Deathknell (IC Thread)

[Alyxandreta]

ooc: the link for sign up is here; viewtopic.php?f=5&t=2807

I will reject all but those whom I've accepted in the OOC thread, thank you

IC:

The scorching sands of the Hyranaian desert were too much too handle, even in the darkness of night. The Alyxandretan scouting party had gone three days without food, waiting for their orders so they may withdraw from this harsh barren wilderness they had been posted to, the empire had recently seen a rise in rebel activities and no man was bigger than the empire and so the council of elders saw fit to crush any attempt at rebellion.

"Not long now, beginning to get sick of looking at sand and Hyranaian women, some of them could crack a mirror from twenty paces" A weary eyed soldier grunted, his nose blistered from the heat whilst his comrade swallowed another cup of water, rations and supplies were down to the bare bones now but anyday soon they would be returning home to Alexandria, the shining jewel in the empire

"ON THE HORIZON! THE CRIMSON LION! OUR FORCES ARE HERE!" bellowed an eager young soldier, the sight of the crimson lion flag, the emblem of the Empire was a sight for sore eyes, and at the head of this relieving force was Tyr, the chief general of the Vangardian corps and the chief general of Alyxandreta. A hulk of a man who inspired fear, respect and hatred in equal measure.

"OPEN UP THE GATES, ME AND MY MEN ARE THIRSTY AND WE HAVE NEW ORDERS FOR YOU!" Tyr roared and almost instantly the gates of the Hyranaian fort town opened up, behind him was a procession of near a thousand men, each armed to the brim in their lightweight gear, Vangardian warriorscared not what tempearture it was, only where the enmy was and in what way they could dispatch them.

From one of the buildings came a scrawny looking soldier by the name of Marko, greasy slicked back hair and thin pencil moustache, he saluted his superior and spoke

"Lord Tyr, welcome to Hyranakis, I do say there are a lot of men for a simple relievemnt... whatare my and mens orders..."

Tyr's face became like that of a rabid wolf, Marko sensed ominous news but even he had no idea of what was to come.

"You and your men, by order of The Emperor and the council of elders have been sentenced to death, in death you will serve a greater purpose than you would alive... now you snivelling excuse of a soldier, make peace with your gods, because I will be the last thing you shall see" Tyr snarled as he brought his sword through the chest of Marko killing him before he could reply.

That night the screams of Hyranakis' people and soldiers could be heard for miles, some even say the screams could be heard in Dragonia... Dark days were ahead, not just for Alyxandreta, but for all of Spira

[Loronon]

Gblis Vudick devoured the last of the fish, his pet bear Gblis II sleeping calmly on the other side of the camp fire. Night had dawned in whatever land he resided in, and it would be be another night alone. He sighed. That damned knight had framed him for killing the duke back in his homeland, Gblis barely escaping execution. He shook his head, putting the fire out. Attracting any of the troops from any of those kingdoms and empirs would certainly not benefit him or his merchant trade, now high on stocks. North of him lay desert; Hyranaian desert. He thought he could hear the screams of the innocent, but he concluded that this was his wild imagination at work. Gblis set his sheathed blade down on the green grass, just opposite a small stream which was full of fish. Well, used to be full of fish. He had caught hundreds of those little creatures him and Gblis II to devour as a meal. After several exchanges with the locals with 'magical'' stones - the idiots - he know ran high on stocks for sell, the materials usually being carried by his donkey, whom he had not named.

He pulled his cloak over him, providing him with a blanket. The wet grass would be his mattress tonight. Curled up in a ball, he looked up at the moon, a single thought pricking his mind.

What is happening tonight elsewhere? What is happening tonight elsewhere?

[The Fanboyists]

"'Bout fucking time," grumbled Leopold Zimmerman, as he took one last glance over the hill behind him. A long set of plains, not inhospitable but certainly not pleasant stretched out behind. "If I have to eat prarie dog for dinner again, I'm gonna puke."

"Shut up, Leo. It hasn't been any easier for us. And remember, its been worse for me," said the man to his right, flashing a grin in the cool breeze. "I'm a duke. Used to fancy livin', I am. God forbid nobility should be uncomfortable," he added with a chuckle. The giant to his right twisted in his saddle, supported by his stirrups.

"Damn straight," Maximillian boomed in his deep basso of a voice. "I've always said the good life makes you soft. You're proof of that, eh Duke?" A booming laugh. No one could imagine Fedor Hohenzorn Duke von Rittlesberg or "The Iron Duke" as being "soft." Not the man that treated life like a battlefield. Not the man that lead numerous charges, stood his ground, and had, at one point, cussed out an Emperor for being stupid. Not when the Skraeling greatsword at his hip was not extravagent, merely well-made, and which carried marks of frequent use, if good maintainance. Not a man who had, when he had discovered a group of criminals raping a peasant girl in a side alley in the capital, had butchered all of the criminals without so much as a second thought. Thoughtful, simpathetic, and even kind, the Duke was known to be at times. Soft, he was not.

Leo snorted, rolling his eyes and straightening in his saddle, scanning the looming flood plain. there were cities visible in the distance. "At least the fucking sun is outta our eyes, eh Fedor? What's the plan? Vithimir and Ludovic have been getting pissy again, I need to tell them something."

Surveying the terrain, Fedor looked to the nearest large city. It was about 14 miles distant, and it was already getting dusky. "Set up camp. We're headed," he indicated the nearest city by pointing a gauntleted finger, "there, and we'll be leaving first thing in the morning to get there while everyone's still out. We need employment, after all."

"Oh, employment. Couldn't come here for a fucking vacation, could we? Naw, that would be too damn easy for us, wouldn't it, Duke?" Leo growled sourly. "Gotta fight, hack and hew, charge and rally. Probably gonna get my sword dirty, too, ain't I?" he grumbled to no one in particular. "Luck's a bitch. I'd just finished cleaning all my armor and the like, too. Oiling my bow. fletchin' all those goddamned arrows. Now I'm gonna have to replace 'em all. Fuck you, Duke. Fuck you and your plans. I hate this job."

Maximillian raised an eyebrow, chuckling at the foul-mouthed, foul-tempered Cataphract's grumblings. "Now, now, Leo, remember, stoicness and steadiness in the face of adversity and lifes' little challanges is a virtue and you of all people need those wherever you can find 'em."

"Shut your philosophical cocksucker, Max."

"Suit yourself. Just thought I'd give you something better to think about."

"Leo, if I have to listen to you grumble all the way into the plains, I'm really going to have to replace you. Let you march with the rest of the boys," Fedor said with another grin. He would never do that. Leopold's complaining was quite entertaining, and was one of the few reasons the ride here had not driven Fedor mad.

"Let me grumble in peace, boss-man." He paused, then...

Grumble. Grumble. Grumble.

"Huh?" Fedor asked, cocking his head to the side.

"I think he said 'fuck optimistic knights,' Duke. But I could be wrong. Foul-mouthed sonofabitch might have said 'fuck optimal nights.' Makes no sense really. As much grumbling as he's been doing about the sun and the heat, you'd think he'd be happy for the night."

"Ah, go fu---"

"That'll do, Leo. Let's go catch up with Vithimir and Ludo. I'm sure they're wondering where we've gone."

"They're not the only ones," they heard Leo grumble.

[The Fanboyists]

Archaeus stepped carefully through the crowded streets of the capital of Bevelle, surprisingly light on his feet for such a large man. Plate armor and chain mail sheathed most of his body as four members of his body guard from the Sacred Band followed closely. He had a chance to finally meet with the king of Bevelle.

Finally, he thought with relief, as he tugged his beard slightly as he walked. We may finally be at the cusp. All these years of being shafted by Grimmea, and we may finally have a chance to regain our old place.

As he approached the palace, he walked up to one of the guards, and nodded to him. "Hello, I am King Archaeus of Vraea, and I believe I have made an appointment to meet with his excellency."

[Alyxandreta]

Emperor Garvan Bevelle XXIV sat on his throne, bored and it seemed disheartened, his twin brother the Emperor of Dragonia had mysteriously caught sick whilst returning home a month past and this worried him so, the two were inseparable and right now he would rather be with him than sitting in Bevelle City greeting and holding meetings with nobles and advisors but he had to persevere.

A messenger darted into the room, obviously tired and worn out from constantly running the distance from the palace's gates to the throne room, barely waiting for a moments breath the messenger began to speak,

"My lord, Emperor Garvan, there is a man here to speak with you"

Brushing his scarlet hair out of his face and behind his head, Garvan looked up at his messenger and sighed before muttering

"Another politician, or another duke come to pay 'respects' to me so Alyxandreta doesn't take over their little personal kingdom... whatever"

The messenger, now fully composed stood to attention and once more began to speak,

"My lord, may I introduce to you, King Archaeus II of Vraea!"

And in stepped Archaeus, calling him tall would be an understatement, Archaeus' blonde hair glistened in the light of the throne room, he stepped before Garvan and they both bowed cordially, very few people could measure up to the stature of Garvan but here was one of them

"Archaeus is it? I bid you welcome to my halls, I assume this is business and not a social call as you are a far distance from your homeland, I heard that some of your people were working alongside my own Imperial troops, it's always good to have allies especially with the psychos across the mountains. Now to business, is there a reason you've come to see me? Your men have been in my ranks for almost 3 years now and this is the first time you yourself have paid a visit to the court?"



Meanwhile in Hyranaia, the smoldering ruins of Hyranakis attracted a small group of it would seem scavengers, folk dressed in leather animal hide, clothes suited to the bedouin but these were no desert folk.

"Okay, I want you guys to scout the entrance, hopefully something will have survived"

The scavengers entered the burned out town's remains to find nothing but ash and death, the people here had no chance, not even the Alyxandretan soldiers who were stationed here.

"Sweet Mamahn! Who could've done this!?" Barked the head Scavenger

"Sir... we found a note hammered to... hammered to a body... we found it on a tree outside, it seems...we're to blame!" A fellow scavenger replied, his eyes puzzled and his commanding officers too. The note simply read

"We the Chimera Brigade have executed the townspeople and the soldiers of Alyxandreta for crimes of coercing with the enemy and for oppressing our people, this will be the first of many to suffer at our hands. Signed, Auron Killani"

"WHAT THE HELL! I DIDN'T WRITE THIS, ARGH!!!!! FUCKING ALYXANDRETAN COWARDS... THEY DID THIS AND THEY'RE PUTTING THE BLAME ON US! GUYS MOVE OUT NOW, TAKE WHAT YOU CAN SALVAGE... WE'RE HEADING FOR HOME" the C.O. ordered, his name now revealed, Killani, AURON KILLANI.

[The Fanboyists]

"Ah, yes, your Excellency," Archaeus began calmly. "I am not sure if you were made aware of the fact that we are here in a mercenary capacity. However, we declined the usual mercenary's pay, opting for the pay of your regular, professional soldiers, and a fair share of loot, no more or less than anyone elses should it become available. However, we had one stipulation: that we would be able to, after five years of service, request a favor from you. We still have two years before this becomes an outstanding issue, but I would like to address it now, as it is of a...long term nature."

He paused and took a breath, basking in the majesty of his surroundings. "Has anyone ever informed as to how my people found themselves where they are, exiled from their homeland in some cases, under foreign control for others, or merely as a shadow of our once-great kingdom for the rest? Are you familiar with a nation known as Grimmea?" he asked Garven. "It is at their hands that we have been, ah, reduced. Two tribes, similar to ours in many ways that we have feuded with for centuries, the Skraelings and Romanids, forged an alliance with Grimmea, wherin they remain semi-autonomous, fight for the Grimmeans as elite forces in their army, and have reduced taxes. They fight similarly to us: some are noted mercenaries, so if we find ourselves ever fighting suspiciously well-trained and experienced heavy cavalry, I wouldn't be the slightest bit surprised. Regardless, because the Romanids and Skraelings took one side, in our woefully unthinking way which was common at the time, we opposed them. The result being that, excuse my rough language in the presence of your Majesty, we got our sorry asses handed to us."

He paused and continued.

"The Vraenid Kingdom was partially absorbed into the Grimmean Empire, our armies were shattered, and the rest of the kingdom effectively imploded into warring fiefdoms. I am a King of Vraea in name only, with the exception of a few lords and peoples loyal to myself. And so we have come here to gain a reputation abroad, with the hopes that you can help us reestablish ourselves, or, if you are unable to, to point us in the direction of those that can. In exchange, once reestablished, we would be willing to forge an alliance with you. That is our request in exchange for these years of service."

OOC: What is the name of the westernmost major city of Alyxandreta?

[Alyxandreta]

OOC: The westernmost major city of alyxandreta would be Carpanis, city situated east of the mountains that separate Dragonia from the Empire.

http://tinypic.com/r/211t7ki/5

that is the temporary world map.

IC:

"I have known of your service although I must say I do not like the whole 'looting' aspect but we are from two different cultures so I shall not mention it anymore. A favour is what you want, hmmm, I these days do not usually accept alliances at the drop of a hat, especially with mercenaries with no homeland but then again, I guess that is what the founder of Bevelle pretty much was. Your favour and offer are accepted, although your service will still need to be required for many years to come, I feel war is coming to Spira and without my brothers aid and his guidance I feel we shall be severely weakened by the empire of Alyxandreta" Garvan replied, he now sat on a small wooden table hidden away in the corner of the throne room, it was where the peasants sat but it was where Garvan felt the most honest.

The Alyxandretan armies were growing larger and stronger, any men who could fight were forced to and children were taken from their homes in order to swear loyalty to the empire, a barbaric practice that many felt sickened by but dared not speak out against. Tyr was a brutal, violent bats of a man but in his heart he knew nobility even if it was a twisted form, the empire had given him a purpose and he sought only to make her stronger.

"COME ON YOU DOGS, WE'VE GOT MORE MEN TO RECRUIT, THOSE BEKHAERANS ARE NEXT, PATHETIC CHIMERA WORSHIPPING FOOLS! THE BECHTANAE ALREADY HAVE ROUNDED UP ENOUGH OF THEM FOR THE TRAINING CAMPS, I WANT ANOTHER 10000 MEN BY NOON THREE DAYS FROM NOW!" Roared the commander, Tyr went off enraged, inside of him he hated this course of action but it seemed necessary, the empire was being threatened from within by rebels and militias and even he himself wanted to rid the empire of the council and let the emperor assume control once more instead of being a pawn to corrupt bureaucrats

[The Fanboyists]

"Ah, you misunderstand my meaning by "loot" sir. I simply meant that, when an army is defeated or captured, it is common practice to distribute the treasure of the captured army to the troops, is it not? I do not mean pillaging: Gods, no, we frown on that quite heavily."

"Agreed. As I said, even if we were to leave as soon as our service expired--unlikely, as we like to see things through--we would still have two more years of service. I merely wished to make this known to you, so that, when the time comes, it would not come as a surprise. No, we would not dream of leaving you even when our agreed service expires: it is too great an honor to fight alongside as brave men as those that serve Bevelle." He nodded. "That said, I am glad that you have accepted helping us in the future. Rest assured such kindness will be repaid when we are able. Also, I believe, with that, I may be able to regain enough sway back home to call for more of our clibinarae to assist us here. Quite possibly another 4,000 to fight under this banner."

"Thank you, your excellency. My people are indebted to you," Archaeus finished, bowing deeply. "It is an honor to fight under your banner. I bid you good day, sir."

[The Fanboyists]

As the Duke's Guard entered Carpanis, a slight scuffle ensued between a guard and Ludovic, one of Fedor's captains, leading a detachment of the Cataphractae.

"I insist. We need entry; we are short on food and water, and we've just had to march overland through Dragonia, our intention is peaceful, you're being a dickhead. Its not like we're going to sack the town or something. If we really unnerve you, let the commanders in so we can speak to your leaders!" Ludovic bellowed at the hapless guards obstinently blocking the gate.

"Orders is orders, sir. Can't let yall through. You're armed."

"So are you!"

"Different sir. We's guards."

A sinewy Cataphract came foward, not bothering to dismount from his horse.

"Duke's wondering why the fuck this is taking so long, Ludo."

"This jackass won't let us in!"

"I can't. I've got orders that armed strangers can't go in the town."

"Half the merchant population are armed!"

"Ah, but they's merchants."

"What, so they bribe you?!" Ludo was pissed.

"Don't be daft! 'Course not! But they got legitimate business in town! Yall's soldiers. How do I know you don't plan on taking the town over once your all in?!"

Leo rolled his eyes spectacularly, drawing his murderous heavy cavalry sword. "Because if we wanted to take the town, I would have hacked your fucking head off and marched in and sacked the place by now. We wouldn't be talkin', now, would we?"

The guard was stunned speechless as the reasoning of this caught up with him.

"I guess...your highest leaders only. And maybe a bodyguard or two. I'll have a runner inform the mayor."

Leo sheathed the sword, not the least bit subtly. "Good choice. I'll get the Duke. He says we need employment, and this here looks like a good place to get it."
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Fedor, Leo, and Maximillian were walking towards the town hall, weapons sheathed. For the sake of diplomacy, only Leo and Max had lances. Fedor had that nasty-looking greatsword at his belt, but it was sheathed. They walked up to the town hall, expecting to meet the town leader or leaders.

[Alyxandreta]

The duke of Carpanis was Justinian Aurelius, descended from Ijho Carpanis, one of Alexander the first's most trusted and vicious warlords with whom they conquered most of Spira. Justinian was a plump man, his greed was clear to see, he hated foreigners but loved their wealth and he tolerated them for this reason alone. As he waddled to his dining hall, before him a huge feast was laid on... it was only breakfast time.

"Who are these vile looking men! Be gone with you, you spoil my appetite... fine, who are you and what is your business.. hang on, you're... you're armed!? The guards didn't remove your weapons, someone's head will roll for this!" The fat man whimpered, trying to seem powerful but his guests were powerful, and they seemed like they wanted something.

Carpanis was always on high alert, the city was situated to the east of Dragonia, the ancient land of warriors and legends, traders from all cross Spira came here and this was seen as the city that was Alyxandreta's warning shot to Dragonia, it was meant to have been a symbol of power and of expansion but it had been corrupted by Bureaucrats and a succession of Carpanis'' descendants turning their back on warrior life.

[The Fanboyists]

Fedor raised an eyebrow and snorted as he heard Leo's first words (Maximillian started chuckling)...

"Who the fuck are you calling vile, you scrub?!"

Fedor managed to, mostly, maintain his composure (meaning that he managed not to start laughing)

"Your, ah, master, the Emperor, we hear, has need of troops. We have traveled many miles to seek temporary employment as mercenaries in the Imperial Army. And yes, we have weapons. Nice ones, too." Fedor showed only token respect to the Duke, as he knew the man's type well enough, but, in a foreign land, might still have power to have him killed. But not too much respect. One who was equal rank did not deserve that much. "Well-used ones, actually."

"Also, I'd advise that you don't use that tone to a Duke, good sir. It may cause bad feelings. And I'm sure you don't want us to have bad feelings towards Carpanis, do you?"

He nodded. "And if you lack the authorization to employ us, direct us to someone that does have it." Fedor made the request sound as much like a command as he dared. He didn't doubt the Duke was a cold-blooded man who hated to be disturbed in his gluttony, but he had a feeling none of the guards wanted to come anywhere near him or his guards. Leo was murderous enough, and Maximillian was a giant, capable of ripping arms off if he so chose.

[Alyxandreta]

"I HAVE ENOUGH AUTHORIZATION MY GOOD MAN! Yes, the Emperor and the empire is in need of soldiers, what skills do you have to offer our mighty land... apart from your oh so 'eloquent language' hah" Sneered the ever plump Justinian as he ate one chicken leg one after another.

"Ahem sirs, my name is Arnold Tyrol. I am chief guard of Carpanis and the Dukes personal bodyguard, If you wish to discuss any military or business you must speak with me as you can see the duke has... 'important' issues he must deal with first" Tyrol spoke, a tall man, nearing 7 foot, in his youth he was nicknamed Titan Tyrol and it still stuck to this day, he led the men to a separate room and began to discuss with them the terms of employment.

"Good, the fat oaf can't hear us, as I previously stated, my name is Arnold Tyrol or as my father called me, Ijho Carpanis Arnold Tyrol, unfortunately the Duke would be my half brother, our father was the duke beforehand, if you were to eliminate my brother, I would see to it you and your men would be paid double and see as plenty action as you could, you have my word... what say you?"

[The Fanboyists]

The Duke gave him a long stare. "There are many traitorous guards and the like who employ outside help and then do away with that help...do we have your word your guards will not turn on us afterwards, or interfere with us in anyway?"

"There's another thing I want to point out: we're warriors, not executioners. I don't care if Leo, Maximillian or myself kills him, but he must be armed. I don't care if he's inept, he has to have a chance to defend himself, or its just murder. I'm sure a man like yourself understands something like this: there aren't a lot of things we're proud of, but one of the few things we are is that we will not stoop to plain murder, butchery, rape, or pillage. If he's at least armed, I don't care if its with the flimsiest shortsword you can find, it will still, in some sense, be somewhat fair. He had a chance. Not well-trained enough or fit enough, but that's his fault entirely."

Leo gave an amused snarl. "Can I do it? I'm already gonna get my sword dirty, I may as well get it dirty getting rid of someone the world is genuinely best off without."

"Don't drag it out, Leo," Max said simpy.

Leo cocked an eyebrow. "When have I ever? You know me. Its probably best if I do it. The motherfucker probably won't feel a thing." This was true: Leo kept his sword incredibly sharp: it tended to slice through flesh like a hot knife through so much butter, and he was quick and efficient about it, too.

Maximillian intervened at this point. "Aren't we getting a little hasty here? Who says he needs to be killed? I'd argue the opposite, really, just throw him in prison. Killing greedy beaureucrats, while fun, has an unfortunate tendency to backfire. Unfortunately, in too many cases, their few good traits are magnified by those that sort of liked them or can gain by removing the deposer, and then elevate them to martyr status, and then we're all in real trouble. No, I'd advise finding some charge to imprison him on, throw him in prison, and then, if he proves too troublesome there, have a trial, a bogus one for all anyone cares, though it should appear fair, and then execute him formally. Though I'd personnally just keep him in a dungeon. You never know, you may find use for him at a later time." That was Maximillian for you. Great, murderous giant at first glance, but often enough the balancing voice of reason for his more impulsive friend and charge.

[The Fanboyists]

OOC: Bumpage.

[The Fanboyists]

Bears
Unfortunately
Made-off with
Pizza. It was mine.

Extra magical, extreme amounts of...
Bumpage.

[Alyxandreta]

"The Imperial council has grown weary of his attitude and sick of his greed, his removal is required, the only problem with this plan is he maintains the loyalty of the Imperial Guard within the city, they are blinded by greed. If you help me, I promise you shall not be turned upon and shall receive whatever you ask for." Tyrol replied, he had a plan already, he just needed his new friends to keep the Imperial Guard occupied. Tyrol re-entered the dining hall where his brother, the duke engorged himself on desserts, in his hands he carried two blades and tossed one towards the Duke

"What are you doing, can't you see I'm in deep 'negotiations' you fool" Roared the Duke, shoveling another plate of sweetened fruit into his mouth

"Shut up you dog, pick it up, I'm sick of you and your ways, you've treated me like shit all these years, no more!" Barked Tyrol as he swung for the Duke just missing him by inches, the two parried for minutes before Tyrol fell backwards, his sword now several feet away and the Duke looming overhead, the look on his face suggested he would gladly eat his own brother, as he lifted the sword above his head, Tyrol's face grew ashen and then... blood, blood on Tyrol's face, but not his own, as he looked up at his brother, he could see a thick blade through his ribcage and behind him, the Grimmaeans.

Elsewhere, tensions between the autonomous peoples living in the Empire and the Alyxandretans themselves were at an all time high, especially in the city of Bekha in Bekhaera, once the capital of a glorious kingdom now reduced to a mere shadow of what it once was while to the north the puppet state of 'Bechtanae' enjoyed wealth and prosperity at the expense of their brothers to the south.

"This city sure isn't what it was like ten years ago, god, we've been gone that long and look, they've even erected a statue of Alexander here, bloody original and bloody brilliant... god It's just like another goddamn Alyxandretan city, anyway, boys look for the nearest tavern, we're staying here for a few nights, but try and keep a low profile, we're apparently wanted murderers now" Auron Killani spoke, his spirit crushed as he returned to the city of his birth, now an Alyxandretan city.

[Great Bastion]

OOC: Oops. Posted on wrong nation. I'll correct in a bit.

As soon as Tyrol had spoken, Leo had rushed from the palace and mounted up, galloping to where the other cataphracts were waiting.

"'Ey! Y'all! We got work to do! Get in there! Hurry! We got an Imperial Guard to dismember!" Few people but Leopold could ever shout something like this and still project so much horrible glee.

Soon enough, a hundred cataphractae (more would have been unnecessary) were charging in, past the complaining guards. One made the mistake of attempting to stop them, and a merciful cataphract smacked him upside the head with the flat of his sword, saying "that would be a bad idea, good sir."

The Imperial Guard began drawing up outside the palace. Many of the cataphracts snorted. Swordsmen. Nothing against a good group of Cataphracts. They didn't bother with lance-work. There was no need. They drew their bows, arguably the most powerful used on horseback in the world, and proceeded to shred the Guard's position with hails of arrows. Murderous arrows. Some of them even punching clean through sheilds. Going through armor like so much tissue paper.

[The Fanboyists]

Fedor glared at the Duke's now-standing corpse, and attempted to pull his greatsword out. Tried.

"Fuck it. I did it too hard again. Why the fuck are these lugs even on here? I thought they were supposed to prevent stuff like this," he growled as he placed his knee and left hand against the Duke's back as bracing, then pulled his sword free (making a rather sickening *shccck* noise as it went), and wiping it on the hapless nobleman's shirt. He nodded to Tyrol. "Leo's got some of the boys. They're probably making short work of the Guard. Arrow work. Nothing more."

The interfereing guard who had spun Tyrol's sword away hadn't lasted long. A single smash of Maximillian's flanged mace and his spine snapped and the man fell to the floor. Max put him out of his misery with a second smash to the face. Most of the guards stayed well back from then.

[Alyxandreta]

"The Imperial Guard will eventually surrender, they've grown weak under my brother's rule, now my friends, your demands shall be met, are there any other questions you have of me?" The new Duke Tyrol spoke as several servants dragged the bloated corpse of Justinian from the dining hall, outside the Imperial Guard soon surrendered to the Grimmaeans and with few losses which they knew could've been more.

Back in Bekha City, Bekhaera

Killani walked through the streets, face masked as to avoid detection from his fellow city folk whom would be eager to make a fast profit from the Imperials. The main tavern in the city was Oleanders White Oak, it was here Killani had his first drink aged 11.

"If we catch those good for nothing Chimera brigadiers. we'll collect the bounty before any of these Bekhaeran morons" Snorted a couple of Imperial Guard troops guarding the old Kings manor district, Killani had to be careful.

Inside the white oak the boys from the brigade had booked rooms and returned to them and awaited further instruction, but he wanted a cold stiff drink. The pint passed his lips and quenched his thirst, weeks in the desert had obviously taken its toll on him and this was a small piece of heaven, no doubt the boys had already had a few before he got there.

[The Fanboyists]

Unfortunately, the captain of the Guard was one of the few casualties. Well, unfortunate depended on who you asked. Most people that knew Leo realized he was probably asking for it.

"Surrender? Says who?" the insolent captain had said indignantly.

"Says me," Ludovic had growled.

"Not good enough."

"Seemed good enough for the rest o' your men."

"Well they can go fu--" his last words had been cut off, along with his head as Leo had strode up behind him and, with a lazy twist of the shoulders and flick of the sword, dropped his head onto the cobblestones.

"Idiot. Leave it to an officer to talk himself to death. Talked 'is fuckin' head right off, eh?"

"Undoubtedly, Leo."

"Damn straight."

One cataphract was injured in the fight. It was estimated the bruises and his temper would settle in an hour or so.
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Fedor nodded. "Yes, indeed. We aren't to be constrained to idiotic all out charges and the like. If I think my men are best used in a capacity other than what the commander says, I can damn well question it. Is that acceptable?"

[Alyxandreta]

It was nearly 7pm the evening when they arrived, the Imperial Guard led by Tyr, they were here to 'recruit' people into the army and no-one in Bekha even had a clue.

Killani was sitting on his bed he had reserved for the night whilst his men either slept or sat up chatting, he felt tired but couldn't sleep for some reason, maybe it was the fact they had a death sentence hanging over their hands like an unwelcome visitor nevertheless, he had a mission, one he had sworn to fulfill even should it kill him.

"Oh god! Protect the children! Hide them!" Voices yelled outside in the city streets, something was going on and it wasn't good, Killani opened the window in his room and leant out of it, all he could see was the Imperial Guard of Alyxandreta swarming the streets, grabbing whatever male children they could find and escorting them away.. what the hell was going on.

The Chimera Brigade quickly donned their gear once more and headed to the streets and began to 'deal' with these abductors, one after another the poorly trained Alyxandretan Imperials fell to the Chimerans, that was until Tyr entered the fray, like a behemoth he charged towards the city folks and the Chimerans and began attacking those who stood before him, a couple of the Chimera Brigade ended up in the fountain nearby the force which Tyr attacked them.

"You son of a bitch, put those kids back or I swear I'll cut you where you stand" Killani roared at Tyr, the two now encircling one another, Tyr's face smirking, condifent but now calmer than ever he laughed and spoke,

"I know that voice.. ah dear Old Auron Killani, tell me, hows things these days, I'm sure killing innocents really does take it out of a man"

"You were the one who killed them, not me... something in your head isn't right!" Killani barked back as he lunged in the air and thrusted downwards at Tyr who surprisingly dodged with agility that none knew he possessed, this battle would be surprising to say the least.

[The Fanboyists]

OOC: What about my post?

[Alyxandreta]

"Your men will have something to do sooner rather than later, to the west lies Dragonia, you've probably heard of them, the oldest empire to have ever existed, well they are mobilizing their troops and heading towards Carpanis. Their numbers reach up to 1000, if you can take out the core of their army before they reach Carpanis, it will allow the Imperial Guard here to retrain under my own supervision because as you've undoubtedly seen, they lack will" Tyrol replied as he and his guests strolled through the city streets, he had a grand vision that was only matched by the Imperial council.

"If you wish more employment I suggest you carry this mission out with ruthless aplomb and make sure at least one survives, the Dragonians must realize their time is over... and I hope the sick Emperor of Dragonia inches closer to his deathbed"

[The Fanboyists]

Fedor nodded approvingly as he absently cleaned off his greatsword, Ulfzbalgur. "Shouldn't be too hard. Any information on what type of troops they have? Do they favor cavalry or infantry? Heavy or light? We need to know so we can plan our fighting style accordingly. And do you not want survivors? Or do you want some to spread the word that they got their asses kicked?" He shrugged. "'Course, if they're levies or conscripts, should be easy work for cataphracts outnumbered only 2-1. Not hard. We've pulled-off worse." He turned to Maximillian. "Max, go tell Ludovic, Vithimir, Rumilius, and Agathius to start getting their companies ready. We need to be ready to move out ASAP."

"Got it, boss-man," Max said simply with a salute as he jogged out.

Leo strode back in. "Imperial Guard out of action, Duke. One incredibly dead captain, courtesy of my sword. One of ours injured, though. We think the bruising shouldn't slow him up though. Anything else?"

"Help Maximillian get everyone ready. We got our first target."

"Got it, chief."

[Alyxandreta]

The mood in Bekhaera was alive, the streets were full of people celebrating the feast of Vinimir, the demi-god who through sheer will rose from a mere mortal to demi-god after freeing his people from the slavery of the gods. In amongst the celebratory crowds was Auron Killani, leader of the Chimera Brigade, his men already at their meeting place, the White Horn Tavern, a down-market excuse of a place but at the moment it was the only thing they could afford, a few days here hiding from the Imperial forces should give them enough time to reach the Dragonian Border.

"ARRRRGH!" screams filled the air, screams that deafened the party revelers tones, a woman, covered in blood and cuts rushed into the central courtyard of Bekha City... she was near death as she collapsed onto Auron

"Who did this? Someone get a doctor...NOW!" Auron screamed as the crowd either dispersed in a panic or came to see what was going on, it would soon become known to them the source of this woman's sever beating.

"Attention citizens of Bekha, his Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Alyxandreta and the Imperial Council have ordered the conscription of able bodied men and young males into its fighting force, for the immediate future, any attempts at trying to resist conscription will see you bloodied and battered liek that little whore over there... now, has anyone got something to say before we start rounding you up like cattle?" A familiar voice echoed, it was Tyr, the grinning face betrayed his steely voice, he was here on a mission and no one could stop him... ever.

"Yeah, I have something to say you fat bastard, like hell are you taking anyone, especially kids or do you want me to give you another beating like I did before you arrogant bastard, and send you tails between your legs to your mother the emperor?" Auron replied, the woman in his arms was now being looked after by a doctor, his face bearing the anger inside of him, now flanked by the citizens of Bekha and his own Chimera Brigade who'd heard about a large Imperial Guard presence in the city limits and knew they had a chance for a fight.

"Auron... Auron Killani you sly pup, still alive, even after you 'killed' those poor men at Hyranakis... oh well, guess I shall avenge my fallen comrades tonight... MEN SEIZE THE MURDERER AND RESTARIN ALL PROTESTERS AND ROUND UP THE MEN AND YOUNG BOYS, THE GLORY OF ALYXANDRETA DEPENDS ON IT!"



Elsewhere in Spira, the Dragonian troops heading westwards to the border with Alyxandreta, their numbers amassed to three thousand, many of them ordinary grunts and conscripts who led by their hundred strong Elite Dragonian Legion were moving to the city of Carpanis where they now planned to strike while the empire's forces could not react quickly enough, unfortunately for them they had no idea whom waited for them within the border city's walls.