《Forged In Lightning》 Primo Principium "Fuck" He slammed his fist on his desk, the mouse jumping. Aegeon pushed against the desk, his chair sliding back, his posture upturned, his hands on his forehead, eyes closed, a big breath from his mouth and a groan that followed. "Oh well" He spoke languidly, going back and squinting his eyes, it wasn''t like this was the first time it happened, Aegeon steeled his nerves, reading the words on the screen. You died < Unique Achievement unlocked: Slay the Demon god of Avarice> "Fuck" The rage that once consumed him flickered. "unbelievable" He shook his head. Aegeon pulled open a drawer from his desk, grabbing a weathered leather-bound notebook. The pen was carefully attached, Aegeon yanked it off and opened it to the bookmark. He put a strike through Attempt 3657 and carefully wrote down every step that took him to his screen.Results: Achievement, Furthest Attempt, Death by cutscene Aegeon only wrote the notable attempts down, if he hadn''t his room would be littered with notebooks. It wasn''t like this was his first death nor his 3657th, but it was the most rage inducing. A death that came during a cutscene? An unavoidable death that came regardless of what you could have done. It would be a miracle if he wasn''t peeved. As the last player of the godforsaken game, he had exhausted all other avenues, then what could he have done wrong? He wondered and thought and pondered. The light on his screen flickered, new words appearing. [Congratulations on killing Avarice!] His hand hovered over new game hesitating. Deminos 6 a game that was cruel and unforgiving,Npc dropped like flies, important npcs had no plot armor, and all previous protagonists had either died or fallen to corruption. A world where heroes were rare, and kindness was even scarcer. A permanent battlefield between the forces of good versus evil. Where even the Angels want to kill you. Every game had the same objective, kill the Demon gods terrorizing the world. The caveat, the demon gods were concepts that couldn''t fully be killed, only granting peace for a limited time. One must imagine Sisyphus happy. The devs promised this would be the final one, the one to lead the world to salvation, as a die-hard fan of the series, he wanted to finish the final one. All other games were completed, why couldn''t six be?This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it If that''s all completing the game would be simple enough, but the ai of the ads learn, bosses adapt to your fighting style, every dialogue option matters. If you die your character gets deleted. Even taking the wrong herb could get you killed six quests down. A dumb and needlessly hard game. Aegeon grabbed his pen and wrote a new entry into his notebook, new difficulty. This wasn''t necessarily a bad thing; to progress you had to ramp up the difficulty, every setting unlocked a new path to progress. His hand went back to his mouse, he pressed on new game. The difficulties mocking him, Hard Hardest, Outrageous, Realistic, he clicked on Realistic. ''That was odd'' It had never asked Aegeon for his consent, he clicked yes. The way the computer spoke started to creep him out, a normal person would have turned off his computer, but as a man that spent five years just trying to find the path to the first boss. He was determined to progress. After all, how difficult could it get? He clicked yes. Aegeon clicked his tongue "Dramatic" He muttered, it seems like the Devs did have a sense of humor. He customized his character to look like him, the only change being the incandescent blue eyes, and the storm-colored hair. His mouse hovered over class, Priest, Druid, Necromancer, Paladin, Crusade, Mage, Wizard, Sorcerer, Swordsman, Barbarian, Thief, Rogue. Aegeon chose Paladin, not only was it the most well-rounded class being able to heal and tank; while doing a good amount of damage, but it also opened the most doors. In a world where Angels occasionally descended, paladins were widely respected. Next Aegeon went to stat allocation. Paladin 15 + 10 + 10+ 10 + 15 + He put fifteen points on faith and 5 in health. Paladin 20 10 15 10 30 As for his reasons for putting most points in faith, Aegeon wasn''t planning on getting hit, especially considering most things one shot you anyways. Next was the name. Name: ¡õ¡õ?¡õ??¡õ He pressed enter, the screen went black, and thunder roared. ''A storm?'' Last Aegeon checked it was sunny outside; he looked at his boarded-up windows. He looked down, his computer was off. Aegeon looked around, anything that required electricity was turned off. His generator must have blown. F*** he cursed loudly, if Aegeon was being honest it was about time it broke down, yet right before a new path was unlocked was extremely unlucky. Aegean''s hairs started standing on end, a metallic taste entered his mouth, his nose noticed the scent of chlorine reminiscent of a pool. His screen started to cackle, along with his tower and lamp. Crack! "Oh shit" Lightning crashed from his roof striking him in the chest. Hiems Congelata Cold. It wasn''t the type of cold you experience from the ac blaring in your car or your room, it was a cold that seeped into your skin, it even felt like it was digging into his soul. His eyes opened; the darkness that consumed him gone. Snow? How was it snowing in his room? Oh, that''s right I Died This didn''t look like hell, a musty cave and a blaring blizzard outside the entrance, it sure as heck didn''t feel like Heaven. Where the hell was he? Better yet, when will he stop freezing. Could he start a fire here? He couldn''t tell what type of material the cave was made of, starting a fire would be more dangerous than not. Regardless Aegeon didn''t want to freeze to death, he started to think. Could I be in Deminos? God, he hoped not. that was the common trope, sucked into a game. How original he lamented. He checked his own body; he wasn''t wearing shirt, He had fur pants. His arms were marked with blue lines, formed like lightning. Clearly the lightning had something to do with his transmigration, he remembered the computers words. Did I sell my soul? He hit yes, twice. That damn deceptive computer didn''t mention he was really going to be in the game. No, he prayed he wasn''t in Deminos. Just because he was in a different world, didn''t mean it had to be Deminos, he denied his reality fervently. < Stat Divinity unlocked, Pray to Replenish your Divinity> A screen appeared before his very eyes, white words and a blue background. It looks like Demino''s system, but that doesn''t mean it is. Prayer? My god? "Status" He spoke aloud, his cheeks flushed. He felt like a weirdo saying it out loud. ??? 1 20 10 15 10 10 30This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. The status seemed the same as Deminos, but it could just be a coincidence. Yup just a coincidence, his class had question marks in it. He swore he choose Paladin; the fact he could pray was already telling his class was something similar. He got on his knees and closed his eyes, the cold blasting against his skin. "Oh, merciful light grant me your warmth, for thy sword to slay his enemies" He reverently prayed. Nothing. He clicked his tongue, his casual prayer granted him divinity, so it wasn''t an issue with him. Wrong god? That was a problem, as many demons as there were, there were gods. Think. He looked at his arms, an idea sprang in his head. A slight problem, he had only ever been a paladin of the light god, he only knew their epithet. Would his god be merciful enough to accept the prayers of someone not even knowing their divine name? His knees seemed frozen on the ground he closed his eyes again " You who punish the wicked, you who save the oppressed you who punish evil, grant me warmth for I am your sword for I am your shield for I am your Knight" Lvl.2> The cold disappeared as if it was never there, his body heated up evaporating any of the snow around him. Great, Aegeon thought, he was a paladin to a god he didn''t even know, one that spoke as if it knew him. A new class? One he had never heard of before, was this the way to complete the game? Not that it mattered, this wasn''t Deminos. He prayed again, giving thanks to his god. When in Rome do what the Romans do. If this was the way to grow his power, he didn''t mind pledging allegiance to his god for the remainder of his stay. Oops He thought of his skills and a description showed up. He got up from his knees, he stretched out his hand thinking about a spear. Lighting formed around his hand the scent of ozone filled the cave, Lightning cackled as it turned into a spear. He moved it around. It felt weird like holding something that was solid that wasn''t. Aegean also felt a weird kinship with his spear. Lightning blood was obviously a passive, and even if it wasn''t he had no clue how to use it. Well, it seemed cool enough as it was. He could feel his divinity draining slowly, as he held his spear. He dissipated it with a thought and prayed reverently until his divinity was replenished. Now that the glaring cold wasn''t a problem anymore, he could now think clearly. Winter was rare in Deminos, a smile unconsciously formed on his face. A deal was struck between the Sun god, and the winter god, to keep winter eternally in the very north, and only occasionally in the south. Could this mean he was in the north? Maybe, but he doubted it, all of the games took place in the central region where winter was strictly banned by the Light god. He delusionally chuckled. An awkward look appeared on his face; he looked outside. The question was, should he leave now, or practice his skills to max? His stomach rumbled; Aegean''s question was answered, but a new one arose. How could lightning be hungry? He shook his head and stepped out, the snow around him evaporating, the ground he walked on clearing. It was strange that the grass didn''t char but he wasn''t one to question a god-given skill. The lightning coated his bare feet like an invisible Sandal. He looked up into the twin suns, the goofy grin on his smile froze. A coincidence, a lot of places have two suns. He smiled again trying to convince himself, he looked further and saw the gold arch in the distant skies, the smile was wiped from his face. Fuck it is Deminos. Eos Ergo Som Well, that''s not good. Then where the hell am I? Winter... Think, think, if I don''t know where I am I''m screwed. "AHH." He roared, why did it have to be this trash game? Why couldn''t it be something like sim craft he lamented, maybe it was also a bit foolish to scream on a snowy mountain, on second thought, the snow from the avalanche would probably melt on contact anyways, he shrugged. Hush you, oh right I was ignoring you. He shook his head and clapped his cheeks. ''Fighting.'' He thought to himself pumping his fist in the air. Acknowledging a voice in your head is the first step to the insane asylum. He clasped his hands together and prayed "Oh heavenly lightning, may your unwavering spear be guided to food" A simple but modest prayer, he unconsciously smiled, his mouth watering at the thought of meat. Lightning roared above the forest to the right of him, he looked at its direction, "I was hoping for a skill." He grumbled his smile somewhat stiffening, or food neatly placed Infront of him, something along the lines that lightning feels no hunger. He rolled his eyes in slight acknowledgement, Aegeon frowned, his next move was to hike down into the forest. The problem being everything can kill you in this game even the vegetation. "Thats okay." He lied to himself. He looked at his skills again and pondered, remembering the description of lightning spear, and smiled, he stretched his hand, lightning gathered in his hands cackling and frying anything around it, turning snow into water. A lightning snowboard formed in his hand, Lightning can be cold, or hot, he thought in his head, it can be steady or fast, patient or reckless, his eyes glowed blue. He smiled, thinking of the skill, the description was displayed before his very eyes. He put the snowboard beneath his feet and rode the lightning down the mountain, a smile graced his lips as he was reminded of his adventurous youth. If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. He turned the snowboard coming to a power slide and braking, dissipating his snowboard, he got on his knees and prayed to replenish his divinity. Maybe, praying with his hands clasped had the same effect, but praying on his knees just felt right. Lvl.3> Hunting. Aegeon was many things, but a hunter was not one of them. A spear was meant to be thrown was it not? Maybe that was the wrong thinking, after all what he had was a spear not a javelin, and he also wasn''t a certain god-king philander, his weapon was not forged through myth, but just his normal mortal lightning wielding hands. Yet something told Aegeon if he threw a lightning spear, it would certainly kill a normal animal, but was Deminos known for normal animals? Not really. He could only pray to his stalkerish god that this was a normal forest. Definitely a normal forest, he thought to himself. Yeah" He reaffirmed, salivating at the thought of cooked deer. If this was anything like earth the bears would be hibernating, yeah because Earth and Deminos are very much alike, Aegeon gleefully lied. He stood at the entrance to the forest, took a deep breath and walked, and he walked, until he stopped when he heard a twig snap. Lightning immediately formed in his hand. His head turned locking onto a small ugly humanoid green skinned creature that could only be described as a goblin. Aegeon held his spear in one hand and launched it, the spear sizzled in the air cackling as it tore through the air impaling itself in the goblin''s forehead dragging itself into the tree before dissipating and reappearing in his hand. There was no time to be happy, Aegean knew that goblins only roamed in packs, and if it wasn''t roaming that only made it worse, that meant there was a goblin den nearby. Like clockwork, goblins appeared one by one, from bushes surrounding him, brandishing small machetes and kukri knives. They spoke in intelligible sounds that, were like animals. He twirled his spear, undeterred by the small dwarf like creatures. "My lord I offer you this victory" He prayed before battle, he moved swiftly cutting across the one Infront of him, half his body fell over onto the ground the other cauterized, his spear evaporating the very blood as it struck. He felt as if he was about to be struck from behind, he moved and sidestepped it gliding his spear along it, bringing it to decapitate the goblin, he stepped forward appearing Infront of the next goblin. A spear was made for range, so he pierced his next foe, the heart piked on his spear slipping from the lightning. He spun the spear again, two this time, they attacked him together his spear came down on the first and then brought up to kill the second. Three more, he systematically moved as they tried to surround him, killing them with finesse and skill. He swept his feet knocking the last on the floor before piercing its skull with his spear. Their bodies dissipating into lightning. The lightning vanishing from his hand. Lvl.5> He closed his eyes and reverently prayed to his god replenishing his Divinity. The spear skill came in handy he thought to himself, it felt as if he had been fighting with a spear for years. He thanked his god and looked around, unfortunately, there were no spoils as he gave his spoils to his greedy god. He shook his head, with a fight as loud as that, there were going to be no sane animals around, and he doubted that there weren''t any goblins not coming. The fight proved to let Aegeon know more than one thing, first it was good to know that Aegean could at least mildly defend himself, another being that goblins inhabited this forest. He started to walk away when he stopped, spotting something he wasn''t supposed to see. Miles Erran Yidleaf trees He frowned, the issue didn''t lie with the tree itself, the problem being that the tree was only native to Eos, winter in the city of Dawn was unheard of. Deminos one, three, five and six took place around or in Eos, his assumption of a place far removed from problems was unfounded. No, maybe he''s wrong, yeah, the person that catalogued all of his steps and knew every single herb by heart is wrong. He smiled with newfound confidence. Obviously Aegean was wrong, he was clearly in trouble and denial got him nowhere, so where was he? Rather when was he? Was he ahead or behind six? The most likely response was before, as there was only one ever case of winter near Eos. And after, well after would mean that the world had already ''ended''. Aegeon had a problem, a very big problem, while he knew everything about six, his knowledge of the other games was superficial, he only knew enough to complete the various puzzles and lore related progression missions. "HELP!" A man''s scream was heard coming from north of his location. Must have been the wind, he rubbed his nose and continued his pondering. "SOMEONE HELP BANDITS!" The same voice heard beyond the trees. A demon pretending to be human? Luring kind souls to their deaths, Aegeon thought very rationally. Ignore it, he has bigger problems to worry about. "Help please" The voice begged pitifully. "So, yidtrees" He exhaled, his inner humanity warring with him, the scent of burning wood reached his nose. "Fine" He groaned, Aegeon turned towards the voice, and started moving, it wasn''t pity or newfound kindness Aegeon grasped, but a desire for rewards, yeah rewards, he confirmed while nodding. Past the trees near the screams were well trodden roads, and even further was the sight, Aegean was searching for, a group of bandits surrounding a merchant troupe. Some with swords, some with torchers and others with daggers, all assaulting a merchant caravan. Aegeon clasped his hands together upon reaching his destination and prayed before fighting, dedicating his victory to his god. He outstretched his hand, his fingers grasping thunder out of thin air, his spear formed from lightning, cackling and frying the air around it. Should he issue a one liner? Something cool to debut his hero career? Or should he adopt a silent type of persona? Well, it wasn''t hard for the socially awkward loser who hadn''t spoken to another human in ten years to decide. He grabbed his spear and pulled back, his hand clasping thunder, his feet planted firmly, one forward, his muscles tensed, he breathed out. A cold breath in the everlasting winter extinguished by the raw flames of thunder. Bang! The spear tore through the air like lightning descending from heaven. It drilled right into a bandit taking him, out and going for another, a two piece.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. Cool Lightning once again gathered in his hand. "Who the hell do you think you are?" A big burly man spoke, one dressed in rusted armor, and a great sword in his hand, clearly, he wasn''t intimidated by a man wielding a lightning bolt. "Do you even know who you are messing with?" Experience points? Joking aside, this was clearly a fallen knight, a small bandit team led by a fallen knight could spell trouble. Maybe they were even part of a larger organization, one with an even scarier boss. "Darkness grant me strength" The old knight whispered, he pounded his right breast and pulled out a dark flame and then slammed it on his blade, his great sword was engulfed in black fire, he rolled his shoulder and grabbed his sword with his two hands. "It''s been a while since I killed a cultist" Huh? Me a cultist? Aegeon couldn''t help but laugh, the thought even grating to him. I the paladin of the great light a cultist? Dark clouds gathered, above him, thunder rumbling in the distant, lightning flashing in the sky as if to feel his anger for him. "Dare you call me a cultist?" Aegeon flashed Infront of him lightning trailing every step, bringing his spear down, the knight brought his blade up to defend. Clang! His spear was repelled, he recovered and stepped back. "My turn" A grin plastered on the old bastard''s face, He brought up his great sword over his shoulder before bringing it down cutting through the air, Aegeon raised his spear to defend, his knees bending, the ground beneath him cracking, his muscles tensed and bulging, his teeth clenching. Heavy. A bead of sweat rolled down his forehead. He could feel his stamina drained from blocking that blow, he really hoped that this was like the game, he pushed up with gusto and back stepped, before slashing in an arc. Miss. He brought it down from the right and then brought it up from left, his spear barely grazing his armor, the old man stepped back with one foot and then swiped from the right cleaving the air Infront of him. Aegeon dodged and moved to his back, causing the old man to turn and immediately block his thrust, range thought Aegeon, he continued to try to pierce him with a flurry of thrust. The old man blocked and counterattacked, Aegeon used his swiftness to keep on dodging. "Stay still you bastard" Aegeon twirled his spear and held it behind his arm like a glaive. "What the hell are you all watching for? I''m not a knight anymore" The old man screamed towards his subordinate''s, the other bandits, that were only previously watching started to surround him. Shit He swung, cutting the arms off of one, before turning and blocking the blade of another, kicking his knee inward, he swung his thunderbolt cutting off the head of another, unfortunately as he fought a lucky bandit cut the back of his leg. He groaned starting to feel overwhelmed, the old bastard just watching slowly walking towards him with a stupid grin. "Found him" Aegeon turned towards the voice, a group of knights covered from head to toe in silver armor arriving, led by a golden-haired handsome knight, the sigil on his chest one of a lion roaring covered in blue and red, his armor melting the snow that even dared to touch him. Sir Gedeon, Aegean''s eyes sparkled, wait Sir Gideon, this young? Forget, being before Deminos six, this was way before Deminos One. The knights surrounded, the bandits and slowly killed them one by one, before encircling the old man, a foe that was given him so much trouble was easily dealt with by the knight order. They made him go on his knees pushing him roughly. "YYOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO TREAT ME LIKE THIS YOU BASTARDS" He screamed, his saliva flying everywhere. "You have betrayed the golden order" An old gentlemen knight read from a scribe. "I STILL BEAR THE SIGIL, MERCY PLEASE" The fallen knight begged drawing attention to his faded lion sigil. "Your sentence is death" The gentlemen knight drew his blade and cut off the fallen knight''s head. A bit anticlimactic The merchants gathered around the knights thanking them profusely. Hey, what about me? Aegeon thought. Where''s my xp? The system uncharacteristically responded. Were monsters about to arrive? Aegeon questioned the air. The bandit corpses were all around them Aegeon glanced at the golden-haired knight a fervent gaze in his golden eyes, the words that Aegeon wanted to speak were caught in his throat, it was his first time seeing his favorite character in real life. The Lightkeeper. As he began to make the motions to speak, the Lightkeeper raised his rapier into the sky "Light bless my blade, grant me your favor once more, in vanquishing evil" His charming voice rang out, holy light surrounded his sword gathering around the blade. Sir Gideon, the bandits are dead Aegeon wished to say, the words unable to leave his mouth, his vision turned upside down, his eyes met a headless corpse still standing, weird fur pants, blue markings, and an odd sense of familiarity, like looking at a mirror. His hand instinctively grasped for his own throat. Oh fuck Mors Memento Cold. It wasn''t the type of cold you experience from the ac blaring in your car or your room, it was a cold that seeped into your skin, it even felt like it was digging into his soul. His eyes opened; the darkness that consumed him gone. Snow? How was it snowing in his room? Oh, that''s right I Died. This didn''t look like hell, a musty cave and a blaring blizzard outside the entrance, it sure as heck didn''t feel like Heaven. Where the hell was he? Better yet, when will he stop freezing. Could he start a fire here? He couldn''t tell what type of material the cave was made of, starting a fire would be more dangerous than not. Regardless Aegeon didn''t want to freeze to death, he started to think. Huh? A weird sense of incongruity overtook him, something felt wrong, felt off about this whole situation as if it wasn''t his first time here. He reached for his throat, tapping it, making sure his head was still a part of his body, a dream? A nightmare? A strange pervasive sense of Deja vu? Could I be in Deminos? God, he hoped not. that was the common trope, sucked into a game. How original he lamented. He checked his own body; he wasn''t wearing shirt, He had fur pants. His arms were marked with blue lines, formed like lightning. He frowned, these thoughts, didn''t feel new, it was like repeating from a script He outstretched his hand, like it was second nature to him and pulled out a bolt of lightning from the air. Was it a premonition, no it didn''t feel like fortune telling, Aegeon spoke the magic word. "Status" Storm Dancer 2 21 + 11 + 16 + 11 + 11 +The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. 16 + 31 + His progress was saved, was it regression? Should he test it? His hand holding the spear hovered over his heart as if to self-impale. Right, this stalker is here with him, his frown deepening. Light bearers were named paladins of the Church of Hest, worshiping the great god of light. Thunder rumbled in the distance. Aegeon thought that made sense, if this was really before Deminos One, the gods hadn''t banded to together to fight against the Demon gods yet, and even if he was a part of the sacred Church of Thunder and Lightning, he had no sigil to prove it. Still to be killed by Sir Gideon the light keeper felt surreal, and the fact he never got that cooked deer made him feel worse, not a word was exchanged before his head was cut off, he instinctively rubbed his throat. Regression was not a skill he was granted, so how did he get it? His eyes metaphorically moved towards the nonexistent visage of his god. He continued to ''stare'' his eyes piercing the ''invisible'' veil. He thought of the skill; it displayed its meaning. It was good to know Aegeon couldn''t theoretically die, but if he really thought about it, this wasn''t good news, this meant he was eternally trapped in this damned game even if he died. Even death would not grant Aegeon freedom. "Ah whatever" he loudly exclaimed I''ll get to it when I get to it, for now Aegeon has other things to worry about, one is that his knowledge about the timeline was completely useless. A sigh left his lips, he was hungry, and the forest was not a good place to be, yet if his god pointed towards the forest, then could it really be that bad. Yes, it could be, maybe Aegeon should farm the goblins grow strong and sweep the whole damn continent. "Humph" He snorted, Aegeon walked outside the cave and snowboarded down with his lightning. Once again, Aegeon slayed the goblins. Lvl.6> Aegeon stood Infront of the Yidleaf tree. Like clockwork the man''s scream was heard coming from north of his location, the knights would arrive and help them anyways, he continued to study the tree. Now that Aegeon knew the approximate time of when he was, the winter made sense, the sun god still hadn''t won against the winter god and his allies. If rescuing those merchants wasn''t a good idea, then his only choice left was to explore, or destroy the goblin den, Aegeon wasn''t one to leave free xp unchecked, besides, the only good goblin is a dead one. "Now where would a goblin den be?" He whispered as he looked around, he started to walk around aimlessly, until he spotted smoke rising. Please don''t be a human camp. He crossed fingers and prayed, goblins and a whole lot of them Aegeon confirmed as a smile appeared on his face. The smile on his face faltered as soon as he spotted something. Why am I so unlucky? Fovea Goblinorum Good news, Aegeon found the den, bad news, it was packed to the brim with the disgusting little creatures and worse was that they had a war chief as a leader. A goblin war chief was a bigger uglier goblin the size of an ogre, usually they only presided over medium sized tribes, which was why it was such a surprise to find him in a smaller tribe. Fun. His lips twitched Well it''s never too late for Aegeon to click his red heels and think that there''s no place like home. How the hell do you know that. He shook his head focusing on the important things, should he? He touched his throat, he couldn''t even see Sir Gideon cut off his head, he didn''t even feel it, could he really fight a war chief unscathed? Even the old bastard wasn''t necessarily defeated by him, he only stood his ground. He shrugged; you only live once. Not that the saying applied to him, He smirked, his hand outstretched, lightning forming at his fingertips, frying the snow and air around him, the scent of ozone filling the area. He prayed to his god, promising them this victory, his eyes opened lighting flashing in his pupils, he stood before the entrance his steps light and fast. "Intruder" the intelligible goblin probably said, pointing at him with its tiny spear, the two guards at the entrance roared and charged, a third behind him grabbed a small horn from their waistband and signaled the horn. He swatted its tiny spear and impaled it in the head skewering both goblins on his lightning spear, before pulling it back and throwing it towards the third, the spear whizzed before striking the other in its forehead. Lvl.6> Aegeon shoulder charged the little gate that they had, his eyes scanning the area, it was a small goblin tribe, huts scattered about, a covered campfire in the middle, and the goblins mingling with each other.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. To the goblins, he probably looked like the monster, an invader trampling on their peace, there was no pity in Aegeon''s mind the only good goblin is a dead one. So, he killed, and killed, and he killed some more, they rushed to the armory, to get armed to repel this intruder, but Aegeon didn''t care, the thought that the goblins could breath the same air as him infuriated him. Aegeon struck one down after the other and when he was done, he burned their tents. Five quickly surrounded him, as the others struggled to put out the fires, he twirled his spear, the lightning singing the surroundings, he stabbed towards the first goblin, it tried to block only to fail and get stabbed in the throat, he pulled back and blocked an attack from another goblin, its blade melting from Aegeon''s spear, Aegeon swiped impaling its knee, before pulling it back and stabbing another goblin, the last goblin turned and ran. "HUMAN WHY HAVE YOU INVADED US" The footsteps of the War chief seemed to shake the earth with each step. "Does man need a reason to kill beasts?" He readied his spear and looked at the war chief, a big, towering goblin with a giant club, dressed in cloth, scars all over his body and a harness made from bones. Aegeon prayed silently dedicating this victory to his god. "You humans are all the same, arrogant with nothing to back it." The goblin growled, he swung his giant club, the force tearing the wind around him, Aegeon dodged, a crack in the floor where he had been. The goblin laughed "Run little man, run" It smiled, its ugly canines poking out. Aegeon twirled his spear and jumped, the goblin tried to swat him and connected, Aegean crashed into a tree, he coughed out lightning. One more hit like that, and I''ll die He wiped his mouth from the nonexistent blood, getting up readying himself a spear formed in his right hand, his body feeling sore all over. "Puny human" The goblin laughed, its massive body undulating. Aegeon chuckled, throwing the spear He flashed and caught the spear as it was about to be swatted, he turned and dodged the giant club, stabbing the giant goblin in the shoulder, he left the spear there and rolled out of the way, he stood up letting the spear dissipate and reappear in his hand. Thank god, goblins didn''t wear armor. "AHHH" the goblin roared, "so the little mosquito has a sting" He stomped his feet and readied to swing again, Aegeon glided under his club, and swiped at his feet making it bleed, the goblin stumbled back swinging again. Aegeon rolled out of the way and threw his spear, the goblin hit it out of the way, the War Chief growled "Stay still puny human" He swung again from his left side, Aegeon knew blocking it meant death so he dodged to the side, attacking the goblins hand, he then pulled it back and threw a spear at his shoulder, he could feel his divinity slowly depleting, he had to end this quick. The goblin started to breath heavy, it was wounded all over, offense Aegeon thought, his body heavy his muscles sore, he was tired. This needed to end, and it needed to end fast, Aegeon once again jumped up, this time twisting his body to dodge the goblins swing, he stepped on the club and jumped up stabbing the goblin chief in its eye, he pushed back on his head and jumped backwards as the goblin tried to grab him. The goblin pulled out Aegeon''s spear and tossed it to the ground. He could feel it, he was one hit away from killing the giant goblin, just when he thought victory was in hand. He rushed forward to get the final hit; the goblin swung unexpectantly. oh shit. Was the last thing he thought before his vision went dark. Tonitrus Fremit Aegeon sprang up, same musty cave, new unbridled anger, his eyes flashed blue, lightning dancing in his pupils. HIs breath visible, on the cold cave, his fist clenched his teeth gritted, Aegeon felt like screaming, a fallen knight was acceptable, but to die to a filthy goblin? He bit his tongue, lightning slowly leaking from his mouth. Dark clouds formed outside circling around the cave, thunder rumbled, and lightning flashed. He lowered his head and closed his eyes praying softly "Lightning grant me strength" he muttered repeatedly like a mantra. Calm down He whispered softly repeating it as if he was a broken record. He exhaled a breath and sighed a flash of anger surged before gritting his teeth, his foot pressed on the floor as he turned and threw a Lightning spear into the sky, lightning flashed and struck the forest, he closed his eyes and clenched his fist bringing them to his forehead. Aegeon felt so damn frustrated, he felt like a child again, always losing no matter what he tried to do. He released his fist and sighed, his anger fleeting. If he was in his original world, he would have written everything down and tried something different, but that doesn''t really work if it''s a real world, not unless if he was insane enough to die over every single little thing. Damn this shit game system You only get Experience if you completely finish the fight. So even if you''ve killed over ten things, you won''t get the rewards until you are out of combat. The goblins He''ll kill every last one of them, he swore. He didn''t even have to feel bad, there were only male goblins, and the way they reproduced was very cliche. Seeing a goblin tribe one can only imagine how they got so ''large''. Aegeon stepped outside the cave, the dark clouds following him, he retraced his steps and went down the mountain, following everything to a tee before getting to the den once more. No words, no theatrics, just him and his spear. He prayed silently once more, a frown etched on his face, he ran towards the three goblins, taking the one on the right by surprise, stabbing straight into its spine, then pulling it out and piercing the next one, the other one didn''t even know what was happening before it was impaled by his spear.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. He charged once more into the little tribe, the thunder behind him still following him. He brandished his spear once more and cut down every goblin in his path, one, ten, twenty, he cut them all down until he reached the goblin war chief. "HUMAN WHY HAVE YOU INVADED US" The war chief roared. Aegeon stayed silent, praying in his head and readied his spear. He held his spear in his hand and glared at the chief. "Does the mutt have no voice?" The chief chuckled as he swung his giant club, the force tearing the air around him creating a strong noise, Aegeon stepped beside it, raising his spear with both hands before slamming it down into the goblin''s hands. "Your head will be my gods" Aegeon spoke while he stepped back and summoned another spear in his hand. The war chief roared and stepped back grabbing his hand, he bit his hand and spit some meat out, his eyes glaring at Aegeon. "YOU''RE DEAD" It roared as it charged towards him. Aegeon wasn''t foolish enough to try the same trick as last time, his eyes Aegean wanted to pierce the goblins eyes. The very same eyes that stared at him, the ones that glared at him, Aegeon really regretted not taking both of them the last time. "Your eyes would look nice on a necklace." Aegeon smirked and twirled his spear, his confidence and arrogance coming back. The War Chief stomped his feet and stepped forward, swinging his giant club at Aegean. He flashed stepping on the club and using it as a spring, Aegeon smiled in the air, the wind in his hair, the nice breeze on his skin Aegeon felt free. Was this how lightning felt? Of course not, He mentally laughed before plunging his spear into the war Chiefs right eye "IM GOING TO KILL YOU" The war chief roared as he tried to grab him, Aegeon pushed back on his face pulling out the spear and its eye. He landed safely away from the goblin, his eye dissipating into the lightning. He licked his lips the smirk on his face growing wider. "oops" He mocked before twirling his spear and flashing forward, right, left, right left, he used the new narrow vision to his advantaged, the goblin widely swung in rage, roaring every step of the way. Aegeon closed the distance and rolled out of the way from a swing, he then turned and threw a spear into the goblins other eye, it tried to block it, but it was too late both its eyes gone. He stepped forward, using his spear as a pole to launch himself up to sever the goblin head, he grabbed his spear with both hands and swung, the goblins face in pure terror as Aegeon severed it. "For you my god" He spoke softly, the head and the spoils vanishing into lightning, he quickly killed every remaining goblin and sacrificed them to his god. Lvl.8> His ears twitched, hearing something he shouldn''t from a goblin camp. What the fuck Mali Mercatores Scum. Aegeon heard the cries of a female, there was only one reason why a woman of any race was in a goblins den. His face was graced with a frown, as he walked towards the cries. He silently cursed the god of goblins, his hands clenched in a fist, he steeled his nerves as he approached an intricately made cellar, that was too well-made to be built by a goblin. His frown deepened as he opened the doors leading to stairs and the dimly lit passageway. The pungent odor of rotten meat and flesh assaulting his nose, soft whimpering entered his ears, and the distinct cry and begging from the ones who called him here. A horrific site awaited him, a damp dungeon full of woman, from most of the humanoid races in cages. If that was all, it would be okay, but the males that were unfortunate, were strewn on the floor half intact. His eyes scanned around, Elves, dwarfs, humans ten he counted. HIs eyes widened, how the hell did goblins manage to capture them? The cages were too advanced even for a war chief, even the shackles were something goblins couldn''t do. He snapped his finger, lightning flickered around him, lighting up the area. All eyes turned towards him. The woman, in the cage seemed untouched as if they just got here, the men not so lucky, used as food. And the unfortunate ones that didn''t just get here were already dead. There was a woman at the forefront, a beautiful woman, with brown hair and bright blue eyes. The other woman looked at her as if she was their leader, waiting for her to speak. Her lips quivered as she spoke softly like a pleasant-sounding bell. "You are not a goblin" That was an understatement. "A barbarian this close to the capital?" Her eyes widened, as if she couldn''t believe it, "can you understand my words?" She tapped the cage and mimicked turning a key. His eye twitched. Frustrated at him just watching, she stomped her foot on the cell floor. "Release us" she glared at him, her clumsily balled up fist, adorable. her personality seemed as fickle as the wind, he ignored her and looked around, his fingers tracing along the metal. "I am the daughter of the grand duke of the north, if you release me, I will make sure my father will reward you handsomely." He rolled his eyes, what did that matter? "A mage? Do you specialize in lightning barbarian?" She asked gripping the bars of the cell. "How unsightly, a barbarian that doesn''t know the imperial tongue" She clicked her tongue, "I never thought the day would come when I ask something from a fifthly barbarian." she continued her self-monologue. A vein bulged on his forehead. "Who brought you here?" He calmly spoke. She looked shocked that he spoke the imperial tongue, she blushed remembering that he understood what she was saying. Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. "Before that release me, I implore you" She looked at him with her wide doey eyes. "In due time" He snapped his finger, manipulating the lightning, forming a key and releasing everyone. Now that we have gotten this far what is your name oh great Divine one, He sheepishly asked. "The guiding lightning, of my goddess the great Thunderer led me here." He started to Proselytize, lightning dancing behind him as if to agree with his words. He looked at the condition of the females, they looked haggard, with cuts and scarps everywhere. Aegeon clasped his hands, closing his eyes, surrounded by lightning as he spoke a soft prayer, a warm smile adorned on his face. His lightning wrapped around every living thing to heal them. A better perception of his church was necessary, and if an influential figure like the daughter of a duke was converted, then he would gain tremendous support. "So, you''re a priest, that would explain the rags, and the scent of poverty." She spoke while touching her hair. This girl really had a way with words, his smile faltered. "So how did you get into a goblin cellar great daughter of the duke?" he sarcastically spoke, his hand waving, praying while conducting the lightning to cremate the bodies of the dead. The corners of her cheek creased as she frowned, "Bandits, attacked my convoy, my compatriots all perished protecting me." Bandits not goblins, he touched his cheek, that was worrying, he''d assume the bodyguards of a duke''s daughter were powerful, if so, that would explain why there were other races here, the people that kidnapped her were powerful, and didn''t care who they were grabbing. "I was put in a cage and then joined the others" She looked around the room, before continuing "In a Caravan, that the slave traders used to transport us disguised as merchants." Her frown deepened, probably remembering something unpleasant. "The slave traders, and the bandits were up in arms, about what do with me. As if I was some common item", she moved some hair from her face, her eyes glaring off into the distance. "Did you encounter them perhaps? I would love to have a private word with them" She spoke with a smile that was not a smile. He waved her off "They will be dealt with soon enough, although I can assure you that the bandits have been killed by now" He promised her, although he wasn''t sure that they actually were. "The basta----" She cleared her throat blushing, before twirling her hair "The Slavers had a disagreement with the scu--- I mean bandits and then sold us to these goblins before running off" she spoke very un-lady like. One mystery was solved, the ''merchants'' regularly sold slaves to the goblins here which is why a war chief was with such a small tribe. Judging by the condition of this place, they had been doing business for a long time. He felt disgusted, did he really rush to go help slave traders? Did he die because he tried helping slave traders? He instinctively touched his neck. She coughed, looking expectantly at her mana powered shackles. Lightning formed at the tips of his finger; he brought it down cutting the shackles. "Thats much better" she groaned out rubbing her sore wrists, her abundant ''Mana'' filled the room at once. His eyes widened, she was strong, stronger than him, stronger than that old bastard, how did she get captured? "Don''t look at me like that" She turned and blushed, twirling her hair looking bashful. "How did you get captured?" She looked at him, surprise evident on her face "You can feel that? I thought you were too weak for that" She teasingly spoke, with a light smile on her face. He really wanted to hit her. "One of my maids, turned traitor and drugged, my tea" She spoke with a soft tone, "So I snapped her neck, before I was captured" She shrugged "I was unlucky I guess" she said in a nonchalant tone. "What''s your story priest?" "I''ve been doing a lot of answering and not much questioning" She spoke with a smile so bright it could light up the stars. "There could be bandits coming, I know of a safe spot where we can talk without worry of an ambush" He turned and started walking up the stairs, turning his face to glance at them motioning to follow him. The woman all looked towards the daughter of the grand Duke seeking her approval, she nodded with a smile and followed behind him. As soon as he stepped out of the cellar, a wall of golden flames erupted before him What now? Imminens Mors What now? He glanced, behind him, meeting the young Ladys gaze, he scrutinized her appearance, she was beautiful no doubt, a better way to describe her was inhumanly crafted, like a perfect being. Her clothing was impeccable and stylish one befit of a noble scion, just looking at her you wouldn''t be able to tell she was a former captive. Her house emblem etched on her sigil, a Wolf howling towards the moon. "You like what you see?" "Recognize it?" He ignored her, turning to the wall of flame. She nodded, her hands behind her back, a nonchalant look on her face, she started to stretch, like she was going for a run. For some inexplicable reason her face irked him, he just wanted to lightly tap her face with his fist, he shook his head getting rid of the thought. "You were thinking of something rude weren''t you" she said while glaring at him. "No" He denied vehemently, shaking his head, he turned to look at her ''followers.'' "What''s the story with them?" The golden flames flickered black before turning back to golden. "Did I say you can leave?" A suave voice spoke, Aegeon turned his head to the source, which was a young red-haired, green-eyed man in a silver piece of amour, a sigil of a stag stood on a cliff was imprinted on his chest in his surcoat, bearing the colors yellow and black divided by a thin line. a scene of a stag impaling a wolf, was engraved all over his armor. "It was this bastard, wasn''t it?" Her words sounding like she recognized him. She touched her chin, her eyes widening as her fist tightened, "Yeah I remember you" she raised her hand, ice gathering to form an icicle in her hand, her cloak starting to fly upwards from her mana charging. "You bastard" The muscles around her eyes, tightening, her jaw clenching, her lips pressed into a thin line, her face red with rage her pupils narrowed, her eyebrows furrowing. If her eyes had powers, she would have frozen this stranger solid with her icy glare. Hot. He blushed. What the hell is wrong with me? He shook his head before coughing awkwardly towards his own thoughts. She launched the icicle using magic to propel it further, it flew towards the knight. "Aw I''m hurt" he said in mock anguish the smile on his face never leaving. He pulled out his longsword, the blade flickering with golden light as it swatted it away. "And here I thought I would be greeted with open arms." He chuckled, stepping forward slowly. "Some very important people are expecting this batch," He looked around at each of the formerly caged women. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. He licked his lips, as his eyes slitted like a reptile before he stepped forward lunging as small golden explosions rippled behind his feet. "That damn slave trader" He swung down, a distance away from her, golden flames in the arc of his sword traveled towards the young duchess, "thought the merchandise was too hot," His cheeks upturning as a grin formed that would put even the vilest clown to shame. "He didn''t think big" He chastised clicking his tongue A member of the golden order? No, his sigil was a stag. For the life of Aegeon he couldn''t remember what was important about the stags, an earl family based around Eos. The flames were reminiscent of something knights of the golden order would use. However, the golden knights would never resort to slave trading and even then, skills aren''t exclusive to a singular paladin order. Regardless Aegeon should get the rest of these former captives far away from here, he walked up towards the Elf, the others hiding behind her. She was blonde with green eyes, and a beauty that could not be described. She was glaring at the knight and then turned her face, towards Aegeon, her eyes softening. "Name?" "Rachel" She spoke, her voice sounding like birds singing. Quiet I''m working here. "May the great Divine mother of thunder bless you" He softly prayed, lightning forming around him, they seemingly danced in joy and followed the girls engulfing them. Their eyes glowed, blue. "Look I don''t got much time left, listen closely" He explained how he got here and what steps are required to scale the mountain to reach his cave. He looked at all of their shackles and cut them with his lightning Damn he really was a shitty person, only paying attention to the noble scion, he coughed and scratched his head. Rachel shook her head, "I''ll stay and help, I''m skilled in elemental magic." She clasped his hand and spoke. Thunder rumbled in the distance. "No, I''ll help her, go" He looked her in the eyes" they need you more than we need you right now, we will meet again in the cave" He held her hands and squeezed them reassuringly "Revera wills it" He smiled warmly at her. They turned quickly running the way he instructed him. He prayed for their safety, and prayed this knight was alone. A shield of magic symbols appeared Infront of the young duchess, it shattered right as she stepped back, she started to chant in an ancient imperial tongue, magic gathered around her, forming ice to protect herself. Just as this Knight of Evil was about to reach her with his blade, she shattered into ice, reappearing farther away. Damn that''s cool "Don''t you tire of this little game of yours Isabella?" He stomped his feet, his arms tucked at his side, his green eyes glowed golden, his hair flowing upwards, he clenched his teeth. He pointed towards her. A beam of light left his hand, chased by golden flames flickering black. The flames chased the snow away, everywhere the light touched, the snow melted, the flames consumed the woods, burning tree after tree, the fire jumping from one thing to another. "Cease" Isabella spoke, ice gathered around her, flowing towards the fires putting them out. The knight turned to the fleeing group "Where do you think you''re going" His smile widening, he outstretched his arm summoning a blade of golden light, it flickered occasionally black, he turned to Isabella "You are worth a lot more than their combined value" He laughed maniacally as he was about to swing. "Did you forget about me mother fucker?" Aegeon turned into lightning appearing in front of the knight punching him, his fist moved towards the Golden Knights cheek, his green eyes widened and he reacted by bringing up the hilt of his longsword to block, Aegeon landed the hit square on the cheek causing the golden blade to dissipate, and spit coming out of his mouth. The golden knight was launched from the impact a short distance away. He stood up, spitting onto the floor, his face morphed into one of absolute hatred. His red hair glowing. The Knight raised his sword and pointed it towards Aegeon an insane grin etched on the Knights face. A light shot from his blade. Aegean''s vision was obscured by black flames. "PRIEST!!!", He heard the angry wail of Isabella before his vision turned dark. Fuck Duo vice Aegeon sprang up, his eyes ablaze with lightning, he looked around, his arms up ready to fight, a lightning spear in his hand. He recognized his location, his tense muscles relaxed, his spear dissipating. relaxing, he rolled his shoulder his eyes returning to normal. He shivered, remembering the feeling of burning alive, the back flame was intense, it felt like he was being stabbed all over his body, his skin peeling, stinging not stopping only increasing in pain, it was the worst thing he had ever felt amplified by a ten thousand times. He could feel, his skin fading dissolving, as blisters formed and burst, a scent so wicked, he''ll never forget, a taste so horrid he wished he died before it happened. He could feel every bit of his body burning away, his body fighting to survive, his lungs struggling to help him as each breath he took hurt more than the rest, his mouth constantly coughing lightning. He touched his throat, reminiscing about getting his head chopped off. Fuck. Oh well. He shrugged. If he sprints now, he can maybe make it and escape before that bastard shows up. Was that wishful thinking? Aegeon shook his head. This damned forest had death at every turn. He turned to face the exit of the cave, his face one of thinking. He looked up and closed his eyes, inhaling as his mind raced at a thousand miles an hour. He looked around, nothing to write with. He couldn''t just up and pray for a book and quill. Could he? He frowned, gathering the information available, Sir Gideon, the golden knight and the old bastard, all belong or have a relation to the golden order. It looked like sir Gideon was hunting down the old Bastard. But what was the connection between the golden knight and Sir Gideon? Worse, what was his obsession with Isabella? If he didn''t intervene, would the knight find Isabella? Would a fate worse than death await them? His frown deepening. Even if he and Isabella triumphed against the knight, their fighting would surely attract Sir Gideon and what awaited Aegeon was death. He was wasting time; he shook his head getting rid of his thoughts. "Status" Storm Dancer 4 23 + 13+ 18 + 14+ 13 + This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. 18 + 33+ He rubbed his hands together, his steps light as lightning flashed behind him, Aegeon ran out of the cave and jumped down, lightning formed beneath his feet, Aegeon rode it down the mountain. Upon landing Aegeon retraced his steps, this time killing the goblin chief much quicker, he made his way to the cellar, his mind raced thinking of the best escape route. He instinctively snapped his finger, a lightning spear dancing around the cellar lighting it up. All eyes turned towards him. Aegeon turned towards Isabella, brown, curly hair, that reached her shoulder, her skin was flawless, her lips were full and well attuned to her high cheek bones, her bright blue eyes, seemed to contain a starfield. If he were to pick out her flaws, subjectively there would be none. Her lips quivered as she spoke, a trick perhaps. "You are not a goblin" Her voice soft and pleasant. "A barbarian this close to the capital?" She asked with a hint of mockery, "can you understand my words?" She spoke slowly enunciating each word, Isabella tapped the cage, speaking with a tone that didn''t fit a captive, a 180 from the soft-spoken lady she appeared to be. Her hands mimicking turning a key. He snapped his finger, the lightning spear trailing the air, releasing all the captives at once. "So, the barbarian understands me" She spoke triumphantly pumping out her chest proudly, "that''s right-hand signs are universal" she muttered to herself nodding along. "Don''t worry, l the daughter of the Grand Duke of the north will reward you handsomely." She looked up, arrogantly at the sky, her nose turned to the heavens. He rolled his eyes. "Have never seen a barbari-" Her words were cut short, when she noticed what Aegeon was doing, her eyes widening. He clasped his hands and closed his eyes and started to pray. "Lost lambs of the sky, the Divine Sky-Mother led me here to find and free you" Lightning gathered around him, dancing in joy with his words. Her already widened eyes, widened further, a blush spreading across her cheeks, she looked embarrassed that he understood her. "Do not fret, lost lambs, while your arduous journey and hardships have not ended here, I and the sky mother are with you" He smiled warmly, his lightning gathering around them and started healing them. He silently blessed them, as he healed them. They looked at him, with grateful eyes, the small seed of faith planted in their hearts. "So, you''re a priest, that would explain the rags, and the scent of poverty." Her voice trailed, as she absentmindedly fiddled with her hair. It didn''t get easier the second time, his smile stiffening. "Hands" He looked towards the group, they all hesitantly presented their hands showing their shackles. Aegeon snapped his fingers, the lightning trailing towards the shackles cutting them all in half. "No questions asked? Just like that?" She looked at him with bewilderment, her head tilted slightly. "I knew novice priest were naive but this" She shrugged, chuckling to herself. His eye twitched. "Thats much better" she groaned out rubbing her sore wrists, her abundant Mana filled the room at once. "Names?" He looked around, "I''ll go first, my name is ¡õ¡õ?¡õ??¡õ" Thunder rumbled in the distance "If you didn''t want say your name you can just stay quiet" She looked at him like he was a weirdo. "My name is Isabella Boreas" She did a curtsy bow. "Rachel" said the Elf, "Violet" said the dwarf, "Jade" The wolf beastkin answered, "Sydney" said a human, "Lily" The rabbit beastkin replied "Kylie" Another elf spoke. "Alice" a Human spoke "Whitney" another Human responded "Niles" another Elf said. "Okay, listen up, I killed all the goblins here, but the humans hunting you are probably still active, I have a safe space up on the mountain north of this forest, I have a route we can take, we need to be fast and efficient once we can make it to the cave we can decide on how you guys will return home." They nodded slowly looking at Isabella to decide whether to follow him or not. "Sounds fun" Isabella spoke with a smile that seemed to brighten up the room. "Good, follow swiftly and closely", he walked out the cellar. A wall of black flames erupted before him. "YOU!" The knight roared "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO ME!" The Golden knight screamed at Aegeon Shit Ira Tonitrus Black flames came out of the golden knight''s nostril, he was hunched over like a beast, his breath evaporating the snow around him, his reptilian green eyes glowed black, flames leaking out of his eyes. His eyes burned with the intensity of a fallen sun. His left cheek twitching, his eyebrows furrowed, his mouth slightly open. His previous pristine silver armor turned black, his face turned into a sneer, he pounded on the floor and launched himself on all fours towards Aegeon, in the air he drew his sword and swung, everywhere he trailed the winter environment, turned into one reminiscent of summer. "RUN GO!" He screamed behind him, towards the group. "WE WILL MEET LATER" "MAY REVERA WITNESS MY FAITH" He yelled, thunder rumbled, and dark clouds gathered above Aegeon, he planted his feet and held up his spear made of lightning. The knight''s sword came down with an intensity unmatched. "Where is it?" The madman spoke as he swung down He cut down the spear as if it was butter, and his sword a hot knife. Fuck Aegeon stepped back, worry written on his face, lightning once again forming in his hand. The knight landed with a thud, his face tilted, his expression one of absolute madness. "WHERE IS IT? He yelled, his breath full of heat, his surroundings quickly turning into a land devoid of winter. "It was this bastard, wasn''t it?" Her words sounding soft, with a silent intensity. She outstretched her hand, ice gathering to form an icicle, her cloak fluttering, ice gathering around her, it was as if winter itself was responding to her call. Her eyebrows furrowed, as a sneer formed on her face. "THEODORE" She yelled, launching the icicle. Theodores face turned back, his eyes filled with the intensity of a sun, an obvious madness seeped deep inside his black eyes, he stretched his fingers like they were claws and swatted the icicle shattering it to shards, heavy breaths escaping his mouth. "Pipe Down" He growled, "You''re next" He turned back towards Aegeon. "YOU INSIGNIFICANT FUCK" Theodore roared as he charged towards Aegeon, it seemed like he was a beast in human form. He raised his longsword up, black flames gathering at the tip, growing bigger, and brighter until a massive sword was formed above him. "ALL YOU HAD TO DO WAS STAY THERE AND DIE" His sword came down, the force tearing sound, and cleaving the air. Aegeon barely dodged it. He turned back, looking at the clearing behind him, everything there was flattened. All life in that attack was extinguished. Sweat dripped down Aegeon''s brow, his eyes widening. Oh fuck, I can''t get hit. Thank Revera, they weren''t moving that way. He prayed silently and quickly that they wouldn''t find any obstacles along their way. He gritted his teeth, transforming into lightning, and reappearing farther away. "I don''t know you" Aegeon pulled back his arm, the air cackling, a spear of lightning formed in his hand, he stepped forward, his muscles tightening as he threw the bolt, with all his strength. It rippled through the air, creating a white line, extinguishing anything in its wake, its heat even affecting the air around it. Theodore caught it, the sneer turned fiercer, his hand burning, frying from the bolt, his knuckles whitened as he tightened his hand crushing the thunderbolt with his strength. His hand now black and burned grabbed his sword the hilt melting and melding with his hand from the heat radiating from the remnant of the bolt. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. What the fuck "YOU STOLE MY LIGHT GIVE IT BACK, YOU WORTHLESS WASTE OF AIR" Aegeon blinked, Theodore, disappearing from his sight. "PRIEST BEHIND YOU" Isabella screamed. Aegeon looked down, he could see the top half of Theodore''s sword sticking out from his chest lightning formed in his throat, as he struggled to cough it out. His vision slowly fading. Aegeon sprang up, his eyes ablaze with lightning, he looked around, his arms up ready to fight, a lightning spear in his hand. Damned cave Damned game, Damned Knights he cursed as he kicked the walls of the cave. Calm yourself. Maybe he can make it this time, a bit faster. He went down the mountain, he killed the goblins, leveled up, he freed the captives, he left the cellar. Once again, a wall of black flames erupted before him. "YOU!" Theodore roared, the same words as if he was reading from a script. "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO ME!" He screamed. This time Aegeon''s head was cut clean off. He woke up again in the cave touching his throat before running out of the mountain and repeating his actions. He made it on site faster, he killed the goblins, he freed the captives, once again he was met with the black flames. Theodore killed him, with a sword to the face. He woke up grabbing his face. Aegeon didn''t care, he moved again, he slaughtered the goblins, the chief was dealt with faster, he freed the captives and was met with a wall of flames. He died. Again, he made it and freed them, he died this time a level higher. He woke up, he stood up, he moved faster, not a moment of rest, he cut down the goblins, dealt with the chief, he made it to the captives, he opened the doors, he left the cellar he was met with a wall of black flames. He died, cleaved in half. He woke up, touching his head, the memories of being cleaved in half still vivid, he left the cave, he moved faster, no time wasted, he cut down the goblins, his spearmenship increasing, he cut down the chief faster, he freed the captives he left the cellar, the black flames were there. He made it farther in the fight, him and Isabella managed to wound him before he ripped Aegeon''s throat out. He woke up and touched his throat, he didn''t care, he got up and left the mountain, killed the goblins, finished the chief, freed the captives, left the cellar, a black flame wall erupted. He died to the giant sword. He woke up, left the cave, killed the goblins, slaughtered the chief, leveled up, freed the captives, left the cellar, black flames greeted him once again. He died to his claws. Again, he repeated the actions, getting the same results, and again and again, each time faster than the last, it didn''t matter, he was never fast enough. He did to so many times he lost count, but it didn''t matter, Aegeon hated to lose. I need to be fast, faster, I need to be faster he yearned He woke up he left the mountain, he killed the goblins, he threw his spear, the chief dead in one hit, he freed the captives, he left the cellar, a wall of black flames. "YOU!" Theodore roared; the same words he always spoke echoing in his ears. "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO ME!" Thunder rumbled, dark clouds gathered, lightning struck Aegeon''s hand forming a spear made of heavenly lightning. He slammed it down, electricity dancing around him, his eyes flashing with lightning, his breath leaking thunder. Theodore was not much different, his black flames leaked out of his nose, his green eyes lit with black fire, he was hunched over, it seemed more like a beast imitating a man than a human imitating a beast. "Go!" Aegeon commanded the group behind him, the sounds of hurried footsteps echoed from behind him "Revera witness my faith" He softly spoke his prayer. Theodores cheeks flickered, the corner of his lips twitched, one side rising, revealing his sharp teeth, his nostrils flaring as his eyes narrowed. Hot breath came out of his mouth melting the floor Infront of him. Theodore pounded on the floor and launched himself on all fours towards Aegeon, he drew his sword and swung, his black flames following him, creating desperation in his wake. Aegeon swung matching Theodores swing, the sword and the spear battled for superiority. The ground beneath Aegeon crumbled creating a crater, the hole getting deeper as their weapons fought. Aegeon clenched his teeth, he felt his knees quaking, the main difference between Theodore and Aegeon being, that Theodore didn''t want this win as bad as him. Aegeon''s bent knees started to straighten as he pushed back with his spear "It was this bastard, wasn''t it?" Isabellas familiar words rang out. He could repeat her words by heart if he wanted to. Aegeon didn''t have to look to know what was happening. "THEODORE" She yelled, launching the icicle that was formed by her. Aegeon and Thedore glared at each other, a battle of thunder and flame, the icicle coming from Isabella striking him in the back, penetrating his armor. He gritted his teeth and spit blood on Aegeon''s face, unwilling to lose this clash. Aegeon used this opportunity to break his stance and slice him, cutting through his armor and leaving a big wound on him. "YOU INSIGNIFICANT FUCK" Theodore roared touching his wound which was already cauterized from the heat of the lightning. He raised his longsword up, his left shoulder slanted, a black fire that seemed to be a black hole sucked up everything around it transforming it into flames, gathering at the tip of his longsword, growing in sizer, proportion and luminescence, until a sword of massive proportions was formed. "ALL YOU HAD TO DO WAS STAY THERE AND DIE" The massive sword cutting down everything in its path. Aegeon dodged, shifting into lightning and punching him on the left cheek, not even a moment later Isabella morphed into ice, and formed a gauntlet of ice, doing the same to his right cheek. Together Isabella and Aegeon, fought an arduous and long battle until they finally killed Theodore with great effort. He stood hunched over, Theodore''s dead body, exhausted and breathing heavy. "Finally," he softly muttered "Nice job priest, I didn''t know you had it in you" Isabella spoke, also equally exhausted, her form filled with wounds, sitting down on the grass exhausted. Wait why hasn''t the system given me any rewards A look of horrid realization made its way onto his face. Oh no The sound of knights marching was heard, a silver armored knight that Aegeon turned his head and spotted a familiar golden-haired knight he hoped he''d never see again, and with the same fervent look in his golden eyes, he cut them both down. What the hell Tempus Circulus He sprang up, turned to the entrance of the cave and left; his body fizzed transforming into lightning trailing down the mountain. Faster I need to be faster, Gideon was a variable, but not a fixed point, he frowned, lightning crackling as it formed around him, it moving as if it had its own will, killing the goblins around him. He just needed to kill Theodore, faster. Simple he smiled. His footsteps light as he ran towards the cellar, lost in his own thoughts, his lightning slaughtering the goblins around him, hitting each of them in the head before impaling itself in the chief''s head. He opened the door, to the cellar, his lightning zoomed across the cages, unlocking them in an instant. "Did my father send you?" Isbella sked, her bright blue eyes sparkled. "My father is so progressive, enlisting the help of barbarian mages" She smiled brightly, she put her hands forward looking at her shackles expectantly. "I will make sure my father rewards you handsomely" She nodded along to her words. He smiled, his eyes half open, the words he repeated each time he passed by this place left his mouth. "Lost lambs of the sky, the Divine Sky-Mother led me here to find and free you" His lightning dancing in joy. Her eyes, widened, a blush appearing on her beautiful visage. "So, my father did not send you?" she asked with disappoint evident in her tone. Her eyebrows furrowed. "Do not fret, lost lambs, while your arduous journey and hardships have not ended here, I and the sky mother are with you" The lightning that trailed him, split, and gathered around the former captives embracing them, healing them. She stomped her foot, annoyed he was ignoring her. "Hey priest answer my question" She grumbled angrily her cheeks puffed out. He silently blessed them, as he healed them. They looked at him, with grateful eyes, the small seed of faith planted in their hearts. "No, your father has not sent me," He snapped his fingers the lightning breaking the shackles of the captives. "Thats much better" Isabella groaned out rubbing her sore wrists. "I was guided here by my great god and instructed to save you all" He smiled warmly. "Humph" She snorted," A wandering priest well that explains the rags and scent of poverty" She spoke while fiddling whit her hair, she stretched before yawning loudly. "Names?" He looked around, "I''ll go first, my name is Aegeon" Dark clouds gathered outside, lightning rumbling in the distance. "Fitting for a priest, of the Sky-Mother" "My name is Isabella Boreas" She grabbed the frills of her skirt and lifted, them bowing slightly. The others spoke their names one by one. "Okay, listen up, I killed everything you will have to worry about, there is a trail to the north of here that will lead you to the cave I am staying, unfortunately the human that helped capture you is still active, everyone but Isabella who is his main target can go. Once we all regroup, we will decide what to do next" He patiently explained, looking at them all. The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. All the former captives looked at Isabella for approval She nodded " Escape and I get to get revenge, it must be my birthday" She brought her finger to her mouth and smiled. "As soon as I step out of this door, a wall of black flames will appear before me, at that moment I will bless you all at the time sprint for my safe zone" They all nodded in agreement. "Good" He looked towards the entrance his nerves steeled. Isabella, had ice gathering in her hand, forming an icicle. "Does this mystery man have a name?" "Theodore" He turned towards the cellar, lightning forming in his hand. He stepped out, Isabella trailing behind him. A wall of black flames erupted before them "YOU!" Theodore roared "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO ME!" "My light my precious light" He sobbed loudly, tears of flames, leaking from his black eyes. He hunched over like a beast, black fire erupting from his nostrils, like the exhaust from an overly tuned car. "May Revera grant me strength" Aegeon whispered. The rest of the group ran towards were Aegeon told them to. Theodore tried to attack them, but was swiftly stopped by Aegeon. "You took my light, GIVE IT BACK GIVE IT BACK" He charged towards Aegeon, Theodore drew his longsword bringing it up before planting his feet on the ground using all his force to bring it down, Aegeon swung his lightning spear gliding it on his longsword deflecting it, cutting him in the shoulder, Theodores eyes widened his left hand gripping the sword tightened "YOU INSIGNIFICANT FUCK" He roared the longsword glowing black, turning brighter and bigger in his left hand. Isabella launched her icicle using magic to propel it, it tore through the air, creating a white line as it zoomed towards Theodore. Theodore swung, cutting the icicle in half and trying to cleave Aegeon. The storm that was brewing discharged a bolt of lightning, striking his spear, empowering it. Aegeon held his ground gritting his teeth sweat dripping from his brow, both hands holding the spear as he pushed back with all his strength. Isabella started chanting in ancient imperial tongue, ten shards of ice forming around her spinning in a circular motion her hands thrusted forward. The shards all move together towards Theodore. Their fight, shaping the environment around them, causing absolute devastation. The power in both of the blows, made the ground beneath them shatter. The shards struck the back of Theodore piercing his armor, making him look like a black armored ice porcupine, he gritted his teeth ignoring the pain and glared at Aegeon with the intensity of a fallen sun. Theodore howled, roaring as he pushed with all his strength, steam leaking from his body, he started to make ground, pushing Aegeon back. "ISABELLA" Aegeon screamed, his muscles bulging out, starting to lose his footing. "I am trying!" she screamed back. Isabella started to chant faster, ice gathering around her and forming a giant pillar. With her fist clenched, she released it, bringing it up to her right shoulder before throwing her fist forward to guide the pillar. The pillar followed closely toward Theodore. "TRICKS TRICKS TRICKS" Theodore growled, his red hair flowing up, he pushed through his blade winning the battle, Aegeon only dodged by a hair''s breadth ducking below. Theodores swing cleaved the forest in half and severed the pillar. He sheathed his sword and got on all fours turning towards Isabella lunging at her like a rabid beast. "Aegeon" she said with panic and urgency in her voice, Isabella chanted once more, quicker than she had before, thousands of ice shards forming around her, each being launched towards Theodore who either swatted them away or dodged it. "Your fights with me" Aegeon shifted into lightning moving Infront of him, his ''spearpoint'' directly towards Theodore''s path, Theodore jumped up twisting his form and barely dodged the spear, it scraping his forehead. He growled, fire coming out of his mouth. "Light thieves give me back my light." He stood up on his legs. Theodore put his arms up, the longsword started glowing once more engulfed in black flames, while a sword of black flames formed in his other hand. He did a cross slash towards Aegeon, who managed only to block one blow before getting cut on his chest with the other. Lightning leaked out of his wound. That fucking hurt He looked down at his wound before, attacking Theodore. Isabella chanted, forming a giant scythe made of ice. She held it in her hand before lunging towards Theodore''s back. Aegeon closed the distance, bringing his spear from the bottom up, Theodore blocked with his black flame sword, Isabella struck from the back, Theodore barely blocked with his other hand, Isabella and Aegeon pulled back and struck once more., Theodore expertly blocked, as they kept going blow for blow. Thedore turned back towards Isabella shattering her Scythe and pushing her back before he started to relentlessly attack Aegeon, Aegeon defended as best as he could, until he fell to the floor, his eyes widened as he witnessed his lower half standing up missing his torso. "AEGEON" Isabella screamed. The sound, of hail falling was the last thing he heard before his vision faded away. Tres He stood, up his eyebrows furrowed, his eyes narrowed, his mouth a thin line, the corner of his lips twitching, as his face formed a sneer. Aegeon slammed his fist into the wall, creating a small crack. A bit of him, wanted to scream Theodore''s name and curse the heavens above Of course, Aegeon understood, that there simply was no time for that. He ran and jumped, his hair flowing in the wind, the snow around him evaporating, ironically enough it was always at the beginning of his ''loop'' where he felt the freest. Is this what it felt to be lightning? The thought always repeated itself in his head, like a metronome. The thought never lasted fast enough to mean anything, as he shifted into lightning, descending the mountain in a blur. What was it? That saying, that repetition was the first step to insanity. He shook his head; he couldn''t quite remember much of the important sayings. Not that it mattered to him anyway. Not unless it pertained to the information of the plot, yet even that was slowly fading away. Useless thoughts seeping into his mind, a moment of respite was luxury, and right now luxury was not something he could afford, he zipped past the trees, his hand extending, lightning dancing around his forearm, expanding and contracting as it killed any goblin he ran past. The sounds and rewards from the system didn''t interest him, the small gains that he achieved couldn''t help him. Of course, that didn''t mean Aegeon forgot to pray, the words leaving his lips, like he was a machine repeating instructions from his operator. He shook his head I didn''t mean it like that. It was more so a self-introspective simile, had his life really changed? This was his playstyle, brute force through repetition, now instead of being behind a monitor he was the one directly steering, The corners of his lips creased, forming a frown. The once unfamiliar forest was now one that he could remember like the back of his hand, the green grass on the floor the white snowfall, the wildlife, the squirrels, the chirping of crickets, none were a novelty, they were a given, every time he came back, he would see them. He had been here so long, he could remember an unfamiliar landscape, yet not once had he actually seen nightfall. He leaped past the gate, his spear roaming around the ground killing everything. "You-" The goblin war Chief screamed before it was cut down by his spear. The bodies dissipating into lightning. In a flash he made it to the cellar. The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. His hands held the gates of the cellar, the yidtree doors, reminiscent of maple oak tree wood, the stainless-steel glittering in the daylight. A sigil, he never noticed before, a stag killing a wolf. Would a noble house really so openly flex, running a slave dungeon in a goblin den? He shook his head, clearing the thoughts from his head, as he opened the door. Ironic, he clicked his tongue The cellar, that seemed so horrid was a respite from the harsh conditions of winter. Although he doubted its inhabitants thought so. "You are not a goblin" Her familiar voice rang through the decrypt cellar. He clasped his hands together, praying that the lost souls would make it to the afterlife, all the corpses vanishing into lightning. "A priest?" Isabella''s bright blue eyes widened, she grabbed the cell bars, before speaking loudly. Her knuckles whitening as she clenched the bars, a humorous sight courtesy of her shackles. Her voice tinged, with surprise. The glint in her bright blue eyes promised mischief, and a smile that screamed trouble started blossoming on her face. "A barbarian priest this close to the capital", her mouth made an o as if she was truly surprised, Aegeon only finding out recently that she was teasing him this whole time. Aegeon permanently attached the title of troublemaker to her in his mind. "You''re thinking of something rude I can feel it" Her soft lips opened and closed, an annoyed look in her eyes, her lips quivered into a frown. She took her hands off the bars. He ignored her and spoke with a warm smile "Lost lambs of the sky, the Divine Sky-Mother led me here to find and free you" The markings on his arms glowed, lightning seeping out dancing around him before freeing all of them. "Hands forward" He spoke softly, the shackles cut in half by lightning before it started to seep back into his arms. "Thats much better" Isabella groaned out rubbing her sore wrist, something she never failed to say. The others looked at him gratefully, stretching and moving about. "You know I knew you were coming" She paused, a finger on her lips, as the corner of her lips slightly folded, a bright and radiant smile forming on her face. "The scent of rags and poverty is quite pungent "She held her nose as it scrunched up in disgust. "I smelled you a mile away" she said with the biggest smile he had ever seen. "Names" He asked gently, ignoring her. "Isabella, noble scion of House Boreas" Her foot stood straight one behind the other slightly, her hands holding the edge of her skirt raising it, she bent her knees outward, while keeping her back straight and lowered her body, bowing her head slightly, before returning to her previous position If the clothes weren''t enough to believe she was a noble, her ''etiquette'' was enough to at least entertain the notion, even if her behavior didn''t really fit the archetype "Excuse me" She raised an eyebrow. "I can practically hear you thinking, rude thoughts" She fanned herself. "You can teach magic to a priest, but not manners" She muttered to herself, her eyes avoiding his, as a blush crept on her face. The other proceeded to list their names, Aegeon quickly told them where they had to go and why Isabella alone must stay. "May Revera guide your journey" He silently prayed, his lightning embracing them, healing and blessing them. "Theodore, is the man we hope to kill" He looked at Isabella, trying to gauge her reaction. He never really cared about what she knew about him. It didn''t change the fact, that Theodore must die quicker, yet he couldn''t help but to feel that there was an underlying conspiracy brewing. Three golden knights, which should be rare, two who have betrayed the order, and one who is presumably hunting them. There must be a bigger reason why his god wanted him in this forest. It sure as hell wasn''t for food, he still hadn''t even got a bite of anything to eat. A frown formed on his face. She nodded, a small semblance of what one might call recognition on her face. "I know only his name, who is he?" Aegeon opted for the extended dialogue this time. "That bastard stag" The muscles around her eyes, tightening, her jaw clenching, her lips pressed into a thin line, her face red with rage her pupils narrowed, her eyebrows furrowing, her face which morphed into a sneer, just as quickly returned to normalcy. "Our houses were formed on different principles," She sighed, "One following the Sun god, the other following the Wint--" "IF YOU ARENT COMING TO ME--"He burst through the doors "ILL COME TO YOU" Theodore interrupted her with a roar. That was new Ira Divina Aegeon didn''t hesitate, if he let that big oaf in here, he''d kill everyone that wasn''t him or Isabella. The expressions of the others didn''t help much to dissuade him, worry written all over them, he glanced at Isabella, a small smirk playing on her face. If her eyes weren''t the definition of hate, he''d say she was pretty unbothered by the whole situation. Maybe it was a defense mechanism from not being able to show weakness, however it didn''t matter to him, he wasn''t one to shoot himself in the foot. "RUN!" He roared charging towards where Theodore was, "May Revera watch over me" He lowered his shoulders, driving his body weight into Theodore, his skin stinging as he touched the radiating heat of his armor, he wrapped his arms around Theodores waist, clenching his teeth, his strength wasn''t enough to outright hurt him, but it did work wonders to stop him, although it did feel like he was pushing a pillar The others ran past, making it out of the cellar, hopefully to where they were going to meet up. A shame Aegeon thought, if he was strong enough, Theodore would be on the floor. He gritted his teeth; from the pain Theodore was inflicting. Theodore, slamming down his fists which were locked over and over again. "WHERES MY LIGHT YOU BAS-" Theodore tilted his head narrowly dodging an icicle that only managed to take his left ear. Theodore''s breath leaked flames as he roared towards the heavens, this was Aegeon''s sign to back off, transforming into lightning and reappearing further away. Theodore turned to Isabella, his light ablaze with hate. Aegeon gave a look of incredulity towards Isabella as if to say how the hell did you miss. Her eyes widened looking wronged, she shrugged her shoulders before sttepping back "YOU DAMNED RODENT" His hair flowed upwards, was it the sheer intensity of his blackened mana? Did it really matter? No. He charged forwards, lightning dancing across his fingers. Crunch! He punched him in the cheek, Isabella slammed his other cheek from the left, her hands covered in gauntlets made of ice which cracked from the impact. "INSIGNFIC-" Aegeon uppercut his chin, Theodore spit blood and shook his head, his mouth forming an ugly grin, his eyes narrowing, the corners of his lips creasing till he showed his teeth. His green eyes murky, like a lake of poisonous green. He drew his longsword with his left hand and formed one of black flames in his right. A chuckle escaping his lips, "How many times must I kill you before you stay dead" His steps, heavy as he approached Aegeon. Thats not quite what Aegeon wanted to hear. A frown appearing on his face. "Ten? Twenty? Forty? A hundred? How long must we dance to this tune? His face twitched before his eyes turned into glowing black orbs. "MY LIGHT BASTARD GIVE ME BACK MY LIGHT" He repeated like a broken record. He hunched over like a beast, smoke coming out of his nostrils and an aura of heat surrounded him. Dark clouds rumbled above Aegeon, a stray bolt of lightning striking his hand forming a Heavenly Spear. If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Isabella started to chant, gathering shards of ice around her. That was weird, Aegeon thought to himself, his mind racing as he charged towards Theodore, his spear intercepting Theodores longsword, Isabella used magic to propel shards of ice towards Theodore, He slashed backwards a wall of flames evaporating the icicles arriving. Aegeon''s spear slid along the long blade before bringing it down onto Theodore cutting open his armor. Theodore clenched his hand, stifling another roar, his nostrils exfoliating flames, "Bastard" He spit out as he showed his teeth, growling. Rage written all over his face, he swung downwards, with his left, the sword lighting up in black flames as it moved, the one on his right followed by closely. Aegeon parried the first, the longsword sprang up with a thud, Isabella stabbed Theodore in the back with a Rapier made of ice, the red blood from the tip of the European sword staining the green grass red. Theodore shook his shoulder snapping the Rapier in half, before swinging his longsword towards Aegeon pushing him back, He turned towards Isabella, who quickly formed a replacement in her hand, Theodore started a flurry of strikes towards her. Isabella took advantage of his weakened right side, Isabella as an actual heir to a Dukedom should theoretically have a better grasp on swordsmanship. Of course, there was only so much you could do with an Ice sword. Not that it mattered to Aegeon, if someone was going to kill that scum it should be him. He leaped into the sky holding his spear, summoning every bit of strength, faith and divinity within him to attack Theodore from above. "Little thunder" A wicked grin spread on his face, his words light "Come home," A sneer formed "I''m right here Light thief" He mocked and ridiculed as if he was singing a nursery rhyme. He turned away from Isabella losing interest, his both swords ready to receive Aegaeon''s strike. Lightning trailed, thunder rumbling in the distance, illuminating Aegeon''s figure, a thunderstorm forming above him, the lightning following Aegeon helping him strike Theodore. The lightning strikes were too many for Aegeon to count, the second he was in the air felt like an eternity, a single stroke to decide it all. The most pleasant voice he had ever heard, a heavenly voice whispered in his ear, as he felt a soft kiss on his forehead. He unconsciously smiled, feeling the warmth of his god. He heard a feminine giggle in his ear. That felt like cheating, his god well, was a literal god. The force of the heavens was with, him an ''unholy'' amount of lightning followed him, all aiming towards Theodore. Theodore smiled a defiant grin urging them to bring it on, he gathered all his mana, two giant''s black swords growing brighter and bigger as time flowed. This was the clash that would decide it all. Isabella took advantage of the situation, starting to chant, giant ice shards forming, heading towards Theodore, the sword still in her hand as she lunged. When all three attacks came together, a giant dome of light obscuring everyone''s vision, when it dissipated, only two were left standing, the light from Theodores eyes faded, as a blissful smile was left on his lips, an ice rapier impaled in his chest, and a spear made of lighting tore through his right breast. Sufficed to say, everything around them was dead, the land scorched, and the life contained within it dead. The body of Theodore started to slowly dissipate into lightning. An effect from dedicating his spoils to his god. "We need to go now" He looked at Isabella, turning on his heel, getting ready to flee. "You feel that too?" She looked shocked, but quickly nodded, following behind him. He started to run, until his vision turned upside down, spotting Isabella behind him, and a golden-haired knight, with fervent eyes behind her. Fuck Ira Diei Fuck He got up, and touched his throat, that bastard really has a thing for cutting off heads. The corners of his lips were pulled downward, his lips turning into a thin line. Sir Gideon was a lucky bastard, if he didn''t have literal plot armor Aegeon would take this as a sign to start hunting him instead. Unfortunately, he was pivotal to the prelude of Deminos one. Leading, an army of paladins against the Demons in a holy war, of course the handsome prick failed, he clicked his tongue. If that was all, it would be unimportant to him, but he was an essential part, in setting up the death of the first Demon god you face in the series. Well, he couldn''t kill him, but it didn''t mean he had to like him, any positive feelings, he had for him died when, he decapitated him, he rubbed his throat. To think I thought of that man as a role model, he shook his head as a soft sigh escaped his lips. The clock was ticking, he hoped this would take no longer than five minutes. He got on his knees and prayed softly, something he hadn''t done in a ''while''. Sufficed to say, it was hard to pray while kneeling when every second you had mattered. Of course, now wasn''t any different, but something told him the fight against Theodore would be so much smoother. In the game, after every ten levels, there was a class advancement, and every job had a subsequent level. Most were simple, but unique jobs were tricky, some had insane quest requirements, others were just lucky. Like upgrading from a mage apprentice to a mage required an increase in intelligence, while upgrading from, a dragon slayer apprentice into a dragon slayer required, the head of a freshly killed dragon. How was a Level 10 going to kill a minimum Level 50 dragon? The absurd requirements steered the dwindling population of the games, into mostly using, the common classes until they have invested enough to swap. Even then some risks outpaced the rewards. He just prayed his was simple. Thats not reassuring. His ''positive'' mode dwindling by the second. Did it really matter? Might as well just rip the band-aid "Status" Storm Dancer + 10(13) 29+ 19+ 28 + 24+ 19+ 24 + 39+ Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. Tch, he clicked his tongue, his eyebrows furrowed, Was this really the time for this? His forehead creased, wrinkles visible, as he pondered. Well, it wasn''t really a hard decision for Aegeon, he never really wanted to be a priest, and the starting class he picked was a paladin. He selected Storm Herald He selected yes. He clenched his fist, feeling the power flowing through him, electricity dancing around his body. The scent of ozone filling the cave, sparks of Lightning flickering around him passively. Strong If he fought ten of his previous selves, he could probably kill them all in one hit. He could also feel a dramatic increase, in his Lightning related abilities. "Thank the Divine Mother" He exclaimed, loudly, is this what it felt to be liked? He could get used to this, no complicated quest, no insane arrangement, just the favor of his god. A look of horror appeared on his face. Was he, was he a nepo baby? He shook his head erasing the thought form his head. Aegeon thanked his god profusely. He had spent enough time looking at his new class, any further investigations would have to be done later, when everyone was safe and sound, he sprinted out of the cave, jumping and soaring through the air. His body morphing into lightning as he zoomed down the mountain. Before he knew it, he was in the cellar getting ready to escape with the other captives. "And this mystery man''s name?" Isabella asked a smirk on her face, as she twirled her hair with her finger. "Theodore" He waved his hand, lightning flickering between his fingers, the lightning trailed and danced around the other former captives before embracing them blessing them. A sneer formed on her face, disappearing as quickly as it arrived, "Hemera" She growled, her mouth forming a snarl. "Disgusting Light seekers" She spit the words out, like they were venom. Her eyes roaming the cellar. "The youngest always enter the golden order, as Knights of Day, to actually slave trade..." She shuddered, even if deep down Isabella, understood why it would reach this point. "It''s been a while since I have seen a paladin of the order of Lightning and Thunder" Her gaze softening as her eyes landed on Aegeon He raised an eyebrow, in all the different variations of this conversation, this was the first time she spoke with a semblance of respect. "You''re thinking of something rude aren''t you" Her eyes narrowed, staring daggers into his. She looked so darn cute when she was angry, he just wanted to stretch her cheeks. "You''re doing it again." Her eyebrows furrowed, as her mouth turned downtrodden. Her right eye twitching, as she bawled up her fist. He laughed, as he walked towards the entrance "Come. I''d rather fight him out there than in here" "You all know where to go" He nodded towards the others, "May Revera bless your journey" His eyes glowing with lightning as he spoke her name. Isabella nodded as she followed closely behind, ice gathering in her hands. "YOU WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO MY LIGHT" The familiar black flames greeted him, as he stepped out of the cellar. Theodore roared towards the heavens, black light consuming him, forging armor where there was a lack off, a helmet forming on his face, his eyes hidden from view. "If I must die, for you to perish" Theodore said softly, a change he was unfamiliar with Theodore drew his sword and slashed into the air "Then so be it." He charged towards Aegeon, the familiar black-sword forming in his right hand. "YOU IGNSIGNIF--" Aegeon charged forward, the lightning in his forearms seeping out forming a spear, he put all his available attribute points into faith and cut down with all his might, Isabella charged from the back and in tandem they both struck, Theodore deflected Isabellas blade, she formed another one in her other hand and tried to stab him again. Aegeon cut through his sword, and struck him down, Isabellas blade impaling him in his back. He howled, his voice soft, but congruent "Will I join you day, in the embrace of light?" He slumped down and died. Was this the culminations of his efforts? Aegeon didn''t know whether to laugh or to cry. He heard the hooves of horses and the marching of a knight''s order, the heavy boots clanking against the floor. He instinctively touched his throat. "Run!" He turned grabbing her and ran, a spear of light whizzed by his head, scratching his cheek, lightning poured out of his wound. Shit The Son Of Day Theodore rose from his slumber with a bright grin on his face, today was the day his dream would come true. He slipped out of his covers and put on his slippers. He made his bed, and tidied his room, before going out to train with his personal instructor. After a bout of rigorous training, he took a bath, changed and he joined his family in the dining room. As the youngest son of the Hemera Earldom, he was guaranteed a spot in the golden order, the most prestigious Paladin order, that worshiped the Deities of light. An honor bestowed upon them that traced back to the earliest Hemera, who fought alongside the deity of day against the deity of night. In honor of ending the era of eternal night, his family was gifted their name. He looked at his farther, his cheeks couldn''t help but be pulled upwards, as a radiant smile graced his lips. "Father, is he here yet?" Young Theodore spoke to his father the Earl, shoving the food Infront of him inside his mouth. His foot taping impatiently against the wooden floor. "Not yet" He laughed his eyes twinkling with mirth, "Slow down, he won''t be here until, midday" His father spoke. "Your foods not going anywhere" He continued with a twinkle in his eyes. His father the Earl was a handsome middle-aged man, with red hair, and a red beard, his blue eyes seemed to glow with affection, as he stared at his youngest. He moved his hand to hold his wife''s hand, squeezing it softly, staring into her emerald, green eyes. "Our son is to become a man today" he said proudly, to his wife, he looked around the dining table, his other children smiling and laughing around the table. He brought forth a cup of wine and toasted, raising it high. "Sieze the day" They all spoke in unison, clinking their cups. ... "A fifteen-year-old Sword expert?" Gideon asked, his eyes widening in surprise. "Impressive" Gideon hummed; he glanced at him inquisitively. "The Hamera''s, improve every generation" He praised. "Are you ready to serve the light" A smile that seemed to brighten up the room arrived on Gideons face as he extended his hand. 5 years later... He slammed his gauntlets on the table, sitting down roughly, "This is utter bullshit" His eyebrows furrowed, looking around at the table full of knights. "The damned noble pigs" He cursed, clicking his tongue, turning to look at Gideon "If we were allowed to enter earlier, that damned town wouldn''t have been lost." The corners of his lips pulled downward; his lips pressed into a thin line "Language" Gideon spoke softly, turning the page of his bible. "Thousands lost, and you don''t even care" He snarled, his fist clenching, the knuckles on his hand turning white. "Insolant" Argus drew his blade; Gideon raised his hand stopping the blade. "The light guides, us brother," He paused and stared Theodore in the eye, "Heaven has a plan, and if they died it was part of the great lights plan." Gideon said with reverence, a fervent gaze in his eye. Thedore''s face turned red, he growled, spit flying as he spoke. "You''re insane, this whole damned order is insane." He grabbed his gauntlets, sword and left. Jason, stepped forward to follow after him, a middle-aged man, his bright red eyes glowed, as he started to move after Theodore, he wore a red and blue surcoat, and a sigil of an Eagle with fish in its talons on the order''s silver armor. "Leave him" He turned back to his bible, "Light wills it" ... Fuck, Theodore cursed loudly, He wanted to join the order to save people, not wait around for permission to save someone, all because a noble wanted to feel powerful. He spit on the floor, stomping on the ground. He clenched his teeth, "Ahh" He groaned out, closing his eyes, "Day wills it" he spoke out softly before praying, a smile blossoming on his lips as checked his connection with the light. This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. "Day really does will it, light is still with me" He spoke excitedly. Theodore looked for his horse and mounted it, his plan was to become a knight errant, looking to help anyone he came across. He rode, his horse across the county, he camped along the way, and he rode some more. The scenery kept on changing, but never his mission. His ears perked up, he heard the sounds of screaming and crying. He immediately changed course and headed to the source. A group of bandits were attacking a small village, already half of the houses were engulfed into flames. He drew his longsword, the blade erupting in golden flames, his eyes faintly glowing golden, he aimed it towards the first bandit "Cease" He stabbed into his knees, before bringing up his sword and decapitating him. He turned his face towards the others, the blood on his blade evaporating into nothing. He pointed his blade towards another, adjusting his stance. "IT''S JUST ONE GUY! SURROUND HIM!" A gruff voice screamed out, a one-eyed bandit with an unruly beard. He pointed his war axe at Theodore. "Teach the knight bastards, you don''t mess with the reapers," His lips moved to smile, his missing teeth creating an interesting backdrop. Ten bandits surrounded Theodore, as the others continued to loot and pillage. "You think your hot shit because you''re a knight" The One-eyed bandit, sneered. "All humans die the same" He charged forward, swinging his war axe, Theodore deflected, then riposted in his shoulder, before pulling back and parrying a sword that attacked him from the left. He cut the mans face, before pulling back. Another bandit struck him from the back, the attack bouncing off his silver armor., He turned and smirked, before piercing his heart. "Lay down your arms, Light wills it" He cut down another, then smacked the one to his right in the face with his hilt breaking his nose. His blood leaking all over the floor. "Five down" He held his sword in both hands, the other bandits that were previously pillaging, turning their attention to him. A big man led them, violet eyes, a rough exterior, unregulated beard and mustache, his eyes narrowed, his mouth turning into a twisted smile. The black armor on his body, had the image of a snake strangling a sparrow engraved. "Theodore" He spoke warmly as if talking to an old friend, he held his sword on his waist. "Aiden" Theodore seethed, spitting out the name like it was venom. "Still the same pretentious prick I see" Aiden walked forward, he drew his blade. "Still the same piece of shit" Theodore, blessed his blade, the sword growing larger and brighter. Aiden laughed, "An order member all by them lonesome" "Could I take this as you getting kicked out" He jeered "None of your business" Theodore growled "I couldn''t care less why you aren''t with those hypocrites" Aiden licked his lips, continuing to talk. "Why don''t you join my crew, I can use a blade like yours." "And be a two-bit bandit" "No thanks" "Then die" Alden charged, his blade engulfed in black flames, they clashed against each other, unfortunately for Aiden, Thedore had always been stronger, he planted his feet forward and pushed through, before cutting Aiden''s leg. Aiden pulled back limping. "Bastard" He spit the word out, his eyebrows furrowing, his eyes narrowing, the corners of lips pulling down into a sneer. He stepped forward, gritting his teeth and swung over his head, his sword coming down with black flames trailing behind it. Theodore met his blade, t bounced off from the parry. "WHAT ARE YOU BASTARDS WATCHING? DO YOU THINK THIS IS A SPECTACLE, GO KILL THE FUCK" Aiden roared. The bandits got to work. Theodore, prayed in his head, summoning a giant sword, of golden flames, swinging it towards the other bandits killing three before summoning a golden sword, in his right hand. He cut in an arc, killing another before deflecting a blade from Aiden and counterattacking towards another. He kept this pattern until it was just him and Aiden. He swept his leg, tripping the old man, pointing his blade at his throat. "Wait, wait, wait let''s talk about this don''t you want to know why I''m attacking this town?" Aiden panted heavily; he showed his hands, before reaching into his cloak pulling out the emblem of a viscount under the Boreas family with a letter attached. Theodore lowered his guard and reached for it. In a desperate attempt, Aiden lunged up and grabbed his hand, black flames travelling from his hand to Theodores, Theodore stumbled backwards, the black flames engulfing him, he tried patting the flames off and combatting it with his golden flames. His orders mantra repeated wildly in his head. He stumbled and tripped backwards hitting his head on a rock and knocking himself unconscious. The black flames, corrupting him, with the golden flames barely holding on. Ever since that day, Theodore had never been the same, more vicious, more malicious, only a semblance of what he once was, the darkest parts of him all amplified a thousand-fold. ¡­ Right before Aegeon''s, first death to Theodor Theodore was launched from the impact a short distance away. He stood up, spitting onto the floor, his face morphed into one of absolute hatred. His red hair glowing and flowing upwards. Theodore raised his sword and pointed it towards Aegeon an insane grin etched on his once noble face. A black flame shot from his blade. The black flames covered Aegeon, like it once covered him. "PRIEST!!!"Theodore turned to the angry wail of Isabella, Aegeon disappearing into nothing. Lightning struck the earth scorching it, dark stormy clouds appearing out of thin air, the heavens roaring like it was angry, a thin line in the sky seemed to be stretched open, giant hands tearing through the fabric of reality shrouded in lightning. The fingers spreading the line tearing it apart, as if it was trying to enter. "@&#^&*(" The words unintelligible but somehow driving his mind insane. A giant hand of ice from the earth grabbed Isabella, protecting her from the living thunder. The hands, started to rip the tear in reality harder, the moment his eyes landed on the fingers he remembered the teachings of the golden order. One must not gaze unto the visage of a true god, that was the last thought he had before his already dwindling mind collapsed, his last connection to the light vanishing. And just like that everything was pulled into a vortex and reset. ... "YOU!" Theodore roared; his mind scrambled "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO ME!" Theodore demanded an answer to a question he did not understand; his only semblance of intelligence trapped in a loop. Realisatio He touched his cheek, feeling the electricity flowing between his fingers, Aegeon was lucky, his head didn''t have a hole in it, of course that runt aimed for his head, he let out a short sigh before continuing to sprint towards the forest, lightning trailing behind him, his hand latched onto Isabella''s. Should I just die? The insane thought surfaced, it would fix a lot of problems, maybe this time he could kill Theodore faster, not having to be on the run like a wounded animal didn''t sound so bad. "Hey, cut it out, you''re scaring me" Isabella spoke, noticing the way his gaze felt distant. her eyes widening in concern. He shook his head, escape, that''s all he should be worried about right now, the sounds of the horse''s drawing near did not diminish or increase. He took this as a sign to make sure to run to where horses couldn''t follow him. He entered deeper into the forest, where the trees would make chasing them harder. Aegeon''s, heated breath left his lips, his thoughts trailed back to the fight, it turns out focusing everything you had in one blow only sounded good on paper. He was tired, he was hungry, his body ached like it had never done before, even breathing was arduous labor, all Aegeon wanted to do was lay down and sleep, even death felt like the better alternative. Lamenting why Gideon arrived ''earlier'' was useless, obviously the extra time in the cave had something to do with it, but why was he even there? Was he hunting traitors of the golden order? That was the most logical conclusion, running into one former member, was a coincidence, two was a pattern. Would he run into a third? As much as Aegeon knew about the game, it didn''t involve the people, and it didn''t help that the main characters in Deminos were mostly solitary, even the classes that usually belonged to a group were solo members of said group. Like the paladin class he initially chose, the lore behind it was a member of a fallen order where all members either fled or died. Most quest concerning other people, either ended with the player killing them or them dying. The only notable named characters were Trancendants, like the LightKeeper Gideon, or the Sword Saint of Ice. Who, you''d only ever hear of, or never meet. A truly remarkable and cheerful game, he clicked his tongue. "What?" Isabella asked, breaking him out of his stupor. "You can let go now" she said shyly, her cheeks flushed red, with a bashful look in her eyes. "Oh Right" He scratched his head "Sorry" He let go of her hand, and slowed down before coming to a stop, the sound of his pursuers no longer entering his ear. In reality Aegeon must have lost them long ago too lost in his thoughts to notice. He hunched over breathing heavily, his hands resting on his knees the want, or rather the need to vomit almost overcame him. "Fuck that golden-haired prick" His voice came out hoarse, no longer in overdrive everything hit him like a truck, the constant abuse of his body catching up with him. He was even tempted to just lay down and sleep. "Oh my, a paladin that curses this much" He turned to look at her, annoyance evident in his eyes, she covered her mouth with her hand as she spoke, her eyes widening in an exaggerated fashion. Aegeon was almost sure she was full of shit. He clicked his tongue, straightening up, he closed his eyes and rubbed his forehead, a prayer leaving his lips thanking his god for the victory and the escape. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. The air around, them got colder, his eyes instinctively turned towards Isabella. Thats odd I''m not supposed to feel the cold. An icicle formed in her hand, her hands moved swifter than he could follow, her right foot stepped forward, her hand bringing the icicle under his chin, he flinched for a second before hesitatingly surrendering. She walked forward, pressing it until he backed up against a tree. Her eyes narrowed, her eyebrows furrowing, a serious look on her face, an almost accusatory look in her eye, Aegeon could almost swear to see some fondness hidden beneath it all. "Who the hell are you?" She pressed the tip under his chin, drawing lightning. What the hell is she on? "And don''t give me that Aegeon bullshit, or that other name you made up with your shitty lightning trick" His eyes widened, "You remember" What the fuck? he internally panicked. "Of course, I remember you oaf, your damned god is fucking crazy" Her cheeks flushed as she remembered the first time she was reset. ''Way to show her. ''He almost instinctively rolled his eyes. "That power with a mortal" She looked at him with incredulity, shaking her head at the thought of it, her voice almost dripping with pity. "Do you know how boring it was to wait for you to finally kill that bastard? Only for you to die the second we did it." She rolled her eyes a disappointed look overtook the incredulity. She pressed the tip and poked his chest with her finger. "Now who are you and why did you come to save me, and don''t give me some bullshit like your god told you" "Fucking insane really, that''s the one thing you kept consistent." "Cause what kind of freak, dies over and over again for some complete strangers." She clicked her tongue. If he just pushes his chin further, maybe he could die in one swift motion, plan better, save them and run their separate ways. "And don''t think you can just reset your way out of this one," She poured water, over the kindling of his idea, she turned her gaze and looked at the ice, almost admiring it "this right here is true ice, it will stay with you even in death" Thunder rumbled in the distance. She rolled her eyes, pressing it harder against his chin. He raised his hands up in surrender, his lips beginning to move. "My name is-"He stopped for a second, his eyes narrowing, a look of disdain appearing on his face "fuck you" His voice rising, "that doesn''t matter" he enunciated "what kind of ungrateful piece of shit are you?" He pressed his chin into the ice, causing her to stumble backwards. "Reasons, identity" He gave her a look "does it really matter?" He continued to walk forward. Yes, but he wasn''t going to let this upstart press him. "How many times did I die for you? How many times did I walk through that door just to get my ass handed to me." He walked forward with every word. "And this is the thanks I get?" He laughed mockingly, "I mean come on" Her back hitting the tree behind her, his face hovering above hers. "We could have planned, you could have let me know, yet all you did was find different ways to call me a barbarian" "Here I was thinking some type of butterfly effect was making you talk more, differently" he looked up and laughed before looking into her eyes. "But no, it was you fucking with me." "Tehee" She weakly said, "Sorry " the ice dissipating as she sheepishly rubbed her head. "No hard feelings, right?" "That was just normal ice by the way." "You know what they say curiosity kill the slumbering dragon?" She blew some hair off her face. He sighed, "You''re actually so annoying." She frowned "You take that back" "Oh Revera, I''m such an Idiot" Embarrassment creeping up his spine, things don''t just change like that, every action has an equal and opposite reaction. He almost face palmed. How could he not know something was amiss? He stepped back, turning away to hide his embarrassment. "Do you want the honest truth?" he composed himself and looked at her, Isabella''s beauty was truly out of this world, she made everything around her look dull. She slowly nodded. Should he tell her? Sure, why the hell not, it wasn''t like he was professing some nefarious plan. "I hate to lose" It was the truth, his stubborn nature, his pride, his hatred for failure drove him. Of course, that wasn''t the only thing, but it was the fundamental reason. Quiet you She looked at him, like she was looking at an escaped asylum patient. "Seriously?" her face filled with shock "You''re insane" She paused, red creeping on her olive oil skin, and here I thought you had a crush on me. He turned and glared at her, "are you sure that you''re actually the daughter of a duke?" In reality she was the anthesis of what he would expect from a pure-blooded noble, and specifically an ice user, where was the ice-cold jade beauty? "Hey that''s rude" She stomped her feet on the floor, her cheeks puffed up. "Lucky for you I think besides me and that crazy knight, I''m the only one that knows about your regression trick, courtesy of my amazing god." The snow around them glowed as if to reciprocate her words. "And since we just killed that knight its only just me" "So, what''s the plan big guy?" She patted his back. "I don''t know" He paused "we''ve never really gotten this far." The words feeling odd as they left his lips. He turned to look around, his eyes widening in panic when he recognized where they were. All the bizarre happenings linking together, a mystery that he asked himself solving itself, from his discovery. "Hey, did the Pope of the Church of Thorns die yet?" "Yet?" She spared him a look of confusion "Not that the Duke''s house knows of" She touched her, chin her face tilted slightly as she looked at him. "Why?" Shit Resolutio "Are you going to tell me.... or just look like you''ve stepped on a Wyvern''s tail" Someone should teach this crass lady a lesson. He shook his head, half tempted to smack her on the head. "HEY!" She pouted, "Your definitely thinking of something rude" She grumbled, her cheeks puffed out, her eyes slightly droopy. He ignored her, his hand on his chin, his posture one of a thinking man. It can''t be... Could it? He sighed, as he looked around, this looked oddly familiar to the boss arena of Elder dragon Keiren. He remembered it looking, a lot less snowy. The odd, stone structures in the floor embedded centuries ago, withered by time to look like oddly shaped rocks. If this was the forest Aegeon thought it was, all things happening here made sense. This damned forest was an endgame area of Deminos 2, harboring bosses that made Theodore look like a toddler. Not to mention, in Deminos 1 it was teeming with cultists and monsters. The area only became available after killing each respective boss, and the dragon didn''t wake till two after Ba-. His thoughts interrupted by thunder, the electricity in his body vibrating violently. Thunder rumbling in the distance, dark clouds gathering above them. He felt a soft hand touch his lips. Well, that sounds kind of broken, he frowned. Wrinkles formed on his forehead, his lips morphing into a frown. Are you okay? Aegeon worried for his Divine Stalker, you have been breaking the rules a lot recently. For an inexplicable reason, he felt a warm gaze on him, he instinctively looked up to the clouds seeing nothing, his eyes squinting. Her bodiless voice chuckled, her laughter like a divine melody, his ears getting massaged by her voice. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. Ice gathered, before dissipating. "Is that crazy here?" Isabella asked frightened, she gazed up into the sky shielding herself before balling up her fist ready to fight. He waved her off "She''s gone." "I''ve never seen someone so close to their god." Her finger touched her lips as she pondered "Even popes rarely speak to their gods, if they even do." "Of course, I''m the exception" She smiled brightly, bringing her hand up and forming a peace sign with her fingers, her eyes squinting as she tried to act cute. He gave her a look, before steadying himself against a tree. "The area we are in, is the lair of a Dra-" "A dragon?" She interrupted him "What the hell are we still doing here, she walked over to him grabbing his arm, attempting to drag him away. "If I''m being honest, I feel, like shit and I think I could keel over at any moment right now." He pointed towards the mountain barely obscured by the tall yidtrees "That is our destination." "So?" "Do you want to stay here and become lunch for a dragon?" She asked, with difficulty as she gritted her teeth dragging him. She so readily trusted his words, not once questioning where he got his information from, his teeth clenched as she stared at him. Isabella was as suspicious as he was. Had he ever heard of Isabella Boreas? How did a Grand Dukes heir get kidnapped? Where are the knight legions combing the area to come find their heir? He had as many questions for her as she had for him. In fact, if the game was anything to go by, the Sun god faction won, and they won hard. Who the hell is Isabella Boreas? Clearly, she didn''t matter enough for him to remember her name. The thought felt sickening. Was he so inhumane to dictate peoples worth, by their relevance to the plot? No, he wasn''t. The countless lives he failed to save during the game hit him like a speeding train. So, many people died because their quests weren''t important to the story, or he needed to kill someone for their item. The corners of his lips pulled downward. "It looks like steam is going to come out of your head", Her smile, so radiant one would mistake her for a sun priestess. "Looks like the Dragon has competition" He felt a genuine chuckle leave his lips. "There we are" She smiled poking him "The oh so serious, barbarian priest knows how to laugh." She teased, the twinkle in her eye sparkled. His laughed harder, why should he care if he failed to save them? Why should he care if she wasn''t important to the plot, he''d save them all, he swore it. A resolute smile graced his lips. "Let''s go" The hunger that he felt only increased, he hoped the trek from here to the mountain was smooth and seamless, maybe even find a good meal on the way. He gathered up his strength and steeled his mind trying to ignore the pain of his body. He pulled his arm from her, and walked in the lead, the lightning seeped from his forearms forming a machete, he cut the giant plants around him. A disappointed sigh left her lips. "What was that?" "Nothing" Her voice meek, she quickly walked behind him trailing closely. His divinity in the afterburners, only held afloat by his occasional prayers. Thud! Thud! after an hour of navigating the forest, he heard strange noises, he held his hand up a signal to halt Do you hear that it sounds like it coming straight fo---" A giant troll burst from the woods, charging into Aegeon, his eyes widening with no time to react he got hit by the troll, slamming straight into a tree creating a crater, lightning spitting out of his mouth. What the f---- Magnus Dux He spit some saliva on the floor before getting up, his fist clenching, his eyes leaking lightning, his upper lip rising putting his teeth on full display, his narrowed eyes widening with the fury of a thousand storms, his mouth opened the only thing let out was a growl. "Heh" a chuckle escaped his lips, he rolled his shoulder, stretching his body driven purely by rage and adrenaline. The extra fuel in his tank was engaged. Perfect He wanted to get rid of some stress, although he hoped this wouldn''t put him in a worst spot than before. He wiped his lips, his face tilted slightly, he rolled his neck, hand outstretched grabbing lightning from the air. "May Revera grant me victory" He raised his spear, lightning flashing in the sky. He let out a breath, the cold making it visible. The troll was an ugly bastard, his pale blue skin, and green hair made for an odd combination, the ''toga'' it was wearing made very little attempt at covering him fully, the sharp canines poking out of his jaw, stained red with blood. Its black beady eyes glared at Aegeon. As it towered over the trees. He looked at his wrist, and then his forearm, lightning wrapping around his body. He put his foot down firmly and twisted it, creating grip, before running and launching himself towards the Troll, lightning in hand with both hands holding the spear overhead, he brought it down with what little force he had left. The troll matched him with its massive club, swinging like it was about to hit a home run, its mouth opened spraying saliva all over Aegeon, the spit evaporating upon touching Aegeon''s lightning. "Don''t forget about me!" Isabellas eyes narrowing at the troll, her hands were together clasped as she chanted in an ancient imperial language. Ice gathered around her, drawing the cold from the trees and the ground, creating a gigantic ice spear. It radiated frost, freezing the very snow around it. She waved her hands, thrusting her arms forward, the giant spear following, heading towards the trolls back freezing everything in its wake. Boom! The sound of the clash from Aegeon and the troll resonated throughout the forest, the spear of Aegeon barely drilling past the club, it embedding itself in one of the trolls'' beady black eyes. Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! He let the spear dissipate, his feet forward landing on the troll, his arms raised up as he started to pummel the trolls face in, he could feel lightning leaking from his knuckles, Aegeon roared trying to tear apart the Trolls jaw. The troll stumbled back reeling from the pain, it tried to smack Aegeon off flailing its arms about, right when he was about to grab Aegeon, he got impaled in the back from Isabellas spear. Blood dripped from the Troll staining the giant ice spear green. Close! He surmised barely dodging the ice spear, he looked at Isabella his eyebrows furrowed slightly, his eyes giving her a scrutinizing look as a glare flickered in his eye, while his lips threatening to pull themselves into a frown. "What?" "You''re fine" She rolled her eyes, before looking at the troll dissipating into lightning. Her head tilted slightly with both eyebrows raised, her mouth opening and closing, like a fish trying to get air. "Does your god always do that?" She shivered slightly, something that should not happen to an ice mage. He ignored her, where the hell are his rewards? He could faintly hear the marching of knights in the distance, their armor giving them away. Wait Aegeon had never received the rewards for killing Theodore. Shit His eyes widened, he turned and grabbed a hold of Isabella and started to sprint. RUN! He yelled, letting go. She sprinted right behind him. Fuck That fucking golden haired prick was still hunting him. Aegeon has been in combat this entire time, his conversation with Isabella distracted him from asking why he didn''t receive anything for killing Theodore. The adrenaline wore out, moving felt worse than getting consumed by black flames. His hand engulfed itself in lightning, he stared at where his heart was supposed to be. "Snap out of it" Her voice sounded like a Golden-crowned Sparrow''s cry. For him, at this moment it was the second most beautiful voice he had ever heard, it was like a torch in a dark cave. Thanks, he wanted to whisper, the words not leaving his throat. Aegeon, wanted to laugh, his voice feeling like needles were piercing his throat, was the exhaustion driving him insane? His eyes felt heavy, his chest stiffening, his body aching Push! Push! He repeated like a mantra, his legs feeling like they were dissolving as he ran. A silver arrow whizzed by him clipping his ear. He tilted his head and clenched his teeth. Endure! His breath left his body, with arduous strain, even breathing through his nose felt impossible, his chest tightening with each step, just one more. JUST ONE MORE! He ran, struggling to even keep his eyes open. "You got this" She grabbed onto him helping him run, the words of encouragement from her felt odd. Had the world turned upside down, he instinctively touched his throat. She snapped her fingers. "Don''t die on me priest." "Focus" He opened his half-asleep eyes, and turned his head, golden armored knights entered his vison, too blurry to tell much, they surrounded them, he grabbed onto Isabella and tossed her away with all his strength, he mouthed the words to run. He slouched up against a tree stumbling and falling, a silver sword brought down near his shoulder, kissing his throat. His breath leaving his body at an uneven tempo. "Hand over the princess" "Sto- The words sounding muffled to his ear, as Isabella stepped Infront of him moving the sword with her fingers. Much of the conversation that followed felt like intelligible gibberish. He used his last bit of strength to look at her, Isabellas eyes were like frost incarnate, a frown prevalent on her face, none of the playfulness or teasing evident on her face. His vision faded, as he lost consciousness. Et iterum He dreamt of a palace in the sky, the architecture something only the divine could create. A figure shrouded in lightning, sitting on a throne made of shards of thunderbolts. ''My lord'' The words left his lips involuntary, her very aura, brought him to his knees. "Enough" Her heavenly voice resonated throughout the room, the compulsion to kneel, vanishing as quickly as it came. "My knight shall bow to no one." Her command seemed to become reality. "Divinity" She spit the word out, her voice tickling his ears. "Such a silly little thing, isn''t it?" Her voice raised a pitch; he could almost imagine the divine smile on her face. He looked up, his knees straightening as he stood. He must have been pretty exhausted to dream of such a magnificent figure. "My My" The figure fanned herself "Quite the charmer, my champion is, if only your thoughts weren''t so loose with the others" She clicked her tongue, He could feel the palace rumbling, thunder roaring, and lightning illuminating his surroundings. He tried to balance himself, not to stumble, the action arising a melodious laughter from the figure. The corners of Aegeon''s lips were pulled downward, a frown forming on his face. He turned his head looking around, figures that were blurry, with lightning as wings roamed around the palace. "Focus" His thoughts were pulled as everything around him became clear, his eyes and face turning towards the figure. "You won''t ever understand how many strings I pulled to get this meeting" She rested her head on her hand. "So don''t blame me for getting a little Jealous that you aren''t paying attention to me" She pouted, or at least he felt she did. "Apologies" She spoke as if lamenting something, it started to rain in the palace. "You are too weak, to look at me directly" "A shame really, Id love to see the look on your face, when you gaze upon my visage," A soft chuckle escaped her lips. "Regardless, congratulations on becoming a Paladin." The rain ceased, thunder roaring in celebration. "A gift is in order" Her figure flashed Infront of him, the lightnings lips were placed on his forehead. He felt a warmth he had never felt before. "My knight in shining armor should have armor fitting to match him,''" She spoke in a sultry voice, before pushing him forward. "Win my beloved Knight and return to me" She whispered softly. her words obscured by thunder, he could barely make out her words as he woke up abruptly. Fuck! he moved around flailing his arms, he could smell the scent of wood burning and the aroma of finely cooked meat, his mouth watering. "Do you always wake up like this?" Isabellas familiar voice loomed over him, she was flanked by two golden-armored knights, both bearing the Wolf howling towards the moon sigil. Their armor was intricately engraved with wolves hunting down all sorts of animals. Most familiar, he noticed on the right knights Chest plate, a wolf was devouring the sun, and on the left, a wolf eating a stag. "Privacy" Her tone cold, she glared at the knights, her face one of indifference, like a finely crafted ice statue. The knights made no move to leave the small tent. "Kail," She grabbed the bridge of her nose in annoyance. "Do you really believe my savior would harm me" Both knights turned to look at each other and left. She turned towards Aegeon, the ice in her expression thawed, the corners of her lips pulled upwards, her eyes sparkling while her cheeks flushed. A genuine smile graced her lips. Aegeon turned his head, looking around, avoiding her gaze, the place was luxuries, even more than his old home on Terra, his words felt lost, but he managed to speak. "Wow, I''ve never met a princess before" It was an awkward attempt at humor, but perhaps it was funnier than he intended. She covered her mouth and laughed, the sound like ringing bells. He sheepishly rubbed his head. "So..." he paused, as she handed him a meal. "How long was I out?" "Half a day" "Your body is surprisingly resilient, others would have been out of commission for weeks." She trailed off, before clearing her throat. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. He was relieved, he wasn''t out for more than a day, his body relaxed, the tension leaving him, as he laid in the ''bed''. "What are your plans?" She asked her voice sounding hopeful, while she absentmindly twirled her hair with a finger. "Reunite, with Rachel and the others." Aegeon prayed before he stirred the bowl of stew and took a mouthful with the spoon, quickly devouring the contents like a starved beast. "Won''t you come to my domain with me" A distinct blush crept up her face. "We can build a church for you" It wasn''t a bad offer, and it was kind of her to ask him in the first place. He paused his meal, Aegeon wasn''t exaggerating when he said that the sun god faction won hard. It was one of the Major reasons humanity fell so easily in the first game. But he didn''t want to leave her to die, as the daughter of the grand duke, she was probably going to be at the forefront of the fight. "Thank you" Her lips curved upwards until a grin that threatened to split her face in two arrived, He stopped before she got too excited "But, only after I rescue the others and find out what my god wants in this forest." She nodded, a bright smile on her face. "Then it''s a promise" She extended her picky finger. He hooked his pinky finger with hers. Her breath hitched, a laugh escaping from her throat, she clasped her hands together, her lips trying but failing to not break into a grin. "I''ll see if I can talk to the Knight my father sent for me, to let me accompany you on your journey." She turned, opening the flaps of the tent, before glancing at him her lips parsed together and leaving. He rested in the tent, eating his meal with a bright grin on his face. He finished it and began to wait for Isabella. The tent flapped opened, Isabella walked in first, her eyebrows furrowed, and her nose scrunched up, her lips slightly twitching. She was followed by an older man, a bald guy with a walrus moustache, grey eyes, and high cheekbones. A clean-shaven beard, golden armored wrapped around him. A wolf howling at the moon stamped on his chest. A moose eating grass on his right breast. Aegeon couldn''t remember whose family crest was a moose. "Are you the idiot speaking poison to the princess?" His voice left pleasantries to be desired. "Sir...?" "Matthews" The knight interjected "Vice commander of the Silver Order" He pounded his chest "Don''t be rude" Isabella, glared at Matthews. "I am Aegeon, Storm Herald of Revera" "I could care less who you are, if you think I''m going to allow the princess, to go with someone, who couldn''t even defend her from us you are sorely mistaken." He looked at Aegeon from head to toe. "Look at you, laying down, where are your manners boy you are in the presence of royalty." "Enough" Isabella commanded. Aegeon slowly got up, his limbs stretching and creaking, he stepped forward, walking Infront of Matthew. Matthew''s aura burst out, freezing everything around him, the aura so intense it made Theodore seem like a child. Aegean''s knees buckled, he stepped forward gritting his teeth, the words from his god reverberating in his head. My knight shall bow to no one. His eyebrows narrowed mirroring his eyes. Blue Lightning flickering around his forearms, the color shifting to yellow before turning back to blue. He stood face to face with Matthew, his eyes leaking lightning. At the absolute peak of tension, Matthews hardened gaze softening, his lips curving upwards as a hearty laugh escaped his lips, his aura disappearing. "Some spirit in you boy" He patted his chest roughly, making Aegeon stumble back slightly, his eyebrow raising. "The duke would like you" He put a hand on his shoulder, before removing his gauntlet and extending his hand. "Thanks for saving the princess" He clasped his arm in a handshake. "You dress like a barbarian, where do you hail from?" The budding smile on his face stiffened, do these people have no decorum? Aegeon swore he did not look like a barbarian; surely he was missing the egregiously large muscles. Yeah, Aegeon was no barbarian, if he had to look like something would it not be a charming rogue? Or a wandering knight? He looked down, oh right, he wasn''t wearing a shirt. His discovery dampened his mood, he inwardly sighed, his thoughts shifted to the question. Obviously, they wouldn''t believe the truth, well there was only one option left. Pick a direction and just say farther. "I''m from further north" He smiled triumphantly, hiding the smirk from forming on his face. "See I knew you were a barbarian" Isabella spoke, her eyes sparking with mirth, as the corner of her lips tilted upwards with a teasing grin. Matthew let out a boisterous laugh. "Those barbarians are tough bastards, and if anything what Isabella said was true so are you." He punched his chest lightly. "ENEMY ATTACK!" A scream was heard outside the tent, shortly followed by the sounds of clashing swords. Matthew grabbed his sword and unsheathed it, ice radiating from its hilt, the blade emanating frost. "Take the princess and go" He reached for a map on his belt. "I will meet you here" He turned and left the tent. "Does the golden order wish to declare war on the Grand Duchy of Boreas?" He heard Matthews loud voice ask. "Give me the heretic''s and you will all be spared" Aegeon peeked out, the words coming from Sir Gideons mouth. The camp laid in tatters, everywhere he looked a knight was fighting another, ice and flames battling for supremacy. "The wolves of the North answer to no man." His blade clashed with Gideons Rapier. "Let''s go" He grabbed onto Isabella''s arm and dragged her away. "We can''t just leave him here" He closed his eyes praying for victory, "He''ll live" his voice sounding more uncertain than he intended. Two, silver armored knights stood in his path. Aegeon summoned a bolt of lightning, Isabella beside him summoned a rapier made of ice. The two, respectively stepped Infront of their opponents, "Don''t kill him you''ll be marked for life" Aegeon whispered in a voice that only Isabella could hear. It wasn''t so much of a problem in any game after Deminos one, but if at any point you killed a paladin of the golden order, you would be marked by said god. "I know" She whispered back. Her hands gripping, the sword tightly, she swiped up, it was blocked by the golden knight, his sword engulfed in Golden-Flames, she pulled back her blade before kicking the knight''s knee with her foot encased in ice, his knee buckled, she swung again cutting across his chest, the wound freezing shut. He swung his blade, Isabella parried before knocking on the helmet with her hilt rattling the knight knocking him out. Aegeon stabbed his spear into the Knights shoulder, letting the spear dissipate, the knight grabbed his wound, healing it with golden light, he pulled out an axe and attacked Aegeon, who deflected it, and punched the knight in the head, causing the knight to step back. The knight swung nicking Aegeon who retaliated by slamming his fist in the knight''s cheek knocking him out. "Lets go befo--- A golden spear traveled through the air, it was about to hit Isabella, Aegeon pushed her out of the way getting impaled by the spear in the head. Shit Et Est Enternum He stood up clutching his head, his eyes looking around the musty cave. Aegeon could feel the spear drilling in his head. He shivered. That bastard had a fetish for heads, his eyebrows furrowing slightly. He touched his chin, dying wasn''t all that bad he surmised, it helped that he no longer felt like absolute shit, perhaps the only physical issue was the resurgence of his hunger, he opened his mouth, the phantom taste of the stew still on his tongue. Aegeon sighed running a hand through his hair, his legs moving as he ran out the cave. He jumped soaring into the blue sky, his gods domain. His figure shifting into lightning as he went down the mountain. Lightning seeped out of his forearms, two spears accompanying him like familiars. He traced his steps to the cellar, his spears killing all the goblins as he passed, when he made it to the Goblin Chief, a spear drilled itself in its forehead. Have at that bastard, he touched the side of his head, I feel your pain. He made it to the cellar door opening it and stepping inside. "My hero" The familiar voice rang out in the cellar, her eyes sparkling, as the corners of her cheeks creased forming a warm smile. Her hand on her heart above her crest, her hair swaying slightly from the draft let in. He stood stunned for a second, before avoiding her gaze awkwardly, she truly looked out of this world. He mouthed the words ''Later'' to her. He rolled his eyes, snapping his finger, the lightning releasing all of them, he prayed before getting rid of the corpses with his lightning. "See I told you he''d come" "Children of the sky, thy mother has instructed me to come and save you all" His lips curved upwards, his eyes shining blue, the lightning he commanded, went around snapping their shackles. They thanked him, while rubbing their wrists, the small seed of faith taking root in their hearts. "Did you get them up to speed?" He asked, looking at Isabella, she nodded. "Only the essentials." "Good, I assume you all know where to go." They nodded, Rachel the elf stepped forward leading the group, her moves natural as if she was already used to being a leader. "My name is Aegeon." Before they started to talk, he waved them off "There''s no need, my god told me your names." The lightning around him glowing, spelling their names out. A smile threatened to form itself on his lips, having Isabella assist him really did save some time. "Remember to run as soon as the black flames rise, I''ll meet you at the peak, may Revera bless you" The corners of his lips pulled upwards, his eyes twinkling as the lightning gathered around them blessing the former captives. Isabella snorted, moving closer to him. "Your god is lucky to have someone like you," she whispered softly, tickling his ears. Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. The corners of her lips quivered before being pulled into a smile, her eyes staring into his. "That was really cool of you" She tucked some hair behind her ear, her cheeks the color of a tomato, her eyes sparkled blue, before turning her head to the entrance. Isabella gathered ice, forming a rapier in her hand. He walked out first, leading the group, purple lightning forming in his hand, something he learned after reaching fifty stat points in faith. "It doesn''t match your hair anymore" She chuckled, her hand covering her mouth, as the corners of her eyes crinkled, a smile appearing on her face, that seemed to melt the blizzard outside. She looked like she was taken straight out of a painting. Thunder rumbling in the distance, dark clouds forming over his head. He turned his face towards the entrance, sucking in a breath and praying before opening the door. A wall of black flames erupted before him. "YOU!" Theodore seethed, his eyebrows furrowing, the light from his eyes obscured by the black flames, the corners of his mouth curved violently into a sneer. "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO TO ME!" His voice, like nails on a chalk board. "Twice slain but not forgotten" His voice cracking as he spoke, Theodore gritted his teeth, Aegeon could almost swear he heard them shatter. "My light" He stepped forward, his black amour creaking with every step, everywhere his foot touched killed the land around him, the black flames corrupting the landscape. "MY LIGHT" Theodore gripped his sword tightly, his black flames dancing along the edges of the blade, "Give" He stepped forward cracking the land beneath his foot. "It" He charged towards Aegeon, not even glancing at Isabella. "BACK" His voice erupted as flames leapt out of his mouth. His poisonous green eyes glowed black, shifting into a vertical pupil. Thunder! lightning struck Aegean''s spear, turning it yellow, he held the heavenly bolt and struck at Theodores incoming blade, parrying it. It wasn''t as heavy as it used to be, Theodore no longer felt like an insurmountable mountain. Theodore tightened his grip and pulled his sword over his shoulder swinging towards Aegeon from the right. The countless repetitions of this fight helped hone the basics of spearmanship. Aegeon brought his spear near the blow and pushed up the blade with his strike. Thedore''s eyes widened, his mouth opening, and the whites of his teeth on full display. "YOU INSIGNIFICANT FUCK!" He swung again, this time with more force and from the left, the tip of his blade growing longer. Aegeon once again, deflected aiming for a riposte, he aimed for his shoulder, Theodore''s pupils moved slowly towards the strike, his body not being able to keep up was struck. "JUST SIT THERE AND DIE." His voice shaking as he attempted to pull out the spear. Isabella, not wasting time struck from behind, impaling him from the back, his heart sliding down from the tip of the rapier into the hilt. Theodore slowly looked down; he spit out some blood the black flames vanishing from his eyes, regaining a semblance of clarity. "Did I do it?" He choked out "Did I serve you well day?" He looked up into the sky before dissipating into lightning. The ice rapier disappeared. Aegeon relaxed, the tension in his muscles leaving with his breath, he clasped his hands and did a silent prayer thanking his god for the victory. His spear dropping onto the floor with a metallic thud before dissipating into the ether. He let out a breath in the cold air, looking up. The dark clouds clearing. "That was quick" Isabellas voice cut through the silence. Lvl.Max> The boots were already equipped on him, a silver sabaton boot (Knight boots) with Thunder blue highlights. He took a step, lightning trailed from the boots, they fit snuggly. Aegeon really wanted to check the description, but the fact that he even received a reward told him Gideon hadn''t arrived yet, and Aegeon would like to keep it that way. "Does that always happen?" She looked at his boots with raised eyebrows, her eyes lingering on his face before looking into a horizon, her cheeks upturned. "A gift" He looked up at the clouds, lightning streaking across the sky. In this hell like game, it made sense she could only give one piece at a time, he was already grateful enough for just one piece of late-game equipment. He smiled warmly at the sky. She pulled his arm; he turned to look at her. "We should get going, we might be able to catch up with them." Her words sounded logical, but the look on her face told him that wasn''t the reason she pulled his arm. He shrugged before walking into the forest. Montis solitarius He tilted his head back his eyes closed and breathed though his nose. The corners of his lips tugged, until a smile broke out on his face. Finally, Aegeon didn''t have to worry about that damned golden-haired bastard hunting him. This was the perfect time to organize his thoughts. Although Aegeon didn''t know much about unimportant individuals, groups were another thing. The silver order a great paladin order, that belonged to the Moon/Winter god faction. In the era of night, the winter god, helped the god of Day Hemera slay the god of the moon Jelier. The winter god stripped Jelier of his divinities becoming the new god of the moon and fashioned his body into equipment. Legends, say you can still hear the howling of Jelier as the new moon god drives the chariot fashioned from his body to turn day into night. Much like demon gods, true gods also were ''difficult'' to kill, one way of effectively ''killing'' them was fashioning them into equipment. The death of the moon god shifted the tides in favor of the day faction, the accolades of war granted the first Boreas, the name Boreas and the grand dukedom of the Regalus Kingdom. A kingdom formed by the first heroes from the age of heroes, after the age of the eternal night ended, each house following a different god united by one banner. The Silver. and Golden Order used to classified as a twin order, reflecting the Moon and Sun gods'' status as inseparable friends. That was until, the Sun god''s brother a notorious playboy demanded to be married to the Moon god, according to the Church of Winter and the Moon, the god of Joy and Music Carrion attempted to forcefully bed her, leading her to rip out his spine and fashion a bow that served as a harp. According to the Church of the Sun, Carrion respectfully asked, for her hand in marriage, and in a fit of unjustifiable rage the moon god struck him down. Unbeknownst to both of them Carrion was a demon collaborator, and it was more likely than not that this was a plot to divide the united gods. In the third game Deminios 3, the player fights the revived Carrion. The ending of both the Moon and Sun god was truly pitiful. One dying from their friend''s hand and the other in eternal regret. "Thank you" Her voice brought him out of his stupor. He cleared his throat, "You don''t have to thank me" he spoke out awkwardly, after noticing her piercing gaze on him, the corners of her lips curved up, while her eyes sparkled as if she''s seen some type of luxurious gem. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. She locked eyes with him, her face turning as a distinct red crept up her cheeks, she looked at the floor, kicking her feet until she spotted something. "They were just here" She lightly rubbed the tracks on the floor. He looked at her with a raised eyebrow. Her face turned seeming to notice his gaze, "Hey!" Her nose scrunched up "don''t look at me like that" She rolled up her sleeves and patted her biceps "I''m still a northerner" She said with a pout as her eyes twinkled and the corner of her eyes creased, an unmistakable smile forming on her face. The smile slowly fading as she got serious. "If we run, we can catch up to them" His voice dampening her mood, he got ready to sprint before he felt a tug on his arm. "How about we stay with just us for a while?" She asked, looking at him with big round eyes, her serious face made her look cute. Blood almost rushing out of his nose, as the desire to pinch her cheeks almost overtook him. He relaxed his figure, going back to pace walking. "Fine" "Thanks" She said meekly, holding the edge of her sleeves. "So, what do we do about the knights looking for you?" She put a finger on her lips before opening her mouth to talk. "Wouldn''t it be better for them, if we didn''t appear there" She paused "I Mean think about it, we gave Gideon ''justification to attack them" Her eyes trailed off his, onto the tree beside them. "After we sort out this mess, we will ALL group up and head to my domain." She emphasized the word all, "Then we can find my father''s knights." Snap! the sound of something stepping on a twig was heard from his right. Aegeon and Isabellas head snapped to the sound, both summoning their respective elements, shooting into the direction A grotesque little goblin walked out, lightning and ice drilling into its head. "That''s odd, all the goblins in this area should be dead." His expression darkened, "I Hope the others are okay." She placed a hand on his shoulder. "Those guys are tougher than they look" Her hand moved to cover her mouth as a laugh was about to escape "You should have seen the trouble Rachel gave the merchants." He nodded slowly, although it didn''t do much to assure him, he appreciated the effort. This whole ''adventure'' never really went according to ''plan.'' She stopped walking causing him to follow her lead. "Did it hurt?" She touched his cheek, her eyes avoiding his gaze, before looking at him and then back towards her feet, her red lips were pressed into a thin line, slowly parting open before closing again, as if her voice wouldn''t come out. The red that usually adorned her cheeks crept up to her ears. "You know the spear" She managed to say, her eyes quivering as if she was about to cry. Her hand moving back to her side, she gathered up the courage to look him in the eyes. He instinctively touched the side of his head, her eyes widening before looking away in guilt. "I have died much worse" Something he thought he would have never said before. It looked like his words didn''t help alleviate her mood. "It was my choice" He stretched out his hand to turn her face towards his, looking into her eyes as he spoke. "Don''t feel bad, or indebted, it was my choice to step Infront of the spear." The rest of the walk resulted in silence until they reached their destination. "We have reached the edge of the forest, the mountain peak is just over there." He faced her "Have you ever hiked up a mountain" She tilted her head, her eyebrows sightly furrowed. "Hike?" She raised her hand and chanted in ancient imperial tongue. "And why would we do that?" stairs of ice raised from the floor, she took a step on it before extending her hand to Aegeon. He gently clasped it before walking onto the ice step, the grip doing nothing to curve his nervousness, she squeezed his hand before rising to another step. They kept this pace until they reached the top of the mountain. He took a breath in before stepping into the cave. Cantor Tempestatis Aegeon wasn''t much of a conversationalist. So, when he was confronted by group of women huddled together in a tight cave, he had no idea what to say. Should he start by asking for their stories? It wasn''t like spending ten years Infront of a screen really helped him develop social skills. He coughed, the corners of his lips curving upwards, a somewhat gentle smile appearing on his face, "Revera has guided us together" he softly prayed, his eyes glowing blue. "Revera has guided us together" Rachel, awkwardly clasped her hands praying with him. The other rubbing their faces or standing idly, still not keen on joining a new religion. "Sister of mine" He closed the distance and clasped her hand, causing her to stagger back, her ears twitching, as a blush crept up her face "Will you join me in worship" His voice like that of a door-to-door preacher. Isabella cleared her throat, her eyes upturned, her eyebrows slightly furrowed. If Aegeon wasn''t such a ''peoples'' person he would swear she looked annoyed, he sheepishly scratched his hair looking away from Rached onto Isabella. His gaze turning back to Rachel, his piercing blue eyes staring into her green, emerald eyes. "Y-yes Brother" She managed to stutter out, still troubled by the ambush, her voice low, avoiding his gaze. Thats new He ignored it, looking around, there were more pressing matters to attend to. Just as he opened his mouth to speak. "What are your plans" Isabella beat him to the punch, sparing him a sideways glance, her arms crossed. His mouth closed, a sour taste on his tongue. He shrugged and let her continue, it wasn''t like the idea of speaking with them was so attractive infact, Aegeon silently gave her a thumbs up, it was times like these that made Aegeon think that every introvert should have an extroverted friend. "This far from home, I doubt many of you even want to return." She looked at each of them, some frowning heavier than the others. Ouch It''s not like Isabella knew how or why they got captured, but if they were this far from their home it was more likely than not, that they were sold by their own people. That or. He frowned. Their village was slaughtered, and they were a part of or all that remained. His gaze lingered on Rachel, there was no way those prideful elves would sell their own kind. If he was honest, he was indeed curious of her story, it also helped that she was a newly turned convert to his church, although a background check to join his mysterious church wasn''t required Afterall Aegeon himself didn''t really know anything about his church. But an Elf so easily convinced to join a weird religion didn''t really sit right with him. The sudden notification scared him, making him flinch. Her alerts have been less frequent, he almost forgot all together. Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. Acknowledging voices in your head is the first step to insanity, so he ignored her and continued thinking. Elfs were notorious followers of the world tree, or the goddess of nature and they were usually die-hard zealots. So far, Aegeon really had''nt met anyone simple in this forest. He cast a suspicious glance in her direction before shaking his head. What would the other clergymen think if he was suspicious of his junior sister? The notifications from the system indicated that her conversion was genuine. Even if the System is a notorious piece-, maybe he shouldn''t think that way, he thought while feeling a chill go up his spine. "If I''m being quite honest, this whole forest is a powder keg, even here in this mountain we aren''t safe" She glanced back at Aegeon, solicitating a nod from him. Her thoughts weren''t inherently bad, every time he had a conversation in this damned forest it was usually followed by death, his death most of the time, he shivered slightly. "So, while I''d love to hear all about your individual plans, we simply don''t have enough time." He almost picked her up and twirled her around. She spared him a glance of disdain before looking back at the group. Isabella really does have a six sense. "As many of you know, she lightly touched her crest "I am the heir of the Grand Duchy of Boreas, we can reach my domain and then figure all of this out." She looked at them expectantly, hoping for a positive affirmation. The others looked at Rachel, their temporary leader. She nodded, "I can feel, the unease of the nature in this area." Her eyes serious, the clumsy looking elf nowhere to be seen. "Good" Isabella spoke, with a certain hint of authority in her voice, turning towards the entrance. "We should move now" She paused in her tracks, "Besides Rachel, who here knows how to wield a weapon?" All of them raised their hands, except two of the human girls that looked like sisters. "Come up to me and tell me what weapon you would like." They followed her direction, she conjured ice sculptions to their specifications. Each of them testing the plethora of weapons she made. The cold ice presumably not cold as not a hint of discomfort was evident in their faces. Rachel looked off to the side, before using her power to craft a bow from wood. "Remember only fight as last resort, I''m not exactly a blacksmith" Not to mention those weapons are only made of ice, he thought to say but held back. He coughed before he patted her back and moving towards the front. They followed Isabella and Aegeon down the mountain stopping right as they reached the entrance to the forest. That golden-Hair- "That golden haired prick is probably hunting us right now." Her words interrupting his thoughts. He looked at her with wide eyes. Her cheeks puffed up as she grumbled "Don''t look at me like that" She patted her crest "I will be the heir to the grand duchy" she said proudly, her nose pointed towards the heaven. He wanted to smack her on the forehead. "Hey" She rubbed her forehead, like she was actually hit. His eyebrows raised, "You were staring" She spoke with a meek tone, shyly holding her arms. Was it that obvious? He probably didn''t want a response. He turned towards Rachel, "Come forward sister" He could feel two holes being drilled in the back of his head by Isabella. He gestured her foward with a warm smile on his lips. "Y-y_Yes brother?" She asked avoiding his gaze. "You wish to join me? Spreading the warmth of the sky mother?" The words came naturally off his tongue, like a sleazy salesman. "Yes" her wide green eyes blinked repeatedly before her lips curved upwards, her smile instantly melting the snow around them. Woah, they said Elfs were beautiful but this... "Are you going to close your mouth?" Isabella asked annoyed, her arms crossed angrily. He shook his head and placed a hand on Rachel''s head He chose yes. Lightning wrapped around Rachel, until she was obscured by it. It twirled around her like a tornado, finally slowing down after what felt like an eternity. The first thing he noticed, was that her emerald, green eyes, changed to a sapphire blue and pale blue marking were now under her eyes. Her natural beauty was not changed but enhanced, something he didn''t think was possible. Lightning trailed along her arms, she clenched her fist probably feeling the new power she had. Tears formed at the corner of her eyes, before she launched herself forward and hugged him, rubbing her head all over him. He was caught off guard, but accepted the hug of his newly ordained sister. "Thank you" "Thank you" She repeated as she cried onto him, his hand hovering over her until he made up his mind and gently stroked her hair. "There there child" He softly cooed "We have found you now" She continued to cry letting out all her repressed emotions "You are no longer alone" He assured her as he gently reassured her. Never in a million years would he think an elf would cry on his chest and his task was to console her. Isabella almost tripled over. She tried to pry her off him. "Let go" Rachel stubbornly refused and continued to hold onto him. "Watch out" One of the beastkin cried out as a silver arrow whizzed past the air towards Aegeon caught it right before it impaled Rachel onto him. Shit Verus Septentrio It wasn''t everyday Aegeon was greeted by a silver arrow almost impaling his new junior. He snapped it in half, gently removing Rachel off of him. Sufficed to say the expression on his face was not one of joy, his right eye twitching. Lightning leaking out of his eyes, he clenched his fist so hard he drew lightning. His upper right lip twitching. They dare The sheer arrogance to attack first, and ask questions later, what if he wasn''t fast? What if he couldn''t react? His breath felt heavy, as anger started to cloud his rationality. Do the people of Deminos need to be taught a lesson? "Revera grant me patience" He whispered out through gritted teeth. Isabella placed a hand on his chest, her cold fingers touching his bare skin, the raging inferno of anger doused in cold water, he looked at her. The corners of her eyes crinkling, a blush racing across her face reaching her ears, she looked at him pleading to just drop it. She removed her hand and looked away. "To touch the Saint with your filthy hands" Rachel spoke with gritted teeth, a certain ire in her voice, her eyes narrowed, glaring at Isabella. The crybaby elf nowhere to be seen. Isabella glanced at her with a scoff and then looked away. The sound of marching knights entered his ears. He turned to look; the familiar Silver Order greeted his eyes. The knights belonging to said order had all their weapons drawn. Aegeon looked at them, until his eyes spotted the man who shot at him, a sly grin on his face. The only knight with a bow in his hand. It took all his willpower to not attack him. Sir Matthews stepped forward; his sword of ice drawn. "Hand over the princess barbarian." His lips pressed in a thin line, his eyebrows furrowed, and his eyes narrowed, the base of his nose scrunched up. His bright blue eyes were devoid of warmth, as he stared at this rag tag group of strangers. "Matthews" Her voice tinged with a hint of disdain as her hands rested on her hips. Sir Matthews flinched raising his hand and put away his sword in its sheath. The others followed along with his command. "Is this how you treat my savior?" Her eyes narrowed, the corners of her lips creasing. A glare that could freeze a forest adorned her face. "Is the Silver Order not the most righteous?" This question elicited a cheering from the Order. The frown on her face deepened. "Where is thy discipline?" Her voice tinged with frost. "I am not in chains" She brought her arms up "I am not in shackles" Her voice rising "I clearly am not in danger" "And your first reaction is to shoot my companion?" An awkward expression rose on Sir Matthews face "do you knights doubt thy very eyes?" Her words most surely stinging the knight''s pride. "How can I expect you to protect the very north when you cannot tell friend from foe?" They pounded their chests in shame. Drawing their weapons and banging it on the floor before all of them promptly kneeled. "We are sorry princess" They all collectively shouted with Zeal. She scoffed before rolling her eyes "You may rise" A bit harsh for a group roaming this death trap to save your life, but if Rachel had been killed no number of apologies would have brought her back. Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. They rose; Sir Matthew stood upright straightening himself before raising his hand, commanding silence. He turned to look at the order, before looking forward. "Julian Hathorne step forward" The basta- Knight that shot at them stepped forward, his helmet in his hand. Black raven hair, green eyes, high cheekbones, in essence a pretty boy. The emblem engraved on his chest was of a fish stalking a stag. There was an arrogant expression on his face, as he walked up in front of the lot. "I believe I said, do not engage until you can tell if the princess is in danger." Sir Matthews stated with a frown on his face. Rich coming from the man that called him a barbarian. Aegeon''s lips curved downward. Although Aegeon had no issue with double checking. "That filthy long ea-" Matthews slapped him in the face, Julian doubled over holding his cheek looking at Matthews with a glare. "Did I instruct you to speak?" "I don''t want to hear your flimsy excuses, if you weren''t Baron Hathorne''s nephew, you would have been whipped until you could not remember your own name, stripped of your title and banished from any Order." He paused to look at Julian with disdain. "Apologize to the princess and her party." Sir Matthews continued. He stepped forward with gritted teeth, his expression softening as he looked at Isabella, he kneeled on the floor with a reverent look in his eyes. "Princess, I apologize for trying to protect your honor." This fuck "An actual apology with none of the extra bullshit." Sir Matthews commanded. "I apologize princess" He got up from the floor, patting the snow off of him before turning back to the order and walking back his hand rubbing his cheek. One could imagine how much a hit from a metal gauntlet would feel, especially from a vice commander of an order, regardless of if he was holding back. Matthew stopped him "And the others" "You can''t expect me to apologize to a filthy long ear and the barbarian scum" He argued with Matthews. A vein bulging on Sir Matthew''s face. "You''re lucky I don''t break your jaw, I wasn''t asking I was ordering you" "An order, do you know what that is?" He tilted his face speaking slowly as if talking to a child. "Go, before I change my mind." Julian walked back to the group reluctantly, bowing his head with gritted teeth, "I apologize" the words came out rough and forced. He turned to leave before Isabellas words stopped him in his tracks. "For?" "For shooting at the Lo- Elf" He corrected himself. "And?" Julian clenched his hand, the sound of metal scraping against metal was not quiet. "And not holding the dignity of a knight." "That will do for now, don''t let it happen again." She looked at Aegeon seeking his approval on the matter. He nodded. There was no point in making a big deal right now, this whole farce already took up enough time. Sometimes Aegeon wished he could just skip the dialogue in real life. Aegeon''s party walked forward, Isabella went to talk with Sir Matthews, Aegeon awkwardly hovering around her like a silent bodyguard. After they finished talking for a while, Sir Matthew walked towards Aegeon. "So, you''re the Barbarian who rescued our princess" He extended his hand "Sir Matthews Vice commander of the Silver Order, and the Count overseeing the Skadi County." It seems all Northerners have no filters. Aegeon shook his hand. "Aegeon, Storm Herald of Revera" The words causing Sir Matthews eyes to widen "It''s not every day you see a Barbarian Paladin this close to the North." "I''m not a barbarian" "And I''m not a knight" Matthew laughed so hard he had to hunch over. Aegeon''s eye twitched, he shook his head. "Apologies for Julian, he''s the nephew of one of my close friends" He looked back at the other knights before getting closer and lowering his voice. "I saw the look in your face before the princess intervened, I didn''t want to send my friend his nephew in a casket" He patted Aegean''s chest. "I hope there will be no further issue" Aegeon was confused, was that a threat or a hope for resolution? Regardless Sir Matthews didn''t strike him as the type to threaten, so he nodded. "There will be no instigation from me" Matthews nodded before patting him on the shoulder. "The duke would like you." "The princess wishes to start the journey, with minimal rest until we make it back, as her savior what are your thoughts?" He asked while twirling his moustache. "I think she''s right; I don''t think her abduction is as simple as it seems." He nodded before turning back. Alot of the things that were happening in this forest made no sense, including his arrival in it. There was no doubt in his mind he would be returning to conclude unfinished business. "Then we leave as soon as we get her word" He left to go talk to his knights. Aegeon regrouped with Isabella, and they headed off with the knight Order, they traveled for a day, only resting every twelve hours, he couldn''t believe he was on his second day in this cursed world. All the minor problems were taking care of by the knights, everyone had something to eat and contact with Julian was almost nonexistent. Finally, after two more days of travel they arrived at the outskirts of a Barony, a massive wall awaited them, and they were greeted with a warm welcome after staying in the small barony for a day. They kept on passing counties and baronies until they reached the heart of the north, the Grand Dukedom of Boreas. It was gorgeous, the snow seemed to highlight the cities beauty, nothing you''d expect if you ever played the game, he only ever remembered the north as this ruined poverty struck area. The people outside stopped what they were doing and watched as the silver order paraded, they cheered as they watched the knights walk to the castle, which was the Grand Dukes palace. Luna It wasn''t like Aegeon was a country bumpkin, but when he said he was stuck in front of a screen for ten years he meant it. Aegeon couldn''t help but take in the sights around him, he looked around in awe. He was reminded of the time he visited this location in the game, the only thing left from it was ruins, but now, it was flourishing no it was downright prosperous, the people around them happily laughing and talking with each other, markets and stands at every corner with no shortage of customers. How? He felt a tinge of emptiness in his stomach, the smiles on people''s faces that were absent in all of the games making him feel a certain way. It was times like these that made him want to be a hero, he wanted to swear that he would make sure that those smiles remained, but at the end of the day he was only human. He clenched his jaw and tightened his fist. Those damned demon bastards ruining every world they visit. It wasn''t the time to feel anger, it was time to enjoy the novel sights around him, he relaxed looking around. "Must be your first time in a real city" Isabella nudged him in the ribs with her elbow, she successfully knocked him out of his stupor, her lips curving upwards, a twinkle in her eyes as they sparkled like the stars in the sky. Her words shouldn''t have made sense, they clearly had been through multiple villages and baronies to get here, but in a weird way what she said DID make sense, none of the other locations could compare to this one''s sense of grandeur and beauty, he could only imagine how the capital looked like. "See? You are a barbarian." She took his silence as a yes, her hand covering her mouth as she laughed, her brown hair swaying with the wind, her laughter sounding like a delightful melody. The frown forming on his face stiffened unconsciously curving upwards, her eyes meeting his before she turned away in a rush hiding her bright blue eyes that sparkled like the stars, the red blush fitting her skin perfectly as it rised to her ears. The soft snow falling right behind her, he wanted to snap a picture, but he couldn''t, his heart started beating rapidly, and in that moment, he understood what it meant to admire a piece of art, his breath catching in his throat before he turned away, he could feel the lightning rushing on his face. His right hand unconsciously touched his chest. Badump! Badump! And in that moment, all he could think about was the way her eyes crinkled, the way her eyes closed, the corners of her lips curving upwards, the way she laughed, talked, her behavior, the way her nose scrunched up when she smiled. What the fuck is wrong with me He shook his head snaping out of his feverish dream. "I''m not a barbarian" He managed to say, almost scared to talk to her, the weird unfamiliar feelings not disappearing no matter how hard he tried to think of something else. "What''s wrong did you catch a fever?" She looked at him, her face tilted slightly, a look of concern on her face. Am I insane? I don''t even know her. He looked away and closed his eyes gripping the bridge of his nose. "What''s wrong?" She touched his back; her cold hands made him shiver even if he wasn''t meant to feel the cold. "No-Nothing" "Geez" He stole a glance, her lips pursed as she held a finger to her lips, "I won''t call you a barbarian again" Her cheeks puffed out as if she was the one that was wronged. If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. "No seriously it was nothing" Her reassured her, they got closer to the castle, two guards standing in the front with halberds drawn. They wore bronze armor, with slits as visors, blue feathers of a cockatrice on the top. Their surcoat was half green and half red, the sigils were a wolf howling towards the moon. "Princess." They both repeated as if they rehearsed their lines "Please right this way, his grace is expecting you" Their weapons raised as they opened the door, the bottom gate scraping against the floor. "I told father to fix that" She muttered softly her words almost getting lost in the wind, she glanced at Aegeon, before stepping forward, Aegeon tried to follow but the knights lowered their halberds and blocked Aegeon from following. "Just the princess, and Sir Matthews" Their voice emotionless, neither arrogant nor humble. "He''s with me" She glared at them, before turning back. They lifted their halberds letting him pass. Sir Matthews turned around and instructed his knight order to help settle the captives before stepping inside. The outside of the ''palace'' was magnificent, but the interior made his jaw drop, portraits adorned each side of the walls, presumably members of the Boreas family, in one portrait there stood a man with a blade fighting against the very night itself, in another there is a wolf taking a bite out of the moon. The ''palace'' was busy inside with maids and butlers at almost every corner either cleaning or doing something. His eyes wandered around, spotting Jewlery that would make the wealthiest people on Terra jealous, suits of Golden armor on display, the standard armor for members of the Silver Order. Aegeon assumed that they had it in display as pride for founding the order. Just their entrance was bigger than his apartment. the corner of his lips tugged downward. Was this a class divide? The thought of having to address her father suddenly drove him into a panic, in many ways a grand duke was like a sovereign of a nation, it was like being thrust into a meeting with the leader of the union. And that didn''t go as well as he wanted either, he didn''t want a repeat of that situation. Was it your grace? Should he mimic the way the guards addressed the duke? He felt a hand on his shoulder, he turned to look. "Don''t be nervous" she tucked some hair behind her ear "He doesn''t bite" Her lips parted in a beautiful motion, a teasing smile adorning her face which seemed sculpted out of marble. He slapped himself. "Hey, what was that?" her eyes widened, an incredulous look in her eye. "Nothing" he cleared his throat, making his way to the duke''s office, the two guards that were guiding them stopped, another two stood at the duke''s door. "Leave us" His voice came out of the room, a gruff rouged voice, one you''d expect from an S- Class Adventurer. They entered the room, he bowed his head. "Dad" Her cheery voice resonated in the room. "It''s good to see you safe" His voice tinged with a hint of concern; he could feel his face turning towards him. "Is this who I have to thank?" "Greetings your grace" His head started ringing as his eyes were drawn to a glass case containing a rock, he couldn''t help but stare, a sensation in his mind demanded he worshipped it. He shook his head, bringing his eyes back to the floor. "Good instincts" The grand duke spoke, his words were devoid of emotion "Look up kid" He cleared his throat "No one in the north bows their heads, not even the peasants." He looked up meeting the eyes of the duke. He was a middle-aged man, a very handsome he had raven black hair, olive skin, and a full beard, blue eyes that embodied winter itself. he had a small scar above his right eye, his face barely showing any signs of his age. He instinctively stepped back, Strong. The signals in his brain demanding he ran away, he felt like a deer caught in front of a Lion, his skin tingled as goosebumps erupted all over his skin. His face broke into a grin, "You can feel that?" A sense of deja vu washed over Aegeon. He turned and touched his crest the wolf howling at the moon. "We bow our heads to no one, no king, no god, nothing." Was this a northerner''s pride? It made sense that Julian was so troubled that he had to apologize. He stretched his fingers, even from that distance Aegeon felt the power contained in just a small part of him. "Dad, you''re scaring him" That was a lie, Aegeon wasn''t scared, he was terrified, the implications of his strength, meant things had to go VERY wrong for the north to be defeated. When Aegeon meant ruins, he meant ruins, it was like thousands of years passed. "I''m fine" "See? The lad says he''s fine" His eyes twinkled with mirth. Aegeons eyes were drawn to the glass case, the motion so abrupt it called the dukes attention, his hand gently resting on top of the display he patted it once before speaking. "Your a priest right?" He didn''t wait for a response before continuing. "You have the same reaction that all priest who enter my office have" He laughed a boisterous laugh "This right here are spoils form a bygone era. No "From a war that established our lineage. Theres no fucking way "This here is a piece of the moon that our founding ancestor tore out. It fucking was Lamenta lunarum "A piece of the moon?" Aegeon repeated, the word''s leaving his mouth felt wrong. He looked back at the piece of rock, his ears stinging slightly as the rock hummed an intelligible whisper. "Worship me" It seemed to repeat like it was the only thing it knew to say. He opened and closed his mouth, a rock speaking? Aegeon was now quite sure he was losing his mind. What the hell was this man thinking? Keeping the remains of an old god so close. "It helps me think, when I lose sight of my goals" He spoke calmly, as if he didn''t have a piece of a literal god on display. The words doing very little to soothe Aegeon''s growing unease. "If Boreas the first fought the very night itself, what can''t I his descendant do?" His eyes gleamed with pride, "This was the piece of the Moon he carved with his sword." He looked up, reminiscing about a story he had probably heard countless of times. "But enough about that." The Grand Duke''s lips parted into a wide smile, that revealed his pearly white teeth. "Let''s talk about you" His eyes looking him up and down as if he was evaluating him. "You aren''t a barbarian" "Now now, don''t look so pale, lad. I don''t care what you are... mostly." He flashed him a grin before reeling back in his chair. Isabella rolled her eyes. "Dad, look at what he''s wearing, of course he''s a barbarian." Her blue eyes softened as they turned to Aegeon. He looked at his daughter with raised eyebrows. "Regardless" His tone much like the situation shifted into a serious one, "What do you know of my daughters kidnapping" He sat up, moving forward in his chair. He asked the question as if he was demanding a response whether he had one or now, was this a Duke''s charisma? Aegeon unconsciously straightened up. "And I hope you keep your discretion." The words leaving his mouth, made Aegeon understand, that he was no longer talking to a doting father but a Duke. And by Revera, Duke Boreas exuded the aura of regality. It wasn''t like Aegeon was someone who enjoyed speaking secrets, besides he knew how bad it would look if the duke''s heir was kidnapped. He did a universally accepted sign and zipped his mouth with his finger. This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. Aegeon opened his mouth to speak. "Your gra-" "Boreas" The duke raised his hand to interrupt him. "Call me Boreas, you did save my daughter after all." Aegeon cleared his throat, "Boreas" He started off, the corners of the Dukes lips tugged. "You are aware of Theodore Hemera?" It was more of a statement then a question, he had to assume that the Duke knew of one of his many enemies. The Duke nodded "Ian''s kid?" He stroked his chin, "The paladin that went missing?" He put his hands on his desk, "That stays with us" Duke Boreas looked at him, with an icy glance. "If my vassals find out, with the rising tensions..." He paused looking outside the window towards where the twin suns were. "Well, you get it right?" He looked at his daughter before turning to glance at Aegeon "I don''t want to be the powder keg that resulted in the death of the Kingdom." The Duke spoke as if it would be them winning instead of the south. Aegeon didn''t even want to think about what actually happened in the story, did Isabella end up dying, was that what pushed the North into an all war with the Sun god faction? Not that it mattered, there are no what ifs in life. Yet in every version of the game there had been one constant, the North lost. It was something you couldn''t even intervene in. The hesitant look in the Dukes gaze, told him everything he had to know about him. He didn''t want war, and if saving his daughter prevented such a thing then good but if not... "You don''t think we can win" His face broke into a wide grin, as he started to laugh in a way that seemed exaggerated, the laughing fit turned into a coughing fit, he looked at Aegeon in the eye, his mirth leaving replaced by a seriousness he had never experienced before. "The north will never perish" The duke declared, his voice radiating confidence. Aegeon sure hoped so, he''d come to enjoy the company of Isabella no matter how rude she is. He spared a glance at her. She stuck out her tongue at him. Aegeon shook his head, turning back to her father. "Did you deal with this Theodore? Or should I ''Take'' care of it?" His arms folded on the desk, as he leaned forward. "We dealt with it" Isabella interjected, her blue eyes glowed in the dimly lit room. "Good," He touched his chin, stroking his beard. "Who else is involved?" The Duke was sharp, it was obvious that Theodore wasn''t working alone. "Have you ever seen black flames?" Aegeon asked, not really knowing who they belonged to. His only guess was the reapers, a cult that was prevalent in Deminos One, who worshiped the old god of destruction and darkness. His eyes narrowed as his eyebrows furrowed, his nose scrunched up in anger and disgust, the corners of his lips pulling downwards into a sneer. "Those damned cultists have gone too far" He spoke with gritted teeth, his words filled with rage. Isabellas eyes widened as if she just had an epiphany. His eyes glowed blue, the air around them lowering in temperature. "Father" Isabella spoke, knocking him out of his rage. It looked like Isabella had that effect on people His cold breath filled the room as he let out a sigh, rubbing his forehead. "Pardon me, that was unsightly" Isabella tugged his arm and whispered into Aegeon''s ear, her cold breath hitting his ear as she whispered, "My mother, died to cultist" He turned to look at her, her lips trembled, her eyes lacking the usual warmth in them. He was half tempted to just hug her, but with her father in the room it proved awkward. "I''m sorry" "Don''t be, it wasn''t your fault." Her words soft, as she turned to her father. Duke Boreas waved him off "I''ll Have the mages from the tower work on it" he turned to face his daughter "inform Targon that his services will be needed, and get the High priestess here," He clenched his fists. "Tell Sir Matthew to summon the inner council, it''s been a while since House Boreas has gone to war" Crusada A war against heresy? A smile unconsciously formed on his lips. "Right away Father" She turned back to glance at Aegean, her eyes softening before she turned and left the room. "You" The dukes voice cut through the silence; he got up from the desk and walked towards the window his hands standing at parade rest. Even through winter environment, the twin suns cast a shadow of him in the dimly lit room. "What are your plans?" His voice gruff, lacking anything that resembled emotion, perhaps a trait from a family blessed by winter. That was a good question, one that Aegeon wasn''t so sure of himself. The only reason he was here, was a sense of duty to see things through with the people he rescued. Something called him in that forest, like a moth to a flame. Talking about things calling him. He awkwardly looked at the rock, the incessant buzzing stopping. He silently prayed thanking his god. Aegeon couldn''t help but to think about the war, and as naive as it sounded he wanted to make sure it never happened, while he was currently leaning towards the Moon faction, at the end of the day they were all humans. He wanted all of them united for the invasion that was coming. "Your daughter guaranteed me rights to build a church" The Duke continued to stare out of the window. "A cathedral and a church then" Duke Boreas turned back to look at Aegeon, "Thank you, I really mean it." His gaze visibly grew warmer, his lips were pressed into a thin line that curved upwards, his eyes slightly squished. "Those golden pricks should thank you too," His eyes narrowed, his white teeth on display. It was the quickest display of a mood switch Aegeon had ever seen. Duke Boreas scratched his cheek "You saved their lives..." He turned back to look outside, his hands neatly folded behind him once again. Aegeon could tell he meant it, maybe the war wasn''t so one sided as he heard, after all if the Sun god faction won so overwhelmingly, couldn''t they have put up a better fight against the Demons? Was it a lie told by the Church of the Sun? Aegeon couldn''t help but flinch as he remembered how devastated humanity was in Deminos Six, it was not an exaggeration to say that they were on the verge of extinction. Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! How could the gods let this happen? Not you "These refuges you rescued, I spoke with my spymaster, they agreed to stay at your church, congratulations Saint you are the first foreign religion in the north. "He turned and offered him a handshake. Aegeon stepped up and shook his hand "Saint?" He asked with raised eyebrows. "The elf insisted you were the Saint of your church" The Dukes handshake was firm, one expected from an aristocrat. Aegeon absentmindedly nodded "I guess I am" The Duke let go of his hand, going back to sit at his desk, grabbing a folder filled with paper and opening it. "The shard" He looked at the piece of Moon before getting a quill and started filling out some documents. "You heard its voice, didn''t you?" Aegeon scratched his neck, his eyes widening. The Duke didn''t even bother to look at him, "It makes sense if you are a Saint, apologies" Yet his tone didn''t really imply that he was apologetic. "If I knew, I would have moved the shard somewhere else" Duke Boreas, flipped the page and started filling out the next document. He was slightly impressed by the work ethic of the Duke. "The damned fool still thinks it has a shot of reviving." One wouldn''t think he was talking about a dead god. He stopped for a second and tapped his desk in a rhythm. "These damned fools asking for more gold." He muttered under his breath before angrily writing on the page. He looked up and glanced at Aegeon "Mages? Am I right?" Aegeon looked at him his head slightly tilted. Isn''t your daughter a mage? The duke shook his head and got back to work. Of course, Aegeon was starting to understand that the Boreas family was a knight family. To cut the moon with just a sword, one would have to be a Sword Saint. "Anyways, with that out of the way, my daughter obviously likes you, in what way I''m not quite sure yet, but she intends to keep you here, now when I was your age I was ripping the wings off of dragons, slaying cultists and adventuring across the world" He turned the page. He clicked his tongue "Greedy scum" He crossed out some things, before turning to the next page. "Why am I telling you this?" He looked up at Aegeon as he asked the rhetorical question, his cold blue eyes that reminded him of winter pierced through him. "The Church and the Cathedral is not your reward, I''ll take you through our family vault choose something you want and be on your way out of this duchy." Ouch, it sounded like the duke was kicking him out "Don''t look at me like that" He backed off, rubbing his cheek. "I can tell in your eyes you have unfinished business in that forest, and you don''t look like the type of person to be tied down" His eyes wandered to his chest" I mean for Selene''s sake, you aren''t even wearing a shirt to meet a Grand Duke" He started to laugh, his nose scrunching up. Aegeon awkwardly rubbed his head, a blush forming on his face. "But you seem like a good kid" He stopped laughing, "So finish your business, come back to my domain and we will talk about your situation with my daughter then." "In normal circumstances I would tell you to go and talk with my daughter before you leave, but she would want to go with you, and while I know she can protect herself" His focus went back to the documents ,"I can''t afford to be distracted in this war against the Cult, not with my vassals breathing down my neck asking for war against those Golden Pricks" He grabbed the bridge of his nose. "So go talk with your people, and discreetly come back here for your reward, and I''ll have some knights escort you back to that cursed forest." Isabellas safety was not an issue, but it wasn''t like he can argue that with her father, after all once he died, he''d be forced to see her again and explain why he ditched her. How would he even explain? Hey grand duke every time I die the world resets to when I first came back. Aegeon would be grateful if that didn''t result in him being dissected by his mages or priests. He shivered imagining it. "Okay" Aegeon, turned to leave.