Community Moderator
- Joined
- May 6, 2009
- Messages
- 5,869
Moved here:
Tales of Arkain
Tales of Arkain
Last edited:
-
🏆 Texturing Contest #33 is OPEN! Contestants must re-texture a SD unit model found in-game (Warcraft 3 Classic), recreating the unit into a peaceful NPC version. 🔗Click here to enter!
-
It's time for the first HD Modeling Contest of 2024. Join the theme discussion for Hive's HD Modeling Contest #6! Click here to post your idea!
Short Stories of Arkain
- Status
- Joined
- Jan 30, 2013
- Messages
- 12,333
Pretty good stories, have read the first two far before. The third one is astoundingly new, and it's quite good in giving hints of the story.
Community Moderator
- Joined
- May 6, 2009
- Messages
- 5,869
Thanks Daffa!
I've added two additional (last) entries to the Diary of a Soldier.
I've added two additional (last) entries to the Diary of a Soldier.
- Joined
- Jan 30, 2013
- Messages
- 12,333
Not bad, pretty good trick in his sleeve.
Community Moderator
- Joined
- May 6, 2009
- Messages
- 5,869
And added another one (might be removed again).
- Joined
- Nov 27, 2014
- Messages
- 1,966
So.. there is going to be a demon book!?!?!? (Grins evily like Thanok)
- Joined
- Apr 2, 2013
- Messages
- 3,954
~Re-opened on author's request
Hosted Project: LoA
- Joined
- Apr 6, 2014
- Messages
- 804
Fate's Hand
Once upon a time in those yester years before the invasion renewed, a young noble perhaps you could call him a prince was walking through the woods. Of course the young blue blood was accompanied by many guards but fate was not on his side today as the woods were hiding many assassins.
But as that fickle bitch called fate has done she will do so again, there was another in the woods that day a young woman returning from a hunting trip.
The prince-ling's group continued onwards through the wood, banter and boasts galore as they thought about the beasts they would bring home to feast on. There was barely a rustle in the bushes and trees as the assassins prepared themselves with both hand signals and bird whistles.
The woman continued on her journey towards the nearest town to sell her kills both large and small. The deer was sitting uncomfortably on her shoulders and rabbits hanging from many bags and knots. Another sacrifice for her family, an unjust existence was hers.
One of the escorts couldn't ignore the urge in his throat anymore, he lifted his helmet's mask up and brought the water skin close only to choke. A crossbow bolt struck true into his mouth and became lodged in his throat. In those blissful seconds the group continued before they heard the gurgling and choking of their comrade.
The group seemed to all shout at once the men on horseback drew their swords and the men walking gripped their halberds tighter as they searched frantically for the threat. The prince-ling pulled his blade free of the scabbard and steadied himself, this will get ugly.
Then the assassins struck in full as more bolts and arrows were launched from their hiding places. After the first volley if one could call it such a thing they charged the noble's group.
Ah fate such a horrible mistress, men don't believe in her but still curse her name and praise her undauntingly when the day is won.
The woman was continuing her long and boring journey when she saw the first birds leave the trees. Then she heard the shouting, the teeth numbing, and ear bleeding sound of blades crashing together in melee.
She made a decision, a decision that would change the world but not for many many years but of course she wouldn't know that. Not for a long time. Her decision made she dropped the deer and removed any of her kills that could impair movement.
She began to run.... fate it seems was on the prince's side this day.
The prince-ling spat blood as the battle finally ended he wasn't wounded fatally it was nothing but an annoyance, an injury to his pride. His group was several men short many horses without riders and many more widows made.
The woman, ah yes the woman she came from behind the assassins a variable they didn't count on, but of course they had no way of knowing as she brought the battle to them and turned a slow death into a possible victory.
She made it possible to bring the battle to them on both sides of the ambush. He and his men owed their lives to her.
The young noble approached her and asked, "What is your name my lady?"
Some of the men laughed but it sounded like a wheeze, no woman fought like that and gets called a lady.
For a moment she thinks of spitting in his face, her family's fate and upbringing brought up firmly in her mind. But she banishes it from the forefront and then she sighs.
"Vail, my name is Vail and you're lucky to be alive." And the rest they say... is history.
Once upon a time in those yester years before the invasion renewed, a young noble perhaps you could call him a prince was walking through the woods. Of course the young blue blood was accompanied by many guards but fate was not on his side today as the woods were hiding many assassins.
But as that fickle bitch called fate has done she will do so again, there was another in the woods that day a young woman returning from a hunting trip.
The prince-ling's group continued onwards through the wood, banter and boasts galore as they thought about the beasts they would bring home to feast on. There was barely a rustle in the bushes and trees as the assassins prepared themselves with both hand signals and bird whistles.
The woman continued on her journey towards the nearest town to sell her kills both large and small. The deer was sitting uncomfortably on her shoulders and rabbits hanging from many bags and knots. Another sacrifice for her family, an unjust existence was hers.
One of the escorts couldn't ignore the urge in his throat anymore, he lifted his helmet's mask up and brought the water skin close only to choke. A crossbow bolt struck true into his mouth and became lodged in his throat. In those blissful seconds the group continued before they heard the gurgling and choking of their comrade.
The group seemed to all shout at once the men on horseback drew their swords and the men walking gripped their halberds tighter as they searched frantically for the threat. The prince-ling pulled his blade free of the scabbard and steadied himself, this will get ugly.
Then the assassins struck in full as more bolts and arrows were launched from their hiding places. After the first volley if one could call it such a thing they charged the noble's group.
Ah fate such a horrible mistress, men don't believe in her but still curse her name and praise her undauntingly when the day is won.
The woman was continuing her long and boring journey when she saw the first birds leave the trees. Then she heard the shouting, the teeth numbing, and ear bleeding sound of blades crashing together in melee.
She made a decision, a decision that would change the world but not for many many years but of course she wouldn't know that. Not for a long time. Her decision made she dropped the deer and removed any of her kills that could impair movement.
She began to run.... fate it seems was on the prince's side this day.
The prince-ling spat blood as the battle finally ended he wasn't wounded fatally it was nothing but an annoyance, an injury to his pride. His group was several men short many horses without riders and many more widows made.
The woman, ah yes the woman she came from behind the assassins a variable they didn't count on, but of course they had no way of knowing as she brought the battle to them and turned a slow death into a possible victory.
She made it possible to bring the battle to them on both sides of the ambush. He and his men owed their lives to her.
The young noble approached her and asked, "What is your name my lady?"
Some of the men laughed but it sounded like a wheeze, no woman fought like that and gets called a lady.
For a moment she thinks of spitting in his face, her family's fate and upbringing brought up firmly in her mind. But she banishes it from the forefront and then she sighs.
"Vail, my name is Vail and you're lucky to be alive." And the rest they say... is history.
Aftermath
The men were tired.... such a word is inadequate to describe the armies under General Gardon Bloodclaw. Screams were now a common thing to hear as the battle finally ended.
The rebellion was over, the Ironfist were traitors, and the rumor mill has it the General will be declaring himself king soon! The soldier can hardly believe everything that has happened the past few days.....
Reality came crashing down again on the man, screams and the shouting for medics and healers. He turns and there is a burning destructor, men are frantically trying to open the former fortress turned prison.
Somehow his legs begin moving and he makes the short journey back to camp on the other side of the city. The distance seemed so long when the men were fighting street to street, house to house. He is back and the stink of death is overpowering. Corpses are everywhere.
The next few hours pass by in a blur, he is conscripted into carrying the wounded to the medic tents. Screams become a familiar companion as the day goes on. Somehow he eventually gets out of this new hell, if he was no longer needed or he ran he did not know.
The soldier begins walking, to find his unit, assuage his mind? He did not know, his fellow soldiers seemed to be doing the same, lost and angry. Damn the traitors and damn the Empire, they had given so much and now they were thrown out
An explosion suddenly rings out interrupting the still ongoing screams, it seems the destructor's ammo stocks had finally caught fire.
New men, the general's elites have started walking amongst the groups of soldiers. They say the general has an announcement and everyone should get some sense back into their heads and head back to camp.
As the soldiers returned back to the main camp of the Ironfist, they felt fatigue beyond measure and a spark of anger. They were going to move out soon all of them knew it. Barely a few hours after getting through hell and they were moving out again. Fools.
But when the General appeared they still straightened their backs and stood like proper soldiers. The General appropriately found a podium or something to stand on, and whether through the effects of magic or just his old commanding self he spoke and they all heard.
"I have something to say and don't start your damn grumblings yet because it's not what you idiots think. We are alone: battered, betrayed, and outnumbered. Our great Empire has turned its back on all of us, but there is no time to dwell on this we need to act. The Kingdoms will fall, the Empire is leaving this continent to its fate, and we're stuck in the middle of all of this.
We are not leaving! We shall not leave this land to its eventual fate. But that does not mean we are serving the kingdoms or anyone else. I speak of something new, a new bulwark against the dark.
What I am speaking of is a new kingdom, maybe one day a new nation. We shall make our own fate in this hell, we shall beat back the empire, the demons, and those fucking undead!... No more running, no more hiding, no more waiting until reinforcements come, no more.
I, General Gardon Bloodclaw formerly of the Empire's Imperial Army now declare myself king of this United Kingdom."
The man sighs, he is used to action not speech crafting.
"All of you we're moving out in two days, that means get some rest. Bury your friends, and help those that can make it.... Dismissed.“
Thanok steps onto the podium, "There's something else." The men have only taken a few steps.
"Scarlett Retka, one of enemy commanders has been spared. Time will tell if she's useful or not but that doesn't matter. I don't expect you to be ok with this, that's fucking fine but don't kill her. At least not yet. We'll need every advantage we can get in the coming days."
The men were tired.... such a word is inadequate to describe the armies under General Gardon Bloodclaw. Screams were now a common thing to hear as the battle finally ended.
The rebellion was over, the Ironfist were traitors, and the rumor mill has it the General will be declaring himself king soon! The soldier can hardly believe everything that has happened the past few days.....
Reality came crashing down again on the man, screams and the shouting for medics and healers. He turns and there is a burning destructor, men are frantically trying to open the former fortress turned prison.
Somehow his legs begin moving and he makes the short journey back to camp on the other side of the city. The distance seemed so long when the men were fighting street to street, house to house. He is back and the stink of death is overpowering. Corpses are everywhere.
The next few hours pass by in a blur, he is conscripted into carrying the wounded to the medic tents. Screams become a familiar companion as the day goes on. Somehow he eventually gets out of this new hell, if he was no longer needed or he ran he did not know.
The soldier begins walking, to find his unit, assuage his mind? He did not know, his fellow soldiers seemed to be doing the same, lost and angry. Damn the traitors and damn the Empire, they had given so much and now they were thrown out
An explosion suddenly rings out interrupting the still ongoing screams, it seems the destructor's ammo stocks had finally caught fire.
New men, the general's elites have started walking amongst the groups of soldiers. They say the general has an announcement and everyone should get some sense back into their heads and head back to camp.
As the soldiers returned back to the main camp of the Ironfist, they felt fatigue beyond measure and a spark of anger. They were going to move out soon all of them knew it. Barely a few hours after getting through hell and they were moving out again. Fools.
But when the General appeared they still straightened their backs and stood like proper soldiers. The General appropriately found a podium or something to stand on, and whether through the effects of magic or just his old commanding self he spoke and they all heard.
"I have something to say and don't start your damn grumblings yet because it's not what you idiots think. We are alone: battered, betrayed, and outnumbered. Our great Empire has turned its back on all of us, but there is no time to dwell on this we need to act. The Kingdoms will fall, the Empire is leaving this continent to its fate, and we're stuck in the middle of all of this.
We are not leaving! We shall not leave this land to its eventual fate. But that does not mean we are serving the kingdoms or anyone else. I speak of something new, a new bulwark against the dark.
What I am speaking of is a new kingdom, maybe one day a new nation. We shall make our own fate in this hell, we shall beat back the empire, the demons, and those fucking undead!... No more running, no more hiding, no more waiting until reinforcements come, no more.
I, General Gardon Bloodclaw formerly of the Empire's Imperial Army now declare myself king of this United Kingdom."
The man sighs, he is used to action not speech crafting.
"All of you we're moving out in two days, that means get some rest. Bury your friends, and help those that can make it.... Dismissed.“
Thanok steps onto the podium, "There's something else." The men have only taken a few steps.
"Scarlett Retka, one of enemy commanders has been spared. Time will tell if she's useful or not but that doesn't matter. I don't expect you to be ok with this, that's fucking fine but don't kill her. At least not yet. We'll need every advantage we can get in the coming days."
It'd all be much better if I knew how to write. I don't have the flair the boss man does, I just try to get the point across.
Last edited:
Hosted Project: LoA
- Joined
- Apr 6, 2014
- Messages
- 804
Arrival
"So, your "great" empire has defeated the demons before? I find that hard to believe we've been fighting them for centuries."
There was a rustle from the armored troops in their fancy armors, how dare some peasant from across the sea belittle their empire.
"King Dorten, I assure you we have beaten them, they couldn't run back home to their dimension fast enough when we began our attack. I must congratulate you and yours for holding out so long against such an undaunting foe."
The various representatives of the kingdoms gripped their weapons tighter and bore masks of anger at such an upfront insult. They had endured for ages, no upstarts from the across the sea can even imagine the sacrifices they've made!
"How will you be any different than the inhuman conquerors at our door? How do we know we haven't made the greatest mistake of the millennium in trusting you? How will it be any d--"
"ENOUGH!"
The assembled parties all turn surprised to the representative of Lor.
"We have gone in circles for ages but the negotiations are long since over! Their armies are coming across the ocean, we agreed to this and so did our kings! I don't give a flying shit if your nation is the devil itself, you are human and still have your minds. The only question I have for you is can you save my home?"
The silence that came afterwards wasn't an awkward one it was as if all those assembled felt ashamed. Those that still lived, years later would never admit it either.
Finally the sharp tongued negotiator from across the sea spoke once more without bite and bile.
"Yes, Commander Trualm we can save your people. We will do all that we can, we want revenge for the death and insult to our people. If we can save more lives from these beasts then we shall do so with all that we are."
When he was asked years later if he shed any tears, the then Commander vehemently denied it.
"Thank you, from my people and from me, I thank you with everything I am."
The air of hostility had finally begun to fade, these representatives had not assembled here to negotiate treaties or make deals. They were here to witness the arrival of the Empire. Days, days it was no surprise someone finally snapped after all the verbal sparring, tension, and feeling of impending doom. It would still take more days for the might of the Empire to show itself, but when it finally did it would burn itself into the memories of the men of the kingdoms for the rest of their lives.
------
"So, they should be here today?"
"Yes, King Dorten just watch the horizon and you'll see. It should be only a few more hours now."
Men now stood shoulder to shoulder watching the horizon, unbelieving but hopeful... no the feeling most of them felt was not hope such an insignificant and small feeling couldn't be called hope, not yet at least.
"How's the situation in Lor?"
The Commander and his party looked shaken.
"Not good, not good at all. Sometimes I wish we didn't have magical means of near instant communication it only fills me with more dread."
The reprsentative from Pyrru remained steely as ever.
"Don't worry they'll make it... we all will."
"I don't know if I believe that anymore I doubt I can.. cancancan... holy shit."
The ships were now coming into visible view and by the gods above and the devils below it was impressive, awe inspiring, terrifying. Filling almost the entire horizon thousands upon thousands upon thousands of ships were coming to the rescue of the kingdoms, now territory of the Empire of Humanity.
King Dorten of Kerrel knew he should be relieved, happy, and full of hope but all he felt was fear and dread. They had just made the greatest mistake of their lives and he feared for the future. He walked away from the assembled men cheering and making their plans for a war that could now be won. He walked back to the empire camp and found the negotiator, who was seated and staring into a dead fire sending out its last waves of smoke. The negotiator looked up to the king and found the accusation in his eyes... the old man couldn't keep contact he knew what he had done.
Dorten had his answer, new conquerors were coming.
The first wave had arrived.
------
An old man awoke in his study, grumbling at the feeling in his bones and at the damn goblet he knocked over in his sleep. He hadn't thought of those days in a long time and he wished he could take it all away. Falling asleep in this dainty old chair what was wrong with him, he'd be feeling it the whole rest of the day. He rose slowly and groaned, he had much to do he couldn't be falling asleep when he was needed. But his eyes were drawn "the" painting, he walked towards it and stared. The Arrival of the Empire or Arrival of our Saviors, bah the second name stopped being used years ago when others became aware of their saviours true nature.
He saw himself so young and strong, and all the faces that are now gone. So many men killed by the demons, by the empire, natural causes, accidents, pah..... Who to trust now, the monsters were at the door again and he did not know what to do what could he do somanypeoplerelyonhimtobetheirsav--
"My liege?"
One of his personal guards opened the door to his study and entered.
"I'm sorry my king for interrupting your rest but Larine has sent word."
The time for doubts is past once again he is needed, King Dorten is needed once again.
"I'm on my way."
"So, your "great" empire has defeated the demons before? I find that hard to believe we've been fighting them for centuries."
There was a rustle from the armored troops in their fancy armors, how dare some peasant from across the sea belittle their empire.
"King Dorten, I assure you we have beaten them, they couldn't run back home to their dimension fast enough when we began our attack. I must congratulate you and yours for holding out so long against such an undaunting foe."
The various representatives of the kingdoms gripped their weapons tighter and bore masks of anger at such an upfront insult. They had endured for ages, no upstarts from the across the sea can even imagine the sacrifices they've made!
"How will you be any different than the inhuman conquerors at our door? How do we know we haven't made the greatest mistake of the millennium in trusting you? How will it be any d--"
"ENOUGH!"
The assembled parties all turn surprised to the representative of Lor.
"We have gone in circles for ages but the negotiations are long since over! Their armies are coming across the ocean, we agreed to this and so did our kings! I don't give a flying shit if your nation is the devil itself, you are human and still have your minds. The only question I have for you is can you save my home?"
The silence that came afterwards wasn't an awkward one it was as if all those assembled felt ashamed. Those that still lived, years later would never admit it either.
Finally the sharp tongued negotiator from across the sea spoke once more without bite and bile.
"Yes, Commander Trualm we can save your people. We will do all that we can, we want revenge for the death and insult to our people. If we can save more lives from these beasts then we shall do so with all that we are."
When he was asked years later if he shed any tears, the then Commander vehemently denied it.
"Thank you, from my people and from me, I thank you with everything I am."
The air of hostility had finally begun to fade, these representatives had not assembled here to negotiate treaties or make deals. They were here to witness the arrival of the Empire. Days, days it was no surprise someone finally snapped after all the verbal sparring, tension, and feeling of impending doom. It would still take more days for the might of the Empire to show itself, but when it finally did it would burn itself into the memories of the men of the kingdoms for the rest of their lives.
------
"So, they should be here today?"
"Yes, King Dorten just watch the horizon and you'll see. It should be only a few more hours now."
Men now stood shoulder to shoulder watching the horizon, unbelieving but hopeful... no the feeling most of them felt was not hope such an insignificant and small feeling couldn't be called hope, not yet at least.
"How's the situation in Lor?"
The Commander and his party looked shaken.
"Not good, not good at all. Sometimes I wish we didn't have magical means of near instant communication it only fills me with more dread."
The reprsentative from Pyrru remained steely as ever.
"Don't worry they'll make it... we all will."
"I don't know if I believe that anymore I doubt I can.. cancancan... holy shit."
The ships were now coming into visible view and by the gods above and the devils below it was impressive, awe inspiring, terrifying. Filling almost the entire horizon thousands upon thousands upon thousands of ships were coming to the rescue of the kingdoms, now territory of the Empire of Humanity.
King Dorten of Kerrel knew he should be relieved, happy, and full of hope but all he felt was fear and dread. They had just made the greatest mistake of their lives and he feared for the future. He walked away from the assembled men cheering and making their plans for a war that could now be won. He walked back to the empire camp and found the negotiator, who was seated and staring into a dead fire sending out its last waves of smoke. The negotiator looked up to the king and found the accusation in his eyes... the old man couldn't keep contact he knew what he had done.
Dorten had his answer, new conquerors were coming.
The first wave had arrived.
------
An old man awoke in his study, grumbling at the feeling in his bones and at the damn goblet he knocked over in his sleep. He hadn't thought of those days in a long time and he wished he could take it all away. Falling asleep in this dainty old chair what was wrong with him, he'd be feeling it the whole rest of the day. He rose slowly and groaned, he had much to do he couldn't be falling asleep when he was needed. But his eyes were drawn "the" painting, he walked towards it and stared. The Arrival of the Empire or Arrival of our Saviors, bah the second name stopped being used years ago when others became aware of their saviours true nature.
He saw himself so young and strong, and all the faces that are now gone. So many men killed by the demons, by the empire, natural causes, accidents, pah..... Who to trust now, the monsters were at the door again and he did not know what to do what could he do somanypeoplerelyonhimtobetheirsav--
"My liege?"
One of his personal guards opened the door to his study and entered.
"I'm sorry my king for interrupting your rest but Larine has sent word."
The time for doubts is past once again he is needed, King Dorten is needed once again.
"I'm on my way."
Last edited:
- Joined
- Jan 30, 2013
- Messages
- 12,333
Interesting. This empire is quite shitty after all behind the scheme 
It's 'sacrifice' btw.
It's 'sacrifice' btw.
Community Moderator
- Joined
- May 6, 2009
- Messages
- 5,869
Keep in mind, though, that this story is being told from King Dorten's point of view, a very
anti-Empire-minded character.
anti-Empire-minded character.
- Joined
- Jan 30, 2013
- Messages
- 12,333
At least it matches Gardon's view of Empire as enemies now. We'll see how it turns out in the next chapters.
- Joined
- Aug 26, 2017
- Messages
- 166
I've read all of the stories. Aside from grammar errors (I've found several misspelled words) and weird sentece structure (same words repeating in one sentence or improper word use), the stories are pretty good. They just need a bit more polish. The stories fill in the lore and gaps in the actual campaign and makes the most sense if you played the First Book and what's been released of the Second Book till now.
I've formed some theories on where this is all going as well as what Aridon's end goal is and who he realy is. These theories have been further gained some strength and minor changes after I've read these stories, but I'll wait till the end.
I've formed some theories on where this is all going as well as what Aridon's end goal is and who he realy is. These theories have been further gained some strength and minor changes after I've read these stories, but I'll wait till the end.
- Joined
- Sep 13, 2017
- Messages
- 105
There's still some grammar problems with some of the stories, other than that I can say that it's interesting indeed.
- Joined
- Jul 22, 2017
- Messages
- 18
I've made a short story given the time during Blen's captive, I don't really know the details during that time, so I made up some myself, hope this is not considered plagiarism or some sort.
Enjoy.
The Deal.
Enjoy.
The Deal.
Somewhere deep in the dungeon of the Golden Guard.
How long has it been?
How long have I been locked in this rotten cell?
Can't tell whether it's day or night anymore. All the light I can get is from the torchlight behind the iron bars.
It's hard to even take a nap, it's hot in here. Humid, even.
And still, I cannot imagine the reason I'm stuck here to begin with.
"...General Greymoore, Lady Aedale, Lord Harmos... You are charged with the most serious crime one could ever commit : TREASON..."
"Nonsense! Greymoore and his men supported me against Genethas in Lor!"
"...Your recent activities are deemed to questionable as well, Gardon... You are in no position to protest..."
What is the meaning of this? We are getting arrested because of Genethas? Even after me and Gardon fought the traitor himself?
And what business does the Golden Guard have in this continent, aren't they supposed to stay back and defend the Empire?
No, I shouldn't think much of it by now, I have to find a way to prove the innocence of me and my men. Until everything is made clear, there's not much I can do given the situation.
Some heavy footsteps heading this way. The guards quickly bow themselves to the guest.
"My lord."
"How's our general?"
"Silent as ever, sir."
"Open the cell, I want to speak to him. Alone"
"As you command."
The one clad in golden armor enters the cell.
"How are you doing, Greymoore? Damn, look at all the bruises, my men really made a mess on your face."
"Greeting, Highlord."
"Hmm, calm as always. As expected from one of the most decent generals our Empire has ever had."
"Save it for when I have the answer I need, Highlord."
"Answer? About what?"
"Don't play dumb with me, Highlord Inquisitor Renald van Durce." - I directly call out his full title - "You know as well as I do that me and my men had nothing to do with Genethas's betrayal. And yet, you treated us nothing better than Genethas himself back in the royal palace, right in front of King Dorten and his men."
"Hmm... Are you sure you are any different from Genethas?"
"Don't give me that, van Durce." - I speak out of anger - "I've served the Empire for many years, you should know where my loyalty lies!"
"So did Genethas, Greymoore. He declared himself serving the Empire since the Void War, and look where he is now."
"Even after me and Gardon fought him in Lor?"
"Don't get the wrong idea, Greymoore. The only reason Gardon does not share the same cell with you right now is his relation with our Emperor."
"So, this is the order from our Emperor, after all?"
"I thought you know that already?"
"Then, WHY?"
"Too ignorant to realize it, Greymoore? Were it you who left the frontline to help that brat Gardon on his stupid mission in Lor?"
"It's for the investigation, we were to deal with some unseen threats..."
"I don't want to hear your excuse, general, Gardon and his men are more than capable of dealing with it, as if those 'threats' you spoke of were really true to begin with."
"Could you at least listen..."
"You abandoned your duty, Greymore. Cleavehand and the frontline would be still standing had it not been for your childish actions. And don't make me remind you of that Redfist girl you were bringing along."
"What about her?"
"Before his mysterious demise, Salomar had sent us the report of her influence with demonic magic, as if she was obsessed with it. And as far I know, Gardon supported the idea of using demonology as well, care to explain about that?"
"It was their decision during the meeting, when me and Selior were busy in the frontline..."
"Ah, so you knew nothing about either Gardon's business or that Redfist girl, did you? How dumb and naive, Greymoore. You were nothing but a tool serving their purposes so far."
"Badmouth me all you like, van Durce. But I don't think me and my men deserved being wasted away in this rotten cells when the demons are coming for us."
"Of course." - van Durce smirking behind his helmet - "You and your Kasrkin unit proves to be more than valuable in this war. I really feel bad having you all locked here."
"Then let us out..."
"Hold that thought, general." - van Durce interupts my words - "I cannot let you and your men get in contact with that brat Gardon once we let you out of here. To our beloved Emperor, Gardon and his Ironfist are becoming an... inconvenience."
"How so?"
"You see, Gardon and his damn army had started a rebellion against our Empire by taking control over the whole two countries Toran and Pyrru, even declaring himself 'King' in the process, which cause distress within the whole Imperial Army, many had questioned our Emperor for that."
"I don't think I had anything to do with Gardon's actions against the Emperor, it was his decision, not mine. Besides, there must be a reason behind it. And I'm pretty sure it has something to do with you, correct?"
"You are sharp, Greymoore, I'll give you that. It was us who caused the rebellions within the countries and have Gardon cleaning it up. It was part of the scheme to keep him in check. However, things escalated quite fast when he received support from the other Redfist girl and those in the Kerrel army. Guess that old man Dorten was behind them after all."
"..."
"You see, many things happened when you were here playing with the rats."
"You tell me, Highlord."
"That's why I'm here to strike you a deal, Greymore. The charge of treason our Emperor laid upon you and your men will be lifted, you and the Karskin will be free from this dungeon."
"And what do we have to do in exchange?"
"The situation is getting complicated, general." - van Durce crosses his hands behind his back and walk around the cell - "The reason we Golden Guards coming to this continent in the first place was to evacuate the elves to our Empire. You see, the Emperor had no more interest with this continent, he considered it a loss and decided to leave Gardon and the people here to fend for themselves, two birds with one stone."
"The elves? What business does our Emperor have with them?"
"You don't need to know the details, Greymoore. Now listen, Gardon is trying to keep the elves intact within this continent, mostly to increase manpower for dealing with the Demon invasion. He is now advancing to the elven kindom and plans to start a civil war among them. That is where you come in."
"Me, you say?"
"Yes, general. You and your men will keep Gardon's army at bay, while we Golden Guard focus on evacuating the entire elven kingdom. Once we are finished, we will use the anti-Void cannon to cover your retreat. As soon as you get back to the Empire, all of the charged putting on you so far will be put on Gardon, who will be left to go down with this continent. What do you say, not a bad deal, right?"
"So you say that I'd either rot here, or have to get out there and fight against those who really want to save the kingdoms."
"Take it how you will, Greymoore, the right choice for you is obvious."
"Don't take me a fool, Highlord. I know pretty well from the beginning that you have no intention of saving any of us."
"What are you trying to say?"
"I'm saying that you and the Emperor have to mean for me and my men to escape, van Durce. You will be using us as a sacrificing chess on your move. While we are busy fighting off Gardon and his men, you will just take off and leave us behind, making me and the Kasrkin both the enemy of this continent and the Empire itself."
"Are you really thinking that way? Not to remind you of one thing: Standing against me and the Emperor will do you no good."
"I'm not betraying those who fought alongside me, van Durce. I don't exchange my true allies' blood for freedom, or so you say."
"It seems your fate has been determined, Blen Greymoore. You will not last to see the day."
"Do what you wish, I won't compromise my honor and justice only to save my neck."
"Your men, the girl and that old fart, however." - Van Durce walks out of the cell. - "I will do something about them, see if I make them 'see reasons' after making an example out of you. Especially the girl, Aedele Redfist, isn't it? She had a lot to answer to the Paladin Order, who knows what they will do to her?"
The door of the cell closes, van Durce speaks to the guards.
"Deal with him how you wish, he's useless to us now."
"Yes, my lord."
You better leave them alone, van Durce, you hear me? LEAVE THEM ALONE!!!
How long has it been?
How long have I been locked in this rotten cell?
Can't tell whether it's day or night anymore. All the light I can get is from the torchlight behind the iron bars.
It's hard to even take a nap, it's hot in here. Humid, even.
And still, I cannot imagine the reason I'm stuck here to begin with.
"...General Greymoore, Lady Aedale, Lord Harmos... You are charged with the most serious crime one could ever commit : TREASON..."
"Nonsense! Greymoore and his men supported me against Genethas in Lor!"
"...Your recent activities are deemed to questionable as well, Gardon... You are in no position to protest..."
What is the meaning of this? We are getting arrested because of Genethas? Even after me and Gardon fought the traitor himself?
And what business does the Golden Guard have in this continent, aren't they supposed to stay back and defend the Empire?
No, I shouldn't think much of it by now, I have to find a way to prove the innocence of me and my men. Until everything is made clear, there's not much I can do given the situation.
Some heavy footsteps heading this way. The guards quickly bow themselves to the guest.
"My lord."
"How's our general?"
"Silent as ever, sir."
"Open the cell, I want to speak to him. Alone"
"As you command."
The one clad in golden armor enters the cell.
"How are you doing, Greymoore? Damn, look at all the bruises, my men really made a mess on your face."
"Greeting, Highlord."
"Hmm, calm as always. As expected from one of the most decent generals our Empire has ever had."
"Save it for when I have the answer I need, Highlord."
"Answer? About what?"
"Don't play dumb with me, Highlord Inquisitor Renald van Durce." - I directly call out his full title - "You know as well as I do that me and my men had nothing to do with Genethas's betrayal. And yet, you treated us nothing better than Genethas himself back in the royal palace, right in front of King Dorten and his men."
"Hmm... Are you sure you are any different from Genethas?"
"Don't give me that, van Durce." - I speak out of anger - "I've served the Empire for many years, you should know where my loyalty lies!"
"So did Genethas, Greymoore. He declared himself serving the Empire since the Void War, and look where he is now."
"Even after me and Gardon fought him in Lor?"
"Don't get the wrong idea, Greymoore. The only reason Gardon does not share the same cell with you right now is his relation with our Emperor."
"So, this is the order from our Emperor, after all?"
"I thought you know that already?"
"Then, WHY?"
"Too ignorant to realize it, Greymoore? Were it you who left the frontline to help that brat Gardon on his stupid mission in Lor?"
"It's for the investigation, we were to deal with some unseen threats..."
"I don't want to hear your excuse, general, Gardon and his men are more than capable of dealing with it, as if those 'threats' you spoke of were really true to begin with."
"Could you at least listen..."
"You abandoned your duty, Greymore. Cleavehand and the frontline would be still standing had it not been for your childish actions. And don't make me remind you of that Redfist girl you were bringing along."
"What about her?"
"Before his mysterious demise, Salomar had sent us the report of her influence with demonic magic, as if she was obsessed with it. And as far I know, Gardon supported the idea of using demonology as well, care to explain about that?"
"It was their decision during the meeting, when me and Selior were busy in the frontline..."
"Ah, so you knew nothing about either Gardon's business or that Redfist girl, did you? How dumb and naive, Greymoore. You were nothing but a tool serving their purposes so far."
"Badmouth me all you like, van Durce. But I don't think me and my men deserved being wasted away in this rotten cells when the demons are coming for us."
"Of course." - van Durce smirking behind his helmet - "You and your Kasrkin unit proves to be more than valuable in this war. I really feel bad having you all locked here."
"Then let us out..."
"Hold that thought, general." - van Durce interupts my words - "I cannot let you and your men get in contact with that brat Gardon once we let you out of here. To our beloved Emperor, Gardon and his Ironfist are becoming an... inconvenience."
"How so?"
"You see, Gardon and his damn army had started a rebellion against our Empire by taking control over the whole two countries Toran and Pyrru, even declaring himself 'King' in the process, which cause distress within the whole Imperial Army, many had questioned our Emperor for that."
"I don't think I had anything to do with Gardon's actions against the Emperor, it was his decision, not mine. Besides, there must be a reason behind it. And I'm pretty sure it has something to do with you, correct?"
"You are sharp, Greymoore, I'll give you that. It was us who caused the rebellions within the countries and have Gardon cleaning it up. It was part of the scheme to keep him in check. However, things escalated quite fast when he received support from the other Redfist girl and those in the Kerrel army. Guess that old man Dorten was behind them after all."
"..."
"You see, many things happened when you were here playing with the rats."
"You tell me, Highlord."
"That's why I'm here to strike you a deal, Greymore. The charge of treason our Emperor laid upon you and your men will be lifted, you and the Karskin will be free from this dungeon."
"And what do we have to do in exchange?"
"The situation is getting complicated, general." - van Durce crosses his hands behind his back and walk around the cell - "The reason we Golden Guards coming to this continent in the first place was to evacuate the elves to our Empire. You see, the Emperor had no more interest with this continent, he considered it a loss and decided to leave Gardon and the people here to fend for themselves, two birds with one stone."
"The elves? What business does our Emperor have with them?"
"You don't need to know the details, Greymoore. Now listen, Gardon is trying to keep the elves intact within this continent, mostly to increase manpower for dealing with the Demon invasion. He is now advancing to the elven kindom and plans to start a civil war among them. That is where you come in."
"Me, you say?"
"Yes, general. You and your men will keep Gardon's army at bay, while we Golden Guard focus on evacuating the entire elven kingdom. Once we are finished, we will use the anti-Void cannon to cover your retreat. As soon as you get back to the Empire, all of the charged putting on you so far will be put on Gardon, who will be left to go down with this continent. What do you say, not a bad deal, right?"
"So you say that I'd either rot here, or have to get out there and fight against those who really want to save the kingdoms."
"Take it how you will, Greymoore, the right choice for you is obvious."
"Don't take me a fool, Highlord. I know pretty well from the beginning that you have no intention of saving any of us."
"What are you trying to say?"
"I'm saying that you and the Emperor have to mean for me and my men to escape, van Durce. You will be using us as a sacrificing chess on your move. While we are busy fighting off Gardon and his men, you will just take off and leave us behind, making me and the Kasrkin both the enemy of this continent and the Empire itself."
"Are you really thinking that way? Not to remind you of one thing: Standing against me and the Emperor will do you no good."
"I'm not betraying those who fought alongside me, van Durce. I don't exchange my true allies' blood for freedom, or so you say."
"It seems your fate has been determined, Blen Greymoore. You will not last to see the day."
"Do what you wish, I won't compromise my honor and justice only to save my neck."
"Your men, the girl and that old fart, however." - Van Durce walks out of the cell. - "I will do something about them, see if I make them 'see reasons' after making an example out of you. Especially the girl, Aedele Redfist, isn't it? She had a lot to answer to the Paladin Order, who knows what they will do to her?"
The door of the cell closes, van Durce speaks to the guards.
"Deal with him how you wish, he's useless to us now."
"Yes, my lord."
You better leave them alone, van Durce, you hear me? LEAVE THEM ALONE!!!
Last edited:
Community Moderator
- Joined
- May 6, 2009
- Messages
- 5,869
Moved here:
Tales of Arkain
Tales of Arkain
- Status
