Restoration at the Forge

The Forge has been busy these last weeks. The entirety of the Peel Island population has relocated in a short time. The Skymen have return to their ancestral homes on the cliffs of the Iron Mountain, while the witches have taken refuge in the old magic wing dormitories of the inner forge itself.

Much has been made about Kobi’s foolishness in making the sword, but also there is a lot of thankfulness as he is the catalyst for their return. The elder witches have taken to reading the ancient texts of the mage library. Knowledge is power they say, and they are committed to knowledge. One of the elder’s assistants, Katina has been reading as well when not serving her superiors.

Katina is a relatively young witch at three hundred and sixty years old. The mainland is a strange place to her, but she is being brave and trusts the elders completely. She stands around five feet two inches tall. Her eyes are foliage green, with near brown pupils. Her hair is bark brown with light green highlights. Her skin is light that has a distinct green tint. More powerful witches have darker green skin, this is something she hopes to change with her knowledge seeking.

She has a hidden agenda as well. She is looking for a cure for her secret love, Zyno. For the past forty years, they have had a forbidden love that they have worked hard to keep a secret. Now, with her love injured in body and mind, she hopes to find some magic that will return his sanity and his wing.

Katina spends most of her time reading, but every once in a while, will sneak off to see Zyno, or she will venture off into the storeroom to find ingredients for a possible magical cure. If only she were a healer, this would be easy. Being a Woods Witch is a bit different. She may can heal a plant or a tree, but a Skyman is different. So she gives herself to her studies.

Zyno on the other hand, has gotten somewhat better mentally. He still has very clear trauma from the ordeal with Nunley, but he doesn’t have constant panic attacks or screaming episodes. Katina’s presence helped him so much. While he was running for his life, it was his desire to see her again that kept him moving and fighting. With his injury, he remained inside the forge instead of moving over to the cliffs. His inability to fly keeps him from seeing the homes of his forefathers.

Her touch heals him more and more.

Zyno has also taken a liking to Kobi. They spend a lot of time together. Zyno has grown fond of their sword training time. Kobi has been teaching him the ways of fighting like a knight, like a human. Since he can’t fly, Zyno figures this is the way to help defend the forge in case of an attack. His towering frame is a sight to see holding a claymore sword. In the sky, the blade would be too heavy to carry; but on the ground, Zyno can be devastating with it.

Even though he enjoys his training, and his friend Kobi, and the forbidden love of Katina, his heart still drops when he sees a group of Skymen flying through the sky. Nunley called him an Ostrich, and Zyno feels like one.

During training with Kobi out by the orchard, he catches a glimpse of Katina staring at him through one of the trees. She is using magic to check on him. She also uses magic to speak to him, and only he hears it.

“I found something big! I am gathering supplies. I will come to you in the middle of the night.”

With that, she is gone.

He was distracted for the briefest of moments, but Kobi capitalizes. He places his sword beneath Zyno’s chin, he has lost the sparing match.

Kobi smiles and asks him if he wants to meet up again tomorrow. Zyno agrees without much thought.

The rest of the day, Zyno meets with other Skymen as they come in for a visit. Their stories of the cliffs, and the fishing offer little comfort for him. Just like every other day Betta checks in with him and tries to make sure that his friend is recovering. It’s always a short talk between them as is customary with Skymen. Zyno always dreads seeing his friend flying away. He eats alone by the orchard before turning in for the night.

In the early morning hours Zyno lays awake. He doesn’t sleep well as it is, but the expectation of seeing Katina again has him on edge. Both nervousness and excitement. What has she found? His mind runs with countless possibilities.

His mind comes to an immediate stop as his love ports into the room with magic. It’s something she has done a million times over their relationship. It helps keep their love private.

“I’ve found something! I’ve made this concoction that I found in the books. All I need is a to take a look at your broken wing. I need to see it to complete the spell.” Katina says as they embrace.

“For what?”

“You just need to trust me.”

Without hesitation, he turns and kneels. His near eight feet tall frame towers over her. Even when he is on his knees, he is still eye level with her.

She stands behind him and unwraps his bandage. She gasps a little once she sees the break. The bone to the wing is blackened and dying. The remaining bone fragment is rotting off his back! This frightens the witch and quickens her to use the magic spell to save him from this cruel fate.

She pours the magical liquid over the broken wing and allows it to fall inside the bone canal.

She begins reciting a rhythmic chant. The words of a forgotten tongue from times past ignite the atmosphere of the room. Wind stirs a sulfur smell as the candlelight is blown out. In the darkness, Katina’s chant grows louder as the wind stirs quicker. Then light begins to emanate from the broken bone. Red light. It’s a burning fire coming from within his own body.

Zyno begins to scream! His broken wing is being cauterized on his back. It is extremely painful, and he cannot hide his pain.

Katina is dedicated to her work; she is lost in the focus of the spell. She doesn’t even hear Zyno’s screams.

A full flame rises from the bone.

Fire magic, she found a fire spell and is using it on him. He can’t believe it. He should have asked her for details first.

The flame grows in intensity and heat. The same goes for Katina’s chants and Zyno’s screams.

Suddenly, the flame spreads into a fire wing! The fire burns brighter and brighter and the heat fills the entire room. The chants are screams now as Zyno collapses on the floor face down. The fire wing flares out and darkness fills the room. A thud sounds out in the darkness, it’s Katina passing out from exhaustion.

Early in the morning hours, Zyno is stirred awake. He groggily stands to his feet.

What the events of last night a dream? Or a nightmare?

Katina ignites a flame to relight the candles.

She turns, toward Zyno and is shocked at what she sees.

His wing has regrown completely, but it is blackened. It’s what those who practice fire magic call burnt, a byproduct of the magic. Zyno has his wings but now he has a white wing and a black wing!

Katina knows she will be punished for this, and that their love will be exposed. Her thoughts are to run now while they can.

But Zyno stares at his new wing in amazement. His love has restored him! He loves the black wing. In his excitement, his thoughts are on touching the sky again. He has no inkling that their love will be exposed or that Katina will be punished. He has his life back, and this black wing will make him stand out among a sky of white wings.

He turns and embraces his love, she’s healed him.

“I must test this wing out. Thank you, you have given me my life back.” He tells her.

She looks up to meet his gaze. She wants to tell him her concerns about what the elders of the witches and Skymen will think but she doesn’t. She wants him to have this moment.

“Go touch the sky my love!” She encourages.

He rushes out of the forge. As he steps into the early morning sunlight, he spreads his wings wide, then jumps into the sky for what feels like the first time. He flies away from the forge at top speed.

From the orchard benches, Kobi looks on in disbelief. His eyes catch something out of the corner of his eye. It looks like one of the trees has eyes, and it is watching Zyno fly away.

Springing the Trap

In the early morning hours, the trap was sprung. Just as expected, Gerwin entered the castle with about twenty armed guards.

The guards all went to search the sleeping quarters. In each room a small band of Bellumi guards were waiting on them. In short order each of them were apprehended without much of a struggle.

Gerwin stood outside the bell tower for several minutes waiting on the news from his agents. When none of them return with news, he made a run for it. But the trap had been sprung, and Ser Matthew caught him immediately. Matthew forced Gerwin to ring the bells as planned, then everyone waited for Marco and John Henry. More than three thousand Bellumi guards are stationed inside the Castle entrances.

However, as the morning drug on, it was obvious that they were not coming. Aero turned his attention to Marco’s assistant. After a brief interrogation process of Gerwin, they found out that he had rang the bells in a cadence that was a warning sign for Marco. Without them realizing it, they allowed Gerwin to “fall on the sword” for his mentor. Marco and John Henry are undoubtedly long gone from the Capital.

Still, Aero ordered the search of the cells and it was found that John Henry had been released, Aero sent out a search party hoping to get lucky. The guards turned the Capital upside-down, but they found no sign of him or Marco.

Asna calls for an emergency meeting of their closest advisors in the Throne Room.

“The castle must be put on lockdown now!” Yorba demands.

“Agreed, Master at Arms, make it so.” Aero backs her up.

The Master at Arms turns to two of his ranking soldiers and sends them out.

“My King, I suggest that all the guards be Bellumi until all others can be vetted.” The Master at Arms suggests.

“Yes, for now we need to know everyone in the castle is loyal to the crown. We must check every person that works within the castle. We cannot afford to wait; we must know before sundown.” Aero replies. “Master at Arms send all the local guards into the Bend and to the Royal Docks of Blue Water Lake. Hopefully, the loyal guards won’t be offended by the move.”

The Master at Arms leaves the throne room, he gets to work making immediate changes.

“My King, the archivist has arrived.” Rune announces.

In walks a portly, awkward middle-aged man. He looks like someone who doesn’t get out much, his work is his life. He is clearly out of place surrounded by several dozen Bellumi guards, and the inner circle of the new crown.

Still, he knows the proper procedures of the court, he approaches the throne and kneels before the King and Queen.

“Rise, Mr…”

“Adam, my Queen.” He replies as he makes his way to his feet.

“You are the archivist?” Aero asks. “How come I’ve never seen you around the Capital?”

“Yes Sire, my family has been the royal archivist for many generations, and I spend most of my time locked away in the archives.” Adam replies.

“And you are an expert on the history of the crown?”

“Yes, reading the archives is my life’s work.”

“Have you read anything about the Royal Blade, Adam?”

“I’ve read everything! They were my favorite stories from when I was a child. I always dreamed of the King carrying it again.”

“Adam, last night, the Queen was able to use the blade to defend herself. It was my understanding that the blade didn’t work for the Queen. Do you have any insight to this?”

“It’s true, the blade doesn’t work for the Queen, or at least it never has before.”

“But it did, I saw it.” Matthew says. “She even placed it at my throat. I felt the heat off the lightning that surrounded the blade.”

“You were going to kill Matt my love?” Aero asks Asna.

“Just motivating him, Adam, this happened. I defended myself with the magic of the blade from several enemies. It also worked differently for me, than it does for the King.”

“Yes, I have no doubt of your account, but the texts are clear. There is no evidence that the blade has ever worked for the Queen. The blade magic did allow for the princes as adolescents to train with the blade. Most writers believe this is how the blade chose the next King. But that is the extent of the text.” Adam adds. “But the blade has worked in many different ways, depending upon the King wielding it.”

“So you don’t have an answer?” Aero asks.

“I do my King, isn’t it obvious?”

“No, Adam, it isn’t.” Asna adds. “Please elaborate more.”

“My Queen you were able to use the blade because you are with child!” Adam exclaims.

“What?!?” Aero shouts.

“With a son!” Adam adds to the revelation.

The room is dumbfounded, no one is sure if they can believe the news or not.

“The Queen did excuse herself from dinner last night. That wasn’t the first time either.” Yorba says.

“She has been sick in the mornings a lot too.” Roasa says.

“I’m pregnant!” Asna exclaims.

She embraces Aero with a kiss. The room applauds the sudden good news.

The surprise alleviates a lot of the stress of the day. Everyone takes a moment to congratulate the King and Queen. The new crown will have a new heir soon.

After a few moments, they return to the tasks at hand. Bellumi are sent out throughout the Capital as the exclusive Capital guard. Petitions are made by the local guard but with the events of the previous evening, they are denied by the crown, reluctantly the local guard takes their new positions at all the entrances into Capital City.

By dark, the castle is on complete lockdown, the castle staff has been dismissed as well.

Aero, Matthew, and Ali meet at Maverick’s to discuss adding to the loyal knight ranks. Most local knights have already appealed to be reinstated. The three review hundreds of the appeals, they select only four names. By the end of the evening, Matthew is disgusted by the amount of paperwork involved with his position.

Asna takes Roasa, Gaia, Yorba, and Rain into the Queen’s Tower; the same tower that King William used as his pleasure tower for decades. They begin work on restoring the place to honor. A place that a Queen can train up the young ladies of the area to be women of the court. Unlike previous generations, this Queen intends to raise up strong, independent thinking women. Not just well-trained wives for the men. She also intends it to be a place to give birth to her first son. The women work well into the night with excitement.

Under the cover of night about ten miles south of Blue Water Castle, Marco and John Henry meet up with men loyal to Marco. The men brought a wagon to carry the men back to Orlea. There under the protection of the Covenant, they will be safe to plot their next move.

“My feet are killing me. I’ve never walked this far in my life.” John Henry complains.

“Life in the Castle has had its benefits, but don’t worry my friend we will have our revenge. Don’t forget the pain of your feet, we will return it a thousand-fold on our enemies!” Marco says with anger.

This is not how he thought this day would go. In his mind, he had intended to see his end game come to fruition with John Henry on the throne, and Aero’s head on a pike. It was to be his greatest accomplishment. The secret coup of the Owls taking over the world. Yet well after midnight after walking all day long in hidden places, he is exhausted in the back of a wagon fleeing the Capital with his would be king.

He allows himself to worry about what his father will say once they arrive in Orlea. Plus, he is sure Aero will send a battalion to recover him from his hometown. So he begins making contingency plans for every possible scenario in his mind, but his mind keeps drifting back to Aero.

Marco considers his greatest failure to be underestimating the new King. A failure that he vows will never happen again. Marco knows he will see Aero’s head roll. He even dreams of drinking wine out of Aero’s skull.

Marco’s mind has taken him to the darkest place possible, and he is out for blood… Royal blood!

After Dinner Party

Aero and Asna and their closest advisors sit down in the royal dining hall to enjoy an end to their first day of work. Everyone seems optimistic about the future. In fact, the entire Capital is abuzz of the sweeping changes on the first day of the King and Queen.

Noticeably absent is Ser Matthew, he claimed he had pressing work to attend to at Maverick’s.

As the first glasses of wine are filled, Queen Asna excuses herself. She isn’t feeling well. Aero tries to go with her, but she convinces him that it is his duty to stay. She orders Lieutenant Rain to stay and enjoy the meal.

Over the course of the dinner much work is discussed. Per Asna’s vision of redeveloping the Bend, Yorba makes sure that the topic is well discussed. Between her and Rune, the Bend has found a couple of champions to make sure that the health and wellbeing of the citizens is being addressed to the highest office.

Aero and Ali discuss the knight ranks and how to replenish them. Aero also gives Ali names of several former knights that he endorses for re-knighthood. Aero also speaks at length with Rain and the Master at Arms about Castle security. It is their vision to transition fully to an all Bellumi staff, an idea that Aero is open to but not committed to just yet.

Several questions are asked to Aero about David and Stephan’s secret mission, but they get no definitive answers from him. Roasa does quietly ask Aero if he is really fine with the ruling that Asna handed down concerning David and Stephan. He tells her that he is confused but loves them both and wants to believe in the world that Asna does.

The dinner turns into a small party, with everyone commenting about how Matthew is going to regret not being in attendance. To make up for Matthew’s absence, Ali gets completely hammered and passes out before the dinner is over. Finally, after a few hours everyone adjourns to their rooms for the night. Everyone except Ali that is, no one could wake him up, so they left him at the table.

A couple hours later, just past midnight the door to the King’s room slowly creeps open. A dark hooded figure slides into the room. Since it is so dark, the figure can’t see that Asna is awake and staring at him. She tries to gently nudge Aero to wake up, but he doesn’t.

In a panic, the Queen speaks “What are you doing?”

“You’re not suppose to be awake.” He replies.

She turns toward Aero, screaming and shaking him but he doesn’t respond.

Just as the dark figured man reaches the end of the bed, Asna jumps over Aero’s sleeping body. As she does so, she sees the Royal Blade propped up against the bed post on his side. In desperation, she grabs it and turns to defend herself.

When she does, the blade emits a bright blue lightning bolt that shoots across the room like an arrow and strikes the would-be assassin! He screams in agony.

Fearful, she just holds the blade while the man catches fire and is fried alive. It’s not until his corpse is well charred on the ground that the lightning bolt ceases.

The room is filled with the smell of hot death. It’s not the smell of a roasting pig as many would believe, it is not pleasant. It is the most foul odor that Asna has ever smelled in her life.

She sets the blade on the bed and begins trying to wake her husband. But no matter what she does, he will not wake. She begins to weep as she realizes the danger of the situation. She understands that this is an assassination attempt, and that Aero’s condition may be worse than she thought.

Before she has time to allow herself to analyze the situation further, she has to prepare to defend herself again. She had forgot to secure the door in the few precious moments she just wasted, and she hears footsteps approaching fast!

Ser Matthew bursts into the room, sword in hand!

“My Queen! Are you okay?”

“Someone is trying to kill us! Aero won’t wake up; I think he is poisoned!”

“I’ve killed three assassins on the way up to your room… and you cooked one? How did you do that?”

“With Aero’s sword.”

“I thought the sword didn’t work for the Queen.”

“It did tonight, that’s all I know.”

“Why do you think the King is poisoned?”

“He’s asleep and won’t wake up.”

“That’s how almost everyone in the castle is, but it’s a calling card. This is the preferred murder of the Broussard family. This is Marco trying to regain control. The Broussa’s want John Henry as King.”

“Why poison someone to sleep, then kill them?”

“They believe it sends a message to anyone who stands against them. If they can put you to sleep then kill you in your bed, then everyone will know that they are not safe.”

“What do we do Matt?”

“We barricade this door and hope to hold them off.”

“But our friends are out there. Are you willing to sacrifice Roasa and Rain to save us?”

“Yes, the crown must survive. They are my friends and I care for them, but the smart move is to protect the rulers so that we can get revenge later.”

“Well I forbid it! I am going to save our friends and I command you to protect me!”

“I won’t let you leave.”

Asna in a moment of anger raises the Royal Blade below Matthew’s chin. The blue lightning glow lights up the room.

“I’m going and if I am your Queen, you will follow.” Asna says with tears rolling down her face.

Matthew steps to her side to allow her to pass. She commands him to lock the door behind them to protect Aero.

Over the next hour, they search the castle quarters looking for assassins. They do their best to lock down all the sleeping quarters. They find three and quickly kill the first two. The last one was taken alive after receiving a shock from the Royal Blade, and Matthew binding him.

Asna has Matthew drag him back to her bedroom.

Once Matthew barricades the door and ties the assassin to a chair Asna begins asking questions. The man tries to keep a tight lip. Matthew punches him!

“No, Ser Matthew. That is not the way.” Asna says.

“That’s why you don’t have what it takes to rule. You will become a harem girl for the next king.” The assassin replies.

“You misunderstand me scum, I have a better way to make you talk.”

She raises the sword; lightning strikes the assassin. She allows it to linger for a moment before ceasing.

The assassin screams in agony and continues after she stops.

She allows him a moment to collect himself. It takes him a minute to stop screaming. Once he does stop, she raises the blade again. As she is electrocuting him, Matthew looks on surprised to see the rage coming from his Queen. She is clearly taking this assassination attempt very personal.

Once she stops the lightning, the man begins to beg as he screams. She has broken him in only a few minutes.

Over the next few minutes, the assassin confesses every detail of the assault. How many assassins there were, how they were assigned to kill all members of the new court, and how several were assigned to bust John Henry out of his cell.

The assassin shares the plan for dawn. Gerwin will ring the castle bells, signaling the death of the King and Queen. Marco and John Henry will walk into the castle together to show stability in the next transition of power. The plan was to pin the assassination on Matthew and execute him before dusk.

The plan was thorough, it just didn’t account for Asna and Matthew not eating the meal.

Asna asks the assassin how long the drug will last, and if there is a cure.

Before he has a chance to answer, Matthew answers for him.

“The cure is a tea brewed from Birchweed root. I’m sure there is some in the kitchen. I will go take care of it and bring it back.”

Matthew leaves and Asna locks herself in.

He returns less than an hour later with tea.

Asna and Matthew position Aero and pour a small amount in his mouth. Aero swallows some of the tea. Over the next few moments, the King wakes up.

He is disoriented, it takes several minutes for him to grasp the situation.

Once he is on his feet, the three of them go room to room administering the tea.

With a little over an hour until daylight, everyone is awake and angry.

“We should attack now.” Ali says

“No. We will set our own trap. Matt, go to the belltower grab Gerwin. Take a few Bellumi guards with you. Hide, allow him to ring the bells then apprehend him. Asna and I will be sitting in the Throne Room waiting on whoever comes.” Aero replies.

“I will go to the cells and make sure that John Henry is secure.” Ali says.

“No, he’s already been freed by now, according to the assassin we captured.” Asna replies.

“Plus, if we were seen down in the cells, we would never get to spring our trap.” Aero adds.   

“And we will punish everyone involved with this assassination attempt!” Asna says angrily.

Bio- Roasa

Bio- Roasa

Roasa is a Durrie traveler. Durrie is an ancient racial slur referring to a group of nomadic travelers that spend their entire lives on the roads of the kingdom. The meaning of the word is lost to history.

Roasa is a beautiful young woman who had just begun her life on the road with her husband Jose, when tragedy hit them. One of the most notorious evil knights in the land, the Red Horn, led a gang of outlaws that robbed them, and killed Jose before Roasa’s eyes.

This event changed her life forever.

All she ever desired was to live life from her wagon with her love, Jose. Once that was lost, she endured a severe grieving period. Her life was given focus again surrounded by Aero, and his envoy to Meego. Along the way she learned hand to hand combat from Ser Matthew and Lieutenant Rain. These skills along with the bloodline magic that makes her hit every target with a bow, makes her a very formidable fighter.

Roasa takes a vow to never take another lover until all the evil knights of the kingdom are defeated. This vow had been conflicting for her because she realizes that she could easily enter into a relationship with Prince Aero.

Like all Durrie women, she has an extraordinarily strong temper and is easily set off in anger, but she is just as fiercely loyal to those she loves.

Notes-

– Roasa was imagined to as a woman defined not by her beauty but her mission for justice. She has an ability to rise above the tragedy of her life and to fight for what’s right.

– Roasa and the Durrie travelers are based upon Latino culture. Their appearance reflects this.

– She was inspired by Sadie Adler from the video game, Red Dead Redemption 2. Both women are widows who refuse to be relegated to a traditional role of a female of their day, and fight and thrive beside the men around them.

– She is often looked at initially as just another pretty face, but this underestimation is something she often uses to her benefit.

First Court

“A coronation is something that is not pressing right now. When William turned over rule of the kingdom to us, we went to work immediately. There is so much to be done, a lavish ceremony would just take too much time and resources right now.” Asna says addressing a member of the court.

“That’s right!” Yorba backs up the Queen.

“The Bend needs renovated immediately, and food must begin pouring in so that all the malnourished children we saw on the way in will be fed. The pomp and circumstance of times past is over. Now is the time to raise the living conditions of all people within our borders.”

A grumbling comes across the court, but no one speaks up against the new queen.

Asna is assertive and controlled. She has trained her entire life for this position, just as all the other daughters of Meego did. She is comfortable in this arena. More so than Aero is, who is a warrior at heart.

“Master at Arms, has anyone reported back in about my father?” Aero asks.

The new Master at Arms is a Bellumi official. He has been placed in the position as part of the negotiation agreement for support. As with all Bellumi people, his position is now his proper name.

“No, my King. The latest report that we received was from last night after the former king left the throne room. One of his comfort women, Gaia reported that he went to the Queen’s Tower and released all his concubines and left. That happened well before midnight, no one has seen him since.”

“Thank you for your report, let me know the moment you receive an update.” Aero replies.

The Master at Arms nods is submission.

“While this court is in session and this has been freshly brought to the attention of all in attendance. I hereby outlaw the practice of a royal having concubines. This is effective immediately and stands for all time.” Asna speaks up.

“But my Queen, shouldn’t the King make that decision? It is his prerogative after all.” A member of the court asks.

Aero begins to speak up, but Asna places her hand on his shoulder as if saying she would handle it.

“I do not care how things were done in times past or the traditions of the crown; but in Meegan tradition, Aero gave himself to me. I will not share him with anyone. He is mine until death. I do not need him to speak for me in this matter.”

All eyes turn to Aero.

“The Queen has spoken, and I agree completely.”

“Now is there any new business from the court?” Asna asks.

A hand rises from the back. It’s a small hand, obviously a woman’s. The Queen calls her forward.

It is Mary, the former next queen.

“My Queen, I am Mary of Northport. My father bid me to come to court to seek an alliance with the new rulers. It is his wish that this alliance be sealed by marriage.”

“Weren’t you the one betrothed to John Henry?”

“I am your grace, that too was my father’s doing, he is trying to secure a good relationship with the crown for the people of Northpoint.”

“Husband, you know this woman, don’t you?”

“Yes, we spent time together as small children. A continued alliance with the people of Northpoint is beneficial to us. That is where the majority of the members of the court live while in the Capital. It is an inroad to essentially every region in the kingdom.”

“Well then, what does your father have in mind?” Asna asks Mary.

“He asks that Prince David takes me as his wife.”

“This is good!” Aero says as he looks over to David standing nearby “I’m excited for you brother, Mary has been a close friend of the family her entire life.”

David slumps where he stands as if a thousand pounds had just been placed on his shoulders. Hesitantly, he speaks “I can’t do this brother. I’m sorry, I am in love with someone else…”

“What? Since when? Who is she?” Aero asks enthusiastically.

“Aero…” Asna calls out to her husband softly but he pays no mind.

“Just someone, I’d rather not say.” David answers heavily.

“Don’t tell me that, I must know.”

“Husband…” Asna calls again.

“I can’t say, please brother…” David replies.

“King Aero, may I have a word?” Roasa speaks up.

“Brother, this is a good thing! You must tell me.” Aero beckons.

“My King…” Ser Stephan tries to grab Aero’s attention, but the king holds his hand up to quiet him.

“Brother, as your King, I command you to tell me.” Aero says jokingly but in a serious tone. The entire court stands at attention as the King awaits an answer.

“Brother… My King… must I?” David begs.

Aero’s curiosity has gotten the best of him “I insist.”

“No, you should respect your brother’s privacy.” Roasa speaks out of turn.

Aero fails to hear her words, and stares at his brother with growing curiosity. Waiting on an answer, David relents “I’m in love with a man.”

The entire court lets out a collective gasp. Prince David has openly admitted to breaking an ancient law, a law that was handed down by King William the Great himself. A law that has stood for thousands of years, and one that carries a penalty of death.

Aero stares in shock, unable to fully grasp what he has just heard from not only his older brother but also the current heir to the crown.

“Who…” Aero slips out.

“Doesn’t matter.” David responds.

David refuses to give up the name of his lover, he is understandably trying to protect him from death. Aero has a million thoughts running through his head, yet he can’t focus on a single one.

“Ser Stephan, did you know this?” He asks.

Stephan hangs his head in shame, unable to answer. His greatest fear is being realized.

“You did know, and you didn’t tell me? How could you?” Aero questions his mentor.

Roasa walks over to the King, she places her hand on his cheek. She draws his gaze to hers. Another embrace between the two that makes evident to all that they could have been lovers.

“He didn’t tell you because he is the lover; but it’s okay.” She says softly.

“My brother and my mentor? How is this possible? This is an offense punishable by death!” Aero says as his emotions get the best of him. “How can I kill two of the most important people in my life?” He asks Roasa as he collapses on the steps to the throne.

Roasa sits by him and holds him as the King weeps.

Roasa looks up to the Queen with tears in her eyes. She is heartbroken for Aero, David, and Stephan, her adopted family from their journey. The men who saved her from certain death. She pleads with the Queen in just a glance, she realizes that the King is too overwhelmed to handle this situation.

Asna steps over to her and her husband. She places her hand upon his shoulder. “This ancient law has seen many good men and women live secret lives in fear that their true nature would be revealed, and they would pay the consequences. It is therefore the decision of the crown to abolish this law and allow love to reign in the hearts and minds of all the people of Avodroc. On behalf of my husband, I pardon Prince David and Ser Stephan and restore their honor and reputations. They will no longer live in fear and shame. The same goes for all who love in this manner. Today, love finally wins.”

Aero looks up at his bride with tears flowing “Can you do that?”

“The only person who could stop me is you. Will you take this step of faith with me?” Asna replies.

Aero stands and embraces his wife. She holds him as he cries. He takes a few moments to collect himself in her embrace.

He turns to his brother, David and walks quickly to him and hugs him.

“You are free to be who you are brother.”

David weeps as feels relief from years of hidden guilt and shame.

Aero hugs Stephan as a sign of forgiveness.

Later in the afternoon, Aero and Asna see off David and Stephan as they head toward the Cave of Brintz on their secret mission for Meego.

But down in the castle dungeon, screams can be heard throughout. They have been going on for hours. A guard finally sent word to Ser Matthew to come.

Matthew approaches the cell that the screaming is coming from “What’s going on?”

“You will let me out commoner! I am the next King!” John Henry shouts.

“You must be forgetting that you dueled your brother for the crown and lost. He knocked you out cold with one punch. You are the king of nothing. The real King, your brother said he would discuss letting you out once you calmed down. Until then, you are going to stay in this cell.”

“I have very powerful friends, Matt… Not only will I be released soon but I will begin my reign! The first duty I will have as King is to remove your head from your body. You may be Aero’s friend but to me, you’re just another deadman.”

“It’s Ser Matthew, not Matt. I’ll leave you alone tonight so that you can learn it. I’ll check on you tomorrow.”

John Henry screams as Matthew walks away. He curses him and threatens him but before Matthew can leave the dungeon, John Henry is pleading with him. Begging for Ser Matthew to come back.

Bio- Ser Matthew

Ser Matthew is an anointed knight from the small town of Two Springs. He is a commoner who’s mother is from Riverbend, the shanty town just outside of the Capital of Blue Water Castle. He never knew his real father. As an infant, his mother moved to Two Springs to keep him from being raised in the Bend. She didn’t want him being forced to live a life of service in the military like so many of the boys from the Bend end up doing. She failed because he was drawn to the Capital as a teenager where he began serving. Over time, his work ethic and dutifulness allowed him to move up the lower ranks.

A chance encounter with Prince Aero on a mission against false knights pillaging the land changed his life. After an intense battle, Aero knighted him to everyone’s surprise. He remains the only man that Aero has ever knighted.

He and Aero became close friends over time, until they became nearly inseparable. A bond that began forming when they became drinking buddies.

Matthew is a heavy drinker; he claims it is to help him numb the faces of the men he has killed in service of the people. He is one of the most skilled fighters in all the kingdom, but his skill causes him to carry a heavy burden. His reputation is that of a drunk, his fighting skill is overlooked.

Everyone has questioned why Aero would anoint such a man, and it is only after they go into battle together that people see the heroic side of Ser Matthew.

He wears only chest and arm armor so that he can move quickly. It is old hand-me-down armor but has refused Aero’s offer to buy him new armor on multiple occasions.

Matthew’s appearance is a light skinned male in his mid-thirties. He has buzzed black curly hair with a heavy black beard, usually sporting a smile on his face and a mug of ale in his hand.

He is a loyal friend, a badass, and comic relief.

Notes-

– I have based many characters loosely on people I know, using some quality from that person to apply to a character… I blatantly based Ser Matthew of Two Springs on a co-worker and good friend Matt Amerson of Double Springs, Alabama.

– Matthew is a complex character that people underestimate. He is funny, yet fierce. Loyal and kind. Despite his love of ale, he is the main moral compass of the story. Ser Matthew will often be the first to take a stand for justice even in the most stressful and confusing moments.

Bio- Ser Stephan

Ser Stephan the Broken Sword is an anointed knight and protector of the heir to the crown, Prince David. He is one of the most famous and respected knights in the entire kingdom. His fame comes from when he was a squire, and he saved the King from an assassination attempt. His sword tip was broken off in that fight; to honor that day, he had a blacksmith fix the sword tip in the way that it was broken. Instead of a point in the middle like most swords, he has a forty-five-degree point. Much like a samurai sword.

He is a large man standing around six feet four inches tall with broad shoulders. He is a black man, in the story dark skin people are known as “burnt ones” because it is believed that they descend from people who were victims of fire magic.

Ser Stephan’s celebrity status has kept most of the rampant racism of the Capital away from him. He doesn’t experience the trauma that most other non-light skinned people have to endure on a daily basis.

Ser Stephan is very close to both Princes David and Aero. He is the personal protector of David, and their relationship goes well beyond a normal friendship, and Aero squired for him for years. Ser Stephan is the man who awarded Aero his knighthood.

Ser Stephan is one of the few true knights in the kingdom. He is a servant to the people of the kingdom and believes in justice for all. Over the years of service, he has gone on many campaigns to defend the people against false knights that prey on the weak.

He has a reputation of being a master swordsman.

Notes-

-Ser Stephan was designed to be an example of a true servant in a world full of fakes.His place of honor was to show the contrast between the people in power and the people of color throughout the kingdom.

-While so many struggles with their position in life, he is the one exception in King William’s court.

-His secret relationship with Prince David was one of the first concepts I had when creating the character.

– He is viewed as a noble man but he is always afraid that his secret will lead to his ruin.

Bio- David

David, is the first born son of King William the thirty-second and a common woman from the Breaker Islands.

David is the heir to the crown. As the future king, he carries himself as such. However, David doesn’t have many close friends because of this. He says and does everything the way that a king should, but it is a heavy burden to him. He is distant because he feels that no one understands what it’s like to carry the weight of the kingdom on their shoulders. A burden that he secretively wishes would be taken from him.

His closest companion is his sworn protector, Ser Stephan the Broken Sword. After years of being in constant contact, David allowed himself to drop the walls he had built up and find a true friend in the anointed knight. That friendship is more than people realize.

David is named after the several kings from the line of succession. David is one of the more popular names for the royal family. His appearance is very much in line with the stereotypical royal- light skin, dark brown to near black hair, blue eyes. His build is smaller than his brothers.

David has spent years with the finest teachers and philosophers in the kingdom preparing to rule. Since he was a boy, everything in his life was intended to give him over to the service of the kingdom.   

Notes-

David’s name is taken from King David in the Old Testament of the Bible. The royal names that I have chosen are typically either from history or a Biblical name.

David, though the future king at the beginning of the story is a secondary character who has some big secrets that he doesn’t want to be known by anyone. This is where so much of his burdens originate from; I wanted David to be a sympathetic character that everyone can relate to as we all have our own secrets to hide.  

Aero and Matt #4- A Knight’s Bar

The laughter can be heard from the streets. The fraternity for the anointed knights of the kingdom, Ser Patrick’s known by his knightly name- Maverick’s is flowing with wine and ale. The drunkenness is evident even from outside.

The door swings open, and no one takes note.

Ser Matthew and Ser Ali enter for a drink.

Once inside they see the place full of men that have been anointed for the service of the kingdom, yet most will never venture out into the kingdom. Most are socialites who were anointed for the single purpose of having access to the fraternity. Maverick’s has become the most exclusive bar in the Capital, despite its intended purpose.

Matthew steps up to the bar to order an ale.

“You got a lot of nerve coming in here!” Someone shouts.

Matthew turns around looking for the body attached to the voice. The room grew quiet when the shout came, everyone is looking at Ser Matthew.

“I said, you got a lot of nerve stepping foot in my bar!” It’s Ser Oliver, the Captain of the Guard of the Fraternal Order of Anointed Knights.

“Why is that? I am an anointed knight, same as you. This is the knight I anointed in Meego, Ser Ali. We are here to drink.” Matthew replies.

“You don’t belong. You’re not a true knight and neither is your desert friend, get out now.” Ser Oliver says.

“No.”

Suddenly Oliver stands up from his elevated seat of honor. The rest of the room follows his lead.

The door swings open again, and Ser Stephan walks in.

He simply walks to the bar and orders three ales. He hands one to both Matthew and Ali. Everyone sits down. Stephan’s reputation carries a lot of weight in the Capital, especially among knights.

However, Ser Oliver in his drunken state cannot handle the indignity.

“I know everyone heard what I said!” Oliver screams.

“Maybe you should calm down a little. I’ll buy your next round.” Ser Matthew responds.

Ser Oliver reaches for his sword that is before him on the table, placed as a trophy before him, it’s more decoration than weapon.

The door opens again.

Aero walks in.

It is a shock to everyone in the place. Aero is supposed to be dead. Of course, while Aero was in the throne room everyone at Mavericks was drinking, oblivious to transition of power.

“You survived Meego?” is heard from the middle of the crowd.

“I did.” Aero replies in passing as he approaches Ser Stephan.

Ser Stephan hands Aero a glass and asks for another.

Ser Oliver stands drunkenly with the hilt of his sword in his hand. “That low-born dirt knight will not take one drink in my bar!”

Everyone turns back to Oliver with undivided attention.

“Are you going to stop him?” Aero asks as he steps toward the seats of honor. “Pick that sword up and stop him, I would love to see Matt beat you in front of everyone.”

Oliver’s eyes grow wide in shock as he has been called out in front of the entire fraternity.

“He doesn’t belong! He is not a real knight!”

“What do you mean? He is the hero of the Battle of Inland Docks.” Aero responds.

“And I saw him defeat the Red Horn Knight in single combat.” Stephan adds.

“Impossible.” Oliver says underneath his breath.

“Tell us Ser Oliver, about your accomplishments in battle?” Aero asks.

“Are you questioning my honor? I am the Captain of the Guard…”

“What honor, have you ever stepped foot on a battlefield? Ever cross swords in a single battle? Tell us your deeds great Captain.”

“I don’t care if you are a prince, I will not stand for this.”

“Then raise your sword against me.”

“I will…”

Stephan, Matthew, and Ali all unsheathe their swords at the mention of a threat against Aero.

About half the room stand and react against them.

“It’s a standoff then.”  Oliver says in relief.

“No, it’s not. This is treason.” Matthew says.

“It’s not treason to stand against a prince, you idiot.”

“Aero is King!” Matthew shouts back.

The knights erupt into laughter.

Aero draws the Royal Blade that ignites with its yellow glow flowing throughout the room. All laughter dies immediately.

“Had you men been doing what a knight is called to do- protect the kingdom and the King then you would have witnessed my father yield the throne to me tonight! But you are a den of drunks, not worthy for the title of knights.” Aero says.

“My… my… my…” Oliver drunkenly studders.

“You! Are no knight at all! If you want to keep your knighthood then you will put your skills to the test, shut up and face Ser Matthew in single combat.”

“I… uh…” Oliver stumbles over his words then hangs his head in shame. He drops his sword on the table.

Ser Stephan steps forward to address the rest of the men in the room “Drop your weapons! You have them drawn against your King!”

The sound of swords hitting the old cobblestone floor is thunderous.

“Oliver, you have been proven to be a false knight. I hereby strip you all your titles, you will leave the Capital tomorrow and return to your home. Claiming to be a knight from this night will be an automatic death sentence. Leave this place, you are not worthy to stand in this hall!” Aero proclaims.

Oliver never looks up as he exits the building.

Aero turns and looks to the several dozen men looking on in shock, to Aero he knows these men. All highborn men of affluence. Each one of them given a title because of the importance of their family name. Not a single true knight among them. The once sacred hall of Maverick’s has been turned into a bar for entitled men who have never served anyone but themselves.

“As of this moment, I decree from the sanctity of this once great hall that all knighthoods are revoked in the Kingdom…”

A small groaning amongst the men can be head but no one speaks up out of fear.

“The crown recognizes these three men as the only true knights, Ser Stephan, Ser Matthew, and Ser Ali. Anyone who wishes to gain their knighthood back must petition one of these men or myself. Leave this place now! Sober up and rethink your entire lives in the morning.” Aero states.

Over the next several minutes the men leave Mavericks in defeat. Their lofty titles that made them feel so important has just been stripped by the new king. The same king that most of these men looked down upon all his life. Aero remembers their taunts- dolphin rider, fin grabber, fish…

Now he has all the power in the kingdom, when they sober up tomorrow they will most likely regret their taunts from years ago.

Once everyone is out, Aero meets with all the knights in the kingdom to discuss the future of Maverick’s.

“Ser Stephan, you are the obvious choice to take over as Captain of the Guard but your duties to David take precedence since he is still the heir for now. So I give the title to the next in line, Ser Matthew. Matt, to ease you into your roll, I name Ser Ali as your First Knight. It will be your job to send out my decree to every corner of the kingdom. To ensure that no false knights are hurting our citizens any longer.”

“Thank you for this position, I take it at your command to better our lands.”

“As new knights come into the fraternity, you and Ali will need to work to place them where they are needed and to send them out on missions. This makes you an official member of the Court now.”

“I know, I am trying to pretend to be excited for the position, this labor of… love…” Matthew says with a coy smile on his face.

“Cheer up Matt, you now run the most exclusive pub in the Capital.”

“Shall we get a drink?” Matthew asks.

“Absolutely, just don’t turn this place into your own personal bar.”

“Yes my King.”

Around the Kingdom #2

Nunley the Hunter

Nunley arrived at Perga Lyne, the big island of the Peel archipelago about a week ago. He is still hunting his trophy; his cape will not be complete until he claims the second wing from Zyno’s back. The problem for Nunley is that there are no Skymen to be found anywhere.

“Ser Nunley, the island is deserted. They are not here.” Says Griff.

Nunley turns to look over his helper. “Deserted? Have you not been paying attention?”

“Yes, no one is here. All we have seen is a few feathers.”

“Really, is that what you believe? You do not pay attention to anything!” Nunley says as he draws a knife. He points it toward Griff then flings it to his right.

The knife sticks in thin air! Nothing is there but the knife digs into something near a tree.

Quickly, Nunley rushes to the spot and grabs the air. Slowly he finds a spot to hold onto. He appears to be choking something invisible.

After a moment, what is in his hands begins to turn visible.

It’s a witch!

“So, the rumors are true, just no one knew where to find you because you are using magic.” Nunley says knowingly.

The witch screams in agony as Nunley slowly twists the blade.

“I know you… You were the old woman at that farm near Roane. You’re just a little greener.”

“Anastasia?”

“She went by Ann, she’s dead now.”

“What did you do to my sister?”

“The same thing I’m going to do to you if you do not tell me where the Skymen are.”

“Never!”

“Where are all the witches? I’ve only felt you since we arrived.”

“I’ll never tell you anything!”

“Really, then you are no use to me.” He begins choking her again.

She tries to wave her hand in the air as if to perform a spell but Nunley takes the knife out of her side and jams it through her hand into the tree he has her pinned against. He resumes choking her.

“Ser Nunley, give her another chance to talk!” Griff shouts as he tries to pull his arms away from her throat.

“No need, I know all I need to know.”

Griff stands back and watches the brutality of Nunley. He slowly chokes the life out of the old witch. Griff can tell how much Nunley is enjoying this.

After she dies, Nunley takes the knife out of the tree and cuts a lock of her almost wooden hair as a trophy. He has become a witch slayer.

“Griff, if the birdmen aren’t here there is only one place they can be… and we are on our way.” Nunley says.

“Where?” Griff asks.

“The Great Forge you idiot!”

The Kind Old Man

The old man walks the streets of the Bend unsure of where he is going. Unsure of where to lay his head down to sleep and where his next meal will come from. So he walks, just passing through he tells himself as he looks around at all the families. This is not his home; he knows he needs to keep moving.

He rounds the street to find a middle age lady struggling to carry several large sacks.

“Ma’am, may I help you?” he asks.

“I don’t want to be of any trouble to you kind sir.” She replies.

“It’s no problem at all, ma’am. In fact, I insist.” He says as he grabs three of the five bags.

“This is laundry for the kids of the home I run.”

“But there is so many, how many kids do you have?”

“Eighteen, I know it’s a lot, but they need a roof over their heads, it’s hard to turn them away.”

“How many people do you have helping you?”

“It’s just me.”

“I’m sorry to hear that…” the old man asks as if he is trying to get her name.

“Kate, and you are?”

“They call me… Willy. Named after King William the Sixteenth.”

“So you’re from the Bend?”

“A long time ago, I am a traveler now. Home is where I lay my head now. I’m headed west.”

“Well, Willy. It’s awful late to be traveling, I have an extra bed you can sleep in tonight, it’s the least I can do for your kindness. I insist.”

“Yes ma’am, I can’t turn down the offer of a warm bed.” The old man replies.

They arrive at Kate’s home that has been converted into an orphanage and spend the next several hours tending to the kids together. Once they finally get all the small children to sleep, they sit down at the dinner table and drink Bitterroot ale, a common drink among the people of Riverbend.

They laugh as they get to know each other. It is a welcome escape for both as their lives have them pulled in so many unexpected directions. At last Kate stands up and removes her gown. She stands naked before the old man. He stands and embraces her.

He grabs her hands, looks her in her eyes and with compassion speaks “You are the most beautiful woman I have ever laid eyes on, but I am not worthy of you. I do not deserve the touch of any woman right now, so I must decline your offer. But I hope to find closure on this journey, and if I do… Then I would love to return to you. I know you don’t understand now, but I promise I have to do this.”

With tears in her eyes, she puts her gown back on, and goes to bed alone.

The old man lies in the bed that she had set aside for him.

When she awakens the next morning, the old man is gone.

He left behind three gold pieces for her.

Marco

He ran out of the throne room when William announced Aero as the King, and he has been running ever since.

“To the bunker, we will be safe there.” He tells Gerwin.

So, they run through the side streets of the Capital, making sure to stay out of sight. He will be named a fugitive soon and must not be spotted. After about twenty minutes of sneaking they arrive at a secret bunker. A place used by the Covenant to convene in the Capital; only eight to ten people know about.

Once inside, Marco tries to process the events of the night. He paces the floors to the dank hideaway. How could this have happened? Marco has envisioned himself a mastermind, but he was caught off guard.

“Sir, we need to send a letter to your father immediately.” Gerwin says interrupting Marco’s thoughts.

“No!” he shouts. “I will fix this, don’t you worry. These outsiders my have gotten a good laugh on us, but I will get the last laugh! I already have a plan; I will need a list of all the castle staff that are loyal to us.”

“Yes Sir, anything else?”

“I want an alchemist to mix me up a large batch of that sleep ointment used for working on injured soldiers.”

“Yes Sir, anything else?”

“Yes, I will need a key to the castle cells. We will put John Henry on the throne yet!”

“Yes Sir, one of the guards will come shortly to check on us. I will get everything you need.”

“Good, now leave me alone.”

A Crimson Conversation

“He said that he could teach David how to perform the magic spells needed to break the curses.” Ali tells Asna.

“Why David?” She asks.

“There is magic in the king’s family, he said it would be the strongest.”

“Do you think he will be willing?” Asna asks.

“He will as long as Ser Stephan goes with him.” Aero adds.

“Then we will ask him tomorrow.” Asna relies.

“Agreed.” Says Aero. “I’m going to check in with Matt, excuse me.”

“So, Ali what was he like? Was he every bit as frightening as Aero said?” Asna asks with curiosity.

“He was terrifying at first, the most intimidating sight I have ever seen.”

“But?”

“He was so gentle and caring. He has a true heart for the Kingdom. He really does believe in the King.”

“Good, I am going to have to find a way to meet him.”

“Yes, my Queen.” Ali replies.

Aero and Matt plan a Bar Trip

“Well that went better than expected.” Aero says as he puts his hand on Matthew’s back.

“My King.” Matthew says as he attempts to kneel.

“Stop that Matt, let’s not get caught up in all that stuff.”

“Okay.”

“How was Crimson?”

“Scary and talkative.”

“I’m sure he was, what was his reaction to me sending you?”

“At first, he was surprised you broke your vow, but he quickly seemed honored to be able to help. After he agreed, he asked for every detail since you left the cave.”

“And you told him of course.”

“Yes! Whatever to keep him happy!”

“Indeed, I am so glad he’s friendly because he would be a handful to stand against.”

“Yes, my King.”

“So, how do you feel about going and getting a drink?”

“I have been thinking of Grove Stone for days. I am ready.”

“Not tonight, we have business to attend to at Maverick’s.”

“You mean to arrest your enemies?”

“I mean to test their loyalty, perhaps arresting them wouldn’t be severe enough.”

“I will follow you anywhere.”

“Gather up Ali and Stephan, we need to have some knights to watch our backs. I am going to speak with Asna and let her know that we need to strike while they are unaware.”

Matthew steps over to the other knights and speaks with them while Aero speaks to Asna and Roasa about the plan. As the King and his men depart for Maverick’s Roasa whispers to Asna “He will be drunk when he gets home tonight.”

Atop Tree City

It is near the midnight hour and the blind old man face the Meego Light shining in the distance. The old Skyman platform serves as a great place of reflection. As he thinks back on the past months since he met Aero, he has watched from afar. Like a master chessman, he has moved pieces into position.

He thinks back upon his work. The Kingdom has the right King and Queen on the throne, the crown possesses the Royal Blade for the first time in eight hundred years, the Skymen have returned to the mainland, and his ultimate goal is near. He blindly looks over that steady light of Meego’s curse in the distance and whispers to himself.

“Soon.”