The Panacriph

[Silverbolt]

THE PANACRIPH

PROLOGUE

He was running. He had been in a dark chamber. He had unleashed something that he could not comprehend. Now, he was running, but from what? He had been captured. He had been released. He had been trained. He was running, but to where? He was not alone, he had several companions with him, but he did not know them. He was running, but he did not know why. He fought demons, he stared into the void, he had been through fire and ice, to the depths of the ocean, to the lowest caves, to the highest mountain and he ran. But his legs did not move. He had been victorious in every battle, but now he had lost. He tried to shout, but he couldn’t utter the slightest noise. His home was destroyed. His family, dead. Betrayal. He tried to run, but he was drawn back. He had to set things right. He had to run and stop this. He had to run. An abyss opened beneath him, and he fell. The boy awoke covered in cold sweat.

[Silverbolt]

BOOK ONE: ESCAPE FROM PARADISE

PART ONE: “DO NOT ENTER”

CHAPTER ONE: Arhyld

He had been having dreams like that for over a month. They started around his sixteenth birthday. The boy got up and washed his face. Everyone else was still asleep. He looked in the mirror. He was a handsome young boy. Tall, pleasant face, blue eyes, blonde hair. His name was Arhyld. His father was a hunter. Every day, he would go out to the woods and return in the evening. Arhyld learned how handle a bow from his father, though he wasn’t half as good. His mother worked as a farmer. They had a fairly large crop to the south. The harvest was always rich. Arhyld thought to himself that about everything was going well. Too well. Never had he heard of a tragedy happening, or a bad harvest. Never did wild animals attack his father, though he hunted them each day. The weather was always pleasant, the people were friendly, and life was great. His family owned a nice house; they lived in a beautiful neighborhood in a perfect city. Life was great for everyone. Life was great for everyone except him. Arhyld had every reason to be happy, but for some reason, he was not. Ever since he was a child, his parents thought him to be strange. While children played in the streets, Arhyld liked to explore the woods, the mines, spend time talking to the town smith and he often visited the western cliffs. He got out an outfit of clothes and wore them. It was still early. Day was dawning. It was what he liked to call “the Silent Hour”. During the silent hour, no one was awake, but him. He put on a pair of shoes and opened the doors to his house. The morning breeze was cool and soothing. The streets were empty. He loved to wander the streets at this hour. It was calm and peaceful. It was as if he were alone in the entire world. But the world was not that large for him. He felt trapped. Trapped in a small, constricting place. Arhyld lived in the land of Idyll.
 

[Silverbolt]

CHAPTER TWO: Idyll

Idyll was a small land. Arhyld could cross it in two hours, by foot. The shape of the land was roughly circular, surrounded by a chain of tall, impassable mountains. Outside of the mountains, there was nothing. Arhyld once looked from the top of a cliff. It was as everyone told him. Nothing but endless wasteland surrounded Idyll. To the western end of the land lay the residential area. Or as the people called it: “Idyll City”. Everyone in Idyll lived there. All accept one. The city was large, its streets were wide. It was warm and pleasant. A little to the south was the Academy. The place where the youth of Idyll received their education. A three story high building, surrounded by a large yard. To the southwestern end, the Farmlands occupied a vast area of land. This was the most fertile area. The crops were rich and the farming prosperous. Arhyld’s parents owned a crop there. To the north of Idyll, on the northwestern side, were the Evergreen Woods. Lots of wild beasts inhabited the forest. Each day, hunters would go into the forest and return in the evening. Never had one returned empty-handed. Strangely enough, Arhyld had never seen any of the beasts while he was alone. It was as if they would only show up for the hunters. He accompanied his father to the hunt and saw wolves, bears, deer, rabbits, squirrels, foxes and many more. He went into the forest alone and it appeared to be deserted. To the north, a tunnel went deep into the mountains. The Northern Mines. That was where Idyll got its Silver, Gold, Iron, Coal, Diamonds and other ore. To the northeast a large building could   be seen. Smoke rose from its furnaces every day. It was the Idyll Factory. Most goods were manufactured there. Tools, pottery, bricks for housing, weapons for hunting. To the south of the factory, stood a large manor. That was the Lord’s home. Two stories high, an impressing yard and garden, beautiful architecture. Marcus had been Lord of Idyll for as long as Arhyld could remember. He was just and kind. Idyll thrived and prospered under his rule. The market lay to the south of the manor. One hour away, by foot, from Idyll City. The traders sold their goods here. Food from the farms, pelts and leather from hunters and tanners, tools from the factory workers, jewelry and other goods, dispensable and indispensable. The southeastern end was home to the quarry, where various stonemasons carved granite and marble. Roads connected all of these places, and the largest one of all led to the eastern end of Idyll to a tall cliff. It was called The Forbidden Cliff. Arhyld, however, had been there many times. It was tall and steep. Its surface was smooth, except for a strange sign, near the base. It resembled a four-point star. To the side of the cliff, a stairway led to the top of the cliff. From up there, Arhyld saw the surrounding wastes. He didn’t think anyone else had ever been to the cliff. Idyllians were very superstitious. If one would follow the road back west, he would end up in the center of Idyll. To the tower. Skyreach Tower. An immense tower had been erected in the middle of Idyll. It was snow-white and seemed to reach to the very heavens themselves. No one had ever entered the tower. Its huge locked gates faced east. Arhyld wasn’t sure, but he was almost sure that it was in some way connected to the Forbidden Cliff. Merely two minutes away from the tower gates, on the same road, was the house of Arhyld’s best friend: Myter the Smith. He was the only one who didn’t live in Idyll City. Many considered him strange. Arhyld liked to spend time with him. He even got hired as his apprentice. Arhyld started walking towards his forge.

“I hope good old Myter is awake at this hour. I should pay him a little visit.”

[Silverbolt]

CHAPTER THREE: Myter

They called him “Myter the Strange”. No one knew much about him. No one knew why he lived out of the city. No one knew why he chose to be a smith, when no one needed a smith. All of the tools were made by the factory. The people whispered that he was crazy, but Arhyld knew better. A few people still visited Myter for small craftsmanship on their tools, though they were hesitant towards him. Arhyld’s father sent him over to the smithy one day, back when he was thirteen, to get some arrowheads. Arhyld was frightened, at first, but Myter proved to be a friendly person. A few months later, Arhyld became Myter’s apprentice. Another reason why Myter was considered strange was because he always told stories of magical creatures, wondrous places and far-away lands. As far as the Idyllians were concerned, there was no such thing as magic and Idyll was the only inhabited place in the world. Arhyld, however, felt melancholic every time he heard Myter telling of Dragons, Elves, Dwarves, Mages and Orcs. Arhyld felt trapped, and Myter’s stories were the only things that granted him the slightest release. He arrived at the smithy. The sun was beginning to rise. Myter was working on his anvil. He smiled to Arhyld.

“Mornin’ lad. How are you today?”

Myter was a short, but strong man. His arms looked like they could bend steel. He had brown hair and a long beard. His smile looked cheerful and always made Arhyld happy.

“Good morning, Myter. I’m okay, I guess. You?”

“Lad, when you’re as old as I am, every day is about the same.”

“You don’t have to be old to feel like that…” Arhyld said to himself.

“What did you say?”

“Nothing, Myter. I’m rambling.”

“I didn’t get a chance to wish you a happy birthday, laddie. You’ve been a stranger these past weeks.”

“Sorry, Myter. And thanks. I just haven’t been feeling that good.”

“What’s going on, then?”

“I’ve been having these strange dreams lately. They seem so real…”

“Care to tell ol’ Myter?”

Arhyld started to tell Myter about his dream.

“…it has been the same almost every night, for a month.”

“Strange dreams, lad. You know what you need? You need a lass to help you forget about this. Anyone at that school of yours that you like?”

“Oh, Myter. The girls think I’m strange just because I spend a lot of time here and exploring.”

“Not to forget that whole dancing thing, eh?” Myter started to laugh.

Arhyld smiled.

“Watch it, old man! I’m considered to be the best dancer Idyll has ever seen. The professors at the Academy all agree upon that.”

“Aye. Forgive me, then…oh, great dancer.”

“It’s not just that, Myter. The girls, they’re just like everyone else here. Boring. Life here is just too damn perfect. I need adventure, Myter. Do you understand what I’m talking about?”

“Aye, lad. But there’s plenty of adventure around here too.”

“Oh, don’t make me laugh. I explored every inch of the forest when I was fourteen, and not even as much as a squirrel attacked me. I felt stupid carrying around that dagger and my father’s bow. As for the mines, I’ve been through every tunnel and could find my way in and out of there blindfolded. I won’t even mention the Forbidden Cliff. I guess there’s only one place I never saw on the inside.”

“Lad, be careful…Skyreach Tower is locked, and I assume it has a good reason to stay that way. Do not enter that tower, Arhyld.”

“I assume you’re right, Myter. Though, I’m pretty curious about it.”

“Curiosity killed the cat, or so they say.”

“Yes, but a cat has nine lives, Myter. Be seeing you. I have to get back home before my parents get worried. Not that anything ever happened to anyone around here. See you later.”

“Goodbye, lad. Hurry on back, though. We have a plow to fix today.”

Arhyld started walking back towards his home, looking at the tower as he went by it. Myter’s speech only made him more determined.

“Tonight, you open to me…”

[Silverbolt]

CHAPTER FOUR: The Tower

It had been a tiring day. His father returned from hunting with three rabbits. His mother had brought home a lot of ripe fruits and vegetables. Arhyld had helped Myter fix the plow and got his pay for it. He had saved every coin he earned. A few months back, he bought himself a suit of traveling clothes, a leather cuirass from the Tanner and a pair of sturdy boots. His dagger, made by Myter, was his favorite, though. It was made of hard steel and was particularly sharp. He also had a scabbard made for it and attached it to his belt. He used to dress up in his gear and pretend he was an adventurer. Tonight, the game of pretend would stop. It was midnight. Everyone was asleep. Arhyld put on his boots, clothes and cuirass and sheathed his dagger. He thought about taking his bow, but decided against it. He sneaked out of a house and headed towards the tower. An hour later, he stood before its massive gates. Maybe Myter was right. Maybe there was no way in. Above the gates, on the stone arch there were a few runes engraved. Arhyld couldn’t understand what they said. There was only one thing to do. He knocked on the gates. They started to vibrate, and the very earth seemed to tremble below Arhyld’s feet. It stopped just as quickly as it began, and a key fell from the arch. Arhyld picked it up and looked above him. The runes changed. Now they spelled: “Do not enter”. One more reason to do so. The key fitted perfectly into the gate’s lock. Arhyld turned the large handle and pushed the gate. It opened quite easily and smoothly. The inside of the tower was empty. It was a circular room that seemed to go up to the sky, just as the tower. In the center of the room lay a pedestal, and on it, an amulet. A ray of light from above lit the amulet. Arhyld approached the pedestal. The amulet looked like a four-point star. The upper-left point depicted a stone of some sort, representing the earth. The upper-right point depicted air, in the shape of a cloud. The lower-left point showed the image of blue waves, representing water. Finally, the lower-right one bared the picture of a flame. The points of the star were made of some sort of golden material. They emerged from the centerpiece setting, which was made of a white mineral material, resembling marble. The center of the amulet was dominated by a dark gem in which an octopus shaped thing seemed to be trapped. It was a strange black symbol, with eight tentacles stretching out towards the eight points of the gem. Arhyld touched the amulet. Suddenly, the earth began to tremble and four beams of light shot upwards. One was red, one green, one dark blue and the other dark blue. In an instant it was over. The amulet floated into Arhyld’s hands. The points of the star sunk into the setting. His heart was still pounding. He ran out of the tower towards Myter’s smithy.

“Myter! Wake up! Myter!”

Myter walked out, still half asleep.

“What is it, lad? And why are you dressed like that?”

“Myter, I…went into the tower.”

“You did WHAT?”

“I touched an amulet and…”

“Lad, you have placed us all in great danger. However, what is done is done. Give me the Panacriph.”

“The what?”

“The amulet you took. I need to strap a chain around it so you can wear it around your neck. You can not afford to lose it during your journey.”

“Journey? Myter, what do you…”

Myter went inside and started working. Arhyld followed him. Myter started talking.

“The symbol in the center of the amulet represents chaos. The Void. The absence of all matter. Long ago, chaos sought to destroy the world but it was bound by four mages, by using the elements that make up our world. The four elements, Fire, Water, Air and Earth represent order and balance. Chaos was imprisoned within that tower and the Panacriph was created to seal the door. Now you have released them from their duty and chaos will once again arise. You must journey to Artana and retrieve the elements so that we may once again seal the gateway.”

Arhyld was shocked.

“Magic? Artana? Myter…this is…”

“Aye, lad, it sounds crazy, I know. After the tower was created, the Earth Mage created the chain of mountains surrounding Idyll. It was decided that the people here would not know of this and think that they are surrounded by wastelands. Just as the ones outside think that the tower is inaccessible. I was given the task to watch over the tower. It would appear I failed.”

“Myter, exactly how old are you?”

Myter smiled.

“Lad, you will need a sword for the journey. And money. You can’t very well wander Artana with nothing more than a dagger.”

“You’re serious, aren’t you? I’m supposed to go and gather the elements by myself?”

“You always said you wanted an adventure, no? This is your chance, lad.” Myter grinned.

“Do you have anything that can help me? A map, a way over the mountains, anything!”

“Alas, no, lad. And it has been a long time ago. All I know is that the way out of Idyll lies in the Forbidden Cliff.”

Arhyld sighed. This was quite a lot for a young boy to take in at once.

“Myter. Can you forge a sword for me? Use the…”

“The silver you smuggled out of the mines and hid in my house?” Myter smirked.

“So you knew about it? Yes. What is the symbol of Order?”

“Scales, lad. You should know that.”

“Okay. Engrave that on the hilt of the sword, please. I’ll be back tomorrow night to pick it up. I need to get provisions and tell my parents.”

“No, lad. You can’t do that. This must remain secret at all times. Only yourself and the Guardians may know of your mission.”

“But my parents will be heartbroken…”

“Lad, Idyll has a way of erasing all tragedies. Believe me. They won’t even know you were gone. And when you get back, it will be as if you never left. Hurry. I’ll have your sword done by tomorrow night.”

“Okay, Myter, thanks.”

“Oh, and lad. You’re handling this quite well. I’m impressed and proud of you.”

“Thank you, Myter. I guess I always did want this. Goodbye. And thank you.”

Arhyld walked back towards his house and he felt happy for once in his life. He was at the beginning of a great adventure. He smiled.

[Silverbolt]

CHAPTER FIVE: Departure

Arhyld spent the entire day preparing for the journey. His mother and father were working, so he had the house to himself. He looked at his bow. It was the only weapon he was skilled with. However, he couldn’t carry it on his back. He needed his backpack. He packed up all the things he would need. Food rations, water, a few torches and a tinderbox, his money, a small hatchet, a bedroll and bandages in case he would get hurt. He wondered if he should have felt sad because of the fact that he left his family. Then again, they wouldn’t notice him missing and nothing bad could happen to them here. Arhyld took his backpack and left for Myter’s, avoiding contact with the other townspeople. It was evening. His father and mother should be returning from their work. Arhyld looked at the house once again. It looked beautiful in the light of the setting sun. With this thought, he turned his around and left. One hour later, night had fallen. Arhyld was knocking on Myter’s door. Myter opened the door and gestured to him to come in. They both sat down at the table. Myter took out the amulet and placed it on the table. A chain was now attached to it, making it into a necklace.

“Listen, lad, and listen well. I won’t tell you “time is short” because it’s not. As long as no one knows of your mission, there is no danger. The only ones you can trust are the Guardians. They swore and oath to protect this secret. They will not show themselves to you. You must find them. You may very well travel with a guardian and not know it. Be careful whom you trust. None know about this but us, so you will not find any fake Guardians.”

“Ok. Got it. Myter…did you manage to…”

“Indeed I did, lad. Here you go.”

Myter lifted a sword with a proud look in his eyes. It was a Silver Longsword. He had engraved the Scales of Order, Balance and Justice on the hilt and wrapped leather straps around the grip. He put the sword into a nicely made sheathe and placed it on the table as well.

“The sheathe is a little present from my side. I still have a few chunks of Silver left from the forging. You want them?”

“Sure. I need everything I can get. And Myter…thanks. You have really outdone yourself.”

“I can proudly say that it’s the finest piece of work I have ever created. Care to name it?”

“Hmm…I think I’ll call it…The Sword of Justice.”

“Haha! Great, lad! You’d make a fine Paladin. You have the spirit.”

“You mean like the ones in your stories? The protectors of honor and justice?”

“Aye, lad. Those are the ones.”

Arhyld and Myter stood silent for a moment. Arhyld took the amulet and wore it around his neck. He took the sheathe and attached it to his belt, on his left. The dagger’s scabbard was on the right. He looked at Myter one more time and stood up.  He looked into a tall mirror. Traveling clothes, leather cuirass, sturdy boots, backpack, sword, and dagger…he looked like a true adventurer. As he went for the door, he kept his back turned to the blacksmith. As he reached the doorframe he stopped and said:

“You are my best friend Myter. I won’t forget you.”

“Be careful out there, lad.”

“I will.”

With that, Myter left. An hour later, he had passed through the market and through the pass that led to the Forbidden Cliff. He looked at the cliff’s smooth face. Now he knew what the four-point star symbol engraved there was. He took out the Panacriph and held it against the stone. The gem started to glow and the four points emerged once more. He placed it into the setting. It fitted perfectly. The cliff rumbled and a stone door opened. The four points were drawn back in and Arhyld removed the amulet. He lit a torch and passed through the doorway. For several hours he wandered the maze-like cavern corridors and he found no exit. He dropped down and broke to tears. This was no way for an adventurer to die. Eventually, he passed out. He awoke a few hours later and jumped up on his feet. The Panacriph helped him once. It could very well do it again. He took out the amulet and held it in his palm. He turned around through the room, and the gem began to glow again. The glow guided him along the caves. He wasn’t sure, but he could have swore that he was still going east. One hour later, he saw a light. He started running towards it. Arhyld remembered Myter’s stories. Beautiful elves, friendly dwarves, honorable knights and mysterious mages. Arhyld could not wait to see the wonders of the outside world. The light got brighter and brighter. Arhyld threw away his extinguished torch and ran out through the cave door. He heard a rumble once more, and the cave door closed. Behind him, a structure resembling the Forbidden Cliff was guarding the way back. Arhyld looked around him he was on a field covered with lush green grass. The sun was shining in the sky. The sky was blue, and the birds were singing. He was free.

END OF PART ONE

[Silverbolt]

PART TWO: THE FIRST STEP IS ALWAYS THE HARDEST

CHAPTER ONE: The Lone Traveler

Arhyld sat down next to the cliff and took out his backpack. He grabbed a piece of bread and a little dry meat to start him off. Judging by the sun’s position, it was mid-morning. He had no time to lose. After a brief breakfast, he drank a bit of water and continued his journey east. About two or three hours of walking through a plain later, he reached a road. A sign pointed into two directions. Right and Left. The one that pointed right led to the south, to “Tal”, “Hawkflame Tower”, “Iss’a”, “The Dragon Flame” and “Stormkeep” The other one pointed left, to the north and led towards a place named “Shade”, “Syl’vaan”, “The Weary Wanderer” and “Valdar”. Arhyld flipped a coin and decided to take the northern road. He wondered what he would find, and he thought of what he should ask the first person he met. Would it be an elf? Or a dwarf? Maybe even a paladin, or a band of orcs. His mind wondered until he reached another crossroad. A road led northeast and one led northwest. The northeastern one led to “Shade” and the other led to the other places he saw mentioned earlier. He figured Shade was the closest one. In the distance, just below the horizon, he could see a town and some trees. He decided to spend the night there. In the morning he would find the capital and get a job there, so he could finance his journeys. First thing was first, though. He took out a bit of food and ate it as he walked towards the town. It was late afternoon when he finally reached the town. He frowned. In the middle of a bunch of scattered trees with no leaves lied a few houses and merchant’s buildings, some dying crops and a dirty pub. The people were unfriendly and looked at him suspiciously. Arhyld reached what at least looked like the town square. He knew that traveling at night was dangerous, but he had no wish to spend it in such a place. He walked up to a man that was standing near the pub.

“Excuse me, kind sir. May I ask you a question?”

The man raised his head. He was missing an eye. His grin revealed two missing teeth.

“Hi yourself, kid. Whaddaya want?”

“Umm…I was wondering where I could find the capital? I would like to reach it before nightfall.”

“What’s in it fer me?”

“Excuse me?”

“Got any gold on ya?” The man extended his palm.

Arhyld cursed in his mind and took out his purse. He opened it and took out a gold piece. The man took it, looking at the heavy purse.

“This is sum strange money ye have here.”

“I’m…not from these parts.”

“Okay. Well, ye can follow this road out of town and through those hills over there. Ye’ll reach the capital in a couple of hours.”

“Thank you. Goodbye.”

“Yea. Goodbye, kid.”

Arhyld was relieved when he left the town. He followed the road northeast and through the hills. He had been walking for an hour when he heard a sound coming from his right. He quickly ducked and jumped off the road. An arrow flew over his head and sank into the ground. Arhyld drew his sword and dagger and put down his backpack. A man’s voice shouted out.

“Come out, kid. Yer just making it harder for yerself.”

Another man replied.

“Come on, Flig, methinks he went this way.” Three men came over the hill. Arhyld recognized the man he had asked for directions.

“Bandits…”

“Come on, kid. Hand over the purse and we’ll kill you fast.”

“Never!”

The archer fired another arrow, straight at Arhyld’s upper chest. Luckily, it hit the amulet. The pressure, however made Arhyld gasp for air. He realized that he had no chance against these men. He quickly picked up his pack and ran to the northwest. The bandits pursued him. A few minutes later, they simply stopped and went back. Arhyld continued to run. He did not notice he had passed by a skull impaled on a pike. He continued along the road. Night had fallen, but he saw light up ahead. A fence, a fire and two towers. He finally found the capital. He approached the fence and the towers.

“Is anyone there?” he shouted.

To his horror, the only reply was a beast-like groan. He turned around, ready to run, only to find himself facing a horrible creature. It was larger than any man he had seen. It was holding a torch and a very big axe. It gestured to Arhyld to go through the gates. Its face resembled a cross between a wild boar and a bull. It had a wide forehead and impressive tusks. It was frightening, but did not look eager to kill him.

“Wh…what are you?”

“I am orc. I guard entrance to orcish land. You are human spy. You go with me to leader.”

An orc. Myter had told him about them, of how they had lived in peace with humans long ago, but always said they had become savage beasts that murdered humans on sight.

“I…am sorry. I am not a spy. You must believe me. Bandits led me here. Please let me go back!”

“No. You are human. Humans and orcs are at war. You come with me to leader of village.”

“I will not come!” Arhyld took out his sword and held it towards the orc.

The orc groaned and hit the sword so hard with his axe, that Arhyld dropped it and his hand went numb.

“You are human! You come with me to leader, or else!”

“I am sorry. I will come with you. May I take my sword?”

“I take sword. You lucky you not be dead yet.”

Arhyld silently started walking in the direction that the orc showed him. The creature was walking behind him. This was not part of the plan.

[Silverbolt]

CHAPTER TWO: Captive

Arhyld and the orc walked for an hour before reaching a settlement. After they passed the fence and towers, they entered a desert. There was nothing but sand for as far as Arhyld could see. At one point he asked the orc for his name. The orc reluctantly said: “Gorg’Thal” and didn’t bother to ask for his name. As they reached the settlement, Arhyld scouted the area. There were orcs everywhere. They, however, looked different from Gorg’Thal. They looked less human and their bodies were covered in fur. He was vastly outnumbered. He had no chance of escaping. The village was composed of tents and sturdy huts. The orcs looked at him with a hostile look. They muttered something in a language Arhyld could not understand. Gorg’Thal pushed him towards a large tent with quite a few signs in front of it. Gorg’Thal motioned to Arhyld to enter. Upon entering the tent, Arhyld saw a large orc sitting on a throne. Two guards stood beside him. He had less fur than the other orcs and his skin was green. His face was painted with blue drawings. He stood up and motioned for Arhyld to come closer. He and Gorg’Thal spoke to each other in their language for a while. The chief didn’t seem happy. Arhyld trembled in fear and decided not to speak unless spoken to. Gorg’Thal brought Arhyld’s sword and placed it in front of the chief. The chief picked it up and looked at Arhyld. He spoke in his language, quite better than Gorg’Thal.

“Who are you, human? And why was I awoken from my slumber?”

“I…I am Arhyld. And I did not mean to disturb your sleep.”

“And who are you, Arhyld of the humans?”

“I don’t understand.”

“Who are you to bear a sword like none I have ever seen? This sword is sturdy and finely crafted. You must be a prince, or an important human.”

“I don’t know what…”

“Silence! Hand me any other weapons you may bear on you. And make sure you give me all of them. I will not bear you to abuse my goodwill.”

Arhyld took out his dagger and handed it over to the chief.

“Another finely forged weapon. I doubt my soldiers could break one of these in half. They seem enchanted.”

“Enchanted? It’s just a silver Longsword and a…”

“I said silence! Bring me your armor, boots, belt and traveling bag.”

Arhyld obeyed. As the chief looked through his bag, he put everything back in carefully. He looked into Arhyld’s money purse.

“This is strange money you carry. I have never seen such coin. From where do you hail?”

“I am…I am not from around here.”

“You are most brave to deny me that knowledge. Here’s what I know of you, human: your name is Arhyld. You do not admit to be an important human. You refuse to tell me where you come from. You are obviously not a strong warrior, and you deny that you are a spy. I shall hold you captive until dawn. I shall see what is to be done then.”

Arhyld was certain of his doom. He barely managed to mutter a few words.

“I meant no harm…”

“I doubt you could cause any, human. You will remain in the prison until next morning. Your belongings will be taken there to be guarded. No one will touch them, as your fate has not yet been decided. One more thing...the amulet you wear around your neck…I demand to have it.”

Arhyld’s eyes suddenly changed from fearing to daring.

“No. That is the one thing you will not have from me. The amulet remains with me until I decide otherwise.”

Arhyld grabbed his shirt where the Amulet that was hanging below it. The chief approved.

“Very well. Go.”

Arhyld was brought to the prison which in fact, just another large tent. A guard was posted outside, and one inside, watching over his belongings. Arhyld decided to go to sleep. He would see what was to be done in the morning. He shut his eyes and fell asleep instantly…a dreamless sleep. When he woke up it was almost dawn. He heard a strange sound outside of the tent. The guard was gone. Going outside, he saw the guards going through his things. He thought of shouting, but he decided that was not the best approach. He slowly sneaked up on them, and grabbed his sword. Having done that, he quickly jumped on the back of one of the orcs and held the blade against his neck.

“What are you doing with my things? You were supposed to…”

The orc grabbed Arhyld and threw him on the ground. Arhyld shouted. The orc took his sword and looked at his amulet, he reached for it. Arhyld kicked the orc in the face and rolled away, holding the amulet tight. The orc ran after Arhyld and picked him up. He started to squeeze him tight. Arhyld gasped for air. However, his shout had awoken everyone. The chief roared. He approached the orc and punched him in the face. He said something in orcish to the orc. He and the other guard dropped on their knees. The chief turned to Arhyld and helped him up.

“I, Chief Kroognar of G’Yuk apologize to you, Arhyld of the humans. You were supposed to be kept safe, but almost met your doom. My intention was to send you to our leader in Tal’Kar, but our law states that no orc may harm our prisoners before their fate has been decided. You may take your equipment. Also, I give you the lives of these unworthy wretches.”

Arhyld had equipped himself.

“What do you mean?”

“You may kill them. They have brought shame upon us and upon you.”

“Kill them?” Arhyld said in surprise.

“Yes. We will make sure they don’t fight back.”

“No!”

“Human. You have their lives. Won’t you wash the shame from yourself?”

“I don’t know your customs, but I will not harm a defenseless opponent.”

“Very well, human. They will be dealt with. Gorg’Thal will escort you back to the hills. Do not return, for your kind and ours it as war.”

“War?”

“Yes, human. War. Humans and orcs have been fighting for a long time. But now, I grow tired. Gorg’Thal will be taking you safely to your lands. Goodbye, Arhyld of the humans. Maybe we will meet again.”

“Goodbye.” Arhyld said.

Arhyld started to follow Gorg’Thal, surprised that he was still alive. He had been lucky so far.

[Corsair5]

Interesting..The beginning reminded me of many a prologue to an RPG. Not bad at all. I give the first few chapters a 90/100.

[Silverbolt]

Thanks. More to follow, as I write tomorrow.

[Corsair5]

Work! Work! Work!

[Rosella]

This story is really good! Keep writing!

[Silverbolt]

CHAPTER THREE: The Knight in Shining Armour

Gorg’Thal had been silent the entire road. They had passed the palisade and had reached the hills. Arhyld was still trying to fix his belt. The orc’s meddling had broken it. Gorg’Thal stopped and looked at Arhyld. He took out a sturdy-looking belt and handed it over to Arhyld.

“Here, human. I took this as trophy from human once. I would like you to have.”

The belt was beautifully crafted. It had leather straps that allowed various items to be attached. A metal insignia depicting a fanged skull with a missing lower jaw masked the buckle.

“Gorg’Thal…I can’t accept this.” Arhyld said timidly.

“No. You keep. Owner have no more use for it. Owner try to kill orcs. Orcs defend selves. Owner dead. You good human. Allow brother of Gorg’Thal to live. By orcish law, he spared now. Take belt.”

“Thank you, Gorg’Thal. I shall honor your gift.”

Arhyld took his sheathes from the old belt and attached them to his new one. Gorg’Thal took the old broken belt.

“Gorg’Thal take this as sign of good human. Gorg’Thal remember human from now on. But humans enemies. You must not forget.” Gorg’Thal raised his head and sniffed the air. “Human approaching. We must not see together. Bad for human and bad for orc. Wait. Gorg’Thal know that smell. It is orc-friend Derron. Human may trust Derron. Gorg’Thal must now return. Goodbye, human.”

“Goodbye, Gorg’Thal. Thank you.”

Arhyld walked the road back towards the village of Shade. In a few minutes he met a knight that wore an impressive suit of armour. It shone bright as the sun’s rays touched it. Arhyld thought someone might find that cumbersome to wear, but the knight seemed fine. The knight stopped and looked at Arhyld’s belt.

“Where did you get that?”

“Might inquire who you are, first?”

“I am Derron. Paladin of Artana and servant to our king. Who are you?”

“I am Arhyld, a traveler. I was tricked into coming this way by a no-good bandit. I was trapped by orcs. Could we discuss it on the way back to the village?”

“Of course. Let’s go.”

Walking back to the village, Arhyld told the paladin everything that had happened. By the time he was done, they had arrived to Shade. It was mid-morning. Derron told Arhyld to follow him to the tavern.

“Why?”

“The man who tricked you is named Flig. He is a well-known criminal here and is connected to the organized crime of Artana. We are going to pay him a little visit. The knights are already waiting there. One of my spies from the Shade garrison told me that a traveler was attacked by bandits near the orcish grounds.”

Upon arriving at the tavern, several knights wearing similar, but obviously inferior suits of armour, waited for Derron’s arrival. They entered the tavern and were greeted by scared, yet hateful looks on the patrons’ faces. Derron approached the bandit and raised him by the collar of his shirt.

“Flig! You no-good villain! You’ve broken the law for the last time! You wanted to rob this young boy and left him in the orcish land!”

“Hey, Derron, it’s just a…”

The knight threw him on the ground on his knees. Two other men, Flig’s companions, sneaked out of the tavern. One of the knights noticed. Derron motioned for them to follow. He would be fine by himself. In a few minutes, the tavern had emptied, save for Flig, Arhyld, a knight and Derron. He turned to Flig.

“I think I’ll let the boy decide your fate. Come closer, kid.”

Arhyld approached the bandit. He drew his sword. Flig started to beg for mercy. Arhyld ignored his pleas and raised his sword. With a swift motion, he let it fall towards the man’s neck, but at the last moment changed it’s position so that the blade’s side hit Flig’s temple. He fell to the ground. The blow was quite forceful, but, of course, not lethal. Flig quickly searched for blood. Finding no trace, he started to thank Arhyld for his mercy. Arhyld sheathed his sword. Derron searched the bandit and found some gold coins. One was strange looking, like none he had seen before. He showed it to Arhyld.

“Is this yours?”

“Yes, thank you.”

“Strange coin. Where are you from, boy?”

“I…am from another…” Arhyld couldn’t finish the sentence. He felt a warm sensation above his chest. Peering down, he saw the Panacriph glowing below his shirt. He looked at the knight and decided to take a chance.

“Sir…are you, by any chance, a…Guardian?”

Derron looked into the boy’s eyes. He appeared to be shocked. He looked at the other knight in the room.

“Paladin! Take this man to prison. Leave the boy and me. We need to discuss something privately.”

“Yes, sir!”
 

[Silverbolt]

CHAPTER FOUR: History Lesson

Derron made sure no one else was listening. He turned to Arhyld with a grave look in his eyes.

“I had wondered why you carried a sword like only one could forge. How do you know of the Guardians?”

Arhyld gave a breath of relief. Myter had told him that only a Guardian would know about the order.

“My name is Arhyld, and I come from the land of Idyll…”

Arhyld told him everything that had happened ever since he went into the tower. The paladin listened carefully. He stood up and motioned to Arhyld to follow him.

“Where are we going?”

“It’s two days by foot until we reach the capital. I’ll tell you all about everything until then. Come. Let us go.”

They went back through the streets of Shade and back on the road Arhyld had come on. At the crossroads they took the northwestern Road that led to Syl’Vaan and Valdar. Arhyld could see Skyreach Tower surrounded by mountains in the distance. After a while, around noon, they reached another crossroad. There was a road leading north and one leading west. The western one led to “The Weary Wanderer” and Valdar. The northern one was lined with light posts and led into the woods. It led into elfish territory and the city of Syl’Vaan, according to Derron. The road turned southwest and it eventually led to another crossroad. One road led south, the other northwest, to Valdar. It was evening. During the day, Derron had told Arhyld about the history of Artana. At first there was only chaos. Artana was the nexus of creation, according to most. When the god Vall, guardian of Balance, Justice and Order rose to destroy chaos, he used the four elements. Chaos was banished, and Artana was created. First Artana, then the world. It was a peninsula that was part of a much larger continent. It, however, had been a perfect land long ago. All the peoples lived in peace. Orcs, humans, elves, dwarves, mages…then came Chaos once more. It swept the land and sought to destroy it. Wherever it passed, peace turned to war; deceit and treachery almost destroyed Artana and the entire world. Then, the four mages came. They had lived in Skyreach tower for millennia. Some said that they were the incarnates of the four elements themselves. Vall’s four generals. They drew Chaos into the tower, where they managed to banish it back into the outer plane. They sealed the entrance with a holy relic they had created. The Panacriph. It was to seal the entrance, and should it be removed, chaos could be summoned once more. Only the one who removed it had the power to restore it back. Soon after the imprisonment, the mages decided to seal off Idyll from the rest of the world. They created an illusion that made Idyllians think that wastes surrounded them, and everyone else would just see impassable mountains and the Forbidden tower. The Order of the Guardians chose one born with the gift of immortality to watch over it. That was Myter. But even though Chaos had been banished, its adepts still remained. They took the mages to four different places and killed them. Their twisted sense of irony decided that the Fire mage should be burned to death, so they threw him into the volcano of Mount Pyr. They buried the Earth mage alive in Ter mound. The Water mage was thrown into the Ocean and the Air mage was thrown into the Abyss from the top of the tallest peak to the east of Artana the powerful wind currents tore him to pieces. The elements they served had ultimately been their doom. Chaos was still imprisoned, but that was just the avatar of Chaos. Its representative entity form. Chaos, as a phenomenon, still lurked around. The dwarves became greedy. The elves couldn’t buy the precious metals they needed, so they broke off all connection with the dwarves. The mages became isolated and untrusting, and the orcs just retreated to their deserts. As for the humans, Derron decided not to go into that subject. He told Arhyld that he would find out soon enough. This had happened centuries ago. That was why Myter always saw Artana as beautiful and wondrous. Since then, it had been getting worse. Arhyld listened carefully while Derron told his tale. He grew more and more shocked. Evening had fallen.

“Derron…where are we going to sleep?”

“There’s an inn close to this crossroad. It’s called “The Weary Wanderer”. Adventurers from Artana use this as a “base” if you will. We are safe inside. Tomorrow, we will continue the journey to Valdar. The capital. It is actually mere hours away, but the city itself is enormous. About four times the size of your land of Idyll. It would take six hours just to get to the castle from the city gates.”

“A city *that* big? I guess spending the night at the inn would be the better solution, indeed.”

Inside the tavern, Arhyld could see a whole lot of adventurers inside. From warriors to mages, to archers and to hunters. However, he was too tired from the journey. He didn’t even realize it when he arrived to his room and simply fell asleep. Sometime, in the middle of the night, he heard a bump. He opened his eyes and placed his hand on the hilt of his sword, which was lying under the bed. It took him a few seconds to be able to see in the dark. A shadow was creeping around the room; Arhyld thought it was just his imagination, when he saw the shadow approach Derron’s bed. It pulled out a knife and the room immediately turned black. Arhyld shouted and jumped out of bed. He clumsily swinged his sword in the direction of the shadow. He heard a shout, and the man dropped the dagger on the floor. The room turned back to normal and Arhyld could see again. Derron had woken up and was holding the assassin by the arms. It was a woman dressed in black clothing and wearing a black mask-hood. The woman’s was bleeding leg was bleeding. She looked Derron in the eyes and performed a swift motion with her head. Arhyld could hear a cracking sound. She had broken her own neck. Derron let her drop on the floor lifelessly. Arhyld looked at the dagger and picked it up. The blade was black, made of obsidian. The hilt was made of hard opaque glass. It had a few runes engraved on the handle. Two were on each side of the cross-guard, one on the pommel, one to the middle of the grip, and one at the end of the grip. Arhyld touched the side runes and the dagger seemed to draw the light from the room. He touched them again, and the room came back to normal. Derron took the dagger.

“That, Arhyld, was a member of the Assassins Guild. They have most likely been hired by the organized crime to kill me. The price for failure is death, and none fall prisoners. These daggers absorb light from an area, and can later release it. Prepare yourself, child. I see you’ve already discovered how it works. Except for one thing.”

Derron touched the runes on the pommel and hilt. A bright flash of light was released from the dagger. Arhyld screamed.

“Don’t worry, your sight will return in a few minutes. I suggest we get back to sleep, now.”

“But what if any more assassins show up? No. The Guild either succeeds at the first try, or drops the job. They never try to strike twice. It would be too risky. Go to sleep. I’ll get rid of this corpse.”

“Fine. But I don’t think I’ll be able to sleep anymore…”

“Don’t worry. And I’ll clean your sword. It would appear you drew first blood.”

“Yes. I never wounded anyone until now…Oh! And Derron, next time please tell me before you attempt to blind me. I still can’t see a thing.”

But Derron was already gone. Arhyld just crawled back to his bed and went to sleep.
 

[Silverbolt]

CHAPTER FIVE: Of Politics and Paladins

Arhyld awoke refreshed. He opened his eyes. He could see. The sun had risen but it was still early. Arhyld got equipped and ate breakfast from his pack. Derron entered the room. Light came in through the doorframe. Arhyld rubbed his eyes.

“Good morning. Feeling better?”

“Yes, I am. That dagger is quite a powerful weapon. What is it made of?”

“Assassins’ Daggers are made of enchanted obsidian. Here. I think you should have it. I wouldn’t be alive if it weren’t for you.”

“Thank you.” Arhyld took Myter’s dagger out of the sheathe and shoved it down his boot. He replaced it with his new one. He looked at Derron. “By the way, what did you do with the body?”

“As you may imagine, in a tavern like this, death is common. I took her to the innkeeper. He buries them in the cemetery. Come on, are you ready to go?”

“Yes, I am. Are we going to the capital?”

“Yes. We should arrive to the castle by evening.”

The two headed to the tavern. It was empty. Everyone had either gone out into the wilderness seeking adventure, or were still sleeping. Outside, the morning air was refreshing. Arhyld and Derron started to walk on the northwestern road. Arhyld decided to ask Derron a question.

“Listen, Derron…one of the orcs said that you were an “orc friend”. Aren’t the orcs at war with the humans?”

“It’s much more complicated than that, Arhyld. You see, most people think orcs are bloodthirsty beasts that kill humans on sight. Sometimes they’re right. But it’s the humans’ fault, really.”

“How?”

“Well, you see, for centuries, orcs have not been trusted because they look different. They are strong and thus, inspire fear. They are strong warriors, but not warmongers. That is why they retreated to the deserts of Gor’Tul. King Nedlar was a great hero in his youth. He rooted out and destroyed the Cult of Chaos. He made Artana a thriving kingdom. But something happened. As he grew old, he began to lose his power. He has become a shell of his former self. He is drunk most of the time and he is a king only in name. He has no successors, no wife, no authority. We do not know what could have happened to him.”

An hour later, they were passing by a strange building, unlike Arhyld had ever seen before. A wall surrounded it, and people in robes were walking around it. Giant scales were painted on the gates.

“Derron, excuse me for interrupting, but what is that building?”

“That is the monastery of Vall, our God.”

“You have mentioned him before. What is this…god you speak of?”

“What do you mean? He is the highest power. He is the reason of our existence. We owe everything to Him.”

“And he demands you to worship him?”

“He does not need to demand it. We serve Him in gratitude. All who do not believe in Vall are doomed to eternal Chaos. Do you not heed His word in your land?”

“No. We do not. What you are saying is that he forces you to believe in him and holds you under threat?”

“You would do best not to badmouth His name. He is our salvation. He is the Judge that rules over Justice, Balance and Order. He is almighty.”

“Then why does he allow evil to exist?”

“Listen, Arhyld. You would do best not to speak that way of my God. You mean to tell me that in Idyll you don’t believe in anything? Don’t you ask yourselves where you came from? What is the reason for which you exist?”

“Why would we? We simply exist. I see no reason to know more.”

“Fine. I won’t force you to believe in Him, but I would advise you to keep your mouth shut about things like that. Non-believers are considered criminals.”

“Okay, Derron. I will. Could you please continue with your story?”

“Yes. You see, things were a mess, until general Kaldor came around. He had been promoted back when I was still twenty years old. I was a sergeant back then. That was twenty-five years ago. The General quickly took over. He is a strong leader and a good general but arrogant and greedy. When I say “good”, I don’t speak of his morality, though. He has become the leader of the paladins, and they, in turn, became corrupted. He heard that the orcs have massive resources in the desert. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds and the like. That is why he hired a few orcs to attack the city one day and murder as many citizens as they could. Of course, few people know that is how it happened. At any rate, the good general showed up to save the day and announced that the orcs are to be executed. If we had any proof of what he did, we would have thrown him in prison. He announced that the king has declared war on the orcs. Now, the humans lay constant siege on the orcs of Gor’Tul. The orcs have revolted and keep the humans at bay. They are mostly defensive, though. They will kill humans on sight. Few will not. Such as the Chiefs and leaders of the orcs. Every battle brings heavy losses on each side. The humans and orcs, however, are equally matched. That’s when the general came up with an idea to gather more allies.”

Around mid-morning they arrived before the gates of the city of Valdar. The city was enormous. Arhyld could not see the end of it. Houses upon houses. Streets filled with people. Stores, farms, military garrisons and in the distance, barely noticeable, something shaped like a castle. It was Arhyld’s guess that the castle was their destination. Arhyld could see tons of notices and pictures depicting orcs mercilessly killing people. Especially women and children. They said: “Protect your family. Join the Royal Army.” Or “They kill without mercy. Help us stop them.”. Arhyld was sure that this was what Derron was talking about.

“You’ve noticed, right? The general uses propaganda to enlist the aid of the people against the orcs. He paid off several people to say that orcs attacked them, or murdered their families. Currently he is trying to get the elves and dwarves on his side. If he succeeds, I am afraid that the orcs will be destroyed and the general will proclaim himself king. That is why I have enlisted the aid of a few still-honorable paladins and created the “Order of the Dawn”. We are trying to end this war. The Knights and Paladins won’t listen, so we turned to the orcs. We are known as orc friends, but most of them don’t trust us. The garrison in Shade is our main base. We try to find evidence on the general’s treason so that we may take him on, but we are outnumbered. The situation seems dire for us…”

“I don’t know what to say…I…didn’t expect any of this.”

“It is none of your concern. Once you have retrieved the elements, you may return to your land and be safe from all of this. But meanwhile, you are going to need a job, Arhyld. The search might take a while and I doubt you have enough money…”

“Derron, I’ve thought about it a lot. I want to help you in any way I can. I want to be a Paladin of the Order of the Dawn.”

“I can’t say I am surprised. You have much honor, for a youngster. You refused to kill the orc guards and spared Flig’s life even when you had every reason to kill him. Come. I will take you to the king and you will be sworn in.”

Around mid-afternoon, they arrived to the castle. Arhyld could not believe how big it was. It took them half an hour to climb up to the throne room. The king was sitting on his throne. He was alone. Arhyld was surprised at the way the man looked. He was overly obese and seemed to be drunk. He stood up and wobbled. He greeted Derron.

“Derron, my friend…I wasn’t expecting you.”

“My King. I have found someone that I want admitted into the Order of the Dawn.”

“Very well. I trust your judgment. Unlike the one of my other general. What can I do? He has stripped me of my power. The army obeys him now…Come closer, young one.”

Arhyld approached the King. He was surprised that he could still talk, seeing how drunk he was.

“What is your name, child?”

“Arhyld.”

“And do you, Arhyld, swear by Vall to serve me and Artana until the day that you die, or until I release you from your oath?”

“No.”

“What??” The king blurted.

“I refuse to swear by a god that I do not serve, or obey a man that I do not know. All I can do is swear by honor that I will serve what is right and defend the weak. I swear to help bring peace and I swear to serve Order. I swear to seek the destruction of Chaos and of all things evil. That is all I can say.”

The king laughed, to Arhyld’s surprise.

“You have courage, Arhyld. If all my men were like you, my army would be unbeatable in the face of invaders. Arise, Arhyld, Paladin of the Order of Dawn. Derron, who will teach you the secrets of the order, will train you. Good luck.”

“Thank you. I will not let you down.”

Arhyld bowed, then he and Derron left the room. Arhyld was to begin training the next day.

END OF PART TWO

END OF BOOK ONE