you." Sylar says.
"Why...Why do you want my child?" Emilia asks confused and terrified.
"The same reason anyone wants a child. To raise it. Your child has Maldor's blood...I can raise it to be stronger than him one day." Sylar says.
"How...How did you become like this?" Emilia asks disgusted by Sylar.
Sylar snarls in anger and backhands Emilia with a riveting force.
"Shut up! Fuck!" Sylar roars in anger as his true appearance shows.
"You...You're...Is that what comes of something made by Maldor?" Emilia asks in shock of herself as she contemplates the risks of having a child with Maldor.
The rest of the Vision in Session 48 Recording
Ryuu and Emilia have a meeting together. Ryuu offers peace in exchange for her help in taking down Pherylrax, he knows he has betrayed Ryuu. Ryuu will send Pherylrax to Emilia, to trick him and have him killed. She is meant to get proof that Phelyrax plans to betray Ryuu. He gives her a dragon killing dagger. Umalyndia will arrange a peace meeting after the Crimson Dragon death. Emilia smirks to herself knowing that she is not going to honor the deal and that she plans to conquer the Dragons. She brings Sylar back from the brink of death to use him to recreate these weapons. Emilia wants to see Maldor again when this is all over.
A day passes since Emilia’s meeting with Ryuu. It was a rather productive one as the Dragon King, a being who’s lived as long as Lyria has existed, was willing to end the bloodshed if his traitor son was deceived by Emilia. Pherlyrax, the Fire Dragon, is meant to meet with Emilia to finalize the peace treaty. Pherylrax is upset that he has not been able to achieve what he’s wanted from the beginning of all this. To lay waste to Humans. However…He is wise enough to fear the power of Maldor. The Immortal Wizard killed dozens of Dragons before Ryuu, his father, agreed to negotiate with Maldor.
Emilia sits on her throne with a glass of wine in her hand, Sylar stands next to the throne with a collar around his neck. She sips more wine. The Olympic Knights stand in her room except for the Protean Knight and Death Knight, neither of which have been replaced yet. A maid enters the room.
“Your grace…Guards have spotted the Fire Dragon landing. He will be here in moments” The maid says calmly.
“Very good. Sylar…Are you sure your creation will work?” Emilia asks Sylar.
“Of course they will. I made them” Sylar says proudly, pride still remaining.
“Hmm…” Emilia says and pours her drink onto the floor. “How clumsy of me…Seems I spilled my drink. Sylar, be a dear and clean it for me?” Emilia asks calmly and friendly.
Sylar snarls as he approaches Emilia, with the mind to strangle her to death. Shes been using him for hours since bringing him back to life. His father could control him…But this woman? Never.
Emilia smirks and whispers Edomic phrases. Suddenly the collar around Sylar’s neck shocks him with necroctic damage. He collapses onto the ground screaming in pain.
“STOP! PLEASE! I BEG! I BEG!” Sylar can barely scream the words now.
Emilia stands up and stands over Sylar, she pulls out her sword and presses it against Sylar’s neck.
“Do not be confused Sylar. The only man worthy of my equal is your father Maldor. He is a marvel of a man that I will have back…But you?” Places her boot on Sylar’s head and pushes his face into the ground.
Tears run down Sylar’s eyes as the collar keeps hurting him.
“You are nothing more than my servant. A tool to be used. You will do as I say and when I say it? Understand?” Emilia asks calmly.
“Yes my Queen! Yes! Yes please!” Sylar cries in pain.
“Good…And I almost forgot…” Emilia places a finger on her chin. “A tool doesn’t need to speak. Morning Knight, be a dear and cut out his tongue. I think I’ll wear it as a necklace…Never had a Displacer accessory before” Emilia grins evilly.
The Morning Knight drags Sylar away as he cries in pain, taken to a different room out of view.
Moments later, Pherylrax will enter the room to the sight of Emilia sitting comfortably on her throne. The Fire Dragon nods and approaches.
“Evening Emilia Cinder. I am here to sign your human paper to declare peace.” The Fire Dragon just wants to get over this.
“Pheylrax…Have you ever seen a cornered rat before?” Emilia looks at her nails.
“What?” The Fire Dragon in human form asks confused.
“ A rat. A cornered one. Often they’ll do anything to get out…You are cornered right now. Your father knows what you’ve done. He wants you dead…And you would think that’s the worst part. That as the rat you need to get away from your father. I sympathize with you really. I used to be the rat…Hiding from my abusive Husband. All the nights he’d beat me…I was more and more convinced I was a rat like you. But I realized something…I am something neither you, or your father, or even my Husband are.” Emilia stands up.
Pherlyrax steps back cautiously, his dragon wings sprout out as he is having a bad feeling. “What are you talking about? Why do you speak this way? Umalyndia flies in the skies above us, ready to strike, you dare plot when we could kill you easily?” Pherlyrax snarls ignoring her words, too terrified at the idea that his father wants him dead.
Emilia sighs as she places her hand on her hip.
“Umalyndia? He thinks I’m going to give you a trial. He wants you dead, the same as your father…But your father doesn’t know I have a gift from my husband that allows me to telepathically speak to Dragons. I convinced him that I am going to hold a trial for you that he can attend…And then a peace banquet. But the truth is…” Emilia stares at the Fire Dragon.
Suddenly the Cloud Knight moves at insane speed and slices off the wings of the Fire Dragon. Kicks him to his knees. Pherylrax screams in pain.
Emilia walks up to him smiling.
“I am not the rat, the abusive man, or the Dragon. I am the snake. I am going to squeeze the life out of you…Then your adoptive brother…then your father…And then your entire race. I will wrap you all around me…The entire world will serve me. And when it does…I will take my fucking Husband back” Emilia roars as she punches Pherylrax brutally knocking him out. She smiles at the Cloud Knight using the Dragon Killer Sword created by Sylar.
“Umalyndia, tell your father…That the trial is in three days time at the Capital Square. Yes…Bring your people…” Emilia listens to Umalyndia in the telepathic link and nods “I agree. I think Humans and Dragons can coexist here. Lets show them” Emilia ends the link and looks down at the Fire Dragon.
The Morning Knight enters back into the room carrying a necklace with Sylar’s neck in a box attached to it. Emilia smiles. “Do you think my husband will like my new jewelry?”
A week has passed since Maldor took Marissa and left the capital by teleportation They appeared inside a building that looked more like a cemetery than a place to learn like it was meant to. The Wizard Academy was a place Maldor knew all too well, he had been one to one centuries ago. Only two Wizard Academies existed in Lyria…Maldor has never been to the one created in Trensicourt. He expected a marvelous place as it was founded by Lizralda Cinder, although he never actually met the Wizard. His expectations were quickly destroyed and replaced with cobwebs and ripped pages in books. Dust and jnk cluttering the entire Wizard school.
“It seems like theres no food here…And if I use magic to create some…It may give away where we are” Maldor says calmly.
“Not exactly like you were discreet about it, didn’t you tell my sister where you were going anyway?” Marissa asks while sitting on the floor. Her very pregnant state makes her feet and back hurt all the time.
Maldor sighs.
“Maybe I was a bit dramatic” Maldor says.
“Maybe? Now you sound like my sister. Always in denial…And being a psychopathic murderer doesn’t help” Marissa says.
Maldor keeps trailing his fingers over the dust until her words echo in his mind.
“You weren’t exactly innocent either. You let your sister be abused…You slept with her husband.” Maldor says.
“You think I don’t know that? That I haven’t been reminded over and over? Im a shitty person. I belong in fires of below. I know all this! But do you know who doesn’t know all that? My baby! If I die after my childs born then so be it but HE SHOULDN’T HAVE TO PAY FOR MY FUCK UPS!” Marissa yells passionately, her inner anger coming out.
Maldor tries to calm her down “Easy! I’m on your side. I wouldn’t of defended you otherwise” Maldor says.
“Well…Maybe you just want to sleep with me. Most men do” Marissa says matter of fact.
“You…” Maldor begins to say with anger and frustration.
“My leg! Its broken! I…I cant walk! Ahhh!” Martin says.
Martin is a young voice of a boy that jumped off the second floor of this massive Academy and landed the wrong way. His bone is sticking out of his left leg. His brother Cartin jumped down as well but managed to stick the landing better.
“Stop right there! You are under arrest!” A Merchant yells.
Maldor walks up gazing upon the twin brothers. Both tieflings with blue skin.
“Try to run and the punishment will be much worse!” The Merchant yells while two of his mercenaries follow along behind him.
“Just run Cartin! Go!” Martin yells.
“No way! Im not ditching you!” Cartin yells and kneels next to his brother trying to protect him.
“Maldor! We have to go! We cant let them see us!” Marissa tries to whisper at Maldor to run away.
Maldor looks at his hands and then at the children. A voice speaks in his ear, it’s the voice of Salina.
“Just kill them all. Then you can have this place…It will serve you well. Nothing else matters but your safety” Salina whispers with seduction.
Maldor considers it but freezes for a moment and then shakes his head.
“No! I meant what I said! I need to be better…I am done being the Villain” Maldor declares as he steps forward and faces the merchants and guards.
The merchants and guards stop and face Maldor and the children.
“Good evening, what can I do for you?” Maldor says calmly.
The merchant stops and stares at Maldor.
“Well…These kids are trespassing! This building is scheduled to be destroyed next week and Im in charge of the operation. You their father?” The merchant asks.
“Destroyed? By who’s word?” Maldor asks.
“The Goldman Reserve. They want this place converted into a labor camp. More jobs and all that…So you their father? Cause I need to have them arrested. They were sneaking in” Merchant says.
“They weren’t sneaking in. They work for me. They were scouting the property…I wish to buy it.” Maldor says.
The twin stare at Maldor in shock.
“Buy the property? All due respect…The Goldman Family already paid for it” The Merchant says with a confused look.
“Well whatever they paid, I’ll pay triple.” Maldor says.
“That…They paid a lot sir” The Merchant says.
“That won’t be an issue.” Maldor snaps his fingers and whispers a phrase. Ten 200 pound bags of Gold appeared next to him along with a small pouch of gold in his hand. He tosses it to the twins.
“That’s your commission. Any more issues?” Maldor asks the Merchant.
The merchant just stares at him and the gold and pulls out a bag of holding.
“Fuck it. Never liked those Gold assholes anyway. Consider the place yours…For whatever reason you want it” The Merchant says and tosses Maldor the keys to the place and walks away with his men.
“Don’t move. I’ll heal your leg” Maldor says and approaches Martin.
“What about not revealing ourselves through magic?” Marissa says approaching.
Maldor shrugs. “My wife isn’t the type to not be able to find me one way or the other. And besides…I have to make sure the students of my academy are healthy.”
“Students? What academy?” Cartin says.
“Natalia’s Den of Wizard’s. Now grab a broom, this place is filthy” Maldor smiles for the first time in awhile.
A month had passed since Emilia had apprehended Pherlyrax, the Fire Dragon, and locked him inside her dungeon at the bottom of the castle. His arms and legs were removed along with his wings to ensure he was not a threat. To be even more sure, she had her mute servant Sylar overwatch him to make sure he did not escape. The trial was postponed until tomorrow because that’s how long it took to make all the preparations for the event. Ryuu demanded it sooner, seeing as he expects this to be a trial and peace banquet, I can certainly see why he wants this to be done as quickly as possible. If he knew my true intentions…Perhaps he would be not as quick to the touch.
“You can end this. All of it” This Holy voice comes from the lips of the God of Faith. Fealty appears behind Emilia.
“My…Not everyday a God visits me. Why now?” Emilia asks amused by Fealty.
“I have watched Maldor grow to become what he is today. I am responsible for his creation…I am the reason his first wife died. And for that I grieve…But the world has to be spared from what he is going to become.” Fealty says with desperation. His eye constantly surveying around him, ready to run if Salina appears.
“Well…You’re half right. You must not have caught my Husband and his little hero act with running away earlier. Saving my sisters life” Emilia says with bitterness.
“It doesn’t matter. All his good deeds do not matter…He is his own worst enemy. He will destroy this world along with himself. He corrupts my mother through his own power” Fealty yells as he approaches Emilia.
“Hmm…Your worries are fruitless Fealty. For I am much more than your Mother. I am higher than a Goddess. Than a God.” Emilia begins marching towards Fealty. “I am the Wife and future Owner of Maldor. He will be mine and this destruction you see? It will be the ashes of my throne” Emilia says confidently as she snaps her fingers.
Suddenly the Cloud Knight steps out of the shadows and gets on his knees and begins praying into his sword.
“May the Gods of Honor, Magic, Faith, and Fear forgive me as I bathe in the light of their creator Salina. I adopt the power of the Celestial one before me. I offer my soul as a tribute to judge and determine my faith.” The Cloud Knight chants these words.
The God of Faith suddenly grows weak as he falls to a knee.
“What is this? How are you doing this!?!” Fealty yells.
The Cloud Knight continues.
“You see…Trensicourt has quite the library. We know all about you Fealty…And the Cloud Knight…well he knows of the ritual to take the power of Faith when your owns in doubt. Scared of Maldor?” Emilia says teasing Fealty as she walks up to him.
Fealty growls in anger. “Nobody listens to me! Thousands of lives will suffer…So many will die…And all I can do is watch!” Fealty yells as he suddenly rises up and disappears from the room.
Emilia immediately looks at the Cloud Knight. He nods at her.
“It was enough my Queen. I now carry the Celestial Power of Fealty. I can guarantee the plan tomorrow works.” The Cloud Knight says.
Emilia smiles warmly and looks at the Cloud Knight. “Take off your helmet Leonardo”.
The Cloud Knight removes his helmet, his long white hair cascades down his shoulders.
“You have served me well Leonardo. If we accomplish my goals tomorrow…You have earned your leave. You may return to your village and make a family. Enjoy your life.” Emilia smiles at him.
“And…The Celestial power?” The Cloud Knight asks.
“You may keep it. It will serve your family better as I do not need it beyond tomorrow. I formally recognize you as Leonardo Cloud. Head of the Cloud Family household. May you and your wife enjoy it.” Emilia asks.
The Cloud Knight nods.
“However…Make sure you accomplish the plan. I do not want you to stop until I say. Understood?” Emilia says.
The Cloud Knight agrees and prepares for tomorrow.
The next day arrives quickly as the Dragons quickly descend upon the capital. This is quite an event with thousands of humans and dragons present. All the dragons are in human form at the orders of Ryuu. This is a day of Unison. Umalyndia stands proudly next to Emilia as Pherylrax is dragged onto the court stage in shackles, he roars in defiance at Umalyndia.
“You fool! You let this human bitch fool you! She is tricking us! You must stop this! KILL HER!” Pherylrax yells and begs Umalyndia to stop this. His anger at his foolish adoptive brother bleeding through. “TOBIAS WOULD HAVE NEVER FALLEN FOR THIS!” Pherylrax yells in anger.
“Do not speak of Tobias. He is gone because of your schemes. Now shut your mouth” Ryuu says, his heart breaking on the inside as he sits down with the others in the audience.
Thousands of chairs line together in the spectator crowd to the trial. Dragons and Humans sitting alongside each other. Seemingly getting along and talking to each other. It seems like a new era. An era of peace and understanding.
Pherlyrax gets a muzzle put over his mouth as hes shackled to the center of the stage.
Emilia approaches him and whispers in his ear words nobody else can hear.
“Remember when you thought that humans should all be killed? That you were better off wiping us out? How you attatcked me with this belief?” Emilia says all this innocently with a pure tone but suddenly it drops. “Well you were right. You should’ve killed us all…But now? I am going to make you watch as you slowly die. Rest knowing you died being a Humans bitch” Emilia says with glee as she slits Pherylrax’s throat, blood trickling out slowly. Its not enough for the audience to notice right away.
The Cloud Knight steps onto the stage and bends a knee. The other Olympic Knights gather around.
“As you all know, Trensicourt is one of the Oldest Kingdoms of Lyria. It is a place known for its magic, its combat skills, its vast culture of books and music, and above all being the only Kingdom ruled by a Matriarchy.” Emilia says all this as the crowd cheers and her eyes lock onto Ryuu. “And today…it is my pleasure to announce that today Trensicourt will also be known as the Kingdom that made Dragons their pets. NOW!” Emilia yells.
The Cloud Knight’s sword glows as he uses the power of Fealty to suddenly create a celestial barrier surrounding the entire event. All the Dragons led by Ryuu are trapped inside. They look around in confusion.
“What is…What is going on?!?” Ryuu yells in confusion.
“I…I am sure its just a joke…?” Umalyndia says confused sitting next to Ryuu.
Suddenly a little girl sitting next to Ryuu stands up, pulls a Dragon Killer blade out of her jacket and stabs Ryuu in the heart “Die Dragon! Die! Queen Emilia loves us and hates you!”
Suddenly all the humans that moments ago were sitting next to the Dragons and chatting about life and sharing food, were pulling secret weapons out of their clothes made by Sylar and stabbing the dragons to death. Many of them were killed quickly. Very few had the chance to fight back.
“Don’t kill all of them! Remember…We want pets!” Emilia smirks with glee as places her hand on Pherylrax’s face and looks him in the eyes as he bleeds out. “I want my face to be the last thing you see. The Dragons are mine…And I’ll happily be raising your eggs…I’ll need a Dragon to get my Husband back afterall”. Emilia laughs in his face.
This was the end of the War between Trensicourt and the Dragons. A few escaped but in the end it didn’t matter. Ryuu sealed himself away into his necklace of the Abyss. Pherlyrax died and was absorbed into the Necklace of Abyss. Umalyndia surrendered and served Emilia as her pet. In only a Month Emilia Cinder became the strongest woman in Lyria.
“Oh I bet Lizralda Cinder would be so proud ahahaha!” Emilia laughs with glee.
Three months had now passed since the creation of Natalia’s Den of Wizards. Maldor stood in a class with about 15 students, all of different races and classes, but regardless here to learn about their natural abilities in Edomic. He stood at the board and drew with chalk.
“Can anyone here tell me the 3 most feared Beyonder races to Lyria?” Maldor asks.
None of the students knew the answer as they stared excitingly to find out.
“We talked about this guys. Theres no such thing as a wrong answer…And besides…Don’t you want Marissa to give you a candy for trying?” Maldor asks with humor.
Marissa stands to the side with a bowl of candy. Her stomach, which used to be round and large in size was now flat behind a corset. She gave birth to her child who now rested in a cradle. In the span of three months, Maldor had refound a purpose in himself, inspired to try to build something positive. Marissa was not a woman he could ever love…And perhaps that’s exactly what he needed. A woman not to lust for but to consider just a friend, a peer that he could lean on. In the beginning it was rough, the Goldman Family was not happy with the purchase of the property. Maldor confronted them, identified himself as Galloran, and settled that the Academy would be his. A few mind spells later and all the problems existing were solved. Maldor returned and discovered that the twins he saved…Had told others about his school. Before he knew it…100’s of students travelled across Trensicourt to enroll at his academy. A lot of them didn’t even have any interest in Edomic…They just wanted somewhere they could consider home in a Kingdom of murder and disaster. The Capital of Trensicourt had maintained its reputation of being a Perfect City, however the outer villages were often attacked by criminals or bandits and little to nothing was done about it. In the older days the Olympic Knights would help maintain peace but Queen Emilia Cinder had been keeping them close within the Capital. Many of the new students tried telling Maldor about what was happening there, Marissa included, but he always refused to listen. He didn’t want to know what was happening with Emilia. He wanted to focus on what he was doing here…This was something that felt right. Everyone called him Professor Galloran now. Natasha’s Den of Wizard’s had grown to be 150 students now. All of them filled a stuffy room watching Maldor in anticipation.
One student, a Dragonborn raised his hand. He wore glasses and had blue skin. Maldor knew him well, as he did all of his students. He made a point of knowing every single one. Understanding them was a key part of helping them grow their potential whether it be Edomic or other gifts. This student was named Spenven.
“Professor Galloran…all due respect…I don’t think anyone wants Auntie Marissa’s candy” Spenven smiles as he says this. The other students laugh. “But I do know the answer.”
Maldor smiles. “I’d defend Marissa but I suppose this is what she gets for not giving you kids healthier snacks like I always ask…Whats the answer Spenven?”
“Teiflings because they are considered the race to be brought to Lyria and mass produced through either forced encampment or deliberate means all while within Gars Wood. Commonly seen raiding villages outside Wodan. Warforge is the second feared Beyonder race due to their capability of migrating into culture quickly The Warforge Carmine has set a reputation for his ruthlessness in the absence of King Maldor in Felrook. His recent mass castration of all men engaging in prostitution in Felrook despite it being illegal has become infamous. Warforgers are rare but quite scary. Despite this…Among all the Beyonder races in Lyria, the one that most people hate the most and discriminate against constantly…” Spenven’s lips begin to quiver as his hands shake in fear of saying what he is about to say.
“Its alright Spenven. You’re in a safe space. Speak your mind” Professor Galloran smiles to reassure the student but notices some of the other kids giggling at Spenven freezing up. They’re taunting him. Maldor does not like this, the old him would’ve made the childrens lips disappear, however he wasn’t that man anymore. He was Professor Galloran. He dropped his pencil on the ground, took a step deliberately on it and slipped falling on his back dramatically. “Agh! My back!” Maldor yelled in mock pain.
The class erupted into laughter. Even Spenver started laughing, his nervousness gone.
“Oghh…My back…Marissa!” Maldor yelled.
Marissa put her bowl down and rushed to help Maldor, he smirked as he took her hand and pulled her down on the floor as well. Marissa yelled in anger as she was on the floor now too. Maldor smiled at the whole scene as the entire classroom bursted into even bigger laughter. Everyone was free and smiling. Maldor got back up and helped Marissa up.
“Sorry about Marissa…Buttery fingers and all…” Maldor said.
“Hmp!” Marissa crossed her arms and walked away, internally smiling as she liked this side of Maldor. The side that she hoped would step up to be the Father of her Child. Marissa decided she was no longer a Cinder and adopted a new name for herself and her child. Marissa’s child was named Kenny Thorn. Neither Maldor nor Marissa knew it, but Kenny would further the family line to one day have a child named Violet Thorn. The same Violet who would be adopted by Rosamyl Cinder and become the Queen of Trensicourt before meeting Galloran the Gallant.
Maldor scratched his head as he looked at his class now and gave Speven the signal to continue with his answer.
“Well…Dragonborns remain to be the most discriminated against Race in Lyria across all lands. This is due their similar appearance to Dragons, which gave them a race to abuse in response anytime a Dragon would destroy land. They are also among the races that look less humanistic. Trensicourt gets it the worst though…As humans have been reported to kidnap Dragonborns off the streets and skin the flesh off their bodies. The formation of White Phoenix hasn’t helped as now most Kingdoms borders refuse to the refuge of Dragonborns…like my parents…who…” Speven stops as he begins crying.
Maldor frowns as he walks up to Speven and places his hand on the top of his head, using a spell to dry the tears off his face.
“Your answer was perfect Speven. Very well said. Its true that many Beyonders have been abused throughout Lyria. Many of you yourselves are Beyonders or children of Beyonders. You were fortunate enough to be born here and find this place…But as you know I am not allowed by law to accept people who illegally crossed into Trensicourt without their papers…However….” Maldor motions his hand towards the door. Jasher enters the room and stands next to Maldor.
“My friend here, his name is Jasher. He isn’t a Beyonder however he is like some of you. He isn’t too welcomed by others. He is an Amar Kabul, an Elder of his people. He has established good relations with many Kingdoms as I am sure you have heard of before. Jasher here…Has agreed to grant this School the same Diplomatic Status as the Amar Kabul. Meaning we can accept anyone to this school as refuge regardless of how they got here.” Maldor takes a breath and his voice trembles a bit.
Jasher nods, not daring to speak as he analyzes the room. Maldor to him was an Emperor that stole from them, that had sent Ferrin and others to stir problems. But regardless of his own feelings on the matter, Grand Elder Pyke asked him to play nice. And in despite of himself…Jasher was growing to like Maldor. This man…the one trying to help others…this was a man he could respect.
“I can’t snap my fingers and make the world accept all races…I truly wish I could…but people will always be divided…However…I can make this place as much of a paradise as I can. Natasha’s Den of Wizards has officially accepted 1’000 new students. Of those people, I have hand chosen the ones who are family of you students, including your parents Speven, and they are outside in the hall excited to see all of you right now.” Maldor says all this as he looks at Jasher.
The students all stare with their jaws dropped at this news.
“You can all come in now” Jasher says into the hall.
All of the families rush into the room and hug their loved ones. They all cheer and celebrate as they feel like their worlds aren’t falling apart anymore. None of them really knew anything about Professor Galloran other than that he founded this school and was good at magic. Maldor smiled at all of them, he felt more alive in this moment then he did in a long time. A part of him wondered what was going on with Emilia, Ferrin, Carmine, Sylar, Felrook, and his other creations but none of that mattered right now.
“You did good here Galloran. The work of the Gods I’d say” Jasher smiles sincerely as he shakes Maldor’s hand.
Unfortunately for the both of them, neither of them knew that this would be the last time Jasher would ever shake the hand of Maldor.
Its a day after the Ceremony. Or rather the conquest. All the remaining Dragons that served Ryuu find themselves to be collared and shackled inside of Emilia's dungeon. Many of them scared of what is to come. They knew nothing of humans. Guards stood at the door. Emilia walked in calmly as her heels echoed across the hall. She entered the cell in a blue shining dress, her hair tied into a gentle bun.
"Hello Dragons, right now...You're thinking that you are prisoners...And that may be true but you are also guests." She places her her hands on her hips.
The dragons all go against the wall nervously.
"As you've noticed you cannot transform into Dragons right now. That's because we enforced Ryuu's spell, you will stay human until we are done training you but I assure you...you will not be mistreated or abused. I have no intention of hurting any of you. You will serve my home well and we will treat you well. In fact...I want all of you to rest easy tonight" She snaps her fingers and guards enter with trays of food. This is gourmet food, food thats even better than Chick Fil A food. The guards all bowed and give the Dragons the food in plates. The Dragons nod and say thank you. The Guards all say "My pleasure".
Emilia smiles at them.
"When this training is over, you will serve our government in however way we need you. I have no intention of using you for silly games." Emilia nods at them and they nod back. She scared them...but they could sense she was honest. Emilia was true to her word, thr Dragons would be enslaved by her, but their suffering of the Royal Games wouldn't begin until a New Queen came to power. But Emilia had set the board for it. She now walked out of the cell and left the cell door open.
"I am trusting you. Dont leave this room. Good Dragons get rewarded" Emilia smiled knowing it was a test. The Guards would shock them into submission if they tried to leave. She walked out calmly with a sway in her step.
Her Advisor spoke-
"Emilia, in the courtyard, after the Peace meeting, many of the Nobles and their Sons are begging to marry you. They feel you need them to become stronger for this conquest."
"Need them?" Emilia raised an eyebrow and twitched a bit.
"Just a figure of speech your grace" The Advisor says.
Emilia walks into a soundproof room. A Dragon is shackled to the wall with whip marks on his back. Its Umalyndia. The adoptive son of Ryuu and best friend to Tobias. Hes crying on his knees. Emilia has tortured him for hours. To the point of begging. Emilia steps forward and grabs his hair and pulls it back firmly. She whispers in his ear.
"Are you ready to belong to me?" Emilia sneers in his ear. The other Dragons she had time to manipulate calmly and passively. But she needed Umalyndia's obedience now.
"It didn't have to be like this...we could have...had peace..." Umalyndia begins crying again.
"Ahhh. I see you haven't learned. Maybe I should try something more permanent this time" Emilia grabs tweezer and places it at his horns, threatning to cut them off. His only reminder hes a Dragon in this human form.
"NO! NO! I'll be yours. I'll do as you wish! Please!" Umalyndia screams in desperation.
Emilia smiles. She believes him. She spent hours conditioning him painfully. She was tired of waiting.
"Good. As my pet you will take me to the only man that matters. You will take me to Maldor." Emilia says as she unshackles Umalyndia and drags him across the floor. "But first...I wanna see the men who dont matter."
Less than an hour later. Umalyndia was allowed to turn to a Dragon, but he was too broken to defy Emilia. He allowed her to ride him in Dragon form. They landed in the Courtyard. All the Royal men looked up at her smiling. One of them would get to marry this beast of a Woman. However she didn't smile back. She frowned as she gave her command to Umalyndia. Suddenly his mouth opened and all the men were burned alive by his blue icy flames.
"Now that I've burned alive the men that dont matter. I'll pay a visit to the one man that matters. And burn every fucker that gets in my way" Emilia kicks Umalyndia commanding him to fly. They fly off into the sky. Emilia's heart beating fast. Excited to see her lover once again.
It had been months since Maldor had left Emilia at her Capital. He would’ve expected she would go after him, so he placed a spell that hid the Academy from the average eye. At first he was always on guard, but over time he stopped considering her a threat. His students would continue to try to tell him about what shes been doing but he wouldn’t hear any of it. Instead focusing on his officially recognized Diplomatic Wizard Academy. Thousands of students came to learn now, while many others just wanted safe shelter. Maldor had met more races at this Academy than he had in his entire life. Eventually he needed more teachers to handle all the backflow. He considered his options, he didn’t know many Wizards. However there was one young Wizard that had come to the Academy just for safety. Her name was Valerna. A Beyonder that adapted to Edomic quickly. She must have known Mador needed help because she came to him. Maldor was inside his room, holding the baby born by Marissa. Maldor was caring and gentle as he made ugly faces to make the baby laugh.
“You shouldn’t make faces like that…You’ll scare the baby even more than she gets scared by all your illegal magic?” Marissa says caringly.
Maldor shrugs with a smirk “Funny use of the word illegal when this Academy is technically illegal” Places the baby down.
“Not anymore it is, its recognized by the Amar Kabul. We have immunity! We should stop hiding, go public. My sister wouldn’t be able to do anything about it…” Marissa pleads to Maldor. Shes tired of having to hide.
“You don’t seem to understand your sister the way I do. She has this silent rage, one like a bottomless pit. It can never be satisfied. The world let her feel powerless and abused…And in return she will make the world suffer for it. In her mind, shes making the world a better place…I can understand the thought process. I used to feel the same” Maldor looks down as he judges himself for his actions. So many dead. Felrook. Gars Wood. He lost himself in his quest for power. “But I know I was wrong. Violence only begets violence…Its better to create than destroy.” Maldor stands in front of Marissa with conviction.
Marissa gazes at Maldor, the man who was known by many titles. The Immortal Wizard, the King of Trensicourt, or Professor Galloran. All versions she had fallen in love with. She knew she was an awful sister, and perhaps not a good person…But she’d be a good mother…And perhaps a Good lover? Marissa takes a step forward and tries to kiss Maldor. Maldor immediately dodges the kiss.
“Marissa…I told you that I don’t want our relationship to be like that. You’re my friend…That’s what I need in my life, pure love, not lust. I…Im sorry” Maldor looks down feeling bad.
Marissa immediately feels guilty as she walks up and hugs Maldor. “Im so sorry, you’re right….It was inconsiderate of me. But I hope you know…You’re a good man Galloran” Marissa says with tears.
Maldor shakes his head “My name is Maldor…”
Marissa takes him by his face and looks into his eyes “No! You’re not Maldor! That’s a name you took when you believed that the love in you was dead…But I know the real you. You’re a good man who’s made mistakes Galloran. I’m a shitty person…but you gave me a chance and that means so much to me…I mean really…Look at all of this…Its proof that theres good in you. We get to move forward…We don’t need to be the demons we were okay?” Marissa hugs Maldor with a warm hug.
Maldor has tears roll down his eyes as he hugs Marissa back. And a thought crosses his mind.
“I…If that’s true…Then I need to atone for my sins. Right my wrongs…It’s the weekend, classes are out…I can teleport to one of my mistakes…I need to visit my first son. Ferrin…He deserves to know how I really feel about him. I’ve used him as a tool and called him less but the truth is I loved him like my own son. He…Hes everything I wish I was. He has a good heart…A strong will against temptation. Him and Carmine have been trying to signal to me…They deserve an explanation, I’ll be back in less than a day.” Maldor steps away from the hug. Marissa nods and agrees.
“Just please come back to us…We need you” Marssa says with a smile as she holds the baby now. She takes the tie from around Maldor’s neck, he wear it as a professor now, and ties it around the baby’s neck very loosely. “She’ll guard her tie until you get back” She smiles.
Maldor smiles back “I love you both” Begins to get ready to teleport. Suddenly Valerna knocks on the door.
“Come in” Maldor says.
“Hello Professor Galloran…I saw your Help Wanted Ad?” Valerna says.
“Ah yes…I forgot I put that up…” Walks up to her “I’ll be back and we can talk about it. I can sense the power in you…Protect this place yeah? I’ll be back before you know it” Maldor says with hope as he pats Valerna on the shoulder. Immediately teleports away. To see Ferrin and Carmine. Little did Maldor know, that would be the last time he would ever feel like a good man again.
The Year was 701 now. It had been a year since Maldor and Emilia met, since he freed her from her abuse and enslavement by her Husband. She thinks about this as she flies the skies on Umalyndia’s back. Anger consumes her as she yells into the sky.
“WHY!?! WHY SAVE ME IF YOU WERE JUST GOING TO FUCKING LEAVE ME!?!” Emilia yells at the top of her lungs. She spent months looking for Maldor desperately, she moved through village to village, threatening her own citizens the stress became so much for her that eventually she was forced to give birth to her child prematurely. They entered her child into a magical bubble to protect it until it was old enough to be out of the bubble. Emilia did not even bother looking at the child let alone naming her, in her mind that child was not hers until Maldor was by her side. Anger filled her at all the different images filling her mind. She imagined Maldor making love to Marissa, finding another woman for himself, or even worse not being in love at all. Just forgetting about Emilia because he wanted to. Eventually she came across a smaller village but with wise elders. This village would later be known as Violet Thorn’s Village.
Umalyndia landed as she hopped off with a thud on the ground. Her pristine boots dirtied by the muddy ground as she kept walking towards the entrance of the village. Many of village boys stared at her in fascination, whispering about how beautiful she was. One of the men was even brave enough to approach her.
“Hello there Madam…Would you like me clean your boots for you? It’s a tragedy to let them be muddy on such a beautiful woman…” The man is cut off as Emilia suddenly whips out her sword and cuts off the young man’s left hand. He falls on his back in pain.
“Ahhh! Why…What…Please help!” The young man yells.
“Your limbs aren’t even worth dirtying my blade…So shut your mouth and serve me silently. The same goes for all of you! Bring me the Village Elder! NOW! Or this young man’s head will join the muddy ground…You can place bets on which head I’m talking about!” Emilia yells.
The villagers frantically run around the find the Village Elder. An older man, maybe in his 80’s walks forward and faces the Queen.
“We are honored to have you here as our guest your Highness” The Elder says.
“Oh spare me the pleasantries and bullshit, you know what I’m here for. Do you know where my husband is?” Emilia asks.
“Ah yes…King Maldor…The man who went missing from the capital…We have not heard any news of him” The Elder says calmly as his people cower in the background.
Emilia stares him down, trying to determine if he is lying or not. All the other villages she questioned ended the same, she would brutally kill the Elder, to see if they were lying, and then leave in search of answers. It had been this constant cycle of death. She left her Olymic Knights to rule in her place while she was gone, and she knew that would be taking its toll. She needed to find Maldor, she wanted to show him all her achievements. She had managed to enslave the Dragons. Any that got away, fled to the Seven Vales or to the far east of Lyria, to be the problem of the Amar Kabul. They all served Trensicourt now, Ryuu and Pherylrax sealed away in the Abyss, and Tobias gone. It was all just too easy. That bitch of a Wife to Ryuu managed to get away but she’ll turn up eventually. Maldor and her could rule together, they would be their bitch. He’s suffered too, manipulated and used by the Gods and Salina. He deserved better than that. He deserved a life of paradise with me. He loves me more than he could ever know, he just hasn’t accepted it yet. But he will. When he sees what I am willing to do for him, he will have no choice but to be my Husband again. However…Perhaps she could try to be better.
“Mercy…” Emilia whispers this under her breath as she turns around and prepares to leave this village.
“Wait..” The Elder chimes in “I know how you can find him your Highness” The Elder says appreciating Emilia’s calmness and willingness to leave.
Emilia turns around with a huge smirk. Mercy had its benefits afterall.
Hours later Emilia appears back at the capital and find her servant Sylar watering the plants. Hes as broken as ever with his tongue being removed, chains wrapped around his body to constantly hurt him, and constantly used as a tool for amusement by Emilia. She walked up to him and grabbed him by his collar…
“You know how to find your father and never told me?!?” Emilia yells and Sylar’s face.
“No…I…” Sylar begins to say. Sylar lost almost all of his backbone, but the one thing he held onto for his sanity was his loyalty to his creator. Schemes and games aside, he would never endanger Maldor’s life. He managed to avoid telling Emilia he could track Maldor just by smelling him this entire time.
Emilia slaps Sylar repeatedly, so hard a tooth flies out of his mouth. “I don’t want to hear your fucking excuses, come with me and take me there NOW! Or I’ll take the last part of you that makes you a man” Emilia yells as she leads Sylar to Umalyndia. The two of them ride off into the sky for hours. Sylar pointing which direction to go, he can smell the last place in Trensicourt that he was.
Emilia felt butterflies in her stomach, she was excited to finally be reunited with her true love. Once the two of them were together, she knew Maldor would be so overwhelmed with love that he would come back to her. Umalyndia lands in front of Natalias Den of Wizards.
“They must have sensed us coming…They look like Wizards…” Emilia raises her eyebrow. Hundreds, no thousands of people stood in front of the school. All standing in unison with staffs and other tools pointed at them. But these weren’t the people that got Emilia’s attention, despite them all being every race you could think of…No her sister Marissa standing at the front is what caught her eye.
“This is a formally recognized School with Diplomatic Immunity granted by Represensative Jasher of the Amar Kabul! Please just leave us alone Emilia!” Marissa screamed with tears in her eyes. The thousands of students behind her all charged their Edomic, prepared to attack Emilia if necessary. This was their home. A precious home that Maldor had created, and they would protect it no matter what.
Emilia gazed upon them, she hadn’t seen Maldor yet. She smiled to herself as she contemplated what happened the last time she showed Mercy. She stares at them but her eyes narrow on the baby in Marissa’s hands. Her eyes sink inside her soul as a rage takes over. It made no logical sense for Emilia to think that baby was Maldor’s son…But the baby was wearing something over its head, the bandanda that Maldor made and told me would go to our daughter when she was born. Anger filled Emilia as she decided what was going to happen.
“I’ll show you all Mercy” Emilia mutters to herself.
Maldor didn’t often teleport, it always took a lot out of him. Anytime he did, it made him think about his teacher, Zyra, the bastard that taught him a lot of things about his power. Sometimes he felt guilty for locking him inside a cell, but he knew that Zyra always had his own agenda. Maldor couldn’t even remember anymore whether he locked Zyra away because Zyra tried to kill him or because Salina told him he should lock him away. It was all fucked up as Maldor appeared now in front of Ferrin and Carmine. Carmine sat on the throne that originally belong to Maldor, and Ferrin stood to the side serving as best he could. They stare wide-eyed in shock.
“It appears that my calculations were correct. You have returned my lord” Carmine stands up immediately and bends a knee to Maldor. “This throne suits you much better than myself”
Ferrin is not as quick to bend the knee, with Sylar gone, Rook on a mission, Hope missing, and the other Displacers on their missions, he found himself to be lonely often. Always just ensuring Felrook remained a place following law and order. His mind drifted between the past cruelties of Maldor but…The man in front of him now seemed very different. Ferrin bent the knee regardless.
Maldor shakes his face as he cries realizing what they think of him at this point.
“Stop! Stop! Don’t bend the knee…I…I’m not the same man anymore. I love you both! I am not above either of you!” Maldor yells as he runs and suddenly wraps his arms around Ferrin in a deep bear hug. Tears roll down his eyes.
“I was a terrible man Ferrin. I was corrupted by my power and didn’t even realize that I…” Maldor cries heavily. “I destroyed you to fill the hold inside of me…When you were the one that filled it in the first place. You’re my son!” Maldor yells in sadness.
Ferrin was in shock by Maldor’s words, this was not what he expected. Felrook remained fruitful and peaceful, the Gods had kept their distance ever since Maldor disappeared. With only Salina begging Sylar to go after Maldor.
“But..Salina…” Ferrin begins to say but is cut off by Maldor.
“FORGET SALINA! She…She may have the power of a God but she is corrupt. She cursed me with immortality and killed those that I loved…Then abused my grief and suffering….” Maldor takes Ferrin by the collar and looks into his eyes. “The only blessing I have from her gift of life is that I can be the mean I was meant to be. The father I was meant to be. You deserve to be happy Ferrin…And I deserve to accept that the world isn’t meant to be perfect. That all we can do it carve out our own paradise and enjoy it with the ones we love” Maldor speaks passionately. Ferrin is in shock and cries himself at Maldor’s words.
“I agree entirely my lord. The Gods do not need to be involved…My plans to Conquer Lyria and unite it our image…That would be yours and yours alone. A paradise united under an Emperor. Imagine Felrook, a place of no crime and happiness, but all over the world. You can rule it all my lord, and be the father you want to be” Carmine says nodding at Ferrin.
Maldor shakes his head rejecting Carmine’s plan entirely.
“No! Carmine I know you are programmed to give me what you believe I would want…but I don’t want the world anymore. I just want a place of happiness. Felrook isn’t mine to rule anymore, nor is it any of ours. I want you and Ferrin to stand down, and allow the people of Felrook to vote for a new leader, and then adopt a council to govern” Maldor says with sincerity.
“But…What about us?” Carmine says coldly.
“Do not worry. There is a place for you both, along with all those that have followed me thus far. We can all reside at this sanctuary I have created in Trensicourt….Its something really special. You can have plenty of information to process..." Maldor smiles at Carmine and looks at Ferrin "And maybe you’ll find the one named Athelisa that you are meant to meet at this place.”
Ferrin and Carmine both stand in shock at Maldor’s words. They both have their doubts but…Maldor was always a man that got what he wanted. They felt an urge to follow him. They both nodded at him accepting his words.
“Come on. I’ll introduce you both to everyone…I don’t expect you to forgive me for the past now…But we can work on that” He offers his hands to Carmine and Ferrin, they both take it. Maldor suddenly teleports all three of them to the Wizard Academy. However…what they see is unlike anything Maldor could have ever imagined.
The massive Academy, a building of at least 100 different floors and thousands of rooms for students, had holes all over with rubble and flames erupting out of them. And through all the smoke and fire, two people stood out in front of all the destruction. Before long, it was undeniable who it was. Emilia Cinder stood, wearing her leather blue and golden colored clothes with a cape on her back. In her hand she held an object. Behind her was Sylar, but covered in scars and chains, he looked miserable. Behind them was the Dragon Umalyndia, and thousands of bodies, blood stains, and clumps of ashes from the Dragons flames. In Emilia’s hand, was the head of Marissa separated from her body. And in her other hand was Emilia’s blade…Stabbing through a body on the ground. It was Marissa’s baby. Maldor just stared in disbelief.
“My love! Finally you are here! Don’t worry…I showed Mercy, their deaths were quick” Emilia says with a wide smile staring at Maldor. She truly believed he would be happy, that this would be a moment of true love. However…It was only a moment of true rage. All the childrens faces played through Maldor’s mind over and over, he promised to protect them. His hand wraps around his neck as he tries to breath. His eyes gloss over to the baby and he sees the tie he tied around its neck loosely. The moment his eyes fully absorb the image of the burned tie on the babies neck…Maldor snaps. Professor Galloran dies as The Immortal Wizard of Death is born. He roars with anger as boulders come out of the ground and hover under his feet. He flies at full speed, the boulders boosting him, straight towards Emilia.
“Father! Wait!” Ferrin yells.
“Stop…We must trust your father” Carmine says as he holds Ferrin back.
“My love? What…What are you…” Emilia sees the death in Maldor’s eyes. “Umalyndia…Knock my husband out! I think he needs to cool down” She points at Maldor. Umayndia opens his mouth and shoots a wave of fire at Maldor, its massive and explosive. However it doesn’t matter as Maldor waves his hand and suddenly the fire turns into ice and Umalyndia’s tongue freezes along with the ice, Maldor flies up to Umalyndia and grabs him by his tongue.
“Hus Jfeu peiwi” Maldor mutters Edomic as he pulls the tongue of Umalyndia and pulls his face into the ground. Umalyndia dies instantly as his tongue is ripped out of his mouth. The Dragon’s brain pops upon impact and the ground itself falls apart like an Earthquake has hit it.
“YOU KILLED THEM! THEY WERE INNOCENT BUT YOU DIDN’T CARE! AND NOW…NOW YOU’VE KILLED ME!” Maldor roars in anger. All of Lyria in this moment can hear his words. Whether they dismiss it as a dream or hallucination it doesn’t matter as Emilia knows its happening. She stares in shock.
Emilia falls to her knees and cries gazing upon Maldor. “I…I did it for us! I showed them Mercy my love! I made it quick so we could be together…So we can raise our daughter together…Please…Show me mercy..” Emilia speaks desperately.
Maldor lands down in front of Emilia and grabs her by her throat and lifts her off the ground. Her feet dangle in desperation as hes choking her.
“I HAVE NO MERCY TO GIVE YOU!” Maldor roars.
“Please…I love you…” Emilia cries out.
“I know…And that’s why I have to do this…” Maldor’s righteous anger disappears as he says those final words. She…She was sick, demented beyond even realizing what she did was wrong. To blame her would be to blame a sickness with no cure…In the end he had nobody to blame…Not even himself as now knew that accomplished nothing. With a somber realiziation, he did what the world needed, he snapped her neck. Emilia Cinder…was dead.
Maldor now stood above her body in grief and sorrow as he glanced at the body of the baby. He began walking towards it, knowing what he must do now.
Sylar’s eyes narrowed as Emilia died, he smiled as he was finally free, he ran to Ferrin and Carmine desperately and hugged them both.
“Sylar…You…Your tongue?” Ferrin asked and then proceeded to return’s Sylars tongue, helping him regrow it. Sylar sighed and just hugged Ferrin.
“My family…approach me…now…” Maldor whispers as he stands above the baby of Marissa, its corpse laying at Maldor’s feet.
Carmine, Sylar, and Ferrin all approach Maldor cautiously, they stand behind him now, ready to listen.
“Here is what is going to happen…Sylar, Ferrin, you two will need to take the roles of King Maldor and Queen Emilia Cinder. You two will rule in disguise until you can slip away naturally, fake your deaths for the people but ensure the succession process moves forward. You will return to the capital with this child in your case, his name is Kenny Thorn. Ensure that he is treated a royal family member, state he is the Nephew of the Queen…Understand?” Maldor says all this calmly as he begins to cut his hand with a dagger.
“But..How…The child is…” Sylar begins to say, confused as the child lays dead in the dirt but Ferrin motions Sylar to stay silent.
“Zyra taught me this decades ago…A spell that can bring someone back to life within the day that they died…However…It comes at the cost of the Sanity of the Casters mind. When I bring this child back to life…I will become an insane man. With no rational or logical thought formulated…Its likely you’ll never see me again. Carmine…You’ll continue to rule Felrook if you like…or don’t…I don’t care. Do you all understand?” Maldor asks.
There is a deep silence in the air, none of them knowing how to respond. They knew better to argue with a man who just killed a dragon like it was nothing…But this was just all so surreal.
Salina suddenly appeared with desperation “Maldor! You…You cannot do this! You wanted power remember? I can give you more of it! I can make you the strongest man in Lyria! I bet we can hunt down Ryuu and force him to give you more power…You are the greatest man under the name of Love!” Salina pleads with Maldor.
“Carmine…Use Pandora’s Box” Maldor says. It was a device that Maldor ordered Carmine to work on long ago. A device to seal Salina away. It wasn’t a perfect cell and would only keep Salina away for a few hours but it was enough. Carmine opened the box and Salina was suddenly gone.
Maldor nods and begins the spell...”Its been an honor…All of you…Goodbye” Maldor casts the spell and the child comes back to life. Ferrin and Sylar follow Maldor’s wishes and transform, and also escort the child Kenny. Carmine returns to Felrook. And Maldor…disappears…Reduced to a homeless man wandering the streets aimlessly. He remains this way for 78 years. Until in the Year 779.
Maldor was sleeping on a bench on the street with a long untrimmed beard and even longer hair, when a few bandits approached him and held a dagger up to him. Upon realizing he didn’t have anything valuable…They proceeded to begin beating him.
“Hey…What did the homeless guy ever do you gents?” A young voice spoke out as he stood with a sword out in defense of Maldor. Maldor didn’t know it at the time…but his sanity would soon return…And it would be because of this young man defending him. A young 16 year old known as Galloran the Gallant.
The Year was 779. It was hard to believe that in only 11 Years Maldor would become the most dangerous threat to the world when he began his official Conquest of Lyria in the Year 790. Eventually leading up to the Year 810 in which our Reclaimers arrived to stop him. Baring all this in mind, Maldor at this time was nothing more than an insane man who wandered from forest to forest, city to city, and danger to danger. He remained immortal, so regardless how many times he was killed by those that simply had an itch for murder or other reasons…He would come back to life. Trensicourt had changed much throughout this time. Sylar and Ferrin kept their word and faked their deaths allowing Emilia’s Daughter to become the new Queen. Her name was Rosamyl Cinder, the Queen of Dragons, she turned out unable to convieve a child of her own. She desperately needed an heir so she resorted to the Holy Seed that was hidden away by Emilia long ago, she grew but discovered it gave birth to a baby. She named it Galloran as requested by a note left from Emilia but then dumped the boy onto the streets as a mere baby in a cradle. She then adopted her Niece as her own daughter, Violet Thorn became Violet Cinder. 16 Years had passed since this event and Rosamyl was growing older as Trensicourt flourished under her rule. The Dragons were treated even worse than when Emilia was in power but the Humans lived luxorious lives as they covered themselves in their traditions of combat. Galloran the Gallant, a young 16 year old boy with a sword stood in front of Maldor.
“You got a weird thing for hurting a homeless guy?” Galloran asked.
“Oi fuck off. Guy’s stinking up the park, my little sister goes here” One of the men yells.
“Your sister…Is she around?” Galloran asks.
“Hey listen here wise guy” The man says and begins to approach Galloran with a dagger.
Galloran moves swiftly as his sword, if you would even call it that, a sharp long needle in his hand if anything, quickly cut the blade of the dagger off the handle of it and on the ground. And along with that did the mans belt get cut and his pants fall down to the ground. He was in fact not wearing underwear.
“I asked because she may need to bring you a pair of clothes…But I imagine she wouldn’t wanna see you like this…Might wanna invest in buying underwear friend” Galloran smirks at them, like this is a game.
The three bandits standing next to the no underwear man charged Galloran with daggers, of course the young lad managed to dodge all their attacks easily. However, he was having a bit too much fun and didn’t notice that when he dodged a dagger thrown at him…It went straight towards Maldor who was still sitting on the bench. The dagger went straight through his heart, he slumped over on the ground dead.
“No!” Galloran yelled and quickly knocked out the 4 bandits, all unconscious on the ground. Galloran kneeled to tie up their wrists for the autohroties.
“I’ll be right there sir! I just need to make sure these thugs aren’t a threat to anyone else!” Galloran says and secures the men. As he stands up and begins walking towards Maldor…He hears a familiar voice.
“Hey! Stop there!” It was an older voice with authority. Galloran knew the man wall, it was the Fear Knight. The Olympic Knight in charge of the Royal Police. The two of them…knew each other well sadly.
“These men attacked me and that guy on the bench over there! I was detaining them!” Galloran yells.
“Looks more to me like you’re pretending to be police…When we both know you’re just an orphaned seed boy” Fear Knight says as he steps up with 5 Guards behind him.
“An Amar Kabul…Seriously? I thought they all returned home” A Guard says.
“This is my home! And I am not Amar Kabul! I am Human and a Citizen of Trensicourt! Just like you!” Galloran yells defiantly as he faces them.
“No…What you are is a freak that keeps trying to run my streets. These lads will get a warning…But you? I’m taking you in this time…Lets see how the Queen feels about her rejected mutt stirring problems in the capital again” The Fear Knight says as he pulls out his sword and approaches Galloran.
Galloran has a single tear roll down his eye. He didn’t ask to have a seed on the back of his neck…In fact he ripped it out when he was younger because he was sick of the looks he’d get. He was Human. He wanted to be accepted like everyone else. His whole life he had been moving from street corner to street corner just to survive.
“What are you even doing here Fear?” Galloran asks as he steps back closer to Maldor who is still not moving.
“Looking for the Princess…And I’m betting you know where she is…How many fingers will it take for me to find out?” Fear asks with an evil smirk. He had tortured Galloran once before, until eventually Galloran managed to escape. The Fear Knight didn’t care about the people or honor, he just got a sick pleasure from making others suffer.
Galloran knew what his next move was going to be. He had an uncanny sense for always knowing the next series of moves a person would do, he wasn’t the strongest or the fastest, but his eyes never lied and that’s all he needed. Suddenly he flung a dagger straight towards the Fear Knights ring as he was activating it to shoot gas. The ring exploded causing the gas to explode in the Fear Knight’s face. He screamed in fear and anger.
“You fucking…GET THE KID! MAKE HIM LOSE HIS LEFT HAND FOR THAT!” The Fear Knight yells as the Guards all charge Galloran.
Galloran was tempted to run now however he knew it would not be that simple, the Fear Knight always seemed able to track Galloran, he would need to take him off the board for a little while. Galloran dodged the guards attacks and knocked all of them unconscious with his bare hands, aiming for their vital points. Finally he flung a second dagger at the Fear Knights right shoulder, making him fall onto his back. Galloran wasn’t a killer, he didn’t want their disgusting blood on his hands. He didn’t have time to check if Maldor was actually alive or not, he just grabbed him and ran while carrying Maldor over his shoulder. Perhaps it was silly, carrying a man he didn’t even know, but regardless of the inconvenience, he would try to help this man, simply because it was the right thing to do.
Galloran, the 16 year old boy that he was, ran for a far distance, disappearing into the wild life sector of Trensicourt. He marched into the crime filled streets soon as he got various looks from gangs and other interested parties. Once they saw it was Galloran though, they kept their distance. They all knew by now that maybe he was a kid, maybe he was only 120 pounds, and maybe his sword was the swords they give the errand boys to protect themselves, but regardless he’d give them a beating they wouldn’t forget. Nobody bothered him as he snuck into an abandoned house.
Galloran was clumsy as his boot hit a box of pots and other kitchen tools, they spilled onto the ground.
“For a boy who wants to be a Knight…You sure are clumsy” A female voice said in the darkness.
“Knight? Knights get paid to sit around and do nothing…I want to be a Guardian” Galloran says as he sets Maldor down. With privacy, he finally kneels and places his hand on Maldor’s neck and feels his pulse. No pulse, Maldor isn’t breathing. “Fuck!” Galloran suddenly yells in frustration.
“Ran? Who is that? What happened?” The female voice as she emerges from the shadows. She was young, 16 years old with long brunette hair and freckles upon her face. Her concern for Galloran was apparent.
Galloran sighs and looks up at the girl.
“What happened is your mother is getting more desperate to find you Violet” Galloran looks at Violet, his eyes finding comfort by gazing at her despite the circumstances.
Suddenly Maldor’s eyes opened as he came back to life, gasping for air as he laid on the ground beneath Galloran.
“How…How is that possible? There was no heartbeat!” Galloran yells.
And with that began the story of how Maldor and Galloran the Gallant became the infamous best friends of Lyria.
Maldor gasped for air as he sat up, the stab wound in his heart now gone, not even a mark left on him. His eyes opened rapidly over and over as he surveyed the room. For a moment, it seemed almost like he had gained his mind back. But of course, his insanity remained as he returned to his docile state, eyes blank and empty. Not a single word or sound muttered from Maldor. Galloran stared at him in shock.
“Ran!” Violet Thorn yells at Galloran.
Galloran keeps staring, his eyes linger on Maldor’s clothes, they were battered and ripped, he looked disgusting yet he came back to life…Why? What made him special? Was he alone this whole time…Like him? These questions floated in Galloran’s mind as he stared. The young princess stepped in front of him and snapped her fingers.
“RAN!” Violet yells at the top of her lungs snapping her friend out of his trance.
“What!?! Jeez you trying to make me deaf or something?” Galloran asks scratching his ears suddenly noticing an itch and scratching his ear more thoroughly.
“Hmph! I was calling your name like 5 times! You just stared him like he was your dad or something…Wait oh my god…Is he your dad?” Violet asks suddenly pressing her hands to her cheeks in shock.
Galloran kept scratching his ear as he looked at Violet now.
“Father? What? No…Well…I mean I don’t think hes my father…” Galloran looks at Maldor again while his finger probes deeper into his ear to get that itch.
“Ran stop that! That is so gross! I’ve told you about this! Armpits, ears, Candy cane, jelly beans, and nose are all off limits when Im around!” Violet says annoyed.
Galloran starts laughing at her nicknames. “No way you just said Candy cane…What are you 12?”
Violet blushes deeply embarrassed. “I am not 12! What I am is a Princess who is expected to be elegant and perfect and…” Violet begins to rant.
Galloran “Still on this? This is like your 6th time sneaking out of your fancy castle and coming here…Don’t you think the princess act is getting a bit old?” Galloran asks as he sits down on a rusty chair with holes in it. He doesn’t seem to mind…Not even when a spider from the ceiling lets itself climb down a string onto his head.
Violet stares at him with frustration.
“You know why I’m sneaking out you ass! What my mother did to you was wrong! I had no idea she threw a baby out onto the street until I overheard her talking about you…Ever since I’ve been coming here to help you! You deserve a place at the Royal Court!” Violet declares.
Galloran raises his eyebrows in response with a bit of reluctance. Violet had managed to find Galloran at one of the street fights hosted at night…Not a sport he was proud of but it was the fastest to pay the bills when he couldn’t find honest work. When she first told him this story of him being a royal baby casted out…He thought she was conning him. As far as he knew…He had been a boy raised in one of the Dragonborn gangs until they casted him out anyway. That was a story Violet didn’t need to hear…She seemed to already have judgements about him that were bad enough as it is. Every time she visited, she’d bring him books, food, and other tools and supplies. On her last visit…She spent time teaching him how to read. However, as embarrassing as it was to admit…Galloran already knew how to read and write…He learned at the Public Library…But he enjoyed the company. So he let her think she was teaching him. She seemed to enjoy helping people. She didn’t know that the last time she snuck out…The Fear Knight tracked her to me…And he turned his personal pleasure of coming after Galloran into a professional one.
“No offense Pine, but a fancy suit and a big gut ain’t really my style. A hero has to stay humble…Be ready to strike at a moments notice” Galloran smiles at her sincerely.
“You’re still on that? This hero talk is nonsense Ran! Theres no such thing as heroes…Everyone has an agenda! Whats important is establishing what is rightfully yours!” Violet yells out.
Galloran suddenly stands up from his chair and walks up to her and looks into her eyes deeply. Most Amar Kabul had green eyes…But Galloran has Blue eyes, blue eyes and jet black hair.
“So you do have an Agenda Pine, what is it?” Galloran asks softly.
Violet suddenly blushes as Galloran is close to her, her heart beats deeply, not knowing why it was doing that. It must have been something she ate earlier, she wouldn’t let her bad appetite get in the way of her point being made…but his nickname for her was distracting her.
“Why are you still calling me Pine? I told you that name doesn’t even make any sense! A violet has thorns, not pines!” Violet says in frustration.
Galloran shrugs “I don’t know. Makes sense to me…Dead Eyes seems to like it” Galloran nods at Maldor, Maldor is salivating, drool coming down his lips to signify he needs food.
Violet’s eyes narrow as gets closer to Galloran, her face in front of his, inches apart. Her angers overshadows her embarrassment.
“Do you think this is a joke!?! I’ve seen how you fight Galloran, you could be so much more than just some street boy who’s good at fighting and being sweet…” Violet feels her cheeks flush at knowing how sweet hearted Galloran was. “If you just stay here, acting like a good man surrounded by criminals…then the unfairness of life is going to sneak up on you like that fucking spider on your head is sneaking up on you!” Violet yells at the spider on Galloran’s head.
Galloran’s eyes suddenly widen as he grabs the spider off his head and eats it raw, chewing it quickly and then swallows. “Aghh…That was gross…but good protein I bet.” Galloran smirks at his joke as he looks at Violet’s horrified face.
Violet sighs, tired of arguing with Galloran. An idea pops into her head.
“Who is this man? Where did you find him?” Violet asks.
“Hes a guy who was in trouble. I saved him but…your babysister came after me. The Fear Knight” Galloran says as he walks over to his cabinet and places some of his gear inside. To relax more. This was a safe place, none of the authorities knew about it, he paid a good mount of the money he won from fights to make sure this place was concealed from anyone who wears the Trensicourt uniform.
“You…You could’ve fucking mentioned that sooner? Oh fuck! Oh fuck! Oh fuck!” Violet cradles her head with fear and shock. “I…I have to hide you…I have to make sure he can’t find you! With time I bet I can convince mother to tell him to leave you alone..” Violet is thinking out loud in a panic.
Galloran sees that shes panicking…Worse than that…She was shaking. Galloran knew the rich and powerful well…All of them only cared for themselves. Getting their pockets deeper and their egos larger. That’s why he wanted to be a Hero…To show the poor and the rich that they could inspire each other. To be better. Galloran’s view of the world…Was a bit black and white as he believed those with power were evil and those who were weak needed to be protected. Violet though…She was different, she was worrying about him more than herself. He suddenly had an urge to her tightly.
“Its going to be alright…Don’t worry” Galloran says caringly.
Violet nods and hugs back, finding comfort in Galloran’s arms and words.
Suddenly a Dwarf barged into the room, one Galloran knew well, a friend of his from the pawn shop, his name was Gincon. Gincon ran up to Galloran and Violet.
“Galloran! Galloran we got a problem!” Gincon says frantically.
“What…What is it?” Galloran asks confused. There was no way the Fear Knight found his way here already.
“It’s the Fear Knight! Hes been killed! The Royal Guard and the Olympic Knights and doing a full manhunt!” Gincon says with sweat glossing over his face and out of breath.
“Killed? Who…How…?” Violet begins to ask but Gincon interrupts her.
“Its you Galloran! They are hunting for you!” Gincon shows a bounty poster and on the poster…Is a hand drawn sketch of Galloran…Stating he murdered the Fear Knight.
“Oh…Shit…” Galloran says.
Maldor rolls onto the floor and begins to eat an ant.
Maldor laid there on the ground, eating the ant as though it was just another meal that was lying around…Not a single rational thought in his mind. It was hard to imagine…That Maldor was still in there somewhere. At the moment his mind was buried deep within one of the happiest memories of his life. One before he ever became immortal…Long before the Holy War of Lyria even began. Maldor was 17 years old, a young man with a simple life, a hunter who…didn’t really like being a hunter. He was adopted into Natalia’s family, hiding under a new name after his father was killed and he absorbed the Dragon Stone from the sick Dragon in the cave. Maldor fell in love with Natalia the day that she saved him, and invited him into her family. However…He still had to earn the trust and love of her family if they were to ever accept him the way she did. Maldor enjoyed reading and writing more than anything but wanted to establish a relationship with Natalia’s father, and so he went hunting with him. The two of them geared up and traversing the woods with swords, ready to kill anything for dinner. Maldor was without a doubt out of his element but he was determined. Natalia’s father was a strict man…One of the most strict he had ever known. This wouldn’t be easy.
“So…What if we see a bear or a lion or something?” Maldor asks wiping his hands together for some warmth, the snow was heavy and he could see his breath every time he spoke.
Natalia’s father, his name was Matayo, grumbled to himself, his exterior as serious as ever, the man was 8 feet tall, pure muscle of at least 250 pounds, and a cigar hung out of his mouth as he walked through the snow.
“Then you kill it…Or it kills you. Depends on the kind of man you are” Matayo says roughly.
“What if…What if they aren’t bothering us? Wouldn’t it be more ethical to kill frogs or worms perhaps…Theres less evidence of those creatures having a soul…” Maldor begins to say, he knows Matayo probably won’t agree with it, but regardless he figured debates would pass the time. Anything to make his hands feel less like they were going to fall off from the cold.
“What kind of question…You a woman or something kid? Been faking it this whole time?” Matayo says harshly, revealing his traditional and older beliefs held by many in the village they were in. Men hunt, woman cook, no exceptions. It was no secret Matayo looked down upon Maldor reading and writing so much, another hobby of a woman it would be called. Maldor isn’t surprised by this kind of statement, but it bothers him none the less. However he didn’t let it make him vilify Matayo, he was a decent man who always provided food and comfort to his family, and Natalia has always loved her father.
“Oh…Me? No. I’m a boy-ergh- a man…Its just…I’ve been learning more about the soul through some literature…Theres this Wizard named Zyra…He wrote a book called “Inner Cravings of the Soul”, and it talks about the value of different life forms. I think you’d like it! It talks about the classical standards of roles in society and…” Maldor begins to go into an intellectual rant but Matayo cuts him off, not really caring in the slightest.
“Hey shut up!” Matayo puts his hand up and looks in the direction of an animal not too far away. It’s a deer currently eating some vegetation next to a tree. “We got ourselves a big one…Ready the net, he looks like a runner, you toss it on him and I’ll run up and give it one quick swing to the head. Painless. Come on kid” Matayo pats Maldor on the back and begins moving forward quickly.
“Uhm sir…Before we get to that…I wanted to talk about something…” Maldor had been beating around the real reason he was out here. The real reason he wanted to go hunting with Matayo, he had to talk to him about something.
“Yeah fine whatever, save it for after we bag this deer, I’ll be in a better mood afterwards anyway” Matayo says as he walks up, carrying a Greatsword over his back, it would take three of Maldor to carry a sword like that…And he’d still get tired quickly.
They approach the deer, Maldor does not enjoy the idea of this but if it took one deer to be able to say what he needs to say then so be it. He wasn’t the one killing it…Just trapping it. This train of thoughts allowed Maldor to be ready to throw the net but suddenly something caught his eye. Underneath the deer…Were 3 baby deers, all freshly born, they were following their mother for a few moments before they went off on their own. And just like that…Maldor couldn’t let this happen…He just couldn’t.
“RUN AWAY! GO! RUN!” Maldor yells as he runs out and waves his arms at the deer and the baby deer’s. They all run away frantically.
Matayo is enraged as he suddenly walks up and grabs Maldor by his collar and lifts him off the floor, his feet dragging. “What the hell was that kid?!?” Matayo yells in his face.
“I WANT TO MARRY YOUR DAUGHTER!” Maldor yells, throwing out the words with the last bit of courage he has left.
Matayo drops Maldor suddenly, in shock at his words.
“I…I want your permission to ask for Natalia’s hand in marriage! You...You took me in…And you have always been a good father to her…I could never marry her without your permission. And before you answer…My name isn’t Quarvin! Its Galloran! I was the boy who was involved with that Dragon mess years ago…Your daughter found me…And saved me…Invited me to your family. I have been nothing but thankful since and have never once laid a hand on your daughter! I never would while in your home and among your family! I have nothing but respect for you Sir Matayo! Please! Consider me worthy to ask your daughter for her hand in marriage!” Maldor rants while on his knees, tears in his eyes as he looks at Matayo.
Matayo just stares at Maldor. So much was said…so much to process…Matayo was convinced that Maldor didn’t even like girls. He had not once treated Natalia differently than anyone else…Was Maldor perhaps good at hiding it? Or was he telling the truth?
“What makes you think my daughter would ever marry a loser like you?” Matayo asks bitterly. “You haven’t kissed her and you think she’ll marry you?”
Maldor looks down, tears freshly staining his face. He thought of this of course, how could a girl that he had never once showed a romantic interest towards, suddenly react to his proposal. It was ludicrous to think a girl like Natalia could ever like him anyway, she had all the boys in the village pining to talk to her.
“I…I honestly don’t know…I just…I hope she will” Maldor says weakly.
“That answer alone proves that you are too weak for my daughter. And it’s a shame…I thought she had never lied to me once in her life…But this…She lied about you kid. Shes lied to me and your mother this entire time. And for that…She has to be punished. But I guess I can let you off the hook for confessing your sins, that at least took guts. Besides…I still need you as a worker in my shop. My answer is no. Now get your ass up and lets get out of here” Matayo says matter of factly.
The mention of punishing Natalia suddenly sparked a fire within Maldor, Natalia saw her father as her hero, she always talked about how he was the one person who always had her back. He couldn’t be the reason that relationship was ruined. He wouldn’t. Maldor stood up again and rain in front of Matayo, standing in his way.
“No! You will forget about what I said and forgive her. You’ll let it go!” Maldor yells with determination.
Matayo is amused but frowns. “Who in the hell do you think you are to give orders kid?”
“I’ll move out. I’ll leave and not you or your family will ever see or hear from me again. I swear upon my mothers soul” Maldor says looking Matayo deep into his eyes. Maldor’s eyes are young and soft with the energy of a 17 year old boy with long hair.
“What…? You…You have no money kid. And in case you haven’t noticed, Fealty has declared this year a Year of Devotion. Nobody can get a new job the rest of this year or they’ll be killed by the God of Faith.” Matayo says this with shock. Maldor wouldn’t make it if he had to leave, he had to have known that. Even if he didn’t take religion seriously, the outer villages would and would not allow Maldor to take a job over there. He would starve to death…He certainly wasn’t the hunting type afterall. It had to be a bluff.
“I don’t care. I don’t care about me. Give me your word you’ll forget what I said and let it go…And I’ll leave right now. I’ll walk deeper into the woods and you’ll never see me again” Maldor says.
Matayo looks at him with shock as his eyes widen.
“Why…Why would you do that? Shes the one who should be punished for this” Matayo says confused.
“I don’t care who should suffer. The only one who needs to suffer is me, and that’s how its going to be. I wont let her suffer because that’s what you believe is right. I’ll be the one to suffer because the love I have overshadows what is right…I choose love over righteousness. And I always will…because Natalia is worth it.” Maldor drops his bags and possessions and begins walking away. His things all belong to Matayo afterall, the only possession he had was his body and the clothes on his back, regardless of how hungry or cold he was.
Matayo stared at Maldor’s back.
“Stop.” Matayo says and Maldor suddenly stops moving.
“I’ve always seen you as weak…But what you did…Choosing love over whats right? That…That takes strength. More strength than I’ve ever seen in any man.” Matayo says with sudden pride.
“Thank you sir…Is that all? May I go now?” Maldor says still ready to leave.
“Shut up you idiot, I’ve changed my mind. You have my permission to ask Natalia to marry you” Matayo says with a smile.
Maldor’s eyes narrow at the words that have been said. He blinks a few times not even believing it was real for a moment but then turns back and looks at Matayo. Tears roll down both the mens eyes. This moment…This moment was the one Maldor was hiding inside of now. His insanity loomed as his mind remained where he was allowed to enter his truly happiest moment. He asked Natalia to marry him that night…and she jumped up and yelled yes. Then she asked him what took him so long. None of this happiness could be seen behind the blank and dull eyes of the Maldor today. The one that ate his ant and stared at Galloran and Violet with shocked faces at Gincon’s news.
“Shit…This…Gincon where’s Nedwin? I need him right now! Violet you need to get back to your castle now!”
“No way I’m leaving you! Obviously, you’re being framed, I need to clear your name!” Violet yells.
“ Uhh… Nedwin is kind of not around right now…” Gincon says looking at Galloran with panic.
“What do you mean Nedwin isn’t around? I swear if that guy is tweaking with the drug ring again…” Galloran begins to say.
“No…No…Its nothing like that…Nedwin’s been arrested…Rumor has it they’re trying to use him to get to you!” Gincon says.
“What? No way that’s impossible, Nedwin’s never been caught by the Capital Guards let alone the shitty city ones…” Galloran says in disbelief.
“Yeah…It wasn’t the Police that got him. Some fancy International guy is in the city and volunteered to help find the Fear Knights killer. The dudes no joke…” Gincon says.
“One guy caught Nedwin? Yeah I call bullshit. Whats his name? Who is he?” Galloran says.
Gincon closes his eyes to focus and then remembers.
“Some guy from the Seven Vales. His name is Jasher.”
32 hours. That’s how long Nedwin has been inside in an interrogation cell. 32 hours is a long time for anyone stuck inside a cell, but for Nedwin especially as he was not given a single moment to rest the entire time. He got picked up only a few hours after the Royal Guard put out the bounty on Galloran for the murder of the Fear Knight. Nedwin was known as the tech of the slums, always creating new inventions, however, more than that he was known for being one of the best drug dealers in Trensicourt. Devil’s Lettice was his signature drug, and no matter how many sting operations were conducted on him, he always got away. Galloran met Nedwin once when one of the Drug Lord’s felt Nedwin was a problem and tried to kill him, Galloran stepped in the way and saved his life. Ever since, Nedwin promised to stay out of the business of drugs, and he kept his word. For the last year he had only been working at a trade shop, fixing tools and other gimmicks. However his skills in escaping were ever present, the moment he heard the loud thud of the metallic boots of guards, he was already sneaking through an escape hatch. He was almost home free, the hatch straight into the sewers but soil of the tunnels suddenly busted into vines that wrapped around Nedwin’s limbs and restrained him. Nedwin pulled against them to no avail, desperately searching for a way to escape, however a calm voice loomed from the darkness. A man approached Nedwin, and this one wasn’t wearing the tacky blue and gold uniforms Trensicourt’s military wore. This man was in a fancy green and black get up, it looked rural but civilized at the same time.
“Never met a Carpenter with an escape hatch…Or hidden bombs…You could’ve killed someone you know” Jasher says as he faces the restrained Nedwin now.
Nedwin rolls his eyes at this. “Those bombs are laced with sleeping gas. I’m not a murderer” Nedwin spits out.
“No…Just the accomplish to a murderer. You’re under arrest Nedwin Carpenter” Jasher says as he begins to apply the handcuffs.
“I’m not a part of the Carpenter family…Not anymore…” Nedwin says with a low breath.
“Your shop above says otherwise. I know the Carpenter Family well…It would be a relief if scum like you wasn’t a part of them” Jasher says with a bit of bitterness.
“Got me all figured out do you?” Nedwin spits out as he feels his wrists handcuffed now. “Tell me…Is it also a relief knowing every citizen in this country hates your guts? They see you as the passive freak version of Dragonborns. What the hells an Amar Kabul doing here anyway?!?” Nedwin yells frustrated as Jasher carries him.
“Technically? I’m a Diplomat sent here to renew our treaty with Trensicourt…But really? I’m investigating a conspiracy that I’m betting you and your friend are a part of.” Jasher says as he drags Nedwin outside and onto a cart with horses. A few of the police approach him.
Detective Bryce and the Morning Knight approach them. The Morning Knight smiling as always while the detective maintains a serious look.
“Thank you for your help Ambassador, we appreciate it. We’ll take him into our custody now” Bryce says.
“Indeed we owe you. You can leave now, go back to where you are comfortable” The Morning Knight says with a smirk. This Morning Knight was older, maybe 50 or 60 years old. The Morning Knight to take his place afterwards would be the one Ellis would one day kill.
Jasher raises an eyebrow surprised by what he just said. “Back to where I’m comfortable? What…does that mean?”
Detective Bryce cuts in. “Oh! We just mean that your work is done, we can escort you back onto the road unless you have more business with the Queen?” Both the men clearly look uncomfortable around Jasher.
Jasher stares at both of them and then looks at Nedwin for a moment, hes tied up in the back of the cart.
“Like I said…You’re doing the dirty work of assholes” Nedwin says bitterly.
Jasher whispers “Everything I do is for my people…Remember that” Suddenly he stands right in the face of the detective and the Morning Knight.
“I appreciate your consideration. However…I am an Ambassader with Immunity in your country…but more than that…I’ve had centuries more experience in combat than both of you. So please learn your place here and follow my lead. I am going arrest Galloran and present him to the Queen for his crime-AFTER I GET THE INFORMATION I NEED. Understood? Or do you wish to see what the seed man is capable of?” Jasher steps in front of them with his hand on the curve handle of his sword. The Detective fidgeted nervously. However the Morning Knight did not like what Jasher said. He pulled out his sword and tapped on his belt to grow three feet taller.
“You dare speak to me that way? I am OLYMPIC KNIGHT YOU DISGUSTING FOREIGNER!” The Morning Knight yells. “I WILL-“ Suddenly his words are cut off as Jasher suddenly jumps and with a quick slice of his blade, decapitates the Morning Knight, he drops to the ground dead. Jasher cleans his blade and resheaths it. He then approaches the front of the cart to start the horses.
“You…You just killed…” Bryce begins to say in shock.
“If you wish to avoid a war between the Seven Vales and Trensicourt…I’d report The Morning Knight fell on his own sword and get your ass in the cart and watch the prisoner” Jasher says
And without another word, they travelled to the Police Headquarters where Nedwin was thrown into an interrogation cell. He had been in there for 32 hours now. No food, no water, only a break when he threatened to piss on the floor otherwise. Jasher had been grilling him the entire time, asking the same questions over and over in different orders. Jasher and Nedwin were the only ones in the room, sitting at opposite ends of a table. Nedwin’s hands shackled to the table.
“Where is Galloran?” Jasher asks.
“I told you already! The Moon!” Nedwin yells.
“Why would he go to the moon?” Jasher asks musing the question.
“To get his tits frosted of course! I mean have you met the guy! Skinny guy needs some meat on his bones!” Nedwin yells still defiant as ever.
“If you don’t talk I’m going to hand you over to the Royal Guard, and unlike me they believe in torture” Jasher says warning Nedwin.
“Torture? Fuck yeah. Bring em on, I got kinks that’ll blow your guys fucking socks off! BRING IT!” Nedwin yells as he licks his dry lips and smirks at Jasher.
Jasher sighs. He was running out of time. He had to find Galloran before the military did.
“Look- I don’t think your friend Galloran did it. I don’t think he murdered the Fear Knight. But-I think someone is trying hard to make it look like he did. And I need to get to him…Before they finish what they started” Jasher says realizing he can’t break Nedwin, not without more time anyway.
“Man, that’s real interesting pal. Should write a book or something” Nedwin says not buying a word coming out of Jasher’s mouth.
“Gods…I don’t have time for this! Your friend Galloran…You know hes not human right? Hes a Demi-Amar Kabul. He has Celestial energy…The people doing this came to the Seven Vales…They killed his aunt to find out the truth about him. These people have far reach…And they want Galloran under the custody of the Queen as far as I can tell…” Jasher says.
Nedwin’s eyebrows raise in confusion. “Why? The Queen kicked him out…That doesn’t make any sense…Why go for his aunt? That’s a long way to go for some answers that they could’ve just asked him themselves”
Jasher shakes his head. “His aunt was here, shes been here the entire time. She couldn’t help but keep an eye on the boy after his mother Launa died. That’s why I came here, to investigate her death. So fucking tell me already where he is so I can protect him” Jasher says firmly.
Nedwin still doesn’t fully buy it. “I gotta hand it to you. That’s a helluva story to pull out of your ass to trick me…Sadly I’m not the biting type…Not unless she asks nicely” Nedwin smirks at his joke, his manners not present at this time in his 17 year old life.
Jasher sighs. “Ok you don’t believe me! Believe this!” Jasher pulls out Orantium out of his pocket and lays it on the table. It displays an image of Galloran’s aunt dead. Her neck has been ripped open savagely. Next to her body is a symbol of the radical group known as The Historians of Trensicourt. “This is your friend if the Royal Guard or this group find him first” Jasher says.
Nedwin is horrified by the image. “Who…Who the fuck did that?”
Jasher has a grave face. “She was already dead when I got to her…But she managed to leave behind a mental message in her seed before it was destroyed. She left behind a single word.” Jasher looks away for a moment but looks at Nedwin with dead serious eyes. “Dracula. That’s the last word she left behind before she died”
Nedwin sighs, he dealt with plenty of undercover spies working for the government. For better or worse, he believed Jasher, and he trusted him, at least more than the dickheads in the Military.
“Alright he…” Nedwin begins to say but suddenly the door into the cell opens. Someone wearing the armor of the Fear Knight barges into the room. They walk up to Nedwin and grab him by his collar.
“What!?! You- You’re dead!?!” Nedwin yells in confusion at seeing the Fear Knight.
The Fear Knight’s helmet opens and a young woman’s face is now in view as she stares at Nedwin. Her name was Hailey, the 18 year old Daughter of the Fear Knight. His armor didn’t quite fit her well but regardless she was in Nedwin’s face. Nedwin was stunned by her beauty for a moment.
“My father is dead! And I’m here for his justice! WHERE IS YOUR MURDERER FRIEND!?! TELL ME NOW OR I START CUTTING OFF FINGERS!” Hailey yells in Nedwin’s face in anger.
Nedwin smirks at her. “If we’re getting into the bdsm part of this relationship darling then you can at least buy me dinner first”.
Hailey looks infuriated but blushes slightly for half a second. She takes out her dagger preparing to cut off the finger of Nedwin. But suddenly theres a knock at the door. Detective Bryce pokes his head in.
“We got a visitor, says he can get Nedwin to talk.” Bryce says.
“Who?” Jasher and Hailey ask at the same time.
“Some dwarf named Gincon” Bryce says a bit indifferent.
Gincon suddenly sneaks past Bryce and barges into the room and walks up next to Nedwin, Jasher and Hailey both stare at him. The tension is thick in the air.
“Hailey…Perhaps you being here is not appropriate considering…” Jasher begins to say but Gincon interrupts.
“OH I SWEAR I BETTER GET A LOT OF DEVILS LETTUCE FOR THIS SHIT NEDWIN! GET DOWN NOW!” Gincon yells as he suddenly spills a liquid on the shackles making them melt into liquid immediately. A bomb suddenly went off behind them, a giant hole opened inside the cell leading to the outside. Debree and rubble are all over the room. Nedwin and Gincon scramble, getting up clumsily, but Jasher was hit by a mid sized rock and knocked to the ground. Hailey was unconscious and bleeding badly.
Galloran, Violet and another man in glasses stood outside. Galloran yelled at them “RUN! GET OVER HERE COME ON!”
Nedwin stopped walking towards the exit for a moment when he saw Hailey unconscious with a rock debree stabbing through her gut. “I…I can help her..” Nedwin begins to say.
“No! We gotta go man! Come on!” Gincon yells and pulls on Nedwin’s hand.
“I’m not leaving her to die. So help me or fuck off mate” Nedwin says as he picks Hailey up and flinger her over his shoulder, carrying her to the others. They all gather around and Nedwin gives the guy with glasses a look. “You really had to get my asshole Uncle into this?” Nedwin says bitterly.
“Be grateful…Or you’d be in prison the rest of your life brat” Killroy Carpenter said, the future father of Kurtis Carpenter.
“Boys, boys, you’re all pretty” Violet says in a joking manner, shes nervous at what they have just done. She instinctually holds Galloran’s hand.
“Sorry Violet but this lady beats you in the beauty department” Nedwin says pointing at the unconscious Hailey.
“Ned…This isn’t really the time for…” Galloran begins to say but suddenly they all teleport away, using Killroy’s equipment.
Jasher managed to finally get to his feet and yelled into the wind.
“Fuck…I’LL FIND YOU! YOU CAN RUN BUT YOU’RE DEAD WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON YOU! DAMNED CRIMINALS!” Jasher yells in fake frustration as the guards come out to back him up.
Galloran, Nedwin, Gincon, Violet and Nedwin's Uncle all appear back inside Galloran's safehouse. Maldor is there, laying on the floor and eating a breakstick from a plate of breadsticks. As lost and thoughtless as ever. In the corner is a soldier tied to a chair, the ropes looped around his entire body. A blindfold and gag in place as well just to be careful. The group appear as Nedwin is already pissed.
"You know...32 hours is a long fucking time! You could've gotten me out of there...Oh I dont know...Before the pricks fucking cavity searched me? I swear one of them wanted to get my address when they saw my package.." Nedwin smirks at his joke.
"Nedwin...For the final time...Finding you wasn't an easy task. And nobody wants to hear about your candy cane" Galloran says.
Violet giggles at Galloran using her term.
"What the...What the fuck?" Looks between Galloran and Violet. "You two...Using each other words? You're a couple? Galli boy, you know Violet and I banged back in the day right?" Nedwin says with a grin and raised eyebrows.
"You did!?!" Galloran says shocked at Violet.
"No! Of course not!" Violet yells. "I am set for an arranged marriage, Id never let your mutt friend touch me" Violet gives a look to Nedwin annoyed.
Nedwin laughs. "Yeah well the fact you had to ask Galli boy means the relationship ain't too strong is it?" Nedwin says.
"We are not a relationship!" Galloran and Violet both yell at Nedwin.
Nedwin rolls his eyes.
"Im starting to miss the plant man. So what took so long? I could've blew my load for you Galli...Im talking information by the way in case you get jealous princess" Nedwin winks at Violet.
“So a junkie and a pig, got it. Thank you for establishing what you are right off the bat.” Violet says biting her cheek and stomping her foot but then notices Hailey unconscious over Nedwin’s shoulder.
“That…Is that Hailey Stormborn? That’s the Fear Knight’s daughter! Why did you bring her here?!?” Violet yells at Nedwin.
Galloran and Killroy’s eyes widen at this news and stare at Nedwin.
“Oh yeah…I forgot you guys are like best friends right? Looks like we can have double dates Galli boy” Nedwin says with a wide smirk.
“You…She is one of the richest girls in Trensicourt, not to mention she despises Galloran…That’s why her and I…Stopped being friends” Violet says looking down and holds her hair for comfort.
“Pine…You…You didn’t have to lose a friend over me…I told you I was fine” Galloran said trying to convince Violet.
“Fine!?! You call this fine?!? Your junkie best friend kidnapped the New Fear Knight, Gincon is trying to steal weed from Nedwin as I speak, his Uncle is drinking a bottle of booze at 10 in the Morning, and the mystery man is…” Violet looks around “Wheres the creepy man?”
Everyone pauses and looks around.
Killyroy puts his flask away and approaches Nedwin.
“I have to agree Nephew, kidnapping is not a good look for the Carpenter family, you should let her go” Nedwin’s uncle says.
Nedwin groans with frustration.
“Ok first of all, you guys excommunicated me from the family remember? So fuck off with the reputation guilt trip you’re trying to pull on me Uncle.” Nedwin looks at the unconscious Hailey and sets her down in the chair. “And its not like I wanted to kidnap her…But she was dying! And I knew I had the magic potions stored here for emergencies…But she’ll probably try to kill us when she wakes up.” Nedwin begins approaching Hailey with a healing potion.
“We should question her first, ask her what kind of evidence there is that Galloran murdered the Fear Knight, offer her medicine in exchange for answers.” Violet says.
Galloran looks at her a bit surprised, he didn’t realize Violet could be so cunning, however he didn’t like it. Any form of torture, was not right, what kind of hero would he be if he allowed it? Nobody dies or suffers as long as he can help it.
“No. We don’t torture people. Give her the medicine Nedwin. I’ll question her when she wakes up and then let her go” Galloran says firmly.
Violet looks away, worried that Galloran will judge her now, see her as a bad person, she just wants to protect him. Because it’s the right thing right…Or is there something more it? She only met Galloran 2 months ago…Yet he had a goodness in him that she had never seen at the Capital. No matter how bad things looked, Galloran always chose the path of good. Violet’s heart suddenly starts beating fast. This heart defect started right around the time she watched Galloran relocate a mans arm…After he tried to kill Galloran and cheated in a street fight…That was the day she met him. Galloran…No man like him existed in Lyria…At least that’s how it felt.
“Nedwin…Wheres all the drugs man?” Gincon asks.
“I don’t have any asshole, different life” Nedwin crouches and gives Hailey the medicine, all her wounds are healed.
“If its all the same…I helped you save Nedwin. I consider us even…Can I leave now?” Killroy says but doesn’t wait for answer. Everyone is too focused to respond. Galloran and Violet staring at Hailey. Nedwin waiting for her to wake up. Gincon still searching for drugs. Killroy leaves the safehouse.
As Killroy, Nedwin’s Uncle, leaves the safehouse, he’s suddenly grabbed by his neck and dragged to the ground in a back alley, fangs pierce his neck, blood starts getting sucked out.
“Don’t worry…I’m only taking enough blood for you to go to sleep. Thank her Majesty for your life” A deep grumbled voice says. Galloran and the others are none the wiser to whats going on.
Hailey’s eyes open and with a ferocity she immediately reaches for her sword lying on the ground next to her, it’s the Fear Knight Sword, all Olympic Knight weapons are magically attuned to follow their weapon holder no matter what. Her sword followed her, she took the sword and with no hesitation stabbed Nedwin through the neck.
“DIE YOU CRIMINAL!” Hailey yells as she tries to plunge the blade deeper, cutting off Nedwin’s head.
“NO!” Galloran yells as he moves with speed and tackles Hailey onto the ground, she turns her sword towards Galloran but he managed to stop the blade midswing…Without getting cut…Hailey’s eyes widened in shock at this image, a 16 year boy able to stop her sword with his bare hands, his blue eyes shined down at hers. “Nobody dies. That includes yourself so calm down”
“You-aghh-Really…Gotta show me how you do that shit Galli boy…” Nedwin tries to speak with blood coming out of his mouth and neck, hes close to dying.
“DON’T TALK! VIOLET!?!” Galloran yells and calls out to Violet desperately while he holds Hailey down on the ground.
“Let me go! Let me go and I’ll make your death quick! I’ll have my vengeance on you and all the fucking criminals in this country”! Hailey roars, her Fathers death fueling her words.
“You…You let a bad man turn you into a bad woman. Your father…He was that hatred…He was that ugliness…You don’t have to be. You can be what an Olympic Knight is supposed to be. You can be a hero…Not a victim of the hatred of your past” Galloran says with smooth words which makes Hailey freeze for a moment.
Violet hovers over Nedwin and grabs another healing potion and tries to pour it into Nedwin’s mouth.
“You should give me mouth to mouth with it darling…Im sure Galli boy wont mind since I’ll die otherwise” Nedwin says in pain but smirking anyway.
“Gods, I will never understand how you and Galloran are best friends.” Violet applies the healing potion, Nedwin’s stab wound is healed however his veins start turning black. “Her sword is poisoned! She should have the antidote, we need it!” Violet yells, not knowing where the antidote would be.
“Give it to me!” Galloran yells at Hailey, hes desperate as he begins seeing Nedwin have a hard time breathing, his breath shallower by the second.
“Over my dead body” Hailey grins at Galloran as she keeps trying to fight him off.
“Please! He’ll die! I…I wont kill you!” Galloran yells fiercely at Hailey, he made a vow never to kill someone. He couldn’t be a Hero if he took the power to take a life…Only Nature has the right to take a life, not him. But the temptation was there when Nedwin was on the brink of death.
Suddenly, Maldor appeared standing in front of Hailey and Galloran. For the first time in decades Maldor opened his mouth and spoke a sentence…One that was directed at nobody but the air itself.
“A victim…Of the hatred…Of your past…” Maldor says as a low whisper and suddenly places his hand on Hailey’s forehead. With a bright light, Hailey suddenly changed entirely. All her memories of her fathers influence was gone. She stopped fighting and looked at Nedwin.
“You…You have to save that handsome man!” Hailey says with a more innocent but equally powerful voice, she opens up a small compartment in her sword and throws the antidote to Violet. Violet applies the antidote and saves Nedwin’s life. Hailey sits there breathing heavy. “Why…Why was I so angry? My father…Was a terrible man” Hailey looks confused with herself as she looks at her own hands.
Galloran’s eyes widen and stared at Maldor, he was certainly not just any random homeless person. He was someone with power…More power than he had ever seen. At this moment Galloran was in his debt and he didn’t even know the mans name.
“Stranger…I am in your debt…What is your name?” Galloran asks Maldor.
Maldor stares at Galloran for a moment, but his face then resumes random and erratic facia expressions while making random noises, he falls to the ground and begins rolling back and forth like a worm. Maldor’s insanity remained, what happened with Hailey was simply a moment of clarity quickly taken away. The first in decades. Maldor kept his powers…But his mind was gone. It would remain gone forever according to the Resurrection spell he used…The most ironic part was that Galloran didn’t know Maldor was insane so that Violet could exist today.
Galloran and Violet hug tightly as Hailey walks over to check on Nedwin.
“I…I enjoyed your visits…I didn’t say it before and I should have. I enjoyed everytime I saw you Pine” Galloran says.
“Are you ever going to tell me why you call me Pine?” Violet asks with a smile.
“You saved my life and I almost killed you for it” Hailey says hovering over Nedwin.
“It was worth it…You’re hot” Nedwin says with a smirk.
“Sorry to interrupt you children…But I believe you will wish to hear what I have to say” A deep voice says from the shadows. Galloran, Violet, Gincon, Nedwin, and Hailey all remain stunned into silence. The figure walks out of the shadows and reveals himself. His pale skin and fancy attire apparent. Eyes red and fangs present.
“I am Vaughn, and I am here to make a deal before you are to be arrested by the Army outside” Vaughn says with a smirk.
“Oh…My armor! My armor has a magical tracer on it!” Hailey yells suddenly to warn the others.
Galloran steps forward in front of the others, his needle sword in his hand. It was all falling apart…But he would stand forward and face it all anyway.
“So talk…What do you want?” Galloran asks.
“Oh nothing bad…We just want you to be King of Trensicourt…Galloran Cinder has a nice ring to it no?”
The tension in the air was thick, and despite this Vaughn stood in front of Galloran, Nedwin, Violet, and Hailey like it was a casual chat over tea. Gincon continued to search through random boxes and corners in search of the drugs Nedwin used to sell. Galloran stood facing Vaughn holding his small sword, Nedwin and Violet both stared at Vaughn nervously. Hailey removed her and discarded it to the ground.
“Oh thank the gods for you giving you magical tracing armor” Nedwin says while looking at Hailey take her armor off. Hailey blushes.
“This is…Really not the time for that” Hailey says shyly. With the anger gone, she couldn’t help but enjoy the flirtatious words, any boy that would flirt with her before would disappear at the hands of her father.
“King? I don’t want to be King. Who the hell are you?” Galloran asks confused, something about Vaughn makes him nervous. His eyes were red, his teeth had fangs…It wasn’t normal.
“I am Vaughn Dracula, son of Lizralda Cinder and…” Vaughn takes another step closer. “The one who killed the Fear Knight. That blade you stuck in his shoulder? I moved it to his head” Vaughn says calmly.
Violet watched this and felt her nerves shake, she had so many more questions at this point. As far as she knew, Lizralda Cinder never had any children according to History, and even if Vaughn was telling the truth, why would he want Galloran to be King? He would be the one with a technical right…But that was 700 years ago. How could he be alive now? All these questions flooded Violet’s mind but she knew what was the most important right now. Getting away.
“Ran! The Military will be here soon, we have to get out of here!” Violet yells while packing some of her stuff.
“Oh! Oh its far too late for that. They’ll be here in minutes…But its good to see how much you care for your self preservation. Since I need both of you to make this work.” Vaughn says.
“To make what work?” Galloran asks analyzing Vaughn. Normally Galloran would see it in moments but with Vaughn it took more time. He finally found a weakness. His head…His blood circulates the less amount around his head…Without his head hes weak. Galloran suddenly moves with speed and precision, overpowering Vaughn in seconds with his small sword at Vaughn’s neck.
“You…That…That’s not possible…” Vaughn says in shock. No mortal has ever managed to passed Vaughn’s defenses like this before, this was shocking. Galloran saw more than what seemed physically possible.
“What is your plan?” Galloran says.
Vaughn sighs realizing they are running out of time.
“Rosamyl Cinder is a Queen unfit to rule, she has enslaved the Dragons and sparked multiple rebellions within her Kingdom. She has to die…And Violet can take her place. However we cannot trust a Cinder on the throne alone…We have been watching you Galloran. The infamous Celestial Seeded Bastard. We know you would be a far better ruler than Rosamyl. When you are arrested, you’ll be taken to the Queen’s Dungeon. We will then arrange it to where you have the chance to kill Rosamyl. Violet will then take the throne and pardon you of your crime. It’ll be a coup unlike any other…And Trensicourt will thank you for it.” Vaughn says.
“He’s full of shit Galli! Whoever these freaks are killed you hot aunt!” Nedwin yells.
“Was the fucking hot part necessary you incessant pig!?!” Violet yells at Nedwin.
“I…I thought I was hot…” Hailey says to herself shyly.
“You are! Hotter than the sun!” Nedwin says suddenly.
Galloran rolls his eyes at all of this.
“You’re insane if you think I’d go along with any of this. I’m not a murderer, if I was then I’d kill you for my aunt” Galloran says pressing the blade against Vaughn’s neck.
Vaughn sighs.
“I admit killing your aunt was a mistake…My wife Valantha…She can be a bit aggressive and your aunt fought back. I am sorry either way though. You see Galloran…I don’t enjoy murder either. I simply want Trensicourt restored to its former glory. I am an Historian desperate for change…and you are that change. You are young but I see in you a Legend.” Vaughn says calmly, letting the blade press against his neck. The truth is Vaughn would love nothing more than to snap this boys neck and dump his body along with all the other shits who have tried to hurt him before. It makes his skin crawl to have to work with this bastard child, however his wife was clear on what they needed. The only way this works is if Rosamyl is killed by the infamous Galloran, the baby dropped onto the streets by the Queen herself.
Galloran shakes his head, none of this makes any sense. He didn’t know anything about Vaughn but he knew he couldn’t trust him, he clearly was good at mind games. The best move right now is to get out of here and rethink how to prove his innocence for the murder of the Fear Knight.
“Violet! Nedwin! We have to go come on! Get to the horses tied in the back!” Galloran yells.
“Nobody is going anywhere” Jasher says as he approaches from the dark corner of the safehouse.
“Remember what I said” Vaughn whispers and suddenly disappears into thin air.
Suddenly 30 Royal Guards along with 7 members of the Olympic Knights surround Nedwin, Violet, Hailey, and Galloran. Gincon somehow manages to go unnoticed, hiding inside a box.
“Aw fuck!” Nedwin yells as he puts his hands up.
“Stand down! These three are my prisoners! I will escort them back to HQ myself!” Hailey lies in desperation, she gets close to Nedwin to protect him.
“Nobody is buying that Hailey.” Jasher says. “I wanted to have a different conversation with you Galloran, but now the Queen is involved and I don’t have a choice but to bring you to her. You have my word I’ll plead my case as to why I think you’re innocent” Jasher says.
Galloran’s eyes narrow at Jasher and drops his sword. The rumors were clear about Jasher, a Diplomat for the Amar Kabul but known for his centuries of experience in combat. It wasn’t worth trying to take him on, especially with all the other soldiers here. He wondered if Jasher would judge him for discarding his seed on the back of his neck…Galloran never regretted doing that. He didn’t consider himself Amar Kabul, in his eyes he would always be Human.
“I surrender…Just please let my friends go” Galloran puts his hands up.
One of the Royal Guard had a crossbow in his and was standing next to Violet while approaching Galloran, the man muttered under his breath “Murderer…too dangerous to let him live…” And the mans finger began to squeeze on the trigger of the crossbow. He was going to kill Galloran, to shoot an arrow into his head. Violet knew she couldn’t let that happen. That she…she needed him. That feeling flowed inside her as she suddenly pulled out her own sword and cut off the soldiers head with a single swing. Her steel was fine material, cutting his head off was easy.
“No!” Violet yelled as she did it.
Jasher approached Violet as Galloran was pressed to the ground by the Other Guards and handcuffed.
“Violet Cinder, you are under arrest for Murder” Jasher begins to say.
“He…He was going to kill Galloran!” Violet yells defiant.
“Let her go! Pine don’t fight back they’ll kill you! LET HER GO!” Galloran yells in danger as a bag is thrown over his head and dragged away. Nedwin gets a bag over his head and is dragged away.
Violet and Hailey are both dragged away into another cart, Nedwin and Galloran are dragged into another cart with bags over their heads.
“You think they’ll put me in a cell with Hailey?” Nedwin asks with a smirk.
“Measure how far they take us…I need to know for when I get out of here and track down Violet” Galloran says.
“Great…You’ll be a great cellmate Galli boy” Nedwin sighs.
Suddenly they both hear a commotion as they feel a man get pressed against the side of the cart. They then hear Jasher’s voice.
“What the fuck are you doing here!?! All this death makes sense now…I bet you’re the one who did it! You son of a bitch…I wont let you get away with this” Jasher punches the man pressed against the cart. “Why are you here Maldor!?!” Jasher yells at Maldor.
Maldor takes the punch but offers no answer or defense, he just stands there dull and taking the hit. Jasher suddenly pulls out his sword. “I’ll spare the Queen of having to even know you were here you damned monster!” Jasher gets ready to stab Maldor but Galloran realizes who hes talking to.
“Wait! Don’t kill him! Please! I’ll tell you whatever you wanna know but please don’t hurt him!” Galloran yells desperately.
Jasher sighs and looks at Maldor one more time. “You…Fine. But when I know what I wanna know…You’ll die by my hand. You’ll never be a Conqueror again.” Jasher ties Maldor up and throws him in the cart with Nedwin and Galloran. The cart begins to ride towards the Queens castle.
“Pine…” Galloran says sadly.
“Why do you call her Pine anyway?” Nedwin asks.
“I- I’ll tell her the next time I see her” Galloran says as he closes his eyes. How did things get so bad?
Valantha Morrison, was a human girl with two human parents that enjoyed hiking mountains in their area, these hikes took place in the same world that Ellis came from, a world known as Exoria. This was long before Ellis was ever born, as the world itself was very different. Vampire’s didn’t exist back then, the word itself wasn’t even known as civilization was very distant at this point. However, Valantha would change the history of Exoria forever. On the fateful day, that she accepted the shadows of the cracks of the mountains…She changed entirely. Her body pale, eyes red, teeth sharper than ever, and an unquestionable thirst for blood. She allowed herself to be turned for an admirable reason, to save the life of the boy who saved her, a young boy named Gendrick. However, her need for blood grew to be too strong, before long she killed every single living person in Gendrick’s village.
“Stop this! Please!” Gendrick yelled running after Valantha, trying to talk her out of it. He didn’t dare try to use his magic on her, not just out of kindness but out of fear as to what she would do to him if he did.
“They’re bad people…They have to die…” Valantha whispered these words to herself as she licked her lips with the fresh blood, her heart pounding with excitement.
“Say that…When you don’t look so hungry!?! Please! Stop!” Gendrick cried as he watched Valantha devour the last remaining person of his village. “Valantha! They are all dead!”
“Dracula. My name…Is Dracula.” Valantha said calmly. The word Dracula was the name she kept hearing within the shadows, and so she chose to adapt it. Her name was Valantha Dracula now.
“Valantha…There were kids! I admit some of the people here were radical assholes but…Why everyone!?! Am I next!?!” Gendrick yelled breathing heavy with frustration.
Valantha’s eyes narrow as she looks at Gendrick with confusion. She liked the way Gendrick looked, he had kind eyes and was always nice to her. She didn’t want to kill him…But she was so hungry. The hunger wouldn’t stop. She suddenly tackled Gendrick to the ground and looked into his eyes as tears formed.
“I…I’m sorry Gendrick” Valantha said as her fangs suddenly clamped down on Gendrick’s neck and began drinking blood. However, Dracula found herself to be hesitating, she truly did not want this boy to die. She finally got self-control and stopped drinking half way through, she stood back up and stepped back from Gendrick. Her eyes suddenly widened at the result of this.
Gendrick slowly stood back up and looked at Valantha. He was different now. His skin more pale, his eyes red now, as he looked into Dracula’s eyes. Now, they understood each other perfectly. Gendrick was a Vampire now as well. Valantha now knew how to make more of her kind. They smiled at each other as they both knew exactly what came next.
“Lets find the next village” They both say in unison at each other while smiling with glee and blood on their clothes.
After the first 10 years of Slaughtering any village they found, they began to grow lonely with only each other as company. Soon they entered the continent that Ellis was born in, a continent known as Elvrin. Valantha and Gendrick quickly began to start turning the citizens there, creating a dark atmosphere in which many people would hide out of fear of being attacked by a Vampire. After a decade, an army of Vampires were formed, Valantha had plans to take over the entire world with Vampires. To turn the gnomes, elves, and other races into nothing more than cattle for them. However, as Gendrick and Valantha were giving a speech to their army, they suddenly disappeared. They reappeared inside a strange glowing blue room filled with mirrors showing different events taking place. Valantha and Gendrick both looked up to the glowing woman hovering above them. It was Salina.
“What is this? Where are we?” Valantha asks.
“You are in my world. A world known as Lyria. I took you from your own world.” Salina says.
“Why? Whats going on?” Gendrick asks stepping up agressively.
“I have chosen to give you a greater purpose. There is an evil Kingdom in this world known as Trensicourt, and it is evil because of a man named Maldor who resides there. You and your husband must destroy it.” Salina says calmly.
“Are you a bloody fucking idiot!?! I have a throne of my own to take back home! You cannot just take me from my conquest! I need to get back to the Impact Winter occur!” Valantha yells angrily.
“Oh…An Impact Winter…That sounds interesting. Yes that’ll do, make that happen to Trensicourt. That’ll take Maldor out of his insanity for sure” Salina whispers to herself with glee. This Salina was the Goddess of Love, the creator of Lyria. Not Salina the Creator of Darkness and Creator of Salina the Goddess of Love herself.
“Allow me to deal with her my Queen” Gendrick says firmly as he suddenly leaps at Salina getting ready to swipe his nails at her with anger.
“I suppose I shouldn’t of expected you to do as I ask willingly” Salina says as she snaps her fingers. Gendrick and Valantha both go numb, they cannot move their bodies now. Salina approaches Gendrick first. “You…I want you to feel entitled…To feel like you need to destroy Trensicourt so you can rule it yourself. Starting today…Your name is Vaughn Dracula, bastard son to Lizralda Cinder. I’m sure she won’t mind the lie since shes dead already. You will work alongside Valantha Dracula and follow your ambitions together. The throne of Trensicourt angers you as you know Lizralda would be furious at the way the Kingdom is now. She would want it in your image Vaughn” Salina snaps her fingers.
“I am Vaughn Dracula. Son to Lizralda Cinder. I am will bring her back to forsee the new home I have made for her. Nothing will stand in my way” Vaughn says.
“Good boy…If only this trick still worked on Maldor…” Salina purses her lips in frustration as she begins walking towards Valantha. “The Mighty Dracula…I have seen your story in your world…The love you had…The fury that followed…You’ll fit right into this world Dracula. Do not worry” Salina smiles wickedly at Valantha.
Valantha has tears roll down her eyes as she tries to resist Salina, but she cannot do it. Salina looks her into her eyes deeply.
“Valantha Dracula…You wish to bring the Impact Winter to Trensicourt. All of your current ambitions and thoughts will remain the same, but in your mind this is your world. Your entire story occurred in Lyria. And above all…I want you to make Maldor suffer in anyway you can. Mhmm….Yeah that all should about cover it.” Salina snaps her fingers and Valantha’s entire posture changes.
Valantha and Vaughn both fall unconscious to the ground. Salina gazes at them and snaps her fingers again, and the two of them teleport into Trensicourt in the Year 750. Which is when their plot would begin, not even knowing they were manipulated by Salina.
The God of Faith appeared and approached Salina.
“Mother…” Fealty begins to say.
“If this is another ambush by you and your brothers…I will kill you all this time” Salina says bitterly.
“No…I was just going to say…Is it wise to bring Beyonders to this world by your own hand…When the Lord of Time is gone? Tundra handled these matters…Ensured there wasn’t an imbalance of power in Lyria.” Fealty says calmly.
“Imbalance of power? You act as though your sins don’t exist Fealty…I recall your war crippling the dragons, crippling Maldor…Need I go on?” Salina says.
“I admit I was arrogant…I was wrong to see myself above the mortals…But I am trying to be better than that. And perhaps you should as well. The world is better now…Maldor is no longer a threat. He can live his days peacefully within his own mind. Why mess with that?” Fealty says calmly to Salina while kneeling to her.
“Because Fealty…This world is far too boring without Maldor being who he is meant to be. I love him…And my love will always demand that he be the strongest that he can possibly be. He needs conflict to wake up…And Conflict is what I have just given him. Dracula should wake him up” Salina says with a smile.
“You would risk the world…All your creations…For a single man?” Fealty says bitterly.
“You don’t seem to get it my son. Maldor is Lyria. Without him…This world in my eyes does not exist.” Salina says.
“Have you…Have you considered that perhaps you are not in control of yourself mother? Have you questioned who made you?” Fealty says.
“The only question I have is whether you wish to die today Fealty.” Salina says.
Fealty catches the hint and leaves the room quickly. Salina gazes into one of her mirrors, watching Maldor sleeping on a bench. Salina waits for Maldor to snap out of his insanity. To have the man she loves. The world be damned.
4 Days had passed after the Capture of Galloran and his friends. Galloran, Nedwin, and Maldor all shared a cell together. A small room with only a toilet, a single wooden bed, and no windows or ways out other than the steel door separating them from the outside world. At first they were cautious as they believed they would be listening to them, however it soon became clear they didn’t care if they could hear them or not. Galloran was not guilty anyway. Before long Nedwin and Galloran resorted to various games to kill the time while Maldor sat in his corner and stared at the wall not doing anything.
“So Galli boy…You know why that Jasher guy lost it on the homeless guy?” Nedwin asks while playing thumb war with Galloran.
“I don’t know…But I heard what he called him. His name is Maldor apparently. Hes the reason that Hailey girl gave me the antidote to save your life” Galloran says.
“Yeah I call bullshit on that, she saved me because she couldn’t resist my dashing looks. I don’t blame her, I bet Violet told her what I can do in bed” Nedwin says with a smirk.
Galloran punches Nedwin in the shoulder hard.
“Will you stop making jokes about Violet” Galloran says calmly.
“What cause you got a thing for her? Galli…Shes a princess. We’re just street boys, and besides…Don’t you like guys anyway?” Nedwin asks.
“What? No. Why would you think that?” Galloran asks.
“I’ve never seen you talk to a girl unless you were saving her” Nedwin says.
Galloran shakes his head. “I like girls…I just…I never had a chance to talk to one. I’m busy living on the streets of the Capital…Not exactly easy” Galloran says.
“Right…But enough time to play house with Violet? You’re such a shitty liar Galli, you done fallen hard for this girl huh? Shes going to fuck you over. That’s what royalty does. I mean…Look where we are. I bet she is in her room in her large velvet bed with another man right now…Someone who probably looks like me heh” Nedwin says with a smirk.
Galloran suddenly snaps as he grabs a hold of Nedwin’s shirt collar and presses him against the wall.
“Do you ever stop spitting out nasty shit?” Galloran asks angrily.
“You’re just mad that you know I’m right. Its just us Galli boy, well us and the homeless guy over there.” Nedwin says bitterly.
“I’m afraid the young man is right” A voice says outside the celldoor. The door slowly opens now to reveal a man in elegant clothing along with a small boy standing next to him, maybe 6 or 7 years old.
Galloran and Nedwin both stand up and look at the man, he has at least 10 guards standing behind him.
“I am your Government appointed Defensive Counsel. My name is Rodrick Harpin, do you mind if my son sits in to watch, this stuff is his future career and all.” Rodrick says.
“Sure…Whats his name?” Galloran asks.
“Penguin” Rodrick says.
“What kind of fucking name is that?” Nedwin says laughing to himself.
Galloran shakes his head and frowns.
“I apologize for my friend, he can be a bit abrasive. So…How much longer do we have to be in this cell?” Galloran asks.
“Well…As of right now it seems like you two have been charged with Conspiracy to commit murder and Murder. A vote went into action last night that determined you are both guilty and to be sentenced to death.” Rodrick says.
“To death? What…There hasn’t even been a trial!?!” Galloran says in shock.
“Oh fuck…Fuck…What about Violet!?!” Nedwin yells pissed.
“Hmm…Violet…Violet…” Rodrick keeps reading through his file. “I don’t see any mention about Violet, I would assume she is continuing her royal duties as usual.
Galloran goes numb as he lays on the ground, his ears ring, he feels alone, like he did when he had to abandon the Dragonborn gang that adopted him off the streets.
“Gods man…How is this possible?” Nedwin asks.
“The Queen has the right to decide whether there is to be a trial or whether your fate is decided by a vote of her Majesty and the Heads of the Royal Families.” Rodrick says.
“Then…Why the fuck are you even here!?!” Nedwin asks in shock.
“Well, I am supposed to inform them of how you would like to die. You can choose your execution method and where your body will be buried.” Rodrick says taking notes. Penguin stands next to Rodrick and points at Maldor.
“Creepy man is powerful…” Penguin says to nobody but himself.
“Man I don’t give a damn how I’m executed or whatever…But can I get one visit before I die? Can Hailey visit my cell…I just need 10 minutes with her man…” Nedwin says desperately.
“I’m afraid not. Hailey has been deported from Trensicourt. The crown didn’t want her dead but did not want her residing here” Rodrick says.
“Galli boy…I fucking hate you. I just want you to know…That I fucking hate you” Nedwin says as he stands over Galloran.
“She…She just left us?” Galloran is still in shock. Maldor unexpectedly stands up and sits next to Galloran. Not saying or doing anything.
MEANWHILE
Violet Cinder stands at the front of the throne for the Queen of Trensicourt. Rosamyl Cinder sits on this very throne.
“Mother…We need to talk” Violet says with determination as she stares her mother down.
4 Days had passed after the Capture of Galloran and his friends. Galloran, Nedwin, and Maldor all shared a cell together. A small room with only a toilet, a single wooden bed, and no windows or ways out other than the steel door separating them from the outside world. At first they were cautious as they believed they would be listening to them, however it soon became clear they didn’t care if they could hear them or not. Galloran was not guilty anyway. Before long Nedwin and Galloran resorted to various games to kill the time while Maldor sat in his corner and stared at the wall not doing anything.
“So Galli boy…You know why that Jasher guy lost it on the homeless guy?” Nedwin asks while playing thumb war with Galloran.
“I don’t know…But I heard what he called him. His name is Maldor apparently. Hes the reason that Hailey girl gave me the antidote to save your life” Galloran says.
“Yeah I call bullshit on that, she saved me because she couldn’t resist my dashing looks. I don’t blame her, I bet Violet told her what I can do in bed” Nedwin says with a smirk.
Galloran punches Nedwin in the shoulder hard.
“Will you stop making jokes about Violet” Galloran says calmly.
“What cause you got a thing for her? Galli…Shes a princess. We’re just street boys, and besides…Don’t you like guys anyway?” Nedwin asks.
“What? No. Why would you think that?” Galloran asks.
“I’ve never seen you talk to a girl unless you were saving her” Nedwin says.
Galloran shakes his head. “I like girls…I just…I never had a chance to talk to one. I’m busy living on the streets of the Capital…Not exactly easy” Galloran says.
“Right…But enough time to play house with Violet? You’re such a shitty liar Galli, you done fallen hard for this girl huh? Shes going to fuck you over. That’s what royalty does. I mean…Look where we are. I bet she is in her room in her large velvet bed with another man right now…Someone who probably looks like me heh” Nedwin says with a smirk.
Galloran suddenly snaps as he grabs a hold of Nedwin’s shirt collar and presses him against the wall.
“Do you ever stop spitting out nasty shit?” Galloran asks angrily.
“You’re just mad that you know I’m right. Its just us Galli boy, well us and the homeless guy over there.” Nedwin says bitterly.
“I’m afraid the young man is right” A voice says outside the celldoor. The door slowly opens now to reveal a man in elegant clothing along with a small boy standing next to him, maybe 6 or 7 years old.
Galloran and Nedwin both stand up and look at the man, he has at least 10 guards standing behind him.
“I am your Government appointed Defensive Counsel. My name is Rodrick Harpin, do you mind if my son sits in to watch, this stuff is his future career and all.” Rodrick says.
“Sure…Whats his name?” Galloran asks.
“Penguin” Rodrick says.
“What kind of fucking name is that?” Nedwin says laughing to himself.
Galloran shakes his head and frowns.
“I apologize for my friend, he can be a bit abrasive. So…How much longer do we have to be in this cell?” Galloran asks.
“Well…As of right now it seems like you two have been charged with Conspiracy to commit murder and Murder. A vote went into action last night that determined you are both guilty and to be sentenced to death.” Rodrick says.
“To death? What…There hasn’t even been a trial!?!” Galloran says in shock.
“Oh fuck…Fuck…What about Violet!?!” Nedwin yells pissed.
“Hmm…Violet…Violet…” Rodrick keeps reading through his file. “I don’t see any mention about Violet, I would assume she is continuing her royal duties as usual.
Galloran goes numb as he lays on the ground, his ears ring, he feels alone, like he did when he had to abandon the Dragonborn gang that adopted him off the streets.
“Gods man…How is this possible?” Nedwin asks.
“The Queen has the right to decide whether there is to be a trial or whether your fate is decided by a vote of her Majesty and the Heads of the Royal Families.” Rodrick says.
“Then…Why the fuck are you even here!?!” Nedwin asks in shock.
“Well, I am supposed to inform them of how you would like to die. You can choose your execution method and where your body will be buried.” Rodrick says taking notes. Penguin stands next to Rodrick and points at Maldor.
“Creepy man is powerful…” Penguin says to nobody but himself.
“Man I don’t give a damn how I’m executed or whatever…But can I get one visit before I die? Can Hailey visit my cell…I just need 10 minutes with her man…” Nedwin says desperately.
“I’m afraid not. Hailey has been deported from Trensicourt. The crown didn’t want her dead but did not want her residing here” Rodrick says.
“Galli boy…I fucking hate you. I just want you to know…That I fucking hate you” Nedwin says as he stands over Galloran.
“She…She just left us?” Galloran is still in shock. Maldor unexpectedly stands up and sits next to Galloran. Not saying or doing anything.
MEANWHILE
Violet Cinder stands at the front of the throne for the Queen of Trensicourt. Rosamyl Cinder sits on this very throne.
“Mother…We need to talk” Violet says with determination as she stares her mother down.
It was well known in the History books of Trensicourt that Rosamyl Cinder, commonly known as the
Queen of Dragons, was the daughter of Emillia Cinder and Maldor. Not much was known of her other
than her cold demeanor and desire to control others through fear and power. Despite all the power she
possessed, Violet sll knew the truth, that deep down Rosamyl was insecure about how the public
viewed her. Violet had known Rosamyl her whole life, she was adopted by her, she only knew her real
mother by a few meengs in which Violet always kept her distance. She didn’t consider Valantha her
mother in any regard, she could never call a woman that sold her child her mother.
“Violet, you have made quite a scene demanding your presence in my throne room” Rosamyl Cinder says
with annoyance as her fingers dance on the armrest of the throne. Rosamyl wears comfortable clothes
to hide the her body, despite her appearance being quite beauful Rosamyl believes her age is showing.
“Yes mother well I wouldn’t need to make a scene if you had allowed me to see you days ago” Violet says
stubbornly.
“The Princess broke 6 vases, each being owned by the Cinder family for centuries, lit her bed on fire, and
proceeded to yell obscenies at the guards including and I quote ‘The Queen is a fake whore!’” Valantha
says looking over a journal in her hand. She stands next to the Queen as her Advisor.
Violet grits her teeth knowing what Valantha is doing. She is trying to ruin her credibility, to avoid her
being able to say what she would like to say.
“Mother…I would like us to speak privately” Violet says calmly.
“Your grace with all due respect your schedule is filled and the princess needs to learn manners….”
Valantha begins to say.
Violet smirks as she knows how to get Rosamyl Cinder alone with her. “Who are you to tell me about my
manners? You’re just an Advisor” Violet spits the words out with venom.
Valantha skin suddenly gets hot as reacts with words before thinking, her connecon to Violet sll
present from her watching her all these years. “Young lady you need to learn to respect the rules and
you cannot speak to your mother…” Valantha begins to say.
“Mother? Who’s her mother Valantha?” Rosamyl Cinder says as she raises her hand with anger.
The enre room goes dead silent in that moment. Valantha curls her fists and it takes everything in her to hold her fangs. She cannot kill the Queen now, she knows that would just result in the Olympic Knights barging in and killing her. No, she had to remain calm and sck to the plan. Soon Valantha would be the Queen of Trensicourt, and she would use the Impact Winter to find Maldor and make him suffer along with any who would oppose her.
“A slip of the tongue your grace, please forgive me” Valantha says kneeling to Rosamyl Cinder.
Violet rolled her eyes, she had hoped Valantha would show her true colors there, but she managed to maintain her cool.
“Leave us, I don’t want any interrupons. I am going to speak to MY Daughter alone” Rosamyl Cinder says, making a point to Valantha by saying it. Valantha leaves the room and locks the door.
“Thank you mother, this is urgent and I needed to speak with you” Violet says quickly.
“If it wasn’t for me that bitch would’ve been penniless aer my brother Cousin Kenny died, I offered to make you my child but she sll seems confused about it. Perhaps she needs a beang by the Fear Knight to remind her” Rosamyl Cinder says to herself, smiling at the thought of Valantha being beaten.
“The Fear Knight died mother…Remember?” Violet says tapping her foot with impaence.
“Ah yes…Perhaps one of my Dragons could teach her a lesson or…” Rosamyl Cinder begins rambling ideas but Violet interrupts her.
“Valantha is plong to take the throne mother! She killed the Fear Knight, not Galloran! Hes innocent. You need to let him go!” Violet yells geng angry.
Rosamyl Cinder looks at Violet more seriously now but then suddenly starts laughing.
“Valantha Thorn…A killer?” Rosamyl laughs harder. “She couldn’t kill a mice let alone a person!”
“Well…She has a partner in it…A man named Vaughn Dracula!” Violet yells trying to convince her mother.
Rosamyl laughs harder but then sighs. “Oh Violet…I thought that by leng you roam the streets and meeng the guter rats you’d realize how good you have it here…But you went and fell in love with the guter rats instead. Gallorat isn’t worth your lies girl.”
“His name is Galloran! And he wouldn’t have been a guter rat if you hadn’t have tossed him out onto the street when he was just a baby! And I wouldn’t have roamed the streets if it wasn’t the only way to get away from a sadisc and evil woman like my mother! Even aer all that I am here trying to save your life and you laugh at me!” Violet yells with anger and tears.
“Save me? I suppose saving me includes me stopping Galloran’s execuon?” Rosamyl Cinder says in a mocking tone.
“That would be a start! I’m not lying! You cannot trust Valantha, and Galloran is innocent…So is Nedwin and the homeless man arrested with him” Violet says.
“Or…You’ve been seduced by the guter rat and will believe anything so that he can be free…Violet I have already arranged your marriage. You are meant to marry Hywell Harventon the 2nd. His families connecons will serve you well when you become Queen.” Rosamyl says lecturing Violet. She takes her words as the words of a delusional 16 year old girl.
“Stop acng like you care about me or what I do!?! You only care about yourself…And so I am appealing to yourself by saving your life!” Violet spits out angered.
Rosamyl Cinder’s eyebrow raises and she suddenly whistles. A dragon suddenly enters the room from the backgate of the Queen’s throne room. It’s a considerably large dragon with white skin. “Union…Do you love me?” The Dragon nods in response to Rosamyl.
“That dragon doesn’t know any beter! You’ve raised him as a slave since the day he was born! The egg of the last Queen’s Dragon Umalyndia no less. You’re a monster mother…But this is your chance to do the right thing for once in your life!” Violet yells trying to convince Rosamyl of what to do.
Rosamyl is annoyed by these statements and decides she has had enough.
“Its clear to me you don’t have the heart of a Ruler, but rest assured I forge you into one. You are my Daughter Violet, I love you and will show you the paradise that I will give to you to rule one day. However first, I must end your childish delusions and turn you into a full Cinder woman.” Rosamyl snaps her fingers and suddenly the Cloud Knight appears with a wisp of wind. He grabs Violet’s arms and restrains her.
“What are you- Let me go!” Violet yells resisng.
“You will be the execuoner for Galloran, Nedwin, and the homeless man. You will draw the sword and stab each of them to death. I don’t care if a man will need to wrap his hand around yours onto the hilt of the blade and plunge it, you will do it. And I will discipline Valantha for her outburst earlier. As the Queen of Trensicourt and Dragons, you cannot refuse me. Take her to her room Cloud Knight” Rosamyl says with finality.
Violet is dragged out of the room kicking and screaming by the Cloud Knight, as they get closer to her room, suddenly a gentle voice speaks to both of them.
“I can handle the rest of her escort Cloud Knight, I insist” Valantha says. Her words echo in the Cloud Knight’s mind as he is now hypnozed.
The Cloud Knight lets Violet go and leaves.
“You…What did you do?!?” Violet asks shocked.
“You have made quite a mess my dear daughter. The plan was for Galloran to break free and kill Rosamyl Cinder and then you pardon him aer revealing the Queen’s atrocies. However…Now that you are tasked with killing him…You’ll appear too weak to be Queen if he escapes under your watch. It’s a shame…Galloran would’ve made a great sacrifice for the Impact Winter…But I suppose we’ll find another with a Celesal connecon.” Valantha says calmly.
Violet stares at her in shock, her eyes looking around, praying for a guard or even Jasher to walk by so she could scream for help.
“What are you talking about?!? Why are you doing this!?!” Violet asks, the words heavy leaving her lips.
“Honestly? Normally I would ignore your queson but I have been dying to tell someone what is going to happen. The brilliance of my plan…But before I start…Do not move and do not make a sound” Valantha says in a different tone, suddenly hypnozing Violet.
Violet remained sll but tears rolled down her eyes, she had to stop this evil, but how?
“You see…When I first came here I had found a worshipper of the God of Faith, found the woman he loved, turned her into a Dhampir, and then killed the man in front of her eyes. This was meant to start the Impact Winter. You see... The Impact Winter is a Legendary Ritual Spell…One in which I learned of through the shadows...All you need is a symbol covered in the blood of a celesal one and the tears of a Dhampir…And the ritual will acvate. Now you must be wondering…What happens aer that? Well that is a surprise my dear. However…” Valantha bites her thumb. “My plan didn’t work because I realized there was one missing ingredient…The Dhampir that cries must be connected to the Weather of the Region…And only the Queen of Trensicourt has control of the weather…Its given to them through a Crowning Process…Something not many know Lizralda Cinder started when she made this place through her magic…Of course nobody quesons why the weather is always perfect…Why would they?” Valantha smirks at her queson. “When the Impact Winter is upon us…Many will die…And among that death the one I seek will appear. The man named Maldor. Once I see him…He will die…And you can connue being Queen.” Valantha says lovingly to Violet.
“Maldor!?!” Jasher says outloud in shock, he hiding around the corner and heard every single word.
Valantha heard this and with insane speed appeared in front of Jasher and looked into his eyes. “Forget everything I have said, now.” Valantha said.
Jasher nods under a trance and then walks away. Valantha breathed a sigh of relief at him walking away. However Jasher was smirking with his back turned to her as he was walking. She didn’t know that Amar Kabul were immune to hypnosis, their connecon to nature makes it impossible. He remembered everything he heard and walked away quickly. He would need help to stop this from happening. He needed to save Galloran, Nedwin…and yes even Maldor.
Valantha returns to Violet and looks into her eyes. “I suppose I should wrap this up, my hypnosis only lasts for a few days. You will bravely stab Galloran and the other prisoners to death with a smile on your face, and then you will kill your mother and make a speech about how she was weak and evil and that you are the true Queen. I will be there to watch…And so will my Husband. So behave” Valantha says calmly and walks away.
Violet nods under the hypnosis and smiles as she says to herself…
“I get to kill Galloran tonight”.
It was 1 in the aernoon now. Galloran and Nedwin both sat in chairs facing a wooden table that was placed inside their cell. Maldor sat in a corner hiding himself as much as he could, not saying or offering any input. Rodrick sat on the other side of the table with pieces of paper and a quill with ink to write. Penguin kept kicking Nedwin’s ankle out of boredom.
“Can you tell your kid to quit kicking my ankle?” Nedwin asks annoyed.
“In my experience, telling him not to do something makes him want to do it more” Rodrick says while wring.
“Yeah? That so?” Nedwin says and looks at Penguin.
“I’m bored dad…When can we leave?” Penguin asks as he prepares to kick Nedwin’s ankle again.
“Kid…Kick me one more me and I’m going to punch your teeth out” Nedwin says with a smile.
Penguin steps back nervously. “You…You can’t hit me…I’m a kid!”
“You think I give a damn if you’re a kid? I’d punch a baby if it deserved it punk…I’m already in a shity mood so don’t test me” Nedwin says looking at Penguin now.
“He’s joking...He would never hurt a child…” Galloran begins to say but then puts his hand under his chin pretending to think “But then there was that Street kid that one me…” Galloran says.
Penguin gulps and looks at Galloran.
“Well…Awhile ago a street kid stepped on Nedwin’s foot so Nedwin cut off his hands…and made the kid eat them!” Galloran says in fake shock.
Penguin immediately ran behind Rodrick scared. “Dad protect me!”
Nedwin and Galloran both start laughing hysterically, enjoying the joke.
“If you two are done messing with my son…Are you ready to sign the papers now? These declare that you would like to be buried instead of burned to ashes. And any belongings of yours will be given to the Government” Rodrick says calmly.
“This shit again? Man we’ll be dead…You think we care what happens aerwards? You got any aerlife concerns Galli boy?” Nedwin asks Galloran.
Galloran sighs and looks at Rodrick. “Can I at least see Violet before I die? I need to know the truth” Galloran says.
“Oh for fucks sake…The truth is you let your second brain do the thinking for you! Theres no shame in it! But a girl like that ain’t the fall in love type. The only one who could’ve changed her was me but luckily for you she wasn’t my type Galli boy. Botom line…We’re fucked. Wake up and accept it!” Nedwin says but is secretly craing a makeshi shiv in his pocket, he used a small piece of the toy that Penguin brought into their cell. He had been working on it for hours and stalling Rodrick with all the paperwork
they had to fill out for him. Galloran had no idea about this of course but was too heartbroken to noce,
he kept thinking about Violet. He just couldn’t believe that she betrayed him, he really felt like she was
different.
“Gentleman…The papers…Please sign” Rodrick says calmly. He wanted to finish this and go get lunch,
this whole process was taking too long.
“Honestly Rodrick…My ankles and wrists hurt….Remove these shackles and I’ll sign right now…”Nedwin
says.
“Well…” Rodrick looks a bit nervous, hes not supposed to free them of their restraints.
“Man…There are like 50 guards outside this cell…I don’t wanna die any sooner than I have to so relax. I
just want some comfort while I sign” Nedwin says calmly. Galloran is too much in his own world to even
noce whats going on right now.
Rodrick is more calm aer those words and finally removes Nedwins shackles and then offers him the
quill. “Now sign…”
Nedwin suddenly grabs Rodrick from behind and presses the shiv against his neck while grappling him
with his arm, hes fast and shoves his other hand over Rodrick’s mouth to keep him quiet.
“If you or your kid talk or make a sound I’ll slit your throat right here. I’m not a monster but I also don’t
wanna fucking die so DO NOT TEST ME!” Nedwin says with a ferocious tone.
Rodrick nods and Penguin remains silent scared of geng his dad killed.
“Nedwin…” Galloran begins to say in shock as he stands up but the shackles restrain him.
“Galli boy, shut the fuck up!” Nedwin says as he tosses the keys to the shackles to Galloran. “Uncuff
yourself, we are fucking leaving this shit hole” Nedwin says. “You…Give me the keys to the cell
door…Slowly…” Nedwin says as Rodrick hands him the keys to their cellroom. Nedwin lets Rodrick go and
pushes him to the ground and then punches him. Nedwin knocks out Rodrick and Penguin, being careful
not to cause permanent damage.
Galloran doesn’t start removing his shackles, he just sits there deep in thought. Nedwin decides to
ignore this and walks towards Maldor.
“Hey Maldor right? Or whatever the fuck your name is…You made my girl Hailey good right? Well that
warrants you an escape my friend…Just remember shes mine yeah?” Nedwin helps Maldor to his feet
and begins walking with him.
“My…My daughter…” Maldor says with a low voice and stumbles on the ground for a moment. His
insanity ever present…But words of his feelings coming out randomly.
“Look man…You gota keep up…Lets go” Nedwin says as he lets Maldor lean on him and starts moving
towards the cell door.
“Nedwin…We can’t leave. We have to stay here” Galloran says while gring his teeth.
“The hell we can’t…I knocked the fuck out of the lawyer and his kid to make this happen…Come on lets
go” Nedwin says.
Galloran shakes his head. “If we run like this…We’ll be announcing to the world that we’re guilty.”
Galloran says.
“Uhh…They already decided that we’re guilty. In case you haven’t noced we’re geng executed in 7
hours! We don’t have much of a choice here!” Nedwin yells.
“You’re wrong. Violet will prove our innocence…We just have to be paent. I believe in her” Galloran
says with finality. He has made his decision. He will trust Violet.
“Are you…Are you fucking kidding me!?! The only thing shes going to prove is how fucking stupid we
were to trust her…Oh and good in bed she is with whatever fucking Noble they hook her up with!?! We
need to get the fuck out of here! You’re going to regret believing in her Galli boy!” Nedwin yells pissed,
in his mind he has decided that hes leaving no mater what. He won’t let Galloran’s blind love get him
killed, Nedwin prepares to step out the cell on his own while carrying Maldor.
Galloran nods and says a single sentence that freezes Nedwin in his tracks.
“I choose to believe in her…the same way I believed in you the day we met” Galloran says with finality.
Nedwin clenches his fists in frustraon, that was a day he could never forget. Nedwin had been busted
for a massive drug deal gone bad. One of the other dealers le Nedwin with two dead Trensicourt
soldiers, it looked like Nedwin killed them. He was surrounded by Guards and was about to be
arrested…But Galloran showed up and beat all the Guards into submission. Galloran saved his life, and
when Nedwin asked why he did it. Galloran said on that those very same words “I believed you, you’re
not innocent but you didn’t kill those men”. Galloran was the first person in Nedwin’s life to help him and
not expect anything in return. He just helped him for the sake of it. Nedwin stopped his illegal dealing
aer that day and found himself to want to be around Galloran. He was the closest thing to a brother he
had ever had in his life. Nedwin sighed knowing what he had to do.
“I fucking hate you Galli boy” Nedwin says as he closes the cell door and reapplies his shackles, sing
down with Galloran, accepng their impronisment.
“I love you too Nedwin” Galloran says humbly. In truth, this was the hardest decision of Galloran’s life.
Maldor remained in the corner, not realizing how lucky he was that Jasher didn’t reveal his name to
anyone and his official name as far as the Government was concerned was Homeless Man.
7 hours passed and Nedwin, Galloran, and Maldor found themselves to have bags put over their heads
and put in kneeling posions inside the throne room of Rosamyl Cinder. Her throne room was used for
all popular execuons. Magical Mirrors used to display to the enre country what was happening. Their
bags were removed from their heads and they could finally see now. Galloran’s eyes went wide as he
watched Violet approach him with a sword in her hand.
“Violet…Are you…What happening?” Galloran asks in shock.
“Oh shut up Galloran. You’re hot but you have to die” Violet says with a smirk, the hypnosis mixing in
with her own feelings towards Galloran. Violet suddenly smacks Galloran across the face with the hilt of
her sword.
“I told you! Royal girls…You can love em but you cant fucking trust them!” Nedwin yells.
Rosamyl Cinder and other Nobles sit in the audience watching this scene take place.
“Didn’t I say to shut up!?!” Violet suddenly yells as she plunges her sword straight into Nedwin’s chest,
plunging deep into his body.
“Marvelous…All according to plan” Valantha says with a smile. She stands next to the Queen, a fresh
bruise on her face from the Cloud Knight beang her. Vaughn Dracula stands next to her disguised in a
Guards uniform.
The Amar Kabul are a complicated race, many would say that they are as complicated as Humans themselves which would make sense since they had a lot in common. Jasher, unlike many among his race, enjoyed being around Humans. Their attitude towards life was interesting, the fact that unlike him they only had one life to live was evident. Being a Diplomat for his people and interacting with Humans taught him more about being patient. During previous lives Jasher was impatient, reckless, more than willing to die knowing that he could always come back under a new life. There was a certain beauty to being reborn as an Amar Kabul, for 18 years their lives were seemingly normal, having no memory of past lives or the weight that came with it. Jasher had begun to understand people more after his first interaction Ferrin centuries ago, he was a monster created by a man yet had more honor to him than his creator. Jasher had a modest life in which his parents barely spoke to him, since birth he always knew what to do. Other Amar Kabul would mock him for it even, the baby that figured out how to care for itself at the age of 1 years old. Jasher Vohenheim was the child that his Father always wanted, strong and intelligent, never causing anyone problems. His mother was Anatta Vohenheim and his father was Elder Juni Vohenheim, both warriors with very high expectations. Jasher never once felt the pressure as he was always a natural. His father expected him to learn how to juggle daggers at the age of 5, Jasher learned how to do it at 2 years old. However his skills weren’t what impressed his parents the most, it was his wisdom that caught their attention. Everyone knew Jasher would be a marvelous replacement for his father if the day were to ever come when he wanted to retire from being an Elder for the Seven Vales. Jasher’s parents grew even more excited when Anatta discovered she was pregnant with another child when Jasher was 5 years old. Juni and Anatta were thrilled to expand their perfect family, and Jasher was excited to have a brother. However, at the end Jasher was the only one happy to have an addition to the family. His new brother was named Dawn, and he was nothing like Jasher. To their parents, Dawn was a disappointment in every way. Constantly comparing him to Jasher and how much of a failure he was. Dawn needed someone to feed him until he was 5 years old, and didn’t know how to juggle daggers until he was 10 years old. They were hard on him, constantly calling him a disappointment, that he needed to be better, like Jasher. Jasher was too respectful to ever speak back to his parents, especially as they continued love him more and more as he grew to become the strongest and most cunning warrior in the Vale. However, Jasher made a point of speaking to his brother Dawn behind closed doors. In their first lives, when Jasher was 27 years old, and Dawn was 22, the two of them had a deep discussion in a room they shared together as children.
“What do you think the announcement is for?” Jasher asks as he gulps a flask of water. After climbing mountains this morning, he was a bit tired.
“Are you serious? Aren’t you supposed to be the chosen one?” Dawn asks smirking at Jasher.
“You know I hate it when they call me that…” Jasher says rolling his eyes.
“Oh how awful. Prodigy son called the Chosen one by all the Elders…Yeah I can see how its so awful” Dawn says as he sits down in a chair.
“I never…Can we not do this today?” Jasher asks as he sighs, he didn’t want to dismiss his brother as he knew he didn’t enjoy being compared, but he was exhausted of the same argument over and over.
Dawn bites his tongue and decides to let it go. “You’re right, I’m sorry. I heard the meeting is to decide who is going to replace Dad next year” Dawn says calmly.
“Dad retiring? That’ll never happen. Mom still jokes about him loving his job more than her sometimes” Jasher chuckles at the joke.
“Well…I guess you would know” Dawn says looking down sounding bitter.
Jasher doesn’t take the bait, he decides he wants to change the subject.
“How is Wanal doing? I heard you two hit your 1 year anniversary” Jasher asks.
“Oh shes fine. It was nice…We enjoyed dinner…But she told me about how her family is frustrated with father. They made a request for supplies to explore outside the Seven Vales.” Dawn says carefully, gauging what Jasher would say.
Jasher raises an eyebrow. “Why would they want to leave? Everything we could ever want is here” Jasher asks confused. They had shelter, food, water, various forms of art and music, and most importantly, no crime. The Amar Kabul were deeply connected, any crime done to each other was practically unheard of. In order to protect this Paradise…Nobody was allowed to leave. Outsiders were not allowed.
“You mean everything you could want? Not all of us get to be the golden boy. Some of us have to actually suffer and look forward to something new” Dawn says bitterly as he wraps his hands around the chair nervously.
“I bet Wanal would love somewhere new to travel” Jasher says before thinking, his temper increasing at Dawn’s words. Jasher didn’t enjoy hurting his little brother but being called a Golden Boy was a sure subject for Jasher. He always felt the pressure of everyone’s eyes on him. Fortunately he enjoyed feeling special…But Dawn using it again made him feel attacked over just being good.
“What does that mean?” Dawn asks as his knuckles turn white and he stares at Jasher now.
“Oh well….You know this is her 3rd life right? I wouldn’t be surprised if she needs new people in her life. I’ve heard of older generations being tempted to run away” Jasher says.
“Are you calling my girlfriend a whore?” Dawn asks with anger as he suddenly stands up.
Jasher’s eyes widen as he stares at Dawn with shock.
“If I wanted to call you girlfriend a whore, I would say it plainly Dawn. But since we’re on the topic, I do think you could do better than her.” Jasher says trying to remain calm.
“Better? Better!?! That fucking word again. You, mother, father, you’re all the fucking same. I can always be better right?” Dawn asks, his emotions rising with bitterness and anger.
“We can all be better! What do you want me to say!?! Keep being yourself and pissing everyone else off!?!” Jasher yells frustrated.
“What I want is my fucking brother to for once just see me as normal person and not the failure!” Dawn yells back.
“You’re my brother! You’re the only person I trust in these damned Vales. Everyone else just kisses my ass or says what I wanna hear. I’m not an idiot! You’re my brother and my only real friend. I love you Dawn.” Jasher says getting emotional, letting his real feelings come out.
Dawn is taken aback by these words and suddenly hugs Jasher, a heavy hugs with tears rolling down both their eyes. However, Jasher didn’t know, that Dawn’s tears were for a very different reason than Jasher’s tears.
“I love you too Jasher…That’s why…I am asking you for help to get out of here. I just…I cannot do this anymore. I swear it won’t come back on you, I just need someone to keep the gate open for a cart.” Dawn says.
Jasher pulls back from the hug and wipes his tears while looking at Dawn. “You…You want to leave? That’ll devastate mother and father…” Jasher says looking down. He would miss Dawn. He was his brother, he truly loved him.
“No. Its not for me, its for Wanal’s parents. They’ve been suffering here. I can’t bear to watch it anymore man, Wanal begged me to help get them out. I need this…This is the one thing I’ve ever asked for” Dawn says pleadingly.
“I…Ok. I’ll do it…As long as you promise you’re not leaving.” Jasher says releasing a breath of relief.
“I promise brother. Our parents are a pain in the ass but I’d never leave you to deal with them alone” Dawn chuckles. “But one of these days…We should travel together” Dawn says.
Jasher nods liking the idea of this, no pressure from anyone, just brothers travelling together. “We’ll see every part of the world…We have the time for it yeah?” Jasher smirks enjoying the fact that they can live multiple lives.” Jasher says with happiness.
“Alright…Meet me at the corner tree near the gate. It’ll be dark and everyone will be gathering at Fathers house for the Vale meeting…And please don’t be late…This is our one chance” Dawn says sincerely.
Jasher nods and the brothers share a final hug with each other. Dawn left, his heart heavy with the truth of what was really happening.
Hours later, as members of the Vale began to gather for Juni Vohenheim’s meeting, Jasher went to the corner tree, prepared to pull in his status to get the Guard leave. Jasher was persuasive
when he wanted to be, being the Golden boy had its perks. Jasher got to the tree and saw Dawn and Wanal standing next to each other.
“Brother…I’m sorry but I lied to you. You…You have to die” Dawn says as he suddenly throws a plant at Jasher’s feet. It shot out a paralyzing gas that made Jasher unable to move in anyway.
“Dawn…What…I…I trusted you…” Jasher chokes to get the words out, tears rolling down as his body cannot move. Only his eyes and lips remain function.
“Father is going to announce the new Elder…And it can’t be you. You’ll just make things more of the same…I know whats better for us. We need to stop being strangers to the outside world.” Dawn says.
“You…Are you insane? What is killing me going to achieve?!?” Jasher asks in shock.
“Father may hate me…But after he hears of your death, he’ll have no choice but to make me the new Elder. I…” Dawn hesitates with his words.
“I’ll change everything for us.” Wanal says suddenly with a smirk.
“What…?” Dawn says in confusion, suddenly Wanal slits Dawn’s throat, his body drops to the ground dead in moments.
“MY BROTHER! YOU GODDAMNED BITCH!” Jasher yells in anger as he desperately tries to move his body.
“Mhmm…Finally some passion. Your weak brother was so mopey, it was exhausting. Always whining about how his big brother didn’t protect him from his parents. Boo hoo. You though…I like a man with passion…One that I can use to give my family higher status in this Vale” Wanal smirks as she approaches the paralyzed Jasher. In her hand is a vial with purple liquid. “Once this is applied to your seed…You’ll fall in love with me. You’ll be begging to do as I like” Wanal says with confidence.
“He…Why...He…He trusted you…He loved you…” Jasher says in shock as tears flow down his eyes.
“Oh sweetheart…After my 2nd life I learned something you’ll learn too…” She stands behind him and begins to take out Jasher’s seed at the back of his nape. “You can’t trust anyone. Only yourself.” Wanal held Jasher’s seed in her hand now, preparing to apply the vial.
“Lesson learned” Jasher says bitterly as he suddenly roars and does a trick not many know he could do. He controls his seed at a distance and makes it grow, suddenly stabbing Wanal through the neck with a sharp vine. She dies choking on her own blood.
After a few hours Jasher regained function of his body as he stood over Wanal and Dawn’s dead bodies. Jasher walked over and collected both their seeds, both undamaged. Jasher looked at his dead brothers seed and spoke to himself.
“I’ll travel the world for you brother. But I won’t ever trust anyone again.” Jasher says with sadness as he walks away and approaches the gathering his father orchestrated.
“Jasher…Its about time! Everyone’s been waiting to meet their new Elder” Juni says with a big smile looking at Jasher.
“Dad…Dawn..He..Hes…” Jasher cant find the words.
“Ah…Its alright son. I’ll deal with this…What’s important is that you become the Elder you are meant to be” Juni says taking Dawn’s seed from Jasher and smiling, not caring in the slightest about Dawn.
“Dad, if I’m going to be Elder…Then I’m going to travel the world…I need to” Jasher says firmly looking into his Fathers eyes.
“Very well.” Juni says nodding.
And that was how Jasher became the first Elder of the Amar Kabul that also served as a Diplomat.
Flashing back to the Jasher that left the castle, witnessing Valantha Dracula hypnotizing Violet, finds himself to be entering a room of the only man that could help at this point.
Jasher returns to the warehouse that Galloran and Violet were hiding in, he opens a container to find Gincon hiding inside. Gincon pops out.
“Oh thank gods! Are they gone!?!” Gincon yells looking around seeing that its empty now.
“Yes…The authorities are gone. But I need you to take me to the Carpenter Family. Now.” Jasher says to Gincon, knowing that Gincon has relations to them, the same as Nedwin.
“What…Why?” Gincon asks confused.
“I need to see Gideon Supreme. And I need to save Galloran and his friends” Jasher says with finality. He feels his brother watching now more than ever. Little did Jasher know, that in all these centuries of maintaining his word to never trust someone again. Galloran would prove to be the one man in Lyria worth trusting. That is…Until he met the Reclaimers.
This story takes place in the Year 55. At this me, Warforged weren’t known to Lyria. Beyonders in general were not a common thing in Lyria yet as Tundra hadn’t begun to open portals in his quest to find the version of Galloran that he fell in love with in Pandora. Many stories oen begin with some legendary desny set upon a person, however, this is the story of the duality of man. Tundra walked upon a barren world with no life on it, or at least that’s what it appeared to be. Tundra, the Lord of Time, sighed with frustraon.
“GALLORAN LAWRENCE! WHERE ARE YOU!?!” Tundra yelled with desperaon.
“Help…me…” A roboc voice said beneath the rubble.
Tundra glanced at the origin of the voice and saw a Warforged creature laying in rubble, both its arms cut off its body. Its le leg smashed into bits and its right leg flailing to get free. Its face covered in dirt and scratches, its eyes barely funconing.
“What happened to this world? Is there a man named Galloran here?” Tundra asks, too focused on his goal to have any pity for this creature.
“Humanity…Declared war against each other…They wiped each other out…I…I am Model G1D483214, I was designed to record history…thus was able to survive the bombs…” the Warforged struggles to say.
“Great. So Galloran isn’t here, well then” Tundra opens a portal to go back to Lyria and looks at the Warforged creature. “I suppose it’d be rude of me to leave you on this barren world…But I am not going to babysit you. If you wish to leave, nod your head and I will send you to my world” Tundra says with indifference.
The Warforged looked around at his world and looked at Tundra.
“In this world…Is there love?” The Warforged asks.
Tundra doesn’t bother answering as a portal opens up beneath the Warforged and he appears in Lyria suddenly. The Warforged appears in what appears to be a village, unknown to him was that he was transported to a small village within Trensicourt. It was being developed at this me by workers and a few of the houses were complete. As the Warforged appeared, it landed on top of a house that was being built, destroying it completely. The Warforged felt its body in even more peril as its le eye was now broken and could only see through its right eye. The sun above shined down on him along with the rubble of the house. 12 men surrounded him, all were taking their break at the me and weren’t hurt by the house going down.
“What in the bloody hell just happened!?!” Osirk says. The man in charge of the producon of this village.
“I’ll tell you what happened, that thing fell and destroyed a months worth of work!?! The fuck are you!?!” Jenson says, the man among the crew who was known to have anger issues because of marriage issues. Jenson spit out these words as he walked up to the Warforged and placed his boot on its face, covering it in more dirt.
“I…I am Model G1D4-“ The Warforged begins to say when Jenson raises his axe and slams it into the Warforged’s chest.
“Stop spoung nonsense! Who the fucks gonna pay for this huh? The way you popped up…I bet you’re a wizard!” Jenson yells pushing the axe deeper into the chest.
“A wizard? Oh hell no! Lads you know what we do with freaks like them bastard Wizards during the Holy War!” Osirk yells.
Suddenly all the men jumped on the warforged, they began beang it brutally, one of them ripped off its leg and began hing the Warforged with it.
“Please…stop…I don’t mean harm…Please…” The Warforged begs but it doesn’t mater. The men connue to tear pieces off him and beat him brutally. Jenson pulls out a dagger and aims it towards the Warforged last funconing eye.
“Time to die scumbag” Jenson says as he raises the dagger to stab the Warforged eye.
Suddenly a blast of wind fired off, it sounded and felt like a bullet as all 12 men flew 20 feet away from the Warforged in all direcons. Suddenly boots slammed onto the floor in rapid succession as a woman appeared in front of the Warforged. A short and small framed woman.
“What makes your lives worth anymore than this creature!?!” The woman yells at them as she looks down at the Warforged. The men groan not able to respond at the moment.
“Does life have value…?” The Warforged asked suddenly, pondering this ever since watching Humanity destroy itself in his own world.
“I don’t know. I know that your life has value to me…Because…Well because you’re alive just like me” The woman gives a devilish smile at the Warforged.
“What…What is your name?” The Warforged asks.
“You litle bitch….Come here!” Jenson yells as he charges at the women with a dagger. This me the woman stops holding back and snaps her fingers, the man explodes into wind and blood on the spot.
“My name’s Lizralda Cinder. Nice to meet you….” She places a finger under her chin. “Oh shit was that the guy with marriage problems? I promised his wife I’d change her shity husband. Damn!” Lizralda snapped her fingers frustraon.
“Queen Cinder…That’s you?” Osirk stands up and walks over in shock.
“Shush shush. You can give me the celebrity treatment later. You…What’s your name?” Lizralda looks at the Warforged with curiosity and playfulness.
The Warforged couldn’t explain it…but he trusted her. She made him feel…Like history was sll worth recording. He felt warmth…Even as his body was falling apart he felt like someone actually cared.
“I am Model G1D483214.” The Warforged says slowly.
“Yeah doesn’t really roll off the tongue does it? I think I’ll call you Gideon. What do you think?” Lizralda said with a cheeky smile.
“I…I would like that…” Gideon had never been given a proper name before. When he was created…He just assumed he didn’t deserve one.
“Brilliant. Alright…you can proceed to kiss my ass now” Lizralda said smirking at the remaining 11 worker men.
“You…You saved my family during the Holy War! Thank you so much!” Osirk says geng on his knees and bowing to Lizralda. The other men quickly follow suit and start bowing to her.
“Aww you guys are so sweet! Wanna know how you can make up for it? Repair my friend…Consider that an order” Lizralda smiles as she points at Gideon. She stands back and watches the men begin to repair Gideon. She uses her magic as a Wizard to produce whatever tools they need to repair him. Before long Gideon is as good as new, not a scratch on him as he can now stand on his own. He was considerably taller then Lizralda.
“Mhmm ok…Get back to work boys! Trensicourt ain’t gonna build itself!” Lizralda giggles as she suddenly jumps on Gideon’s back.
“What…Is going on?” Gideon asks confused.
“Uhh you’re giving me a piggyback ride? Duh! Lets go Gideon! Use those long legs!” Lizralda yelled while laughing.
Gideon was curious if she actually had figured out that he had super speed at his disposal…Or did she just not want to walk in general? This woman was unlike anyone he had ever met…yet he never wanted to leave her sight. Gideon nodded at the men who repaired him and began running at insane speeds.
“Holy crap man you can run!?!” Lizralda yelled and held onto Gideon ghtly. They ran quickly as Lizralda guided Gideon to the Capital of Trensicourt. In the Year 55 it was sll a work in progress….Only one castle was there in which the people demanded Lizralda sleep in, which she accepted but only if everyone could sleep in there as well. A mass line of people appeared in front of her and Gideon with their hands out.
“Desnaon achieved, it was roughly a 5 hour run.” Gideon says.
“Yeah no kidding! With speed like that who needs teleportaon…” Lizralda says as she suddenly feels her nose begin to bleed. She used more magic than she was supposed to. Gideon noced right away.
“Queen Cinder…Please…My daughter hasn’t eaten in days!” A young woman said, offering her baby to Lizralda.
“Of course! I understand” Lizralda began creang different forms of food and water and giving it to people. She made enough for over a 1000 people but suddenly she got wobbly and fell on the ground. Blood pouring out of her nose. Her followers surrounded her worried but Gideon stepped in between all of them and picked up Lizralda.
“Gideon! You gota ask a girl before you just pick her up you perv” Lizralda giggling a bit distracng herself from the pain.
“Forgive me…But your life is as precious as mine” Gideon suddenly triggers his boots and he flies into the sky with Lizralda in his arms. He hovers in the air and looks down at Lizralda.
“I analyzed your body, you deplete your life force everyme you use your abilies” Gideon says calmly.
“Jeez you really are a perv eh? That’s ok. At least you’re cute” Lizralda giggles at her joke.
“Lizralda…Just as you couldn’t let me die…I cannot let you die” Gideon says seriously.
“Oh my god Dad. What do you suggest then? Not like I can just walk away. Those people down there see me as their savior or whatever” Lizralda says crossing her arms.
“As a history recorder, I know of how to mass produce food and aid to those in need. I can help you build this place…Into what you want it to be.” Gideon says with convicon.
“What I want is for this place to be somewhere where assholes don’t nearly kill someone just cause they’re different” Lizralda bites her cheek and looks at Gideon.
“As you wish Queen Cinder” Gideon says with a smile.
“Oh don’t you start now too!” Lizralda says annoyed but smiling.
Gideon lands on the ground and sets her down. He begins to get to work, creang massive gardens and supplies chains for all the villages and cies within Trensicourt. Gideon soon became overwhelmed with the work, and Lizralda started to miss Gideon. To solve this, in the Year 56, Gideon began making copies of himself for different tasks at different parts of Trensicourt. He made 100 versions of him, maintain his main conscious at the site in which he chose to work from. Gideon chose to keep his original self, which would come to be known as Gideon Supreme, in an underground cave near where he met Lizralda was, this was meaningful to him. Lizralda grew more busy through the years as she connued to rule Trensicourt and develop it into her dream with the help of Gideon.
“Gideon…You…You made everything possible…I…I wouldn’t have goten this far without you” Lizralda said. She was vising Gideon now at the age of 102. She sll appeared to look young, a common thing for powerful Wizards of Lyria.
“It was my pleasure…I got to see the formaon of Trensicourt through my copies…And now I get to see you through my own eyes…My…My best friend” Gideon says, awkward at the admission.
“I…I made the paradise I wanted…the one I didn’t think was possible….Because of you. You sacrificed so much me and effort…You should leave this place with me Gideon. I want the real you by my side at the throne…Your life is as valuable as mine remember?” Lizralda smiled at Gideon. She had wanted to say this decades ago but a new crisis always arrised. But now, she was ready to welcome Gideon to the throne he made possible.
“No. I am finishing a final system that will truly make Trensicourt perfect….And then I can rest.” Gideon says but is tempted. “Come back in 1 month and I’ll be ready.”
Lizralda nods and gives Gideon a hug and then leaves the room. Aer a month Gideon tests his new system however it results in all his copies shung off and him being trapped inside of his Thinking Tank. He remained calm knowing Lizralda Cinder would be there at any moment…However…Dust began to form as Gideon slowly realized she wasn’t coming. Decades turned into centuries, and Gideon never saw Lizralda again. His eyes would remain closed for centuries unl he heard the sound of heels inside the cave again. Hopeless desperaon filled him at the possibility that it was Lizralda no mater how unlikely.
“Lizralda?!?” Gideon yelled with excitement.
“Not quite dear…I’m her Disciple…Rosamyl Cinder.” Rosamyl says walking up with a man standing behind her.
“His design is fascinang…” The man says walking up to Gideon.
“Who are you?” Gideon’s eyes narrow at the man.
“I’m Royce Carpenter” The man says and suddenly throws a liquid that freezes Gideon in a block of ice.
“And he’s the man who’ll make sure you serve me beter than you ever did for Lizralda” Rosamyl says as she gives a wide smile.
Gideon Supreme was never the same again aer that. Controlled and manipulated by the Carpenter Family, a group known for their skills in technology and innovaon. The new Gideon Supreme used his copies to help in enslaving the Dragons as well as people for Rosamyl Cinder.
Jasher now entered the very room that Gideon Supreme was being monitored and controlled, escorted there by Gincon. 6 Imperial Soldiers stand in the room along with Killroy Carpenter and Royce Carpenter.
“Royce Carpenter! We need to speak!” Jasher yells at Royce who seems to be working on a tool.
“Save it for the Guards” Royce waves him off.
“If you want to ever see your son Nedwin alive again then you’ll hear me out” Jasher says calmly.
Royce stops working and walks up to Jasher now, and in a low whisper to avoid the guards hearing, he says “Start talking seed man”.