Era beyond Worldstone

[infernoc3]

"SILENCE !" The command which carried a rasp and hallow tone, belongs to a senior mage dressed in silk robes of royal blue.
"As I've mentioned, we are the High Council of the Fireband mage clan, and state advisors to the mortal King."
A pause as he arched an eyebrow to inspect his audience. His features are such that anyone will be readily forgiven to speculate that his age is of centuries old.
Not unexpected yet disappointed that the words does not arouse any facial display of awe, Huges continued, "We are more than capable of handling most
affairs, state or otherwise ..". A voice interrupted "until the arrival of the paladins of the Silver Hand".

Huges identified the disruptor without turning back. He is Walter, his friend and fellow mage from childhood days.
On par in skills, their characters are as far apart as anyone can imagine.
He himself exudes an air of magnificence and at ease with the bureaucrats, while Walter is like a ray of sunshine, which allows him to mingle with the members of the clan and commoners alike.
Hence, he is the one who found the Fireband mage clan and brought about the expansion of influence across the region. but such an organization would have collapse without Walter holding things in place.
However, Walter is also a source of constant annoyance as he never fails to interrupt Huges's speech, and make sure he gets in the last shot.
This habit did not waiver under death threats, and Huges had to make do with annihilation of Walter's decoys during moments of unbearable frustration.
As if by fate, the pair had strike out together and compliment each other in their work, despite their contrasting attitudes.

"Yes. the appearance of the paladins. Of course, we welcome any addition of clans, factions or institutions to the diversity of communities in the Kingdom.". Walter had more than distaste for such pretence of generosity, but somehow Huges display with such flair as if blissfully unaware of the skepticism of his audience or if he did, he ignore it.
Walter later figure that he is in preparation of toughen his skin for the critical Court and His Majesty. Huges insisted that he is practising diplomacy, well, to Walter it seems that his friend always had diplomacy for his every excuse.

"Unfortunately," Hughes cleared his throat for effect, "the introduction of the Silver Hand had a deeper impact than we thought. The reputation of their leader - Isehart, whose participation in the elimination of the Three Prime Evils ..." Huges seems to struck a string of discord, and cast emotions to run high among members of the audience.
The once silent crowd became rowdy again with beastial growls that grow louder with every passing moment.
Well, at least I get their FULL attention now, Huges mused. "..with no doubts, the feat boosts the credibility of their religious cause ...".
"and threaten our clan's position in the Kingdom !" exclaimed Walter.
Walter had been ever so frank to both ally and foe, I really must continue my research to increase one's mental strength, Huges reminded himself.

"So, what have this to do with us, human ?" shrieked the imp.
He is obviously the chief, standing out from the group with bright blue skin among the clay coloured ones.
Otherwise imps looks the same to Huges, the permanent crooked grin, the sharp protruding teeth, the pointed large ears, the big claws and feets compare to the dimunitive body and the large shocking eyes which threaten to bring madness to any human who unwittingly stare at them for more than a glance.
Deceptively, a group of those little demons from afar would be easily mistaken for rowdy children and with appropriate application of magic and disguise, a horde of them could walk among the citizens in the city without
raising as much as a single alarm.
No wonder despite their low stature in rank, strength and magics, their service is sought after by the lords of both realms as infiltrators or scouts.

Between gritted teeth of seething anger, Huges proposed "With due respect to your prowess, ...". Walter rolled his eyes in unison, ".. you are invited to persuade some and hopefully all of the misguided sheeps to your, errr..hum, your cause."

"Corrupt the paladins ?! That is a delightful thought. We are more than eager to rip the stinking flesh and soul off the glaring armour, but it will alert every member of their call to our presence here. Besides, after the fall of the
Zakurum, their faith is reinforced and not as easy to penetrate now." the chief imp cried.
"We are not quite ready to give up our existence in your realm." the chief imp reasoned "Without the three Prime Evils, Hell had been less efficient than before. Now it seems to takes eternity to reforge an essence in Hell, and takes thousand-folds effort just to open one tiny portal to your realm and ... ".

And eternity of your noise muttered Huges. I must find time to share this moment feeling with Walter after this meeting, Huges noted before he interrupted, yes, he interrupted the chief imp "Please accept our condolences of your homeland's plight."
"Be assured that the Fireband mage clan will provide assistance and protection in situation of needs, for you to accomplish your mission".
Huges glanced backward at his apprentice mage, and is pleased that the twiddle is taking notes.
The punishment of being pre-Prince Charming of Cinderella for a week, had served it purpose. You mean turning him into a toad ! A voice rang in Huges's mind. "Curse that Walter ! Now he is invading my thoughts as well ?" Huges glared hard at Walter who blinks innocently enough.

"Bah ! Human listen ! You will provide protection to us, build us a shrine and provide three human sacrifices to us every week !" demanded the chief imp.
Huges paused for a long while, and agreed "The deal is sealed then, you will influence the paladins in one month time, while I and my mage clan will meet your conditions"
Before Walter could recover from his jaw dropping expression, Huges concluded "This meeting is over now. We will meet here again one month later. The blasted humidity in this forsaken jungle is taking it's toll on me. Excuse us and let us be on our way".

In anticipation of Walter's parting shot, or attempt at correction, Huges waved his hand and lead his followers out of the jungle.

[infernoc3]

The jungle is dense, covering with razor-sharp ferns and thick vines that hinders any attempt at breaking into a run without loss of limbs.
The trees are tall and ancient, with canopies stretching out to interlock with the neighbours, thus for most of the time, it is in near or complete
darkness.
The jungle is littered with swamps, which generate mists and fogs that seems to envelope the rest of the jungle in permanent secrecy.

Huges has considered all these inconveniences as precautions. The dense growth and darkness made clairvoyance difficult. The poisonous fogs and life-threatening jungle creatures will keep any sane folks away.
Even on their journey to the meeting place, the Fireband mages had to cast no less than 30 spells of different varieties of magic, yet incurred casualties of one dead mage and another injured.
The dead mage is a hapless newcomer who is dragged down into the bottom of the swamp when he venture too close to its edge. The gigantic serpent
is too swift for any of them to react, and judging by its sheer size, Walter doubts even if all of them throw lightning bolts and fireballs simultaneously at it, would be able to make the overgrown construe of scales and fangs to reconsider the decision to make their comrade it's lunch.
The injured one, had a souvenir of a slash across his chest by a sabre-tooth cat. That fat cat must have weighted at least a few tonnes, as it took
five seniors (including Walter and Huges) and five standard ranks to push it away with telekenisis. The rest of the panicking apprentices bombarded the cat with fireballs until it decided to bow out.
Walter is amazed that the jungle absorbed the mini-fireworks with such ease, and miraclously that the victim survived as well.
Huges decided that it is high time to suspend all magic trainings and focus on psychological development for the next season.
You mean to make the apprentices stay cool, aim properly and correctly under intense situations ? Huges clutched his head as Walter's voice echoed in his mind, and nursed a imminent headache.
The priorities had shifted, the research into mind shield spell should be of utmost importance other than the deal just sealed.

Progress made on the journey out seems slower than venturing in. Huges had given orders to avoid usage of magics and tools on the environment unless out of absoulte necessity.
Not that he valued the flora and fauna of the ancient jungle, but to cover their tracks as much as possible.
The earlier magical exertions and trekking, couple with the shock from the two incidents and the trapped heat and humidity, their movements slowed to a crawl.
It seems that they are still nowhere near the edge of the jungle. Leaves dropped down to the jungle floor, swaying and dancing slowly on the path lead by gravity. Bubbles and foams made blopping noises in accordance with the croaking of frogs and hissing of bugs or some other unknown creatures.

Moments later, Huges ordered the group to rest under a large tree next to a pond. Members had shown signs of fatigue and the injured mage groans had grown intense.
They are not out of the woods yet, but Huges would not want to add on to his reputation with the cruelty attribute.

"Huges" Walter faced his leader, "Why do you have to consort with the lesser demons ?" He searched Huges's eyes for an answer.
"I know the paladins are popular now, but you of all should know that these factions come and go. We are upstarts once, did we not prove our abilities to the people, to the Court, to the King ? We work hard to help the people improve their lives, we aid the Royal Army in their strategies, we fought alongside the cavalry, archers and soldiers in real battles ..." Huges's fist pulsating with magical energies
"That is why I should not let anyone replace the Fireband clan ! We work hard, establish peace and prosperity in this little corner of the choatic world. What does the people, the Court, the King think of us ? Nothing ! We are convenient tools in times of troubles. We preserved their miserable mortal shells and now they want salvation of the soul ?"
Walter sensed the flames in his eyes "It takes ten years and after two full-scale battles before we are offered two puny sits in the High Council.
How long did it takes for the Silver Hand to gain entrance ? Two weeks ? Perhaps shorter, and they come in a bunch of eight ! Some of them yet to have hair on their chins !"
The ferns in Huges's line of sight, started to crackle and billowing smokes under a roast. Walter noticed that, and prepare for a cantation of elemental shield.
At this moment, he can only offer prayer to his ignorant fellow mages. Every man for himself, this applies even to kind Walter in moments of peril.
Two mages are trying to test the water at the pond for consumption possibility. Well, there will be at least three survivors.
At this stage, Huges is totally engrossed in his thesis, "They are offered quarters in The Palace in the first day of their arrival, and we are offered only in the North Caz castle during our first military deployment !
Plans are under progress as we speak to erect the fifth shrine for those holy men. We have our makeshift meeting house for years and only recently do we have our own headquarters !
Oh, did I mention that the King BESTOW the land to us and not a single royal coin is spend on the building ?
Check with Gill, and she will inform you the damage on our funds that we have accumulate over the years."
Huges paused and chuckled, "Walter, you know we do not see ourselves above other clans or factions, and that we seek to co-exist in tolerance if not of cooperation.
Somehow the priests that come with the paladins are great librarians and accountants. They critized, otracized and condemned everyone in their path who do not share their views"
A longer pause ensue, Walter rather he is in the eye of a cyclone than here, "AND that's the part which tear the guts out of me -- our past contributions erased, reversed.
Our doing becomes undoing; under their classification, our sins and evil deeds magnified.
Except for the Silver Hand, there are only sinners, sinners and more sinners. Everyone is a sinner, except them. We are the ones who braved the storms with this kingdom ! How dare these newcomers judge us ! And by whose measures !?"
Suddenly, the flames in Huges's eyes vanished and replaced by icy cool lights. "The moment we are 'asked' to leave when we are locked in the debate on one of the Silver Hand's implementations, I know we have lost it." He looked down as if to reflect his thoughts "No. They lost it. Either this kingdom or the Sliver Hand will pay for this injustice"

"Still" Walter is amazed of his own courage, if he is still in one piece in the evening, he sweared he will give ale treat to all Fireband mages in the Pipster bar. "Still, with our abilities and reputation, we can form establishment elsewhere. I have heard the Giano kingdom to the north, had extend it's invitation to us on more than one occasion.
"Can't you see !?" hissed Huges, "With the absense of the three Prime Evils, there are no real battles of the realms now. Now there are only battles between mortals in this plane.
Congratulations Walter, we just have become the replacements for the demons" Huges stood upright as if to deliver an important speech, "Without a foe, the Silver Hand had no cause to fight for, or even to justify it's own existence.
It has manifested into a plague, and washed over every conceivable land on this world. It would not stop here, eventually it will face us again, even if we flee now"
Leaves dropped down to the jungle floor, swaying and dancing slowly on the path lead by gravity. Bubbles and foams made blopping noises in accordance with the croaking of frogs and hissing of bugs or some other unknown creatures.
Falling leaves, Walter stare at the falling leaves as he endure Huges's verbal onslaught. Falling leaves, falling leaves ... green falling leaves, falling leaves are green ...
Sensational tingles begin to form on the back of Walter's neck. He swerved to the pond, which is not exactly a swamp and yet bubbles are floating to the surface in steady streams...
He twitched his ears and concentrated, to filter out Huges's voice. Although Walter unable to discern whether the croaks much from the hisses, he cannot help but feel a rhythematic pattern to it...
Huges seems to sense Walter's unease, dropped the rumbling and stare intensely into his comrade's eyes to pose the question "What's wrong ?"

Walter would agreed that Huges would most certainly regret for refusing to form a telepathic link with him, for there are no chance for Walter to verbally answer his question.
The jungle has jostled to life and become war.

[infernoc3]

You might find that this message is the same as the first. That is because I can't seems to edit my previous posts. Anyone have any ideas how I can edit my previous posts ? Thanks for the help.

----

"SILENCE !"

The command which carries a rasp and hallow tone, belongs to a senior mage dressed in silk robes of royal blue.

"As I have mentioned, we are the High Council of the Fireband mage clan, and state advisors to the mortal King"
A rehearsed pause to let the words sank, Huges the mage arched an eyebrow to inspect his audience.

Huges is a living contradiction of every sense.
His features are such that anyone will be readily forgiven, to speculate that he has witnessed three generations of Kings.
Short cropped grey hair, wrinkles parade on his forehead, cheekbones occupy much of the sides of his face and the facial buildup is complete with a sharp, long nose and tight, thin lips. His grey eyes are voids which convey of weariness forged by history.
Yet his body tells of a man in his prime. He is tall and well-build, which will better represent a warrior than a disciple of the mystical arts.
The most mind-probbing part is the missing staff. The closest item to a weapon on him will be a pair of hideous gauntlets.
Hideous is a kind description, the gauntlets looks like the claws of a terrible monster. The skin is scaly and colour of slime, probably made from the hide of a monstrous creature.
The part which cover the knuckles are adorned with rare jewels, reflecting light in a manner that give the suggestion that the pair might be alive. Huges never leave without them, but make sure he conceals them when he is in Court.
He had enough matters to settle at hand, and not about to inspire the politicians to write a poem on his attire, that will surely snakes it's way to the King's ears.

Not unexpected yet disappointed that the words does not arouse any display of awe, Huges continued, "We are more than capable of handling most affairs, state or otherwise ..".

A voice interrupted "until the arrival of the paladins of the Silver Hand".

Huges identified the disruptor without turning back. He is Walter, his friend and fellow mage from childhood days.
Huges tower over his friend, and he will grimace whenever the golden-hair beaming round face smile heartily at him.
Somehow he associates fear with respect, and it is most inappropriate to Huges that the stocky fellow could cheerful communicate with him in the presence of the ministers.
He did tried to direct Walter to take a serious and solemn manner whenever he is in The Palace, but come to realize there he will be more successful in creating a new Worldstone than an attempt to reshape Walter's brain.
Thus, on par in skills, their characters are as far apart as anyone can imagine.
He himself exudes an air of magnificence and practically at ease with the bureaucrats,
while Walter, like a ray of sunshine, prefers to mingle with the members of the clan and commoners alike.

As if by fate, the pair had strike out together and actually compliment each other despite their contrasting attitudes. Burning with ambitions, Huges is the founder of the Fireband mage clan and brought about it's rapid expansion of influence that stretch beyond the borders of the kingdom, but his achievements will be gone as quick as a breeze, had Walter not hold things in place and bond everyone together in his vision.
Huges will certainly find his pal more bearable, had he not possess the habit to interrupt Huges's speech, and getting in the last shot. This source of annoyance did not falter under death threats, and Huges often found himself vaporizing Walter's decoys in moments of unbearable frustration.

"Yes. the appearance of the paladins. Of course, we welcome any addition of clans, factions or institutions to the diversity of communities in the Kingdom".
Walter had more than distaste for such pretence of generosity, especially when the audience is immuned or did not care at all.
Somehow Huges display such flair as if blissfully unaware of the skepticism of his audience or if he did, he ignore it.
Walter reasoned that he is toughening his skin in preparation to face the critical Court and His Majesty and Huges insisted that he is practising diplomacy.
Oh well, Huges always had diplomacy for his every excuse.

"Unfortunately," Hughes cleared his throat for effect, "the introduction of the Silver Hand had a deeper impact than we thought.
The reputation of their leader - Isehart, whose participation in the elimination of the Three Prime Evils ..."
Bingo. Huges seems to struck a string of discord, and cause emotions to run high among members of the audience.
The once silent but distracted crowd became rowdy again with beastial growls that reach higher amplitude with every passing moment.

Well, at least I get their FULL attention now, Huges mused.

"..with no doubts, the feat boosts the credibility of their religious cause ...".

"and threaten our clan's position in the Kingdom !" exclaimed Walter.

Walter had been ever so frank to both ally and foe, a research on increasing one's mental strength must be task, Huges reminded himself.

"So, what have this to do with us, human ?" shrieked the imp.
Obviously the chief of the group of tiny demons, standing out from the group with bright blue skin among the clay coloured ones.
Otherwise imps looks the same to Huges, the permanent crooked grin, the sharp protruding teeth, the pointed large ears, the big claws and feets in comparison to the dimunitive body and last but not least, the large shocking eyes which threaten to bring madness to any conscience that unwittingly absorbed them for more than a glance.
Deceptively, a group of them from afar would be easily mistaken for rowdy children. Appropriate application of magic and disguise, a horde of them could walk among the citizens in the city without raising as much as a single alarm.
No wonder despite their low stature in rank, strength and magics, their service is sought after by the lords of all realms and times as infiltrators or scouts.

Between gritted teeth of seething anger, Huges proposed "With due respect to your prowess, ...". Walter rolled his eyes in unison.
".. you are invited to persuade some and hopefully all of the misguided sheeps to your, errr..hum, your cause."

"Corrupt the paladins ?! That is a delightful thought. We are more than eager to rip the stinking flesh and soul off the
glaring armour, but it will alert every member of their call to our presence here. Besides, after the fall of the
Zakurum, any approach will be guarded and not as easy to penetrate now." the chief imp cried.

"Then we are not quite ready to give up our existence in your realm." the chief imp reasoned "Without the Three,
Hell had been less efficient. Now it seems to takes eternity to reforge an essence back, and takes thousand-folds effort just to reopen one tiny portal ... ".

"And good riddance of your blubbering for eternity" muttered Huges. This moment feeling must be share with Walter after this meeting.
Huges make the mental note before he interrupted, yes, he interrupted the chief imp "Please accept our condolences of your homeland's plight.
Be assured that the Fireband mage clan will provide assistance and protection in situation of needs, for you to accomplish
your mission".
Huges glanced backward at his apprentice mage, and is pleased that the twiddle is taking notes. The punishment of being pre-Prince Charming of Cinderella for a week, had served it purpose. "You mean turning him into a toad !" A voice rang in Huges's mind.
"Curse that Walter ! Now he is invading my thoughts as well ?" Huges glared hard at Walter who blinks innocently enough.

"Bah ! Human listen ! You will provide protection to us, build us a shrine and provide three human sacrifices to us every week !" demanded the chief imp.

Huges paused for a long while, and agreed "The deal is sealed then, you will influence the paladins in one month time, while I and my mage clan will meet your conditions"
Before Walter could recover from his jaw dropping expression, Huges concluded "This meeting is over now. We will meet here again one month later."
"This blasted heat in this forsaken jungle is taking it's toll on me. Excuse us and let us be on our way".

In anticipation of Walter's parting shot, or attempt at correction, Huges waved his hand and lead his followers out of the jungle.

[infernoc3]

You might find that this message is similar to the 2nd posting. That is because I can't seems to edit my previous posts. Anyone have any ideas how I can edit my previous posts ? Thanks for the help.

----

Betrayal

The jungle is dense, covering with razor-sharp ferns and thick vines that hinders any attempt at breaking into a run without loss of limbs.
The trees are tall and ancient, with canopies stretching out to interlock with the neighbours, thus for most of the time, it is in near or complete darkness. The jungle is littered with swamps, which generate mists and fogs that seems to envelope the rest of the jungle in permanent secrecy.
Huges has considered all these inconveniences as precautions. The dense growth and darkness made clairvoyance difficult. The poisonous fogs and life-threatening jungle creatures will keep any sane folks away. Even on their journey to the meeting place, the Fireband mages had to cast no less than 30 protection spells, yet incurred casualties of one dead mage and another injured.
The dead mage is a hapless newcomer who is dragged down into the bottom of the swamp when he venture too close to its edge.
The gigantic serpent is too swift for any of them to react, and judging by its sheer size, Walter doubts even if all of them throw lightning bolts and fireballs simultaneously at it, would not be able to make the overgrown construe of scales and fangs to reconsider it's decision to make lunch meal out of their comrade.
The injured one, had a souvenir of a slash across his chest by a sabre-tooth cat. That fat cat must have weighted at least a few tonnes, as it took five seniors (including Walter and Huges) and five standard ranks to push it away with telekenisis. The rest of the panicking apprentices bombarded the cat with fireballs until it decided to bow out.

Walter is amazed that the jungle absorbed the mini-fireworks with such ease, and miraclously that the victim survived as well. It is high time to suspend all magic trainings and focus on psychological development for the next season, Huges frowned at the apparently shaken apprentices.
"Ya, that's a good idea. We can do without such accidents" Huges clutched his head as Walter's voice echoed in his mind, and nursed the imminent headache.
The priorities had shifted, the research into mind shield spell should be of utmost importance other than the deal just sealed.

Progress made on the journey out seems slower than venturing in. Huges had given orders to avoid usage of magics and tools on the environment unless out of absolute necessity. Not that he valued the flora and fauna of the ancient jungle, but to cover their tracks as much as possible.
The trekking couple with the shock and magical exertion from the earlier incidents had exhausted the travelling group, and the trapped heat and humidity help to slow their movements to a crawl.
Still nowhere near the edge of the jungle. Huges ordered the group to rest under a large tree next to a pond. Members clearly relieved with joy, quickly find their resting spot and settle down. The seniors, Huges and Walter rest directly under the tree, while the lower ranks split into two groups, one on a clearing facing across the tree and the other group rest on a hollow log directly opposite the pond.

They are not out of the woods yet, but Huges would not want to add on to his reputation with the cruelty attribute.

Leaves dropped down to the jungle floor, swaying and dancing slowly on the path lead by gravity.
Bubbles and foams made blopping noises in accordance with the croaking of frogs and hissing of bugs or some other unknown creatures.

"Huges" Walter faced his leader, "Why do you have to consort with the lesser demons ?" He searched Huges's eyes for an answer. "I know the paladins are popular now, but you of all should know that these factions come and go. We are upstarts once, did we not prove our abilities to the people, to the Court, to the King ?"

"We work hard to help the people improve their lives, we aid the Royal Army in their strategies, we fought alongside the cavalry, archers and soldiers in real battles ..."

Huges's fist pulsating with magical energies "Precisely why I should not let anyone, any existence to replace the Fireband clan ! We bring peace and prosperity to this little corner of the choatic world. What does the people, the Court, the King think of us ? Nothing ! We are convenient tools in times of troubles. "

"We preserved their miserable mortal shells and now they want salvation of the soul ? Walter sensed the flames in his eyes

"It takes ten years and after two full-scale battles before we are offered two puny sits in the High Council."
"How long those clowns to gain entrance ? Two weeks ? Perhaps shorter, and they take in a whopping eight !"

Huges started to pace in circles "Some of them yet to have hair on their chins !" he erupted. The ferns in Huges's line of sight, started to crackle and billowing smokes under a roast.
Walter alerted, quietly prepare for a cantation of elemental shield. Out of the corners of his eyes, Walter surveyed his ignorant fellow mages.
At this moment he can only offer prayer to them. Every man for himself, and this theory applies even to kind Walter in times of peril.
He noticed that two mages are trying to test the water at the pond for consumption possibility. Well, there will be at least three survivors.

At this stage, Huges is totally engrossed in his thesis, "They are offered quarters in The Palace in the first day of their arrival !"
"We are offered lodgings in the North Caz castle and that is during our first military deployment !"

Brillant verses flowed from the excited poet "Plans are under progress as we speak to erect the fifth shrine for those holy men."
"That rundown, dilapidated hut that We called as our meeting house for years !"

The ground of Huges's trodden circular path peeled and reveal dark red soil. "Only recently do we have our own headquarters ! Oh, did I mention that the King BESTOW the land to us and guess what ?
Not a single royal coin is spend on the building ? Check with Gill, and she will inform you the damage on our funds !"

Huges greviously eyed Walter, "Walter, you know we do not see ourselves above other clans or factions, and that we seek to co-exist in tolerance if not of cooperation."
"Somehow the priests that come with the paladins are such great librarians and accountants. They critized, otracized and condemned everyone in their path who do not share their views"

A longer pause ensue, Walter rather he is in the eye of a cyclone than here now, "AND that's the part which tear the guts out of me !" The annoucement of a volcanic eruption.
"Our past contributions erased, reversed. Our doing becomes undoing; Under The Light, we have sins and evil deeds magnified."

The magma ebbed down. "Except for the Silver Hand, there are only sinners, sinners and more SINNERS ! Everyone is a sinner, except them."
"We are the ones who braved the storms with this kingdom ! How dare these newcomers judge us ! And by whose measures !?"

Suddenly, the flames in Huges's eyes vanished and replaced by an air of unnerving calm. "The moment we are 'asked' to leave during that unforgettable debate, I know we have lost it."

He looked down as if to reflect in his thoughts "No. They lost it. Either this kingdom or the Sliver Hand will pay for this injustice !"

"Still" Walter is amazed of his own courage, if he is still in one piece by sunset, he sweared he will give ale treat to all Fireband mages in the Pipster bar, maybe even include the paladins.
"Still, with our abilities and reputation, we can form establishment elsewhere. I have heard the Giano kingdom to the north, had extended it's invitation to us on more than one occasion."

"Can't you see !?" hissed Huges, "With the absense of the Prime Evils, there are no real battles now."
"Now there are only petty battles between mortals in this plane. And congratulations Walter, we just have been targetted as replacements"

Huges stood upright as if to deliver an important speech, "Without a foe, the Silver Hand had no cause."
"It has manifested into a plague, and will eventually washed over every conceivable land on this world."

"Even if we flee now, we will have to face it at the end." And so says the Wise One.

"What about those harsh conditions you have promised ? Nothing can justify them" Walter protests.

"Walter, Walter ... " Huges shaked his index finger and grinned. "We have the dungeons and a steady supply of pathetic fools waiting to be hang, execute or feed to the moat moster every month, don't we ?"

"Besides, if the paladins are lucky enough to clean up the demons, we find the opportunity to question the Silver Hand's ability to cleanse this land of evil as they claim. That will be enough to shaken the fledging faith"

Huges parted his hands. "On the other hand, the demons will ruin the remnants of Silver Hand."

"Both side of the coin, we will be the winner." He decreed.

"What will happen after that ?" Walter questioned.

"We will be back in place" Huges cocked his head, "Oh, you mean the imps ?"
"Naturally, they will be remove. I have never request them to stay here forever" Huges glowed radiantly.
"Fireband mage clan will receive compliments from the His Majesty. Period."

Leaves dropped down to the jungle floor, swaying and dancing slowly on the path lead by gravity.
Bubbles and foams made blopping noises in accordance with the croaking of frogs and hissing of bugs or some other unknown creatures.

Falling leaves, Walter stare at the falling leaves at the end of Huges's preaching.
Falling leaves, falling leaves ... green falling leaves, falling leaves are green ...

Sensational tingles begin to form on the back of Walter's neck. He swerved in the direction of the pond, which is not exactly a swamp and yet bubbles are floating to the surface in steady streams...

Walter twitched his ears and concentrated to filter out Huges's voice. Although Walter unable to discern whether the croaks much from the hisses, he cannot help but feel a rhythematic pattern to it...

Huges seems to sense Walter's unease and stare intensely at his comrade as if to pose the question "What's wrong ?"

Walter would agreed that given the chance, Huges may confess that he regretted for refusing to form a telepathic link with him.
Anyway, the advance warning would not be sufficient to warrant any change in the upcoming conflict.

The jungle has jostled to life and peace is not what it seeks.

[infernoc3]

The Hunt

A Water Elemental burst violently from the pond and grabbed the two mages who are still deliberating over who should taste the water first.
Their screams barely started before they are embraced by the pond. Not longer than the time taken to cast a fireball, two blocks of ice floated on the surface of the pond.

The mages previously resting on the log found themselves caught in the air. That is, if they are awared of their situation at all.
The net which hosted the mages pulsed with bright blue sparks. Apparently shocked into unconsciousness.

The mages on the clearing, stood up and back away. "Stop ! Don't go there !" Walter warned.
It is too late as the earth open up and swallow the whole group of mages like a hungry monster.

Walter, Huges and the seniors are the remaining ones and they are under the tree. The tree ! Huges looked up just in time to roll away, as two jungle cats roared down on them.

Each of the creatures landed on a senior mage respectively, and the last standing mage is in the middle of conjuring a spell when he received a swift kick that lay him down instantly.

It is clear now to Walter and Huges that this is no battle, it is a hunt. The mages are preys.

Silently the predators faded into view, the jungle cats exit the shade of the tree.
The jungle cats are in fact humans with claw-like weaponry, stripped to their wrists. They are mistresses of claws.

The first attacker that caught Huges's sight, donned black leather armour and long black gauntlets and boots, in stark contrast with her pale white complexion. A shapely figure that moved with the deadly grace of a feline. The slender figure is supported by a pair of attractive long legs which unfortunately suggested that they contained enough strength to shatter the skull with a single blow.
Cropped jet-black hair which challenged gravity like cruel spikes stood out from the top, The owner of katars had dark eyes which seems to suck out any light around them. A dainty nose, blood-red lips and elfish ears. A chill ran down the mages' spines as she displayed a smile.

Her companion, the mistress of claws is less intimidating. Well, just slightly. Of similar build, her hair pulled back like waves of dark flames.
Brown eyes and features so pleasant that Walter is sure she will fit the image of a nice young country girl, if she replaced the leather armour and claws.

Black leather armour, gauntlets and boots, Huges begins to wonder whether it is the uniform for these female huntresses. The notion is brought down soon enough.

The hole which swallowed the group of Fireband mages, spit forth a forest dryad. A forest dryad on first impression, no doubt that 'it' is actually one of the hunters when she apologized "Hee, sorry I took so long. It is really difficult to dust off the dirt."

The third huntress is a refreshingly change from her sisters. Golden locks flowed down her shoulders covered with leaves. Large emerald eyes sprinkle with a tint of mischief. Cladded in soft silky armour which seems to change colour for every passing moment. A golden blade tied to the side of her belt and on her right wrist tied a red holder of daggers. Even with deadly weapons, she still gives the impression of a peace-loving forest fairy.

The two surrounded mages though they had as much suprises as one deserve in a day, when the last huntress emerged, literally.
As the 'Water Elemental' hooked the ice blocks (which encased the immobilized mages) onto the clearing with her trident, she purred "Can we hurry up a bit ?"

The water maiden displayed unworldly beauty as she stood tall after hoisting up the second ice chunck onto the forest ground.
In her bathing suit, the curvaceous body is dazzling, spotless pearl-white. Her long hair which flowed down to her waist matched the colour of her complexion.
The face of a pixie, housed the jewels which captivated the full attention of the mages. Sapphires that seems to drive away the dampness of the jungle.

"I afraid I might catch a cold, if we tarry any longer"

Mistress of katars tipped her head slightly and taking the cue, Mistress of claws ripped the two mages' attention.
"Huges Qus and Walter Otais, founders of Fireband mage clan and senior mages."
"You are now charge for association with demons, agents of evils"
"What do you have to plead for your crime ?"

"I have learnt of your little myth and history before I became a mage" Huges scorned.
"Your clan main reason for existance is to suppress The Three."
"Now they are banished for a long time, if not eternity. So why don't you ladies pack your bags and go back to your thief guilds !?"
Huges's feeling of supremacy returned, "Why, I might reconsider not to send the Imperial Army to crush your pathetic stronghold, if you assassins take to your feets immediately"

"Oh, you mean you didn't know ?" The forest fairy squealed "We are contacted by the Silver Hand and with Your Majesty's consent" she crafted her words and emphasised on the word 'Your'.

Huges face turned ash-grey, "Curse that decadent weasel !" He turned his head and gazed at Walter.
"This might be our end. I'm glad to have you my brother" Huges sighed.

"Certainly, Huges. Nice knowing you. We shall go in glory !" Walter the Eternal Sunshine.
Walter's parting shot doesn't seems to be so annoying after all.

"Great, I am so afraid they will drum into one of those lengthy parting speech. Mages can be so torturing !" The water maiden surmised.
"Exactly, on closer observation, these mages don't seems that old after all" replied the forest fairy.
"Do we go one on one or finish it together ?" joined the Mistress of Claws.

Huges and Walter exchanged looks of amazement.
Reading from the ladies' expressions as they chatter on, one might be lead to think that they are in a conversation of selecting the best melon from the market, or in discussion of a expensive new dress in town.

[infernoc3]

Mistress of Claws

Mistress of Katars remained silent, instead she nodded at forest fairy and Mistress of Claws. The assassins' strategy is clear enough.

"How dare they look down on me ? They will be taught a valuable lesson" Huges gave a wicked grin as he revealed his hideous gauntlets.
Huges noted that Walter had gasped his Jarine's Stone. They are ready.

"After you, Cher" the forest fairy gestured.

"Well it might not be our doomsday after all" Huges thought as the mages focus their energies at Cher, the Mistress of Claws.

A sharp nearly undetectable exhale of breath, Cher charge at the mages, Huges outstretch arms send forth torrent of electrical charges at Cher.
Huges's attack is impossible to avoid as far he can remember, but Huges underestimated this enemy, who is above the class of any bandits or unruly town thugs he had ever met.
She is an assassin, trained for the sole purpose to defeat the wielder of the arcane arts.

Huges learnt that there willl be no stunned opponent today, as he looked at Cher's figure rocketing upwards from the spot where she last set foot on.
A somersault in midair and the assassin plunge down with the speed of a shootng star.

"Impressive" Walter eyes shone in admiration. Huges could never understand how his friend can pull such stunts. The last memorable moment had Walter squatting down to inspect a flower (he claimed it is an exotic specie, so what if it is ?).
That will be perfectly alright if they are not in the middle of a war, and not with the enemy's heavy cavalry tearing down the battle-field within 30 or 50 foots from confrontation.

With due credits to Walter, he always manage to snap back in time, like now. While his eyes transfixed on the flying feline, his hand waved the short staff in an enigmatic pattern. The big jewel at the end glows and emits a gust of strong wind. The swirling mass of air sucked in the fallen leaves into it and outlined the shape of the cyclone.

The cyclone extend upwards and caught hold of the falling assassin. Huges watched Cher circled rapidly along with the fallen leaves.
The damsel-in-distress picture would be perfect if she will just scream, Huges mused.
He begins to suspect that the elder mage might have exaggerated a bit, when he related the existence of the Assassins. They are not so tough after all.

Walter would have reminded him, "it would do you well to listen to your folks."
With a full swing, Cher drives one of her claws across and latch itself deep in a tree trunk. The metalic link between the claw and wrist holder contracts, pulling it's mistress out of the vicious swirling air to safety.

Safety is fleeting, as the tree trunk where Cher anchored, became charred wood at a blink. Courtesy of Huges's works of course. He flipped his wrists and shifted his arms to throw fireballs at his target with an unprecedent vigor. Not even in a major battle between bickering kingdoms, did Huges ever fights with such frenzy.
Walter definitely will mocked Huges for his attempt to mimick an orchestra conductor's actions, if his full attention is not on the acrobatic Cher, who leaped nimbly from tree to tree above the ground.

After a few rounds of tour on the surrounding trees, Cher decided it's enough and landed.

"Bad move, girl" Huges muttered and two fireballs, one from each palm, flew towards her.
The assassin knelt forth and arch her back, before she spring forward, straight at the mages.
This move means that she had just chose to kiss the fireballs.

The impact materialized. As smokes cleared from the the blast, Huges is given another pill of bitter disappointment as Cher stood the ground. The claws formed a cross infront, protecting the face and torso. Other than smokes lingering on her set of weapons and shoulder pads, there is no so much as a scratch to be found on her.

"Interesting" Walter remarked. Huges shook his head, "No, you fool. We just meet our doom".

[infernoc3]

Huges's Fall

Cher does not take well to criticism, especially when the critics are her preys.
The assassin's figure suddenly became a blur, and before Walter can rub his eyes, she appeared within an arm's length.
"Wow, talking about God's speed" Walter commented. Only the presence of opponents that distracts Huges, did it save Walter from his bloodlust curse.

The prey fought back, as Cher locked claws with Huges, She is puzzled why her metalic weapons did not cut through the mage's gauntlets. Must have been made of the skin of a gargoyle or the scale of a dragon. No matter, she had hundreds angles to attack from and thousands methods to snuff out the life essence of her target.

Huges channelled his force to his arms, and watched with satisfaction as his gauntlets turned from green to light blue. The wrench noticed it, but it is too late, as frost course through her veins and spread quickly to the rest of her body.

A goner, but she still keep a composed look. Damn it ! Huges started to go through the 101 tortures he had learnt from the prison warden. He is about to pick one which he is confident will rearrange her facial expression, when the frost melt away from the slender figure.

Cher's blazing claws clear all doubts. A sight to behold, as two powerful forces pit their strengths against each other. Her claws now torching with flames rise to a height where it nearly conceal her face from Walter's sight. His pal's gauntlets radiate rings of cold. The temperature in the vicinity fluctuate crazily and Walter felt sick.

They parted as if they understood the discomfort they have created. On the way out, Cher back-flip and her foot caught the senior mage's chin. "You bloody tigress ! You will pay for this !" Huges spat of verbal abuse and blood.

The insolent mage will be imbue with the knowledge that an assassin will not be insulted. The assassin rushed infront of Huges, so close that she can smell the horrible stink from the feeding contraption.
However, Cher is not a dentist, and proceed to slam the mage in his face with the back of her hand. The claw had effectively redecorate Huges's face. He looks like he had just put on a red mask with a pit lord image.

"Enough !" Walter hailed. If there will be one word to describe the two mages, will be The Hare and The snail.

Walter is slow, in all sense of the word when compare to Huges.
During the time where they are under the tuleage of the old mage, their difference is unmistakable.
Huges will be able to cast the spell when the tutoring mage is explaining the new cantation halfway.
The spell will serve it's purpose even though somewhat weak and have intermittent side-effects.
Huges had completed the whole tome for poison spells and shocked to find that his pal is still pouring over the fine wordings for the spell of acid arrow.
Huges could be up for battle in a split second, and Walter will still be pondering whether there is a cause for the fight.

How they wield magic is also different.
Huges had traded the potency of a well prepared spell, for the ability to project several ones in the space of an instant, knowing that the penalty is having only a fraction of the strength of a well prepared spell.

Huges had his reason for the prejudice. During the numerous wars and battles that he had encountered, he had witnessed first-hand how a powerful wizard or an accomplished sorcerer while conjuring a spectacular spell, can be cut down by a fast moving warrior.
The senior mage had so much pride in him that he will rather be Diablo's play toy than suffer the fate of defeat by a clueless archer or a foolhardy fighter, who will charge at him without the faintest idea of what his magics had in store for the recipient.
The imperial scribe had an unique sense of humor, dutifully recorded the numerous practical jokes inside the royal archives, that it reinforced Huges's view on the application of magics.

Nevertheless, Huges knows that when the dull mage made up his mind, he will be a formidable opponent with the endurance equivalent to a babarian.

Cher is about to bring the cursing mage to his kneels when she is squeezed. The assassin felt as if she is in the grasp of a snow drifter, her lungs pumped furiously for oxygen. It is not long before she found herself flung through the air. The moment her lungs are at ease, she is in control, and a series of backflips had the gymnastic champion landed gracefully in a distance.

With tireless energy of a griffin, the Mistress of Claws launched her second attack. This time, the attempt had met with little resistance, well almost.
The insufferable mage glared at her with one hand nursing his chin, while the other smiled brightly from below. She is hovering above them... no, she is standing in the thin air just above them.

"When and where did you learn this spell ?" whispered Huges. Without removing his glaze at the sleek feline, Walter causally informed "Oh it's from the tome of protection spells in our Master's library."

Another remarkable difference between the mages. Huges deemed any spells which are not capable of reducing his opponent to dust as virtually useless.

The mages bath under the shockwave, a product of the impact as Cher rammed both her claws at the invisible shield, her eyes hold the wildness of a hungry beast. Not suprising if lycanthropy is part of her training, as it does not constitute magics.

The large sapphire on Walter's Jarine's Stone looks like it going to crack anytime soon, but the shield still holds as stubbornly as the smile of Walter's face.

Huges begins to appreciate his pal's weaknesses.

A cough from the Mistress of Katars, Cher stopped her pounding and tilted her head, Like a curious squirrel looking at her collection of nuts, Cher clasped her hand together and shutted her eyes.
A chanting is heard and the next thing they know, she vanished.

Walter is caught off-guard when the assassin appeared next to him. How did she manage to penetrate his force shield ? Walter received a kick for an answer, which knocked the winds out of him.

Huges seized the precious opportunity and grabbed Cher's neck from behind. The jewels on the gauntlets take on an eerie green.
Cher's eyes widen and let out a cry. "Finally you feel the pain, beg me and I might give you a quick death !" Huges teased as he tenderly licked her soft, delicate ear.

Before that dog can lay it's tongue, Cher looked down before smash in the back of her head into it's face. Huges let go, but the damage is done. His face is redder than crimson blood.

Cher dropped to her kneels, her body trembling uncontrollably. Green veins surfaced and flushed across her arms, neck and then the face, bulging so as if threatening to explode in order to escape from the host.
In agony, Cher shutted her eyes and once again begin to chant.

Walter reminded himself to find out what is the association between the Assassins and the Silver Hand if he gets out alive.

As quickly as the poison spreads, it retreats hastily into the metalic claws, which takes on a luminous green light.

"Had a taste of your own medicine" Cher retorted Huges in a steely voice. Huges had bonded with the gorgeous babe, her claw inside him.

[infernoc3]

Kiss of Maiden

"No !!!" Walter's cry barely ended when Huges slumped like a sack of potatoes. The fight is all but over for Huges.
It is not yet time for celebration and retribution is swift on Cher.

Walter had withdrew the force shield and compressed the magical energy into a size of a fist. With a squeeze on the floating ball of energy, he hurled it towards Cher.

The assassin's reflexes optimally conditioned, swiftly adopted the defensive stance. The collison that ensued, pushed the Mistress of Claws right across the clearing, and imprinted her into a large tree. Two trails of uncovered soil marked a path, as though they are the aftermath of an ox ploughing the field.

Cher barely had time to inspect the blood she coughed up when Walter magically extracted her from the tree and thrown her onto the jungle floor.

Her trainings allow her to recover quickly and Cher is in the standing position when she is immobilized.
Able to breath and see, however she had difficulty moving her limbs. Feels like a fly in a jelly.

"My turn" Forest Fairy entered the spotlight. "Be careful, Efi" Cher warned.

Amidst his anger, Walter's mind wonder again. How odd is this sisterhood.

Here you have one trying to best two mages while the rest stood by as aloft observers. Follow by the other one getting in the fight with no intention of rescuing her trapped sister. Ironically, the prisoner of his magic actually voiced concern for that lovely little brat.

"Are you ready ?" Walter rolled his eyes.

He would not be surprise if she had asked him whether he needs a sedan to get out of here, or what would he be having for dinner tonight.

"So I take it that you are" Efi declared, as poor Walter starts to look confused.

The handful of daggers stripped on her wrist, became alive as they speed from their mistress to find new resting place in Walter's flesh.
Walter hastily waved his staff and a projectile of chilling substance leave to meet the speeding daggers.

Spiraling as it travelled through the air, the icy projectile freezed the daggers in midair and they fell to the floor breaking into tiny ice fragments.
The owner clearly disturbed at their demise, snatch the golden circlet from her head and threw it on the ground.
The marvelous strands of sunrays floated around the shoulders are ever so captivating even with the frown wore on the second challenger.

Mistress of Katars murmured disapproval at the loss of composure, and motivates Efi to press her attack.
A metal disc with jagged edges appeared out of nowhere in her grasp, and she threw it callously in Walter direction.

Walter instinctively raised his Jarine's Stone to counter the attack, but halt when he noticed that the disc is spinning lazily in a circular manner, many paces from his position.
Another disc is thrown, then another ... until there are about ten or more of spinning discs in the air.
Walter is deliberating whether he should make a joke of it, when Efi raised her hand high up, and her outstretch fingers close in sharply as if to grab something.
The spinning discs obeyed their mistress command, surrounded and close in on Walter, buzzing away like angry bees.

Walter pulled his same old trick, and cast ice attacks at the spinning discs. This time the magic failed, as the chill managed to slow down but unable to stop them in their track.

Realised he had to do something fast before he become meat for the sabre-cat, Walter resurrected the force shield and kept the spinning discs at bay.

"Hah ! And I though you magicians will have more tricks than that !" taunted Efi.

"Wait ! I will surrender and go with you, if you will release Huges" Walter pleaded.
"My friend is injured and in needs of immediate medical attention."

"It's alright. If your friend is beyond the skills of the priest when we get back. I promise, he will have a quick death" Efi assured him cordially.

How nice, Huges found his contender for the throne of Baal.

"Efi, would you hurry up ?" the Water Maiden yawned, holding up her silky hand to her mouth, undeniably beautiful even when she performed such coarse act.

"Right away, Isha dear." apologized Efi with no hint of sincerity.

From her belt, she retrieved several sticks each looks like a overtly large dagger with fat waist. In a well-practised move, she hurled the sticks away, which landed just outside Walter's force shield.

Nothing happen at first, 'the sticks' just stuck out of the ground. Moments later, they slowly unfolded to reveal a metalic head shaped like a funnel. These metalic heads start to rotate slowly at first, then picked up the pace
until they spewed forth sprays of flames and lightning bolts.

The generators of elements combined with the spinning discs weight down on the force shield, Walter could sense it faltering and immediately added an elemental shield.

Time passed slowly under the festering heat of the midday sun. The jungle can offer only so much relieve from His Glory.

From a small parting of the tree's canopy, one could see that the clear blue sky catching on a faint orange-red.

Huges remains unconscious.

The Mistress of Claws had managed to secure her freedom.

Mistress of Katars now lean on the side of the tree where the mages had previously rest under. Her hands and legs are crossed, patiently waited for the outcome with one eye closed.

The water maiden opted for a leisure swim in the pond and occasionally waved to her sisters, catching their attention.
Most of the time, she will excitedly hold up a brightly coloured bug or amphibian she had just discovered.
Probably poisonous, but it does not seems to bother her.

The assassin known as Efi, has the task to monitor the supply of killer discs and fire-breathing devices. Her belt had ran out of those devices, but she had backup from a sack behind her. Walter figures that sack carries enough quantity to last until supper. Efi continued to send out discs which he still have no clue where she got them from, magical or otherwise.

Walter should be the most hardworking of them, his shoulders tired from the extended strain of supporting his outstretch arms, which channelled the energies that in turn sustained the magical shields. His face and brows are dotted with sweat and heat dissipated from his back much like a minature bonfire.
It would not be long before he collapses from total exhaustion.

Mistress of Katars decided to break her silence.
"We have to report back to the Silver Hand before sunset. We don't have much time left. Isha, get it over with"

"My honors, Mave" the water maiden jettisoned out of the waters. Letting go of her trident, she strode over to Walter.
Her small palm rested on the shields and to Walter's astonishment, the shields crystalized and shattered to pieces.

Before Walter could recover from the shock, Isha slided her arms around and embraced him. Gazing at those sparkling sapphires, Walter wished that time would stop at this very moment.

"Have a good rest, Walter" Isha smiled as she planted a gentle kiss on his lips.
His body felt drained, his fingers are numbed.
His eyes grew heavy, his mind drew blank.

"Not this trick again !?"

"What's wrong with that ?"

"Oh it's perfectly alright, just don't expect me to help you this time"

"Pleeeaasee ... "

"Don't look at me, I'm not going to haul a granite all the way back to the city"

"Pleeeaasee ... "


I am unable to feel anything. I am so tired. There is no light, only darkness, complete darkness ....

[infernoc3]

Unrest

The dark figure walked among the crowd in the busy street. Dressed in black robes that covered up to his feet, a hood shield much of his features from curious eyes. His hands joined infront, hidden in the long sleeves.

He stuck out like a sore thumb in the bright, sunny day, The market manage to create a wide berth for the mysterious man to pass through, even though it seems packed with townfolks. An innocent child run up to his side and tugged at his robe. He stayed his walk and before he can turned to get a clear look at the giggling youngster, the child's guardian pounce on her and together scamper away with fearful eyes.

Zen realized that it proved more difficult to make his purchases in this town than the last one. Well, he cannot really blame any living soul for his predicaments. His dull, listless eyes bring back memories of the deceased. His feathery, pale long hair emits peculiar yet strong smell, as if he had bathed daily in a mixture of an alchemist's potions.
The last merchant scored high points for his trading profession. Not only that he keeps up a straight face, the drawf is able to exchange pleasantries and made small talk when Zen picked among his goods. Alas, the poor fellow freak out when Zen tried to pay for the purchase, unavoidably revealing his ghastly bony hand.

Still, things get done even if not smoothly. However, he had not much luck in this town. So far, he is unsuccessful in making a conversation, as he can't get close enough to make his words audible. Shouting is not an option, broadcasting his deep echoing voice will surely trigger an evacuation.

For consolations, Zen is awared that he is the star for the day. Everyone stop their activities to bask in his glory, if he can excuse the rudeness of wide staring eyes and opening jaws.

The tired-looking man is considering whether he should try his luck elsewhere, when the authorities confirmed his plan.

Three guardsmen approached him, two of them with halberds and the one in the middle carries a sword who Zen assumed he is the captain.

The captain started the conversation "Who are you stranger ?" "The guardsmen voluntarily pitched their noses.

"I am Zen. A traveller just arrive here from Transeville." Zen reported. Experience taught him that being helpful with details may not be the best in his interests.

"I'm afraid we might have to ask for you absence" the captain obviously had no interest in who or what Zen is.

"The town had been unsettling of late, my offer is with due concerns for your personal safety. Please consider". How touching.

"Thank you. I shall depart immediately" Zen had no reason to complain, the captain is definitely the most courteous soldier that he had met in ages.

Soon, Zen is atop a hill overlooking the town below. All that golds he had, could not afford him a temporary shelter from the wilderness. Trying to map out the next possible route from the high position, Zen suddenly picked up a familiar scent, the scent of decay.

Like a vulture, the necromancer descent gradually to the foot of the hill. Hidden from view by thick undergrowth, Zen would have miss it, if not for his keen nose.
He swam through the bushes and face the entrance of a cave. A small one by his standards, as he had to bend over to enter. The inside of the cave is spacious, and Zen is pleased to find the air cooling, a welcome change from the unbearable heat outside.

The floor is littered with bones, all belong to the creatures of the wild. As if he had stayed in the cave for all his life, Zen move across and descend a flight of stony steps. Before he had lift his foot off the last step, the necromancer heard a roar and clamoring of clashing metals.

A gathering of animated skeletons and lethargic zombies encircled a muscular young man. The well built warrior had a large battleaxe and a scythe sling across his back. A claymore in his left hand and a bastard sword in his right, wacking away at their master's enemies.
He had minimal clothing except for a pair of brown boots and a loincloth. Never would Zen expect to find a savage in a crypt.

Zen greeted the exercising savage, "Good day, Sir. I am known as Zen. May I ask what manner of business are you engage in ?"

A long pause, the intellectually challenged needs time to digest the polished message.

"I, Hanka. Greatest warrior of the Spirit Wolf tribe. Hanka don't need help from Zen" the mighty warrior then illustrated his point by piercing skulls with his blades respectively.

"Oh, I.... see" The necromancer remained unconvinced as the undead piled themselves on the barbarian, who is trying to remove his weapons from the skulls.

Zen helped himself, leafing through the remains like an archeologist.

"Hey, I saw that first ! It's mine, leave it alone !" Hanka berated, still pinned under the restless undead.

"Oh, you are not here to cleanse this place of evil ?" queried the necromancer.

"Evil ? What Evil ? What is 'Evil' ?" the savage rattled at an incredible rate.

Zen studied the barbarian closely for the first time. Thick black hair and thick eyebrows. Large black eyes and a short stout nose. Square set jaws with no trace of hair. Giant for a human, the mess of muscles housed an impressionable youth.

"Have you heard of the 3 Prime Evils ? What about the WorldStone ? Does Mephisto, Diablo or Baal rings a bell ?" Zen ignored his questions and opt to imitate his subject.

"Err... what, what ? I don't care, just leave that piece alone or I will cleave your bosom !"

So this is what happen when the WorldStone get destroyed ?

No, how could I be so cold ? The barbarians have sacrified many of their kins. The elders who have survived the Great Conflict, spoke of the tears and blood, his kind had spill in their stand against the Lord of Destruction.
It is understandable that the survivors would choose not to relive the pains. Some memories are best hidden if not erased. This young savage has been blessed with ignorance.

"You must be proud of your parents and your ancestors, child" Zen changed to a gentle tone.

"I, I ... am Hanka, not child. I am the greatest warrior of the Spirit Wolf tribe !" unable to comprehend what the saggy man means, the barbarian decided it's safer to replay his standard statement.

"Yes, yes... you are the greatest warrior." Zen pacified as he attracted the bones littered around him and mend them to a form, in the shape of a spear.
A wave of his hand, the spear-like form raced through the air, shaved off the undead that happen to be in its path.

The attack decimated the load on the barbarian's back. He let out a battlecry and repel off the remaining undead, raising both his arms above his head.

"I am free !" the Hanka boomed with such force that his words resonated throughout the inner walls of the crypt. Nearby skeleton warriors crumbled at the sonic attack. Zen touches his ears. Blessings from Trang'Oul ! My ears are not bleeding.

"So what are you looking for ?" enquired Zen as he returned the few remaining undead to the earth with his projectiles.

"Not sure. A town guy I met bring me here. He says there are riches and advantures to be found." Hanka frowned.
"But town guy coward, runs off when these bones attack"

Ahh, that's a good choice. The treasures here doesn't seems to worth that much, to make up for the loss of hearing.

Zen surveyed the surrounding of the crypt, every spot had been thoroughly ransacked. The savage is quick. "I believe you have complete your shopping"

"Yah" Hanka gleamfully held up the sack "All here !" Then he pointed at the crown in the necromancer's hand. "And that one is mine too !"

"Alright, here you go" resigned Zen as he hand over the last piece of treasure. If the dim-wit had any brain cells left in him, he will do well to trade his loot at a market faraway from this land. The penalty for looting the tomb of a royal family is death.

Hmmm... how could there be so many undead guardians here ? Zen checked the heap of fossil and rotting flesh.

Even with ravaging spirits, it will take at least a generation before an army of this size can be raised.
This crypt looks a bit too young, unless .... Zen hated to think that this phenomenon had anything to do with his brethrens.

Before Zen can assess whether the horde of undead is the work of another necromancer or by the taint of evil, he is interrupted by loud crashing noise.

The wall at their side had collapse, revealing a massive skeleton. This unnatural entity had large crescent-shape front limbs, much like the tip of the scythe on the barbarian's back. The rear limbs are made up of curved claws, and the head consists of gaping jaws that hang razor-sharp teeth. Pulling all its weapons together is a solid spine bone that connects to a set of ribcage, which flaps up and down like a bird in flight.

The monster which is more than twice their height lumber in, and swipe at the barbarian with his massive cutlass.
Hanka jumped back in time, and counterattack by leaping straight up, smashing it's jaws with his feet. The bone golem wriggled angrily as the barbarian shift his position to seat on the back of the monster's neck.

A loud thud, Hanka's first blow seems to freeze the bone golem. While the monster is domesticated, the barbarian hacked hard at the neck joint with both his swords. Zen heard sounds of splitting bones and the severed golem's head landed on the floor.

"There, I did it again ! Hanka is victorious !" the savage chest out with pride as he crashed the golem's head to powder under his feet.

"With regrets, I will have to inform you that we need to flee this place, NOW !" Zen looks more ghastly than ever.

The barbarian is prepared to argue with his weak friend when the body of the bone golem moved. It reared back and at the witness of the two adventurers, a head grew out of the neck.

"As good as new, isn't it ?" Zen requested the barbarian's opinion, who now takes the expression of the townfolks he had met earlier.

Certain that he will get no reply, Zen raised his staff (that looks rather like a demon head) and cast his magic.

"Hey ! Who turn off the lights !" Hanka screamed

The necromance grabbed the barbarian by his arm and head for the exit, weaving his staff at the path behind them after every few steps.
Before they ascent up the flight of stony steps, Zen glanced back, deduced that the rows of bone barricades should be able to delay the powerful golem for a while. Then halfway up the stairs, Zen launched projectiles at the crypt ceilings and seal up the exit.

The duo feel the cave vibrating with piercing screams of anguish, before they basked once again under the lights of the life-giving sun.

[infernoc3]

Crossroads

"Let go of me !" yelled Hanka as he yanked his arm free.

When they are nearly done with panting, the barbarian cried "By the totems ! My sack ? My sack !"

He is about to be sucked back into the cave when Zen stopped him "Forget about your hoard ! There are other adventures out there for you to explore !"
"Look" the necromancer spiced his persuasion "I have enough gold with me to get myself a castle, I will share it with you"

"Really ? Zen is a good man ! Let's go get ourselves some ale !" Hanka's lifted spirits manipulated the body into a hearty stride.

Am I that good ? Hmm.. with some makeover, maybe I can freelanced as negotiator, Zen mused.

"Young warrior, oh greatest warrior of,... Spirit Wolf tribe" corrected Zen "We might have some problem in town"

"Why ? We pay, we eat, we drink, we sleep, we get swords and armours !" reasoned the barbarian.

"How should I put it ? Aren't you afraid of me ?" the necromancer probed.

The barbarian stared back blankly "Should Hanka fear little weak man ?"

Zen had never experienced such mix feelings before.
Heartening, to finally found someone who will not tremble in his presence.
Amused, that he is ever considered to be a 'little weak man'.

The follower of Rathma can't recall when is the last time he felt his cool blood circulate so fast in his body.

"All right ! Let's celebrate !" Zen pulls up his hood and keeps up with the young warrior.

The journey to the next town had been rather uneventful. Hanka had dispatched the mercenaries who tried to ambush them, without breaking the stride. The well trodden path lead them to a crossroad, that split into several different paths.
There are no signs nor directions.

Alone, the necromancer would make a calculated guess and takes one of the path.
However, this time, the barbarian plays leader and wishes to consult the feral spirits of the woods.

Zen heaved a sigh of defeat and rested under a tree as Hanka prepares the ritual.

The barbarian is carving a piece of wood when a carriage approached in the distance.

Hanka abandoned his half-done totem and waved wildly as the carriage come near.
"Hey, where are you going to ? Are you going to town ?! Hey ! Hey !?"

Unfortunately, the carriage shows no sign of slowing down and hurried pass the blopping warrior.
Annoyed, the barbarian took to his feet and chased after the carriage.

Oh no, I should have anticipated that. Zen slapped himself on the forehead and followed after the savage.

The barbarian agility is amazing, closer in to the carriage moments after Zen took to his feet.

With a shout, Hanka leaped onto the back of the carriage and about to remove the roof when he clutched the sides of his head and fell off.

Zen quicken his pace to help the warrior when he felt giddy all of a sudden. A blinding pain as if his mind has been struck with a sledgehammmer. The necromancer stood firmly and watched the carriage increase the distance between them.

The carriage is about to disappear from sight when it stopped. Three armed riders appeared from beyond and stopped next to the carriage. A dialogue take place between the riders and the passengers of the carriage.

Zen moves closer cautiously. He could make out a pair of haunting eyes from the window of the carriage. The pair of sight delivered a chilling feeling and seems to dim the area where they focus on.

The dialogue is brief and the carriage disappeared out of sight. The barbarian is back on his feet and stands next to Zen when the riders approached them.
One of the knights of the shining armour pointed his sceptor at Zen "You ! You have the aura of death about you."
His comrade who wield a mace added on "Begone and know that you will be banish if you ever set foot on this land !"

Hanka who have yet to dissipate his anger from the fall, found his punching bags. "Hanka listen to no one ! Metal heads step aside or taste my blades !"

Well communicated, the two parties further developed their relationship with physical contact. The riders disembarked and attacked Hanka.

The barbarian swinged his swords and met with mace, sceptor, maul and shield. Zen let the barbarian danced among the attackers as he stay back to deal projectiles. One of them raised his shield to block Hanka's blow, leaving his chest vulnerable as one of Zen's projectiles pierce through the breastplate. The victim utter a cry and laid on the ground. At the sight of their comrade's untimely death, the surviving attackers broke off the fight and escaped on their mounts.

Zen studied the deceased while keeping a firm grip on Hanka, to prevent the barbarian from any attempt of pursue.

"By the Great Cycle" the necromancer announced as he fingered the insignia on the breastplate "We have just slain a paladin of the Silver Hand"