Storm Rider

“But what about the Storm Rider! When will he save the Ethanians father”, interrupted Arthur as he lay there in bed in a room lit by a candle. Milton continued, “Aren’t you the eager one, just wait and listen as the tale unfolds. Where was I? Ah yes. The Ethanians lived under the tyrannical rule of King Ecbert The Merciless who was heavily influenced by the old legends of Dragonite, a mystical ruby like stone said to have been forged by the dwarfs centuries ago. It is said that whosoever utters the magical incantation shall gain powers of unspeakable magnitude. The Merciless King, founder of the secret cult known as the Order of The Flaming Sun was hell bent on obtaining this. He was unstoppable, having an army of mages, knights and elven archers, but with Dragonite in his possession he will become invincible. When the resistance learned of the King’s intentions they were quick to act, with the combined help of their sorcerers, sorceresses and dwarves, they located Dragonite and just on time because the king’s army was almost upon them. The leader of the resistance rushed in to get the stone as Lady Astrid the sorceress who was second in command held the king’s men back. Moments later the leader of the resistance came out of the crypt, uttered the magical incantation and the entire army froze in fear for what they saw before them was the Storm Rider”.

“Filling his head with fairytales again?” said Beatrice as she entered Arthur’s room. “Mother these are not fairytales. Don’t you know King Ecbert was a real king? I heard people say that he really was evil”. “My dear child, you are not wrong with regards to the King. People called him the Mad King for a reason but everything else in the story is just a figment of your imagination. Is it not Milton?” Milton answered after a long pause, “Your mother is right. This is nothing more than a fairytale”. “See dear, nothing more than a fairytale. Now go to sleep, it’s gotten quite late” said Beatrice as she put out the candle flame.

Morning dawned, the sun rose on Milton’s farm in the riverside village of Forfax. Fishermen were preparing their bait by the river expecting a big catch, hunters were sharpening their arrows before entering the forest hunting grounds and farmers were on their fields preparing for harvest season. The Lord of the land, Milton DeRune of Forfax stood atop a hill overlooking his land, reminiscing about his old life, about the past known only to a few. He saw his son Arthur exploring the manor outskirts, an inquisitive child he thought, always eager to make discoveries. He stumbled upon a hidden cellar door in the bushes behind the manor and tried to pry it open but to no avail. “Don’t bother with that son. It’s just a door to an old cellar that caved in, nothing of interest down there”. “How come you never spoke of this? I have always wanted a cellar, maybe we can clear it out and renew it? That would be grand” said Arthur gazing upon the old wooden door on the ground. “Enough about the cellar. Let’s talk about your education shall we. Your mother says you have not been taking an interest in theoretical knowledge”. “Well honestly speaking, I have been surrounded by books and alchemical formulae since the day I was born, I have gained knowledge on the different races that live among us, the dwarfs, masters of the forge native to the Northern Mountains, the elves native to the dense Bretonwood forest known for their unmatchable architecture and never aging qualities and humans native to towns and villages, unpredictable and dangerous. I have also learned to brew medicine and watch over wounds not only that but I can also craft smoke bombs now. I believe for a 15 year old boy that is ample knowledge. I want to learn something new instead of repeating what I already know”, explained Arthur as Milton was trying to cover the cellar door with leaves and branches. “I believe you are now ready for your sword fighting lessons. It’s now or never boy, go don the appropriate gear and meet me in the yard”.

“Let’s start from level 1 shall we. You see that dummy there? Attack it with your sword, our first lesson is attack based, we have to perfect your stance”, instructed Milton as Arthur stood beside him ever confident. Arthur was sure as eggs he will make his father proud by conquering the challenge, so proud was he that while lunging at the target his hand slipped, he failed to concentrate and lost grip of the sword as it hit the dummy and without causing so much as a scratch it fell to the ground. Milton was clearly annoyed by this spectacle, “That was pathetic! It seems I have way more work cut out for me then I initially thought. Here is what we are going to do. You will rise at every sun up and run around the yard five times to strengthen your leg muscles for footwork followed by a lifting exercise where you will lift two buckets full of water 10 times, for a firmer grip so you do not drop your sword again. For a beginner this should do, it worked for my trainer, it worked for me and I see no reason why it should not work for you. I shall also rise at every dawn to ensure you see this training through. Understood?” Arthur listened to his father with a face, red, full of embarrassment. He obediently nodded his head accepting the terms for he was in need of intense training as he had just witnessed himself. He also saw it as an escape from the library and his mother’s boring reading lessons.

“Go easy on the lad mate. He will learn with time”. It did not take long for Milton to recognize that voice. He turned around and saw a man in a black doublet with a shiny saber strapped to his side, fair skin, half grey short cut hair showing signs of age and a briskly beard and mustache. Joy could clearly be seen on his face, “John of Lofoten, as I live and breathe. Come here old friend, it’s been ages since we last met”. The age old friends embraced each other. Arthur however was smitten with the young lady accompanying John, light blonde elbow length hair covering half her face with dark blue eyes peaking from behind, giving the impression of two beautiful ice crystals on skin as fair as snow. She had a slender figure made even more prominent with the tightly fitted white and dark blue gown, surrounded by a graceful and charming aura. For Arthur this was love at first sight, he was at a complete loss of words, the arrow of cupid had struck so deep that he could barely shift his gaze from the fair maiden. “What a pleasant surprise! Welcome to Forfax John, it really has been a long time. Is that Kiera you have with you? My! You’ve grown beautiful young lady. The spitting image of Astrid”, said Lady Beatrice full of joy.

While the lords and lady were busy catching up, Kiera got bored and went up close to Arthur who was sitting at the edge of the river fiddling with his new sword given to him by Milton. “This spot looks lovely. Mind if I join you?” Arthur got caught by surprise, he startled and almost dropped the sword in the river. “I am terribly sorry! I had no intention of scaring you. It just….I…..God I feel terrible, please forgive me”. Arthur immediately gathered his senses, “No, please do not feel bad, it was nothing. I was just lost in my thoughts, but please do join me”. She gently climbed down from the road, found a nice flat rock besides him and sat down crossing her legs, “This place is beautiful Arthur, I had always heard stories about the snowy mountain peaks, dense forests and a river so clear that you can see everything at the bottom. I always thought those to be exaggerations at best but now I realize how wrong I was. This view is to die for”. Arthur could not divert his gaze from Kiera no matter how hard he tried and he thought to himself that it really was a view to die for. Kiera continued, “Well then, tell me about yourself Arthur. Our parents know each other very well but I find it strange that we have never met each other”. “We never met but I have heard about you, mother and father once mentioned Uncle John having a daughter and you are just as I pictured you”. “How did you picture me?” interrupted Kiera with a curious expression on her face. “I….I mean….What I meant to say was that you are just as charming and graceful as I imagined you would be”, this made Kiera blush. Arthur continued, “Yes so I was telling you about myself. I love to go out and explore the land, always wishing to wander off but my father does not allow that yet. He says leaving the boundaries of Forfax is too dangerous for a 15 year old like me and my mother insists I need to first finish my theoretical studies, but that should soon change because I am now well versed in history and alchemy and recently started my sword fighting lessons. I admit I require practice but the time shall come when I am able to fend for myself out in the wild. Now it’s your turn to tell me about yourself”. “My life is boring unlike yours, it lacks the exciting element”, “Come on Kiera, don’t say that. I’m sure it’s an exciting tale”. “My mother died while I was still an infant so I never met her and was raised by a governess hired by father, brought up to be the Lady of Lofoten. I spent my childhood learning how to walk, talk and eat like a lady. My governess was strict in her lessons and leniency was not an option. When I saw you practicing sword fighting lessons with your father, truth be told I felt jealous. If I am to be honest with you, I will confess that I do not want to spend the rest of my life pretending to be someone I am not, attending balls, being around women who love to gossip. This is just not me”. They both stared into the water for a while and not one of them said a single word until Kiera broke the silence, “Arthur I am really sorry. I just could not control myself but I felt comfortable sharing it all with you. I think I must be on my way now. I am sorry I disturbed you”. She got up and started to head back, Arthur got up in a hurry but his leg slipped on the rock, he lost balance and fell in the river or so he thought because he did not feel the water touch him, he was floating an inch above water. He slowly started going higher and was being brought back to land. He looked around to see who was holding him but there was no one there physically holding him, no one but Kiera with extended arms standing at a distance with an expression as if she was lifting something heavy. Arthur could not believe his eyes for what he saw was real magic-something which he had only read about-and the caster was none other than the Lady of Lofoten. “I will explain everything. Please, Arthur do not speak a word of this to anyone. Promise me”. Arthur still unable to process the situation, “What just happened!?”

“Look you two, I am aware that you are probably cross with me over the fact I kept very little contact but I am here now aren’t I?”, “You can’t squeeze your way out of this one John. How could you even think of leaving your friend alone for all those years? Just ask Beatrice how lonely I felt. Am I right dear?” said Milton as he passed a wink to his wife. Beatrice replied sarcastically, “Oh yes, he spent countless nights drowning his sorrow in wine”. “I understand and you have every right to be cross. I can explain but not now. Now is the time to make merry, pour yourselves some and let us drink to our friendship that has lasted through thick and thin”. “I think I should let you boys have this fun alone while I go check on the kids. The sun is almost setting”, Beatrice excused herself as Milton and John were starting to pour drinks for each other.

“So when was the first time you realized you could cast magic?” asked Arthur ever so curious after witnessing live magic. “I remember that night as if it was yesterday. Three summers ago, father was out as usual on one of his business outings and I was alone at the manor with my governess. I had heard people talking about a carnival in town and that artists from all over Ethain would perform there. Sick from all the formal balls and banquets I saw this as my chance to experience something new, something ordinary but alas the governess had strict orders from my father not to let me venture out. I was starting to suffocate, I was not allowed to be friends with the people I wanted to, not allowed to go to a school like a normal girl and I was also not allowed to visit the market. I was living but I did not feel alive, I felt like a walking corpse. I was desperate for belonging, for finding a friend which is why I found it so easy to open up to you. Pardon me, for straying from the topic. So on that night I got into an argument with my governess when she refused to let me go out. It was very unpleasant, in the end I was locked in my room against my will. That’s when my mind started flooding with every negative thought that was buried deep in me, my hatred started surfacing for my father who had left me at the mercy of that hag. It all started spilling out and I screamed so loud that all the windows shattered and everything in the room rose up in the air and stood afloat as I raised my hands up in frustration. I could not believe my eyes when I saw my bed, dressing table, lamps and what not levitating in mid-air, it was frightening, I was petrified. I stopped screaming and everything fell back down. Since that day I had been practicing in secret, on a trial and error basis I learned how to levitate objects and on that day I vowed not to tell a living soul about this, not even father because I did not trust him anymore. Earlier today when I used my power in front of you I had no choice because I see a friend in you. I had to save my friend”, Kiera’s crystal blue eyes glistened as she wept. Arthur came close and embraced her, “Please Kiera, do not cry. Your secret is safe with me. I will take it to my grave”. All that while Beatrice had been eavesdropping on their conversation standing outside Arthur’s room. She was experiencing mixed emotions, anger, disgust, sadness, sorrow and fury. She had teary eyes and was full of rage, so full that she went back where she had just come from to vent out that rage and fury.

“Now that we have the room to ourselves, let us get to the matter at hand”. “What matter would that be?” asked Milton as he was finishing off his third wine bottle. The room was lit by a lantern hanging by a pillar and moonlight shone through the window. It was quiet outside, only the sound of crickets could be heard. John stood near the window with a bottle of wine in one hand and the other behind his back staring into the distant forest. “I am not spiritual but if there is a god out there I hope he forgives me for the sins I committed”. “What are you talking about John you are a hero, you saved countless lives in..”. Milton was interrupted by John, “I lost the only life that mattered to me, a piece of me died that day at the foot of the Gorgon Hills by the hands of that whoreson Ecbert”, Milton fell silent for he was at a loss of words, unable to mitigate his friend’s grief. John continued, “I am here to talk about Kiera. I have been a terrible parent Milton. Heaven knows my daughter hates my guts…” Beatrice rushed in the room in a gust of anger and slapped John straight on the face, “I never thought you would turn out to be such a monster! Did you not even for a moment think of what she might be going through? She’s your legitimate daughter John! Not someone you picked off a street!” Milton immediately stood up, “Beatrice! There better be a good explanation for this” “Milton don’t. I deserve this, she is right”. Milton still utterly confused, “Would someone care to explain to me what is going on?” “Your friend John here kept his daughter locked up her entire life! He kept her imprisoned all this time, treating her like a prisoner”. “John is she speaking the truth?” said Milton as both he and Beatrice scrutinized him during the interrogation. John paused for a long time before finally admitting, “Yes. It is the truth and also my reason for coming here unannounced. Allow me to clarify the situation. Beatrice please could you close the door?”. “We are listening John, go on” said Milton as Beatrice closed the door. “You are right Beatrice, I am a monster, a pathetic excuse for a father and my daughter does not even trust me. During our final encounter with the Order at mount Gorgon, when Kiera was just an infant. Astrid with her dying last breath told me that our daughter was also a magic source like her mother, and you Beatrice. I made a vow to her that dreaded day that I would protect our daughter from the forces of evil no matter what. To honor that pledge I had to make sure no one finds out that Kiera had the ability to cast magic, not even Kiera was aware of her powers. Sorceresses attract a lot of unwanted attention as you may very well be aware of. I appointed one of our associates to watch over her as soon as I heard word travelling of a new but familiar coat of arms. Black and gold with the banner of a bright and shinning sun. The order is back”. “You must have been mistaken, it has been 14 summers without any activity. We finished them off at Mount Gorgon”. “I wish I was mistaken my friend but my spies rarely ever bring back false intel. My associate was acting as Kiera’s governess and she had strict orders from me not to let her venture outside the estate for I could not risk losing the only reminder of Astrid I have. I know what I did was not the best way to handle it. Astrid would have killed me for doing this to our daughter. It was until very recently that Kiera discovered her abilities, I tried to get close to her but the drift between us had grown tenfold and she refused to open up to me which was not a surprise. This is why I brought her here because I know Beatrice, you will never let her down like I did. I know I am asking too much but please for your friend Astrid if not for me. Teach Kiera how to master her magic casting skills so she can at least defend herself. There is a storm on the horizon and for the first time in a long time I feel helpless”. “Of course I will help her. She is like a daughter to me, and it’s the least I can do for Astrid” replied Beatrice and Milton approached John with a tap on the shoulder, “Instead of being so hard on the girl you should have approached us on time. What are friends for anyways? I reckon you have also hidden the truth from her like we did with Arthur. I thought we would erase memories of our previous life and start anew in a peaceful world, but it seems the past has come knocking on our door. I have started training Arthur on how to handle a sword, Beatrice will train Kiera in spell craft we must prepare our children for whatever the future has in store for us. They should at least be able to protect themselves. If John’s associates are right then we must not linger. Our first agenda however should be to figure out how to disclose to the children the fact that Beatrice is a sorceress. This is all that we can afford to let slip for now, other details will have to wait till they have fully trained”. “Leave that to me Milton. I will tell them myself” said Beatrice as Milton and John nodded in agreement.

The following day after the usual morning exercise, Arthur was having a go at a dummy with his sword with Milton giving out instructions and Kiera watching his performance sitting on a nearby fence. “Strike from different directions, confuse your opponent and try to be swift but precise”. Arthur hit first from the right then swung back from the left and attempted a pirouette strike but went off balance near the end. “That was a good attempt son, a couple of more tries and you will get the hang of it. Now it’s time to move on to the archery range”. The archery range was near the river passing by the manor, all three of them gathered their places and Kiera helped Arthur set up the targets. Milton gave his son his prized hunting bow to practice with, “Try to keep your arms steady son, hold your breath and try to pull as far back as you can before releasing the string”. Arthur picked up the bow and did as his father instructed, he released the string and the arrow flew past the target right into the tree behind it. He decided to give it another try but this time just as he shot the arrow, it flew upwards towards the sky then came flying back down straightening out and flying unnaturally before hitting the bullseye. Arthur thought it was Kiera but Milton knew it was not her. “How’s that for a magic show” said Beatrice as she approached the archery range. Arthur and Kiera could not believe what they were seeing. “Do not be surprised you two, it is normal for a sorceress to be able to cast magic”, she jested. “Mother….. I never knew you could…. Is this real?” “As real as it gets dear. I am sorry we never told you about this but the time was not right I hope you understand”. “Father you knew about this!?” asked Arthur to which Milton replied, “Of course son, that’s one of the reasons why I fell in love with your mother” giving Arthur a wink, followed by a smile. Beatrice continued, “You see I and Kiera’s mother Astrid, we both met each other at the Riften School of Sorcery, we were inseparable. Your mother was also a sorceress Kiera which makes you a potential source”. That explains a lot, thought Kiera, nothing could surprise her after the discovery of her powers “Father never told me that my mother was a sorceress”. “Your father, is a complicated man child. I understand his methods can be unorthodox but he did what he did to protect you from evil and corruption. Believe me for I speak nothing but the truth. As a matter of fact he is standing right there by the water. Go to him, I believe he has something to share with you. Do not worry we will wait right here for you”. Kiera looked over to him, he was staring in the water standing there like an empty, lost soul. She chose to go to him, “Is everything alright? Lady Beatrice said you summoned me”, “Come here child, sit down with me”. Kiera sat down under the shade of a tree by the river. None of them spoke for quite some time, they just sat there staring into the horizon. “I have done you a great disservice Kiera, I could not become the father I was supposed to be. I know you hate me because of that but every parent is a rookie when they have their first child and so was I. I could not handle your mother’s death and I became so obsessed by her dying wish to protect you that I failed to let you live. I always knew you were a magic source which always worried me for reasons your Aunt Beatrice would explain to you. All I ask from you now is forgiveness for being an awful father”, finished John in his usual emotionless style. Kiera was surprised to know that her father knew about her powers from the very start, “You do not need to ask for forgiveness. I have made peace with whatever happened in the past, I suggest you do the same”, said Kiera after a pause with a heavy heart. She wanted to reach out and embrace him and cry her heart out but how could she embrace a complete stranger. “I am proud to see that you have grown up to be a mature lady. Not letting your emotions control you”, he clearly lied, he could clearly see that she was dying for belonging, he clearly knew he destroyed her childhood and he was well aware of how cruel he had been to her unintentionally under the influence of his wife’s death but alas he could do nothing about it for it was too late, “Kiera I have to go back to Lofoten. I wanted you to stay here with Aunt Beatrice for a while. I will be back soon”. “Alright, it’s not as if I have a choice. Goodbye”, she replied before getting up and going back to where Arthur was training. John stayed there for a while contemplating on his past decisions, devastated by the realization that he had lost his daughter, not now but long before. He felt a hand on his shoulder, turning around he saw that it was Milton, “Do not worry, she’s young. She will in time realize that you meant well”. John said nothing, he shook his friend’s hand and set off.

They stood near a small lake in a clearing surrounded by the forest of Forfax, the snowcapped peaks of the mountains were clearly visible. There was no track leading to the lake, Kiera wondered throughout her hike with Beatrice that were she to come here alone she would never be able to find her way back to the manor. She was also grateful to Lady Beatrice for providing her with hiking boots and appropriate travel attire, elegant yet rugged trousers in brown matching the boots, a dark red shirt fit for a feral Lady covered by a light weight black coat. “Lady Beatrice why did we come so far to practice? I do not understand why we have to hide our talent”, said Kiera catching her breath. “Before I answer your question you must answer mine” “Alright, ask away” replied Kiera eager to learn how to control her gift. “How would you define the arcane arts? What is magic to you?” It took Kiera a while to answer that question, “I believe magic is a gift because not everyone possesses that skill and this gift should not be taken lightly because power is known to corrupt even the purest of souls. I believe magic is a colossal responsibility”. Beatrice had the look of satisfaction on her face, “Absolutely correct. It indeed is a huge responsibility which is why only the chosen people are blessed with this gift but even then unfortunately some of those chosen ones get corrupted which inevitably results in chaos and bloodshed. Now it is time I answer your question. Magic is a gift as you said, not everyone possess it and those that do not, wish to possess it or are afraid of it because people are always afraid of what they do not understand, some of them even resorting to violence. After the great civil war against the Mad King’s forces people have come to fear magic casters. So many of them died and very few were left alive, if any sorceress showed signs of being a source she was thought to be a witch and the local villagers would storm her lodgings with pitchforks in hands and burn her at the stake. Sorcerers also met a similar fate, they were hunted by warriors and mercenaries. The only ones that survived are either in hiding like me or in close proximity to the monarch. As for the schools, the female wing of the magic school at Riften and the male wing at Nuehof were both stormed by angry mobs. Almost every student along with the staff and the heads were butchered like animals. I lost so many good friends during the onslaught, all because of the acts of a few tainted ones in the company of the Mad King”. “Is…is that how my mother died?” asked Kiera hesitantly. “No child. Your mother died a hero protecting her loved ones. Protecting you. She died fighting” replied Beatrice giving Kiera a pat on face. She continued, “Anyways let us start with our lesson shall we. Watch and learn child” she slightly lifted her right hand and a continuous stream of water rose up from the lake and it moved with the movement of her hand, she closed her fist and the continuous stream stopped there was just a body of water flying around with no link to the lake. With the movement of her hand she took it up into the sky and with the movement of both hands she made it spread and fall down onto them in the form of droplets. “You only just discovered telepathy but you are capable of so much more. What you just witnessed can also be done in the absence of a big water body like that, everything is made up of water even you and I, but the ground is the ideal source. You will learn this and lots more for example fire and wind control, teleportation, mind control and what not! The possibilities are endless, you will learn all of this in due time. First our focus will be on theory to understand the elements and how they act. Magic requires a lot of reading to master”. Happiness could clearly be seen on Kiera’s face, “That was truly magical. Can we start now? I cannot wait to master my skills”. Beatrice replied smiling at her, “We can child, we can”.

FIVE YEARS LATER

The arrow flew at the speed of light and hit the deer right in the chest puncturing its heart. “That takes care of lunch” said Arthur, now a grown man putting his bow on his back and reaching for his knife to end the suffering of that creature. He skinned the dear, arranged a fire and let it roast over it while he set a tarp near the lake in the Forfax forest clearing preparing for a picnic. He laid out the flowers he had picked on his way to the clearing and a basket of wine and bread. While he was busy making the arrangements he felt a gust of wind behind him, it was caused by a black hole the size of a door surrounded by a glowing blue circle and from it stepped out The Lady of Lofoten and the portal disappeared. “Did you set this up yourself?” asked Kiera looking at the flowers and basket Arthur had set up on the tarp by the lake. “None other than yours truly…….” he replied as he turned around and froze when he set eyes upon Kiera. Those crystal blue eyes and red lips had him entranced, “You look absolutely stunning Kiera”. She blushed, he took her by the hand and led her to the picnic basket. They sat down, Kiera started giggling “Arthur what is going on? I have never known you to be such a romantic”. “It’s a surprise. Let me pour us some wine”, he hands her a mug and also pours some for himself. Kiera felt something in her mug, upon a closer look she discovered what appeared to be a ring, she stood up in surprise and when she raised her head she saw Arthur on his knees in front of her, “Will you marry me?” She was overwhelmed with indescribable emotions, tears of joy coming out of her eyes, she was at a loss of words “Yes! Yes a thousand times over” she said as she jumped on him with her arms around his neck and they both shared a long, sweet, tender kiss. In those five years together they developed more than their skills in common.

The city of Sassau, the biggest city in the world and also the trade hub of Ethain, importing and exporting goods both via land and sea. This city is free from political influence, ruled only by the market, the definition of cutthroat competition and survival of the fittest. Like the wilds beyond the city walls this city also has its fair share of monsters in the form of organized gangs, namely the Blighters identified by red ribbons around their arms and the Runts identified by blue ribbons around their arms. It was divided into four main districts. The cloud district home to the social and political elite of society, the market district home to all the businesses and industries, the ground district home to society’s filth and finally the port district home to warehouse and fishing businesses. This city is situated at the southern end of Ethain far away from Forfax or Lofoten which are situated near the northern end. Deep within Sassau’s ground district on a rainy evening in a dark, shady alley in an apartment building a banging noise is heard. Once, twice then a thud and the door falls down, a figure in a dark cloak enters the room which showed clear signs of a struggle. All the furniture scattered and blood on the floor and walls with a highly mutilated body of a naked woman hanging on a wall with arms stretched and held there by nails. Behind her on the wall just above her head was a message written in blood, “All who try to extinguish the golden flames shall get scorched. The time of reckoning is upon you, those who resist. The sun has started cleansing the world of you filth”. He took off his cloak, it was John of Lofoten and he was an old man now with a grey head. Enraged he kicked a chair next to him on the floor, “Damn it! I’m too late. Poor Clara, I will avenge you, may your soul rest in peace. I have to warn Milton and Beatrice for it is as I feared for so long, the order has become active and it is hunting us down one by one”. He finds a piece of paper and a quill in that apartment and quickly writes down a letter addressed to Milton, he puts it in his pocket and quickly exits the building without being seen. In the alley he noticed two mysterious figures wearing red ribbons around their arms following him, he tightened his belt, put the cloak back on and kept his right hand on the hilt of his dagger before taking a sudden turn. As he predicted the two men followed him to the bend unaware that they had been compromised, they looked around but there was no sign of John. It all happened in the blink of an eye, one of the thugs felt a rope around his neck and before he had time to react he was hanging midair. Just as the second thug turned around to see what that noise was about he saw a dark figure fall on him from up top. “Who sent you?” The man refused to speak so John stick his dagger in the man’s hip, his eyes wide open and he felt like screaming because he was in immense pain but John put his hand around his mouth to ensure he made no noise, “Speak or die” “Stop! I will speak! Stop!”. “I am listening, go on” “I did not get to see his face, he was in a black and gold armor wearing a helmet adorned with wings, he also had a black cape on with the sun drawn on it. A mountain of a man, he offered the boss lots of coin in exchange for a list of people which included you. He wanted them all dead. That’s all I know now please let me go”. John took the knife out of his hip and slit his throat. “I have to discover who this Knight in black and gold is but first I must have this letter delivered to Forfax”, John went to the nearby brothel called The Shaved Kitty to look for an old acquaintance. All the brothels in Sassau were in the ground district, such indecent establishments were not tolerated anywhere else in the city. He entered The Shaved Kitty looking for Sheila the strumpet, no one beats a prostitute when you need to extract information he thought. He took a seat and shortly after a shapely half naked woman comes and sits on his lap gets close to his ear and whispers “Follow me”. They get up and she takes him by the hand to a private room closing the door and window, “So. What brings a master spy like you to such a fine establishment?” asked Sheila the strumpet pouring drinks for herself and John. “I need information. A new character around town, knight in a black and gold armor wearing a helmet adorned with wings. I need you to find out who he is, who he spends his time with and where he spends that time” said John before handing her a pouch full of coin, “I hope this will be enough for your troubles. One more thing, I need this letter delivered to Forfax, get a trusted messenger to deliver this. The extra payment is included in the pouch”. John gives her the letter and leaves.

Shortly after John left The Shaved Kitty a mysterious bald, well-built man entered the establishment. He had the looks of a bandit and went by the name John. “I would like to avail the services of Sheila. I hear she is…..a pioneer of her trade” he asked the Madam of the brothel. “I would like to know your name before I allow you to invest in our fine establishment. For record keeping, oh and please hand over your weapons sir, for security purposes”. He handed over his sword, “Naturally. My name is John”. She handled all the formalities and led him to a private room, “Please wait here sir while I call Sheila”. He looked around the room, it was painted red and had a bed lined next to a wall and a comfortable looking sofa, the window curtains also matched the room color scheme. He closed the curtains and sat on the sofa. A few moments later the door opened and very shapely young woman entered the room with only her private regions covered by lacey red and white garments, she walked over to him in a seductive way saying “Hey handsome, I am going to make all your fantasies come true”. The man’s expression did not change, he stood up and she came close to him rubbing her hand on his bald head as she leaned in for a kiss. She locked her lips with his, he raised his left hand to her head and his right hand to his boot where he had hidden a knife. He pulled her by the hair and put a knife to her throat, “Where is the letter?” She tried to fight back but the man was too strong for her, “I will never tell you. Go to hell”. “Come now, be a nice little harlot and tell me where you hid the letter or you will pay dearly for it”, she spit in his face. “I have ways to make you talk”. The madam went to check on Sheila when she did not come out after the man had left, she was petrified when she opened the door and her screams could be heard throughout the district. She saw Sheila in a pool of her own blood with a cloth in her mouth, eyes wide open and a deep slice on her throat. She was also missing three of her fingers and behind her on the wall was written in blood, “All who try to extinguish the golden flames shall get scorched. The time of reckoning is upon you, those who resist. The sun has started cleansing the world of you filth”.

The rain had stopped and it had gotten dark. Everyone had packed up and left for home, the docks were empty after midnight. John was restlessly trying to find leads on the mysterious Knight, all he knew was that this character was somehow linked to the Order of The Flaming Sun. He was standing near the docks observing the calm sea when he sensed three people approaching, “You will pay for your part in the Order’s decline. You can never destroy something that is eternal. We have waited twenty long years to rebuild our network and now it is time for you to pay with your life” said the big bald brute among them who killed Sheila, they did not seem to belong to any of the gangs and their clothing was black lined with gold. “Is your new boss too afraid to come after me himself?” asked John casually as he turned to face them. “No. He is on his way to Forfax to deal with the head of your organization, your friend Sheila was unwilling to give me a certain letter but chopping off a finger or two helped persuade her. The boss left me here to deal with you”, John listened aghast to the brute, he felt intense rage boiling up inside him “You bastards will pay. This time I will make certain to erase every last traces of your wretched organization”. He reached for his belt and in a lightning quick move threw a knife at one of the men accompanying the brute which hit him right on the face, he died on the spot. The other two rushed at John, he waited for them to come close and as soon as they were within range he drew his sabre with such speed and strength that he cut off the other man’s arm straight in one blow while also simultaneously dodging to the left. A stream of blood started flowing from the man’s arm and he started howling in pain. The brute took a swing at John but he got down and dodged his sword before stabbing him straight in the chest from down below, he punctured him all the way through before pulling out the sword and with one swift and strong strike the brute’s head went rolling down the road. “I must get to Forfax before that whoreson. Milton must be warned. Kiera….”

The city of Craydon, Ethain’s capital, a sprawling fortress surrounded from all ends by a wide water canal and thick stone walls reaching the sky. The only entrance was through a portcullis and drawbridge protected by archers on the walls. The entrance opened up to a market of valuable goods and at the other end were lodgings of the Knights and training grounds and barracks for soldiers in the King’s service, in the middle was the King’s castle. The common people lived outside the main castle walls, protected by a short stone wall tending to their farms, livestock and the common folks market. The throne room in the castle was gigantic, the floors lined with polished stones, the walls had flags bearing the crest and colors of Ethain, a black bird with a red background depicting freedom and strength. The ceiling lined with art depicting the great civil war, the work of the most skilled artisans in Ethain. On the throne sat King Ragnar, rightful heir and son of King Ecbert. Ragnar was against his father’s actions during the civil war and at his coronation he vowed to undo all his father’s evil work, he was a just and brave king, his subjects felt secure in his reign until the day he lost control when Princess Phillipa got kidnapped on her way to Sassau from Craydon. It had been a year since that day when the royal convoy was passing through the Bretonwood forest, home to the elves, they had stopped for the night and only a handful of guards stood watch. The elves descended on them without them ever noticing, at dawn break a trade caravan passing through the area discovered 15 dead royal guards and remains of the royal carriage. Ragnar stroked his beard as he read a letter, “I am grateful to you for not interfering in my business in Sassau, you may now deal with the mess I left behind in whatever you please. I believe your daughter’s severed finger was enough to put a leash on you my King. If you value her life you will do as I say otherwise the next body part you receive will be her head. I want you and your men to steer clear of the town of Forfax until you receive my next letter and should they cry for help you are to turn a blind eye if you want to see your daughter alive again”. He crumpled the letter, his face red with rage. His rivals at court had already started speaking up about dethroning Ragnar based on his inability to practice free will and act against the oppressors who kidnapped the princess, he was a chained king and he felt powerful yet helpless. He threw the letter in the fire, “I will find you whoresons and when I do you will long for something as sweet as pain”. A man entered the throne room, a knight in shining plate and chainmail, a mountain of a man. He was bald and was missing his left ear, he also had a scar on the same side. He bowed to his King, “My liege, I have news from Sassau” “Speak Fredrick. What is it?” “Sire we have discovered the name of the person who has been killing those people. It is one called John of Lofoten” “The Lord of Lofoten? Are you certain it’s him?” “Yes my Lord my sources are authentic” “Fine, send your best men to trace him out and bring him to me alive, I want him questioned” “At once my lord” said Sir Fredrick, head of the guard in service of King Ragnar.

It was a busy day at Forfax, people had swarmed the market to get their hands on the newly arrived goods, the local pub was full of people whose laughter could be heard from miles away and children were running throughout the town playing hide and seek. Meanwhile at the DeRune manor the aged Lord and Lady of Forfax sat in their yard overlooking the town enjoying tea. “Where have those two love birds gone off to again?” asked Milton sipping his tea, “They were probably in search of some privacy which you clearly can’t get down here today” replied Lady Beatrice looking at the market down below. “How the times have changed have they not? Our little Arthur is a grown man and I am glad he chose Kiera, she is a nice lass. Reminds me of the time when I was sweet on this young student at Riften and after so much persistence. I finally accepted her proposal”, Milton jested taking another sip from the cup. “Well now. I think old age has given you amnesia dear husband. As I recall the story, a young Knight in the King’s service used to frequent Riften quite often. Singing poems sitting on the institute walls, bringing red roses fresh from the ground on a daily bases. This kept going on till I finally felt bad and said yes” “My bad, I suppose I missed out a few, well quite a few facts”. The couple laughed reminiscing the time they first met and won each other’s hearts. Their moment was interrupted by a commotion in the market down below. They saw ten people armed to the teeth wearing black and gold armor, in the lead was a man wearing a helmet adorned with wings and a black cape with the sun drawn on it. They were mounted and were pushing all the people away and when one young lad took offense and tried to deal with the caped knight, he met with a sword that punctured his abdomen and the lad fell drowning in his own blood which led to chaos in Forfax. “Damn those whoresons! It’s the Order. The nerve on them to attack a town. They are here for us and the stone, prepare yourself Beatrice while I go get my sword”. They had made their way up to the manor by the time Milton got his sword, “Milton DeRune of Forfax or should I call you by your other title, The Storm Rider? And Lady Beatrice, I have spent such a long time searching for you. Very fine job your organization did of keeping its members identities a secret, all it took was one slip, lucky for us a certain whore got too drunk for her own good. You defiled your oath, betrayed your king and destroyed the Order when you killed my mentor and your King Ecbert. You stole Dragonite from us and propelled us back to the stone ages. Do you even realize how long it took for me to bring the Order back to life? I have come here to make you two pay for all the harm you have done, you will both pay with your lives as soon as you hand over Dragonite. I promise to make it slow and painful” said the mysterious Knight dismounting his horse. “Go to hell you whoreson, you are never getting that stone. The world is not ready for such power” “Not the answer I was looking for. Kill them and search the manor”. Arthur and Kiera descended from the lake right at that moment, “Ah, are these your children? Wait, grab the children and torture them. Their parents are sure to break after seeing them in pain”. Hearing this Milton immediately swung his sword at one of the men taking him down while screaming to Arthur and Kiera, “Run you two! get as far away from here as you can. Run!” Beatrice scorched three men using a fire spell and fried another using a lightning spell when all of a sudden she felt a burning sting in her neck and her dress got covered in her own blood, the mysterious Knight had shot a crossbow bolt which pierced and got stuck in her neck. She fell on the spot, Arthur, Kiera and Milton froze. “NOOOO!” screamed Milton as he went berserk on the remaining men and Arthur rushed to his father’s aid, Kiera froze because she had never seen violence before. Arthur took down two men and Milton rushed at the Knight, left swing, right swing, dodge, stab, pirouette, he managed to draw blood but the Knight’s armor was too strong and Milton was wearing no armor. One forward stab and the Knight had his sword through Milton’s chest, Milton turned his head to Arthur with blood flowing out of his mouth, “Save yourself and Kiera, do not let them get the stone”. The Knight in a swift movement pulled out his sword and swung across his neck decapitating him. Arthur froze as his whole world lay there drowning in blood, Kiera ran to him and held his arm, they were both surrounded. “Not today you whoreson!” said a voice from a distance, it was John. He threw two smoke bombs which disoriented the Knight and his men, he rushed to Arthur and Kiera “Mount these horses and follow me. Quick!” They mounted and galloped away as if there was no tomorrow.

King Ragnar stood on his balcony overlooking Craydon gazing at the vast plains stretching as far as the eyes can see. The sun was setting and the villagers outside the castle walls were lighting torches outside their houses and shops, people started flooding the taverns and night guards were taking positions on the battlements of the outer city walls. “Sometimes I wonder if I will ever find my baby girl. I cannot live with the guilt that I was not able to protect her in my own kingdom and now the opposition in my court is speaking about my inability to defend my people”, said Ragnar looking into the distance. “Do not blame yourself dear. I am sure our daughter is alive. The opposition cannot even comprehend what you as both a king and father are going through so let them talk”, Queen Laura expressed her view on the political scenario. “I fear they might kill her if I take the wrong step but I also fear I may lose hundreds of my subjects if I remain chained to their word” “I want no other parent to go through what we are going through at the moment, Ragnar whatever you do please keep this in mind”. They saw a light approaching from the distance, it was closing in fast. It was a horse rider, the guards allowed him access upon hearing him and he started to approach the castle. Ragnar heard a knock on his door “Come in” “My King, a stable boy from Forfax has come bearing bad tidings”, Ragnar went downstairs to the throne room to meet him. “My King”, said the boy taking a bow “I bring bad news from Forfax, my town was attacked by an unknown group of men wearing black and gold armor, one among them was a knight wearing a black cape with the sun on it. My Lord they killed our lord and lady in cold blood and also destroyed their manor, the people are in ruin please aid us”. Upon hearing about the knight and the sun crest Ragnar immediately traced who those men were, he recognized that crest as the colors of his father’s organization, “The Order of The Flaming Sun” Ragnar whispered to himself. “Get this man some food and water and a warm bed for the night and fetch me Sir Fredrick” “At once my lord” said the men before they bowed and left. “My King you summoned me?” “What have you found out about John of Lofoten?” “Sire we traced him to Forfax and my men are on his tail. We believe he is somewhere between Forfax and his lands of Lofoten” “Spare no men Sir Fredrick. I want him found as soon as possible!” “At once my Liege”, Sir Fredrick bowed before taking leave.

Night time was almost upon them, crickets were chirping and all the nocturnal creatures awoke from their diurnal slumber. The trees in the forest between Forfax and Lofoten provided cover from the drizzle which helped John start a camp fire. There was silence around the fire, everyone was at a loss of words and still in shock over what happened at Forfax a short while ago. “Why…. Why did they kill mother and father? What reason could they possibly have to commit such a heinous act, murdering my parents in cold blood” asked Arthur staring into the fire, “I think it’s about time I tell you both the truth. Have you heard stories about the Resistance and the Order of The Flaming Sun?” asked John to which Kiera replied in the positive and Arthur said “I grew up listening to those stories. Father always used to tell me tales of the Storm Rider but both mother and father always used to say that they are made up stories”. John remained silent for a while then continued “Every word in that story is true, King Ecbert did control an organization called Order of the Flaming Sun and there was a Resistance that rose against him. We, I mean your parents, me and my wife were all part of the resistance. That Knight belonged to the Order and he killed your parents because they led the destruction of the Order 20 years ago. Your father was the Storm Rider, my wife and Kiera’s mother was Lady Astrid”. John was not very subtle when he made the revelation, Arthur still had a hard time believing that the character he idolized was none other than his own father but he accepted this reality. Knowing that he will never be able to meet his childhood hero again left him in ruin. Kiera however took the news well because nothing could surprise her anymore after everything she had been through. “Arthur we have to get our hands on Dragonite before that Knight does. Your father kept Dragonite in his possession, did he have any secret storages where he could have hidden it?” “I don’t recall any…. But wait…. I think I may know where it is, five years ago while exploring the manor outskirts I discovered a door on the ground covered by branches and bushes which apparently led to a cellar but father never allowed me to go near that again” “The cellar! I almost forgot about that place. We cannot go to Lofoten because the King’s men are looking for me, I bet the Order has a hand in that. We will go back to Forfax at dawn to give your parents an honorable burial and take a look at that cellar door, I hope the Order has not gotten to it yet. Get some rest you two I will go fetch some more firewood” said John leaving in the dark to bring more fuel for the fire. “How are you feeling Arthur? I know it must be tough but know that I will always be at your side whenever you need someone to talk to. You brought me back to life after I came to Forfax. I will never leave your side” said Kiera holding Arthur’s hand comforting him over the loss of his parents.

At dawn they set out for Forfax with Kiera promising herself that she will not stand back this time if they face danger, she will bombard the enemy with spells just like her mentor Lady Beatrice did in her last moments. They had Forfax in their sight, taking cover in the woods John scouted the area to see if it was clear to move in. They saw no one only a manor which was half burnt and left in ruin and the burnt bodies of the men Beatrice used the spells on lay in the yard with the bodies of Arthur’s parents. Arthur approached them, fell on his knees and wept, “I failed you, I failed to defend you when you needed me. I swear on everything I hold dear that I will gut the whoreson that did this, he will pay for this. Until we meet again”. Kiera upon seeing Lady Beatrice’s body could not control herself, she embraced her father and wept uncontrollably. Kiera and Beatrice had developed a mother and daughter bond over the five years they spent together, John comforted her. This was the first time his daughter ever hugged him, John at first was hesitant because for him it was an unfamiliar moment because he never felt the warmth of a daughter’s hug. John dug the graves in the yard overlooking Forfax and with Arthur’s help he buried Milton and Beatrice. They stood there in silence until the sun had risen. “Follow me, I will lead you to the cellar. I hope they have not found it” said Arthur leading them behind the manor, upon reaching that spot he was surprised to find no trace of it “I could have sworn it was right here. How can it vanish like that?” “Something does not feel right, I can sense the presence of magic here. Hold on”, she cast a spell and lifted the illusion which was hiding the door. “Beatrice taught you well” said John proudly, Arthur opened the door and they went downstairs to a dark room, she used a light spell to brighten the area. Arthur and Kiera could not believe their eyes, a large room with wooden walls having flags that had a wall printed on them with a dark grey and green background, crest and colors of the resistance. In the middle lay a large table with six chairs and the surrounding walls had weapons hanged on them, at the very end of the room was a decorated glass casing containing a red ruby like stone with a yellow core. “These chairs were for the leadership there were six of us, Milton, Beatrice, Astrid and I. The other two members Nicholas a former knight in the King’s army like Milton and Barnabas a graduate of the Nuehof academy of sorcery both died alongside Astrid during the battle for the stone. That right there in the glass casing is Dragonite”. Arthur still in disbelief “I cannot believe my eyes. These secrets were all so close yet so far, so within reach but hidden away from every eye. This must be the past I often heard mother and father talk about, if only I had known but why I wonder did they keep it hidden.” “They hid it for a very good reason child, all it took was one small slip for that Knight to trace out Milton and Beatrice. This is how we kept our lives free from trouble. Everyone knew the leader of the resistance but no could have thought that it was Milton”. John opened the case to lift the stone, he carefully lifted it with both his hands “I was always afraid of this thing, no one should wield such power. The world is not ready but if the Order stops at nothing to obtain it then we will have no other choice but to use it against them”. “Then what are we waiting for? We should take the fight to them with you wielding the stone”, Arthur did not want to wait to exact revenge. “It is not as easy as you think boy. The stone can only be wielded by the successor of the previous wielder, that’s what Milton told me which makes you the only person who can use it now. The knight would have to kill you to be able to make use of it and I have a feeling he is not aware of that fact” “In the stories father told me, the Storm Rider had to speak out some magic words in order to use its power” “Ah, the incantation. Unfortunately I know nothing about that, those words were known only to Milton. If memory serves me right, the magical rune on the stone was placed by the elves after the dwarves forged it in their mountain forges long before our time. The only chance we have of learning the magic words is inside Bretonwood, in the elven archives. I know someone there who would be able to help you out, she owes me. Go to Bretonwood and enter through the eastern side she will find you meanwhile I will try to find out who this mysterious Knight is. Arthur I saw you take down those men and I am sure you can handle combat but try to avoid direct confrontations where ever possible, and take care of Kiera” “Yes that would be wise and do not worry Uncle John. Nothing will happen to Kiera”, John gave Arthur the stone “Once you learn the incantation, remember not to use the stone unless you really have to. Do not be afraid of what happens after you use it, hide behind the storm and it shall protect you” he re-stocked his gear and left to trace out the Knight. “I am nervous Arthur, I will only slow you down. I could have helped your parents, they would have still been with us had I the courage to attack but I stood still and watched them die”, Arthur held her hands “Kiera please do not blame yourself, it was not your fault. I understand that what happened was……was tragic and it is difficult to deal with it but I have faith in you, I believe that you will be an asset rather than a hindrance for me. So have faith in yourself, in your abilities and remember all that mother taught you”. They sat there in silence for a while before leaving for Bretenwood.

John stopped at a roadside inn on his journey to uncover the Knight’s identity, he dismounted his horse and made his way in straight to the bartender placing an order for beer. Standing near the counter he looked around and saw a variety of people, mostly travelers, most of them were common folk in rough and patched up clothes drinking bear and singing songs, there was a man who looked like a noble by his dressing who had a satchel which he kept by his side at all times, John guessed him to be a messenger. He looked at the furthest end of the inn and saw three people who seemed like bandits by the looks of them, “I will be seated on that table next to the rough looking bunch, serve me there” he told the barmaid and sat on a table next to the bandits. “Boy am I glad I skipped the outing to Forfax”, said one of the bandits conversing with the others “You should consider yourself lucky, all the men were killed except for old Lubosh, he’s out there right now thanking all the gods he knows for letting him live another day to waste away whoring”. They laughed and drank up beer from their tankards, “I heard the boss was furious when he saw those kids run away?” “Furious? He was outraged! But those weren’t kids I tell you, at least the boy wasn’t judging by what Lubosh told me. He said that boy cut through Hans and Henry as if he was cutting through butter” “Must have been a mighty sharp sword or a very strong arm, or both!” “Yea so I was saying that the boss was outraged, he burned half the manor down in search of some mystical stone called dragon something” “He burned a building!?” “Yes and stop interrupting you knuckle head! He could not find that stone so he commanded Lubosh to set out in search of the boy and girl and that man that came to save them” “I see. Speaking of Lubosh, where the devil has he gone too?” “He’s probably out by the stables making sure his horse has eaten its fill”. Before John could leave the door opens and a slender man enters the inn with a bottle of wine in his hand, “Where’s the food at guys, I’m starving here” says Lubosh as he goes to sit down with the bandits, he looks at John sitting on the next table “Hey don’t I know you from somewhere?” John stands up and makes his way to the counter, “Hey! I was talking to you. Wait a moment, I think I know who you are. Get him you all! He’s the man who threw smoke bombs at us in Forfax”. They all got up immediately and made their way to John who was standing at the counter with his back towards the bandits, all other patrons of the inn turned face and ran at the first sign of danger when the bandits drew their swords. “Let’s take it outside shall we?” John did not want to make a mess in the inn. They stood outside in the cloudy weather “The boss wants him alive boys” Lubosh instructed his companions, they all rushed at him from different sides. John grabbed a dagger from his belt grabbed the arm of one bandit stuck the dagger in his arm pit and threw him on his partner on the other side, he hit another coming from up front on the face with the hilt of his dagger rendering him unconscious and kicked Lubosh coming from the same direction in the groin which made him curl up on the ground. John was swift, the bandits never saw that coming. “Stay down and surrender if you know what’s good for you” John warned them but Lubosh was persistent still laying on the ground curled up in pain he said “Get him! You lazy shits! Get up or the boss will have your heads!” John had run out of patience for he stabbed one of them in the neck as he approached him with his sword drawn, blood sprayed out of his neck violently all over John. He wanted to capture Lubosh alive so he could question him but as John was busy cleaning the blood from his face he felt a hard blunt hit on his head. It was Lubosh who hit John on the head with his bludgeon rendering him unconscious. Still feeling the pain in his groin he said “Someone tie up his arms and legs before he wakes up. Put him in a cart when you’re done and set course for Craydon, the boss will like what we did here”.

“I wonder why we have never seen any elves or dwarves, do they really exist?” asked Kiera doubtfully. “You still doubt that? Even after all we have seen and heard? No one has seen the dwarves after the war, they left for their home far away from our settlements up in the Northern Mountains where they do not fear intrusion, but it’s different for the elves who are much more prone to danger because their home is Bretonwood which is in close proximity to our towns and villages. Humans rarely interact with them but these interactions often end in bloodshed which has made them hostile and unwelcoming towards other races. Which is mostly why people avoid Bretonwood” replied Arthur riding a top his black horse with Kiera mounted on a white horse behind him. “No I meant that it is hard to believe something exists when you have never seen or heard of it” “You surely must have heard something about the Bretenwood elves. As I was saying, I remember father’s tale. About the other races he said that after the war ended humans blamed the dwarves and elves for it and started prosecuting them in towns and villages. They were the ones who made the stone but they did not misuse it, humans fail to see that it was their own greed that led to all that bloodshed. All this pointless hatred pushed those two races back to their native lands from where they now fear to come out. Honestly I do not blame the elves for whatever they are doing, what else can you expect from a cornered animal?” “Well there was this one thing I heard people talking about at Forfax last year. They were gossiping something about King Ragnar’s daughter Princess Phillipa who was traveling to Sassau from Craydon. Her convoy’s route was right alongside Bretonwood which is where they decided to make camp for the night, they say that a trading caravan traveling along the same route found nothing but bodies of the royal guard and remains of the carriage and no sign of the princess. They say that the bodies had arrow’s sticking out of them calling it to be the work of the elves. I did not believe that at first, why would the elves kidnap a princess? It did not make sense, it could have been bandits” “I heard about that too Kiera but what I could not understand was that what interest could elves have in kidnapping a princess? Or if they did not do it, how could they allow bandits to operate so close to their lands. I guess we will we find out soon enough, that right there is Bretonwood” said Arthur pointing to the vast green forest in the distance. Trees as far as the eye can see, a thick, dense and green jungle where anyone could lose their bearings easily. From within that jungle flowed a wide river with a strong current, “I did not imagine it to be this beautiful” said Kiera in awe. “Alright Kiera before going in let’s go through the basics. Do nothing to provoke the elves, if they show up just submit and obey whatever they say as long as it is reasonable and above all else do not damage the forest. They value their vegetation more than anything according to mother’s books” “Understood. How will we identify father’s contact?” “Honestly I have no idea. He said she will find us so I suppose we just have to let her find us. Let’s get going and stay close”.

The court was in session at Craydon, some peasants came to seek the King’s aid to settle a land dispute, “My King, this man here claims that he owns part of my land. The land which my father and his father before him used for agriculture. My question is that why did this man appear with this claim now but not when my ancestors bought this land?” “My ancestors were lazy sheep dogs, they never knew what was good for them. It is I who uncovered this truth”, the peasants quarreled before the King who was listening attentively so he can ensure that there is no injustice in his court. The throne room door opened and in came a guard who was out of breath, “My Lord” he bowed. “What is it?” replied Ragnar commanding him to stand at ease. “Sire we caught that man you were looking for. Sir Fredrick has John of Lofoten in custody and he is interrogating him as we speak” “Lead on man! Take me to him” said Ragnar excusing himself from the court session. John woke up hanging mid-air with his hands chained to a tie up point in the roof, “Good that you’re awake. I was beginning to wonder whether you were still alive. Now tell me John of Lofoten, where have you taken the children of Milton and Beatrice De Rune” a voice spoke from the shadows behind him. “That voice….I know that voice. It’s you is it not? That whoreson who torched Forfax and killed my friends. You will pay for what you have done to me and my people” John recognized his voice immediately. “How perceptive of you to recognize my voice. Your threats are falling on deaf ears, your life is finished. Now I have just one task left, to get that stone. I will find those children and rip the knowledge of the stone’s whereabouts from their dead flesh! There is nothing you can do to stop me”, the voice disappeared and footsteps were heard. The door to the prison cell opened and in came King Ragnar and Sir Fredrick, “Leave us Fredrick” commanded the King and Fredrick left bowing to the King. “John of Lofoten, a noble. Tell me John what is your link to my daughter’s disappearance and all those killings at Sassau and Forfax, be truthful and I give you my word I will show mercy”, John was a bit surprised to see the King, he had no idea where he was but he knew who brought him here and on who’s orders “Your majesty there are dangerous players at work here. I have been framed! Those people who died they were all dear to me and I am being hunted by the very people who killed them”, one thing John knew for sure was that King Ragnar could have nothing to do with the Order because he despised it. It was common Knowledge that Ecbert abused his young son for the disapproval of his father’s obsession “Who do you suppose those people are?” “Sire I believe you must be familiar with the name The Order of The Flaming Sun” Ragnar took a deep sigh and sat down on a chair placed by the wall, “Judging by your reaction I assume you know who they are. King Ecbert’s creation…..” “I know who they are, a menace, a blight on this planet, my father’s curse. What I cannot understand is that why are they killing all those people and why are they chasing you? My scouts saw you at Sassau at the crime scenes and they also spotted you at Forfax during the massacre. The evidence seems to stack up against you” “My King they are targeting all the people who spoke in favor of their undoing including me, the De Runes and all those people killed at Sassau, and I fear……I fear they have also infiltrated your army sire”, John thought it wise not to tell of his true role in the Order’s undoing. “My army!? What evidence do you have for such a bold claim?” “The men who captured me were not your soldiers or spies, they were bandits working for the Order. I would advise you keep a close eye on your men sire” John chose not to tell Ragnar about the small conversation he had before in his cell. “Keep a close eye on him” Ragnar instructed his guards and left the dungeon.

They were at the edge of Bretonwood. “Let’s leave the horses here and proceed on foot. Grab what you can Kiera and stay alert” “I have a bad feeling about this. We’re being watched Arthur, I can sense them sitting on the branches camouflaged and watching our every movement” “Pretend we are not aware of their presence and keep on observing their positions using your magic”. They slowly walked through the dense jungle leaving their horses behind, Kiera could feel the elves carefully observing their every movement jumping from one tree to another with muffled steps with bows and arrows in their hands ready to rain fire. They could hear bird calls constantly around them, “They are signaling each other” said Kiera without looking up at the trees. They reached the river and Arthur went in close for a drink when a sharp hissing sound was heard, “Arthur!” said Kiera as she formed a shield in front of him which shattered an incoming arrow. “Woah! I would have been skewered today if not for you” “Show yourselves, we have been watching you follow us. We mean no harm we just want to talk” said Kiera looking at the trees where the elves were hiding. A humanoid figure jumped down, tall, slender and beautiful with long brown hair, pointed ears, pale skin and a long face with a thin nose and blue eyes. “I never thought I would ever see an elf up close” “That elf looks just like how mother described them” said Arthur and Kiera in awe. The elf was followed by a dozen others with similar features, it was difficult for Arthur and Kiera to distinguish the sexes. “Who are you and why have you come here?” asked the female elf leading the group, “My name is Arthur De Rune of Forfax and this is my wife Lady Kiera of Lofoten. We came here to seek help” said Arthur lifting both his hands in the air showing that he means no harm. “De Rune you say?” said the she elf looking at them with curiosity, she continued after a pause “Bring these two to the inner sanctum” her associates tied their hands and put bags over their heads “Do not fear humans. The location of the inner sanctum cannot be disclosed to anyone but elves” “It’s alright. Lead on” said Arthur calmly staying close to Kiera who was clearly nervous. It was about an hour’s walk from where they met the elves, the bags were lifted from their heads and they could not believe their eyes for they saw trees that were alive, their branches moving and they were emitting a bright green light. They saw a large pond from which several channels emerged leading to different wooden structures, the water emitted a bluish glow said to have healing properties. The elves lived in the large trees in the inner sanctum. “This place is unbelievable, I thought nothing could surprise me now but this is extraordinary” said Arthur looking around in awe, “I believe you now Arthur. This really is like something out of a fairy tale” said Kiera laughing. “Now I think it is time I introduce myself” said the she elf standing beside them “My name is Aelenor, I lead The Sly Foxes and was a former member of the Resistance. I recognized you being the son of Milton when I heard you say De Rune. How is he and why has he not accompanied you?” “I’m afraid I have bad news. My father was slain in his own home by an unknown Knight claiming to be the leader of the Order”. Grief could be seen on Aelenor’s face “He was a noble fighter, a just leader and a good friend. I am sorry for your loss child. I heard news that the Order was back and my scouts also informed me of a certain Black Knight frequenting Western Bretonwood, land of The Rabid Wolves. Those elves have always supported the Order even after we were exiled by the humans. Tell me now, what brings you to Bretonwood” “I have come here to seek help, John of Lofoten, sent me here in search of the incantation used to activate Dragonite. We are on a mission to destroy the Order once and for all. Will you aid us?” “Is John still alive? I still remember how he rescued me from an enemy encampment when I was captured. That man is adaptable. You will find the words of the spell in Bretonwood but getting there will not be easy. The archive of the ancient elven mages is located in no man’s land” “No man’s land?” asked Arthur. “Ah. I forgot that humans think us all to be cold blooded killers. Bretenwood is divided into two parts, the eastern and western ends. East belongs to us and the west belongs to The Rabid Wolves, ever since Ecbert formed the cursed Order we elves have been at war with one another, killing our own kind. No man’s land lies in the middle of Bretonwood where the archives are located, neither The Sly Foxes nor The Rabid Wolves can venture there because sentries have orders to shoot on sight anyone who enters that region…” “It must be The Rabid Wolves who kidnapped Princess Philippa” asked Kiera interrupting Aelenor. “Yes and they still have her” “Why have you not attempted to save her?” “Save the grand-daughter of Ecbert from his own creation? I would rather let her stay there” “But she’s just a child! You cannot forsake a child to die like this”. Arthur jumped in the conversation “Aelenor King Ragnar is nothing like his father. He stands against everything his father ever did and will not hesitate to aid us against the Order” “Very well. How do you propose we save the child” said Aelenor after a long pause. “I have a plan” replied Kiera.

“What did he say?” asked Queen Laura waiting eagerly for her husband to come back with good news. “It does not make sense Laura. What John said confirmed my worst fears, the Order did indeed have a hand in this”. Laura’s fearful face at hearing that name was a clear indication she knew about the organization and its cruel history. “But what he said next is what really shook me” Ragnar continued “He claims he was not captured by my men but by the Order” “How did he end up in your dungeon then?” “That’s exactly what has me worried. It seems one of my men is involved in this and the kidnapping of Philippa. I don’t even know who to trust anymore” “This really is alarming. Is Sir Fredrick aware of this?” “I do not know and I do not want this news reaching anyone including Fredrick. Keep this to yourself, if word gets around of our suspicion the mole might take a step we may regret”.

“So here is how we will do this. I will take Arthur and one of your people with me shielding us from enemy sight using an invisibility spell. We will take Arthur to the ancient mage archive and then your Sly Fox will show me to the camp where Princess Philippa is being held. From there I will teleport the three of us back to your lands after which I will go back for Arthur” “I have to admit Kiera that sounds like a solid plan. Impressive” said Arthur clearly astonished by her clever plan, he continued “But what I don’t understand is how will I know which magic words are correct, where should I begin to look?” “That is a good question. You will never be able to find it on your own in time, I will accompany you to the archives. I owe Milton and John this much at least” replied Aelenor grabbing her bow and quiver. “Alright so shall we proceed?” asked Kiera to which everyone replied in the positive. Arthur readied his sword and borrowed a bow and quiver from the elves for backup, Aelenor picked a volunteer who will accompany them and Kiera was testing her invisibility spell on herself, “I can hear you but I cannot see you, this spell really does work. For how long do you think you can make it last?” asked Arthur trying to find the invisible Kiera “We will stay invisible as long as we stick close and avoid abrupt movements”. “You have your mother’s talent child” said Aelenor as she approached them ready for the mission, “You knew my mother?” “Yes I knew Lady Astrid. She was a powerful sorceress and known throughout the land for her beauty, I knew you were Astrid’s daughter when I first laid eyes on you. You inherited her beauty and talent”, Keira could not help but smile, she never met her mother but whenever she heard people talk about her, the urge to meet her grew stronger in Kiera but that urge always dies off when she comes to grip with the reality that her mother is no longer alive. The group set off making their way to the edge of eastern Bretenwood, the eastern boundary of no man’s land was guarded by The Sly Fox sentries posted high up on the trees to get a clear view of the land. The western end was visible far off in the distance and in the middle of the jungle a huge stone structure could be seen which Aelenor pointed out was the ruin of the archive of the ancient elven mages. Kiera cast the spell on the team rendering them invisible and they set off slowly staying close and avoiding abrupt movements. They arrived at the ruins leaving Arthur and Aelenor inside with Kiera and Aelenor’s soldier making their way to the camp where princess Philippa was being held. Kiera and the elf arrived at the western border of no man’s land, using her powers she could sense The Rabid Wolves hiding up on the trees guarding their land. They continued through western Bretenwood for an hour until they arrived at a camp within the dense jungle, the elves were busy talking to each other, drinking and laughing. There was a cage at the edge of the camp which contained a young girl roughly ten years old, she was in a ruined state wearing a torn up royal dress, fair skin full of rashes and brown hair full of dirt. She also had her hand tied up with a piece of her dress and it appeared she was missing a finger. Kiera was infuriated when she saw the girl in such a poor state but she controlled her anger and slowly made her way to the cage avoiding the elves. She whispered to the girl to stay quiet and the elf opened the lock of the cage. The spell wore off and the entire camp could see them now, Kiera immediately opened up a portal to eastern Bretenwood grabbed the Princess and elf by the hand and jumped in before The Rabid Wolves could reach them and before they knew it they were on friendly ground. The elf that went with Kiera took the girl with him to care for her wounds and Kiera inquired about Arthur and Aelenor but they had not yet arrived.

“This architecture looks unreal, so complex, refined and beautiful” said Arthur looking at the walls, pillars and markings in the archive ruins. “That’s elven architecture child. The ancient elves made this structure and others similar to this one long ago but unfortunately that skill died off with them. As you can see today elves invest their time in warfare instead of aiming for prosperity, the will to grow as a civilization has died off” “We will make this right. Where should we start our search?” “In the lower levels follow me” said Aelenor leading Arthur to the lower levels of the ruins. “This place is huge” “The ancient mages used to train new recruits here in the arcane arts. They would read and practice, spend most of their days in this hall” “What happened to them? Why is this place in such a ruin?” “Unfortunately no one knows how they died. There is no evidence left of them apart from these ruins and markings”. Aelenor found a book titled Ancient Runes which contained a chapter on Dragonite “Come here child”, she pointed at a spell tome inside the book “Before you read this, know that when it appears it will be your guardian and you need not fear it, it will respond to your thoughts and your thoughts alone. The stone will merge with your skin and leave you only when you command it to” “What will appear? I do not understand” “The storm. Do not be afraid child. Hold out the stone and read”. Arthur hesitantly looked at the words with Dragonite in his hand and read “I summon thee, oh beast of the skies, furl your wings around me. Be my sword and shield against my foes, be the flaming wall guarding me from harm. I summon thee storm of the skies”. He finished and nothing happened, “Now what?” said Arthur “Patience child”. The stone disappeared into Arthur’s skin without him feeling it. The ground shook, dust fell from the ruin walls and ceiling and a loud roar was heard outside. “What’s going on!? What’s happening!?” “Do not be afraid child. Follow me outside, the Storm awaits”. They made their way out of the ruin and Arthur was rendered speechless at the sight of it. A dragon tall as the tallest tree and darker then the blackest night, with wings as big as clouds, its black scales shining in the sun, covered in spikes from the nose tip till the tail end. It showed its razor sharp teeth when it roared and let out blue flames into the sky. The dragon stood on all four legs facing the entrance of the ruins looking at Arthur with its huge flaming blue eyes. Elves appeared from both sides of no man’s land and bowed in Arthur’s direction, Kiera was in awe at the sight of a real dragon and Arthur could not hide his excitement “I never imagined it to be like this when father told me tales of the Storm Rider” “Approach the Storm Arthur, it is waiting for its master, for you Storm Rider” said Aelenor as she too bowed to Arthur. He stopped her from getting on her knee “Aelenor please don’t, it does not feel right. Why are you all bowing to me?” “The elves hold the Storm Rider in high regard. Our ancestors created this stone and our people have been worshipping the Storm Rider ever since” “I do not think I am ready for this Aelenor. This is a huge responsibility, I am just a common man” “You are your father’s son Arthur. A common man with a pure heart and that’s what makes you special and worthy of the mighty Storm. Now approach the Storm and complete the bond”. Arthur slowly approached the dragon and gently extended his arm towards its nose, Storm lowered his head and closed his eyes to acknowledge it’s new master’s touch, “This is still so unbelievable” said Arthur with a gleeful smile on his face as he gently stroked Storm. “Whenever you wish to hide the Storm from sight just say the word and the beast shall become invisible and fly off but it will always be at your beck and call. Now go and destroy the Order once and for all” “Won’t you join be joining us Aelenor” “I am afraid not because I have a duty to my people. I am needed here right now but remember Arthur and Kiera, you will always be welcomed in Bretonwood should you require assistance. Farewell” “Farewell noble elf”. Arthur and Kiera bid Aelenor farewell as they and Philippa begin to depart. “Take a break for now Storm, we will wreak havoc once we find that whoreson” Arthur commanded Storm to hide from sight stroking him on the head and in the blink of an eye he disappeared. “So you have got yourself a new pet now eh” Kiera jested, “Yes, an enchanted one it seems. Onwards to Craydon, let’s take the young Princess back to her parents shall we. I would prefer we use a portal” “As you command Storm Rider. Come Philippa time to head back home”.

The Black Knight stood in a small wooden shack in a forest near Craydon in wait. He heard a horse approach, it was an elf who came in hurriedly. “Speak elf, why did you ask for an audience?” said the Knight in an intimidating tone “I…I bear bad….” “Out with it! Speak! You useless worm”. The elf shook in fear, “Two humans came to Bretenwood they took the Princess and awoke the Storm. They…” before the elf could finish he felt the Knight’s sword through his chest. “One job! I gave you people one Job! And you failed me. Our agreement is over, I will ensure you useless bastards stay cooped up in that precious forest of yours for the rest of your lives once I am King”. He pulled the sword out, ran for his horse and galloped in Craydon’s direction.

The portal opened near the gate of Craydon. “Open the gates! We brought the Princess” shouted Arthur to the guards in the outer wall battlements. “Princess Philippa!” “It really is her. Send word for the King immediately!” spoke the guards among themselves as they prepared to open the gates. Ragnar and Laura sat in the castle yard having lunch when the guard came running “My Lord! Sire!” “What is it man. Calm down” said Ragnar as he saw the guard running to him in excitement. “My Lord the Princess has returned”. The wine glass in Laura’s hand fell to the ground and both she and Ragnar ran to the gates. The King, Queen and Sir Fredrick stood on the drawbridge awaiting their daughter who was being greeted by all of Craydon with flowers and cheers accompanied by Arthur and Kiera. Before they could reach the draw bridge Sir Fredrick grabbed the Queen, took out his knife and held it to her neck. The entire city froze, “You? I trusted you with my life and you were the mole in my army. Guards! Arrest this bastard” said Ragnar boiling with rage. “I think you’re forgetting something you pathetic excuse for a King. I control your army, I inserted my men in your ranks. The sun will scorch all you who betrayed Ecbert and the Order. Guards! It is time, let there be blood!” screamed the now delusional Fredrick as he made his way to the castle taking Laura as a hostage. “It’s you! You’re the one who killed my parents. I will gut you!” Arthur ran after him blinded by rage, “Arthur!” Kiera screamed as she cast a huge shield over the crowd protecting them from the incoming arrows. Fredrick had inserted soldiers from the Order into the royal guard, men loyal to Ragnar surrounded him but they could not tell who was an imposter and who was not. Arthur summoned Storm, the dragon came swooping down from the sky its wings covering the entire city in their shadows. The King, his men and all the people of Craydon were petrified at the sight of a real dragon. “Protect these people from the imposters!” commanded Arthur and the dragon turned face towards the tower from where they were raining arrows. With one swift tail swing Storm blew the roof off that tower and then roasted everyone in there with his blue flames. This gave the people of Craydon time to hide. Kiera took Philippa to her father who embraced her and wept tears of joy that his daughter was still alive, “I pray that bastard does not harm Laura. John of Lofoten was right. I should’ve known Fredrick was the one responsible and to think he framed John. An innocent noble” Ragnar was conversing with his men and Kiera overheard him, “John of Lofoten!? Where is he? He is my father”. “Forgive me child. I was tricked by that snake into torturing an innocent man. Your father is in the dungeons” without a second word Kiera ran towards the dungeons using telepathy, lightning spells and shields to make her way through the blockade of soldiers loyal to Fredrick. “Storm! Take me to the castle. I have a score to settle”, the dragon swooped down to allow Arthur to ride it. They flew around the castle with Arthur using his bow and Storm using his flames to eliminate archers and ballista’s before Storm dropped Arthur on the balcony of the royal bedchamber. “You little swine! Men! In here” Fredrick startled at the sight of Arthur but before he could call his men Arthur commanded Storm to jam the door by collapsing the walls around it using his flames. “Stay right where you are! I will kill the Queen like I killed your spineless parents” said Fredrick as he held the Queen by the hair with a knife on her neck, Arthur showed restraint. He dropped his sword, “That’s like a good boy, now kick your sword and Dragonite away, tell your dragon to vanish and provide me safe passage out of here or the Queen dies”. Arthur did as he was told he kicked his sword, bow and Dragonite away confident that he will be able to best Fredrick in hand to hand combat. Fredrick threw the Queen on the floor and rushed at Arthur with his sword who rolled away and threw a knife from his belt which hit Fredrick in the leg. Fredrick rushed at Arthur again but this time he was cornered, he swung his sword at Arthur and hit him in his left arm cutting it severely, it would have come straight off had Arthur not moved from the corner. Arthur started bleeding all over the floor, Fredrick prepared for his final strike when he felt a gush of air and instead of hitting Arthur he hit John who jumped right in between them as soon as he came out of a portal. The strike hit him hard and deep “I bought you some time now gut that son of a bitch” John spoke with difficulty covered in his own blood, Arthur without wasting time rolled to his side to reach his sword and stabbed Fredrick in the neck while he was busy taking his sword out of John, “This was for all the harm you have done. This was for my parents. Your precious Order is finished, now go rot in hell you scum”. Kiera came in through a portal and froze at the sight of her father who was already dead, she fell to her knees and wept uncontrollably, just when everything was starting to come back to normal when she finally started seeing John as a good father, she lost him. Arthur tied up his arm using a piece of cloth and embraced Kiera to ease her pain.

The King’s men with the help of Arthur and Storm suppressed the uprising. When Arthur, Kiera and Laura descended the castle through a portal with Arthur carrying John’s body the King stood in wait Philippa ran to her mother who embraced her and wept tears of joy at finally being reunited. “I do not know who you are but I am in your debt. First you saved my daughter then my wife and city. The Kingdom of Ethain is grateful to you” Ragnar turned towards Kiera and continued “I express my deepest condolences to you on the passing of your father child. I am sorry I could not learn of this treachery on time. I will have my men arrange a funeral for him. The Order has once again been defeated but this time we must ensure that we wipe every trace of it” turning towards Arthur he said “You, boy what is your name?” “My name is Arthur De Rune of Forfax Sire” “Kneel son” Arthur knelt and Ragnar took out his sword and put its blade on Arthur’s shoulders, “Rise! Sir Arthur De Rune of Forfax. Knight of Ethain and Bane of the Order of The Flaming Sun”. Arthur rose and bowed to the King before going to Kiera to assist her with John’s funeral and to begin life anew.