Dalmar's Story

Etriny, an eclectic mix of denizens and elemental plains. A wondrous kingdom isolated from the rest of the world by towering peaks and shear cliffs, a circle broken up only by the entrance to the sea. The closest attainable lands were The Broken Isles, but sadly they are no longer. A plight has befallen the great kingdom. Six of the elemental plains have lost their luster. It is often said, in times of strife Champions will rise. Our tale does not begin with a Champion however, but an adversary.


The sound of footfalls echoed off the walls as a well dressed gentleman walked beneath the high arches of the hallway leading to the throne room. It was impressive architecture crafted by stone masons from a bygone era; but such thoughts were far from the young man's mind. It wasn't that a man of his status didn't appreciate the mastery of shaping the volcanic rock that made up the Imperial Castle, or how it had been polished to a mirror like shine; it was simply not important at the time. When he reached the large ornate doors his fingers rested on the intricate designs as he took a few deep breaths. The poor fellow nearly leaped from his skin when he felt a hand upon his shoulder.

"Easy Tamlyn, I see Ivagio has been telling tall tales to the recruits again." The hand belonged to a silver haired man with a warm smile upon his face and a mirthful light in his matching eyes. "The Queen does not kill messengers that bring her bad news."

A wave of relief washed over the young man, he tried not to let it show, but ultimately failed. "Are... Are you certain?"

"Relax Tamlyn. Is that the report on the wall?" He said gesturing to the scroll in the young man's hand. "May I see it?"

Tamlyn looked down at the scroll, he'd nearly forgotten he had it. "Of course my Lord." The warmth in the Dark Lord's face disappeared and was replaced with a grave expression when he opened the scroll and scanned its contents.

"I see. This is indeed not what she wanted to see." After rolling the scroll back up he handed it back to the messenger saying, "I have an important matter to attend. Give this to Her Majesty." As he walked down the hall he stopped and called out to the young man. "Tamlyn, if you see her eyes flash ...duck."

The color drained from his face as he stared down at the scroll in his hand. Taking a few deep breaths he turned to face the door and swallowed hard before pushing it open. The guard announced him as he made his way to the throne then bowed, presenting the scroll to the beautiful queen. "The report on Tonule, you're majesty."

The queen's aide removed the scroll from his hand then gave it to her. "He appears to be trembling you're majesty."

"So he does. Tamlyn, why are you trembling in my court?" The queen's tone was neutral and Tamlyn didn't know what to make of it. Words formed in his mind, but his mouth refused to open. "Have you been talking to Lord Ivagio and Dalmar?" Tamlyn managed a feeble nod. "I see," the queen said as she opened the scroll. "Your are dismissed Tamlyn. And for gods sake pull yourself together!"

Tamlyn's exit was an expedient one, the poor fellow really needed a drink.

<<<>>>

The tavern was a lively place filled with soldiers and citizens alike. Tavern maids worked their way through the crowds carrying all manner tonics and ale to the often brutish knights, some were quite friendly though, perhaps too friendly. It was at one of these tables that Ivagio and Dalmar were having a drink with the rest of the men. It was a table filled with laughter as the two spoke of their hazing of the new recruit. "So I said to him, if you see her eyes flash ...duck." The table roared with the thundering sound of pounding fists and boisterous laughter. "You should have seen the look on his face." Ivagio nudged him and gestured toward the door. "Speak of the devil. Tamlyn get over here!" When the young recruit arrived Ivagio nodded to Dalmar. The silver haired man raised his glass to Tamlyn. "A toast; your spirit survived the tortures of the academy and your heart survived us. Welcome to the Queen's Knights. May you serve her well." Dalmar finished his drink then rose from his seat. The queen would be summoning him soon so it was time to take his leave; he would need to be more presentable before he entered her court.

<<<>>>

Sitting at his desk going over the layout of the walled city, Dalmar awaited the queen's summons. After seeing the report on the wall, he knew his initial strategy would end in failure. The wall was constructed out of Arcainum and Starnite, a truly impressive feat. Arcainum got it's name for it's enmity to the Arcane. The crystal within the stone was able to repel all forms of arcane power. Combined with extremely durable Starnite, the wall was nigh indestructible. The wall wasn't the only problem however, the Kingdom City of Tonule was an island. Surrounded by a lake of pristine waters that cascaded down down a rear cliff face, the city was truly secure. Such security gave the people a self sustaining haven that they never need leave.

When he heard the knock upon his door, he rose from his seat and opened it. Beautiful blue eyes and cascading red locks that framed the delicate features of the queen's aide met him at the threshold. "Lady Mirra," he said with a smile.

"Lord Dalmar, Her Majesty will see you now." Before he could respond, Mirra stepped out the way and the queen took her place.

"You're Majesty, I did not expect..."

The queen put up her hand and said, "be at ease Dalmar, I tire of the formalities of the court. What have you discovered?"

Moving away from the door he allowed the queen entrance to his rather spartan dwelling. When Mirra didn't follow he peaked his head out the door to see her retreating form, shaking his head he closed the door and returned to the matter at hand. "Damn rules," he said under his breath.

"You fancy her do you not?" The queen was sitting on his bed with her hands folded in her lap. Even though she had dropped the formalities of court, there was a striking regalness to her. "If the rules are getting in the way, then rules be damned."

Taken aback by her words, Dalmar stared at her in disbelief. "You're..."

"No formalities."

"Forgive me, ...Mother." It was difficult to say, but it was something he would have to get used to. The academy had drilled proper formality into him and was difficult to cast aside."What do you mean by rules be damned?"

Lynova gave him an incredulous look. "It is obvious is it not? Go after her; after our business is concluded of course."

"But our stations."

"How did you address her when you opened your door? You called her Lady, did you not? What rule prevents Lords and Ladies from being together? Honestly, you are grown man able to think for yourself, yet you still need me to hold your hand?"

"I... Dear gods I've been a fool." Dalmar said, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Lynova looked at him sternly. "Yes, you have. Now tell me about Tonule."

Dalmar and the queen spoke at length about how best to handle Tonule. When the sun began its descent below the mountains, they were joined by the Grand Sage Artimican. The three of them went over the reports and diagrams and soon came up with an plan. "Will this work?" The queen asked.

"Only time will tell." Artimican rose from the floor, his back had become stiff and his knees ached but he wouldn't allow anyone to help him. "I will take my leave now. These old bones need a nice soft bed to rest in."

"I will accompany you." The queen said as she stood up from the bed. She led the old man to the door then opened it. Looking back at Dalmar she said, "good luck my son."

Dalmar closed the door behind them then began cleaning up the strewn papers. The journey to Tonule would begin in the morning; he was not looking forward to traveling with Ivagio, but the queen insisted. The people of Tonule would have to listen, if not ...they would be made to.

Adion had been waiting for three hours on a bench in the throne room. Apparently, some military maneuver that was leaving the city had occupied the queen up until this time. Or at least that was what Adion had gathered from the guards' conversations.

He remembered last night, using up the last of his money of only five more doses of his liquid sleep, and the board and bed for said five days. After that, the veer would have to return back to his home, with whatever news he had to bring. The signs of the medicine that stole his money showed as his entire muzzle was an old hair white, a common side effect of the medication.

When the queen entered the chamber, the Veer would stand. His stance was one of a different society, straight and formal, but by no means noble. To the first look, the veer's rough cloth shorts and family helmet made him look like he was working one of the local farms. This, however, was very wrong. Other than that, the veer stood a few inches over most of the guards, and seemed to be made purely of muscle and fur. Most of the fur was black as night, excepting his muzzle and a small outline of his eyes, both of which were grayed by the medicine he took.

"I have come to seek your aid in restoring the Song of Tyr. Without it, my people will not be able to sleep, which will lead to a very violent state among the forest. If the song is not restored, I fear that the cities of Tyr will be the only safe place within the forests. It is also possible that if the Song of Tyr is not restored, groups of veer could leave the forest and begin attack those outside of it. I hope you can see just how urgent of a matter this is." The veer spoke, his voice seeming to have trouble with the words, but also the way he spoke said that his mind had an extremely good grasp of the language he spoke with perfect grammar. One could also tell by how the veer talked that he had some method of forcing himself to sleep.

A small regiment of knights milled about the grounds outside the castle. They had been waiting since sun up for their commander and the captain. The knights spoke of their mission and and their doubts of its success; no one could get through to Tonule. The governor was as stubborn as a mule and twice as thick headed. The man had made it clear that Tonule was sovereign land; a kingdom in its own right. There were four among the knights that did neither of these things, they stood like statues displaying no emotion; like dolls dressed in armor.

>><><<

Dalmar entered the throne room wearing the dark armor he'd become known for, his captain's cape flowing in the wake of his stride. When he reached the throne, he took a knee and saluted his queen. "Preparations are complete You're Majesty. I will return victorious." Standing back up he nodded to Mirra. "Milady," he said, before turning around, heading for the exit. Despite being raised in courtly manner, he found the whole process tedious. What was the point of useless ceremony. Why couldn't he just pop his head in and say he was leaving. Better yet, why announce it at all? They knew what his mission was, if he and his knights turned up missing, the reason would be obvious. To top it off, Ivagio, had to do the same thing. When he passed the commander in the hall he just rolled his eyes. "Formalities."

Throngs of people greeted him when he left the castle. Soon they would crowd the Great Hall, anticipating their audience with the queen. As he observed the gathering, he saw the poor and grieved, the angered and the joyful and then there were the ones who were clearly there for the pure spectacle of it all. These were the people watchers. They could care less about seeing the Queen, no, it was the people that interested them. Look at the idiots fawning over and pining for her majesty. Though he hated to admit it, were he in the same situation, he'd probably be one of the spectators. The most entertainment would come from the angered, they always did something stupid, like attempting to attack the Queen. Nothing like seeing a fool put in their place.

The city was an abundance of activity, always busy, but today was Audience Day, which meant tourists and by extension, greater wealth. The purpose of such a day is to give people a voice and to fill the coffers of of the local shops. The money would help businesses grow and keep Volstack prosperous. All manner of shops and stalls lined the streets filled with trinkets and baubles. The air was filled with a cacophony of smells; a mixture of spice and local cuisine. One of the more interesting additions to the city were the Venting Tents. These temporary structures were erected for the sole purpose of airing the grievances of those unable to gain an audience and those simply not brave enough to stand before the Queen. The city was busy, crowed and noisy. Thank the gods this day only came once a cycle.

When he reached the waiting knights, Dalmar, walked over to his horse and gave it a pat. Trevelyan was a fine steed, a war horse bred for speed and endurance and as black as the night. With the Knight Captain in the saddle they were an intimidating pair. Looking at the men, he could see they were eager to get moving. The knights regarded the captain with nervous stares and a salute. The men claimed that he had an overwhelming presence about him that changed with his mood. Right now the captain was slightly annoyed, so they kept their distance; each hoping Ivagio would arrive so they could be under way.

"Legend has it that the world was once a desolate land devoid of life. The lush plains, dense forest, high peaks & mountains all came to be by the will of the gods. Even the sea is of their making. The gods; formless and of ethereal nature govern the Nine elements. Combing these elements gave birth to our world. It is said that they once communed with Man, in the form of Divine Creatures called Dragons. Now when I say Dragons, it is not to be confused with the creatures we call dragons. Beasts such as the Wyrm, Wyvern and Drake are nothing more than animals, albeit very large ones, but animals all the same.

Dragons are something else entirely, it is a form taken by those that are greater than us. A form that is Awesome to behold and commands reference. They speak to our hearts and minds and are the incarnation of Wisdom, Knowledge and Power. It is said that they aid the worthy in times of great strife, but who among us is worthy? Many have tried to gain their favor, communing with them in the Sacred Groves; none have returned- for to undergo the trial of the gods is a fools folly. Yet I have seen the trials in visions and they will be overcome." Maximilian- Great Sage of Elysium.



The thundering sound of horses broke the quiet stillness as the sun began its journey below the horizon. Coming to a halt the knights beheld the sight before them; it was a grand structure indeed, an imposing one at that. A raven black horse led the group, in its saddles sat the captain, a handsome silver haired man with armor as dark as his steed. After dismounting Dalmar looked around the area. The air was heavy, but not quite as heavy as their journey through the swamp. As he suspected, the presence of Ivagio and the other knights kept the Drakk at bay, making their trip somewhat uneventful. Turning his gaze away from the swamp, he turned toward the city. The walls were perhaps a little higher than he expected, but if all went to plan there would still be very little collateral damage and if the people were willing to listen; zero casualties.

At the shore of the lake stood small marble stone structure with a great wooden spoked wheel attached to it- the mechanism for raising the submerged bridge. As he walked over to the wheel, four knights appeared behind him. They, like their captain, wore blackened armor, but unlike the other knights present their faces showed no emotion, no sign of life at all. The wheel was old, but in good shape and with a good deal of effort he was able to turn it, despite its groaning protest.

>>>><><<<<

In small dimly lit room sat a mahogany desk, a quill and parchment with a half finished letter lay on its smooth surface; a masterwork by the craftsman and one the owner took great pride in. In fact he took great pride in all his possessions and accomplishments. All were earned through the sweat of hard work. His father, a craftsman by trade instilled in him a hardy work ethic and a will to protect his own; be they possessions or people. "Take pride in all that you survey and never take for granted, that which you are blessed with." A saying he by his late father was quite fond and one he took to heart. Like most denizens of Tonule, the city was his life and life outside the walls hardly mattered. It didn't stop from venturing out into the world, or those from seeking refuge within.

Stroking his short gray beard he stood looking out the window dreaming of days gone by. Perhaps it was the beautiful dusk sky or the silhouettes having a picnic atop the wall. Ah to be young and in love. It reminded him of his own exploits upon the wall. It was a popular hangout, but this evening the two on the hall were lucky enough to have the whole section to themselves. He smiled as the feminine silhouette stood, she appeared to be pointing at something, no doubt some Drakks milling about on the other side of the lake. Turning from the window he returned to his desk and picked up the quill.

Governor Louis! Governor Louis!" The door burst open and in stepped one of his aides. "Sir, the bridge is being raised!" His quill hit the the parchment, adding to it an unwanted mark, but the Governor didn't notice. He just sat there staring at his aide. "Sir, what should we do?"

Returning to his senses Louis interlocked his fingers, resting his elbows on the desk. "Calm down Tomlin. They tried many times in the past, what makes you think this time will be any different? Think about it. If the queen wanted us destroyed, she would have done so her self cycles ago. The land holds value. As long as we are protected by these walls, we have nothing to fear."

"Of course sir."

As the two contemplated how best to handle the situation an arrow zipped through the window lodging itself into the wall. The sound startled both of them, and both were more than a little surprised to see a missive attached to the shaft. Taking the note, the aide read it aloud.



Governor Louis stared incredulously at the note in Tomlin's hands, then at the window from which the message arrived. "That is one hell of a shot," he finally said with genuine praise. "No normal archer made that. Summon Vivian, I will meet with this Lord Dalmar."

"Right away sir, but if you don't mind my asking- How can the two of you speak at such distance?"

The Governor stood up, straitened his burgundy studded doublet, grabbed his feathered cap and set it firmly upon his head. "Amplification, Tomlin, amplification."

>>>><><<<<

Dalmar stood at the end of the bridge and gave out a long whistle. "Excellent shot Ivagio!" Though they couldn't see over the wall, if the map was indeed accurate then Ivagio's shot aided with a Guidance Spell was truly remarkable. "Now we wait."

They didn't have to wait long, for not a moment later the governor appeared upon the wall, with a woman at his side. When they reached an observation point the woman began to weave a spell around the governor. When she finished, he spoke normally, but all could hear him. "Well, I am here as you asked. Now what do you want?"

"Amplify." The command was followed as one of the stone faced knights placed his hand on the captain's shoulder. Crossing his arms Dalmar began to speak in a diplomatic tone. "Greetings governor. I wish to negotiate trade. These are troubling times and many are suffering. People need food and our reports say you have more than enough. A tenth of your crops and cattle are to be distributed to the provinces of Mystril and Krestmere."

Governor Louis looked to his arcanist. "That sounded like a demand."

"It was."

"What are the terms of this negotiation?"

"They are quite simple governor. Comply or be annexed."

"That sounded like ultimatum."

Vivian smiled. "It was. I think I like this man."

"I'm sorry sir knight, but your reports were wrong. We have all that we need; no more, no less. Giving even a tenth of our crop would take much needed food from my own peoples mouths."

Dalmar shook his head. "I see. In these troubling times we all must make sacrifices."

"Your kingdom is suffering, because your queen wills it. If she truly wanted to help her people she would. I will not have one of her envoys tell me what to do. I protect my people and I will continue to do so by not allowing your bully tactics to continue. I'm done, return to your queen and tell her that we are Sovereign. Leave us alone!"

Dalmar uncrossed his arms as he walked back to the shore. "That went well, don't you think?" He said to Ivagio; he didn't appear amused. Turing toward the Kingdom City he spoke to all. "People of Tonule, I wish no harm upon you. I offer this one and only warning; leave the wall or fall with it."

>><><<

Governor Louis was walking down the steps to street level with Vivian at his side. "That sounded like a threat."

"No. It was a promise."

"Come now, you do not honestly believe..."

"I don't know what to believe, but I have a very bad feeling. I think we should do as he says. Get everyone off the wall."

When they reached the street they saw a black and gray haired man trying to catch his breath. "Xanthom, what are you doing here?"

"I came as soon as I heard it was Dalmar. Governor, you should have listened to him."

Louis placed his hand on the old man's shoulder. "Not you too my friend. Just who is this Dalmar anyway?"

"I learned a long time ago not to underestimate him. I've never known him to fail and- things happen around him. I can't really explain it."

"I see. Very well, get everyone off the wall; just to be safe, but there is nothing to fear."

Before the order was given a commotion could be heard at the top of wall. "It's frozen! The entire lake is frozen!"

<<<>>>

Dalmar stood up from his kneeling position wresting his sword from the frozen lake. Pointing to specific points along the wall he instructed the four knights to take their positions. With a long stride and brisk pace he began his trek across the ice field. When he reached the wall he could see a few guards staring down at him. They appeared to be awestruck by the sight of the lake. Fools he thought as he placed his right hand upon the wall.

"Burn."

An intense heat consumed the wall changing its color to that of iron fresh out of the fire. The guards that were still upon the wall screamed as their bodies were engulfed in flames. A chorus of screams could be heard on the other side as the people watched in horror as houses and lookouts close to the wall burst into flames. Burning embers rained down from above threatening to set the whole city ablaze.

"Freeze."

In an instant the ominous glowing wall went from hot enough to burn all around it to a temperature so low- where there were once fires, there was now ice. A loud groaning sound could be heard through the whole of the city. By this time all knew what was to come and they quickly made there way to the center of their once protected paradise.. Like claps of thunder, large cracks could be heard snaking along the ice, but the ice was not the only thing cracking.

"Shatter."

With a thundering roar the wall that had stood for a millennium fell crashing to the frozen ground. The people huddled close as the earth quaked under their feet. When the tremors died and the dust settled, all beheld the Dark Lord, but no one had the will to fight.

He had been startled from his admiration of the beauty before him by the sounds of the horses, Alice jerked next to him, startled obviously not expecting the sound, at least not from outside the walls. They thundered towards his home, their numbers must have been in the hundreds, they acted as if unwary of the beast that lurked in the marshland, and all manner of creatures that dwell without.

"What-?" Alice said haltingly, hugging close to him in fear. His eyes narrowed on the group beyond the wall, food forgotten for the strange happenings. He was shocked when the governor himself made his way onto the wall, dismissing their picnic with a glance he turned his attention to the army at the door.

"A tenth? Are they mad!?" He hissed out voice a vicious whisper, he clenched his fist, eyes flaring in barely surpressed astonishment and fury at their gall. Alice looked at him in surprise at the harsh tone of his voice. He rarely spoke, and never in anger when around her, so it was little surprise. However, a tenth, that was utterly insane. He'd sooner burn his own fields and salt the earth, than allow their enemies to have it, better it be destroyed than taken.

The governor seemed to agree at least. He didn't bow to their demands, he felt a wave of patriotic pride then, so strong it made him grin, a moment later, his grin turned sour.

"People of Tonule, I wish no harm upon you. I offer this one and only warning; leave the wall or fall with it." The man had said, folly, idle words he had thought then. How wrong he would be proven in but a few moments. The Governor scurried past them, and he finally realized he had been holding Alice, dear beautiful Alice to himself since the disaster had begun.

"Sh-should we follow?" She asked. Voice a quiver in excitement and fear, her cheeks sporting a rosy flush from their close proximity. "Yeah, we probably should." He replied distractedly, the tips of his ears turning pink as he looked away from her, and began packing up her things, she moved to help him when one of the guards shouted, and his blood ran cold.

"It's frozen! The entire lake is frozen!" His head jerked sideways so fast, it was almost as if he had been stricken. Pupils dilating in primal fear at the sight of the now frozen lake, how could one man-?

"Run!" He barked at Alice, the minute he saw the man pointing at the wall, striding towards it. Dropping the teapot on the hard stone, shattering it, she came free from her shock at the sound, almost protesting. She was in shock, unable to move. So, he did the only natural thing, he scooped her up in his arms, she squealed at the contact, surprised, he was surprised as well. At how light she felt nestled their, and ran, ignoring everything around him.

He leapt from the last flight of stairs, Alice screaming in his ear as the wall turned cherry red, the heat licking his back, burning him, curling the hair on his body, even as he kept running, heedless of the aches in his legs from how he landed. Even as the heat stopped, and chill permeated the air, a groaning dogged his footsteps, he was convinced it was a great beast chasing them in his panic, so he did not stop, didn't heed the sirens call of curiousity.

That fact alone probably saved their lives. As with a roar of tortured metal, thousands of tons of metal fell upon the outer city in a wave, destroying everything in its path. He didn't stop until they were sequestered in Alice's shop, safe, for the moment.

Charlus and Elena were ecstatic upon receiving their marching orders from the legendary Commander Nala, a member of Lord Hadrian's retinue of specialists that acts as his personal guard. They were to assist a veer in the restoration of the Song of Tyr. A noble undertaking fraught with countless dangers. A mission from the Grand Master himself.

They listened to their commander's orders and soon they quickly prepared their equipment and provisions for the journey. In their minds it would take them a short while to reach Tyr via the tunnel networks created by the Obscura Rosa.

"This is the day, isn't it? We're going to rise through the ranks as Captains." Charlus asked while he and Elena, along with their squads move towards the tunnel entrance, which was disguised as a tree, located within the estate. Elena nodded with a toothy grin. "Hey! Don't grin like that , love. I know we're going on another adventure; but please, don't do anything stupid again." The grin on Elena's face dropped into a pout which made Charlus chuckle as they entered the tunnel network.

"'Do something stupid' he says. As if I did something stupid while on an important mission. Name one time I did something like that!" Elena's voice echoed throughout the well lit tunnel.

"The time you stabbed a minor nobleman of Tyr inside his own home which caused the local guards to chase us out."
"The arrogant swine deserved it."
"The time you woke a sleeping wyvern in Jotun when we rested inside a cave that you said was safe."
"Okay maybe I should have checked first. But--"
"The time you slapped a farmer and insulted a fisherman in Krestmere."
"I was tired and I had a bad day, but--"
"You burned down a section of the Velmon forest which--"
"Okay fine! I get it! Just stop, please!" Charlus nodded without looking at her.

They continued on their journey in utter silence. The sound of their steps echoed throughout the tunnel. "Hey, Elena."
"Yes?"
"You know I was just poking fun, right?" He looked at her with a tinge of worry in his eyes. She looked at him and nodded while flashing a soft smile on her face. "I know for a fact that if something strange didn't happen while you're around, then you aren't the woman I came to care and respect."
"Thanks Charlus. Now, let's hurry and get our heads back in the mission. We got to reach Tyr as soon as possible!"

The group ran as fast as they could, determined to complete the mission handed to them. It took them a couple of hours to reach the exit which led to Tyr. After emerging from the exit, they inquired about the whereabouts of Tyr's underground caverns. It took a little bit of effort on their part and a few gold coins to loosen the tongues of the populace until one of the guards gave them extensive information about about the tunnels, known as the Under and agreed to lead them to one of the entrances of the cavern. They entered the cavern; bearing as well the warnings of the guard to keep a vigilant watch within the deep tunnels.

It was cold and silent. The only sound that could be heard was the clicking of metal and the dripping of water along the cavern walls and ceiling. Crystals, embedded along the walls of the cavern, bathes the entire tunnel in a soft eerie blue glow. They were ready. They were marching with a purpose. Their hands near their weapons and senses sharp. Elena was leading the group, with Charlus at the rear. This was their moment. Their moment to prove themselves worthy of being a member of the organization. In their minds they are worried and excited. Worried that they might not find the veer in time and fail. Excited that they are a part of the few that ventured down these tunnels after a long time.

At first, there was nothing but the silence. But their was a sharp whistling sound that startled Elena. She had little time to react when she was pinned down on the wall by a large clawed hand. She couldn't move her arms to swing her weapon and defend herself. Her eyes widened in panic as she gazed at the being the held her. It was the veer! A large black wolf-like being that towered over her helpless form. Her comrades, who just arrived and witnessed her current state, brandished their weapons ready to free her from the veer's grasp. "Elena!" Charlus yelled as he drew his sword and readied his shield. Elena heard the veer snarl. A warning for them at least.

"Stop! Don't you dare approach! This is our target! Stay your hands and let me speak!" She called out to them. "Adion. Adion we're here to help. We are members of the Obscura Rosa. Our lord, Hadrian, commanded us to assist you in restoring the Song of Tyr. A thousand pardons if we startled you; we were forced to come here in a hurry. Please, Adion. What was said was the truth. We seek nothing from you in providing our services to your quest. Our lord, ordered us to assist. We swear on our marks that what we speak is the truth." The men around her slowly dropped their stances but still had their weapons on hand. Charlus was reluctant to do so in fear for Elena. Everyone hoped that Adion would understand that they truly meant no harm. That what they have said was true.

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While Charlus and Elena were deep within the Under of Tyr, Hadrian and Nala were on their way to Tonule. They, along with a thousand knights bearing the marks of the Obscura Rosa, rode on horseback towards the Millennium Fortress. It took them half of the entire day to reach the outskirts of Tonule by passing through plain lands and the forest routes. Along the journey, he had the time to contemplate. If they reached Tonule, what would happen? Did those fools discovered it already? Can the book be retrieved at all? He shook his head and growled. He hated it when something felt wrong with the entire situation.

"My lord, are you alright?" A muffled voice said to his right. He looked at his right and saw Nala's look of concern. She looked different; everything's the same, but there was a silver mask that covers the lower half of her face. The mask resembled the snout of a snarling wolf. Her hair billowed slightly from the breeze and her posture was alert. She reined her horse closer to his until they rode side by side. "My lord?"

"I am fine, Nala. Do not concern yourself about me." She nodded before looking back on the road. It was a quiet journey. None of them spoke after her inquiry. The men on the other hand whispered with one another about what they'll face. They remembered the reports that Tonule is under the control of the Dark Lord and the Lord of Alzeran. But titles mean nothing to Hadrian's men. To them they are but two men with too much fame and infamy on their names. Two men that are mortal as any other man; that can bleed and die as any other man. Thus they themselves are prepared and alert. Prepared to test the whether these two Lords are what the tales made by the people true; and alert to any surprises that may come upon them.

The sun was near the horizon when Hadrian and Nala knew they were nearing the Millennium Fortress. The reports were true. The walls have crumbled and the ground was covered in ice. The work of a powerful arcanist or the work of a brilliant strategist? In Hadrian and Nala's mind, it was the strategist that deserves the applause. Any man that thought of using Arcane Power in the destruction of an object as large as the walls of the fortress deserves recognition.

"Nala, be on your guard. I have a bad feeling about the entire situation, since our journey across the forest. We must be prepared for anything." Hadrian said as they approached the gates of Tonule.

"Yes, Lord Hadrian." Nala whispered and slowly nodded her head. She steeled herself from the coming storm. She knew, deep down inside, that everything would go down hill in a moment's notice.

Elena stood up as she rubbed her arms to relieve the aches she received from Adion's strong grip. She was glad that the results of their confrontation with Adion did not result to bloodshed. Though now it seems distrust and weariness dominates the air around them. She heard footsteps to her left, she turned and soon she came face to face with Charlus. His face bore a worried expression. "Elena. Elena are you alright?" He reached out and held her in his arms. He inspected her trying to find anything that is wrong with her.

"I'm fine Charlus." She said as she inspected her arms. Bruises were slowly forming from where Adion had gripped her. She quickly hid it from him but she knew he saw it. "Don't worry yourself about trivial matters, Charlus." She gave him a reassuring smile. "I'm a grown woman and a warrior. I can take care of myself."

Charlus looked at her with a stern look. He opened his mouth to say something but closed it. He knew he could trust Elena but seeing her get hurt every time worries him to no end. He sighed and shook his head before giving her a weary smile. "Only you, Elena. I...I trust you. I trust your decisions and I will support you. But if something seriously wrong is about to happen then I will step in."

She smiled at him and ran up to Adion's side. She was then followed by Charlus and their men who followed with their weapons at the ready.

"Hey, Adion. I think we all got off the wrong foot or paw and I, uh, want all of us to begin anew, so to speak. So, hi, my name is Elena, Elena Fairwind-Angelos and this lovable guy is Charlus Vaharian-Angelos." She said while pointing at Charlus. "We're both members of the Obscura Rosa."

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The destruction of the wall, seen near or far, was such as sight. It was a glorious sight from afar. But it was a harrowing and sorrowful sight when close by. Victory in exchange for the lives and homes of many innocents. It was, for Hadrian, a tasteless victory. To shed the blood of the innocent in pursuit of success was a deplorable act. But he couldn't fault the invaders much with regards to the tactics used in taking Tonule. All that he could do was reflect and learn the mistakes and actions done in what the history books would call, "The Battle for Tonule".

Hadrian and his entourage approached the ice encrusted gates in a neat line; with Hadrian and Nala at the front followed by the thousands of knights behind them. Surprisingly, there were no guards guarding the gates at the moment. Hadrian shook his head in dismay. It appears that the men under Dalmar and Ivagio were too complacent. "My Lord, there are no guards at the gate."

Hadrian looked at Nala then back at the gate. "It appears so, Nala. The soldiers here seem to rely on the reputation of their generals alone." Nala nods her head as they continued into the city. They passed by many buildings, some were in relatively good condition while others were destroyed by the debris from the crumbling walls. "Alright, Nala, we are to proceed to the Town Hall as soon as we can. Pray that we reach there without incident."

"Yes, Lord Hadrian. Men, maintain defensive formation." The men behind them quickly rode to formation, ten men surrounding them in a defensive box while the rest stayed in formation with their hands hovering above their blades. The rode through the main streets while garnering some glances and whispers from passers by; though, the majority were focused on living their lives as if nothing has changed.

After a considerable amount of time, they passed by a crowd surrounding two people who are in an argument. Hadrian and his entourage paid no mind to the squabble and continued on. They were so close to their objective. So very close.

It is often said that time slows down for those in desperate situations. Warriors have claimed to have snatched victory from the jaws of defeat during such a phenomena; others are not so lucky and some can only stare helpless ... powerless to do anything but watch tragedy unfold in excruciating detail. For the Dark Lord, the latter was all too true.

By the time Dalmar reached his mentor and father figure it was over. Without remorse the son had cut down the father. The old man lay lifeless upon the ground and all he could do was stare in disbelief. He knew the punishment given to traitors, but this, this was wrong. Xanthom was given no reprieve, no time to explain; he had served The Queen faithfully for many cycles, surely he deserved more than this; to be unceremoniously cut down in an isolated land, by his own flesh and blood? As he stared at the lifeless Xanthom, all emotion drained from his face. The sadness in his eyes slowly faded only to be replaced an quenchable rage. In silence he stood and walked over to the commander and tapped his shoulder.

An explosion of blood erupted from the Master Arcanist as the mailed fist of The Dark Lord smashed into his face; knocking him to the ground. Not giving his former superior a moment to wonder what had happened Dalmar fell upon the fallen knight and seized him by the top of his breastplate shaking him with increasing intensity; slamming his head upon the ground. "Damn you! Damn you! Damn you!"

Acting quickly, Ivagio responded by sending out an unseen force; the pressure so great it sent the silver haired knight flying back a good distance. Getting to his feet, he wiped the blood from his eyes and beheld an unpleasant sight. Dalmar had called his Shadow Knights. Alone, the Captain was no match for him. Even in a test of Arms, Ivagio was the better, but with his knights at his side, The Dark Lord would be a formidable foe. Why the Queen gave him those... abominations was beyond him. Dalmar was a great strategist, but a laughable Captain. On the battlefield, he was no better than a common soldier. Average warrior or not, those damn knights gave him an edge.

Wasting no time, Ivagio decided to level the playing field, by destroying one of the knights; he didn't care which one so long as it was no longer a threat. The first one that moved received a Fireball to the chest.

Dalmar stood facing the Commander, his knights before him. He'd done it now, Ivagio wasn't going to let an attack like that slide. What was he thinking; attacking him like that? He wasn't thinking, that was the problem; now a fight was inevitable. Knowing his chances were slim he decided to focus on defenses. With a single word he could weather the fight with little damage; they'd be even... Before he could speak the word one his knights exploded into dust. ...Unless of course Ivagio was mad enough to destroy the very Shadow Knight he was about to employ.

Ivagio, surprised by the ease at which the Shadow Knight was destroyed, saw the momentary confusion on the Captain's face; who appeared to be himself again. He was about to ready himself for a continued assault when he noticed a change in the environment; Dalmar seem to notice as well.

Like the professionals they were, their attention turned from their fight, to the arrival of the newcomers. The academy taught soldiers to always be aware of their surroundings, the slightest change could mean the difference between death and survival. Dalmar's eyes looked toward the direction of the passing strangers as the crowd began to disperse. With a nod to Ivagio he moved to greet the newcomers, knowing the commander would back him up should things get out of hand.

When he reached the newcomers he greeted them in usual, polite manner. "Greetings, welcome to Tonule. Odd that a city that receives little in the way of visitation would receive so many visitors; and today of all days. Might I ask what your..." A sharp pain racked his body, nearly doubling him over. His body starting to tremble, he fell to his knees. Something was wrong, something was terribly wrong.

While The Dark Lord was staring at the cobbled stoned ground that lay before him. The people of Tonule were staring up at sky that had become ominously dark. Churning clouds illuminated by flashes of light immediately followed by peals of thunder sent many of them fleeing for shelter. With each convulsion from the silver haired captain, the sky became more and more violent. A storm was coming.

>>><><<<

Artimican wasn't as forthcoming as Mirra would have liked, but he did give her enough information to know that Dalmar was not all he appeared. If the elder spoke the truth, not even the Queen knew everything about him. He was dangerous. Despite his charisma and charm there was always an underlying feeling of dis-ease, but she would have never guessed he had such a caustic nature. A chill ran down her spine as she sat back in the cushioned seat. At first she thought it was due to the information, but what was this feeling of dread?

Artimican leapt to his feet with a start; his eyes focused on the window. "By the gods!"

Mirra's eyes widened in shock when she beheld the sky. "Artimican, what is happening?"

The old man stood trembling as he stared out the window; his lips quivering, stumbling over the words, "It's too soon. It's too soon."

Mirra stood up, rushed over to the old man, grabbed his shoulders and spun him around. "Snap out of it! What is happening? What do you mean, it's too soon. Artimican?!"

The old man stared at her before stammering out, "The Queen.. You must inform her majesty immediately! He must be stopped before it is too late!"

Mirra wasted no time as rushed down the hall to the Queen's chamber. Her path was clear of any obstacles; the ominous looking sky holding their undivided attention. When she reached the queen's chambers, she burst through the door and found dark haired woman awake, alert and dressed for battle. Her armor was almost identical to Dalmar's, but where his was black and silver, hers was Ivory White and Gold. Unlike the Dark Lord, she wore a helm that bore silver wings. "You're Majesty!"

"I'm well aware of what is happening Mirra. Five days. It was supposed to have been five days from now. How could I have been so far off?"

"You're Majesty?"

"No I wasn't wrong. ...Somebody fucked up." The Queen hardly paid attention to Mirra as she spoke. The next words were completely alien to the crimson haired aide. "Esthra, Vagu, Mordra, Tonule." With words spoken an image of the Kingdom City appeared before them. Through the portal they could see Lord Ivagio, a woman in green standing close to him and The Dark Lord; no longer a moniker, but a terrifying reality. "While I'm gone, you are in charge." With her last words, The Queen stepped through the portal and the scene vanished.

>>><><<<

Father Lucius, stood outside in full regalia as he ushered in citizens seeking shelter. "Come children. Come inside, all are welcome. Come and pray for safety and guidance."
No longer a mere curator, the church no longer a museum; he hoped he could bring these people peace in these clear times of trouble, but the feeling in the air that permeated the entire kingdom was an overwhelming one. It weighed heavily upon him and those he saw entering the cathedral; a terrible feeling of loss, despair and hopelessness.

>><><<

Lynova stepped on the coble stone streets of Tonule, the wind whipping through her hair. It appeared to be coming from all directions, both cold and warm. The clouds boiled above as lighting streaked and forked across the sky. Looking around she saw people fleeing for shelter, others could only stare, to paralyzed to move. With sternness and determination she marched toward her no doubt puzzled, possibly terrified commander. "Lord Ivagio!" She called over the howling wind. "What in the Abyss happened here?!"

<><><><>

All things come to pass, what is written can not be undone. Darkness fell upon the Kingdom of Etriny. Through that darkness shined a light of hope. The Chosen were urged to act as visions took shape within.

To the Noble Veer who had heeded the call with steadfastness and expediency, an image of an Onyx Archway formed within his mind. His companions he could take with him, but here he must stand alone.

A Man in Volstack, a man outside the law beheld the visage of Falls of Molten Fire. Beyond he would find his destiny, but the purifying fires held many obstacles.

A young man lost within himself and the dying forest around him saw the visage of a magnificent stag. Fleet of foot with agility and grace. Perhaps it will lead him to a sacred place.

For the acting Queen, it was a home long forgotten. A place to reconnect with past and present, where destiny awaits within a Prison of Ice.

A scholar bearing witness to the signs of catastrophe, saw an ancient library beneath an observatory, but the halls of knowledge are not all they appear, perhaps looking within will make the way clear.

A man filled with anger in a crumbling city saw the image of a stone king. Through stealth the ancient king would grant him entrance, but to seek the light within he must travel through darkness, where madness awaits.