Glorious Alpha Two Testers!
Alpha Two Realms are now unlocked for Phase II testing!
For our initial launch, testing will begin on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 10 AM Pacific and continue uninterrupted until Monday, January 6, 2025, at 10 AM Pacific. After January 6th, we’ll transition to a schedule of five-day-per-week access for the remainder of Phase II.
You can download the game launcher here and we encourage you to join us on our for the most up to date testing news.
Alpha Two Realms are now unlocked for Phase II testing!
For our initial launch, testing will begin on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 10 AM Pacific and continue uninterrupted until Monday, January 6, 2025, at 10 AM Pacific. After January 6th, we’ll transition to a schedule of five-day-per-week access for the remainder of Phase II.
You can download the game launcher here and we encourage you to join us on our for the most up to date testing news.
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" Did you sleep well Milady? ", asks one elf attendant.
Anna raises up from her bunk and takes a deep stretch with her arms in the air, then looks at them with a smile.
" Yes, I must admit, I did sleep very well last night. ", says Anna, now standing from her bunk.
She takes the drink from the one elf lady and begins to drink it down. The taste of it sends waves of goodness over her body, it's very refreshing and she drinks it down to the last drop.
The two elf women help to get Anna ready for her day, for some reason she doesn't mind the help today, normally she would have made a fuss about being pampered. Not today, she has been through a lot of the past few weeks, and the attention she is getting now is very welcomed. They help her out of her nightwear, and into the dress that was sent to her. It covers her shoulders entirely and flows down into a graceful jewel neckline. It's a relaxed fit with an elegant look. Her arms have been covered to just above her wrists. The sleeves start out loose and tighten towards the bottom where they wrap gracefully around her wrists. The dress' waist is narrow, but it's a tight fit. A cloth ribbon has been wrapped around her and is tied on one side. Below the waist, the dress widens and has multiple symmetric layers towards the bottom. The dress reaches to just above her ankles and is the same length all around. On her feet, they fit her with white wide heeled shoes with ankle wrap around straps. Then one attendant works on Anna's golden blonde hair with a brush and comb, while the other works on some makeup to brighten her well shaped pointed face.
Anna's hair is now straightened and put into a long braid, then finished off with a few tiny red bows in key placements along her long golden braid going down her back. To finish things off, Anna puts the dragon medallion around her neckThe twp elf women stand back to view their work, as Anna now picks up he umbrella. She opens it and gives it a twist while it sits on her left shoulder.
" So how do I look? ", Anna asks with a smile.
The elf women can only smile and agree with her looking very attractive, and excuse themselves as they leave the tent. Shortly after the women leave, a male elf guard enters, then pauses at the sight of Anna beauty. Then bows his head low as he speaks to her in a firm voice.
" Milady, the Queen, and your brother are waiting in the main hall if you will please follow me. I will take you to them. "
"Please lead the way, my good man." , says Anna with a smile, knowing she has the poor man in awe of her looks.
As they make their way through the campsite, soldiers pause as Anna passes by, they whisper to each other, and Anna overhears a few words spoken as she passes. All good things are being said about her looks, its something that makes her smile even more. She twists her umbrella, even more, knowing she has gotten the eye of over half the men in camp.
She reaches a very large wooden structure and the guard motions for her to enter. Inside she sees Peter standing next to Ashera in his golden dragons armor, Ashera wears the armor of the dragon she has, and by them are Zandro, Rosaria, and Draenor still wearing their golden left armor sets. She also sees a small Drawf in the room, standing to the left of Rosaria, she has never seen him before. He is dressed in dull golden armor plate, with Draven runes craved on most of the edges. The Drawf said something about the siege equipment will be there by nightfall, and his cousin will have more troops there my morning.
She overhears them talking about Krull now, and how he didn't give anything new for them to use. Shortly a small group of elven scouts enter the hall, and Anna watches as they report to Ashera, she can tell it's not good news, as she overhears Grimsbane has gotten away. Anna now moves to get closer to her brother, as he looks up and tries to put on a smile for his sister.
Then word goes up from the guards, messengers have been escorted into the camp. Within a few minutes, two well-dressed men enter the hall, they wear the coat of arms of the Shadows of the Skulls. One of them holds a scroll and quickly moves to Ashera, but is quickly cut off by Zandro, who takes it from him and moves to Ashera side. Anna now moves in closer to her brother now, as she can see Ashera gets a deep frown on her face.
" You dare bring me such a demand?!? You can tell your master I reject his offer and tell him all I want is his head on a pike! ", says Ashera with anger.
But Peter pulls her to him slowly, then whispers in her ear, her face goes from anger to concern. Anna can see her rejecting what he said, then after looking into Peter's eyes, she knows him all to well what he wants to do.
" I will return with you to see your master, and given him the true answer in person from Queen Ashera. I will ride with you under a banner of truce, and no harm will come to me under this banner. Is this agreed upon? ", states Peter.
" You have the word of Lord Robert Stormhand, that no harm will come to you, as long as you come in peace. ", says the one messenger.
" Peter what are you thinking? You can't go with them, they will not honor your request. ", says Ashera with great concern.
" They will honor it, and then some Ashera. After all, it's Robert my brother, and I will go hear from him. I want to know his side of things, maybe there is still a chance to end this with peace. ", says Peter now giving Ashera a hug.
" Wait, Peter I am going with you too, he is my brother and I want to see him. I want to same answers as you do! ", says Anna now standing in front of Peter.
He gives his sister a small smile.
" You look pretty today sister, but I must do this alone. Cause if our brother does take me, I need you to come and get me. No sense in both of us being there at the same time. ", says Peter now giving her a hug.
Anna hugs him back, then turns to take Ashera hand. As they watch Peter leave out of the hall. Ashera orders for an honor guard to go with Peter, and they rush to his side outside.
" I should go with him Ashera. Robert is my brother too, maybe I can talk better sense into his head. ", says Anna, as Ashera grips her hand hard.
" No Anna, I don't like Peter's plan, but he must know the truth, and he wants his brother's side of the story. I only hope he lets him come back to me. ", says Ashera with a tear.
" Don't worry Ashera, Peter will come back to us, I know he will. Or I will burn down Robert's world if he harms him. But I don't believe he will, after all, we are still family, no matter what. ", says Anna, putting on her best smile.
To be continued............................
The skyline is sprinkled with towering buildings and there is no place in the land with anything like this. Trade is at an all-time high in Amerhill and it has attracted a lot of attention. Many different cultures have left their mark not just on trade and relations, but also upon the city's identity. What historically was a city of little contrast has grown into an amalgamation of differences and it's this that unites the one million people to this day.
It's this multicultural identity that has truly left its mark. Hundreds of bakeries, clubs, and diners offer a plethora of culinary choices and those who feel hungry for something else can enjoy sightseeing, musea, dance or one of the many other recreational venues.
Overlooking this city is a castle with four strong, round towers form an almost perfectly squared barrier around this marvelous place and are connected by fairly low, wide walls made of blue stone. Ornate windows are scattered thinly across the walls in an asymmetric pattern, along with symmetric crenelations for archers and artillery.
Not far away settled next to the sea, the outpost of Easthaven is home to fishermen, merchants, and traders. This outpost wasn't built by the sea by accident, as it has hidden secrets, which is of great importance to the people of Easthaven and its success. The outpost itself looks impressive. With its cypress wood rooftops, ebony wood walls and stunning cobblestone streets, Easthaven has an amusing atmosphere.
The main attraction is the lighthouse, which was built centuries ago and designed by elves.
Easthaven has a progressing economy, which is mainly supported by medicine, cooking weaponsmithing, and fishing. However, Easthaven lacks people skilled in animal training.
At the docks of the outport rest the tall ship Goodwin, and walking along the docks toward waiting carriages is Captain Wallace wearing his finest dress captains suit, it's a deep blue with gold trim. Some of his men and two beautiful women named Silva the red and Mitra the blue, also walk with him. But before Captain Wallace can send his guests on their way, and man in black steps out to meet them face to face. Wallace steps forward slowly to find out what new has happened, this wasn't part of any agreement he made with the guild. But before he can speak, the figure shows his face to them all. It's Grimsbane, and he doesn't look very happy.
" Well now my lord, it's a very nice surprise you meeting me here on the docks, and I was worried you might miss what I will be sending you. ", says Wallace now motioning to the two women with them with a smile, as he continues to speak.
" Here is Silva and Mitra, both be strong magic casters, and they are requesting a place to call home. "
Grimsbane moves slowly to look the two women over carefully, Silva he stops in front of first, but he feels his dragons medallion pushing him back away from her, as she turns to look him in the eyes. Grimsbane grips the head of the dragon in his right hand, then slowly moves to look over Mitra, but this time the dragons head gets ice cold and burns his hand slightly as he now lets it go.
" You two ladies, who are you? Why are you here?", asks Grimabane, not taking a couple steps back.
" My lord, you know our names, and all we are asking is a place to call home. Captain Wallace has told us you would grant us a safe place to stay. ", says Silva now bowing to Grimbane.
" Yes, of course, if you can be of service to us here, we will grant you a place to live under our protection. But you must be willing to serve out lord and master Robert Stormhand without question when called upon, and defend our lands from outside forces who would do us harm.", says Grimbane in a subtle voice.
" As long as we are treated fairly my lord, we will do as you say, all we ask is a place we can call home. ", says Mitra with a bow of her our.
" You have my word, as long as you serve us when called upon, you will be treated fairly in this kingdom. Now if you ladies will come with me, I will take you to your new home.", says Grimsbane, not opening the door to the carriage.
The two ladies enter, and Grimbane turns to Captain Wallace and tosses him a large bag of coins.
" It's been a pleasure doing business with you again Milord if there be anything else you need just name it.", says Wallace with a bow.
" Don't leave port just yet Captain, that is my request of you this day, I will send word when I need you to leave port, but until then stay in town.", says Grimdbane, as he tosses him a second bag of coins.
Wallace watches as Grimsbane leaves with the two women for the main castle, then turns to look at his men.
" Come on lads, it's time to get drunk, we are staying here a little while longer. "
With those words they head to the closest bar, to take in a few drinks for the night.
To be continued......
A humble crown, or coronet, rests atop the shield, it's a crown of broad tines, it has a woolen cap and rows of precious gems decorate the outer sides.
On top of the coronet sits an armet helm, which itself supports the crest, in this case, a lavish bull's head. The coronet and crest are decoratively bound by a roll of fabric, which carries the main colors used on the shield.
Lastly, tied to the helmet is an ornate drapery, or mantling, in the shape of simple ribbons and colored in the main colors, just like the horse. The shield itself has three colors which are painted in a wavey pattern of red, gold and green. Four eagle heads serve as the emblem or charge, and an ornate ribbon, positioned just below the supporters, carries the motto, which reads: "One struggle, one people, one destiny.".
As Peter rides down the main street of Amberhill, there are crows flying overhead, They seem to be circling his group a few times, then they fly off out of site. His attention is drawn away by the people on the street, as whispers go up from different groups, and others point as he becomes the talk of the city. He overhears one person saying he looks like Robert, and others ask is this the son of Robert? But he returns his attention to the castle that now takes sharp to the front of him, as he has finally reached its gates.
He rides in with his honor guards close by his side, as the castle guards of about sixteen men now move to surround them, but they stop just short of stopping Peter and his group. They allow them to continue towards the main hall of the castle, with hands on their swords, keeping a close eye of each of them as they move along the courtyard.
A squire rushes forth from a side archway and takes the bridle of the horse in his hands, and he is helped off by a couple other aids, that now move to his side. His honor guard is told they have to wait outside by the castle guards, they begin to protest, but Peter tells them to be calm and wait for his return.
Peter now moves inside the castle, and walks a long hall, as his armor begins to form around his body. There are statutes of what look to be fighters and magic users setup next to tall pillars along the lit corridor. Fine red drapes with gold trim hanging from the tall ceiling and simple torches mounted on each pillar light the way. He feels the power of the dragon now running through his body, with each step he takes. It's as if the dragon knows there is danger close, and it's going to protect him now, getting ready to repeal any attack that is to come. Peter's shield and sword now take shape at his side, as he makes his way to huge doors at the end of the hall, and he stands before two large guards in heavy armor. They stop him from entering, as they cross their pole weapons. Then a voice echoes from inside.
" Let him pass!"
So the guards pull back their weapons and standoff to the side, and they watch as Peter slow walks past them to enter the great hall. He sees polished braziers half enclosing each of the six sandstone columns light up the entire throne hall and engulf the throne hall in a brilliant glimmer. The angelic paintings on the rounded ceiling dance in the flickering light while stone effigies look down upon the maple floor of this radiant hall.
An onyx rug splits part of the room in half from the throne to midway down the hall while pennant banners with embellished sigils cover parts of the walls. Between each banner stands a large candlestick, almost all of them have been lit and in turn illuminate the tapestries of late rulers below them.
Slim, stained glass windows depicting gods and goddesses are edged by draperies colored the same onyx as the banners. The curtains have been adorned with emblazoned edges and jewels.
A dignified throne of gold sits atop a tall elevated platform and is adjoined by five almost identical seats. The throne is covered in complicated illustrations and fixed on each of the stubby legs is a gilded flower. The soft pillows are a light onyx and these too have been adorned with adorned margins. There are also a plethora of rather plain looking mahogany benches, all of which are lined up perfectly symmetrical. Those of higher standing can instead take a seat in the exuberant balconies facing the benches below.
Peter stops halfway in the hall, as he now sees who he has always wanted to find. Standing just off to the side of the main throne is his brother, with dirty blonde, long hair awkwardly hangs over a chiseled, wild face. Clear blue eyes, set narrowly within their sockets, watch gratefully over Peter they've come to appreciate for so long.
Peter can see a long scar under the right eye, running from the tip of the nose and ending on his chin.
This is the face of Robert Stormhand, oldest son of Granthor Stormhand. He stands tall among others and commands respect from everyone he sees. Robert is wearing a smooth white shirt and buttoned it up fully to support the elegant short neckless he is wearing. On top of the shirt he's wearing a sleek red vest with five gold buttons, it has a fairly deep v-line, which causes the vest to line up perfectly with the black jacket's v-line when it's button up.
The jacket fits him like a glove, a tailored glove. It has an intricate golden rope strike pattern which makes it look stylish and graceful. The four gold buttons of his double-breasted jacket are all buttoned up, it's the best way to wear a jacket like this after all.
The jacket is the same length all around, it has vents on either side, there's a pocket on either side and there's a breast pocket which contains a stylish white pocket square.
He's wearing pants which copy the style of the jacket, both in color and pattern and they create a perfect balance with his red shoes.
To top it all off he's wearing a sleek belt, which can be accompanied by inlaid jewels.
Robert can't believe his eyes, to see his brother after so much time has passed.
" Welcome my dear brother welcome! It's been so long, I have missed you so. ". says Robert now moving over next to Peter.
He gives Peter a big hug, lifting him from the ground slightly, as he returns a small hug to his big brother. One thing he does remember about Robert, he was the strongest of the Stormhand sons.
Peter feels his feet touching the ground again, as Robert takes a couple steps back, and looks Peter over for a minute.
" It's really good to see you again Peter, but you're as I remembered you, the day I left home. You haven't aged much since that time. ", says Robert as he studies Peter a little more.
" Yes brother, I understand time here moves differently than back home, while you have lived about seventeen years here, I only had about one tear past for me. ", says Peter now relaxing a bit.
" Yes, that would explain much. I felt father abandoned me here, but if only a year as past for you all, I can understand why no one came looking for me. ", Robert pauses a moment and continues.
" But look at you now Peter, of all the bothers, you came looking for me. I mean why would you be here in the first place, you don't know how happy that makes me feel. ", says Robert now putting an arm around his brother and walks him back towards the throne.
Robert claps his hands, and servants quickly set up a table with two fancy chairs, and others rush in with food and drink. Peter can see his brother was expecting him, as all his favorite foods are dressed on the table with care. There is smoked ham with apple slices next to it, a roasted goose, and tons of steamed vegetables of many types and colors. Robert even had some of his best wine placed on the table, and he motions for Peter to take a seat. As he does so his sword and shield vanishes from sight, and Robert gives his brother a smile, as he now takes a few bits of food to place on his plate. Peter watches him carefully, as he takes a bit of the food for himself, trying to focus on why he came here, to begin with. The food all smells so good to him, as he takes a bite of the piece of smoked ham he put on his plate.
" So tell me about home Peter, do they miss me?", asks Robert now taking a bite of goose leg.
" Yes of course they do, Mother and father miss you dearly, such as we all do.", says Peter taking another bite of food.
" You know I have family here too. A loving wife, and four children of my own, the oldest is about thirteen now, and he looks almost just like you, even has your wide eyes of adventure. I even named him Peter after you.
" That's kind of you brother, I would love to meet them one day. But.......that's not why I am here. ", says Peter now look right at his brother.
" Oh, so why are you here Peter? ", Robert pauses from eating, now looking at Peter with a small glare.
Peter pushes the plate away from him and responds to the question.
" I want to hear from your mouth, the truth of what happened here in this very hall, the night you took power over this land. I heard things, and I want to know of what I heard is true or not, I know you would never lie to me, so I want to hear it in your own words. What happened between you and olf king of this land? "
Robert gives his brother a long look now, then he takes a cloth and wipes the corners of his mouth, and claps his hands once more. Servants quickly enter the hall and begin removing all the food and the table. Robert stands from his chair, and a servant quickly moves to take the chair, then bows and motions to Peter to please stand, as he does so they take that chair away too. Robert turns his back to Peter, as he thinks for a bit, then replies to him in a colder voice.
" I am no fool dear brother. I know why you really came to me now, and under whose banner you rode in under to the very gates of this castle. But I will tell you what happened that night. ", Robert turns to look at Peter, then continues.
" I came to the king of this land with a plan to make things better for the people as a whole, and he rejected my ideas. After all the time I felt we were friends, he outright rejected my ideas and told me to know my place. Me? Robert Stormhand, he told me to know my place? After all his wife did for me and told him I was to be trusted, She was fathers friend after all, and she told the king I can be trusted, but no he dismissed me like I was a common beggar. ", says Robert not looking away at the throne in the room.
" Maybe he had his reasons, Robert, I don't understand why you would do what they said over a misunderstanding. ", says Peter now watching his brother closer.
" A misunderstanding? ", Robert faces his brother once more.
" A misunderstanding? Is that what they told you? No, Peter, this was far more than a simple misunderstanding. I have done much for this land over the early years, and the people started to love me. The king grew jealous of me and of all the actions I have done in the lands. Oh, he tried to bride me with lands and title, told me I should go away and live on the lands he granted me. So I did as he asked. But that was only to get me out of the castle, he felt I was taking power away from him, as the people grew to love me more. ", says Robert now turning away from Peter again as he continues.
" Then that day I returned, and I didn't come alone. This time I would make him listen to me, and we would take this kingdom to a better level of power in the lands. He told me to get out, he wanted no part in my plans. I called him a fool to his face, and that he was me king of mine. I turned to leave, and as I did I heard a sword being drawn from its holder, so I drew mine and turn to strike out at the one who was going to attack me. But when I turn to strike out, my sword found the back of Elyenvis. She had put herself between me and the king, with her arms out to shield me from him. but in my rage, I stuck her from behind. I don't remember much after that, only that the king came at me, and I had to defend myself from that point forward. The die was cast, and it was going to be him or me dead on the floor. We traded blows, clashing swords like wild men, then my friend Grimsbane enter the hall, and he stuck the king from behind that ended his reign that night. ", says Robert now facing Peter once more.
" But why Robert, why did you kill off his children? ", says Peter now feeling more confused over his brother's actions.
" I had to clean this castle of his royal blood, and that meant all of his children had to join him in death. After all, I didn't want them returning one day looking for revenge. But oh, that's what happened after all in the end. ", says Robert now moving closer to Peter.
He puts his hands on Peters' shoulders and grips them lighting in his hands. Then looks his brother deep in the eyes.
" I don't care what that Witch told you, or how you got here. But I want you to join me, and together we will control this land in the name of our father. I know Anna is here too, she will follow you, so what do you say, brother. Will you fight with me? ", asks Robert, look for the only answer he will accept.
Peter pulls back away from Robert, as he can see his mind has gone. This isn't the same brother he knew from back home, no this is a different person, one that has gone power hungry, and he wants no part in this crazy plan.
" I will not be a party to your madness brother, I will not join you in this venture. Why not return this kingdom to the one it belongs too, and return to the land that was given to you in peace? " asks Peter with concern.
Robert just laughs at him, then points at his face with his right hand.
" Your a fool Peter, I offer you a kingdom, and you piss it away like it's nothing but trash. I will not make you this offer again, be smart to take what I have to offer, or you will pay the price of defiance with your little bitch.! "
Peter hearing these words turns to leave, then pauses to look over his shoulder at Robert one last time.
" Father would be ashamed of you Robert, as I am with you now. Farwell brother, until we meet again. ", says Peter, as he now walks out of the great hall.
" Don't turn your back on me, Peter! You hear me! Come back here Peter! Come Back! I will not treat you differently,! If we meet on the field of battle, I will run you through Peter! You hear me! I will kill you where you stand! Peter! Peter! Peter!
The sound of Robert's voice continues to echo through the halls, not one guard dares move on Peter even with the hateful words coming from the great hall, as they were told not to touch Peter while he was on the castle grounds.
Peter looks back one last time and still hears his brother yelling to him, but he just mounts his horse and rides off quickly with his honor guard. They ride away from the castle as fast as they can, as Peter knows his brother will be coming for him if he stays in the area too much longer, and with that, the small band of riders quickly fade onto the forest road away from the castle and the city. headed back to Ashera's camp.
To be continued................
A knock on his door breaks the mood, as a voice calls to him saying Grimbane has returned. Good old Grimbane, a friend Robert has known for over fifteen years, he has stood by him in the good and the bad of this place. He turns to grab up a red robe from a hook by his bed, then quickly heads out to meet his friend. Down the hall, past a few well-placed guards, Robert moves with a quickened step, then finally he sees his friend in the main hall, standing with two beautiful women. Silva the red and Mitra the blue as they are called by name from Grimsbane., as Robert greets his friend, and the two women bow low to him.
Robert looks them both over carefully, Silva has long red flowing hair, a young pretty face, with wide amber eyes, set graciously within their sockets. She wears a long flowing mages armor, that matches the color of her hair, and around her neck rest a dragons head medallion. its eyes glow red for a quick flicking moment, as he looks to Mitra next.
She has silver, short hair almost fully covers a fresh, wild face. Gentle blue eyes, set wickedly within their sockets, watching his movements carefully, as her dragons head glows with blue eyes. He can see a small scar reaching across the bottom of the left cheek as the only defect on her young face. She, in turn, has a sky blue mage robe on, and it shimmers in the light.
There's something ambiguous about them both, as Grimsbane explains a short story of how they came to his service, and why they are here. Robert listens carefully about how they worked and slaved under Magnus, a necromancer he has heard of in his travels over this land, and how they came to be here now.
Robert motion for his friend to join him, as he calls for servants to attend to the two women. Then he moves to an area of the hall, so as to not be heard so easily.
" Do you trust them, my friend? You don't understand we are in a very sensitive time right now, and we have enemies all around us. ", whispers Robert, as he has a hand around Grimsbane to bring his ear in closer.
" Yes my lord, I understand your concern, but I believe what they say is true. From what they told me about Magnus, it matches the man I seen a few days back, and he was the reason I failed to bring your siblings to you. ", replies Magnus now peering over his shoulder to look at the women.
" And yet they have the same dragons medallion as you and Peter. " He pauses a moment and continues. " I have an idea, my friend, you will support me no matter what I say next? ", ask Robert with a smile.
" Of course my friend, I put my trust in you a long time ago, and you have never let me down. ", says Grimsbane as they now return to the women.
Robert now claps his hands loudly and calls for the court scribe. Word goes out quickly to bring forth the official scriber, and Robert moves in front of the two women.
" My dears, I notice with your introductions, you have no family names. And it's why you're called Red and Blue, am I correct? ", asks Robert in a friendly voice.
" Yes Milord, we have been in service to Magus all our lives, we have only been called by our one name if that at all. ", says Silva as she bows again.
" How would you like to be adopted into my family? I feel you have suffered enough in this life, and I have it in my power to bring you into my family. Once that happens, no one will treat you badly again, because you will be under my protection. How does that sound?", asks Robert with a big smile.
Silva and Mitra look at each other in shock at what was said, to have a family to call their own, it's something that they never figured would happen ever to them. With tears in their eyes, Mitra steps forward to Robert.
" But why would you do this for us? We are but strangers to your land, and you don't know us? ", asks Mitra as more tears flow from her eyes.
" I trust my friend here, and if he says your good people, then who am I to say your not. Plus the fact you were slaves to a monster, and I feel you need a place to call home, and I have a big heart for the needy. I would love to have both of you in my family as Stormhands. Why, cause we Stormhands always stick together, and by making you part of my family. I know you will help protect this family no matter what. Am I wrong to believe this from you two? ", asks Robert not glancing over at Grimbane.
" No Milord, we are honored to be added to your family, and will protect you and your family with our lives if needed.", says both women in one voice.
" Good, good, I am glad to hear that my lovelies. You will be so happy here, I know it. ", says Robert, as the court Scribe enters the hall.
The scribe by order of Robert writes up official papers for both Silva and Mitra, it takes a little time, as Robert calls for more refreshments to be brought into the hall while they wait. After a little more time, the documents are done, and the two women sign them with Robert, and on this day the Stormhands' under Robert have two more added to the family, that being Silva Stromhand and Mitra Stromhand. Who on this day pledge to protect the kingdom for all who would bring it harm.
To be continued...........................
Moving deeper into camp, Peter reaches the main hall building and quickly dismounts for his horse to enter. Inside Ashera sits with Anna, as they are speaking in private, no one else can be seen in the hall right now. Then Ashera looks up to see him, as a big smile crosses her face, and she rushes over to greet him now.
" Oh, Peter I am so happy you returned safely. Did you find the answers you were looking for? ', says Ashera with a hug.
He slowly pulls back slowly from her, then looks into her eyes with tears in his. He looks to his sister now, as she walks over to hear what he has to say.
" My brother has gone mad with power, he isn't the Robert I remembered. He confirmed all you have said Ashera and more, he isn't going to stop, he will continue on this path of destruction. Until he is made the king of all the lands. ", says Peter now gripping Ashera's hands in his.
" I knew I should have gone with you Peter, I would have knocked some sense into our brothers head. He would have listened to me! ", states Anna with a frown.
" He is far older now sister, with a family of his own. I didn't see them, but if he has married, I am sure his ears would have grown numb from his own wife's voice over the years. There is nothing you can say or do to change his mind. ", say Peter now looking back to Ashera as he continues to speak.
" So what are we going to do now my love? "
Ashera hugs Peter one more time, then turns to call her aids. She gives out an order to rally the troops in camp, and send for her officers. She moves away from the twins while giving more orders, and horns begin to sound outside. Peter now turns to his sister, and he gives her a concerned look.
" We must stay close to Ashera's side, it's important, as she will go after Robert personally. ", says while look at Ashera talks to her officers.
" I know Peter she will kill him given the chance, so how are you going to stop her?", asks Anna with concern.
" I don't know sister, but all I know is, I need to be the one to comfort our brother, with you at my side, and together maybe we can still save him from himself. ", says Peter as Ashera now moves to their side once more.
" Come along you two, we will ride together in this battle, for freedom, for life, victory is at hand. Lets us go and ride to free this land from your brother and his friends! "
With that the three hard out of the building, horns continue to sound, and troops now march out of the camp. Ashera gets on her horse, followed by Peter and Anna, as their dragon armor now takes its shape around their bodies. Then the three friends quickly ride off ahead of the troops, as they march for the land controlled by Robert Stormhand.
As the army now marches, above them flies a bunch of black crows. They circle a few times, then quickly fly off to the west. Horns still blow as the numbers of the troop continues to grow, the counts grows to be over 25,000.
To be continued...................................
Behind him stand his aids in his room, standing ready with his silver heavy plate armor, and a two-handed board sword. The set of armor has a squared helm with a face guard shaped in the face of a wolf. Attached to the forehead area and the backside is two tall, wing-like ornament pieces.
The upper arms are protected by pointed, fully covering rerebraces which sit perfectly under the shoulder plates. The lower arms are covered by vambraces which have several small metal chains hanging on the outer sides.
The breastplate is made from many layers of smaller metal pieces, mimicking the scales of a fish. It covers only the front, the back is where the attachment straps are and they offer no real protection.
The upper legs are covered by rounded, layered metal cuisses. The lower legs are protected by greaves which have rows upon rows of a small metal piece, mimicking dragon scales. The sword is a fairly large smooth blade made of folded steel is held by a grip wrapped in strange, scarlet bear leather. With a point as sharp as a razor this weapon is the ideal choice to turn enemies into Swiss cheese.
A small pommel is decorated with gilded linings, fine details which prove how carefully this weapon was crafted. The blade itself is simple. No decorations of any sorts are on it, the blade needs no decorations, it only needs to be strong and sharp.
Robert moves to his aids, as they begin to put his armor and Grimsbane now enters his chambers with a bow. He is already wearing his black dragons armor, the second skin of scales harder then any known metal as Robert has known it to be, and he sports a dark cloak the rest on his shoulders. At his side a pair of silver swords, resting on each of his sides.
: I take it my family is in a safe place now my friend? ", asks Robert as his armor piece are being snapped into place.
Grimsbane smiles wide as he takes hold of Roberts sword, and replies to the question at hand.
" Of course my lord, I have seen to it personally, they have returned to your estate far from this place, and I have my best men keeping watch over them for safe keeping. So you have no worries as far as they are concerned. ", says Grimsbane now eyeing the Roberts sword.
Grimsbane feels the weight of the bladed weapon and knows it's far too heavy for a common fighter to weld, but Robert is far from common, as he has great strength of his own, and this blades weight doesn't affect him like a regular man who would hold it. So Grimsbane returns it to the aid, who in turn has to brace himself when the sword in place in his hands. The aid dares not drop it to the ground, or it would be his head the quickly follows the sword. Grimbane smiles at him, knowing the truth of the sword touching the floor, and pats the aid on the shoulder as he turns to Robert now.
" I have ordered more troops to the castle defense, my lord, But I am worried over reports of troop moment to the forts that guard our positions to the castle if they fall.........."
"Yes I know my friend if they fall, then the castle will be wide open to frontal attack, and nothing will keep the enemy from breaching the walls here. I had more defensive weapons put on the walls, and the men have enhanced the areas outside the walls. No army will take down the walls that easy. ", says Robert as the last of his armor is placed on his body and fastened tight He is handed his sword last, and he takes it with ease, and mounts it on his back. He looks to Grimsbane with a smile, then shows off the silvery armor, while his aids clip on the guilds colors over his armor.
" Well, how do I look? Is it not armor fitting for a king? ", ask Robert as the last of his guilds colors are added over his right shoulder, and around his waist.
" You look the part my lord, but we still have a long way to go before your the king of the land.", says Grimsbane as he orders the aids to leave them.
: Your right of course, but we have our plans in motion, once we deal with Ashera and her friends, the way will be open to the kingdom. ", Says Robert now moving to the balcony once more.
Before Grimsbane can answer him, signal smoke can be seen going up from the first fort that protects the castle, then smoke can be seen from the second fort, then the third fort. All forts have signaled an attack has begun on each one of them. This concerns Robert deeply. as he looks to Grimsbane for a second, then returns his attention to the smoke in the distance.
" She is making a bold move to attack all three forts at once, we must recall what forces we can back here if she has that many attacks, they will overrun us before nightfall," says Robert with concern.
" I agree my lord, I will call up the reverses from the city at once, " says Grimsbane now bowing to take his leave.
Robert stops him for a second and tells him to order the recall of what forces from the forts. Grimsbane pauses a moment, then bows again as he takes his leave. Robert knows this fight is only going to get worst, so better to bring back what forces he can. The forts will fall no matter what, but if he can get those defends back to the main castle, maybe they will stand a chance to repeal Ashera's forces. The tunnel system is the key, as he watches as the signal to retreat back to the castle is lit on the towers. The battle is just starting, now it's time to win the war. Robert turns to leave the balcony, and he heads to join his men on the front line defense of the castle.
To be continued........
Ashera's men now rush into the fort with a battle cry, with Peter leading the charge, but no one can be seen. Peter looks around cautiously, as they were being attacked not too long ago, but were have all the defenders gone. Ashera rides in and quickly dismounts from her horse, and order her men to search the fort carefully. Her force moves to check every any of the interiors of the fort, but the report goes out not one solder can be found. Then one group of asher's troop locate a collapsed tunnel in the back of the fort., one that is big enough to move a mass number of bodies.
Peter walks up to inspect the debris, while his sister tries to cast a spell to move it out of their way. But it's no good as the tunnel is blocked uptight deep within.
" Now what do we do? ", ask Peter tossing a few of the rocks back on the ground.
Ashera looks a little concerned, as she others the troop to rally outside. Then looks to Peter and Anna.
" We continue to the main castle, looks like your brother has pulled his forces back. ", says Ashera now looking to her officers.
The order is given to should the rally horns and move onto the castle, as Peter and Anna rush off with Ashera, their dragon armor now taking on a new form for each of them. Each one now has their faces covered in the scaly armor, Peter in full golden scales, eyes red, and horns now taking shape on his head, Anna's armor now forms white scale over here, coving her face and showing four hours on the side of her head and sporting now blue eyes, and Ashera's armor is now full brown with a line of green on her back, she has claws that extend from her feet, along with two horns now growing out the top of her head. and he eyes not glow a bright green. The power of the dragons have taken hold of the three, and with this the trio not charge ahead of the formation of the troop, all headed to the base of the castle.
Robert stands with his wall guards, wearing his fine silver heavy armor, and his board sword on his back. He is watching his men form defense lines outside the castle walls. His guild allies force of eight guilds also take up a battle line of their own to help out Robert's force. He turns and orders for more archers to come up on the walls, and for the ballista to be made ready. He can see the tower guards are making ready fire drops, and other men in the courtyard getting catapults ready to use.
Grimsbane now comes to the wall to stand with Robert, as he is followed by Mitra and Silva who are covered with their red and blue dragon armor, only showing their heads for the moment. The scales look to be alive as it shifts and moves with them, and they also sport claws on each hand as they stand behind Grimsbane.
Robert watches as ten trebuchets begin to take shape in the distance, followed quickly by a horde of troops under five different guild banners. A smile crosses Roberts face, as he turns to his friend Grimsbane.
" She has gotten the Dünir dogs to help her, I thought those trebuchets looked more of there crafting. ", says Robert as he watches the siege engines get pushed into place.
" Yes sire, they are proven to be a thone in your side over the years, but once we crush her forces, we will deal with them soon enough. ", says Grimsbane with a smile.
Horns sound on the field of battle, as Robert now sees Ashera's banner come into the area, he knows Peter is with her, and so must be Anna. But he doesn't let the thought of fighting his kind stop his next actions, as he now puts his helm over his head to get ready for the fight. Grimsbane looks to Mitra and Silva with a smile then speak to them.
" Ladies if you would be so kind, and do what you do best. "
They in turn bow to him, as they armor now cover their heads, they eyes now glowing bright red and blue for each of them, and horns now growing from the sides of their heads, and spines down their backs. as they move off to opposite ends of the wall. Robert looks to his friend for a second then asks.
" What are they going to do? "
" Don't worry about them sire, just sit back and enjoy the show. ", says Grimsbane as his armor now covers his body and his eyes glow red, then he turns to head to the battle area outside the gate. Robert turns to look once more at the growing number of troops outside, the turns follow his friend to join the others for the coming battle.
To be continued........
" Trebuchet ready! ", yells Ashera, as her order is repeated down the lines.
Then she motions her arm forward, as the order to fire is sounded. and the trebuchet begins to launch their deadly payloads toward the castle. Ashera watches as some of the attacks hit there marks, while others fall short, but still, find a place in the rear ranks of Robert's troops. Her forces continue to launch more attacks with the trebuchet when counterattack begins on her own forces. She watches as a hail of ice and fire begin to rain down on her army, as her army now use their shields to cover their heads from the death from above, but most of her trebuchet is not so lucky. One after another they are destroyed from the attack from above, but they would all be taken down if not for Anna. she raises her white staff in the air, as a shield now forms over the area, now stopping the deadly rain from up high.
" Mages and Archers at the ready! ", yells Ashera with her right arm raised, as her order is repeated.
Then she motions her arm forward, as arrows with magic attacks rain over Robert's forces, but then don't find their mark as a magic banner now protects them from the attack. A counter attack of arrows sails her way, but just like with her attack, this one is also stopped from a magic banner. She knows there is only one way to end this now, as she raises her hand one last time.
" Charge!", yells Ashera, as a roar of her troop scream to the heavens. She leads the rush forward, with Peter at her side, and Anna not far behind. As they run toward Robert's forces to meet them on the field of battle, the two sides clash in the middle with the sound metal echoing in the air., and the sounds of battle fill the air.
Robert with his broadsword in hand is fighting side by side with Grimsane, as his troops now are fully engaged with Ashera's forces. He cuts down a few attacks with ease, his power is unmatched by most in the land, as Grimsbane also quickly takes down a few of his own, with a few quick flashes of his duel silver swords. Yells and death screams can be heard all around him now, as fighters from both sides meet their end. Robert continues to push forward to find Ashera, she is his main target on this field of battle, but as an area in the battle opens up to him, standing in the middle is his brother Peter, now staring back at him with sword and shield in hand. Robert pause only for a moment then points to his brother.
" Peter! I warned you, dear brother, I warned you! ", yells Robert with anger in his eyes.
" I know brother but I must do what right! ", yells Peter in response.
" Then died with all the others, your not brother of mine! ", yells Robert now changing forward.
The two brothers now clash in the middle, as sparks fly from their swords as they meet, and the blow sends a small shockwave knocking others down around them. With every swing from Robert, Peter blocks it with his shield now, and returns a few of his own, to only be knocked away with ease by Robert. Swing and blows, again and again, the two brothers are at a standstill, then as they cross swords once more, Robert looks into the eyes of Peter, as his dragons armor shows his face to him.
" Peter we could have been great, we would have own this land together, but you had to pick the side of that little girl. She will only end you, you know that. Look around you now, all this death is because of her. I will forgive you if you side with me, even now I extend a loving hand to you. ", says Robert now pushing his away and extending his hand.
Peter paused for a second, seeing his brother now extending a hand to him, and his sword down to his side. Why would Robert lower his guard to him in the middle of the battle, then a yell goes up from behind him. As Grimsbane moves to give a killing blow to Peter from behind, the blades just touch his armor, but an electrical wave of energy knocks Grimsbane to the ground. Peter turns to see Anna and Ashera now standing there, as Ashera launches into Robert with a full attack now. But he blocks every blow taking steps back away from her. Peter moves to help Ashera but is meet with a magic attack of ice and fire. If not for his armor, it would have killed him on the spot, but all it did was knock him to the ground. Peter looks up to see two mages in dragon armor, they are Silva and Mitra, as they have come to aid Robert now.
Peter now stands to go help Ashera, but he is frozen in place, did the two mages cast a spell over him, but his armor would have protected him, no this was something else, as the air around him now grows cold. Frozen too are Silva and Mitra as they raised their hands to cast another spell, Ashera in a swing to attack, Anna with staff raised in the air and Grimsbane in a motion to rush to Robert's side. Robert now seeing a helpless Ashera, knows this is his moment to strike and takes aim for Ashera's neck. Peter seeing this is powerless to stop him, and watches as Robert swing down hard to remove her head from her body. But a lightning bolt strikes him in the chest, knocking him away from her.
" Stop! You will not touch her! She is mine, they are all mine! ", yells a voice from the heavens.
As Robert hits the ground and air grows even colder, the armies on the battlefield all pause as the sky grows darker. More lighting strikes the area, again and again, until finally the dead soldiers on the ground now begin to rise. As they do they slowly move around the dragon warriors, making a circle around them. There too is Robert, all alone with the other six, as his men have retreated from the area. Still, on the ground, Robert watches as a dark mist comes from the sky, and covers in the middle of the circle of the undead. From the mist, Magus enters holding an old staff, and he smiles at Robert as he lifts it high in the air. Light beams strike the six, as Peter, Anna, Ashera, Silva, Mitra, and Grimsbane armor starts to fade. Magnus begins to laugh, as Robert seeing his brother and friend with the others being to have a seizure, he scrambles to his feet but is grabbed from behind by undead hands, and held in place.
" No! You monster! You are killing them all! Stop it! ", yells Robert, as he fights to break free.
Magnus turns to smile at him once more, as he continues to stripe the power of the dragons away.
" On a mountain of dead, my powers are unmatched. On a sea of tears, I will reign supreme. These bodies mean nothing to me, but I thank you for bringing them all together, and for that, I will spare your life for now. ", says Magnus as he grins wide now.
Robert can do nothing to stop what is happening, and the last of the power is sucked from the bodies of all six, and they all fall to the ground lifeless. Robert yells out in pain of watching his kin and friend on the ground, and Magnus lifts the staff high in victory. As the power is finally his to command.
With that, the ground quakes, and the volcano comes to life, shooting ash and rocks into the air as it blows it's top. What troops remain alive now all run away from the area in fear, as the lava starts to flow. The castle breaks apart as the walks break apart, lava rolls down to the main city, and boulders fly toward the sea town. Magnus has won the day, as he now controls the power of the dragons. He shrills with laughter as the volcano continues to erupt. No one can stop him now, as he has the power of the gods in his hand.
The End?
With him too is Robert Stormhand, now forced to his knees before Magnus, and held in place by four undead soldiers who were once his trusted men. Robert fights to get free of them, but it's no use as their grip only tightens more. He looks over to his fallen brother, as a tear rolls down his cheek. Magnus seeing this moment of weakness walks over to his, and places a finger on his chin, then lifts his head to look into his eyes.
Robert's anger is fueled by the big grim on the twisted face of half flesh and bone.
"You're a weak little man Robert. Do you know that? Weak to waste a tear over this meaningless corpses on the ground. ", says Magnus now removing his hand to motion over the bodies.
" Why did you do it monster? Why did you come here to rob me of my victory? ", says Robert now pushing himself up to his feet.
Magnus takes a few steps back, as two more undead troops grab hold of Robert, then he smiles once more as he waves the six-headed dragon staff in front of his face.
" This is the power of the gods in my hand now Robert, your little feud means nothing now. The only thing that matters now is what I hold in my hand. ", says Magnus as he lifts the staff high in the air.
At that moment the volcano explodes once more, as a large section of it blows off to the side now covering the broken castle. Through the lava come two large clawed hands, along with a large head slowly moves out of the red-hot lava, as it falls from its head.
Magnus now watches as piercing scarlet eyes watch him closely from afar. They sit buried within the creature's long, horned skull, which gives the creature a very ominous looking appearance. It shakes the lava from the Two small crystal growths sits atop its head, just above its long, dog-like ears. Several large fan-like skin and bone structures run down the sides of each of its jawlines. Its nose is thin and has two small, pointy nostrils and there's a tendril on its chin. Several rows of sharp teeth poke out from the side of its mouth and give a slight hint at the terror hiding inside.
The dragon pulls itself out of the lava and Magnus grits his teeth seeing a muscular neck runs down from its head and into a massive body. The top is covered in small scales and a row of fan-like growths runs down its spine. Its bottom is covered in rounded scales and is colored much darker than the rest of its body. Four massive limbs carry its body and allow the creature to stand to impose and elevated. Each limb has three digits, each of which ends in pointy claws. The dragon is massive, as it looks to be the size of the mountain it's pushing out of, then it flexes its enormous bat-like wings that span out to block out the what can be seen of the smoke in the air.
The dragon looks down at Magnus once more, then to Robert as its eyes glow a bright yellow.
" Magnus! The time of judgment is at hand, you were warned, now I have come for you! ", says the dragoon without moving its mouth. It was a thunderous tone of a voice, as Magnus now lifts the staff to face this massive beast.
" You will not rob me of my victory this day! Go back to the shadows where you belong! I am Shuzis Magnus! I am a god now! You will never stop me you hear, I am a god!", exclaims Magnus as he unleashes the power of the six dragons toward the huge one. But the power is only sucked into the dragon's mouth, as six growths now take shape on its body. Magnus finds he is locked into place, as the might dragons eyes are fixed onto him, and he can't stop the power from leaving his staff. He pulls back as hard as he can, then the staff shatters into splitters in his hand. Magnus seeing this falls to his knees, as he looks up there he sees the dragon who once had one head, now has six more. Each one is the look and color of the ones from the staff. Magnus knows he is beat, but with one last show of defiance he uses his powers to attack the mighty dragon, but it has no effect of it.
The dragon flaps it's wings to lift up into the air, then crashes down hard next to the area by Magnus and Robert, and with its mighty wings it covers the area around them, giving no escape, then lowers each head into the covered area, as the sound of Magnus screams is the only thing that can be heard over the growl of the dragons.
part 1 or 3
" Mangus your judgment has been decided, you will become the very thing you once controlled. Your punishment is at hand. Behold, you are now as my children once were, I have spoken. ", says a deep thunderous voice.
Robert watches as Mangus scream once more then watches slowly as Magnus's body begins to shrink, then it's turned into a small black medallion, as it drops to the ground where Magnus once stood.
The light that once focused on Magnus, now surrounds Robert, as he finds he can not move once again. He watches as the seven dragon heads now cast their gaze on him, then the six heads move over the fallen bodies of the ones that once controlled them.
" Robert Stormhand, you have been given a second chance, I know your heart and I will spare you this one time only. But be warned if you don't change your ways, you will be curesed as Mangus has before you. To remind you of my warning, I will place a mark on your body. Let it be a reminder of what you have seen this day, and what will happen to you is you fail to change your ways. ", rubbles a voice from above.
Robert feels a burning pain on his left forearm, then a dragon tattoo takes shape, with red eyes looking outward. It looks to be alive, as it seems to move, then the burning stops. He moves grip his arm right hand from the pain, then turns to look up at the six dragon heads, as they breathe over their fallen hosts.
" What of them, my friends and family, what will become of them? ", asks Robert as he covers the dragon tattoo as the pain slowly fades.
" You may take only one with you, as your free to go, but leave the others. Now go Robert Stormhand, and choose wisely. ", rumbles a booming voice.
As the heads of the dragon retreat back away, and the mighty wings are folded back away from the area, Robert moves to look over the bodies of the fallen. He slowly moves a few of bodies around to new positions, as the dragon watches from above him. Then he looks to his friend Grimsbane, and picks him up from the ground, to carry him. He turns to look at the seven-headed massive dragon and asks a question of it.
" What is your name oh mighty one? So I may know what to call you, and report to the world of your greatness? ", asks Robert humbly.
The massive dragon flexes it's wings a bit, then shakes a couple of its heads, then looks to Robert once more with the main seventh head.
" I am Shimrus, The Eternal One. Now go from this place, the choice is made and remember this day. Now go! ", says Shimrus as it extends its wings.
Robert turns to leave the battlefield with his friend in his arms, and behind him, he leaves the other five still on the ground. To one side is Peter with Ashera laying on his chest, and to the other is Anna, with her holding the hands of Silva, and Mitra.
part 2 or 3