EBRP Adventure Thread

[Dragonator]

L7 Outside Dragons Keep

Lord Dragonator surveyed the scene of the battle. The cavalry were running circles around the Ankorian camp, capturing and killing the unprepared soldiers. Most of them were either drunk or still half asleep. The spearmen from the Black Knights Kingdom were taking some heavy blows, having run straight into the recently refreshed night guards. They were battling for their lives, but appeared to be gaining the upper hand.

Dragonator turned his gaze upon the gates and cursed.

Those bloody dwarfs better not damage my wall with that thing!

Well we need to get in somehow my Lord.

Yes, and I have arranged that! People are coming to open the gates as we speak. Anyway, those walls are over 400 years old, I really wouldn't want to see them destroyed. Although they are pretty young compared with old walls of Dratos that once stood on this same ground.

My lord?

You do not know of that city? Well, it was destroyed nearly 700 years ago. It was a place built for dragons. This was back in the days when this entire continent was ruled by ancient Kings, who came from over the sea. Of course, for millennia before that, the continent was ruled by dragons, and they are the ones that built the city of Dratos.

How do you know all this? It is not written in any history book I have ever read.

It is a rare knowledge, and only known to a few. I would love to educate you more on the matter sometime. However, right now we must concentrate on this battle.

Of course.

Gentlemen, shall we?

Dragonator, followed by the generals and rear guard, made his way down the hill and towards the gates of the city.

Meanwhile, inside the city...

Grim and his men slowed as they approached the gates. Up on top, a pair of Dragons attacked the few guards manning the gates.

Up we go men. We need to get those gates open!

The soldiers climbed the stairs, battling the few Ankorian guards that were left. Coming out on top, they were almost attacked by one of the dragons, but he recognised them in time.

Good to see some fellow troops up here!

Yes, we have come to open the gates.

Just in time too, those dwarfs were about to lay into these walls. His Lordship would not be happy about that.

No, he wouldn't.

The men had been working at the winches, and the main doors creaked open, followed by the portcullis rising. Just as it cleared the parapet, the large siege ram swung forward, striking nothing but a dazed Ankorian guard, who was sent flying up onto the roof of a building.

Good shot! Yelled Grim.

Cheers mate, looks like you beat us to it. Forward Dwarfs!

The gates were now open, and the dwarfs, followed by a company of infantrymen, streamed into the city. A squadron of Ankorian knights approached from the Keep, and engaged in battle. Lord Dragonator approached the gates and got into the thick of it, wielding his sword, striking long lines of flame through the enemy. Soon they had made a nice mess of the Ankorian knights. Dragonator surveyed his men.

You are fighting bravely men, now we must take the Keep. Forward!

The soldiers formed up and marched on towards the keep, lead by Lord Dragonator...

Edited June 24, 2008 by dragonator

[Inertia]

Thaddius heard the horn blow and watched as more Dragons streaked towards the city, the rest of the chapter were here.

"Time to take the main square, Onwards!"

The rest of the Chapter flew towards the square where a group of Ankorian Scorpion Riders were grouping, the Dragons quickly dove into them, continuing the mayhem.

[WhiteFang]

Location: K13 (Neb Monastery, base of Mount Sophia, Western region of Black Knights Kingdom)

Finally, the carriages pulled to a halt in front of an old building at the base Mount Sophia, which is known as Neb Monastery, home of the White Priests. There are no other buildings or structure near it. At the top of the building, stood a metal cross which has a Symbol of the Nine, inscribed onto it.

Cecil jumped down and pointed above “This is the building which I had been mentioning at Imperial Tavern. There should be someone in this monastery.” Lord Kenneth said “There is no time to lose. Flynt, Grandoth. Please lift Siloux off the carriage. We are taking him inside.”

Adrick stopped all of them, and said “Be careful. This building has a magical enhancement protecting it.” Princess Diana added “It’s an old building. How can there be a magical barrier surrounding it?” Adrick smiled “These Priests must have sense something. This barrier is present to prevent Black Wraith Demons from intruding. Let me give it a try.”

The rest of them stood back, leaving Adrick at the front of the door. He took out his wooden stick and placed it onto the ground. A glowing white light appeared at the top of the stick and said “I, Adrick of the White Wilderness, request your kind permission to permit us to enter into your premises. We have a friend, whom is injured by one of the Black Wraith Demons.”

There was no response. Bluervo was circling around the Neb Monastery, hoping to find an entrance to it. Suddenly, an illusion appears in front of Adrick’s wand and said “Friends of Black Knights Kingdom, I am Erik Heartstorm, leader of the White Priests.”

Lord Kenneth and Princess Diana looked at each other and said “Did he just mention his name, Erik Heartstorm?” Adrick smiled “Erik, my old friend. We have a friend that is injured by these demons. And it is supposed to be something unusual that might interest you.”

The trees are moving very rapidly. All of them are very clueless and suddenly the trees stopped and two masked grey ninja appeared from the tree tops. Both of them jumped down, and startled the entire group.

Lord Kenneth wielded his blade and point at them “Why are there Ninja appearing in Black Knights Kingdom? It’s not possible.” Both ninja did not sheath their weapon and guide them into Neb Monastery.

The illusion speaks again “All of you will be safe in here. Your friend has not much time to wait. Adrick lifted his stick and went in it, followed by the rest. Lord Kenneth stood for a moment, with many questions in his mind and many more unsolved mysteries.

[AwesomeStar]

F-11 (On the border between the Bull Knights and the Black Falcons)

The sun was high in the sky, the air hot and humid, the heavy rays beating down on the two men's necks.

The two men were none other than Kian and Bardock, outlaw adventurers.

"So, where are we going?" asked Bardock, as he and Kian trotted down the border between the Bull Knights and the Black Falcons.

"Home..." replied Kian.

"Home?"

"Scorpion Knight territory!" said Kian.

"Why?"

Kian sighed.

"Revenge, Bardock, revenge..."

[Khorne]

G-10, just entering Black Falcon lands

"Ankoria, eh? Never been there before" said Bardock in his deep voice "then, on the other hand, I have never left our lands before" he continued and laughed "I heard Ankoria is quite special compared to all other nations"

"It sure is special, but everyone finds it special in his own way. Some view the Ankorians themselves as special, others the land itself and some say it's the fauna that give Ankoria its stereotypical evil image. For me, it's one man..."

Kian stopped. He sighed and looked up in the air.

"Perhaps we should make camp here. Sun will be setting soon" he stated.

"Sounds good to me, I could use a drink and some food" Bardock said happily while taking out his flask of whiskey and putting it at his lips "in the name of the Earthmother, you cannot be serious!" he yelled and peeked in the flask "it's empty!"

He threw his metal flask in the ground and sat down, murmuring something non-understandable.

Kian smirked.

"Here, take a sip out of my bottle" he said while handing Bardock the bottle.

Bardock took a huge sip but spat it out immediatly.

"Bah, water! Are you trying to poison me, boy!?" he exclaimed while throwing the bottle back.

Kian laughed and sat down too, throwing his pack on the grass.

"So..." Bardock said gnawing in some salted beacon "care to enlighten me on the guy you wanna whack?"

[WhiteFang]

Location: M11 (Oldennock Woods, Keala Region, Northern part of Black Knight Kingdom)

Karen pointed ahead and said “Once we pass through Oldennock Woods, we will reach Lenore Region.” Lord Calvin showed a pleased smile and said “It’s about time. At this pace we are going, we will definitely reach Majestic Tower in less than 2 days.”

Suddenly, one of the soldiers shouted from front “My Lord. There are many injured civilians at the front.” Lord Calvin rode Hex as fast as he could. Karen called up her platoon and charge up to the front. Lord Calvin saw many civilians badly injured lying on the ground.

Lord Calvin shouted to Karen “Give your platoon the orders, to check for survivors and attend to their wounds.” Karen gives the signal to her soldiers, and spread out to check for survivors. Lord Calvin went in front and saw a small boy, waving to him. He walked forward and bends down, lifted the small boy carefully and said “How are you feeling? What happened?”

The small boy muttered softly “Demons had attacked us. We are living in a nearby village down the river stream.” Lord Calvin clutches his fists and said in an angry tone “We will eradicate these demons. Please take a rest first. Medical attention is on its way.”

The boy pulled Lord Calvin’s black robe and said “Could I take a look at the Dragon Stone please? It has mysterious powers. I am sure it can heal all of our injuries.” Lord Calvin pushed that boy away and shouted to his soldiers “All of you fall back and get into your offensive position immediately.”

The boy showed an evil smile and evil laughter can be heard. The injured civilians are transformed within seconds into Black Wraith Demons. The surrounding soldiers, whom are attending to them, did not have time to fall back. The Black Wraith Demons grabbed the soldiers’ neck and break them like a stick.

Karen took out her Twin Strike in time, and deflects the demons’ attack. Only a few soldiers managed to survive their brutal ambush. Lord Calvin unleashes his Shadow Spear and shouted “A mere boy like you, is not supposed to know what the content I am carrying. I will make you pay for your sins, you foul demon.”

The evil boy picks himself up and said “You pathetic humans are not strong enough to stop me. We had delivered fatal blows to Lord Kenneth and his army earlier. Do you think you are that capable to stop us all?”

Lord Calvin was shocked to hear that his best friend was strike down by these demons. Karen shouted to his commander “My Lord, don’t listen to the devil. Lord Kenneth is strong. He will not fall, to the likes of him. He is bluffing you.”

Edited June 24, 2008 by WhiteFang

[Dragonator]

L7 Dragons Keep

The mass of men approached the open gates to the Keep, and valiantly charged head on in. To late, Lord Dragonator realised it was a trap. As Ankorian knights jumped out on either side he shouted:

Men, it is a trap! Spearhead formation! Do not let yourselves be beaten!

The men quickly formed a spearhead, with Lord Dragonator at the head. He had left his horse further back in the city, prefering to go on foot in the confines of the street. The Ankorians fell on them, and they fought back viciously. Each time a man fell, one came in from behind to take hi place, making the spearhead unstoppable. It charged forwards, and up the steps, breaking as it entered the Entrance Hall.

Leaving the men to defend the doorway, Dragonator and a small group of men made their way up into the castle towards the throne room. At that moment Grim came out of the masses and approached his master.

My Lord!

Grim, you are here!

I know you are angry my Lord, it is my fault that the Keep fell and-

His words were blocked out as Dragonator fiercely hugged him, squashing his breath.

My Lord, I'm choking...

Sorry, but it is good to see you my old friend. Let us take back this keep together!

They marched up the next flight of stairs and threw open the doors of the throne room...

Outside, the men continued to fight valiantly. Soon, the Ankorian knights were either dead, captured, or had run away. Fighting could still be heard in the rest of the city, and the small company of Dragons flew over head on their way to another hot spot. The men cheered, and then entered the castle, spreading out as they secured the Grand Hall and various points of strategic importance. The Ankorians were surrendering, knowing they could not continue the fight.

Outside the city, General Giddious sat upon his large horse, overlooking the captured men from the camps. The majority of the fighting was over, and it looked that the day had been won.

But did those in the throne room know that?...

[Shadows]

???

Druth Castle

Grand Hall

Strantor returns from searching Yodarth's room.

I have found nothing suspicious.

I am not surprised. I don't believe he was possessed, I think he had a reason for what he was saying and doing, just as Mirindalast did before him. It seems like a madness, but I think there was purpose behind it, we just need to figure out what it was.

Oh honey, he was always a little off.

Yes yes, I know, but not like that. He feared an impending evil, and right now the whole continent is plagued by an assortment of evils. He must have had reason to believe it could reach us.

Impossible... The magic gate has withstood every kind of attack that our enemies could ever throw at it. Even if something did manage to enter it, they wouldn't be taken here.

True. You know, I've always wondered about that. Where does it lead?

I have no idea. I remember being told that it was somewhere terrible though. It always seemed spooky to me. I mean, where do you send evil that could possibly be worse than it?

Is there any way to tell if that's happened?

What?

Is there any way to determine if some form of evil has entered and been sent to the horrible place, wherever it is?

Uh... yeah! YES! YES YES YES YES YES YOU WONDERFUL MAN, YOU!

Elmyra jumps up and down, causing quite a commotion.

She's lost her mind.

I never thought she had such a firm grip on it, myself.

SHUT UP!

There we go, she's back.

You gave me an idea!

I wish you'd stop that.

Not that idea, though... um. Ok, so here's what we need to do!

Elmyra details her plan. Aluvar seems impressed. Strantor is terrified.

K-18

Crown Castle

Princess Alyss' Chambers

So now what? We saved my pathetic brother, but we aren't any closer to figuring out what is going on around here.

We need to get undressed.

Shadows!

Just listen, I have an idea.

I bet you do.

Now look here, lad...

Shut up Flangdor.

You didn't tell her to shut up.

Would you try telling her to shut up?

No.

Thank you.

So, what's your plan, I shudder to ask...

We need to put on disguises, go into town and see if we can uncover anything interesting, like maybe the location of that third skellie.

You know, that's not bad.

I don't see why we have to dress up funny.

You already dress up funny.

Be nice.

You're not exactly a fashionable one either.

Well excuse me, Princess...

Shadows.

Fine!

Shadows casts a quick spell. Suddenly, he's wearing a Han Solo costume, Flangdor is dressed as Princess Leia in a metal bikini, and Alyss is dressed as Zam Wessel and carrying a golden statue.

Haha, you look ridiculous, both of you.

Looked in a mirror lately?

Flangdor walks over to the mirror, then shrieks in horror.

I meant that for her.

The door to Alyss' chamber opens and a couple of guards walk in, first Hans then Fritz.

Guten tag. Vee are looking for zee American infidels. Have you any information?

Uh... no.

What's an American?

Ach, she's a cutie. Mmmmm.

Fritz winks at Flangdor.

You dunderhead, zat one has a beard!

My wife has a beard.

Ja, and her legs aren't as good, but still...

Oh ja, nice legs, sweetie!

Are you about done here?

Ja. Vee have to be going, zere ist a new frauline down zee hall and vee vant to get a good looksie!

What about me?

The guards leave the room quickly.

That was disturbing.

I didn't understand a bit of it.

You're lucky.

Change us back!

Shadows returns them to their normal outfits with a wave of his hand.

That was humiliating! Though I must admit, it felt pretty comfortable.

Flangdor... don't.

Sorry.

I'll try this again.

Shadows waves his hand again, this time disguising the three of them as monks.

Perfect! No one will pay any mind to monks.

I'm not exactly shaped like a monk.

If monks were shaped like you, I'd have joined up years ago.

Shadows!

She's getting used to my name. She's going to be Mrs. Shadows one day, you know, so she keeps repeating it over and over.

Aw, that's cute.

Impossible!

Alyss storms out of the room with Shadows and Flangdor close behind.

[AwesomeStar]

G-10 (On the border between the Bull's and the Falcon's)

Kian sighed wearily.

"My father is the guy I want to 'whack'..." he said quietly.

Bardock looked at Kian closely, as if searching for clues of this strange answer.

"Why your father?" he asked.

Kian looked down at the ground.

"I see. Well, when your ready to tell me, all you have to do is say!" said Bardock.

Kian smiled.

"Thank you... for understanding," he said.

"We all have secrets.. but it does help if you let them out, when the time is right, of course!" said Bardock, happily.

A whistle of air was heard and a silver arrow appeared from nowhere, straight at Bardock.

Bardock grabbed his axe and swung it at just the right moment, batting the arrow away, into the sky.

"You've got to teach me that!" murmured Kian.

"No time, now grab your stuff and run!" shouted Bardock, as more arrows whizzed around them.

[WhiteFang]

Location: M11 (Oldennock, Keala Region, Northern part of Black Knight Kingdom)

The evil boy stared at Lord Calvin with its intriguing mysterious green eyes and said “Listen, Lord Calvin. Look around you. There is no one to help you or your soldiers. They are all going to die. And, you cannot do anything about it.” His words licked around Lord Calvin, making him feel weak and helpless.

Karen shouted to rest of the soldiers “Everyone pulled back and formed Red Formation. The soldiers at the rear placed their spears front and moved forward. She gave command again “Red One and Red Two, offensive first, defensive rear.”

The evil boy laughed “Pathetic humans. We are not going to be easily harmed by mere mortal weapons. He turned to its demons and said “I am not interested in survivors. I have gotten hold of the one I am seeking for. Feast on them.” The demons flew in front and wrecked their formation.

Karen shouted to Lord Calvin while fighting the demons “Help us. Why are you not moving? Wake up!” None of her words managed into her mind. The evil boy said to Lord Calvin “It’s time for me, Dyke Zola to take over your body.”

At the same moment, a voice speaking in Lord Calvin’s head “What is happening to you, Lord Calvin Kestrel? You are the wielder and master of Shadow Spear. Such mere minions are not supposed to push you around. Lord Calvin shouted “Who are you? What are you talking about?” The voice speaks “I am someone whom had placed his life with you for countless battles. I am the real darkness. Only I can have your body. I will not let anyone else have you but me!”

Just before Dyke placed the green light into his body, a dark barrier was formed onto Lord Calvin. Dyke was surprised “How did you manage to create a barrier when you are under my spell?” Lord Calvin dissipates his barrier and said “I do not owe you any explanation. From now on, this is the real battle.” Lord Calvin thruster his Shadow Spear and swing right and back at a very fast pace. Two dark crescents were formed and rotating at a very high speed on both end of its spear. He turned behind, facing the rest of the Black Wraith Demons that are ripping his soldiers apart.

He swings his spear with a final blow and releases the dark crescents and said “Neit Crescent”. Both crescents fly at a tremendous fast speed. It grabbed hold of all Black Wraith Demons that are attacking at its soldiers and lifted to the sky. Both crescents collide with each other, and destroyed the demons within seconds.

Dyke clapped his little hands and said “Remarkable. This is very remarkable. It’s not often to see a tender young man, wielding such powerful weapon. If memory serves me right, this must be the legendary Shadow Spear.

[WhiteFang]

Location: K13 (Neb Monastery, base of Mount Sophia, Western region of Black Knights Kingdom)

As the group proceeds further into the domain of Neb Monastery, a long corridor greeted them. Cecil said to Bluervo “This place is huge. I don’t remember seeing this interior before. But, I am very sure I was here before when I was seeking for shelter and someone took me in. Or did I mistake it wrongly?” Bluervo added “You must be exhausted then. Or you must have suffering from amnesia. It’s clearly two different entities.”

Flynt and Grandoth carried Siloux by their sides, with the soldiers followed behind. Both of them can feel that Siloux is getting much weaker as the time goes by. Princess Diana whispered to Lord Kenneth and said “We have not seen Ninja for many years. Why have they appeared in our kingdom? This Erik is a mysterious person. I am very sure he is related to our Master Wizard in some way.”

Lord Kenneth examined them carefully from far, trailing behind Erik Heartstorm and said “I have no idea. We will need to wait for Erik and Adrick’s explanation. There are so many questions in my head, and yet none of them are answered. I remembered during our training days, Master Pent mentioned fragments of them during the history lesson. They are supposed to be grouped as clans or powers. Their abilities are mysterious and even for a lone Ninja. The Ninja will still be able to handle any situation, given to them. Let us not get distracted by other issues. Siloux’s fatal injury is our top priority at the moment. After all, he buy us some critical time earlier.”

[iamded]

L7 Dragons Keep.

Adym had fought bravely with the Dragon Knights, and his enchanted metal fist. He was having a lot of fun smashing through Ankorian heads and cracking a few enemy bones. But in the back of his head, he was still thinking about the task Lord Dragonator had set him. He started to question how it would be possible, he'd need to work awfully hard to get all the gears and cogs to interlink. If only he had some NXT bricks... But then he remembered Lord Dragonator had said something about magic. Depending on the enchantment, Adym could maybe just work on the exterior, and a few interior details, instead of having to get the entire interior to all work together. It would require more thought, and perhaps a chat with Dragonator and the wizard he had in mind, but he had a feeling this could be a lot less complicated then he was making it. He also remembered he'd have to clean his fist again, and thought that if he painted it red maybe it wouldn't matter if he got blood on it...

Meanwhile, Somnium was still sulking about being captured and having his bow confiscated, complaining to another prisoner who seemed tired, hungry, weary, and about to snap if Somnium kept on complaining...

[Scouty]

K-12

Erik motioned for Siloux to be placed in the room beside him.

Please put your friend in there, I will have the healers look at him immediately.

Erik turned told an aid to report that a man is in need of help.

Oh, what might his name be, by the way?

It's Siloux, Siloux de Fraun.

And who might you be?

I am Cecil.

Please stay with your friend.

Cecil nods and walks into the room.

The rest of you, please follow me, I would like to treat you to some dinner, and if you have any questions, please ask away.

The group continues to walk down the long corridor and soon they reach the dining hall, which wasn't really big. Before entering, Erik turned around:

Before we continue, however, I have a question...What is a group of soldiers, a lord, two forestmen, two women, and my old friend be here, at this humble monastery. I'll await the answer, however, after we have ate and you have asked your questions.

Running is heard down the hall. Everybody looks to see who is running.

Not to worry, the healers always have a quick foot!

[Shadows]

???

Druth Castle

Roof

Aluvar, Elmyra and Strantor are standing on the roof of the castle near a large crystal structure.

This is madness!

I think it's a pretty good idea, and as the current Regulator of the League of Wizards, I say we do it.

Sweetie? Remember, you aren't really...

Oh, right. As head of the Council of Five, I declare this a Magic Emergency! As such, I will become temporary Global Moderator of the League!

That was sneaky. Very sneaky.

I know, but desperate times and all that. I'm sorry.

Don't be sorry! It's making me incredibly hot!

Now I'm really sorry.

So... what now?

We activate the crystal.

Then we try to teleport to the unknown evil place. You know, he's right, this is madness. Why did I ever come up with a plan like this?

Because you're crazy, dear. But in this case, you're right, it's the only way.

It isn't too late to reconsider.

You don't have to come along, if you'd rather not.

I might as well.

Are we going to stand around all day or are we going to get this party started?

Let's do it!

You don't know how long I've been waiting ... nevermind.

Aluvar taps a panel with his staff. Aluvar has a staff? Well, he does now. So, he taps a panel and it slides open. Inside is a single button marked, "Do not press." He does anyway.

K-19

Crown Kingdom

Castle Town

This isn't getting us anywhere. It seemed like a good idea, but we haven't learned a thing.

You're right. It's time for stage 2.

I don't like the sound of that.

Don't worry, I do this one on my own.

We're all in this together.

Yes, one for all and all that.

Trust me, this only works for one.

Shadows mutters a few words, transforming himself under the cloak. He steps into an alley, quickly tosses the cloak aside and steps back out, in his new form.

Oh my.

I...

Are you sure about this?

Who better to get information out of people than a pretty girl?

You know, I'm a pretty girl.

But everyone knows you. Plus you're too nice for what I have in mind.

Uh...

Go in that pub and order a couple of flagons of mead. I'll be along in a minute.

That pub? That's the Mangy Wolf!

I know, I've been asking around.

I've heard of that place. They say you will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villany!

I'll be careful.

You'll be dead!

I can't believe you've seen it too, I'm impressed.

Seen what?

Right! Well, find a seat somewhere out of the way.

Out of what way?

Pretty much the whole room.

Oh.

Alyss and Flangdor cross the street and disappear into the pub. Shadows waits a couple of minutes and does the same.

K-19

Crown Kingdom

Castle Town

Mangy Wolf Pub

I've got a bad feeling about this.

At least it's good mead. Might as well sit back and enjoy the show.

I don't know how you can take this so lightly. We don't even know what he's planning.

Whatever it is, I bet it'll be entertaining!

Shadows, in his new and decidedly more feminine form, enters the pub, quickly drawing the stares of pretty much everyone in the place, including the barmaid, who doesn't seem happy at all about the new competition for attention. The bartender nearly drops a bottle as he rushes over to take his new customer's order.

ALL RIGHT! WHERE IS HE?

Uh. Who?

Don't play dumb with me, I want to know where he is and I WANT TO KNOW NOW!

I really don't know who you mean.

That two-timing skellie!

While everyone had already been watching, they now had a new interest in the proceedings. An older gentleman in the back of the room drops his pipe. A nearby guard nearly spits out his drink.

Skellie? What are you talking about miss? There are no skellies in Castle Town!

The hell there aren't!

I'm sorry miss, but you're clearly confused.

If you talk down to me one more time, I'll throw you out of this pub myself.

Now look here!

The guard stands and approaches Shadows, who immediately grabs him and tosses him out the door. The other patrons look concerned.

Hey! They'll be none of that in here!

Do you want to join him?

He's crazy...

Sure, but he's really good at it.

Shadows looks over in the corner, then points menacingly at the rest of the patrons, spending a few extra moments on that older gentleman. He drops his pipe again.

Someone had better start talking!

I...

You have something to say, gramps? Well, get to it!

They only pay me to keep an eye on things, I don't know nothin' of what they're doin' or where they be.

I can't believe this is working. How?

I told you.

You! Old man! We're going to have a little chat in the back! Monks! Yeah, you! Come along in case he happens to accidentally die and needs a blessing in the process.

The old man shakily stands and starts walking toward the back of the pub. Alyss and Flangdor follow. A nearby drunk wakes up.

Hey baby... want a drink?

A drink? No thanks, but if you need something from the bar...

Shadows reaches down, picking up the drunk and tossing him over the bar. He lands with a thud. Shadows heads for the back room.

If anyone asks for me, tell them I left.

Wow, that's some girl.

Shadows tosses a few coins to the bartender and leaves the room as a dozen armed castle guards arrive.

All right, where's this gang of thugs?

Gang? It was just one woman.

She's so pretty.

The drunk passes out. The guards laugh and leave, planning to give their fellow a very hard time about being thrown out of a pub by a woman and claiming it was an entire gang.

Alyss, Flangdor and the old man leave the pub by the back door. The old man is visibly scared. Shadows returns to his normal form before stepping out the back door.

Your lady friend sends her regards, but it seems she had other matters to attend to.

The old man breathes a sigh of relief.

She did, however, assure me that we could count on you to tell us all you know.

Oh yes, I'll tell you everything!

Excellent.

[WhiteFang]

Location: K13 (Neb Monastery, base of Mount Sophia, Western region of Black Knights Kingdom)

Adrick walked forward and whispered to Erik “Old friend, you must be getting senile as the years goes by. Look carefully. There is a Princess, a Lord, two Forestmen in the other room, two Platoon Commanders and a group of soldiers that bear the White Fang insignia. Oh, I forget. There is a talking parrot too, which you might find him familiar.”

Erik chuckled and said “Indeed. I must be getting older.” The rest of them were distracted by the running but yet they are not able to see who is running. Adrick and Erik were talking and stood beside them were two mysterious ninja that appeared suddenly.

Lord Kenneth walked forward and said “Allow me to introduce them for you. I am Lord Kenneth, Commander of White Fang Force. She is Princess Diana whom bears the royal blood of Mac Arthur. This is Flynt, Platoon Commander of Imperial Guards. Grandoth, a skilled warrior from the Crown Kingdom and the two Forestmen earlier, are Cecil and Siloux. The rest are my soldiers that accompany us for this mission. Siloux was injured badly by someone whom wields dark magic, and linked to Black Wraith Demons.”

Bluervo flew down from above and added “Lord Kenneth, how about myself?” Lord Kenneth replied quickly “Yes, this is Bluervo, one of Aluvar’s wise parrots.” Erik laughed “Aluvar, that silly old man. Yes, I remembered his parrots. They are very wise and loud indeed.” Princess Diana speaks “Will Siloux be fine? Adrick thinks he is injured by the demon archer’s arrow.” Erik showed a pleasant smile “My healers are taking care of him. They will know what to do.”

Again, running sound can be heard, but when they turned their backs. They cannot see whom is running up and down.

[Scouty]

K-13 - Dining Hall of the Monastery

No sooner as they entered the Dining Hall, one of the healers came in and came up to Erik. He motioned Erik to the side, out of earshot from the others.

We have a slight problem...our White Magic is having no effect...We'll need to apply a potion to lessen the potency of the Black magic that covers the man's leg.

What potion do you need?

The Potion of Antivien, it should do the trick.

I'm afraid that I don't have it ready, but I do have the ingredients. They should be, organized neatly, of course, in block 2G in the same room Siloux is in. I don't think it will take you long to create the potion...

Thank you, Erik...

Oh! Don't forget this...only apply it where need be, anywhere else and it could have the reverse effect.

Noted!

Erik turned back to the group while the healer ran back.

Please excuse me. Lord Kenneth, I believe you are wondering what these Ninja are doing here, in this kingdom.

Yes, I...am.

Do not worry, they are no threat...perhaps to your personal space, but certainly not this kingdom.

Erik gives a chuckle, while Lord Kenneth is feeling uneven about the Ninja.

Why would they be here?

To do what everyone does here... Learn about White Magic...those sort of things...They seem to take a liking to making sure people aren't alone and are safe in their stay here, so you'll have to put up with them for now.

Another chuckle from Erik, while Lord Kenneth looks at the Ninja behind him...stoic.

Princess Diana moved to Erik to ask him a question.

Will Siloux be fine? Adrick thinks he is injured by the demon archer

[Dragonator]

L7 Dragons Keep; The Throne Room

Lord Dragonator burst through the doors of the throne room, disintegrating them as they slammed open.

Those are going to be expensive to replace.

Not compared with everything else, but yes, sorry.

Scorpia looked up in horror from the trone he sat upon. The Ankorians that would have been protecting him were long gone, trying to protect the city most likely. Only he remained, seated upon the throne.

Ughhhh, Dragonator, what a pleasant surprise. Cookie?

With a roar, Dragonator charged down the hall. Scorpia was thrown back into his chair and held ridged by invisible bonds as Dragonator approached.

I knew that somebody here would betray me, and you were my most likely choice. Why Scorpia?

Power, it is always power. I thought I could handle it. But this bloody staff just wont work.

Pathetic. Never rely on an external source of power to do your dirty work; power comes from within. You are not worthy to use that staff, and it knows it.

Taking the staff from Scorpia's shaking hands, Dragonator slowly raised it over his head.

Your going to kill me now, aren't you?

Sure are!

Dragonator swung the staff down, and with a burst of flame that heated the whole room, he smote Scorpia where he sat. All that remained were a pair of smoking shoes.

How cliché.

What my Lord?

Never mind. Go look for the king, I want to know what has happened to him. The city is now bck in our grasps. We will send the Ankorians back to their homeland in shame.

Soldiers rushed off around the Keep on various duties, spreading rumours of what had occured wherever tey went. Out of habit, the rumours grew with the telling, and soon every person on the streets had a different and grander version of the events that had occurred. Dragonator sat alone in the empty throne room, staring down at the Dragon Staff on his knees...

Edited June 27, 2008 by dragonator

[iamded]

L7 Dragons Keep

Adym wandered into the throne room, to see Lord Dragonator sitting alone with a staff.

Ah, there you are. Hello, Lord Dragonator! I see we've won this battle, then? Nice shoes, are they yours?

Adym motioned to the still smoking shoes sitting amongst a pile of ashes.

You don't look very happy. Where's the King? I hope he's alright. Hm... Perhaps Scorpia locked him in the dungeon? Oh, I hope he didn't stumble upon my workshop... speaking of that, I've been wanting to have a little chat with you, and preferably the, er, wizard you had in mind, to, you know. Could we arrange a meeting some time? I just need to sort a few things out.

[Dragonator]

L7 Dragons Keep

Dragonator looked up from his silent pondering. Yes, they had won. But something still did not feel... right. There was another piece to this puzzle that he was missing. It felt to him that this victory was not the end of the war, but simply the opening skirmish in a greater battle to come...

His attention then focused on Adym. With a great sigh, Dragonator came out of his contemplation and put his thoughts towards what the lad had said.

My apologies, I have been very distracted recently. Yes, this... project I have set you. I would like you to get back to work on it. The magician, whom you have met, Majiko, will be here to discuss my plans over with you. It may take a few days for other events to sorted out however.

Dragonator looked up at the stained glass windows, thinking deeply.

Times are difficult, and the world is changing. A great evil stirs, and even I cannot see the full extent of its plans. I fear that I may be in need of this construction sooner than we expected. I ask that you continue your work, although the intended purpose of this creation may change with what transpires in the coming weeks. I thank you for your work, you have been doing a tremendous job, and are helping my purpose wonderfully.

Dragonator then lapsed back into his own thoughts. Where was the king? Grim was searching right at that moment, but things would not be fine until he was found. And what was this mysterious evil? Dragonator knew that if he wanted the dragons to survive, he would have to act soon...

[iamded]

Well, I'll be back to work then.

Adym journeyed back down to his workshop, pulled his papers out of his satchel, which were quite grubby and a bit torn after all the travelling, and starting tinkering away at a large metal construction on the ground. He pulled of a large sheet of metal, covering the interior of the device, to reveal... a large empty space. With a sigh, Adym gathered around him a bunch of axles, gears, cogs and the like, and continued to tinker away. This was getting more complicated than he thought, but it seemed this problem was nothing compared to that which was plaguing Lord Dragonator's mind. He hoped that when he completed this, perhaps Dragonator would be a bit less troubled. Adym was certainly looking forward to the final model, and with this sudden burst of enthusiasm, Adym got back into it, configuring and clanking away...

[WhiteFang]

Location: K13 (Dining Hall, Neb Monastery, base of Mount Sophia, Western region of Black Knights Kingdom)

Lord Kenneth and Princess Diana looked at each other and nodded their head and asked “Erik, are you related to our Master Wizard, Pent Heartstorm?” Erik burst into laughter and everyone showed a surprised look.

Adrick pat onto Erik’s back “Calm down, old friend. Erik is a little hysterical when he heard someone mentioning Pent.” Lord Kenneth and Princess Diana looked quite confused and asked “Adrick, do you know Master Pent too?” Adrick smiled “Not really. I heard of him before. Earlier ago, at Lost Tavern, I believed that is our first encounter.”

Erik regain to his normal self and said “Adrick, you saw Pent? How is he?” Adrick added “Your brother is fine. In fact, he had grown much stronger over the years and contributes greatly to the Kingdom.”

The rest showed a surprising look and Flynt added “All these years, I been assigned to Imperial Guards, protecting the Royal Family and Master Pent. I have never heard him, mentioning that he had a brother.”

Erik showed a nonchalant look and said “Pent is my younger brother. Well, we used to stay together in the past in the old wizardry school. We had different interest and decided to pursuit our own interest. I believed Pent, does not even know that I had been residing in Neb Monastery for many years. Maybe, one day I shall pay him a visit.” Princess Diana replied “Now, we know that Master Pent isn’t really alone in this world. He has an elder brother like you.”

A healer came into the dining hall and said “Apparently, we are having another problem. The healer’s room is locked.” Erik shouted “This is absurd. Our healers’ room never had a lock installed.” The healer trembled and said “That is the problem. We could not open the door and there was no reply at all.”

Erik’s expression changed immediately grabbed his staff and went forth to the healer’s room. Princess Diana said to them “We should take a look too. I am having a very bad feeling about this.” Lord Kenneth and the rest agreed, followed Erik behind.

Meanwhile, in the healer’s room, the Prince of Darkness stared at the remaining people and said “I must thank you pathetic humans, for leading me into the heart of Neb Monastery. After many attempts, we are unable to penetrate into the crazy old man’s barrier. I am glad Old Brown had devised such a wonderful plan. His sacrifice will not be in vain.”

Cecil did not try and provoke him and stood near Siloux whom is still unconscious. The remaining healers were trembling and remained quiet, looking at their fellow healer whom is slain by the hands of darkness.

[Scouty]

K-13 - Inside the Healer's Room

Noticing the Prince heading for the door, the healers ran to block his path.

It seems that you cannot do anything to hinder my plan. Please step out of my way or I will slay you!

You will not get past us! Now!

All the Healers released a bolt of White Magic, combined for more damage, and went forth and struck the Prince of Darkness.

The Prince was knocked off his feet and flew into the shelves on the wall. With his weapon, he killed all the healers in the front of the room.

Cecil and Siloux were the only ones remaining in the room. The Prince noticed them and walked up to them.

I must thank you for your hospitality of your leg, young man.

Get away!

The Prince of Darkness reached out his hand and placed a temporary spell on Cecil, silencing him.

Because of you, I am able to roam in Neb Monastery and destroy it to the ground, as the King of Darkness would like! I will spare you and your friend, but should I see you again, I will have nothing to stop me from killing you!

Siloux started to wake. He gasped at the sight he saw.

The Prince turned around and prepared to destroy the door...

K-13- Hallway of Neb Monastery and outside of the Healer's room.

Erik Heartstorm and the group walked at a quick pace down the hall. Erik wondering what has happened.

Just meters from the healer's room, the group was...and as soon as they had gotten to it, a large blast blew away the doors and out came the Prince of Darkness.

It's...it's a Prince of Darkness! Quick, we must kill it before it does any damage!

K-13 Inside the Healer's room

Siloux had taken in that the beast he saw was a Prince of Darkness, and that his friends were outside. Obliged to help, he limped to his bow and a quiver, that rested on the wall, to gather it. As soon as quick thought, he pulled out an arrow and shot it at the Prince. The Prince screamed in pain, because the arrow was not a normal arrow, it was the healer's quiver, not his, which contained some Blessed, powerful arrows.

Noticing the opportunity, Erik and the others began to attack the Prince. Siloux kept shooting his arrows at the Prince.

[WhiteFang]

Location: K13 (Outside the Healer’s room, Neb Monastery, base of Mount Sophia, Western region of Black Knights Kingdom)

The Dark Prince shouted in pain when Siloux shot out the enhanced Blessed Arrows from behind “Pathetic humans. I should not have spared your lives.” He threw a dark bolt from far. Siloux could not run but prepared to die and at the same time, Cecil ran out of the room. He was unable to shout for help as he is still under the demon’s silence spell.

A white light appeared from nowhere and blinded Siloux and Cecil’s sight. When the light starts to die down, they saw it was Adrick whom is standing in front of them. Siloux tried and recall before the dark bolt hit him. Adrick had done a teleportation and used his holy barrier to neutralize the attack. Adrick showed a smile and said “You, Forestmen certainly impress me very much with your bravery.” Cecil’s expression showed a sight of relief that Siloux is fine. Siloux looking at his friends in danger, begin to move towards his bow and the quiver again.

Lord Kenneth shouted to Erik “What is that monster? We had never seen any like this in our earlier encounters.” Erik charged forward and said to the rest “All of you fall back immediately. Don’t come near him. He is one of the Prince of Darkness.” After finishing his words, Erik immediately evaded the demon’s attack and swings his staff and shot out multiple white bolts from its crystal orb.

Princess Diana stood behind with the rest and yelled “We can’t just stand here and do nothing. Let’s help Erik.” Lord Kenneth agreed with Princess Diana proposal and charge forward. Lord Kenneth chanted an unknown language, releasing white crystals, surrounding its Blessed Sword.

The Dark Prince focused their attention at the trio, staring at Erik, Kenneth and Diana and said “Erik, you old man! Hiding in here, and not facing our wraith is the biggest mistake you made. I will eliminate you from the face of this world.” Erik leaped up and used his staff and hit his arm.

Before Erik is able to hit him, his body ejected dark spikes and prevented his attack. Flynt and Grandoth looking worried and said “We must find a way and stopped that Prince. How? We are not magically trained.” Grandoth pointed towards the other room “Look, a bow and quiver. We are trained in archery, aren't we?” Flynt nodded his head immediately, and ran into the other room with Grandoth.

Edited July 1, 2008 by WhiteFang

[Scouty]

K-13- Neb Monastery

Erik shouted at Flynt:

Flynt! I need you to do something! Go back into the dining hall and grab the shield, it's our only hope...we'll stay here and hold him off until you come back.

Flynt was disappointed, but was quick to do as the old man said.

Awww....man, didn't even get my archer fingers ready!

The skirmish continued.

Erik, Lord Kenneth, Diana, and Grandoth attacked the Prince from the hall...while Siloux and Cecil attacked him from the Healer's room.

The Prince of Darkness still held his own.

Ha! HAHA! You think just this will hold me off. Not for long! I will break you, old man.

Come on, Flynt, hurry it up!

[WhiteFang]

Location: K13 (Outside the Healer’s room, Neb Monastery, base of Mount Sophia, Western region of Black Knights Kingdom)

Flynt looked behind and saw them fighting with the demon and thought to himself “I must hurried. There is no time to lose.” Suddenly, the two ninja earlier leaped over Flynt, and joined into the fight. The ninja unveil their katana from their back, and stood in a defensive stance.

Flynt was amazed by their agility, stood still and Erik shouted “Flynt, hurry up. We cannot hold the demon any longer.” Flynt ran towards the dining hall, and saw a shield with nine circles embedded on it, hanging at the top of the fire place. He said to himself “This must be the shield which Erik is talking about.”

Using a few chairs in the hall, he stacked them high up in order to reach the shield from below. He was not able to grab the shield properly and a loud bang was heard. The shield fell off from the wall. Flynt glance quickly and took the shield with him, and ran back to them.

Meanwhile, both ninja began their swift assault onto the demon, leaping, hiding and attacking at the demon’s blind corner with shuriken and kunai. The rest could not catch their movement clearly. Erik fired a few holy bolts from his hand, aiming at its leg, causing him to unbalance.

Lord Kenneth went forward and slashes the Dark Prince’s leg with its blessed blade. The right leg began to frost from the sword’s white crystal. The Dark Prince stomped its left leg with its might. The loud vibration caused the white crystal to shatter, pushing Lord Kenneth to the wall.

Princess Diana went towards the wall, where Lord Kenneth is lying. She took a bottle of blue liquid from her belt, and requested him to drink up and said “Kenneth, drink this. This is useful for internal injuries.” The rest of them continue their offense, hoping to weaken his strength.

Bluervo, hides at a corner, observing the Dark Prince and think “How can we stop this force of evil? I am just a mere parrot that has very limited strength. Wait, is that supposed to be an injury?” He flies towards Lord Kenneth and Princess Diana and said “Look at his right leg. It appears to have some green fluid dripping out from there.” Lord Kenneth examined his leg carefully and added “Bluervo, you are right. Our weapons may not be obsolete in this fight.”

Erik turned his back and saw Flynt returning and showed a pleasing face “It’s about time, Flynt. Hurry up!”

Edited July 1, 2008 by WhiteFang