Lion El' Johnson's Story

Johnson was quite as he kept moving alongside the horses that were trotting along side of him. His eyes glanced around him to make sure that everything was how it should be. He was on his way to the capital of the Kingdom of Ethene. It was a kingdom not too far from where the Order’s primary city was. Normally someone less important would have aided there kingdom but due to the personal request of the king to watch over and try to make sure that this “New Religion” was not going to be problematic Johnson himself master of the Order decided he would go.
Johnson gripped his sword in his hand and scowled. He knew that was just an excuse he was using to justify getting close to this religion. Luther his best friend, his brother, his father, the one he trusted most in this world had been converted and left the Order to go on some sort of holy passage. Johnson would not stand for such a thing. If he found it needed to bring his brother back to the order he would destroy this religion with the full force of the Order. His brow lowered as he felt anger start to build within him at the thought of Luther being controlled in such a way.
An old but strong voice broke the silence that had hung in the air. “Calm down Grand Master. I know you are eager to be done with this and to have lord Luther come back to the order but we must play this smart and plan out what we will do.”
To Johnson’s left was a old bulky man. He had a set of black full plate armor on and had a one handed axe on his hip. There was a shield on his back that held the symbol of the Order, the winged lion. The man’s name was Goven, the third oldest member of the Order whose age was around fifty and a very skilled warrior. His body was not as powerful as it use to be but his mind was one of the sharpest in the Order.
“He is right my lord. I know of you worry but Luther is a man who can take care of himself. He was our second best warrior after you. Even if he has been convinced that some crazy magic was the power of god or gods or whatever it is they worship he is smart enough to handle himself.” The second voice was from a young man who looked to be around twenty. His name was Azrial. He was a talented young man who although his time spend in the Order was not long had proven to be an exceptional knight who was good at fighting off bandits and hunting monsters equally.
Johnson released his grip on his sword and let out a breath. Johnson disliked it but they were right. He was a bit annoyed at the same time for he was reminded of something that he had been hoping to forget about. He turned his eyes back to see the other eighteen men who were on horseback behind him. Despite his protest the Order’s elders had insisted that this mission was dangerous and that he needed men who could trust and could rely upon. Although normally he would like to work alone he agreed that he needed a few men. But of course those old men decided to send two full squad’s of their best men to accompany him; they were all veterans who have hunted at least one great beast.
The problem was Johnson was worried about leaving the order with so many good men, although they were the most powerful knightly order around there was still a chance some of the lesser ones would team up to try and attack when they were gone.
The troop of men got to the top of the hill they had been climbing. And there they saw it. The capital city, in all of its glory.
Johnson did not care about the beauty of city. Johnson simply began to walk though the capital city towards the castle. He would first need to meet the king then the high priest who will be the one he must watch over. AS he walked though the town many of the town’s people came out and watched him and his dark knights. It was clear though that most of the eyes were on his back. As he looked around there were a few eye’s that looked at him with awe but most seemed to fear him. These were the stairs he had received all his life.
He soon found himself at the Castle Gate. The Castle build was still as grand as the first time he had seen it. Yet its beauty was lost on him had he been in a better mood he may have taken some time to study the architecture.
“Stay her men and wait for my return” Johnson ordered his men as he entered the castle.

Beyond the labyrinth of hallways, the endless sea of well placed gaurds, and the annoying question that many of the servants would toss at any passerby "How may I be of assistance?", was the Throne Room. This celestial room was the center of the palace and just as one expected was where the King would be seated. It was also where Elisa receded at for the time being, debating with the King.

The King of Ethene was, if for lack of words, a bit young and this was where perhaps most of the problems in the kingdom arose. He had the best intent and was very proud, the scar on his left cheek and neck, which he had earned in battle, were a testament to his bravery and his willingness to fight for his people. He however was just beginning to grasp the over complicated cloak and dagger interactions that his Lords and Nobles would constantly interact in, placing themselves over the people. On top of that he had very little insight into the Church which partook in this to an extent and thus whilst he was trying his best to manage the Kingdom, he could use assistance. Perhaps a better advisor would work. Regardless, this lad sat mighty and proud at his Throne and looked down at the woman that was causing so much commotion in his kingdom. Elisa, the lady in question, did not seem intimidated to be in this place, before this King. She stood there, as beautiful as the day she arrived in his domain, as if she belonged there. The Priestess had a calm and collected look to herself that at the same time came off as a challenge to the King and he would not be idle whilst this occurred.

"Pagan, you have caused alot of ripples in my Kingdom.", the boy King commenced. "There are only two things that reach my ears, Priestess...".

"Is this why you cannot hear the pleas of your own starving people or does that crown need refitting, I do believe it should sit on your head not dangle over your ears.". Elisa fired back, the Guards and those present holding back gasps of shock.

The King remained calm though it was clear that this comment and interruption annoyed him. Elisa however pressed on. "Your Highness please do continue, I do not bite. You have a very full plate with all that is going on. You should thank Him for sending me and in turn making your load lighter.".

"Do not think that I am warming up to your faith simply because I have permitted you to walk in here. Vladar is and will forever be the dominant God that is praised in these halls, in this Kingdom. ".

"Than why have you summoned me , M'liege if not to save your soul from this lie that is Vladar?".

A man walked into room and cleared his throat, grabbing their attention.

"Your Highness, Sir Lion El Johnson has arrived.".

Johnson made his way through the halls heading directly for the throne room. On his way there he began to hear the king’s voice arguing with someone else. Although he did not know the voice it was a woman’s voice. He was still a ways off but do to how easy sound traveled within these halls and his advanced hearing he could at least make out that they were arguing about something.

As Johnson finally made his way into the throne room he saw the young king arguing with a woman clad in white robes with golden trim. The woman could only be two people; the first would be a lady from some Nobel house whom he would be married but it did not seem that way. With the fist idea eliminated it was more likely that this woman was Elisa, the leader of the new cult.
A man announced Johnson’s arrival as he walked into the room. The man hardly came up to Johnson’s shoulder along with most of the other guards. The two stopped arguing with one another as they turned their attention unto him.
The boy king had a small smile come across his face as he saw the fabled lion El’ Johnson come into the room. “Lord Lion El’ Johnson, Master of the Order and Hunter of monsters and slayer of the largest beast to have been known to walk the land. It is good to see you” He said in the hardiest voice he could muster.
Johnson paused before the stairs that lead up to the throne. Most men would bow here but The Lion bowed before no men. He simply gave a light tilt of his head “King Altin it is good to see that you are in good health. As you have requested, I have come to lead the escort of the pilgrimage. I have brought several of my finest warriors along to aid in however many forces you have deemed necessary for protecting your good people.” The lion spoke softly yet firmly to the king.

The boy looked at the lion with admiration. “I thank you for accepting our request, for I do worry as the larger amount of people whom take this….” The King paused for a moment then spoke “Pilgrimage...” He said the words with distain and gave a glare with anger to the woman standing next to him who had been quite while the two of them spoke then resumed his speech “That they come to more and more danger.”
The boy kings eye’s went once more to the Lion and meet his for a moment, it was just for a second but the message was clear. They two of them had met once before and it was clear that if it were possible removing this woman would be a great boon to him and if it was possible, to bring back his people to his kingdom . The boy however young did care for his people and was passionate about their well being. If the boy had been a bit younger and willing he would have taken him into the order for training.
Johnson deiced that if this mission was to go well, he would come back and mentor the boy to be a proper king and to see if he could make him be the first kingdom to aid in cause to unify the known world under one banner. Yet that was for a latter time. For now he had to deal with the mission before him, to save Luther and find a way to remove the woman. After all Religion was a powerful weapon that can sway the masses.
“Do not fear king Altin for I shale guard them well.” The lion spoke at the woman trying to get a better understanding of her from the way she stood.
The boy king moved his hand over towards the woman “This is Elisa, she is the head of the pilgrimage and will be working closely with you.”
Johnson looked over to the woman “It is a pleasure to meet you; I will be your protector during the duration of this pilgrimage, let us work well together.”

The town was alive and bustling, marketers shouting left and right as the White Priestess made her way through the bustling streets. Life was active; the street buzzing in a flurry of movement and color. The houses on either side had their windows thrown open, airing out the mysterious disease that had started to choke the life of the capitol. As Haru made her way deeper into the castle walls she noticed that the street slowly became cleaner, the air clearer and the smell better. She soon found that she could remove her hand from around her nose and mouth, green eyes blinking open in amazement as she finally stumbled her way into the market. The smell of baked goods and cooked meats flooded her nostrils and a sudden wetness flew into her mouth. Haru blushed and took another deep whiff of the air, her mouth again responding as well as her growling stomach. She would have to visit whomever was creating such a masterpiece of smell after she had checked around the other stalls, she thought as she began to move to the left. Weapons masters were gathered in the square, gathering crowds only to send them off to where their forges and shops were. Women sold beads and jewels. One vender was selling herbs and potion making materials, his harsh bark echoing out as he held up a red liquid. Haru stopped for a moment along with some of the other shoppers, their baskets filled with trinkets and other anomalies. This ‘Potion Master’ claimed he had the elixir to youth, taken from Elisa herself. Haru laughed, turning away after a while and heading further up the street, past the inner wall and closer to the smell that was leading her on.



After a while she came to a stop outside a house that belonged to a well-known member of the New Religion and a very good friend of Haru’s. With a small knock she opened the door, allowing herself inside. There she was greeted by a maid, the women smiling as she led the way to where the family was gathered.
“Hello Nakatashi,” she said softly as the man, dressed very formally, rose from his seat and quickly motioned for another seat to be brought in. Though hunger had long since left her body, the scent of rabbit still made her body quiver in delight and sent her mind whirring. Warm rabbit leg, smeared with butter and rosemary, cooked so that the meat would melt tenderly in her mouth. Or rabbit stew, filled with bits of finely sliced meat, cooked to ribbons and boiled with carrots, potatoes, rosemary, celery, and potatoes. Had she already thought about potatoes? Or rabbit liver, drizzled in marrow sauce and with a side of hot potatoes sprinkled in cheese. Add milk, maybe a splash of mead. Parsley. Mix it with freshly slaughtered venison. Her stomach lurched. She wanted it. Just a nibble. Just a tiny mouthwatering nibble.

“How is the White Priestess?” he asked, pushing in her chair behind her as she took her seat opposite of his wife, “Any news from the north?”

“Everything is alright,” she said, watching as he made his way back to the head of the table, motioning again as his servants rushed forward to place a plate and silverware in front of her, “We have a couple of new converts even in the guards stationed on the lines. I was able to heal a couple of men when I was there. But it’s still too early to tell who might win the war.”

“As it is with all wars my dear,” he said, raising his glass to his lips. Liquid, red as blood, stained his lips as he lowered the glass, earthy eyes locked onto her face as the afternoon meal was placed before her. One deep sniff told her she had been right about it being rabbit. However, she hadn’t expected a small tart to be placed on her plate. Her brow quirked, her mouth watering as she picked up her fork and cut into the flaky golden crust. Steam rose from the insides, spilling out onto her plate with an array of orange, green, gold and white.

“Carrots, peas, corn, a few onions and garlic,” he answered lazily, popping another bite into his mouth. Haru didn’t hesitate and before he had finished swallowing she had taken her first bite. It was like heaven. The gravy spilled like fire over her tongue, the soft pop of peas and corn flooding her mouth with a new flush of taste. The meat melted like butter on her tongue and the onions left a sharp crisp on her breath as the crust cleared her pallet and left her lips parted in a soft moan. It was so elegant she had to take a second bite, the same results driving her to ooze down into her seat as her host chuckled.

“I take it you haven’t eaten in a while.”

“Not like this,” Haru giggled, eyes flashing as her tongue ran soft along her lips, “Is that thyme and rosemary?”

“You’ve got an intriguing sense of taste,” he said with an approving nod, his eyes smiling as she dug into the rest of her pie like a starving creature. “Such delicacies can only be found within one’s own home now a days. What, with this war and now this plague. People are in distress. Vladar should be long dead in a few months’ time. I’m honestly surprised that he’s survived this long.

It is a sad thing to see one lost like a sheep among wolves. Such is the way with the Old Religion. Don’t worry my White Priestess. I will take good care of you in the times to come. After all you have done so much for me. You showed this family the light, the truth of Elisa’s words. Well, I admit we were fools to doubt her in the first place after she’d smitten my son so, but now, it is no wonder. All women of the New Religion are gifted with such beauty. If only I hadn’t been so blind in Vladar’s false light. Perhaps I could have,” here he paused, looking over Haru with hungry eyes, “Alas, it is too late for me.”

“It’s never too late,” Haru said with a small lick of her lips, her inner child showing as she licked each of her fingers, the pie too good to waste, “You must move on, to live anew and treat each day as your last.”

“Indeed.”

Haru smiled, pushing back her chair as she rose, rinsing her hands in the bowl provided. Then, she pulled on her gloves, pulling them up past her elbow as her nose wrinkled as she smiled. Her cheeks flushed, eyes fluttering down under long black eyelashes as she looked down at the empty plate.

“Speaking of our Lady, may I bring her one?”

“Of course. Take as many as you desire.”



Haru nodded and turned her back, heading briskly towards the kitchen where she found dessert as well. Strawberries and cream were a much welcomed treat and soon the chefs had packed her a basket full of the rabbit pot pie tarts and a bowl of fresh strawberries. Haru waved, lips stained red from the berries as she turned and made her way up towards the castle walls. People stopped as she walked past, waving as she smiled back, stride confident. Whispers of the White Priestess had begun to spread here in the castles inner walls, the most protected place of the structure so it was no oddity that the guards posted at the gate recognized her from afar.

“Priestess!”

“Hello Alfonse, Eric,” she said with a wave, their heads bowing softly as they turned to follow her deeper inside. Almost immediately their places were taken by two slightly nervous newcomers as Haru laughed. “New people?”

“Of course Priestess,” Eric said with a small chuckle, moving to walk alongside Haru before jumping on ahead like an escort. Both Eric and Alfonse were converts of Haru’s, their loyalty to the King as well as to the New Religion. They were, perhaps, the greatest assets she had ever converted, that is if converting people were meant to be strategic. Now the two gate guards were happy to let her in and out as much as she pleased, whereas before it was always a fight to reach the inner sanctum. Eric took a sudden turn, leading Haru towards the back doors and to her favorite place, the stables. Horses had always been Haru’s favorite animal. Their big soft eyes and velvety noses was something she had fallen for as a child, while today Haru recognized the power and beauty behind their strides and great muscles. Horses whickered from the stables, their musky smell filling her nose as she paused a moment to take it in. Though she’d never been lucky enough to actually own or ride on a mount, she was overly hopeful that one day she would find herself on the back of one of these magnificent beasts.



Haru let out a little sigh. One day. With a cheerful grin she again took up stride beside Eric and Alfonse, their blatant chatter going in one ear and out the other as she walked. The halls inside the palace were somewhat familiar as her eyes wondered over the magnificent floors and beautiful pieces of artwork. Each step was more stunning than the last and quietly Haru mused if she would ever be able to find herself living in a place such as this. Eric brushed against her shoulder, grabbing her arm as he gently steered her in a different direction.

“She’s in the throne room Priestess,” Alfonse added, watching with a small laugh as her eyes went wide, “Don’t worry. You’ll be just fine.”

The doors opened and Eric entered briskly behind her, taking on a more serious stance as he stepped forward.

“The White Priestess, Haru is here for her Lady Elisa as her companion,” he announced, nudging Haru forward as she did a little curtsy in front of the king before nearly skipping all the way to Elisa. She was so regal, so beautiful and commanding in the way that she held her own presence, a gilded lady. There was another man in the room. Armor as black as night. The man towered well above anyone’s head, including her own. Her lips parted in a small gasp, eyes widening as she had to nearly crane her neck back to look into the man’s face. His blonde hair fell against the back of the armor in such a striking contrast that it was nearly impossible for her to take her eyes from the color of his hair and his skin. Could he break a tree in half, she wondered, closing her jaw with a click as she remembered her place and turned towards the boy king.

“Sorry for interrupting, my King,” she said quickly, bowing her head in acknowledgement, “I was healing some of your sick soldiers and lost track of time. Priestess—”

“The White Priestess, yes. I’ve heard much about you,” he answered back almost too sharp, Haru flinching slightly as she pulled the basket full of food against her chest, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to come off so harsh Priestess.”
His tone softened and Haru’s lip stopped quivering, her eyes blinking away the little tears welling at the corners as she gave a small respectful nod. The boy king smiled.

“You have done much in the name of this kingdom though in the name of a false god,” he added softly, eyes twinkling, “Thank you.”

“If I may, your majesty,” Haru blushed, blinking quietly, “be so bold as to point out that false knowledge is more dangerous than ignorance.”

For a moment the room went silent, at first there was little movement as all eyes flicked to the boy king as he rocked back in his chair, placing a hand under his chin as a small twinkle caught his eye.

“You know,” he said, smiling, “My father used to say that all the time.”

“He was a wise man,” Haru said with a smile as the king looked over her once more before shifting his weight forward again.

“I was just talking to Elisa and the Lion here about the next journey. Are you going?”

“I—I hope that I will, my king. For the past few years Elisa has refused me.”

“Refused her? Why on earth would you do that Priestess? By far the White Priestess has the best name in your religion. Is there some,” he paused, a small smirk on his lips as his eyes flashed, “reason, that you wish that she stay behind? How many times has she refused you?”

“I’ve been with her for four years, my lord.”

“Four years! Come now,” he exclaimed, “Surely something this beautiful deserves to see her god like all the others. Why do you keep refusing her company, Priestess? Is it because it’s too dangerous?”

“No!”

The king stopped, his eyes flickering back to Haru as she blushed.

“N-no my king. See, only those who are truly devoted get to make the journey. I hadn’t offered myself fully to Him. Not yet. Therefore I wasn’t ready. Priestess Elisa knew this and so she denied me so that I would become a better person, I hold no ill will towards the denials.”

“I see,” the boy king frowned, “But what about this year, White Priestess? You are widely recognized around these parts.”

“I will ask High Priestess Elisa in private if I may accompany her on this year’s pilgrimage. Then, if you so desire, I can report back to you,” Haru said with a small blush.

“I don’t see why not. Though I would like to know now….”

Elisa looked at the lumbering mountain that stood next to her, the one whom King Altin called the Lion. A small but unnoticed grin made it to her face as she inspected this giant of a man and a whisper only she could spoke to her as she proceeded.

"Your Majesty, He thanks you for these men. They shall be saved and given the honor of seeing His Shrine. One day you too will come before Him but this day is not today, though it is fast approaching.".

Elisa had a certain soothe to her voice as she spoke, a soothe that attracted all present in the room. It wasn't natural, but one could not decipher whether this came from the goodness of her Lord or from something darker. "Lion. It is a pleasure to meet you. If I'm not mistaken, one of your Order has already been 'enlightened'...".

 There was a break in her voice when she said enlightened and the small frail woman who was now turned so her whole body faced the Lion, if only for an instant, did not seem so...so...Good. Yet her appearance remained unchanged, her demeanor and how she presented herself unaltered. If one noticed, or sensed the change, it would have caused their hairs to stand up straight. Perhaps this is why some of the Guards shuffled in place and readjusted themselves. What was the reason for this?

"You and your men will make a fine addition to our party, however I have all the protection I need. Still I will not deny the King's gift to my God.".

Haru had entered the room, Elisa ' s smile lessened to a a small frown as she watched Haru react to the King's initial harshness. The White Priestess was a useful member of the New Religion and Elisa never really found an issue with her, it was merely convenient to leave her behind. Afterall, while the Shepherd is away, the sheep are left without guidance. It displeased her even more when her and the King begun to discuss this before her but she kept this to herself for now, making note of how friendly the King was to Haru.

"Your Majesty...", she begun. "I know you have heard of my and Haru 's healings... Perhaps we could help the soldiers in the_".

 "No. I will not let you preach your lies to my men in the front lines.". The King replied sternly, seeming firm on his decision.

 Elisa chuckled and approached the King, being sure to keep a respectable distance. Her eyes fixed on his and she spoke again.  "You are getting ahead of yourself, Altin. I could heal your wounded of all their ailments... Certainly such would be an advantage...".

Her words were soft and soothing, a tad more hushed than normal but still audible to those present. There was something about her eyes, about her voice, that seemed to change when she spoke. She seemed so innocent, so frail, and yet her she was pulling invisible strings to see if the Boy King would dance.

"Hmmm...I'll consider it, Pagan but It will have to wait till you return.".

Elisa bowed and walked back to Haru, grabbing the girl in a tight embrace and kissing her forhead. "I missed you, little one.". Her words were whispered and her voice was motherly. "We shall speak in the Temple, in my chambers... ".

"If that is all, your Majesty, I would very much like to return to the Temple. Sir Lion should also come in case someone makes an attempt on my life while I'm there.".

As the high priestess spoke Johnson watched her carefully, his eye’s watching every breath she took, every slight shift in her stance and they way she moved her lips. When she first began to speak he thought he had missed something, but even with his heightened hearing he could not make it out.

As the priestess spoke, albeit a light comment, she spoke of one who had converted from his order. The lion had t make a strong effort not to reach for the hilt of his sword which as the anger in him grew. With his face motionless he thought [i]“This witch, she is no human, at least not fully, without any doubt she must have been the one to sway Luther, no other could hope to-”[i]

The lion’s thoughts were cut off as she shifted herself to face him, it was only for a second but in that second Johnson felt his instincts yell at him from the core of his body that there was something horridly wrong with this woman and that she was dangerous. Few times has he felt this, during his fist hurt for a grand beast, and the one time he fought a master beast the grand lion. Even with his calm composure his neck hairs stood on end.

Suddenly lion felt the urge to look down. There was a young woman there, who had somehow gotten behind him without his notice. The young lady was completely clad in white clothing, which matched her long hair. Her bangs lightly covered her green eyes. She had a light frame but was overall a beautiful woman.

The young lady stared at him for a few seconds, as her jaw fell a little as she observed him. He was not sure whether or not she was afraid or just surprised at him. The girl quickly closed her mouth and gave her greetings.

As she spoke to the others it was clear that this girl was the high priestess right hand woman. Shame. Johnson felt like she was a very worm person. If this event got sour he would hate to half to destroy this young woman’s life.

King Altin, high priestess Elisa and priestess Haru talked amongst themselves for a while and it seems that Haru had been left out of the previous trips but was to be included in this one.

Then the priestess Elisa requested that she may take her leave and requested that he guide her back to her temple. He looked to the king. “You may take your leave, and Johnson if it does not bother you please … escort the priest back to her temple. You two may make whatever arrangements needed for the trip. “
“As you ask King Altin” He said and began to walk out with the priestess.

For the moment that Elisa pulled Haru close against her chest, Haru smiled. Everything in her world had become perfect in that moment as she dropped the basket against the ground in order to return the embrace. Her body instinctively curled into the Priestess, arms around her neck as she averted eye contact and received a kiss upon the forehead.

“I missed you Priestess,” Haru hurriedly blurted, her eyes rising to meet the Priestess’ as Elisa spoke too. Haru blushed, muttering an apology as she took a small step backwards with a small smile on her face, eyes fearful. She knew the tone of voice that Elisa took. Elisa’s voice was dripping with the secret venom that Haru had come to recognise. To the others it was a sweet as honey, loving, tender and motherly, but she knew better. Had she displeased the High Priestess? Perhaps she had been in the wrong coming here, or bringing up her absence from the trips to the high king. That had now forced Elisa to bring her. Did that mean that she had plans to leave her behind once again? She bit her lip and blinked away the tears threatening to well into her eyes and swallowed the lump inside her throat as her she forced a small smile. She bowed towards the young king as they were dismissed, dipping her head as hair fell across her face. Haru stooped to pick up the basket, folding it in the crook of her arm as she then turned to follow Elisa and the Lion. Unlike she had planned, Haru did not run forward to cling to the arm of Elisa. Rather, she hung back from the High Priestess as she took up stride next to the Lion.

“So…you’re coming with us then? Having someone like you along is marvelous. Not that there’s anything, you know, special about you. I mean, you’re special, but…” she blushed a bright crimson and offered a strawberry, stumbling over her words as she managed to blurt out, “People know me as the White Priestess but you can call me Haru.”



Oh the embarrassment. Though she was worried about what Elisa might say to her later she rushed forward, head bowed as she stopped beside the Priestess with a small huff. She couldn’t help herself. The Lion was massive! It was hard not to be intimidated by his size, but his stonewall face made her even more uncomfortable. As she fell in stride with Elisa she couldn’t help but to smile again, beaming softly as she slipped her free hand into Elisa’s. Her green eyes blinked at the face of the Priestess, her hand gently squeezing hers.

“I got us food. Rabbit tarts and strawberries and cream,” she chirped happily, nearly skipping with happiness.

A fowl stench in the air. It reeks of disease and death, and yet so close to the outside walls of the city. A mere town with a hastily built wooden wall around it to keep them from getting out without permission but it fails to capture the moans of the dying from escaping the man-made hell. Of course, it has been so long since Humphrey has been in-country that he has had the pleasure of nearly forgetting about this plague. The worst part about it is he and the other paladins can only sit back and watch as those infected suffer. No amount of Vladar's grace can cure this thickness of disease. It appears only Vladar's forgiveness upon his followers can halt what has caused so much suffering. But tell that to some of the paladins and it may get them all worked up about it again. You can only wonder...did Ethene really fall away from him that much to deserve this?
The grand master pulls back on the reins of his horse and the horse slows to a stop next to the door.
"Put your helmets on and grab some gloves. I want to visit him."
One of the younger paladins with gear like Humphrey's speaks up, "Sir, he was kind of bad last time. Do you-..." The man pauses, clearly having a hard time talking about the subject. "..You don't think he's-..."
"He's one o' the toughes' men I' ever known and the most passionate, goin' in there on 'is own will's proof o' that", the veteran paladin replies. The grand master chimes in, "He's right. The man's always been there for people and he wouldn't simply leave without doing what he set out t' do. Vladar bless him for it."
After properly covering up with gloves and every piece of armor they have for any divine protection they can muster, the guards hesitantly open the door and let the holy warriors through before shutting it immediately after, clearly fearful of the plague's wrath. Normally, paladins are greeted with happy smiles and looks of awe but all that awaits them are empty faces of broken hearts and spirits. Only but a few look their way before going back to their business and suffering. The party of five approach a shack, barely fit for a bum, let alone someone who chose to come in here.
"Give us some privacy," the grand master commands. "Conway, Riley, you're with me."
The two younger paladins take positions on both sides of the entrance way, covered by a simple ripped cloth, while the three most seasoned enter. Inside is nothing but filth and a bucket of dirty water next to a bed. On it, lays a particularly sick looking man. In the corner to the immediate right of the entrance lays a full set of a paladin's coat of plates. The veteran paladin with normal armor decorations, called Riley, leans against the wall next to the inside of the doorway while the grand master flanked by Humphrey approaches the sick man.
In a quiet voice, the bedridden initiates the traditional greeting of the holy knights.
"How goes the struggle, sir?"
"The world still troubles," the grand master smiles underneath his helmet but it slowly fades when the man in the bed does not say the final third of the greeting, 'may Vladar's will be done'. The ailed paladin was once a tall, prominent man with a handsome, colorful face. A proud lad of much virtue and valor, barely two years older than Humphrey, now a pathetic sight to see. His once long, flowing, blonde hair a darker, sickly color. The holy magic white strands in his hair a poor grey. All that seems untouched is a single, small group of golden hair strands. It is clear he has not had a shave in a while. What used to be a well-groomed mustache has turned into a patchy goatee and beard of rogue hairs, all the way down to the middle of his pale neck.
"I still manage work as a local healer but...as you can imagine, all I can do for the sick is give last rights."
"Good to hear, son", the old man assures. "I'm glad to hear your health has improved then. Any news? Have there been any cured of their plague since my last visit?"
The sick paladin goes to speak but gets thrown into a coughing fit and pulls another bucket from under his bed before hurling into it.
"Aylmer!", The grand master worriedly exclaims.
When Aylmer finishes his business, he goes for the bucket of dirty water and attempts to get a ladle-full but the paladin of black markings pulls it away and thrusts it into Humphrey's chest. "Here! Have one of the men out front get Abel some actual water to drink!"
Somewhat thrown off by the sudden order, Humphrey blinks and hurries to the entrance before handing the bucket over to one of them and ordering him to go grab some fresh water 'and hurry up about it!' When he returns to the grand master's side, Sir Abel Aylmer has already begun to answer the previous question.
"Yes, in fact a lot more than previous visits of your's-"
"Vladar be praised," Riley adds from the corner.
"N-..N-no, t'was not all Vladar's doing...T'was the Pagan Priestess that paid a visit." If any eyes were somewhere else in the room, they are on the sick man now.
"She came in without any protection to at least prevent the plague from infecting her for a little while. No blessed clothing or armor of any kind. She wasn't like us at all...yet people flocked to her and were instantly cured...I-..I don't understand, sir." But then his face seems to change to a more grim expression.
"She-...I heard she gave off a unique signature to those with the gift of sense but..I never thought it would feel so different, so foreign-so...off..she offered to heal me too but I refused. I will not turn my back on my god so easily and even if I wanted to be cured, I would only stay here where I am needed most anyway..." Then his expression becomes very serious.
"Hear me, oh Sir Eric Fay, Grand Master of The Holy Knights Jude Order, and Bringer of Light, do not-"
Suddenly, one of the young paladins come in with a bucket of somewhat less-dirty water.
"-I got the water, but it's-"
"-NOT-FUCKIN'-NOW!"
Riley practically shoves the lad back through the cloth and outside before returning to his spot by the entrance.
...Continuing on, Abel looks back up at his grand master.
"...don't ever have anyone of my brothers interact with her. She's a bad omen in herself and won't bring anything for your men but trouble."
Underneath his helmet, Fay cannot help but hold a worried expression.
"Don't worry, lad. You just get your rest now."
"Iye, sir..."
"Bring in his water, we're leaving."
Riley opens the curtain and peeks out.
"You! Aylmer wants 'is water! The freakin' hell you doin' out there?!"

As everyone makes their way toward the exit, Humphrey presses forward to Grand Master Fay's side.
"Sir, I know the king is not our master, but-"
"-Let me make something clear for you," the old man interrupts. "I know how close His Holiness is to the king. If we were to deny a request from the king about a matter like this, we would surly get an order for it from the sistirio himself within the next day. So, I won't have you stay back. But we don't want Sir Aylmer to know that, for his position is already bad enough as it is without worrying about one of his brothers."
Humphrey nods and falls back.
"Yes, sir."
At the same time, the younger paladin that did not bring the water approaches closer to Riley.
"Brother, I thought your bad eye's on your right side? What were you doing on the left side of the room?"
Riley simply responds with, "Iye, I' seen enough pain t' know what it's gonna look like. I don' need to look a' ol' Abel t' know what he's feelin'..."

------------------------

The five paladins approach the gate. As usual, one of the guards dressed in their armor and wielding a halberd approach the group of horsed men.
"Good afternoon, Sir Fay, what business have you in the capital?"
"I've business with His Majesty, King Altin himself", says the lead paladin.
"Very well, sir."
The guard looks up at the wall and calls up.
"OPEN THE GATE!"
From above, another voice shouts "Open the gate!" and further yelling, though barely audible, from the inside of the wall before the cranking of gears and rattling of chains can be heard as the gate begins to lift. It has been a while since Humphrey has walked through these walls. While they are not home to him like Tonner Castle is to the paladins of his order, there is a small chapter house here for the Knights of Jude to do business within the capital and that at least provides some familiar feelings for him. As the five men ride through town, the majority of the people they pass stop what they are doing for a couple seconds when they see who it is and then go back to their work while most of the male children continue to look up in awe at the decorated, heavy plate armor and large weapons. Once more, a statement of business and a trail of orders and the inner gate opens once again to reveal the capitol building and palace for the king, as well as His Holiness, the sistirio, all in one...as well as a foreign feeling to the gifted sense. Riley speaks up about it first.
"You all feel that?"
It is the feeling of an unusual smell or coming home and hearing an unfamiliar voice inside.
"What is that?", asks Humphrey as he squints forward. Before he can see what it is however, the grand master gives a calm answer, though his vocal signature is clearly different from usual.
"Lady Elisa, otherwise known as 'The Pagan Priestess'."
As the two groups close in on one another, the three most prominent people can be more easily identified. Two priestesses and...quite obviously, a large group of knights from the Dark Angel Order. From Humphrey's travel's he has heard of their grand master being as tall as a volcano and twice as strong but he never expected the far-fetched rumors to be...well, this close to literal. While Sir Fay and Sir Riley keep eyes front, Humphrey and the two younger paladins cannot help but glance over. One of the younger ones even cannot stop himself from staring at the giant of the man. As they pass, it seems only Humphrey notices the two women leading the group, as if it is Sir El' Johnson creating the unusual spiritual signature.
Most prominent is the woman in colors matching the paladins' own. Obviously the one giving off this, now stronger than ever, feel. Her skin far too soft to be that of anyone over 25, with eyes as blue as the Western-most oceans and hair as golden as the legendary paladins of old in the stories told to children while being rocked to sleep. Behind her walks a little flower of a girl, with-..
...dear Vladar, where are the rest of her cloths?
Her hair a beautiful, solid silver-white color and wide, very curious looking eyes of blue-or is it lavender? A very odd color to say the least. Her overall look has the appearance of a human with elvish qualities. A half-breed? Or is she simply a human with those ever-so feminine features? As for that blade on her belt...Sir Lion's blade is unique but this...
...Is it some type of saber? The hilt and handle do not match that of a typical saber and they seem to align with the shoulder of the blade instead of it curving down and then up.
WAIT-NO! I have been looking at it upside down, that's a rhomphaia!...I think..What's a weapon like a rhomphaia doing around here anyway?
As Humphrey attempts to comprehend what a katana is, the paladin grand master bids, "Good afternoon ladies. Sir El' Johnson."

Oberon

It was quiet at the gates of the city. The guards of the western gate had mostly been bored for the past week as most of the guests came in through the other entrances due to their positioning near the central castle. Westward there was less roads, more monsters, and definitely not a lot coming by to enter. For most of the men stationed here, they were happy to get anything coming by and thus, was the fate that they were given on this day.

Oberon had walked briskly through the night, unfazed from outside eyes, but still somewhat slow in his usual movements. The Tyralin had little patience for games, and he was hoping that these guards would let him through quickly.

Unfortunately for him, the bored guards weren't keen on letting him leave soon.

"State your business, stranger." a voice said near the right of the gate. From his thoughts, Oberon detected curiosity, nervousness, and excitement. It would make sense; his garbs were absolutely unfamiliar except to his own people. Why, the only humans he had ever let see were those that ended up a bit more . . . dead than alive.

"I require time with an individual in this city, a specific priestess if you will."

There were curious looks all around, even those that didn't show it on their faces, many still had their surface thoughts shrouded in confusion.

"You don't look like any religion I know."

"As it should be, human."

At the mention of human, they grew tense. Again, he had placed a lot more venom than he originally intended, but it was too late to take back words now.

"Oh, so you're one of those kinds of people. You think us humans aren't good enough to respect, eh?"

"Does a worm shit out dirt, or manure?" The question threw the men off guard, giving Oberon time to respond snidely, "Either way, its mouth shouldn't be where it shits . . . like yours."

"You fuckin-"

"HENSON," a voice broke the tension, bringing all their attention to a single man. He was an older guard, shrewd but wise in his ways. Oberon could instantly see the chain of command right where it needed to be and kindly quieted himself as the man continued to berate the guards.

"You idiots. That's no elf. That's a Tyralin."

From the mention of Tyralin, the men backed up from their posts. Rumors and stories that they had now viewed as a fool's story were quickly recanted in their heads, many of them recounting feats of impossible heights. While some were quite exaggerated, they still knew that stories originated from some line of truth and with this being their first encounter, the men were quick to give their leader command of the situation.

"Sir, forgive me." the officer said solemnly, "If you need entry, we will be happy to give it to you, if you give your word to not cause any harm or create chaos within our humble city."

Oberon was impressed, Intelligent and humble. Perhaps there was some hope yet for this place.

"You are fortunate to have such a leader," his words were directed to the others, "I suppose I will give my word."

With a nod, the men moved out of his way as they opened the large gates before him. Oberon could hear them talking amongst themselves as the doors closed behind him.

"God damn idiot, you could have gotten us killed!" Oberon chuckled. He could do so much more than that.

The news of the priestess' presence had been easy to find, mostly because everyone had been speaking about it. Every time he cut down the voices around him to only give up anything related with his target, the answers were always pointing him towards his destination. Any others spoke of either how saintly or demonic the woman was. From the perspective of lowly humans, she was all powerful, capable of curing even the most fatal of wounds. To his eyes, or his mind's eye, she was just another manipulator in the grand scheme of things.

Frankly, he didn't care. Whether it was the old or the new religion, the humans wouldn't know how their world was made or how anything really went. They would be stuck in their mindless, sightless lives surrounded by more of their disgusting kind. Like cockroaches, they would breed and consume everything around them with no regard for others, a fate that would most likely lead them down a path of self destruction.

"Mal-ey-Vihon," he muttered under his breath. Indeed the priestess was the bringer of strife, both to come and to be, "Let them choke on their own filth."

Lion El’ Johnson followed the priestess as they moved down the hallway. The young lady, Priestess Haru whom he had expected to walk along side her lady held herself back and stood next to him. At first he believed that it was because of her role, to walk behind were as Johnson was doing it do to the fact he knew not where he was going at it was easier to watch them.

Yet then the young lady did something surprising she spoke to him. Not that that was unusual but the manor of speech caught him a bit off guard “So…you’re coming with us then? Having someone like you along is marvelous. Not that there’s anything, you know, special about you. I mean, you’re special, but… then the girl blushed quite hard, the red of her cheeks completely shined on her white skin
The lion was a rather calm man but she was quite beautiful. He could not help it as a small curl came to his lip though you would have had to be looking at him quite closely for it was a very minor change. “You need not worry priestess, I am quite aware that my size is abnormal you need not fret over it. It is good to know that we shall be seeing much of each other.” The lion responded in a way trying to be kind to the young lady.
The girl offered him a strawberry “People know me as the White Priestess but you can call me Haru.” before he could respond to her, she scurried back to her lady head downwards but still blushing.

“As you wish lady Haru” He said under his breath. He looked down at the strawberry that lay in the palm of his gauntlet. It was such a small piece of food that he doubted it would be of any use to him. Still he had never eaten on. The food which was served by the cooks of the Order’s base and when camping was very bland. For the most part they ate meat and bread, normally with some light vegetables. The most extravagant thing they prepared was either the meat of some rare monster that had been slain or head cook Ronalds stew. The strawberry was something the lion had never eaten or had seen prepared in any of the meals he had ever had.

The lion pressed the small piece of food into his mouth. He closed his jaw and began to chew it. The lion almost lost his composure and had to keep himself from closing his eyes from the taste. It was nothing like anything he had eaten before, it was light and the flavor was strong, yet it was not bitter, it was not spicy, it was….. sweet. He knew the word but never found anything that he would use it for less describing some of the children he saw when they played or a kind young lady.

Johnson made a note to himself to get more of those latter, for they were fantastic. As they began to walk out of the castle the lion began to watch for those who would be dangerous, although he was sure nothing would happen, he knew better then to let down his guard.
AS they began to leave Johnson made a wave of his hand. Goven and Azrial, along with the rest of the dark angels moved into formation around himself and the priestess. They stayed to the sides as to not interrupt their path. The lion looked to Goven and gave him a small nod

Goven, the only one of his men who had not been given the strict order to never speak with any of the priest spoke “Greeting priestess I am Goven, Lord Lion El’ Johnson's second, were are the guards who have been handpicked to escort you on your journey on our honor and on the honor of the dark angles we will protect you.”

It was a Simple preplanned greeting. Goven was old and set in his ways and was fiercely loyal to the order and the least likely to ever be converted. He would act as there represent if he ever became unavailable.
They had only made it a short way when a group of paladins appeared before them. Johnson recognized the colors from his studies of other knightly orders. The paladins were one of the largest knightly orders and served the Sistirio. When the group got closer all but two of the group gawked at him. Only one of them seemed to pull his eyes off of him and looked over towards Haru. He seemed to be studding her as if trying to figure something out.

One so much they his eyes never seemed to leave him. Yet the men if front gave off a much better appearance. They were lead by their grand master, Sir Eric Fay he believed he was called.

Even in the Order this man had a reputation of being a skillful warrior, a cunning strategist and a insightful leader. “Sir Eric Fay, it is a pleasure to meet you.” Johnson said in the same calm voice he addressed the king with. “I have heard a great many things about you.” He spoke as he looked around.

Though the man before him was formidable something told him someone else was nearby, something dangerous but he could not quite put his finger on it. It was coming from past the wall were the gate was still open. Then he saw him. From a distance but his sharp eyes managed to pick him out. A man whom he could not make out clearly but had some odd clothing he had never seen before. Johnsons began to track the man while keeping his eyes open for anyone else who may be a threat. He was still a ways off so he would not say anything yet but if he came to close he would interfere. He looked to the others as they began to speak.

The company of the Lion was tolerable, almost enjoyable as she snuck a curious glance over her shoulder at him as they walked. She watched him pop the berry into her mouth, watching as his stonewall face melted, his composure dropping as the sweet taste flooded his mouth. She turned back, giving a small giggle as she reminded herself to make sure he got more of the berries. It was only when Elisa came to a halt that Haru noticed the group of men coming towards them. Heavily armored and unannounced, Haru found herself stepping back a few steps, her hand resting on her sword as her eyes narrowed. Elisa motioned for her to back down and she did, steadying herself as she shifted anxiously. The smell of sweat and hot steal made her anxious. Men, there were so many men around her now, staring at her body and casting curious glances at the way she hung to Elisa’s hand even as she dropped it. Her hand hovered on the handle of the sword, fingers playing with the silky threads that made the hilt beautiful. Out of the newcomer’s one was especially studying her, his face never once leaving her own. Why was he so fascinated with her? Why her and not Elisa?

Her lips parted. Drawing in a ragged breath as she slowly began to move back, hopefully to get away from anyone’s view. She let her eyes close for a moment, keeping her face forward. She heard the deep voice of the Lion, acknowledging even naming the front man. A moment later she’d bumped back against his massive form. She froze, her head slowly craning backwards. Her breasts heaved as she took a stuttering breath, her soft lips parting in a small gasp. Their eyes met and she leapt forward, muttering an apology.

“Sorry! I—I didn’t mean…” she blushed and stepped away, “I’ll meet you back at temple.”

With head bowed she stepped around the group of people, hand tightening as she brushed past the paladin that had been staring at her. She didn’t know she was heading towards the man in the metal mask until she’d nearly run into him.

“Dinhra forgive me,” she muttered, stumbling over her feet as she shook her head. Her eyes went wide as she stared into the metal face and the words faltered in her mouth.

After a short pause, the metal mask speaks.
"Rhomphaia."
Humphrey points down at the curved weapon on the priestess's belt. He could not hold in his curiosity any longer. The young paladin on the side closest to the other group pipes up.
"What's a rhomphaia? That's definitely a saber.."
Of course someone else had noticed! They are supposed to be a bit more professional but it is kind of hard to when you are walking by a completely unique spiritual signature, a girl with a crazy curved blade, and a walking mountain in black armor. How does one temper so much armor to the heat needed to turn steel black anyway? That would have to have taken an ungodly amount of time to finish a single piece of armor-let alone a whole set for an entire order of knights. The five men are walking next to three walking miracles of three different types and their grand master expects a 24, 19, and 17 year-old to keep eyes front.
Humphrey mentally sighs.
How do you not resist opening a letter and then keep eyes front now?
Riley turns around to scold the two men.
"Aye. Don't you have an appoin'men' with the king 'r somethin'?"
Humphrey looks eyes front. The younger paladin looks over at the one still staring at Lion and lightly pounds him on the flat top of his helmet with just enough force to shift it's position. In frustration, the now awake 17 year-old fixes his helmet and looks over at the cause of it, who simply points up to Riley. Riley takes off his helmet to reveal his scarred face.
"An' take off y' bloody helme' when y' address a lady! You're probably frightening the poor girl!"
Another short pause and Humphrey places a hand on each side of the helmet before lifting it off of his head and shaking his hair out. Humphrey's light brown hair now has another white streak in it from the amount of holy magic he had to use, to compliment the other various groupings of white and a single streak of gold on the left side near the front.
"Apologies, m'lady, I had no ill-intention."
While his helmet covers his entire face and can make him appear rather non-human, Humphrey's face and eyes are a real far cry from the appearance he had just a moment ago. They are soft and give off a much less aggressive feeling. Even soothing, contrary to poor Riley.
"I am Sir Humphrey, of House Conway, Knight of Jude, though it seems now-a-days most know me as 'The Holy Nomad' instead."

"Priestess Haru. Just Haru," she answered timidly, blinking in the light that gleamed fro their armor and sent her shuddering. Thought the knights had removed their helms, they were still men. She shuddered. Haru stepped back a few steps, her eyes meeting those of the men that now appeared far less alien, their helms resting under arms and between hands. But that didn't make her any more comfortable. She was still surrounded by men. With a nervous lick of her lips she met the eyes of the man who she now knew as Humphrey. Her green eyes flashed as they locked to his warm earth tones, a nervous bitten lip following shortly after. There was a deep silence for a moment as she shifted her weight back.

"Don't worry about her," someone sighed, "She's had terrible experiences with men."

The voice came from behind them and Kline suddenly made his appearance, brushing past the paladins. He stood beside her, gently touching her arm as he blocked her from the view of the others.

"You can go home, Haru. I'll escort the Priestess and keep her safe. Go on."

He released her with a little smile and a nod, watching as she returned the smile, though timidly. Her heart fluttered like a bird caught in a cage, rapidly thumping between her breasts as she took on a fake confident stride and tried to wiggle her way past the men that now blocked her way. Though she did her best not to touch any of them she'd accidentally touched Humphrey's arm to steady herself, leaving her cheeks flushed. Once she was free, Haru began her trek down towards the temple. While she trusted that Elisa would be able to handle herself and with the help of the Lion, take them all down if need be, she found herself continually glancing over her shoulder at the group. With no eyes ahead it was inevitable that before she had made it too far she'd once again crash into the body of another human being. Only this time she didn't save herself from the fall and landed on her butt on the hard ground.

"Oh shi-" she moaned softly, hand moving to tenderly touch her rump as her eyes flickered up into the face of metal. Third time's a charm, she gulped.

As most of the young warriors looked to the group and observed him. It was a few moments later that one of them spoke to his brother questioning the blade the priestess Haru had on her body. The lion had paid little attention to it. The blade to his knowledge was not a destine known by man. It could be quite easily a custom designed blade but it was unlikely t fine of make for it not to be an art. It could be one of the destined by the other races. Dwarves normally never left there mountains and all their forging was legendary their work was not suppose to know of much finesse.

The highest probability that the blade was of elvin make, it was suited to what little info that his order had on the elves would suggest there weapons to be as. Yet why would this girl have an elvin blade? Yet the girl was beautiful with no question about, one of the most beautiful women he had ever seen in his life. Yet elves were supposed to be much different from the girl whom he saw. They were supposed to be almost perfect as they are graceful, quick smart, masters of magic and nimble. The girl had many of these traits but still human. She was also clumsy from what he could tell. He put aside the riddle of the girl for now, he would be with her for a long time and that would be more than enough for him to figure out this riddle.

It was then that Lady Haru seemed to have a bit of a panic attack. She fled, saying she would meet up at the temple latter. As she left the guard Johnson looked over to Azrial. “Follow her and make sure she stays safe but don’t do anything foolish. If you run into anything you can’t handle come to me quickly or if it an emergency use the smoke.” The young knight simply nodded his head and he began to follow her.

It was after they had left that a priest said something about of the girl had been traumatized in the past by men. It was no wonder then, why she ran from suddenly his guard surrounding her as well as the knights of jude. He had made a blunder, and would apologies at a later date.

Lion watched as the young knights removed there helms. They had silver lining in their hair as most who used Holy magic as they called it. The lion did not have much trust for magic of any sort, or anything supernatural. Yet for all his life which he could remember he had contently found himself surrounded by it as if it were something that he could not get away from and would one day be forced to accept one day. Despite the fact that he disliked magic in general, the knights themselves were more annoying to him.

To the lion when he looked over them they seemed to just stand out to much for combat. If there armor was that shiny there was no way your opponent could lose track of you, at night you were a sore thumb for archers to pick pot shots off at and it did not blend with the terrain. On top of that most of the men seemed to lack discipline. To get one of the young knights to fall back in place he had to be hit on his helmet several times. This is why The dark angels recruited there new men from six year olds who had to go though vigorous test just to get it and then go though the hardest most stern training you could imagine.

When Johnson looked back to his men who were perfectly in line, completely organized and ready to respond to orders on a moments notice, yet all were smart and well educated enough to lead if needed. Yet it was not fair to compare his men to others. Do to the great hunts his men were extremely hard to get a reaction from. When your part of an order that lives in the open lands were war was common and all your cities had their backs to the great monster infested woods of Kalienshama, you either grew to be unmoving and strong or you never grew up at all.

Yet there was one knight among their younger members who seemed to be of proper discipline. He did not seemed to be completely of put and seemed to be quite civil. He did not seem to be that much younger then himself, or at least how old he believed himself to be. The young knight introduced himself as Sir Humphrey. He seemed to be a handsome lad with a good head on him. Shame he was not part of the dark angels. He might have done quite well.

Johnson turned his attention back to Grand master Eric. “My apologies for that unsightly display Sir Johnson, there are some of our younger men accompanying me today and you’re no doubt quite the impressive figure to them. Many rumors of you and your capabilities have spread though the land. If I may be blunt In the few years you have been leading your order your power and influence has grow quite rapidly.” The grand master spoke to Johnson quite well. In the small chat they just had he had come to like the man. “I would talk more but I do have a meeting with the king so I must be off. “ He began to walk towards the throne room. “Oh yes if I may I would like to ask a favor of you, could you speak to some of our men and give them advice, I’m sure they would love to learn something from you if you are not needed to escort the Pagan priestess.” With that he turned and walked off.

Johnson looked to the men who had been left there. After all no one was allowed to march up to the king with a group of armed men in tow. “Goven if you could be so kind, escort the priestess to her temple, I shale follow latter.

As the guard of dark angles matched off with the priestess he looked over to templar's “if you wish to know of something ask me. If I see that there is no harm in knowing it I shall give you a fulfilling and educational response”

Through out all of this Elisa had remained quiet. In silence, she took on the role of a spectater and merely permitted these things to take place. And while outwardly she appeared to he happily watching one could not help but noticed how she stared, how she wasn't just watching individuals...She was observing them thoroughly. If one looked at her as she did th is they would have gotten the chills, how could someone so sweet make you feel so...uncomfortable. This did not last long however for she made a sharp turn and continued on her path without saying a word to Sir Lion El Johnson  or worrying about her pupil, Priestess Haru. Elisa continued on, speed walking ,ever so elogently , further and further away from those who were supposed to escort her.

 Her path eventually took her from the polished and radiance of the Cloud District where the Nobles reside to where everyone else lived. The filth of the streets, the stench of disease and death and a few other things, and the misery in those that lived here were a common sight to all. Men and women made active  efforts to stay away from those who were sick and the beggars received scarce charity. Elisa walked these streets with ease for a time, thought  after half a block they swarmed her. Arms were extended out to her, some hoping to touch her or her clothing, voices were raise, begging, pleading, and other swearing, for a the Priestess to help them and she did. She permitted them to touch her, extending her arms out back at them so more could reach her, she audibly blessed every face she saw, every name she heard, and every child she could as she continued to try navigating through the mob.

 There eventually came a point when she could advance no further and  the crowd became too ravenous. She could go no further. The people tugged on her robes, some even gripped her rather than it and bruised her. Her robe did not stain nor did it succumb to the filth on their hands and it did not tear at their tugging and pulling. As always, the city Guard appear later rather than sooner and slowly disperse the crowd around Elisa. When all the bodies are cleared away, one can see Elisa kissing an old cripple on the forehead, pink lips made brown from the dirt and filth on the foreheads of others. This man who came to her with a limp, walked away without one. Elisa smiled as she watched him depart, she had received little thanks for her doing but she knew it was Dinhrara, not her, who should be thanked. After a few moments she continued on to the Temple.

 The Temple of Dinhrara, or the new religion, was considered Elisa's home and office. If she were not in the streets or up and about on the roads,  she would be here and those in need of healing or salvation would not shy from coming here so do not assume she had come to avoid her duties. There is no rest for the wicked. There were two reasons she had come to that place, to break fast and to  collect her staff.

The Lion was swarmed by a drove of questions from the knights. At least they were enthusiastic to learn he thought to himself. He made them calm down and ask slower so he could figure out what they wanted. He took a deep breath and began to reply to their questions in short quick responses so he would not be there all day .

“I do not know what her sword is but it is probably of elvin make”
.
The order does tame monsters but only rarely, the most common being a breed of lions that have snake tails and wings. They are normally larger than most horses and can fly with unusual amount of weight. Though for the past ten year the order has been unable to catch any several years ago we found a batch of eggs. They will soon be able to be ridden into battle.”

“I am simply as big as I am naturally. I think. Can you tell me why you’re as big as you are?”

“The armor you see is not made of steel but a very rare ore that only the dark angels have. I can’t say anything in particular about it though except that the strength of the metal varies normally though it is equivalent to steal. My armor is the strongest in the order and has never been damaged before. The armor is only available to knights of a certain rank or higher, the rest of the Order just has steal that was painted black. That way we don’t stand out like a sore thumb that you boys do.”

“When on the hunt for larger beast we set up a trap were he can put them someplace where they cannot run or move very well but we can attack from all angles at the same time”

Now that he had give all of their questions as much of a satisfying response as he could he decided it was time to go. He left the knights were they were and decided he would wander around the streets for a bit. When he left the castle he was first in the marketplace were the people were busy trading goods. There were a verity of aromas that flooded the area but the lion was disappointed in the layout of the market. As he would have guessed the stalls were pushed back to back, side to side, and had little room to move around. Although Johnson guessed that it was not the worst seeing how this was a place of business. Yet that was not what the lion wanted to observe the most.

He worked his way thought the homes of some of the more wealthy presents till he found what he was looking for, the slums. A rotten smell filled his nostrils so much he had to put his hand over his face to try and lessen the stench. It burned him and made a little bit of water come to his eye. Johnson had a strong sense of smell but this was the problem with it. The ground was covered in all kinds of filth such as shit, rotten food vomit a dead animal was scattered here or there and all of it was festering. The lion felt like he was going to vomit.

After the trip Johnson was sure to speak with the king about this. The buildings were too tight; the people had nowhere to dispose of their waist and many other things. They may not have been the lions people but no one deserved to live like this.

Now that he knew what was wrong with the city he was going to head back when he heard a sharp scream “HELP” Johnson ran over to where he heard the scream. There he saw a woman with her two children surrounded by a group of eleven men. Most of them were skinny, almost starved. They all had knives and had tattered clothing. It was clear that these men had fallen on hard times and were acting out of desperation. The woman had a basket in her hands, probably food for the children.


“Come on lady, give them to us, the guards don’t come around here anymore so there is no one to save you, and if you don’t we will kill you. “ One of the men said. Such a cheesy line but it was making the woman terrified.

Johnson simply walked over to the group of men and spoke “If you wish to live surrender now, if now I will kill all of you.” When he spoke the group of men turned around and saw Johnson they stopped. They thought this would be an easy job but suddenly they saw a giant of a man in full plate. One of the men closest to Johnson began to back off, when the man who had been speaking to the woman put his hand on his shoulder
“Don’t panic boys; think for a second he is just one man! We take him!” he yelled to the group of thieves.
“YA” the men yelled out in a group and charged the lion.
“Fools” He muttered under his breath. The fist man who charged at him swung his knife at Johnson, who did not doge just let the rusted blade make hit its make witch was foolishly his armor. The knife snapped in half. Johnson did not wait for him to register what had happened he slammed his fist at full strength into the man’s head. With the black gantlet covering his hard the man’s head caved in onto its self killing him. The second the lion did a jab into the man throat collapsing it. The next three not realizing there friends had been killed from just the punches came at the lion together side by side. The lion grabbed his mighty blade that was still in its sheath and drew it in a quick horizontal slash cutting the three men in half, there blood flying everywhere coating the lions black blade in a crimson red. He then cut down the next two who were frozen in shock at their friends deaths.

The remaining thieves turned tail and ran, Johnson would not let his prey escape and cut down the fleeing foes one by one till all that was left was the man who had ordered his men to attack. His back to the wall and the smell of fresh piss and shit emanated from him “Vladar Help me”

Johnson picked up the man by the neck and looked him in the eyes “The god will not save you, but let’s see if they are real” The Lions eye gleamed as he closed his grip of him, crushing the man’s throat. Johnson threw the corpse effortlessly aside. He pulled out a red cloth and slid it across the blade removing the blood. Afterwards he sheathed it and went back to the woman who was still cowering. “You need not fear they are dead and shale not bring you harm again not that Johnson was closer though he saw that in the basket was actually a young child. Those men were not trying to steal food but the children, probably to sell into slavery. This kingdom was full of scum and needed to be saved.

Johnson reported the incident to a guard and told him to take care of the body’s then started looking for the temple so he could speak with the High priestess.