kapten425

[kapten425]

Chapter 5 Part 2 "A Challenge of Fate"

Elias looked at the coming colossal horseman. A creature he never expected to be here. Armor made of gold and wood, a golden halberd and a gold engraved shield. This was a Tree Sentinel, one of the Guardians of the Golden Capital. What it was doing here, so far from the capital. His thoughts were interrupted when the Sentinel rushed towards Elias and the sisters at full speed. The sisters moved in front of Elias in order to protect him, at the last moment Elias shouted.

"SPREAD OUT!!!!!"

The sisters dashed to the side, as their King ordered them. They thought that the Sentinel will follow them. But, as they found out to late, they weren't it's target. It was Elias. As it brought down its halberd, Elias jumped back, getting out of reach just in time. The impact of the weapon caused a small cloud of dust to rise, as the Sentinel retracted his weapon. Elias looked at the Sentinel, he right hand was firmly at his sword but he didn't unsheath it yet. With another slashing move from the Sentinel Elias dived close to the horse, directly under it. As he passed under it, the horse rose to its back legs, trying to squash Elias under its front hooves. Before it could continue, Alena used her flow sword and whipped the horse legs, making it to lose balance and hit the ground near Elias. Lanet tried to jump to the Sentinel, but the Sentinel responded quickly. Using its shield he bashed towards Lanet, sending her flying to the ground behind her. Lanet felt the impact and struggled to stand up. Alena seeing that screamed.

"I'LL KILL YOU, YOU BASTARD!!"

She then run towards the Sentinel, aiming at it's head. The Sentinel jumped up into the air, missing Alena's dash. Elias seeing were this was going rushed in. He grabbed Alena and tossed her near Lanet, like a sack. Then as the Sentinel came down it slammed his shield on the ground, Elias tried to block the shockwave with his hands. The impact pushed him back. Sliding through the dirt he managed to stay on his feet. He locked eyes with the Sentinel as he started to circle around it. It was then he noticed something, its eyes. Its eyes were glowing with a bright white colour. He was unsure of what it meant until he stepped to the side. The Sentinel followed Elias."So this is the game you are playing." thought Elias. Alena and Lanet tried to get up, in order to assist but they stopped when they heard Elias.

"Stand down, it's me it wants."

Lanet tried to talk.

"But my Lord....."

Elias shouted, cutting her up.

"STAY OUT OF THIS. THAT'S AN ORDER!!!!"

Even though Lanet wanted to fight, it was clear she was not in condition to. Alena seeing she could do nothing, she turned to her sister to check if she was ok. Elias unsheathed his sword as he was walking slowly around the Sentinel. Both of them were facing each other intensely. When he was sure the Sentinel was away from the sisters he lowered his blade's tip to touch the ground. As he looked at the Sentinel his hand tightened his sword.

"Come on. Face me. I dare you."

The Sentinel gave grunt as his horse kicked the ground. With a mighty gallop the Sentinel rushed and brought his halberd upon Elias, who in return used his sword to deflected the halberd above him. For a while the Sentinel tried, desperately, to hit Elias. Slashes and thrust waved through the air, raising dust on every action. But Elias was fast to evade and deflect his attacks. Alena and Lanet could only watch as their King passed through the Sentinel's attacks as if they were nothing, confirming the rumours for his sword mastery.

They were not though the only observers of the fight. From the hill Varre was watching the fight with great interest. He could sense Elias's power but he never expected such mastery of the blade. He was lucky Elias was in good mood when they met. From a nearby bush Melina was also a spectator of the fight, together with Torrent, who for some reason he was also restless. From the moment he sniffed Elias up to this point, he was watching him in a way he had never done before. Like he knew him from somewhere, but was not sure. "Just who was this man." Melina thought.

The Sentinel attempted to ram towards Elias with its shield. As he stepped to the side the shield move forward and tried to hit Elias. But Elias simply stepped backwards just outside its range. Seeing the Sentinel's shield extended, Elias quickly kicked the shield upwards, breaking the Sentinel's defense and started slashing the side of the horse. His plan was simple. Break its balance, bring it to his level, wore him out. The horse turned then, and out of frustration, it tried to kick Elias away. Elias blocked with his sword, but the weight of the horse pushed him back. As he slided across the ground he used his sword to raise a cloud of dust in front of him. The Sentinel aimed at the spot he was supposed to be and thrusted with all its might. The impact cleared the dust, but Elias was not in the spot. As it raised its eyes, it saw Elias had jumped in the air and tried to bring his sword to its head. Sparks flied from the point the sword hit its helmet. Elias landed on the Sentinel's shield and using it as a platform he jumped away, landing a few feet in front of the sisters. As he was finding his balance, at the last minute, the Sentinel swiped the ground, throwing a large rock at Elias's direction. Seeing he couldn't avoid it without Alena and Lanet getting hit by the boulder, he straighten his body and prepared his sword. Then with a piercing thrust he hit the boulder head on. Any other sword would have snapped by the pressure, having their wielder killed. But to everyones surprise it was the boulder that cracked. The fragments of the boulder flew to the side, as Elias retracted his sword, with a fast motion. It was clear to him that his previous plan could not come to fruition in time. He had to end this, now and there. He pointed his sword towards the Sentinel.

"Let's end this."

The Sentinel obliged by rushing and bringing down his halberd upon Elias. This time Elias didn't move. The halberd fall on Elias's place raising a thick cloud of dust. Lanet and Alena could feel their hearts stopping by the sight. The halberd must have gotten Elias straight, there was no way anyone could survive that hit. They tried to shout, but the shock had paralyzed them. The Sentinel turning to the side began to retract his halberd, indicating that the deed was done. But the halberd was stuck. He tried harder to pull it and watched something it never expected to see. As the dust settled down, Elias was still standing. His sword was in his left hand, while the halberd's blade was currently under his right foot. The Sentinel tried to pull it with all its might, only for Elias to push it down harder. Elias spoke to the confused Sentinel.

"You missed, and now...."

The Sentinel prepared to pull the hardest. At the last second, Elias jumped on the halberd's back blade and prepared himself for his next attack.

"My turn."

The Sentinel pulled the halberd fast, propelling Elias forward towards it. It raised its shield to protect his chest. As Elias was spinning forward, he grabbed his hammer with his right hand at prepared to struck the side of its shield. The Sentinel expect a simple deflect, something it could take. But it was proven wrong the moment the hammer came in contact with the shield. The purple gem on top the hammer head shinned, and the shield was pushed to the side with tremendous force. It took the Sentinel several seconds to understand what happened. As the shield flew to the side it also pulled the Sentinel's arm, tearing up its muscles and dislocating its shoulder. As the Sentinel was about to scream in pain, Elias stabbed it straight to his chest with his sword. The momentum he had tossed the Sentinel off its horse and landed it a couple of meters away. The Sentinel screamed in pain. It tried to move its left arm, only to fail miserably. It then noticed that Elias's sword was stuck to its chest, stopped by its armor and only a few inches from its heart. Elias, who landed a few meters away rised up and slowly started walking towards the Sentinel. Approaching ever closer to it. The Sentinel, in a desperate state tried to crawl on its back to run away. The scene scared every spectator of this fight to it's core. Melina and Varre watched as the once powerful Sentinel, responsible for many tarnished warriors deaths, cowered in fear in front of Elias. As Elias reached the Sentinel, it tried a final desperate attack with its halberd. Elias seeing the attack turned to the side. With the halberd passing from his side Elias struck it with his hammer, sending the colossal weapon flying to the nearby hill and sticking to it like an arrow. He then climbed to the Sentinel's chest and raised his hammer once again.

"You fought well. But you did one big mistake."

Then the hammer fell on top Elias's sword. The sword moved fast from the hammer's impact. As it bore deeper into the Sentinel's flesh it pierced its heart, stopping only when the blade's tip touched the ground. The Sentinel's visor filled with bloodas it struggled to breath. Elias came closer to its face, addressing it one final time.

"I will never fall to you, ever again. Greater Will. I'm coming for you. And this time it will be you who will fall."

The Sentinel's eyes started to dim, as the last of its strength left him. Elias pulled his sword and jumped off the disintegrating Sentinel. His deed was done, and as many others who dared to stand in his way, the proud Sentinel was no more.

[kapten425]

Chapter 5 Part 1 " A Challenge of Fate"

Elias was alone and chained up in his jail cell. He hasn't talked since his arrest. He was there for 5 days and he hasn't made any move to prove his innocence or to eat. Not like he could think about it anyway. His mind was in a daze, rushing back and forth to the moment of the incident. He was trying to understand if what happened was his work or not. If all this was a dream and he would wake up back to his room, at his master's workshop with Enouch giving him his morning assignment while waiting for Seluvis to come bickering for been forced to work there. He wondered if Seluvis was okay, if he was still alive. He had hoped that he was gonna tell the truth about what happened. That all this was an accident. But as the time passed his hope started to fade. He was now certain that something was gonna happen to him, and he had to accept it.

The Captain of the Night Guard entered the jail and approached Elias's cell. The two guards standing there raised in attention. He looked at Elias behind the bars, while talking to the guards.

"Has he had any food."

One of the guards replied.

"No sir. He hasn't eaten or talked."

The captain was skeptical. Based on the description of the two guards that the victim was attacked by this young man, and based on the destruction of the workshop, he expected a violent and brutal individual. But contrary to what they said Elias was silent,calm and not aggressive. Even he, who had seen many criminals play innocent just to get out, was starting to question the validity of the situation. But he had orders, and he needed to follow them. With a sign the two guards opened the cell door and the captain entered the cell and stood before the chained up Elias.

"Remove his shackles."

Elias flinched at the given order. As the guards removed his shackles he stood up. The captain came closer.

"Elias, I have orders to escort you back to Enouch workshop. You are to say your final goodbye before heading back for the execution."

Elias froze at these words. If he was to be executed then this could mean only one thing. Seluvis was dead. Tears began flooding his face. The captain seeing this put his hand on the crying Elias.

"Don't worry, it will be swift and painless."

Elias raised his head, looking at the captain straight to the eyes.

"How would you know?"

The captain was quick to answer.

"The Queen will be the one to carry out the deed. If this is any consolation."

Elias was numb, like every part of his body and soul were shattered. The captain pushed him slowly and together they walked outside.

The Sun was bright, upon the city of Nokstela. The air was filled with smell of local delicacies and the sound of chattering. The captain looked at a nearby stall packed with freshly baked goods. He looked at them the same way a child would look at a candy stall. Not many knew but the captain had always great appetite for good food. He looked at Elias for a moment. The young man was not talking at all, only looking forward with a dazed look. He then realized that the boy hadn't eaten anything since his arrest. He pulled out his coin purse and buy a honey raisins bun from the baker. He then offered it to Elias. Elias looked at him with a questioning look. The captain smiled.

"Here, it is unwise to go down with an empty stomach."

Elias wanted to decline, but once the smell of the bun reached his nostrils, his stomach reminded him of his starvation. He took the bun, thanking the captain in the process. After the first bite, Elias began to gorging the bun like famished man. Even the captain looked at him with a surprised face.

"Marika's tits you must be hungry."

As they continue to walk they reached the workshop. Elias stood there for a moment. This place was his home for 8 years. It took him a great effort not to break down in tears once again. But he had to be strong for his master. If he was to die today, then he would do so with his head high. Not as a crying orphan child, but as proud apprentice of Master Enouch. An apprentice that made a mistake. He fortified himself mentally for what was going to happen once he saw him. As they enter Enouch turned. He froze the moment he saw Elias enter the room. Elias stood there, eyes down, unable to look his master in the eye. He tried to talk.

"Master....... I ..."

Before he could finish his sentence Enouch rushed and embraced him. Tears flooded the elder man's eyes.

"You are safe now, that's all that matters, my son."

Elias was literally on the verge of tears once again, thanks to Enouch calling him son. He wished he could tell his master that he returned to stay. But the chopping block was waiting for him.

"I'm sorry but I can't stay my master. I'm sorry I disgraced you."

The captain seeing this was not a moment to interfere, he decided to step outside. Enouch watched him exit, and when he was sure he wasn't listening he whispered to Elias.

"Quickly, we don't have much time."

Elias looked his master with a questioning look. Enouch rushed to the counter and took a few things from it.

"Soon they will realise that the order was not given by the Queen, but from me."

Elias flinched at the comment.

"What. What do you mean master."

Enouch continued to talk while preparing a small satchel.

"I have arrange for a horse to be ready at back of the workshop. You will take it and move to Limgrave. From there an associate of mine named Gaston will take you to the nearest port. I'm afraid there you have to do the rest on your own."

Elias was stunned.

"Do what?"

Enouch turned to look at him.

"Escape."

Elias's heart stopped at the sound of that word. Enouch finish up the satchel and prepare it for Elias.

"Inside you will find some provisions and some notes. I'll probably be executed for assisting a fugitive to escape, but if you are to survive then....."

Enouch was cut off when Elias's hand slapped the satchel down on the ground. He looked at his apprentice with a surprised look. Elias eyes were looking down, filled with tears, but his expression was filled with anger. He grinded his teeth as he spoke.

"How dare you....."

Enouch was stunned by the action.

"Elias."

Elias raised his gaze, straight to his master's face. He was furious.

"HOW DARE YOU SUGGEST THAT I SHOULD ESCAPE!!!!"

The tears flooded Elias's face as he said those words.

"I have done something unforgivable, I killed Seluvis. HOW COULD I RUN FROM SOMETHING LIKE THAT."

Enouch tried to calm down Elias.

"What happened with Seluvis was an accident. You never wanted to hurt him."

Elias shook his head.

"That's not how they are gonna see it. They are gonna see that an orphan dared to harm a protégé of the Academy. They are gonna say that I did in on purpose, that I hated Seluvis....."

He lowered his gaze once again.

"Which to be fair, is not far from the truth."

Enouch eyes widened at the last comment.

"Elias, don't tell me you...."

Elias moved his head in a negative answer.

"No, it was honestly an accident."

He raised his head once more.

"But I would be a lie if I said I didn't want to."

He took a deep breath, trying to find the correct words.

"I hated Seluvis. I hated him from the bottom of soul. Every time he would nag you or insult you in any way for his incompetence I wished I could just take my hammer and beat his head until some sense can crawl in it."

Elias wiped his tears as he continued to talk.

"I hated the constant insults he would throw at me just so he could have some fun."

He looked at the satchel's content spilled on the floor.

"But I now understand that I should hate myself more."

Enouch, still stunned by the conversation, talked.

"Why would you do such a thing?"

Elias pointed at him.

"For what I made you do of course. You, Master Enouch, the Grand Craftsman of the Eternal Cities, the most revered person in all of Nokstela...."

He paused for a moment to draw his breath.

"And a man I loved like a father. I forced you through my actions to result in such disgraceful ways for my sake."

He raised his head, looking at the celling.

"Seluvis was right. I am a failure of an apprentice........ I should be dead."

A voice was heard from Elias room.

"I will be the judge of that."

The curtain that served as a door to Elias's room open and Merida entered the room, with her veil waving in the air. Elias, whose face was instantly drained from blood, falled to his knees immediately.

"My Queen, please forgive Master Enouch, it was all my fault. I.... I.."

Merida raised her hand, stopping Elias on the process.

"No need Elias. I'm aware of everything that has been said."

She turned to the door behind him.

"Captain, you can come inside now."

With that the door opened the door and the captain entered as well, a wide smile across his face.

"I've got to hand it to you kid. Very few would have the courage to do what you just did there. I suppose Master Enouch was right about you."

Elias looked around him nervously. He saw his master sighting in relief, looking at him with a proud look. His mind was unable to comprehend the situation.

"What..... What's going on here, I."

Merida decided to talk.

"This was all a test, to see if you truly were innocent, or simply playing innocent."

He moved to the Captain and placed her hand upon his shoulder.

"We needed to be sure you were honest. So we decided to play this little performance. I ordered the Captain to release you and get you to the workshop. I arranged with Enouch to play the role of the betraying mentor while I hid myself near to hear your conversation."

She moved in front of Elias and helped him back on his feet. They were now face to face.

"Enouch said that innocent or not you would choose to sacrifice yourself, ruther than betraying his teachings. Especially if you think you are responsible for someone's dead. And seeing that myself I'm sure now you are innocent."

Elias was numb from the amount of information bombarding him. The phrase stuck in his mind."I'm sure now you are innocent". He never expected kindness or support from anyone before. And to hear those words come from the mouth of the Queen herself, was the biggest reassurance he could get. It was at this moment his mind returned to his original concern. As he rise he asked.

"Even so, since Seluvis is dead wouldn't I be......"

Merida stopped him.

"This was a lie as well, Seluvis is still alive."

She started pacing the room, her hands crossed in a powdering pose.

"Though you are right. The Carian Royal Family will not like the fact that we defended a normal citizen against a protégé. After all Protégées are considered high class citizens among the common folk, and some among nobility. We need a solution."

Enouch stepped in.

"I may have a solution then."

They all looked at Enouch. Merida looked at Enouch with a questioning look.

"I'm listening."

Enouch started to explain.

"Seluvis is a protégé of the Raya Lucaria Academy. He is protected by the Carian Royal Family. What if we can do the same for Elias."

Merida flinched at the proposition.

"Are you suggesting that I should accept Elias as an official Protégé of City of Nokstela?"

Enouch nodded in agreement. Merida was skeptical about it. It was a very good solution that will allow her to help Elias, and shield them from any future backlash. It was perfect, if only for one thing.

"Enouch. In order for me to accept Elias a protégé, he has to pass a challenge made by the protecting nobility. Are you sure he can....."

Enouch interrupted Merida and showed her the entire workshop.

"Your Highness, look around you. Nearly everything in this workshop is made by Elias's hands. The Glintstone Cores, The automatons that protect Raya Lucaria as we speak...."

He rose one silver shield for the table nearby.

"Even the weapons and armor wore by ours and the Carian Knights, all have been touched by Elias at some point."

He presented the shield to Merida. The Nokstelian Emblem shinned bright under the sunlight. A true masterpiece of craftsmanship. She looked at Elias who was standing looking at them.

"You made all of these? Answer me honestly."

Elias wanted to decline, saying it was work done under his master's tutelage. But a quick look at Enouch made him reconsider. Indeed he had made all these items. The cores, the weapons, the robots. Even some small work of arts, when he was taught by a wandering Craftsman of the Marai Family. With a sign he looked at Merida.

"Yes, my Queen. Most things in this room have been made by me. Master Enouch, beside his wisdom, must have passed also to me his spark for creation."

Merida smiled under her veil. She had a chance to support her decision to the Carian Family. But it was not in her hands, but to Elias's. She approached Elias, who bowed before her.

"In that case, Elias. As Queen of the Eternal Cities. I want to place a challenge for you, in order to become a Protégé of the city of Nokstela. Do you accept the challenge?"

Elias raised his head slowly, looking at the the place where Merida's eyes should be. This was it. Everyone have already done what they could to help him. It was time now for him to take action. His mouth opened, and everyone was relieved by his response.

"Yes.."

[kapten425]

Chapter 4 Part 2 "First Impressions"

Melina came closer to the unknown tarnished that had magically appear before her. Many tarnished had materialised in front of her over the months. All of them called forth by the Greater Will, to claim the Elden Throne for their own. But this one was different. First he appeared out of a blue light, unlike most other tarnished who were brought back by the amber light of the lost grace. Next he was not alone, as two dolls were at his side. Last, but not least, was the reaction of Torrent. Torrent always knew if a tarnished was worthy or not, and almost immediately he would stood back after his confirmation. But this time he came closer, sniffing the tarnished as he was trying to recognise him. It was very weird to see Torrent so uncertain.

Melina inspected his attire, dark blue trousers enhanced with silver linings. On his chest she could notice a fine chainmail with small strips of silver looking like ribbs on his sides. On his left shoulder a circular pauldron, having small engraving in a language that looked very old and small glintstone stones decorating it. His sleeves, that were made from an even darker blue cloth, were leading to a peculiar pair of gloves. One was made out of dark leather, having a circle on it that resembled one the draconic cult was using as an incarnation, decorated with small amber stones. The other made from white leather, having a weird glintstone pentagram, complete with a large glintstone crystal in the middle. The final thing she noticed was his cape, and most importantly the house emblem on it. It was that of a city with a large bird, that looked like a crow, protecting it with its wings. Melina wasn't sure for it, but she had this feeling, that this emblem was very familiar. Almost nostalgic.

Her thoughts were interrupted when the tarnished started to move. He was waking up. Immediately her and Torrent hid themselves and observed them as they woke up.

Elias rose slowly from the wet stone floor. His mind still in haze. The feeling was the same as the one he had when he first woke up in his coffin. He looked at his surrounding, trying to understand where he had teleported. He was in an underground cave of some sort. He noticed that the cave was lighted so he looked for the source. He found that the source was a small erd tree, shining a golden light upon the cave. It's presence meant one thing. They were close to the surface. He looked for his companions.

"Alena, Lanet where are you;"

"Over here my Lord."

He turned to see both of them starting to rise. Lanet was assisting Alena to stand on her feet. Alena touched her head, that was throbbing by the ordeal, and started talking.

"Good Stars, my head hurts."

Elias chuckled at the comment.

"Now you know how I feel since the time I had awoken from my coffin."

Alena looked at Elias. She was clearly in pain.

"How do you cope with that;"

"Simple, I have greater things to worry about than a simple headache."

Alena and Lanet looked around. After that Lanet spoke out of worry.

"Where are we."

Elias answered.

"Underground, obviously. But judging by the small erd tree there, I assume we are close to the surface."

"Is this the normal location the pedestal takes you."

"No. Normally the pedestal was gonna teleport us to the outskirts of the city. But given that she is underground, the pedestal must have choosen to teleport us to the nearest and safest location."

He turned to the door at the end of a small staircase.

"Let's see were this leads us to."

Elias approached the door and open it with a heavy creek. Once the door was open he stood to the side.

"Ladies first."

Alena and Lanet blushed a little by their King's manners as they passed the door. Elias was about to follow them when he stopped and looked back for a little. His gaze fall upon the hidden Melina. He looked intensely at her direction. Melina involuntary hold her breath. Was he seeing her. She was sure her form, or Torrents, could not be seen due to her concealment spell. Her thoughts were interrupted when Alena noticed that Elias wasn't following them.

"My Lord, is everything ok."

Elias continued to look until finally he turned to Alena.

"Yes, everything is fine. It must have been a reflection on the water."

He then turned to follow the sisters.

Following the door was a large room with two pillars on it's right side. By the corridor they created a wall of smoke was formed. In front of it, a small statue of 2 small gargoyles with a sword on top one of their heads. Elias knew that mechanism. You needed a stone key to be able to pass through. He looked at the next staircase that lead to a small elevator. Elias smiled.

"This is our way out. It seems we are in one of the tombs of the fallen heroes."

He chuckled for a moment.

"Imagine, a supposed traitor like me rising from the tomb of a hero. Ironic isn't it."

Lanet corrected her Lord.

"To us you are my Lord. No matter what the Golden Order may say."

Elias entered the elevator that started to go up. As it started reaching the top floor Elias turned to the sisters.

"Before we go out there is something I need to address."

The sisters looked at Elias. He continued.

"Once we go outside, none of you should address me as king or lord. We don't know the situation outside, so it would be best to be careful."

The sisters looked at each other. He wasn't wrong. If an enemy from the Golden Order were to recognise Elias, he could be in a difficult situation. Lanet ask away.

"Then how are we gonna call you."

He smiled at her question.

"Elias will suffice. It is my name after all."

Alena smiled.

"Very well...... Elias."

As they reached the top. Elias stood at the door. His gaze full of anticipation and worry. This was his true first step into the world after his death. He was anxious to find his wife. But most important, to see the Demigods, his nieces and nephews. The children he had loved as his own. He grabbed the handle of the door and slowly rised the door up. In front of him was at last the Lands Between. The Erdtree shinned like a beacon. A second sun rising proudly over the Golden Capital. It was a truly remarkable sight to behold. But something was different. Elias could see that the light of the Erdtree was different, almost like it's fading. Normally he could care less for the fate of the Erdtree, but not this time. He looked at the land in front of him. The land in front of him was broken. Shattered. He could see ruin left and right. He then looked behind him. A large marble statue of a Golden Guard with a spear and a shield. He now knew where he was. This was Limgrave. He looked once more forward, his mouth slightly open from the shock."What has happened here?" that's what he thought. His thoughts were quickly interrupted by a sound.

"Oh yes... Tarnished, are we?"

Elias turned, reaching for his sword, only to see a man in a white robe, donning a white mask. He looked like a field medic. The stranger rubbed his gloved hands as he talked.

"Come to the Lands Between for the Elden Ring, hmm?"

Seeing that the man was not posing any threat he released his hand from his waist.

"I didn't. My reasons are different."

The man shook his head negatively.

"Of course you have. No shame in it."

Elias sighted. As he didn't think correcting him was really necessary. Alena and Lanet seeing their King relaxed they did so as well. Unprepared for the following words.

"Unfortunately for you, however, you are maidenless."

This words made them take battle stance again. This time with more anger. Who was he to insult their King. They waited though for Elias to give the order. Elias on the other hand crossed his arms and allowed him to continue.

"Without guidance, without the strength of runes, and without an invitation to the Roundtable Hold... You are fated, it seems, to die in obscurity."

Elias raised an eyebrow in response.

"Really. Then allow me to correct you there."

The man was taken aback by Elias's reaction.

"First I am married to a beautiful woman,so maidenless is an inaccurate descriptor."

Elias started walking slowly towards the man.

"Second, I never needed guidance or runes to gain strength. I make myself what I need without a problem."

The man stood there, his hands stopped as he was feeling threatened. But for some reason he couldn't move. Elias continued, getting close and closer.

"Third, which is funny, I don't need an invitation to enter a place like the Roundtable Hold, A place I was part of."

Elias stopped mere inches from the man, standing face to face with him. The man's face could not be seen through the mask, but he was definitely feeling nervous under Elias's cold gaze.

"As for me dying in obscurity?......."

Elias paused for a moment, only to continue with a small smirk on his face.

"That remains to be seen."

The man looked terrified, even with his mask on. Normally he would have punished anyone trying to intimidate him or attack him, in the most painful and slowest way possible. But something was different with this one. His gaze pinned him down, the same way a predator will do to his prey. His face, despite the smile, revealed no emotion. He gulped involuntarily, before he spoke.

"I feel I should apologize for my words. It would appear that I have insulted you, which was not my intention."

Elias seeing him remaining still after these words decided to step back.

"No, I believe I was as well a little intimidating too, though understandably."

With that the man breathed a sigh of relief. After that he fixed his posture.

"We may have started on the wrong foot there. Allow me to introduce myself."

The man bowed in front of Elias with a rather melodramatic way.

"The name is Varre, a simple war surgeon wondering the Lands Between."

Elias decided it was best to play along for now.

"My name is Elias. A humble craftsman, blacksmith and merchant from long forgotten city. These are my personal guards Alena and Lanet. It is an pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mister Varre."

Varre flinched at Elias's display of courtesy. Most tarnished always had a certain.... Bravado....in their speech, especially when they were referring to themselves. Not him though. This made him curious.

"A pleasure indeed."

Elias continued to talk

"Say Varre. Do you have any suggestions as to where should I go from here. I would appreciate it immensely if you point me at the right direction."

Varre was impressed even more now. It was clear that Elias wanted to keep their conversation short, but he addressed it in a way that it was impossible for Varre to be insulted. An important lesson for him indeed.

"My best suggestion, to Castle Stormveil, over on the cliff. The home of the decrepit demigod, Godrick the Grafted. Decrepit, he may be, but a demigod he remains. And of course, an inheritor of a Great Rune."

Elias thought for a moment. Godrick? Never heard of him. But something was familiar with his title. Grafting. This was a technic deployed by Godfrey, to minimise his battle lust. Could he be a descendant of him. There were still many unanswered questions, and this "Varre" certainly wasn't trustworthy.

"In that case, I thank you for your guidance. I think I will do just that."

Varre raised his hand.

"Be careful though. I hear old Godrick's acquired a ferocious new toy to graft... So. Prepare for the worst."

Elias raised an eyebrow in response again. That was a useful information.

"I'll keep that in mind."

With one final bow he turned and left for the Castle, followed by a very confused Alena and Lanet. Lacet approached her king and whispered to his ear.

"My Lord why did you let that bastard live. If I were you I would have cut him down for the insult."

Elias turned to her, whispering.

"Patience, something tells me he is hiding something."

He moved his head slightly, indicating the tomb they came from.

"He was waiting for a tarnished to arrive. He wasn't hiding his presence, like a bandit would do. So there is only one possible explanation."

Lanet tilted her head.

"And that is?"

Elias smiled.

"He is a recruiter."

Lanet blinked at the response.

"For..."

Elias cut her off.

"Don't know. But for now, let's keep low. He has put as a test. Godrick. I want to see were this will go."

And with that they continue down the hill. On their back Varre was pondering. He was sure he forgot to mention something. Then it occurred to him. He turned to warn them about the danger ahead, but as he turned he saw that the danger has already found them.

[kapten425]

Chapter 4 Part 1 "First Impressions"

The Eternal Council was at a disarray. The incident had shook them to their very core, after it's description. A student of the Academy was attacked by a Nokstelian citizen, and worst of all by the apprentice of one of the Nokstelian Master Craftsmans. Luckily Seluvis was alive and breathing. But he was unconscious and unable to answer questions. The Academy was waiting for his recovery in order to find out what really happened. Despite initial reports from the guards, telling that Seluvis said that Elias was the one who attacked him, Master Enouch and Lusat were adamant that Elias would never hurt Seluvis. Master Enouch's words holded little power since they could be considered an attempt to cover up his apprentice's fault, but Lusat's testimony was truly turning things upside down. This was a mess. The Council gathered at the throne room along with the King of the Eternal Cities, King Gallamir, to deside Elias's fate. The fact he was an orphan, and from the albinauric village, made things rather easy in the king's head. Elias was better dead than alive. After the final statements it was time to vote. The king rose from his throne.

"Now that the situation has been addressed, and everyone has expressed their own opinion on the matter. We can......"

Before he could finish finish he was stopped by one of the council members.

"Your Highness, what about Master Enouch's statement on the matter. As a long serving member of the council he must be allowed to express his opinion."

The King looked annoyed at the comment.

"I disagree. Master Enouch, though an important member of this council, has ties to the accused. For that reason I ordered him to distance himself from this meeting, so that the final verdict would be as unaffected by personal feelings as it can."

The member sat once again, having his question answered. Gallamir rose from his throne.

"So are we ready to render judgement?"

All 16 council members nodded to one another in agreement. The King, seeing that they were ready he continued.

"Very well, All finding the accused Elias guilty, raise your hand."

After a brief look between them, out of the 16 members, 8 raised their hands. The King, seeing the situation sighted as he pinched the bridge of his nose.

"I see. So it falls to me to decide his fate."

He fixed his posture.

"In that case I decree that........"

His words were interrupted by the opening of the throne room doors. The Knights at the door stood at attention, announcing the visitor.

"Her Majesty Queen Merida of the Eternal Cities has arrived."

With that a female figure entered the throne room. The council members rose and bow at the entrance of their Queen. Her entrance had quite the impact on them. Her black dress waved as she walked to the center of the throne room. Nobody could see her face due to the black veil covering it. But anyone could guess that she was angry. As she reached the center she bowed gracefully at the council members.

"Honoured Members of the Eternal Council, I greet each and every one of you. But assist me as I try to understand the reason behind this meeting. As I recall the Council is to be summoned in case of an event that would cause serious problems to the Cities. So what could be so important."

The King huffed in disapproval. She had completely bypass him.

"I was the one that summoned them my Queen, the King of the Eternal Cities, as you recall."

The Queen's hand tighten.

"I do recall your Highness. But you should also remember who put that crown on your head."

The King was visibly angry with that statement. The Queen turned to the council, showing her back to the King.

"I leave for 3 days to attend a ceremony at the city of Nokron, only to be informed about the summoning of the Council here. You have to expect my immediate return. And as I returned I was informed about the incident."

She started pacing the center of the throne room.

"A citizen of Nokstela is accused of attacking and wounding gravely a student of the Academy of Raya Lucaria. The accused has been arrested and locked in prison, while the student was returned to the Academy for treatment. As of now he has yet to recover, and he is in no place to explain what happened...."

Her pacing became more intense causing everyone to be on high alert.

"Of course the Academy will request some action on our part to show our respect and IF we don't deliver then we are locked in a route of direct conflict with the Carian Royal Family......"

Gallamir tried to stop her.

"I wouldn't go that far my Queen."

Ignoring him she continued without a pause.

"Which will result in an all-out war between them and us ultimately leading to the interference of the Golden Order and the Capital......... Is that it?"

The King hastily answered the question.

"Of course not, this is preposterous."

Merida stopped in place.

"Right. Then please enlighten me, My Wise and Illustrious King of the City of Nokstela. If non of those actions would lead to war."

She instantly turned to face Gallamir, with her hands crossed to her chest.

"WHY....WAS.... THE COUNCIL.... SUMMONED..."

Her booming voice spooked the entire throne room. Even the King himself was stricken with fear. But it was to be expected from the Queen of Destined Death. They were many words that could describe Merida's rule. Decisive,Cold, Draconic. But one word could never be used. Unjust. From the moment she stepped on the throne she ruled with an iron fist. Everything was done according to her judgement and command. Despite that though she was willing to listen to anyone who had showed his or her resolve. And always in the end she would choose the best for the Eternal Cities. The King trying to compose himself, and even more furious than before, started to talk.

"And what would you expect from us my Queen. To simply sit idle while you were away. The situation had to be resolved."

Merida sighted at her "husbands"idiotic comment.

"If you were so willing to assist, then you should have started with a more thorough investigation of both the incident and the people involved."

"What do you mean?"

"I have asked for information regarding the two persons in question. The Nokstelian citizen, Elias I believe his name was, is considered by many around the city as a calm, intelligent and well-mannered individual. Also a promising apprentice of Master Enouch, who by the way was NOT allowed to defend his pupil."

Merida started walking towards Gallamir. Coming closer and closer.

"Seluvis is considered the same in terms of sorcery, but with one big exception. He is self-centred, egotistical, cunning and ruthless. Even his Master, the Honoured Lusat, considers him responsible for the incident."

Merida was now face to face with Gallamir. Despite the veil Gallamir could sense her piercing gaze, locking him in place. Merida continued.

"Even one of those statements could earn Elias the benefit of the doubt. And yet you choose to avoid them all. It's clear to me what you are trying to accomplish."

She came close to his ear.

"Elias would be dead not because he was guilty, but because you decided he was. A small show of power. And Elias a martyr of that power......... isn't that right."

The King sighted in frustration. By decree of Queen Marika, Ruler of the Golden Capital and the Lands Between and Creator of the Golden Order , the decision regarding the life or death of a citizen in the Lands Between falls to the jurisdiction of the Queen of Destined Death, Queen Merida. Although in rare occasions in the Eternal Cities the King can decide the fate of a citizen on his own, only if the Queen is occupied by means that separate her from the Eternal Capital, the City of Nokstela. But for the King to do so he needs the approval of the Eternal Council or at least the majority vote. Gallamir's plan to assert some control had backfired. The King tried to explain only to be stopped by Merida's hand. Merida continued her speech, this time addressing to the council.

"At any rate, given the fact that I stand before you now and that by the end you have not reached a decision. By my decree as Queen of the Eternal Cities. I decide that the reason for the meeting is non existent and any decision taken or about to be taken is revoked. As for the matter of the incident I would be the one personally to deliver judgement to the accused when and how I find it necessary. Any objections;"

The Council member looked at each other and after some deliberation the Council Representative rose from his seat.

"This Council abides to the decision taken by its Queen and would like to apologize for this mess."

The Queen smiled under the veil. They got the message. With a bow she replied.

"Thank you Councilor Eradoth, as well as the entirety of the council. Then I declare that this meeting is adjourned. May the stars shine bright above us."

The Council responded in unison.

"MAY THE STARS SHINE BRIGHT ABOVE US."

And with that the council members began to withdraw. King Gallamir tried to approach Queen Merida, but before he could get near the Queen already passed through the throne room gate. Before the gate closed he noticed to people approaching her, propably her agents. He was furious. How did she find out so fast about his plan. Now not only was he stopped by her, she also made him look like a fool. As he withdraw to his chambers several profanities and curses could be heard from the throne room.

Outside of the Throne room Queen Merida could finally take a breath. The truth was that everything she said didn't come from her agents, but from a letter written by Enouch and Lusat, that was delivered by a crow. If this was not the reason for this meeting her plan could have backfired tremendously. Still she was thankfull that her idiotic husband fell for it. He was so absorbed in his attempt to cover his plan that he didn't realize her trembling under her veil. As she exited the room Enouch and Lusat approached her. Enouch, visually anxious asked immediately.

"My Queen, how did it go. Is Elias going to be....."

Merida raised her hand in a dismissive way.

"Don't worry. Everything went well. Elias is not getting executed for the time being."

Enouch breathed in relief. He had gone far and beyond to save his apprentice, his son as many view it. He didn't mind the comments by the other council members, in fact he always looked at Elias as something more than his apprentice. To him Elias was truly his legacy, his continuation, the son he never had. Lusat was also relieved, once Seluvis was up he was gonna lecture him severe for what happened. He was sure Seluvis was responsible for that incident, and he would have a lot to apologize for. Lusat turned to Merida to ask her.

"What do we do now? How do we deal with this situation."

Merida came closer to the two man.

"I have a plan, but before I tell you I need to know something. Enouch do you trust Elias, to do the right thing."

Enouch, without skipping a beat answered.

"Yes my Queen."

"Then here is what we are gonna do."

And with that they started walking towards a more secluded area to discuss their plan. Elias's freedom.

[kapten425]

Chapter 3 Part 2 "A Step Through the Looking Glass"

The flames of the small bonfire flickered as Lanet was listening to Elias's explanation of what had happened. It was hard for her to believe that she died and was brought back by her King. But here she was, looking at her hands and understanding that they were not human anymore. She was lost in her thoughts until Elias put his hand on her shoulder.

"My dear, have you finally come to terms with the situation."

Lanet closed her hands tight and faced her King.

"Yes, I have. And to think I praised myself to never harm you. I'm a disgrace to the name of the Nokstelian Night Guard."

"Never say that my dear. You and your sister stood your ground and didn't abandon your duty to the bitter end. If anything I should be honoured for your service to the crown."

Elias bowed in front of Alena and Lanet making them flinch. Never in their wildest dreams would they imagine that their King, the man who felled so many adversaries and still carried on, the man who opposed the Greater Will and stood against the brutality of the Golden Order, would bow to mere soldiers. Alena tried to stop her King.

"My Lord there is no need for...."

Elias stopped her from talking further.

"There is. You are a testament of Nokstela's undying spirit. I ,on the other hand, am the true disgrace to the mantle of kings. I raised my sword against my people. Only a mad king would do that."

Lanet became serious at Elias's comment.

"No my Lord, you are not. You couldn't do anything to avert the situation. But you came back, noone else would have done that. You came exactly when we needed you the most."

Elias smiled. But still he was feeling bad. As he at his city his mind began to wonder, to question. He fortified himself mentally for his next question.

"Now the most important. Please tell me, what happened to my city. What were her final moments."

Lanet expected that question. It was only natural that he would ask about the fate of his city. She took a deep breath and began to tell what happened.

After Elias's death his beloved queen went to war in order to find the one responsible for her husband's death. Both the Capital and the Eternal Cities were driven to battle. In an effort to protect the Eternal Cities, the queen abdicated her throne, declaring that the Eternal Cities were not part of her war, and left the government of the Cities to the Council. After a while the Capital decided to attack the city of Noll, literally erasing her from the maps. They spared noone, weak or strong, elder or child. The Council then decide to fight in the war and was about to request the help of the Raya Lucaria Academy, when suddenly the Cities were driven down, below the surface of the earth. Noone knew who did it, or if the Council was responsible, but now the cities were buried underground.

The City fell to chaos as the Council tried to maintain some semblance of control until they had no choice but to declare martial law. Efforts were made to find a way out with only two routes. One to the East side of the city a large void creature, Malformed Star Astel, was guarding the exit, killing anyone foolish enough to get near. The other through the western tunnel, a valiant attempt made by Nokstela's engineers but had made things worst. The tunnel, unfortunately lead to a nest of giant ants who viewed the Nokstelians as trespassers. The Last Remaining Armies of Nokstela died trying to seal the tunnel shut. After that despair and madness took hold and everyone fought for survival, to no avail. The Council barred the doors to the Eternal Palace in an effort to protect the few sane survivors left.

Elias was numb by the shock. The city that raised him, accept him and later heed his call was no more. He rose looking at the sealing, his eyes full of tears as he recalled the memories of his city. Alena made an attempt to talk to him, only to be stopped by Lanet. Lanet was clear with her action. ' Let him mourn.'. Elias went out of the hall to the balcony, overseeing Nokstela. With foggy eyes he pulled out his sword and kneeled in front of his city. The action made Alena and Lanet jump from their seats. Elias talked with a cracked voice.

"I solemnly swear...... To the stars above and beyond....... No matter the hardships I will have to endure........ The pain that I will feel....... I will find the one responsible for this....... They will pay a hundred..... No a thousand times more for what they did here....... I will avenge each and every soul claimed by them...... And when I finish...... I will raise you again my city......... Even if I have to do it stone by stone....... You will see the Eternal sky again..... Just you wait."

Elias rose again, sword in hand. His eyes filled with tears, sorrow and determination. He had given another oath, another labor to himself, but one he desperately needed to keep. He turned to face Alena and Lanet, only to find them kneeled in front of him. Their posture that of respect, as they heard their King swearing to avenge them. They talked in unison.

"My Lord, we follow you to the end. We are your sword and shield. All hail King Elias."

Elias struggled not to let any more tears. He was very proud for them. Only one response was correct in his mind for such loyalty.

"Thank you, both of you."

He sheathed his sword and turned to leave. Alena and Lanet rose and followed him. Alena started talking.

"Now what do we do my Lord;"

"Now we get out."

Alena and Lanet looked at each other. Fear came over them. Lanet spoke breaking their gaze.

"My Lord how are we gonna win Astel."

Elias continued to look forward.

"I never said anything about Astel or the tunnel. That would be suicidal."

"Then how;"

"If, as you said, the Eternal Palace is sealed by the council then there is another way out."

Elias's march was steady. He had not seen his palace while he was searching for materials, since he focused on that he wouldn't even noticed it. As the grand staircase to the Eternal Palace was unfolding infront of him he could see several corpses littering the ground around. It would seem that many tried to claim the palace, with no success. As he reached the great door he raised his hand up. The glidstone crystal on his glove shined once more and two boulders materialised at his sides. Alena and Lanet were stunned by the scene. Elias swiftly pointed at the door, with that motion the boulders rammed at full speed towards the door but the door surprisingly hold. Seeing that he rearranged the boulders, one straight touching at the door and the other gaining distance. With a final snap of his fingers the furthest boulder rammed and hit the other boulder. As he calculated the force was applied to a single point, snapping the wooden bar that barred the doors shut. Finally the boulders rolled and slowly opened the door for Elias and the sisters. As they enter the throne room Elias saw once more his beloved palace. The throne room was big and round in shape, with small staircase leading to two thrones. One made of gold and the other made of silver. The throne of his wife and his, graciously overlooking the council's table below. A table made as a circle that was surrounding the center platform. A platform on which any accused during judgement was placed. The room was illuminated by several blue flame torches, hanging from the walls. He walked towards the center, looking at the council members corpses still sitting at their sits. He stopped for a moment, looking at them with a bitter smile on his face. It was as if the dead were judging a living. He lowered his gaze to the platform below. After inspecting it for a moment he sighted in relief.

"The platform has not been damaged by anything. Thank the stars there is a way out."

Alena and Lanet were taken back by these words. Alena started to talk.

"What you mean my Lord."

Elias smiled while he moved to the thrones at the stairs.

"Let me explain. After an attempt made by a man, whose name is forgotten by now, to take the palace and assert his authority, it was made clear that the palace needed an emergency escape plan. So a pedestal was created by a craftsman of the old to allow a way out in case of any danger. That is the platform you are standing on."

Both Alena and Lanet looked at their feet. So all this time an exit was available; Elias was now standing in front of the thrones as he continued.

"To ensure that no-one entering the palace could follow the King a key was constructed to act as failsafe. Or in my case two. Two key hidden in plain site."

Alena eyes light up, while Lanet took a questioning look. Elias raised an item from the throne and questioned.

"Any ideas what those keys may look like."

Alena was quick to answer.

"The Royal Crowns."

Elias smiled at her response as he turned to face them.

"Correct. The stones on top the Royal Crowns are imbued with a spell that allows the use of the pedestal. This is our way out."

Lanet raised her hand towards Elias.

"Hold on a moment. If that's the case then why didn't the council use that way to escape the city."

Elias eyebrow rose at her question.

"Very perspective of you. But unfortunately the system has a major flaw. Only the one holding the stone can pass through the activated pedestal. And the trip is only one way. So even if the council were to use the stones, only two members will escape. Plus the council didn't know the existence of the stones, as it was a secret of the Royal Family."

Alena's face took a saddened look.

"Even so. There are only two crowns. That means....."

Elias stopped her before she could continue.

"Leave that to me. Noone will be left behind. I just need a few moments to modify the stones. In the meantime search the area. As I said it's a one way trip so make sure we are ready before we depart."

Seeing that their King had a plan the sisters nodded and started searching the surroundings. Elias turned to the door on his left and opened it. Behind it was his workshop. Dusty but untouched. While the torches were illuminating it, the absence of fire in his forge was noticeable. He moved to his anvil as it laid still undisturbed. On it, was his most prized possession, his hammer. A hammer made of steel bearing carved markings. Four gemstones were secured on each side, each of a different colour, all connected by carved lines to a large gem at the middle of the stock. The larger gem was a mixture of glidstone and amber, and worked as catalysts for embedding different elements to his creations. He raised it slowly as if raising a sword.

"Long time no see, old friend. Time to start crafting once more."

He then took his crown and removed the stone. Placing it on the anvil he started hammering slowly, separating it in half. When finished working on the edges he rose one piece and inspected it.

"Not the best work but it will do."

He was about to leave when he saw a large wardrobe standing to the side. He decided to open it as he didn't remember what was in. When he opened it he remembered. It was his armor. On he had constructed meticulously to every fine detail. The semi cover chainmail flickered to the light of the torches while his pauldron, securing his cape, reflected his face. Only now he had realised the terrible condition he was in. Ragged clothes and long unattended white hair, definitely not the image of the king he was. No wonder Alena and Lanet didn't recognize him. He removed the raggs and took the armor to wear it. Finally by using a leather strap he wrapped his hair to a low ponytail. As a final check he looked down to verify that if everything was ok. After he confirmed it he exited the workshop.

Alena and Lanet were stunned by their approaching king. It was as if time had turned back to the days when Elias was still alive. The image of the monarch who lead the Eternal Cities to greater heights, and defended them with every ounce of his soul. They were so fixated that they didn't hear when Elias asked them how it went. Elias snapped his fingers bringing them back to reality.

"Girls! Focus, did you find anything;"

Lanet answered hastily.

"Sorry my Lord, and no I didn't find anything worth of keeping."

"I see. Don't sweat it."

Alena approached holding a small box.

"This is the only thing I managed to find my Lord."

Elias took the box looked inside. It was a pair of Crimson and Cerulean Flasks, along with a Golden Seed. Elias removed them from the box and secured the to his belt.

"Good job Alena. Now we are a little bit prepared. Here take these."

He handed them the stones he had fixed.

"These are from my crown. Now you will be able to use the pedestal."

Lanet questioned alarmingly.

"What about you my Lord."

Elias smiled and showed them his wife's crown.

"Since I have to return this to her I'll use it just this once."

He walked towards the pedestal. As he approached, the air lit up with a white blueish light, as the carvings on the floor started to shine. He turned his head only for a moment, looking behind at his city. While he didn't want to leave her at state, staying here would be pointless, and heart breaking. With a final sight he stepped to the pedestal along side the sisters. A bright light covered all three of them. And in a flash they were gone, leaving behind them the empty and silence filled throne room, and the city back to it's morbid slumber.

[kapten425]

Chapter 3 Part 1 "A Step Through the Looking Glass"

Seluvis was once again at Master Enouch's workshop. He had been there from the morning trying to make the core work. Master Enouch had already pass him a set of notes, instructing him how to make the core to work. Even so, the task was rather difficult and demanded great coordination and concentration. A small adjustment here and there until he decided he was going to try the core finally. He commenced its operation which this time was successful. Master Enouch watched him as Seluvis rose from his sit and pointing at the table.

"There, I hope this will suffice."

Master Enouch started to inspect the core. Seluvis did an adequate job on it. And with the notes provided by Elias, Seluvis was able to finish the core and make it work. He turned to Seluvis with an impressed look.

"It seems you got the hang of it. Congratulations mister Seluvis. You have now completed your first core. You still have a ...."

Before he could finish, Seluvis raised his hand towards Enouch.

"Yeah, yeah I get it. I still have a long way to go but I can now understand basic glintstone engineering."

Master Enouch took a more serious look.

"I was gonna say that you can now start the understanding of the basics. But you still need some time. Time and training to reach a medium level of understanding."

Seluvis snorted at the comment.

"Yeah like I'm gonna need this knowledge ever. For us this is useless."

Elias, who was on the back of the room adjusting some glintstone crystals to an anti magic Carian Knight Shield, tighten his hand at the sound of Seluvis's words. To him Master Enouch was a well respected and highly intelligent person, and a father figure above else. For Seluvis to insult his master's profession like this was too much. He kept his mouth shut though as he knew Seluvis was technically protected by the Academy of Raya Lucaria, as one of her top students. Aggression towards him would be disasterous. He turned his head towards his master, he was clearly fed up with Seluvis's snobby attitude. Master Enouch took a deep breath before speaking.

"Seluvis understand this. Every single Master of the Academy have even a little bit of knowledge upon glintstone machinery. For an astrologer not to be able to understand how his magic works, is the equivalent of a child holding a gun without understanding how it works. You could hurt yourself. As you draw power from the stars so are the machines we build. The process is the same. So if you can't make it work it means that you don't know how it works."

He came closer to Seluvis face. A fearsome gaze locked Seluvis in place.

"And I will not accept the kind of attitude that will shame my friend's name. You are a student of Lusat. Act like one."

Seluvis felt his blood stoping at his veins. Fear had overtake him. He knew that Enouch was not a sorcerer and that if he wanted he could finish him up in seconds. But why was he so afraid of that little technician. That feeling of being cornered and defenceless was unnatural. He lowered his head as a sign of submission.

"Master Enouch. I....."

Enouch turned to Elias.

"Elias "

Elias rose from his sit.

"Yes Master?"

"I'm going out for a while. I think Lusat needs to be informed about his students progress. Take care of the shop while I'm out."

"Of course Master."

Enouch gave a final glare at Seluvis before exiting the workshop. In the workshop were now only Elias and Seluvis. Seluvis was furious. He was a protégé, a future master. And yet he was treated as worker by Enouch. His eyes fell onto the core he had created, humming slowly as the inside glintstone crystal was rotating. He grabbed the hammer on the table and attempted to break it, only to be stopped by Elias's hand.

"You put a lot of work into it. To vent your anger towards it is such a shame."

Seluvis looked at Elias's hand. That filthy plebeian dared to touch him. He looked Elias dead in the eye.

"Let...... Me....... Go........"

Elias removed his hand slowly, as to not aggravate Seluvis more. Seluvis continued talking.

"You have quite the nerve to touch me. Peasant."

Elias eyes rolled as he heard Seluvis childish comment.

"Well I do what I can."

Seluvis throwed the hammer down on the ground. Elias turned his back on him, returning to his work. Seluvis though was not finished.

"I don't understand why that grumpy old man still keeps you as his apprentice. You are not of anyones leneage. Neither a noble nor a mage."

He crossed his arms in pompous way, in an effort to provoke Elias.

"I wonder what he sees in you."

Elias smiled at the words of Seluvis.

"I don't know either. And honestly it matters not. To be under his tutelage is a great honour for me."

Seluvis scuffed at him.

"Honour, pathetic. Nothing but a tool developed by weaks and cowards."

Elias continued to work while speaking to Seluvis.

"Come on Seluvis. Don't you feel the same been under Lusat's tutelage. He is one of the Masters of the Raya Lucaria Academy. You should feel honoured."

"I'm not under his tutelage. I simply take knowledge from him. There's a big difference."

Elias turned to Seluvis with a questioning look on his face.

"What do you mean by that?"

Seluvis smiled arrogantly towards Elias.

"In this world there is one undeniable truth. To become stronger you need to take from others. Lusat is just a means to an end to me. Once I finish with him I'll just move to the next Master, until I have all their knowledge. Then once I'm finished with all I'll simply replace them."

Elias continued to look at Seluvis. In his eyes a clear sign of doubt. His description was filled with pride and arrogance. But he had made a mistake.

"Seluvis I highly doubt you would be able to pull that off."

Seluvis temper was running short again.

"What do you mean you useless mutt."

Elias turned to his work again but having his focus behind him just in case.

"Your plan would work if there wasn't one thing, or your case many others. Each Master has more than one apprentice. And as you have shown you can not be the best at everything. As long as another is better than you a master will choose the strongest."

Seluvis anger was at full, but Elias had a point. As long as they were others he could never be the strongest. His eyes wondered and fall upon his staff. It was at this moment a frightening thought passed through his mind. He slowly started to pick it up as he talked to Elias.

"So you are saying that I cannot gain the full attention of a master as long as he has a better apprentice, Correct;"

Elias felt something was not right with the way Seluvis was talking.

"Yes, that is..... "

Before he could finish a glintstone peddle passed near his head, crushing on the wall forward. If it was an inch closer to his head he would have been dead on the spot. He jumped from his seat grabbing his hammer out of reflex, while Seluvis was pointing his staff at him.

"What are you doing;"

Seluvis smiled.

"What do you think I'm doing. I'm teaching you a lesson."

He then casted another glintstone peddle at Elias. Elias dodge it just in time, only grazing his arm.

"Apprentices shall always display the strength of their masters. Let's see what that old fart has taught you."

Elias flipped the table in front of him to take some cover, while Seluvis continued to cast glintstone peddles left and right. Elias shouted at Seluvis.

"Seluvis, stop this madness."

"Come on Elias, show me the strength of your master."

The workshop was now a mess. But Seluvis didn't stop for a moment. He began casting Haimas Canon aiming at the table in front of him. Elias knew what was coming. He tried to run, only to be caught up by the blast of the spell. It tossed him back to the wall like a rag doll. He tried to rise his torso towards the wall, cutting his hands on the glintstone shards filling the floor. Seluvis walked towards Elias and pointed his staff at his chest.

"You see. As I said the strongest prevail."

He raised his staff, manifesting a glintstone comet.

"The lesson ends here. Goodbye little mutt."

Elias extended his hand, trying to catch something to defend himself. His hand touched the Knight Shield he was polishing. Seluvis released the spell that moved towards Elias. In the last minute Elias raised the shield in front of him. Suddenly the glintstone shards around him started to glow, activating the spell ward of the shield. The comet hit the ward and shattered with explosive force. While Elias was covered by the shield, Seluvis was not. The comets pieces hit him straight to the face, tossing him back to the wall. The impact broke the wall, trapping the now bleeding Seluvis under the debri. Elias let the shield slide to the side and tried to stand up. His legs still shaky from the situation. He moved slowly to Seluvis to check if he was still alive. His breathing was rapid due to the pain he was feeling. Elias tried to shake him up.

"Seluvis, SELUVIS, ANSWER ME DAMMIT!!!!!!"

"What in god's grace happened here."

Elias turned to see Master Enouch and Lusat looking terrified to the scene in front of them. With them two Nokstelian city guards also stunned by the scene. Seluvis shifted and started talking. His voice cracked due to the pain.

"you......... attacked..........me;........."

Elias's eyes widened at the sound of these words. Did he said that he attacked him. Lusat rushed to his student, trying to get him to explain.

"Seluvis, why would you......"

The two guards walked and apprehended Elias in front of Enouch. Elias was numb from the shock.

"Young man, you are under arrest for an attack against a member of the Raya Lucaria Academy."

Elias look at the guards holding him in shock.

"You will be imprisoned until the Eternal Council deliver your judgement. Do not resist further."

[kapten425]

Chapter 2 Part 2 " A Glimpse of Hope"

The priest opened her eyes slowly. Trying to understand what was going on. Her body felt heavy but at the same time rather light. A weird filling of numbness and soreness. She raised her hand to her face as a reflex to the headache she had.

"Ah you have awakened. Thank the stars."

The priest tried to locate the origin of the voice. Only to see a white haired man with greenish blue eyes approaching her. His clothes were ragged and torn at some places. A silver sword was at his waist, the design looked Nokstelian but had some differences. The stranger kneeled in front of her focusing on her face. It took her a while to see his own, as her eyes tried to adjust to the dim light. She started talking to him.

"Who are ......"

The stranger smiled at her questioning look.

"Well. Back in the day you used to call me your Highness. I was the ruler of the Eternal Cities."

The priest tried to understand his words. He was her Ruler. What does that mean. Then it got to her. Infront of her was none other than Elias The decisted King of Nokstela. Her King and Lord. She tried to stand up, to greet him properly, only to be stopped by him.

"Easy. You still need time to adjust to your new body."

At his comment he looked at her hands. She didn't noticed the first time but her hands were different. Her skin was that of porcelain, hard and shining. Her clothes were different, a leather armour corset lined up with satin cover, upon a meticulously crafted thin chainmail. On her waist a small curved sword, crafted in Nokstelian style. This form was familiar. She looked at her king.

"What happened to me?"

Elias took a sadder look on his face, and after a deep breath he answered her.

"You attacked me. I suppose the years of isolation and your constant vigilancy dulled your senses, to the point you couldn't understand friend from foe. I ....."

He closed his eyes for a moment.

"I was forced to kill you. You and your friend there."

The priest froze at the sound of his words. Not only she attacked her king, but she also died by his hand. Her eyes wander around until it came across her previous body and that of her sister. She noticed the damage. Her sister's body was cleanly decapitated while hers had a accurate stab in her heart. She understood that her king tried to make their death swift and painless. Her mind then began to wonder. How was she still alive. She looked at Elias, who knew what she wanted to ask. Elias smiled tearfully.

"Before you died, you had a moment of clarity. You recognised me. That gave me hope. Immediately I decided that I was not going to allow anyone to die. And thanks to your duty as guardians of my creations, an idea came in mind."

Elias placed his hand on top her heart's location.

"I transferred your souls into glintstone cores and merge you with my creations. You are now glintstone dolls."

The priest looked with widened eyes. She couldn't believe it. She was now a doll. But not just any doll. A doll made by her king, the famous Elias the Master Craftsman of Nokstela, and judging by her weapon she currently resided in his Nox Swordstress Doll. Despite now understanding her situation, she started examining her body. It felt natural, as if it was her true body. Elias spoke breaking the silence.

"What's your name my child."

She looked at his, bewildered by his question.

"Alena my Lord."

After answering his question she started to chuckle. Elias tilted his head to the side with a questioning look.

"What's so funny my dear."

Alena tried to contain herself.

"Nothing my Lord. It's just that I always was in awe of your work, especially of the Nox Duo. To one day be part of it is quite an honour."

Elias smiled at her.

"Thank you my dear, but I need to correct you there. You are not part of my creation."

He placed his hand on her cheek.

"My creation has become a part of you. You govern them, not me."

Alena's heart started to beat faster. Her Lord's face was way too close to her. Whenever she was able to see him, on parades or in the Royal Palace, he was always with his beloved queen at a distance. To have him this close was too much for her. She was captivated by his eyes. A perfect mix of green and blue, looking like glintstone gems. Her sister was always berating her for not concetrating on her duty and instead imaging her King with her. That small thought made her realise something. Her sister. Where was her sister. She looked at Elias with a desperate look.

"My Lord, my sister, where is she? Is she ok."

Elias pointed at the other doll on the ground.

"She still hasn't woken up. But she is fine."

Alena rose from the ground and rushed to the other doll. The doll of the Nox Nightmaiden. A similar doll in appearance but with a few changes. Her weapon was not a sword, but rather a small knife of similar design. On her waist a band with an array of perfumers cocktails, organised by type. Alena got a hold of the doll's head.

"Lanet, LANET please wake up. Come on sis."

Lanet open her eyes slowly trying to adjust. The moment she saw Alena she jumped out of her hands and tried to grab her Nox flow hammer, only to find herself the knife. She raise it towards Elias and Alena.

"Who are you. What have you done to my sister."

Alena raise her hands in the air, in an effort to calm her down.

"Sister it's me. Alena."

"No you're not. I don't know what you are but if you think you can trick me you are foolishly mistaken. Now tell me WHO ARE YOU!"

Elias stepped forward.

"Lower your weapon, Lanet. I would explain everything."

Lanet pointed her knife towards Elias.

"Who the fuck are you."

Elias took another step forward.

"I'm Elias. Your former King. I have returned."

Lanet's grip on the knife tighten at the sound of these words.

"How dare you.........HOW DARE YOU USE THE NAME OF MY LORD AS IF IT WERE YOURS!!!"

She dashed to Elias, with deadly speed.

"DIE!!!!"

Her knife moved with lighting speed towards Elias's neck. Before it could reach though it was deflected by Elias's sword guard. The two stayed eye locked for a moment. Enough for Alena to grab a hold of Lanet's other arm. Lanet tried to attack with her knife back, but was immediately disarmed by Elias's sword. Having been completely neutralised, Lanet gave a defiant look at Elias. Elias kneeled to the bend down Lanet, coming closer to her face and keeping it up with his hand under her chin.

"Defiant as ever. Truly the rebellious spirit of Nokstela still shines bright within you, Lanet."

Lanet's expression started to change. Her face filled with shock as she recognised her King.

"My Lord........... Is it truly you?"

Elias smiled and nodded at her, answering her question. Tears began to flood her eyes.

"Thank the stars. Blessed be as they shine above. Our Lord has......"

Alena seeing her sister having realised the situation and let her go. Lanet rushed to embrace her King. The man that had elevated the spirit of the Eternal Cities. Alena watched in shock the scene in front of her. Her sister, the one bound by honour and always keeping herself serious in front of any superior, was now embrasing Elias, like a child holding a teddy bear. Elias feeling the sincerity in her action returned the favour.

"Yes my child. I'm back. And I'm sorry you had to endure all this because of me."

He placed his chin on top her head.

"Such a poor excuse of a King I am. To cause so much pain and suffering to my subjects."

Lanet raised her head towards Elias. Her gaze filled with happiness and tears.

"But you came back. And when we needed you the most. We were so close to lose hope."

Alena came close to her sister with also tearfull eyes. She took her hand as Elias slowly let her go. Alena talked with a shaky voice.

"Sister?"

Lanet now recognising her sister grabbed her.

"You were right lil sis. You were right. Sorry I doubted you."

The hand holding became an embrace and both sisters started crying together. Elias's heart filled with joy as he saw them like that. He had save them even when all odds were against him. He may have caused this to happen with his death, but now he was determined to fix everything. He rose up from the ground and walked towards a big pile of woods he had prepared while the two sisters were asleep. He took a glass vial from his pocket, full oil, and smashed it on the kindle, he then took his sword and striked the ground creating sparks. The oil caught fire quickly, and soon a bonfire was created. Lanet cupped the cheeks of her sister. She still couldn't believe what happened to her. It took her a few moments to realise that she was on a similar fate.

"What happened to us sis. Why are we?"

Alena averted her eyes. How was she going to explain all that have happened. Luckily for her, Elias was quick on the response.

"I will explain everything to you. Come closer to the fire. We have much to discuss."

[kapten425]

Elden Ring Age of Unity

A little fanfic I have been working on from time to time. It's a story about love, betrayal, revenge and of course hope. Elden Ring has been a great inspiration for me and I have tried to keep it as lore friendly as I can. Several changes have been made to fix the narrative but overall the original story is the same.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2 Part 1 , Part 2

Chapter 3 Part 1 , Part 2

Chapter 4 Part 1 , Part 2

Chapter 5 Part 1 , Part 2

[kapten425]

Chapter 2 Part 1 "A Glimpse of Hope"

The golden light of the setting sky bathed the city of Nokstela. The bright sun of the Lands Between slowly gave it's place to the glimmering stars above. Their brilliance only second to the divine light of the Erdtree. Inside Master Enouch's workshop a young man was trying to put together a glintstone powered core, under the watchfull eye of his teacher. Master Enouch stroke his beard as he observed his student's work. While the young man was very talented in the use of glintstone magic, when it came to glidstone mechanism he was out of his field. A simple core was a task of 1 hour, 2 if he was an amateur. He was struggling to make it work for 5 hours, with no signs of success. The young man tried to put the core into motion. The core's outside rings started spinning, showing signs progress. The young man was about to take a deep breath when suddenly the core's operation stopped. The young man smashed his fists on the table in a feat of anger.

"Cursed pile of metal scraps."

Master Enouch placed his hand on the young man's shoulder.

"Patience young one. Glintstone Mechanisms take time to figure out."

"It's completely useless for me to learn this kind of crap. I could be practicing my glidstone phalanx spells right now instead of......"

Before he could finish his sentence an old man in blue robe, decorated with small glintstone peddles entered the workshop. He was visually agitated, indicating that he had heard the young one's insults to Master Enouch.

"Seluvis, the art of glintstone mechanisms is a sacred one. Respect is mandatory. Especially to Master Enouch, who is the best glintstone engineer in Nokstela. And a personal friend of mine."

Young Seluvis lowered his head after the man spoke. Master Enouch smiled towards his unexpected visitor.

"Lusat, you are here earlier than expected."

"I just happened to finish my duties faster than anticipated. So I came to see how my poor mannered pupil was holding up. Only to be embarrassed by his words. I apologize my friend."

He said and bowed to Enouch. Enouch smiled towards Lusat.

"No need old pal. I'm sure mister Seluvis feels very sorry about this little slip of tongue ."

Lusat gave a confused look. Before Seluvis could ask what he meant Master Enouch continued.

"Which is why he would return here tomorrow morning to finish this glintstone core."

Master Enouch turned to the clearly angry Seluvis, saying.

"No matter how much time it takes him to make it operational."

Seluvis tried to protest, but he was cut short by Master Lusat.

"I'm sure he will. Right Seluvis."

Seluvis gave a defeated look at Maste Enouch. As a confirmation he replied.

"Very well master Enouch. I'll be here tomorrow morning."

He turned to leave the workshop. As he reached for the handle he faced the masters once again.

"But heed this. The project that master Enouch wants me to do is impossible to perform. No one can make this core of garbage work."

With that final act of defiance he exited the workshop. Lusat sighted. His student's pride was going to be a problem for him in the future. He turned to his friend who was more focused on Seluvis's work on the core.

"Once again my friend, I sincerely apologize for Seluvis's reaction. I should have taught him better."

Master Enouch, still focused on the core replied.

"No need to worry. Compared to other pupils I had in the past, he was rather mild. If he ever steps out of line, I will run his ass to the ground. Protégé or not."

Lusat came closer to observe the mechanism. Despite Seluvis's crude language he had a point. The mechanism in front of him was rather complex. Normally glintstone cores were utilising the natural rotary movement of the glintstone crystal in the centre to commence it's operation. As the natural rotation takes place the surrounding rings are adjusted to create 3 layers around the crystal that rotate counter wise. That slight interaction creates a type of energy that can be utilised for powering up a larger mechanism like a marionette, like a perpetual clockwork device. This mechanism was trying to utilize the friction between the core and the mechanism by making the rings go diagonal, passing through the other rings way, colliding with each other. It looked impossible indeed. Lusat looked at Enouch. His gaze was wandering around the mechanism.

"Enouch, my friend, I don't want to judge your work....."

Enouch turned to Lusat with a questioning look on his face. Lusat continued.

"But don't you think this mechanism is a little bit advanced for my pupil?"

Enouch smiled at his friend's comment.

"Well Lusat. You see......"

Before he could finish the inside curtain of his workshop opened and a young Elias entered the room. He was wearing a blacksmith's apron with oil stains on it. His pockets were full of tools while his hands, full of stains, were holding something wrapped in a linel cloth. He had signs of oil and dust on his face with only his greenish blue eyes and his black hair being somewhat clean. He approached master Enouch with a steady pace.

"Master Enouch I finished the rounding and polishing of the crystal you gave me. I am sure now it will fit inside the core much easier."

Master Enouch became serious as Elias handed him the modified glintstone crystal. He took it from the cloth and brought it close to his eyes. The crystal was perfectly spherical. Any imperfections that it had before were gone, and with the polishing the crystal looked more like a gem than a glintstone crystal. Lusat came closer to observe the small ord as well, with similar reactions. After the inspection master Enouch smiled towards Elias and gave him the crystal.

"Perfect work as always Elias. And in half the time I expected."

Elias smiled widely after hearing those words.

"I was just doing my job master. Nothing more."

Elias now noticed Lusat looking at him with an impressed look. Lusat decided to talk.

"Indeed impressive work my boy."

Elias realised that he hadn't paid his respects to his master's visitor.

"Oh .... I apologize for my poor manners. My name is Elias, a humble apprentice of Master Enouch. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Elias then bowed with a small movement to Master Lusat. When Lusat saw Elias's act of respect he started laughing. Not in a insulting way, but with a satisfying one.

"Hahahaha truly Seluvis can learn a thing or two from you dear boy."

Enouch seeing the happy atmosphere he grabbed Lusat by the shoulder.

"Elias let me introduce you to my old friend and one of the grand masters of the Raya Lucaria Academy, Master Lusat."

Lusat with a playful sight he stretched out his hand.

"An honour, young Elias. It's refreshing to see someone with true manners."

Elias flinched at the sound of Lusat's profession. And seeing that he stretched out his hand he offered his accordingly. By this point he had figured out why he was here.

"Then you must Seluvis's master. I presume."

"Indeed. Even though he is an excellent mage, he still has a lot to learn. And judging from Enouch's respect towards you. You must be very talented to have chosen you as his apprentice."

Elias smiled for the praise he was given by Lusat.

"I'm just doing what I know is right, under the tutelage of master Enouch. I own him a lot."

Lusat looked at Elias with a questionable look. But before he could ask what he meant, Enouch already had Elias's focus on Seluvis's project.

"Elias I need your help over here. I'm sure you are familiar with this glintstone core design."

Elias looked at the Seluvis's core. After a few seconds he sighted moving his hands to his sides.

"He didn't succeed. Didn't he."

"Correct my boy."

Elias placed one of his hands on his forehead, clearly disappointed.

"I told him, he cannot simply replicate the design and make it work. He needs to understand the reason why....."

Enouch stopped Elias from continuing by grabbing his shoulder. He then nodded his head, confirming what Elias was trying to say.

"I know my boy. But this is not why I show you this. Tell me. How much time do you need to make it work."

Elias tilted his head to the side in order to get a different view of the core. After a moment he replied.

"About 15-20 minutes tops. Do you want me to write down my steps."

Enouch smiled at Elias. Efficient as ever.

"Yes please. In the meantime me and Lusat will go a little bit outside. I need some fresh air. Call us when you finish."

Elias sat on the chair and grabbed the tools from his apron. His eyes focused on his new task.

"Right away master. Take your time."

And with that Enouch and Lusat exited the workshop. The night had already fallen on top the city. Master Enouch closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Lusat looked at his with a puzzled look as he started to talk

"Enouch, you are hiding things from me. Why you never told me you had an apprentice."

Enouch reached to his pocket and took out a small smoking pipe. After putting a few dried leaves, he lighted it up with the use of a small matchstick and started smoking.

"To tell you the truth, I never thought I would ever accept one. Elias, although, is special."

"Care to explain this."

Enouch smiled.

"Elias is an orphan, Lusat. An orphan that was wondering the city 5 years ago. I saw his potential and decided to take him under my protection."

Lusat looked at his friend with a saddened look.

"Oh I'm sorry, if I knew..."

"That's why I brought you outside. I knew you would ask what he meant. He is a good kid and I wish to help him as much as I can. After all I own this to his parents."

"Did you knew them?"

"No, and neither he. But his foster parents were albinaurics. They found him bundled up in a linel clothing off the western sea coast of Liurnia as a baby. They raised him to the albinauric village south of here. But after their deaths, Elias was left all alone. I'm sure you can understand how they died."

Lusat continued with a sad movement.

"The albinauric curse I presume."

Enouch nodded. He continued while he was smoking his small pipe.

" After a while he came to Nokstela and I stumbled across him. He showed me his potential for machineries and I decided to take him in. I taught him everything I know about my art, and he accepted them without a moment's hesitation. Then I saw it. His spark for creation. He worked on my workshop day and night. Never complaining, never stopping. And most importantly he elevated even my own knowledge upon glintstone motors. You already saw his work."

Enouch pointed at his back.

"The motor Seluvis was trying to make it work, was Elias's design."

Lusat looked bewildered. Enouch was talking about Elias, as he was talking about a grand master. He tried to clear his throat.

"Come on now Enouch. He can't be that good."

Enouch chuckled at his friend's comment.

"You know me too well, Lusat. I would never joke about this kind of things."

He then looked at the night sky of Nokstela. His eyes fixed on the constellations above.

"I tell you, Lusat. No matter how difficult a task is Elias would bring it to fruition. When it comes down to his capabilities. Elias, at one point, he will be able to bring anything back to life, mechanical or not."

Lusat looked at Enouch.

"Anything?"

"Anything....."

[kapten425]

Chapter 1 Rise up Tarnished

The Greater Will. The force that governs the very world, has risen the Tarnished Warriors of the old. For conflict to take hold of the Lands Between, and return it back to thy Will. The Will controls the risen, but not who is risen. And so the Will rose the one who never should be risen. A man from no lineage, that has neither strength nor immortality. A man who followed and served The Queen of Death. A man whose name is synonymous to heresy.

-------------------------------------------------------------

Elias rose from the stone coffin. The musk of the old tomb entered heavy in his nose. He looked around him, scanning the room to understand his situation. He tried to stepped out of his coffin on to the stone floor almost losing his balance. It must have been years since his death. He then focused on his hand. The small ember of life in his hand flickered. His face changed to a mild smile.

"Poor little thing. You must be very desperate to rise me..."

He grasped his hand tight. Smothering the ember into his hand.

"Or very foolish."

He raised his head towards the ceiling.

"No matter. I am awake and soon even you will pay for what you did. I will have my revenge."

He looked at his coffin. On it's side a sword was placed. As he picked it up he looked at its blade. The sword was made out of a silver alloy. A fine piece of Nox craftsmanship. The engraved words shinned across his face. -Humilis Artifex Cordis-(Humble Craftsman of my Heart). The reflection made Elias eyes to water up. This was not simply a sword made for him but also a gift from her. He place its blade on his forehead and close his eyes.

"I'll find you my love. Rest assured. And when I do, together we shall free this world from its cruel bonds."

And with that he sheathed his sword around his waist. He then turned to the door of his tomb and pushed it open. With a loud creek the door opened wide. As he walked outside he saw what he missed the most. His beloved city, Nokstela. But something was off. The city was in ruins. The buildings around him looked broken, filled with cracks and moss. The broken stone pieces in front of him looked burned, but not recently. Signs that the city was torched long ago. Even in ruins though the city still hold a glimpse of its former glory. Seeing this state in front of him, his heart skipped a beat. He looked to the sky only to be met with the ceiling of a cave. The stalactites shinned like stars on the lapis lazuli ceiling. It looked like the night sky, but only as a pale imitation of it. It became apparent to him. His beloved city, the jewel of the Lands Between was now trapped under the surface of the land. A mixture of pain and anger took hold of him. His right fist tightened as a reflex.

"How much were you willing to take from me."

Elias felt his blood boil in his veins. His mind full of anger and hate. He will make him pay for this action tenfold, or die trying. He started breathing slowly in an effort to calm himself. He now needed a plan but that could wait until he finds a way out. He took the staircase to the small bridge, gazing at the ruins of his city. As he descended the stairs to bridge a large boulder materialised at the start of the bridge. The boulder started rolling towards him, but Elias remained calm. He raised his and showed his right hand's back to the boulder. The jewel on his right hand flickered and the boulder stopped mere inches from his hand, disappearing into thin air. Elias smiled.

"At least the defenses are still operational."

He then walked to the bridge, looking for any sign of life among the ruins. At the end of the bridge he saw a large door. As he approached he heard footsteps. His heart started beating rapidly. There was still someone alive. He rushed to the corridor only to be met with a duo of nox priests. As they heard him they faced him brandishing their hammers. Elias focused on their eyes, hiding behind a veil. They were black and hollow, devoid of any sign of life. This image made him lose hope. His subjects, the people he vowed to protect, were no more. All that remained were mindless husks, aimlessly roaming his beloved city. His thought was interrupted by a flying hammer falling to his right shoulder. At the last minute he sidestepped to the left having the hammer hitting the stone floor with a loud impact. He started realising that he had no choice. He turned to the priests.

"I'm sorry, my precious subjects. I should never have left you."

He then grabbed his sword and raising it, pointing it at them.

"It falls to the monarch of this city. To release it residents from this cruel and inhumane fate. Worry not, for I'll make it swift and painless."

With that he took a step forward. The priests brought their hammers down on him, but this time Elias was focused. Dashing through the hammers he dodge them with a turn to the right. As the first priest started to retract his hammer Elias's blade striked him across the neck, decapitating him on the spot. A gush of black blood spilled from the place where the priest's head was. The final priest started shivering. Elias's blade, still coated in blood, danced through the wind. The priest tried to hit Elias with a perfumers igniting cocktail only for his hand to stop in place. As Elias grabbed the priest's hand he twisted it making him feel pain. Elias finally plunged his sword into the priest's heart ending the fight. The lifeless bodies of the priests laid broken on the cold floor. This was too much for Elias. Not only his city was destroyed, but now he was forced to kill his people. He looked at his sword, still coated with the blood of his subjects. He never thought the blade he vowed to protect his city with, will one day end the lives of its people. He was about to leave through the door when he was stopped by a faint sound.

"My ...... Lord ..."

He turned to see one of the priests was still alive. He rushed to his side, dropping his sword to the ground. The priest tried to raise his head towards Elias. As Elias supported his head he made a sudden discovery. The priests eyes return to a normal blue behind the veil he was wearing.

"My Lord..... is that ........you"

Elias smiled with tears flooding his eyes.

"Yes my child. It's me."

"Did ......... I"

"Don't worry. You were not in your right mind."

A faint chuckle escaped the priests mouth.

"Quite a disgrace I must be........to strike....my king."

He rised his hand and pointed at the two nearby coffins.

"We ..... kept them.....safe......for your... return....your…....…"

Without finishing his phrase, the last of his strength vanished. The priests body became heavy in Elias's hands. He left the body slowly on the ground. His eyes fixated on his fellow subject. He raised the veil revealing his face. He then realised that he was not a man, but a woman. A pale girl with scarred skin. He wondered how many fights she and her companion must have endured. And all that for protecting these two coffins. Curiosity got the better of him and Elias decided to open them. After removing the large stone cover, the sight gave him a hopefull smile. Inside the coffin laid one of his original dolls, the Nox Swordstress. The doll's clothes were still in good condition. On its sides were the Nox flowsword and a pack of perfumers igniting cocktails. All laid ready for the doll to use when operational. He cupped the cheek of the doll in front of him with his hand. The doll's cold porcelain skin shinned under the faded light of the tomb. He reminessenced the hours of work he put into making them.

"My beautiful creations. You are a sight for sore eyes.... If only I could....."

His eyes light up with the spark of hope. He looked at the two priests on the floor and then the doll again. A solution popped in his head. A desperate one, but a solution none the less. He rised his sword from the ground and rushed to the corridor. He had to be fast.

"My beautiful city. My inspiration. Please have the materials I need to save these two. Help me save even a fraction of your glory."

And with that he rushed outside to gather the materials he needed.