The Kingdom of Tych (IC/Fantasy/Open)

[New Finnish Republic]

Edward turned to face Esvee. Hearing that last bit had finally broken his stoic composure. A small grin appeared on Edward's face.

"Well, that girl does owe me a date night involving a glass of wine. Who knows, maybe I'll luck out."

The mood now lightened, Esvee returned Edward's grin with her own. Although he wouldn't admit it out loud, he was glad that she had made the attempt to cheer Edward up. He hated being so uptight and depressing. It wasn't like him, and didn't fit his otherwise usual eccentric personality. To be completely honest, I wish I didn't have to do this. I wish I could just be relaxing back at that farm with Haruna. That's definitely my plans once I retire out of this Guild. That is, if I live long enough to see that through. A cry from the ship's lookout up in the crow's nest indicated that they were getting close to the shore. Knowing that they'd be reaching landfall soon, the other Ana-Ga agents began to appear from below deck to join Edward and Esvee, eager to get off the boat.

Counting Esvee, there were a total of five agents accompanying Edward on his journey. Each were formerly under the command of AG, but each had pledged their loyalty to Edward. In no particular order, they were as follows: Harold Longfellow, a man who was extremely deadly with a bow, similar to Edward with the exception that in close quarters combat he didn't have much to offer, meaning that in fights he stayed back away from the main action. Lucia Redwood, a woman gifted with the art of dual wielding daggers, she specialized in exploiting weak points of her opponents, as was also extremely light on her feet, making sneaking up and assassinating her targets quite easy for her. Richard Ironheart, a large man armed with a greatsword that matched his size, was always at the center of the fight. Fredrick Bakerson, armed with a shield and an axe, was a long time battle partner of Richard Ironheart, and used his shield to absorb the blows of the enemy while Richard would deliver the fatal blow. Finally, Esvee, armed with a variety of traps, acted as a strategist as she guided those under her into the most ideal battle situations.

And then there was Edward. A master with a variety of weapons and contraptions, he was arguably the most versatile and deadly Ana-Ga agent that had been seen in quite some time. With these other agents supporting him, Edward was confident that they'd be ready for whatever faced them on their journey.

As they disembarked, their horses were waiting for them as well as some more supplies that they'd need for the next few days. It'd be several days before they reached their destination, and Edward hoped that their trip would be peaceful and uninterrupted. However, as they traveled down the road later that day, Edward felt a strange presence watching them. Looking around, Edward noticed the others were on edge as well.

Prepared for a fight, the group continued on their journey.

[Karsopolis]

"More visions of Antarbane. What was that place? How long ago were the visions I see? When did it fall? So much is shrouded in history, but I know all of the answers are here, how to save Tych from such selfish fracture. And yet, I have no time. First Haruna was in danger, now it seems La-Fu could be back. How he may have returned I'm not certain. No matter. That challenge will be faced when it arrives. For now I follow Rican."

With that, Cedric hurried after the Keeper. Suddenly, they came to marbled cloisters. As they walked through them, Cedric saw many paintings hung on the walls. There were paintings of Antarbane, as well as early Knight Enforcers. After a long walk through the winding paths, the pair came to another altar, resting in a small alcove. After the altar, the cloister turned into yet another portion of the complex.

Cedric also noticed that since retrieving the first relic, the icon Haruna had given to him had begun to glow. Unlike the earlier bursts of hot, divine light, this was a gentler warmth that persisted. The Enforcer was shaken from his thoughts when Rican suddenly said, "Now the second trial begins. This is the Trial Of Fear, in front of you is the Altar Of The Heart. Touch it, and begin the trial." With that, Rican vanished, and Cedric wondered what would await him. Slowly, he touched the altar.

Again, Cedric fell to the floor, and was transported outside his body to another plane. This time, he saw a horde of demons. Leading them was La-Fu, and he saw them pillaging a ruined city. Cedric took in the carnage. Screams of humans filled the air, and demonic cackling echoed through the ruins. Cedric looked down at himself, and he seemed different. His armour was covered in blood and gore, as well as his weapons. Beneath the stains, he could faintly discern the paint of his armour. The designs were different though. The armour looked much bulkier, yet maintaining elegance and beauty. If this weren't a vision, Cedric suspected it would weigh more. There was also a new symbol, but he could barely make it out beneath the many stains.

The Knight suddenly noticed another corpse, a woman. Turning the body over, Cedric saw the face of Haruna, the madness in her eyes replaced with the cold glassiness of death. Surprised, the Knight took several steps backwards, crashing to the ground soon after. Upon rising and looking over what caused him to trip, it was another corpse. This one belonged to Albercio, his witty tongue having fallen permanently silent. Lying close by was Mitzhla, and the sight of her body caused Cedric genuine pain. Finally, he saw a final corpse. The man was none other than Edward. In one hand was a message of some sort.

Grasping it, Cedric tried to read, but it was in a complex Ana-Ga code. "Edward's final orders, I suppose. But what's all this? Where is this place? Where have all of my friends gathered to make a common grave? Why did we gather, and make it easy for whatever did this? And what does the message contain? An explanation, perhaps?"

The Knight's thoughts were interrupted by the wicked laugh of La-Fu. The demon asked in a mocking tone, "Mystified, Enforcer? Are you going to ask questions, or are you simply going to persist in your faith? Will you keep marching towards your doom? Towards all of this?"

"So you've returned, demon," Cedric replied evenly. "Speak plainly. I dont know what this place is, but this cant be real. This cannot be the future."

"Oh but it is," the demon replied. "My kind will reign in Tych, and nothing you do can stop us. If all of your party changes, then you may have a chance. But though you're closer to being ready to oppose me, you are not a Paladin yet. That is the only way you hope to stop me." The demon then added in a darker voice, one that seemed to penetrate the deepest corners of Cedric's mind, "But you will fail. You and all you love will be destroyed. All your life, you and everyone in House Sharp has lived for others. You, your Enforcer order, your Lord Sharp, and your noble House will fail the realm and everyone you care about. Tych is going to burn, there is nothing you can do to stop it. You'll only be able to watch, until you're the only thing left standing, and everything you love is ruin. Look. It's happened already."

La-Fu pointed behind Cedric. He saw the body of Lord Sharp now, lying atop a pile of corpses. Flanking the bodies were two flags, both tattered and burnt. One was the flag of House Sharp, the other of the Knight Enforcers. Cedric recognised many of his friends in the silvery armour, and he was filled with a sense of hopelessness. La-Fu then added, "It's all come crashing down. First I went for the Capital, then Tych, and finally Brightstone. You couldn't even trust your friends. You have no idea what the Ana-Ga hid from you in that coded script, or what else is really going on. You couldn't trust your gods either, who failed to save your every step of the way. It's all in vain."

Seeing the bodies of his friends, Cedric was filled with a sense of anger. He turned back to La-Fu and said, "Perhaps. But that doesn't mean I'll stop. My friends may be dead, but I'll never stop fighting you. I'll never stop hating your kind. I'll continue to do all in my power to kill you all, for others when they survive, and for vengeance when I'm alone. No matter how much you destroy, I will oppose you." Cedric then raised the icon Haruna had given him, and shouted in a commanding tone, "In the name of Knox and Kendra, I command you back to where you came. Return to the cities in Tych you've already ravaged. This is hallowed ground, and you have no power here."

Roaring in anger, La-Fu seemed to dissipate as the symbol glowed with a blinding light. Feeling weakened, Cedric lost consciousness, and upon waking, had returned to his body. He slowly rose, and saw Rican applauding once more. The spirit said evenly, "Nicely done, Cedric. You've passed this trial as well. You didn't even need my help this time."

Another object appeared on the Altar Of The Heart. Rican stated at its appearance, "The Relic Of Conviction. Take it and follow. There's a final trial."

[Kanilion]

The Ana-Ga

Edward's party rode hard along the trade roads leading to the East. The devastation of war is obvious, few caravans were spotted, and there were more destroyed wagons and dead bodies than intact ones. It will take six days of hard riding to a small farming community about a hundred miles away from the Capital, where the meeting with the Eastern leaders are scheduled to take place at. Aware of being watched, the party rode hard past Moruzzo, taking note of its destruction and the darkness which envelopes it. Taking it back would be hard, especially with rumors of demons and unearthly creatures inhabiting it.

As they followed the route, the Ana-Ga entered a forest north of central Tych. It is with their vigilance on the main demon threat, as well as the speed of their travel, that the party failed to notice the trap which sprung right in front of them. Edward reacted, but his horse bundled into the huge web, throwing the rider free of the trap. Unfortunately, Esvee and the others weren't so lucky, as they were soon caught in the Web, with strands as strong as steel. Stuck fast, the web seemed to spin, pinning human and beast as it tightened into a cocoon.

Immediately, a war cry came from the forest, as camouflaged humanoids emerged, clothed in thin cloaks whose color blended with the environment, their longbows loaded and ready. Caught in the open, Edward could only watch as the figures surrounded him. A single figure left the circle, approaching Edward.

With a snarl, Edward got to his feet, drawing his weapons and getting into his stance, Hannyou and Kolbito being wielded in the now-familiar two-weapon stance. Seeing his men tangled in the web, trapped with the horses and unable to extricate themselves, Edward knew that he has to move fast. His instinct telling him that this figure is the leader, he prepared to challenge him when the figure stopped, raising his hand even as the others lifted their longbows.

"Stop." The figure commanded, a male voice in the Tychian tongue. Edward could make out two blue eyes peering at him from under the hood, right before the figure took it off. A figure with short golden hair, tanned skin and sharp pointy ears. The figure stared hard at Edward and his blades, before raising a hand at the human. Edward did not feel anything affecting him, rather, his weapons began to hum. Lowering his hand, the elf stared hard at Edward.

"You wield the weapons made of materials born of the Forest." Edward hardly registered the words as the elf drew two scimitars quicker than he could see. "And your stance..." The elf shifted to a two-weapon fighting stance, a familiar stance, Haruna's stance."... is of the Rangers. There are few, if any, humans who knew this stance. Quickly reveal the source of your blades and fighting knowledge, lest I run you through to preserve the lives of my men in this time of hell."

---

The Monastery

Another vision came upon Cedric as he touched the relic. This time, he stood in the middle of a camp of wounded and dying. Clerics hurried from one person to another, and Cedric could see the exhausted bodies of many other men of the cloth. Walking around, Cedric could see the garish wounds, claw and bite marks, clearly the work of beasts not of the Mortal Realm. Chanting could be heard as priests raised their hands in prayer, hoping for divine intervention to bring them out of the mess. The cries of the wounded penetrated Cedric's heart, as another wagon of wounded trundled into the camp.

"We cannot hold them. There is too many. Volyusia is doomed. This might be our last stand before they reach Citadel Vallak." The discussions of captains and sergeants could be heard, as the soldiers mused about their future. Many have already accepted their fate of death as they sharpened their weapons, while others simply wanted to give up, to lie down and face death without a fight. The despair and negativity was apparent throughout, as fear has gripped the hearts of the Volyusian Army.

All that seemed to disappear, when trumpets blared, announcing the arrival of an army. Everybody's heads turned to see a contingent of armoured figures enter the camp, some atop warhorses, most on foot. A cry from the side, Cedric turned to see the man pointing to the sky. Looking up, Cedric could see griffins circling the camp, with flashes of sunlight reflecting off metal. A cheer went around the camp as the banner of Volyusia is carted in.

A man wearing full plate got onto a rock. On his hand is a greatsword with runes inscribed on the blade, and a trace of gemstones embedded within the metal. "Men and women of Volyusia! You have fought well. Today, no matter your fatigue or weariness, you will no longer be alone. We are the Paladins, ready to stand against the evil which consumes our land!" A distant roar could be heard, as scouts scrambled back, heralding the arrival of the demons. "Do not fear! Watch us, and follow us if you will. For it is now, that the Paladins shall carry the day against the Darkness! Move out!"

The Army of Volyusia and the Paladins, gathering for battle

A cheer rose among the fresh troops, as the newly arrived army marched down the mountain onto the open fields, where a blanket of red and black marked the demons. Cedric could not count them, nor even estimate. He could not even imagine an army of such a magnitude existing everywhere, especially not in Tych. As the army marched past him, Cedric could see the two squires from the previous vision. Decked in full plate mail, the two wore grim expressions hidden behind their helmets. Behind them, Rican wore an open helmet, carrying the weapons of the two infront of him, as well as a pennant.

"Now you see. We still have much to do. Come along now."

As they walked towards the next chamber, Rican could not help but ask. "Those people who appeared in the Trial. Tell me about them. The men, and the women."

[New Finnish Republic]

Edward glanced around nervously. Cursing under his breath, he weighed his options. He was surrounded, outnumbered, and if he tried to fight, his companions would surely be killed. Fighting was not an option. After a few choice words, Edward reluctantly put his weapons away. Holding up his hands to show he wasn't trying anything funny, he approached the elven leader.

"The blades were produced by a smith originating from the East. Regarding the stance, a close friend of mine knew a few tricks and showed them to me, and I mixed it with my own fighting style. I'd love to be able to introduce you to her, but she's a little...preoccupied at the moment."

Edward's words came out a venom as he mentioned Haruna. All these elves were doing was slowing them down. They were nearly there, only a day's ride away, and they couldn't afford to be late. So being ambushed by a group of elves didn't sit with Edward too well. Thus, he was impatient to get this over.

"Look, whoever you are, I understand that we're rolling through your neighborhood right now, and you're fairly upset. I can also understand that you're pretty jumpy nowadays between Oliver's forces and these Demons. But if you don't let us through, things are going to get a lot worse in Tych. Now that you know that, I'm going to politely ask that you let me companions down, and allow us to be on our way. Sound good?"

[Kanilion]

"We already know what you're here for. Your comrades are currently in our village, requesting an alliance between the Ana-Ga and the Rangers. A mile more to the East, you would see a demon eating one of your fellow men, having destroyed a group of assassins with four simple swipes. This is not the time to engage it." Raising his hands, the webs seemed to recede at speed. The strands dissolved into mana, flowing back into the elf's fingers. The rangers quickly helped the Ana-Ga and their animals up, as the elf motioned to Edward. "Hurry, we do not have much time."

Walking through a hidden path, Edward moved right behind the leader, who is the point man. "I know of that blade, and I know of the fighting stance." The elf muttered. Surprised, Edward looked up at the elf, who just kept his eyes forward, moving through the bush as if it never existed. "The composition of your blades are similar to an unfinished sword I saw two years ago. A Holy Sword, the smith said. Meanwhile, I taught her the fighting stance. Since you spoke highly of the person, I assume you know who Haruna is, owner of a good forge, an average inn, and soup which is better used as a medicine for indigestion, than a refreshment."

Taking an arrow from a quiver, the elf showed Edward it's arrowhead. "I do not do this to any stranger, but since you are acquainted with the one who I helped, and being part of a potential ally, this is what she made. An arrowhead which pierced plate armour, yet the tip is only slightly bent. If I fire it again, it would be it's seventh shot."

Arriving at a clearing, the elf raised his longbow, and from behind Edward, another elf appeared, seemingly from inside the tree. "Warden Althurin, I see you brought friends." "And many friends to come it seems. Bring them to Elder Valin, have these six and their horses tended for. I have a score to settle with the demon down the road."

---

The elf peered out of the forest, looking at the demon as it fed off the corpse of a guardsman. Noticing the elf, the beast turned and faced it's next meal, anticipating the ranger's movements. Drawing out his bow, the Ranger took an aim just as the demon turned. Firing off an arrow, the silvered tip sliced the top of its head, opening a deep gash. Roaring, the demon charged the elf, roaring as a human looked on from the shadows, a katana in hand...

The elf drew his scimitars as the demon charged into the bush, his feet moving like a blur as his silvered weapons gouged flesh from the fiend. Swinging wildly, the demon slammed the ground in an attempt to throw the elf off balance, but the Ranger was not affected, primarily because he was never on the ground. Leaping into the air as the fiend hammered the earth, the elf landed on the demon, giving it a flurry of slashes in quick succession. Targeting the eyes, the Ranger thrust both his scimitars into the fiend's head, robbing it of its truesight, just as he landed without a sound. His soft fur boots and cloth armor not giving his position away.

Stalking the demon, the Ranger took his time. Arrow after arrow sliced through its flesh, when one finally reached the demon's heart. The demon froze as its eyes regenerated, staring at the Ranger, just as two arrows entered the sockets. A final thrust deep into the demon's chest took the strength from the fiend, falling limp in death.

"Too easy for you, it seems, Silvanus." Zoran Kaverosky said as he emerged from the cover of trees.

"I assumed that you would wanted to have some fun with the demon, as you had requested. I thought wrong." Silvanus the Elven Ranger replied. "Just standing there, sitting your ass off... What does the Night Blades want to do with the Elves?"

"You're inquisitive for an elf. Mightily so. As you have known, demonic creatures are coming from the Capital. The Night Blades are the only cohesive force between the Woodland and the Capital. The Human armies are tied down by their borders, the Magic City is coming under siege." Zoran muttered as he stabbed Kamikazeinto the demon. Instead of absorbing it's essence, the Blooded weapon seared through the flesh, causing a garish wound. Even when dead, the demonic influence remains something to be purged. "They come at an unprecedented rate, Silvanus. We will need your answer soon. The Rangers can prove decisive in this conflict."

Laughing as he pulled out the last arrow stuck in the demon. Silvanus laughed. "I, Silvanus Althurin, has seen much more than you have, Zoran Kaverosky. It is but a matter of time before Tych is overrun. You, for one, has ignored all the signs, allowing yourself to be consumed by external forces. You are the perfect swordsman, yet your selfishness blurred your sight, blunted your edge..."

It was rapid, as Kamikaze glowed. Zoran hand reached for the collar of Silvanus' bard, when an elven hand caught it. "Too slow. Your worldly desires cloud your sight, human."

"You don't know what they demanded of me. I was a normal man, living a normal life." Zoran spat. "When I touched that sword, I saw. There is no life, no future, only pain, sacrifice, and death. I needed my space, I need to control my own destiny!" Looking into the stoic eyes of the elf, Zoran saw contempt. "You elves do not know. We humans live less than eighty years, most of them either as a child, or infirm."

"And that is why you tried to run from your destiny? Zoran Kaverosky?" The elf replied, pushing the human's wrist to the side. "Come. Just give it a try. Come to the village, seek the elder."

Zoran resisted for a moment, before pulling his hand away. He knew his actions in the past were unforgivable, as well as his participation in the war. However, he also knew that he needed help. To get rid of his calling, or curse, as he chose to call it. Kamikaze is a weapon which helps its wielder achieve his desires, and in his panic, Zoran has turned to the extremes. He knew that he has hurt those who loved him, and although his actions as a Night Blade could be justified by duty, the crimes he committed at a village in the past...

"One chance. I'll give you elves, this one chance."

[New Finnish Republic]

As the Warden led the Ana-Ga agents towards their destination, Edward realized why the other Commanders had been so eager to have Edward meet up with them. A potential deal with the Rangers would be huge, and having one of the few people who slayed the Demon General La-Fu would be extremely influential. More than likely, the Commanders were hoping to use Edward as a motivator in negotiations. It was also no surprise that they didn't inform Edward of the true purpose of the meeting. He didn't like being used as a pawn in the schemes of others, and if he'd known that he was going to be used, Edward would've probably backed out of the deal. At least, in normal circumstances. However, these were not normal circumstances, so Edward was forces to grit his teeth and play along.

Once they reached the ruins, Althurin led them to a small building that was still somewhat intact. Entering, Edward looked over to the other three Commanders sitting at a round table in the center of the room. Edward was the odd one among the bunch, being as young as he was. The other Commanders were in their mid 40's to early 50's. As such, the other Commanders seemed to give less respect to Edward, even though he had more than proved himself worthy of the title of Commander.

Edward also noted an elf who only could have been the Elder Valin that the other elf had mentioned prior. He seemed to study Edward carefully as he walked in. The man couldn't help but be skeptical when he tried to think of the young man in front of him being one of those who slayed the might Demon General La-Fu. However, unlike the humans sitting across from from him, the elf did not prejudge Edward based purely on his appearance alone. Instead, he would judge Edward based on his words and actions.

Before Edward could sit down, the other Commanders rose from their seats and gave Edward the Ana-Ga salute as a welcoming sign. Edward returned it, and as he did, one of the Commanders stepped forward and began to address the elven leader.

"Now that our contributor is here, I think we can begin with our meeting. My name is Commander Xi. I lead the Eastern region Ana-Ga element. To my right is Commander Bow, leader of the Northern region Ana-Ga element. To his right is Commander B, leader of the Southern Ana-Ga element. The man who just entered is none other than Commander Daggerson, the man who led our forces into battle as well as slay General La-Fu during the Battle of the Pass. He leads our Central and Western elements."

Xi and the rest of the Ana-Ga Commanders gave a short bow towards the eleven leader, who seemed to have a somewhat annoyed look on his face.

"So, Commander Xi, why does this Commander Daggerson control two separate regions while the rest of you control one?"

The question took Xi off guard. He quickly tried to explain himself, but Valin stopped him.

"It's obvious to see who the real leader is here. Now step aside so that Commander Daggerson can come through."

Now both flustered and angry, Xi reluctantly allowed Edward to address the elven elder. All eyes were now on Edward. Oh, great. Speeches. I despise speeches. Sighing, Edward began to start.

"I'll be honest with you, Elder Valin. We need help. We're too spread out between fighting off the Night Blades and now the Demonic threats that have began to appear. Without support, the only thing I can guarantee is that this war will most certainly end bloodier than any of us would rather avoid.

So, knowing that, I'm asking your support towards the Ana-Ga for the remainder of the war. Lend your warriors, your scouts, your mages, and anything else you might mind useful, and I swear that we'll beat back the Demon Horde."

The elven Elder considered Edward's proposal for a bit, until he finally made up his mind.

"Fine, human. We'll accept your offer. However, only on the condition that you keep the fight away from our homelands. Make your next words carefully human, since elven promises are designed to be kept. If they are not, you can expect to see our swords pointed towards you as well as the Demoic force."

Edward grinned towards the other Commanders. They'd done it. They had secured an alliance with the Rangers. As Edward reached his hand out towards the elf, a voice suddenly interrupted them.

"Ah, it appears we've arrived a little late to these negotiations. A shame, we could've offered much more than those Ana-Ga could've even dreamed about."

Turning around, Edward saw an injured man being brought into the room with the help of a few Rangers. His wounds bandaged up, it looked like he'd gotten into a nasty fight, and barely came back with his lives. Looking down at the man's apparel, Edward suddenly realized who the man was. Or at least, what group he was a part of.

"That bastard's a Night Blade! What's he doing here?!"

Edward's protest was soon followed by Xi.

"Those bastards are working for those Demon bastards, I know it. I ought to run you through right now, Night Blade."

A dry chuckle came from the Night Blade.

"You see, your story would have some merit, if it wasn't for the fact that it was a Demon who inflicted these wounds upon me. If it had not been for these elves, I would've easily perished. The elves know where we stand. The real question is where you stand, Ana-Ga."

Edward couldn't hold himself back anymore. The mere suggestion that Edward would side with the bastards that destroyed Moruzzo made his blood boil, and soon a fist was flying straight for the Night Blade's face. However, his fist was caught right before it landed. Looking over for the source of the interruption, Edward's jaw dropped in shock. Gripping his wrist tightly, was none other than his mortal enemy. The man who had plagued his nightmares for so long.

Zoran, The Nightblade.

[Kanilion]

Gripping Edward's hand with a vice-like hold, Zoran forced the Ana-Ga's hand to the side, while giving each of the other Commanders a stare which promises death. His mere presence, as well as the weapons he carried, especially the black curved longsword, made it evident that he is no normal Night Blade. The berth that the Elvish Commander, Silvanus Althurin, gave him as the two entered the building. Giving everyone a look, Silvanus raised an eyebrow at Zoran, who shrugged back in response.

"Told you, they don't take well to us." Zoran muttered. "That may be, but it remains." The first Night Blade commented. "We do not need the Ana-Ga, who were so badly battered during the opening stages, to help. After al-" The Night Blade, trying to portray an air of superiority, was silenced with an elbow to the face. Collapsing, Zoran turned back to the group, before giving the Elder a nod. Nodding in return the old elf gestured for everyone to return to their seats. "This is not the place nor time to be causing friction, or remembering past conflicts. The war has escalated, and Zoran here has brought important information for us to consider."

"Yes Elder. For one, this position in the North, has been compromised." Shifting to the door, Zoran grabbed a bunch of severed heads, belonging to several dead demons. "Five miles south of the Border, they have infiltrated this far. Some said that they came from Moruzzo, where our Ana-Ga acquaintances made landfall near. If there is to be a counterattack, the forces from Cotalli will have to push through that city, while we on the other front, can try to assist other conventional forces. As we agreed, Elder, the elves will not be on the frontlines, but the remainder of the Night Blades will. Whether the Ana-Ga joins us or not, I trust they have the brains to position themselves well."

Ignoring the stares of the Ana-Ga, Zoran cut a relaxed figure as he respectfully explained his observations to the Elder. The Warden just stood by the side, chewing on a root as he listened in as well. "Well, there is another factor. These demons are growing in side and strength. This-" Holding up the head of the Mid-Demon he just killed, Silvanus continued. "-is the biggest we've seen so far. Although I could take it down single-handedly, not everyone can. Elder, Humans, a decision has to be made fast. As soon as this is settled, Zoran leaves immediately for the South, where he and the Night Blades will take the frontline alongside the remaining armies."

"Also, every Night Blade has turned him or herself in for judgement. Some were executed, but most are proving themselves in the field of battle, even now. By talking here, I am wasting everybody's time. Also, I nearly forgot." Standing, Zoran left the building for a while. Some time later, he returned with a wounded Ana-Ga agent. Edward could recognise him as one of the agents watching over Sharp's Cell.

"Fished him out of hot water couple of days ago. Also where my sleeping comrade got his wounds. Both would have died had I not interfered. Still, I'm also up to your judgement, Ana-Ga, but I need a definite answer so I can be on my way."

Raising his hands, the Night Blade again looked at everyone at the table, although his gaze on Edward was one of clear superiority.

"What say you?"

[Remnants of Exilvania]

Mainland Tych
Shores of House Udaynath

Nothing could have warned the kingdom of the danger that was now marching out of the water at it`s northern coastlines. The only indicator of the approaching army would have been the dead animals of the deep sea, those living on the ground of the ocean, swimming now on top of the waves. The Skeleton army had cut down anything in it`s path when they had been walking down there. And when the fishermen discovered the dead animals it was already too late. It had been a wonderful idea. The ships of the north had been burned down to contain the plague, making a crossing of the sea by ship impossible for now. The materials for building new ships were there but it would have taken the army too long to build enough ships for the army so that they could all be transported to the mainland. And so he had decided that he would just let the army walk along the ground of the sea. They were already dead so they couldn`t drown and so he didn`t really have to ship his troops over the ocean.

And now, after all this time of walking through the coldest and darkest parts of the sea, parts where the only light had been the blue light emanating from every skeletons blue orbs in place of their eyes, they had finally reached the rocky coast and the cliffs of northern Tych. The Skeleton Lord just stood there on a rock standing out of the water, with water running out of his armour while he took a good look at the coast. All around him the heads or even the whole upper bodies of the Skeletons were standing out of the water, all waiting for his orders. Before them was one of the few natural harbours of this part of the coast. And of course House Udaynath had made use of it. A small settlement was there probably inhabited by fishermen. And they seemed to have some guards. That was good. Now that he had reached the mainland it didn`t make much sense to stay hidden so he`d better instill as much terror as possible. If the guards would get this spooky view of the Skeletons just standing out of the water and not moving they`d probably think at first that they were hallucinating and then later blame it on the ghosts of the drowned. No one would believe that there was an actual army standing in the water, ready to slaughter any and everyone.

The Skeleton Lord then just slowly raised his sword and out of it came a blue bolt that just headed straight towards the settlement. There it hit the town hall and at first nothing happened but in the next moment giant ice spikes were bursting through the walls and the roof from the inside of the building and that with high speed. Some of those had blood on them and one of the spikes actually had impaled someone who was now stuck on the top of the ice spike. And this had only been a signal to the main army to move in. Line after line, cohort after cohort, regiment after regiment of Skeletons was slowly walking out of the water. The destruction of the town hall had now alerted even the rest of the settlement people were running out of their huts, screaming in terror when they saw what had happened to the town hall and then again when they saw what was coming out of the water.

But some people still hadn`t lost their hearts and quickly grabbed fishing tools and other things that could function as weapons. Those people were mainly the men and mostly those who had family. They wanted to try to hold the Skeleton advance to help their families get away and warn the armed forces of this threat. Brave but stupid. Even fleeing wouldn`t save their families. The army would stay behind them and continue to follow them untill they were cornered. Neither the fact that many of the fishermen`s families were escaping on horseback nor the fact that their husbands were giving them additional time would change this. And then the waves of Skeletons just flooded over the fishermen`s opposition. This small resistance had given the almost no time to the families. The fighting abilities of the Skeletons may be not the best and they were rather slow but they were determined and didn`t fear death or injury. They just threw themselves at the fishermen, almost burying them beneath themselves, while stabbing them with all weaponry they had at every place they could possibly hit.

While his Skeletons were ripping the fishermen apart, the Skeleton Lord approached a building that looked like some kind of stables. Entering it he could see that most of the horses were gone and only the old and weak were still left in here. Excellent. The knights of his army would appreciate to have some mounts again. Behind him the Skeletons had finished their bloody work and were now climbing up the ruins of the town hall, ramming a spear with the banner of the house von Kaltstein

into the halls roof. This settlement had been taken and the crusade of death had begun.

[New Finnish Republic]

Edward swore under his breath. We need all the help we can get, and this bastard knows it. In any other situation I'd shove a sword straight up his ass and be on my way. However, this isn't any other situation. The reports I've gotten from my men are showing that the situation is getting worse and worse by the day. If we don't do something soon, Tych is going to be overrun by this Demonic horde. Edward looked up to the other Commanders. Edward noticed that each man's head was down, unwillingly to speak up. Whether it was from anger, fear, or simply not knowing what to say, it looked like they wanted Edward to answer. I also suppose that bastard is wanting me to do the talking anyways. Edward couldn't help but let out an exasperated sigh.

"I wish I could tell you that your sentence was death, and I'd be the executioner. However, given the current situation, I can't afford that. Regardless of how much of a bastard you are, your fighting prowess is undeniable, and we need every blade we can muster. "

Edward saw Zoran giving Edward a smug look. It was obvious to Edward that Zoran was happy to see Edward do exactly what he wanted him to do. Granted, Edward also didn't think he would've cooperated had Edward told him what he wanted to. Edward continued.

"Don't think this means your off the hook. Once this invasion has been stopped and the Prince is crowned, the Night Blades will be all put to trial. Especially you, Zoran. Haruna told me what you did. You traitorous scum. If the Gods actually cared about justice, they'd have struck you down long ago. However, this Demon invasion has showed us that the Gods have forsaken us. Therefore, until this is all done, you have my word that we'll cease all operations against your organization."

Edward crossed his arms as he locked eyes with Zoran. Edward displayed no weakness, and instead made it abundantly clear that he and Zoran were equals now.

"What say you, Night Blade?"

[Kanilion]

At the mention of Haruna's name, a grimace came over Zoran, and the Warden's expression changed to one of concern. Trembling, Zoran's hand shifted to the black katana by his side, causing the Ana-Ga to be on the alert. However, the Night Blade tossed the sword to Silvanus, who caught it and kept it from sight. Also, with the words of 'trial', the other commanders lowered their heads even more.

"And since when, is the Ana-Ga already the official victors of the war? Their crimes are to be ignored due to victor's bias? Like how they mentally raped Haruna? I have seen it, Edward Daggerson, your naivety, your weakness. You talk as if you have a position of power, but do you even wield true power? Little boy, each of these commanders have earned their way up. I have reports that the Cotalli Cell went to your control, only because you ended them, a power struggle perhaps, a kid trying to impress a girl?" Zoran held his stare at Edward, but did nothing else. Without the influence of his blade, Zoran could finally speak more, and kill less.

With the others unwilling to speak up against the Night Blade, the Elder gave a slight cough. "Now let's not go into making future promises. We elves have already forgiven the other Commanders of their crimes committed to us over the past centuries. You might not know, but these Commanders have been acting under the orders of the King, to incorporate our Rangers into the Ana-Ga, be it by force, or otherwise. Settle the Demons, then settle things within ourselves. You humans already have such a short lifespan, it is better to think wisely. Zoran has made his deal, it is in the hand of Commander Daggerson, to see if this meeting is fruitful, or not."

Nodding, Zoran decided not to press the matter anymore. "Every hour we waste, more demons appear. The Night Blades will be at the frontline supporting House Martin and House Karl. The elves are free to deploy as and when they like. Motioning to Edward, Zoran stepped out of the building, giving the surroundings a cautious look. Edward stepped out to see Zoran standing still, facing outwards, his back to the Ana-Ga.

"I see that she is not around. I have heard rumours, of what your own Ana-Ga has done to her. Perpetrators of justice? Your kind makes me laugh. At least we Night Blades go about our duty without moral considerations. Have you even told Lord Sharp of his family? I forgot. It would be morally incorrect, but it helps the war effort, does it not?" Seeing Edward scrunch up his face at Zoran's knowledge, the Night Blade answered his question. "Do you not think that we have spies, inside? You Ana-Ga were supposed to go over to the side of Oliver, yet some of you did not. Those who did, could still exist within your ranks..." Zoran would have continued, has it not been for two Night Blades who approached him. Raising a hand towards Edward, a sign to keep silent, Zoran nodded as the two gave their reports.

Without a word to Edward, Zoran brushed past the Ana-Ga, into the hut, and Edward could feel a breeze of wind, a familiar feeling from their encounter in Moruzzo, as Zoran reappeared at the other side of the ruins, preparing for a hard ride.

Silvanus walked out of the building, still chewing on his root. Looking at Edward's stoic demeanor, Silvanus has no choice but to push in the point of the meeting. "Well, they laid down their terms. Already they are fighting at the front, with some of my Rangers. Sad to say some Ana-Ga has also killed my elves when they saw us working in concert with the Night Blades, therefore a formal understanding is needed. You humans, I hope you do not bear grudges as long as the dwarves."

Looking at Edward's blades, the elf continued. "Well, you came from a hard ride. Feel free to rest, have some herbs and tea. Perhaps you might even tell me how Haruna is doing, since you mentioned her name."

[New Finnish Republic]

Edward clenched his fists in anger. Not just at Zoran himself, but also at the fact that he knew the truth behind Zoran's words. The Ana-Ga had strayed off the path that had originally been bestowed upon them. What they had done was unforgivable. Even Edward was guilty of this, as Zoran had pointed out. Edward had tried to justify his actions for the greater good of Tych, but using that logic meant that Edward was no different than AG or the other Commanders who had done similar deeds.

However, this realization did not defeat Edward. Instead, it strengthened him. He finally had come to the conclusion that the Ana-Ga had become weak. How else would they, those who had once been praised as the deliverers of Justice from the shadows, have been so beaten down that they had to resort to dreadful acts.

Reform isn't what is needed. No, something more drastic. A new beginning. A rebirth. It's clear that the other men that called themselves leaders of the Ana-Ga aren't capable of it. I must lead us into this new age.

Edward suddenly sprinted off in the direction of where Zoran had gone off to. The Warden gave Edward a confused look as the Ana-Ga flew by.

"I'll be right back!"

As he approached the edge of the ruins, Edward quickly climbed up a partially destroyed tower, and looked down to see Zoran and his Night Blades beginning to leave. Cupping his hands around his mouth, Edward shouted as loud as he could towards the Night Blade.

"The next time we meet, the weakness of the Ana-Ga will be purged. I'll see to it personally, you Night Blade bastard!"

The man didn't reply to Edward, instead simply raised a hand in acknowledgement as they rode away.

Now that he had said what he wanted to, Edward hopped down from the tower. As he landed, he saw that Silvanus was there waiting, with a questioning look on his face. Edward decided to not address it.

"Now, friend, I'll take up your offer on rest."

The elf simply nodded, as Edward was led to a small building, where a room awaited them. The room lacked furniture, but Edward didn't mind. Once Edward was situated, the elf retrieved the promised herbs and tea, and soon the conversation turned to Haruna. It was still difficult for Edward to discuss, but at this point Edward had accepted what had happened. He could only hope that Cedric was successful in his endeavors.

As Edward finished the accounts of what had happened to Haruna, Edward couldn't tell exactly what the elf was feeling, but he could tell that the man wasn't pleased. No doubt, this tale along with the actions of the other Commanders must have painted a bad picture for the Ana-Ga. To an outsider, it would appear that the Ana-Ga were no better than the Night Blades, and this for the most part would be correct. However, there was still at least one man wishing to change that. Edward, the man who wished to change the current state of the Ana-Ga permanently.

However, Edward had no idea on how he would try and accomplish this. He had the prophecy, and he had the word of those under his command, but there was no doubt in Edward's mind that if Edward attempted to take over control of the entirety of the Ana-Ga, it would look like it was for his own personal gain, and thus would create strife with the other Commanders, something Edward did not want. Helpless, Edward decided that he needed wisdom from someone with much more experience as well as someone that was unbiased.

Edward put down his cup of tea and began to put on a serious face that matched his tone as he addressed the Warden.

"I know that such matters are none of your concerns, but please, if you wish to put an end to the horrible acts that have been committed by the Ana-Ga, hear me out and tell me what you deem the best course to take."

The elf nodded, and Edward presented his issue. He explained the prophecy that had been foretold of a Leader uniting the Ana-Ga. He spoke of his ideals, of how he wished to return the Ana-Ga to defenders of justice instead of the King's opposition silencers. He explained that in order to do all of that, he would need to have the entire Ana-Ga under his command, not just portions of it. He mentioned that the other Commanders would not be so keen as to do such, and if Edward tried to they'd see it as him trying to gain power for personal reasons.

After explaining all of this, Edward leaned against a nearby wall, exhausted, as he waited for the elf's response.

[Kanilion]

The elf looked hard at Edward, whose expression betrayed a small sense of desperation. Not that it is a bad thing, as people who are desperate for a desire would surely wear such a look. In his service as a Ranger, Silvanus has seen thousands of individuals with such a look, each pleading the elf for something. Be it a request, or even for their lives, which caused the elf to stay his hand more than once.

Hearing about Haruna has pained Silvanus. The human he found chopping firewood by herself, the girl who looked up at him with desperate eyes as he drew back his arrow for the kill. Intending to visit her after this mess is over, it would seem that such plans would have to be put on hold. Listening to the prophecy of the Ana-Ga, Silvanus instinctively placed his hand on his forehead, a story of recurring themes, it has come into the head of this man in front of him.

"Edward Daggerson, am I right?" Silvanus started, as the human nodded. "You ask me of something which is never ending, a process of leadership which is constantly preached in all forms and different walks of life. If what you have said is true, then there are two individuals whose destinies have crossed. Indeed in this time, the Ana-Ga needs a central figure to look up to. Fragmentation would do no one any good. The Elven Rangers have been united under my command, and it is on my shoulders that I send precious Elven lives to their deaths every day on the battlefield. One day, we Elves would run out of men, and humans or demons would overrun our forests, our settlements, yet it is I, Warden Silvanus Althurin, who sends fertile males and females into battle, knowing that my race is on the brink."

Taking a leaf and crushing it onto a cup, Silvanus continued as he refilled both cups with hot water.

"But, I still take up the mantle. The other leaders are not pleased, but they do not dare to carry such a burden. What do you humans have? Trials of Arms? Trials by Combat? I heard so much from your metal folk. I for one, am not interested in meddling with the affairs of the humans, but if you should be the Chosen One, then the tome should be shown to all. But... are you really prepared, Edward Daggerson?"

Silvanus' visage turned dark, as his eyes glowed with innate energy. Edward, caught off guard, started to move, but realised that his muscles were not responding. However, Silvanus simply waved him to stay, as his eyes turned back to normal.

"I sense, fear in you. Not just fear for the future, but fear for the prophecy, and fear for your love. You fear that the prophecy would crush you, and you would lose everything you have come to love and experience. No, not in the sense that they would disappear, but in the sense that you have to cut yourself from them. You are scared of loss, scared of sacrifice, so alike the man who left not an hour ago."

Looking into Edward's eyes, Silvanus nodded as he confirmed his observations. "Zoran, your past enemy, what if I told you that it is he who is the one in the book, in the prophecy? Similar circumstances, he has a calling of his own. I read it in the runes of his sword. They who made his weapon knew his destiny too. Unfortunately, he ran. He saw the price of wielding such power, and he began to run. He wanted to keep that which is precious to him, and escape his destiny. His sword empowered him, gave him the ability to do almost anything he wanted, therefore he tried to run with the girl. The power of the Sword emboldened him, enhanced his desires, that he took the route leading to greed, selfishness, and moral destruction. He told me this himself days ago, right in this very room. You sit where he sat, only that Silvanus here is seeing two different people."

Silvanus pointed at Edward's blades. "Those two belong to the Holy Sword Seinarukaze. I saw it myself, a beautiful weapon of white steel, and I know its composition, as it contained a trace of Elvish soil. I provided some of it's materials myself. That Haruna would entrust these to you.. I will tell you the significance of such an act now. Her parents made Kamikaze, took a gamble and entrusted it to a man to empower him to live out the prophecy. Instead, it came back to cut their throats. Haruna then forged Seinarukaze, who now exists in the current form of two different weapons. She took the gamble and entrusted them to you. With those two in hand, your desire to fulfill the prophecy has been enhanced, even if you did not notice it."

"Are you willing to go over the edge? Are you willing to take the next step to the sacrifice? All I can say is, you will not be alone. If you are, I, Warden of the Rangers, am willing to pledge this alliance on the terms that Edward Daggerson is made overall Commander. If the others object, we can always go demon hunting to prove the superior one."

[New Finnish Republic]

Edward locked eyes with the elf. What he had said was true. Edward was scared. Any sane man would be. For a guy that still had a few months to go until he exited his teens, Edward had a lot of pressure on him. The fate of not only the Ana-Ga but Tych itself rested upon his shoulders. Edward knew he couldn't afford to fail. This meant that Edward would need to pay the price, no matter what the cost, if it meant the survival of his comrades, friends, family, and his fiance.

"I am willing to take on anything that comes my way, and accept any sacrifice that comes my way, as long as Tych can have a better future. I swear, I will not run from my destiny, nor will I fight it. Instead, I will embrace it, and use it as a way to protect those close to me. "

The elf nodded, pleased with the answer, and sat began to make his way out the door. Edward followed, and as the two walked back to where the meeting was being held, he saw Esvee and the others waiting by the horses. Edward motioned for Esvee to follow, which she promptly did after grabbing the ancient Ana-Ga book.

As the three entered the room, Edward noticed the other Commanders discussing among themselves. It was clear that they had not gotten what they had hoped, which was for the Rangers to come under their command. Edward had heard rumors of the Eastern region making previous attempts at contact with the elves, but he had no idea that they were actively trying to integrate them into the Ana-Ga. It was wrong for them to do such. Any Ana-Ga agent who dons their attire should do it of their own will. Anything else goes against their traditions, not to mention makes extremely unreliable agents. Once again, another discarding of our traditions. Have these men no sense of honor?

Seeing Edward and the other two enter, the remaining Commanders turned to address Edward. Their faces showed feelings of distrust. Uh-Oh. Now what? One of the Commanders cleared his throat before beginning to talk.

"Commander Daggerson, how do you respond to these claims of you killing AG all in order to annex his territory and agents? Do you deny the possibility that you are merely obtaining power for your own personal gain? We understand your youth, but to do such a thing just to impress a simple girl is comple-"

The man was interrupted as Edward raised one of his hands as a sign for him to stop talking. Edward managed to keep himself in check, although his words clearly showed anger.

"Commander, I'd ask you to refrain from saying such ridiculous things as that. Never once have I ever shown such vile behavior, nor would I wish to commit it. Unlike you three, I still try and live by the rules set upon us by our Founders, and our tradition clearly states that such power grabs are forbidden."

Edward's next words were filled with venom.

"And regarding this 'simple girl', thanks to AG's actions, she is currently mentally unstable, so bad that not even one of the most powerful sorceress could not heal her. If AG hadn't forsaken our morals and kidnapped the girl, we would currently have five of us here, instead of four. However, he chose to stray off the path of justice that we pledged our lives to, and instead stooped down to the levels of those we opposed. Which-"

Edward took a deep breath before finishing.

"-Is exactly what you men have been doing. Between what I've learned today and what I've read in reports, it sickens me. Trying to intimidate the elves into obeying us? Looting villages who supported Oliver? And worse, trying to kill Oliver's family? I understand that our work is not something honorable in a sense, but still, our actions are meant to be for the good of Tych and her people. What do you expect the people to think of us one this conflict is over? Do you want them to remember us as no more than common thugs, or do you want to be remembered as those who fought in the shadows valiantly against those who would otherwise enslave them? Well, answer me you old bastards!"

The other Commanders looked at Edward with a mix of anger and fear.

"How dare you criticize us? What do you know of sacrifice? What else would you have us do?"

The room suddenly got quiet, as they waited for Edward's response.

"Take accountability, change ourselves for the better, and return to what our Founders had set out for us to do. And since you are all unwilling to do that, I hereby announce a Trial of Leadership to decide who will be the sole leader of the Ana-Ga."

The other Commanders stood in shock as the words left Edward's mouth. A Trial of Leadership was something that had not been done in centuries, mainly since there had been no need.

The Trial was, to put thing simply, a winner-takes-all fight to decide who would fulfill the leadership role within the Ana-Ga. To be crowned the victor, participants would need to fight during the darkest hours of night. Real weapons would be used, and if you were unwilling to submit, death was a likely outcome of the Trial.

To decline a challenge would bring great dishonor to you, because it would show fear in Commanders. Therefore, it didn't surprise Edward when the other Commanders accepted the challenge, albeit they did it through gritted teeth. They determined the Trial to be held that night in the nearby woods.

Although technically forbidden, Edward knew that the other Commanders would focus their efforts at taking him out first. If they would then turn each other afterwords was up for debate, but Edward knew that until then, he'd have an extremely difficult time succeeding. However, he was determined to be claimed the victor, no matter how difficult the challenge.

After getting approval from the elven Elder, Edward began to make his way back to the rest of his party. After telling the news, he was met with grim faces. They knew it had to be done, but they didn't like it. However, at Edward's insisting, they pledged to not interfere, regardless of the outcome. Instead, they gave Edward words of encouragement, and Ironheart even offered to cook up some food for Edward, which he gladly accepted.

For the remaining parts of the day, Edward waited in their temporary camp, mentally preparing himself for what was to come. Although he kept up his usual sarcastic appearance to the others, on the inside he was filled with anxiety, as he kept thinking over the upcoming Trail. He needed to win, otherwise there would be no way he'd be able to make his dreams come true. If I'm truly some sort of Chosen One, maybe the Gods will be merciful enough to help me out a bit.

Maybe.

Nightfall

As day turned into night, Edward braced himself as he entered the specific area where he and the others would do battle. Roughly a square mile, there was plenty of space to maneuver in. Perfect for an Ana-Ga agent, who liked to take their own approach to situations. The darkness would only reiterate their skills.

Standing, Edward's thoughts ranged from different things. However, one thing stuck in his mind. The image of a broken Haruna filled his mind, the result of the Ana-Ga falling off their path. Gods, let me be the victor, if only to stop things like that from happening again.

As the horn blasted, indicating the beginning of the Trail, it seemed like Edward would have to wait and see if his prayers were answered.

[Kanilion]

Edward darted through the woods swiftly and silently, his combat-honed abilities proving useful. Motivated be the need to win for Tych and her people, Edward relied on his youthful speed and agility, against the wisdom and cunning of the their commanders. Tree to tree, always moving, Edward would not be a stationary target, instead trying to bait them out with his intentional movement.

With the recent battles, he has never felt in better form, and his senses were on hand when an arrow flew past his ear. Turning, Edward burst through the bushes, relying on sheer ferocity to quickly overwhelm his opponent. B was waiting for him, twin daggers spinning as Edward parried them away. The both of them struck and parried, with Edward quickly gaining the upper hand in the fight. Disarmed, B simply threw his hands to the side, as he turned tail and ran. Chasing, Edward wisely took a side path as he tripped the older man, causing B to be at Edward's mercy. As Edward closed in, he noticed the foilage above moving, just as Bo leap down on Edward, the both of them crashing onto the ground.

Rolling out of the impact, Edward noticed that the two older men are working in concert with each other. Fending off both their strikes, Edward managed to get back to an even footing, even scoring a hit on Bo, causing him to drop his shortsword. A twin slash at B finally stopped him in his tracks for good, B falling onto his knees, clutching his hands. Just as Edward turned back to Bo, the senior commander crushed a small vial, and the entire area was blanketed in smoke.

Coughing, Edward immediately leap onto a branch, just as he felt the branches around him shake. Looking behind, Edward saw Commander Xi, fresh and waiting for the opportune time, ready his spear at the younger man. With the other two still unknown, and Edward in the open, there is little space for him to dodge the weapon as Xi pulled his arm back. As he turned, Edward could sense the two others appear from his sides, their weapons leading the way. Haruna flashed past his vision, for that moment of despair, when a sudden roar robbed all four of their concentration.

Xi pulled back his arm, but all Edward saw was Xi being bitten in half by a large creature. The man's face was frozen in shock, as the noise of shouts became evident. Arrows embedded in the fiend, the demon did not seem to notice as Edward rolled to the back, and a huge swipe took Bo's head off. Staring in shock, Edward saw B twist his body, landing a hit on the demon's arm. Instinctively moving in to assist, Edward's next course of action died with B as the demon, an unstoppable force of the Abyss, landed its blow on the man, completely splattering him onto the forest soil.

"Edward! Get out of there!" The remaining Ana-Ga could hear Silvanus shout, the Warden firing an arrow at the fiend as it locked its stare on Edward. The Warden stared hard at the human, knowing that the next decision the man makes would determine his worth as a commander...

[Drakorvanyia]

"Silver weapons.. That is what kills demons?" Asked Mitzhla to herself as she read the note with a furrowed brow. Silver was a precious metal, and was hardly common in the Cotalli homeland, which made it that much more expensive. An entire sword made of silver? That would cost her a bloody fortune. But to arm her army with silver weapons? It would be her entire treasury ten times over. Impossible for her to do, especially with the inflated price of the silverless desert. The only way for her to actually get that amount of metal would be to import it, but that was not an option with demons in the capital.

Mitzhla lowered the note. She was in the war room of the Cotalli palace, with the generals of her army. She had not bothered to invite any of the available party. They were brilliant fighters on the field, but when it came to grand strategy, she prefered the company of those who were proffessionally trained in the art. Especially considering all of Tych went to the winner.

"The levies are still in a poor state after the last battle.. Tlatoani. And the last time we fought, your entire elite guard was wiped out by one demon alone. Facing an entire army of them? It's suicide!" Exclaimed one of her generals, distinguished by his [url=http://www.katavila.com/orange-county/images-xipe/danza70full.jpg] feathered headdress[/ul]. "Perhaps we can broker a peace? A truce?"

Another general nodded slowly. "Indeed.. We can not win a war against these demons completely, not even with allies. They have an entire realm to draw strength from, while we only have a peninsula and a few scattered noble houses. What chance do we have against these monsters?"

Mitzhla shook her head, standing up from her leaned position on the table and looking around at the council. "We can broker a peace with these demons.. But not until we have crushed them and their morale. If we try to lower arms too soon, they will simply break whatever truce they have made and strike us when we are vulnerable. Even so, we can not charge in recklessly." She pointed at the continental end of the pass. "I propose we take the shoreline territory on the other side of the Cotalli sea. That area is filled with ports and villages from which we can draw manpower. It is also easily reinforcable by ship should the need arise. I want you to send emissaries to these settlements, asking them to renounce their alliegance to the Tychian Crown, and swear fealty to House Cotalli. In exchange, we will protect them." She looked around at the table. "That way, we can whittle down the demonic economic base while bolstering our own. All those fresh recruits would allow us to rebuild our army, so we can prepare a march on the capital."

...

Mitzhla strode through the halls of the palace towards the infirmary, where her most powerful asset lay. Seprena. Emmissaries had been dispatched to try and convince the locals of the Tychian coast to join the Cotalli, but in the back of her mind, Mitzhla knew this would not be enough to quell the demon army. She needed a powerful mage, one that could destroy demons with ease. Seprena was that mage.

Once she had reached the chamber, she sat by the sorceress' bedside, replacing the warm towel on her head and checking her vital signs. She had improved, but was still lacking the strength for active duty. Damn it all. Mitzhla sighed, rubbing her forehead. A throne and an army, and still it was not enough to defend her realm, a realm she worked so hard to maintain. What had gone through the minds of the gods when they sent this test to challenge her? That her people could stand against the demons? That she was some sort of miracle worker?

Mitzhla sighed again, grasping a piece of parchment, and a quill along with an ink well from the nightstand besides Seprena's bed.

To houses Martin and Karl,

The Cotalli army is in poor shape at the time of writing of this letter. While we are fully willing to support you and your cause, we must regroup our strength before sending a relief force to deal with the enemy threat. Please, we ask that you hold your ground for two weeks at the most, so that we can prepare a force to march to your aid. May the gods forever favour you.

-Mitzhla Cotalli III

[New Finnish Republic]

Edward stared down the beast that had just killed the other Commanders. Its fangs, which protruded from its mouth, were covered in the blood of the recently killed Xi. Twice the size of Edward, it was no wonder that the Demon was able to take out the other Commanders with such efficiency. Any sensible man would've cowered in fear of it and ran away.

However, Edward wasn't a very sensible man.

"Warden, get its attention! I've got a plan!"

The elf didn't protest, and instead dropped to one knee and let loose a series of arrows towards the beast. Although every arrow hit its mark, they seemed to do little damage to the Demon. However, it did what Edward wanted to do. The beast's attention had shifted from Edward to Silvanus. Roaring, it charged towards the elf, knocking down trees as it went. The Warden skillfully dodged the attack by rolling to the side, just in time to see Edward jumping down from a nearby tree onto the beast's back.

The Demon roared as it realized that it now had an unwanted passenger on its back. It tried to reach for Edward, but he had positioned himself just so that the beast's arms wouldn't be able to reach him. With a mighty yell, Edward plunged both of his blades into the beast's back. It roared in pain, and began to squirm around in an attempt to shake Edward off. However, Edward hung on tightly to the swords and refused to let himself get bucked off.

Realizing it couldn't shake the Ana-Ga off its back, the beast once again let out a roar as it charged straight for a large solid tree in front of them. Edward looked up to see what the beast was trying to do, and decided to use its desperation to his advantage. He stayed on top of the beast until they were only a few feet away, when he suddenly ripped the blades out and rolled off the side of the beast. Unable to stop its momentum, the beast ran head first into the tree.

Edward had just managed to get back up as the Demon recovered. Anger filled the beast's eyes, and it prepared to charge at Edward once more. However, its attack was stopped short as an arrow shot straight into the beast's right eye. Howling in pain, the Demon stumbled around, now partially blind.

Edward took the advantage that the elf had presented to him. As he charged towards the beast, Edward noticed that his swords had begun to glow with a bluish light, and a sense of power surged through Edward. The swords were perfect for killing unholy creatures like the one in front of him, creatures that normal weapons would do little to effect. Haruna has put her trust in me by crafting these blades for me. I can't disappoint her. Not like that bastard did.

As Edward approached the wounded demon, he made sure to stay inside its blind spot. The beast tried to keep up with him, but Edward was too quick. Diving beneath its legs, Edward sliced its hind legs right at the joints. Splattered in the beasts blood, Edward quickly got back up to his feet, barely avoiding a swipe from the Demon.

Although severely wounded, the Demon was far from defeated. It took up a defensive position, waiting for Edward to make his move. The two stared each other down as they eyed each other's movements. Finally, Edward made his move. Charging at the beast, Edward waited until the last second to leap up into the air. As he did, the Demon was able to take a swipe at him, causing several cuts to be etched across his chest. However, Edward ignored the pain, and instead finished his leap, landing so that he straddled the back of the beasts neck, his weight being too much for the wounded beast, causing it to fall down to its stomach. Positioning his knees so that he pinned its front legs, Edward roared as he brought the sword through the beast's skull. Its painful howl was soon cut off as Edward twisted the blade, effectively killing the beast.

Confident that the beast was dead, Edward slid off the side of beast. Although his chest ached where the beast had wounded him, he managed to get to his feat. Edward looked down to see the damage caused. Nothing too deep, although that will definitely scar. I'll bandage it up once we get back. Looking behind him, Edward noticed the Warden was staring at him, with a look of contemplation on his face. Wiping the blood off his blades, Edward sheathed his weapons, and called up to the elf, his sarcasm ever so present.

"Well, what did you think of that? I think that was pretty badass."

[Raktio]

The carriage crashed into a couple of trees, shattering into pieces. Jakdon had little warning before Barion showed up in front of him, however Lades was already reacting. Slowing himself while bucking up onto his back to legs, literally walking forwards, the horse dodged the sword which would have claimed its front legs. However balancing like that while travelling forwards doesn't work forever and the horse came back down to all fours, landing its front hooves where the man would be if he didn't move fast enough. While travelling forwards still, Barion's attempt had done what he wanted and slowed down Jakdon and Lades. As they rode on Jakdon twisted around in his seat ti see if the man would get up, and if so he'd be putting several bolts into him to make sure the man stayed down.

Barion headed back after him using the trees to move quickly he was able to keep pace with the horse. The other marksman where lagging behind but able to keep a good deal of the other occupied. The main group continued untill they had reached a rear guard where the horses where. There where enough for the strange man with a cane, a few guards and Barion. The rest would use slower means of returning to the Ana-ga HQ or just kill themselves if they got captured. The point was to ensure that the girl got back in one peace, Barion was moving to close in and take out the strange rider.

"You can come willingly princess or we can do this the hard way..." The man with a cane looked out unto the forest and ordered his men to keep a watch and fire at any horses who come towards him while they prepared the horses for a quick get away.

As soon as he had a clear shot on his unnatural opponent, Jakdon fired his repeating crossbow twice in rapid succession and with deadly accuracy. He didn't have anything other than regular crossbow bolts to fire at his opponent. However very few things could survive multiple crossbow bolts to the vitals, and those that could still be brought down given being hit enough. The next time his opponent got close enough he fired bolts at the man's legs to disable him. Meanwhile he turned Lades to keep from getting to close to the main host, knowing that he wouldn't be able to rescue the woman if he was dead. Since he was inadequately equipped for dealing with whatever the other man was, he would stick to evasion and only fight if necessary until he was better prepared.

[Kanilion]

Silvanus sighed as he approached the fallen fiend. Thrusting a scimitar into it's heart, the demon gave a final unholy roar, before finally coming to a rest. Looking at the human, Silvanus sighed as he shook his head, and waved to seemingly no one, until from all around the two, elves armed with longbows, and Edward's Ana-Ga party emerged from the darkness.

"Humans, this is your leader. Brash, impulsive, and reckless. It is good that he won this Trial, as he would fail miserably as a follower. Unfortunately, he has failed my test, and instead of achieving a perfect victory in a planned ambush, he has gotten himself cut up and injured. Perhaps he is displaying the traits of the shorter lived-races, who can reproduce at unthinkable rates? Or perhaps he sought personal glory instead of a combined team effort."

Seeing Edward staring at him, Silvanus retrieved an arrow before turning away. Looking at Esvee and the others, Silvanus gestured at them to attend to Edward.

"See to him that he is rested for the next few days, demon wounds are harder to recover from. If I were you, I'd read through that tome again. Chosen One? Perhaps Chosen-to-die-next One."

As he left with his Rangers, Silvanus passed the Elder, who called after the younger elf. "That's pretty harsh on him. He is still young."

"Elder, war accelerates aging, and only those who survive the process will live to see out the end of things." Silvanus commented, as he continued his walk to the ruins, seeking a time of rest. Shaking his head, the Elder approached the Ana-Ga, who seemed concerned over Edward's wounds. Edward's euphoria at downing the demon was tempered by Silvanus' words, but the Elder sought to cheer the human up. "Dont worry about his words. He has seen probably too much for his age, and lost too much. You have yet to suffer what he did, therefore learn. Learn, before it's too late, Edward Daggerson. Now, you must rest."

[Karsopolis]

"I didn't see anything particularly noteworthy about them," Cedric replied. "I think they were from Antarbane. The Paladins I saw were certainly something. I'd like to know more, but like I said, I dont have time to see the connexions, and I'm missing a lot of information to even try. Can we continue the trials?"

Nodding at the promptness of the Enforcer, Rican replied, "Certainly. The final trial is this way."

Once more, Cedric hurried after the spirit. This time, they came to a room splendid even by the standards of the Paladins' Nexus. The entire room was lined with stained glass windows, all showing portraits of Knox and Kendra. The ceilings went incredibly high, until being ended by a stained glass skylight. Sunlight of a hundred colours filtered into the room, which was made mostly of dark marble. Dozens of long kneeling desks spanned the room, meant to hold the prayer books of devoted Enforcers. There was a stand for a choir which had long stood empty. The most remarkable thing about the room was the high altar at the centre of the room. It stood on a raised platform, and easily outshone the others for grandness. It was adorned with gold graven images of Knox and Kendra, and an ancient language Cedric couldn't quite make out.

"You've done very well, Cedric," Rican said abruptly. The sound of the spirit startled the Enforcer, who had been engrossed in the room. "You've managed to reach the final trial. This place hasn't been visited by living men in a very long time. This is the Divine Sanctuary, where ancient Enforcers came to pray and commune with the gods. The altar ahead is the Altar Of The Soul, and this final trial is the trial of worthiness. Now we'll see what you're made of, Cedric. I'll determine if you are worthy to have an audience with Knox and Kendra, or if you die in this room. If you like, you can depart now and I promise no harm shall come to you. Will you take the final trial, the Trial Of Worthiness?"

Cedric considered his options. He considered what was at stake, and he knew that going back without a cure for Haruna was no option. "I'll take the trial. Let's begin." With that, the Enforcer walked forward, and touched the Altar.

Once again transported outside himself, Cedric arrived to only a white space that seemed to go on forever. Shortly after, Rican appeared. Seeing the Knight's look of confusion, Rican said evenly, "You looked confused Cedric. This is the final trial. I am the tester. I will judge your soul, and whether you are worthy."

Now the spirit's tone changed as he said, "How dare you come here. You may be the worthiest man to set foot here in eons, but you harbour deep desires for yourself within your heart."

"What do you mean?" Cedric asked in an indignant tone. "I came here to find a way to save Haruna."

"And why did you do that I wonder?" Rican asked. "Do you really love your friend so much as to go on a quest to save her, or did you desire something else? Perhaps you sought to help Haruna, but this noble goal is tainted by your will to learn of Enforcer tradition. The goal is noble, but it distracts you. It keeps you from giving your whole self to saving your friend."

"I admit these desires and their distraction to me," Cedric said. "But speak plainly, spirit. What must I do?"

"You must choose," Rican said as another vision of Antarbane briefly flashed in Cedric's mind. "Think of the Hall Of Knowledge. Think of the Divine Sanctuary, and the Cloisters. You've only begun to scratch the surface of the wonders in this place. You have so much to learn. But Cedric, I can let you live here forever. You must only die, and you can take my place as Keeper. You'd have an eternity to explore the mysteries of the Enforcers, of Antarbane, of the Nexus itself."

"Or, you can save your friend. You can choose to save her, learn the ways of the Paladin from Knox and Kendra, and then save her. With your new spiritual power and knowledge, you can do great deeds in Tych. But you will never see this place again. Whenever you try to find it, it shall elude you. You planned to return after saving Haruna, but you cannot. You can save your friend, or your own desires. Come now, Enforcer. A classic dilemma for our kind. Tell me Cedric, how much of yourself will you sacrifice for others?"

Cedric's mind was racing at the prospect of losing the Nexus. He'd never find it again. But if he didn't save Haruna soon, she would die. Then what would it all be worth? Could he possibly forget his friends in the Nexus? Would centuries of worship under stained glass wash the memories and the regret away? For a moment, Cedric thought he could. And then the silky voice of Rican came.

"You could spend an eternity in here," the spirit said in a silky, soothing voice. Instead of soothing however, it deeply frightened the Enforcer. Beneath the spirit's silky tone lay something darker. Something vile, and Cedric wanted no part of it.

Physically drawing back, the Knight replied, "No! I will not be tempted. I will not forget my friends! I will speak with Knox and Kendra and live the life they've laid out for me." Shedding a single tear as the vision of Antarbane vanished like smoke, he added, "Whatever that may cost me."

Rican said nothing, only disappeared as Cedric passed out once more. Soon, they were back in the Sanctuary. A relic appeared atop the Altar. Rican stated evenly, "You've passed the final trial. Congratulations, Enforcer. Align the relics left to right by the order you collected them. Do this on the Altar Of The Soul. Pray to Knox and Kendra, and they will appear to you. I will say no more." With that, Rican vanished.

Seeing that his guide had departed for the time being, Cedric aligned the relics, and began to pray. "Lord Knox, Lady Kendra. You know what I've decided. I want to save my friend Haruna, and the rest of Tych from this demon invasion if possible. Please, step forth and show me how. Make me strong enough to purify the land, and good enough to be pure myself."

Now Cedric waited for the gods to appear.

[Kanilion]

Before Cedric, two grey figures appeared. A female, and a male, in the likeness of Lady Kendra, and Lord Knox. The patrons of the Knight Enforcers, the two stretched out their hands to Cedric, as another vision flashed into his mind.

Death and destruction, the Army of Volyusia lies tattered. The landscape is a burning pit, the Abyss. About a thousand soldiers remained, as the Paladins attempted to rally the remaining troops, as the portal behind them wobbled. The troops seemed defeated, robbed of motivation and strength. Cedric knew, the knowledge coming to him instinctively, that this expedition was led by the Paladins, an army meant to take the fight to the Abyss. What they were not prepared for, were the millions of demons swarming them from the first day they stepped through the Portal.

Defeat was imminent, as the Paladins realised. Two continued fighting as their squire held the Volyusian banner high. Even through his blood-caked attire, Cedric could see Rican fending off demons, as the two Paladins, Kendra and Knox, stood their ground. Ultimately, it was futile, as they were continually pushed back to the Portal. However, the mages announced that it was sealed, that the Portal was collapsing, grasping their last chance, the Volyusian Army, down to a mere hundred within minutes of the final assault, stepped through, as a blinding flash enveloped Cedric's sight.

A new sight welcomed Cedric, the symbol of the legendary Antarbane, imprinted on the walls of the building he is in. Well maintained, Cedric realised that he was in a room with two huge statues. Lady Kendra and Lord Knox. The first settlers of Antarbane did not land on Tych by ship, but rather, through the Portal, from which they maintained their duty to the last, keeping Antarbane safe from a new demonic invasion...

"The Paladins landed on Tych, not for the purpose of colonisation, but rather, because of our pride. We thought we could defeat the Demons through strength of arms and military might, but that would prove not to be. We could have sealed the portal without sacrificing over a million men, but pride, greed... we thought we could do it with our own strength, but no. Perhaps the Light, has other ways."

The voice came from Lady Kendra, who walked over to Cedric. Nodding, Lord Knox joined her in front of the Knight. "You have done well, Cedric Summerblood of Brightstone. Not many have completed the Trials. Not only are you driven by desire to help your friends, but the upbringing of the legacy of the Paladins have shone true in your self. For too many centuries, Tych has decayed from the teachings of the Paladins, as greed and civil war threatened to rip the land apart. With the invasion of the Demons, Tych needs a new Champion. A new Paladin."

Taking the relic from Cedric, Knox nodded as the symbol of Antarbane around Cedric's neck floated up to his hand. Combining the two, Cedric could feel a feeling of peace, as the symbol now glowed, with gold and silver linings. A bluish glow emitted from it as it returned to it's place, hanging from Cedric's neck. "The Trial is finished. You have proven worthy. That this symbol has found it's way to you, is not by chance, nor the desire of a stouthearted girl. Even now you seek the power to protect and restore her. That is not the greed for personal power, but rather, the core power of the Paladins."

"It is with this completion, that you, Cedric Summerblood, shall herald unto Tych, a new generation of Paladins. Not Antarbanian Paladins, but Tych's very own. Go, Champion of Tych, and smite the darkness from this land of innocents. It is this day, that Tych's survival centered around a party of unlikely heroes, begins. The Light will bless and guide you. Do not what you think is good, but what you think is Right."

With that, a bright light engulfed Cedric, as he felt unimaginable power enter him. Power which burned through his bloodstream, as his soul became Empowered by the pure essence of the Light...

---

Cedric woke, and found himself not in the ruins. He was lying on his bed in the Cotalli Palace, in his common clothes. Getting out of bed, the Paladin could see a new suit of armour on his armour stand. Realising that it was not a dream, Cedric got up and walked down the corridors, passing by the stables where his horse was tethered.

Entering the infirmary, Cedric saw that three days has passed since he left the Palace. Three days have passed. However, it took me three days of riding to find that place. It is not a dream, for my armour, my sword, they all bear the markings of the symbol Haruna gave me. Regardless, there is only one place to confirm this.

Entering Haruna's ward, Cedric saw Mitzhla patting Haruna's head, as the sleeping girl breathed slowly. Shocked at seeing Cedric return so early, Mitzhla immediately shifted from the bedside, retaining a scowl on her face as she turned to Cedric.

"Back so soon? I thought it would take a week. I hope you did not give up so easily, Knight Enforcers have always put themselves higher than the average easterner."

"I am back, Mitzhla, with more than I can ever explain in words. In deed, perhaps. For it is with my newfound power and faith, that I believe Haruna will be restored this day. Where is Edward?"

"Doing Edward business, or he thinks, I do not know if he would stay sane here any longer, he seemed to be joining Haruna in her comatose state in recent days, perhaps a holiday back to Central Tych would do him some good."

Giving a strained laugh at Mitzhla's sense of humour, Cedric nodded to the ruler of the Cotalli, before turning to face Haruna. The sleeping girl seemed at peace, a totally different visage from the tortured one he saw that day. Cedric almost did not want to wake her, but he realised that he could not do something which he perceived is good, but rather, he must do that which is right. This task is extremely minor compared to the decisions he would have to make in the future, but everything starts from a tiny step.

Slowly, Cedric took off the Holy Symbol, which is glowing with radiant blue light, the Paladin placed it on Haruna's chest, just as he placed a hand over her head, whispering the words of power.

"May the Light come upon you, and restore you to the lady you are. May the darkness in your heart be purged by the purity of your beliefs. May your blood by cleansed of the poison, and your soul be made whole. May Haruna, return to the Haruna we know, the innocent girl who dances with joy, the one who brightens up our lives in this dark hour. May the Light draw out and restore you."

Stepping back, Cedric saw Haruna's fingers twitch, as her body shook. Seemingly in conflict within, Haruna began to sweat profusely, as the darkness and poison was being extrracted from her soul. Gritting her teeth, Haruna's eyes flew open, as she growled and moaned in pain and agony. Cedric and Mitzhla could only watch, as they knew that the Symbol is working, but it all rests on Haruna herself from now on...

[Relikai]

The sound of clashing blades echoed across the desert, two figures dancing in the desert. A swirl of silver, another of white, Haruna's pale skin and light clothing contrasting against the darkness in her heart. The dark figure, an exact mirror of Haruna, pressed relentlessly, but was unable to score any hits against the original. Haruna countered fiercely, her blades flashing as she kept moving, picking off her enemy's attacks with precision.

The figure responded with a continuous assault, it's blades hammering at the Sakurian. Even as Haruna began to tire, the figure only increased in its ferocity. Gaining strength from her fatigue, the shadow snarled as it scored two hits in Haruna. However, they did not draw blood. Instead, they bit into Haruna's essence, causing her to lose some of her essence, some of her soul. Gritting her teeth, Haruna struck hard, scoring a series of hits on the shadow as it was pushed back. Haruna's eyes shone with a pale silver light, the Yukikaze which kept her sane, now manifesting in it's host's time of need.

Unable to score any hits through the whirlwind of blades, the shadow was pushed back into a desperate defence, trying to outlast the Yukikaze. Haruna pressed on, her blades scoring hit after hit, ripping the shadow of it's essence, as a black blade fell onto the sand, the black arm severed. With victory in her grasp, Haruna suddenly let off a scream, as the poison in her soul caused a relapse, with Haruna arching her back as she fell to her knees, her face a mask of pain. Seizing the chance, the shadow's remaining blade reached out, striking Haruna squarely on her chest, before pushing it downwards, that Haruna was pinned onto the sand.

An unearthly laughter rose from the figure, who was approached by Edward. Her form seemingly restored by the poison, she began to embrace Edward as the two began to make out in front of Haruna, whose soul continued to fade away even as she reached out for her love. Unable to speak coherently, Haruna cried out as she saw Edward lift the shadow, the same way he lifted Haruna in her dream. Tears flowed down her cheeks as Haruna fought off the thoughts of betrayal, knowing that this was happening only because of her weakness. Just as all seemed lost, the blade in her chest disappeared, just as a blazing light engulfed the entire area.

Her brother's Holy Symbol shining in the distance, Haruna felt strength return as she got to her feet, her blades at the ready. At the appearance of the symbol, Edward seemingly disappeared as the shadow screamed. Looking at her companions, Haruna realised that Edward has never left his place with the others. He and the others has always been waiting, waiting for Haruna's victory. Smiling as she turned back to the shadow, Haruna readied her blades for a final battle.

"Without the Yukikaze, you are still weak! You are unable to defeat me! A poor poor blacksmith who thought herself higher than what she really is, Shimazaki Haruna would have much more success, much more joy as a capital whore, than being a tease to all those lustful men who visited your inn just to ogle at some legs!"

"I do not think too highly of myself, shadow. All Shimazaki Haruna wants, is a life of contentment, and fulfillment, I do not seek carnal pleasures, nor the vibrant life. I am happy with what I had, and when I wake up from your grip, I will be happier with that which the Gods have blessed me with. You will not intrude!"

Clashing, the sparring was obvious to all that the shadow remained superior. For all her skills, Haruna was not against a mortal, nor a demon, but rather the personification of her own nightmares. Stabbed through the shoulder, the shadow again prepared for a thrust into Haruna's chest, when the black blade was caught by a hand, stopped in mid-thrust.

"I had always wondered why the Yukikaze chose me, and how it came about. Now I know. Shimazaki Haruna is Shimazaki Haruna, and the Yukikaze is not of her own ability, but a gift of a higher power. Alone, I am weak, powerless in battle, but a victor in my faith and heart. In battle, the Gods decided that I shall prevail when fighting for something which I found precious."

Pushing the black blade to the side, Haruna gave the shadow a heavy shoulder tackle as she regained her balance.

"In the past, the Yukikaze manifested through my work as a mercenary. I had the need for coin, for money, to create Seinarukaze. It was not a clean job, it was dirty, dishonorable, I was desperate, and I was tainted. But the Yukikaze stood by me, waiting for me to redeem myself. Now, I realise it's truth. On the ship from Moruzzo, in the battle against the demons and Zilkin, and the times I saved the child, and protected my chastity against X, it was never for myself, but for others. I have no need for such a body, nor the need to keep living a nightmare, but the others need me."

The figure screeched as it charged Haruna, but the Sakurian has sheathed her weapons. Her hands relaxed by her side, Haruna stood at the ready as she continued.

"Edward, Mizhla, Cedric, Albercio. I saw their pain, I heard their cries. Until now, they have not given up on me. I shall not let them down. I shall not be the cause of their pain. Instead, Shimazaki Haruna of Sakurai shall lift their spirits and relieve their pain. Shimazaki Haruna shall stand with them as they face the evils of the world. Shimazaki Haruna, shall, not, fall!"

As she screamed the last few words, Haruna's eyes shone a bright silver, as figure stepped within five feet of her. Blades flashing quicker than ever, the shadow could not react as six slashes of the Quick Draw tore the essence from her body. Not letting up the assault, the Yukikaze followed up with a flurry of slashes and stabs, striking and parrying as the shadow realised it's defeat from the first hit. As it's arms drooped, Haruna finished it off with a clean swipe at the neck, and a thrust right into it's heart. Just as she drew her weapons back, Haruna could feel herself falling, falling, falling into a bottomless pit as she screamed, a powerful force seemingly tearing her soul apart.

---

A sweating and thrashing Haruna screamed as she was jolted from her dream. Breathing heavily, Haruna blinked, her eyes back to their normal hue of gold, as she took in the environment. Seeing through her own eyes for the first time in more than a week, tears formed by the edge of her eyes as Haruna sobbed. Wailing as the wave of emotions hit her, Haruna cried with relief, joy and happiness, when she felt someone embrace her from the side. Looking up, Haruna saw the trademark red hair of her companion, her lady Mitzhla. Beyond her, Haruna saw Cedric, his face with a smile wider than she had ever seen. Reaching out for him, Haruna felt Cedric's hand grasp her's as he joined in the embrace, sharing their joy and tears as Haruna's ordeal is finally over, her soul restored. Albercio came in next, and upon seeing Haruna back to her sane state, went into a tirade of blessings and words in his native language as he gave her a big hug, Haruna also grasping him tightly.

However, someone was missing, as Haruna waited. Several minutes passed, but still no Edward. No sign of him. Sensing her discomfort, Mitzhla coughed awkwardly, and turned to Haruna as the Sakurian asked.

"Mitzhla... Cedric... Albercio... where is Edward?"

[New Finnish Republic]

As Edward was led to their camp by the other Ana-Ga, he couldn't help but feel frustrated. Did that bastard think I would just tuck my tail and run, just because the odds seemed impossible to overcome? If he thinks that's what makes a leader, it's no wonder he originally sided with the Night Blades. I think his so called wisdom may be a little outdated. Still, Edward was angry at himself for not winning the favor of the Warden. Now, both him and Zoran had made a fool of him. Edward didn't want to have that happen again.

When Edward was finally laid down to rest in a private tent, Esvee ordered him to remove his top. He obliged, and then she began to look over his injuries, seeming to know what she was doing. Edward couldn't help but feel grateful for having her as his second-in-command. Although her fighting was below par, her knowledge and quick-thinking made her irreplaceable. Also, although Edward would never admit it, her coolheadedness kept Edward in line.

Seemingly done with her observations, Esvee reached into her traveling bag for something. It took awhile, but she seemed to find what she was looking for. In her hands wee several herbs, each pure white in color. Before Edward could ask, she was already at work grinding up the herbs in a mortar, smashing the herbs into a paste. Pleased with her work, she looked Edward in the eyes.

"If I don't clean your wounds with this, you're going to eventually die. We figured this out after the Pass, when our men were dying from light wounds caused by the demons. We lucked out by using this herb by accident and then finding out it not only saved the men's lives but sped up the healing process as well. However, it's going to burn when I put it on. Are you ready?"

Edward nodded, and closed his eyes as he prepared for the pain. Now that he was ready, Esvee began to spread the paste over the cuts that the demon had inflicted upon Edward. Esvee hadn't lied when she said it was going to burn. To Edward, it felt like the cut were on fire, as the special properties of the herbs began to cleanse the wound. Edward bit hit tongue to avoid screaming as he fought off the pain.

After a few minutes that felt like hours, Edward noticed the burning sensation was beginning to die down. Letting out a deep breath, Edward looked up to see a concerned Esvee looking down at him. Edward gave her a weak smile, and raised his right hand up in a big thumbs up. Esvee let out a sigh of relief, and after Edward ensured her that he wasn't going to pass out, she began to bandage up the cuts.

"Now you shouldn't have any permanent damage, but this will certainly be sore for a few days, as well as scar. For tonight, you need to rest. Once morning breaks, we'll get back to business. Think you can avoid getting into another fight until then?"

Edward chuckled, and gave Esvee a thumbs up. She got up, and proceeded to walk out the tent but was stopped in her tracks when Edward called out to her.

"Wait, Esvee, I need to ask you something. That elf seemed disappointed with me when I didn't follow his command to run away from that demon. However, how can I expect to be a leader if I run away when things get rough? A leader who tucks his tail and scurries away from a dauntless challenge is no leader in my eyes at all! What should I have done?!"

Esvee didn't turn to face Edward. Instead, she looked out to the setting sun. In a soft voice, she replied.

"Perhaps he wanted to know if you were willing to put aside your own pride in order to ensure victory. Perhaps he wanted to see how well you could follow orders. Or..."

Esvee looked back to Edward with an expression of pity.

"...he wanted to see if you were willing sacrifice others so that you may do the things you aspire to do. Goodnight, Commander Daggerson."

With that, Esvee left the tent, leaving Edward at a loss of words. Feeling more helpless than before, Edward smacked the ground with his fist in frustration. Does he expect me to abandon my principles, my ideals, my own humanity, just to fulfill this prophecy? What kind of man is the Chosen One supposed to be, if he's willing to let others die for him? Sacrifice...That's something that I don't know if I can handle... His eyes suddenly becoming heavy, Edward was unable to contemplate any further, as he drifted off to sleep.

Morning

Edward's dreams had been relatively peaceful that night. That was a rare occurrence for him, so Edward felt extra rested when he woke up the next morning. However, this rare feeling of energy caused Edward to temporarily forget that he was still hurt, as he felt the soreness in his chest and sides when he suddenly rose up. Edward cursed aloud, even using one of the Moruzzan words he'd picked up from Albercio, but still tried to force his way up. However, he suddenly felt strong hands picking him up. Looking up, Edward realized that Harold and Fredrick were pulling him up to his feet. Edward also heard the scolding clucks of a tongue, as he looked back to see Lucia and Esvee shaking their heads in disapproval. Lucia had a sarcastic grin on her face as well.

"You know, Commander, you should probably be a little more careful after almost getting your innards ripped out from you by a demon. Granted, I guess carefulness isn't really your forte, now is it?"

A sudden smack on his back shot pain through his sides, as a loud and bold laugh rang out behind him. Turning around, Edward saw Richard behind him.

"Don't listen to the lass, I say you've been layin' around on your arse for too long. There's no use in carryin' a big ol' sword if you don't 'ave somethin' to kill it with."

Edward held back the signs of pain, and instead let out a grin. He was glad to be in the company of these five. Although he appreciated everyone in the party before, he was glad to be around those similar to him in both personality and profession. Time to get to business. Edward turned to face Esvee, who seemed to have been waiting for Edward to get the ball rolling.

"What's the status report, Esvee?"

A small smile appeared on her face as she began.

"We sent back the bodies, or at least what remained, of the other Commanders back to their headquarters with the men they brought, as well as instructions, which are to now report to you as the official leader of the Ana-Ga. I doubt that everyone will be happy, but the men bringing back the bodies have pledged to explain that their deaths were not at your hands, but at that demon. There will be some grumbling, but I'm certain that the other regions will accept you as the sole Commander.

Reports have come in from the Capital as well. It seems like what remained of Oliver's forces have either disbanded or have joined up with the Loyalist forces in order to stop the Demons. The demons haven't pushed too far past the Capital, although we found out that both House Martin and House Karl have been in conflict with the Demons. They seem to be holding them off for now, but they'll need help soon.

Also, I can't confirm anything right now, but we've been hearing strange reports of activity up in the North. Once we get further information, I'll report to you then."

Finishing her report, Esvee gave off a salute, which Edward reluctantly returned. Sole Commander of the Ana-Ga...Now that's a scary thought. Soon, all of the Ana-Ga would be reporting to Edward, the fate of the guild now resting on his shoulders. It was a lot to take in at once, but Edward was prepared to take it all on.

Walking over to his own bag, Edward scrounged around for a new shirt to wear underneath his jacket. He was lucky that the jacket had sustained only light damage. Edward would see to it that the long cuts on the side would be mended once he got back to Cotalli. Which he would go to after business was settled here.

Edward ordered Esvee to follow him while the rest were to maintain watch over the ruins to ensure a Demon didn't try and make another surprise appearance. Edward made his way to the meeting room, where both the Warden and the Elder were waiting. Locking eyes with the Warden, Edward remembered his words. He was determined to prove him wrong, and show that Edward was prepared to fulfill the prophecy that awaited him. Standing on the opposite side of the table that was placed between them, Edward began.

"I stand before you today as the last remaining leadership of the Ana-Ga. I understand that I may not be the ideal candidate, but I'm determined to fulfill the prophecy. I also understand sacrifice will be needed, but I'm here to tell you that I won't be so willing to sacrifice lives in order to accomplish my goals. I value every man and woman under my command, and I refuse to order them to do something that I myself would not.

It is true that you elves have the experience to call such behavior foolish, but I'd like for you both to understand something. We humans may be foolish, but that foolishness has made us relentless. If we truly believe in what we stand for, nothing will stop us from achieving it, even at the costs of our lives. That's why we charge into battle, whether it be to save the lives of our comrades, to secure the future of our families, and to ensure the prosperity of our nations. So call us foolish if you want, but do not cast judgement upon us for it."

Edward locked eyes with the Warden.

"So what say you, elves? Will you stand with us to repel this demonic invasion? Will you lend us your assistance? If not, then I will not cast judgement upon you. It's possible that you'd be able to hide away, and simply wait out these demons. However, if you choose to, I will gladly risk my life for you, and so will those under my command. So I ask again.

What say you, elves?"

[Kanilion]

Hearing Edward's words, an elf dressed in the garb of the Rangers slammed a hand on the table. "Ridiculous! Did you not hear the words spoken during the meeting? Elves are dying in battle even now! Insult us not by accusing the Elves of hiding! Such arrogance from a-"

"Relax." Silvanus commanded, as the man relaxed his stance. Turning to Silvanus, the elf lowered his head in apology, although he did not extend that gesture to Edward.

"But he is right. Only the Ana-Ga, and no fault to them, remained committed to hunting Elves and Night Blades, as I have mentioned yesterday, therefore this meeting has to be convened." Silvanus continued. "And you talk about valuing the lives of people under your command. But do you really value them as people, as soldiers? Or are you going to withhold your strongest assets from aiding the war due to sentimental value? I made a call just two days ago. Ten elves and twenty humans, hunting a demonic lieutenant. The mission succeeded, we saved a flank of the human army, yet only two elves returned. Three slain by demons, five, by these arrows. " The elf tossed the arrows onto the table, the same used by the Ana-Ga of Edward's group. Until now, their arrowheads and shafts retained the blood of the slain. "Yet there is no regret. These elves gave their lives for the Army's left flank. Five hundred lives saved."

"You humans speak of being relentless. Your kind can afford to. By the time an elf reaches maturity and is able to reproduce, the humans have produced five generations. I would understand what it means to be relentless. For generations, humans have been slaying elves for our territory, while the King ignores the bandits and mercenaries responsible for such attacks. Then again, a story for another time..."

Taking out a map, Silvanus placed it on the table. Marked out were positions of the Army of Karl-Martin, with the Night Blades and Rangers defending a forested area between the demons and Dueryas.

"Feel free to deploy around the area. I will not judge you by the results of the trial I set for you last night. If I had not managed to weaken the demon before it crashed into the area, and you fought it at full strength, not even a Moonblade could save you from the Flames of the Abyss. A pity, you would not have suffered these scars, and you would be much wider, had you shifted fifty meters back, a whole squad of Rangers waiting to kill the demon would have put themselves under your command. Now I must take my leave. This meeting has taken me from the battlefield for too long."

Nodding to the Elder that he has finished, Silvanus and his group of Rangers promptly left the building, heading off to their next mission.

"You are free to rest here. The roads are not safe, but this place would be safe even from infiltration."

[Remnants of Exilvania]

Mainland Tych
Lands of House Udaynath

These mortals never seemed to learn. This must`ve been the...he just didn`t know how many fast cavalry attacks there had been. The Skeleton Lord knew that the Riders always were there. They were observing his army, looking for any weakpoints they could use. Atleast he finally had a tactic to counter these attacks. His troops had sustained quite some losses though. It really was important to have countermeasures. Now he only had to make a field test if these countermeasures would actually work out. And this was the reason why he was right now riding at the front lines of this flank on a newly resurrected undead horse. He was playing bait. Who wouldn`t take the chance to cut of the head of this snake of evil and kill the leader of this army of death.

As if to answer his thoughts he suddenly saw a hail of arrows coming down at his position. Just how many did they have of these? They must run out of these soon because they couldn`t stop to make new ones or else he`d catch them. His enemies always had to be on the run. And then he saw them. They were coming out of a small forest in front of his troops. His troops were actually not harmed that much by the arrows. Their armour helped them through a lot and the fact that they had no flesh to really be hit nor that they didn`t feel pain made it even harder to kill them or slow them down. But it still killed skeletons. He saw one of those unfortunate soldiers of his die right next to him. An arrow had penetrated his helmet and even destroyed the skull. But the Skeleton Lord didn`t have time to get distracted by such minor things. He was about to let his trap activate and destroy these puny mortals and their meaningless resistance.

When the mortals got into a distance of about 300 metres a mage riding on a horse fired a bolt of lightning at the skeleton Lord but immediately several skeletons jumped into the way to save their Lord. The Skeleton Lord just let out a cruel laugh before he doomed the mortals. Out of the high grass spears, pikes and helbards were raised and pointed at the riders. Many couldn`t stop their horses fast enough and implaed their horses. The Skeleton Lord had ordered a formation of skeletons to crawl before his frontlines so that they could function as a surprise forward line of defense. To great success as it seemed. The humans attack had been halted and they now had to fight infantry on close range. Nothing of this was really ogood for cavalry. Now he only had to make sure that they couldn`t esccape and so he quickly created ice on the ground. If the riders were to try to retreat now they`d find that the ground behind them had become rather slippery.

But they still didn`t give up. A small formation with the riding mage actually made it through his warriors and headed directly for him. But he had also prepared for this. He stopped his horse and raised his arm. Once he let it fall down again a hail of crossbow bolts flew from the dense rows of skeletons. On this close range they were incredibly deadlky and highly accurate. They completely massacred the riders heading towars him and even penetrated the mage`s hastily put up defensive spells. The rest of the riders had now also been defeated. Even though this had only been a minor victory it was one of the only he had when fighting against Udaynath Military. This was probably only a minor military detachment of the hard-to-catch-Udaynath Military. But it was a victory. from now on they wouldn`t make direct assaults out of fear of this hidden forward defense and they would fire their arrows over a greater distance which would also minimize his losses. But he still had other things to do then just fight.

But he wouldn`t get through with his campaign if he`d only rely on his mighty army. The Skeleton Lord needed information. Information always had been key to winning wars or battles. And as if to asnwer his thoughts a group of 9 Skeletons walked out of his army, each of them wearing a black cloak, that hid their skeletal parts, above some armour. Back in life those had been his most trusted and most skilled agents. They were his heralds and always spread his words. Or they took care of his opposition or gathered intelligence for him. Once they reached him all of them kneeled down and seemed to await further orders.

"Ah, meine Herolde! Es tut gut euch wiederzusehen. Es gibt Arbeit die erledigt werden muss. Mischt euch unter das Volk von Tych, vrebreitet Gerüchte, senkt die Moral und schnappt so viel nützliche Information auf wie nur eben möglich. Nehmt euch die letzten noch lebenden Pferde die unsere kleine Überraschung überlebt haben. SIe sollen euch von großem Nutzen sein um schnell durch diese Lande zu kommen."

("Ah, my heralds! It is good to see you again. There work that has to be done. Infiltrate the people of Tych, spread rumours, lower the morale and get as much useful information as possible. Take the last surviving horses that survived our little surprsie here. They should be of great use to you to get through these lands.")

, the Skeleton Lord ordered. Still kneeling, they answered:

"Ja, mein Fürst! Euer Wille soll geschehen!"

("Yes, my Lord! Your will shall be enforced!")

They then stood up again and picked the best of the remaining horses before riding away into the night. The other horses were quickly killed.

[New Finnish Republic]

Edward shrugged off the Warden's comments. He had said what he wanted to say, and an apology wouldn't have done anything. Also, I can't really blame my men for killing his, in a sense. We've been at war with the Blades for quite some time. Regardless of their noble intentions, they can't expect to be actively aiding the Night Blades and not be attacked by our agents. If they wished to avoid that, they should've warned us sooner. Not like the other Commanders would've listened. Still, I'll have to patch things up with the elves after all this is said and done. That is, if I survive to see the end of this. Edward looked up to the elven Elder, and put his hands in the air.

"Sorry Elder, but I can't afford to wait around here any longer. I've much work to do, now that the other Commanders are...gone. I'm confident that between me and my agents that we'll make it through unharmed. However, I'm thankful for your cooperation through these negotiations, regardless of how...fruitless some of it was. I give you my word, my agents will no longer target your elves. Gods willing, when this is all over, I'll personally see to it that you and your people will be free of further encroachment by we humans. Until then, Elder, farewell."

With that, Edward turned and began to exit the building, Esvee following close behind. As he watched the young Ana-Ga Commander leave, the elven Elder couldn't help but let out a sigh.

"The poor boy. So full of energy and optimism. I can only hope that those qualities will stay with him through the rest of his journey, for his path will not be an easy one."

Upon exiting, Edward looked out to see the four other Ana-Ga waiting for them, their horses ready to go. Edward nodded to the group, and soon the group was heading back to Cotalli. It would be a long six day ride back, and Esvee made sure Edward made the most of it. When they weren't fending off small packs of demons or hiding from the larger ones, Edward was busy both reading and writing. With their chain of command effectively reduced to nothing besides Edward, chaos was bound to arise if they didn't act immediately. Edward decided to elect a individuals whom he personally knew and could trust to temporarily act as the leaders of said region, although they would report to Edward first. Once they reached Cotalli, Edward planned on having the current party members with him to serve as his Lieutenants underneath him. Edward felt confident that they'd be able to do the job well, and he knew that he could count on them to have his back.

Although his main focus was setting up new chains of commands, Edward also focused on sending out general commands to the entirety of the Ana-Ga. They were simple and allowed flexibility, something that every Ana-Ga wanted. They were to cease conflict with any remaining Night-Blades encountered as well as the Elves, and to begin moving agents towards the Capital to take on the demon horde. Where they lacked in numbers, the Ana-Ga made up in quality. Edward was sure that their allies would appreciate the additional help.

And so, as they rode on for days, the group finally arrived in Cotalli lands, exactly two weeks from when they had originally headed out. As they disembarked from their boat, Edward couldn't help but feel nervous. He hadn't had any contact from the any of his friends in quite some time, thus he had no idea on what had happened up until then. I also have no idea if Haruna is better yet, or even still alive... Sensing his unease, Esvee nudged Edward with her elbow, and tried to cheer him up with a small grin.

"Don't worry Commander, she's going to be fine. So will everyone else."

She suddenly puffed her cheeks and crossed her arms, a thought crossing her mind.

"Well, I suppose if you don't count those fighting off the demons as everyone else. Them? Well, they've had better days."

Edward couldn't help but let out a dry laugh, and so did the other Ana-Ga. The thought of those already lost was so depressing that the only way that one could hope to get over it was to try and keep a light heart. With their line of work, this method was common among the Ana-Ga indeed. There was no point in mourning those lost, so instead they tried to focus on saving those who were still alive.

And so, the six Ana-Ga continued on their way to the Palace.