Cobalt blue clouds filled the seemingly endless sky, twisting and morphing into shapes and caricatures as a pair of amber eyes traced their movements. His gaze lazily guided the amorphous mounds of astral matter to crudely crafted reflections of different animals.
“Huh. Kinda looks like a duck.”
His retinas scoured over its clunky frame, focusing more intently on his recollection of the last image of the creature he saw.
“They’re kinda cute, with funny little bills.”
His mind's eye dissected the blueprint, causing the clouds to become more defined and creating a near-perfect resemblance to the duck he envisioned.
“Yeah, yeah, there we go. And they quack, too.”
He said as the bill of the fluffy creation moved up and down like a puppet.
“So Quack...”
His eyes flashed a wispy blue hue as his hand stretched toward the cloud. Responding to his decree, the realm around him opened the mouth of the cloud and released a quack that rippled through the realm. The grassy plains he lay in rippled from the sonic presence, his cheeks and lips flaying.
“Oh shit!”
The force, however, did not fade; it increased, becoming almost too much to bear. The skies began to darken, and the winds picked up, with a terrible chill accompanying them. The insufferable pounding of the merciless quacking banging against his eardrums became the Osamu ramblings of a familiar voice.
“Mael! Wake up!”
His eyes jotted open. The Astral faded as he did so to find the face of a young woman hunched over him with a worried face. She was dressed in a relatively modest attire akin to a farmer. The way she stared at him made him blush nervously, adding more to his fluster. He pulled back the covers up to his nose, covering his mouth. He had never seen this girl
“What’s your problem? You have another bad dream?”
She got closer, her face showing genuine concern and confusion that was growing by the second.
"Better not be dreaming about another girl! After all..."
Her gaze sharpened like iron, and Mael melted into the body under her scrutinizing glare, which softened into a smirking giggle.
" We are Star mates..."
A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
Last edited by Mael Hellgate on Thu Sep 19, 2024 2:45 pm, edited 2 times in total.
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
Re: A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
“Wait, what’s going on here? Wasn’t I just in?”
His eyes raced all over the room, trying to avoid her line of sight. Sheepishly scanned the room. The walls and floor were made from wood, a cabin? The Girl inquiringly tilted her head, blinking aimlessly a few times. She popped Mael on the forehead.
“What’s going on with you, Mael? You’re acting all weird, well, weirder than usual. Hurry and get your butt in gear! I don’t need the chief on my ass today.”
He flinched from the finger flick, rubbing the area and protecting it from further attack. None of this made any sense. Not only had he never seen this girl a day, but what was he doing in a log cabin? Where the hell was his mansion? Its grisly crafted stone walls had been traded for wood that crept with every step the girl took as she ripped open his curtains, letting in a blinding ray of sunlight that forced him to shield his eyes.
As the light died, he saw the vast misty mountain tops beyond the mystery girl. His eyes widened.
“No way…”
He whispered under his breath as the girl raised her eyebrow inquisitively.
“Why are you staring at me like you don’t know me? It seems like you hit your head pretty hard this time. Hellooo? Leyah, your best friend and future wife? Ring a bell.”
“W-wife?!”
He noticeably freaked out as he threw his arms up in protest. He was just a kid barely old enough to leave the Kingdom alone with the proper chaperone. How in blazes did he end up hitched to a total stranger?
“Man, grandfather is going to have a ball this time around. You might set the village record for most falls during duty. Speaking of bells, the bell signaling the high rise of Xelphis is upon us. I’m going to go finish getting things ready for the harvest. You…get yourself together and meet me outside. Oh, and Mael”
With finesse, she moved in, kissing him softly on his cheek. His face flushed of color before blushing so hard his cheeks turned red.
“ Don’t keep me waiting…”
She smiled before dashing out of the room to tend to her things, leaving Mael stunned with a hand on his cheek.
“Ok, no WAY, this ISN'T a dream. I have a girlfriend, and she’s a total babe?! That can't be happening anywhere on the planet! I better pinch myself awake. The professors probably pissed...”
He grabbed a piece of his side by his rib and pinched as hard as he could. But nothing save for the agonizing sting of his skin. He was still in the cabin.
“You’ve got to be kidding me?”
He said that as he began moving about the room, it was humble, with few things to decorate. A bed about twin-sized with drawings of all kinds pinned into the wooden walls around it. A desk covered in books. As he peered closer, he noticed they were all about
astronomical phenomena.
“ Well… that’s unnerving. But on brand.”
He said as he began making his way toward the window. In its seal, a litany of well-crafted wooden figures mirrored crafts he sculpted but of ice. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of his reflection in a mirror on the wall. When he turned to it, he saw his face, his head wrapped in bandages. There was no doubt about it. Whenever he was, this room indeed belonged to him.
His eyes raced all over the room, trying to avoid her line of sight. Sheepishly scanned the room. The walls and floor were made from wood, a cabin? The Girl inquiringly tilted her head, blinking aimlessly a few times. She popped Mael on the forehead.
“What’s going on with you, Mael? You’re acting all weird, well, weirder than usual. Hurry and get your butt in gear! I don’t need the chief on my ass today.”
He flinched from the finger flick, rubbing the area and protecting it from further attack. None of this made any sense. Not only had he never seen this girl a day, but what was he doing in a log cabin? Where the hell was his mansion? Its grisly crafted stone walls had been traded for wood that crept with every step the girl took as she ripped open his curtains, letting in a blinding ray of sunlight that forced him to shield his eyes.
As the light died, he saw the vast misty mountain tops beyond the mystery girl. His eyes widened.
“No way…”
He whispered under his breath as the girl raised her eyebrow inquisitively.
“Why are you staring at me like you don’t know me? It seems like you hit your head pretty hard this time. Hellooo? Leyah, your best friend and future wife? Ring a bell.”
“W-wife?!”
He noticeably freaked out as he threw his arms up in protest. He was just a kid barely old enough to leave the Kingdom alone with the proper chaperone. How in blazes did he end up hitched to a total stranger?
“Man, grandfather is going to have a ball this time around. You might set the village record for most falls during duty. Speaking of bells, the bell signaling the high rise of Xelphis is upon us. I’m going to go finish getting things ready for the harvest. You…get yourself together and meet me outside. Oh, and Mael”
With finesse, she moved in, kissing him softly on his cheek. His face flushed of color before blushing so hard his cheeks turned red.
“ Don’t keep me waiting…”
She smiled before dashing out of the room to tend to her things, leaving Mael stunned with a hand on his cheek.
“Ok, no WAY, this ISN'T a dream. I have a girlfriend, and she’s a total babe?! That can't be happening anywhere on the planet! I better pinch myself awake. The professors probably pissed...”
He grabbed a piece of his side by his rib and pinched as hard as he could. But nothing save for the agonizing sting of his skin. He was still in the cabin.
“You’ve got to be kidding me?”
He said that as he began moving about the room, it was humble, with few things to decorate. A bed about twin-sized with drawings of all kinds pinned into the wooden walls around it. A desk covered in books. As he peered closer, he noticed they were all about
astronomical phenomena.
“ Well… that’s unnerving. But on brand.”
He said as he began making his way toward the window. In its seal, a litany of well-crafted wooden figures mirrored crafts he sculpted but of ice. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of his reflection in a mirror on the wall. When he turned to it, he saw his face, his head wrapped in bandages. There was no doubt about it. Whenever he was, this room indeed belonged to him.
Last edited by Mael Hellgate on Thu Sep 19, 2024 10:58 am, edited 2 times in total.
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
Re: A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
"Crap Crap CRAP!!"
He said, touching his face in disbelief.
"Ok, gotta calm down. Freaking out isn't going to get me anywhere."
He said, taking in a deep breath. That girl, she said, hit his head, and by her count, it wasn't the first time. Is that why he couldn't remember how he got here? She mentioned a village chief. A village? What happened to the...the...
"Why can't I remember? There was something important I was doing. And then..."
"Um TODAY MAEL!"
She called furiously from outside his door. A shock went through his spine, and a newfound sense of urgency almost made him drop the carving he was holding. With a slight sigh, he placed it down, looking himself in the mirror one final time.
"Right, I'm not gonna find any answers just standing here."
He said, clapping his face with his hands with enough force to redden his cheeks.
" Besides, like Grandpa always said."
He pushed his face together until it appeared wrinkled
"Say, Mael, don't you know? These things have a way of sorting themselves out. So go with the flow and live a little.
He fixed his face and snickered. His memories felt fractured like there was something clear as day to him and many others clouded in a fog. For now, he wouldn't concern himself with the parts he couldn't perceive and would go with what he could. His hand lay on the doorknob leading to the outside. He took a deep breath twisting the knob, and as he opened it, a flash of light encapsulated him.
He said, touching his face in disbelief.
"Ok, gotta calm down. Freaking out isn't going to get me anywhere."
He said, taking in a deep breath. That girl, she said, hit his head, and by her count, it wasn't the first time. Is that why he couldn't remember how he got here? She mentioned a village chief. A village? What happened to the...the...
"Why can't I remember? There was something important I was doing. And then..."
"Um TODAY MAEL!"
She called furiously from outside his door. A shock went through his spine, and a newfound sense of urgency almost made him drop the carving he was holding. With a slight sigh, he placed it down, looking himself in the mirror one final time.
"Right, I'm not gonna find any answers just standing here."
He said, clapping his face with his hands with enough force to redden his cheeks.
" Besides, like Grandpa always said."
He pushed his face together until it appeared wrinkled
"Say, Mael, don't you know? These things have a way of sorting themselves out. So go with the flow and live a little.
He fixed his face and snickered. His memories felt fractured like there was something clear as day to him and many others clouded in a fog. For now, he wouldn't concern himself with the parts he couldn't perceive and would go with what he could. His hand lay on the doorknob leading to the outside. He took a deep breath twisting the knob, and as he opened it, a flash of light encapsulated him.
Last edited by Mael Hellgate on Thu Sep 19, 2024 10:55 am, edited 2 times in total.
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
Re: A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
As the light faded, he found himself a little stuck in awe, to say the least. Despite the modesty of its architecture, the landscape was bountiful in mountainous beauty. Like skyscrapers, the mountains stood tall and covered in green. They lacked nothing for natural resources. As far as he could see, several springs and minor lakes littered the area. Good, they seemed not to have issues with water either. Birds with feathers dazzled in the light of Xelphis as they flocked to the myriad of trees whose leaves mirrored their extravagance.
“Wow…this place is amazing.”
His eyes raced over the expanses; he couldn’t believe such colors even existed. As he looked around, he could see the townspeople already hard at work. Just from where he could see, his home perched atop the highest hill in the village, there were folks gifted with vocations of all kinds, from farmers to blacksmiths, traders, etc.
“I never would’ve guessed it had this kind of layout from the inside. Wait, does that mean I have the trashiest house in the village?!”
He cupped his face with his right hand in pseudo horror.
“Am I…Am I hated here to?”
His eyes drifted towards the ground. Feelings accompanied by wispy visions that were too difficult and scattered to make out started intruding upon his psyche. Faces he could make out standing around him, pointing their fingers as they laughed at him. But before he could fall too profoundly in despair, a hand, wrinkled and riddled in liver spots, reached out to him.
“Hated? Ha, why you, dear boy, are our pride in joy!”
He reached out to the hand in his vision, and as he grabbed it, the mocking flashback dissipated into mist. Before him was an older man who was the same size as him, just about two inches taller. He held his hand in place of the older man in his vision.
“After all, You are the Slumbering King! Naught but greatness could come from you, sonny boy.”
Mael’s eyes opened widely. This man, his energy, his face. They both felt so familiar, like family.
That’s twice now that he’s been called that name. “The Slumbering King”. It’s mentioned that something stirred in his chest. The feeling traveled to his head. Whatever it meant, it seemed essential to both Leyah and this old codger here. He retracted his hand. The elderly man let out a hearty chuckle before turning to face the light of the sun nearing the pinnacle of its journey through the skies. His face was at peace as he gazed over the village.
“My, it seems you hit your head rather hard this time. My granddaughter said this is the worst she has ever seen your amnesia. Fufu, no matter, we will welcome you with open arms as many times as you need.”
He turned back to face Mael, giving him the same loving smile Leyah had before she ran off.
“Good morning ! And welcome to Oakridge, the village hidden beneath the stars”.
“Wow…this place is amazing.”
His eyes raced over the expanses; he couldn’t believe such colors even existed. As he looked around, he could see the townspeople already hard at work. Just from where he could see, his home perched atop the highest hill in the village, there were folks gifted with vocations of all kinds, from farmers to blacksmiths, traders, etc.
“I never would’ve guessed it had this kind of layout from the inside. Wait, does that mean I have the trashiest house in the village?!”
He cupped his face with his right hand in pseudo horror.
“Am I…Am I hated here to?”
His eyes drifted towards the ground. Feelings accompanied by wispy visions that were too difficult and scattered to make out started intruding upon his psyche. Faces he could make out standing around him, pointing their fingers as they laughed at him. But before he could fall too profoundly in despair, a hand, wrinkled and riddled in liver spots, reached out to him.
“Hated? Ha, why you, dear boy, are our pride in joy!”
He reached out to the hand in his vision, and as he grabbed it, the mocking flashback dissipated into mist. Before him was an older man who was the same size as him, just about two inches taller. He held his hand in place of the older man in his vision.
“After all, You are the Slumbering King! Naught but greatness could come from you, sonny boy.”
Mael’s eyes opened widely. This man, his energy, his face. They both felt so familiar, like family.
That’s twice now that he’s been called that name. “The Slumbering King”. It’s mentioned that something stirred in his chest. The feeling traveled to his head. Whatever it meant, it seemed essential to both Leyah and this old codger here. He retracted his hand. The elderly man let out a hearty chuckle before turning to face the light of the sun nearing the pinnacle of its journey through the skies. His face was at peace as he gazed over the village.
“My, it seems you hit your head rather hard this time. My granddaughter said this is the worst she has ever seen your amnesia. Fufu, no matter, we will welcome you with open arms as many times as you need.”
He turned back to face Mael, giving him the same loving smile Leyah had before she ran off.
“Good morning ! And welcome to Oakridge, the village hidden beneath the stars”.
Last edited by Mael Hellgate on Thu Sep 19, 2024 10:53 am, edited 7 times in total.
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
Re: A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
“Oakridge… hidden beneath the stars”
He said as he glanced at the busy village.
“Ok gramps level with me, I have no memory of ever coming here. No parents no siblings. So how is it that every here treats me so…kindly”
The old chief stretched back balancing with his walking stick and released a hearty chuckle. Mael's eyes seemed to drift to the side displaying worry. The chief picked up on this and placed his hand firmly on Mael’s back.
“Well Mael, that is because…your being here was prophesied over 500 years ago…and well 500 more before that”
His eyes widened slowly, over 500 years ago. How…how could that be? He had never heard of this village before nor had he any memories of anything connected to this place. Who or what could’ve known he would come here to this place when even he could not remember how he got here?
“But…my memories”
The old man brought Mael's lingering gaze up to meet his own. The young king could see the advanced age of the chief. He had been around for a long time. Mael believed him.
“Come take a walk with me, I’ll be more than happy to tell you all about it. Afterall”
He said before turning his back to the young man and heading down the hill where Mael’s home was, back into town.
“ It is my job to prepare you for your destiny. You who Celestia has chosen to bear the mantle of Slumbering King”
He said as he glanced at the busy village.
“Ok gramps level with me, I have no memory of ever coming here. No parents no siblings. So how is it that every here treats me so…kindly”
The old chief stretched back balancing with his walking stick and released a hearty chuckle. Mael's eyes seemed to drift to the side displaying worry. The chief picked up on this and placed his hand firmly on Mael’s back.
“Well Mael, that is because…your being here was prophesied over 500 years ago…and well 500 more before that”
His eyes widened slowly, over 500 years ago. How…how could that be? He had never heard of this village before nor had he any memories of anything connected to this place. Who or what could’ve known he would come here to this place when even he could not remember how he got here?
“But…my memories”
The old man brought Mael's lingering gaze up to meet his own. The young king could see the advanced age of the chief. He had been around for a long time. Mael believed him.
“Come take a walk with me, I’ll be more than happy to tell you all about it. Afterall”
He said before turning his back to the young man and heading down the hill where Mael’s home was, back into town.
“ It is my job to prepare you for your destiny. You who Celestia has chosen to bear the mantle of Slumbering King”
Last edited by Mael Hellgate on Sun Sep 08, 2024 12:10 pm, edited 2 times in total.
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
Re: A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
As he accompanied the elder through the village Mael became a bit infatuated with its humble yet bustling environment. The crops were thriving and it seemed everyone had a role to play in keeping the community going. The feeling of unity and the bonds they shared were almost palpable. He couldn’t place it, but it stirred something in him, a sense of longing perhaps and of wondering what his role was here.
"Hmm...I reckon we have been for over 1,000 years, but this place was not originally our's to claim. In fact...these lands were once covered in a terrible darkness, ruled by a terrible evil."
Mael was shocked to hear the chief speak of the land's former dark ties. From where he stood he couldn't fathom anything like that editing here, a place teeming with light and life.
"So how did your people get here?"
His eyes twinkled as he recalled the age-old tale. It was one of great pride for him, but the acknowledgment of the great peril that lay in wait for them all.
"Story is our folks came from from a place far to the east. Been so long don't think we even remember the name. But it was a land filled with war. Many were forced from their homes and had no choice but to seek shelter elsewhere. We wandered for so long, our resources became thin and illness claimed many of us. And then...one stormy night, and a single act of kindness. Changed our lives, and the fate of this realm forever."
In his mind's eye, Mael recreated the entire scene. A hobby of his that helped him to actively listen to the people he talked to, imagining for himself how it has been to be in their shoes. A crudely-created dreamscape of the mayor's tale flashed before him. The wails of battle the scent of flame-burning grassland. The elder waved as many of the townsfolk waved to him and Mael both. Mael shly waved back.
"They came across a man, who couldn't have been more than maybe 19 or so at the time. Facedown in the mud...bout as near to death as one could get. My ancestor who was the former mayor, Carasu, advocated that they help him. Though we had very little and had such a hard life...we still always had our hearts and our spirits. Those are things, Mael..."
He stopped and looked up at the young man his gaze stern yet passionate, as if his next choice of words were to stick with him.
"You must never allow them to be taken from you."
Mael's amber eyes widened for a moment. He nervously scratched his face. Coughing abruptly to have a reason to break eye contact.
"They found an empty ruin not too far from the stranger's location and set up shop there. Our healers managed to save his life. However, even then he did not awake. Three days later, in the middle of the night...they were attacked by a vile sorcerer called himself Zula' Carn was leading a horde of evil things he called Nightmares. He had come for the stranger but...my people would...we would not release him, even at the cost of our lives."
"Hmm...I reckon we have been for over 1,000 years, but this place was not originally our's to claim. In fact...these lands were once covered in a terrible darkness, ruled by a terrible evil."
Mael was shocked to hear the chief speak of the land's former dark ties. From where he stood he couldn't fathom anything like that editing here, a place teeming with light and life.
"So how did your people get here?"
His eyes twinkled as he recalled the age-old tale. It was one of great pride for him, but the acknowledgment of the great peril that lay in wait for them all.
"Story is our folks came from from a place far to the east. Been so long don't think we even remember the name. But it was a land filled with war. Many were forced from their homes and had no choice but to seek shelter elsewhere. We wandered for so long, our resources became thin and illness claimed many of us. And then...one stormy night, and a single act of kindness. Changed our lives, and the fate of this realm forever."
In his mind's eye, Mael recreated the entire scene. A hobby of his that helped him to actively listen to the people he talked to, imagining for himself how it has been to be in their shoes. A crudely-created dreamscape of the mayor's tale flashed before him. The wails of battle the scent of flame-burning grassland. The elder waved as many of the townsfolk waved to him and Mael both. Mael shly waved back.
"They came across a man, who couldn't have been more than maybe 19 or so at the time. Facedown in the mud...bout as near to death as one could get. My ancestor who was the former mayor, Carasu, advocated that they help him. Though we had very little and had such a hard life...we still always had our hearts and our spirits. Those are things, Mael..."
He stopped and looked up at the young man his gaze stern yet passionate, as if his next choice of words were to stick with him.
"You must never allow them to be taken from you."
Mael's amber eyes widened for a moment. He nervously scratched his face. Coughing abruptly to have a reason to break eye contact.
"They found an empty ruin not too far from the stranger's location and set up shop there. Our healers managed to save his life. However, even then he did not awake. Three days later, in the middle of the night...they were attacked by a vile sorcerer called himself Zula' Carn was leading a horde of evil things he called Nightmares. He had come for the stranger but...my people would...we would not release him, even at the cost of our lives."
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
Re: A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
As the Mayor recalled Mael with the tale of Oakridges Origins they had made it to the merchant's square. A bustling trade center with goods of all kinds being exchanged. From the looks of it, there were only locals involved in the affair most likely a kind of organized bartering system. Grain for chickens, goats for clothes it was a humbling sight.
“Why would your people go so far as to lay down their lives for a guy they had never met before?”
Mael himself couldn’t understand it. Sure he could get it if they were fighting to protect each other but they didn’t owe this guy anything. Was their compassion worth their survival?
“The answer is simple…could you ignore someone in need? To abandon a life you could’ve saved?”
Maels topped at the Mayor's question. He hadn’t looked at it that way. And knew instantly how the others felt.
“No, I guess I couldn’t”
“Just as things were dire the stranger began to emit a strange glow. It was then we heard the voice of the gods for the first time. Celestia, the voice of the heavens called out to the stranger”
They eventually came to a wood carving of a man with long hair.
“ Guardian Of Dreams, Seed of the cosmos, rise and scuttle the clay of fate once more. Burn bright and banish the nightmare and terrors of this land, Relive the dream of the woven stars once more and awaken…Oh Slumbering King “
“It was then the stranger was enveloped in the light of the stars above and in a brilliant display of otherworldly power he vanquished the nightmare horde in an instant. He fiercely fought against the wizard felling the dark one and saving my ancestors.”
So they revered a deity called Celestia? But there was only this wood carving of a male. No other images were around of any goddess or anything that remembers something sacred. It made Mark wonder about the nature of their faith and how it ties into the prosperity of the land.
“This woodwork is of him, Aetu, he thanked my people for their sacrifice and promised to repay their courage by granting them the land after it was cleansed of darkness that pervaded it… that Land-“
“Mayor! Mayor!!”
A young man carrying a small satchel ran up to the pair out of breath struggling to catch his footing. He was covered in sweat he must have run here full throttle and was in quite a panic.
“Calm yourself, lad, slow down. What has happened?”
He looked up at the elder with concerned worried eyes, they were reddened, and the kid had been crying.
“It…It’s Laya, these scary men came to the gate demanding to talk to the mayor. When we told them you were busy at the moment they started being mean to the villagers. So Laya stood up to them but now they…THEY!”
He began to sob again. Mael felt his chest tighten. Layla was in trouble he felt a strange sensation run over him sending a chill through his spine. He balled his fist, whoever these guys they sounded like had news of they were willing to harass the villagers to get their way. If there was one thing Mael could not stand, it was a bully.
“Hey gramps, which way is the village gate?”
“It’s down that winding path there, but Mael please, don’t do anything rec-“
Before he could even finish Mael took off towards the village entrance. His sole thought was getting to Laya as soon as possible. Before anyone could get hurt.
“Why would your people go so far as to lay down their lives for a guy they had never met before?”
Mael himself couldn’t understand it. Sure he could get it if they were fighting to protect each other but they didn’t owe this guy anything. Was their compassion worth their survival?
“The answer is simple…could you ignore someone in need? To abandon a life you could’ve saved?”
Maels topped at the Mayor's question. He hadn’t looked at it that way. And knew instantly how the others felt.
“No, I guess I couldn’t”
“Just as things were dire the stranger began to emit a strange glow. It was then we heard the voice of the gods for the first time. Celestia, the voice of the heavens called out to the stranger”
They eventually came to a wood carving of a man with long hair.
“ Guardian Of Dreams, Seed of the cosmos, rise and scuttle the clay of fate once more. Burn bright and banish the nightmare and terrors of this land, Relive the dream of the woven stars once more and awaken…Oh Slumbering King “
“It was then the stranger was enveloped in the light of the stars above and in a brilliant display of otherworldly power he vanquished the nightmare horde in an instant. He fiercely fought against the wizard felling the dark one and saving my ancestors.”
So they revered a deity called Celestia? But there was only this wood carving of a male. No other images were around of any goddess or anything that remembers something sacred. It made Mark wonder about the nature of their faith and how it ties into the prosperity of the land.
“This woodwork is of him, Aetu, he thanked my people for their sacrifice and promised to repay their courage by granting them the land after it was cleansed of darkness that pervaded it… that Land-“
“Mayor! Mayor!!”
A young man carrying a small satchel ran up to the pair out of breath struggling to catch his footing. He was covered in sweat he must have run here full throttle and was in quite a panic.
“Calm yourself, lad, slow down. What has happened?”
He looked up at the elder with concerned worried eyes, they were reddened, and the kid had been crying.
“It…It’s Laya, these scary men came to the gate demanding to talk to the mayor. When we told them you were busy at the moment they started being mean to the villagers. So Laya stood up to them but now they…THEY!”
He began to sob again. Mael felt his chest tighten. Layla was in trouble he felt a strange sensation run over him sending a chill through his spine. He balled his fist, whoever these guys they sounded like had news of they were willing to harass the villagers to get their way. If there was one thing Mael could not stand, it was a bully.
“Hey gramps, which way is the village gate?”
“It’s down that winding path there, but Mael please, don’t do anything rec-“
Before he could even finish Mael took off towards the village entrance. His sole thought was getting to Laya as soon as possible. Before anyone could get hurt.
Last edited by Mael Hellgate on Sun Sep 08, 2024 11:52 am, edited 2 times in total.
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
Re: A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
The town was in an uproar. Some people had run and hidden in their homes, others were on the sidelines shielding their children, and wives were holding their husbands back from getting into the fray. The mob was growing, and as Mark got closer, he could hear the voices of several men and one female.
“Listen here little bitch, either get the mayor out ere or I’m gonna go in there and pull 'em out meself!”
He was a raggedy man in medium armor that had gashes in it. He was accompanied by four other men who seemed as beat up and ragged as him. They were well-armed despite their vagabond appearance. Laya stood just a few feet from the one demanding the mayor. Her finger was pointed at the man, and she was just as pissed as he was.
“No YOU listen, buddy! First, I am Laya Serus Vonaelia, Sorceress in training, and you don’t get to barge into our village making demands! “
The man gritted his teeth before spitting out a thick glob of blood to his side.
“And I told you we don’t have time for this! Do you know what the fuck is out there?! That thing it…IT!”
Mael would force himself through the crowd and end up just behind Laya. She looked over her shoulders and winked. She was the least bit intimidated by these ruffians and refused to let them have their way.
"What do you mean what out there?"
"Who the hell is this kid? What the fuck is going on in this village, is it run by got damn toddlers?!"
One of the other men said, coming to the side of the one who had been going at it with Laya. As Mael stepped forward, he placed his hands in his pocket, his eyes tracing over every notable trait about these guys. They were skilled, and despite their wounds, they seemed to still burst with energy. A full-on fight here in the middle of the village would be less than ideal. That aside, they had a run-in with something that spooked even them. So, this place still had issues with monsters even after coming under the protection of Celestia. But many things still didn't make sense to him, but now wasn't the time for quarry.
"Hey Laya, you alright?"
He said, not taking his eyes off the band.
"Of course, these guys don't scare me. From the looks of it, they mighty scared themselves, it seems like they had a run-in with a Nightmare."
Mael's brow twitched; the same creatures that attacked Aetu in the mayor stories?
"Hey look man, the last thing we want is a fight, I was just with the Mayor he is on his way, he's an old man though so let's all calm down and wait for him to get here. Agreed?"
The band of men all eye each other curiously as the group leader glares Mael down. The silence was thick with tension as sweat trickled down Mael's face, but he did not break eye contact, balling his hand in his pockets to hide his anxiety. The man's eyes narrowed into daggers as he raised his sword hand, laya hand was pointed directly at him just waiting for him to make a move.
"Bwahahaha! Heh, you've got guts, kid. Ok, fine."
His raised hand would be used to sheath his sword as the entire village took a collective sigh of relief, Mael, most of all. His knees practically shook at the idea of going up a bunch of armed old upstarts. Laya lowered her hand, placing it begrudgingly on her hip.
"Names Wraith, these are my guys: Lua, Mog, Derrin, and Ko. We're from the mercenary guild called Wyvern Claw."
"Doubt anybody in this backwater town ev heard of it?"
Lua said, resting his large black axe on his shoulders.
"Must not be a big deal if we haven't, and what brought you here to our backwater town then?"
She said with a sharp tone that cut like a knife. Laya didn't take well to outsiders, but rude, gross men took whatever bit of hospitality she had right out of her. Mog's brow ticked in irritation, and Wraith held his hand up to simmer him down.
"Huh? We're ere onna job! The contract was for a beast named Zaska, a wolf-type fiend who has been causing trouble for our kingdom lately. We were told their nest was out here. Didn't imagine people were living in these foul lands."
"Yeah, what's with you louts anyway? They scare children at night with tales of caution around this valley. Thelmora, also known as Fiend Valley or the Vale of Nightmares, was cursed by the wicked queen Yang'Mara after she was killed by the ero of legend forever ago. Never heard of a village out this way."
"Whole got damn land is twisted and corrupted, evil nasty creatures at every turn, we didn't know it would be like this. Just when we were about to kill off the Zaska matriarch, these.. these things came out of nowhere and slaughtered the rest of the pack...nearly got us to before you folks opened the gate after we have been banging for a century!"
"Hmp"
Laya said, pretending to clean out her ears, knowing full well that she had delayed the guard from opening the guarded gates.
" That said, just how have you folk survived out here? Just where the hell is the old man anyway?!"
“Listen here little bitch, either get the mayor out ere or I’m gonna go in there and pull 'em out meself!”
He was a raggedy man in medium armor that had gashes in it. He was accompanied by four other men who seemed as beat up and ragged as him. They were well-armed despite their vagabond appearance. Laya stood just a few feet from the one demanding the mayor. Her finger was pointed at the man, and she was just as pissed as he was.
“No YOU listen, buddy! First, I am Laya Serus Vonaelia, Sorceress in training, and you don’t get to barge into our village making demands! “
The man gritted his teeth before spitting out a thick glob of blood to his side.
“And I told you we don’t have time for this! Do you know what the fuck is out there?! That thing it…IT!”
Mael would force himself through the crowd and end up just behind Laya. She looked over her shoulders and winked. She was the least bit intimidated by these ruffians and refused to let them have their way.
"What do you mean what out there?"
"Who the hell is this kid? What the fuck is going on in this village, is it run by got damn toddlers?!"
One of the other men said, coming to the side of the one who had been going at it with Laya. As Mael stepped forward, he placed his hands in his pocket, his eyes tracing over every notable trait about these guys. They were skilled, and despite their wounds, they seemed to still burst with energy. A full-on fight here in the middle of the village would be less than ideal. That aside, they had a run-in with something that spooked even them. So, this place still had issues with monsters even after coming under the protection of Celestia. But many things still didn't make sense to him, but now wasn't the time for quarry.
"Hey Laya, you alright?"
He said, not taking his eyes off the band.
"Of course, these guys don't scare me. From the looks of it, they mighty scared themselves, it seems like they had a run-in with a Nightmare."
Mael's brow twitched; the same creatures that attacked Aetu in the mayor stories?
"Hey look man, the last thing we want is a fight, I was just with the Mayor he is on his way, he's an old man though so let's all calm down and wait for him to get here. Agreed?"
The band of men all eye each other curiously as the group leader glares Mael down. The silence was thick with tension as sweat trickled down Mael's face, but he did not break eye contact, balling his hand in his pockets to hide his anxiety. The man's eyes narrowed into daggers as he raised his sword hand, laya hand was pointed directly at him just waiting for him to make a move.
"Bwahahaha! Heh, you've got guts, kid. Ok, fine."
His raised hand would be used to sheath his sword as the entire village took a collective sigh of relief, Mael, most of all. His knees practically shook at the idea of going up a bunch of armed old upstarts. Laya lowered her hand, placing it begrudgingly on her hip.
"Names Wraith, these are my guys: Lua, Mog, Derrin, and Ko. We're from the mercenary guild called Wyvern Claw."
"Doubt anybody in this backwater town ev heard of it?"
Lua said, resting his large black axe on his shoulders.
"Must not be a big deal if we haven't, and what brought you here to our backwater town then?"
She said with a sharp tone that cut like a knife. Laya didn't take well to outsiders, but rude, gross men took whatever bit of hospitality she had right out of her. Mog's brow ticked in irritation, and Wraith held his hand up to simmer him down.
"Huh? We're ere onna job! The contract was for a beast named Zaska, a wolf-type fiend who has been causing trouble for our kingdom lately. We were told their nest was out here. Didn't imagine people were living in these foul lands."
"Yeah, what's with you louts anyway? They scare children at night with tales of caution around this valley. Thelmora, also known as Fiend Valley or the Vale of Nightmares, was cursed by the wicked queen Yang'Mara after she was killed by the ero of legend forever ago. Never heard of a village out this way."
"Whole got damn land is twisted and corrupted, evil nasty creatures at every turn, we didn't know it would be like this. Just when we were about to kill off the Zaska matriarch, these.. these things came out of nowhere and slaughtered the rest of the pack...nearly got us to before you folks opened the gate after we have been banging for a century!"
"Hmp"
Laya said, pretending to clean out her ears, knowing full well that she had delayed the guard from opening the guarded gates.
" That said, just how have you folk survived out here? Just where the hell is the old man anyway?!"
Last edited by Mael Hellgate on Thu Sep 19, 2024 1:13 pm, edited 10 times in total.
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
Re: A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
" By the stars, you young men seemed to have been through quite the tussell."
The mayor's voice, despite being calm, cut through the bubbling tension. The mob parted, allowing the grey-haired elder through, who was stroking his beard as he walked with a cane in hand.
"You ask how we have survived here despite the harrowing darkness beyond our borders. The answer is simple: we are the Chosen of Aetu, Blessed of the Stars. Our reward from the heavens is a realm of dreams in a land of nightmares. Seems like you gentlemen have already come face to face With a true nightmare."
"Tch, so you're the old codger running stuff here, eh?"
[/color]
He took a step forward, side-stepping Mael but being stopped by Laya. Her eyes sparked with retaliation. Her grandfather, though, would gently move her aside. There was no need to be so hostile and defensive.
"Indeed, I am Xerius, Mayor and overseer of Oakridge. I heard that you ran into some trouble in the Forbidden Forest. Quite a brave place to go hunting; now you can see why many people don't make it out."
"Had it been up to the little girl there, we wouldn't have."
"Hmp, I implore you to adopt a different perspective, sir. Had it not been for me, you would've been minced meat."
Mael couldn't help but snicker at how quick-witted Laya was and how resolute she was. She was the complete opposite of him, which made her all the more intriguing.
"Gah, whatever! Man, look, we're planning an expedition into the forest to kill that fucking creature, whatever it was. We demand help from this hovel of yours. Supplies, anybody that can swing a sword."
"You plan to travel into the forest to...hunt a nightmare beast? I surely hope you are as strong as you are bold."
"Why you"
Koh said as he stepped forward, his spear stretching taller than he.
"Where are you defenders anyway? Men here don't look like they useful for nothing but farming."
Laya stepped forward, a coy smirk on her face.
"You're looking at her. I am a sorceress in training, a powerful one, and this guy here."
She said, jabbing Mael in the arm.
"We are the Guardians of this place granted the power to fight Nightmares by Celestia..."
The band of guys erupted in laughter.
"Pfft what? Ha! No, be fucking for real!!"
"How the hell can kids stand against THOSE monsters? Ha ha, awe, man, boss, this place is full of loons."
Laya became almost foaming at the mouth like a rabid dog. Mael held her back while she tried to scratch the guy's eyes out. Mael was on their side, though. This was the first he heard of them being the only guardians here. He had thought it weird, too, as he and the mayor went around regaling the village's past. He never mentioned just HOW the village became protected and how that protection was maintained.
"I'm sorry for your misfortune fellows. But we cannot help you with your task."
The laughing stopped, and the tension returned.
The mayor's voice, despite being calm, cut through the bubbling tension. The mob parted, allowing the grey-haired elder through, who was stroking his beard as he walked with a cane in hand.
"You ask how we have survived here despite the harrowing darkness beyond our borders. The answer is simple: we are the Chosen of Aetu, Blessed of the Stars. Our reward from the heavens is a realm of dreams in a land of nightmares. Seems like you gentlemen have already come face to face With a true nightmare."
"Tch, so you're the old codger running stuff here, eh?"
[/color]
He took a step forward, side-stepping Mael but being stopped by Laya. Her eyes sparked with retaliation. Her grandfather, though, would gently move her aside. There was no need to be so hostile and defensive.
"Indeed, I am Xerius, Mayor and overseer of Oakridge. I heard that you ran into some trouble in the Forbidden Forest. Quite a brave place to go hunting; now you can see why many people don't make it out."
"Had it been up to the little girl there, we wouldn't have."
"Hmp, I implore you to adopt a different perspective, sir. Had it not been for me, you would've been minced meat."
Mael couldn't help but snicker at how quick-witted Laya was and how resolute she was. She was the complete opposite of him, which made her all the more intriguing.
"Gah, whatever! Man, look, we're planning an expedition into the forest to kill that fucking creature, whatever it was. We demand help from this hovel of yours. Supplies, anybody that can swing a sword."
"You plan to travel into the forest to...hunt a nightmare beast? I surely hope you are as strong as you are bold."
"Why you"
Koh said as he stepped forward, his spear stretching taller than he.
"Where are you defenders anyway? Men here don't look like they useful for nothing but farming."
Laya stepped forward, a coy smirk on her face.
"You're looking at her. I am a sorceress in training, a powerful one, and this guy here."
She said, jabbing Mael in the arm.
"We are the Guardians of this place granted the power to fight Nightmares by Celestia..."
The band of guys erupted in laughter.
"Pfft what? Ha! No, be fucking for real!!"
"How the hell can kids stand against THOSE monsters? Ha ha, awe, man, boss, this place is full of loons."
Laya became almost foaming at the mouth like a rabid dog. Mael held her back while she tried to scratch the guy's eyes out. Mael was on their side, though. This was the first he heard of them being the only guardians here. He had thought it weird, too, as he and the mayor went around regaling the village's past. He never mentioned just HOW the village became protected and how that protection was maintained.
"I'm sorry for your misfortune fellows. But we cannot help you with your task."
The laughing stopped, and the tension returned.
Last edited by Mael Hellgate on Thu Sep 19, 2024 1:17 pm, edited 5 times in total.
-
Mael Hellgate
- Drifter
- Posts: 13
- Joined: Tue May 14, 2024 1:50 pm
Re: A Misty Dream; A Forlon Promise
"What's that?!"
Wraith's temper erupted back up instantly, he was trying to be patient with these people but they were stubborn as hell and it was beginning to piss him off.
"Listen here you rusting bastard, we lost half our platoon to that thing. If you know a way to beat those damn things you better start stalking?"
"The fucking thing was nine maybe ten feet tall yet we barely saw the thing before our comrades were killed..."
"Hmp sounds like an S class"
Mael's eyes became intrigued. They ranked the Nightmare's danger levels, which must've meant there were different kinds and types. The warriors accompanying him grunted in agreement ready to use force to drag any able-bodied person they could get their hands on. Xerius's bushy brows furrowed. He understood their frustration and their confusion. But he just couldn't send their defenders off to face a problem that technically wasn't theirs right now.
"It's best you folks forget about facing the darkness and be grateful you still have your lives. Though my grandaughter is quite skilled for her age I cannot send them out against such a dangerous creature...forgive me. You are free to rest here until your wounds heal. But you must leave us in peace come tomorrow morning."
"Are you serious?"
Koh spoke up from the back of the grip of their sword tightening.
"Looks like the negotiations are off"
Mael's eyes perked up, though he heard the words his mouth didn't move. His telepathy, so, he still had his Psychic abilities here? These guys weren't going to take no for an answer. But just as Mael went to speak he heard Laya's voice call out to him.
"Do you trust me, Mael?"
He turned his head to face her, her gaze so determined so filled with passion and light, he couldn't help but blush as he gazed back at her, his heart swelling with a swirling mix of emotions. He could tell, that he could put her life in his hands. His eyes narrowed his hands now fist in his pockets.
"Yeah Laya, I do."
To which she smiled before facing her grandfather.
"Mayor, you must reconsider. Though I understand your hesitancy this monster poses just as much of a threat to us as it does to these men."
The mercenaries were taken aback in surprise at her sudden change in attitude. Wraith relaxed a bit and the others followed.
"But Laya, you and Mael are not ready,"
"Grandfather, it's true that I am still but a trainee, but I am still one of the guardians of Celstia, tasked with not only the safety of Oakridge but to stand beside the Slumbering King to aid in his vendetta against the darkness. Though we have known peace for some time the fact that an S-class Nightmare is running around so close to the village means that the Sotlice is upon us..."
"What's huh? A solstice?"
"What's the girl talking about gramps?"
Xerius's thick brows parted like visors revealing his piercing blue eyes. As much as he hated the idea Laya...was right.
"The Solstice Of Awakening...It is a cosmic event that happens every 400 years. In which the Constellation shifts and creates one that is only visible during this event. A dark fushia light falls on the land...signaling the coming...of the ancient darkness that once ruled these lands..."
The villagers became fearful and worried at mentioning the dreaded solstice. Though none of them had experienced it, their village has survived its coming twice since its creation. The entangled fates of the Slumbering King and...
"The Awakened Queen..."
A sharp gasp could be heard from the crowd, their sudden dread spread to the warriors now beginning to understand more just how deep in shit they were here.
"W-wait, You mean...The Ruler of Thelmora, the one who ushered in the Age Of Insomnia? That...that's just a tale, a ghost story. She...she died!"
"People used to be so scared of their dreams they forced themselves to stay awake, some even took their own lives..."
Lua gulps seeing Wraith become so shaken. If they hadn't encountered that fiend earlier they would've never believed the geezer but even they weren't superstitious enough to deny what was in front of them.
"The Awakened Queen is being of unparalleled might, her mystic opulence affects the boundaries between the material realm and... Phantasus, the realm of Dreams. It is believed that it is from this place both the Akwaned Queen and Slumbering King were formed...One designed by light...the other by the dark. The coming of one...the harbinger of the other. An endless waltz fated to reoccur till the end of time."
"But that means...that I."
The mayor sighed heavily. He had hoped to have more time to properly prepare Mael for his role. His crest hadn't even manifested yet, meaning his power as King had yet to come to him. But Laya's words rang true. If an S class was roaming around when the solstice came it's power would be increased and they truly would have no chance at defeating it.
"Mael, there are many things I wished I had the time to regal you with so that you truly could take pride in how grand your calling is. Sadly I must begin preparing for the Soltice immediately. The task before you will be arduous I cannot lie. But within you is the heart of Celestia, you to must find your strength."
"My...strength..."
His eyes lowered to the ground
"Mael, What is it, that you wish to protect? Once you find that answer, I am sure that you will weave a fine dream."
He looked to Laya who would tuck her hair behind her ear.
"What I wish to protect..."
He thought as he looked at the villagers trepidous and uncertain.
"So, do we have yer help or what?"
Laya turned back to face them. Her hand was promptly on her hip.
"Yeah sure but it's not because we like you or anything. We just have a common foe, so count yourselves lucky. Mael and I are here, and we are the best of the best."
"Huh? This kid doesn't seem like much to me."
"I wouldn't count him out, He is Aetu's inheritor after all..."
"What?! This shrimp. You better not hold us back kid.."
Mael scratched the side of his face anxiously. This was still so much to take in. He wasn't even sure he'd be of any use for real. But he would stand by Laya's side and face whatever may come. He was sure that everything would work itself out, harping over the future...always blinded one to the blessings of the present.
"Don't worry I'll do my best."
"Yer best huh? Well, guessing in this case that's all any of us can ask for."
Mog said shaking his head. He hoped they would come here and get a few tough men on their side. They only got a sassy wench and a brat who looked like he couldn't squash a grape in a fruit fight. But either way, a slim chance was better than none.
"Just give it your all!"
She jeered at him smiling and giving him a playful wink. She had full confidence that he would be able to see their task fulfilled.
"Well, Nightmares only appear after midnight. I say we get prepared as best we can until then. Laya, please see our guest to the proper accommodations. Mael, you will accompany me...there is something we need to do before your mission..."
"Right!"
They both said affirmingly. Laya bid Wyverns Claw to follow her while the townspeople went back to preparing for the harvest. Mael followed the mayor unsure of what more he could have to tell him but his face...it was filled with concern.
Wraith's temper erupted back up instantly, he was trying to be patient with these people but they were stubborn as hell and it was beginning to piss him off.
"Listen here you rusting bastard, we lost half our platoon to that thing. If you know a way to beat those damn things you better start stalking?"
"The fucking thing was nine maybe ten feet tall yet we barely saw the thing before our comrades were killed..."
"Hmp sounds like an S class"
Mael's eyes became intrigued. They ranked the Nightmare's danger levels, which must've meant there were different kinds and types. The warriors accompanying him grunted in agreement ready to use force to drag any able-bodied person they could get their hands on. Xerius's bushy brows furrowed. He understood their frustration and their confusion. But he just couldn't send their defenders off to face a problem that technically wasn't theirs right now.
"It's best you folks forget about facing the darkness and be grateful you still have your lives. Though my grandaughter is quite skilled for her age I cannot send them out against such a dangerous creature...forgive me. You are free to rest here until your wounds heal. But you must leave us in peace come tomorrow morning."
"Are you serious?"
Koh spoke up from the back of the grip of their sword tightening.
"Looks like the negotiations are off"
Mael's eyes perked up, though he heard the words his mouth didn't move. His telepathy, so, he still had his Psychic abilities here? These guys weren't going to take no for an answer. But just as Mael went to speak he heard Laya's voice call out to him.
"Do you trust me, Mael?"
He turned his head to face her, her gaze so determined so filled with passion and light, he couldn't help but blush as he gazed back at her, his heart swelling with a swirling mix of emotions. He could tell, that he could put her life in his hands. His eyes narrowed his hands now fist in his pockets.
"Yeah Laya, I do."
To which she smiled before facing her grandfather.
"Mayor, you must reconsider. Though I understand your hesitancy this monster poses just as much of a threat to us as it does to these men."
The mercenaries were taken aback in surprise at her sudden change in attitude. Wraith relaxed a bit and the others followed.
"But Laya, you and Mael are not ready,"
"Grandfather, it's true that I am still but a trainee, but I am still one of the guardians of Celstia, tasked with not only the safety of Oakridge but to stand beside the Slumbering King to aid in his vendetta against the darkness. Though we have known peace for some time the fact that an S-class Nightmare is running around so close to the village means that the Sotlice is upon us..."
"What's huh? A solstice?"
"What's the girl talking about gramps?"
Xerius's thick brows parted like visors revealing his piercing blue eyes. As much as he hated the idea Laya...was right.
"The Solstice Of Awakening...It is a cosmic event that happens every 400 years. In which the Constellation shifts and creates one that is only visible during this event. A dark fushia light falls on the land...signaling the coming...of the ancient darkness that once ruled these lands..."
The villagers became fearful and worried at mentioning the dreaded solstice. Though none of them had experienced it, their village has survived its coming twice since its creation. The entangled fates of the Slumbering King and...
"The Awakened Queen..."
A sharp gasp could be heard from the crowd, their sudden dread spread to the warriors now beginning to understand more just how deep in shit they were here.
"W-wait, You mean...The Ruler of Thelmora, the one who ushered in the Age Of Insomnia? That...that's just a tale, a ghost story. She...she died!"
"People used to be so scared of their dreams they forced themselves to stay awake, some even took their own lives..."
Lua gulps seeing Wraith become so shaken. If they hadn't encountered that fiend earlier they would've never believed the geezer but even they weren't superstitious enough to deny what was in front of them.
"The Awakened Queen is being of unparalleled might, her mystic opulence affects the boundaries between the material realm and... Phantasus, the realm of Dreams. It is believed that it is from this place both the Akwaned Queen and Slumbering King were formed...One designed by light...the other by the dark. The coming of one...the harbinger of the other. An endless waltz fated to reoccur till the end of time."
"But that means...that I."
The mayor sighed heavily. He had hoped to have more time to properly prepare Mael for his role. His crest hadn't even manifested yet, meaning his power as King had yet to come to him. But Laya's words rang true. If an S class was roaming around when the solstice came it's power would be increased and they truly would have no chance at defeating it.
"Mael, there are many things I wished I had the time to regal you with so that you truly could take pride in how grand your calling is. Sadly I must begin preparing for the Soltice immediately. The task before you will be arduous I cannot lie. But within you is the heart of Celestia, you to must find your strength."
"My...strength..."
His eyes lowered to the ground
"Mael, What is it, that you wish to protect? Once you find that answer, I am sure that you will weave a fine dream."
He looked to Laya who would tuck her hair behind her ear.
"What I wish to protect..."
He thought as he looked at the villagers trepidous and uncertain.
"So, do we have yer help or what?"
Laya turned back to face them. Her hand was promptly on her hip.
"Yeah sure but it's not because we like you or anything. We just have a common foe, so count yourselves lucky. Mael and I are here, and we are the best of the best."
"Huh? This kid doesn't seem like much to me."
"I wouldn't count him out, He is Aetu's inheritor after all..."
"What?! This shrimp. You better not hold us back kid.."
Mael scratched the side of his face anxiously. This was still so much to take in. He wasn't even sure he'd be of any use for real. But he would stand by Laya's side and face whatever may come. He was sure that everything would work itself out, harping over the future...always blinded one to the blessings of the present.
"Don't worry I'll do my best."
"Yer best huh? Well, guessing in this case that's all any of us can ask for."
Mog said shaking his head. He hoped they would come here and get a few tough men on their side. They only got a sassy wench and a brat who looked like he couldn't squash a grape in a fruit fight. But either way, a slim chance was better than none.
"Just give it your all!"
She jeered at him smiling and giving him a playful wink. She had full confidence that he would be able to see their task fulfilled.
"Well, Nightmares only appear after midnight. I say we get prepared as best we can until then. Laya, please see our guest to the proper accommodations. Mael, you will accompany me...there is something we need to do before your mission..."
"Right!"
They both said affirmingly. Laya bid Wyverns Claw to follow her while the townspeople went back to preparing for the harvest. Mael followed the mayor unsure of what more he could have to tell him but his face...it was filled with concern.
The team