The Heroes of Pangden: The Dark Ones (IC/Closed)

[New Roman Empire]

Tiberius Eldan &
Sarlvari

Tiberius had been climbing the mountain for five days now. He had found the first marker to the fortress two days ago and was now close, but he didn't know how close he was to it. he had brought all the Templars he knew and that was about 15 men. They had all agreed to brave the dangers that lurked in these mountains if it meant finding the old Templar stronghold with long lost knowledge. The Templars were once a force feared by many for their abilities and their weapons said to be handed to them by the gods. When in truth a god only gave them the knowledge on how to make such a weapon. Tiberius looked up and saw the gate to the fortress only feet away from where they currently were and yelled back, "We have found it at last!" Tiberius waited fro the rest to join him then he cut his hand and placed it on the gate which the lock then opened and the doors slowly opened revealing the fortress.

They were confused, as it looked like people have been here recently. But they know that's impossible, then a man slowly walks down the steps of the main hall and stops at the courtyard. "Welcome Templars, it has been a great many years since mortals have inhabited these halls. I am Sarlvari, God of Justice and Righteousness and your patron gods. But I only see 15 of you, where are the other Templars that left?" Asked Sarlvari which it was obvious that he had been no keeping up on events in history. So Tiberius and the Templars bowed to him and then started to tell him of the event. Sarlvari was shocked to hear the news but smiled after a few moments. "But it is not all lost, the Templars can be rebuilt and you Tiberius shall be the grandmaster, my chosen to lead the order. But first we must forge you all true Templar weapons that will react to your personality and give them a special power." Informed Salvari as he smiled and lead the group into the keep as the main gate shut behind them.

[The Starlight]

Allies of Loray and Neutral Ruling Parties of Pangden,
As you all know, the annual Festival of the Gods is coming up very soon and according to last year's drawing, our empire has the honor and joy of hosting the festivities as well as the all-celebrated Masquerade and Costume Ball which will be held on the seventh and final day of the clbration. This is a week dedicated to worshipping the gods that bring good fortune to all our lives, honoring them and just an occasion to have fun. Also, it is a time for Loray and her friends to come together and discuss potential alliances, foreign policy, ruling, and to exchange ideas. Most of all however, it is a fun festival that is about the triumph of the Light over the Dark and honoring all the gods of the light. To avoid political suicide and because friendships are important to me, I have invited every nation that is either an ally of Loray or at least not an enemy so disagreements can be squashed. I can't help but worry however that some of you are at war with other nations. Loray will not become a battleground, I must insit that whoever has a war going on amongst themselves that they either be civil to us and to each other by agreeing to a temporary ceasefire for the duration of the parties, or that you decline the invitation. I am like any other monarch and do not wish my people to be dragged into someone's war when we have done nothing, they're expensive and bloody businesses and I've dedicated my entire reign to avoiding them. Especially when most of us have a looming common enemy to worry about. I really hope however that you all can make it, it will be good to see and talk to the other crowned heads of this nation and have a fun and profitable week.

Leticia Elena Valen I, Empress and Autocrat of the Loray Empire.

Elyrith read the letter and quickly composed a response.

To Empress Leticia Elena Valen I of Loray,

We thank you for your invitation, and we accept. It is vital for the free and willing peoples of Pangden to join together to fight the darkness. As you know, our annual Starfall will begin just after I complete this letter, and so I shall come immediately after the event's ending. Due to that, I warn that I may be slightly late, but Elnaria will come. Thank you.

Elyrith Tarembor, Queen of Elnaria.

Elyrith walked out onto a podium, where the population of the city and the kingdom of Elnaria had gathered. "My fellow elves! Let the Starfall begin! Let us sing praises to our beloved Inyel, and await the renewal of the Moon Crystals!" Raising up her hands, Elyrith smiled as the people roared, ready for the event they had been planning for months, rehearsing, practicing, doing every single act over and over again, for this one moment. Starfall, had officially begun.

[Nuridia]

"I'm sorry sir, but who might you be?" "You don't look like you're from anywhere around these parts." the first god said to Abrok. A second guard came out. "What is this?" he asked. The first guard turned to him. "This man says that he wishes to see Empress Haneul." the guard answered, twirling his long silky mustache. "The empress is very busy right now, but I will get somebody to inform her of your arrival." "But until then, it's only proper that you give us some form of identification." the second guard told the god, unaware that he even was a god as the red plume on the guard's helmet blew in the breeze. Chantico was in the neutral room where she could see the crowd. "The people love you Inyel." the fire goddess told her twin.

Leticia got the letters back from Albion and Elnaria, and wrote each of the kingdoms a shorter, more personal note to thank them for coming. Since there were not tons of letters and they were smaller, they could easily be sent by raven. "I wonder what I'm going to wear during the festivals, I have some tiaras that I got when I was still Princess Leticia." the empress said. Just then, a tall, willowy man who was obviously elven walked into the room wearing golden scale armor over a black suit. He twirled a long staff in his hand and exhuded arrogance from his very being. He was very handsome, with olive skin and chizeled features which included long black hair that spilled down his back like a waterfall, as well as sharp golden-green eyes. The empress sighed at the sight of him. "What is it Baelfir?" she asked with a hint of annoyance in her voice. Baelfir Celladon was her Secretary of Defense, she had known him in childhood and he was very cunning and intelligent. Loyal in his own way, but also cocky, arrogant, insatiable with no tact and had an unsatisfiable lust for women. Human, elf, orc, dwarf, even goddesses and half breeds. From princesses and empresses to priestesses and peasant girls, his appetite knew no bounds. It was no secret he had a thing for the beautiful and still single empress although she had rebuffed him. 'Well my empress, I've just come to announce that from what sources say in the north that your sister Anna is on the move again." "She's searching for mage libraries, to create some sort of spell." His arrogant smirk grew wider. "The ball is coming up for the festival, I wonder what you'll wear Tish." "I'm sure whatever it is it'll be absolutely delicious." he said with that sibilant voice of his. "This is the man assigned to protect me." Tish sighed."Your arrogance knows no bounds." Leticia reprimanded him. "And neither does your beauty." he countered back. Leticia rolled her eyes. "Enough, I wish to know about Anna's movements." "Maybe we can catch and hold her long enough to break the spell on her." Leticia said, some hope glinting in the back of her eyes.

[Tomia]

Abrok looked at the two men, deciding it would be best to play along. He could use his powers but he figured that would get on the wrong foot. "My name is Elijah. I have urgent business with the empress. Tell her 'hoot hoot'" He said, making a perfect imitation of an owl. He wondered if she would get his message.

[Alderann]

In the mountains of Loray, in a cave near the peak sat one of the last temples dedicated to Thold. Although no worshippers had visited the temple in a very long time.

The god Thold had almost been forgotten entirely by the kingdoms of men. But it wasn't always like this, there was a time when the temples of Thold was full. Back when war and plague gripped the land.

But times were not as dark and uncertain anymore. But a new darkness was forming and Thold had felt the vibrations from it.

Thold stood outside of the temple underneath the night sky. It was a cold night and snow was falling. The wind blew and moved Thold's cape.

As he stood there he felt a connection that moved through the air. This feeling he hadn't felt in along fine, it was the feeling of someone who needed protection.

Thold acted on the feeling and in a flash of light moved through the sky and following the feeling found himself on a balcony at b palace.

In the dark he saw a woman sleeping in her bed. Thold already knew the woman's name, Leticia. Standing over her he couldn't shake the connection he felt. Seeing that Leticia was sleeping be decided to enter her dreams.

Thold created a dream for Leticia, one where she was in a field of flowers surrounded by all of nature beauty. And in the middle of the field stood Leticia.

Thold entered the dream in his usual form, that of a man of the age of 27. With well kept short brown hair and clean shaven, and ice blue eyes. Wearing shining silver armor.

In the dream Thold walked across the field and closer to Leticia. Once he was standing in front of her Thold caressed her cheek and whispered her name. " Leticia"

With that Thold ended the dream so that Leticia could wake up. And before anyone noticed in a flash he was back at the mountain.

[Masimino]

Ozakaria, High Chief Lokhtar Dokh

It's been years since the Dark Ones came and caused destruction in the land. He was the 3rd High Chief of the only permanent kingdom of the Orcs, but he was also a rival for Pen'daii, another prominent kingdom of Orcs but was nomadic, meaning it's no kingdom to Lokhtar. He was preparing for a war against Pen'daii, taking advantage of the fact that most Orcs there are autonomous from the Tarlook, or Chief of the Orcs of the south.He will wait longer for the time to strike, to unify the Orcs once and for all, bringing them into the banner of "The Strongest one" in the orcs land.

Lokhtar woke up to the sound of daily training of his soldiers, doing drills or practicing their moves, sharpening their weapons or helmets or armor. He was glad to see progress in his army, a well trained one in fact with one of the best armor and weapons the Orcs can ever make. He walked around his small kingdom, seeing the young kids playing, or the soldiers patrolling the streets, or parent's doing their jobs or hobbies. Crime is barely a problem in Ozakaria, since most are loyal to the High Chief, following Lokhtar's every orders till the last man. All of the people know war and battle, all of them were trained in war and have experienced actual battle, maybe not the young, but yes, Orcs know battle and love it.

Lokhtar then went back to his home, where he wrote letters to the major kingdoms, asking for support.

From High Chief Lokhtar Dokh, King of Ozakaria
I am humbly asking for support against Pen'daii, the southern kingdom of Orcs. My people have felt war, felt the terror of the Dark Ones and the Shamans predict they will return. For my people to be ready, we MUST be united under one ruler. The Southern Orcs are too stubborn to listen to reason, only following "The Strongest One". If you help now, where i need it, I will help you, when you need it. Consider the proposal.

He then gave it to messengers, where they will send it to Kakyuzu, Albion, Gandera, Elnaria and Loray.

[Nuridia]

In the mountains of Loray, in a cave near the peak sat one of the last temples dedicated to Thold. Although no worshippers had visited the temple in a very long time.

The god Thold had almost been forgotten entirely by the kingdoms of men. But it wasn't always like this, there was a time when the temples of Thold was full. Back when war and plague gripped the land.

But times were not as dark and uncertain anymore. But a new darkness was forming and Thold had felt the vibrations from it.

Thold stood outside of the temple underneath the night sky. It was a cold night and snow was falling. The wind blew and moved Thold's cape.

As he stood there he felt a connection that moved through the air. This feeling he hadn't felt in along fine, it was the feeling of someone who needed protection.

Thold acted on the feeling and in a flash of light moved through the sky and following the feeling found himself on a balcony at b palace.

In the dark he saw a woman sleeping in her bed. Thold already knew the woman's name, Leticia. Standing over her he couldn't shake the connection he felt. Seeing that Leticia was sleeping be decided to enter her dreams.

Thold created a dream for Leticia, one where she was in a field of flowers surrounded by all of nature beauty. And in the middle of the field stood Leticia.

Thold entered the dream in his usual form, that of a man of the age of 27. With well kept short brown hair and clean shaven, and ice blue eyes. Wearing shining silver armor.

In the dream Thold walked across the field and closer to Leticia. Once he was standing in front of her Thold caressed her cheek and whispered her name. " Leticia"

With that Thold ended the dream so that Leticia could wake up. And before anyone noticed in a flash he was back at the mountain.

As she was reading a letter from the orc kingdom of Ozakaria, Empress Leticia suddenly felt herself fallling asleep at her desk for some unexplicable reason. She had the weirdest dream, she was surrounded by beautiful flowers in a peaceful field and then all of a sudden an extremely handsome warrior walked up to her and caressed her cheek, calling her name. She couldn't move or speak, it was as if she was held in place and some strange calm washed over her as the scene slowly started to fade away. "Tish, wake up!" Commander Celladon hissed, shaking her shoulders gently. Leticia's eyes snapped open and she looked around her office. "What was that?" the empress muttered, still holding official letters in her hand.

In Kakyuzu, the guards looked at Abrok strangely as if he had gone mad. What did the owl hoots mean, was he some sort of spy? Anyway, a guard went and delivered the message to Empress Haneul. She was surprised at first, but then remembered him as the owl who had followed her. The man must've been a shifter of some sort, they existed but were a rare race. "Alright, bring him in to me." "I will here what he has to say." she said, sitting back on her throne. Standing beside her throne was one of Haneul's sisters, Princess Akaru-sa, standing with her husband General Taishou and their newborn child in her arms. The guard looked up. "Are you sure majesty, he seems like he has the crazies." the dark haired man spoke. "Just bring him in please." Haneul said. The guard bowed and went out to Abrok. "The empress will see you now." he spoke.

[Alderann]

Back in the mountains Thold stayed in the temple ruins in meditation. But he could not shake the connection he had with Leticia.

The connection was the strongest that he had ever felt. And up on that mountain he made a vow that as the god of protection be would guard her and protect her.

Thold thoughts drifted to get beauty and what he felt. Even tho no one prayed to him anymore he felt that Leticia needed him and he needed Leticia.

Closing his eyes he could see Leticia in the palace gardens. He decided that he would send her a gift. Holding his hands out in front of him he created a flower and it's petals was made of emeralds and the center was a diamond.

Even tho the flower was made of precious jewels, it felt and weighed like a real flower. And it gave the sent of jasmine.

" this will be the perfect gift for my love."

holding the flower out in front of him he blew on it to send it flying on the wind to Leticia. He also whispered "Leticia" his voice would be carried on the wind so she could hear.

[New Roman Empire]

Tiberius Eldan &
Sarlvari

The Fifteen Templars all had joined in the great hall. There sat a throne with the mark of the grandmaster on the back. A grandmaster had not been chosen for at least a hundred years as this place had been lost to them. Each templar was given weapons and armor that lived up to the old legends. "Now, Loray is hosting the festival of the gods in their capital. I believe that it would be a good idea to inform them that the Templars have reformed our order and found the lost stronghold. I also believe that the Eternal Flame should be opened and allow Templar's the knowledge of coming here. This will also seek out potential recruits," informed Sarlvari as he allowed the templars to look around the great hall.

"Ok, well two of you will come to Loray with me and surprise the nations. The rest, look around the fortress and knowbyour way around. Also bring the potential recruits here once you locate them. Now Sarlvari, I assume you have a means of getting to the festival in time?" Asked Tiberius as he sat down on the throne. Tiberius choose a sword and shield for his weapons. The sword grew blue flames that drained magic users and burned people at the same time. While his shield could stand the hottest heat or flame. Sarlvari nodded and handed him a stone. It was a hereafter stone another lost knowledge of the templars. They could transport a user to any capital in the known world. He took it and selected his two helpers to come with him. Then he opened a portal with the stone and sent them to Poray's capital city. The group was nlinddd after they came out of the portal. "Let's go see the queen." Informed Tiberius as they started to walk towards the castle.

[Nuridia]

Anna had returned to Mawlay, broken into their maic library and was poring over books and scrolls. In Loray Leticia stood up, brushing off the beaded and lacy white gown she wore. "Alright, well I don't know how I'm going to be able to respond to these letters." "I don't want the empire to be seen as indifferent or untrustworthy but at the same time if we declare war on an innocent nation with people who aren't official allies, then we'll be seen as tyrants not to mention making new enemies." "Well if the chief of Ozakaria decides to come to the ball then we'll have to discuss it, I know Pen'daii would never show up." the empress said. She felt some odd pull all of a sudden. Directing her to the palace gardens, like a soft tug on her soul. Something or somebody was connecting with her. "Is there something in the air today, what's wrong with me?" the empress mused. She couldn't ignore the pull, it was too strong. "I'll be in the gardens, I have to go and check something out." Leticia donned a fur lined cloak and gives and headed to the gardens with two of her ladies.

There was this sudden light breeze that seemed to whisper her name, giving her shivers and then an object descended softly towar her floating from the sky. Leticia caught it in her hand and was amazed to behold it. It was a flower, but no ordinary flower. This one was actually made of jewels, emeralds and diamonds that glittered in the light. "What is that thing my lady?" one of the ladies asked. Leticia held it up to the light, it was beautiful and the empress' love for jewels was well known but the manner just seemed odd to her. Yet she wasn't frightened. "It's some sort of flower made of gems yet it has the scent of a real jasmine." "But how can that be, gems are too heavy to be picked up by the air like that." "Jewels would've falled hard to the ground, not be carried softly by the breeze."

"Maybe they're fake?" a redhead lady suggested. "No these are real." "I'm a bit of a gemologist." "It's the most beautiful thing I've ever gotten, but how?" "And the wind seem to whisper to me." the empress mused. "Maybe some god out there has taken a fancy to you, majesty." a brunette lady suggested with a coy smile. "How can that be, I haven't been around any gods." Leticia whispered in awe until a servant ran up to her. "Majesty, some people are at the palace gates wearing templar uniforms." "It seems they want an audience with you." the lady bowed. Leticia sat down in a gazebo by a fountain on a raised platform where there were other seats and tables, asjusting her tiara. "The Templars?" "Maybe they can help us with the Dark Ones, send them here." she said. The servant went out to meet Tiberius and his men. "The empress wishes to see you in the palace gardens." the young maid told the templars.

[Tomia]

Abrok didn't seem to notice the guards confused looks. He was all too used to humans not understanding him. He followed them into the hall and entered the empress' throne room. He didn't bow to the empress like was expected. He never understood that ritual anyway. "It's nice to finally meet you empress." The dark haired man said simply. "I'm sorry for the confusion I may have caused. Humans rarely get my jokes, though the elves are even worse." He said casually. "If you're wondering why I'm here, it's because there is something you need to know. It's quite important to. It will likely help decide whether or not this land continues to exist."

[The Armed Republic of Dutch Coolness]

Marvyre Emberfury
Ruins of Eagleview Fortress, Northern border of the Loray Empire


"You are mad!"

"Why, yes, I am mad. You bashed my accomplice's' head!" Marvyre spoke, before giving a chuckle. The warlock brushed her raven hair out of her eyes, and looked at the wounded knight that lay before her, in some corner in the ruins of the once mighty Fortress that now housed her, and her followers. She looked to her right hand side, where a young woman clad in dark robes stood, rubbing her hands together in a rather cliche manner. Marvyre had taken somewhat of a liking to the girl, as she too had been an apprentice in Loray who, like her, had pursued some... less popular tomes and works. The girl had a blood coming from a head wound, staining her blonde hair.

"Well, sir knight... We have a little problem. As you can see, you injured one of my apprentices... But have no fear! I have just the way you can repay me, and my apprentice here! Come, sit do- wait, you're already sitting down.. Hmm.."

Marvyre leaned down in front of the knight, and pulled her dagger. The knight tried to crouch backwards, but only met solid stone, and started whimpering as the blade appeared to be whispering to him.

"Now, I need blood for my experiments.. Come, don't be afraid, little knight. Hush!" She grabbed the knight's arm, and pulled the armor protecting it from it in one motion. "Now, then... I need you to do a thing for me..." The dagger bit the man's flesh, and blood spurted from the deep wound. "Scream."

An hour later, the man had died an agonizing death. Marvyre gave the dead body a pat on the shoulder, and stood up, taking several flasks of the man's blood with her, carefully tucking them away in a pouch. She walked down a set of crumbled stairs, her apprentice following her. In front of them stood a small group made up of mages, madmen, and several undead, along with a group of fierce-looking horses, black as night with glowing, red eyes. "The horses are ready, then?" the dark mage inquired. One of the undead, a particularly large wight clad in dark armour bowed. "Yes, mistress." Marvyre gave a nod, and motioned for the wight to rise - it obeyed instantly - before jumping on top of her horse. The others followed suit. "Then let us ride, brothers and sisters!" She wheeled and spurred her steed. "Southwards!"

The group left the ruins of Eagleview Fortress, leaving nothing but crumbled stone and the dead behind as they rode southwards, towards the Empire's heartlands.

[Nuridia]

"Well, I will hear what you have to say sir if it has anything to do with this land." "What's this important thing you went through all this trouble just to tell me?" Haneul asked. Meanwhile, as Leticia was waiting for Tiberius to arrive a mage raced into the gardens. "My lady, I was doing my rounds in the Heartlands and I saw something awful!" the woman shouted, her dyed blue hair falling over here eyes. "Well what is it?" "If it threatens national scurity, out with it." Leticia said, up and at attention. "A woman, some dark mage no doubt." "She had knights with her, they looked ot be possessed!" "And piercing red eyes on the horses, dark magic just oozed off of them!" "They're headed for the Heartlands." the mage sputtered. Leticia sprang to her feet. "Put the people on high alert, have the Archnage and his senior colleagues start their barrier spell to protect the capital." "Send a company of fifty to the Haeartlands to investigate this matter and if they attack, apprehend them." "If you have a problem notify me as soon as possible and I will come out myself to back them up." Leticia said to her chief soldier-mage. He bowed his head and rushed to send the company out while getting his squire to go and get the Archmage.

[New Roman Empire]

Tiberius and his men were lead to the throne room, "Ah, how does this fine day go for you Empress. I am the Grandmaster of the Templars. We have returned and we have come to you to show the world we have returned. But I bet you have something you want to discuss with us?" Asked Tiberius as he and his men bowed.

[Tomia]

Abrok thought about what to say to Haneul. He had been too candid with humans before and it didn't work out too well. "You see your majesty, I am from the heroes guild. As I'm sure you know, there is a grave threat to this world that needs to be stopped. The guildmaster seems to believe that there is a hero somewhere in your capital. He sent me to find them, and I came here seeking your aid." He told her. It wasn't completely a lie, however it certainly wasn't the truth.
Galith had finished meditating and praying to Chantico. She was his primary goddess, though he had never met her. He often communicated with Abrok, but couldn't pray to him. It brought up too many bad memories. It had been a long time since that fateful day when his apprentice Naric died. At least, his spirit did. That day Naric became the dark centurion, and it broke Galith's heart. The guild-master felt angry thinking about it. It had been his own weakness that had started all of this. He knew he had a responsibility to stop it.

[Nuridia]

"Ah, right." Leticia said to Tiberius, straightening herself up. "Well as the Templars, you all have the mpst knowledge about the Dark Ones, a real threat to this fair land." "They have taken my sister from me, and ruined countless lives." "I am glad that you have returned, maybe perhaps one day the Heroes will return as well." "Since you are here I have something I wish to ask of you." "My sister Anna, she was supposed to be Empress but was kidnapped and forcibly initiated into the Dark Ones when she was a child." "She's under some wicked spell making her act like this, I know she is." "I know I don't have to ask you to protect the people as it is your duty to protect the world." "But I will ask you that on your travels, you find Anna and apprehend her so that she may be cured." "I've been researching tirelessly to find a cure for this spell, but so far I've come up with nothing." "Whatever reasonable reward you want in return, it is yours." Leticia said, handing Tiberia a small miniature portrait of her and Anna as children.

In the Kakyuzu Empire, Empress Haneul wasn't stuffy but normally would've been offended if somebody did not respectfully bow to her but with this man she couldn't bring herself to be upset. She listened to his story intently. "The Heroes' Guild has returned?" "That is perfect, I thought it was destroyed hundreds of years ago but if what you say is true than our world has a chance." He said that Abrok had sent him, normally she'd ask for proof but she felt it in that she didn't get ruffled when he refused to bow to her. "Well master, I will do all I can to help save Pangden." "If a Hero is in this capital I will help you find them, but how will we know if they are heroes?" the empress asked.

Meanwhile, Chantico was with her twin sister and with the Shade having fun during a Starfall and couldn't wait to have fun with them but then she felt a pang in her body. A disturbed presence she only felt when one of her devotees was praying and anguished. From the energies she could tell it was Guild-Master Galith, he was a special one amond her patrons along with the Empress Leticia. "I'm sorry Inyel, I have a devotee that really needs my help." "I'll take care of it and be right back." she told the Ice Goddess before vanishing in a plume of orange flame. The prayer circle that Galith was sitting before started pulsing a red color, and then turned orange, yellow and finaly white with every pulse as the temperature in the room got comfortably warmer. A large plume of fire rose from the ground and vanished, revealing the goddess herself. "Galith?" "Something must trouble you, I felt your energy all the way from the North." the fire goddess spoke. She rarely appeared in person unless it was urgent.

[New Roman Empire]

"My Queen, there is only 15 of us currently we dwindled in numbers over the years. But yes we know our duties, now if there is a cure the sickness that affects the dark ones. Then it will be in our library or with Sarlvari our patron god who lives in our stronghold. But I don't believe such a cure exists. In the days of old the legend went Templar's took pity on the infected by killing them. But i will ensure she is captured. In return I ask two things. That we be able to set up a base of operations in the city and the right to recruit freely." Informed Tiberius as he looked around at the palace.

[Tomia]

Abrok shook his head. "The guild is not gone my lady, simply it has been operating more quietly than before. We aren't quite popular now that the Dark Centurion has risen from our ranks." That much was certainly true. He had to be careful when she asked about the hero. He felt he needed to wait until he would be able to reveal his identity. "Lord Abrok has given me an image in my mind my lady." Abrok did that often to actual members of the guild, he had never tried it on himself though. "A young man, with brown hair and dark eyes is what I saw your majesty." He figured it would be best to throw her off the trail.
Galith was in his home, still brooding, when suddenly bhis pray circle began to spark and glow with fire. He put his hand on his sword and got ready to defend himself. Suddenly a figure appeared, and the room got significantly warmer though that didn't bother Galith. Hewas shocked when a woman appeared before him. He recognized her by depictions and descriptions as the goddess of fire, Chantico. He removed his hand from his sword and fell to knees in a bow to her. He was shocked to see his goddess before him. "Lady Chantico, it is an honor to meet you. Long have I prayed to you my lady." He was surprised by her words, she was actually concerned about him? "I'm sorry if I disturbed you my lady. I was merely thinking on some memories from the past, troubling memories." He told her, his voice a little said at his last words.

[Bentus]

Kalek – Malway

---

The blacksmith sat at the bench of his shop, surrounded by the tools of his trade hanging proudly on the walls. The nomadic inhabitants of Malway did not have as much need of settlements as others, with little intention or desire to throw down permanent roots. However, times change – and it was no different for many Malwain. For a civilization to function, there needed to be places to meet, to trade and to share knowledge. This city had become one such place. The blacksmith had rode on the improving fortunes of his permanent home, developing his shop from a small stall to a well-respected establishment – so respected in fact that he now had the obligation of paper work. It was tiresome and dull, and of all the consequences of a successful life this was the one which he would much prefer to go without. The man’s hand shifted suddenly as the small piece of lead snapped.

“Ahha!” He cursed, throwing down the writing implement and vowing to hire a scribe to complete the forms for him as soon as he had the coin. But, before the blacksmith could elaborate his emotions with further colourful language the unmistakable sound of the opening and closing of a door held his tongue.
“Salaam my friend. How can I help you?” The customer most definitely was not one of his regulars – neither one of the permanent residents nor from one of the local tribes as far as he could tell. He was dressed in weathered garbs, the signs of a traveller, but amongst the nomadic Malway that hardly served to narrow down one’s identity. The man’s features seemed irritated, slightly worn around the edges as if tired. “Have you need for a shoe-horsing? Seems to be that time of year.”

“No. I’m looking for a sword.”

The blacksmith sighed, “Khalas, not the right time of year for one of those.” The man’s accent sounded vaguely familiar to the blacksmith, but he couldn’t quite put his finger on it – it was faded, as if from time. “I am filling the single largest order of my life for swords and bolts right now – for the great Sheikha’s army no less! Every piece of weapon-worthy steel I can get my hands on must be subservient to the wishes of our liege.”

Kalek almost groaned in irritation, what were the chances? “You’ve got to have some sub-par metal lying around, surely? I’m willing to pay double the going rate.” The blacksmith clicked his fingers, his face becoming animated with recognition.

“You are from the south! No? I recognise the accent – it is weak, but it is there!”

The God smiled despite himself, not having realised that a trace of his heritage was still noticeable. “Hah, that I am. The Al-Utaqa tribe specifically, but I have not visited home in many years.”

The blacksmith’s smile seemed to grow even wider. “We are brothers! I was born an Utaqa but left when I came of age.” The man stopped, thinking for a few seconds as he mulled over this new-found knowledge. “I have some spare metal – poor quality I’m afraid – lying in the back. Not enough to make a new weapon, but I might be able to conduct repairs. You don’t strike me as a man out for his first blade.”

Kalek chuckled, wondering if it was that obvious, he was enjoying the small moment of human contact. “Thank you.” He placed the broken hilt of his sword on the bench, what little remained of the blade badly rusted and showing signs of wear. The blacksmith’s eyes fell.

“Yani, I said I could repair a blade – not bring one back from the dead! This sword should have been replaced years ago – whoever sold it to you was a scoundrel.”

“I got it when it was new, I just haven’t had a chance to give it the care it deserves.” Truthfully, the dismantled weapon looked sad, defeated after having fought in the sands so faithfully. The blacksmith shook his head.

“I’m sorry, but I am no God – the impossible is beyond my capabilities.”

Kalek sighed, taking back the withered hilt. If this blacksmith had received such a large order, then he doubted that he’d have much luck with many of his fellow tradesmen. The blacksmith seemed to take his customer’s predicament to heart. “Although I do have something that may be of use.” He said, flashing a mysterious smile. He brought up a small object from beneath his counter, wrapped in a faded grey cloth. With ginger hands, the tradesman slowly unwrapped the protective cover. When it was revealed, he looked up at the incredulous face of Kalek – a look as if he’d just revealed some treasured artefact. “My good friend, behold your weapon!”Kalek stared dumbfounded at the object, uncertain as to how to react.

“A knife?” He spluttered.

“Dagger.”

“A dagger?!”

“And a fine one at that, if I don’t say so myself.”

Kalek felt like he was at the butt of some kind of joke. The realisation that he truly didn’t have any better options inevitably had to dawn, however. “Fine. I appreciate the gesture.” Kalek placed the small, slightly worn, blade in his sheath as he turned to leave.

“Ahem.” The blacksmith cleared his throat, causing Kalek to turn once again towards him.

“That’ll be 84 silver.”

---

Kalek was in less than a pleasant mood as he made his way through the busy city streets, the weight of the dagger at his side an unwanted reminder of his far lighter purse. Fortunately at least, the temperature was becoming bearable as the Sun descended in the sky. He took a swig of a recently-purchased drink, the bitter liquid burning his throat but satiating his thirst. Of course he knew better than to have more than he could handle, only enough to ward off the cooler bites of the desert night.

Truthfully, Kalek was uncertain as to what to do next. He was for all intents and purposes unarmed with nothing to his name, all his belongings lying discarded back out in the sands. It wasn’t the first time he’d been in a situation like this, standing back at square one, but he felt angered by it all. For years Kalek had trudged along, perpetuating the cycle of fighting – with nothing to show for his victories. What was he to do? Once again voyage out to the border to fight the hordes that lay just beyond it? Fight and hack and slash in the forlorn hope that perhaps in the process he was saving a few lives somewhere else? Stop kidding yourself. Kalek had seen it, he knew, for all his beliefs that he had been making some kind of a difference, it all suddenly changed. The monsters and undead pressed forward, encroaching on land where they had never wandered before – and there was nothing that he could do to even slow the tide.

And so he found himself wandering the city, trying to clear his head. As the hours wore on, he found himself repeatedly returning to a single area – an almost imperceptible tug drawing him towards it. Kalek felt curious, and the onset of boredom did little to dissuade him, so he allowed his body to succumb to the pull of the strange force. He couldn’t describe what it was in words, it was a sensation in his gut of something being strangely amiss – off-putting. By this point the streets had only a few souls travelling along their lengths, much of the city turning to sleep after a day’s labour. Kalek walked along slowly, his eyes scanning in an attempt to put a finger on whatever it was that had caught his subconscious.

He slowed to a halt as he came to the central Library – a lauded repository of learning and knowledge across Malway. There was no doubt about it, something was putting his nerves on edge. Casting a few wary glances to ensure nobody was watching, Kalek crouched next to the side-wall of the building, just beside a small window for the basement. As he gave a gentle push, he felt a surge of excitement as the window opened. Driven by a lack of anything better to do, and most probably in part by cheap liquor. Kalek cast one more backwards glance before lowering himself inside the library.

---

Kalek squinted through the dusty air, the pervading darkness of the interior of the building rendering the God half-blind as he wandered the corridors. His eyes had adapted over time, but still the shadows cast by the towering shelves refused to yield all their secrets. Since slipping through the small window, Kalek had not seen a single other soul – a fact that in itself set him slightly on edge. Surely such a store of ancient works such as this would have had better security? Although, Kalek had to admit that it had been a while since he’d set foot within any library.

As he ventured onwards, he thought he noticed a dim glow in the distance – a light. Realising late that that meant that someone else was in the closed off section of the building, Kalek quickly ducked down and rested his hand on the small hilt of his dagger. Having momentarily forgotten of the loss of his sword, the feeling of the blade didn’t fill Kalek with much confidence. Regardless, he’d come this far on a hunch – wouldn’t do himself justice to simply leave without finding something out.

Exercising caution, Kalek leaned out from behind a bookshelf just far enough to get a glimpse of the source of the glow. There, pouring over a haphazard pile of ancient texts and scrolls, was a pale figure – her skin almost golden in the orange light of the lamp. The elf was the last thing Kalek had been expecting. They were rare in Malway full-stop, but one with a complexion more akin to an Ice Nymph than a being built for the desert was entirely out of place. Something was going on, that was for sure. If only he could read the titles of the books…

In his attempts to lean further out so as to gain a better vantage of the texts that consumed the elf’s attention, Kalek knocked into the bookshelf that hid his form. A number of priceless tomes fell to the floor, the flapping of their pages and the loud pounding of their landing rang out like a bell in the abandoned halls. The God winced at the sound, questioning when it would be time for luck to swing in his favour for once.

[Nuridia]

Anna was busily jotting down notes from different teleportation spells and portal hexes, her ebony staff leaning lazily against an empty chair. She hadn't even bothered to disguise herself, she knew her pale complexion was out of place and even more so with her glittering white hair. It wa like strands of solid snow were growing out of her head, flowing over the back of the chair she sat in and almost sweeping the library floor. For some reason, someimes her thoughts turned back to her days in the palace when she and Leticia played together. They used to be close, and when she thought about it the runes tattooed on her skin started to fade and the crimson red of her eyes started to flicker to purple and then icy blue. But then she remembered that it was her father, Leticia's not hers who had banished her, a child from her home for the sins of their mother and had given away the crown to the second daughter and so everything went back to normal. It was quiet and nearly empty, just the way she liked it so she was caught off guard when some priceless tomes clattered to the floor seemingly on their own. The wind wasn't enough to knock down such heavy books. "Who's there?" "Show yourself." Anna called, reaching for her staff that had started to emit smoky wisps of billowy darkness out of the wood and of the blue magic gem resting on top started to glow brightly.

Leticia listened to Tiberius' request, disappointed that there was not more of them but kept the hope alive when they said that they would try to capture her. "Very well Master Eldan, you may set up base in Lorelia and recruit freely for your cause." "However, you may not conscript anybody into the Templars against their will or I will have to subject you to the full authority of the law." "Are we agreed?" the empress asked, the bright crystals and flowers of her headdress swayed a little in the wind and a ruby necklace glittered at her throat. She still held the jeweled flower that had mysteriously come to her, she wondered where it came from. For some reason, she felt safe and cared for when she held it.

Haneul was a bit surprised at Abrok's intoduction and noticeably confused. "There are many like that in parts of the empire, there are many of the world who fit that characteristic actually." "I's a rudimentary description at best, nothing much to work with if you really want help finding these Heroes." "And anyway, the god has given you an image but how will we know him when we see him?" "Unless you accompany us." the empress questioned. In Galith's home, Chantico looked around. "So many tomes and artifacts, don't you ever clean in here?" the goddess asled somewhat jokingly and then heard his words. "Of course I'm concerned about you Galith, you're one of my most special patrons." "Also the energy you were giving out I couldn't ignore." She then saw him get sad. "Something on your mind, and it's not good to like to the Goddess of Fire so tell me the truth." "I didn't come from a day out with my sister to get lied to." Chantico questioned.

[Raktio]

There was only one place which was truely pernamant in Mawlay, the ancient city H'tekl. The city had withstood against time and storm untouched by all the sand stormed which hit it nearly on a daily basis, in fact few other settlements in Mawlay had manged to survive more than a century before natural disaster cleans the slat. The ancient city held many secrets as well, despite being not very large it once had held many more people than a larger city could hold, and all of their horses as well. Its ancient library contained texts from across ages carrying all the knowledge of the Mawlay people and more. Because of this the library was not for general use, and the few librarians were skeptic scholars.

Skaviol walked through the isles of books, scrolls and occasional tablets, after having heard a crash he came to investigate why one of the stacks or something had fallen.

[Tomia]

Abrok looked into Haneul's eyes, he had a way of looking through mortals that most found unnerving. He realized she was quite clever. It wouldn't take too long for her to see through his ruse. He decided he needed to give her more to go on. He concentrated for a moment and took a piece of paper out of his pocket that had a drawing of the man that he had described. It was actually a drawing of Naric before he had turned from the guild. Abrok thought it was appropriate for this moment. "This is the man I am looking for my lady. I don't know how I am supposed to find him. Abrok is often unclear." He handed her the drawing of Naric. He used to look like a normal man, before he became a monster.
Galith looked a little embarrassed at Chantico's words about his home. He didn't get visitors often, especially not goddess'. "Forgive me my lady, I do not get visitors often," He told her as he stood. He was surprised, but glad when Chantico said that he was special to her. He then heard her order him to tell her what was wrong and hesitated for a moment. He had never spoken to anyone about what had happened but Chantico sounded so commanding and confident that he couldn't refuse. "Well, I had a student many years ago. He was an incredibly powerful but troubled man. I thought I could save him, but he kept getting worse. That was until one day Abrok told me I needed to kill him. I couldn't bring myself to do it. I was too weak. This boy, he went on to do terrible things, and I am as guilty as he is. I failed him." Pain was thick in Galith's voice. This was very difficult for him to speak about.

[New Roman Empire]

"But do not worry, the order will grow. Also the only people that will he forced are those chosen by our god. Those who join freely will not be forced. But if we find your sister, we will try to capture her. But I cannot promise a cure. If there is one it will be with our god or in the library. Which you may have access to at anytime. But as I have said before. The Templar's of old put people out of their misery by killing them. So I have no idea if a cure exists." Informed Tiberius

[The Starlight]

The city of Firinel cried out in joy, singing in praise. Starfall, was upon them. Jugglers tossed snowballs, children rushed into permanent, elaborate forts, sledding contests began, and there were many stations of merchants selling their wares, fun activities and hot or cold food for all. Beyond the activity fields, were the fields of moon crystal that went on for miles, some growing in the city, others in trees, and the rest surrounding Firinel, along with the rest of the kingdom. Songs were sung in native tongues, praising Inyel. Elyrith herself had joined in the fun, using her ice powers to create a skating ring, and her snow powers to cheat in the snowball games. Elves stared in surprise as the queen darted between the enemy, waving her hands and directing the snow to form into snowballs, before thudding into adults who weren't having enough fun. Then, she dashed up one of the snow fortresses, giving them a huge pile of perfectly formed snowballs. "No fair!" cried the other team as they ran for cover. Laughing, Elyrith gave the other team some snowballs and continued, trying some of the food and helping build snowflakes, along with looking at various contraptions and devices for sale, even buying a few. This all went on for several hours. Then, of one accord, the Elves gathered at the field of Moon Crystals, and waited, Elyrith at their helm, her gown and cape restored.

Inyel turned to Shade and said, "Too bad, Chantico isn't here right now. But it is time for me to make an appearance." Waving a hand over her body, Inyel was dressed into a blue, silver and gold gown, with a silver cloak, the collars turned up. Putting her hand out to the side, her ice staff appeared, with snowflake designs, winter creatures and ice all over it. At the top was a crystal, the first Moon Crystal, augmented by Inyel to make it unbreakable.

And the goddess Inyel descended in dramatic fashion, floating down on the winter winds, on a cloud of white, brilliant snow. Her cloak sparkled and glittered as she landed softly. Walking forward, as was tradition, she raised her hand to Elyrith's and smiled at her blessed follower. Then she turned, and extended the moon crystal on her staff to a plant. The plant was silver, with the unopened petals covering a rocklike bud. Only Elnaria knew the secret to harvesting them, given to them by Inyel to use and keep secret, so that even if someone got a hold of a moon crystal, they would not be able to harvest it. The moon crystal touched the plant, and with a flash of silver it opened. A tendril of energy from it traveled to the next plant, opening it. The tendrils of energy quickly traveled through Elnaria, opening the plants.

Inyel bent down and picked up a small but radiant rock, which she opened quickly to reveal the most radiant of the moon crystals, though it was small. Stretching out her hand, a small tendril of snow lifted Elyrith's tiara off her head and handed it into Inyel's waiting hand. Working her magic, the goddess gave it back to Elyrith with a smile, the moon crystal snugly fitted in a groove of the tiara. "There you go, my dear Elyrith. You can make the moon crystal disappear by waving a hand over it at anytime, but no one will be able to remove it from your tiara but yourself. And also..." Inyel walked slowly to a tree. Whispering to it, and retrieving two other moon crystals, she handed it to Elyrith. "This too, is yours."
The staff had curvy lines carved lightly into it, the grooves glowing with a silver light. At the top was a sharp moon crystal, nigh unbreakable, the crystal at the bottom of the staff popped out with a press from Inyel, creating a staff for wielding magic or fighting. "Your powers will be even more potent with this staff, and of course, you can make it disappear like your moon crystal." Inyel said, with a soft smile.
"Thank you," said Elyrith, overwhelmed.
"No, dear child, thank you." responded the goddess. "People of Firinel, of Elnaria, know that you are my favored people. And to all who wish to harm them, let me warn them now, This Kingdom is protected!" said Inyel, flashing to her more aggressive side for a minute. "Any who wish to harm them will face the wrath of the oldest goddess on Pangden." Inyel, then flashing back to her calmer side, smiled at Elyrith and the large crowd. "Goodbye now, my people. Farewell, my champion." With a smile, Inyel stepped onto the reformed snow cloud and floated back up to Elurith.

[Nuridia]

"I'm sure there's a cure somewhere out there." "Every problem has a solution, except death of course." the empres s said determinedly." Very well, there is a former army fortress that you can all set up shop in." "Here are the directions and now I must take my leave of you." "The affairs of state never wait for anybody I'm afraid." Leticia told Tiberius, bowing her head to them before going back inside the palace. She was headed to the library to get her research done.

In Mawlay, Anna saw another person walking in between the shelves of the supposedly abandoned library. Damn it all, I'll never be able to make a portal to the underworld with all these people around! I can't work under these conditions! the elf swore in her head, deciding to take all the magic books she could and go to a more isolated place. Meanwhile Chantico heard Galith's story. "I'll have to go rejoin Inyel soon, but I want you to know I'm so sorry for you, it couldn'tve been easy." "Like your own son he probably was and to see him fall." She then thought back about a Hero who had gone rogue and her eyes widened with realization. "He was the Centurion wasn't he?" she asked although she knew the answer.

Haneul took the picture that Abrok had given her and studied it. "I've never seen this face in my life." "I mean it could be here seing as the empire is so large, but tthis is a face I don't think is even on this part of the continent at least from my travels." 'And we're quick to ask favors but I don't even know your name or where you're from." "I am Haneul of the Kakyuzu Empire, what might your name be?" the empress asked.