After the burial of both Eric Hodenc and Daniel Cavalier, everyone gathered at the great hall: those of the military staffs and those who were closed to the late Grand Crusader. King Arald Tendenhaul sat on his throne, looking resigned, while his chamberlain, Kelvin Talbot, waited for everyone to take their place. They were gathered at the great hall to hear the last will of Daniel as well as who will succeed him.
Archmage Lia Moonweaver sat on the same pew as her friends: Johann, Matthias Alston, Argus Ward and Kara Cavalier. Her tears already dried, she looked at her friends. Both Johann and Argus were stone-faced but were inwardly mourning. Matthias blood-shot eyes said it all as he occasionally sobbed into his mug, trying to wash his sorrows down with ale. Kara, her face covered with tears streaks, now sat straight up: being strong for all to see.
A pang of sadness pierced through her as she realised that there were two friends that were missing: Eric and Daniel. Lia got so used to seeing the bulky form of the friendly giant boy and her confidant. She sighed and shook her head. She had… Must… Accept Eric and Daniel's deaths and move on. Her thoughts were still heavy when everyone were settled into their seats. Kelvin cleared his throat and pulled out a parchment, speaking loudly.
'To friends and family members of Daniel Cavalier, on behalf of his majesty that I offer condolences to you. Not only was Daniel one of Canaleodon's greatest heroes but was like a son to his majesty. Although young, his first victory was against the Black Scythes in the distant land of Uberon and continued to lead the White Crusaders after the death of his grandfather, the late Grand Crusader Davin. His leadership and strength had defended Tanelic from Avencus and his ilk for four years. Sadly, his passing was premature and the forces of evil still linger to take our lands as we speak. According to Daniel's will, he has already chosen his successor.'
There was a small murmur among the crowd, especially from the White Crusaders. Kelvin let the murmurs died down before reading Daniel's will.
'"To his majesty, King Arald Tendenhaul, I have served my country and kingdom to the fullest of my abilities with honour and loyalty. It is my greatest honour to serve a strong and wise king. If I am no longer alive while Avencus and the Night Wolves still live, I've failed in my duty and begged for his majesty's forgiveness."'
Arald nodded his head solemnly and announced. 'Daniel's contribution to Canaleodon and Tanelic is more than anyone can give! To those who are present, bear witness as I proclaimed that Daniel Cavalier's contribution to his kingdom and to the people will no go unnoticed!'
After making his announcement, Arald nodded to Kelvin who continued.
'"To my brothers and sisters of the White Crusaders, it is an honour to serve alongside the brave and holiest men and women. Your strength, honour and courage have protected Tanelic for decades. You are the shield that guard our country from the darkness and I have never seen such feats of bravery in my short life. All of you, honourable veterans, have fought and advise both me and my grandfather. Now, I asked that you lent your strength and wisdom to your new Grand Crusader: Kara Cavalier."'
A ripple of surprised gasps ran through those who were gathered in the great hall. The loudest of them was Kara herself, her hands covering her mouth and her eyes widened in shock. Lia, surprised as well, looked at the other veterans to see if they protest Daniel's choice. Surprised but pleased, none of the White Crusader veterans made any comments or protests. Sitting next to Kara was Argus who grinned and hold Kara's hand, squeezing it slightly. Johann was nodding while Matthias was gaping at Kara. Kara looked as if someone was telling her a bad joke and looked at Kelvin to see if he was wrong. Kelvin continued.
'"To my sister, Kara, do not think that I chose you because of our lineage but among the others commanders, you have shown tactical knowledge and leadership that are rare these days. Not only are you brave on the battlefield but you are a valiant leader in your own right. Commander Owen the Steadfast, Commander Gavarin the Gallant and many others have vouched for you and are willing to support you in this terrible war. Dear sister, the responsibility of leading the White Crusaders and bringing peace to these lands now falls onto you. I cannot ask for a better successor. Mother, father and grandfather… And I, will be so proud of you. Rise and accept the sword that belongs to our late grandfather."'
As Kelvin finished speaking, Owen the Steadfast came forward with a sword in his hand. The blade was silvery white and deadly sharp. At the base of the blade was a gold hilt shaped in a cross with green gems decorating it. There was a gasp of awe as everyone recognised the blade of Davin Christiansen. No one would forget the strong aura of justice and pious coming from the blade.
Kara slowly stood up from the pew and walked in front of the crowd. She bowed towards the king and took a look at her grandfather's sword. She reached for it but before her hands could wrapped around the hilt, her hand fell to her side. Lia was shocked to her friend's action as Kara turned to face the crowd and then to Arald.
'Your majesty, honourable commanders of the White Crusaders and friends, it's an honour to be chosen as the next Grand Crusader but… I'm not worthy. I'm too young… Too inexperience… I'm not… My brother or my grandfather…'
Owen's smile was gentle and full of understanding. 'My lady, I remembered that your brother said the exact same thing when the mantle of Grand Crusader was pass down onto him. I've followed him into battles countless times and had led the White Crusaders to victory every time. Daniel was like his grandfather in every way but I believed that you will surpass both your brother and grandfather.'
Before Kara could say anything else, Commander Lora Swift of the 7th Company stepped out from her seat and announced. 'Lady Kara.' She was a lady of an impressive height with short blonde hair and striking blue eyes. Although her voice was still gentle, it still carried out in a military tone. 'You were only a young girl when you first came into the White Crusaders. Now you're a grown woman ready to shoulder the mantle of leadership. It will be an honour to serve you.' She pulled out her sword from the scabbard and knelt before Kara, her sword resting on the tip. 'Hereby I, Lora Swift, pledge to serve King Arald Tendenhaul and Grand Crusader Kara Cavalier! My sword is always by your side!'
Kara looked at Lora, touched by her words. Then Commander Barrick Thorn stood up and unslung his claymore from his back. Like Lora, he knelt down with his claymore pointing towards the ground. His rough baritone voice echoed throughout the great hall. 'I've served Grand Crusader Davin. I've served Grand Crusader Daniel. Now, I served Grand Crusader Kara!'
Argus also stood up and pulling out his axe, he knelt before Kara. 'My blade and my life is forever by your side! Daniel was like a brother to me, so now I will honour him by protecting you. I will be your sword and shield Kara.'
Kara smiled at Argus, tears of gratitude in her eyes. 'Thank you Argus… Thank you everyone.'
As she said this, King Arald stood up and took the sword from Owen. Kara had to turn to him and knelt down as Arald stood before her. Although the king's voice was laced with sadness, it was still strong and can be heard through the hall. 'As King of Canaleodon, I appoint you as the next Grand Crusader of the White Crusade! Honour both your grandfather and brother and lead your brethren to victory. You're the shield of Tanelic and her people against the forces of darkness!' As he spoke, he tapped the sword on Kara's shoulders. 'Rise and receive your sword, Grand Crusader Kara!'
Kara stood up and her grandfather's sword was placed into her palms. She slowly turned back to the crowd, not saving a word. Everyone in the great hall stood up. Kara looked at all of them and raised the sword, her voice carrying out in the great hall.
'I, Kara Cavalier, swear to uphold my oath to my king, to my predecessors and to the people of Tanelic! I will protect the people and vanquish Avencus and his ilk! I will not rest until peace is restored to the lands!'
All of the White Crusader Commanders, including Owen, raised their weapons and cheered at their new leader while the gathered nobles and other military leaders from the Royal Army applauded loudly. Lia, Johann and Matthias clapped and the cheered the loudest, giving their friend their fullest support. Soon the cheering died down and everybody resume back to their seats. Kara lowered her new sword and turned to Kevin. Clearly there were more to be said.
Kelvin waited for Arald to sit back down. 'Continue Kelvin.'
Kelvin nodded and pulled the parchment closer to his face. '"Owen Manfred, known as Owen the Steadfast, you're one of the founders of the White Crusaders as well as a pillar of our army and kingdom. You have fought besides at my grandfather's side countless times and…'"
Daniel's will continued on to praised the deeds of every commanders of the White Crusaders along with recommendation of promotion for years of servitude to their king and country: which Arald granted. Lia sat up straight, trying not to yawn as Kelvin droned on for what felt like eternity. Then Daniel's will change.
'"To my good friend and brother Argus Ward, you and I have been through thick and thin together. You're a brave and honourable man I have the pleasure of meeting and the only few who I can call brother. All I ask that you take care of my sister and continue serving your king. I think I may have mention this before but I will say it again. You have my blessing to take my sister's hands in marriage."'
Kelvin ended with a smile as everyone stared to a grinning Argus and a blushing Kara. Kara, composing herself, gestured to Kelvin to continued reading: not without returning a smile back to Argus.
'"To Matthias Alston, you are one of Canaleodon's greatest swordsman and loyal of friends. I remember our times together causing troubles and saving each other necks. Sadly, that time have passed and the burden of responsibilities has fallen on our shoulders. I must asked you to control your drinking and wild behaviour. If you do, then you will become a good role model to everyone who are trusting their lives to you.'"
Matthias beamed and stood up, taking a bow to everyone before being pulled back down by Johann. Lia rolled her eyes and hoped against hope that Matthias will take Daniel's last counsel. The next part of Daniel's will saddened her.
"'To Eric Hodenc, your strength and gentleness is a inspiration to us all. Although I do not know your grandfather personally but I am told he was a good man. I am certain you will be as great as your grandfather. Continue being a dutiful son to your parents and a good man. Also,'" Kelvin smiled sadly. '"Although I shouldn't lecture but eat more of your vegetables.'"
Lia bit back a sob as she was reminded of the now deceased Eric, already missing his presence. She missed his friendly and helpful attitudes and his presence made her safe. It made all of them safe. Kelvin allowed a moment of silence before continuing.
'"To Johann the Hero of Light, you have grown up to be the most bravest and honourable man I have the pleasure of fighting with. You were only nineteen when you were appointed Battle Commander of the Canaleodon Army. Now you bear a heavy responsibility and it is up to you to bring this country to peace. Take care of the others and I will watch over all of you from heaven.'"
Johann nodded, hiding his grief, as Kelvin started again.
'"To Lia Moonweaver, I have watched you grown from a brave young girl to a powerful mage. Even though that both of us follow different ideals, that never deter our friendship. For that I am grateful. I have enjoyed our talks together and being with you make me at peace. I will miss our conversations when I am gone. I do not wish to make you vengeance bound but if anyone is able to stop Avencus, you are one of the few people who can stop him. Even though I did not know your parent personally, I do know one thing. They and Master Aaron will be so proud of you. Take care of yourself and the others and hope I will see you in the afterlife.'"
'"I leave this world knowing that all of you, whether you're a common citizen of Canaleodon or the elite veterans, will continue to serve his majesty and bring this kingdom to peace. Stay true to yourself and never forsake honour and duty. May the Light give you strength. Farewell, my brothers and sisters.'"
Kelvin closed the parchment and everybody stood up, their head bowed in respectful silence. Lia, after hearing her part, sobbed to herself as she will also missed Daniel's company and the conversation they shared.
Arald stood up. 'Daniel is a pillar of the kingdom and he will sorely missed. I hope that each and every one of you will honour his words and take it to heart!'
'We will your majesty!' everybody chorussed.
Satisfied, Arald walked out of the great hall, followed by Kelvin and Charlotte who was silent the entire time. As the king left the great hall, everybody followed behind him slowly. Only Lia, Johann, Matthias, Argus and Kara lingered. When the hall emptied, they approached her. Kara was looking down on the sword, sadness and doubt written on her face.
Lia spoke as gently as she can. 'My condolences and congratulation to you Kara. Your brother was like a brother to not only us but to everyone in the kingdom. And… I am confident you will live up to your brother and grandfather's expectations.'
Kara smiled and embraced Lia tightly. 'Thank you Lia… But, I don't know if I can…'
'Hey.' Argus smiled, placing a reassuring hand on Kara's shoulders. 'Like I said earlier… What the others said earlier… I will be there by your side. All of us will.'
'That's right.' Johann joined in. 'Your problem is our problem now. We're in this together!'
Matthias just nodded, too groggy to say anything helpful. Nevertheless, Kara smiled: confidence filling her up. 'Thank you guys. Thank you.'
Soon smiles returned to all their faces, something that they were unable to do for a very long time. Despite the losses of their love ones, they were going to make it through this… Together.
________________________________________________________________________________
A month had passed after the funerals of both Daniel and Eric. Both the Royal Army and the White Crusade, under the leadership of Johann and Kara respectively, had busied themselves in increasing the defences on the frontline: in fear of another attack from the Night Wolves. Strangely, Avencus did not follow up his momentum with another attack. Puzzled but still wary, the Tanelician forces repaired damages caused by the Night Wolves as well as rooting out any possible spies within their ranks. Other than that, nothing major had happened.
Lia was sitting in front of the statue of Leon the Valiant in the royal gardens, reminiscing about the past. With every strongholds in the front lines strengthened and prepared for anymore future attacks, Lia spent most of time in the gardens when she was not busy helping out at Wentworth Academy: the new christened wizard school. Lia sighed and looked to her right, where Daniel normally sit next to her.
She sighed again. How she missed Daniel and his witty remarks, his humour and his reassuring comments. She dreadfully missed having someone to confide her problems and concerns to. However, it was more than that.
Lia wrapped her arms around her. Over these past seven years, Lia started growing feelings towards Daniel. Besides Johann, he allowed her to take part in any fighting and dangerous quest. Out of all her friends, he was friendly, open-minded, kind and easy to talk to. She felt comfortable being alone with him and could confide everything to him. He was like a big brother to her. No… He was more than that. She…
'Lia!'
Lia returned back to reality as Johann approached her. Judging from his posture, leaning onto his knees and panting, she knew that he was looking all over for her.
'Johann, what's wrong?'
Johann straightened up and looked up at Lia, worry on his face. 'Do you know where Matthias is?'
'No.' Lia answered in surprise. She had not thought of anything else except for Daniel and Eric's deaths. 'Shouldn't he be at the Three Kegs?'
Johann shook his head. 'I checked there already and I even asked the innkeeper but he told me that he hasn't seen or heard of Matthias for three days!'
'Three days without going to the inn?' Lia asked in disbelief. 'Then what about in his family's estate?'
Before Johan could even say anything, Argus came up to them. He too was out of breath, a sign saying that he ran to their location. Apparently, he had heard Lia's question for he answered it.
'Marcus Alston, Matthias' father, came to me and asked me where his son is. Looks like he's not at home either.'
'Then,' Johann asked, puzzled. 'Where is he?'
'Report!'
All of them turned towards a Canaleodon's messenger, a parchment in his hand. Still breathing heavily, he held up the parchment towards the group.
'My lords and Archmage.' he panted. 'General Matthias Alston commanded me to deliver this message to Archmage Lia Moonweaver three days after he left Canaleodon.'
'Left Canaleodon?' Argus echoed back. 'To where?'
The messenger only shook his head while Lia took the parchment. She rolled it opened and began to read. At each words, Lia's heart began to tear into two.
Dear Lia,
By the time you read this parchment, I should already be gone from Canaleodon and heading towards Morte Mountain. I cannot believe Daniel is dead. It is most likely that he is being held prison and tortured by that bastard Avencus. Daniel is my friend and helped me a lot when I got in trouble, now it's my turn to help him. I am going to rescue Daniel and bring him back to Canaleodon even though it will kill me.
Lia, I just want to let you know and you probably know it already. If I don't make it, I want to say that I love you! And I am not drunk when I am writing this. You're the only girl who fought back when I try to make advances on you. For that, I fell even more in love with you. I am sure that you have other qualities like your kind-hearted, brave… All that other stuffs. I know you said "no" already but I just want to stress how in love I am with you.
Well, I think that's all I have to say. If I don't make it through this, drink a mug of ale in memory of me. Say goodbye to the others for me.
Yours truly,
Matthias
Lia's eyes watered again. She just lost two friends and now she was going to lose another? It was too much to bear. Although Matthias can be an arrogant drunkard at most times, he was still a good friend who never fails to make them all laughed. She hates to admit it but he was someone to have your back when the occasion comes.
Worse, she felt guilty that she had rejected him and she suspected that he was doing all this to impress her: to make her fall in love with him. Lia shuddered that Matthias would be dead because of her.
Argus swore colourfully since Lia was reading the parchment out loud. 'Why that reckless blasted fool! Going up against Avencus and the Night Wolves! What was he thinking?'
'You know Matthias than we, he's always doing something stupid when he's drunk.' Johann muttered darkly.
Lia jumped slightly at Johann's statement. She could have sworn that there was a hint of jealousy in Johann's voice. She quickly shook her head and turned to her friends.
'We have to go to him!' she told them urgently. 'We can't let him die on some mad quest!'
'Agreed!' Argus said. 'I will go and inform Kara right away! You two head off to one of the fortresses on the frontline! I will catch up with you once I get reinforcement!'
Lia nodded. 'Ask Robin or the other mages to teleport you. We will reach Matthias as fast as we can!'
Argus nodded and ran down the stairs as Lia murmured a spell. Wind blew in every directions as a blue portal materialised in front of them, powered up by arcane magic. Lia stepped into the portal but when she realised that Johann was not following her, she turned to him.
'What are you waiting for? Come on!'
Johann hesitated, then nodded. He stepped into the portal together with Lia and found themselves inside of Eagle Hold. The hold was repaired to it original state with reinforced walls and other defence mechanisms installed. Already the 8th Company under Commander Barrick were manning the walls with sentinels patrolling the battlements and every soldier doing his or her duties. There was a gasp of surprise as the Battle Commander and the Archmage appeared in the middle of the fortress from nowhere. Johann picked out a White Crusader.
'Quick!' he asked urgently. 'Have you seen Brigadier General Matthias Alston pass through this way?'
The Crusader nodded. 'Yes Battle Commander. General Matthias rode pass us on some kind of mission for his majesty.'
'Damn!' Johann swore as he let go of the crusader. 'We just missed him! Tell Commander Barrick that we require two fresh horses at once!'
'Y-yes sir!' the crusader saluted and ran off to find the commander. Johann shook his head as he faced the worried Lia.
'There's nothing left but to hope that Matthias is still alive. By any luck, we will be able to stop him before he reach Blackrock Spire.'
Lia could only nod helplessly as she gazed north at where Morte Mountain was.
Please be safe, Matthias. She thought.
_____________________________________________________________________________
The horse neighed as it was pulled by the reins at the top of a hill, sending pebbles rolling down it. Matthias Alston, eyes blood-shot and sweating, surveyed Morte Mountain. It was like how it was described. The entire land was rocky and barren with mountains jutting out at every acre. The sky above was dark and there was no signs of life. It was dead silent, as if it was a deep void.
Standing before him in the horizon was Blackrock Spire, Avencus' attack base to Tanelic. It stood tall among the other mountains with it pointy top and chains running down from it ledges. Although the windows were opened, they revealed nothing but darkness. Crows flew around the tower in circles, as if a banquet of corpses was readied for them. It was a place of dread and malice.
It was also a place where he will find Daniel, chained in the deepest dungeon that even sent the strongest men to madness. If he was still alive.
Matthias smacked his lips and reached down to his belt, his fingers touching the wineskin. Before he could pulled it out, he decided against it and his hand dropped. For the first time in his life, Matthias had said no to alcohol.
I will save it once I get Daniel out from there. He thought. After I rescue him, we're going to share this wine between the two of us.
He nudged his horse forward. The stallion grunted and trudge down the hill slowly, sending more pebbles rolling down. Matthias knew he was in enemy's territory so both his ears and eyes were sharp: wary for any enemies' attacks. No sooner had he reached the bottom of the hill when an arrow lodged in front of him into the ground. The horse neighed and raised its front legs, forcing Matthias to jump off it.
As Matthias jumped onto his feet, he heard a snarl as three Night Wolves jumped out from the shadows and charged towards him. They snarled louder, axes and maces readied to slam into him. Matthias' hands fell onto the hilts of Strength & Loyalty and pulled them out from the scabbards, whirling them dangerously.
The first one swung his axe in a downward spiral, aiming to cleave Matthias' head in two. Matthias blocked the attack and thrust Loyalty in between his attacker's eyes, the blade slicing through the head. He kicked the Night Wolf in the chest, making him slide off his sword. Matthias then raised both swords and slammed them down onto his next attacker's mace. Before the Night Wolf could do anything, Matthias plunged his two swords into the Night Wolf chest and stomach.
Angered at his comrades' deaths, the last one charged towards Matthias in blind fury. Matthias simply pulled his blades out from the body, twirled to dodge his attacker's charge and slashed him on the back of the neck. Although the slash was not fatal, the Night Wolf howled in pain and turned to face Matthias. The Night Wolf grunted in surprise when Matthias put a slash onto his stomach before decapitating him. The Night Wolf's head rolled off and his headless body fell onto his back, leaving a pool of blood.
Matthias pulled out a handkerchief and wiped the blood from his twin blades, nodding in satisfaction in his flawless victory. He was about to sheathe back his swords when he suddenly heard clapping, echoing through the mountains.
Matthias turned to the sound of the clapping and saw a figure standing on top of another hill. At first glance Matthias thought it was Avencus but noticing the figure's height and frame, it was a different person. His face was wrapped with black bandages with only his left dark brown eye and ears showing. He wore dark blue robes with black gloves and boots, showing no skin. His mouth opened, revealing razor-sharp incisors.
'Bravo.' He spoke in a guttural and grating tone, slowly walking down the hill towards Matthias. 'I have heard so much of Matthias Alston, the greatest swordsman in Canaleodon but witnessing your swordsmanship first hand is… Impressive to say the least.'
Matthias grinned fiercely, pointing a sword at the figure. 'I don't know whether you're some demon or human but since you know who I am, I suggest you run back to Avencus and tell him that I am coming. As you can see, no matter how many Night Wolves you sent me, they're still no match for me!'
The figure laughed, amused, as he looked at the dead bodies. 'I must admit that when facing mediocre warriors you prove supreme. But… How do you fare against a warlock?'
The figure raised both his hands and green flames erupted from them. He jumped backwards and threw three green fireballs at Matthias. Matthias, already on his feet, ran sideway: the green fireballs barely missing him. Matthias sprinted towards the figure and leaped into the air, bringing Strength down on him. The figure merely raised his left arm and a shield of dark energy blocked the sword blow. The figure then pushed his right palm facing Matthias and black electricity pulsed through his fingers.
Matthias could only widened his eyes in surprise as the black lightning flung him backwards, making him land on his feet. Both of the warlock's hands pulsed with black electricity and pushing his palms forward, lightning flew towards the warrior. Matthias brought up both Strength & Loyalty up, making them conducts for the lightning attack.
As Matthias withstood the attack, he thanks Lia for magically strengthening his weapons and armour: allowing him to fight against magic users. Matthias waited for the spell to weaken before bringing both his swords down, deflecting the lightning into the ground. He gave his battle-cry and ran towards the warlock, his eyes focussed on him.
The warlock just stamped his right foot into the ground and ice creeped towards Matthias, freezing everything in its path. Matthias landed on the balls of his right foot and jumped backwards. He was just in time as a giant ice spike sprouted from the ground, almost impaling him. Angrily, he sliced the spike with both swords and made his way to the warlock.
To his shock, the warlock was just in front of him: his right hand blazing with demonic magic. The warlock swung a backhand strike and knocked Loyalty out from Matthias' hand, making the blade swing in circles before plunging itself into the ground. The flames dissipated from the warlock's hand and it was replaced with black electricity. The warlock placed his right palm onto Matthias' chest and his left eye narrowed in concentration.
Matthias screamed in pain as he was flung backwards, landing onto his back and his chest burning with pain. Despite the agonising pain, he lifted his head: ready to fight. He grasped his right arm, noticing that Strength was knocked from his hand when the electricity hit him. Before he could even stand up, the ground near him exploded and something cold and metallic wrapped around his wrists.
He looked at his sides and could see iron chains constricting him to the ground. The ground behind him erupted as something rose. Matthias could feel himself being lifted him and he grunted as the chains carried him up by the wrist, spreading him in an eagle position hold. He glanced over his shoulders and found himself tied to what looked like a giant metallic cross.
As he hung there, the warlock brought up his hands. Two chains erupted from the ground and hovered in the air like iron serpents. The ends of the two chains were melded into a sharp point: like wobbly spears. The warlock raised both his hands slightly but it was enough. The two chains lowered and flew towards Matthias.
Matthias gasped loudly as the two chains buried into his sides and travelled deeper behind his ribcage, piercing his heart. Matthias coughed out blood, the red life fluid pouring down from his mouth like a waterfall. His vision began to blur and he can no longer feel the pain in his chest nor side. He looked up and saw the warlock standing there, not making anymore movement or facial expression. Not that he could see underneath those bandages.
'Go… to… Hell…' Matthias rasped. 'You… Son… of a… Bitch…'
Matthias groaned as the last of his breath left him. Before his eyes closed forever, a final thought came to his mind.
Sorry everyone… Looks like… I won't be drinking with you anymore…