Chapter 16:

The girl, with fiery red hair tied in a ponytail

RE-RUN


The sky was casting a warm glow around the dusty training ground. The girl, dressed in leather armor, stood in front of her sparring partner, a boy wielding a sword. She watched him carefully, analyzing his every move.

She noticed that his stance was a bit off, so she adjusted hers to compensate. Two warriors - a demon boy and a demon girl - stood facing each other, swords drawn. Their movements were fluid and graceful as they engaged in a friendly spar, their weapons clashing in a symphony of steel.

The girl, with fiery red hair tied in a ponytail, moved with agility and speed, her movements like a dance as she weaved in and out of her opponent's attacks. The boy, with short brown hair and a focused expression, countered her every move with calculated precision.

They began circling each other, their movements fluid and calculated, each looking for an opening in the other's defense. The boy swung his sword in a wide arc, but the girl ducked under it and sliced at his unprotected side. He parried her blow and thrust his sword forward, but she deflected it with ease.

She then lunged forward, swinging her sword towards him, but he quickly dodged and countered with a swift strike. The two exchanged blows, their swords clashing in the air.

Their General, a grizzled veteran with scars crisscrossing his face, watched from the sidelines, nodding approvingly at their skills. He knew that they were both skilled fighters, but he wanted to see how they fared against each other.

As the spar continued, the girl suddenly feinted to the left and then spun around, sweeping her leg out to knock the boy off his feet. He stumbled and fell, but quickly regained his footing and charged forward, his sword held high.

The girl, however, was ready for him. She sidestepped his attack and swung her own sword in a wide arc, catching him off guard and knocking his weapon from his hand.

The boy looked stunned for a moment, but then he grinned and gave the girl a thumbs up. "Woah!" he said, his eyes shining with admiration.

After a few minutes of fighting, the two warriors took a quick break to catch their breath. The girl wiped the sweat from her forehead and looked over at her sparring partner.

"You're getting better, Krynn," she said with a smile. "But your stance still needs some work."

The boy nodded, acknowledging her critique. "Thanks for the advice, princess Vylra," he said. "You're pretty good too."

Vylra blushes at the comment.

After taking a quick break, the two warriors continued their conversation about improving their skills.

Krynn spoke first, "I've been working on improving my footwork and trying to keep a better eye on my opponent's movements. I noticed that you tend to use more feints and misdirections in your attacks. Can you teach me some of those techniques?"

Vylra nodded, "Sure thing. One of my favorite strategies is to make my opponent think I'm going for a certain attack, and then switch it up at the last second. It keeps them guessing and gives me an opening to strike."

Krynn listened intently, "That sounds effective. I'll have to give it a try."

Vylra continued, "Another thing I like to do is to use my opponent's momentum against them. If they're coming at me with a lot of force, I'll step to the side and let them go past me, and then strike them from behind."

Krynn nodded in agreement, "I've tried that before, but I haven't been able to execute it properly. Maybe you can show me some more moves?"

Vylra smiled, "Of course. It's always good to have more tricks up your sleeve."

As Krynn and Vylra were catching their breath, discussing the various techniques they used during their spar. Krynn suggested incorporating more feints and misdirection into Vylra's attacks, while Vylra suggested Krynn work on his footwork and timing.

As they chatted, Krynn couldn't resist teasing Vylra by calling her "princess." "You know, Vylra, with your skills and your royal blood, you'd make a great queen someday," he said with a smirk.

Vylra's face flushed with embarrassment. "Stop it, Krynn," she scolded. "You know I hate it when you call me that. We're childhood friends, remember? You don't have to treat me like royalty."

Krynn laughed, knowing full well that Vylra preferred to be treated like a warrior rather than a princess.

"Alright, alright, I get it," he said, still grinning. "No need to get so worked up. I'll call you by your name, Vylra, just like old times."

Vylra smiled, relieved that Krynn had relented. "Thank you, Krynn," she said, feeling more comfortable now. "I appreciate it."

“The old times huh….”

Krynn looked at Vylra.

“Is something wrong?” he asked.

Vylra simply shook her head.

“No, nothing is wrong.”

She smiled.

A brief silence engulf their surroundings for a moment until Vylra spoke.

“Hey…”

Krynn raised his eyebrow.

“Hm?”

“Do you remember the time, when we first met?” said Vylra.

“Hm…..” Krynn tilted his head to the side and think for a moment. Not long after he spoke.

“Yeah”

He smiles.

Many years ago, during a visit to the same village with her parents. Back then, he had been just another face in the crowd, a nameless peasant boy, but now, he was a formidable warrior.

The boy's name was Krynn, and he had never seen a princess before. He was surprised to see someone of such high stature wandering alone in the village. But despite his surprise, he approached her with a gentle smile.

"Are you lost, my lady?" he asked.

Vylra felt a warmth in her chest as she heard his kind voice. She smiled back at him, grateful for his concern.

"No, I'm not lost," she replied. "I just needed some time away from the castle."

Krynn nodded, understandingly. "I know how you feel. Sometimes, the world outside the castle walls can be a welcome escape."

They became acquaintances, despite their different backgrounds.

Krynn was scouted by the general, and he was appointed to be Vylra's bodyguard. It was an unusual decision, as most of the princess's bodyguards came from noble families. But the General saw something special in Krynn that he didn't see in the others.

Krynn was both excited and nervous about the new role. He had never been a bodyguard before, and he knew that protecting a princess was a huge responsibility. But he was determined to do his best.

Vylra, on the other hand, was initially skeptical about having a new bodyguard. She was used to the more experienced and seasoned warriors, and she wasn't sure if Krynn would be able to keep up with her needs. But as she got to know him better, she began to see his potential.

One day, while on a routine patrol, Vylra and Krynn found themselves under attack by a group of bandits. Krynn quickly jumped into action, blocking and parrying the bandits' attacks with his sword. Vylra was impressed by his skills and determination.

"You're not like the other bodyguards," she remarked as they fought off the bandits. "You fight with a passion that I haven't seen before."

Krynn smiled. "I'm just doing my job, Princess."

Vylra nodded, impressed. "I think we'll get along just fine."

From that day on, Vylra and Krynn became a formidable team, with Krynn protecting her from all sorts of dangers, and Vylra guiding him on the ways of the court. They developed a deep trust and respect for each other, and their friendship grew stronger with each passing day.

As they finished their break, the General interrupted their conversation, "Krynn, I have a task for you. There have been reports of bandit attacks on the nearby towns. I need you to investigate and take care of it."

Krynn nodded in acknowledgment, "Understood, General. I'll head out immediately."

Vylra watched Krynn as he made his way out of the training grounds. She couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for her childhood friend and bodyguard. "Be careful out there, Krynn," she muttered under her breath.

The General noticed Vylra's concern and reassured her, "Do not worry, Princess. Krynn is more than capable of handling himself."

Vylra nodded, still worried for Krynn's safety. "I'll be returning to my castle now, General," she said, turning to leave.

The General followed her, "Of course, Princess. I will escort you back and inform your father of the situation."

Vylra's castle, known as Helkara, was a small but sturdy structure made of stone and wood. As they approached the gates, her father, King Belial, came out to meet them.

"What brings you here, General?" King Belial asked, noticing the serious expression on the General's face.

"There have been reports of bandit attacks in the nearby towns, my lord," the General explained. "I have ordered Krynn to investigate and take care of it."

King Belial's eyes narrowed with concern. "This is the third time this day…” He sighs. I see. I trust Krynn's abilities. Please keep me informed of the situation."

The General nodded, "Of course, my lord. We will do everything in our power to ensure the safety of Princess Vylra and the kingdom."

Vylra couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as she watched the General and her father discuss the situation. She knew the perils that awaited beyond the castle walls and the weight of her responsibilities as a princess.

As they entered Helkara castle, Vylra's worries only intensified. "I hope Krynn returns safely," she whispered to herself.

King Belial sensed his daughter's apprehension and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Fear not, my dear. Krynn is like kin to us. He will go to great lengths to protect us and our realm."

Vylra nodded, finding solace in her father's words. Her mind drifted back to the day Krynn became her trusted guardian, and how their lives had intertwined since then.

As Vylra made her way to her room, she was stopped by her younger sister, Maela. "Vylra! How was your training with Krynn?" Maela asked eagerly.

Vylra smiled at her sister's enthusiasm. "It was good, Maela. Krynn is a skilled fighter and he's been helping me improve my techniques."

Maela's eyes sparkled with excitement. "That's amazing! Do you think he could teach me too?"

Vylra chuckled softly. "Perhaps, but Krynn has been assigned to be my personal bodyguard by Father, so he may not have the time to train you."

Maela pouted slightly, but then her face lit up with an idea. "Maybe you can ask him to teach me some moves when he has free time!"

Vylra smiled at her sister's persistence. "I'll see what I can do, Maela. But for now, I have some business to attend to."

Maela nodded understandingly and bid her sister farewell before running off to attend to her own duties.

Vylra heads to her room, feeling a bit restless. She had been practicing her swordsmanship for hours but still felt unsatisfied. Despite being a princess, Vylra had always been drawn to battle and longed for the day when she could prove herself on the battlefield.

As she entered her room, Vylra took a deep breath and looked around. Her room was sparsely decorated, with only a few pieces of furniture and weapons adorning the walls. In the center of the room was a wooden training dummy, its surface scarred and pitted from years of use.

Vylra sat down in her room, her sword resting on the floor beside her. She picked it up and began to examine it, feeling the weight of the hilt in her hand.

Without hesitation, Vylra drew her sword and began to practice her techniques. She moved with fluid grace, each strike and parry executed with precision. Sweat beaded on her forehead as she pushed herself harder and harder, her mind consumed by thoughts of battle.

As she continued to train, Vylra couldn't help but wonder when she would have the chance to test her skills in a real fight. She knew that as a princess, her duty was to stay safe and protected, but a part of her yearned for more.

Lost in her thoughts, Vylra didn't notice as the hours passed. It wasn't until her stomach growled with hunger that she finally stopped, setting down her sword with a sigh. Despite her exhaustion, Vylra couldn't shake the feeling that there was something missing in her life, something that only a true battle could provide.

As Vylra descended the stairs, she saw Krynn standing in the hall, talking to the General. He turned towards her and smiled.

"Good timing, Vylra. I was about to report my findings to the General," Krynn said.

Vylra walked up to them and nodded at the General. "General Baelzoroth, I hope everything is alright."

General Baelzoroth looked up at her and nodded in response. "Yes, everything is under control. Krynn has been a great help to us."

Vylra smiled, feeling proud of her childhood friend's accomplishments. "I'm glad to hear that. So, Krynn, what have you been up to?"

Krynn launched into a detailed explanation of his investigations, and Vylra listened with rapt attention, occasionally interjecting with questions or comments.

"I've gathered some information on the bandit attack, sir. It seems that they were hired by a neighboring kingdom. They were promised a large sum of gold in exchange for disrupting our trade routes."

The General raised an eyebrow in surprise. "A neighboring kingdom? That's quite bold of them. Do you have any idea which kingdom it might be?"

Krynn nodded. "Yes, sir. According to my sources, it's the kingdom of Nefarion."

The General's expression darkened. "Nefarion... I should have known. They've always been a thorn in our side. Thank you for your diligent work, Krynn. We must inform the king about this immediately."

Vylra listened intently to their conversation, her hands gripping the hilt of her sword tightly. She couldn't believe that another kingdom would stoop so low as to hire bandits to disrupt their trade routes. It made her blood boil with anger, and she was eager to take action.

As the General dismissed Krynn, Vylra approached him. "Krynn, can I speak with you for a moment?" she asked.

"Of course, Princess," Krynn replied, bowing respectfully.

Vylra looked at him with determination in her eyes. "I want to join you on your mission to stop the bandits and bring Nefarion to justice. I may not have as much experience as you, but I'm a skilled warrior and I want to help in any way I can."

Krynn looked at her with admiration. "I understand your eagerness, Princess, but it's not safe for you to join us. The bandits are dangerous and unpredictable."

Vylra stood her ground. "I can take care of myself, Krynn. Please, I want to do something to protect our kingdom."

Krynn hesitated for a moment, The situation is dangerous, Vylra. I cannot let you join us on this mission."

"What?! But I want to help! You know I'm capable of fighting," Vylra protested, feeling frustrated.

"I know you are, but this time it's different. The enemy is too powerful, and we can't risk losing you," Krynn replied firmly.

Vylra felt a twinge of anger mixed with disappointment. She knew Krynn was just trying to protect her, but she couldn't help feeling like he was underestimating her abilities.

"Please, Krynn. I won't be a burden. Let me prove myself," she pleaded, hoping to change his mind.

Krynn sighed, "I understand how you feel, Vylra. But this time, I have to make the tough call. I promise to fill you in on everything when we return."

Vylra sometimes joins Krynn’s scouting mission. But every time they went out, they seemed to come back with nothing to report. At first, she thought it was just bad luck, but as it happened more and more, she began to suspect something was off.

One day, she decided to confront Krynn about it. "Krynn, I've been on a lot of these scout missions with you, but we never seem to find anything. Is there something going on?"

Vylra knows Krynn too well, he can’t lie to her… Kyrnn is one of the most honest demons she ever met.

Krynn hesitated for a moment before responding. "Vylra, I'm sorry, but I have to be honest with you. These missions were never really intended to find anything. They were all planned by your father."

Vylra was shocked. "My father? But why would he do that?"

Krynn sighed. "I don't know the details, but I think it has something to do with keeping you safe. Maybe he didn't want you to be in any real danger."

Vylra's face fell. She had always wanted to prove herself as a capable warrior and help defend her kingdom, but it seemed her father had other plans for her. She felt frustrated and trapped.

Krynn placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Hey, don't worry. We can still use these missions as training exercises. We can practice our skills and make sure we're always ready for whatever comes our way."

Vylra nodded, grateful for Krynn's support. She knew she couldn't change her father's plans, but she could still make the most of the situation and continue to improve her abilities.

But this time it was different. Vylra knew there was no point in arguing further. She nodded reluctantly.

“Shall we head to the banquet hall?”

Vylra entered the banquet hall with Krynn and saw her father and sibling seated at the table, enjoying their meal. As Vylra takes her seat, her father notices the scowl on her face and asks, "Is everything alright, my dear?"

Vylra lets out a sigh and responds, "I had another argument with Krynn. He thinks I'm not fit for battle."

Her father furrows his brow in concern.

"What did he say exactly?"

"He said I'm too reckless and impulsive. But I can handle myself in a fight!" Vylra insists.

Krynn's eyes widen.

Her sibling pipes up, "Maybe Krynn is just looking out for you, Vylra. He is your bodyguard, after all."

Krynn nods violently.

Vylra glares at her sibling, but her father interjects, "I understand how you feel, Vylra. But Krynn's concern for your safety is warranted. You may be skilled in swordsmanship, but battles are unpredictable and dangerous. We don't want to see you get hurt."

Vylra grudgingly nods, but her frustration is evident. She picks at her food, lost in thought.

As the delicious aroma of the banquet filled the air, the atmosphere in the hall was abruptly interrupted by the entrance of General Baelzoroth, drawing the attention of all present. General Baelzoroth, his expression grave and determined, stepped into the room, his eyes fixated on King Belial. With a slight bow, he leaned in close and whispered into the king's ear.

"Your Majesty, forgive the intrusion," Baelzoroth began, his voice low and tinged with urgency. "But I bring grave news from our scouts. The Tomb of Astaroth has been breached. Reports indicate that it is now infested with powerful monsters."

The king's eyes widened with concern, his grip on the goblet tightening. "the Tomb of Astaroth ... Are you certain, General? That place holds unspeakable dangers."

Baelzoroth nodded solemnly. "Yes, my liege. One of our scouts ventured near the tomb and witnessed its doors wide open. The sight chilled their very soul, and they spotted monstrous creatures roaming the vicinity. It appears the seal that held them at bay has been broken."

A sense of unease settled over the room, the atmosphere growing tense as the gravity of the situation sank in. The Tomb of Astaroth, an ancient burial ground steeped in darkness and mystery, had been a foreboding presence in their kingdom for centuries.

King Belial's gaze hardened, determination replacing his initial shock.

"We cannot allow these creatures to roam freely, endangering our people and our lands. We must take action, General. Gather our most skilled soldiers and prepare them for battle. We shall not yield to the darkness that seeks to consume us."

Baelzoroth's eyes gleamed with loyalty and resolve.

"Your will shall be done, my king. I shall summon our finest soldiers and mobilize our forces to reclaim the tomb and restore order."

As the General turned to leave, King Belial's voice rang out, filled with concern for the safety of his people.

"General, ensure the safety of our scouts and send word to nearby villages to be on high alert. We cannot afford to let these creatures spread their terror beyond the tomb."

Baelzoroth bowed deeply, his determination evident.

"I shall personally see to it, Your Majesty. We will bring an end to this menace and safeguard our kingdom."

Nestled in close proximity to the kingdom, lies the ancient tomb of Astaroth. This burial ground has long been a source of concern for the people of the kingdom, for it harbors a dark and treacherous past.

The tomb of Astaroth dates back centuries, believed to have been constructed during a time when powerful and malevolent entities roamed the land. Astaroth, a once formidable and feared figure, was said to be an ancient sorcerer of immense power. Legend tells of his insatiable thirst for dominion and his quest for forbidden knowledge.

The tomb itself, built with imposing stone structures and intricate carvings, is a testament to the dark legacy it holds. Over the years, tales of curses, restless spirits, and abominable creatures that guard the tomb have woven their way into the fabric of local folklore.

The tomb's proximity to the kingdom poses a constant threat. Its eerie aura radiates darkness, casting a shadow over the land. The malignant energy emanating from within the tomb seeps into the surrounding area, tainting the very air and soil. It is believed that this malevolent influence has led to an increase in supernatural occurrences, unexplained phenomena, and even occasional outbreaks of monstrous creatures.

The kingdom's rulers, understanding the inherent dangers of the tomb, have taken measures to safeguard their people. They have erected protective barriers and stationed vigilant guards to monitor any signs of disturbance. However, the constant presence of such an ominous force nearby serves as a reminder of the ever-present danger that lurks.

The tomb of Astaroth stands as a reminder of the precarious balance between light and darkness, and the constant struggle to protect the kingdom from the malevolent forces that lie in wait. Its history serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder that even in the face of such peril, the resilience and determination of the kingdom's inhabitants must prevail to ensure their survival.

As the banquet reached its culmination, King Belial rose from his seat, signaling for his trusted General to accompany him. With a solemn nod, the General excused himself from the table and followed the king as they left the opulent banquet hall.

Vylra, seizing the opportunity, gathered her resolve and swiftly trailed after them, determined to speak her mind. She caught up to them just as they reached a secluded corridor, its walls adorned with ornate tapestries depicting the kingdom's glorious history.

"Father, General," Vylra called out, her voice carrying a mix of determination and urgency. The king turned to face his daughter, a hint of surprise in his eyes, while the General stood by his side, his expression stoic.

"Vylra, my dear," King Belial said, his tone both gentle and curious.

"What brings you here? Is something wrong?"

Vylra took a deep breath, steadying herself. She met her father's gaze, her eyes shining with determination.

"Father, I know you have reservations about allowing me to participate in the mission, but I implore you to reconsider. I have trained tirelessly, honing my skills to protect our kingdom. I wish to prove myself, to stand alongside our soldiers and contribute to our defense."

The king's brow furrowed slightly as he listened to his daughter's impassioned plea. The General, standing a few paces away, maintained his stern composure, silently observing the exchange.

"Vylra," King Belial began, his voice tinged with a mix of concern and paternal love.

"I understand your desire to prove yourself, but the dangers we face are grave. The mission to investigate the tomb is fraught with peril, and I cannot bear the thought of anything befalling you."

Vylra's eyes gleamed with determination, her voice unwavering.

"Father, I have trained under General Baelzoroth. I am prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Please, have faith in me."

The General, ever the staunch guardian of the kingdom, finally spoke, his voice low and measured.

"Your Highness, I understand the princess's determination. She has displayed exceptional skill and dedication. Perhaps it is time to allow her to prove herself in the crucible of battle."

King Belial regarded both his daughter and the General, a mix of pride and concern etched across his face. After a moment of contemplation, he nodded slowly.

"Very well, Vylra. I will grant your request. But know that my heart swells with both pride and worry for you.”

Vylra's face lit up with a mixture of joy and gratitude. She stepped forward, embracing her father tightly, before turning to face the General, extending her hand in a gesture of gratitude. The General nodded, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips, accepting her gesture with a firm handshake.

As they stood there, the weight of their decision settling upon them, the kingdom's future seemed to hang in the balance. Vylra's determination had won her the chance to prove herself, but the challenges that awaited her in the tomb of Astaroth would test not only her skills but also the strength of their kingdom's resolve.

King Belial, having made the decision to allow Vylra to participate in the mission to the treacherous tomb of Astaroth, turned to his trusted General with a solemn expression.

"General, I am entrusting my daughter's safety to you," the king declared, his voice carrying the weight of both authority and concern. "She is dear to me, and I cannot bear the thought of any harm coming to her. I implore you to keep a vigilant eye and ensure her well-being."

The General, a seasoned warrior with unwavering loyalty to the kingdom and its ruler, nodded solemnly in acknowledgment.

“Your Majesty, I understand the gravity of this responsibility. I shall protect the princess with my life and ensure her safe return."

Vylra, standing beside her father, looked at the General with a mix of gratitude and determination.

"General, I appreciate your dedication and vow to do everything in my power to aid you in our mission.

King Belial nodded approvingly, his gaze shifting between Vylra and the General.

"General, I trust that you will exercise sound judgment and protect my daughter as if she were your own. Keep her close, but allow her to prove herself in this mission. Our kingdom's fate rests in your hands."

King Belial excused himself, leaving Vylra and the General alone in a moment of quietude. The General turned his attention to Vylra, his tone gentle yet authoritative.

"Princess Vylra, as we embark on this mission, timing is of the essence. We must plan our departure carefully to ensure we have the advantage. The journey to the tomb of Astaroth is treacherous, and we need to be well-prepared."

Vylra nodded, a determined gleam in her eyes.

"General, I get it. The longer we wait, the riskier it gets. We gotta strike when the enemy least expects it, catch 'em off guard."

The General smiled, appreciating Vylra's understanding.

Exactly, Vylra! We're leaving at dawn, under the cover of darkness. It'll give us the element of surprise and help us navigate the treacherous desolate abyss without being spotted.

Vylra met the General's gaze, her determination shining through.

"General, I'm ready for this mission. I've trained hard, and I won't back down. We'll face the darkness together and come out on top."

The General's expression softened a hint of pride in his eyes.

"Vylra, you've got guts. I have no doubt you'll prove yourself on this journey. But remember, your safety is my top priority. Stick close to me, trust my lead.

Vylra nodded, her resolve unwavering.

"General, I trust you. I know you'll protect our kingdom, and I'll have your back. Together, we'll make our people proud."

END OF CHAPTER 16