ACT 1. MISERABLE MORNING
The first rays of the sun had barely touched the sky as Princess Isadora was awoken by her father, King Kaleanthos. She rubbed her eyes, still in a daze from sleep, and looked at her father, puzzled.
"Father, what's going on? Why are you waking me up so early?" she asked, her voice laced with confusion.
"Isadora, we are in a state of emergency. We have just received news that Arandor's troops are heading towards our border," the King replied, his voice urgent and commanding.
Isadora's eyes widened in shock as she struggled to comprehend the situation. "What does that mean, Father?" she asked, her voice shaking slightly.
"It means that we are in danger, Isadora," the King replied firmly. "We have never thought it might happen to us, but now we must face the reality. You must hurry and get dressed in a commoner's outfit. You must leave the palace immediately."
Isadora was even more confused now, but she trusted her father. "But why, Father? Why do I have to leave the palace?"
"Because you are my daughter, Isadora," the King said, his voice heavy with emotion. "You are the heir to the throne, and our enemies will do anything to capture you. You must survive, Isadora. You must leave the palace and hide until this is all over."
Isadora nodded slowly, her heart racing with fear and uncertainty. "I understand, Father," she said, her voice trembling slightly. "But what about you? What will you do?"
"I must stay here, Isadora," the King replied firmly. "Only coward kings leave the throne. I will do everything in my power to protect our people and our kingdom. But you must go now, Isadora. There is no time to waste."
Isadora nodded, her mind whirring with a million different thoughts and emotions. She quickly dressed in a simple commoner's outfit and looked back at her father.
"Goodbye, Father," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Please stay safe."
"I will, Isadora," the King said, his voice firm and unwavering. "Now go, before it's too late."
And with that, Isadora left the palace, her heart heavy with fear and uncertainty, but determined to survive and protect her kingdom.
The once grand throne room was now a silent shell of its former self, save for the resounding clacking of soldiers' boots as they marched through the echoing marble halls. King Kaleanthos sat upon his throne, his eyes etched with lines of worry and fear, staring out into the emptiness of the room. He had known that this day might come, that Arandor's armies could one day breach the city walls, but the realization of the moment was paralyzing, leaving him unable to move or even think.
The grand double doors to the throne room exploded open, and a group of soldiers marched in, led by a tall, imposing figure with a shock of black hair and a hawk-like face. This was Zephyros, the general of Arandor's armies, and the man who had come to usurp King Kaleanthos.
"Well, well, well," Zephyros sneered, his voice oozing with sarcasm. "What have we here? A king who has lost his kingdom?"
Kaleanthos rose to his feet, his eyes flashing with anger. "I will not be intimidated by you," he declared, his voice trembling with emotion. "I am the rightful ruler of this land, and I will defend it with my life if I must."
Zephyros chuckled, his sword clanging against his side. "Defend it with your life?" he repeated mockingly. "Your soldiers were no match for mine. You are weak, Kaleanthos, and you know it. It's time for a new king to take the throne."
Kaleanthos balled his fists, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew that he was outnumbered and outmatched, but he refused to back down.
"You will never take this throne," he growled, his voice low and dangerous. "I will fight you with every breath in my body."
Zephyros smiled, drawing his sword from its sheath. "As you wish," he said. "But I warn you, Kaleanthos - this will not end well for you."
The two men circled each other, their eyes locked in a deadly stare. The soldiers stood back, watching in silence as the fate of the kingdom hung in the balance.
And then, with lightning-fast movements, Zephyros struck. The clash of steel rang through the throne room as he and Kaleanthos battled, their swords ringing against each other in a deadly dance. But in the end, it was no contest. Zephyros was too skilled, too powerful, and within moments, he had disarmed Kaleanthos, sending his sword clattering to the floor.
Kaleanthos fell to his knees, his head bowed in defeat. Zephyros approached him, his sword raised high.
"Any last words, Kaleanthos?" he asked, his voice full of contempt.
Kaleanthos looked up, his eyes filled with defiance. "Long live Zalindor," he spat, his voice strong and clear.
And with that, Zephyros brought down his sword, ending the reign of King Kaleanthos and ushering in a new era of Arandor's rule over Zalindor. The once-proud kingdom would never be the same again.
ACT 2. ESCAPE TO NOWHERE
Princess Isadora fled the palace in the chaos of the invasion, disguised in a commoner's outfit as instructed by her father. She had no idea where to go or what to do, but she knew she had to survive. She ran through the streets, trying to blend in with the crowds of people who were also fleeing the city.
But it was not long before she was spotted by the soldiers of Arandor. They suspected her and began to chase her through the streets. Isadora ran as fast as she could, her heart pounding in her chest. She darted down alleyways and through marketplaces, trying to lose her pursuers, but they were relentless.
Eventually, she was cornered in a dead-end alleyway. The soldiers closed in on her, their swords drawn, and Isadora thought her time had come. But just as they were about to strike, a group of local rebels appeared, attacking the soldiers and giving Isadora a chance to escape.
From that moment on, Isadora lived in constant fear of being caught. She moved from place to place, never staying in one spot for too long. She relied on the kindness of strangers, who provided her with food and shelter, but she knew that it was only a matter of time before she was discovered.
The soldiers of Arandor searched high and low for her, but Isadora was resourceful. She learned to hide in the shadows and move silently, avoiding detection at every turn. She became adept at blending in with the common people, dressing in simple clothes, and speaking in a different accent.
But even as she survived, Isadora could not forget the people she had left behind in the palace. She longed to see her father again and to know that he was safe. And so, she made it her mission to find a way to fight back against the oppression of Arandor's troops.
Through her travels, Isadora met other rebels who were also fighting against the invaders. She joined forces with them. Despite her royal heritage, she had kept her identity a secret, knowing that if she were discovered, it would mean certain death.
Isadora's skills as a woman had proven invaluable in the rebel's hiding place. She helped with cooking and cleaning and even provided medical assistance when needed. Her knowledge of herbs and natural remedies had saved many lives, and she had become a trusted member of the small community.
But one day, everything changed. The hiding place was raided by Arandorian soldiers, and Isadora was caught. She was roughly dragged out of the hiding place and taken to their military camp, where she was interrogated and tortured.
Isadora refused to reveal any information about the rebels, even under extreme duress. She was determined to protect her fellow rebels, even if it meant sacrificing her own life. But as the days turned into weeks, her resolve began to waver. She was subjected to constant abuse and torment, and she began to wonder if she would ever see her friends again. The rebels started to respect her.
Despite the darkness that surrounded her, Isadora never lost hope. She clung to the memory of her home and her people, and she vowed to do whatever it took to defeat the invaders and restore her kingdom to its former glory. Even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, she refused to give up, knowing that her people were counting on her to be strong.
ACT 3. DANGEROUS WOMAN
As Isadora gained more respect from the rebels, she felt a sense of purpose and belonging that she had never experienced before. They had come to rely on her not only for her physical contributions but also for her intelligence and strategic thinking. Isadora had a way of seeing the bigger picture and finding solutions to complex problems that had earned her the trust and admiration of the rebels.
The Arandorian soldiers had also taken notice of her growing influence and knew that they had to do something to quell her spirit. They separated her from the rest of the rebels and brought her to a cliff, where they threw her over the edge. Isadora plummeted down, her body bouncing off rocks and ledges until she finally hit the ground below with a sickening thud.
She lay there, crying out in pain and despair, but her voice was barely audible. The fall had damaged her vocal cords, making it difficult for her to speak above a whisper. Isadora tried to scream for help, but her cries were barely heard above the wind and the sounds of battle in the distance.
As she lay there, battered and broken, Isadora felt a sense of hopelessness wash over her. She had fought so hard, sacrificed so much, and for what? To be thrown off a cliff like a piece of trash? But even in her darkest moment, Isadora refused to give up. She knew that she still had a role to play in the rebellion, and she was determined to fulfill it, no matter the cost.
ACT 4. A HELPFUL STRANGER
Isadora slowly opened her eyes, feeling groggy and disoriented. As her vision cleared, she realized that she was lying in a humble hut, with an old man sitting beside her, watching over her.
"Where am I?" she asked, her voice hoarse.
"You're safe," the old man said kindly. "I found you at the bottom of the cliff and brought you here."
Isadora sat up, wincing as she felt a sharp pain in her side. "What happened to me?" she asked.
"It seems that you were thrown off the cliff by the Arandorian soldiers," the old man said, his eyes filled with sympathy. "But you're lucky to be alive. You have a strong spirit, my dear."
Isadora's eyes widened in surprise. "How did you know that?" she asked.
The old man smiled. "I know who you are, Princess Isadora," he said. "And I know that you have been fighting against the Arandorians for months. You have gained the respect and admiration of the rebels."
Isadora was taken aback. "How did you know all this?" she asked.
The old man chuckled. "Let's just say that I have my ways," he said. "But that's not important now. What's important is that you have a chance to reclaim your throne and avenge your father's death."
Isadora looked at him in confusion. "How?" she asked.
"I have something that could help you," the old man said mysteriously. "It's a book, a powerful tome that contains the names and sigils of one hundred demons. You can use one of the demons to help you in your quest."
Isadora felt a shiver run down her spine. "Demons?" she asked, her voice trembling.
The old man nodded. "Yes," he said. "But they are not evil, not in the way that you think. They are beings of great power, and they can help you in ways that you cannot imagine."
Isadora was hesitant. "I don't know," she said. "I don't want to make a deal with demons."
The old man smiled kindly. "You don't have to make a deal," he said. "You just have to summon them and ask for their help. They will come to your aid, and you can send them back when you no longer need them. It's as simple as that."
Isadora pondered his words for a moment. She knew that she needed all the help she could get if she wanted to reclaim her throne and avenge her father's death. Maybe the demons were the answer.
"Okay," she said finally. "I'll do it. But how do I summon them?"
The old man smiled. "That's easy," he said. "All you have to do is draw the sigil in this parchment," the old man handed a parchment to Isadora.
Isadora accepted the parchment and struggled to wake up. She felt groggy and weak, but the thought of the demons gave her strength. "I want to try it," she said, determination in her voice. Slowly, she made her way outside the hut, staggering a little as she went. She looked around, searching for some open ground to draw the sigil.
Finally, she found a spot and began to draw. As she worked, she felt a strange energy building around her. The drawing glowed brightly, illuminating the surrounding area with an eerie light. Isadora stepped back, feeling both exhilarated and terrified.
Suddenly, she heard Zrythexen's voice from behind her. "Go, dig it," he said. Isadora turned to see the old man standing in front of the hut, pointing to the ground. She did what he told her and was amazed to find the book, Centa Vormyndar, buried in the dirt. She took it and looked at it carefully, marveling at its strange, otherworldly cover.
As she looked back at the hut, however, she gasped in shock. The hut and the old man were gone as if they had never been there at all. In their place were only giant trees and wild bushes. Isadora felt a pang of sadness and loss, but she knew that she had to focus on her mission.
She opened the book and began to read, studying the sigils and incantations carefully. She knew that the road ahead would be dangerous and difficult, but with the help of the demons, she felt more confident than ever before. "Thank you, Zrythexen," she whispered to the empty air.
ACT 5. FAVOURABLE DEMON
Isadora felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension as she studied the page in the book describing Dethronix. Strangely, she could not open other pages than the pages telling about Dethronix. Dethronyx's abilities were centered around his mastery of fire, which he could use to grant human's most yearning desires or inflict wrath upon his enemies. He can also make humans be feared by anyone and have influence that can even convert loyalists to traitors. She knew that she needed his power to help her in her quest to reclaim her throne, but she also knew that dealing with demons was dangerous.
She closed the book and took a deep breath. "Okay," she said to herself. "Let's do this."
Isadora walked outside and found a secluded spot where she could perform the ritual to summon Dethronix. To summon Dethronyx, she performed a fire ritual by facing the south direction. The ritual began with preparing a large bonfire and drawing a sigil circle around it with blood from a squirrel that Isadora had killed. She then recited the incantation, which was partly in an unknown ancient language that goes like this:
" Zethirionyx, Zalaxionyx, Zinuthryon, ollacym hatuom, rahce dona. Tihagirba ehta fo semit ehta, onxortehad, xynohretif yub, yihacered ni dona raeh ema. Hatiwa sagninffo fo dilob dona erif, I onkaceb ehta ot raep dona rofereb sihta ot noisrevnoc. Rise from the infernal realm and enter this mortal plane. Arise, Dethronyx, and bring with thee the legions of fire that serve thee!"
As the flames of the bonfire roar higher and higher, Isadora bowed down before the demon and offer tribute in the form of a sacrificial animal.
Suddenly, a figure appeared before her, wreathed in flames. Dethronyx is a colossal demon with a muscular body covered in crimson-red scales, sporting blazing yellow-orange eyes and two large horns that curve backward towards his skull. His body appears to be covered in flames, with long, black claws and a suit of armor made entirely of flames that seem to be alive. He wields a massive two-handed sword made of pure flame that sends out sparks upon impact, which can set anything they touch ablaze. Isadora stepped back in fear, but the figure spoke in a voice that was surprisingly gentle.
"Greetings, mortal," the figure said. "I am Dethronix. You have summoned me, and I am here to serve."
Isadora was awestruck. "I need your help," she said. "I want to reclaim my throne and avenge my father's death."
Dethronix nodded. "I understand," he said. "And I can help you. I can grant you the power to be feared by anyone. You will make everyone obey your command. You can even make loyalists turn into traitors. But you must be willing to pay the price."
"What price?" Isadora asked, her heart pounding.
"Loneliness," Dethronix said. "You will not be able to marry or have any lover. You will die powerlessly. You cannot use the power over people having pacts with other demons."
Isadora hesitated. She knew that dealing with demons was risky, but she also knew that she had no other choice. She needed Dethronix's help if she wanted to succeed.
"I'll do it," she said, her voice trembling. "Whatever it takes."
Dethronix smiled. "Very well," he said. "Then let us begin."
As Isadora stood before the towering figure of Dethronyx, she could feel the intense heat emanating from his body. She held out her hand, and Dethronyx placed his massive palm over hers. Suddenly, Isadora felt a surge of power coursing through her body, as if a raging inferno had been ignited within her. Her throat felt like it was on fire, and she struggled to contain the power that was threatening to overwhelm her.
Then, in a blinding flash, the transfer was complete. Isadora staggered back, gasping for breath as she felt the weight of the power that had just been bestowed upon her. She could feel the fire burning within her, fueling her with strength and energy that she had never known before.
As she regained her composure, Isadora realized that she had gained a new ability: the power to make people comply with her orders. With Dethronyx's power now at her command, she felt invincible, and she knew that she was one step closer to reclaiming her throne and avenging her father's death.
ACT 6. THE BIRTH OF NOXXIANS
Isadora stood with her back straight and her chin held high as she surveyed the group of rebels and the Arandorian soldiers guarding them. She had been walking through the forest, trying to find her way out, when she stumbled upon this scene.
"Stop!" Isadora yelled at the soldiers, her voice ringing through the forest. The rebels looked at her with hope in their eyes, and the soldiers with fear. As the soldiers were about to capture her, Isadora exclaimed, "How dare you stand before Princess Isadora!"
The soldiers hesitated for a moment, then quickly fell to their knees, bowing their heads in respect. "Forgive us, your Highness. We absolutely dare not," one of them stammered. "We did not realize who you were."
Isadora glared at them for a moment longer, then softened her expression. "I will forgive your transgression this time," she said. "But know that from now on, you will serve as my guards."
The soldiers looked up at her in surprise, then bowed their heads again. "As you command, your Highness," they said in unison.
Isadora then turned to the rebels and addressed them. "You will come with me," she said. "We will find food for you and for me, and then we will talk about how we can work together to fight against Arandor and reclaim my throne."
The rebels looked at her with gratitude, and one of them stepped forward. "We are honored to fight for you, Princess Isadora," he said. "We will do whatever it takes to help you regain your rightful place as queen."
Isadora proudly said to them, "From now on, I shall declare our movement against the Arandorian. I name it 'The Noxx' and the followers are called Noxxians."
Isadora led the group deeper into the forest to build enough power to fight the Arandorians. As they walked, she couldn't help but feel a sense of power coursing through her veins. She knew that with the power she now possessed, she could make anyone comply with her orders. And she was determined to use that power to its fullest potential to achieve her goals.
ACT 7. CEASELESS STRUGGLE
Princess Isadora knew that she needed more followers if she was going to overthrow the Arandorian army and take back control of Zalindor. However, she also knew that she had to be secretive in her recruitment efforts to avoid being discovered by the enemy.
Isadora and her small group of rebels moved from village to village, quietly spreading their message of resistance against the Arandorian army. They would often hold secret meetings in the dead of night, gathering people who were fed up with the occupation and wanted to fight back.
The rebels engaged in various activities to support their cause. Some would gather food and supplies to share with those who had lost everything due to the occupation. Others would sabotage Arandorian supply lines or sneak into their barracks to steal weapons.
Meanwhile, The Noxx, a group of warriors who had been fighting against the Arandorian army for weeks, continued to struggle. They were outnumbered and out weaponed, and no matter how many battles they won, more soldiers were always sent into Zalindor to replace those who had fallen.
However, Princess Isadora's recruitment efforts slowly began to pay off. More and more people began to join the rebellion, and they became more organized and strategic in their attacks against the Arandorians.
Isadora sat in her chamber, surrounded by her most trusted advisors. Suddenly, an informant burst into the room, panting heavily. "Your Highness," he gasped, "I bring urgent news. There is a volunteer among us, a young woman named Kaivara, who has successfully infiltrated the palace."
Isadora's eyes widened in surprise. "What? How is that possible?"
The informant nodded gravely. "She has been working as a royal entertainer for the past month and has gained the trust of the palace staff. She has been sending us information about the movements of the guards and the location of key rooms within the palace."
Princess Isadora furrowed her brows as she received the news from her informant. "Are you sure this Kaivara can be trusted? It seems unlikely that anyone would resist the luxuries of the palace," she said, her voice laced with doubt.
The informant nodded earnestly. "I have reason to believe that Kaivara is committed to our cause, Your Highness. She has already gathered valuable information for us, and I believe she can continue to do so."
Isadora sighed. "Very well. But we must be cautious. If Kaivara is caught, it could mean the end of everything we've worked for."
Her advisors nodded in agreement, but one of them spoke up cautiously. "Your Highness, we must be careful. If Kaivara is caught, she will surely be executed. And if her cover is blown, the palace will be put on high alert, making it even more difficult for us to launch an attack."
ACT 8. A SNEAKING MAN WITH A HOOD
Isadora's followers brought in a hooded figure, whom they suspected of being an Arandorian spy. Isadora raised her hand, gesturing for them to halt, and approached the figure. "Who are you?" she demanded, her eyes narrowing as she stared at the hooded man.
The man lowered his hood, revealing a face that was all too familiar to Isadora. "It's me, Isadora," he said softly.
Her eyes widened in shock as she recognized her cousin, prince Vorinaxius, Duke of Caelondria. "Vorinaxius?" she gasped, taking a step back. "What are you doing here?"
"I came to find you," he said, his voice low and urgent. "I have news about your father."
Isadora's heart skipped a beat at the mention of her father. "What news?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Vorinaxius hesitated for a moment before speaking. "He's passed away, Isadora. Assassinated by an Arandorian knight."
Tears filled Isadora's eyes as she processed the news. "I already knew," she said, her voice shaking. "But thank you for telling me."
Vorinaxius looked at her in surprise. "You knew? How?"
Isadora took a deep breath. "Everyone in Zalindor knows that. I knew that the day I left the palace. He wouldn't possibly survive those outnumbering troops," she said, her voice steady despite the tears still rolling down her cheeks. "And I will retaliate his death."
Vorinaxius nodded, his expression grim. "I'm with you, Isadora. Whatever it takes."
ACT 9. GENEROUS OFFER
Isadora looked around the makeshift campsite hidden deep within the forest, where she and Vorinaxius had set up their meeting. The flickering flames of the fire illuminated the trees around them, casting eerie shadows across the forest floor.
Vorinaxius took a deep breath, then spoke. "Isadora, I urge you to come with me to Caelondria. You'll be safe there, and we can rally more support for your cause."
Isadora shook her head. "I appreciate the offer, cousin, but my place is in Zalindor. I cannot abandon my people, nor can I rest until I have retaken my throne."
"But Isadora, you're putting yourself in danger," Vorinaxius said, concern etched on his face. "The Arandorians will stop at nothing to see you dead. At least in Caelondria, you'll have the protection of our army."
Isadora stood up and paced back and forth, her mind racing. "I understand your concerns, Vorinaxius. But I cannot leave my people to suffer under Arandorian rule. They need me, and I need them. I will not abandon them."
Vorinaxius stood up as well, his eyes fixed on Isadora. "I admire your bravery, cousin. But you cannot do this alone. Let me help you. Together, we can retake Zalindor and restore your rightful place as queen."
Isadora stopped pacing and turned to face Vorinaxius. "I appreciate your offer, cousin. But I have made a promise to my people, and I cannot break it. I will fight for them until my dying breath."
Vorinaxius nodded, then looked away, a pained expression on his face. "Very well, Isadora. But please promise me you'll be careful. I do not wish to lose another family member."
Isadora put a hand on Vorinaxius's shoulder. "I promise, cousin. I will be careful."
ACT 10. LAST CHANCE
Vorinaxius stood up, preparing to take his leave. He turned to Isadora and said, "I must return home. I don't want my mother to worry about me." Isadora nodded in understanding, but Vorinaxius wasn't finished. "But before I go, I must insist that you come with me to Caleondria. It's safer there, and we could plan our next move from a position of strength."
Isadora shook her head, "I appreciate your offer, Vorinaxius, but I cannot leave my people behind. They need me now more than ever."
Vorinaxius leaned forward, a serious expression on his face. "Isadora, I implore you to reconsider. You could delegate the leadership to one of your most trusted Noxxians. They would understand because you are the last rightful ruler of Zalindor. You must survive; otherwise, they would not have anyone to be a rightful ruler."
Isadora sighed, "I cannot leave my people in their time of need."
Vorinaxius paused for a moment, then took a deep breath. "Isadora, there's something else I must tell you. I had a strange dream days ago. Well…., this might sound strange or perhaps, ridiculous. It does take me the courage to tell you this, but in my dream, I met a mystical woman named Serenova. She told me that you might suffer terrible consequences because you have made a pact with a demon for a supernatural power. Did you really do that, cousin?"
Isadora was surprised to hear that Vorinaxius knew about her pact with Dethronyx, and her eyes widened in shock. However, she attempted to conceal her reaction by laughing and saying, "Ha ha ha, a demon? What are you talking about, Vorinaxius? That is an interesting story. Please, do tell me more," in a playful tone.
Vorinaxius spoke with conviction to his cousin, "I understand your hesitation, but this was different. Serenova felt so real, and she warned me that if you refuse to come with me to Caleondria, there will be a sign that will give you one last chance to escape death."
Isadora, feeling uneasy yet curious, asked Vorinaxius, "Okay, okay, just tell me, what is this sign you speak of?"
Vorinaxius tried to convince Isadora by saying, "The sign is an invisible man, only visible to you. He will help you end Arandor's oppression over Zalindor and escort you to your throne. You will reign again, but not for long because there will be an unimaginable calamity worse than the current oppression in Zalindor."Isadora looked at him skeptically, "Dreams are not to be trusted, Vorinaxius."
Isadora felt a mix of emotions as she listened to Vorinaxius, ranging from happiness and hopefulness to trembling with fear. However, she considered his words, "I appreciate your concern, Vorinaxius, but I must follow my own path. Thank you for your offer, and for your warning about the dream. I will keep it in mind."
ACT 11. AN INDEBTED GUEST
Isadora was leading the Noxx in their daily activities of training and strategizing in the forest when she noticed a strange figure among her followers. It was a person with a black robe and red veil covering their face. Isadora asked her followers if they saw the figure, but nobody seemed to have noticed it. She grew suspicious and decided to approach the figure.
As she got closer, the figure materialized into visible form, and Isadora gasped in shock. The figure was not a Noxx, nor was it an Arandorian spy. It was something entirely different.
"Who are you? What do you want?" Isadora demanded, her hand on the hilt of her sword.
The figure slowly lowered its hood, revealing the face of a man with piercing blue eyes and sharp features. He introduced himself with a name that sounded ancient and unfamiliar to Isadora's ears.
"I am Thalassor, and I have come to aid you, Princess Isadora," the man said in a deep and commanding voice.
Isadora raised an eyebrow in surprise. "How do you know my name? And what do you mean by 'aid'?"
Thalassor took a step forward and bowed his head. "I was once indebted to your father, King Kaleanthos, for saving my life. I have come to repay that debt by offering my services to you."
Isadora's eyes widened in shock. "My father saved your life? When did this happen?"
Thalassor stood tall and looked directly into Isadora's eyes. "It was a long time ago when Ilias was still a prince, he accidentally killed my son. He wanted to kill me because I reported it to his father, King Jalvareth. Ilias sent his men to kill me in the forest near the border of Zalindor. Your father and his army saved me from certain death. I have been searching for a way to repay him ever since."
Isadora nodded slowly, still trying to process this unexpected turn of events. "And how can you help me now?"
Thalassor bowed respectfully and explained, "Allow me to clarify, I possess supernatural abilities to conceal myself. With my powers, I can be of great assistance in serving you, your Highness."
"Thank you, Thalassor," Isadora said, her voice laced with gratitude. "I don't know how to repay you."
Thalassor smiled and bowed his head again. "Just knowing that I have helped you and fulfilled my debt to your father is enough for me, Princess."
Isadora nodded, still amazed at this unexpected twist of fate. She had gained a powerful ally in the form of a man indebted to her father. A debt that had now been repaid in full.
ACT 12. DECLARED AS TREASON
Isadora was in her makeshift tent in the heart of the Noxx encampment in the forest. The tent was dimly lit by a few torches and filled with the aroma of freshly brewed tea. Maps and battle plans were strewn across the makeshift table in the center of the tent. Isadora sat hunched over the table, studying the maps intently, when a scout came rushing into the tent. His chest heaved as he tried to catch his breath.
"Your Highness," the scout gasped, "I bring you news about Kaivara, the infiltrator."
Isadora's head snapped up, her eyes narrowing as she glared at the scout.
"What news?" Isadora demanded, her voice stern.
The scout approached Isadora with a worried expression on his face. He cleared his throat before delivering the news. "Your Highness, I have some urgent news regarding Kaivara," he said.
Isadora turned to him, her expression was unchanging. "What about her?" she asked calmly.
"Your Highness, Kaivara has become the King's concubine and is now pregnant with his child," the scout replied.
Isadora nodded, showing no signs of surprise. "I see. This was predicted since the first time I heard of her," she said, a note of disappointment in her voice. "I warned you all not to rely on her."
The scout looked taken aback by her response. "Your Highness, what should we do with her?"
Isadora's eyes hardened. "She has betrayed us and should be punished accordingly. Kill her and make an example of her," she said firmly.
The scout nodded, but Isadora could see the hesitation in his eyes. She placed a hand on his shoulder, offering him some reassurance. "Do not worry. We have a new ally in Thalassor. He has proven his loyalty to me and will aid us in our fight against the Arandorians," she said, her voice filled with confidence.
"It is my honor, Your Highness. I'd be glad to serve you killing the traitor if you desired." Thalassor volunteer himself.
However, Isadora had a different plan in mind. "Wait," she said. "I think we should wait for a while. Kaivara has become the King's concubine and is now pregnant. They will celebrate the birth of their first heir. Let us give them the joy of celebrating before we strike and give them heartbreak," Isadora said with a cunning tone.
ACT 13. A COMPROMISING GOVERNOR
The scout arrived breathlessly at Isadora's campsite in the forest, his eyes darting nervously around as he spoke. "Your Highness, I bring good news. The Arandor governor Sir Zephyros has been replaced by a new man, who calls himself Lord Erebos. It is said that he has brought with him a new legion of Arandorian troops to aid him in his rule."
Isadora's expression was curious at the news. "Lord Erebos, you say? What about him?"
The scout continued, "Lord Erebos is no knight, Your Highness. He comes from the house of lords and has previous experience in governing Arandor's cities. The good news is that he is known to be a compromising ruler, unlike Sir Zephyros who ruled with an iron hand. He has even extended an invitation for a meeting with you, Princess Isadora."
Isadora's advisors looked at her, hesitant. She knew the risks of meeting with the new governor, but she also knew the potential benefits. After discussing the matter and anticipating several possibilities, they found strong reasons to give it a try. "Very well. We will accept his invitation," Isadora said decisively.
ACT 14. A TIGRESS AMONG THE CATS
The morning was crisp and cool, and the sun had just begun to rise over the horizon. At the edge of the forest, a great number of troops led by Lord Erebos had arrived. They were on horseback, and the clatter of hooves echoed through the trees. Lord Erebos rode at the front, flanked by two knights in shining armor. The rest of the troops waited at the edge of the forest, their horses pawing at the ground impatiently.
As they made their way deeper into the forest, the trees closed in around them, and the sound of their horses' hooves was muffled by the soft earth beneath them. Isadora was waiting for them at a clearing, flanked by her two most trusted men. When they arrived, Lord Erebos dismounted from his horse and approached her.
"Your Highness, it is an honor to meet you," Lord Erebos said, bowing deeply.
"The honor is mine, Lord Erebos," Isadora replied, eyeing him warily. "What brings you to our forest?"
"I come with a message of peace, Your Highness," Lord Erebos said. "I know that there has been tension between the Arandorians and the Noxx, and I want to assure you that I have no desire for conflict. I come with an offer of a treaty between our two nations."
Isadora narrowed her eyes. "And what is the price of this treaty? Will you continue to oppress my people, to take our resources and our land?"
Lord Erebos shook his head. "No, Your Highness. I understand that the Arandorian rule over Zalindor has been unjust in the past, and I want to make amends. I offer you the hand of friendship, and I am willing to make concessions to ensure that our nations can coexist peacefully."
Isadora exchanged a glance with her two advisors, considering Lord Erebos's words. After a moment of silence, she spoke again. "We will consider your offer, Lord Erebos. But know that we will not be satisfied with anything less than complete independence from Arandor."
Lord Erebos nodded, his expression serious. "I understand, Your Highness. I hope that we can come to a mutually beneficial agreement. So, let us make peace living together instead of getting rid of each other."
Isadora's face darkened as Lord Erebos spoke of 'living together.' "Do not speak to me of coexistence, Lord Erebos," she spat, her voice rising in anger. "My people have suffered for too long under the Arandorian yoke. We will never be content with merely living alongside our oppressors. We demand independence, and we will fight for it if necessary."
Lord Erebos's face paled at the vehemence in Isadora's voice. He motioned to his knights to sheath their swords, sensing the danger in the air. "Your Highness, please," he said, holding up a placating hand. "I meant no offense. I only wish to find a peaceful solution to our problems."
But Isadora was beyond reason now. "Peaceful solution? After years of Arandorian tyranny, you offer us peace? You insult us with your words, Lord Erebos. Leave now, before I forget myself and order your men to be slaughtered where they stand."
Lord Erebos backed away slowly, his eyes never leaving Isadora's face. He knew that he had just witnessed the fury of a true warrior queen, and he feared for the future of his own nation if they were to provoke her wrath.
Isadora's tone softened as she spoke, "Allow me to rephrase. You may contemplate my proposal and return it to me if you accept it. If you do, I will reclaim my throne, and you will be granted control over Arandor. I know how to help you secure that throne, Lord Erebos."
"Absolutely not. That would be treason. I cannot agree to that," Lord Erebos exclaimed, taken aback by Isadora's proposal.
"Silence!" Isadora erupted in fury. "You stand on my land, and you will fulfill what I demand."
Lord Erebos bowed low to Isadora and her advisors, his face flushed with shame. "Your Highness, I apologize for any offense I may have caused. I understand now that my offer was not acceptable to you. I will take my leave, and we can discuss this matter further at a later time."
With that, Lord Erebos turned on his heel and strode back towards the edge of the forest, his two knights following close behind. As he walked, he couldn't help but feel a sense of frustration and disbelief. Here he was, with a powerful army at his command, and yet he had just been humiliated by a group of Noxxians in the middle of the forest.
As he reached the edge of the forest, he paused and turned to look back at Isadora and her advisors. He could see the fire in her eyes, the fierce determination that burned within her. Despite the fact that she had only a small band of warriors at her side, she had a strength that was undeniable.
With a heavy heart, Lord Erebos raised his hand in a farewell gesture and turned away, heading back towards his troops. As he walked, he couldn't help but feel a sense of shame and disappointment. He had come so close to achieving his goals, only to be thwarted by a woman who refused to back down.
ACT 15. IF YOU DON'T TREAT ME RIGHT
Word of Lord Erebos's embarrassing negotiation with Isadora spread quickly through the palace of Arandor. Many made jokes at his expense, and he soon heard about them. The House of Lords ridiculed him, and he felt the weight of their insults. It was painful for Lord Erebos to suffer such insults, especially when his intention was to make Zalindor a better place with peace and controllable locals. Unfortunately, nobody seemed to identify his good intentions, and only his shameful decision to accept Isadora's offer remained in their minds. The mocking and ridicule continued, and Lord Erebos could not escape the shame that followed him wherever he went. So, he decided to take Isadora's offer.
One night, Lord Erebos left the palace of Zalindor alone, without any guards or knights to accompany him. He knew that this was a dangerous move, but he also knew that he needed to show Isadora and her people that he was serious about making peace.
He made his way through the forest stealthily, avoiding any patrols or guards that might be on the lookout for him. As he got closer to Isadora's campsite, he could feel his heart beating faster and faster. He knew that he was taking a big risk, but he also knew that it was worth it.
When he entered the forest, some Noxxian apprehended him and brought him to the campsite as he told them that he would accept Isadora's offer. They finally arrived at Isadora's campsite, he saw her sitting by the fire, flanked by her two most trusted advisors. He took a deep breath and walked up to her.
"Your Highness, I have come to accept your offer," he said, his voice steady.
Isadora looked up at him, surprised to see him there alone. "Lord Erebos, I did not expect to see you again so soon. Are you sure about this?"
Lord Erebos nodded. "I am sure, Your Highness. I believe that we can work together to create a better future for our people."
Isadora studied him for a moment, then nodded slowly. "Very well, Lord Erebos. We will work together, but know that I will be watching you closely."
Lord Erebos bowed deeply. "Thank you, Your Highness. I am honored to have your trust."
Isadora leaned forward, her eyes glinting with intensity as she spoke to Lord Erebos. "Listen carefully, Lord Erebos. If you truly want to be the ruler of Arandor, then you must be patient and follow my instructions. First, you must keep believing that Arandor will one day belong to you. You must work towards that goal every day, without hesitation or doubt."
Lord Erebos nodded, his expression serious. "I understand, Your Highness. I will never give up my dream of ruling Arandor."
"Good," Isadora said. "Second, I need your help to make sure that the King is vulnerable to attack before his subjects. The best way to do this would be to organize a celebration for the new heir months ahead of time. You must convince the King to show his presence before his subjects, to make himself an easy target."
Lord Erebos's eyes widened. "You want me to help you assassinate the King?"
Isadora shook her head. "No, Lord Erebos. I ensure you, your hand will be as clean as snow. My man will do the job. You just need to advise the king to have a celebration together with his subject. That's all."
Lord Erebos hesitated for a moment before nodding. "I will do as you ask, Your Highness. I will help you weaken the King and make Arandor mine."
ACT 16. A CHAMBER FULL OF KNIGHTS
The chamber was filled with the clanking of armor and the murmur of confused voices as Lord Erebos took his place at the head of the table. The knights and soldiers stationed at Zalindor looked around nervously, wondering why they had been summoned to this emergency meeting.
Suddenly, the door burst open and a figure in a hooded robe entered the room. The audience grew uneasy and began to shout questions.
Lord Erebos silenced them with a wave of his hand. "Gentlemen, please. Allow me to introduce our ally in this fight for a better Arandor," the chamber guards opened the door. Princess Isadora entered the room, wearing a black robe. When she got in the middle of the chamber, she opened her hood.
The room erupted in laughter and ridicule. "What's the meaning of this?" one knight shouted.
Isadora slammed her fist on the table, silencing the room. "You will show respect for your princess!" she thundered. "And you will support Lord Erebos in his quest to reign over Arandor!"
More laughter erupted from the crowd, but Isadora's eyes burned with fury. "Do not test me," she growled. "Anyone who does not support me will regret it. You will die before you leave this chamber."
Some of the men still laughed, but the fear in their eyes was evident. "You think a woman can take on so many battle-trained men?" one sneered.
Isadora smiled dangerously. "Try me," she replied. "Get in now!!"
Suddenly, the door opened without a cause. In the middle of the crowd, Isadora took off her robe and she moved as if putting the robe on someone. The robe remained suspended in the air, only to be donned by an invisible figure that suddenly appeared. Then the figure materialized. Crowds were terrified by the view, including Lord Erebos himself. "This is my assassin. He can also easily kill you all," Isadora proudly presented her assassin.
The room fell silent as the knights and soldiers exchanged uneasy glances. Slowly, they began to nod their heads in agreement. Isadora had proven her strength and her determination, and they knew they could not afford to cross her.
ACT 17. A BABY DESERVING CELEBRATION
The palace of Arandor was a grandiose sight to behold, with its tall white walls adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful gardens surrounding it. The main entrance led to a spacious courtyard where fountains danced to the music of the wind. The courtyard was flanked by long hallways that led to various parts of the palace.
As the cry of the newborn baby echoed through the palace, the halls and rooms were bustling with excitement and joy. Servants and guards rushed around, preparing for the celebration that would follow. The grand ballroom was decorated with vibrant flowers, colorful banners, and flickering candles. The scent of roasted meats and sweet pastries wafted through the air, making everyone's mouths water.
The throne room was the most magnificent of all, with its high arched ceiling, adorned with golden leaves, and marble pillars that towered over visitors. The throne itself was a sight to behold, made of solid gold and encrusted with precious gems. As the king and queen emerged from the private chambers, they were greeted with cheers and applause from the gathered nobles and courtiers.
The newborn prince was presented to the people, wrapped in a soft blanket, and held in the arms of queen Ysabel. The people could not help but feel a sense of pride and hope for the future of Arandor. The bells of the palace rang out, announcing the arrival of the new prince to the world.
As Lord Erebos entered the palace of Arandor, he was greeted with the sight of jubilation and celebration. The palace was decorated with banners and colorful lights, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of flowers.
Walking towards the King and the Queen, Lord Erebos bowed respectfully and said, "Your majesties, I come to congratulate you on the birth of your son. He is truly a gift from the gods."
The King and the Queen smiled warmly at Lord Erebos, and the Queen held out her newborn son for him to see. Lord Erebos looked at the baby boy with awe and then turned back to the King and the Queen.
"Your highness," Lord Erebos said, "This is the perfect opportunity to mingle with the people of Arandor. Show them that you trust them and that Arandor is safe under your rule. Let us celebrate the birth of your son with your people."
The King looked at Lord Erebos and nodded his head in agreement. "You are right, Lord Erebos. This is a time for celebration and unity. We shall join our people and show them that we stand with them."
Queen Ysabel nervously wrung her hands as Lord Erebos spoke about the importance of the King showing himself to the people. "But what if there are still those who wish to harm him?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry.
"I understand your concerns, Your Majesty," Lord Erebos replied, "but we cannot keep hiding behind the walls of this palace. It is important that the people see their King and know that he is safe. It will show that we have control over the situation in Zalindor."
The Queen looked unconvinced, but Lord Erebos continued. "Besides, since I have taken over as Lord of Zalindor, the resistance has decreased significantly. I believe it is time for the King to make an appearance and assure his people that they have nothing to fear."
The King nodded in agreement and placed a reassuring hand on his wife's shoulder. "Lord Erebos is right. We cannot let fear rule us. We must show our people that we are strong and in control."
The Queen nodded reluctantly, still clearly worried, but Lord Erebos could see that he had won the King's support. It was only a matter of time before the people of Arandor would see their King again.
ACT 18. SINISTER PLAN
Isadora and Thalassor sat in a dimly lit room, surrounded by maps and charts of the two isles. Isadora took a deep breath and spoke with a determined voice, "We must strike at the heart of Arandor. The king's death will shatter their sense of security and make them vulnerable to our control."
Thalassor leaned forward, studying the maps carefully. "And how do you plan to achieve that? The palace is heavily guarded and the king rarely leaves its walls."
Isadora smiled slyly. "We will use the celebration of the new heir as a distraction. The entire kingdom will be focused on the festivities. It will be the perfect opportunity to strike."
Thalassor nodded in agreement. "And what of the soldiers and knights who have switched sides? How will we ensure their loyalty?"
Isadora held up a red ribbon. "Those who wear this ribbon will be spared. Those who do not will meet a gruesome end. It is a simple way to ensure their loyalty."
Thalassor furrowed his brow. "But what if there are those who oppose us?"
Isadora's smile turned into a cold sneer. "They will be dealt with accordingly. We cannot let anyone stand in our way."
Thalassor leaned back in his chair, contemplating their plan. "It is a risky move. But if it succeeds, Zalindor will be free."
Isadora nodded in agreement. "Yes, that's right. Withdraw all Noxxians' spies and contacts from Ardalind 3 days before the celebration."
ACT 19. MOURNFUL CELEBRATION
The morning of the celebration for the incoming heir of Arandor was an exciting one. The entire city was bustling with activity, as people prepared for the festivities that would take place throughout the day. The army was out in full force, securing the area and keeping a watchful eye on the border to ensure that no unwanted guests would disrupt the joyous occasion.
Food vendors lined the streets, cooking up a variety of savory and sweet treats for the citizens of Arandor. The smells of roasted meat, fresh bread, and sugary confections filled the air, tempting the appetites of all who walked by.
At the field, a grand stage had been erected, adorned with banners and flowers in the colors of the royal family. The crowd gathered around, eagerly awaiting the arrival of King Ilias, Queen Ysabel, and their family.
After the king's speech, the celebration continued with dance performances. As the dancers performed, Thalassor, in his invisible form, made his way toward where the king was seated. He approached slowly, careful not to make a sound, but Kaivara, who seemed to be able to see him, got in his way. Thalassor tried to move past her, but she refused to budge. With no other choice, Thalassor drew his blade and struck her down.
The commotion that followed was deafening. The guards tried to protect the king, the queen, and the baby, but Thalassor was too quick for them. He darted between them, his blade flashing in the light, and made his way to the king. With a swift stroke, he ended the king's life.
The queen screamed, and the baby began to cry. Thalassor paused for a moment, contemplating what to do next. He could hear the sounds of the guards closing in, so he decided to make his escape. But before he left, he spared the queen, who was still clutching the baby tightly. He disappeared into the crowd, leaving chaos in his wake.
ACT 20. FAREWELL ZALINDOR
The sun had just set when Lord Erebos arrived at the field. The troops were already lined up, their banners swaying in the gentle breeze. Lord Erebos addressed them, thanking them for their loyalty to Arandor and Isadora. He said that he was proud of them for making the difficult decision to switch sides and that they would now be serving under the rightful ruler of Arandor.
Lord Erebos bid farewell to Isadora, wishing her good luck and thanking her for the opportunity to serve. He then turned to his troops and ordered them to prepare for the new era of Arandor. The troops stood at attention, their red ribbons fluttering in the breeze, as Lord Erebos walked into his carriage.
As Lord Erebos entered his carriage, the knights fell into formation behind him, their armor glinting in the fading light. Cavalries rode ahead, clearing the way for the procession.
As they made their way to Arandor, they encountered chaos and disorder. People were looting and fighting each other, and the troops had to push their way through. When they reached the palace, Lord Erebos walked straight to the throne, where he crowned himself king.
ACT 21. THE CORONATION
Princess Isadora was crowned as the rightful queen of Zalindor after the death of her father, King Kaleanthos. The coronation ceremony was held in the grand hall of the Arandor palace. The hall was adorned with flowers and gold decorations. There was a grand throne at the center of the hall where Isadora would be crowned.
The ceremony was led by the Archbishop who read from the holy scriptures and blessed Isadora. She was then presented with the crown, which was made of pure gold and adorned with precious gems. The crown was placed on her head by the Archbishop and she had been proclaimed the queen of Zalindor.
The procession began with the royal family and the nobles walking towards the grand hall. The streets were lined with people cheering and throwing flowers in celebration of Isadora's return to the throne. The procession was led by the knights, who were riding their horses and carrying the banner of Arandor.
The coronation ceremony was followed by a grand feast in the palace, where people from all walks of life were invited to celebrate. The feast was filled with music, dance, and food, and everyone was in high spirits.
The celebration continued throughout the day and night, with fireworks and bonfires lighting up the sky. People danced and sang in the streets, and it seemed as though the whole kingdom was rejoicing.
The return of Zalindor to the rightful ruler, Queen Isadora, brought a sense of peace and stability to the kingdom. The people were happy to have a just and fair ruler who would look after their interests. The celebration was a symbol of hope and prosperity for Arandor, and it marked the beginning of a new era of peace and prosperity for the kingdom.
While there was joy in Zalindor, the flip side of the coin showed the misery, terror, uprisings, killings, looting, and fighting that was happening almost every day in Arandor.
ACT 22. SECOND WARNING
Prince Vorinaxius arrived at the palace of Zalindor to congratulate Queen Isadora on her coronation. He greeted her warmly and expressed his happiness for her ascension to the throne. After some time, he shifted the conversation towards a more serious tone.
"Isadora, I know this is not the best topic to discuss during a congratulatory visit, but I feel it is my duty to remind you of the warning I gave you last time I visited. I spoke of the calamity that would befall our kingdom if you were to reign. And unfortunately, we have seen the worst of it in Arandor."
Isadora looked at her cousin with concern, "What are you trying to say, Vorinaxius?"
"I fear that the same forces that caused chaos in Arandor may also attempt to destabilize Zalindor. Your rule will be challenged, and you must be prepared for it. I advise you to take extra security measures and always be vigilant."
Isadora nodded gravely, "Thank you for your warning, cousin. I will take your advice seriously and do what is necessary to protect our kingdom."
"Isadora, haven't you seen what Serenova told me has come true? Your assassin, Thalassor, the invisible man, is one of the signs," Vorinaxius trying to convince Isadora.
"Yes, you're right. Are you trying to say that it is my fate to die miserably after I'm crowned?" Isadora, with a stern look, asked.
"I don't mean to say that. But you must be cautious. I do fear losing you my cousin," Vorinaxius saddened.
"My father died here, so I also seal my fate. At least, I want to do good things as long as I live. I won't regret dying while I stand with my people. I cannot bear the thought of surviving while my people suffer the impending calamity. I won't regret this, cousin, I won't. But thank you for your concern," Isadora said convincingly almost crying.
"Oh, dear cousin. I won't let it happen. I will send Caleondrian troops to back you up while you rebuild your army," Vorinaxius said.
"Thank you Vorinaxius. Arandor is no threat. Erebos is under my wings. I don't care the mess he does in his own kingdom as long as that won't affect Zalindor," Queen Isadora underestimated.
"Beware, cousin. Pride is your downfall. I hope instability in Arandor won't affect Zalindor. Yet, let me ensure your safety by sending backup troops while you're building your army," Vorinaxius tried to convince Isadora again.
"Well, if you insist, cousin. I'd be glad to. Thank you so much," Isadora replied cheerfully.
ACT 23. FAVOURABLE CONFESSION
Thalassor entered Queen Isadora's chamber with a sense of unease. He had a confession to make and he knew it wouldn't be pleasant. "Your Majesty, I have come to confess," he said as he bowed.
"What is it, Thalassor?" Queen Isadora asked, her expression unreadable.
"I failed to carry out your orders. I was not able to kill King Ilias's queen and heir," Thalassor said, his voice filled with remorse.
The queen's face remained flat, but Thalassor could see that she was deep in thought. "Thank you for telling me, Thalassor. I appreciate your honesty," she said calmly.
Thalassor was taken aback by the queen's response. He had expected her to be angry or disappointed, but her calmness unnerved him. "Your Majesty, I am willing to accept whatever punishment you see fit," he said, bowing again.
"That won't be necessary," Queen Isadora said, finally breaking her silence. "In fact, you did the right thing."
Thalassor looked confused. "Your Majesty, I don't understand."
The queen explained, "I had forgotten to mention that you should spare the queen and the heir before the assassination. Knowing that they are still alive, I feel relieved. It was meant to create chaos in Arandor if a new ruler reigned while the queen and the heir were still alive. As soon as Arandor lay helplessly, Zalindor would enter and rule over the kingdom."
Thalassor's eyes widened in understanding. "I see. It's a brilliant plan, Your Majesty."
Queen Isadora smiled, "Yes, Thalassor. And I appreciate your loyalty and honesty. You have done well."
ACT 24. GOLDEN MONTHS FOR ZALINDOR
Prince Vorinaxius had made the promise to back up Queen Isadora with the Caleondrian troops. Soon afterward, a backup troop arrived at the gates of Zalindor bearing the flags of Caleondria.
The troop, led by a valiant captain named Theron, marched into the city with their swords drawn and their shields and armor glistening in the sun. The people of Zalindor watched in awe as they paraded through the city, their footsteps clanging against the cobbled streets. As the troop approached the palace, Queen Isadora stood outside with her entourage and welcomed the Caleondrian troops with open arms.
The people of Zalindor were overjoyed to receive support from Caleondria, and as the troop settled into the kingdom, the people welcomed them with open arms. They feasted for that, drank together, and expressed gratitude to their ally for their timely reinforcements.
As Theron and his troops approached the gates of Zalindor palace, Queen Isadora stood outside the palace balcony with her entourage to welcome them. Her hair was adorned with a crown of gold that glistened in the sun, and her royal robes flowed elegantly behind her.
As the procession drew close, she walked forward, her entourage following closely behind her, and greeted Theron with a warm embrace. She then shook hands with the other soldiers, welcoming them to her kingdom and thanking them for their sacrifices to come to Zalindor's aid.
Afterward, a procession was held through the city to celebrate the arrival of the Caleondria troops. The soldiers marched forward in formation, with their shields held high, and their swords strapped to their waists. The sound of drums and trumpets filled the air, as the people of Zalindor watched in awe.
As the procession approached the palace, the doors were opened wide to receive them. Inside, a feast was held in honor of their arrival, and guests from all over the kingdom came to celebrate with them. The queen, Theron, and his soldiers sat together at the head of the table, enjoying good food and drink, and expressing their gratitude for each other.
In this way, Queen Isadora demonstrated her appreciation for Theron and his troops, welcoming them with open arms and ensuring they were honored in a manner fitting their great service to her kingdom.
The stationing of the Caleondrian troops in Zalindor brought a newfound sense of security and safety to the people of the kingdom. They no longer lived in constant fear of being attacked by their enemies, which allowed them to focus on growing their economy, infrastructure, education, and military.
With the help of their Caleondrian allies, the people of Zalindor began to expand their trade routes, importing goods from other kingdoms to sell in their own markets. This led to the development of new industries and the creation of new jobs that boosted the economy of the kingdom.
The improved infrastructure led to the construction of new roads and buildings, which made the kingdom more accessible and attractive to travelers, merchants, and settlers. The kingdom became a bustling hub of commerce, and its population grew significantly.
Education also improved significantly in Zalindor. With the help of Caleondrian instructors, schools were established throughout the kingdom, providing access to education for all children, regardless of their social class. This resulted in the kingdom's citizens becoming better educated, leading to significant advancements in science, medicine, and other fields of study.
Lastly, the military of Zalindor grew stronger and more powerful. They trained with the Caleondrian troops, learning new strategies and tactics that would help them defend their kingdom should another attack occur. They also expanded their arsenal, acquiring new weapons and armor that made them a formidable force to be reckoned with.
As a result of these developments, Zalindor grew to become one of the most prosperous and advanced kingdoms in the region. The alliance with Caleondria proved to be beneficial for both kingdoms, and the bond between them grew stronger with each passing year.
ACT 25. GREY CLOUDS COVERING
Queen Isadora was in the throne room when a scout from the outskirts of the kingdom arrived urgently to deliver some important news. The scout told the queen that there were rumors about a miracle that had occurred in the neighboring kingdom of Arandor.
"Please, continue," she said, urging the scout to share more information about the miraculous event.
"Your Majesty, it is said that King Ilias was brought back from the dead by divine intervention. The people of Arandor believe him to be immortal and a divine being, descended from the heavens," said the scout, his face taut with tension.
Isadora's eyes widened in shock, "What? That is unbelievable," she said in a shocked tone.
The scout nodded, "Yes, Your Majesty. To make things worse, King Erebos has been sentenced to death, and the so-called immortal King Ilias now reigns."
Isadora felt a wave of sadness washing over her, "This is just like what Prince Vorinaxius warned me about. It's beginning," she said to herself, then she asked the scout, "Do you believe this news to be true? Could there be any other explanation?"
"I cannot say for certain, Your Majesty, but from what I saw and heard, it seems to be true," replied the scout.
Isadora's heart sank as she thought of the possible consequences of this event, "I dread to think what the future holds if this heralds the foretold calamity," she said to the empty room, her voice small and vulnerable. She sat down on her throne, her eyes filled with emotion, as she hoped against hope that her people would not suffer as a result of this event.
Isadora was devastated because she did not want to see her people suffer, but she was also aware that there was little she could do to prevent it. She couldn't just ask her people to move elsewhere, it wasn't that simple.
Despite her worries, she took a deep breath and resolved to stay strong for her people. If the worst came to pass, she would be ready to face it and protect them to the best of her abilities.
ACT 26. STATE OF EMERGENCY
Queen Isadora sat on her throne, her mind racing as she processed the news. She couldn't believe what she had heard. King Ilias, the former ruler of Arandor, had been resurrected. It sounded like a myth or a legend, but the report was from a reliable source. She couldn't ignore it.
As she was still grappling with this news, a top military commander entered the throne room, his face etched with concern. "Your Majesty," he said, bowing low. "I bring urgent news. We've spotted massive military mobility moving from Arandor to Zalindor. It's believed to be King Ilias's army."
Isadora's heart skipped a beat. "How long until they arrive?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
"Approximately 1 or 2 days, Your Majesty," the commander replied.
The queen's mind raced with possible scenarios. Was King Ilias coming to wage war on Zalindor? She had to be prepared for the worst. "Ready the troops," she ordered the commander. "I want us to be ready to defend our land."
"Of course, Your Majesty," the commander replied, before bowing and leaving the room.
Isadora sat back on her throne, her thoughts consumed by what was to come. She couldn't afford to take any chances, not with the safety of her kingdom at stake. She would have to be ready for whatever came her way.
Queen Isadora wasted no time in preparing her army for the incoming threat. She ordered her top generals to gather the troops and head to the border of Zalindor, ready to defend their land.
"Prepare the defenses," she commanded. "We must be ready to face whatever comes our way. I want every soldier at their post, and every cannon primed and ready to fire."
As her army mobilized, Isadora also sent a message to the top leader of Caleondrian's army stationed in Zalindor, asking for backup. She knew that her kingdom could not face this threat alone, and the assistance of their allies would be crucial in this battle.
"Send your troops to the border of Zalindor," she wrote. "We need all the help we can get to defend our land."
But Isadora knew that she could not rely solely on her newly built army and allies to protect Zalindor. She also called upon her most trusted assassin, Thalassor.
"Thalassor, I need you to ambush the incoming threat," she said firmly. "If King Ilias is among them, I want you to finish him."
Thalassor nodded, his face a mask of determination. He was the best in his field, and he knew that the queen trusted him with this important task.
"I will not disappoint you, Your Majesty," he replied before disappearing into the shadows.
With her army and allies at the ready and her assassin prepared to strike, Queen Isadora could only hope that they were enough to defend their land against the threat that lay ahead.
ACT 27. THE SAME ARROW
King Ilias marched at the front of his army, his pale face betraying no emotion as he led his troops toward Zalindor. Despite his undead state, his body and skin remained intact, and he looked every bit like the living king he had been before his death.
Behind him, a massive army marched, their weapons glinting in the sunlight. It was a formidable force, and King Ilias knew that they could conquer any land they set their sights on.
As they marched, King Ilias noticed a man in a black robe standing alone afar, blocking his army's path. He turned to his general and asked, "Who is that man in the black robe?"
The general looked confused. "Your Majesty, I don't see anyone," he replied.
But King Ilias was certain he had seen someone. "I saw him standing there, blocking our path," he said. "He's wearing a black robe, and he's just standing there, looking at us."
The general looked around, but nobody else seemed to have noticed the man in the black robe. King Ilias remembered a similar incident when his concubine, Kaivara, had said she saw a man in a robe, but nobody else had seen him.
Realizing that the man in the black robe was invisible to everyone except him, King Ilias called for his bow. "Bring me my bow," he said firmly. "I will deal with this myself."
His assistant hurried to bring him the weapon, and King Ilias took aim at the spot where the man in the black robe was standing.
"Take cover," he commanded his army. "I'm going to take care of this."
King Ilias saw the man drawing his sword and running toward him. Then, he was sure that the man was a threat. With a steady hand, he aimed and released the arrow, and it flew straight toward the invisible target. There was a thud, and the man in the black robe was suddenly visible to everyone. He lay on the ground, the arrow protruding from his chest.
As the man fell to the ground, King Ilias rode his horse toward him. Once he reached him, he dismounted and pointed his sword at the dying man.
The man, with his last breath, could hardly speak. "Ilias," he said, his voice barely a whisper. "You killed my son with an arrow, and now you kill me with the same arrow. How could you do this to me? I spared your son and the queen."
King Ilias stood without any reaction, his expression stoic. He bent down and picked up the man's body, cradling it in his arms. "Now you can meet your son," he said quietly.
As he held the man's body, King Ilias felt a sudden warmth spread through his palm. The man's essence seemed to transfer into him, and a bright light shone from his hand and engulfed his whole body.
It was an unusual sensation, but King Ilias didn't flinch. He remained there for a few moments, holding the man's body and letting the light wash over him. When it faded, he stood up and remounted his horse.
"Let's continue," he said to his army, his voice unwavering. "Zalindor awaits." And with that, they resumed their march toward their destination.
ACT 28. THE DAWN OF THE WORST CALAMITY
As King Ilias's army arrived at the large ground, they were met with the sight of the waiting armies of Caleondria and Zalindor. The cavalry of King Ilias marched forward, followed closely by their infantry.
Caleondria's army shot their arrows into the sky, and the rain of arrows came down upon the charging cavalry. The horses reared and bucked as the arrows pierced their flesh, and many of the riders were thrown from their mounts. The infantry fared no better, as the arrows rained down upon them as well.
Caleondria's general laughed as he saw the devastation wrought by the arrows. However, his laughter was short-lived, as all of the fallen soldiers rose up as undead. They were wilder and more vicious than before, and no arrows or spears could stop them.
Finally, the undead army clashed with Caleondria's troops, and the battle was fierce. The sound of clanging swords and clashing shields echoed throughout the field, and the screams of the dying filled the air.
Despite their valiant efforts, Caleondria's army could not withstand the onslaught of the undead. One by one, they fell, and as they did, they too rose up as undead. In the end, there were no winners or losers, only the undead army marching on toward their next conquest.
ACT 29. SEALS HER OWN FATE
As the soldier rode towards the gate of Zalindor, his horse was wild with fear. The Queen herself went to meet him, her heart pounding with dread.
"What news?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
The soldier gasped for breath, then spoke in a trembling voice. "Your Majesty, you must tell all the people of Zalindor to leave the kingdom. King Ilias has raised the fallen soldiers to be undead. All of Caleondria's fallen troops and our own have turned and are now fighting alongside him as an undead army."
The Queen's face turned pale, but she refused to show her fear before her people. She took a deep breath and asked, "Are you sure of this?"
The soldier nodded. "I saw it with my own eyes, Your Majesty. We were overwhelmed by the undead army, and there was nothing we could do to stop them. The more fighters die, the more powerful they are."
The Queen's heart sank. She knew that they had to act fast, but her demonic power is powerless because she can only use it on humans. "Tell everyone to pack their things and leave for Caleondria as planned. We must evacuate Zalindor before it's too late."
The Queen turned to her advisors to plan their next move. She knew that they had to act quickly if they were to save any of their people from the undead horde.
The sound of horns echoed across the land as King Ilia's army of undead arrived at the outskirts of Zalindor. The sight of the massive army was enough to make even the bravest of warriors tremble. Queen Isadora stood at the top of the fortress gate, looking out at the approaching army. She knew that this was the day of her death, as the foretelling had warned her.
As Queen Isadora stood at the fortress gate, she watched with a mix of fear and determination as King Ilias' undead army approached. The sight was both terrifying and awe-inspiring, with the seemingly endless sea of undead soldiers stretching as far as the eye could see.
The queen knew that this was the end. The prophecy had foretold her death, and she had accepted it long ago. But that didn't mean she was going to go down without a fight.
She gripped her sword tightly, feeling its weight in her hand. She had trained for this moment her entire life, and she was ready to give her all to protect her people.
As the army drew closer, she noticed something odd. They weren't attacking. They had stopped just outside the fortress gate and were simply standing there as if waiting for something.
The queen's heart raced as she tried to figure out what was going on. Was this some kind of trap? Was there some kind of dark magic at play?
Suddenly, a figure emerged from the army. It was King Ilias himself, riding atop a black well-built stallion without much decoration.
The queen braced herself, ready to face her foe. King Ilias stopped as he was close enough to the gate.
Queen Isadora stood on the top of the fortress gate, looking at King Ilias, whom everyone else could not see. She knew that she had to do something to save her people, and so she shouted down to King Ilias, imploring him to spare their lives.
"Please, King Ilias," she called out, her voice echoing in the empty plains beyond the walls. "Have mercy on my people. Spare their lives."
At first, everyone around the top of the fortress was puzzled as they looked at the queen shouting downward outside the fortress as if someone was there. But then they heard a voice coming from below, the voice of King Ilias echoing through the air.
"It is the day for Zalindor to turn into the kingdom of the undead," he said. "Unless you submit yourself, Queen Isadora, then I shall give your people time to escape. The rest who remain shall be turned into undead as well."
Queen Isadora's heart was broken into pieces; she was confused for a while, but with her determination to save her people, she walked down the fortress stairs with weakened legs, ignoring the guards' attempts to hold her back. Queen Isadora went out of the fortress alone to meet the invisible King Ilias.
As she approached the invisible king, Queen Isadora could feel his cold breath on her skin. She trembled with fear and uncertainty, but she did not falter.
With a steady voice, she pleaded with King Ilias to show mercy on her people. She begged him to spare their lives, to give them a chance to escape.
"King Ilias," she said, facing the empty space where the voice had come from. "I am here. I will submit myself to you, but please spare my people. They are innocent and do not deserve this fate."
There was a pause, and then the voice of King Ilias replied. "Very well, Queen Isadora. I shall spare your people, but only if you submit your life to me willingly."
Isadora hesitated for a moment, but she had to do everything in her power to save her people. "I will," she said firmly and released her sword to fall on the ground.
As Queen Isadora stood before the empty space where King Ilias' voice had echoed, there was suddenly a gust of wind. It grew stronger and stronger until a figure began to materialize in front of her. It was King Ilias, who had previously been invisible, but now he was fully formed and dismounted from his horse.
The queen looked up at him, her eyes wide with both fear and disgust at his appearance. She knew she had to remain strong, however, for the sake of her people.
King Ilias approached her, and as he did so, the queen submissively closed her eyes. She knew what was about to happen and braced herself for it.
When King Ilias put his palm on her face, a strange glowing magic transfer happened between them. The queen felt a jolt of energy pass from her body to his through his hand, and she gasped involuntarily.
It was a strange sensation as if a part of her was being ripped away from her, but she forced herself to remain calm. She knew that the only way to save her people was to submit herself to the undead king.
As the magic transfer continued, Isadora could feel herself growing weaker and weaker. Her knees buckled, and she began to fall and died.
King Ilias looked up at the fortress. Soldiers were frosted to see the terrible incidents that happened to their queen. They were unable to say anything or move an inch until King Ilias exclaimed to them loudly, "Now, you go away before I turn you into undead as well," everyone run and bumped each other to go through the fortress stairs.
The undead army marched toward the fortress slowly and steadily and broke the fortress gate as they arrived.
ACT 30. EVERLASTING KINGDOM
Isadora found herself in a dark and eerie place, with nothing but shadows and echoes to keep her company. She walked cautiously, her heart pounding in her chest until she heard a voice calling out her name.
"Isadora," the voice said, "I am Serenova. Follow my voice."
Isadora hesitated for a moment, but the voice sounded kind and gentle, so she decided to follow it. The voice led her to a bright end of a tunnel, and she stepped through.
Suddenly, she found herself in a magnificent palace's main chamber. The walls were adorned with shimmering gold and precious jewels, and the floors were made of polished marble that shone like a mirror.
Isadora saw her parents, King Kaleanthos and her mother, sitting on the throne at the end of the chamber. They both looked radiant and happy as if they had been waiting for her.
Isadora's eyes widened in wonder as she took in the beauty of the place. She felt a sense of peace and serenity wash over her, and for the first time in a long while, she felt at ease.
She ran towards her parents, tears streaming down her face, and her father embraced her tightly. She cried out, telling him of her failure to defend the people and her duty as a queen.
Her father listened patiently, and then he spoke, "Isadora, my dear, you did all that you could. But now, you are in a place where there is no more pain or suffering. We are reigning in an everlasting kingdom now, the Kingdom of Peace."
Isadora looked up at her father and smiled through her tears. She knew that she had found a place of rest and peace, and she would always be surrounded by love and comfort.
THE END