Ascendant: Divine Inheritance (IC)

(Another fabulous colab by Oath and I)

The dungeons of Sax weren’t a new sight for Paige. Though this was her visit as a prisoner. It seemed her new friend Kable hadn’t underestimated her and had advised his fellow guards well. She would have to thank him for that. She had two escorts and her self done restraints had been replaced with cuffs. But that wouldn’t be an issue. As the guards led her through the doorway, Paige suddenly caught her foot on the step up to it, embarrassingly face planting into the side of the doorway and scratching her lip on the latch hole. “Clumsy one isn’t she?” the guard to her right hoisted her back up and Paige giggled, embarrassed. “What can I say? I don’t have the energy to stand after all of the excitement today.” she winked. The guards secured her handcuffs to the wall before making their way out. The other guard responded through the bars as they closed and latched the door. “Well you can get comfortable. You’re going to be in this cell for a long time.” Paige stuck her tongue out at the two of them. But neither one of them were paying attention anymore to see her do it. Good. The lack of reaction was all she needed to know they weren’t paying attention to her anymore. She spit out a tiny white ball of white substance onto the ground next to her and quickly moved in front of it to grab it with her hands before stuffing it into the lock on her cuffs. She held her finger tightly over the opening and waited.


**********


Hours later, Paige waited patiently as she heard guards shift outside her door before she heard footsteps approach. “Ma’am!” both of the guards addressed the newcomer which clued Paige in to their superior status. From the corner of her eye, Paige saw a shadow loom over her as the officer looked in through the bars at her. “Has she caused any trouble?” she heard a smooth female voice ask.


“No, ma’am. She’s annoyingly talkative. But no trouble yet.”


Paige chuckled a bit but the superior wasn’t as amused. “Quiet in there!” she barked before resuming her conversation with the guards. “Is this the one reported earlier?”


“It’s unsure ma’am. She matches the description the Orcus Counselor gave. And she was inside the castle walls. She and her belongings found outside were searched, though. We found the girl… but she doesn’t have the key.”


********


“So, first injury on the job, huh?” The nurse inquired as she cleaned Kables wound. He clenched his other fist as the wound flared up in pain. It dulled away as she bandaged it up.


“You could say that.” he recalled his shin hit from earlier in the day, but elected to not mention that. “Definitely made for an interesting day.”


“Oh honey, I bet so.” the nurse replied. Kable was already beginning to block her out as he thought back to what happened earlier that day. The weird shadow dimension kept creeping up in the back of his mind. Wherever that had been, it left a piece in Kable. It wasn't something he would forget anytime soon. And Paige, that dastardly woman, who seemed so different compared to everyone else Kable had met. At least she was stuck in a cell where she belonged.


“And there, all done!” the nurse exclaimed, smiling as she backed away to examine her work. “How does it feel?” Kable moved his arm around and nodded, satisfied with the results. The nurse nodded as well and began to write on a piece of paper. “Unfortunately, Kable, it looks like you may have suffered a concussion from hitting the ground as hard as you did. Not to mention the third degree burns, slash to your abdomen, and somehow, you managed to puncture a lung. Now, most of these can be treated with a little bit of magic. But I'm going to have to keep you over for the night, just to ensure you heal properly.”


Kable groaned and threw himself back onto the bed. The nurse wandered off and Kable stared out the window. The sun was beginning to set, and Kable couldn't keep his eyelids open anymore. He drifted off into an uneasy sleep.


********


The night wore later and later. Her guards were changed once throughout the night. But Paige could hear the difference. Only one was left at her door at an our past midnight, when they assumed she had fallen asleep. She felt the substance she had left in the lock building pressure just before there was a faint click as it had finally expanded enough to break it. She was careful to be silent while removing it the side with the broken lock and securing it to the same wrist as the one with the lock still intact. Standing up, she crept over to the door. She prepared for a fight before testing it. The rest of the expanding potion she had put in the latch earlier, when she tripped, had made quick work of the mechanism. It had been unlocked for hours. She quickly and silently pulled the door open, grabbed the guard, and pulled him inside. There was a silent struggle behind the closed door before it opened again. Paige stepped out, dragging the unconscious guard behind her and placing sitting back at his post. She pat his head with an apologetic grin before making her way out of the dungeon.


********


Visiting the infirmary was risky. But Paige’s curiosity wouldn’t be silenced. She would be quick about it. Luckily, it wasn’t that well guarded compared to the dungeon. There was a guard posted outside the door and a nurse making the rounds. But they were easy enough to avoid considering they weren’t used to break ins. Paige approached the only occupied bed and recognized Kable from earlier. He slept soundly, and looked much more at peace than he had been earlier. The sight of it was cute.

She looked over his chart which was next to the bed.


“Patient was brought in due to injury on left arm. The wound looks like it was made by a claw or multi-bladed weapon. Patient was unable to identify the attackers weapon, though. Upon further diagnostic, patient was found to have third degree burns and a much more serious slash wound on right abdomen. Lung was punctured. Again, patient was unable to identify the weapon that caused the wound…”


Paige stopped reading, remembering Kable stepping in front of her to block an attack that knocked them both onto the bed. It was the only time she could think he had been hit in the chest. She put the chart back down, next to Kable’s other belongings before she noticed something else that caught her interest. Just then, she heard Kable stir. She moved to sit at the foot of the bed just as he opened his eyes. She put a finger up to her lips, asking him not to yell for help. “I’m leaving, I promise. I just wanted to check on you first.” she smiled.


Kable blinked a few times to clear his vision. He had felt someone beside him, and assumed it was the nurse checking up. Then they sat on his bed, and Kable awoke to Paige sitting across from him on the other side of the bed. She motioned for him to be quiet, and for some reason, Kable went with it. “I appreciate the thought, but you shouldn't be here.” Kable glanced at the door, the only way into the infirmary. How did she get past the guard?


“It’s kind of becoming our thing. You know: Me being where I shouldn't be, and you scolding me for it....” Paige giggled.


Kable faced Paige again. “You never gave me an answer before. What was that thing? Where were we, and who the hell even are you?”


Paige sighed “Look, I wish I had better answers. But I don’t think that thing will bother you again after I leave. As for who I am. Well, if you’re lucky you won’t have to learn the truth of that one for a very long time.” She winked playfully before before she sort of hesitated. Her tone got a bit more serious.

“You know… you have a lot of energy for someone who got stabbed in the chest today.” when he looked puzzled she kind of sheepishly pointed to his chart next to the bed as an explanation before she kept speaking. “I gotta say I feel kind of responsible for that. Why did you jump in front of me anyway?”


Kable held out his hand and Paige handed him the chart. He came across “Lung was punctured.” Stabbed wasn't exactly how Kable would've put it. The shadow beast had the brunt force of a rolling boulder. Kable wasn't surprised that he had a punctured lung, but that did explain why he had some trouble breathing.


“You know, I have no clue.” Kable handed back the chart and sat up as Paige set it back in place. “My body just… reacted in an instant. Whether it was really after you, or just happened upon us, I wasn't going to sit back and wait for it to get the upper hand.”


“Well, thank you anyway. You have good instincts. And I owe you one.” Paige said as she was putting the chart back where she found it. She heard the faint stir of the guard outside, which startled her and caused her to look in the direction of the door. It was faint, even with her heightened hearing. But it was enough for her to remember he was about due to make his rounds again. She was running out of time. She stood up, looking to the window but she stopped as if rethinking something. “Kable… tell me something. Your mother. Is she happy where she is?”


Kable’s eyes locked onto Paige’s as she asked about his mother. Why would she know her, let alone even care? “Yeah, I would say she is pretty happy. My father and her love each other very much. At least, last I happened to visit them, they did.” Kable glanced at the door that Paige did and heard the guard making his way for rounds. Paige made for the window right as Kable fully sat up. “Hey! You're not from around here, are you?”


Paige sat on the window sill and smiled. She intentionally misinterpreted his question. “I’m always around. Don't worry, I get the feeling we’ll meet again.” With one final wave she added “You’ve got a good soul, you know that? That's a rare thing so try not to mess that up.” She allowed herself to fall out of the window just as the guard walked around the corner into view. The rest of the way out would be easy from there.


“Kable, that prisoner you captured has escaped! We've got the whole castle grounds on alert. Have you seen that woman?” the guard seemed eager that they had an escaped prisoner, something to do. Kable stared at the window for a moment, then shook his head.


“Sorry, sir. I don't think we're going to see her for a long time.” Kable replied absentmindedly. The guard made a sound as if in denial of that statement and went back out the door. Kable sat back and pondered over his strange encounter. Whoever she was, Kable got the feeling that she wasn't a horrible person. She certainly wasn't innocent, but there was no malicious intent. And the question about his mother, as well. Kable reached for the bedside table and felt for his good luck charm, a small charm that he hung around his neck. He padded the table, then turned in shock to discover it was missing. After a brief moment, Kable turned his eyes back to the window Paige left out of and groaned. What a pain...

 

(Desert Warrior finally joins the fray! Collab between myself, DW, Taboo Sho, and Hope)

The pub was within the same caves as was Saoirse’s home. But this area was quite large and well lit by the réalta, The volcanic crystle of the cave ceiling forever lit by ancient dragon fire long burnt out. It gave the effect of sunlight even this far below the ground. This area was just outside the buried castle, among the homes and businesses of those who lived in Saoirse's care. It was just outside the caves that would lead back to the castle, where Haldor and Eerika were headed.
The two of them walked several yards in silence, casually greeting the occasional subjects that would address them on their way.
“So… wife.” A smirk tugged at the edges of his bearded face. “How would ye kill the bastard?”

Eerika allowed herself a laugh at her husband's question, “I think that should be obvious, husband. Hit the bastard where the sun don't shine, and then slowly wear him down from there. Nobody said it had to be a pretty end.” Patting Haldor's back with a smile, she winked, “Besides, nobody has the balls to go low but me anyway.”

“That's because no one else is short enough to reach, wife.” Haldor laughed. “As for me, I'd simply watch. His own temper will be his downfall, mark me.” He shot a sideways glance at Eerika.

Eerika scoffed but found herself laughing at the exchange of words. “A honed temper is a powerful thing dear husband, you of all people should know that. Now… what is it you were wishing to discuss?”

“Our daughter seems to think you owe me an apology.” He spoke with heavy sarcasm.

“Oh does she then? I would think she would be more worried about me apologizing to her for the property damage I've caused to her home.” A smirk reached her face as she played along with Haldor's antics.

“Well now, we’ve done worse damage to her home.” though the man’s words were innocent enough, his tone was much more suggestive. The both of them laughed before Haldor decided it best to get to the point. “The Azgeda are many things. But they are not stupid. There would be no need to kill Saoirse alone. It would serve no strategic purpose for them. And as my second, the girl needs to have diplomatic experience. That is why I sent her alone.” Eerika took a breath to argue but Haldor put up a hand, signifying that he was not finished. “As for the meeting, I didn’t tell you about Emperor Newgate because our people, not the gaefola, needed to see your reaction.” he ducked slightly to get through the entryway back into the castle. “They love their queen. And they know your rage already. It has earned you their fear. But fear won’t rally them to war. Not like loyalty. No, what they needed to see was more honest. They needed to see your pain. That is what will rally them to cross the waters to Azureth when the time comes.”

Eerika pondered her husband’s words seriously, taking more than a moment to honestly digest them properly. “I can see your points, husband. They are solid, and lack flaw. But while I understand them, it still bothers me greatly. I want just as badly to crush the gaefola under our boots, but for some reason, Saoirse believes peace is an option. I… also understand that I let my temper get the better of me when I left to be by her side, and when we spoke earlier. But I will not simply deny my anger for what you said, and did, Haldor. I fear that there is something we are missing, especially with the revelation of Newgate being the Emperor. Why is he so peace loving now when mere years ago he was annihilating people on the battlefield without a second thought?”

“It’s a good question, my dear. That’s why he will come here and answer it himself or there will be no peace for him.” Haldor growled. “And if his answer does not satisfy us… let’s hope the Azgeda gods have more mercy for him than we will.”

Eerika smiled widely at the thought, “Retribution will be had my dear husband. Newgate will answer for what he did… I will make sure of that. His executioner will be me, and me alone.”

Haldor smirked with pride. “Far be it from me to get between you and your axe, wife.” he chuckled as he put his arm around her as the two of them made the rest of their way to their shared rooms.

******************AZURETH******************

“I’m sorry! I know I shouldn’t lose control like that. But please don’t tell her.” -thump-

Roxanne eyed her guardian while trying to contain the shaking of her hands and the heat of her own temper as he took her arm, even though her body was still smoking, and led her away. He walked at a brisk pace that the shorter girl stumbled to keep up with as he pulled her along. It was only when they were back home did he let go and turn to face her. His arms were crossed and his expression was as unreadable as it usually was when he looked at her. She could never really tell if he was normally a grump or if he just didn’t like her. This time, though, she was pretty sure he was mad at her for the scene she had caused. -Thump. Thump-

“It makes her sad…” -Thump- “...disappointed. I’ll do better, I promise. Just don’t say anything.” she took a deep breath, still trying to calm herself. She was startled when he suddenly stepped forward, putting up two open palms. She simply gawked for a moment, unsure of what he was doing.
“Hit me.” -Thump-

Roxanne threw a punch.

“Come on, you call that a punch?” he swatted her hand away too easily before taking her shoulders and adjusting her stance “Don’t pull back. Now again, harder...” -THUMP-

She hit the punching bag again with more force and repeated the action until her arms began to feel sore and stiff. The more she focused on the mind numbing repetition, the better she felt. When she had finally tired herself out too much to keep going, she stopped and took a step back while pushing her damp hair out of her face.

“Y’know, there’s a limit to how much you can exert yourself before you start hurting yourself.” A stranger spoke out to Roxanne.
Startled by the sudden noise, Roxanne wheeled around and threw another punch without thinking. Whoever it was, though, was faster and not as tired as her and simply stepped out of the way. As a result, Roxanne stumbled forward. He caught Roxanne by her wrist as she stumbled, pushing her back a bit to keep her up on her feet. Roxanne quickly pulled her arm away, clearly not liking what occurred. “You shouldn’t…” she stuttered, unsure what else to say. She stepped backward, letting herself get a look at him. He had probably having been standing by the entryway quietly observing her for a while. This stranger, while currently clothed in common Sax fashion, was obviously not native to the capital city. His tanned skin, evidence of a person who spent most of their out in the sun and heat, was an immediate sign he was not from here.

“Sorry.” The stranger spoke with a smile. “It wasn’t my intent to startle you like that. But it looked like you getting lost in your thoughts was gonna cause you to push yourself a little too far. I don’t think I’ve seen you before today. I assume you must be new here?”

Now that she was actually paying attention, his accent was Roxanne’s second clue that he was foreign. She worked at adjusting her glove while glaring at him, still a bit embarrassed by her initial reaction. Still, he seemed nice. After a tense moment, she seemed to relax and nodded “I am.” she confirmed. “Sorry for almost hitting you…”

“It’s not problem. Honestly if I let myself get hit by that then I probably deserve to get hit.” He spoke, nonchalantly tossing a criticism of Roxanne’s punch. He quickly spoke up again, seeming to realize what it sounded like he said. “That came out wrong. Farq laghawiun ghabiin…” He turned his head slightly to the side, the foreign language spoken much faster than anything else he’s said. “What I meant was that it’s been constantly drilled into my head to know how to avoid such quick and unfocused punches.”

At first, his words brought Roxanne reason for concern. She knew she was behind already. Most of the other ‘ascendants’ had been training for years. Her own training had been limited. This interaction was showing her just how bad it was. “That bad huh…?” she somewhat shyly pushed her hair behind her ear before deciding to change the subject. Curious about his accent and language, “So, which clan are you from?”

“Clan?” He asked, a hint of confusion in his voice. “I’m not part of any clan.” Thinking of when the last time his people could have been considered something as small as a clan caused him to again speak in his foreign language. “Tawaqafna ean kunina eashirat fi zaman al'asatir.” These words, spoken more as if he were muttering to himself, probably sounded like a quick slur of noises to Roxanne. He focused on her again, snapping back to the language she understood. “Sorry. What I meant to say is… Well, I guess I should probably clarify that I’m not from this land. My people haven’t been considered to be something as small as a clan in a very long time.”

Roxanne was confused. “So you aren’t… you know, an ascendant?” she frowned. He looked to be not much older than Roxanne and the way he was dressed suggested he was someone in a position of respect.

“No, I’m not one of them. I just happen to be visiting this land for the time being. And apparently my timing was such that I arrived while this ascendant thing was going on.”

“Lucky you.” Roxanne’s sarcasm was notable.

“Oh yeah, so lucky of me to essentially be kicked out of home for whatever period of time.”

“Oh, I’m sorry I didn’t realize…” Roxanne was quick to apologize when she realized she might have hit a sore subject. But he only laughed, rolling with Roxanne’s sarcasm. He ended his laugh with a gentle sigh. “It is what it is. I’d like to think I’ve gotten over it by now. So all I can do is to do what I’ve been asked of like a dutiful son and hurry up and return home.”

“What could your family possibly ask you to do here that you can’t do in your home country?” Roxanne couldn’t help but be curious.

“Roxanne?” A voice suddenly cut into the conversation as Desmond approached from the entrance. He eyed the stranger with her for a moment before turning his attention back to her. “I've been looking all over for you, Kid.”

Reality returned with Desmond. Roxanne sighed, “I’m fine, Desmond.” her tension returned as He approached “You shouldn't be out here after curfew” he put his hand on her shoulder before addressing the third person in the room. “Forgive my interruption, Gerik.”

“It is no issue.” Gerik spoke as he crossed his right arm over his chest and did a light bow towards Desmond. “It seemed like she’s had a long day.” He turned towards Roxanne and repeated his bow. “It has been a pleasure meeting you Roxanne.”

“Yeah, you too-” Roxanne’s personality was notably more on edge than before. “-See you around.” she returned his bow with a wave of her hand more customary to her own culture.
Desmond led the way as the two of them turned and made their way back toward the castle. As they came near their rooms, he spoke up “It's good to see you're already making friends.”

“Let’s not pretend you care about that.” Roxanne rolled her eyes. “Don’t worry I remember the real reason you brought me here.”

Desmond was startled. “Don't get smart. We've already-”

“-Save it.” she lowered her voice as they approached her door and the guard opened it for her. “It’s like everyone keeps reminding me, I’ve had a long day.”

“Of course… get some sleep kid. You have an early morning tomorrow.”

Roxanne entered her room and closed the door behind her without another word.

Once she was gone, Desmond groaned bringing a hand up and pressing his eyes with a finger and thumb. It had been quite the day and Roxanne’s attitude was already proving to be difficult. His new role in her life was intimidating to say the least. He walked to his own room and closed the door.

 

(Kai and I, the events occur over a day and a half, don't feel you need to keep the same time line)

Skerick, Ulric and Finnan sat around a small wooden table. It was covered in mugs filled with drink and the ground surrounding the men was scattered with empty ones. The others had long since gone to sleep or blacked out. The sun was breaking bringing with it the first rays of the new day.
Both Ulric and Finnan sat watching the old man as studied the drink. With a sigh he downed its contents and when he had finished put the mug upside down on the table.

“Yes!” Finnan said smacking a fist into his own chest. “We are champions among men!” he laughed.

“Hey Finn, Finnan ahh your chest is turning white my mighty king of champions”

Finnan stared at his companion for a few moments. “But… it’s always been white…” he looked down and saw what Ulric was referring to. Ice had started to spread from where his fist had hit him. “Huh…” he said as he concentrated for a moment. The ice melted and Finnan turned his attention back to Ulric. “Your turn” he smiled.

“My turn …. Mmmm oh!” Ulric smiled and then blasted Finnan in the chest with water.

Finnan fell from his chair dripping wet. “No you dolt! To drink!” he gave out as Skerick laughed.

“Ah that...that makes more sense” Ulric downing the mug in one then laughing at his mistake.

Finnan picked himself up and sat back down. He gave both men a smile before happily drinking another mug and looking expectantly at Skerick.
Skerick groaned at the thought of drinking more. “I’m…. done.” he slurred. “Any...more, I’ll not be able to carry my legs….”

Finnan and Ulric burst out laughing. “Wouldn’t want that” Finnan laughed again. “Carry your legs to your tent old man” he joked. Skerick bared his teeth at the two. A threat to enemies but an inside joke to those knowing. Standing from the table he stumbled away muttering to himself.

Finnan watched the old warrior leaving. He turned back to to his friend and saw him swallowing. Checking the mugs he saw they were untouched. He checked himself realising he was dry. “Oi! Cheating bastard. I win”

“Fair enough, but you also won one hel of a head for the morro”

“Ah piss on your morro. I’ll be fine” Finnan retorted having another drink.

“I believe we both have had enough piss on us recently, but we shall see” Ulric responded with a chortle.

“You mean you'd willing let another piss on you? Your habits worry me Ulric. Must be a southerner thing”. Finnan watched his friend with a sly smile on his face.

“You know that was not… its not worth it right now” Ulric replied with a wicked gleam in his eye “I shall see you later my friend” as he got up to retire to his tent.

“Ah, begone then” Finnan dismissed Ulric with a wave of his hand and a smile. “You guys can't drink properly anyway” he said having another mug. It caught in his throat and he started coughing. “Drink will be the death of me”

****

The heat of the day had started to abate as Miena strolled through the camp ‘Damn that man and his celebration, it leaves him in a fowl mood’ “Finnan I'm going to enter are you decent?” After no response she entered.
‘Ah you sciver’ she thought as she faced what could only be Finnan shut off from the world in a half dome of thick ice.
*tick tick tick tick tick* using her dragon claw ring she tapped on the ice.

Finnan released a pocket in the ice showing his face. “You, are the last thing I wish to see in the morning” he groaned after a moment as he closed the ice.

*tick tick tick*

Finnan opened the ice once again. “What is it?”

“The morning is long gone” she smirked “The locals are getting restless with our men, it's time to start making preparations to leave”

“The locals can go jump.” Finnan said testily. “Ulric’s man should have better control of the region.”

“Aodhan has a hard task at hand due to the way things occurred; it would be wise to make ready to leave”

“And who's fault is that.” Finnan said with a sly grin. “Tell Ulric he can organise us going home.” with that said he closed the ice again.

“It was all of our fault” she sighed in frustration.

****

Having made all the preparations to leave at first light. Ulric entered Finnan's tent to find the bugger still encased in ice. ‘You knew what I meant, we shall see how you fare now’ Ulric could feel the water in Finnan's tub. With a lot of effort Ulric pulled the water up until it met the ice pushing the air pocket to Finnan’s feet. Struggling not to laugh knowing if he did so it would be enough to lose his grasp on the polluted water the sweat from the exertion rolling off of him.

The dome shattered in one quick moment. Finnan was standing a few feet from the tub having jumped away from it. “You always were an ass” he scolded Ulric between gasps for breath.

No longer able to contain his laughter the water sloshed back into the tub “How’s the head?”

“Better than yours” Finnan responded with a sly smile. He lifted a hand and encased Ulric’s head in a thin layer of ice.
Presuming the ice was thicker than it was Ulric swung his first much harder than needed shattering the ice off his face knocking himself to the ground “Still totally worth it” he laughed.

Finnan shook his head with a smile “What is it?” he asked as he wrapped a towel around his waist.

Finally able to arise Ulric took a deep breath to stop his laughter “That was for this mornings southern comment” he smiled “All the preparations are made, we make our leave at first light. You should get some food in your guts my friend before the day is fully spent”

Finnan dressed as Ulric spoke. “Food would be good. Food and a drink would be better” he smiled patting his friend on the shoulder as he left the tent.

Ulric shook his head and laughed "You celebrate to well" as they made their way to the mess tent.

 

The sea waves beat against the hull of the ship, rocking it ever so slightly, making a gentle rhythm that would put even the most restless to sleep. With no land in sight this vessel had a long journey before it. It was a small ship, nothing that caught the eye, but she was sturdy and had made countless voyages across far more rugged seas than the ones she sailed now. Her deck above and below was filled to the brim with trinkets, textiles, jewelry, a family of four, and a large man in a hammock in a deep sleep.


“The Iron Lords and Northruund falls before the eternal winter hahahaha….” A woman’s voice whispered. The large man twitched slightly in his sleep, his face forming droplets of sweat. “Your High Chieftain has fallen, your people erased from history, you are the last of the Iron Lords and soon you shall fall like the others!” The man twitched more in his hammock than last time, sweat ran down his forehead, his breathing became heavy.


A man of young age worked above on the deck with the help of his wife and two children. The man charted their path, making slight adjustments as he steered the ship across the beating waves of the ocean. His wife pulled on ropes with her daughter, keeping the sail steady and trying not to lose their mind while her very small son ran about the deck causing havoc. “My dearest, lower the sail and raise the trading flag, I see three ships in our path coming our way!” The young man yelled to his wife over the sound of the ocean waves.


The three ships soon adjusted their own sails as they came close to the merchant ship, they threw ropes to the merchant ship and the family fastened them to anchor all the ships together that had formed a triangle shape around their own. Rugged and hefty men set planks between the ships and walked across and onto the merchant ship. The men wore leather garments with animal fur, some had some light armor in the form of chain mail or small iron plates covering shoulders, waists, or thighs. Only about 7 had descended upon the merchant ship, but dozens more watched from the three other ships.


“Welcome aboard my humble ship my fellow seafarers! I and my family have travelled far and wide collecting an assortment of goods that I am sure some of you will find all but impossible to resist! I am willing to make fair trade for other goods or coin. Please look about, see what catches your eyes!” The young man was very enthusiastic, though his counterparts expressions seemed bored by the man’s words. The rugged men walked about the ship, the picked and search through various crates, pulling out silk scarfs, chalices with intricate designs, beautifully crafted weapons, etc…. “There is more below deck if you wish to see more my friends.” The young man said in a friendly tone to his potential customers.


The men grumbled amongst themselves, they their eyes had glanced over most of the goods, which were all attractive to them, but several of their eyes had been caught on his family. “How much for the two young ones?” the leader of the group asked. The merchant gave a small chuckle that was a little bit tensed and awkward sounding trying to play off the question as a joke. His wife drew her children in close to her and putting herself between them and the rugged men.

“I apologize my friends, but my family is the only thing that does not have a price on it, I rather give up everything on my ship before I’d give them up.” The young man said.


“Well I guess we will take everything on your ship then, and then we’ll take your family too ‘friend’!” The leader said and it was followed by a hefty laugh from his men.


The large man was still sound asleep below deck, tossing in his hammock, stirring not from the commotion above, but from within. “Oh what a strong young man, come to meet his end like all the others who sail these waters hmhmhmhm…” Another female voiced whispered in the large man’s dream. “If these waters become my grave so be it, but you will not rejoice in your death here… or anywhere…hahaha…” The large man began to violently shake in the hammock, mumbling grunts and nonsense sounds.


“Please no! I beg you, let my family go! Take everything but them!”


“Come here you little runt!”


“Papa! Help!”


“NOOO!” The large man shot up from his hammock hitting his head on the beam above him making an incredibly loud thud. The voices above got real quiet all of a sudden.


“You got more stowaways below deck merchant? Well boys go have a looksee and nab them too, the more bodies for the market the better!” The leader of the group said as he ushered two of his men to go below deck. The large man breathed heavily for a moment as he took his surroundings in and realized had just been a nightmare and remembering he had taken passage with a nice merchant family to their next destination. Though from the voices muttering above it seemed they had run into some other folks on the high sea.


The large man got out of his hammock and made his way towards the stairs when two men came down in clothing that was familiar to him. “Woah! We got ourselves a big guy here don’t we? He’ll fetch a good price on the market.” One of the men said as he tightened his grip on his sword and moved towards the large man with his fellow warrior.


“Aye lassie, I appreciate the compliment, my sweet mother always use to say I was worth more than all the gold in land. Though currently I’m not in the mood to be selling my body to others, if our paths cross again my fellow warriors maybe you could check in with me again.” The large man said as he casually walked towards the men. The men growled in anger, mistaking the large man’s word as sarcasm and mistaking him as being more intelligent than he actually was.

“Funny guy huh? We’ll wipe that smirk off your face!” The two men rushed forward, the large man quickly grabbed each of them by the neck squeezing tightly. Both men dropped their weapons and began clawing at the large man’s massive hands as the grasped for air.

“Hey what’s going on down there you two…” The heads of the two men came bursting through the deck before their leader could ask them about what was even going on below deck. The large man came up the stairs from below deck and began stretching, allowing his full height and mass to be seen by the other men on board. A few of them gasped in awe, others took a step back in fear at the behemoth of a man standing before them. “By the gods that thing is massive… Kill it… Kill it before it eats us!” The leader ordered his men.


The remaining four men charged forward, the large man swatted the first man overboard with the back of his hand, caught the next man’s arm in mid swing of the man’s sword and threw him high and over his head. The third man’s axe grazed the large man’s metal shoulder pad, but the momentum from the swing had spun him around to which the large man followed up with kicking him straight back into the forth one. The large man took a few steps forward towards the leader who quickly let go of the merchant’s son and took a few steps back to keep the distance equal between him and the gargantuan of a man before him. “Who… who are you?” the man asked.


“I AM THE MIGHTY ORYX, LORD OF IRON!!!” He bellowed I a loud voice that echoed and that even sent shivers down the spines of the men on the other ships. “Aye lassie, sorry for the loud introduction. Sometimes I like to yell after a nap, gets the blood pumpin if you know what I mean mate!” Oryx said in a jolly tone and a large smile on his face. “Usually I love to stop and chitchat and while I love a get fight, I must ask you fellow warriors to be on your way. It's been awhile since I’ve used my land legs and I’m itching to use them as soon as possible, and this lovely family was gracious enough to let me tag along free of charge to their next destination, so I’d like it if you hurry and be on your way so we can do the same.”


The man stared at Oryx in disbelief, he was honestly unsure how to act. He had shoved two of his men straight through the deck, and tossed the other ones around like a baby playing with dolls, and here he was asking them nicely to be on their way. “We… we aren’t leaving with… without all the goods on this… this ship!” The man finally retorted as he held his weapon up with some new found courage, too bad it was shaking horribly in his hands.


Oryx frowned for a second taking in a large breath and then letting out a sigh, he walked to the side of the deck grabbed few of the ropes to one ship and spun them around his hand for a good grip and then yanked hard pulling the ship mere inches from the merchant’s ship and scraping partially against the other two ships. The men on the deck above went flying all kinds of directions from the sudden jolt. Oryx then grabbed his axe Svell’s Bane in the other hand and raised it high and brought it swiftly down against the side of the other ship, cutting a massive gash in its hull and allowing water to flood it. Men began running about on the deck above and shouting at each other. Oryx let go of the ropes and walked over to the man, swatted his sword away, grabbed him by his tunic and through him hard at the bought he had just put a large gash in, that it then sent the ship backwards and adrift in the ocean sinking quickly.


“Hear me lassies, you have two options. Go help your fellow mates or try to storm this ship, to which I will then sink all your ships and leave you to the sharks. Don’t think too hard about it! I would know, thinking too hard always gives me a headache!” Oryx said two the men on the other two ships who had watched the whole ordeal go down. Within moments they began untying themselves from the merchant’s ship and putting distance between them to get away from Oryx and to save their fellow mates.


A sigh of relief came from the young merchant as he embraced his children and his wife as Oryx watched the other ships drift away from them. Perhaps I should have put a permanent end to their raiding habits… Oryx thought to himself before his mind hit him with something he had forgotten. I forgot these two! A quick turn around and Oryx’s gaze fell upon the two men had he had smashed through the deck boards. He quickly reached down and pulled them out. He put the one down and held the other with both hands. With a quick few spins he let go and watched as the man who previously unconscious came to life and began flailing as he soared through the air and landing amidst the ships in the distance. The other one he had laid on the deck had also awoken and watched in horror as his shield brother was tossed like a child throwing a small rock.


“No no no no no no no no!!!” The man began to say frantically as he scampered to get away from Oryx, but the gargantuan man had already grabbed him by the waist belt.


“Don’t fret my little warrior friend, I have great aim when it comes to throwing people! Everyone I had ever thrown has always hit their mark…..Or didn’t live to say otherwise now that I think about it....” Oryx’s last words were mumbled beneath his breath, but the man had heard them nonetheless and began to squirm as Oryx got ready to throw him. As he began to spin, the man’s movement threw Oryx off and when he let go, his trajectory was off. Instead of soaring high in an arc pattern the man ended up skipping across the ocean like a rock across a pond. “Well that wasn’t as planned, but it worked hahaha!”


“I thank you deeply my friend. My family and I will be forever in your debt for saving us.” The young man said as he gave a slight bow to Oryx.


“Aye lassie, you showed me kindness by allowing me to join you on your voyage, it was I who had a debt to you.” Oryx said with a large smile and as he reached out and patted the merchant on his back. “Now let us hoist the sail and continue on our journey!”


--------------------------- a few days later------------------------------

Land was always a beautiful thing to behold after a long journey on the rough seas. Oryx felt that perhaps he had spent more time sailing the seas than he had on land. The merchant ship pulled into a small dockyard, Oryx hopped out onto the dock with a rope and helped tie down the merchant’s ship. A quick look around the area and he noticed plenty of eyes staring him down. These people resembled the ones they had encountered only a few days ago. Their faces were not too friendly looking. The merchant and his family disembarked from their ship, but Oryx raised a hand stopping them from going ahead of them.

“These people are a bit on the rougher side my little friend. All these men are hardened warriors, like the ones we met only a few days ago. I may suggest that you not stay long here.” Oryx said as he continued to return the stares of the other men until they went back to their own work.


“I thank you for your wisdom and I hear it well. I will gather the supplies I need and be on our way. I hope our paths cross again my dear friend Sir Oryx the Lord of Iron.” The young man said as he clasped Oryx’s large hand with both of his. They shook and Oryx departed down the dock.

As Oryx made it to the end of the dock he saw a man eyeing him viciously. Oryx continued to walk and then stopped next to the man whose eyes became even more menacing and annoyed by Oryx’s presence. “I say this once stranger. Innocent blood spilled on the battlefield must be repaid in the blood of the wicked.” The men took a moment to try and understand what Oryx had meant by his words before getting frustrated and placing his hand on his sword that dangled from his hip.


“What the hell did you say to me you freak of a giant?” Though before he could raise his sword to point at Oryx, Oryx had grabbed him by the tunic and raised him off his feet and pushed him against the wall he had been leaning against.


“I said that if the blood of those good people is spilled, I will spill much more blood to right the wrong that had been made.” Oryx let go of the man and he fell to the ground and landed on his bottom. Oryx continued to walk on and the man stared at him not even daring to make a move.


------------------------------------ 9 hours later------------------------------

Oryx had walked for a long time without rest. This land was unknown to him and he was none the wiser of where he was going, he only knew that one usually could not go wrong by following the trail. All trails usually led somewhere, whether to a town or a monster’s den and each of these would suffice for Oryx. Though as he continued to walk he felt that perhaps a town with food and mead sounded like the better option. “I could eat a whole cow’s leg right about now. I hope to find a town soon before the night sets in…”


As Oryx reached the top of the hill that he was upon and could see far into the horizon and surrounding area, his eyes were quick to set upon what looked like a large encampment. His heart leapt with joy, he had finally found a settlement of some sort and quickly made his way down the path to it. After what felt an eternity for Oryx’s stomach and its desire for food and drink he came to one of the entrances to the encampment and took notice that it was heavily guarded and the only people looked quite different from the ones he had encountered earlier, they seemed to be foreigners in these lands too. “Hello there my fellow warriors of smaller stature in terms of size! I have been travelling these roads for quite some time and am looking for a place to satisfy my needs for food and drink! I have the coin to pay for any amenities.” Oryx said as he approached the men at the entrance to the encampment.


***************
(Collab between Taboo and I)

Deep within the encampment, one soldier stood out among the rest, instead of armor, he was donned in robes, much like a wizard might be. The boy, Págos, was an ascendant like those in Sax, though he was out with his mentor on assignment, learning about strategy and warfare in the field. Lucius, his mentor, had yet to return from the negotiations, and thus Págos was keeping to himself, and focusing on his own abilities. That is until a very large man waltzed into the camp without a second thought and began speaking to him and the others as if they were a bunch of old friends.


Lifting his staff precautiously, he stared at the tall buff man nervously before speaking, “I believe you are in the wrong camp, this is the Azureth military camp. If you are looking for the commander, he is not here at the moment.”


Oryx looked about the camp, it wasn’t a typical camping ground but one that was adorned with soldiers, tents, and weapons. The occupants of the camp were all alarmed by his presence, including a young man with a staff and a gnarly white robe. Oryx approached the young man and leaned down a bit, “Hello my little warrior friend! I Am Oryx the Mighty Warrior of Northruund! I have traveled far and now I seek rest and alcohol!” He exclaimed loudly.


Págos swallowed his fears as the man spoke, he didn’t seem to have any bad intentions… He just wanted a place to rest and drink apparently. “Well… We do have a little extra to offer, but umm… Oh how did he explain it…” He looked down at his hands for a moment before exclaiming, “Oh! I’ll give you some if you work for me! I could use a strong bodyguard like you on my side!”


Oryx stood up and put his finger on his chin as if he were thinking for a moment. “Aye Lassie, I am always willing to help anyone in need, so if you need this thing called a ‘bodyguard’ I will do it!” Oryx said to the little man. “I am a bit confused as to what a body guard does though, most the bodies I have guarded have been dead, but you are alive! How do I guard a body that isn’t dead?” As usual Oryx’s intelligence did not match his size.


Págos’ jaw dropped at the man’s response, and he couldn’t help but laugh. “A bodyguard is someone who protects someone because they aren’t very strong themselves. I would seek your services while I remain here, because the people here are much stronger than the people in my home. They are large and scary, like you. I use a lot of magic, so I’m what you’d refer to as ‘squishy’ because I can’t take a hit very well… It is one of the things I am working on! If you don’t mind protecting me for my stay on this place, then I will ask my commander to provide you with what you asked for!”


Oryx gave a large laugh and picked Págos up and squished him tight against his body and continued laughing as he flung the poor Págos around like a ragdoll. “HO HO HO my little friend! Then I will protect you like a chicken protects her eggs, but do not worry for I will not sit on your frail little body!” Oryx put Págos down and then squatted down to be more on his height level. “Magic is fun! I also can use magic! Fire bends to my will, but yes one can not only rely on magic, one must have strength as well! So I applaud you my little friend for trying to grow stronger!”


Págos found himself laughing as he was thrown in the air, he was still young and foolish, but this man just didn’t seem like a threat. As he was put down, he nodded at the compliment Oryx gave him. “Thank you sir. I am working hard to be worthy of the position of Emperor. I am Págos, son of Boreas. You may know him as the spirit of ice! I use ice magic, and my staff enhances my powers.”


“I would challenge you to a fight to test your skills, but I have had enough fighting for one day. The men of these land that you called large and scary are not very strong warriors, but they can sure make you tired when you have to throw them like rocks skipping across the water.” Oryx said.


He stood back up and grabbed a nearby tree log that some soldiers were using as a bench and picked it up one handed, throwing the soldiers off of it and placing it near Págos. Oryx sat down and the log made a loud crunch sound as its bark broke from the weight of the large man sitting on it. He then ripped the end of one side of the log and placed it near his feet and lit it on fire with his hand. “Come my friend Págos! Let us sit and drink and eat! Do you perhaps have a barrel of mead that you could spare? I would never take advantage of such nice people, I do have the gold coin to pay.”


Págos was awed by the show of strength, and smiled as he realized what a jackpot he had hit with this man. With him providing backup, Págos could study and practice without fear of attack, and that would accelerate his learning curve dramatically! This was fantastic news! “Okay Mr. Oryx, I will bring you some of our mead, I think the commander said we had some in one of the tents... “ He asked around a moment before being directed to the mead barrels, where he, with a lot of effort, lifted it off the ground and brought it to his new friend. “I’ll take the gold coins then, and this is for you.”


Oryx’s heart jumped with excitement, it had been so long since he had tasted the beautiful and sweet drink. Oryx tossed Págos his coin purse with all of his gold in it. “Take as much as you want or all of it, I do not care how much is taken. I always find coin when I need it.” Oryx said before lifting the barrel high above and chugging a large amount of the mead. He let out a large relaxing sigh and placed the barrel down at his side. “Aye lassie that hit the spot! I thank you for your kindness, but I must ask you do I have something on my face? For your fellow little warriors have continued to stare at me as if I had the rear end of a rooster protruding from face.”


Págos caught the coin purse and laughed again shaking his head, “They are simply shocked by your appearance, sir. You did sort of just appear out of nowhere. Even though I have warmed up a bit to you, even I am still cautious of you. You are very intimidating, after all.”


“Aye lassie those are fair words! For you are all little warriors so I can see why there is intimidation in your eyes when looking at me, a larger warrior.” Oryx said before taking another large swig from the barrel. “I am thankful nonetheless for your hospitality, and I do hope to meet your commander soon so that I can thank him as well! He sounds like a strong warrior and that means he already has my respect!”

 

(Collab of Taboo, Legend, and I)

The first thing Lucius noticed upon returning to the main camp was how tense the other soldiers were acting. It was like they had a monster within their mist. They still saluted both he and Roan as they made their way past, but Lucius could tell their fists clenched tighter on their weapons. What could be setting these men on edge? The thought crossed as he entered into the main area of the camp. Then he understood what the concern was.

“There I was lassie, locked in an arm wrestling match with a golem! Oh he was a tough one, he would not let me pass through his mountains until I had bested him in a duel of his choosing. For three days and three nights we sat arms crossed with each other. Neither of us gave an inch to the other! The look on his face when I told him I was using my weak arm too!” Oryx boasted as he continued to chug huge gulps from the barrel in his arms. “Well I can tell you lassie, Golems faces look practically the same no matter what! It looks like, well rocks!”

A pile of armor sat in a circle of soldiers surrounding it. It lifted the barrel and Lucius suddenly realized that it was an actual person in that armor guzzling down whatever alcohol was in there. The person must have been ridiculously strong to be able to lift a barrel in that suit. Lucius stepped through the circle and gripped the barrel with one hand, pulling it away just enough to stop the flow of alcohol. He met the man's gaze with one of his own and felt a smirk form. “Tell me, son. You don't look like an Imperial. So why are you drinking an Imperial drink?”

Oryx was caught off guard by a warrior who’s aura radiated with power and strength. The man to Oryx was love at first sight, a true veteran of the battlefield no doubt. “Aye! You be right my fellow warrior! I be not an Imperial! I be Oryx and fret naught by friend, I have paid well for this barrel!” Oryx said as he wiped the foam from his face and beard.

Lucius peered across at his men, all whom looked away as he met every gaze he could. The men knew they'd be in for it now, letting some strange man into the camp. Lucius turned back to the mess of hair in front of him. “Surely you didn't have enough gold on hand for an entire barrel?” Lucius forced the rest of the barrel down onto the ground and ended up splashing the mead everywhere.

Oryx frowned a bit as the mead ended up splashing everywhere and going to waste. “I have traveled far and wide lassie, I don’t care for riches myself much, but I would say the gold I carried on me was enough for the barrel.” Oryx had been on quite the journey leading up to where he was now. He had spent some time on the sea with the merchant family and had trekked across the rough land for some time before coming across the military camp. It was definitely upsetting to see such fine mead go to waste, but he wouldn’t let this moment bring him down too much.

“But I guess I do need to watch how much I drink lassie! Don’t want it all going to these hips haha!” Oryx joke as he slapped the sides of his hips. “But if I ask my friend, who may I be calling you?”

Lucius straightened himself up. “I am General Lucius Magnis, head of the Imperial Army and certainly the one who you should've asked for the barrel of alcohol. And who are you, the stranger in our mist?”

“Thee General Lucius? That is a name I have come across in my travels, the name of a renowned warrior. If the tales hold true it is indeed an honor to meet such a great warrior such as you lassie.” Oryx now knew the radiating power coming from Lucius now had some weight behind if this was truly Lucius. “I am Oryx! I am just a traveling hero warrior, but I am not nearly as renowned as you.” Oryx was definitely humbling himself, he had come across his own name a few times in his travel, but never this across the world.

Lucius frowned. The name Oryx certainly rang some kind of bell in his head, but he couldn't place the memory it came with. Nevertheless, Lucius could feel raw power boiling just beneath the surface, ready to explode at a moment’s notice. “A traveling hero, you say? Seems to me you're just another mercenary looking for easy pay.”

“Ho, ho, ho! There is no honor to be found in being a mercenary, I take no payments for my deeds! The thrill of battle and helping those who need it is the only payment I take! Well that and maybe some mead haha” Oryx said as he gave a hearty laugh. Oryx was genuine and pure hearted as they came, and it would take a lot more to chip away at Oryx, especially since his head was similar to that of a rock in density.

Lucius was perplexed by Oryx’s playful demeanor. He certainly meant no harm, so Lucius relaxed, but only slightly. “Forgive me, then, for spilling your barrel. I would offer to replace it for you, but our alcohol already comes lightly to us. As much as I have tried, the king does not believe that alcohol is a necessity for war.”

Oryx gasped a bit, alcohol and war were like two sides of the same coin! “By Odin’s raven, sounds like you need a better king! Kings start wars and alcohol ends wars, nothing brings people together like a couple mugs of mead!” Oryx felt a sliver of guilt knowing that he had taken mead from these soldiers who now he knew had very little to begin with. “So my friend, what brings you to these shores? I know of this land somewhat from traveling it some and know you don’t seem to be from here either.”

“Our business has no real concern for you, sir. Seeing as how you're no man in my army, nor a dumb enough enemy to just wander into our camp, it would be better if you did not know. But your assumption is correct, we are not from these lands. We hail from the capital city Sax, of the Azureth Empire.” Lucius motioned for the closest soldier. “Fetch us another barrel of mead, would you? Then be sure to return to your posts, all of you!” Lucius shouted loud enough for anyone in the general vicinity to hear. The whole crowd saluted, then took off. The one Lucius called out quickly returned with the barrel and placed it between the two men. He nodded to Lucius, then took off.

“Please, allow me to make up for wasting your hard earned money. I would also like to hear of where you're from!”

“I am humbled to share mead from the same barrel as the great Lucius!” Oryx said and raised a stein to toast. “It be true your business is your own. I have never heard of the Azureth Empire, perhaps somewhere I should travel to one day.” Oryx said before taking a large swig of his stein.

Págos watched the two go back and forth for what felt like hours before he cleared his throat to get Lucius’ attention. “Sir… I have the gold pieces right here.” He hands him the bag with a small smile, “I didn’t want to put such a large bag among the treasury quite yet in case there was some commotion. I wished for there to be proof that Oryx was honest in case things had gone poorly with the Lothbrok family.”

Lucius glanced over to the side at Págos who still held the bag. “Boy, I never said things went well. And I assume as you know this man’s name, you know why he's here?” Lucius eyed Págos, waiting for an answer.

Págos gulped silently but nodded firmly. Stand tall, don’t look afraid… Be strong. “Yes sir, he was travelling for a very long time and scared many of the soldiers when he arrived. I confronted him about what he was doing, and he was just seeking drink and shelter. He paid for the drink, and I… managed to hire him on as my personal bodyguard as well. I did not, however, agree to shelter him, as that is a decision for you and Sir Roan.”

“Aye lassie! The little one one hired me to protect his body, which was quite confusing to me, because the only bodies I have ever protected were dead.” Oryx explained drinking some more mead. “I am quite happy to help protect anything as long as it is for justice and good!” He exclaimed with a prideful tone.

“A bodyguard, you say? I can't say I've ever heard of an Ascendant hiring a bodyguard before. While this one does seem quite willing to watch over you, there must be a good reason to hiring him, boy.” Lucius arched an eyebrow as he took a drink with Oryx.

Págos nodded, “Yes of course, as we know, I am heavily focused on ranged fighting. It is how I always support you in battles, however. In times when I do not have someone as strong as you in the frontlines, I needed a means of protection while I practiced getting more powerful so that come ascension time I will not need that type of protection, and will be able to win on my own.”

“The frontlines are the best place to be my little lassie! That’s where all the fun happens! But it is true, you are way less likely to get stabbed or probably die in the back, unless you are really unlucky my little lassie!” Oryx said in a friendly tone before drinking more mead.

Lucius swished his mead around for a few moments, then nodded. “That's logically correct, boy. I will not always be there to watch over you, accidentally or intentionally. Plus, you can get experience with leading your own men into battle. Although something tells me this one might be too much for you. I trust you will not disappoint me in this.”

Págos nodded firmly before looking to Oryx, “In regards to that, seeing as you are used to travelling, I assume you work alone most of the time. Will you be familiar with any callouts I make on the battlefield? If not I would rather we practiced them while safe instead of it potentially costing us later in a real fight.”

“I have indeed done most my travelings alone, I have some that tag along every once in a blue moon, but for the most part I walk a lonely road.” Oryx said as he gazed off into the distance. He wiped his mouth and beard again. “But I get to meet many interesting people across my travels! Such as you! A legendary warrior and a warrior in the making!”

“Actually, Págos, that is a very good idea. Let us have a sparring match! Test the limits of your skill so far.” Lucius finished his mug and threw it to the side. The mead was definitely improving his mood, plus he secretly wanted to test Oryx’s strength for himself. You never really know a person until you face them head-on.

“Aye that sounds like a marvelous idea my friend! Though perhaps we should keep it to a small sparring matching, no need to burn down the whole village if you catch my meaning.” Oryx said slamming another quick stein of mead. “To make it better, use me as a punching bag for the little lassie here as well. You and him against me, no better time than right now to teach the young lassies!” Oryx exclaimed, being at an unfair advantage always thrilled him and he hoped it would show he was in good spirits with his hosts that no doubt were still uncertain about him to some small degree.

Lucius frowned, confused. “I had hoped to see how he could lead you in battle, my friend. Are you sure you're willing to take the two of us on?”

Oryx could tell perhaps he had been hasty in setting up the arrangements of the match and doubled back as to no offend the veteraned warrior. “I will do as you see fit my friend, you have been a great host thus far and I will be happy to play by whatever rules you wish!” Oryx said giving a slight bow of the head in approval to Lucius.

Lucius thought over what Oryx said and smiled. “You know, that's not such a bad idea. The boy here already has an idea of my fighting style, so he would already have an edge. You, however, are a new factor. He would have a real challenge on his hands.” Lucius slapped a hand in Págos’ shoulder. “How about it, boy? You down for a friendly fight?”

Págos looked to the two and nodded confidently, “Yes. I could always use more practice.” He lifted his hand into the air and a small concentrated snowstorm erupted into being around the palm of his hand. It grew in strength and size until it faded away entirely, revealing the Staff of Boreas. “I am ready when you are, sir.”

Lucius motioned with his hand and led the pair to an open area. Men gathered around as they watched their general stretch his arms and grip onto his weapon. He settled into his fighting stance and faced Oryx, slowly drawing his large sword and angling the tip to Oryx’s feet. He gripped the handle with both hands and focused his eyes.

Oryx followed Lucius to the open area, it was a good size, he knew that if he were to go all out though the whole camp would be set ablaze, but this was a friendly spare of wit, mettle, and strength. Oryx lifted his axe and took his stance as well. The axe to most would require too, but when standing at over 8 feet, very few double-handed axes made the cut.

 

Rhysand collected two bowls of stew, flat breads and some of the succulent goats meat straight off the spit. Vigenie’s tent was already set up. Rhysand smiled to himself ‘The boys are becoming more efficient’ he thought as he slipped into the tent without a sound.

“Rhysand it’s good to have you back with us” Vigenie said with that crooked knowing smile on her face.

“What gave me away” Rhysand asked in genuine curiosity his eyes locked on her vacant milky white stare.

“It’s the only logical explanation for such a meal to suddenly appear in the tent, you are the only one with the skill who would take the time to bring me such a meal.” she laughed. “Jasmine should be here soon with news of the recent Hellfire incident.” As if on cue Jasmine appeared in front of them her once sickly small frame having filled out significantly since Rhysand had orchestrated her entrance into Vigenie’s service; the usual joy which she normally couldn't help repress when Rhysand was present was eminently absent instead an ominous melancholy look of bewildered despair personified stood before them. The despair had its own heavy silence, which seeped to the bone like a winter storm.

“Tessa Nightwillow is dead!”

As Rhysand melded into the aetherial he knew the truth that accompanied the silence. Tessa was gone he rushed to the where he could feel the weight of her passing; Tessa was gone! Stepping through the rift cause from her death he couldn't stop the tears from flowing. There in front of him sat Merrick cradling her charred remains.
“I’m so so sorry... she's truly gone” the silence of the truth sunk in.

 

(Chainless and I)

Finnan’s army had made good time. He had left orders with Aodhan; approved and finalised the arrangements for any loyal to the previous chief to be put in positions away from or in roles with no real power to avoid any upset in the region. All the army mounted or in the wagons with their women they moved quickly. There was no fear of attack in their lands so men left the group when they approached their homestead. Soon they were down to just eight men and the Bandraoithe. Finnan, Ulric, Miena, Skerick and five of his men including his own first.

“It has been an honor riding with you again” Skerick told Finnan as he moved to embrace him.

“The honor is mine” Finnan replied embracing the man with a genuine love. “Thank you for answering my call” he thanked stepping back and grabbing the man's shoulders.

“Anytime my friend” Skerick said returning the gesture. “You sure you won’t keep the horses?” he asked taking a glance at the returned borrowed mounts.

“I’ve no use of them in the mountains. And Ulric here can hardly climb the bastard to sit in the saddle.” he mocked throwing a thumb back at his companion.

“My height never prevented me from riding anything I have desired... The truth is you can’t ride for shite with your sword with you, oh mighty king” Ulric retorted “Even if he could ride the terrain is more suited for walking then riding”


“By the blood!” Skerick exclaimed. “What were you doing to my horses?” he asked a sly grin on his face.

Finnan stared at the warrior and his uncharacteristic humour. He took a moment to take in the faces of the rest of his companions. The short silence lasted just long enough to start to feel uncomfortable and Skerick began worrying he offended the Kings first.

Finnan burst into a raw guttural laugh. The old man's joke had landed perfectly. The look of surprise on everyone's face followed by the worried look on Skericks face sold it. The perceived tension melted away as the group joined in the laughter.

“Oh, be safe brother. We shall speak again soon” Finnan patted Skerick on the arm once again catching his breath.

Raising a hand in a final goodbye Ulric, Miena and Finnan turned north heading to their own homesteads.

“Are ye to hungover to walk propper? We probably only be back home by nightfall at this rate” Ulric asked his friend.

“He turned down my tonic, I believe he’s just dawdling” Miena said with melodic chuckle.

“If your small legs can keep up, we can be there sooner” Finnan laughed as he smacked his first in the back harder than necessary. “Come let us go brother”

 

The second you see that lumbering fool we should cut out his heart and devour it!

No we can’t do that! We must be diplomatic and be respectful, he could prove to be a powerful ally, killing him could make things problematic for us.

Coward! He banished us from our home! We fought his battles, killed his enemies, gave him the lands we conquered only for him to betray us! Treachery must be repaid in blood shed!

Quiet you two! I can’t think properly with you two babbling and bickering in the background. I know what I am doing, I don’t need either of your advice.

As the voices died down into the darkness the woman could finally think clearly without distraction. Traveling with annoying company was always dreadful, something she hadn’t been able to do for a long time. She continued marching on through the jungle of a forest. The Fauna was so strange but familiar to her. A foreigner could easily get lost for perhaps all eternity, but this was home to her, or had been once. She came across a large boulder that looked like it had been moved recently. She snapped her fingers and two of her warriors moved forward and moved it to the side revealing the tunnel and the sound of rushing water within.

“Oh how rude it is to stop by unexpected, but the surprises of their faces will be oh so delightful hmhmhmhm…” The woman thought to herself as she stepped through the entrance and onto one of the boats pulled onto the shore inside the cavern. Her warriors quickly pushed the boat into the water and climbed aboard, some soaking wet from the waist down.

One warrior steered the boat and two others used oars to row it down the river. The sound of the water bashing against the sides of the cave and making subtle babbling sounds as it flowed was a soothing and reminiscing sound, but bittersweet as well. They reached the other end of the river and disembarked and Ilda continued to lead her warriors deeper into her long forsaken home. She past waterfalls, crossed bridges, and continued deep into the cave system before reaching familiar stone pillars and large wooden doors. The beautiful interior castle was more dazzling than she remembered. Since her “king” had gifted the area to the young princess Saoirse, it didn’t surprise her that the castle was looking spectacular in design. It definitely looked more appealing than when she was ruling this area.

“How funny it is that most of the tribes from these banners pledged themselves to the throne of King Haldor due to me.” She said aloud as she walked forward and warriors followed in suit. She had traveled with a small party of twelve warriors, but they were her most fierce warriors, their loyalty to her was unyielding and their insanity almost matched her own.

How dare they hang these banners, the fruit reaped by your hands! I say burn them all! Burn this whole place down!

You’re such an idiot! Why would we destroy this place? Its strategic value is immeasurable, we need this fortress if we wish to rule with an iron fist!

I said quiet! This is the worst time for you two bicker, I need my full focus elsewhere. We will discuss these matters later!

“Halt! Who are you? There are no uninvited guests allowed here!” A Síneach guard said to the woman and her entourage. The other guards in the room moved to block their path and the woman gave a gleeful scoff.

“Well I invited myself, but I do not like your attitude too much. I feel it not fair to punish you all for your blissful ignorance as to who I am, but I also can’t stand in subordination.” The woman inhaled deep as the first few warriors were within feet of her and their axes and swords raised high. In a brief moment a gust of frost exhaled from her lips and froze the men solid, covering them in a thick layer of ice. With a quick swing of her sword she shattered the two frozen warriors in front of her.

The others warriors rushed forward to confront Ilda axes, maces, and swords raised to cut her down. While she was a strong warrior and no doubt could go blow to blow with most of these elite throne guards, she knew that her greatest advantage was being nimble. The first warrior came down with a mighty double handed axe, she slipped to the right and rolled over his back and sliced the back of his neck in the process. The man fell to the ground dead from his severed spinal cord.

Another man, likely the next in charge, turned to the one next to him. He grabbed his shirt and threw him toward the door “Go, find the queen! Tell her we have an intruder.” he shouted as Ilda made her next move.

Ilda rushed forward and blew another gust of frost aimed at the ground and slid between the next warriors legs swiftly, cutting the man to almost his gut. Though as quick as she was she quickly found herself pinned against the ground with a heavy iron shield squeezing the life out of her. Her attacker raised his mace to smash her brains in, but she managed to grab his wrist sending a cold chill through his body, the pressure on the shield slowly started to lessen as the man’s mind crumbled under her powers. He fell to the side the will to live abandoning his face. She reached with her hand and ripped the man’s throat out, blood spewing everywhere.

“Such a strong warrior… a pity he was fool as well, but his strength need not be wasted…” Ilda said to the other warriors. A stream of energy soon began leaving the dying warrior’s body and began to seep into her. “Only eternal suffering awaits you who dare to challenge me.” She said with a firm voice, but the few that were left were not ready to back down. Two rushed her and swung horizontally at the same time and with a perfectly time jump she twirled between the two blades as the whizzed by her missing by just hairs. She stabbed the one to her left in the lower spine and let his screams fill the throne room before turning and cleaving her blade into the others side as he desperately tried to turn around to face her. Their life force drained from their bodies as well and seemed into her.

The last warrior full of rage charged her with a great warrior cry, but his swings of the axe missed, she made cuts on the inside of his legs bringing the large man down to his knees. She side stepped as he still lunged for her with his axe pushing through the agonizing pain on his inner thighs and calves. She moved in close again and batted the axe away with her sword before getting in close to him and shoving her free hand right though his gut and out his back clutching his spine. She withdrew her hand and lifted the mostly dead warrior up and threw him across the room and into the queen’s throne. Blood seeped all over the chair and stained it.

“Well now that’s over…” Ilda said as she walked over to the other larger throne. She walked up the steps and sat comfortably on her father’s throne. With her legs crossed and her armed leaned against the left armchair she marveled at the bloody scene before her. Her warrior escort came before the throne and kneeled before her.

It was a pity, it seemed she had just missed the negotiations between the foreign ants and her father. She could tell this hall had been set up for the arrival of the Azureth filth, the excitement that would have befallen her family if she had interrupted the negotiations would have been marvelous, but she still figured the reaction she would soon get would be almost as amusing still.

*************

Eerika had finally finished mending the wall she had damaged earlier when a guard came barreling into the chambers, damn near out of breath from the looks of it. “What has you in such a rush? Has something happened?”

The guard caught his breath and finally looked up at the queen with fear in his eyes, “An intruder, someone has managed to break into the castle. We don’t know how, but she certainly doesn’t look like a member of the Azureth military from earlier ma’am.”

Eerika scowled, pulling her Axe from its place on her back and hefting it over her shoulder with ease, “You did well to come find me. I believe I know exactly who we’re dealing with… And if I’m right, you lot don’t stand a chance. Alert my husband, tell him that “she’s here”. He will know what to do from there.” With that said, Eerika made her way down the hall to the throne room, and what a sight she beheld… Bodies strewn everywhere, her throne destroyed, and there… in all her hideous, unsightly glory… Was Ilda.

“Well, I hadn’t expected you’d be brain dead enough to show your face here again after I whipped your ungrateful ass into submission last time. Either you’ve lost your mind, or you think you have something to gain from this. I’ll give you one chance Ilda, leave, or I’ll not hesitate in putting you down instead of putting you on an island this time around.”

Ilda sat precariously on the throne she was in the middle of licking the blood from her fingers before applying the rest as if it were lip stick. “Oh my beloved stepmother how nice it is to see you again. You look older, more wrinkles, saggy skin, close to your deathbed are you? You look marvelous…” Ilda said humorously, her guards had their weapons raised and ready to fight with Eerika, but Ilda waved them to stand down.

“I know your mind is slipping in as you become senile in old age, but I would call it far from an ass whooping. I would call it luck, but if you must insist on rubbing it in, congratulations for beating an adolescent woman hmhmhm.” Oh how Ilda loved to taunt her enemies, especially the woman who she attributes with ruining her life, but there is a silver lining in every story. Time away from home on the islands allowed her to grow in strength, to expand her own ambitions, but one can only expand so far under the watchful eye of her “beloved” stepmother.

Eerika smirked at the comments her ungrateful stepchild made to try and taunt her, “Somebody had to beat you for you to learn. As disgusting as you were I tried to see you as my child, and you fought me at every turn, even attempting to take my life more times than not. Haldor saw so much potential in you Ilda, it’s such a shame you turned out to be such an easily replaced asset to our family. Our daughter is more warrior than you ever were.”

“Well I am sorry ‘mother’ for being such an ungrateful child, somebody has to be the rebel in the family hmmm?”Ilda said sitting sideways on the throne now, throwing her legs over the side of the arm rest.

This is the moment we’ve been waiting for! The time has come to finally bring this witch to an end! Let us fight and show her our true unimaginable power!

No! As much as I despise this woman, it would only hinder our plans by not being somewhat cooperative. If we are to expand our territory we must have the allies and resources to do so for now. Her death will come in due time.

“Quiet you two! I have already had enough of your bickering for one day! I know what I am doing!” Ilda shouted at the top of her lungs at particularly no one in the throne room before redirecting her attention back to Eerika. “My apologies those two can always be so distracting. Say as you wish thought about your daughter being more than warrior etc. etc. etc., I care little about my half siblings, I grew accustomed to them dying growing up.” Ilda slouched further into the throne chair and began twiddling her feet. “Though I remember a time were I expanded father’s kingdom single handedly and that is why I have returned. How disgraceful such insects scurry about our shores and ‘peace’ is the route that is being sought. Grown soft in your old age have you and father?”

Eerika ignored Ilda’s screams, she had grown accustomed to such outrageous acts of psychosis from her stepchild, instead focusing on what she said to her. “You should never have rebelled in the first place. If you had just known your place, I never would have had to embarass you in front of your beloved father. You are weak compared to someone as powerful as Newgate. Even if you had stuck around, he would have killed you just as easily as he did most of our forces. Now are you here for a reason, or are you just back to get beaten into the ground again?”

Ilda grew slightly angry and readjusted her positioning on the throne to be upright before standing and looking down at Eerika with judgmental glaring eyes. “Then I would have died a true Sineach warrior upon that battlefield. It is beyond disgraceful that father and by extension you practically sat idle. I know that you have your spies among my ranks playing babysitter within my isles, but I the same aboard here at home. While father tries to make you a martyr to rally behind for our people, there is unrest and words spoken at the weakness among the throne.” Ilda said as she descended the steps of the throne and moved to be eye level with Eerika.

“So my reasoning for being here? To restore faith in father’s reign, our family name, to expand our empire across the sea, to seek justice for the wrongs did against our people, and despite how much I despise you the wrongs did against your village. Rumors circle that a treaty with the North is being sought, well I come to the table bringing my armies, but most importantly my fleet of ships.” Ilda had been busy in her time of supposed exile. The isles were small, but she had expanded their territory indefinitely and she had expanded the number of ships in her fleet tremendously. Well outside everyone’s sphere of knowledge, she had seized control of the high seas around their country.

“I thought I made it clear.” A newcomer spoke in a low voice, but even still it rattled the tapestries and furniture set up from the previous meeting. Haldor stepped out of the caves behind Eerika. He had to crouch just to fit through the opening, one of the more annoying reasons he gifted this castle to his daughter. Now, he stood at his full height towering over his wife and firstborn. But he looked at Ilda as before. She was his equal in many ways. But he was still her father. “This family's reign is not your concern anymore, child.” he paused, his brow furrowed “Ilda, I sent you to those islands to get well. Now you return to be a thorn in your stepmother’s side again?” he chuckled “As much as I like to see a good fight, you know better. Return to your isles.”

“Oh father how I missed you and your towering presence, the men on the isles can be of such short stature…” Ilda said jokingly as she turned her gaze away from her stepmother and towards her father. “I may no longer be in line to the throne, but I am still a Lothbrok no less. I will not stand for anyone to question your reign, besides, well, me of course. I remember expanding your territories as a youngin of course I am offended and concerned that insects steal what I sowed for you.” Ilda said trying to play the victim in her father’s eyes. She knew that she had fallen out of good graces due to her conflict with her stepmother, but she believed herself capable of pulling at some heart strings with her gargantuan father.

Haldor’s frown was rather quickly softened to a proud grin. Ilda, much like her sister, knew him too well. He couldn’t help but be amused by her attempt to play the card she did. He laughed, gesturing around the bloodstained entrance hall. “Did you think killing your sister’s guards would help the situation?” he casually walked past her and took his usual place on his throne.

Ilda laughed as her father pointed out the guards she had killed. “Oh father you know how I can be when it is that time of the month.” Ilda joked as she walked over to one of the bodies and with her hand touched a stab wound and brought it to her face and inhaled “Some women desire chocolate, me? Freshly spilled blood does the trick, but I digress my kingly father.” She said as she wiped the rest of the blood on the carpet floor and Haldor reached over and took hold of Zamir’s ‘throne’, and tossed it to land facing him at the base of the stairs.

“Now then… .” The king’s play along with her words was clearly exaggerated. “Let’s talk about the fact that you think your old father can’t handle a few roaches in his home. That this isn’t all a part of the plan. You know we’ve outgrown our islands just as you have yours.” He dumped the dying guard out of Eerika’s throne by tipping it slightly. He fell down the steps as Haldor gestured for Eerika to take her place. “Have a seat, woman. My child is about to explain to me how to win my wars.” his words were laced with amusement and condescension.

Eerika scoffed but couldn’t help the smile that found its way to her face as she placed her Axe upon her back once more and moved to take her seat alongside her husband. “Ahh this brings me back, sitting upon the blood of fresh victims. Shame too, these guards were fiercely loyal to your sister, as they should be.” She sat comfortably upon her throne, and rested her fist against her chin as she stared down at her ignorant stepchild. “Enlighten us. You have the floor.”

“I think you are quite capable of killing some bugs, but let's be frank you’re so freaking tall I think it can be hard for you to see them all. Bugs don’t just go away because you squish a couple either. I think a stronger message needs to be sent, but you can’t do that quite frankly because if you turn a blind eye to the north you might find an axe in it, isn’t that right father?” Ilda mused as she walked about the throne room admiring the tapestries.

“Lest you forget that I am your sweet beloved daughter, is it wrong of me to have ambitions like you? Didn’t you kill grandfather for the throne or something? Don’t worry though father I am not gunning for your head quite yet, I still like to tell people that my father can beat up theirs hmhmhmhm.” Ilda said with a large smile and a small chuckle. “I have spent much time on the isles… belove stepmother’s spies have become accustomed of filling her ears with mostly what I wanted them too. My armies have grown large under watch-less eyes, our territory extending to the rising sun, but most importantly the number of vessels under my control...”

“So you want to help.” Haldor chuckled “Nah. There is ambitious and then there is over confidence. You have not yet learned the difference. This isn’t up for discussion. You will return to your island and who knows. Maybe if you behave I’ll let you join in the next one.”

Ilda frowned a bit, but her father’s words had not bothered her that much, she knew this wouldn’t be a simple task. “I am not over confident, I am realistic father.” Ilda said before crossing her arms and tilting her head to the side. “My isles versus the South head on would result in a victory for you, but you know me enough to know that I am not being cocky when I say I am a great tactician and a great warrior on the battlefield. My powers, strength, abilities have all grown in size since I was exiled long ago. Refuse my aid now and I will slowly and surely suffocate your kingdom. Currently you and the north are equals, but I know as well as you do that Finnan will not be so keen on a peace treaty if he sees that you are preoccupied.” Ilda was playing quite a large hand now with her father. She doubted that if the positions were reversed he would be so ecstatic to return to an exile that was more of a time out than anything. “I am ambitious in my goals and I am confident that my hands are not empty either. Out of all your children do you think that I survived to be the eldest by luck?” Ilda said hoping to strike a cord with her last comment.

Haldor leaned back, stroking his beard once before resting his chin on a fist. “How disappointing. I had expected your spies to have been trained better.The North will come to heel in good time. Don’t underestimate my true first. I sent her to conquer in her way what you could not in yours.” a sly tug at the corner of Haldor’s lip was a clear signal there was more to his plan that was left unsaid. He clasped his hands together, suddenly rocking forward and resting both hands on his knees to stand up “Now. Know this. Just as I know my country, I know my children. Your voyage here was just a little too easy considering this island is surrounded by scouts and enemy ships, don’t you think? You still have much to learn.” A low chuckle rattled Haldor’s chest at the implication of his words but he did not elaborate further “But I’ve heard enough. My reign and people don’t need you here. I’m going to personally escort you back to your ship where swords loyal to me await. It is time for you to leave.”