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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Oct 23, 2011 17:30:30 GMT 1
Chapter 16: Father of a lost pride.
Clouds covered the skies as the group of horsemen charged down from the hill. His destrier snorted loudly before their commander glanced back at his men. Lord De Schacht bore the golden coloured armour with a long black cape and a lion’s helm. His horse was covered in golden armour as well, from head to halfway it’s strong legs. On it’s side the black lion roared on it’s shield, as it did on the shields of the other riders. Although they bore the normal chainmail armour with the golden tabard with the black lion of Westend Keep, they to looked fiercesome on their armoured destriers. “Drive them off!” Luc shouted as he drew his sword.” For Westend Keep and the North!” “For the North!” his men returned the battlecry. The riders aimed their lances as Luc led the charge down. Below a caravan which bore the banner of the wolf was attacked by a group of Queen Cerdica’s men. Their escort lay dead as the terrified civilians hid behind the spears and shields of their northern countrymen which made a circle around the carts.
They turned their heads at the men of Westend Keep charged at them and ran a bloody muck through their ranks. Their leaders on horseback bolted at the sight while the footmen tried to make a futile stand. Their spears and swords kept the men of Westend Keep at bay, for a moment. From the ranks a angry warshout came and a knight with grey plate and a white wolf on a blue backdrop on his tabard charged forward and sliced his way through the Summer-men.
They do called for retreat and ran away as morale and leadership melted down in a manner of seconds. “Hunt them down.” Luc said to his second.” Send Cerdica a sign that we do not tolerate bullies.” “Yes milord.” The second bowed his head and led the charge with half the cavalry unit. “Lord De Schacht, took you sodding long enough to get here!” the Winter Knight laughed as he took off his helmet. The knight was old and had a eyepatch which covered his right eye. Luc smiled as he recognized the warrior.” Ser Hendrick, good to see you are at good health.”
Luc stepped off his horse and clasped his gauntlet hand with Ser Hendrick’s. “It takes more then an angry half-orc to take me down, Lord De Schacht.” “I thought Cerdica allowed you and your countrymen leave from Neromapia?” Luc asked as his footmen from above came down and aided the Winter soldiers with gathering their dead and re-assure the civilians.
“She gave us to few time to get out of her lands, the whore.” Frederick spat on the ground.” I lost my squire to her thugs on the way out. Said he was stealing, the poor bastard...” “Yours?” Luc walked with Hendrick toward the end of the caravan as one of his ootmen took his horse. “No, although a few of mine are here in this group...somewhere I suppose...” he smirked a little.” And another one on the way.” He motioned to a pretty looking girl, half his age Luc wagered, with red hair who held her hands over her pregnant belly. Luc shook his head.” You shame your house still?” Ser Hendrick’s good mood turned instantly. With a angry look he jabbed his finger at Luc’s chest.
“I love my children, all of them. My wife, Allfather bless her soul, died fourty years ago. A man has needs...besides I’m making this one another natural of mine. Saved the money for it from participating in that tournament.” “The child was still be seen as a bastard, born from lust and deceit. Not from a proper ma-“ “Lord De Schacht, let me stop you right there.” The old knight held out his hand.” I appreciate your aid and your loyalty to my young king, despite his ridiculous nickname, but I think it is wise you and me hold our tongue on the realm of bastards for the sake of this journey, agreed?”
Luc stared at the knight who well could have been his father. A tense moment passed as both Westend and Winter men gazed at the sight, confused whatever or not they should draw their steel. Tensions in the Alliance were already high with Bernard Seaspring been taken hostage at Castle Winter by the hand of King Frederick Winter himself. After all, if the Seakings received this from Winter, what could Westend Keep expect? Lord De Schacht smiled however and nodded his head.” Agreed, perhaps it’s best saved for another time.” Hendrick smiled and nodded as a sense of relief passed over both groups. “My apologies, it’s been a long trip. Lost a lot of friends.” Both resumed walking.
“We may risk to lose a few more. The Seakings are sending in less medical and armour supplies to our outposts and have been supplying us with...strange horses.” “Strange horses?” Hendrick asked. “Yes, they are white but have black stripes on them.” “Black stripes?” Hendrick laughed.” You must be jesting, that is a ridiculous animal.” “You haven’t seen a cavalry charge by those things. Fiesty buggers and deadly in small quarters. Problem is only the Seakings know how to tame them and we’re stuck with horses we cant ride.”
“Well, that’s one way to give the finger to the Mad King I’m sure...” Hendrick chuckled softly before he looked Luc straight in the ye with his one working eye.” How was the old king on his deathbed?” Luc remembered the night his old friend died. Living back in the past before slammed back in the present. Old regrets coupled with confusion. Frederick was never present and rumours said he send a letter to Soliana, nobody knew if it came through or not. In the end, it was Eveline who held his hand and Fanran who begged her forgiveness for the forced marriage. He died like a sad old man instead of a monarch.
“He died like a king, with dignity.” He lied. Fanran was his friend for decades and deserved the lie more then the truth. “Good.” Hendrick smiled.” He deserved as much, even if Rohak was a major cock-up. But enough of the past, where we headed?” “Me and my patrols are making sure the caravans get through as they head north again and through the mountain paths, or the ships of the Seakings if they can stomach those green bearded bastards...We are headed to Farshire a couples of miles northeast, make an outpost there before we move into Cerdica’s domain.”
“Good, I wish to be back home at Frostfang soon. I miss my kids and their kids, plus I want to introduce them to their new sibling by the time me and Emily here get back there.” He smiled at the red headed girl who smiled shyly back at him. “Fair enough. At least some have a family to go back to...” Luc sighed deeply. His son was dead now, passed away two weeks back. His wife was catatonic and the healers feared she would be next. Eveline travelled to Castle Winter with her husband and was crowned Queen Winter. The next time he would see her either was when she would introduce his grandchild or in the afterlife. For many days Luc’s believe in the later grew. His rage and need to kill was all that kept him sane and able to wake up in the morning.
“I’m sorry, Lord De Schacht.” Hendrick said.” The Allfather does not smile on all of us.” “Clearly.” He replied and motioned for his horse. Without anything left to say he led the caravan to Farshire.
A few hours later they found themselves fighting again once more. The smoke was seen from afar and the sounds of war were heard across the fields. The women and children panicked. “Riders with me! Footmen, remain with the caravan and be ready to head straight for Westend Keep if there is no word from me for an hour.” He shouted his commands. “You heard the man!” Hendrick shouted as well.” Saddle up!” “Are you coming along, Ser Hendrick?” Luc asked as the old knight got on one of the few Destriers the Winter troops had left. “I may be blind from one eye, Lord De Schacht but I am not coward.” He smirked.” In fact, I am certain I can kill more men then you do!” “A friendly wager then? Fifty gold pieces?” “Don’t patronise me whelp! Two hundred!” Hendrick laughed.
Luc seemed to like this old crazy bastard more and more with every passing moment. “Agreed, come let us go before there is no Farshire left to save.” He waited for Hendrick to mount his horse before he gave the order to advance. The banner of the Alliance of the North was held high as the riders of Westend Keep, and a few Winter riders, rode toward the normally quiet farming town of Farshire. As they neared, they saw many banners of the Red Dragon on a green leaf charge towards the small town where a single Black lion stood out.
With a wordless battlecry, Luc charged his men through the Summer rabble and made bloody work of their numbers. In the distance he saw a fine line of militia and his footmen hold the line against the invaders. For a moment he believed he saw a woman with a shield held high as she cut through them, shouting commands to her men as she went. He wondered... “We should call in our footmen!” Hendrick shouted in his ear.” They’re to many!” “No!” Luc withdrew his sword from a slain foe.” That’ll leave the caravan to weakly defended!” “We have to take the risk!” Hendrick shouted back.” We wont save anyone if we don’t have more men!” Luc hated risks. In previous battles he always made sure everything was in his favour, and when it wasn’t he made sure if he lost the damages on the enemy would be considered to vast for them to continue the struggle. But never did he risk civilian lives.
“Think about it, if we don’t send in more men, the folks at the caravan will get overrun anyway!” Hendrick stabbed a footmen down. “No, we fight on!” Luc made up his mind and pointed his bloody sword at the banner.” To the Shire!” Hendrick sighed, but complied and carried the order over.
The cavalry charged forward and cut their way through the vast horde. Although he did not see, Luc heard some of his men die as they got stabbed by a spear or pulled from their horse. But he kept the order to keep going, make sure the ranks were not broken.
The woman with the shield saw them coming and barked some order. The line opened so the horsemen could ride in. When Luc turned around, he saw less then half of his riders made it out. “Close the line, use the last of the Kadan powder!” the woman shouted. From here he could see her closely now. She had dirty blonde hair, a strong and stern face and bore the armour as if she was born into it. But best of all, or worst, he recognised her. Captain Alisa Stronghand, Martin’s former drill instructor at Westend Keep...and his late’s son lover with whom he spawned a bastard.
“Yes, Captan!” a soldier shouted and took a torch from the stand. He jammed it into the ground as two lights sparked and ran opposite to each other. A heartbeat after the light passed, a large fire flared up in the air and burned the Summer’s near it. This wall of fire went all around Farshire and claimed many lives. The horn of retreat was sounded as the Summer’s fell back as the wall of fire stood. The men cheered at the sight. Luc stepped off as Alisa walked over. “The Kadan fire wall trick last for fifteen minutes before it dissipates. After I suggest you bring in your caravan quickly and continue through the mountains, milord.” She bowed to Luc.
“What are you doing here?” he glared. “Last I checked milord, you banished me here with my son. Nothing much changed in the past four years.” She paused.” I heard what happened to your son, I’m sorry.” “I don’t want your sorry!” He kept glaring as his rage returned.” What the hell happened here?!” For an exiled captain, she did a poor job in hiding her anger. “Your hit and run attacks did their job, milord. The Summers are attacking your lands now, milord. Your people are dying, MILORD.” He raised his hand to hit her across the ugly head but found Hendrick’s hand grabbing his arm. “Control yourself, your men are watching.” Hendrick whispered with a glare before he let go.” Thank you for your assistance, Captain...?” “Stronghand.” She replied.” Captain Stronghand.” “What is your situation?” Hendrick stepped off his horse and motioned Luc to do the same. “Me and my men are holding the line while the villagers escape via the mountainpaths to Westend Keep. We’re using what we could salvage from the Seaking fleet to ho-“
“Wait.” Luc held up his hand.” What salvage?” “Haven’t you heard?” Alisa asked.” The greenbeards lost San Paridis.” “How?” “It’s been turned to glass.”
TBC
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Oct 28, 2011 23:00:18 GMT 1
Chapter 17: All what remains, is glass.
Uvenk Wachter flipped another page of his book as the boat continued to rock against the waves. For the better part of a day, they were sailing towards San Paridis. San Paradis was the closest Seaking stronghold nearby and actually housed not only one of the four Seakings, but a quarter of their overall fleet and highlands which housed many of their white-black striped wild horses. A perfect target. Above, dragons flew overhead and dived towards the enemy ships. Sometimes they hear a roar or the faint sound of men screaming as if they were burned alive...which was plausible if not true.
“Aren’t you done with that book yet?” Thenko asked. Thenko was a large man, nearly as tall as the bears back home at Neromapia. Both lived in the same area of the town and were close friends. Both their fathers served on the Autum Wall when they were recruits before they moved to Neromapia and raised a family. Uvenk inherited his father’s smaller stature, but quick wit and ability to learn. Thenko had the brawn and ability to bash someone’s brain out with a rock. Both had black hair while Uvenk’s eyes were smaller and he himself looked rather plain while Thenko looked the part of a bear with his wild hair and thick forearms.
“Thenko my friend....” Uvenk sighed.” I may not be as strong as you, but I know very well what’ll happen in the next hour or so. I rather finish my book and die with a smile on my face then die and not having finished my book.” “It’s just a book...” his friend grumbled as he looked his weapon over one last time. It was a new invention from the East, they called it a Dragon Mouth. Emperor Van Xia, eight of his name, only recently sold this new weapon to the western lands, and Queen Cerdica was the first to use them.
A Dragon Mouth was made of a long metal tube, connected to a wooden handle and a trigger, similar to a crossbow. They fired small metal rocks of sorts at a very fast speed, the speed that could kill a man. There was a larger one below the hull which was able to shoot entire boulders at a wall. It used a black powder which ignited a spark and threw the rock with a fire-like force, the sound of the weapon firing and the fire that came after the bullet gave it’s name credit. It wasn’t to hard to master the weapon, Uvenk found it a lot easier to use then the crossbows back at the Autum Wall. Except instead of firing his bolts at nothing and stare at the dark forest, he was going to an island filled with the greenbeards who so far pillaged and raped nearly every coastal town not allied with the Alliance of the North. High General Feren and Volstik came up with the simple plan and were both on one of the boats headed to the island.
The dragons were to soften the defensive fleet so the ships could land at the docks. Massive towers , given to them by the Drow and their own conquests, were armed to deal with dragons. The plan was to take control over those towers, or destroy them, so the dragons could swoop in and turn the entire island to glass. Uvenk knew there was a high mortality rate, and made no illusions his family name might have to be continued by his sister and brother in law back home. “You’ve gone quiet again.” Thenko said. “My father always said ‘finish what you start, nomatter what’. And I will do such the thing.” “I don’t think your father meant that when he told you that, Uvenk.” “Not my fault you Taralen have an common ancestory to bears.” Uvenk smirked as he closed his book. “Say that again Wachter, my ears are full of bullshit at the moment from what you just said.” Thenko laughed. He picked up another mouth and threw it over to Uvenk.” Check your weapon over one more time, this is the first time we’re using these.”
“We cant let the greenbeards laugh at us for failing now, would we?” Uvenk checked his puch of bullets and blackpowder over before he looked at his weapon.” Who else is on this boat?” “Mostly men fresh from Rohak under Volstik, Spring men like us.” His friend replied.” We got a couple of Summer men as well here, and the ones on the dragons above.” “All one big happy family now...” Uvenk chuckled weakly.” Dragons and tree-men fighting off sharks, wolves and lions...” “Could be worse, one of the guys from Rohak said it’s filled with werewolves now and other ghouls.” “Might explain why there weren’t any wolves at the Autum Wall then.” Uvenk placed the mouth to his right.
He looked at his peers to his right and saw they all prepared the upcoming battle in their own way. Some wrote letters, others slept and a few even prayed to Earth Mother, Spring’s main deity. Like him they all had green armour and a helmet in the shape of a leaf. Only recently they had to use swords coloured red, which showed their tie to the kingdom of Summer by their Queen who ruled over both. Many if not all on this boat were pulled from the Autum Wall and shoved onto these boats to take revenge on the sharks by not only killing their Lord of this portion of their sea kingdom, but destroy it utterly. Things went bad when King Halmedir died, he would never have gone out in force. Uvenk just hoped the women and children would be spared.
“The traitor wolf is here..” Thenko nudged his head as a old man walked into the hull. He wore the grey armour of winter, the wolf emblem was still on his chest, but also bore the red cape of summer on his back. His skin was tanned which was a sharp contrast of his white whiskers. None knew how old he was exactly, but he was in his prime still and would no doubt charge into battle. Uvenk heard how though the warriors of Winter were, and how their wolf friends tore through men like a armed warrior through children. Last he heard the Summer men in Maraad were fighting a desperate struggle against the soldiers of the Mad Wolf. He pitied them, but then again they were no doubt pitying them for assaulting a island fortress of the Sea Kings.
“Gentlemen, wake up.” He nudged one sleeping man on his boot as he walked by.” Wake up, today we will face destiny or obliteration.” This woke them all up. Everyone knew he was a veteran of a thousand battles, most of them being the Northmen who attacked Winter constantly.
“Today we will face the Seakings at their own home. Right now we are sailing past the debris of their fleet as the Dragon Knights swoop in and burn them. So far four of them have died and cannot risk any more runs because the turrets have their eyes on them. Our job gentlemen is to destroy or take over these turrets so the knights can finish the job. At your disposal we have the Dragon Mouth’s, the Queen’s new toys. Use them wisely, but don’t rely on them to often. They can puncture through armour, but cant handle a blade so be sure to keep yours with you at all times.”
“Yes general.” They all replied. He turned around and watched every single soldier.” There will be a lot of people who might not make it today. Know if we fail today, the Seakings will invade Neromapia and end the war in two weeks. I cant give you any comfort but this. If you die here and win, your names will be remembered at home as the bastards who were insane enough to sail to a island of pirates and raiders and set the place on fire.” He got a few chuckles out of that, even Uvenks. “Your company will take the tower to the East while me and my forces will give you enough time to fight your way up there. Try not to take to long gentlemen, I have a meeting with Current-King Hendrick and his lady wife Morriana at nine o’clock.” “We’ll give you our best, sir.” Their sergeant smirked. He was a Summer man, Sarge. He had a very dark skin with a bushy moustache. He had some field experience with the Dragon’s Mouths and trained this company how to use them properly. He had the unified Spring/Summer tabard on his chest, a red dragon on a leaf.
“I hope so sergeant. We’re landing in ten minutes, good luck.” Feren said before he walked off. “You heard the man ladies!” Sarge shouted.” You want to be the stuff of legends or not? Get your arses up on the deck, move it! Move it! Move it!” Uvenk got up and ran up the deck with the others. When he got there, he saw the island doom up above him as a rain of fire arrows flew towards them, but always missed. Uvenk glanced to his sides and saw the other Spring vessels were there...sailing through burning debris and corpses. Holy mother, the amount of corpses...
The Sarge knew the others were staring as well. “Focus on the arrows before you turn into one of those bastards in the water, ladies!” he shouted.” Pull up Fat Betty!” A few of the others ran down before they pushed up the large Dragon’s Mouth, which was rolled on wheels. More men followed with large metallic boulders which were to be used as it’s ammunition. Sarge looked at the other boats, as if he waited for a signal. That signal came when a red flag was lifted on one boat, the ‘Queen of Summer’, the flagship under high General Volstikk. “Load it up!” Sarge shouted as the men prepared Fat Betty. Uvenk saw Feren looking ahead as he ignored Sarge’s orders. Uvenk’s attention quickly snapped to the front though as a few fire arrows hit the deck, though none luckily caught fire. “Riflemen, covering fire!” Sarge shouted.” Four files, aim at their heads!” Twenty men, including Uvenk, stood in the first file with five men in each file. The other ten were toiling away at Betty.
Uvenk stood next to Thenko, who nodded at him quickly, before they threw some black powder in the mouth’s throat followed by a metal rock. He placed the hilt of the weapon on his shoulder and aimed the weapon at one foolish archer who didn’t remain in cover. To be fair, many of the fish munchers weren’t in cover at all as they kept raining down arrows. They were on a stone bridge of sorts above the docks, where a row of spearmen taunted below, about five hundred meters away. Uvenk smirked, bloody fools he thought. Dead fools in a moment. “Aim....AND FIRE!” Uvenk pulled the trigger as the mouth roared and spat the flame out.
The entire row of archers above them fell down on top of the spearmen. Everyone had a kill it seems. Even Thenko, who was a miserable shot most of the time. No wonder why the Van Xia dynasty lasted so long, these weapons were incredible! Already the spearmen shouted in anger as they tried to get back into position and shrug off their dead brothers. “Reload ladies, Big Betty crew be ready to fire on my command! Aim for the East Tower!”
Uvenk loaded more of the black powder before he threw in other metal ball. This time his sights were on the spearmen, he hoped the theory about the bullets being able to penetrate armour was true. “Aim and fire!” Sarge gave the command. Once more the mouths opened and roared. Several spearmen fell dead, but most held the line. Sarge cursed, but Feren gave no heed. “Big betty, you ready?” Sarge asked. “Ready and rearing, Sarge!” the men replied. Uvenk and the others already scattered, they had done this drill so many times before it just came naturally. “Good, open fire! I want that tower out of my sky!”
Big Betty’s roar even put the one Dragon’s made to shame. The ship shook heavily as the flaming ball of death flew above the spearmen and into the tower itself. On the other ships, similar large mouths like Betty fired at their towers. Even at sea they could feel the shakes and hear the shouts of terror. From afar, two of the six towers crumbled and crumbled the sharks below...sadly the east tower was not one of them. Which meant they had to take it out. Sarge drew his sword.” One more volley, then straight into the tower gentlemen!” The big mouths like betty were only able to fire one single shot, before it became useless until the workers could correct it’s angle again. The price it had to buy for the rage of the bullet, a bullet which did not take down the East tower, but did shake the resolve of the enemy.
Uvenk and the others fired one more time as high General Feren prepared his men. Uvenk could not hear what he said due to the roars of the Dragon’s Mouths and never found out as the gate in front was lowered by the sailors and Sarge gave the order to charge. Thenko gave a large shout and charged in, his red sword flaring in the fading sunlight. They charged into the spearmen and hacked into them. Uvenk saw a few of his friends fall by their tridents, but could not help feel for them as he was busy with his own fight. The Seaking spearmen stabbed his trident at Uvenk, who quickly dodged back and stabbed the man in the throat. Sarge was right, the greenbeards were like sharks. They struck but always let their guard down after. “To the tower, men!” Sarge shouted as he charged toward the tower. They ran passed the first few houses, which were burning Uvenk noticed, and the terrified crowds. Women and children clutched to each other as their men tried to defend them as Feren’s soldiers charged in and made quick work of them.
“They didn’t evacuate the civilians!” Uvenk shouted.” They di-“ “Focus, private wachter!” Sarge reminded him.” Move, up the stairs!” Uvenk kept staring at a green haired woman who stood in front of her children before she got pushed down by the soldiers. Her children screamed and stood in front of their mother before they got picked up by the soldiers and taken back to the ships. Feren barked a few orders and led most of the men towards the keep in the centre of the island. The few soldiers left however had a devilish glee In their eyes as they moved toward the sobbing woman. They wouldn’t...?
“Now, Wachter!” Sarge pushed him into the tower. His training snapped back into action as he ran up the stairs. Sarge kept urging them forward as some sharks came down to stop them. It was to crowded to reload, so they were forced to use their red swords. Uvenk had to fight both the enemy and his own friends to remain footed. He stabbed and hacked at anything he could. He ducked just in time as a arrow flew overhead. He heard a gurgle and knew one of his friends was dying. “Cover your ears!” Thenko shouted and aimed his dragon’s mouth at the archer. An ear deafening shot followed which threw the greenbeards on their knees as they clutched their ears. The archer fell dead and his kin soon followed when the company cut them down. “Nice job, Taralen!” one of the other soldiers complained.” You nearly got us all killed!” “Shut it, Haroldson,! I don’t need any of your-“ they both stopped arguing. There was no way Sarge would’ve let them argue this far. They all looked down, and saw their leader lay dead on the ground with a bolt in his throat.
“Holy mother...they got the Sarge!” Haroldson panicked. “What are we going to do, we’re done for!” another one joined in the panic. Uvenk saw his friends snap, already eight of them were dead and now the Sarge as well. They were sitting ducks here unless- “We have to keep moving.” He said.” To the rooftop, now!”
He didn’t know what came over him, but he had to do something, anything. The holy mother smiled on him it seemed, for they all followed without question. Uvenk led the company up the stairs, past the hole made by Big Betty. He took a quick look outside, but only saw chaos and death. Now women and children lay dead as fires seemed to consume every house and vessel. The banners of the blue shark burned everywhere he looked and the roars of dragon mouth’s were heard all over. A short cry of fear, the roars...then silence. He kept moving, he was not allowed to lose courage now.
Uvenk led the men up the stairs where a group of four fish munchers were stood around a repeater crossbow the size of a man. It was a metal structure which moved by gears and pedals, operated by it’s wielder. To it’s sides, the device was loaded with large, dark and sharp arrows, the size of an small child. A drow invention. The four men were easily overrun and slain. “Raise the red flag!” Uvenk shouted. Thenko nodded and together with Haroldson he took a trident of a dead greenbeard and tied the red flag on it. They waved it in the air towards the boats below. The boats returned the wave...and were greeted by a dragon’s roar. A real dragon’s roar.
From the gathering night clouds, a group of six dragon knights swooped in and breathed fire on a group of greenbeards below. They were to high now to hear the screams, but to see the little men turn into flames before they dropped down was unnerving. The banner of Queen Cerdica charged through the streets as not even the white-black striped cavalry could do little to stop the power of the dragon mouths, and the real dragons above. The other towers soon fell as well and gave the dragon knights the full length of the island to burn anything they pleased. And they did.
Save for the docks and the towers, every house burned. Every tree burned, every man who did not swear fealty to Queen Cerdica Summer burned. The smoke was making it hard to breath so Uvenk walked down the stairs. He did not know how long he sat there, he didn’t even know when Thenko sat next to him. All he knew was at one moment a Summer soldier ran up to them and ask who was in charge. Nobody replied. “Who is in charge?” the soldier asked again.
“I think Wachter is.” Haroldson said.” He led us up the tower.” “High General Feren and Volstikk wish to speak with you, Private Wachter. The rest of you can go back to the ships and...enjoy the fine things we ‘liberated’ from the greenbeards.” Uvenk had an idea what things they liberated. Drinks, foods, spices...the women. He read enough history books to know that rape was an effective weapon on itself. Physiological warfare. The soldier left as Uvenk looked at the other men of his group as they looked with hunger in their eyes. He wouldn’t allow it.
“Head back to the ships, but don’t touch the women and only consume your own rations.’ Uvenk said. “W-what, why?!” Haroldson asked.” We deserve this victory!” “WE are the 101st Dragon’s Mouth regiment, not a bunch of rapers and looters.” He glared at Haroldson.” Sarge did not train us to become like the Seakings. You do as your told or I’m telling your wives and family back home.” “Who said you were in charge?” a angry soldier asked. “Says me.” Thenko stepped up.” Problem with that?” The angry soldier immediately backed off.
Uvenk gave a faint smile to Thenko and patted him on the shoulder before he followed the soldier. Death was everywhere and was smelt everywhere. The stench of dead men and emptied bowels filled the streets and was added with the smell of burning flesh. The street they walked one was the only one not set ablaze. Already the ground not set on fire was being turned to glass. Queen Cerdica was not jesting when she uttered that threat.
They walked up the keep and walked over the corpses of the royal guard. It was once a white marble walls with a blue roof, not it was smothered with black soot. Inside the once what must have been peacefull corridors was filled with looters who ‘liberated’ priceless paintings, statues, riches. He saw a few women thrown over one’s shoulder who tried to resist. Several closed doors and the sobs heard from them mixed with groans of pleasure said enough. This was not Queen Cerdica’s army he signed up for Uvenk thought to himself.
“We’re here;” the soldier said as they were led to the main throne room. General Feren sat on the throne as he sipped some wine as he read some bloodied notes. Next to him was a spear, with instead of a spear end on the top there was a head. Sea King Hendrick Saltweather’s head he knew. “I know what your thinking.” Feren said as Uvenk tore his eyes away from the sight.” It’s a bit cruel. But this is how we treat traitors, and I found documents that Hendrick has killed his father on his wife’s...my mistake, King Farol Seaspring’s behest. The daughter is being interrogated by Volstikk right now. Care to join me...?” he urged Uvenk to tell his name.
“Private Wachter, sir.” He saluted, and noticed blood flew in a small arc.” Of the-“ “101st Dragon Mouth regiment, I recognise you now son.” He smiled and sat up.” I heard what happened to your sergeant, and how you seized the third tower.” He motioned Uvenk to follow him, which Uvenk did. “You have a remarkable skill Wachter...” Feren walked up the stairs passed some guards who saluted at them. “Skill?” Uvenk asked. “You led your men in a moment of desperation and grasped victory. If it wasn’t for you grabbing the third tower, we wouldn’t have been standing here today.” “Sir, if I may add I think you will find the dragon knights did most of the work.”
Feren laughed. “You remind me to much of myself at your age son. No, if you did not claim that tower the dragons would not have been able to swoop in and punch a way through for me and my men. Every regiment, or man in your case, played a important part in this battle. Your allowed to have a little pride.” As they moved up the stairs, he heard the sounds of a woman being raped again.
They reached what once must have been the bedroom of the king, but now found Volstikk pinning down Morriana Seaspring as he forced himself on her. His armour was thrown on the ground as hers was ripped off. Every thrust he gave made the bed screech and her cry in agony. Morriana’s green hair was all over the place and covered most of her face. Her body had bruises all over and had a few cuts of blood on her. Uvenk saw the dagger used for the ‘interrogation’.
“You fish munching bitch!” Volstikk growled.” You and your friends will pay for what they did to my father!” he growled again as he gave one final thrust which made her shiver.” Filling you with the seed of a Tree-man just for starters.” “Please...stop..” she sobbed, but her cries were ignored as he was thrown over on her stomach as he mounted her again. Feren closed the door quietly.
Uvenk leaned on the wall as he tried to catch his breath. What he saw was horror which only lived in the deepest, darkest parts of men. “Why are you showing me this?” Uvenk asked.” Why are you allowing this all over, sir?” “Because that is what they did to the people of Stillwater Harbour, Garold Creek, Shadow Docks to name a few places. Their attacks weakend the people of Spring who thus far did nothing to harm Winter or the Alliance in general. This is the price they have to pay.”
Uvenk looked with disbelief at the general.” But that makes us just as bad as them!” “Who said we tried to be better?” Feren replied and walked back downstairs.” I also showed you that scene for another reason.” “Yes sir?” “You did not succumb to your darker self. You saw the raping and the looting, but you told your men to back off and head back to your ship.” “You heard that?” Uvenk asked. “I got eyes everywhere son. You are a man this war needs. The one last man with honour in his blood. That is why I picked you.” “For what, sir?” “To be the new commander of my newly formed 1st Dragon mouth battalion and my second in command.”
TBC
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Nov 7, 2011 0:17:36 GMT 1
Chapter 18: Wild stabs in the dark.
The sound of the crowd was something Togo enjoyed, though he enjoyed the sound of his voice even more. He sang the songs of ancient battles where the most strange of victories were won. He sung of how his kinsmen once defended their shire against a Horde of Orcs with only their wits and farmer’s tools. Of course Halflings were known to fabricate explosives out of thin air. The Halflings in this case however made explosives out of methane gathered from manure. For weeks they prepared for the Horde and fed their pigs to burst to aquire enough brown smelling material for the stuff. Barrels of the stuff soon numbered in the hundreds and the smell was nearly deadly enough to be a defensive measure by itself. Weeks later the orcs did arrive and left three hours later with heavily losses, inflicted by the Halfling bombs...and the smell arguably. And so Togo sang of how his great-grandfather Dargon Chubb was the hero of the battle for Shit-hill.
The sound of laughter and drunken cheers was all the food and air he needed for the night. Maybe a wench as well he thought as he left the main room to relieve himself, although he had a dislike for sleeping with humans. To large for starters. No, his expertice was with other Halflings, maybe dwarves. What he would do for a pair of soft dwarven breasts though.... He stepped over a drow-human couple...well coupling, and seemed to ignore him. Togo quickly made haste however, he was once the (un)fortunate sex slave of a Drow mistress once and did not wish to relive the experience. Well not for another few months anyway.
He cursed his drunken self as he tried to remember which way the privy was. Was it left, left, right? Or right, left, left? Gorvar warned him not to drink to much since he was getting a little older, but like always he ignored the half-orc’s advice. Probably never got laid once anyway. Togo brought the cup of Summer wine to his lips and drank the last bits of it before he followed his instincts and headed right. The Halfling bard made his way through the corridors of the castle as he wondered what happened to his lute. “Holy mother, I’m drunk...” he said to himself and leaned on the wall.” What was I here for again...?” he asked out loud.” Togo Chubb, your one drunk bastard...”
The bard raised his cup to his lips, but found no more liquid there. When did it run out he wondered before he dropped the cup and wandered on. Eventually, with only the holy intervention of the Holy Mother, did he find the privy and emptied his bladder. His kin were known to find pleasure in all kinds of things. Be it carnal, or food, or song or in this case the relief. He could get used to a life like this, but he did promise his wife he would be back for the twin’s birthday. Even if she was sleeping around with the neighbour.
The thought made him sob as he leaned on the wall outside of the privy. “I miss my wife...” he sobbed loudly.” I don’t mean to cheat on her! I’m the worst husband ever...” he kept sobbing. “You are a pathetic sight, you know that?” a voice said. Togo looked up as he wiped his eyes. He could not see who it was, with his blurry vision. But he recognised the voice. “Gorv, that you buddy?” “Who else is dumb enough to look around the castle for you?” the half-orc chuckled and helped his friend up. “Well for your information, master half-orcen...” Togo poked his tiny finger on Gorvar’s chest as he fought the world to remain standing.” There was this nice lady looking alluring at me back at the main hall.” “I bet.” Gorvar said as he guided the Halfling to their chambers. “You know Gorv, you never have any fun...” Togo said as they entered their room. “So I keep hearing....” the half-orc replied as he picked up his friend and placed him on the large bed. He saw Wolfgen sleeping near Gorvar’s bed, his black fur rising and falling as it breathed. Togo yawned at the sight as he turned his head to the left, and saw his lute sitting next to his bed.” You found my lute...” “You should be more careful.” His friend said as he pulled off the halfling’s boots.” It nearly got trampled on by a drunken werewolf and an cave troll fighting.” “Who won?” Togo asked. “Why? You didn’t make any bets did you?” “No, but if I made a bet I would like to know if I would’ve won or not...rhetorically of course.”
“Do you even know what that word means?” Gorvar slipped the blanket over his friend’s chest. “Shhhh...” Togo placed his small hand on his friend’s face.” Your to talky-talk. Be a good little orc and goes smash something...who won already?” “The troll did, only because the werewolf clearly had to much to drink.” “Damn...” Togo snapped his fingers.” Rhetorically that is.” “Sure.” Gorvar said as he moved over to his bed and undid his boots. “How much?” “Five golden coins, pray to your god he forgot the deal.” Togo stretched out.
As Gorvar took out his axes and his whetstone, Togo somehow remained awake. He felt somewhat sober now, his mind was more clearly. “Gorv?” Gorvar grunted the reply as the axe was being sharpened. “Do you regret ever having saved my life?” “Why do you ask?” Gorvar continued. “It’s...sometimes I know I get us into trouble.” “And get us out to.” His friend replied.” Your useful enough and travelling with you for six years does grow on me.” Togo smirked and sat up.” And I’m the only friend you have?” “I have Wolfgen.” Gorvar replied. “Ah, a wolf is no proper company for a warrior like you. You deserve to be one of those rare Orc knights, with a keep and a nice woman with big...urghm...tracks of land.” Gorvar grunted again. “I’m even sure you never got laid.” Togo pointed out.” Gorvar the barbarian is still a virgin.” “You know I’m not.” Gorvar replied. “You don’t want to talk about it, I know...lost love and all that.” Togo sighed and laid back down in his bed.” A drow isn’t worth this much heartache Gorv. She would’ve wanted you to move on...”
“Enough, Togo.” Gorvar warned.” Or else you wont be pleasuring any women anymore with that little sausages you dare call a manhood.” “Harsh words Gorv. And to think you’re my children’s godfather.” Togo chuckled. “I promised Daisy I would keep you alive, and I will keep that promise. It doesn’t mean you can come back home in several pieces.” “I love you to, buddy.” Togo yawned and turned his back on his friend.” Goodnight...” “Goodnight.” Gorvar replied as he switched over to his other axe.
Togo dreamt he was back home in his shire of Redbottom Hill. The roses were in bloom again and his wife was making pancakes while the children were playing with Wolfgen while Gorvar was reading under the apple tree. He wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed Daisy’s neck which made her giggle. He loved his wife dearly and forgave her for sleeping around. She did with him. Open marriages were the best, and as long the kids were his, he did not mind. He knew he dreamed, but he didn’t care. He was home, at least for a while. The sun was shining, he could almost smell the panakes. It was paradise.
“Greetings, Master Chubb.” The sunshine and Daisy disappeared. Togo gasped and turned around, and found Percevalt Valen/Hanalius sit on a chair. “Oh....this is not the part of my wet dream is it, your grace?” Togo asked.” Because if it is, I don’t want to be homosexual. I don’t mind them, I just don’t swing that way. Even with a handsome man like yourself, no offense.” He paused. “And guessing since I can make a coherent sequence in a dream...this is magic.”
“It is.” Percevalt replied and offered Togo to sit down which the Halfling did. “ I want to thank you for delivering the message to Cerdica.” “Well...we nearly died for that letter and started off an entire war. So thank you I guess.” “I will make sure you are rewarded for that, and my apologies. I didn’t know Cerdica would react the way she did.” “I bet.” Togo grabbed the dream-apple.” So, why are you here?”
Percevalt leaned back and folded his hands. “What if I tell you this ‘War of the Seasons’ is nothing compared to what is coming?” “Well Rohak is in shambles and may throw everyone up north into famine, San Paradis has been turned to glass, Maraad is being besieged by the wolves as are the lions in their lands. Last I checked thousands have died and me and my friends are stuck on this fucking continent with no way out besides the tunnels infested by cave trolls...” he paused as he remembered the corpses he and Gorvar saw on the road to Neromapia.
“And the things that slay them.” Percevalt nodded.” They are called ‘The Forgotten’.” “The Forgotten?” Togo recalled the dragon’s hoard he and Gorvar raided before they came over to the Continent of Seasons. There was a tablet there which showed serpentine creatures fighting dragons and knights. “You saw them before in the cave where you got the amulet of Handranel, I believe.” Percevalt said.” That tablet was the last recorded tablet outside of the Continent of Seasons which showed the Shadow War.”
Percevalt snapped his fingers as the sun lit room turned into a dark plain. The soil was death beneath their chairs and feet and the sun was tucked away behind clouds of ash. Togo remained posed, a trait that fortunately remained during this dream of sorts. “Imagine a war where the enemy is without remorse or pity. A war where women suffocate their children so they don’t witness and undergo the horrors of being raped, killed, eaten and their skin peeled off their bones...and not always in that order. A war that destroyed the dwarven kingdom here and weakened the elves so much they became nearly extinct a mere one hundred years after the war and had to give their kingdoms to the wiles of men. A war where no food grew and the sun was banished for years.”
“That sounds like the most excellent setting of a good story.” Togo replied. He tried to bite In the apple, but stopped mere inches and dropped it as it withered in front of him and worms crawled around it. The worms squirmed around until they dug underground and the ground began to shake. Togo looked back as he saw a host march towards them. They had no banners nor flew any colours save one...black.
They were reptilian in nature, around two meters tall and walked on hind legs. In their hands they bore dark swords, spears and bows while their armour was as dark as night. Old blood metal, Togo recognized. The ground shook heavy as an army of elves in glowing armour marched past the two. Their bore the colours of the rainbow as dragons flew overhead and even a few dwarves, orcs, men and the odd Halfling marched with them.
The two large hosts clashed and soon the symphony of death was filled across the battlefield. Limbs flew, men screamed for their mothers in strange tongues and dragons roared in defiance as shadowbirds pulled them apart, limb from bloody limb.
“An army of men, elves, orcs and even your kind came together and faced the Forgotten. For decades the war went on until nearly the entire continent was destroyed....” Togo remembered the tablet clearly now.” My people from Avaria came to help..” “Even the First emperor of Van Xia send his forces to help.” Prince Hanalius said. “But if this war did happen, why does no-one remember?” Togo asked.” The only mention of this war came from the tablet.” “I do not know. For some reason after the war, only the elves remembered the struggle as the shadowcreatures withdrew into the ruins of the dwarven Kingdom with no name. The high elves that is, the drow also forgot. All I know is from magic artefacts I digged up to find anything to help me reclaim my Kingdom.”
“What does this Shadow War have to do with me?” Togo asked as the battle kept raging. “Because one month ago, my fiancé Elena Tundra got killed and eaten by one of them.” Percevalt stated coldly. Togo stared dumbstruck at him.” W...what?” “These shadowmen know that we know of them. Now I believe they came for her because of her association of me. I managed to keep a few steps away from them...except King Halmadir was not as lucky.” “Your saying those things killed him to?’ Togo sat back in his chair.” Holy mother, I hope I didn’t shat myself in the real world...” “These things are wreaking the Four Kingdoms apart and make us easy pickings when they resurface. His death was the catalyst for starting this war.” The prince said. “What’s this have to do with me? I’m just a Halfling bard who sleeps around and sometimes hides behind an half-orc when trouble starts.”
“Because you and him have a part to play.” Percevalt snapped his fingers again. Out of the ground popped another tablet which showed something peculiar. It showed one of those creatures being slain by an orc as a wolf lunges at another while a Halfling held his hands in the air. “You and your friend are the key to this new Shadow War.” Percevalt snapped them back to Togo’s household in Redbottom Hill. “ Right now I’m doing my best to keep the pieces on the same side of the board from killing each other to much. They need to be prepared and trained, but not to much.” “What are we supposed to do?! Go kick one of those things in the shins? That’s my combat experience right there!” the Halfling paniced. “No, you and your friend are going to Tor Vollen after Emberfire falls and join up with House Drurgen and halt the Forgotten long enough for me and the others to prepare the surface effectively.”
“Others?” “The less you know the better...Master Chubb.” He leaned over to face the Halfling head on.” I cannot force you to do this, but if we cant stop the Forgotten your home, your friends, your family...” he snapped his fingers again. Now the house was thrown into darkness and the shadows filled the house with dark horrors. ” It will all be gone.” Togo’s steadfastness disappeared and shivered with fear. He hated it when he became part of the story. “Can I trust you, Master Chubb?” The Halfling took a long moment to compose himself. He was not a hero, nor a good man. He was a scoundrel, a man who talks a good fight but ran when the going got though. But he had two things going for him. He did care for the people he loved...and he was an optertunist. “Alright, I will do it...except I want some things in return.” Togo folded his arms. “Such as?” “First, I want to get paid and laid for the little quest you set me on two months ago.” “I can arrange that.” The prince agreed. “Second, if you get your kingdom back I want to get a keep here with servants...and never have to pay taxes...EVER.”
Percevalt stared at the Halfling, before he gave a devilish grin.” Deal.” He offered his hand to Togo, who gladly accepted. He pulled back a short moment later.” Remember, I need both you and Master Gorvar in on this.” “I’ll persuade Gorv, don’t worry.” Togo replied.” Besides, that is why you contacted me first, isn’t it your grace?” “Exactly.” Percevalt replied.” The less everyone else knows, the better.” “What about the Mad Wolf and Cerdica and Soliana then?” Togo asked. “Don’t you worry, I got that under control....now wake up Master Chubb, it’s going to be a busy day.”
Beofre Togo could reply, everything disappeared and he was greeted by the sun coming into his room. Gorvar’s bed was empty and Wolfgen was gone. Togo rubbed his face as the shudders of the nightmare still came off him...until he pulled his hands away, and was greeted by a well curved dwarven female with hair as black as coal. She smiled seductively as she held a big bag of gold in her left hand...and bore almost nothing to hide her modesty save a golden necklace. Togo’s eyes fell on her large breasts and felt his male appendage gaining in height. “With the regards of Prince Hanalius, Master Chubb...” she walked over to his bed. She placed the bag of gold on the side as she crawled under the blankets and kissed Togo’s neck before she slipped off his shirt and moved her tender and full lips down, and down, and down... He didn’t even know her name, but he knew she was the one. The way he lips touched his skin, how they enveloped around his manhood and send him through five heavens of bliss as if the Holy Mother herself came down to perform the service. A few moments later as Togo pounded into her, as her screams of enjoy added the pleasure as he filled her with his seed, he knew he would regret it later.
But at the moment, he had a bag full of golden coins and a dwarven wench with lush breasts to rest his hungover head on. Life, if just for a moment, was well for Togo Chubb.
TBC
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Nov 8, 2011 1:17:49 GMT 1
Interlude
Bartrand pushed him way through the guards as he stormed through the corridors of Stormhold Keep. Stormhold was the capitol of the Sea King Isles, dark-gray stone towers and walls and portcullises housted from the sea itself legends said. The ruler of Stormhold Keep and the island of Ocean’s tear, for the crescent shape of the large green island, was always the king of the other Sea King islands. Even a hundred years before the Sea Kings bend the knee to King Halmadir, the Sea Kings were united. They were the sharks of the sea, always on the prowl for worthy prey. For countless decades the Sea kings fought until five hundred years ago his ancestor, King Henselt Seaspring of Ocean’s Tear, united the three other kings and their isles under one banner...his banner, the Shark.
Bartrand shoved a guard aside and stormed inside his father’s throneroom. Like the rest of the castle it looked dreary and filled with the spoils of their ‘hunts’. Foreign tapestries, carpets, armour, paintings and much more. The only thing that belonged to the Sea Kings was the large wooden throne in the shape of a Shark’s mouth. No-one knew why Henselt ordered the creation for this throne although Bartrand’s father had an idea. “To show that a king always needs to be wary.” “Of what?” his younger brother Geralt asked. “Of the enemy, of ourselves...of every choice we make.” He smirked which showed his golden teeth.” To show that we are sharks, and these are our waters.” To Bartrand, that meant they could only trust each other. He loved his brothers and sister, three other siblings. Which was why he was there.
His bastard brother Bernard was captured by their ‘ally’ , the Mad Wolf, to show he was a different man then his late father Fanran . His sister Moriana was captured by Cerdica’s men and laid waste to her island of San Paradis and killed her husband. Cerdica send a letter to all the Sea King strongholds, he was at Shark’s hold with Lord Thuderclap when it came, across the ocean with a warning. Continued hostilities toward the Kingdom of Spring and Summer and other trading vessels would result into every island burned down and turned into glass. When he received word Morriana was taken, and rumours said she may have been raped, he set sail immediately for his father and demand action.
His father was an old man, but he still showed he was in his prime. When the first grey hairs came, he shaved himself bald. When the teeth came falling out, he had them replaced with gold. When the leather skin of cows became to expensive, he switched over to seals. When he gained Stormhold, he spawned as many children as he could. Two from his first wife Isabella De Harten of San Targis to the East, Bartrand and Moriana, Bernard from some Avarian woman and of course Geralt from his current wife Margaret Darden of San Paradis. He was a warm man to his family, but cold to the outside world.
“Son.” Farol said when he saw his son enter the room. “ I was expecting you.” “They have Bernard and Morriana father, and Geralt was nearly captured with Hannah Tundra if they did not flee from their honeymoon.” Bartrand said.” They are targeting us, father!” “Good to see you to. I’m sad to say Margaret is to unwell to see you right now son, San Paradis was her home after all and Hendrick her cousin.” Farol replied as he walked over to a rack full of wine bottles.” Care for some Kadan wine?” “Father, now is not the-“
Farol held up his hand in a relaxed manner, which made Bernard hold his tongue. His father was many things, persuasive was one of them. He uncorked a wine and poured himself and his son a glass. He passed the glass over to his son. “They say a fine wine needs patience and time to breath.” Farol said as he sniffed the wine from his glass.” That it reaches it’s peak if you carefully drink it with moderation and savour it.”
Bartrand scowled.” They raped Morriana, father!” Farol sighed.” I know....and they will pay for it.” “How?! If we keep fighting the Summers, we’ll lose her but if we stop fighting we’ll lose Bernard to the wolves!” Farol showed his golden teeth as he grinned at his son.” Son, did you forget how the sharks hunt their prey?” Bartrand folded his arms.” My family could be next father, I don’t have time for-“ “Enough.” Farol said which broke Bartrand’s small moment of bravado. Father was a kind man to his family true, but he was the leader of the school. Always was.” The safety of the family is always in my mind son. But like I said...the shark waits for his prey. He takes testing bites out of it first, to see if the prey tastes good. Then he waits, then strikes, then falls back and waits before striking again until....the killing blow. We Sea Kings are like sharks my son, we have taken our bites of not one but two preys, and now we go for the killing blow. King Halmadir could not tame us, nor will the Mad Wolf.”
Bartrand knew what his father meant.” You plan on betraying the Alliance?” “Not exactly...we will free Bernard true, but to lose the friendship of the North is to much now, not while there is so much more to gain.” “Gain? We lost San Paradis, father.” Bartrand pointed out. “True, we did. But I know how we lost it and how we can get it back.” “How?” Bartrand asked. “With our teeth. With our tridents. With our horses. With our boats. With our blood...we are the sharks my son, we are the fish munchers, we are the Sea Kings. We strike our enemies and we strike them hard.” Farol pointed to the map on the wall which showed the continent of seasons. He pointed at one particular location on the map.” And this, is our prey.”
TBC
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Nov 21, 2011 21:19:50 GMT 1
Chapter 19: Water, water everywhere. But not a single drop to drink...
Rodrik of Varen pulled his greyed whiskers nervously as he stood over the large map of the Continent of Seasons. The table was surrounded by several lords that remained loyal to the crown, such as Ser Dimitri of Tor Vollen (their gracious host) and his son Jacob, Ser Harold Fonkel of Stormpeaks and Commander Illysa Drurga of Black Boulder Keep. All mountain men who lived up north in the Spring kingdom and who had not joined either side of the War of Seasons.
Dimitri had an quarter of an dwarf in him from his mother’s side and although the size of a normal human, he did have their characteristic beard and gruff voice. His black iron armour with the Hawke on it’s chest made an imposing figure. The Tor Vollen were loyal bannermen to the kings of Spring and gatekeepers of the dwarven tunnels which connected the Continent of seasons with Avaria, although as of the past hundred years they have neglected that duty because of the upkeep of the tunnels and the rare occasion a traveller would come by. Once in a while a wealthy dwarf would come by and ask for an escort and pay a hefty fee for it, but other then that there were no travellers who wished to brave the dark and the trolls that lurked within.
Harold was an overweight brown haired man with a small beard on his chin. Despite Dimitri’s appearance, he seemed relaxed in his gilded armour with a miner on his tabard. His people were known as excellent miners who could manufacture armour and weapons just as wellas the dwarves could.
And as last Commander Illysa Drurga of Black Boulder keep, an blonde haired woman with a stern face. According to legend the Drurga’s were descended from a dwarven colony after the destruction of the Kingdom with no name but over the hundreds of years they mingled with humans until Black Boulder keep became a human keep which protected the fertile lands below. Their rulers were the Commanders of the keep which came from one bloodline, if which Illysa was now the matriarch.
“The situation is dire.” The blonde haired but firm Illysa said as she pointed at the map. “We are caught in between two raging fires. My men inform me that Cerdica’s troops have captured San Paradis and are pressing the lands belonging to Westend Keep hard.” She indicated to the small island a few centimetres away from Neromapia (which actually was many kilometres. )and placed a red dragon pawn on it while she took away the blue shark. One of her aides then moved several dragon and a leaf pawns toward the south of Westend Keep on a small village called Farshire.
“The wolves have laid siege to Maraad and we think they’ll have it taken over within a week, maybe two.” Dimitri with a bushy beard as black as coal indicated to the wolf pawns that overwhelmed the single dragon there.” With the siegeworks there gone, the Summers will have to rely more on their weapons from Van Xia.” “The Dragon Mouth’s...” Harold nodded his square head.” Those things can tip the war in Cerdica’s favour.” “Or Farol’s bastard in Castle Winter.” Fondrick pointed out.
“We’re forgetting about Rohak.” Jacob reminded them.” We all know something is brewing in there.” “Just rumours, son.” Dimitri replied to his heir.” Nothing to concern us about.” “Father.” Jacob began.” Werewolves, the Traitor wolves, Harpies, dark elves. Rumours of half of Summer joining their side? We cannot ignore this.” “ The boy is right.” Commander Drurga agreed.” But right now we are to few and must look to our own borders.” She indicated to their own pawns on the field.
In the mountains only a few of their pawns were there. The four bears of Valen, the three hawkes of Tor Vollen, the three miners of Stormpeaks and as last the six rams of Black Boulder. “Sixteen regiments of knights, man at arms and any sellsword desperate enough to flock under our banners against the dozens of dragons and leaves or wolves, lions and sharks.” “Well at least they have quite the variety of things to fight.” Harold smirked. “This is not a laughing matter, Ser Harold.” Dimitri glared at the lord of Stormpeak.” If Cerdica or the Mad Wolf decides to attack us, we cannot hope to stop them for long. Think of your wife and daughters!” “Just trying to remain optimistic Tor Vollen.” Harold replied.” All this gloom and doom is starting to piss me off a little. Come to think of it, I think I may to piss. Your ale goes straight through me. Hah, came in yellow and comes out yellow as well!” “Thank you for that vivid description, Ser Harold...” Dimitri rubbed his brown exhausted.
“What if we ask the Mad Wo..i mean King Frederick for peace?” Jacob asked. “ His enemy is our enemy.” “He wants Cerdica dead and chances are the rest of the royal family to.” Rodrik spoke up at last.” And let’s not forget Queen Cerdica is the daughter of King Halmadir, gods bless his name, and should not come to harm if we would win this war. Something I cannot promise if we ally with King Frederick.” “So we cannot let her come to harm, but we can face the brunt of it all?” Harold asked.” By the Holy Mother Rodrik, you’re a dumbass.”
“I do not withstand insults in MY keep, Fonkel!” Dimitri slammed his hands down hard on the table, which shook all a back. Even his son stared shocked at his father. “It was just a jape, Dimitri. Mind your blood pressure.” Harold rolled his eyes as he folded his arms over his burly chest. “It’s fine Dimitri.” Rodrik smiled at Harold. “So no Ser Jacob. Also Hadgar Drurgen brought us Amroth Spring and his companions and has expressed extreme distaste for what the De Schachts and Seaspring’s did to his son and the coastal cities. We cannot trust the Alliance of the North nor does Cerdica wish to distance herself off the throne in Neromapia in favour of her brother.”
“Why though.” Jacob asked.” Her son is dead and her grandchild is of Winter blood.” “She is not to old to re-marry and have another child if she wished to.” Dimitri replied to his son.” We all know the rumours of her and the dragon rider.” “Oh, he’s riding her alright.” Harold laughed out loud which made Illysa shake her head in shame. “So that only leaves Rohak...” Rodrik tugged on his whiskers.” What do we know of this Diane Bloomsbury?” “Not much.” Dimitri replied.” She’s the daughter of an Red Dragoon who went on to become the Phoenix Queen when she found one in Rohak. She seemed to have unified the dragoons and the traitor wolves after the war there subsided and the Spring host left. From what I know from travellers and adventurers, Rohak is rebuilding and manages to keep out the Alliance and the Royal army. There are rumours of the werewolves and this alliance with Soliana’s small kingdom but those are just that...rumours. As far as we know Soliana went back to Castle Summer to mourn her dead husband.”
“With an entire House of dark elves?” Harold raised his eyebrow.” I don’t think so. That lass is up to something. If she’s working together with this Bloomsbury woman, it makes complete sense no-one else came inside Rohak.” “So what is the plan then?” Illysa asked.” Stay out here and wait for anyone to get us, or go out there and die?”
“Neither.”
The party gathered glanced to their right where a young man was stood, wearing a green tunic which had a leaf emblazoned in it’s chest. To his right was a large northwoman with a large a and the other an dwarf. “Prince Amroth?” Rodrik almost forgot the prince was there. “Soliana and Diana Bloomsbury have no ill will towards us, and guessing of their alliances I’m sure they could use some more. And so can we.” “How do you mean, your grace?” Dimitri asked.
Amroth moved over to the map and indicated the different battlefields. “The Alliance and my sister are fighting each other bloody. What Rohak is doing is waiting for both or either of them to be weakend so much that they can pounce and devour them. It’s a technique mostly done in the Eastern kingdoms like Asahbad or even Van Xia.” “So your suggesting we ally ourselves with those women?” Harold asked. “Exactly.” Amroth nodded.” Diana only wants Rohak to be left alone and Soliana probably wishes to unite Winter and Summer with her brother. If we help them, they can help us with their troops to reclaim my father’s throne.” “You sure that is wise, Your grace?” Illysa asked.
It was odd to see Amroth speak like this. When he came into Tor Vollen he was still shaken by what happened in Stillwater harbour. Hadgar Drugen and his men found them and escorted them to Tor Vollen where they would prepare for an expedition to the Kingdom with no name. Rodrik expected the northwoman was behind it, he swore he heard noises coming from Amroth’s room. Rodrik fought the northmen long enough to know their women were the masters behind the operation most of the time. But Amroth took charge and quickly dismissed Rodrik from his regent duty, he thanked the gods for that, and kept him as an advisor. Now Amroth was not like his father who would charge in immediately with swords drawn, he thought first and listened to everyone and only spoke when they would least suspect it. Something snapped at Stillwater, and Amroth became the king Rodrik hoped he would one day become.
“I am sure. Send a message to Rohak with a word of an alliance between our people.” Amroth picked up a bear pawn and placed it in Neromapia. “This is war my lords and lady. It’s past time we picked a side.”
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Nov 27, 2011 15:35:49 GMT 1
Chapter 20: Howls and screams in the night.
Soliana as she leaned on the wall and watched how Guldor was sat talking to Fenris Her son was growing rapidly as he had reached his second year. He was sat on the ground in his red silk tunic as the drow told an old legend of his people. “But the Moon Chaser did not give up her hunt.” He said.” And followed the Gray fox across the night sky, which she still does until this very day. That is why, my little prince, the moon always is in movement every night.” Fenris cheered with glee as his golden curls dangled all over his tiny little head. “More, more!” he demanded.
“Another? Your grace I fear you have my tapped out. I told you every story I know, even some your mother would not like me to tell you.” The drow smiled. “Fenris, have you been annoying Ser Guldor again?” Soliana smirked. “Mommy!” Fenris smiled and waddled over to his mother. The queen picked her son up and kissed him on the forehead. “He wanted to wait until you returned, my queen” Guldor said.” I hope I didn’t offend you” “Of course not, little Fenris is going to be King someday. And that means he must be open minded to all his subjects” she held her son close. “Isn’t that right, sweetie?”
Fenris giggled and held his mother tightly. “How was the meeting?” the drow asked as he came near.” The preparations are in place?” “They are about to attack, yes.” She replied as her tone changed from joyfull to serious. “ The Fall will attack first. Prince Percevalt has given us scrolls with an incantation so we could witness the battle.” “He is to kind.” The drow replied with a hint of cynicism. The queen merely nodded” Meet me at the top of the tower, we’ll see the battle from there.” “As you wish, your majesty.” Guldor of Dyr bowed and left the room.
“He has funny ears.” Fenris said all smiles as his mother brought him to bed.” Will he be staying?” “Yes son” she tucked him in.” I promised his House I would help them reclaim their island home, until then Ser Guldor is our guest.” “I like his stories....” Fenris yawned. “Sweet dreams son.” She kissed his forehead again and ruffled his hair a little. “Door open, right?” he asked, to which his mother nodded and left the door open on a crack.
The two guards stood up straight as she walked past. She could not help but smile at them. Ever since she was crowned Queen, she received respect from the very men who almost ignored her when she was Princess. The ceremony was small and only a few lords were there to witness the priest of the Sun God place the crown on her head and anoint her with the holy oil from the Holy sisters of Maraad. Those few lords were al displeased with Cerdica’s rule, espically when she left for Neromapia. They were promised lands, titles and gold. One very patient lord, Lord Harrison Ducal of Red Pine, was promised his baby girl’s hand to her son when they came of age. His banners filled her army immensely and were standing outside of Emberfire castle right now to prove his loyalty.
And thanks to Percevalt Hanalius she had more allies then she could count. Diana Bloomsbury and her Red dragoons who gained more members every passing day, fuelled by vengeance no matter who the target is. Lord Tyron and the other Winter lords who joined to her side and severed ties with Winter and Summer both. The love both groups had for Rohak and the chance to rebuild it was admirable and would serve well in the new united kingdoms they were building.
Guldor and his drow were her loyal retainers. Their magic and technology would be useful against Cerdica’s dragons. She was sharing the bed with him as well, having found comfort in him while there was none in Harold. Harold’s bastard and cook-woman were in her mercy and still had no idea what to do with them. So far as she knew, she was the only one who knew and saw the bitter tears still coming from the woman’s eyes every time she saw her. She really did love Harold and could not fault her for that, he was after all one of the most handsome knights on the continent. She shook her head of such thoughts and made her way up the stairs. When she reached the stairs Guldor was already waiting for her. With his radiant smile he offered his hand.
The stars were shining brightly as a full moon shone across the fields. The soft warm wind of Summer persisted however, an wind she grew to love over the cold from her ancestral home of Winter. It was a perfect night she thought as she took his hand with grace and stood next to him. He kissed her on the lips lightly, which left her hunger for more. Later in the night then. “Prince Hanalius has send word the attack is about to begin.” He said as he took out a scroll from his belt.” Do you wish to watch my queen?”
She didn’t. She wanted to watch the night sky and the beauty of her adopted homeland and be held in his long ebony arms and finally savour the love she craved for ever since she eloped with Harold Summer. But she was a Queen now, and a Queen had duties to perform. “Yes please.” Soliana nodded. Her lover unfolded the scroll and spoke the elven tongue. A moment later a large mirror of sorts appeared in front of them which revealed a large group of men who bore fur armour who cheered at a speech given to them by their ruler who was sat on a destrier which bore dark armour and had a bat shaped head armour. To his side were Brutalis dressed as a knight in the same armour along with Sky’re in lighter leather armour.
“My people!” Percevalt shouted.” Today will be a day to remember. Today will be the day they will write about us for decades to come. Today will be the day you will tell your children or your grandchildren that you were there when you gave them a home. That you were there when Fall has no longer fallen, but has been revived to an new age!” The crowd cheered for a short while before he spoke again. “Today we fight with honourable allies. The people of Rohak are behind us, as are the Summer knights who risk their own lives and families to defy against the Queen of Spring! Stay your hand and howl when you see them, you fight amongst brave brothers today!”
He drew his sword in the air and pointed at the castle.” Now my brothers and sisters! Forward! For Fall, for Rohak and for the Moon goddess!” As one all the men shouted in the night’s sky, but soon those shouts became howls as the men grew taller with fangs and claws. Others began to screech and grew wings and talons. Werewolf and harpy sprinted and flew toward the castle of Emberfire with only one intent, to slay. As a sea of death they charged, with some still able to bear the banner of the bat of fall on their backs to resemble a mockery of military order. It was an army of monsters....and it was glorious.
From the Redpine and Rohak lines, fiery boulders were flung at the castle walls which rocked the ground heavily, even where Soliana and Guldor were stood. The defenders on the walls were taken by surprise as the boulders and harpies descended from the sky. “They didn’t hear them coming? Soliana asked to Guldor. “My people’s doings.” He smiled proudly.” We used some spells to turn the army invisible until this time.” Soliana smiled and kissed him on the lips as she watched the battle in the sky mirror again.
The packs of werewolves dodged the fire arrows from Emberfire before they scaled the walls without the use of grappling hooks or ladders or siege engines. Emberfire was caught off guard and thus no boiling oil came down, but the guards did manage to slay a few of the wolves by arrow or spear points before a mad, bloody melee happened on the walls.
The roars of dragons erupted as several red froms flew into the air and breathed fire on the harpies. Sky’re, already turned into her true form, screeched and led the dragons on a merry chase....right into the machines of the Drow. Large arrows from their massive repeater crossbows came from below. Two of the dragons crashed down on the ground as they were struck by the massive bolts, but still fought on as the Traitor wolves moved in for the kill. The rider was dead and hung lifelessly in his saddle while the dragon snapped and breathed fire like a cornered wild animal. Eventually it was silenced by a combination of Traitor wolf spears and Red Dragoon arrows.
The other dragons flew back toward the castle where they concentrated their fire on the waves of werewolves below. The sounds of whining werewolves filled the night’s sky. Suddenly, the gates of the castle slammed down hard. Trumpets from the Redpine banners sounded as the knights charged in toward the gate. “How did that happen?” Soliana asked. “No idea....” Guldor replied.” Want me to try and find out?” She nodded. Guldor muttered a few words and the mirror changed it’s view. It blurred as if a pebble fell into a puddle of water, but soon got clear again. It showed an half-orc, bloodied all over, with a wolf on the portcullis as it fights off the castle guard while a Halfling stays in back and stabs at the dying soldiers.
The dragon knights hovered over the battle confused, or not knowing what to do. They knew the battle was lost but could not leave their brothers behind. When a arrow however slew one of the few dragons left and the harpies flocked towards them, they had no choice but to flee.
“Seems our guests are faster then expected...” the drow noted.” We won this in an hour.” “Allfather bless them. Allfather bless them all.” Soliana smiled as the knights of Summer charge inside to slay their former brothers. “The battle is won, come. Let’s go see our spoils of war.” “After you my queen.” Guldor bowed. “No, together.” She offered her arm. “As you wish.” He linked his arm with hers and walked downstairs toward a portal in the lower levels. “I took the liberty of sending the letter to Cerdica before the battle begun.” Soliana pictured Cerdica reading the letter in the morning which listed all her former lords having turned on her and how Castle Emberfire was now part of a new kingdom under HER rule. She could imagine her shouting, crying and reel over with anger as her lover is stood shocked at the loss of his home. The bat, the phoenix and the dragon now ruled over a fifth of the Continent. Today, it was good to be Queen Soliana, he true monarch of Summer.
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Dec 6, 2011 4:25:16 GMT 1
Chapter 21: A needle through the heart.
Cerdica watched over Neromapia’s harbour as she was seated on her throne. The harbour was nearly empty She was dressed in the fine purple silks of Avaria with silver dragons inlaid around her bosom, which left some men staring into her cleavage. She anticipated this, she always liked the men to be distracted, made her feel in control. The throne behind her was made of old blood metal, an gift from the kingdom with no name before it was lost. Above her the Wolf, Dragon and Leaf were adorned, a addition after the War of the Seasons by the dwarves of Khardrazan. She listened absentmindedly as her subjects pleaded her cases.
An dispute between the ownership of a child, an cow and even a house at one point. The hasty departure of the Winter citizens left eager men to claim their homes and shops, with many disputes and fights as a result. But she was here to keep order, and order would be kept. Jorric was at her side as was Feren. Feren was one of the few people of Winter she could trust and was the one who called for order when the discussions became to heated, he proved himself even more with the taking of San Paradis. High General Volstikk was full of praise for Feren, although her little eyes told her it was because Feren kept quiet about the capture, imprisonment and continuing rape of Morriana Seaspring.
After the losses at Summerswind by her navy and the foiled attack on Handrea which would’ve made the march towards Stormhold keep and Ocean’s tear an fact, she needed an victory. The gods seemed to smile on her for just one moment after the death of her father and son. She should’ve seen it coming when the messenger arrived. He was blackened all over his face and chest, a large scar in the form of a talon ran from left eye to right cheek over his once handsome face. His brown hair was frizzy all over, or was it black...she couldn’t tell from the soot. He bore the ragged doublet of Emberfire castle, Jorric’s home She saw his face remained unmoved, but the fear was clearly seen in his eyes. Her poor knight in armour knew something happened to his home.
“My queen, I bear grave tidings...” “That’s Ser Oran, he’s one of my best knights.” Jorric said. This made her more leary, since she knew his knights were always in armour and did not look like they were in a scuffle. “Speak on then, man!” she said to him as her subjects cleared the way. “My queen...” he took the knee.” It’s....the kingdom of Fall has returned. They have attacked the castle.” The gasps in the room and the silence there after were the worst things she ever heard in her life. “Me and my brothers there did our best to fight them off but they were to many and the gates were open! Knight Commander Terrence said I had to go, he would hold them off...by the Sun God I can still hear them all screaming...”
A sudden chill ran up her ran up her spine as if a ghost ran it’s fingers up it. Was it her father who tried to comfort her, or Hondrich? Would he forgive her for seeing Jorric and the lovers before him? Was this his retribution? Her father’s ghosts came to haunt her, the lsot Hanalius was finally here.... “How many?” Feren asked.” How?” “They had wolves that could walk on fours and two legs like men! They had armour and swords! Women that grew feathers and attacked the dragons! They had catapults and...I swore I saw a Red Phoenix..and a dragon as well, your grace.”
“A dragon?” Cerdica stood up.” One of my own people attacked us?!” “Along with Rohak and Fall.” Feren said. “But who of our people would betray us?” Jorric asked. Cerdica immdiatly knew who would do this. The clever little bitch. “Soliana did this. Think about it, she was always different and has been close to the drow ever since Harold died, the same drow who might’ve killed him.” She glared.” Send our the word to call the reinforcements to Maraad back and send them to Rohak and Castle Summer, I want that treacherous bitch’s head on a spear and Rohak burned to the ground!”
Diana Bloomsbury was going to be made head of Rohak until her child would be of age, how dare she betray the kingdom! “But milady, what about Maraad?” Feren asked.” They can barely stand against the besieging Wolves there already? What about the Manisters who are attacking the De Schachts?” “No, they are to far. I want Diana Bloomsbury and Soliana’s heads and I WANT THEM NOW! Send Commander Wachter and his Dragon Mouth’s to Maraad with the fleet, they get more results so far then Volstikk seemed to get.”
“I will send the letter immediately.” Feren bowed and walked off in a brisque pass. “Ser Oran, you will be rewarded greatly for this.” She smiled and motioned to one of her ladies-in-waiting. The shy woman with red hair and a green dress walked over to him. “Please follow Rose, she’ll make sure you’ll be cleaned up and be ready for duty to lead the counter-attack.”
“Thank you, your grace.” Oran smiled weakly and followed Rose out of the throne room. “I’ll give him some lands and gold for this, perhaps Rose as well.” Cerdica said to Jorric. Her knight merely nodded at her, still distraught over the news. She called an end to the meeting and took him to her chambers.
“My family had that castle for three centuries, my Queen..” he sighed sadly.” I cant believe I let my family down, or my people.” “We’ll get your lands back.” She smiled and held his hand, in private at last.” And we’ll make everyone pay who did this to you....although” she pondered.” This means an opportunity as well.” “An opportunity?” he rose his brow. “Jorric, I want you to lead the attack and reclaim your home. When you do, I can knight you Duke....and take you as my husband.”
Another silence happened as Jorric stared at her with his confused eyes. “If you marry me, our child will be named an proper heir to the throne. And you will be my prince-consort.” “I...im not sure..” he said. “ What about Fenris?” he called her grandchild by his name as not to offend her by her age of thirty seven summers, a true honourable knight. “Fenris is a child of Winter, a bastard of sorts. He cant be blood for the sins of his uncle or mother and he wont...he’ll be looked after, for he is blood after all. As for you...” she smiled as she strayed his hair lovingly. “You’ll be fine.” She pulled him close.” Leave it all to me.” She smirked before she kissed him deeply. He returned the kiss affectionately and wrapped his arms around her waist.
His hands quickly went to the back of her dress as his lips found their way to her neck. She moaned as her dress fell of her shoulder and his naked skin was on hers. He was on top of her as he ravaged her as savagely as he did the first time they did in Emberfire. He was her knight in shining armour, the man she needed. The man who was there when her father and son were taken away. The man who could give her a new family.
Her bed screeched the same rhythm it did most nights as the song of moans and pleasure ruled the bedroom once more. After he spend his seed in her for the third time, they lay in each other’s arms and spoke and dreamed for the future before he had to leave to his chambers with the other royal knights. She knew half of them knew of their relationship, but paid the greedy enough every month to keep them silent and threatened the righteous with hidden blades at their family or loved ones. Half of them were kind to Soliana when she was at court, the Spring ones that is. She would have to cull the ranks somehow. Perhaps hang them with her when they catch her She closed her eyes and inhaled Jorric’s smell deeply before she went to sleep.
But it was not to the sounds of tweeting birds or Jorric’s loving words she woke up to, but the sounds of fire and chaos. She sat up and covered her breasts with her black blanket as Jorric charged in with the royal guard. “My queen, we have to go!” he said.” They are attacking from the harbour, it’s like they knew the Dragon Mouths and most of the dragon knights were gone!” “Who dares?!” she demanded. “Farol Seaspring!” he said.” He is here to collect his daughter.”
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Dec 8, 2011 0:40:47 GMT 1
Chapter 22: Sword
“First line! Fire!” Uvenk shouted as he aimed his arm at the incoming horde of sharks. “Fire!” Thenko carried on the order and fired along with the troops. The dragon mouth’s roared and claimed the lives of many of the Seaking forces. “First line, reload!” Uvenk shouted again.” Second line, pick your targets and fire!” “Second line, fire!” Thenko again relayed the order.
Thirty men were all that stood between the docks and Ox market which was being evacuated as they spoke. The smell of death, smoke and fire hung in the air as the sun above was swallowed whole by war’s breath. Embers flew by from time to time. It was hell on earth, their element. Uvenk send a man to gather more men and ask for reinforcements, but he was gone for what seemed like an eternity and their ammo was running low. Another volley shook the world and more greenbeards died. After that, the seakings hid behind the buildings now as the bodies of their brothers lay dead amongst the rubble of the city. “Keep your eyes open!” Commander Wachter shouted.” You see anything bearing a trident or a green beard I want it dead!” “Aye, commander.” The men replied.
These were fine soldiers, men he could be proud of. Many times Uvenk thought back to Sarge and think of himself as a failure, but now a fortnight after San Paradis he was proud of his Dragon’s Mouth’s. His 101st. His other regiments were scattered all over the city, on leave when the attack came. He hoped they were alright and managed to hook up with their captains.
“We cant hold on forever, Uvenk...” Thenko said softly.” We’re running out of ammo.” “I know, Thenko....” he replied.” But we have our orders. Hold the line.” “Aye-aye...commander.” Captain Thenko grunted. “ You think Lucy got out?” His sister and her family was on his mind ever since the first catapult smacked into the tree castle. She lived near Ox market, the very place they were defending. “I don’t know...” he admitted.” Heard anything from your family?” Thenko shook his head. “Incoming!” Haroldson pointed in the air. Everyone took cover as another flaming boulder slammed into the stone tower nearby as debris sprayed out across the street like blood from a corpse. Uvenk was grateful the people of Spring only made buildings out of stone, with all the fire boulders flying around the city would’ve been turned to a crisp by now. Seeing the trees and birds on fire sadden his heart, but hardened his resolve “Oh shit...” Jeffery groaned as he wiped the sweat from his brow, his black beard full of sweat.” That was Old man Ivo’s place...”
“Commander!” Uvenk turned his head as a young man in red leather ran toward him, bearing the winged helmet of a messenger. “Took you long enough to get here!” Thenko growled at the messenger. The messenger fall on his back as he was scared of Uvenk’s captain. The commander placed his hand on Thenko’s chest to calm him down before he helped the messenger back. “What’s your name, private?”
“Tayriel, sir.” The young man saluted.” Of the 32nd Portugan scouting force.” “Pri-.” Uvenk composed himself.” Commander Wachter of the Dragon Mouth’s, this is Captain Taralen.” He motioned to Thenko. “What the message soldier?” He still needed to get used to his new rank. “New orders, Neromapia is lost. The docks and the city are overrun and more Seaking ships are arriving by the quarter of an hour. We have to few troops here to fend them off. We’re falling back to Summer’s End and link up with the Flutons there and the other Spring hosts.” The messenger said. The men looked at each other strangely as the world seemed to have turned silent. “Come again?” Thenko asked. “Orders from High General Volstikk.” The messenger said.” Your group is to link up at the rendez-vous point at Halmadir square and guide the refugees to Summer’s end.”
“But what about the people at Ox market?!” Haroldson asked. “If you don’t go to the square, more people will die.” Tayriel explained. “What is he talking about?!” Thenko raged. “There are three hundred people in Ox market, nearly a thousand at Halmadir square.” Uvenk said as he stated the numbers. Cold, hard numbers.” We’re running out of supplies and are with to few. We need to fall back while we can.”
“Our families are here!” Haroldson stood up.” We cant just leave them!” “We swore an oath to the kingdom, Haroldson.” Uvenk glared as his rage grew.” Grab our things, we’re moving out.” “No, I have a wife and kids in Ox bridge!” Haroldson shouted. “I gave you an order sergeant!” Uvenk retorted.” Grab your gear, we’re moving out!”
Haroldson looked around him as he saw the other soldiers slowly grabbing their things, even Thenko. “Your not serious, are you?!” “Your family might’ve made it out.” Thenko said.” Come on, grab your things....” “I’m not leaving.” Haroldson took his mouth and aimed it at Uvenk. “Haroldson, what in the name of the gods are you doing?!” Jeffery shouted. “Drop the gun, Haroldson!” Uvenk drew his smaller dragon’s mouth which fit in his right hand. “I got an wife and kid!” Haroldson shouted as tears came from his eyes.” I want them safe! I’ll shoot you if I have to!” “Don’t do anything stupid, Haroldson!” Thenko walked over.” Drop the gu-“
The sound of a mouth roared and Thenko fell down on the ground as smoke came from Haroldson’s mouth. He looked shocked and dropped his rifle. Jeffery ran over to Thenko and took off the piece of dented armour. Thenko gasped for air as a small puddle of blood rolled form under him. His skin turned a pale white as he kept shuddering, until he stopped. His breathing stopped, him moving stopped, his eyes stopped. Jeffery tried to find the wound, but Thenko’s entire chest was covered in blood so the wound was nowhere to be seen. Jefferey shook Thenko before he stared into Uvenk’s eyes. “He’s dead sir.....”
Haroldson gasped. ” Holy mother, Thenko...i’m so-“ Another, smaller roar came as Haroldson fell as well. The others of the 101st now stared at their commander who’s smaller dragon’s mouth was smoking. Uvenk placed his gun away in it’s scabbard. A moment passed, Uvenk’s eyes never left Haroldson’s dead body. “Private Haroldson and Captain Taralen died to give the rest of the regiment a chance to fall back.” Uvenk glared at the others.” Anyone who says otherwise gets shot as well, understood?”
His 101st nodded and walked off. The messenger was still standing there. “That counts for you as well. Come, before the Sharks come after us.” Tayriel nodded his head eagerly and ran off. Uvenk went over to Thenko and knelt down beside him. “I’m sorry, old friend....” he said softly and closed his eyes. He stood up and then ran toward the square.
Half an hour later, his men hooked up with the other regiments. When he looked behind him, he saw half of Neromapia burn as man and beast ran into the forests outside. Wounded soldiers of Spring and Summer were bleeding or dying as Uvenk passed by. Even the gate guards lay among the dead and dying, their golden armour covered in blood and sick. “Jeffery, your captain now. Gather the men and grab as much ammunition we can hold. Hold the line until the retreat horn is sounded, alright?” Jeffery saluted and ran off toward the 101st. “Anyone else made it past Ox market?” he heard a soldier ask one of the few dragon knights left. “No, the Sharks surrounded the place. Nobody got out, sorry....” the knight replied. “Where are your brothers!” Another soldier stepped forward, one of the other dragon mouth riflemen, 276th regiment he saw on his shoulder pad. “ They could’ve turned the tide!” “Lord Jorric ordered all of us to escort the Queen to Summer’s End when she flew off, me and the two others who stayed here risk his ire when we get back..” he sighed as he took his helmet off, which revealed his battered face.” If we get back.”
Uvenk kept moving and overheard more chatter. “Where’s Volstikk?” a soldier asked. “He’s at Nerompaia castle with his shark-whore, last I heard before I had to leg it was that he was holding her hostage to save his own life.” A royal guard replied as he dressed his wound. “The only good it does is keeping the fish munchers focused on Neromapia castle and away from us.”
Uvenk made his way through the masses, past the wailing children, weeping women and people who kept asking where there relatives are. “Commander Wachter?” a soldier ran toward him and gave a quick salute.” High General Feren is asking for you sir. He’s at the statue.” Uvenk gave the man a quick nod and rushed off to the statue.
The late king was sat on a horse as he pointed his sword toward the South-east, towards where Fall once was, or is if Uvenk could believe the rumours. Even in stone, his elven armour looked detailed and beautiful. He towered over the military men below. High General Feren was overlooking a map on a wooden table with other military advisors. He looked up and smiled wearily at Uvenk, he looked as if he was in a fight since he was covered in soot and blood while the advisors were spotless.
“Commander Wachter, thank the gods your alive still.” He smiled. “ You alright?” “I lost half my 101st regiment sir, as well as some major losses to my battalion. We held the Sharks off as long as we could.......a lot of them had family in Ox market, sir.” “I know....” he nodded sadly. He motioned to the other advisors for them to leave, which they did.
Uvenk stood his ground with his hands behind his back while he waited for his commander to speak. He tried to push the thoughts of Thenko away as he died. The look in his eyes, the blood that pooled under him. Sarah, she was going to raise the kid on her own now. Did she even make it? “Fourty years ago.....” Feren began.” The Northmen under Warlord Okar attacked Winter and nearly broke through to Westend Keep. King Ulgor the greater, King Frederick’s grandfather, was to thinly stretched. The Northmen were with vast numbers, many thousands. He led a host of De Schacht men and even a few Summers to reinforce the main bulk of his forces. Along the way they came across a village that was straight on the path of the Northmen horde. They could’ve stood their ground and defend the village so the villagers could escape, but they would lose many men and would lose the upcoming major battle which would break the horde. “
He turned his gaze to Uvenk.” You know what he did?” Uvenk shook his head.” Winter history is not my speciality sir, no offense.” Feren chuckled.” None taken....he left the village alone. He marched his army to join up with the host. Four hundred and fifty six men, women and children died to the sword, cold or were taken back north as trophy wives and mothers of bastard children. Two weeks later the horde was defeated and they managed to save one young boy from that village who was the squire of Warlord Okar. One survivor out of four hundred and fifty seven people, Commander Wachter.....”
“He..did what was needed milord.” Uvenk replied.” He sacrificed those people so thousands could life.” “I know, I do not doubt his logic. But does logic warm the corpses? Does logic comfort the living who lost everything? Does logic make you forget the screams at night?” “I.” Uvenk did not know what to say. “You don’t have to answer that commander.....” he drew his sword and inspected it.” When I became a knight, I asked King Fanran how his father dealt with the loss of that village.” He pointed the sword at Uvenk. “He drew his sword and pointed it at me like this and said ‘You have to be this, a sword. A instrument who does not feel remorse, or second guess. It follows orders.’” Feren slipped the sword back in it’s scabbard as more buildings in the background collapsed.
“You ask me to be a sword, sir?” Uvenk asked. “To win this war? Yes....i’m afraid so, son.” He did not know what came over him.” Today I killed two of my own men when I was ordered to fall back and leave Ox market to the greenbeards sir. My sister and her family life there.....I do not believe they made it out with the other refugees.” He expected Feren to explode and growl...but he didn’t. He slowly walked over and placed his hand on Uvenk’s shoulder and said “I’m sorry son.”
Uvenk did not know what to say or do, except a simple and weak ‘thank you.’ “I cant promise you we’ll get them back son, but I can promise we will get Nerompaia back someday. And on that day, we will honour the sacrifices everyone made today.” Feren patted him on the shoulder as he moved away.” Gather your men, we’re moving out in ten minutes. Volstikk made his grave the moment he decided to rape Morriana Seaspring.” “Sir.” Uvenk asked before Feren walked off.” Permission to ask a question.” Feren nodded, his back still to Uvenk. “Where you that boy from that village?” Feren turned around and looked Uvenk in the eyes. “Yes.” He replied, and walked off.
Commander Wachter pulled an messenger to him and gave the order to retreat his battalion. The messenger saluted him and ran off. When he ran off, Uvenk noticed the arm he used to grab the messenger with was still shaking. He could not help but look at it for a moment as Feren’s words echoed through his mind. You have to be this, a sword. A instrument who does not feel remorse, or second guess. It follows orders. You ask me to be a sword, sir? To win this war? Yes.....i’m afraid so son.
TBC
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Dec 19, 2011 23:24:36 GMT 1
Chapter 23: The pawns are moving
The sound of hammers and chisels sounded around the wall of Emberfire as the reparations were being made. Percevalt nodded approvingly as both his men and the villagers of Emberfire worked together in this endeavour. The latter did it with fear in their hearts, but he knew with time friendships would be made and trust would be cemented. Already the banner of an red dragon breathing fire and a black bat on the left side and a phoenix on the right was waving in the wind. The Dyr spider was absent on the united flag for now, but Percevalt assumed that would change soon enough. Every sword would be needed when the Forgotten would rise from the crypts and abandoned dwarven kingdoms.
“Deep in thought there, prince charming?” Togo played on his lute absentmindedly as he walked toward him. “Master Chubbs, you are still here?” the prince turned around and stared the Halfling down. “Don’t get your royal knickers in a twist your grace, me and Gorvar are leaving with the ambassadors back to Tor Vollen.” The Halfling replied as he placed his lute on his back.
It’s been a week after the fall of Emberwind, and a mere three days after self-crowned Prince Amroth send several ambassadors to Rohak to broker a alliance between the mountain Houses of Spring, also called loyalists against his sister. To prove their allegiance Amroth send out an attack led by his champion Rodrik himself on the Manisters, which scored him two castles out of their five. And one of them was offered as a gift to strengthen the bounds between the Loyalists and the United Kingdoms (a term the queen herself came up with). According to his spies, the banner of Summer for the lack of a better banner was blowing in the wind there as well. Things were going from bad to ill for poor Queen Cerdica, especially if the rumours were true about Neromapia’s fall at the hands of the vengeful Seakings.
The downside of it all was that the Manisters retreated from the De Schacht front and didn’t stop the Alliance from invading Rohak if it so desired. Anything was possible with the Mad Wolf.
“Eager to be rid of us?” Gorvar growled as he walked over to them along with his large black wolf. “Ah master half-orcen.” Percevalt smiled.” You misunderstand. With you as the escort for the ambassadors, and as one of our most powerful warriors, Prince Amroth will glad to know our interest in this alliance is sincere.” “I do not serve you, Hanalius. Don’t forget that.” Gorvar replied.” Sabrina Tor Vollen is a friend of mine and I trust her, that is why I’m going along.” “And going home.” Togo interjected.” Don’t forget about the going home part.” “I know.” Gorvar said annoyed. “Kind of the most important part of us going through the dark abandoned tunnels filled with horrors and cave trolls and whatnot.” The half-orc gave one look at the Halfling, who immediately backed off.
“I will miss you two the most.” Percevalt chuckled.” Please take care, and I hope you two reach your homes safely.” He gave them a bow and walked off. For a moment he thought to say a small word to Togo regarding their conversation they had in their dream, but he disregarded it. He knew the Halfling would do as told. Fear was a powerful motivator. He walked inside the castle where he passed a Cyclops who slid a large piece of rock into a gap made by the artillery from the attack. It was a strange sight seeing his people work alongside normal humans. Strange...but re-assuring.
His pawns were almost there. Soliana united Rohak, half of Summer, an drow house and now the mountain houses under the true king....even if it was the son of Halmadir Spring. That was the hardest to swallow. The son of the same man who destroyed his kingdom and his family was now one of his most important allies. Now the only thing he needed was to broker a peace with the Alliance, it would be tricky with the Seakings having done a lot of damage to Spring, but it was still possible.
He wondered if Amroth knew of Fall before he send the ambassadors. Percevalt glanced back and saw the caravan leave on the road, followed by Gorvar and Togo. Either way, Amroth was going to know now. He made a silent prayers to the moon goddess to light their path in the dark, and not to give to much of her blessing to the Seakings if they indeed took over Neromapia. Ironic how two different people worship the same deity, but were on opposite sides of the conflict. Who was she rooting for anyway....?
“Ah, your grace?” a sweet voice sounded behind him. He turned around and found Isabella Tor Vollen walk towards him. Her hair was as dark as coal and curly. Her black dress covered to her knees while feathers covered her shoulders. She was fair and somewhat smaller then an normal woman was, but being the great-grandaughter of a dwarf had it’s drawbacks. They had spoken on a few occasions and she seemed like a smart if what shy young woman, hardly the kind you would expect to be an ambassador. “Ambasador Tor Vollen.” Percevalt smiled and bowed.” I thought you would leave with the others?”
“No, my father asked of me to stay here and remain here as a sign of good faith.” She smiled.” Also I have grown to like the plains and rolling hills. Mountains do get annoying after a while.” Percevalt smiled and nodded at her pleasantly, but knew her father was playing a different game. Dimitri Tor Vollen was a careful man, calculating as well. He had the mind of his grandfather Hadgar Drurgen, always calculating the next move. What secrets did he think to uncover here? Did he sees his daughter as a pawn in his little game?
“Your grace, are you alright?” Isabella asked worried. “I’m fine.” Percevalt replied.” Just have a lot on my mind.” “You poor thing.” She held his hand.” Come to my tent I just HAVE to share some of our food. Our pastries are DELICIOUS.” He was about to decline, but a previous talk with Diana might him reconsider.
“Those ambassadors could be useful.” She said. “How?” Percevalt drank from his cup of wine. Both were seated in a hall where Cerdica had wined and dined Togo Chubb, at least so he was told by the Halfling. The tapestries of the red dragon still remained if only because Soliana decided to keep the same symbol for her faction. “Ambassadors can be excellent spies. I have taken up some reading and found several cases where one ambassador sold out his country’s secrets for either gold or...well a sword on their throat. Or a woman.” She smirked.
“You implying something?” Percevalt asked in a similar tone. “Isabella Tor Vollen is a sweet and innocent girl...and naive. And a virgin.” “You suggest I seduce her?” She sipped from her wine.” Why not? You did the same with your former fiancé.” Percevalt’s face grew cold and his brown eyes glared angrily at the self-styled queen of Rohak. “No offense to the dead.” She added. Percevalt still felt the fresh sting of guilt when he heard of Elena’s death. He knew he would lose pawns he had affections for, that is why he kept himself distant from everyone. No relationship passed the platonic level. He still recalled the day his father shoved him into the gateway before Halmadir and his came in.... “I’ll think about it.” He replied and raised his cup.” To Rohak, Fall and Summer.” “To the united kingdoms.” She toasted in return.
“Sure.” He smiled at Isabella.” I would be delighted.” Her face brightened up.” Oh thank you!” she took his arm and dragged him along.” Trust me, pieces of heaven those things!” A few hours later, he was having some mountain wine with Isabella in her private chambers. They were with the other ambassador’s at first in the main hall as they sipped and talked away. He heard from Isabella who heard from an drow diplomat Maraad had fallen by General Tundra’s determination and stern leadership. The death of Elena and the attempted murder on his other daughter with her Seaspring husband must’ve tipped the scales completely to a vengeful rage. Odd how the north breeds the mad, he noted. What was the saying, revenge is a dish best served cold? Ironic how it’s quite warm still.
Isabella was giggling, her red cheeks flushed by the wine.” I fear I’ve drunk to much I fear.” “Your fine.” He assured her but knew the truth.” Ambassador like you can hild a few drinks, cant you?” “Oh, I didn’t want to be here really...i mean don’t get me wrong, Rohak is lovely, Soliana the blessed girl is, and you...well between you and me...” she pulled him a bit closer.” Your handsomer then everyone I’ve seen in the mountains, let me tell you that.” He had a genuine chuckle.” Thank you. So, why did you come over then?” “oh, my father knows I have experience in understanding the drow language. I always liked studying history as a child, one of my favourite subjects was old languages such as the tongue of elves.”
She could understand the dark elf language, that would explain how she knew of Maraad. “And that’s why I’m here, because of one measly language...that and my father fears our armies wont be able to hold up Cerdica’s troops when push come to shove. I mean the Manisters? We only had them because their pants were do-oh, beg my pardon, I said pants.” She giggled.
That was worse news. “How do you mean?” he asked concerned. “We only have....pfff...about three thousand men, divided by four houses. We have some sellswords as well, a few orcs curiously....” Orc mercenaries? Things were dire indeed. A weak northern border could prove to be costly, he had to talk to Soliana about it. He was about to make an excuse to leave the room when he felt her soft moist lips on his. Inside him a feeling stirred he had never felt before. His ehart raced, his hands were trembling...and he felt happy, content. She pulled back, her red flush covering most of he face.” I-I’m so terribly sorry!” she said.” I didn’t know wha-“ He kissed her again and held her in his hands. He didn’t want to let go of her. Her warmth, her scent, her hair, her laugh...he loved it all. He didn’t care it was stupid, or of it was the wine taking over. He wanted her.
He loved how she slipped out of her dress and guided him to her bed. He loved how his naked skin felt against hers. How her breasts felt as he fondled them, or how warm she felt when he entered her. How she whimpered at first but soon turned into moans of pleasure. How the mattress moved with them and the feathers softened the thuds. As he climaxed inside her, and she with him, he never felt so blessed. He swore he even said he loved her. He rolled off her and held her in his arms as he drifted off to sleep.
When he opened his eyes again however, they were not greeted by the furniture of her bedroom. Instead he was in his normal attire, sitting in a chair next to an table while on the other end a dwarven woman in a red robe was seated across of him. “Myra.” Percevalt immediately knew. “Hanalius.” She replied.” My apologies if i...disturb you.” “It’s fine. My pawns are nearly ready. I just need the North.” “That will be problematic....” she sighed.” I have received word from Neromapaia, it’s been burned to the ground.”
“So it’s true, the Seakings did attack. It was to be expected. How bad was it?” “The entire city and most of it’s population are dead. Farol Seaspring himself led the attack and did command his men to kill everyone when he saw his daughter’s head on a spike.” Percevalt could not believe it.” What, they killed Moriana?” “In a fit of madness, yes. Volstikk himself wielded the axe and paid the prize for it. His entrails are the only thing that keeps him from falling to the ground.” “Amroth wont like this.....” Myra nodded in agreement.” I have reasons to believe the Forgotten had their claws in Volstikk.”
“They know what we are planning.” Percevalt placed his hand on his chin thoughtfully.” We need to move ahead with our plans. I send Gorvar and Togo Chubb over to you. I persuaded Togo to get Gorvar along.” “You told him the truth about this war?” Myra frowned. “Your cave spirits are fickle things at best Lady Drurgen, I cannot rely on waiting for them to give anyone else besides you visions. Just get your job done, I will need more time.” “I will give you all the time I can give you...and the life of my husband.”
TBC
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Dec 24, 2011 0:17:15 GMT 1
Chapter 24: Dark deals
For three days the two dozen riders made their way through swamps, mists and marshes until they found the road toward an castle in the distance as a large wall surrounded it. This sole castle was the only land in miles which had not taken any sides to the war.
House Valen, Tor Vollen, Fonkel and Drurga were the only ones at Amroth’s side. A mere three thousand arms and two thousand sellswords against the full might of the North and his Sister. The two castles at the base of the mountains only had a few hundred Manister men and only because of Black Boulder Keep’s dwarven siegemachines were they able to breach the gates quick enough instead of a month long siege. By then the Manisters would’ve pulled back to reclaim their homes, five thousand by Rodrik’s last count. Seven thousand if it joined forces with the survivors from Maraad. Isabella would need time to convince Percevalt to lend his monsters to their cause, let alone his allies. House Greenstone with it’s two thousand men was the only hope he had to get his kingdom back.
“One problem. This is a bad idea, your grace...” Rodrik said as they neared the wall.” Greenstone’s been isolated for twenty years, the four gods know if those two thousand men you try to claim will be cursed or not.” “I need more men, Rodrik.” Amroth replied.” The United Kingdoms cant send any troops to me in time, and it would make me look weak. We need a victory and the arms to gain it. Greenstone will do that.” “What happened here?” Edrik asked.” Why does everyone seem to...well, avoid this place to put it mildly.”
The men muttered in their beards for the entire journey. Greenstone was cursed they claimed, and best forgotten to the slow sword of time. “According to my grandmother.” Jacob answered.” Greenstone is the home of the Giantbane family line. Even before the war of the seasons they were known giant slayers. Every lord of the house had to slay one giant until they were all extinct on this continent. Hence they have a red giant on their banner. The current Lord, Lord Ivan Giantbane, had to sail to Van Xia to slay his giant.”
“How does this tie into the curse thing?” Edrik grew bored. “My apologies master Drugen.” Jacob smiled at the dwarf.” Twentytwo years ago, a Van Xia woman with the name of Ko came to Greenstone. She was an sorcerer she claimed, who wished to stay for a while. Ivan agreed and let her stay. Months passed and the two became...close.” “So, what...the people don’t like you mixing with the yellow skins?” the dwarf asked. “No, not yellow...green.” one of the men spat.” One of the manservants discovered she was an orc female who used potions and pagan magic to change her form. They claim she used her potions to put a spell over Ivan to make him love her...and eventually that curse came over most of the people. Eventually she stopped using her human guise and came out of the castle in her horrible green form.”
“Your saying an orc rules Greenstone?!” Edrik laughed.” Oh, she picked the right place with that name.” “Not just her....their offspring as well.” Jacob replied.” Before communications broke they had two half-orcs as their children, their son was the heir to Greenstone. When King Halmadir, Allfather hoping he will send him back to us soon, send an letter saying the marriage is annulled and the children are bastard and thus cannot have any rights on Greenstone or carry the Giantbane name. Ivan and Ko severed all ties. Every party send to kill the orc and her offspring never returned. Some travlers were allowed to enter and claim the entire castle and village lover their new lady and her children have a large position.” “The monster destroyed an ancient bloodline and polluted it with her mongrels by vile sorcery, she cannot be reasoned with.” Rodrik replied.
“We have to try Rodrik...” Amroth said as he rode forward toward the gate. As he looked above he saw moss hung on the castle walls as the banners of red giants waved in the wind. Men in green armour aimed their longbows down below in silence. They were covered by the mist, but Amroth could see them clearly with his elven eyes. “Your grace!” Rodrik shouted and placed his hand on his sword. He had seen them to now. Amroth raised his hand and stared him down. Rodrik sighed and palced his steel back in it’s scabbard. The wooden gate creaked open as green men on horseback rode to meet Amroth.
The one in front had a green skin and had orcish tusks, but he looked very human still despite his large fore arms. He halted his steed a few inches away from Amroth and took off his T shaped helmet, his log black hair flew out of it as his brown eyes stared the king down. “He looks like Master Gorvar....” Jacob pointed out. Amroth heard Rodrik and Jacob Tor Vollen speak of Gorvar Half-orcen and how he defended the latter from an attack by orcs and bandits.
“Prince Amroth, son of former King Halmadir Spring, Fourth of his name.” The half-orc placed his helmet on his lap, near his battle ax on his left and a red giant shield on his right. His voice was gruff and direct, clearly Greenstone knew more then anyone else have them credit. “You bring war to our walls.” The half-orc said. “Are you Lord Giantbane?” Amroth asked. The half-orc laughed out loud as it sounded through the mist like thunder in the clouds. “Naye, not yet....my mother, Lady Ko is the Lady of Greenstone. My lord father was taken away from us by the Allfather four years ago.” “Isn’t that a surprise...” one of them men said under his breath.
If the half-orc heard, he did not reply. “My name is Thorghal Giantbane, son of Lord Ivan Giantbane and captain of the guard.” He held his hand in the air which signalled his bowmen on the ramparts to lower their weapons.” We both know why you are here, Prince. Question is why would I allow the son of the man who wished me to rob me from my birthright?”
Amroth took a look at Rodrik, who thankfully kept silent. He smiled at Thorghal. “I am not my father. Lord Valen?” he drew out a parchment as Rodrik took the parchment from his king. Rodrik unrolled it and read it’s contents. “Let it be known from this day on, that Lord Ivan and his descendants, be they pink skinned or green, are hereby reinstated as proper lords worthy of respect throughout the three kingdoms. So it is decided by the four gods and signed by Prince Amroth Spring, fourth of his name and the true ruler over the three kingdoms.” Rodrik rolled it back up and handed it over to Thorghal.
The half-orc took the parchment and read it’s contents. His brown eyes read over the sentences beofr ehe rolled it back up. ‘Touching....but I hope you have more to bargain us for, your grace.” Thorghal turned his steed around.” Follow me, my mother wishes to speak with you.” Amroth expected as much.” We thank you.” “Don’t thank us yet.” The half-orc said as he rode on, followed by his guard.
“This is thin ice we’re on, your grace....” Rodrik said as the group followed them in. The village and even entire farms ha enough room within the walls as they passed through. Men looked merry, even in the mist. They worked away and gave a small bow when Thorghal passed who in turn nodded his head with a smile on his green lips. “These people are cursed no doubt...” Rodrik added quietly.” How else would they cheer for him or his crone of a mother?” “The old fashioned way, doing your jobs properly?” Edrik replied.” Protect the people your supposed to be guarding over. Not raping them or stealing their crops or overprice their taxes or-“ “We get the point, Master Drurgen....” The champion of Valen cut him short, much to the dwarf’s glee.
The party rode on towards the castle as the men of Greenstep moved aside and saluted the return of their lord. The castle was covered in moss, but it was as large as any castle and had as many guards on their ramparts, al human to. When they assed the smaller wall into the courtyard, they were greeted by an Orcish woman with long black hair and a cane who was huddled in a long brown robe and a young half-orc woman in a dress made from the finest white silk. They were surrounded by her knights who bore the tabard of the red giant, among them three half-orcs. Two women and one man strangely. Thorghal dismounted from his steed as a stable boy took the black steed and walked over to his lady mother and kissed her on the cheek and took his placed behind her.
The orc woman took a step forward as she leaned on her cane. She did not seem old at all, but wizened somehow and...beautiful in a savage kind of way. “Prince Amroth....I expected you.” She said. “Lady Ko.” Amroth stepped off his horse and bowed his head to her.” It’s an honour to meet you.” “Lady Ko?” she chuckled.” Gracious and charming indeed...but sweet words don’t butter up your father’s decisions. You may have an parchment here, nicely stamped with a leaf on green wax and some nice signatures of your mountain lords....but I want something else. An guarantee.”
“I wish to remedy that.” He replied as his escort gathered around him.” Aid me, and I promise I will aid you.” She smirked, her tusks made it a nasty sneer.” I want you to marry my youngest child.” She motioned to the young half-orc woman in white next to her. “ When you become King of Spring, she will be Queen.” The escort held their breath. “You cant be serious!” Rodrik spouted.” No amount of swords can-“ “Come inside.” Ko went back into her castle.” We have a lot to talk about...especially if you want your three thousand men you desperately crave for.”
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Jan 12, 2012 18:07:48 GMT 1
Chapter 25: The Cold winds are rising.
“Allfather, help us...” Eveline gasped as she heard the news from Neromapia. “How many were killed?” Frederick asked. “Nearly the entire city was butchered, Your Grace.” Jonathan answered.” Men, women and children. The men were dismembered, the women raped and then killed and the children watched before they joined their parents in death.”
The King of Winter knew Farol Seaspring was a monster of sorts, but this was to much. “All this for the loss of his daughter...” Frederick rested his head on his hand in thought. “Still, his offer is very genuine though. Neromapia is a excellent place to oversee the continuing war with Cerdica’s forces and the upstart rebels in Rohak.” “It’s a cursed gift.” A De Schacht knight in the back of the throne room by the name of Ser Walter said. He was a tall man with a bushy black beard. He was the captain of Eveline’s honour guard and now Captain of the entire guard at Castle Winter after the death of his predecessor at the hands of Bernard Seaspring, who was still in his tower cell as an hostage.
“I didn’t recall asking you for advice, Ser Walter.” Jonathan glared. “Let him speak.” Eveline spoke up for the captain. Frederick was already going to, but he nodded regardless. Eveline’s word was just as good as his. After all she bore him his heir. “Your Grace.” Walter walked up next to the royal advisor. “ Neromapia is now a city of the dead. If we take this city from the greenbeards, not only will we risk the wrath of the Allfather but also the few Spring lords who have not taken Cerdica’s side will find that a reason to join forces with her after all.” “What if we offered it to one of them?” Frederick asked. “An excellent idea, Your Grace.” Jonathan replied.” May I suggest the recently returned Prince Aroth to be given a seat?” “The boy barely has five thousand men and already has to share them out amongst seven castles. Also need I remind you, royal advisor, that he has thrown his lot in with the Rohak rebels?” Walter pointed out with an angry finger.
“We’ll deal with them after Cerdica has been defeated.” Jonathan replied in kind. “Enough.” Frederick intervened before Walter could draw an punch.” I will think about what you both said on that matter. For now, we need to decide how to punish Farol Seaspring for this insubordination.” “Your Grace...” an elderly man in a long blue robe and a white beard spoke with a dry voice.” The royal coffers are not dry yet because of the war, but they are in need for refilling. How about we demand financial retribution for war crimes?” “ Lord Kettlefish has a point.” Jonathan said.” Our coffers could use some coin and it’s only natural from the things the Seaking’s pillaged from Neromapia should be given to us. And of course Westend Keep.” He bowed to Eveline.
“Agreed.” Frederick nodded. “ Also we’ll add a little something with that letter.” “What, Your Grace?” Walter asked. “An insurance that this never happens again, anything else?” “Yes, Lord De Schacht is asking for reinforcements. The Manisters have pulled back and Her Grace’s father wishes to pursue them.” “Send Lord Tundra from Maraad to link up with them. I’ll ask Lord Tondrick to send a token group of his knights to maintain order in Maraad.” Frederick stood up.” I’ll be going to my chambers now. I’ll hold court In an hour, please be gone by the time the petioners are here” He bowed his head and walked off along with his wife. “Your really going to let the off that easily?” Eveline asked.” Freddie...they killed children.” “I wont.” He promised her.” I’ll send Farol a message.” He had grown to love Eveline in his own way. He did not love her like a man loved a woman, but as someone he could rely on and discuss things with. He wondered she knew every night he wished her good night and stayed on his side of the bed. Ever since that night in Westend Keep where their child was conceived, they haven’t coupled. Frederick was still full of pain of what happened to Martin, and his ehart still was with him and not his sister.
An hour later, Frederick and Ser Walter stood outside the tower cell. “You don’t have to do this, Your Grace.” Walter said quietly. “I give no order I am not willing to do myself.” He replied. “They’re still not done yet?” one of his Winter soldiers asked. “No.” Walter replied and peered inside.
The silver haired woman rode their prisoner and moaned silently as they reached their climax. She wore her robes still, but they were all lifted as to not rouse to much suspicious of their affair supposedly, an affair Frederick orchestrated nonetheless.
Her name was Athenilis, an priestess of the Moon. The very goddess the Greenbeards and the people of Fall worship. All four gods were allowed to be worshipped and preached in the three kingdoms, but not many worshipped the moon goddess because of her association to the inhabitants of the Seaking isles and the people of Fall. Thankfully to his purposes a few did exist in his land and this one was all to eager to play her part. One of the other women in his castle would not have worked and he knew his hostage was an religious man of a sort. The guards said he heard them pray every night. But every man, however pious, had needs..and his were easy to exploit if the right pawn was used.
“Be his lover.” He told her.” Tell me every secret he tells you, pounce on him and empty his seed in you before every interrogation so he is weak as a kitten. In return your cult were get full support from Winter’s coffers.” “As you wish, Your Grace...” she bowed.
He heard her scream as quietly as possible and rest her head on his shoulder until he went off him and sorted herself out as pillow talk came from both their mouths. She held him as he sobbed until he fell asleep, the news of his sister’s rape and death hit him hard. A moment later she came out of the tower cell as they heard the Seaking snore. She bowed her head again to the king and walked off. Frederick gave a nod to Walter. The knight kicked the door open as held Bertrand down as the other knights clasped his hands and legs in irons.
“The hell are you doing?!” Bernard cried out. Frederick walked over.” Your father’s mistakes need to be punished.” He said. “He lost a daughter, and me a sister. For the love of your Allfather and my Moon Goddess let me be....” Sister Athenillis drained him well enough, or the emotional damage was to much, as Bernard did not fight back as the guard wrapped an rope around three of his fingers so tight they looked like small purple sausages. He barely had the effort to ask what they were doing. Walter drew a dagger which Frederick took. “Sending your father a warning.” Frederick said and leaned in.
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Jan 20, 2012 18:40:31 GMT 1
Chapter 26: The breath of war
The banners, spears and swords of the Black Lion charged into those of the Leafed Dragon and the Gryphon as thunder rocked above them. Above the hill the Manisters were protecting, the dreaded 101st Dragon Mouth’s regiment fired volley after volley as both man and horse fell in their droves. Lord Luc De Schacht’s archers fired away at them and managed to dwindle their numbers by some, but not much. “This wont do...Captain.” Luc said to Alisa.” Fire the catapults and give the sign to fall back.” Captain Stronghand nodded and inhale deeply. “CATAPULTS!” her voice sounded over the chaos from afar towards the catapult battery in the back. “ AIM TOWARDS THE DRAGONMOUTH’S AND FIRE!”
The boulder dipped in tar were lit before their crews launched the flaming projectiles towards the hill. Fire bursts in the air like small volcanoes as the horns of retreat was sounded and the De Schacht men fell back. In the distance he could hear a man, he guessed their commander, shouting for the Dragon Mouth’s to fall back. He looked like a speck from where Luc was, but for a brief moment he swore they looked straight at each other. “Orders, milord?” Alisa snapped him back to the present. “Keep firing those catapults for most of the night with four hour shifts, I want that hill burned down to the ground with no cover....we attack again by morning when General Tundra links up his men with ours.” “Yes milord.” Alisa replied and strode towards the catapults.
It had been a rocky two months and a lot happened since Luc arrived at Farshire. Together they held back seventeen attacks, each one heavier then the last. It wasn’t until the Manisters fell back a week ago that they launched an counter attack. She had earned his respect with her strong voice to carry orders and her battle tactics. Despite what she did in the past and dishonoured the De Schacht bloodline, she made it up here and now and each saved each other’s lives to many times to count.
Luc took off his lion crested helmet and walked back to the camp. He passed by the sick tents where he made his normal routine. He talked to the wounded, sat with the dying and read the latest casualty list. Another eight hundred dead. Another eight hundred widows or orphans or anguished mothers. “What are we fighting for....?” he asked himself. Was it for independence? Avenge the horrors of Rohak? Or just fighting for the sake of fighting? He shook his head, it didn’t matter. Right now they were fighting to keep Cerdica’s troops away from Westend Keep. That is what mattered, the lives lost here ere not in vain.
He had to talk to Hendrick, see if he could find some solace or if the Winter knight found some tactic to use against Cerdica’s Dragon Mouth’s. Instead he found him enjoying the fruits of the South. “Oh milord...!” the brunette, an peasant guessing from her clothing groaned as Hendrick took her on his office. His thrusts shook the wooden bureau heavily as pieces of paper and pots of ink spilled over. Her bondace still covered her upper body but not by much as he skirt was rolled up to her middle just covering where she and Hendrick met. “Oh milord...!” she moaned again as she hold on to his shoulders. “You like don’t you, you little Spring witch...” Hendrick said with a distinct slur of drink. Luc folded his arms and waited until the knight from the north noticed him. “Oh, Lord De Schacht. A moment.” He said before he gave a final thrust which send his mistress into an orgasm. “ Cant let my seed go to waste.” “Clearly....” Luc glared.” Wouldn’t your other whore back in Farshire mind this?” Hendrick sat on his chair as the woman straightened herself out. “ Well Miss...urghm..” “Rose...” she avoided Luc’s glare as she put her hair back in a ponytail. “Yes Rose, wanted to thank me for saving her and her family from that patrol of Easthold men. Cant have those Purple Cat bastards have their merry way with her could i? No offense to your banner their Lord de Schacht...”
Hendrick took her by the arm gently and pulled her to the floor.” Clean it up will you?” he smirked as she gave a silent nod and knelt in front of him and in front of the desk so Luc couldn’t see her, but the satisfied look and the sucking sound said enough. “Your revolting....” Luc went to turn around. “Wait, aren’t you here for a reason? I’m sure Rose here can-Aw! Fine, no sharing!” he growled as he stared downward. Luc sighed and turned around.” I’m here because I had the feeling you might have anything to help us with?” “I have something...” Hendrick took a swig from a bottle of Westend wine off the floor before he slid a map over the desk to Luc.” Rose here owns a map which shows the location of a castle nearby which might help us.”
“Who?” Luc peered at the map.” I don’t know any Houses nearby.” “House Greenstone.” Hendrick closed his eyes for an moment as he enjoyed the moment.” You heard of the legend surrounding it?” “I don’t want ghosts in my army, Hendrick...” “Not ghosts. Real men and half....orcs.” he groaned relieved before Rose stood up and wiped something off her mouth before she was pulled on Hendrick’s lap. “ You see, the Giantbane family line is one of legends. Every patriarch of it had to slay a giant to earn his place. Now the last Giantbane, Lord Ivan, did something stupid and married an female orc and sired a couple of mongrels with her. Because of it all ties were severed by the late King Halmadir...”
“Your saying we need to ask an orc to help us?” Luc glared. “Why not? We could use another castle and I fought an half-orc myself and know how hard they can hit.” Hendrick began foundling the peasant’s breast. Luc was about to shout and refuse...but thought the better of it. “Fine, you take some men and go secure an alliance. I’ll write an letter to King Frederick and inform him.” Hendrick smiled.” Great, I’ll leave first thing in the morning.” “I’ll provide an opening, good night Hendrick.” Luc replied and walked off as fast as he could before he could hear the peasant wail again.
The stars began to appear as the torches in the camp lit on one by one. Both men of Westend Keep and the Winter men worked alongside each other, which did bring some joy to Lord De Schacht’s heart. If there was one legacy his friend Fanran left behind was the friendship between House De Schacht and Winter. When he saw them like this, he had hope for the future. He stopped in front of his tent, and decided to head right towards Strongarm.
It was a modest tent, but large enough to house her and her child. “Bedtime, Hans.” Alisa picked up her son and threw him over her shoulder. “But mo-“ “No buts, you have school tomorrow and mother has to be up early so she can have an battle.” She placed him in his cot. “Battle stupid....” he folded his arms and pouted. For just a brief moment, he swore he recognized Martin in that pout. He was always a hassle when it was his bedtime, a trait passed on to his bastard. “I’m not arguing young man, bed.” She kissed his forehead and took out a book from a small shelf. “ Ser Valiant and the dragon!” Hans smiled brightly.” Ser Valiant and the dragon!” “You heard that story a thousand times, son....” Alisa smiled weakly. “Not a thousand, silly mother.” Hans chuckled.
“Alright, fine...” she chuckled back and skipped halfway toward the book where she began reading out the story. In the meanwhile Luc watched and let nostalgia take over as he saw his wife and son in a similar ritual so many years ago. He could not help but smile a little. Martin’s favourite was a different story. It was of their ancestor, Lord Filips De Schacht of Westend Keep. Lord Filips was the one who choose the Black Lion as the banner of their family house three hundred years ago when the Continent of Seasons joined Avaria and Kadan into a crusade against the invading eastern horde of Van Xia. He fought one of the Emperor’s high ranking Generals, Vong Shun, for four days and four night. In the end Lord Filips won by an sword’s edge and according to Van Xian tradition, he was given an item of great value from Vong Shun...an Black Lion’s mantle.
In the crusade he would be known as Lord Filips De Schacht of Westend Keep, the Black Lion. When he returned home, the entire De Schacht bloodline were named lions and many great warriors came from that line. Even the militia and footman and knights took to themselves to fight as noble and savage like a lion. “Milord?” Alisa let a veil fall over the entrance of Hans’ portion of the tent when he saw her.” How long have you been standing here.” “When you began reading the story. It’s alright, I haven’t heard it in a long time and didn’t want to intrude.”
Alisa smiled a little.” Still the same. Ser Valiant goes to an castle, hears the princess has been kidnapped by a dragon, he fights the dragon In a glorious battle and rescues the princess. The king gives her his hand and they all lived happily ever after-“ “Except the dragon.” Both said at the same time.” I know, it’s Eveline’s favourite.” Alisa nodded weakly as she placed the book away.” A drink?” “No thank you, I’ve seen enough drinking at Hendrick’s tent and what it can drive men to...”
“I heard it when I passed by.” Alisa shook her head and sat down near the table where she offered Luc a seat.” How are you going to deal with him?” “I’ll send him off to investigate an legend with a few men, keep him out of my hair...and hopefully out of women’s skirts. If the gods are good he’ll die out there...” Alis chuckled and filled herself a stein with Westend wine. “I’ll drink to that.” She said and had a sip.” What can I help you for, milord?” “I...have been thinking...” Luc said quietly as to not wake up his bastard grandson. “ I want you to come back to Westend Keep after this.” “Your un-exiling me?” Alisa raised her brow. “You proved your skill a hundred times over in the past two months.....and like it or not, your son is....” “Your blood?” she finished for him. “Yes.” He replied.” He deserves to be a knight at least if he wishes to be. I can sponsor him, but no mention of who his father was.” “I told him his father died in a battle. Which is true, only it happened a lot later...”
Luc rubbed his forehead.” True....” He paused an moment.” Did you know he was into men?” “You know?” she asked. “I know he and Frederick had a close bound and...I overheard some things I didn’t want to hear back in Rohak.” Another awkward moment of silence passed. “He was into both.” She replied.” The reason why Hans is born is because of Ser Daveth’s death.” Luc stared at her. “Ser Daveth?” He was one of his most loyal guards and twice Martin’s age when he died from an Northman arrow. “They were close, in love even....when he died, Martin came to me. I was upset myself and...well you know how the rest goes.” “ So he did not love you?” he asked. “No, if he did he would’ve at least seen his son once.” She replied.” Not to speak ill of the dead. He was a lot like you in some aspects.”
“I know he was.” Luc sighed.” So...are you willing to come back?” “I miss Westend sometimes. The walls, the people, the sound of the river as it clashes against the peer...” she smiled.” Alright, but how will your people react?” “You’ll be named an hero and your son will be made natural. Any mention of his father will result into a long stay in the dungeons. If you like I can look for an match for you?” “No, I prefer being independent.” She smiled.” But thank you or the offer.” “Any ti-“
“My lord!” one of his knight ran into the tent. “Quiet, your waking the child.” Alis motioned to the other side of the tent. “I’m sorry Captain. My lord, we just received word from General Tundra’s forces.” “What is it?” Luc asked. “Half his forces are dead and he’s being beaten back to Maraad.” “What, how?” Captain Strongarm asked. “ Treason, half of Tundra’s army joined Feren against King Frederick.”
TBC
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Jan 31, 2012 0:28:48 GMT 1
Chapter 27: Knights large and small
The smell of death reigned over the battlefield, or massacre for an better term. “ The loyalists didn’t stand a chance.” He said to no-one in particular despite the fine company the group was in. Besides him, Togo and Wolfgen there were the Tor Vollen ambassadors with their guard. Among them was an Northwoman who held an large axe on her shoulder. The ambassadors said she was the one who saved their prince from the massacre at Stillwater. He send her with the ambassadors while he went off to secure another alliance. She did not speak much which suited Gorvar just fine. He had to call off Wolfgen from eating the dead several times until he send him away to go hunting, he knew Wolfgen couldn’t help his nature but still. Togo went through the corpses and as always stole everything of worth. A ring, coin, a nice looking amulet. Gorvar allowed it as long he did not steal weapons of the dead. All warriors should die with a weapon at hand so they could see the Allfather with pride and fight alongside him when the great dark god returned and all four gods had to unite once again to defeat him. He saw the Northwoman mutter something in her own tongue, which either could have been a prayer to her heretic gods or a curse for the brave fools who end up on the wrong side. Flocks of ravens took to the air as their feast was disturbed by Togo’s shoveling and a lone ambassador who made his way through the corpses toward them. He wore his dwarven made armmour with pride and unlike the other ambassadors who held their noses in their lime scented handkerchiefs, he moved through the bodies as if it was made out of snow. The slack jawed and messy bearded Captain Alfred Drurga was a man who took his grand tour into the battlefields between Avaria and Van Xia then the grand cities of Kedan where most noble youths studied useless philosophy or chased women and left behind bastards and in time their own bastards until they died. Alfred was Commander Illysa’s brother and a veteran of at least ten battles and although still young, he earned Gorvar’s respect when a band of bandits made the wrong choice to attack them. “ The yellow-bellies at the caravan are asking what’s the hold up.” Alfred said. “ I don’t mind seeing people being eaten by birds and wolves, but I have to be political and all that.” Gorvar took one more glance over the horizon as he tried to play the battle out in his mind one last time. From the fires and destroyed tents he knew the camp was set up when the betrayal came. Red ribbons were on the arms of some still, which he believed marked the ones who were attacking sicne there were not a lot of them. “ We’ll be moving on soon.” Gorvar said as he pointed ahead.” The way should be clear of corpses there but I can’t help the smell for the next few miles though.” “Alright, I’ll tell the rest.” Alfred said and walked off. As Gorvar made his way back, he noticed the Northwoman snarl and draw her ax. “ What’s got her pissed off?2 Togo asked as he slipped the last ring off a dead man’s finger. Gorvar followed her gaze and found it pointed on a group of fourty knights that rode towards them on black horses. They wore black armour like Captain Drurga, but had an white sword painted on their chests and crescent shields. Their helms were in the shape of a sun as their cloaks were green as grass. Gorvar placed his hand on her shoulder.” Let them be, they are funeral knights.” “Who?” she asked.
“They are an order of knights who forsake their last name and go around the land gathering the dead for their clients. Mostly it is an unfortunate adventurer whose parent want to be buried home, or the son of a rich lord who wants their son to be buried in their family crypt. Sometimes that is, mostly they escort pilgrims to some holy ground somewhere.” He replied. “This is the Continent of Seasons chapter of it.” The woman nodded at him and placed her axe away. “ You forget most of them are people who are either murderers, rapists or poor people.” Togo replied. “ Bloody boring bunch to.” “I can assure you, not anyone can be a funeral knight.” A heavy booming voice said. The trio saw one of the knights step off his steed and walk towards them. He took his sun shaped helm and palced it under his arm. He was around his late thirties with blonde hair and a handsome face. The face you would expect from a true knight, not an funeral one. “ My name is Ser William, you must be Gorvar Half-Orcen?” “That I am.” Gorvar replied.” Ser Harolfson, right?” “You did a good thing by exposing his treachery to the order, it is worse enough we have to fight off trolls and other vermin without adding kingdoms to that list.” William replied. “ I was there to!” Togo said.” I helped.” “ My report said around fifty-sox gold coins were missing, as well as two bags of gems and-“ “On second thought I wasn’t there after all, pretty sure I was washing my hair, right Gorv?” Togo smiled. “What brings you here, Master Half-Orcen?” Williams asked. “Escort detail to Tor Vollen.” Gorvar replied.” Who brought you here?” “ Lord Terrence Faerrich of Icepeak, his widow paid for our services.” William replied. He took out a scroll and showed the painting of the man who barely looked old enough to shave.” You seen him?” “ No, but I can ask my wolf to-“ “I appreciate the thought, but no thank you.” William replied and scrolled it back up.” We’ll find him and several others soon enough.” “Ser William!” another Funeral knight shouted.” I found him. The wolves didn’t get to him yet!” “Prepare the balm and place him on the cart, Ser Jaime.” He replied before he turned back to Gorvar. “ It seems the gods have decided to send their son back home soon.” “ Would’ve been better if he came back home alive and saved you an job.” Togo replied.” But who am I to doubt the word of an God?” “Your Halfling friend is very outspoken, I think he should follow the example of your northwoman friend.” William replied. “He’s an good friend, you need any help?” “No thank you, but we would warn you of the Traitor Wolves ahead. They now brandish the flag of the United Kingdoms and would attack the enemy of their True Queen, Soliana Winter.” “We got am treaty to save our skin, but thanl you for the news.” Gorvar shook his hand.” Good luck.” “You to Master Half-Orcen.” William replied before he slipped his helmet back on and walked off to help carry the corpse.
“Isn’t that nice?” Togo asked.” We have friends everywhere, well you do.” “Let’s get out of here.” Gorvar said and went back to his escort. A few hours later, Gorvar found himself sharpening his axes as Wolfgen slept at his feet. His mind wandered to his past, as always. His father’s blood chilling cry cut short, his mother’s anger tenfolded and rung long and hard before she was cut down to. The pile of bodies was large, with the armored form of an orc and a leather clad warrior woman next to him, hand in hand as their life’s essence dripped down the small mountain of bodies like a stream. An strong arm pulls him away and carries him away on swift feet. He calls out to his parents as tears blinded him until it all became black. He recalls telling the story to an dark skinned beauty with white hair and long pointy ears as they share their pelt and bodies. He recalls her leaving the next day and the floating castle disappeared from the sky. “Food.” Snapped him back to the present as the Northwoman offered him an plate with pork, potatoes and some lettice. Gorvar placed the axes down and took the plate with a grateful nod. “Thank you.” He said. “ You know how to deal with knights.” She said as she sat across of him. “ My father was the first orcish knight.” He replied.” I learned most of him.” She raised her brow.” An orcish knight?” “ My father was part of an band of adventurers who went to reclaim an kingdom with an lost heir to the Throne of Camelan, an island east of Avaria. After the kingdom was reclaimed, King Alfond named him a knight along with the others. He met my mother a few years later, I still don’t know why he married her or had me.” “Your tale amuses me, go on.” She urged. “ My family went on a journey and were attacked by an band of Northmen from Insulad’umbra.” “Monsters.” She replied.” Working for Wild Wizards and Orcs.” He ignored the slight to his father.” My parents died so I could escape back to Camelan. When I reached of age I went after those monsters despite King Alfond’s suggestions…I haven’t seen him in twenty years. Last I heard he and his family are still loved by the people.” “Your having me on.” She said.” What is your proof?” “ I have none, I don’t ask you to believe me.” The Northwoman looked at him, then gave a small smile.” Name is Aya.” “Honoured to meet you, Aya.” He said and shook her hand. “My people have an legend about half-orcs, since we are indeed trading tales.” “Which is?” he asked. “The elders said one day, an union between Orc and Man will come at a right place and a rght tine as the world darkens as the dark god returns...and the choices made will proof to be the end or beginning.” “You believe that legend?” he asked. Aya took some pork off his plate.” Maybe.”
TBC
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Mar 18, 2012 17:44:53 GMT 1
Chapter 28: The limits of duty
Summer’s end was the family home of the Fluton family for five generations and was ever since it’s inception a loyal supporter of the crown. It’s family seal was a unicorn with wings on a black rose. Legends said the Fluton castle was the home of a ancient elven stable which housed the magical beasts, but the winged unicorns died out along with their elven masters and only left behind the stone statues in the courtyard and the main hall.
Uvenk was stood with Captain Jeffery as the others of the 101st Dragon Mouth’s on opposite sides of a long red carpet as both Queen Cerdica and Lord-now Duke Jorric of Emberfire held each others hand. Cerdica was dressed in the finest of Summer and Spring silk, a wonderful blend of red with green undertones. Normally when a monarch married he or she had to wear the colours of all three kingdoms, it being red and white and green. The Winter white missing was no surprise however due to the war. Duke Jorric was armoured with the finest dragonscale armour the servants managed to take with them before Castle Spring was surrounded by the Seakings a month ago.
“Sons and daughters of the Dragon, hear me!” The priest in a long red robe preached. “We have come here today to witness a union between our beloved Queen of Summer and Spring and the Duke of Emberfire. We pray to the Sun god that their marriage will be long, joyful and bring glory to the kingdom!” The attendants behind the guards were commoners who smiled happily during the most joyous joy with their children waving small red flags, courtesy of the young Lord Henselt Fluton who was the Queen’s gracious host before Neromapia would be reclaimed. The animals of Neromapia that went with the refugees were also in attendance, some of the bears who served as guards before the fall were stood with the 101st. The nobles looked from above on specially made watchtowers so they did not had to stand with the commoners, a Spring practice while in the North noblemen often stood next to their servants during these celebrations. The Summers had a similar approach although often time the merriment that followed led to a surge of bastard children born nine months later, or more marriages in the coming months. But Cerdica wished it to be done properly like her father would have done, a mix of Summer and Spring practices.
“She couldn’t wait anymore could she?” Jeffery whispered to Uvenk.” You can almost notice the belly now…” “Shh.” Uvenk retorted. It was a rumour in the court that Cerdica was with Jorric’s child and the marriage was to make sure their child would be heir to the throne. Of course anyone found telling these rumours was apprehended and thrown in the dungeon, but that furthered the idea it was true. The Queen and the Duke exchanged rings and slipped it on each others fingers as the priest spoke in ancient elven about the story of how the sun god gave light to the Earth after the Allfather created it and the Holy mother blessed it with life. The Moon goddess was briefly mentioned as a balance to the sun, but she was already unpopular before the Seakings sacked Neromapia. “You may now seal the union!” the priest exclaimed with a large smile before both bride and groom kissed each other with a deep and passionate kiss, much to the cheers and applauds of the people gathered.
“Present arms!” Uvenk said as he drew his sword. The 101st took up theirs and held it in the air as both bride and groom moved to their tent at the end of the red carpet. The 101st took their palce around the tent as the merriment began. A band of actors took up the place where the marriage took place as they performed ‘The son of the old king’, a revenge play which was Cerdica’s favourite. It was about a prince who’s father died by mysterious means as his uncle takes the throne. However the ghost of the father appears and claims he was murdered by his brother and so the prince must seek revenge. The handsome Lord Fluton took his seat next to the queen, the place a host should be. He had long curly brown hair, a handsome face and although clearly not a skilled warrior as seen by the lack of muscle, he was a skilled diplomat and a firm supporter of Cerdica’s cause. Already his cavalry did several raids on Rohak territory in retribution for the betrayal Diana Bloomsburry and Soliana. “Give me a fortnight and I might have come up with a way to save your grandchild, your grace.” Henselt Fluton smiled.” House Summer will be the most powerful House once more.”
“You will have your fortnight, Lord Fluton.” Cerdica smiled in return as she held her husband’s hand.” I will be forever grateful to have my little Fenris back. His mother is a terrible influence on him.” “If you need my help, let me known Lord Fluton.” Jorric added. “My dragon knights are at your disposal.” “I will keep that in mind, your eminence. But please, call me Henselt.” Fluton replied.” We are all friends here on this most graceful day.” Uvenk knew the type of man Fluton was. A smooth-talker, someone who strikes at the weak to appease the strong, a yes-man. A coward. Uvenk kept a close eye on him during most of the celibration and found Henselt’s eye very regularly on the blonde actress who played the prince’s wife, who was dressed in a red dress to bound her connection to the bride of course. A lustful man as well to boot then, but then again he had the blood of Summer coursing through him. Summer’s end was on the border between Spring and Summer much like how Westend Keep was on Winter and Summer lands. However at most Summers end was a place where knights kept tournaments and was by no means a trading post. The Fluton line was a mix of Summer and Spring and rumours popped up that Henselt sought to add others in their as well. No doubt the Queen would aid him with that.
Two hours passed as the play ended their play. They took a bow after a tunderious applause (added greatly when the Queen applaused) and walked off as the stage masters set up torches as the sun began to set. Soon the musicians began to play as Uvenk called in the second shift to take over the watch when the call came. “ Commander Wachter?” a messenger ran up to him. “That is me.” He replied. “Ser Feren wishes to speak with you, he’s at the inn.” Uvenk folded his arms. “When has he returned? I wasn’t told he came back already from the plains of Maraad.” “He just asked for you, Ser.” The messenger replied.” Room fourteen.” “I’ll go meet him then. Thank you, soldier. Go enjoy the revelry, I think you deserve a drink.” Uvenk gave him several silver coins. The messenger smiled as he saluted and went towards the nearest keg.
“Jeffery, I’m leaving for a few moments, can you cover for me?” he asked his captain. “Of course sir, Sergeant Bennet is taking over anyway in thirty minutes. Still…it’s better then on the front isn’t it?” “I rather be doing my job then play guard, but we all have our duties.” Uvenk replied.” Drink one on me, will you Jeff?” “I will, and one to the boys we lost at Neromapia and Farshire.” Uvenk took Jeffery by the shoulder with a small smile as he walked off to the town near Summer’s End Castle. The celebration was there as well as fires and torches were all over the place and everyone was merry. There were street artists of all kinds, from musicians to fools to acrobats. Stalls were set up which sold sausages in buns with strange sauces for cheap coin and vendors which sold plates with lazily drawn portrait of the Queen and the Duke. It almost made Uvenk forget about Thenko’s death and the loss of his sister and her family. Almost. He went to the inn which was full of customers getting drunk or telling japes to one another. He went over to the innkeeper who smiled at him.
“Can I help you, soldier boy?” she asked with a slur of drink in her voice. “Room 14 please, a friend of mine is waiting there for me.” “Oh the secret one.” She nearly shouted out. “ Just up the stairs and the second to your right.” “Thank you, miss.” He said and gave her some coin.” For your discretion.” She took the coin with glee and did not even bother biting into it to make sure it was real. He went up the stairs as the sounds of revelry was replaced by that of coupling. He ehard various names called out, but one did struck out to him. Cerdica, oh Cerdica he heard with a voice he thought recognized. The door was half shut as he peered in. Sure enough he saw Lord Fluton coupling with the actress of the play, the one with the red dress which sort of looked like Cerdica. He held her up against the wall as her head was on his shoulders and her legs around his waist. If she minded being called by another name, she did not show it. He shook his head and went over to room 14. He knocked on the door.
“Come on.” He heard Feren’s voice. Uvenk opened the door and slipped inside. “Long time no see, boy.” Feren smiled at him as he redressed the wound on his arm. “Sir, your wounded!” Uvenk rushed over.” We must get you a healer-“ “I am fine lad, sit down.” he motioned for the chair across of them. Uvenk gave a small nod and sat down. “ I’m sorry about the secrecy, but I had to warn you.” “Warn me?” Uvenk asked. “I got a letter from the Queen, since I’m still her advisor…” he took out the letter and shoved it at the table in front of them. “What is it?” Uvenk asked as he unfolded it. “It’s a letter of a alliance between House Summer and Van Xia.” He replied.” The dragon mouths were the first step.” Uvenk glanced over the contents of the letter, and it all checked out. The signature was the same as the Queen, the writing style, everything. “It says here she offers a groom for one of Emperor Van Xia XVIII’s daughters…one of the royal family?” Uvenk looked up to his mentor. “She wants to adopt you into the family. You would be the groom.” “Me?!” Uvenk nearly exploded.
“Shhh, keep it down….yes you, son.” Feren replied.” The war is going bad for us. The United Kingdoms, Winter and now her own brother are siding against her. The only thing that kept us from being overwhelmed are our superior numbers, dragons and the dragon mouth’s and we both know that wont last for long.” Feren’s betrayal forced the De Schacht Men to fall back to Farshire, and the Seakings were quiet ever since Neromapia, even their raids stopped. But the Easthold men and the Mannisters were hardpressed against the green armoured soldiers which marched under a Red Giant who joined the traitor Prince Amroth’s cause. Worst of all, Solina’s forces were amassing on the border of Rohak and already cases of dead Summer men with ripped out entrails by a mad beast were spreading around like wildfire.
“What does this Alliance offer?” Uvenk asked.” A place at court, more weapons, Van Xia men?” “And more trade. When the marriage is complete the Van Xia will retake Neromapia from who-ever is unlucky to hold it at that point and will drive off the Winters from the areas they have taken from us. They have already attacked several Seaking isles, bombarded it to bare rocks with their Dragon Mouths. They have barbarian horse-lords who already have taken on the Seaking’s horses…and won.” Feren replied.” You’ll get those reports tomorrow.” “I cant believe this…a hundred years ago everyone on this Continent set sail to Van Xia to stop them from invading Avaria. Now we embrace them?” Uvenk threw the letter down.” I cant accept this.” “I know son that is why I came in earlier to warn you, but you have to. Duty says so.” “Becoming part of the court is one thing, but marriage? To a…a yellow skin of all people!” “We need their men, their weapons, their trade…and to be honest, you need a woman.” “With all due respect sir…you are not married either.” “I was once, son…never again, some pains never go away. But trust me, a woman on your side will help you cope with your loss, give you a reason to come back home. Duty can only give a man so much. Medals do not replace children, uniforms do not give you warmth when you lay awake at night. Believe me, I have those feelings son. I do not want you to share that fate.” Uvenk sighed as he rubbed his face. He waited a moment as he collected his thoughts. “When is that woman here?” he asked.
“She’s already here from what I know, she and her guard are at the Summer’s end castle right now. The Van Xia Serpent Dragon can be seen waving in the wind if you look carefully outside.” Feren pointed outside the window. The bonfires illuminated the sky so much the banners on the castle walls were visible. The Red dragon of Summer on a Green leaf was waving strong as did the Winged Unicorn beside it…along with a serpent like dragon on a purple background. No=one noticed because of the celebration apparently. “Excellent timing…” Uvenk noted.” It’s heavy news but it is sweetened up a bit with the wedding.” “It’s not just because of the child growing in the Queen’s belly. Cerdica knows she is weak without this Alliance, especially after the coffers are nearly spend when we recruited the Kadan War Golems.” Uvenk gave a quick nod.” Holy mother forgive me….alright, I’ll do it.” “Good lad.” Feren smiled and slapped his arm.” Trust me, on your wedding night, you will not regret it.”
“If you say so, sir.” Uvenk agreed.” Very well. Thank you for the warning.” Feren gave a weak smile and got up.” Come, let’s enjoy the celebrations while we can. It’s not every day the Queen gets married.” With a small smile, Uvenk followed his mentor out into the streets and for a drink.
The next day, Uvenk was called to the main hall. It was only him, a few guards, the Queen and Lord Fluton. Uvenk wondered if he should tell the queen of the actress impersonated as the queen during her private performance for Lord Fluton, but decided against it. It was always wise to have a bargaining chip. “Commander De Wachter.” The Queen smiled. “ I have a special surprise for you.” Here it comes, he thought. “ Your grace?” “Xianla, can you come here please?”
His gaze went to the side entrance whose door opened. The escort came our first. They wore strange armour. The helmet that covered all of their face was egg shaped and had horns attached to them. The torso looked normal enough but the shoulder pads were rectangular with small rings all around it with some of the them also hang around the waist and knees. They all bore a long, thin looking blade in their scabbards at their side and Dragon Mouths on their backs. Behind them a veiled woman in a long white robe of the finest white silk approached with her head equal to the queen. She stared at Uvenk with her large, dark eyes and found himself slightly unnerved by them…but also very curious. “Commander Wachter, this is Xianla, daughter of Emperor Van Xia XVIII. Xianla, this is Uvenk Wachter.” She bowed her head, which Uvenk was compelled to mimic. “Pleasure to meet you.” He said. “Likewise.” She replied.
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Post by Warhammer Gorvar on Mar 25, 2012 22:29:15 GMT 1
Chapter 29: Tides of war. “Father hasn’t been the same since Neromapia, Bartrand.” Geralt Seaspring said to his older brother. The two siblings were conversing on the balcony of Stormhold keep, the sea clashed against the rocks and battlements and sometimes drops fell on their faces. Geralt had a younger and more handsome face then Bartrand and Bernard had, which Bernard mockingly blamed it on their father’s current wife. Geralt retorted that Bernard must’ve been hit by a whale’s tail then because Avarians were supposed to be handsome as well, but then again bastards were always ugly. He laughed. They all may have different mothers, but there were all brothers. At least that was what Bartrand thought, he knew Geralt never liked his bastard brother. It had been several weeks after Neromapia, and their father and his elite guard were not the same ever since and have locked themselves up in the main hall as if they were planning a attack, but were in fact shivering of fear for a attack that never came. Farol ordered the death’s of nearly every civilian in Neromapia after while Bartrand did all he could do take as many as slaves as he could before they could have been slaughterd. The information that came during and after the chaos was disturbing at best, one moment it was Morriana’s execution that send his father over the edge, the next there was talk of a dark monster that prowled around and killed several of his father’s men. When Geralt tried to talk to his father, he was different. He was no longer the confidant man anymore who gathered all the Seakings to strike at the enemy’s heart, but a scared old man who was gathering his thoughts in secret. Even Bartrand’s stepmother couldn’t get through to him. Something was wrong. “What do you want me to do?” Bartrand asked. “You are the eldest, you were there during the attack.” Geralt replied.” Van Xian ships are attacking our islands. Their barbarian horse lords fight unlike ours. They use short bows, spears, they attack and they flee before they attack again. This Khan Ganzorig….” “I fought him a few times…..” Bartrand sighed. “a shame he was born a horse lord, we could sue a man of his courage and leadership.” Bartrand oversaw some battles in his father’s absence and all but one he lost. The Van Xia boats would fire their dragon mouths to flatten the land before the horse lords would charge in and be unleashed. Seaking women were taken, the men killed and their own horses eaten. Killing a man’s horse, especially a Seaking horse, was dishounorable but to slay a horse and then eat it’s flesh was to much. Horses were precious on the Seaking isles. They were just as much a part of a man’s life on some islands as fishing or raiding or family. The island of Salendris, the largest island which gave birth to many excellent horses for the heroes of the Seakings of all four sides of the Continent, was burning by dragonfire and dragon mouth as Van Xia warried cut through the lines and horse lords trampled any and all who stood opposed. “Ill talk to him.” Bartrand said.” You make sure your wife stays, we lose her we’ll lose any hold we have on the wolves.” “I love Hanah and respect her, she’s fine.” Geralt replied with a glare.” Ill protect her with my life.” “You dot on her to much my little brother.” Bartrand replied.” I love my wife and children, but I have limits. I knew sending you to Whiteberg was a mistake. Those scholars made you soft.” “And smarter. I told you attacking Neromapia was a dumb idea!” Geralt replied.” Back during the first war of the seasons when Neromapia fell the people of Spring rallied together in other castles and kept fighting. And now they have dragons and a alliance with Van Xia!” “It’s easy to point that out after the fact, little brother.” Bartrand glared. “I lost my sister to this war and now this boy king threatens to slay my brother. I had enough, we stand alone! “Your on-“ Geralt tried to say but was interrupted by a messenger who bore the wolf tabard of Winter. “Message for you sir, from King Frederick I.” the messenger said dutifully as he gave the parcel to Bartrand.” I was told you were the one to be spoken to when King Farol is not present.” “Thank you.” Bartrand snapped the thing from the messenger and ripped it open. As he did, three pink things fell from the package which startled Geralt. Bartrand was confused at first when he wondered what those things were, until he saw them. They were fingers, human fingers. A note was placed inside which he could see bore the symbol of the Alliance of the North. Geralt took the eltter, having composed himself and read out. “King Farol Seaspring, you have underestimated me. I am not a weak whelp like my father which is bullied by his hounds who set off free when it pleases. When I heard about Neromapia, I have returned this butchery by a small butchery of my own. These three fingers belonged to your bastard, who is still a guest in my castle. If I hear any more wrong doings on your end, I will take off more fingers until they are gone. Then toes, then his nose. Then his…Moon Goddess help me with your tides….” “Finish it.” Bartrand glared at his younger brother. Geralt took a moment to compose again.” Then his eyes, his lips and even his manhood which he has wasted on fathering more bastards amongst the priestesses of your Moon Goddess in my keep. I am the King of this Alliance and therefore it’s leader. You will send aid to our good friend Lord Luc De Schacht at Farshire and push the attack to Summer’s end and end this war. You have one month before I start cutting again…signed by King Frederick Winter, Sovereign of Winter’s Keep, brother to wolves and protector of the snow lands….” Bartrand paced through all of this as the messenger looked on, slightly nervous. Eventually he stopped as he overlooked the sea which had begun to slam even harder against the rocks down below. “I was instructed by my king to await your reply, my lord.” The messenger replied. “Reply?” Bartrand asked.” You want my reply?” “Yes, milord….” The messenger replied with a hint of fear in his voice. “Here is my reply!” Bartrand shouted. Before geralt or the guards could reply, Bartrand took a trident from his guards and threw it in the Messenger’s chest. The messenger fell on the rock with a weak gurgle before Bartrand ran over and kept stabbing him. “By the moon goddess, Bartrand what the hell did you do?!” “I made a point! Most of the fleet is here, we’re done with this Alliance! “ Bartrand took the guard by his shoulder.” Prepare the fleet, send a message to my uncle Hendrik! We’re going to Winter’s Keep and free my brother! Go, and hold on to your anger!” He slapped the guard on his back as he ran off.
“Bartrand, you killed a messenger of the king! “ Geralt shouted.” Brother, your talking treason all for a bas-“ Bartrand’s hand flew out to his younger brother’s cheek which knocked him to the stone floor. His eyes fell to the hall where a crowd was gathering. Warriors, noblemen, women, children, diplomats…He had enough. This was not the Stormhold Keep he remembered, this was not the Seaking way. He glared at his younger brother. “You have cried to much into your whore of a mother’s breast and coupled to often with your wolf wife to be called my brother, Geralt. We will bite them with our teeth. With our tridents. With our horses. With our boats. With our blood...we are the sharks, we are the fish munchers, we are the Sea Kings. We strike our enemies and we strike them hard!” He rose his bloodied trident in the air as the crowd erupted into cheers. “And we have our prey!” Meanwhile, in the main hall Farol kept drawing the same image of a shadow creature on the canvas, as did his elite guard. This was how he coped with the loss of his daughter, how the monster that was Volstikk killed her with his teeth and black arms as he raped her on the wall. They all had to die, the entire city had to die. He barely noticed the form of a dwarven woman appear next to him. “King Farol Seaspring…” she whispered in his mind. “ Welcome to the war of shadows.”
TBC
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