The Vana'Diel Tragedy.

[Blood Red Poet]

Phew! About time I updated eh? Well this is very important!

- Hinatakun of Midgardsormr's WindurstReform is VT official editor! -

Thank you so much! :D

Okay here it goes.


VANA’DIEL TRAGEDY
Chapter Six: Without Words

Sarutabaruta’s peace was broken by draw of a Yagudo’s blade. The tan, dull mountains overlooked the crimson kote wearing Yagudo. The sky’s darkness was a lesser to the Beastman’s feathers. The moon and surrounding stars brought light to the land. He glared at a pair of his own kind, both towering a sitting Tarutaru in a simple green coat and pants. It was obvious the two were about to strike their defenseless pray.

“Q-Quu Xuchi?! What are you doing here? Kawk!" a Yagudo with a rune written red cloth wrapped around his face and two-feet long beak. In his right hand was a weathered, battle-scared club. His emotion was twisted with fear.

“Chief Inquisitor of the Theomilitary…" his companion whispered with a gulp. On his daily route of religious respects he heard gossip: a soul without a single ounce of sympathy with assassination, torture, and intimidation skills that were simply unrivalled and unchallenged. He even heard, on his way to the shrine of the afternoon offering, that he killed a loyal soldier just for littering a single scrap of food one hundred yards away from Oztroja. ‘Just rumors’ he prayed.

Quu Xuchi eyes explored the scene. “Hmmm…. So you thought you could kill this innocent Tarutaru merchant?" Quu Xuchi shook his head in disgust. “I can’t believe you would break such a law so close the religious shrines of your home! Kawk!". The Tarutaru merchant slowly got to his feet and quickly ran from sight.

“We are sorry! Kawk!" the mage bowed his head in shame.

“Very!" his friend joined in.

“What is the penalty on attacking a Windurstian citizen?" his red eyes looked calm: A soul deep in-touch with religion… not a torturer… not a killer. Even with his weapon out, there was an unexplainable cool about this Yagudo.

“Thirteen days, six hours, and thirty-two minutes in a cell without food�? they both rushed to answer loudly. Bullies a couple seconds ago, now cower like children.

“The Avatar told me to settle things in Giddeus… I will make an example out you two…" with that threat he lifted his large, red-hilted katana. It was surreal. To be told you were about to die by the most infamous murderer of your entire nation. They vainly began to run towards their rocky home.

Within the gates of Windurst…Cronin took a sip and slowly lowered down his wine glass, filled with a cheap drink. Both him and Kurin-Juran were eating at the restaurant-like tavern ‘Timbre Timbers’ in Windurst Waters. The lights were dim and a Tarutaru male played the harp beautifully wearing a bard's tan outfit: a large puffy hat, tight vest with an undershirt, and baggy, checkered slacks. The low roof no longer bothered Cronin, as it did when he first entered

"So, how was your day?" Cronin asked his shorter friend.

"It was nicy-wicy... you?" the Kurin-Juran commented back.

"Same, same" he answered.

"Tomorrow we are going to try-wry to improve our rank?" Kurin-Juran asked, unrelated.

“I think our next mission will bring us to rank two" Cronin let out a smile. His wounds from the battle with the Moblin outlaw Jarublulix had healed totally, only leaving a minor scar or two. “Hmm. Now that I think about it, how about the day after tomorrow? I am going to be busy all tomorrow unfortunately" Cronin informed.

“No problem’aru" Kurin agreed without a conflict.

Silence came to be between the boys. The bard up on a stage played his flute like he didn’t have a worry in the world. A few other tables were filled with costumers. It wasn’t a necessarily a busy night, but the cooks were pleased.

Kurin sighed and looked away to the ground, hiding a frown. "What concerns you?" Cronin asked curiously.

"My father died this day, twenty years ago..." he revealed sadly.

"I see..." Cronin said with respect, “He was a hero to our nation".

"Meh, I am somewhat over it" Kurin grabbing his fork and stabbed down another piece of his dhamel steak. In truth, Kurin-Juran was not really over it. He had those nightmares, more and more. He hastily placed the piece of meat in his mouth, trying his best to conceal his sadness.

"You know my father died about six months ago" Cronin said to Kurin-Juran.

"Ack! I am so sorry-worry!" Kurin exclaimed, begging for forgiveness.

"It is okay" he gave a chuckle, “Saying sorry, in any situation, is stupid".

“Eh?" Kurin-Juran looked a Cronin confused.

“I don’t like to hear it… so pointless. I can’t stand the word. Why bother with it… a waste of air I could say" he smiled.

“Hmmm, I guess that is not too strange" the Tarutaru laughed.

“I am over it as well. I am not sure if you know, but I will tell you anyway: My father was the Bastokian ambassador of all Windurst to and from trade and affairs relating to the republic. I am worried I will be asked to replace him..." Cronin, getting back to the topic, told him finishing the last remains of his meal. Cronin, unlike his Tarutaru companion, was never really close to his always-distant father.

"Replace-walace him?" he asked.

"Yes... I have a lot of training in that area of occupation. But..." Cronin said with a deep breath, "I have my mother's blood in me I have been told. To climb the highest mountain, slay the greatest dragon, and find the priceless treasure: That kind of crap".

Kurin-Juran gave a laugh followed by Cronin's confusion. "Altana gives you many choices in life. Only you can choose them. If you ever come to situation that you are forced upon, you are dying... you must break from that" the Tarutaru said words wiser than he knew.

"Haha... I guess so" Cronin responded a bit surprised at Kurin-Juran's sudden wisdom. He had finished his plate.

“Now I see... so that tactic-wactic you used against Jarubluix was from your training. Smartaru" Kurin realized out loud.

Cronin stood up and gave a loud yawn, stretching. “I am going to get some sleep. Want to split the check or-" Cronin asked. By now, Kurin-Juran had also cleaned his plate of food.

“Don’t worry, I got it. I just achieved ‘Recruit’ status at the fishing guild, so I would like to treataru" Kurin assured.

“Oh, congratulations! I’ll ask you about how the test went later. Good night" Cronin spoke while walking towards the door then stopping at the arch, “Two days from now, meet at Leviathan’s Gate… I’ll inform the Mithra".

‘Oh Sakeru will be traveling with us permanently?’ Kurin-Juran thought to himself as he placed a bag of gil next to a bill. Kurin wasted no time and got to his bed for a good rest.

“Hey old friend! I heard your little boy-woy is now four years old?" a short figure wearing a green tunic full of various colorful patterns with a pointy roof of the hood, asked a blond haired Tarutaru who wore a green uniform and a pair of black slacks. The tunic was the minister uniform and the other a War Warlock uniform. Guided by his hand was a small, blue-eyed Tarutaru boy. The child seemed unaware of his surroundings. The bright rays of light beamed through the glass windows.

“Yes, he is such a nice boy…" the older Tarutaru rubbed his silver hair.

“I’ve heard rumors… that he is ‘special’" the minister brought the sensitive topic up.

“Yes Karuha-Baruha… he suffers-wuffers from that from an exotic disease. He has yet to learn to speak, without words… and actarus like a doll most of the time" the father frowned at the young Tarutaru’s face and continued; “It is quite tragic".

Both of the Tarutarus were in the most north residence of Windurst Walls. The small, tidy house was filled with books and puzzles, placed on shelves. On a small round table was the doctor’s current project: eight magical charged blocks, one for each element of the magic spectrum. The goal was to make a rectangle out of the blocks without touching any of the opposing elements. It was truly a challenging puzzle.

“I think I know the one you are talking aboutaru… forget the name" Karuha put on a face of recognition.

“They say, he will probably-lably die by the age of seven… he has no chance at life. Hinono was devastated" said the father looking at the doomed child.

“That is what they said about me…" Karuha-Baruha whispered, low enough to be unheard.

“It has been a long time hasn’t it… since I was your student?" the blond haired Tarutaru changed the depressing matter, with a smile.

“Oh yes, that it has Bojuha-Nojuwa" the minister began to think back.

“Ever since my wifey got pregnant with Kurin-Juran… five years ago" Bojuha brushed off his uniform, letting go of the dazed Kurin. The little boy walked like a toddler to the puzzle. He began to play with the parts lying on the table.

“Is it true… thataru the beastmen have some kind of leader who attacked San d’Orian knights deployed in Beaucedine Glacier and Xarcabard?" Bojuha started to talk about politics.

“It would seem so" Karuha served himself some green Windurstian tea, “You?".

“No thank-wanks…" Bojuha passed and sat down at a table parallel to the one where the puzzle rested, “Do you think they will attack Bastok, Jeuno, Tavnazia, and us too? Maybe even Kazham and the few minor towns on the main land?"

“I am notaru certain… I think we should investigate this new king… he goes by the alias Shadow Lo-"? Karuha ended his own sentence early at the sight of Kurin.

“Kurin-Juran!" Bojuha-Nojuwa shouted. The baby-like kid was messing with the hard worked on puzzle. Bojuha restraint his child, while Karuha took a gaze at the toy. He was flabbergasted.

[Blood Red Poet]

“This is all too familiar…" Karuha-Baruha said lightly, rubbing his chin. Kurin-Juran was a mentally disabled boy with no educational background what so ever, yet was able to solve a puzzle difficult to geniuses.

“Huh?" Bojuha-Nojuwa questioned.

“I want to tutor your son… for a year if possible" Karuha exclaimed, out of nowhere.

Bojuha-Nojuwa was stunned for a moment. “That would be such an honor-wonor, but I am not sure if Hinono could be parted with her son for more than a week!" the dad tried to explain.

“Please try…"

Kurin-Juran woke up, very refreshed. It was another one of those dreams. Kurin had a peculiar memory. He remembered everything since he was one year old, not too well though.

A day of fishing passed quickly and both of them stood at Leviathan’s Gate, on the next day. Again Windurst's sky would bare the sun. Kurin-Juran was in his usual tunic, with the hood down like how he always had it while in towns. Cronin was in his lizard leather armor and had a shield rested to his arm, just as before. The tan vest was filled with scars from the previous battles. His sword had been polish to hide any damage from combat, shinnying in the sun’s reach while holstered to his waist.

Cronin gave an annoyed growl. "Where is she!?" he snarled as he kicked a rock close to his feet. It bounced off some random rocky wall.

"That crazy-wazy Mithra" Kurin-Juran sighed annoyed.

A wooden automaton figure on wheels rode by. It was a Cardian. A cheery little Tarutaru girl with dyed red hair was guiding it. “I know you been hurting all over-rover! But, we are going to fix that" she smiled at the face of weird looking robot.

“ThAnK YoU!" it spoke in a broken, yet unexpressive voice.

Just far enough to still be viewed a Mithra made her way towards the pair. The sun was bright, forcing her to shelter her eyes from it with her hand. "Sakeru! Your late!" Cronin yelled to her from the distance.

Sakeru Ghiibi wore scale mail armor set with a Sapara at her side, also like before. She shortly made it to them. "I know, I know... I am sorry. I was caught up in this story" she excused just as quick.

"Hmmm, story-wory?" Kurin wondered aloud.

"About this Rank one Tarutaru on a mission to recharge a group of magical orbs. After he did so, he was attacked by a group of Cardians on his way back with the revived orbs. The orbs were stolen and he is still in a coma" she told with an over animated tone.

"Wow..." "I am afraid-waid" were the boys’ responses.

"Well enough of that, lets do a mission" Cronin said, but Kurin-Juran was still worried about the 'Cardians of the Dark'.

Many years ago, soon after the Crystal War, these strong Cardians started to rebel led by the infamous four Ace Cardians. They wandered about the magic towers, but only had total control of the southwest and the northeast towers. Kurin had yet to see one face to face, not that he wished so. He much rather stick to the friendly kind in Windurst.

Cronin, Sakeru, and Kurin-Juran began their talk with the gate guard, who was only a short walk away. "Hey I heard of you three on defeating Jarublulix. Starting to get a little famous around herrrre... well not that famous" she complimented and smiled. It was the same leather vest wearing Mithra who assigned Cronin and Kurin-Juran their first mission.

"Thanks. We would like to complete another mission, together" Cronin as the team's leader spoke for the group.

"I see... well I got one just perrrfect for you. Go to Optistery and talk to minister Tosuka-Porika. Ask for more details there. Good luck adventurers" she said with a salute.

"Thank you, once again, we won't let you down..." Cronin said, and all three of them saluted back.

Now, a distance from the mission-giving Mithra, they decided Kurin-Juran would get the info while they waited in Bomingo Round, Windurst Wood’s fountain and center. The library-based ministry of Windurst was in northern part of Windurst Waters: Huntsman’s Court, in fact only a short distance from ‘Timbre Timbers’, where Kurin and Cronin ate last night. Kurin-Jurin gently gave the door a knock, opening for him.

A panicking Tarutaru walked back and forth in the room. Kurin-Jurin instantly could tell it was Tosuka-Porika because of his green tunic with strange designs and a crown-shaped hood. Only ministers wore clothing that resembled that. The Optistery had two buildings, Kurin in the east one. This house was used to store thousands of books as Kurin-Juran could see. These magical books held spells or hidden knowledge that disappeared from the manuscript once read and then was burned into the reader's mind.

Kurin-Juran made his presence clear by shouting "Hello minister-sinister Tosuka-Porika!".

The Tosuka-Porika suddenly broke out of his thinking and looked to the adventurer of equal height. "Ah! It is the adventurer those folks-wolks at Heaven's Tower sent? Thank the stars!" he cheered. Kurin-Juran was a bit surprised but moved to greet the task giver.

"Yes, that is who I am, Kurin-Juran. I will fix your problem'aru..." he assured with a graceful nod.

"Bah-wah! It is far worstaru than you can imagine-gagine. The mighty ‘Book of the Gods’ has been stolen!" he shouted with fear.

'Book of the Gods... why do I remember that name?' Kurin mind wandered off.

"Hello? Are you listening? This is a big problem-woblem." Tosuka-Porika was now shouting, "We are all in huge trouble-wouble! The Book of the Gods holds the secrets of the magical ruins and the powerful, yet forbidden, magic that the Hero of Windurst crafted years ago!" Toskuka-Porika was now even building a sweat. This Minister was clearly a worrier. The Hero of Windurst was the alias of Kahura-Bahura, the Tarutaru who saved Windurst from ultimate doom at her darkest hour.

"I understand the situation. I will take it seriously. What do you want me to do?" Kurin asked Tosuka.

"I have an idea on who must have stolen it: none other than that infamous-enwamous ‘Cat Burglar’. I am not sure on her real name-wame but I could imagine you can find her" the minister finished.

"Okay, I got it. This mission may be toughy-foughy, but I will be able to do it" Kurin said with a bow, and made his way out of library-like room.

'The Cat Burglar...' he began to think while he made his way to the Windurst Woods district, 'Those kids called that Mithra that...'. Kurin-Juran was hit by a flashback.

The young adventurer was walking into Windurst for the first time in twenty years. His eyes looked about the city full of green and vegetation. Suddenly, almost from the shadows it seemed, a Mithra with red hair and a red blouse and loincloth popped in front of the Tarutaru. Her thick blouse was loose and covered past her cloth.

"Hey kid, you look lost... I am going to guess you arrrre new" she said in a clear, rebellious voice.

"Um…" Kurin-Juran was a bit shy from the sudden stranger, "I guess, I lost my map on the way here from Mhaura".

"Well" the attractive Mithra turned forward and began to talk about the area, "You are currently in Porrrrt Windurst. This district has the fishing guild, some warehouses, a handful of floating boat-side stores, and the airship agency. You can get a good view of the ocean herrre too. If you don't mind the seafood smell, this place ain't half bad"

"Ah, okay. Thanks a lot!" Kurin-Juran said with a smile.

He never knew people in the big city would be so helpful. Windurst wasn't much different than Mhaura it seemed to him. Unknown to the Tarutaru, sometimes intent can be hidden. Her eyes quickly gawked at his bag of gil.

"Hey now... lets not forget my reward" she said with a grin.

"Reward?" Kurin-Juran's smile fell to a frown.

"You know ffffor my services. I think... all your money will do!" she turned around viciously to Kurin-Juran.

"Ack! Are you some kind of thief?!" Kurin-Juran slowly backed away in fear.

"Hahahaha" she laughed eclipsing her mouth with her right hand.

She was ready to pounce on the fooled Tarutaru, but was interrupted by a flying object. Striking her on her head, she instantly hissed. Strangely enough what hit her was an onion.

"What the hell?!" she roared and quickly checked to see who did it.

To her dismay were five young Tarutarus and two young Mithras: all children. "Star Onion Brigade! Chwarge at the Cat Burgler!" the lead Tarutaru boy said, followed by the onion-aimed crew.

"Oh man... not these SOBs" she sighed, "See you around new comer".

She raced up the nearest path and was quickly followed by the gang of youngsters. “She’s getting away!" a small Tarutaru girl with a pink hat cried. Kurin-Juran was simply in awe.

"Windurst... is strange..." Kurin whispered leaning forward to see what happened to those kids and that thief. No luck on his attempt.

[Blood Red Poet]

'That happened two weeks ago... only a minute later I was greeted by a War Warlock who happened to be chatting to Cronin...' were his thoughts after the quick image disappeared from his mind, now at the fountain.

He looked around and could see the two sitting on the ledge.

"Well, your eyes look pretty" Cronin told the Mithra, in mid conversation.

"Grrr, Cronin do you have to flirt with every female in a two mile-wile radius?" scolded his friend.

Cronin gave a blush and scratched the back of his head. "Flirt? Who is flirting? Sakeru is my business partner, just trying to find out more about her..." he said giggling, “Silly Tarutaru. I don’t know what he is talking about".

Kurin-Jurin didn't believe the words coming out of his mouth. Looking at Sakeru's facial expression, it looked like Cronin 'flirting' was not even getting a reaction. He told the details of the mission to the pair.

"Cat Burglar, eh? Didn't you meet that Mithra on your arrival here two weeks ago?" Cronin asked the Tarutaru.

"Yes, long-wong time ago that was, it seems though..." he answered the noticed Sakeru was lost in thought, "Sakeru?".

"Oh I know this 'Cat Burglar'. I know her too well. Her real name is Nanaa Mihgo... we go way back" Sakeru told them.

"Ah, so like 'friends' way back?" Cronin asked smiling with this possible lead.

"No, more like... hmmm... 'I am going to kill you the next time I see you' way back" Sakeru said, almost angry now. The other faces showed the expression of surprise.

"That’s… nice" they both said in sync, a bit afraid.

"Anyway I know exactly wherrre she is. One of the northeast house sections of the Mithran residential areas is where her gang hangs out. Lets go there now, only a four minute walk" she told them. They both got up and followed her to where she once lived.

"I think we are going to see a 'cat fight' when we get there... the pulling hair and scratching each other faces off kind of thing..." Cronin whispered to Kurin.

"I hearrrd that..." she growled at the Hume, who jumped up in fear.

The Mithran homes were located behind Windurst's main Dhamel farm. Their houses were on a boardwalk that was build above minor creeks and grass. It was called the ‘Mithran Groves’. Mithran children running around playing with toy bows and dolls became common sight. "Wow, I never been to this part of Windurst" Cronin noted, looking around.

Kurin-Juran jumped up. Sakeru growled. Cronin spotted the cat burglar, Nanaa Mihgo. With the red blouse wearing Nanaa Mihgo was a pair of shady looking Mithras, with just as skimpy clothing as her. "Nanaa it has been a long time!" Sakeru called.

"Sakeru Ghiibi... not that long!" Nanaa welcomed her friend. Nanaa's minions got in position to flank the trio.

"Ugh..." Cronin groaned as he noticed their formation

"Hey! You tried to steal my gil-wil before!" Kurin-Juran growled at the Mithra.

"Hmmm..." the red-haired Nanaa looked at his face thinking for a bit then came to a sudden realization, "Oh yeah, that newbie!".

"N-newbie?" Kurin-Juran mumbled, looking the other way.

"Well Sakerrrru, what do you need out of me? Info? What?" Nanaa curiously said.

Nanaa Mihgo’s two friends, Bopa Greso and Cha Lebagta moved a little closer. Bopa Greso had a lizard leather vest with a very short subligar, revealing almost of all her slim legs and black boots. Her golden hair was tied into two pigtails. Cha Lebagta had a bronze harness, with a black cloth covering her breast, silver gauntlets, and a bronze subligar similar to her partner in crime. On her tiny feet were tan shoes. Her short brown hair was under a round leather cap graced by a red-tipped feather.

"We heard you stole a book from the Opistery" Sakeru began integrating her rival.

"Hmmm, I steal a lot of things. What exactly arrrre you talking about here? Got a name?" Nanaa was quickly answered.

"’The Book of the Gods’, I hearrrr it is quiet the relic..." Sakeru replied, she knew Nanaa must have stolen it and her voice expressed it.

"Nope, neverrr heard of it" Nanaa shrugged.

"Liar!" Sakeru proclaimed loudly.

"Liar? Hmp. You are still the annoying little girl" Nanaa rejected the claim.

"Grrr, shut it tomboy" Sakeru insulted.

"Tomboy?!" Nanaa was offended.

"Oh no, this isn’t looking good" Cronin said, covering his face in disgrace.

"Rememberrrr that last time I proved you wrong?" Sakeru grinned cockily.

"Oh yeah, when I beat you up silly?" Nanaa chuckled.

"What?! I recall you crying, running to your mommy!" Sakeru argued.

"Psh, don't be embarrassed" Nanaa smirked

"When will you stop being a liarrr?" Sakeru questioned sarcastically.

"Stop calling me that!" Nanaa words grow with hatred. Both of their faces were inches from each other. Suddenly it happened: Sakeru gave a slap across Nanaa’s face.

“You-!" she returned the favor. Sakeru quickly grasp her face, in pain.

Sakeru pulled out her sword and Nanaa did the same with her knife. The minions also got ready to enter the fray, unveiling their once concealed daggers. Cronin and Kurin-Juran, not happy at their feline companion, sighed.

“Cronin! Kurin-Juran! Give me a hand here!" Sakeru looked back to them.

“I don’t hit girls!" Cronin resisted.

Kurin-Juran simply avoided them. “I am not going to get involved" he uttered walking back.

Nanaa Mihgo swung fast, very fast. He ears flopped with every stab and cutting motion. Sakeru, very agile was able to dodge the swift blows while dishing out her own.

Before Cha or Bopa could help their leader, Nanaa quickly ordered them “Don’t worry about me! Take out the Hume!". Cronin’s eyes widen as they charged at their new prey.

“Oh Altana, what have I gotten myself into?!" Cronin braced for an attack, sword and shield ready. Bopa leap into the air and grabbed her dagger with her right hand as it stabbed into Cronin’s shield, with her left hand holding down her hat. Cronin pulled his shield back causing Bopa to lose balance and panicky retreat. Cha, more direct than he friend, led a campaign of constant and furious dagger swipes at the charming hero. Cronin was trapped under the array of attacks.

Nanaa dagger flew to the ground, just parried from Sakeru quick sword skill. Nanaa let out a sweeping kick to Sakeru’s legs, quickly making her drop to ground. With the time gained Nanaa recovered her weapon. Now at a draw they stood six feet from each other. Nanaa jumped on top the table, as Sakeru lead a full on dash. With the new advantage, Nanaa Mihgo was able to land a thin cut just below Sakeru Ghiibi’s eye.

“Witch! I will make you pay forrr that!" Sakeru roared with an angry Mithran voice.

Cronin, desperate, pushed forward with his shoulder. Such a change in combat broke Cha Lebagta’s pace. Dropping his shield, Cronin quickly grabbed Cha’s dagger wielding arm. He took a large sniff, close to Cha face. “Wow you smell pretty fine. What perfume is that?" he said with wink and smile.

Kurin-Juran once heatedly watching, now rolled his eyes. “Hopeless flirt" he swung his hands down.

“Pig!" Cha Lebagta roared and gave kick to the back of Cronin’s heel.

“Ow!" Cronin jumped away on one foot grabbing the other, letting go of her wrist. “What a tease!" he frowned as he repositioned himself. Cha quickly got ready to fight once again, getting into a battle stance. “Wait a second… where is your brunette frie-" he began saying until he felt cold iron scratching against his neck.

“Move and I will cut you to pieces!" Bopa Greso whispered loudly into his ear.

“Eep!" Cronin looked down at the knife, just above his jugular. “Would you let me go if I told you that were prettier than those two other Mithra?" Cronin grinned. Bopa griped grew firmer. “I was joking!" Cronin gasped for air.

Nanaa smiled at the sight of Cronin’s capture. “Looks like yourrr little Hume friend is all tied up!" she bragged.

Sakeru looked back. “Cronin! Are you okay?" she was shock that he was defeated.

“Outside the cat lady putting a knife to my neck? Just peachy!" he was very sarcastic.

He noticed Bopa Greso was slightly distracted. He grabbed the knife baring hand and pulled it down. Then twisted her arm to her back waist and threw her forward. She quickly regained her balance and turned to the Hume.

“Hmmm… looks like there is no winners yet" Cronin grinned.

“Nanaa, I’ll make you eat yourrr words!" Sakeru taunted, readying to pounce.

“Good work team!" Kurin-Juran cheered from the sidelines.

“Shut up you lazy Tarutaru!" both of them shouted at him. He cowed as the abuse.

“It is about time we take these fouls out" Cha Lebagta said frustrated.

“Yah…. Ready Nanaa?" Bopa Greso asked.

Nanaa didn’t bother answering as she placed her knife against Sakeru’s scimitar, surprising her. Cronin reached for his shield and reequipped it to his left arm. Bopa Greso quickly was fended off. Cha Lebagta was about to land an intense blow, but was hit a by an arrow. Even Cronin was shocked.

“What the-" Cha pulled the pain-giving arrow out of her shoulder. It gave no blood. Her body suddenly fell numb. She couldn’t move.

Two more arrows flew in the air, hitting Nanaa and Cronin’s shoulder and back. They too were paralyzed. Sakeru and then Bopa were hit. All of the fighters could no longer move. They all seemed unhurt but trapped by some kind of curse. The fight was over.

“Who could have done that?" Kurin-Juran asked, looking for the bow user. He heard footsteps on the wooden platform. Slow paced and soft, the walking person reached the fight.

[Blood Red Poet]

A very familiar Mithran voice was heard in the air: “You do know that fighting within the walls of the Federation is highly illegal. Kurin’s heart dropped. He spun around to see a white, loosely shorthaired Mithra holding a bow downward. She wore a white cloak, with hood down, and white armor: the uniform of a Sybil Guard. Her face had been painted with tribal lines under her eyes and over her brow.

“K-Koshii! Kurin couldn’t hold his joy.

“Kurin-Juran… Koshii smiled. They rush to each other. Koshii kneeled down and they gave each other a big hug.

“I can’t believe its really you Kurin-Juran eyes were glued to his Sybil Guard friend, totally forgetting about his possibly injured friends.

"I didn't know you were in Windurst..." Koshii said, her Mithra accent rather weak.

"Oh yeah, I came here two weeks ago. I see you are ranked high already. Wow your miles ahead of me..." Kurin slapped his own head.

"Well every adventurer has their start" Koshii gave a chuckle.

"Hey what did you do to my friends and Nanaa?" Kurin wondered looking at them. On all five of their faces was anger. They became like statues.

"I dipped those arrows in paralyzing poison... they are perfectly safe and the potion should run out seconds from now" she said with a smile. All of them were freed in the next five seconds.

"God! I hate that! Don't everrrr do that again!" Nanaa roared.

“Wow, we can actually agree on something" Sakeru said lightly, brushing herself off.

"Shush" Koshii said placing her bow on her back, "Nanaa! We know you have the Book of the Gods! Where is it?".

She laughed. "Under Windurstian law you can't touch me, but I will return it... it proved useless to me..." she said disappointed.

"Useless? Whatever, where is it?" the Sybil Guard, confused for only a moment, questioned.

"Hmm, tell the newbie to go alone to my hideout... it is in East Horutoto ruins, where that bastard goblin gang used to be" Nanaa finished walking away, her minions following.

Koshii, Sakeru, and Cronin's eyes all looked at the Tarutaru. "What the?! Why does everyone think she means me" Kurin-Juran sighed. Cronin gave out a loud chuckle.

“Hey at least you didn’t get frozen like me by… Koshii was it?" Cronin humorously said. Nanaa was now gone.

“Yes… and aren’t you Cronin, Garag’s boy? I am sure getting in trouble isn’t exactly what your father wanted you to do after he left this world" Koshii raised her eyebrow at him.

“Bah" Cronin looked away in guilt.

"Koshii, lets go talk sometime" Kurin-Juran said as all four them began to leave the Mithra Groves.

"I would like that" she said with a bow.

"Haha, okay see you then..." Kurin-Juran waved goodbye.

Koshii took another path that lead to Windurst Walls, while Kurin-Juran and crew walked towards the Windurst Wood’s town square.

Both Cronin and Sakeru glared down at Kurin from their heavenly position above him. "Why you didn’t tell us know a Sybil Guard?" they both asked him.

"Um yah... well I didn't know Koshii was a guard before today..." Kurin-Juran gave a chuckle, "We traveled to Mhaura together with our families about twenty years ago... just before the battle of Windust. I was shocked to see this rebuilt so differently".

"Koshii?" Sakeru looked down at the Tarutaru.

"Yeah that is her name. Both our fathers died on the trip, and for about three years, we grew up in Mhaura as the best of friends. Until her mother and her came back to Windur-" Kurin was cut off.

"Father?! Her father came to this continent?" Sakeru shocked.

"Oh yeah, I guess that is a bitaru weird, you would have to ask her" Kurin finished the conversation.

Night came within hours. Kurin-Juran was making his way to the east magical toward like he did before. Once entering the aged ruins he noticed that there was less Goblins, in fact, none. "I guess they really did move back..." he said silently.

Kurin made it past the secret door to the rocky area and soon found an old steel door. On a sign next to it was "Nanaa Mihgo’s Hideout". 'Hmmn, not really smart to tell where your hideout is... then again she does love attention it seems' Kurin pondered. He knocked gently on the door until he noticed he could open the door. He slowly pushed the door aside.

The room he entered had two stories. The ground level that had a table in the middle graced with a pot of flowers and the upper floor that could be accessed from the case of stairs to Kurin's right. All along the room was boxes and chest. It was nice looking considering it was built right out of the rock. He looked about harder, but the three Mithras were absent.

"Hmm..." he was confused. Behind him, the door was opened. "Who?" he said, quickly turned around. With the door swinging shut, three familiar Mithras entered the room. ‘Nanaa Mihgo’ answering his own question in his head.

[Blood Red Poet]

"Hahaha" Nanaa burst out laughing, not alone in expression. "I am happy you came this farrr for our little transaction. Well this is how it is going to work... drop all your money and equipment right now!" she ordered with greed in her tone.

Kurin-Juran jumped back, he felt the white heat of betrayal deep in his chest.

"Don't look surprised" she walked closer to the Tarutaru soon to be victimized.

"Wow Nanaa, your plan worrrked well, to lure adventurers here for the book" Cha praised her leader.

Suddenly the door opened once again. Nanaa Mihgo turned her head to see who came in with a "Huh?". She was extremely surprised to see who it was. Three cardians, these had a magical aura that frighten Kurin-Juran.

"You have stolen from us!" "Stole from our master!" two of the cardians to the side said, behind the leading one.

"We have found you Mithra" the leading one said.

"Oh no. This is not good, they arrre the legendary Ace Cardians. We don't stand chance" Bopa worried with Cha also in fear, but Nanaa was able to hide it in a mask of courage.

"Tell us now! Where is the book?" the lead one asked her in rage.

"Of courrrse I wouldn't dare lie. Carrrdians can read if someone is lying or not. You will find what you want in the 'House of the Hero', by some boxes... happy? Stop chasing us around" she answered confidently. All three of them stayed quiet for only a moment.

"You also know... that us cardians can never lie..." the lead one didn’t finish its sentence.

“Crimes against the master are unforgivable" the most left one told them.

"We will be taking our leave... once you are silenced forever" the one of the right continued. They moved forward with their staffs ready to attack, twirling them with their three-fingered hands.

"Y-You double-crrrrossers!" Nanaa was now giving into the fear. She and her crew retreated slowly.

Kurin-Juran was just stunned and speechless through these events. Suddenly a wave of cold energy was felt. Kurin-Juran felt something different about this black magic though. It was so... fast. A red flash filled the room and a giant wave of fire explored from within the right cardian. Now into pieces, the automaton fell to ground, or at least the half that was still together did.

"This time you've gone too far!" a Tarutaru said, making his appearance.

"It is... you" Kurin recognized the spell caster's face.

"Don't forget, when you cannot lie... you should value every word you say with your life" he warned them.

"It is the Minister of the Orastery!" the cardian who was adjacent to his destroyed ally.

"Ajido-Marujido.!" the lead one said.

'That aura... it is stronger than I could ever imagine' Kurin-Juran thought.

"Oh it is you... adventurer from before, nice to see you here. I would imagine these cats-wats were about to steal you to the bare" he smirked. Ajido-Marujido focused back at the evil arcanas.

"So, 'Cardians of the Dark' you have investigatarued me haven't you? Since neither of you can tell a lie, tell me this" he went on while the cardians listened in fear of the Tarutaru, "What your evil enterprise is searching for? What are its goals? Don'taru tell me that you after the forbidden magic as well? That couldn’t be true, could it?!".

The cardians just looked at the powerful War Warlord of Windurst and drove away dragging the larger piece of their friend with them. "Of course they could just keep their silence. I didn't think of that..." he sighed at his failure.

"So I see now... stole that book from our Cardian friends there, eh? But to hide it right under our noses in ol' Karaha-Baruha's residence? That is pretty darn smart for a Mithra. It is always darkest under the candle you could say" Ajido-Marujido rubbed his chin. “Well just hand me the key, his ring, I will deal with this" he offered his hand to the Mithra.

Nanaa just smirked and handed him a ring attach to a gold chain. "You do know they will go after you once you have that book. Well whateverrr, they will leave me alone" she warned.

Ajido looked to Kurin-Juran. "I am going to guess you will be leaving with me? You stand a cat in hell chance of keeping all that Black Mage equipment intact, if you stay here" he walked away laughing, while equipping the chain around his neck.

Before Kurin-Juran left, he turned to the thieves. "Nanaa Mihgo... Please understand, I want to be your friend. Lets try to put all this behind us" he tried his best to get some good out of her.

"Get out of herrre while you can!" Bopa yelled at him.

"You got to be rrrreal stupid to try something like this!" Cha scolded as well.

Nanaa silenced them both with a hand gesture. "Kurin-Juran, you should get back to Windurst Walllls as-soon-as-possible. Be careful of Ajido-Marujido... his lust for power is much greater than the Cardians of the Dark" she gave the warning as a sign of truce, for now.

Kurin-Juran made his return to Windurst after a short walk. He wasted no time trying to catch up with Minister of the Orastery, who warped minutes after the encounter.

Now in Windurst Walls, he knew exactly where the House of the Hero was. He had been there before a long, long time ago. While passing a couple of bridges and houses of famous former ministers, he gazed at Heaven's Tower. It was so big, towering anything near it. The tree was strong with life as it ruled the sky above the water filled Windurst Walls. Now he was at the most north building in Windurst Walls, where the spell-weaver of summoning once lived. He walked up a small set of stairs and pushed open the door.

As he entered the dusty Windurstian style house, he saw Ajido with a unopened book in his hands, blue in color.

"Ajido-Marujido! Don't!" Kurin-Juran ordered hustling to him.

Ajido, ignored him and opened the Book of the Gods, ready to read it. Once open, the Minister of the Orastery looked blankly at the book for a moment. "This... this can not be!" he shouted in horror. "The Book... ‘The Book of the Gods’! It is blank!" showing the aged blue book to Kurin-Juran. Its white pages were without words. Without a single word, the book was completely blank.

Kurin-Juran knew once a book had been read, the words that once graced it would disappear. Someone, outside Ajido-Marujido, had read the Book of the Gods. Ajido-Marujido was simply stunned by the turn of events.

"Ajido, what does this mean?" Kurin asked with fear in his tone.

"This might be the end-wend of Windurst... if a dangerous figure got it... I don'taru want to imagine it..." he said worried. He pushed in his glasses and, now calm, walked out of the house. Kurin-Juran followed him.

"What are you going to do?" he asked.

"I don't know... the magic of the Fullmoon Fountain is beginning to fade" Ajido-Marujido's answer was simple and he soon disappeared, leaving the book to Kurin-Juran.

'What is going to happen next?' Kurin-Juran thought gazing the blue covered book.

Gumbah noticed Shinato returning home, walking down Ore Street. “Shinato!" his rough voice shouted down the street of poor citizens. Cheaply built houses were on the right and left of the Hume and Galka.

Shinato turned to see who is was. “Hello Gumbah!" he smiled at the approaching Galka kid.

“I have a question…" Gumbah told him while catching his breath.

“Shoot" Shinato encouraged as he pushed back his black hair. Shinato was enjoying his well-earned vacation since he last saw Bleeding Wolf.

“I wanted to know if you could…" Gumbah looked a bit nervous, “if you… could train me to be a Dark Knight".

Shinato gave a second for the words to sink in. “Gumbah… grow up a little more, then we will talk" he answered nodding. Shinato’s smile was false. Shinato couldn’t imagine directing the sadistic training to become a Dark Knight, let alone put someone like Gumbah through it. For a long time, Shinato absolutely hated Zeid. He wanted to kill him… until the day he heard he died.

The boy looked a bit disappointed. “It is okay… I understand" he frowned with those words.

“Well… why don’t you just try to find Zeid and ask him?" Shinato suggested shrugging.

“So Weiri’s friend… Zeid, is alive?" Gumbah said, his voice sounding a bit astonished.

“Yup… thought I have no idea where he is at" Shinato finished the conversation.

[Blood Red Poet]

Next! Chapter 7. Traitor with Blue Eyes!

See you then ^^.

(Note: I will stop posting VT on these forums by the time I hit chapter 10~, then you will have to go to www.ffvault.com or www.fanfiction.net to see it)

[Blood Red Poet]

VANADIEL TRAGEDY
Chapter Seven: A Traitor with Blue Eyes

The great bane will devour the fair land of Vana’diel.
The ancient seal will be broken, awakening nightmares of the ages past.
The blood of the innocents will soak the earth, and the world will fall into fear and despair.
But as one bright star shines through the clouds at night…
And as one song rings clear above the roar of the beasts…
We hold one in these darkest of times.
That they will come, with the wisdom of ages and the strength of thousands, to deliver us from our plight.

We await the awakening of the Warriors of the Crystal.

-Prayer with unknown, ancient origins.

Auricant laid his sword down on his maple wood desk. He calmly walked to an iron hook on his wall and attached his plain steel shield to it. His armor was off, currently being sold at the North Auction house in Port San d’Oria. He was in commoner’s clothing: short shirt and black pants. He sloped downward tiredly in his one-room mog house. He was a bit too poor to afford a moogle servant.

‘Today was rough’ he thought rubbing his back wound. ‘These Orcs get tougher by the moment, I swear!’ he complained thinking about his encounter with two Orcs while delivering the Mithran leather crafter Hanaa Punaa a triplet of sheepskins. His apartment was lighted by a small amount of scattered candles and a fireplace. The wallpaper was a cheap lime green with red bordering. It was a plain room, with two dressers and a table with a chair. His shoddy bed was at the corner next to the fireplace. A warm glow filled the plain location.

He began to think a random thought about the Crystal War. ‘It is year 883 of the Crystal Era… yet an event from 863 still pains me. Why did my father have to die when I needed him most?’ he rolled to his other side and put out a green wax candle on a stand near his bed with two fingers. Now, only the fireplace gave faint radiance.

Before he could shut his eyes to sleep he jolted at loud knocking at his door. “Auricant! I have to tell you something!" it was the voice of an Elvaan in a loud tone. Auricant rolled his eyes and got up from his rest. He opened the door to reveal a man also in commoner’s clothing, much the same as his own. His hair was short and black, his eyes a hazy brown shade.

“Baramunk? What brings you to my door… at this outrageous hour?" Auricant yawned midway into the question.

“My cousin wanted me to tell you that you are invited to go to a training session with the Temple Knights" Baramunk nodded. Baramunk was younger cousin of Baramore, by four years. He was a Dark Knight… but not like Shinato. A Dark Knight of a newer order, not a Galkan swordsman.

“Ah, that’s great! Where is this? When as well?" Auricant filled the air with more questions.

“I believe at the Ordelle’s Caves. By time, I am not sure. Go ask Baramore himself about that" Baramunk answered them all.

“Okay, I will be there. See you tomorrow, adventurer" Auricant began to close the oak door.

“Likewise, adventurer" Baramunk nodded and left his sight.

Auricant jumped back to his bed and pulled the sheets over himself. “I hate visitors".

The sun was out and born once again. San d’Oria was her cheery self. Today, South San d’Oria hosted a group of traveling performers, under a small, olive tent. Auricant with his armor ready, looked about for the missing Baramore. It was a set of heavy chain mail with iron chains connecting plates of coated in fuzzy blue leather. His blue visor was off, too warm of a day to wear it now. He gently pushed back his silver hair that hung from his face and looked at two brothers bicker at each other. It was something about who had the most candy, some childish nonsense. Both had cute, small green hats hiding their silver hair.

‘Haha, how they remind me of the current princes’ Auricant smiled at the boys. They looked at him impressed and ran to their mother to tell them about the great hero they saw, giggling along the way.

“Hello Auricant! Sorry for being late" Baramore said apologetically jogging up from behind, “Sister Khristin needed help finding a minor book of faith that was lost thanks to an idiot adventurer".

“She does okay?" Auricant asked as their eyes met, both cerulean. Khristin was a Hume female with beautiful golden locks. She was the only Hume priest or priestess under the San d’Orian church of Vana’diel. Auricant, Baramunk, and her grew up together on the streets of the city.

“Yes, and we found the book. You here to fi-" Baramore stopped for a moment and waved to his cousin, who walked towards them. “Speak of the devil".

“Hey Auricant. Hey Baramore" he greeted as he joined the circle. He was wearing a set of plated chain-mail armor just like Auricant. A large zaghnal with a wooden handle and bronze blade was attached to his back. Such a weapon could easily sweep grass from sight as it did Orcs. “I’m sorry Baramore" he rolled his eyes after apologizing.

“Hello Baramunk. Anyway, continue Baramore" Auricant nodded.

“Oh yeah, to find out the time of the training session?" Baramore asked.

“Yeah that its" Auricant confirmed with a smile.

“It will be on noon, Firesday" Baramore simply told him.

“Okay, I’ll remember that… bye Baramore" Auricant said as he and Baramunk waved goodbye to the traveling Temple Knight. He was to return to his post at Ranperre’s Gate.

[Blood Red Poet]

“So, did you hear?" Baramunk began conversing, suddenly, as they stroll further west into South San d’Oria. The Tarutaru’s song became faint as they brought distance from Victory Square, where he performed near the Auction House.

“About?" Auricant questioned while he looked down at his Elvaan legs as he walked.

“Sedal-Godja, the genius Tarutaru Royal Knight, has returned to town" Baramunk answered quickly.

“Hmmm… yes his grandfather was a great inventor" Auricant nodded, “the creation of the Linkshell is all thanks to that little man’s family".

“Well I am going to head out for some adventuring in Bastok… I heard some great request flying around there. I came to say goodbye" Baramunk told him.

“Bastok? Bah, that place smells like crap" Auricant exclaimed humorously.

“Even so, I can make a large amount of wealth and boost my rep. Good days to be ahead" Baramunk smiled as the words left his pink lips.

“I don’t know…" Auricant looked lost at his right palm while his left hand still held on tight to his helm. ‘I wonder… if I should include Baramunk in my quest to find my father’s killer’.

“I should be heading o-" Baramunk began to head to the East Gate of San d’Oria.

“Wait… I have something to tell you and a favor to ask" Auricant took a big breath and began to tell Baramunk about his father’s fall during the Crystal War at the Battle of Xarcabard. Baramunk only nodded, but never agreed to help in words.

Auricant was now alone in Pikeman’s Way, a street in San d’Oria. ‘Hmm, I think I will pay that old bat a visit’ Auricant beamed as he gazed at the upper story houses.

He went up a series of stairs and paths. Sometimes it seemed the upper floor of South San d’Oria was like a maze of stairs, paths, and bridges. One house stood out though. A tower-like house stood from the ground, which could only be accessed after these minor obstacles by a small bridge. As young Elvaan reached his destination, he saw an old man writing in a small book. He was on a tan-strawed chair that leaned against his house, beside the door.

“Balasiel! Think you could squeeze in sometime for a talk with an old pupil?" Auricant walked on to the miniature bridge, with a grin.

Balasiel picked his aged head with thin white hair up away from his book. “Haha! Auricant, finally you pay me a visit, you owe me quite a lot of time" he smirked. He placed the book down, with bookmark in place to his left.

“Well old man, what have you been up to?" he smiled warmly.

“Not much… well I am always quite busy. So many people want to become knights these days. Can get quite busy actually" he chuckled with his old, wise voice.

“Happy to see you are not one of those boring, old Elvaan who play chess all day" he grinned.

“Hey! I could play a fine game of chess. And beat your sorry self for sure" the old man defended comically and both of them laughed.

“I never got a chance to thank you…" Auricant grew serious.

“For?" Balasiel asked slightly confounded.

“Well… after my father died. You supported my mother through her tough times. Then when I had no job, you began to teach me… well you know, paladin stuff" he looked away, slightly embarrassed.

“It was nothing. You deserved a better life and so did your mother. Not crying over the lost and dealing with cut throat taxes alone" he nodded. Auricant could only smile back.

“I’ll find him… you know" Auricant looked down. A group of common women gossiped and laughed as they passed by the small, higher house.

“Who now? You keep on confusing me" Balasiel said somewhat confused and laughed.

“The person who killed my father" Auricant said bitterly, “At the Battle of Xarcabard".

“Don’t let revenge run you, Auricant" the old man directed as he grimaced.

The pupil ignored his words and gave his own: “I can’t live a happy day until the person who put me and my mother through all that is gone. Or at least I got to find out if he is gone or not. I know I will be able to kill him, or it. With this emotion I am unstoppable".

You shall be overwhelmed by the arrogance that disfigures you.

“Your choice I guess, but you will regret it once it is all done with. You will leave behind your friends so you can fulfill some silly duty your father would never want you to do" he tried to change his mind.

“It isn’t silly…" Auricant responded quickly. An awkward silence was established with those words. In that peace all the tension spilled away. Both of the men avoided eye contact, looking below where the commoners lived their lives. “Well teacher, I should be off!" he smiled and walked off.

“Dumb little kid, just like his father" Balesiel slurred with a roll of his eyes. He adjusted his seating on the chair and lifted his purple book once again. It was hardcover novel of riddles.

Auricant quickly got ready for his training with The Temple Knights. Firesday came soon enough. He dressed himself in heavy armor and strapped his sword to his side. He made his way to South San d’Oria’s chocobo stable behind the Auction House. Within minutes he was traveling through the woods of Ronfaure on the yellow chicken-like bird. He reached the end of the woods and was stood at the foot of the Plateau of La Theine.

“Ah, beautiful. I have to get out of the rabbit hole sometimes" Auricant said quietly to himself browsing his new surroundings. He was referring to Ronfaure, which was ‘rabbit hole’ in the ancient Elvaan tongue. La Theine was a series of hills and valleys. It had only a few trees standing, with yellow and orange leaves, and a lot of grass. Many dead trees stood up without leaves or branches with many cut marks on them. These were used for sword training. Outside the mountains and valleys, the biggest thing that stood out was the ‘Crag of Holla’. The crag was a huge cerment structure of the ancients that had many tower-like points… another structure of the ancients just as the Crag of Dem. The sun’s light ran over the land, even into the deep crevices.

He broke from his gaze and reached for a map in his possession. “Uh… okay I got to the valley to my left… where ‘the Body Caves’ lie" he turned to so. A deep scar had laid into the ground. He quickly rode his bird to a path down into the valley. He passed a couple herds of sheep on his way there.

He jumped off the bird and let it run free, back to its Beast Master owner. “Kweh!" he last heard from it.

He sucked in his gut and began to walk down the steep, yet grassing route. Small fuzzy, purple weeds stuck from the ground. One could pick them out and blow the seeds away. It granted a wish from Altana they said. He saw a Temple Knight observing the area with his back to Auricant. His armor was of white plates, iron chain, and gold lining. A fresh helm shielded his head.

“Hello?" Auricant tried loudly to get the knight’s attention.

The young man jumped a bit and turned back quickly. “Uh, hi. I don’t think you can be here…" he notified Auricant, looking like he was about to say something but didn’t get to.

“Baramore invited me here… to work out" Auricant assured.

“Auricant is it?" the knight questioned.

“Yes, could I see the man leading this?" Auricant asked calmly.

“Of course. Sir Maxamillious has been expecting you" he bowed and guided his friend to the elite Temple Knight. Passing through some living mushrooms that had short legs and beady eyes. The top of the mushroom-like beast was orange with white spots and their slimy body was also white. The planetoids avoided Auricant knowing he was much too strong to be prey. On the short, damp grass they walked.

Sir Maxamillious introduced himself with a composed expression. He also wore a white-plated armor with gold lining and iron chains. The plates emitted shining reflection of light. He was a man with large arms and dark eyes. His hair brunette, reached his broad shoulders, but couldn’t be described much thanks to his large helm. He handled the sword like a master and annoyed at stupid moves made by his trainees, like it was a personal offense. Auricant some did basic sword combat training for two hours with fellow students. Auricant learned a lot from the training, but his overall skill didn’t improve much it seemed. His father already taught him to be strong with a saber.

[Blood Red Poet]

“You’re not bad…" Maxamillious’s sharp eyes pierced Auricant’s silence. Auricant was a little ahead the other people in the training party in sword combat. Most of the others were beginners at combat in general.

“Thank you" Auricant smiled gently, bowing his head in grace.

“You… want to become a Temple Knight soon?" Maxamillious began to question him. He smiled with anticipation for Auricant to say yes.

“No sir, not that I have anything against the order. It is just not the kind of knight I want to be" Auricant answered quickly.

“Hmm, Royal Knight?" Maxamillious looked a bit annoyed. He was one of the many Temple Knights that had a rough tension shared with the Royal Knights.

“No sir, not that one either" Auricant confused him. It began to drizzle while the men talked. It rained at least three times in three days, which was why La Thiene was so fertile.

“I don’t get you" Maxamillious waited for an explanation.

“I want… to be a Reserve Captain" he told Maxamillious with an intense look in his eyes. Maxamillious was a bit surprised as his eyes met the fire in Auricant’s. That was the highest rank an adventurer like Auricant could wish to obtain. “Like my father, Paris Verdun".

“Yes, I heard a bit about him. Saved the Grand Knight of the Realm’s life in the Crystal War while losing his own. A great man I would say" Maxamillious padded him on the back and then walked into a cave. Auricant stood quiet for a moment.

‘The Grand Knight of the Realm during the time of the Crystal War knows!’ Auricant smiled as he finally made progress. He followed the others into the grotto that led to the Ordelle’s Caves.

Ordelle’s Caves, or the Body Caves as some Elvaan called it, was a series of tunnels made of limestone. The walls of the grotto seemed aged, ranging from a dark purple to a milky white. The map of the cave made it look like a body of man, where it gets its nickname. Auricant had only been in these caves once before, in his time out of Ronfaure. It was to collect something by an underground waterfall here to get his Squire’s status a long time ago. ‘Ugh that was annoying’ he remembered.

“Okay we are doing a lost member drill! This is more often practiced by Royal Knights, but it is downright vital that Temple Knights learn it as well. It could save a life… it has saved mine before" he took a big breath as memories poured into his head. The students became slightly keener with the learning after hearing it saved their teacher’s life. “Auricant, why don’t you star in this? Run out, not too deep though. We will send someone to find you. People get lost in Body Caves. Be careful, please" Maxamillious ordered with his feet submerged under the sparking water that was at the entrance of the caves. Auricant nodded and began to run.

He laughed at the thought that this was about of grown men playing hide-and-seek. His smile quickly became a horrifying expression of awe. A man was on the ground covered in blood, stabbed and slashed all over… dead.

Most likely dead for at least three days as the body began to emit a disgusting odor. “Maxamillious! Sir! This is no joke! I found a dead body!" his voice echoed through the halls. He turned back to the body once more. It was knight, Royal Knight to be exact. His throat was slashed, but it seemed the murderer didn’t stop there. The body looked like it could fall to pieces at anytime. Just before he heard footsteps coming from behind him, he began to examine it. The murder must have been in total rage, like an Orc, but something looked strange.

‘These wounds… could an Orc have done this precision? Could… a person have done this?!’ he looked slightly closer, squinting his eyes.

“Oh dear Altana, I am a bit too old for this" Maxamillious sighed at the sight, turning his eyes opposite from the corpse. A student next to him instantly became nauseated and vomited away from the sight.

Five hours past after the discovery and Auricant was in an office within the Chateau d’Oraguille. The chair he parked himself upon was made of comfortable, black leather. In front of him was a male Elvaan in a Temple Knight’s armor sitting behind a desk. This man’s eyes were sensitive blue, and his orange, messy hair broke free from his helm. On the front of the desk a little tag declared: Challistalle l’Orulive.

“So, this all you can tell me?" he spoke in a soft, yet strict voice. He placed his rest arm down and began to think with his fist covering his lips.

“Uh, yes sir. I am sorry if it is not enough" Auricant looked at the wooden and stonewalls. He had never been to the Chateau d’Oraguille and his eyes never seen the beyond gorgeous garden inside. He always dreamed as a boy to enter the castle that he saw every single day. His nerves were a little off but his usual calm and obedient attitude was in check.

“Please, call me Challistalle" he smiled at the silver-haired adventurer.

“Sure, Challistalle" he smiled back, pushing back his bangs that also pushed back his long ears.

“I am soon to dismiss this case, it is obviously another Orc ambush" he nodded assuredly as he looked down at some paper work.

“I don’t believe so…" Auricant’s eyes focused on a golden famed picture that was held above Challistalle. It was a young, charming Elvaan man also in Temple Knight armor. His hair was orange, but long and trimmed. He kind of looked like Challistalle, but a bit older. Challistalle’s eyes suddenly became full of anguish once he noticed Auricant looking at the picture. Auricant returned his focus to Challistalle, seeing this.

“You think something else?" Challistalle raised an eyebrow.

“I think it is was a murder" Auricant said a bit nervous. Challistalle just stood quiet for a moment, a bit surprised.

“I don’t believe so, but I will let the Royal Knights handle this. I am giving up Temple Knight jurisdiction" he shook his head in disagreement. Auricant wanted to debate the idea, but in such a castle he could not do so. He left the room without a goodbye.

Challistalle stood up and locked his door after him. He glanced at the picture by his desk, the picture of the Temple Knight. He looked down with a sudden rush of emotion in his throat. He began to choke up tears, sobbing slightly. He looked at the picture again, bursting into tears. His back, slowly, slid down against the door. “Why…?" being the only word that could escape his crying.

Auricant was outside, in the meeting room of the Temple Knights. A higher floor, where he stood, with a pair of tables on the bigger, lower floor. Both stories had nice carpeting over a strong stone and wood structure. There was a female Temple Knight. Her armor all gold and white plated. She had rebellious orange hair under her helm that flowed down over her right eye, covering it. At her side was shiny sword with a golden edge. She was the leader of the Temple Knights. Her rank was called Grand Temple Knight of the Realm and her first name was Currila. She had her hand on Baramore’s shoulder, who she was facing.

“I am sorry for you’re lost, Temple Knight Baramore. I’ll make sure you get the time you need for you to grieving" she nodded her head. Her voice was strong, unlike most Elvaan women. He nodded with a depressed look. He had no tears, but his face was spilling with a frown, almost a disappointed look. Auricant rushed to his friend.

“Baramore?" he asked, “You knew this man?".

“Yes… he was a close friend of mine" he sighed.

“I am sorry to see him go" Auricant now was a bit gloomed. “And the way he did. If he was a friend of yours, he was not the man to deserve this" Auricant shook his head.

“It must have been horrible for to find the body like that… I am sorry you had to get involve-" Baramore began to apologize.

“Baramore, I think he was murdered" he said looking around to make sure no one would overhear. Baramore was shocked.

“Who would do such a thing!" Baramore’s sadness turned to anger as he held his head down, gazing the castle’s floor.

“I am going to find out… but for now I want to go to sleep, even if it is early" Auricant felt a sudden rush of sleepiness run through his body. After making the short walk into the residential area, the Elvaan shortly passed out on his bed.

[Blood Red Poet]

Morning came with horrible news. Auricant walked out of his San d’Orian apartment shortly past noon, he had slept for a long time. He asked a random Temple Knight what happened with the body and the case in general.

“You haven’t heard?! Two more killings happened. It was deemed a serial killer did them. Your friend Baramore was arrested for the crime! It is horrible!" he was loud. Auricant knees almost buckled. He was stunned with a lightheaded feeling. When he overcame the spell he quickly ran away from the knight, without answering.

He ran into the Chateau d’Oraguille, proving he was Rank Two and rushing over the drawbridge. He turned right and ran down many stairs. Auricant was stopped for a moment by an iron gate, which he just as quickly opened. Behind it was a shadow filled dungeon. A large hall of jail cells was in sight. A man next to him was in full Darksteel armor, a dark blue set of heavy armor with gold outlines that covered the entire body.

“Guard! You must answer! Where is Baramore the Temple Knight’s cell?" Auricant was desperate to see his friend and his voice showed that.

“Baramore… he is… take your first right and you will see him nearly down the hall" the knight was thinking midway of answering. Auricant rushed off to do so. He reached Baramore’s cell. Inside was a cheap-clothes wearing Elvaan with his head looking down.

“Baramore!" Auricant jumped back at the sight of him. Was this really happening? Could Baramore really have been charged for multiple murders? Auricant keep on asking those questions in his head.

The Temple Knight head flew up and turned. His eyes spotted Auricant from past the bars. “I did not d-" Baramore tried to explain.

“Of course you didn’t. I do not believe that for second! Now why are they charging you?" Auricant begged for an answer.

“All three of them… who were murdered were my friends. Very close friends. They think I am going crazy or something. I am in so much pain… this is seriously horrible" Baramore sighed. Even with such heartbreak he didn’t bleed a tear.

“I can’t express my sorrow" Auricant got closer with his hands grabbing the bars, “I will find this murderer and free your name. I promise!". Baramore looked up and saw the young man’s eyes burning with hope. Auricant couldn’t image being wrongly sent to court for the murder of three of his close friends.

“Excuse me…" a shy, raspy voice spilled from out of nowhere. Auricant jumped back at the sight of a hooded Elvaan. He didn’t even hear him at all to that point. The jail keeper had a scary aura, as his skin was shady under his dirty, tan tunic. Two silver hairs spilled out as he moved closer to the gate’s lock. From his pocket he pulled out a ring of keys.

“You are free to go, Baramore. The Kingdom can’t begin to express her forgiveness" he told him. Baramore stood up, quickly. Both of the friends’ eyes stared in a cheerful bewilderment. The Temple Knight smiled happily. He walked out of the cage, letting out a big breath.


“Why did they change their mind?" Auricant couldn’t help but ask.

“Another murder happened. I believe… he was yet another friend of yours Baramore" the mysterious man explained with sorrow.

“Damn it…" Baramore punched the steel bars with his fist, “Who is doing this to me?!".

“That’s not all… it is believed that his murderer is connected to the Orcs. A small party of Orcs of the size of about five was able to get into North San d’Oria’s gate. They were quickly killed or chased off, but no one knows how they got in" the dark man went on, “Makes you wonder". Auricant and Baramore listened, dazed.

“That means a Temple Knight must have done this…" Baramore looked to the ground. The San d’Oria he loved was in danger. Something big was going down. A tragedy was about to happen… Baramore could sense it.

“I will find out… you just try to restore your reputation" Auricant tried to comfort his friend, while the mysterious jail-keeper disappeared back into the darkness of the halls.

Baramore, exhausted, went to rest within the hour. Auricant was browsing through the files in the Chateau d’Oraguille, enjoying his newly gained access. It was time to look for clues. The victims were all Royal Knights. They were all involved in a raid of Ronfaure, a little less than year back. ‘All captains of that raid!’ Auricant suddenly realized. He quickly turned the page to see the casualties. ‘Maybe a plot for revenge?’ For a split second he wanted to call himself a hypocrite, but his mind dismissed the thought.

Only one. A Temple Knight, Travis l’Orulive: Challistalle’s brother. Auricant dropped the report. “No…" he shivered at the fallen set of papers. ‘It must have been Challistalle!’ he looked angrily to the ground. The yellow and white papers of the report were scattered.

Someone who could know where all the knights were at all times. Someone who could have open the gate for the Orcs. Someone who could have change the way of the investigation to avoid any suspicion. “Fiend…" Auricant frowned. He did his best to shake off the icy chill aura that surrounded his body.

“Where is Temple Knight Challistalle at this moment?" Auricant quickly turned to a random Royal Knight in the meeting room of Royal Knights, which bore the crest of the knights over the arch doorway. He shrugged. And so did another Knight he asked… and another and another. Challistalle was gone.

Auricant ran out into Ronfaure after hearing from a guard at South San d’Oria’s west gate that he saw Challistalle ten minutes ago. Auricant ran deeper into the forest. Passing signpost and even a patrolling sentry on his way. There he was: Challistalle l’Orulive.

“Challistalle…" Auricant said unfinished, but dared not go on. The moment was dead with emotion. A swift wind blew by, tossing some fall’s leaves. A true darkness reached into the scene, even though the sun was out. The Temple Knight turned around.

“What would you like Mister Auricant P Verdun?" he asked with a bittersweet beam on his face. It was dark and yet nice. Like a madman’s dream finally coming to realization. Blood was dried on his poorly hidden sword: Elvaan blood.

“You did it… you killed them all" Auricant returned with hatred.

“I don’t know what you are talki-" Challistalle shrugged, trying to retain his grace.

“Shut up!" Auricant roared with rage in his voice and face, “You hurt my friend. You put him through hell… a hell that I could only imagine from miles. He will never be the same again. For that…".

“What, you plan to kill me? Arrest me? Like I care… it is almost over. All of it" Challistalle hastily swung his sword out of his holster, his fake smile now gone. He let his Temple Knight shield slide off his arm and hit the ground. He grasped his weapon’s hilt with both hands.

“Almost over? What do you mean?" Auricant asked worried. Only a charging Challistalle met his question. Auricant pulled out his blade and they dueled. Auricant was able to block a swift deathblow and returned with an elbow strike to Challistalle’s face.

[Blood Red Poet]

“Ugh!" he retreated slowly, “You little bastard". He rubbed his hurting cheek and they began to fight more. Auricant was slightly better than Challistalle in swordplay. The training from Maxamillious must have improved his swordsmanship. They both dare not cast a curing spell, for that could give the opponent a change to give a damaging blow.

Challistalle assaults were blocked by Auricant’s shield and sword repeatedly. The fallen knight held Auricant’s blade against his and grabbed Auricant’s arm that was equipped with a steel shield. Auricant slashed down trying to repel the foe off his body, but Challistalle quickly blocked the shot with his own blade once again. Challistalle quickly pulled back, taking the shield with him. He grinned and tossed it away. “Now we are even… lets end this quick!" Challistalle saw the shield land and turned to Auricant, who now was shield-less.

The sun was setting as their blade clashed in conflict. Challistalle was out of breath. Even with his tactics, Auricant was always ready to block his attacks and give out a stronger fight. Both of their bodies grew tired, but it seemed Auricant was winning. Auricant and Challistalle’s swords met and slid down against each other until their hilts were caught together. They both pulled away ruggedly, backing a few feet away from each otherr.

The desperate Challistalle lunged forward, ready to kill. Auricant was able to move his body right, only cutting the side of his chain mail, barely. Auricant’s silver tresses flew up as he swung his sword down, ready to cut his opponent’s hand off. Challistalle retracted his arm, the blade just missing the hair on his knuckles. Auricant withdrew before Challistalle could take advantage of his uncoordinated stance. Both stood at a stand still, looking at each other.

“Times up… you wasted too much of my patience" Challistalle sighed annoyed and whistled with two fingers. A second came and left. Four Orcs with leather mask and armor came from out of the shadows. Two of them had axes and the other two had swords.

“You traitorous bastard!" Auricant couldn’t help but curse as the four Orcs closed in on him. He parried an Orc’s sword quickly, leaving the Beastman open to clear attacks. With the Orc unable to defend it’s body, Auricant slashed its chest two times. Even with his best efforts, the Orc was not defeated and one of its friends butted him on the head with the handle of an axe. He dashed away, slashing a defense to be reckoned with.

An unhurt Orc rushed the Elvaan with his axe. Auricant cut the Orc’s wrist before it was able to leave a mark on him. The Orc dropped his axe and grabbed his wrist. Auricant reached over and hugged the Orc’s closer by his back as his blade slid into the Orc’s chest. The Orc cried in pain, with its white pug-like eyes showing hurting. He released grip and slashed the Orc’s neck. The Orc chocked for a moment then hit the ground, dead. He blocked the assault of another Orc, but was hit by a large, green-skinned fist from a third one. He collapsed as they kicked him while he was down. With grass in his face, he coiled with every kick.

“Don’t kill him!" Challistalle pushed his Beastmen companions away. “A lot of Royal Knights were sent out because you and few imaginary adventurers got kidnapped and are being held at Davoi. It would be such a shame if twenty or thirty dozen Orcs took advantage of that. Maybe even kill a few knights" Challistalle began to explain the trap. Auricant just rested on the ground, covered in his and a fallen Orc’s blood. “So… are you ready to go home, Auricant P Verdun?" he asked with revulsion and pulled Auricant up by his fair hair violently. The Elvaan coughed out a mouthful of blood, hiding his terrible pain.

“Bastard…" he insulted weakly.

“Wrong answer I am afraid. Good night friend" Challistalle shook his cocky grin. He swung Auricant’s head to his rushing his knee, crushing his nose. Blood spat everywhere and Auricant felt a weakening sensation. Challistalle let his body drop to the ground. Multiple rivers of blood spilled from his snout.

Auricant slowly started to black out as the Orcs began to lift his body. He only could only hold his broken nose for a few seconds before his body fell limp. His last sight was Challistalle walking towards San d’Oria. It got darker and darker, until there was nothing.

“Sister Khristin! What are you doing out here?" Baramore, now back at his post, was surprised to see the visitor.

“Oh I came by to see if you were okay" she smiled as a saint. The female Hume wore the uniform of nuns and clerics: a long dark blue tunic with some black trimming. Her eyes were blue like an angel and her yellow locks poured from under her hood. She was truly a beautiful member of the Altana Sisterhood

“It’s all been so tough, but I think I will be able to handle it. I think my cousin Baramunk will be a lot more upset when he comes back" he laughed joined in by Khristin, “Is that all you came for sister Khristin?"

“Oh hehe, I don’t know maybe I can help you with some guarding. You know my cure spells could heal a dead man and my banish-spell isn’t something to be laugh at" she smiled.

The leaves in the small courtyard began to fall off some aged, yet small trees. The stone tiles laid the ground between the large archway and the series of small gates actually within the city. Faint voices of traders and adventurers could be heard from the not so distant Laborman’s Way. The sky was black, like it always was this time during the fall season.

“I am sure that’s true. It would be an honor for you stay and watch with my fellow Temple Knights and me. Maybe you can talk about your stories of the pilgrimages through Zi’Tah?" he smiled, resting his back against the city wall.

“Oh well where do I be-" she said until a large explosion roared from just above them. It was so loud; all of San d’Oria heard it. A boulder was flung at the walls, penetrating it. A rain of small stones and debris rained on the pair, but Baramore’s body covered the nun. Baramore quickly recognized its source: an Orcish militia launcher.

From a bridge above them a young, red haired Elvaan female Royal Archer roared down “Orcs! A lot of them! Only several hundred yards away!".

“How many of them do you think?" Baramore asked and was able to get back to his senses as he protected the nun from any possible danger.

“I see one hundred! And I think that is only the first wave, sir!" her young voice shaking.

“Oh no… They are almost no Royal Knights in the city, thanks to an order issued by Challistalle to save the captured adventurers from Davoi! Alert all of the Temple Knights! Get all people away from the West Gate and Ranperre’s Gate! Inform Grand Temple Knight Curilla right now!" he shouted at two Temple Knight squires.

“Are we going to be okay?" Khristin asked with worry.

“Start praying to Altana" he looked seriously at her. Khristin wished that were only a joke. He pulled out his shield and sword. Behind him a rally of Temple Knights appeared. They pushed Khristin back, away from Baramore. San d’Oria was under attack. The walls of this city had never been broken before. Baramore was going to make sure it never did, at least not on his watch. Four of more rocks were flung at the gate. Baramore grinded his teeth and got ready for his challenge.

“I think it is funny" One voice with chuckled.

“What is brother?" Another threw out a question into the air. The mood of the scene was relaxed. It was somewhere safe from danger… or eavesdroppers.

“All these souls… they slowly are being drawn together. All these souls with sad past"

“Hmm… I guess it is strange"

“You know, in ‘The Vana’diel Tragedy’ it predicts many things"

“I do not believe a word of that foolish manuscript, even if it is from our time"

“Haha, that’s just like you... younger brother"

“Well, it is impossible to see into the future"

“I have…"

“Hmm… I guess, whatever. Why bring the ‘Vana’diel Tragedy’ up?"

“It predicts the return of the ancients…"

“…"

“And their down fall"

“Now I really don’t believe it. You think these souls with their sad past will stop the rise of the Zilart, older brother?"

“No, I just wonder why he would put something in there… ‘A Poet of when such things did not exist’"

“Well, it is lost to history now. We should focus at the task at hand… the Magicite. The Crystal Line shall be restored soon enough. Then we can destroy seeds that the ancients have planted on the beautiful soil that is Vana’diel. Our Vana’diel."

“Hehe… you’re silly brother. They are many things you can never understand. ‘A Poet of when such things did not exist’ still lives! In the flesh, in this era!"

“You can’t mean… damn it! He slipped right between my fingers like the Altepa sand. Well I guess I’ll send a task force to retrieve the man"

“Hmm, I got a better idea. Time to use that ‘sad past’ to our advantage"

[Blood Red Poet]

Well told yah it got better Chapter 7 . Unless you didn't like it, post your opinion! Well, anyway... it only gets better from here. Challistalle's past is quite tearful. Could murderers have reason to commit such crimes? You decide in the next chapter... Brothers

[Taggerung]

Niiiiiiiiiice, chapter 7 is alot better, im not likin the one evil knight whos name i cant remember, he should die......i wanna kill him, wait.....why should i care whats goin on in sandy lol!

[Blood Red Poet]

Okay... sorry for the wait but here is the best VT chapter yet.

VANADIEL TRAGEDY
Chapter Eight: Brothers

The night was at a perfect still. Ghelsba’s rocky exterior was only bothered by a few chilling gusts of wind. Such breeze gently shook the door of an Orcish hut. A large house with red decorations, drapes and banners, showing it was apart of the empire. In that hut, on its dirt floor, Auricant laid unconscious. His face was stained with his own blood. An oversized copper ring wrapped loosely around his leg. His sword’s blade laid in pieces, scattered on the ground. The starry night was calm in this part of Ronfaure… but not in another.

“Challistalle! The Orcs! They are comi-“ a young Temple Knight’s frantic voice was cut off by a long blade killing him. “Challistalle?" the red haired man cried before his body hit the ground. Challistalle put the sword back in his holster. A pool of blood spilled from dead Elvaan’s wound, reaching the dead grass underneath the stone tiles. Challistalle marched his way across the now unguarded East Gate in South San d’Oria. His face was unemotional, and then no one else could be seen or heard. He grasped a bronze wheel with rope tired around it. He began to spin it, faster and faster until it stopped with a click. The iron-gate door was lifted, resting at the top of the arch. Anyone could enter now.

Challistalle lifted up a creamy white pearl near the dead Elvaan’s body and held it close to his face. “Temple Knights! I have scouted ahead… they will only be attacking from the west! We need to focus our entire defense those gates… I think there is over eight thousand. By Altana’s grace, we will not let them enter!" Challistalle believably cheered into the white linkshell pearl. There was silence for a few seconds, then a cheer and another. He put the pearl his pocket and walked out of San d’Oria’s opened gate.

He pulled out a red pearl, once he reached the eastern woods, “Okay. East Gate is totally unguarded, let us attack soon". An Orcish grunt accepted the news with an affirmative grunt.

Maxamillious punched the wall violently. “Bastards! The Orcs… eight thousand?!" he roared with his message mixed up. His pupils watched nervously as their teacher abused the San d’Orian stonewall. He turned to his students. “Squires… you protect East Gate, I don’t believe Challistalle knows what he is talking about. Orcs never stop at the chance to attack from behind. Go ahead and protect there" he nodded.

Balasiel positioned his chair to look down at West Gate. With chin in right palm, he watched. If any of the fighting broke to the streets it would be seen first by him. By his side was a crossbow and a sword wrapped in a teal wool bag.

“Are you serious-werious?! These Orcs won’taru leave me the hell alone for one day!" an angry Tarutaru fumed. It was an older male wearing a cloak with blue patterns and stripes. By his side were three tall Royal Knights. Standing in front of the Tarutaru, the Elvaan Temple Knight told him the news.

“I am afraid so Sedal-Godja" the Elvaan frowned as he confirmed.

“You want me to create a barrier around San d’Oria?" Sedal asked agitatedly.

“Is that even possible?" the knight looked surprise, as if anyone could cover an entire city in a seal.

“I am sorry but not with the time-mine we have. It takes over three hours to finalize-cinalize a barrier… and it would take days to draw one around an entire city" Sedal-Godja explained shaking his head. “But I got a better idea…" he grinned.

“What’s that?" One of Sedal’s Royal Knight companions asked the Tarutaru, watching his friend’s face.

“We blow those Orcs to bits-dits" he laughed.

At Ranperre’s Gate, not far for the Chateau and church, a band of Temple Knights faced the wide and tall gate door. It was the court of the gate where they all stood. It was small grassy area with three planted trees. A gatehouse door stayed open, with Temple Knights within arming them selves with shields and swords that lay on iron racks. A boulder hit the wall, shaking the entire ground. The Temple Knights jumped at the ranged attack, but remained confidently resilient.

“Grand Temple Knight Curilla!" Baramore called loudly as he noticed her walking by.

“Baramore, as much as I would love to have an conversation, we have no time. The Orcs could launch a melee campaign any moment now" she started to say with a serious look on her face as another boulder hit the city wall, “I want you to control defenses at Ranperre’s Gate, while I control the West Gate". The orange hair that covered her right eye fluttered wildly as a wave of air from that last assault brushed through their ranks.

Baramore was breathless for a moment. “It would be my honor" he bowed.

“Okay good, there is no time. Prepare your defenses" she nodded and walked away.

A female Hume’s hand rested on Baramore’s shoulder. Her white skinned hand was frail and without muscle. “Khristin?! You got to get out of here" Baramore spun around fast, ordering.

“I said I would stay!" she flinched, not expected for Baramore to be so loud. Her hood tugged back slightly, revealing more of her golden locks.

“This is not a jok-“ he tried to explain.

“I am not joking" the nun’s blue eyes stared deep into Baramore’s.

“You will cure our fighters then?" Baramore asked after releasing a big breath. Khristin was not going anywhere. He looked down to her white Altana church emblem on the skirt of her cloak, a pair of wings and an angles head, then back to her face while waiting for an answer

“Of course" she smiled.

In Ronfaure a large mass of Orcs of around three hundred, all armed with weapons and armor. The pupil-less white eyed and green skinned Beastmen marched in an unorganized group. The dusty trail they walked upon was full of large footsteps. The birds and rabbits that lived in the forest scattered away as the Beastmen approached. They stopped their advance near three catapults. All three were active, being run by three Orcs each. A large Orc in leather armor and hat stood at the front. “Soldiers of empire! Today we attack! With Vile-Bloods and Red-Claw working together we crush the Elvaan scum in front of us!" his voice boomed over the horde. The Orcish roars could be heard from the pack. Two Orcs had different motives though.

“We die for Hundredscar Hajwaj! Red-Scars leader!" they cheered, even the Vile-Bloods did.

Hawkeyed Dnatbat, a temporary member of the Vile-Bloods, just listened as they all cheered. He remembered the exact orders from Overlord Bakgodek, emperor of the Orcs: “Look for the sword of light at Ranperre’s tomb and Chateau d’Oraguille. If you need support, use the forces in Ghelsba". ‘This will be my only chance to get into the chateau…’ the archer thought calmly. At his side were a sharp knife and a short bow. He sported a black leather vest and a band tied around a red haired ponytail sprouting from his ugly, bald skull of green skin.

Vileblooded Vatgit, or called Warchief Vatgit by the Elvaans, led the infamous Vile-Bloods. He also watched the Orcish army in silence. He reached in his tiger leather trousers and pulled out a white piece of paper. He heard a voice when he touched the strange mark on it: the emblem of the Shadow Lord who died twenty years ago in a dark, red hue. It glowed a faint red radiance for only a second, as the voice was summoned to the Orc’s mind. “You will fight with them. Then we can start our plans the voice spoke. He shoved the paper back into his pocket.

[Blood Red Poet]

Auricant’s eyes slowly opened, staring at the roof of whatever building he was in. He could instantly tell it was barbaric and cruddy. The small room was lit by two touches opposite from each other in the spiky house. In a daze, his hands reached for his aching face. For a short moment, he had no idea why his nose was killing him or where he was. Suddenly, it all came back to him: Challistalle’s betrayal and the fight with him. He was still in his full armor, minus his visor, which he left in town hours ago. He checked the blue leather-covered plate above his heart out of reflex. He quickly searched for his sword normally at his side. Looking to the ground, right from him, he saw it in pieces. The gift that his teacher Balasiel gave to him a couple years ago was now destroyed. He quickly escaped his right foot from the rusty bangle and chain. ‘This is Ghelsba… it’s very quiet though’ he rubbed his temples as they throbbed.

“You are awake…" a voiced called from the doorway, a cold breeze followed him in. It was Challistalle, still in his Temple Knight armor. The red hazy light from the wild fire burned brightness to both of their Elvaan’s faces. Challistalle’s sword was now stained with more dry blood, but Auricant was too distracted with anger to notice.

“You… you… you monster!" Auricant roared, ready to pounce on the traitor as he jumped to his feet. He stopped after being handed a dark wooden bowl of water.

“Use this to wash your face… I don’t suggest drinking it" Challistalle ordered unemotionally as he turned around to leave. Auricant pushed back his silver hair and quickly did so, washing away the dry blood.

“What is going on?" Auricant asked, calmer now, stopping Challistalle at the door with his words.

“San d’Oria is being attacked by Orcs, around three hundred. San d’Oria thinks the horde is eight thousand strong and will only be attacking from the West. About a hundred of those Orcs will lead an all out assault on East Gate. East Gate is currently open thanks to me. The stage is set for one hell of a show" he explained to Auricant, his back still facing Auricant. His tone was a mix of anger and cockiness now, not the cold, dead voice he had before.

“But… why? Why are you doing this to your own people" Auricant asked one more query. Challistalle was quiet for almost a minute. “It is because Travis died on the raid?" Auricant added on to the question, sick of the silence.

“Travis…" Challistalle he said sadly. Memories rushed to his mind

A little Elvaan boy cried while he lay on the stone tile ground. His carroty mane wildly covered his face. It was a quiet day.

“Wah wah! Look at him cry" a slightly older boy mocked and laughed at the child’s cries.

“Wow, what a weakling. Haha, and you dreamed of being a knight? It’ll never happen! You are too weak" another bully punched him.

In the streets of San d’Oria two loud cracks were heard. It was either the sound of a twig breaking or a boy’s skull cracking. A boy with shorter orange hair held a long, wooden stick. With all his might he knocked down the two boys. They got up and gave an evil look at the two and ran off covering their heads. “Ow!" they cried.

“T-Travis" Challistalle said, still with tears making it hard to speak.

“Little brother, don’t let those kids get to you. You will be fine Temple Knight. You and me will defend San d’Oria from any evil" he smiled. Travis dropped the stick and gave Challistalle his hand, pulling him up.

“Thank you Travis" Challistalle wiped his own tears away with his left hand.

Challistalle came back to the present. “Challistalle?" Auricant looked at his orange hair. Challistalle was filled with grief.

“He shouldn’t have died. It was pointless; it was those damn Royal Knight’s fault. They didn’t need to risk his life… they did it for joy!" Challistalle looked down. He turned to Auricant with angry eyes. “I’ll tell you what happened. The Orcs, they owned a big part of West Ronfaure, near Ghelsba. The entire kingdom sensed this danger and all agreed to raid three camps hoping to force them back into the mountains. The Royal Knights were being spread out all over northern Vana’diel, so they asked for the help of the Temple Knights. It almost went well until…" Challistalle sighed.

“Until?" Auricant stared into his eyes.

“A knight made a messy mistake. The Orcs of the second camp knew we were coming. It was a tough battle; none died, but many were injured. The third camp was ready for us. No way we could take it down… but the four raid leaders had an idea…" Challistalle explained slowly. The memories of the event came back to him in a powerful flashback as he told Auricant what happened.

“What? That is a crazy idea!" Challistalle, less depressed, argued with a fully armored man: a Royal Knight of high ranking. Three others nodded their heads. The Temple Knight and four other Royal Knights discussed the plan in a grove-like area of Ronfaure. It was dusk and the sunset was behind a large tent, away from sight. On the tall, tan colored tent about twenty by twenty feet, was the Royal Knight emblem mounted just above the flap entrance.

“Well, I think it will work…" Travis said from behind. A tall man, even for an Elvaan, walked to the five of them. His Temple Knight armor was just like Challistalle’s. Other than the hairstyle and height, they looked a lot alike. “We lure all the Orcs out of the camp to one area and we ambush them. Not that original though. Bastok used a similar strategy on us back when we were in that war" Travis had a smug grin under his helm and orange hair.

“Okay, then, we just need a runn-“ one of the Royal Knights began to talk but was quickly interrupted.

“I’ll do it. I am a fast runner. Won’t be a problem as long you guys don’t screw up" Travis nodded his head. The Royal Knights didn’t like the light disrespectful comments.

“Travis you mustn’t. You could be killed!" Challistalle stood in front of him in protest, raising his hands in the air.

“Come on brother, I’ll be fine" he smiled.

“Travis…" Challistalle said in a low tone. He looked at his brother eyes. His warm and loving eyes that protected Challistalle’s sanity for so long.

“It will be fine" he hugged his brother for a moment. He released and walked past him to observe the map within the camp. The ambush point was set minutes later: a set of ruined towers just north of Knightwell lake. Challistalle looked at Travis’ face one last time. Their eyes met for no longer than thirty seconds and he was off.

Twenty minutes past as Challistalle rested himself against a great tree’s stiff trunk. It was spring and the new buds began giving birth. He waited and waited. ‘Where are the orders of the ambushed?’ he thought to himself. He gave an impatient groan and pulled himself up. He paced himself to the tent. “Uh, what are we waiting on?" he asked calmly to the four Royal Knights sitting at a wooden table, sipping on tea.

“Excuse me?" one of the knights looked confused. It was a fake expression.

“The raid is done with. You may go home" another smiled.

“What…what about Travis?!" Challistalle’s throat hurt with those words and he started to shake.

“He died honorably for his country. We were able to burn the camp to the ground" the third one noted.