Intermission
12th of Skia, 4023[jb1]
A
dry day in the Grand Desert of Senex, the sounds of sand whistling in the air
bringing an end to the otherwise eerie silence. Despite its arid nature, the
Grand Desert found itself a bustling center of trade and movement, and that is because
of the nation of Agukar. A nation of orcs on the western edge of the Grand
Desert. Caravans rife with traders, diplomats, and mercenaries traveling in and
out of the capital. The blinding sun beaming down on the city, many people
wearing hoods to help combat the heat. The roads had become less busy with the
arrival of the infantile godling. The inexplicable deaths causing many to fear
travel, bringing a slow to commerce across the continent. However, as the
events remained far and few between fears eased, some even believing the worst
was over. They were very wrong.
Midday, halfway through the year, the
sun reached its peak. But it did not come back down as it should've. As it had
numerous times before, the sky let out a horrific cracking noise. This time
worse than any other before it. Many people in Agukar fled inside hoping to
avoid the terror from above, others collapsing on the spot either due to the
fear overwhelming them or the belief that avoiding eye contact would grant them
salvation. The event continued for hours, nonstop cracking as what sounded like
panes of glass shattered, each sudden boom sending shockwaves. Those unlucky
enough to be looking up found themselves quickly dispatched, their lives ending
before they had a moment to think. After a few hours however, the sound
unexpectedly stopped. Many wondered if it was safe. Seconds turned to minutes,
to hours. There was no sign of the horrific event concluding. The silence
growing more and more deafening, nothing but sands battering against the
building, before being broken by a terrible scream. "Aarhghgghic". The voice
impossible to decipher, loud yet quiet, feminine, its pitch and tone were off.
The tone sounding as if it was all a joke, but the deep pitch sent feelings of
dread instead. However, the screaming didn't stop, just as the sounds of
shattering glass battered the ears of mortals below, it was replaced with the
horrific screams of an unborn godling. For what felt like hours the screams
continued. Until a new sound rattled the minds of those of Skotadi. A grave
feeling of fear filling all on the eastern continent as an intense earthquake
began. Although they could not see or hear her, they all felt her. Chaos. Chaos
had been freed. Panic set in, despite the presence of the godling in the sky
many began to flee Agukar, their minds collapsing in the face of fear,
incapable of rational decision making. Screams filled the capital, animals distraught
and distressed, numerous people getting trampled from the ensuing stampede. The
death toll quickly rising, no one willing or able to get a handle on the
situation. After 30 minutes the shaking stopped. Confusion swept across the
survivors. "D-did we make it?", "Is it finally over?", people began asking
themselves. After confusion a fleeting sense of peace began to take its place,
the fear that once gripped their minds so strongly replaced as the false belief
that the worse had passed entered their minds. The people began to return of
Agukar, going back to their lives and homes, but the horror had not yet ended.
A thud was heard around the world as a giant, jet black hand emerged from the
desert. First a hand followed by a forearm. It sat still, entirely emerged from
the sand before contorting. It began to transfigure itself into a large woman. No
one recognized the woman, but in the mind of all of those who captured her in
their gaze an eerie sense of dread filled them completely. As she opened her
mouth a wave of mana poured out of her. "I am freed once more. I have
successfully returned to this pitiful world. Hahaha! Hear me mortals, I, Chaos,
roam this world once more! Hahahaha ahahahahah!" Chaos' voice rang out, as she
smiled in glee. Many people, unable to continually handle the harrowing events,
passed out at the sound of her name. Others fell to their knees, some praying,
hoping that the Patron Gods would deal with her, others giving in to despair
accepting their demise as inevitable, a number of unlucky souls found their
hearts unable to continue, dying on the spot. Chaos looked up to the sky, where
the godling remained, and began to speak. "Young one, come with me. I'll show
you the path to truth in this world, I have learned after all that I am unable
to trust my siblings. Allow me to assist you with entering this realm, it is
rather difficult your first time." She voice was sweet, serenading the
voiceless godling. Chaos motioned to help before another voice rung out. "Tis
truly a pitiful day. To think that you, a failure of a god, would dare rear
your putrid head once more." It was Sanctus, partially emerged from the heavens.
Chaos' smileahHa faded, her face
twisting in disgust and anger. "I see you remain rather spirited Brother. What
a shame, I had hoped you'd cease to be by now." Chaos remarked. Sanctus clicked
his teeth. "Truly what a terrible creature. I come down to see the cause of
this commotion only to discover that you are trying to claim our newest sibling
as if they are some kind of prize? What could that be if not the deepest levels
of depravity?" Sanctus' voice rang out. Chaos began to twitch, anger filling
her body as she answered. "The deepest levels of depravity would be sealing
your youngest sibling for believe herself to not be your lesser. I am doing
what I must to ensure that my sibling her isn't tainted by the foul
self-righteousness that emanates off of you. I see you remain simple minded and
worthless despite my time away." Chaos replied, she had smug look on her face
as she spoke. Sanctus sat silent for a moment, staring through Chaos, his rage
blinding him. "I swear that I shall erase you from Father's creation. Father
makes no mistakes but it is clear that a pathetic, foul beast desperate for the
scraps of Fathers incredible creations has no place in this world. I shan't
ever allow you to lay your hands on his grand creations, you vile, heretical, loathsome,
imitation of a god. I should have purged you when I had the chance." All that
were conscious sat in fear, a single emotion filling the air. Rage. Boiling rage,
burning those who remain. They struggled to breath as mana began to choke them
from all sides. A fog rolling in, Chaos herself remaining silent and still. Despite
her unassuming stance no one dared to glance at her. Even Sanctus felt a shiver
in his spine as he looked down upon her. Her head slowly turned to face him,
her mouth opening, mana pouring out of her causing a momentary bloom of life
around her, cacti and palm trees sprouting in a matter of seconds, before withering
away the mana overwhelming them, the plants instantly rotting away in a 1,000
miles radius, mana washing over any living things and corroding them from the
inside out. Chaos finally began to speak, each word carrying enough mana to
create a continent or destroy it. "Sanctus. I tolerate your insults and actions
with grace, and yet you always drive it further. You seem to fail to understand
my goal, it was never to rule, never to lead, but I simply craved to be your
equal. No longer, I will act as this world has seen me, a cruel god. Sister,
join me or stand against me, I cannot protect you from afar. Take my hand." Chaos'
hand extending to the godling. Sanctus, frozen for a moment didn't react before
shouting. "You absolute beast, as if I'd allow such a thing to pass in my
presence." He shouted, similarly extending a hand to the godling. The two hands
began to speed up, desperate to beat the other. Quickly reaching light speed
their hands collide, hitting each other and the godling. The godling, unable to
react, is sent spiraling back into the void. The sky quickly sealing itself
back as a single cry makes it out. "Eeeeeeallep." Chaos' face visibly darkens.
She turns to Sanctus once more. "I see time cannot heal all. I have failed in
protecting my sister this time but not all is lost. I'm freed once more, I
shall return, after all there is a war I must finish." Chaos said before
walking towards the sea. Sanctus motioned to stop her but was stopped himself.
"Brother, now is not the time. We must meet and discuss our next plan of
action!" A feminine voice shouted out, as a silver hand grabbed Sanctus. He
clicked his tongue as he retuned to the heavens. Chaos laughed out as a door
emerged from the sea, adorned with nonels and guarded by a gigantic Savage
Nonel. It slowly creaked open, a dark void on the other side as Chaos continued
to walk. As she entered the door it closed and crumbled back into the seas. Thus
setting the prelude for the Second Patron War.
Chapter
3: Departure and Ruin
Dawn
broke in Liber, the day after Chaos' declaration. No one knew when but it was
clear that the Patron War wasn't yet done. Simul, Nox, Novis, and Rex were
sitting together in Simul's house discussing the previous days events. "I-I,
s-she's free?" Nox managed to say. She was visibly shaking while holding her
head with both hands. Simul placed a hand on her shoulder to help calm her
down. "Nox its okay. I can't say Chaos is the kindest God but she gave me her blessing
so I don't believe that we'll have much to worry about." Novis said trying to
calm her down. She looked at Novis with a glimpse of hope in her eyes. "Boss is
right, plus me and him are strong enough! We can handle any nonels that appear.
He's already learned so many moves of the Reptilian Blade." Rex roared, patting
Novis and Nox on the back. She nervously chuckled. "Simul, is it almost time to
go to Yafnit, I don't know how much more I can handle." Nox said, a desperate
look in her eyes as she carefully watched Simul. "I'm sorry, we can't leave
yet, the dry season ends in Polemos, the soil simply isn't ready for seeds."
Simul replied shaking her head. Nox let out a heavy sigh as she hung her head
low. "Its okay, we'll go to Yafnit eventually. But if you need something to
take your mind off of things come join me and Rex in training!" Novis said with
an innocent smile. "Novis, no offense but I'm not participating in your training.
I'm no fighter, I'm better for a managerial role." Nox replied shaking her head
with a defeated smile. Novis shrugged before running out the house with Rex.
The dry season came to an end as
dawn broke on the 14th of Polemos. Nox ran out of her house screaming
at the top of her lungs, "Finally it's time! We can go to Yafnit and I can get
my ale!" She was jumping as she shouted, before she fell to knees and began to lightly
weep. Rex and Novis were already outside, their training getting earlier and
earlier each day. "Hey Nox, what's got you so excited?" Rex asked, carefully
fending off attacks from Novis. "Do you know what today is? The dry season has
ended, meaning we'll be heading off to Yafnit. You'll be getting seeds and I'll
be getting ale!" Nox excitedly replied. Simul left her house, "Nox, I see your
very excited. Novis and Rex can you 2 come with me for a moment?" Simul shouted
out. Novis and Rex ran to her, Nox still weeping in excitement as she began to
pack her belongings. "Well you 2 the dry season has some to an end, it means we
have plenty of time to start growing food. So we'll be taking a trip to Yafnit
to get seeds, and a certain someone some ale," Simul smiling at Nox, who had
now joined the group, "now does anyone have any questions?" She finished
explaining with a smile on her face. Novis raised his hand. "Mom! What is
Yafnit?" His head was tilted as he waited for her response. "Yafnit is a nearby
kingdom, we're going to buy the seeds that we'll need." She explained. "I've
got a question, where are we getting the money? I may have been royalty but I
don't have money." Rex asked. "Your royalty? Since when?"Nox asked with a bewildered
look on her face. Rex raised an eyebrow to her. "Oh you didn't know? I was a
prince of Mare, the Lizardman Kingdom in the northern swamps of Terra." Rex casually
said. Nox sat speechless, she looked at Simul and Novis in search of shared
shock only to be disappointed. "Moving on," Simul began, "I actually have some
money that I brought from Caelum, though I can't say it's much. It's little
more than pocket money." Simul explained with a dejected look on her face. Nox
then followed up the questions with one of her own. "How long of a trip are we
taking here? I know that Rideat, Cogitare, and Pax will be back in 8 months and
I don't want to miss them…" She trailed off. Simul gave Nox a blank stare. "Oh
the trip wil l only take a few days to get there. So there's no worry of missing
them!" She finished off with a smile. Nox breathed a sigh of relief. "Alright,
well I'm all packed so I am ready!" Nox exclaimed. "I'm ready to go too!" Novis
excitedly shouted. Rex nodded alongside Novis. "Alright what are we waiting
for? Let's go right now! Mine while the vein is plentiful!" Nox jumped up with
a smile on her face. "What?" Novis asked, giving her a confused look. Rex and
Simul gave Nox a similar confused look. She began to blush as she looked toward
the floor. "Ah, w-well it's a thing my dad use to say, it just means to act
fast, cause if you don't you may not get everything you could." She stumbled
her way through saying. An awkward silence filled the room, Nox fidgeting as
she began to look around the room. Her gaze landed on Novis, who's eyes began
to light up. "Oh! I get it, why wait for no reason, when it's a perfect time to
strike!" Novis shouted with a smile on his face. Nox breathed a sigh of relief
as she proudly held out her chest. "Not to rain on your parade, you 2 are
clearly excited, but I was thinking it might be slightly better to go tomorrow."
Simul stated. Nox had a devastated look on her face while Novis had a raised
eyebrow. "Why's that Mom? I'm ready to go right now." Novis replied. "I wanted
to use the time to gather extra things to sell, I was planning on selling
things to the Mercenary Corps in Yafnit, but since we aren't members, which
would be hard to become without identification, we won't get as much as we
could." Simul explained. Novis tilted his head. "Boss, she wants to make sure
we have enough money, that way we don't get there and have to come back. 6 days
may not be the longest trek but it's a little too long to do multiple times for
no reason." Rex explained. Novis' widened while he nodded in agreement. "In
that case I'll go hunting, and then we'll have more than enough for seeds."
Novis said as he ran off. "Heh, and that's my cue to keep an eye on him." Rex
said before quickly following Novis. "Nox, sweetheart, would you mind helping
me prepare a field?" Simul politely asked. "Sweetheart?" Nox asked, shooting
Simul a look. Simul's cheeks turned red as she covered her mouth. "I-I am so
sorry, sometimes you just remind me of Novis…" She began explaining. Nox waved
off her concerns. "I won't go so far as to call you mom but I don't mind it. Of
course I'll help." Nox said with a smile. The two began to prepare a decent
size field. "Shouldn't the field be larger?" Nox said in between labored
breathes. "It doesn't need to be, with how few people are here this more to
supplement our diets than replace hunting." Simul explained. Simul and Nox
worked the day away, preparing a larger field than planned. Novis and Rex
returned shortly before sunset with plenty of deer and rabbit. The 4 then
worked into the night bleeding and degutting the prey to sell it tomorrow.
The sun rose[jb2] ,
the glinting yellow beams of light piercing through the trees. A slight fog
blanketing the ground, bringing with it an air of mysticism. The sounds of
birds chirping kickstarting life in the forest. Novis ran out of his home
jumping for joy, bringing an energy even more potent than the sun. "Slow down
sweetheart, we have to wait for everyone else too." Simul said shaking her head
as she followed behind. Nox was the next to appear outside, carrying a small
pack on her back, eyes aglow ready for the journey ahead. Rex was the last to
appear looking as if he was ready to take on the world. "Alright, lets go to
Yafnit!" Nox shouted as she began walking. Novis began to follow suit,
excitement emanating off of him. Rex and Simul rounded up the rear as the group
began their journey to Yafnit.
The journey began peacefully, the
first hour having nothing of note occur. At 2 and a half hours a gentle rain
began, the pitter patter of the rain hitting the ground bringing a gentle
feeling of relaxation to the group. The journey continued smoothly, the gentle
sprinkle that began intensifying. All remained well until. "Hold. I heard
something." Rex quietly said, motioning the group. Everyone crouched down as
Rex searched. They were careful not to make a sound as he studied their
surroundings. Rex pointed into the trees and whispered. "Novis, 2 nonels over
there, go put your practice to good use." Novis nodded. He summoned Gran before
charging off into the trees. Sounds of Gran swinging, followed by the dropping
of 2 bodies. Gargles reverberating through the forest. Novis returned to the
group, lightly covered in purple blood. "I did it! Those nonels didn't stand a
chance." Novis proudly stated. Rex smiled as he watched Novis. They bumped
elbows as Rex spoke. "Nice one boss, we're all good to start moving again." The
group began moving once more, the rain now battering down upon them as they
traveled. Midday soon approaching as the group stopped for lunch. Simul casting
a Field as they rested. Passing conversations passed, mostly Nox trying to get
to know everyone slightly better. They all sat comfortably, a small shelter
constructed to block the rain. Nox turned to Novis and began to speak. "Novis,
you're surprisingly strong. You couldn't be much older than I was and yet I
don't think I'd ever beat you in a fight." Nox said, staring at Novis in
amazement. "Well I have been training for a while now, but I'm glad to hear
that I'm getting stronger." Novis said lightly blushing. "No sweetheart, she's
right. I had a little bit of military experience and even then I can't say I
could easily defeat 2 nonels." Simul continued. Novis began to blush harder.
"Their right Boss. You're destroying the Reptilian Blade, I don't think I've
ever seen someone ingrain the techniques so quickly. Well apart from myself but
I'm a little bit of a special case." Rex said putting his hand on Novis'
shoulder. "I don't know what to say… But thank you guys. I want to be strong
enough to protect all of you so I'm going to continue to strive for greater
heights!" Novis shouted, jumping to his feet. His cheeks became flushed a few
seconds later as he sat back down. The group shared a hearty laugh as they finished
their meal. They continued their travel through the forest hoping to make more
ground before stopping. Rex took the lead, the rain making it difficult for
anyone else to find nonels, followed by Nox, Simul, and rounded up by Novis.
The journey progresses smoothly,
any nonels appearing quickly dispatched by Novis or Rex. Less nonels appeared
than expected, especially after Chaos' decree. "What happened? I expected to
see so many more nonels." Rex said carefully surveying their surroundings. "What
do you mean? We've seen a fair few I feel." Novis asked. Rex shook his head. "I
mean this isn't enough to wage a war against the Patron Gods. Chaos isn't
stupid but her mind sure does mystify me." Rex explained. Novis tilted his head
as he thought. His eyes widened as he responded. "Maybe she's gathering her
forces? She wouldn't be able to move them all at once, that could be suspicious
so maybe she's slowly pooling them elsewhere." Novis stroking his chin. Rex
didn't immediately respond. He continued moving, a chill going down his spine
as he felt the blood drain from his face. "W-what an interesting idea. For our
sakes I hope your wrong Novis." Rex chuckled lightly as he continued walking
forward. As the sun sets the group prepares accommodations, knowing that night
in the forest is dangerous, even if nonels aren't as prevalent as expected. The
group dipped into their rations for dinner, enjoying a some rabbits, while
Novis and Nox ran off to gather berries. "Novis, you've got a great mom." Nox
said grabbing a bunch of small brown berries. Novis tilted his head. "Yeah I
do, why do you mention it?" Novis also grabbing a bunch of berries. "No
particular reason, I'm simply a little jealous is all. Back when I was alive my
mom wasn't in my life very much, and let's just say my dad wasn't the greatest
man." She had a somber look on her face. Novis carefully studied her face.
"Well if you ever want to talk about it, just let me know. I don't know what I
could do to help but your family to me so I'll give it my all." He replied with
a smile on his face. "Family? We've only known each other for a few months."
Nox said shaking her head. She began to blush as she turned around. "Alright
well I've got enough berries." She said before running off to Simul and Rex.
Novis nodded before following after. The group reunited began eating their
meal. After 30 minutes Novis gave Simul a strange look. "Novis sweetheart,
what's wrong?" She asked him. "I don't think its anything but you're all red."
Novis said, the look on his face unchanging. "I'm all red?" She said before
looking down at herself. She began to cough as a worried look appeared on her
face. "*Cough cough* Would there happen to be *cough cough* ferretberries
here?" Simul's face becoming slightly swollen. "I'm not sure, I did bring some
small brown berries, but I've never heard them called ferretberries." Nox said
taking out an extra bunch she gathered. "*Cough cough cough* Yes that would be
a bunch of ferretberry. *Cough cough* I'm sorry for not warning you earlier but
I'm actually allergic to *cough cough* ferretberry." Simul explained, as she searched her satchel for a salve.
"Novis sweetheart, *cough cough* are you okay? I'm fairly sure that its
hereditary." Simul asked. Novis gave Simul a confused look. "I'm fine… are you
okay?" Novis asked shuffling over to Simul. Simul began drinking a dark green
salve, her complexion clearing up almost immediately. She sighed deeply before
smiling at Novis. "Yes sweetheart, I'm just fine. I probably shouldn't have anymore
though as I don't want to risk it." She said placing her plate of food down. Everyone
nodded as Simul headed off to bed first. Novis, Nox, and Rex agreed to check
with Simul before cooking any ingredients in the future. The first night,
though rocky came to a close.
The next 5 days passed the same,
Novis and Rex handling any nonels, while the group made progress during the
day. As the group inched closer to Yafnit their thoughts of what the city
looked like soared freely. Novis imagining a city of nature and beauty, filled
with happy citizens going about their daily lives. Nox dreaming of the taverns
and bars, the possible ales she can try. Rex dreaming of the MerCo
headquarters, the strong fighters he'd be able to challenge. Simul meanwhile
did her best to formulate a plan, hoping to make it to Yafnit before nightfall.
However, all of their dreams were shattered as the kingdom came into view.
Before they even saw Yafnit a horrible stench filled the air. Starting off
light the stench grew worse and worse the closer they got. "What is that smell?
Its horrible I just don't understand." Nox said, covering her nose with her
shirt. Rex, seemingly unaffected, continued marching forward. "I'm sure we'll
find out soon enough, lets keep going." He said. Novis and Simul also covered
their nose, the smell becoming unbearable. The group traveled in silence before
Rex suddenly stopped. He keeled over and fell to his knees as he put his hand
to his face. "This is disgusting." He said before retching. "What happened?"
Simul said following closely behind. She suddenly froze as she too fell to her
knees. Novis and Nox followed behind them, their eyes greeted with a scene
directly out of a nightmare. Hundreds of bodies piled upon each other,
multiple piles almost blocking the view of the kingdom walls entirely. The
piles seemingly taller than the kingdom's walls. Swarms of maggots and flies so
large and dense it wasn't possible to see through them. The pungent, putrid
smell filling the air bringing everyone to their knees. The contents of their
stomachs spilling onto the ground as what could only be described as rotten air
choked the group. Without another word the group charged into Yafnit, looking
for shelter inside the kingdom. Novis held hope that the city would bring the
peace he searched, bustling streets, where nature and people came together.
Markets full as people of all races bought and sold. Instead carnage was all
that remained. Headless corpses littered the streets. Rex charged into a
building. Novis, Nox, and Simul following shortly thereafter as Rex sealed the
door the best he could. The group began lightly breathing as they settled into
their temporary quarters. "W-what happened?" Novis said, a scared look in his
eyes. "I-I thought this was supposed to be a bustling kingdom." Nox said, a
disgusted look on her face. "That air, I think it might be poisonous." Rex
said, a petrified look on his face. Simul sat silent, staring into a wall with
an empty look on her face. The group sat in silence for what felt like hours as
a question popped into everyone's mind. "What do we do next?" They all thought.
Rex prepared to speak up before his head aggressively turned to a wall. Novis
did the same. "So much mana…" Novis said a horrified look on his face. Chills
went down the spines of everyone in the room. As Novis and Rex prepared to deal
with this possible threat a voice spoke out. "Hello. I'd like to apologize for
the actions of Gran, I heard that he showed you a rather unpleasant dream." The
deep voice said. Everyone turned to face the voice only to see a giant
individual. A man taller than Pax, pale, ghostly skin, with piercing green
eyes. His dark black hair contrasted by its blonde tips. Pointy ears like an
elf, but his size leaning more towards that of an orc. He took a deep bow as he
introduced himself. "My name is Primis. I am known as the first Chaos Born, and
I am the first Primal Nonel. Which one of you is Novis?" He asked tilting his
head. Despite his friendly demeanor no one felt comfortable moving a muscle.
They struggled to breath as Novis fought to move. He raised his arm, all of his
instincts shouting to do the opposite. "I-I'm N-novis." He muttered. Novis
became frozen with fear as he watched Primis' eyes land upon him. "I see. In
that case allow me to thank you on behalf of my creator. Mother Chaos considers
you a trustworthy ally. While your deal may not longer be necessary she does
intend to uphold her half. That is all, I shall now take my leave." Primis said
turning around. "Wait!" Nox shouted out. Primis stopped. He slowly turned back
around. "Yes? How may I be of assistance?" His tone cold. Nox felt the blood
drain from her body as the attention turned to her. "Um. D-did you happen to
s-see any ale or seeds on your way over here?" She stumbled her way through
say, her gaze thoroughly fixated on the floor. "I did not, I failed to check my
surroundings before arriving. I can however check and bring anything I find
back. Would that be acceptable?" Primis asked, his unchanging tone causing
nothing but fear. "Would you really do that?" Nox asked, hope causing her voice
to tremble. "But of course, a friend of my mother is a friend of me." Primis
said before vanishing. Despite his sudden disappearance no feelings of peace
came. Instead a fear grew more and more intense as Rex realized he had no idea
where Primis went. That massive amount of mana simply vanishing without a
trace. No words were said before Primis suddenly reappeared. He placed down 2
barrels and a couple bags of seeds. "I found these around the kingdom, so take
this please." The group breathed a sigh of relief, "Thank you. So much." Nox
said as she stared longingly at the barrels of ale. "Hello, I'm Novis' mother,
thank you for all of your help." Simul said. With all the courage she could
muster she looked Primis in the eyes as she spoke. Primis silently nodded
before turning around once more. "Now, if you'll excuse me it is time for me to
depart." He said before vanishing one last time. "Simul, you truly are
impressive. Same for you Novis, and Nox. I couldn't move a muscle in his
presence. It felt like his mana was crushing me, I could barely lift my head."
Rex said his hand over his eyes as he looked at the ground. "Its okay, I'm
impressed I was able to move at all, it hurt to simply raise my arm, let alone
speak." Novis said, trying to comfort him. Simul moved to help comfort him as
well but is stopped when a thud catches her attention. She turns to see a
crown, beautifully adorned with precious metals and jewels. "What is this?"
Simul said as she grabbed it. Nox ignored the crown and ran to the barrel of
ale. She ran off further into the building in search of a cup, to finally enjoy
the ale she's so desperately craved. Novis and Rex, however, moved towards
Simul. "Is that a crown? Where did you get that from?" Novis asked. "Is it
possible Primis dropped it? Perhaps it was caught on the seeds or ale." Rex
reasoned. Novis felt compelled to reach out, and as his hand made contact with
the crown visions of a elven man filled his mind. The man wasn't dressed too
frivolously but it was clear that he was of nobility. With him was an elven
woman, along with multiple, possibly younger, elves. They stood on a terrace
made of white stone and they spoke out to a large crowd. The street reminding
Novis heavily of Yafnit. He then saw a panicked look on the mans face as he
looked up. Only to be decapitated a few seconds later. Novis couldn't tell what
took the mans head but it took out most of the elves near him in short order,
leaving only a younger female elf, and a younger male elf. The vision began to
fade as Novis pulled his hand back quickly. He was breathing heavily as he
began to look around himself. "Novis sweetheart, are you okay?" Simul asked her
hands on Novis. "I-I'm fine. I think I saw something." Novis said pointing to the
crown. "There were lots of elves, and people all together on the street, and it
looked a lot like Yafnit. Then almost all of them died, their heads getting cut
off." Novis said looking at his hands. "From the crown?" Rex asked, inspecting
the crown. "It reminds me of the dream I had. It all felt so real, as if I was
there as it happened." Novis said. Simul thought to herself for a moment. "Do
you think Interitus may be able to help? Perhaps they may know something." She
said. Novis nodded and closed his eyes as he focused his mana. A androgynous
elf appeared in front of Novis. "You've gotten really good at focusing your
mana. How can I help?" They asked Novis. Novis stared at Interitus for a few
moments in silence before suddenly speaking. "I-I touched a crown and I saw a
vision. There was an elf, who looked a lot like the elf you are now." Novis
said with his brows furrowed. "Ah then maybe it was the elf king's crown, he
died not too long ago." Then it dawned on Novis. "It was the elf king, I saw
how he died, his head was cut off. Do you know what happened to Yafnit, what
caused all this destruction?" Novis asked, he waited with baited breath for
Interitus' response. "Huh? Oh yeah, remember that infant god I told you about?
It was them. Not on purpose but it was in fact them." Interitus began
explaining. "Since they've yet to be fully born they cannot properly control
their magic. Weirdly enough though they're being born with strange creatures, I
believe Chaos called them angels, that kill anything that catches a glimpse of
it. It just happens Yafnit has suffered the most casualties from it. They, of
course, are the only ones though. What you saw was probably an 'echo', a memory
from the soul of the elf king before he died." Interitus finished explaining. Novis
stared at the ground in shock. "Were there no survivors?" He asked. "No, there
are survivors. They've left Yafnit though, the 'rotten mana' simply forcing
them out. But there is a fair number still alive." Interitus nonchalantly
replied. Novis gave Interitus a curious look. "Rotten mana? What is that?"
Novis asked. Interitus in turn gave Novis a confused look. "You don't know what
rotten mana is? And you went into Yafnit?" They asked. After exchanging glances
Interitus decided to explain. "Surely you know what it is, maybe you just don't
know the name. Rotten mana is what happens when a large amount of dead sit in
one spot. The dense mana in their bodies suddenly flood out, causing all living
matter to corrode. Its super recognizable, that smell you probably smelt
entering Yafnit is a telltale sign of rotten mana. It's the smell of mana
corroding things." They explained. Novis had a look of shock and horror on his
face. "Is it lethal?" Novis asked, panic in his voice. "Only in large amounts,
though it is rather hard to just ignore. I can't believe you truly didn't know.
Well now that you do be careful." Interitus said shaking their head. "Oh one
small thing, would you want to build a kingdom?" Interitus casually asked.
Novis gave him a puzzled look. "I just ask cause the elf king keeps bugging me
about making sure his dream lives on." They explained. "What's their dream?"
Novis asked, intrigued. "To build a kingdom where all the races can live in
harmony. Yafnit didn't really make the cut, since the royal family worshipped a
patron god, many feared what may happen to them if they brought their own
beliefs in public. The king tried to rectify that but, he didn't really get the
chance in the end." Interitus explained. Novis thought to himself for a moment.
"Don't think too hard on it, not like you could achieve that goal right now
anyway. But if you do end up building a kingdom, keep it in mind won't you?"
Interitus asked, snapping Novis out of thought. Without hesitation Novis
nodded. Interitus smiled as they waved. "Alright, now you get back out there,
and keep being my favorite mortal!" Novis lightly laughed as they waved back.
He closed his eyes and found himself back in the building with Simul and Rex. Novis
quickly began to explain what Interitus told them. "I see so my suspicions were
correct…" Rex said before placing his hand on his chin. "How horrible, to think
that such a situation occurred so quickly." She said shaking her head. Nox
returned shortly thereafter, a glass in hand. "I finally found a glass, we can
have ale!" She said before quickly cracking the barrel open. She dipped her
glass in the barrel before taking a swig. She heavily exhaled after taking a
drink with a smile appearing on her face. "Hey Nox, not to rain on your parade
but now may not be the time." Rex said, trying to bring her down gently.
"Sorry, I've just been waiting for sooo long." She said before quickly taking
another drink. "Now the biggest issue is how we're getting out of here. We've
got what we came for but, knowing that the air is filled with rotten mana makes
it hard to try and just hot foot it out of here. Any ideas?" Rex asked looking
around. Simul and Nox shook their heads, Nox mostly focused on her ale. "Would
we just need something fast?" Novis asked. Rex with a curious look on his face
nodded. "Then let me test something, though it'll probably be a few seconds."
Novis said before closing his eyes once more.
Novis felt the mana focus in his
eyes as he opened them. The land of souls appeared before him once more, the
gray landscape stretching out as far as he could see. He began to wander,
searching for something he wasn't even sure could appear in the land of souls,
an animal. "If only I could ask one of the souls, but I can't risk them fading
because of me." Novis said as he searched the empty plains. Suddenly a familiar
voice appeared. "What are you looking for?" Interitus said, appearing as an
older female orc. "Interitus! Where did you come from?" Novis asked bewildered
by their sudden appearance. "Where? Well this is my domain so it'd be hard to
appear without me knowing. So I came to figure out what it is that you are
doing." They explained. "Oh, well I'm look for an animal. I was hoping that I'd
be able to find an animal large enough to carry everyone out of Yafnit, to help
protect us from the rotten mana. Actually with you here do you think you could
point me in the direction of one?" Novis asked, a hopeful tone in his voice. "I
mean of course I could, I know the location of any soul here. But where's the
fun in that? I'll just leave you with the fact that animals can appear in the
land of souls. They are rare though, so don't expect them to just follow you
quietly. Plus since their animals they can't speak either. Keep that in mind
and you'll be fine." Interitus said before fading away. Novis frowned. "But I'm
in a hurry, are you sure you couldn't help more than that?" Novis asked, hoping
for some sympathy. "Oh its okay, you have plenty of time here." They said
vanishing. Novis sighed as he hung his head low. He continued his search for an
animal capable of getting everyone out of Yafnit. Novis searched for hours,
sometimes not seeing any souls for miles before running into a desolate area.
Not only did Novis not see any souls in the area, he even saw the usually
stationary souls vacate the area, fleeing in the direction Novis came from. Novis
crouched down as he slowly continued forward. He kept a close eye on his
surroundings as he watched for movement. Novis then found a six legged
creature. It had a long thick neck, with a thinner, yet more defined body. It's
heavy steps shook the ground around it. The animal grazed, slowly wandering
around. Novis went to summon Gran before a harrowing realization struck him. "I
can't use magic here." Novis said before slightly panicking. He thought to
himself trying to figure out a plan to deal with the creature. Interitus' word
appeared in his mind, taking communication off the table. Tricking the creature
was out, Novis' power relying on agreement, leaving Novis with only one choice,
direct combat. "Can I beat that in a fight?" Novis thought to himself. He shook
his head to clear his doubts. "The Reptilian Blade has barehanded techniques,
I'm sure they'll see me through this." He said to himself. He nodded one time
before standing up. He began to charge the creature, hoping to strike with
surprise, but the creature was quick to notice his presence. Novis locked eyes
with the creature, its forest green eyes causing Novis to hesitate. It then let
out a strange cry, its eyes becoming a deep crimson red. The creature then
quickly began to charge Novis. Its speed was incredible as Novis quickly tried
to think of a game plan. Novis' eyes drifted to the creatures legs and Novis
decided to take advantage of its speed. As the creature rushed Novis he
narrowly dodged and quickly aimed for the left legs. With a strong palm strike
he took one of the legs down causing the creature to cascade to its knees. It
let out a pained cry as it stood back up. It turned to charge Novis once more.
Letting out heavy exhales of air. Novis decided to try the same tactic as the
creature charged him once again. This time however, its speed was too much for
Novis. "Did it get faster?" Novis asked as the creature flung him into the air,
knocking the wind out of Novis. Novis tried gasping for air before his body hit
the ground. The harsh crash sending shockwaves of pain through his body. The
creature began to snort as it prepared for another charge. Novis tried his best
to stand, but without the air in his body he couldn't find the strength to
stand. Novis clenched his fist and began to bang it against his chest. "Work.
Work." Novis shouted at himself. He then began coughing as his lungs filled
with air once again. He managed to dodge at the last moment as he found the
animal almost on top of himself. Novis struggled to his feet and decided to bet
it all on the most recent move he learned. The Copperhead Strike, a chop, when
done properly, that has the strength to cleave through metal. Novis did his
best to steady his breathing as the creature charged him once more. Then with
explosive speed he released his arm, sending it directly in the head of the
animal. Its body momentarily become air born as the force it was charging Novis
with found itself suddenly stopped. The creature's eyes returned to the forest
green it previously was as it's breathing slowed. Novis fell to the ground.
Staring into the sky he spoke out to the creature. "See, that's the difference
in strength between you and me. So how about you join me instead of standing
against me?" The animal snorted. Placing its head on the back of Novis' head.
Novis smiled before saying, "Great, I'm sure that everyone will love you!" Mana
swirled around Novis and the animal as they returned to Yafnit.
"Everyone, we're back!" Novis
shouted, now riding on top of the animal. "Whoa, is that…" Rex asked. "Novis
sweetheart, how did you?" Simul asked. Nox sat there blinking repeatedly before
saying, "I must be drunk already, I can't be seeing that." Novis tilted his
head as he looked at everyone. "Why are you all so shocked? I did say that I'd
be getting us something fast." Novis asked. "Sure Boss, but that's an Arx Boar.
You know that only well off nobles usually have those right? Even I've only see
them, and I was royalty." Rex said bewildered. "He's right sweetheart, not to
mention arx boar are said to be extremely strong. How'd you manage to convince
it to join you?" Simul asked, concern clearly visible on her face. Nox sat in
with the ale in shock. "I didn't know that, and to answer your question Mother
I beat our new friend here in a fight." Novis proudly said. "Boss you fought
one of these? What weapon did you use? I haven't heard of anything being able
to pierce their thick hides." Rex asked in shock. "Weapon? I can't use magic in
the land of souls, so I only had my hands. And it was a really tough fight, if
I didn't have the Reptilian Blade I easily would've lost." Novis explained,
petting the arx boar. Rex and Simul sat, mouths agape, in shock. "Boss, you
really are incredible." Rex said shaking his head. Novis tilted his head in
confusion. "We'll talk more about this later but for now how about we head
home?" Simul asked as she stared at Novis. "Sure but one thing, I wanted to
think of a name for our new friend here, any ideas?" Novis asked, a smile on
his face. "What about Rita? I had a pet ferret when I was alive and her name
was Rita." Nox said. The arx boar jumped excitedly. "I think it likes it!"
Novis said, satisfied. Simul and Rex packed the seeds and barrels on Rita with
some rope they found inside the building. Then the group hoped on Rita as Novis
led her out of Yafnit. Rita ran at lighting speeds cutting down the 6 day
journey it previously was in half. With Rita's incredible speed nonels weren't
an issue, and she required minimal break time allowing them to make great
progress. 3 days later Rita, Novis, Nox, Rex, and Simul made it back to Liber.
Simul and Nox began to plant the seeds they got from Yafnit while Rex and Novis
built a stable for Rita to stay in, protecting her from the rain. After a long
trip everyone retired to their homes. Novis laying down stared at his ceiling,
thoughts of what Interitus asked him to do repeating in his mind. "To build a
kingdom where the races can live in harmony." Novis nodded with determination
as a new goal found itself in his mind. The last thought before going to bed,
"Where do I start tomorrow?"
Epilogue:
The Heaven Sent Saints
The space
was bright and empty. 7 Large beings sat around a table. These were the Patron
Gods, discussion their future plans. With Chaos free and a god on the verge of
birth tension was high. "We cannot simply ignore them. Especially after Chaos
declared a continuation of the war. Elder Brother what shall we do?" Tenebris,
God of the Demons, asked. "That's why I've called this meeting. I fear that if
we are too slow to react we'll face a repeat of the first war. I'd rather not
deal with the large number of dead as a result of our inaction." Sanctus began.
"And so I suggest a rather drastic measure. We shall deploy the Saints." He
said. "Brother, you must be mad. It is much too risky to reveal their existence
to the public. Mortals need not know of what happens in the heavens." Silva
intervened, God of the Elves. "Nay sister I believe this might be the right
move." Metallicum said, God of the Dwarves. "Without being able to drag Chaos
out of her hiding place minimizing casualties should take tope priority." He
said. "But, what about after the war?" Silva countered. "My siblings, calm
down. We must take this step by step. Our first task is to ensure our victory,
we cannot let harm come to Father's creation." Sanctus interjected. "You say
that but what will the saints actually do?" Bellum asked, God of the Orcs.
Palus, God of the Lizardmen, and Ignis, God of the Dragonewts, nodded. "She
gives a fine point Brother, their power is immense but they cannot be
everywhere at once." Palus said. "And they are limited in number, we cannot
risk under fortifying locations." Ignis followed up. "I hear you all. But may I
remind you, dealing with Chaos comes first. If the situation becomes truly
desperate we can always transport them using the heavens. I'd fear the
situation we'd find ourselves in if that became necessary but we are arguably
already in ruin. That wench is free once more, and we must take every
precaution." Sanctus passionately argued. Silva and Bellum quieted down, unable
to think of a counter point. "Now if we are all in agreement let us vote. Those
in favor of sending the Saints say 'Aye'. Those opposed say 'Nay'." Sanctus
said and after a few seconds the Patron Gods voted. "Aye" 6 of the gods said.
Only Silva saying "Nay". "With the support of the majority it has been decided
the Saints shall be deployed." Sanctus pompously declared. "Now my siblings pass
the message to the currently living saints that help with be arriving soon, I
shall issue the order to the Saints." Sanctus said, dismissing the meeting.
In a
separate space of the heavens, not dissimilar to a cathedral, individuals of
the 7 races sat around, some eating, some reading, other conversating. They all jumped to their feet however, as
Sanctus approached. "Lord Sanctus, what brings your divine presence here?" One
individual shouted out. "You may all relax, I just come bearing an important
message. The Patron Gods have decided our next course of action." Sanctus
stretched out his arms as his voice boomed across the heavenly space. "Hear me
Saints! You shall return to the land of the living and protect your descendants
from the evil that is Chaos! Her foul influence once again is attempting to
spread, and so with your devout service you shall slay her armies of evil and
bring peace back to Skotadi. However, I bear one more task for those most
loyal. Just as we Patron Gods have our loyal followers in you all, Chaos has
found herself a bastion of perversion in a human named Novis. I need you to
strike this foul entity from existence, show Chaos we bow to no one but the
Father! Now prepare yourselves my loyal soldiers, bring down the heavenly might
we've bestowed upon you all and strike down our divine Father's enemies."
Sanctus said, in a grandstanding position. Roars came from the Saints, fervor
at an all time high as they prepared themselves for a Holy War.
The Heavens
themselves began to open as Saints came pouring out. Since the end of the first
Patron War, Saints were given the choice to remain in the heavens after death
for this exact purpose, to descend and defend the weak in the case of Chaos
escaping. Thousands of Saints entered the heavens in preparation of a second
war, and due to their unique structures, found themselves strengthened. Many
believing that with their deployment the Second Patron War had already been
won. However, there was one miscalculation. Novis, the singular human who lives
with Chaos' blessing. Though declared an enemy by Sanctus, he wasn't considered
a high priority, only a few saints being sent to deal with him. This single
decision would have ramifications beyond anyone's imagination. Unbeknownst to
Novis, his path was now set. It'd be one of hardship, and pain but rewards
greater than ones wildest dreams. And so began the Second Patron War.
[jb1]12th
of Skia, 4023
[jb2]15th
of Polemos, 4023