Act III

Historia III

The plot of land on which the capital of Adora sat now, during the time of the Second Scions, was previously no more than a barren landscape. The kind of battles that waged upon her made the earth herself a victim. It is said that the Second Earth Scions rose three pillars. The people called them the three-horned pike: Tria Cornua la Hasta. It is tradition that the Scions meet and pour their powers into this symbol of unity. By the 7th generation, however, that custom would inevitably come to an end.

Years later eventually, the followers of Halfryta would build their home surrounding Tria Cornua; now found in the deepest chambers of Hal Astu beneath the city. Fully named Halfryta Holy Astu, in the year x189, it was fully established and completely built as the great chapel it is now. When the Second Scions blessed the First Cleric, it was also done traditionally in Tria Cornea’s misshapen, triangular centre. The Scions were meant to gather there three times in their lives. Ages, beliefs and once, even the generation may have varied, but three times they would meet. First, at coronation. Then, at their coming-of-age. Finally, to bless the next Cleric.

The missionaries of the church had been around for as long as the Cleric. Many of those families were the first volunteers and disciples against war and conflict, so peace was their greatest priority. As such, their beliefs and values translated through history. Some historians have concluded that the first true sign of ‘Ordo’ or ‘Order’ came about at the end of the first century. These missionaries worked hard to settle and convert destroyed lands and to repair much of the damage from the original wars. Eventually, they became a force their own. The rise of currency and the guilds sped civilization along. Royal Scions, The Lordships, and Guilds—the mercenaries. These three powers headed human civilization, and against beast and monster-kind weapons of war were amassed even by the holy. Then, of course, they even wielded them against each other… as humans yet do.

It would be decades of planning and building later that the city and fully realized church grounds would come into the horizon. - Adora World History I

Historia Est Finis

Act III

x291

Parte et Rai

POOF! A long whistle... Boom! The landscape crashed, rocks and bombs flung through the air. Arrows fell in overhead and screams of men raged in pain and war. In the long distance, sounds of clanging metal scraped over the wind. I stood atop the foreign hills hidden beneath the tent covers of the Nariko Royal Army headquarters. Here, the Royal Guard gathered before King Alok. A single, large, round table held up a map filled with hills, mountains, and forests. A single river wound laterally across the whole westside of the region. It was nothing official, merely a scouting report, but it was as accurate as was available.

In this room, on a mini throne wrapped in cloth, sat King Alok Beneberakk. To his right, his aide and First General: Knight King Aitan. Nobleman-Count Seroh Revela, Commander-in-Chief of Nariko’s army: Lord Prince Garland Michael Rakk, and his Countess Bridgette Fourn, completed the group. Each had their own exquisite armour, donning different colours and jewels. No two were similar, but they all wore Nariko’s double-folded cloaked mantle. Red and gold bolts cut through the fabric, avoiding only Nariko’s three-bolt insignia over their hearts. Edgar and I stood lame and lampshade behind father’s seating, allowed to observe. Dolls and figurines, tiny walls, and soldiers stood on the board.

“With this, it will all be over by nightfall.” Garland wrapped-up his explanation. He glanced over at Bridgette, who only nodded in agreement. “Our enemies are both beast-men and human. During the first clash in the morning, they concentrated most of their power at the centre wall while guarding their flanks using the mountains as expected. To respond, I’ve sent out heavily armoured infantry to hold the central line and draw the focus there. We don’t need to engage in deep battle within the mountains. Instead, we have our men stationed in the forests just beyond the cliffs in the east and west. With that, they can’t easily send reinforcements to the plains.”

“Forgive me, but it seems you’ve intentionally conducted us into a full stalemate.” Revela began. “How will the battle end by nightfall if you plan on stalling it out? Have you intel on their provisions?”

“We are not so fortunate.” He replied. “However, because they’ve focused too much strength on this main line, it means their headquarters will not be so fortified. As such, Bridgette drafted an elite team of rangers from our men. They’ll slip between the forest and river to the west during the rage of the battle, crossing into enemy territory. We’ll stage a war, then quietly go for the head. If we manage to take the beast at the neck… we’ll force an immediate surrender.”

Alok peered over at Aitan. He nodded and gave his approval, then looked deeply back at the map.

“Oh? The King of Might Lord Aitan has approved of your tactics, Lord Prince. And yet, why do his eyes harbor questions?”

“Hmph.” Aitan scoffed, crossing arms.

“A stalemate. You would have me and our men prolong the fight further, despite our advantage in strength, Garland?”

“I do not know what you base that belief on, but it is unwise to underestimate the natives on their homeland. They are of this land and we have no business here. We are in no way equipped with enough information to simply rush to the neck.” He warned with a stern face. Bridgette seemed to come alive now, perhaps due to Garland’s uncharacteristic tension.

“Even so, Garland,” Revela began, “if you would lead them yourself, would this not end in half a day?”

“You’re not listening.” Garland shook his head.

“My Lord Knight.” Bridgette announced. “May I speak?”

“You may.” Aitan rumbled.

“This plan, while it may last longer than is your taste, will also prevent us from any great casualties. By dividing the power structure across the board, the ones forced to rush are our enemies who will have to face seemingly endless waves of heavy armour cavalry and infantry. Even for the beast-men, they pose an issue. With enough time, our rangers will be able to take the headquarter. All we ask is your patience.”

“Half a day,” Alok scoffed. “I prefer that one. You speak of casualties in war. Such a child should not have been brought here. If you wish to prevent casualties, then take to the field and fight.” He spoke in a condescending and nonchalant tone.

Garland sighed. “Alok...”

“King Alok to you, Lord Prince. End this in half a day.” He commanded. The tent was then emptied.

I stood outside, on the hillside, with Edgar. I was far from the battlefield, but to me, it was still loud. I’d never been far from the roar of chaos. Sometimes I even feel like it haunts me. The screams of men who die fighting for things they don’t care about; that kind of reality was, scary and motivating to me.

“Edgar.” I called.

“Yes, sire?” a tall half cloaked shadow replied.

“Don’t be formal. They can’t hear us here.” I said.

“It would be unwise to underestimate your elders, milord; you are still barely 12.” Edgar cautioned.

“It was three years ago that father locked me in room with two honey badgers and a short knife…. please just listen.” I looked sternly. “I’ve learned fighting for your life isn’t an easy experience. Uncle Garland has created a plan which allows us to save more lives than we take. Is time so important that all-out war is better?”

“Fenris, that is a foolish question. Time is not infinite. Do not presume to know what it is your father and King wishes to accomplish by shortening this battle.” Edgar half-barked, slightly hiding a shadowy smirk.

“So, in other words, it doesn’t matter if it’s all out war or not. As long as we still save the time?” I theorised.

“You would have to speak with the commander-in-chief of the army. Though… he may decline your request for audience. Even if you are prince, you are still only an observer.” Edgar huffed.

“Hmph.” I smiled.

It seemed like only a few moments passed before we’d traversed the plain to the main army’s rear headquarters: Nariko’s insignia proudly displayed on the face of the cream-tinted tent. Bridgette stepped out. She was [A1] tall, and her blonde hair and silk complexion was strangely fairer than I’d first noticed.

“Pardon me, Ms. Bridgette,” I said. “I’d like an audience with the commander.”

“Harrumph,” she half-laughed. Walking over, she bent on one knee and placed a hand on my head with a smile. “You’ve thought of something, have you, Lord Fenris? If so, you needn’t be so formal. After all, you are our prince.” She spoke in a calm-paced, mellow inflection. She got up and turned. “Come.” She said, leading me into the tent. I stepped inside.

“Hoomphf!” I muffled as I was suddenly embraced by a wall of arm and chest muscle.

Uncle Garland held me for a moment. “HAHA! Forgive me! Forgive me! It’s been so long since I’ve seen my nephew! How are you, Fenris?! Come sit on my lap and talk with me like you used to!” Uncle Garland sat in the thickest of armour on the floor in front of me, rather than using the chair or table behind him. He stared with a smile and a joy which had no place where we were. I breathed a sigh of relief for a moment. Edgar smiled softly in the corner of my eye next to miss Fourn.

“Lord-Prince, if you would please.” I said. “Having listened in on the earlier meeting, I had an idea I’d like to offer. Though I’m still a child, I hope you’ll listen.” I said.

Uncle rose to his feet and walked to his table, sitting down with a serious look on his face. A copy of the previous map was rolled open before us at this table as well. “my genius nephew has a helpful idea in his head. I’d like to hear it!”

“Bridgette, I was wondering if you had a more detailed map of the riverside.”

“Yes, as a matter of fact, I do. It was necessary in creating the path for our rangers.”

Bridgette spread another map on top of the first. This time, the map looked more closely at a north-to-south twisting river across the east. To it’s right stood the mountain range, and a range of forestry on the exteriors. Looking at the layout of the positioning of our own troops, I realized that Uncle Garland’s plan was already more than sufficient. I said that, in part, because I understood why Master Aitan approved as well.

“The way I see it, by having scouts and archers at flanks keeping long-range fire at bay, we’re now able to hold the central line unrushed, to push through the mountain pass. So long as there’s enough medics on the field, we won’t experience too many casualties. Meanwhile, because we have the superior forces on the ground, they’re now hard-pressed to send reinforcements. With their lowered numbers, the ranger team would have made it the thirteen kiomets north to the enemy base over the course of the day, unnoticed by the time dusk fell. That’s where the last fight would ensue… which, of course, you’re confident we can win. If I may ask, exactly what is the ranger unit composed of?”

Bridgette bowed slightly and cleared her throat politely. “It’s a special fifty-man elite unit personally selected by me, with Lord Garland’s approval. Twenty-five 3rd scouts, fifteen rangers, five snipers, four Deadeye units, and the current Bow King on Nariko Cestmir.”

“The Bow King?” I asked curiously. He sounded famous, and yet I’d never heard of him before.

Uncle Garland chuckled. “It took some doing, but I was able to enlist him. The man’s name is Galvyn Revela. A man who can shoot your pocket off your pants from 200 paces away, and Count Revela’s firstborn son. It may seem like bias, but that boy has worked hard to get to where he is. I would like to do all I can for him to return alive, and with honors.”

“Now I understand why you were so confident in your ranger team. Sending long-range killers on an assassination route with the battle in the centre.” I could see why master also approved when I really think about it. Unfortunately, we don’t have the of time.” I said. “Alright…” I finally proposed. “This is my plan.”

Over an hour passed into the midday before a scout sent by Lord Prince Garland crossed the six kiomets to the river base. It was Edgar and me. There, we met the ranger squadron led by Galvyn Revela held its position. Cloaked in an ebony colour, by way of Nariko’s robes, he sat at the head of the group in the tent. Mats spread in an array with the ranks, displayed by bolts over their left and right shoulders. 3S - 3rd Scout. R - Ranger, SX - Sniper, DX, - Deadeye. Galvyn’s shoulder donned a gold crimson-drawn arrow cloaked in bolts. His long, black hair fell to his spine. He had different coloured eyes. Kind of unnerving – in his pupils; the right being purple right and the left golden. The man, despite his impressive title, wore a soft demeanor. He, was, however, undoubtedly tall, standing at six feet and two inches. He was lean and fit. The Bow King currently sat cross armed, awaiting a signal.

“Report! Report!” A lower-dressed scout burst in. The assorted men, women and two beast-soldiers looked towards the opening.

“You may approach.” Galvyn summoned. Adult male lightly toned brown skin. Adult in his early 30’s. Demeanor cold yet playful, almost fox like – like his father.

“New orders have arrived from the commander.” I produced a scroll from my pocket.

Galvyn took it in hand and laid a map on the ground before him, marked viciously with instructions.

“Hoooh.” He gasped, then gave a hearty chuckle.

I would’ve never expected such a brash tactic from Lord Garland. Or perhaps, our king has grown impatient, he whispered. “It seems this will be far more enjoyable than I had thought.

“Very well. Rangers! To your bows! Prepare for assault.” He announced in a clear-cut tone.

“OSU!” The battle cries came out. Over the next 3 hours these were the recorded events which took place:

Under the orders of Commander-In-Chief, Lord Prince Garland, Galvyn Revela changed his course of attack. Instead of journeying to the enemy stronghold, he led his team to the west mountainside, where the enemy forces were at a stalemate with Nariko’s forces in the forests. Typically, this task would prove nearly impossible—it was akin to climbing a mountain, shooting to the sky. The Bow King, however, was unphased. He led his top units of Deadeye and snipers to the mountain path’s base. Approaching with the cover of the enemy barricades, they used just a few arrows, taking key members of the enemy watchtower. This alerted the acting enemy general that a new threat had emerged down the mountainside. Reinforcements were sent. It was, however, a trap.

Galvyn was quick to notice the horses in the distance closing in from the captured fortress tower. Quickly, he shot a signal to the sky. With that signal, the west army waiting in the forests took the transitioning enemy infantry by surprise, working to immediately cut off lines of communication. Silently, the enemy’s west fortress fell to Nariko’s forces, led by Galvyn Revela. Hundreds of mets away on the eastern front, the stalemate at the east stronghold held still... Until Galvyn’s signal fell from the sky.

A crimson-tinted bolt flew over the mountain pass, followed by a roar from the treetops, as though voices were falling from the skies. Nariko’s forces thrust out from the eastern forests and down the cliffs, descending like an avalanche. With all their might, and shields overhead, they ran pass the falling enemy arrows, beating down the gates of the eastern stronghold, and forcing the east army to fall back to their centre. Seeking to create distance from the now-encroaching east army the enemy general sought to gather his troops at the centre and west mountain paths.

This was the final step. In doing so, he walked his entire army into the centre plains. Before he could proceed with his men further west, he was stopped, to his surprise, by Nariko’s western forces inside the enemy’s fortress. The enemy’s main army was cornered. The final instructions on the order had led Galvyn’s team north where they had taken a high vantage point. The south mountain was under the control of Nariko’s west army, with the river cutting north to south. Eliminating any escape further west, and marching in from the east, was Nariko’s central army, backed by the advancing eastern front.

“Master Galvyn.” A blonde-haired Archer called, her voice light to the wind. She gave a hand-signal point to the distance. A horseman could be seen riding into the tent of the enemy headquarters, some 400 or so mets away, behind the 300 heavy cavalry units protecting the headquarters.

“Hmph. I’d say this is game over. Hand me my bow.” Galvyn hailed. A young-faced brunette male stepped up to him. He drew a black arch, lined with subtle etches of red and gold at its creases, from his back. Galvyn pulled an arrow from his side.

Inside the enemy head quarters. King Narcotus sat. He was a white-bearded, pale-skinned man. Next to him stood his attendant: a young, skinny male. Both wore dresses that bespoke of royalty. Two other men stood nearby, dressed as warrior generals: one wearing leather, and the other chain amours.

“Have we made any progress with the threat in the west fortress?” The king asked.

“No, my lord.” The one in chainmail answered. “We are awaiting the report now.” He bowed.

Then the opening erupted. “Urgent report! Urgent report!” A young female scout burst into the room. Bolting to one knee on entry, she placed a fist on the ground, flooded with an anxious sweat.

“Status report!” The one in leather mail called.

“General Bruink has not been slain. However, there is something that your lordship must see! The battlefield has turned—!” Fwoom! Tck! “—ACHK!” She choked, falling over a crimson-tinted arrow that pierced through her left triceps.

Gasps flung around the room as all parties dropped back in surprise.

“Impossible!” The attendant shouted.

He was the first to realize. The other three rushed outside to see. Where could the arrow have come from? To be hit so accurately from behind the tent. Did it completely miss the 300 men stopped before the entrance? A message was wrapped by the bolt’s tail. King Narcotus grabbed the small scroll, rushing outside. The sun struck hot! He only saw his men poised against a distant enemy, one too far to fight. He swiped the telescope from the leather general’s waist. In moments, his eyes gathered the scene.

The chainmail general gave a loud gulp, holding himself from shaking in fear—his eyes folded in a deep curtain of shadow. “Four hundred mets.” He cracked deeply. “At best, the north mountains are four hundred mets away. To land a shot so accurately, through the cover of a tent… What sort of monstrous eyes must such a man possess?” He fell to a knee beside his king.

All these three men could do was but whimper. Through the binocular, King Narcotus saw his army surrounded by obstacles and enemies. Everything but the white flag was present. He bit his lip in frustration.

Defeat.

My binocular bounced at my side slightly as I walked. Once I saw Galvyn pull his bow at the top of the west hill, I knew we’d won. Instead of awaiting the surrender I journeyed with Edgar a few hundred mets south along the riverside to Nariko army’s return route. Fenris, accompanied by Edgar, walked with an armful of small boxes containing rations and medicines for the soldiers. Every dozen steps or so, they’d place these kits at the sides of the path, uniformly

“It’s gotten quiet.” Edgar commented.

“If everything is going to plan, it shouldn’t be lasting much longer anyway.” I replied.

Edgar gave a stiff grunt. “You sound confident. I would remind you how easily the tides of war can change.”

“Don’t worry. They won’t be given that opportunity.” I assured.

“How can you be so sure?” Edgar asked.

“Because he’s going to try to maintain the eqwa-ilibrium.” I replied.

“the – the equilibrium?” Edgar chuckled as I fumbled the word. “I take it you’re talking about the enemy general?” Edgar queried.

“Y-yes.” I nodded blushing as I cleared my throat, placing another ration on the path. “It’s the first day of battle. Neither side has really shown their hand, yet we quickly reached a stalemate. As far defense is concerned, it gives a sense of ‘holding the enemy off’. Such a feeling is good for morale. So, it’s natural to want to try and keep it. That’s why I wrote special instructions for Galvyn.”

“Really? What were they?” Edgar asked.

“Draw attention. Galvyn’s squadron is extremely elite. To 50 bowmen led by the Bow King – my mind flashed bac to the tent with uncle Garland, remembering his words – ‘a single fortress is nothing.’ If that is true, then if that kind of enemy appeared, how many men would you have to sacrifice from the front to send reinforcements?”

Edgar had a sly smile across his lips. “Enough to maintain the equilibrium I suppose.”

“Right. A very delicate number that rose when we sent Galvyn to the west. They’ll be forced to ‘shift numbers. Going from east to west would take to long. I figured instead he’d simply shift a round number of his forces between battlefronts. At that point, it’s up to Galvyn’s judgment. Once he feels he’s drawn enough attention, he must signal the east army to rampage the eastern stronghold. If the timing is wrong, we’ll lose a significant amount of numbers at the fortress gate.”

“Such a risk, to be taken by a single man. And what of you?” Edgar stopped. “I would not believe you would be so naïve. Why would you purposely create an even riskier situation? You said you had never met him, the Bow King. On what do you base your confidence? You would be extremely fortunate that he should not run into any harmful arrows.” Edgar cautioned.

“you’re right. Until today I had never met him.” I said as I put a med down. “You may be right. However, I decided to have faith in my elders. If both uncle Garland and Master Aitan approve of his skills, I have no reason to doubt them. I have no intention of sending anyone to die for my sake or anyone else’s. This plan will bring them home sooner.”

“It’s lovely to see you be so trusting.” Edgar praised grinned warmly.

“Please eat your tongue.” I pleaded.

Whiiirrr…

I looked about. “Hmm?”

Whiirrrr…

I searched even harder across the landscape “That sound… Is that what I think it is?” Edgar held a fixed stare on the sky over the battlefield. “Isn’t that… isn’t that the fortress?! When did he summon it?!” I gawked at the looming figure drawing up in the distance.

Rumble…The air began to tremble.

“No… Don’t do it. We won… Don’t—” I cried. “Is this why you wanted half a day?!?!?!”

Vooum! Krrrnnng! She rang.

Cestmir’s Palace hung deft over the plains of these foreign lands. Her ringing intensified… Growing. Eventually, it muffled even my useless pleas. “No, No, NO, NO! THERE’S NO NEED!!!” I bolted toward the canyon, where fighting was happening.

“Young Master!” Edgar grabbed me by the wrist. “You cannot stop something like this!”

A gold sphere sparked into existence, immense energy pouring from the bottom of the palace.

Pfoovm! She released.

A mushroom cloud appeared on the horizon, rising towards the heavens. The ensuing explosion erupted in a swift eruption of fire and heat.

One. Two. Three moments passed before the rushing gales blew over my face and hair. Fenris’ thick, spiky, curly strands, typically unmoving, gave a soft rustle.

“Do not be saddened my lord… such is war. It is not your place to question the actions of your King.” Even Edgar spoke in a saddened tone.

“I don’t need it.” I rushed off into the forest.

Edgar gave chase. “What? Where are you going?”

“I don’t want any of it. I have no use for such power, only useful for taking.” I shouted in a fit.

“Young master, please! We must return!” He hurried behind me.

“You’re better off not following me! You don’t have to get punished too!” I said as I fled.

One Week Later

Edgar and I strolled to the eastern edge of Cestmir; our belongings already gathered for us. We sat over the platform contraption that would lower and raise with the help of guards placed at all the outer edges.

Cestmir had already begun the travel overseas, out of the Thunder Peaks and toward the main continent: back to the capital. Eventually, father arrived at the platform, accompanied by Aitan. When Nariko flies, the citizens who decide to stay on the outer ring of the fortress must tie down anything that is loose or light enough to fly away in the wind. Despite mother’s barrier expanding the entire mass of land as we flew, turbulent winds could still cause issues. Others may choose to stay in the surrounding towns and villages in the mountains which are home to the fortress. I learned recently that Nariko’s landmass is only one third of the continent, Fulgur Virga’s, Chrome Stunner deposit. Nariko flew at a moderate speed. It was enough to make my hair blow along in the passing wind as I stood along the outer edges. It had taken two days before we reached the outskirts of the capital. By boat, it would’ve taken considerably more. Upon our arrival, land drakes that had been raised in the Thunder Peaks were given reigns and pulled our carriage to the main gates of the capital. Once there, Aitan and Edgar escorted father and I to the church. Servants took my belongings into my room in the church, as I was to remain here in the capital once we’d completed this meeting. Father and I walked deep into the church where we were sat in unique room, well-prepared and warmly lit. A round, grandly drawn marble table with a map of the world sprawled out on top stood at the center. The map was marked with the placements of the kingdoms and major cities which sat between. A large, red circle was placed over areas of the eastern plains: Men and women of power, dressed as generals and diplomats, soon shuffled in, and took their seats. Four individuals whom I did not recognize attended, along with King Trevet and Reinhelda. Fifth Cleric Sebastien Horden II also joined shortly after and began the meeting with the eleven of us.

“Good day to you all. We have gathered today to discuss the rising duress in the beast tribes of the eastern plains. The floor is open for discussion at this time.” Cleric opened.

“Surely, there are peaceful ways to resolve this.” One general proposed.

“Perhaps we may enter into a parlay with the tribes. If we can find out what they’ve become so restless over, a solution should not be far away.” A duchess added.

King Trevet gave a deep cough and cleared his throat with a rumble, commanding the room with an uncanny baritone. “I have sent many scouts to review the situation in the plains. Each of them has returned with similar reports of a rising energy change that is disrupting peace in the species of several areas. The effect has been noted even amongst wild animals and monsters. The source of the energy remains unknown for now.” King Trevet explained.

“We are affording them the assumption of being an intelligent people. Energy or no energy, the beast tribes are a sentient and battle-hardened race. What’s to say this is not the beginning of another era of conflict? If I were in their position, it would be simple.” Father spat sourly. He would speak down on the beast tribes often. The worst of all other monsters.

“I would doubt that King of Cestmir. If that were the case, the dragons would also have roused to these happenings, would they not?” The Duchess replied.

“Not necessarily. The dragons are among the most powerful of beings next to Elder Spirits and the Great Daemons. Conflict with them in a rational sense entirely means war.” Cleric commented. “As I understand it, Master Aitan, you’ve had much experience with the beast tribes in the past. What say you?”

“It appears that they do not move with an air of conflict. However, be it beast or bird, they are each equally strong. To approach them without caution would be suicide.” Aitan explained. Exhales and sighs could be heard around the room.

“Leaders, these tribes have failed to adequately communicate with any of us and have torn through the eastern landscape without any regard for anyone or anything. They uphold a harmony with each other but not us. They lack respect. Even worse, they lack fear. If there are no objections, I will deal with this matter at once myself.” Father proclaimed.

“It pains me to say this, but this time, we have no other choice. We can not reach another conclusion nor do the rest of us have any other ideas to present. Thus, I vote to leave the matter to King Alok. Do any of you object?” The general said.

“Alok. No blood can be spilt.” Trevet commanded.

“Halfryta willing.” Father rebutted dryly.

“Very well. If there are no other objections, then we will adjourn here and leave the matter to the Fortress King.” Cleric finished.

A dull muttering scattered around the room. Slowly, each of the leaders left, after bowing and greeting the royalty present. Finally, once they’d left, father stood up. Aitan and Edgar poised to follow.

“Father, what will you do?” I asked hesitantly. He glanced at me and let out a sharp humph, then began to walk out.

“I will teach them fear.” He didn’t look back as he replied. Nor did his voice shake.

Father took a carriage back to the fortress with Aitan. Edgar returned to his quarters, and I was left to my own devices within the church. I took a walk around the courtyard space in the west field as the sun began to set, leaving the sky bleeding a deep red. In a corner at the far end of the court was Reinhelda. She sat quietly, alone. I walked over behind her.

“Isn’t it scary? All the fighting you do?” She began.

“How did you know it was me?” I asked puzzled.

“I didn’t want to tell you, but it’s been a while since I memorized the sound of your walk.” she said.

“Oh? Such is the power of the Earth Scion.” I gasped jokingly, unsurprised,

“I thought you’d say something meaner.” She admitted.

“You’re the only one who’s still that self-conscious.” I brushed.

A smirk crept across her lips; she finally looked at me, her eyes gleaming a sort of dull shine. They were either grey or colourless. She released a soft exhale and I sat next to her, watching the sky escape the sun, healing into a soft orange as it did.

“So… what do you think he’ll do?” she asked

“Best case scenario, he’ll send an envoy.” I answered.

“And the worst?” She continued; the worry – clear in her voice[A2] . I didn’t reply.

“You don’t tell many stories about him, but the ones you have match my picture of him exactly.”

I glanced back over at her. “Don’t assume to know. Even I doubt he’ll do anything too rash on Halfryta.”

“Then again—”

I cut her off. “This might be the best place to do so. I’m hoping we do see such a scenario.” I turned my back to her. “Maybe he’ll finally be completely ostracized and leave me here.” I half-hoped.

“Careful what you wish for. Sometimes words… really make things happen.” She gave a boldened frown, unhappy with my sentiments.

“Are you saying I’m being naïve?” I rebutted.

“Truthfully, it sounds insulting if I say you are. But you [A3] and I both already know that we’re kids, so we don’t have a choice.”

“Hmph. That was eloquent.” I complimented.

“I’ve just been reading more like you suggested.”

“It’s helpful right?” I commented.

“I finished the wildlife almanac you gave me too.” A small prideful smile.

“And people say I’m a genius.” I scoffed sarcastic again.

“is it surprising?” she asked.

“No, just didn’t expect it. Good job.” I stated.

She let a grin show, all frankness implied. “It’s a good thing you’re such a serious person. Being good with words is usually only for the prettier kinds of boys.”

“Good thing I’m dirt compared to other boys. Besides Whom said I’m not always enjoying myself?” I humored her.

“It’s fine, youre just a little dry sometimes.” She chuckled at her own joke.

In her hands, peacefully sitting in her embrace, was a peculiar flower. I resisted the urge to ask about it, too weak to interrupt the present tranquility. The air tasted refreshing here… Different from what I had known at home for as long as I could remember. The space around her was the opposite of what I’d witnessed at the coronation too. Since then, she had worked hard to bring her powers under control as best she could. In the few years since, she’d done amazingly, considering in her first year she hadn’t been allowed to participate in half the general curriculum. She was living proof that things could change, for me. I suppose, perhaps, for the better.

“Don’t lose yourself Fenris.” She cautioned.

“Hm?” I peered from behind closed-eye windows.

“I feel like our stories are opposites. I can’t really explain it well. Recently, I learned that sometimes you need something like an anchor, to keep you grounded and true to yourself[A4] . Sometimes, however, you don’t realize when you lose it though.” She paused. “I hope that you can always stay grounded Fenris.”

I gave a second of thought to her words, not fully understanding. “I don’t totally follow you… But thank you. I’ll try.”

It wasn’t much longer before the darkness of night started to fall haphazardly over the world, punctured all over by the unreachable light of starts and the reflection of the moon. I breathed a deep sigh. This time I broke the silence.

“I used to hate getting punished. I used to fear so much what kind of consequences awaited me from him, for my failures. I did my best to be as obedient as I could. When I looked up, I found myself just as alone anyways. Unfortunately, it’s made me too smart for my own good. I always feel like such an ugly mutt on the inside, alone in the dark. At this point that loneliness… it feels like following my heart.”

“If it’s you, that will be fine. As a matter of fact, I’ll take that as promise.” She said. “If it were Marise, he wouldn’t know what to do, but that’s why he fits you so. If he’s around he’ll never let, go. I’m so happy you were able to share that with me. “She gave a light chuckle, then rose to her feet. “Good night, Fenris.” She said, releasing her grasp. She turned and escaped into the dark.

Rising and turning in the opposite direction, I followed suit. That was considerate of her. Going it alone, so I can find myself. She would support me if I did that. It became even more obvious—someone like her could never have a taste for all the fighting I do. I chuckled. Maybe we really are quite unlucky.

The next day, I met Edgar down at the front court of the church. A carriage was waiting to take us to the east plains sat just outside the gates. Edgar bowed in the distance, I waved and began to walk over.

I soon felt a quake of steps and turned around. Reinhelda stood a way behind me, silent. She walked up to me slowly, the quake dissipating as she neared.

“There are better ways to get my attention, don’t you think?” I jabbed.

She handed me the flower from the night before.

It was an awkward looking thing. The petals were cotton-white, curling at the edges and long. One petal specifically stretched so far, it bent under its own weight, with a splotch of purple at its tip. Inside, it had brown, stem-like rods flowing outward, and at the bottom of those was a crowd of small, yellow bulbs.

“Be careful.” She said with a solemn look on her face. Taking the flower from her, I nodded, and continued to the carriage.

We finally reached the settlement of travelling beast-men on the edge of the eastern plains. Being so close to the capital, I was able to see why they’d pose a problem for some. The fear of them being merely a few hundred mets from the roadway into nearby cities was a very real thing. Father stood alone not too far away, perched on a nearby hill. I slipped the flower into the inside pocket of my robes and their red fabric, jaggedly lined with yellow stripes, fell silently against my skin as I did. Edgar and I then joined father shortly thereafter.

“Hello, father.” I bowed.

“You’re late.” He snapped.

“Forgive me, sire, tis a half a day’s ride from the capital.” Edgar apologized, bowing from behind me.

“We go.” Father commanded.

Father walked over to an even greater hill on the horizon to where a large tent stood at the forefront of the entire settlement. There were tents around it in all shapes and sizes, spread far and wide over the plains, creating a small village; their colours dancing brightly in the afternoon sun. The sound of families playing and living together, and the hustle and bustle of village life echoed right over the hill. Beast-men and women and children, cat-like and bird-like, dog-like, and more. Laughter abounded around us, peaceful and hearty, like the kind you’d find in any other town.

Soon, a towering beast-man exited from the hill-tent. He had the face and body of a tiger and a small, dull-coloured, grey horn sticking out from the centre of his forehead; he was massive, standing upright at around eight feet and four inches tall. He stood on his two hind legs. His great physical strength, common in beast-men, was apparent just from the look of his body. He wore a robe around his waist which fell to his knees, and a blue scarf around his neck, and was followed from the tent by two more beast-men: one bird like and the other fanged. Both wore coloured masks with shapes on them and dressed in similar robes and garbs. While they weren’t as towering as their leader, they still stood higher than most men.

The impressive group approached us confidently.

“Be cautious, young master,” Edgar whispered to me. “When a beast-man develops horns, it means they have achieved great aptitude with the lesser Arcane. Their chief is strong.”

“King Alok, of Nariko Cestmir, correct? I was not expecting you, of all people.” The chieftain began.

“Yes, well… as it happens, the time to attend to your revolt was suddenly made available to me.” Father rebutted.

“There is no revolt here. My people have moved through this land due to urgent matters. This is not your kingdom, and the insolence of your trespass will not be tolerated here.”

“Insolence, you say. You have caused duress and panic among the people of this land, failed to communicate why, and ignored the attempts of rulers to meet. But you would dare to call me insolent?”

“Your messengers and scouts can do nothing for us. It has taken several moons for any one of you high and mighty fools to step down from your thrones. There are issues at hand greater than your feeble pride, young king.”

“To speak with such a tone… Truly, you know no respect. No, even worse, you have forgotten fear. Perhaps you must be re-educated.”

“Grrr… bah!” The chief snarled. “You are not the one we want to speak with. This banter is meaningless, and a waste of time. Begone from our land, human!”

“This land is not yours, beast-man.” Father retorted with disgust in his face.

“Come, King Alok, you have been asked to leave.” Said the feathered, masked guard, placing a hand on father’s shoulder. Father’s face turned incredibly sour. He slowly shifted his gaze from the chief to the feathered one.

“Who gave you permission to touch me?” In an instant, a gush of energy thickened in the air. Not a moment later, the body of the guard flew thirty mets and crashed into another tent, leaving a trail across the ground.

“Farah!” The other guard yelled.

“ENOUGH OF THIS!” With a loud roar, the chieftain empowered his fist with a twisting, searing, glowing light, and threw it with all his strength!

DING!

The beast king’s knuckles stopped dead in their track hard, against a sudden, thick, seamless golden barrier. Father’s energy formed an orb around him. The chief could not penetrate it.

With an open palm, father pushed against the chiefs’ torso sending the towering beast-man yards away from where father stood, its feet dragging against the ground.

A new body came flying overhead and landed with a dead thud on the ground between them.

“Reyol!” The chief roared, staring at the newcomer. He jumped over, clutching the corpse in his arms.

“This one attacked me on the outskirts during my patrol, sire.” Aitan walked up the hill, without any sentiment on his face. “I had no choice.”

“I see… It appears you all have truly forgotten fear. You were given an opportunity but showed only insolence before me. Now, I will educate you… in the worst way possible.” Father continued to seep out a suffocating hostile energy. He looked up at the sky. A faint melodic whirring was suddenly heard across the sky.

“That sound… it can’t be!” Edgar yelled fearfully.

In an instant, the whole cover of clouds above them split open, revealing the great fortress: Nariko Cestmir. Its shadow gradually covered the entire village, drawing the attention of all its citizens.

“Know fear!” Father yelled. A darkness ran across his face, evil.

“BRETHREN, FLEE!” Edgar roared.

All sound around them seemed to vanish. Electricity built around the bottom of the fortress, and a grand light flashed, drilling straight into the ground.

The yellow blaze ate everything it touched. Men, women and children fled as best they were able to… but most were not.

I stood in frightened awe at the scene.

Eventually the light faded, and in its wake, where once there had been a village, now stood a gaping hole. Electricity still prickled and arced throughout the crater, visible around the mouth of the chasm.

“Father… have you no mercy?” I muttered.

“Mercy does not exist for the insolent.” He replied, his voice stabbing deep into me. Edgar fell to his knees.

The chief gripped the body of his fallen friend; tears streaming down his eyes. Aitan escorted father to the edge of plains, where they returned home to the fortress, disappearing quickly into the clouds. A memory I’d never forget burned into my eyes—that of the mark left on the earth that day. Of the tyranny of King Alok… my father.

The carriage ride home was quiet as the moonlight shone through the cart’s windows. Edgar was silent, the hood of his robe covering his face. No sound could be strong enough to permeate the thickness of the silence then. I could not cry. I could not be angry. I could only stare at the scene of destruction burned into my eyes. I reached into my robe pocket and took the flower out. I stared at it.

“I get it now. He’s always angry… and he never smiles. But now… now, I understand.” I choked at the image of what the abuse of power looked like.

I wanted to apologize to Edgar, but the words were stuck in my throat. I did not know how to say them, but I felt so much that I needed to. His dedication to me prevented him from acting in favor of his brethren.

I couldn’t even begin to imagine how he felt.

I gripped the flower’s stem tightly, closing my eyes just as tight. I was hoping and praying for something that would let me convey to my friend my feelings of empathy. Anything. A moment later, I felt a pair of arms wrap around me. I immediately opened my eyes.

“I’m sorry,” Edgar whispered.

My mind immediately fell silent. Why are you apologizing? I cried in my heart. It wasn’t your fault. It’s all him. Its all because I’m so worthless.

In that moment, something in me cracked. I felt an evil choke caress the inside of my body. The flower shone a stark silver, a faint yellow breaking through. It reflected in my eyes, but nothing shone back. Maybe nothing ever would.

End of Act III