First, let us look at what Anarchy is. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, Anarchy is “the absence of any form of political authority”. This falls in line with the mainstream interpretation of the word. Expounding upon this, as Anarchy is the lack of political authority, it becomes logically necessary to distinguish between two different forms of a lack of political authority. There is the breakdown of government because it is no longer needed, or what I will call positive Anarchy, and the breakdown of a needed government due to revolution, rebellion, natural disasters, invasion, or any of numerous other events. This is best described as negative Anarchy, as the lack of government has a negative impact on the populace. Naturally, it follows that positive Anarchy is desirable, while negative Anarchy is not. Communism is the ideal example of this. In True Communism, the philosophical form, the people reject government and live in communes where they share what they have for the mutual good of all. Something similar to that is the Christian idea of the Church, where all the Christians in the area support each other and  even non-believers through mission and ministry work. You give whatever you can, trusting God to look after you, and in the process, build the level of community Marx spoke of. Instead of getting into Christianity v. Marxism, which is a topic for another article, I will conclude Anarchy by saying that positive Anarchy is utopia, while negative Anarchy is dystopic in nature.

Now we must look to the second half of the label. Conservatism. Conservatism is less a political ideology and more a means to achieve it. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, Conservatism is “a political philosophy or attitude emphasizing respect for traditional institutions, distrust of government activism, and opposition to sudden change in the established order”. Thus, it can be said that Conservatism is the method of change that exists in opposition to extreme acts of rebellion, revolution, etc, barring extreme situations. This is not to say that Conservatives oppose change as, quite often, they disagree with the current state of government, but they are shown as different in their support of change by seeking change within the system, instead of seeking to end it. Further, hearing that a person is Conservative does not give any clue as to what their political ideology is. King Louis XVI and President Lincoln were both Conservatives. It is doubtful they would agree on how a government should be run. This is why you must look at the cultural/social context of the individual, or, in the case of today, you must assign a modifier to Conservative to distinguish what their ultimate goals are. As of now, in the U.S., there are four main branches of Conservatism. They are Paleo-Conservatism, Neo-Conservatism, Religious-Conservatism, and Libertarian-Conservatism. Paleo-Conservatism has an emphasis on preserving the cultures and traditions of a society, mainly through isolationism, while Neo-Conservatism has an emphasis on national security and spreading democracy abroad. These two are typically mutually exclusive, as Louis XVI would be a Paleo-Conservative, but a Neo-Conservative would attempt to dethrone him. Religious-Conservatism places a high value on moral and ethical traditions, but often singles out a specific religion to support, such as Christianity in the U.S. This often causes conflict with Libertarian-Conservatives, who typically oppose any sort of restriction on their freedoms or rights, including religious ones.

Thus, Anarcho-Conservatism would be gradual change in support of an eventual positive anarchy. Anarcho-Conservatism, as I apply it, is best described as the belief that government exists only to protect Life, Liberty, and Property. That fundamental, Natural Rights, must be protected, but the government should stay out of everything else. Anarcho-Conservatism, however, is achieved through a fusion of three of the four branches of American Conservatism. Since Positive Anarchy can not be achieved while totalitarian regimes threaten peace, it becomes necessary for all nations to be transformed into democratic, capitalist nations in order to ensure the freedom of the people in them, as well as the safety of the people abroad. It is for this same reason that policing forces must exist within each nation in order to protect the safety of those inside the nation. This brings several aspects of Neo-Conservatism into the picture, as a strong military and strong alliances are necessary to ensure peace and prosperity globally. Additionally, since Positive Anarchy is dependent upon individuals respecting the lives and freedoms of others, Libertarian-Conservatism plays a major part. Paleo-Conservatism does not fit into Anarcho-Conservatism, mainly because Anarchy has no traditional merit. As for Religious-Conservatism, due to the necessity of religion in all societies, and the necessary enforcement of morality in a society, which will be addressed in a future article, Religious-Conservatism is present insofar as much as the necessary amount of moral laws to protect liberties without infringing upon them.

This is Anarcho-Conservatism as I use it. Gradual change with the ultimate goal of a stable, peaceful, prosperous society completely devoid of the need for government, and thus, government itself. For those who still disagree about what Conservatism is, well, I will let the greatest president of the 20^th Century speak for me:

“If you analyze it I believe the very heart and soul of conservatism is libertarianism. I think conservatism is really a misnomer just as liberalism is a misnomer for the liberals—if we were back in the days of the Revolution, so-called conservatives today would be the Liberals and the liberals would be the Tories. The basis of conservatism is a desire for less government interference or less centralized authority or more individual freedom and this is a pretty general description also of what libertarianism is.” – Ronald Reagan.

Hey KSics its JPAT from the Conservative Talk, I’m gonna address your arguments, valid and strawmen alike. Sorry for the utter out-of-the-bluedness of this, but I was directed here by a random message in my inbox. It’s late, so this is going to be entirely scripted, something I haven’t done in a long while. Don’t be surprised if you disagree with me or are offended by what I say. It’s kinda my job to be as  Politically Incorrect, radical, and offensive as possible, but I promise everything I say will have a logical basis. For this vid, I’m basically just gonna throw up the comments you referenced and give my little replies, so without further adieu, let us begin.

“Time to get real here. Open the bible, we don’t hate gay people, god does.”

I’m sorry, anyone who says that is probably an Atheist trying to make fun of Christians. From a Biblical perspective, we are to love our neighbors unconditionally. That doesn’t mean we must condone their behaviors. I have many friends of other religions, other political beliefs, and “alternative lifestyles.” It’s hard to be into the music and literature I’m into without making those friends. I’m still as hardcore Christian, Conservative, and intolerant as they come. The key is to never force your beliefs upon others, even when they are wrong.

“I really respect you KSic but I cant agree with you on this. I hate gay people because I’m a guy and I know what there doing. Its nasty! There just not good people.”

Once again, anyone who says something as asinine as that is probably screwing with ya. I mean, in all honesty, if the best reason you can come up with to negate an advocacy is your personal displeasure in it, then, well, you probably would make more friends by cutting out your tongue instead of letting it wag.

“Yes you can act black you dump bleep, its not a good thing either to acted colored. Time to start being Politically Correct… “Smart Guy”.”

I’m sorry, but if anyone actually said this to you, please point me to their channel so I can enjoy ridiculing them as much as they deserve. I’ll avoid the PC topic, as I could fill like fifty minutes of video on that alone.

“Gays want to adopt, that’s my beef. Sorry Karem but I believe a kid needs a father and a mother.”

That statement is actually pretty true, in its essence. It is better for a child to have both a father and a mother. However, legally speaking, there’s no way to avoid it if you recognize gay unions, which I actually have a video about, but speaking from the merits of the statement alone, it’s true. I’d rather see a child with a mother and a father, but if that’s not possible, well, I don’t really think enough research has been done into the comparative damages posed by lacking parents or having parents that set bad examples. If you want to get into the merits of gay adoption in more detail, I’m game, but I won’t address it on this vid.

“Being gay is a Choice, they just want attention and you’re giving it to them.”

Well, this is one of my most controversial opinions, but what the hell, I’ll say it anyway. Homosexuality is rooted in one of three things. It is either A) A choice, as the comment states; B) A birth defect, i.e., you are born wired that way; or C) A mental disease, i.e., you become gay later in life, which is different from just choosing to be. If it is A, well, I have no sympathy for them since they chose to be, and for several, certainly not all, but several, that may well be true. If it’s B or C, then we need to find the root cause of it, just as we do with all negative abnormalities and diseases. If it’s B, we prevent it pre-birth, with the parents’ consent. If it’s C, then we give them the option of treatment, assuming the diagnosis isn’t made before they reach the age of consent, in which case it’s legally up to the parents. I believe this is the most logical and safest approach to the issue, because, quite frankly, if it can be shown that B or C is correct, homosexuals will have to be accorded a special legal status protecting them under the ADA.

Whenever I hear the term “marriage contract”, I cringe. For the purpose of this article, I will define each word separately. Marriage is a spiritual/metaphysical union between two consenting individuals who desire to spend eternity together. A contract, in juxtaposition, is a legally binding agreement between two individuals expressing a willingness to work together under pre-arranged terms for a pre-arranged duration, that can be violated, usually at some cost to the violating party. Using these two definitions, I will show why the term “marriage contract” is an oxymoron and why we must then delegalize marriage.

There are two main reasons why we must remove marriage from the realm of government. The first is the ontological. As law is a manmade institution, and thus not eternally binding, to build a relationship based on a legal obligation is an embracement of materialism over human virtue. There are three main impacts stemming from the legalization of matrimony. The first impact is the love v fear paradigm. As a legal contract keeps both parties faithful due to the fear of consequences, love ceases to become a vital element in holding the relationship together. Motivation based upon fear of negative consequences, instead of motivation based on doing the right thing, reduces the actor to the state of an animal as survival of human dassein is placed above the value of the human soul. The second impact is that legalistic interpretations of human relations stifle love/human interaction by reducing the relationship to a codified list of obligations and norms that must be upheld by the parties involved. You no longer support your partner because you love him/her, but because you have a legal requirement to. Similar to a mechanized construct, the actor begins to behave in a way more driven by orders than desires. The third impact is the cyclical impact. Children born into a union where the participants, their parents, are driven more by the materialistic legal code than by the human emotion of love, will begin to see things with a materialist worldview, where marriage truly is nothing more than a contract of convenience. This can be seen plainly in the exploding rate of divorce that just keeps increasing with each subsequent generation. Thus for these three reasons, marriage must be seen as more than just a contract between two people for convenience, it must be deeper than the materialistic veneer placed upon it by our morally defunct society, it must be eternal.

The second reason to delegalize marriage is the political aspect. As long as marriage, and thus who an individual may marry, is within the realm of governance, politicians seeking to pander to voters will always be able to bring up marriage, a hot topic, as a way of distracting their constituents from the issues that got them elected, such as the fiscal policy of the U.S. Although there are many issues like this, such as the environment and health care to name a few, marriage is unique in that the fight over it polarize people like nothing else because marriage is the only issue that has a religious basis, the one thing that lies at the root of all people’s decision making. As long as marriage rights are something that can be traded, bought, and sold by politicians, someone’s religious beliefs on the issue will be trampled, creating even more of a divisive atmosphere and making work on other issues more difficult.

Thus, I suggest civil unions as an alternative to legal marriage. A civil union would function as an entirely secular contract between two consenting individuals for whatever the agreed upon time is. It would involve the merger of assets, joint-living arrangements, child-care, etc. However, marriage would stay out of the realm of government, a purely religious topic. Any two people could become married in the eyes of their religion. If they have no religion, then obviously marriage is not necessary, as the belief in eternity would not be there, making their relationship materialistic from the start. As even college roommates could apply for a civil union to simplify living arrangements, this would no longer be a major political issue, forcing the debate to shift to more appropriate topics, such as the economy.  Thus, only by delegalizing marriage and installing civil unions may all of these problems be avoided or solved.

First off, I need to point out that more people voting has no benefit. What is the actual benefit of having a bunch of people who have no idea about politics whatsoever voting? I mean, isn’t that like putting the fate of the Super Bowl in the hands of a player that can’t pick out a football on the ball rack? I believe everyone should vote, but not at the cost of sacrificing qualifications to vote. I believe we should only vote if we know enough to make a good decision, and that means doing more than watching the news and commercials.

Secondly, now that I’ve made clear only informed people should vote, I have the proposition of the article. We should instate a poll test. Basically, you have to answer some basic questions about the candidates and their views (based solely on previous votes) on issues (previously agreed upon by both campaigns). If someone is unable to pass the poll test, they should be unable to register. Now, I will need to address some really bad arguments that are always brought up.

The first, well, “it’s racist”. Ok, I just need to point out, it’s a standardized test graded by a computer. The computer won’t know what their race is, and even if it did, the computer would be unable to be racist. Additionally, it is argued that minorities are not as knowledgeable of politics as whites, so a poll test would be racist. My counter to that is twofold. One, big whoop. Alright, like I said, people who are not qualified should not vote, regardless of demographics. Secondly, even if minorities happen to be less knowledgeable of the issues, that is not the fault of everyone else. It is the choice of each individual whether or not they research the candidates. Thus, if minorities choose to be unqualified to vote, it is their right to do so. However, regardless of demographics, if someone is unknowledgeable of the issues, then THEY SHOULD NOT DECIDE THE FATE OF THE WORLD.

The second is that it is biased towards certain ideologies. Well, if the test is biased towards an ideology, the other campaign will not agree to it and it won’t be used until it is adequately revised. If the facts are biased towards a certain ideology, well, it’s stupid to try to stifle that, since that ideology is obviously the most fact-based. And if a certain ideology is true, then I see no reason why people shouldn’t have to be knowledgeable of it to vote.

Like I said, these arguments are stupid. Obviously, poll tests aren’t racist, since a standardized test can’t be racist, and any demographic statistics are about the demographics’ choices, and not representative of any racist ideology. Furthermore, by requiring research to vote, the only ideologies you will have a bias towards are the ones supported by the facts. Truthfully, the only reason to oppose a poll test would be if one is afraid that knowledgeable voters won’t support them. Obviously we don’t want that party in charge.

Everyone knows about our pals Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac that we just had to bailout for 700 billion. Not that many people know why. A lot of people are blaming President Bush (R) and the Republicans for the current state of the economy. Well, the reason the economy is so bad is because of the housing market, which became unsustainable due to predatory and insecure loans made by mortgage companies such as Fannie and Freddie. To figure out why this happened, we need to look all the way back to 1977. It is 1977, President Carter (D) is in office and the Democrats control both the House and the Senate. A bill comes up, called the Community Reinvestment Act, which was created in response to a lack of credit options to low-income Americans. The Congress passed the bill, and Carter signed it into law. This law, abbreviated to CRA, forced banks to offer credit options to low-income areas, meaning a bank could not refuse a loan just because someone was probably too poor to pay it off. The banks came up with loans they could sell to the poor in order to meet the requirements of the CRA. The people these loans targeted would not qualify for loans under regular circumstances, allowing them to buy houses they could not normally afford. There’s a reason they wouldn’t qualify for the loans. It’s because they couldn’t pay for them. The mortgages are called subprime mortgages. Prime, of course, meaning good, and sub meaning below or less than, thus these are “less than good mortgages”. These people couldn’t pay for their loans, but some tricky maneuvering by legal departments allowed the subprime lending to continue on. In 1995, under President Clinton (D), the CRA is expanded to allow for even more subprime mortgages. This brings us back to our buddies Fannie and Freddie. Fannie Mae became officially backed by the government in 1968, under President Johnson (D). Freddie Mac was created in 1970 under Nixon (R). Both of these occurred under a Democrat controlled Congress. This isn’t to say the Democrats are entirely to blame, since Nixon was involved and there was a small Republican majority in Congress during 1995, but President Bush and the Republicans of today should by no means be blamed. Throughout this time period, Fannie and Freddie acquired secondary subprime mortgages until 2007 when they started showing signs of weakness. Because nobody could pay off their loans, the companies holding those loans were hemorrhaging money, and by 2007 it couldn’t be covered up by legal tricks anymore. By 2008, Fannie and Freddie owned 50% of all securities, including a substantial number of subprime mortgages. Since subprime mortgages are not profitable, this brought about the need for the 700 billion bailout to prevent Fannie and Freddie from collapsing, which would lead to massive loss of homes. This package was a necessary band aid, but by no means a fix, and it shouldn’t have been needed in the first place. In the hindsight offered by history, one must ask, “Why didn’t the government realize that there’s a reason the banks didn’t offer loans to those people?”

The next major problem with our economy is that it doesn’t exist. Every year, more and more manufacturing jobs are exported to other countries. We have a service economy, and it gets more and more intangible every year. This is shown by the housing market which was based on mortgages people couldn’t pay. If you have no money, and someone else with no money owes you five-hundred dollars, how much money do you have? The correct answer is none, since you have no money, the person that owes you has no means with which to pay you back, and no one in their right mind would by a debt that won’t be paid back. That’s actually where the government comes in. Through Fannie and Freddie, the government bought all of those loans that couldn’t be paid back, thus artificially stimulating our economy by encouraging people to go into debt they can’t pay, along with encouraging businesses to make the loans, knowing they can rely on the government to save them from bad business decisions. This sounds fine until you realize the government is paying money for those loans, and where does the government get money? Taxes. Every time the government buys faulty loans, that’s money in taxes that are taken from the people. Every dollar the government takes is one less dollar people have to fuel the economy by buying or to pay off the massive debt they incurred from the bad business decisions. Basically, the government is buying loans with money it got from the people who are in debt because of the loans. Do you see the problem here? This practice of government intervention and rescue of businesses that make mistakes accomplishes three things. One, it increases deficit spending, thus increasing the nation’s debt. Two, it ensures people will be forced to go into negatives themselves, since they are struggling to pay off the loans the government bought with their money. Three, it makes people more dependent on government handouts and rescues, reducing personal responsibility as well weakening the base of the economy as a whole by removing competition via an elimination of the risks associated with business decisions. Our economy is based on the principles of the free market. People own businesses and have to run them wisely to compete with other businesses that off the same services. If a person makes good decisions, they prosper, but if a person makes bad decisions they fail and are removed from the market. Each person is accountable for their own decisions, which ensures people, to maintain an acceptable standard of living, work hard and make wise economic choices, which provides us with a strong and vibrant economy. Whenever the government rescues people from their bad decisions, it undermines that personal accountability, and people no longer have the incentive to work hard or compete, since their standard of living is ensured by government hand-outs. In addition, every dollar the government spends trying to “save” an economic sector is one less dollar that could be used by consumers to support that sector. One option, the option of government intervention and rescue, provides a standard of living for the owners of that sector and higher taxes for everyone else. The second option is the government stays out of it and the consumers decide whether or not that sector is important enough to keep afloat. They do this by deciding whether or not to buy from that sector. If the sector is important, then people will support it through the act of paying for goods and services. If people don’t want to buy the service from that sector, then it obviously isn’t important enough to warrant government intervention. There are situations, however, when government intervention is necessary to prevent a tragedy, such as when a sector can’t be saved by people buying the service, and the loss of the sector will collapse the framework of the economy, such as the scenario represented by the housing market. However, as is also shown by the housing market, most, if not all, of these scenarios are caused by government intervention in the first place. Since our economy was based on the capital principles of competition, personal accountability, and the will of the people when it comes to the importance of different sectors of the economy, and the government has completely disposed of all of these in the past 30-40 years, it can be safely concluded that our economy is no longer based on those principles. One might ask how a Capitalist economy can be based on something other than Capitalist principles. For an answer, one just needs to look at the current state of the economy.

Now we must look at the role of government in the economy. From the 70’s on, with the exception of President Reagan (R), and one or two others, each administration has seen a rise in government intervention in the economy. Now, it is easy to argue that the high levels of government intervention during President Clinton’s administration led to the largest surplus in history, but it is also easy to argue that the high level of government intervention in the Soviet Economy led to it having the strongest economy in the history of Russia, until it collapsed from overspending and an exhausted and dilapidated economy. In addition, it must be pointed out that deficits don’t necessarily hurt the economy, depending on what the deficit is for. The greatest example of deficit spending improving the economy is World War II where massive deficit spending spurred industrial growth and led to the U.S. being the dominant economic power of the 21^st century. An example of deficit spending hurting the economy is the Welfare program, which leads to 80 cents less made in employment for every dollar spent on the program. In both cases, massive amounts of money are spent by the government, but to different results. The difference? In the example of World War II, the deficit spending was on tanks and planes made in the U.S. and paychecks for soldiers. Whichever factory made the best planes and tanks would get the most business, encouraging competition and personal responsibility, and whichever soldiers did the best were promoted and made more money, to the same result. In the case of Welfare, however, government money goes not to the one that outcompetes or makes the best decisions, but often to the opposite. It is very rare that a successful businessman is on Welfare. Welfare encourages people to not compete or make wise business decisions, since that would take them off Welfare, but in addition to this, and even more fundamental, it does not encourage production or work, both of which being vital to a Capitalist economy. According to an American Voice report, every dollar the government puts into Welfare leads to a drop of 80 cents earned from employment because people have no more incentive to work. Less work means less income tax money going into the government, which, when the nearly 1 trillion dollar a year price of various Welfare programs is taken into account, means more taxes on those who do have jobs. More taxes means less money for people to spend on the economy, and less money being spent on the economy means more unemployment and more need for government bailouts. Now that the two types of deficit spending have been established, ask yourself this, which type of deficit spending are the government bailouts?

 This is normally the part where you are told what we “must” do to “fix” the problem. Not here, not now. The economy is not broken, so it can’t be “fixed”. The economy, as a living entity that is fluid and flexible, has been killed by government intervention and loss of accountability. Throwing more money, and thus more unnecessary intervention, at the problem won’t make it go away. It will cover up the problem for now, but it won’t do anything permanently. Welfare, either corporate as in the bailout, or personal, as in the program, does not solve anything, since it provides no incentive to innovate, compete, or improve. As long as the government bails out corporations and people that make dumb choices, those people will keep making dumb choices. The only true “solution” to the economic problem is to let the current economy go and rebuild it as it was intended. People should be held accountable for their choices, but, unlike in the case of the CRA, they should also be able to make their own choices. You can not hold someone accountable for choices they had no say in, but neither can you bailout those people at the expense of hardworking taxpayers. The solution is to let the economy go where it goes and deregulate enough so that these banks can make economically sound choices and avoid subprime mortgages if they wish to. Then, if the bank fails, it is the fault of the bank and its competitors can take over, as is intended by the fundamentals of a Capitalist economy.

Solar power has numerous flaws. One of the flaws is that it relies on hydrogen. Since the sun produces energy by hydrogen fusion, similarly to the plan I will cover, solar power is adding unnecessary steps to the process, as well as taking up land needlessly. In addition, since solar power needs clear skies, meteorological disturbances such as storms, hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, and asteroid impacts would take out our power grid, since only so much energy can be stored in batteries. Since the eruption of a large volcano in Yellow Stone is likely within the next several decades, and the ash would cover the best area in the U.S. for solar production, this is a frightening possibility. And, due to the historical precedent of asteroids striking the earth, an impact would throw dust into the sky and take out most emergency services. The possibility of meteorological disturbances is further compounded by the necessary centralization of solar cells, as there are only so many areas capable of providing enough sun. According to one plan I have heard, covering one third of Nevada with solar cells would provide enough energy for the entire U.S. That sounds brilliant, and, if I was an enemy of the U.S., I would support that plan. Once the production of any key resource is centralized, that nation becomes easy to cripple. Say we have a third of Nevada covered in power cells. What would happen if one were to detonate an aerial EMP? The wipeout of the U.S. power grid would ensue, leaving the U.S. effectively crippled. And even if you do spread out the power cells, it is inevitable that large farms will form, and if we have even as many as eight solar plantations, taking out one would still wipe out the U.S. economy for several months at least. Solar energy, at least in its present form, leaves the U.S. power grid vulnerable to both terrorist attack and natural disaster.

 Wind power is no better, since there are even fewer areas where wind is abundant enough to be used. There are two types of wind power, coastal, and inland. Coastal power is dangerous because this involves placing the wind turbines out at sea, but the two areas most suited for this are Florida and California. In Florida, hurricanes strike yearly, and have been doing so in increasing number. Whenever a hurricane struck Florida, our turbines would have to be stopped, assuming they even survive. Of course, if a powerful enough hurricane struck, the turbines would be demolished. But, like I mentioned, mentioned, even a weaker one would force us to shut down the turbines during its duration. Think of the effects of Katrina and Ike. We’ve had massive gas shortages because of hurricanes hitting inland areas. Imagine coastal areas, where the force of the hurricane is even more brutal. Now, imagine if, instead of gas, which just prevents you from driving, if it was electricity. That’s days without power on the East Coast. That means several shocks to the economy every year during hurricane season. California is even worse. California is on a major fault and experiences frequent earthquakes. What if, say, our largest wind farm were to be struck by an earthquake? Since we would not even be able to shut down the turbines in preparation, unless we shut them down days ahead, we would suffer heavy losses to our power production. Since there is no “earthquake season”, we would have frequent and unpredictable shocks to the West Coast economy. But then there are inland wind farms, which aren’t as threatened by hurricanes and earthquakes. The issue with these, however, is that they are eyesores and incredibly noisy, so they could only be built far away from densely populated areas. This reduces the amount of available land for wind power to a miniscule area, which them leads to the possibility of electro-magnetic pulses wiping out our entire power grid. Then there is another problem with wind turbines, regardless of location. They are made of metal, and a lot of it. What would it do to metal prices if we were to build miles and miles of wind turbines? And what else is made of metal? If you answered pretty much anything, you are correct. So yes, we get off coal, but in exchange the price of cars sky-rockets, as does the price of bicycles, toasters, and key chains.

Geothermal is a widely supported energy that really shouldn’t be. There are several problems with geothermal, not the least of which being the environment. Since geothermal power needs heat vents, more commonly known as hot springs and geysers, and since most of these happen to be in national parks, this means we would have to deface national treasures for power. I know reading is important, but I don’t think we should jack Old Faithful to power our lamps, at least not when there are other alternatives available. Another issue with geothermal is the centralization. Since hot springs and geysers tend to be centralized due to specific environmental conditions, our geothermal plants would be susceptible to the EMP attack described in the above paragraphs. Finally is an argument for geothermal energy that is really easily turned. The argument is that there is enough harnessable geothermal energy under the crust to power the entire U.S. That doesn’t take into account one thing. Growth. If we have enough for now, then we will not have enough for twenty years down the road. And even if we do then, what about the twenty after that? The problem with geothermal, solar, and wind is that they all need access to either large amounts of land, or they need access to limited spots of land. Once that runs out, we find ourselves at what they call peak production, when further growth is impossible.

Biofuels are possibly the worst all around, since they have no advantage whatsoever I can think of, and a nearly endless list of negatives. The main argument for biofuels over fossil fuels is that they are “carbon neutral”. This means they convert CO₂ to oxygen, so the CO₂ they release has been made up for. There are two flaws with this, however. Fossil fuels are also carbon neutral. They were at one point plants, so they already converted CO₂ to oxygen, therefore they have the same advantage as biofuels. In addition to this, biofuels require arable land, which, by definition, would have something growing there already. That something would be carbon positive, in that it converts CO₂ to oxygen, without releasing any itself. This means that biofuels effectively add more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, since fossil fuels don’t replace the already existing plants, as well as being carbon neutral from the start.  Plus, biofuels fall into the same trap of there only being so much arable land, so there will eventually be a peak of production hat is prohibitive of further growth. But even worse is that biofuels grow on the same land as our food does, so biofuels have to compete with our food, so we reach a double peak, one of biofuel production and one of food, and these peaks meet in the middle, so for one to grow, the other must decline. And through this competition, food prices will have to be increased, and since the U.S. is a global exporter of grain, this would drastically impact global food prices, and would likely force many of the world’s poorest into starvation. Plus, since once we hit out peak, we have to start importing from other countries, such as Brazil and much of central Africa, farmers will slash the rainforest to make a profit. This will not only destroy biodiversity and tank the numerous medical advances we have seen coming from the rainforests, but it will also eliminate one of the main eliminators of CO₂. Finally, biofuels require massive amounts of water. In a time of global and national drought, can we truly be considering growing fuel that would trade off with water for our crops and our people?

Finally is fission, which serves as the most reasonable midterm solution, but will not work in the long run. The main issue with fission is the threat of terrorists getting their hands on the spent fuel and using it to make dirty bombs, although proper security will prevent this. Another risk is trying to store the waste effectively. Burying it under mountains will work for now, but we will eventually run into mountains, leading to a sort of “peak mountain syndrome”.  Plus, the fuel used for fission is limited, thus making fission an unsustainable source of fuel for the long term, although the short term will work, since we do have a lot of mountains, ample security, and plenty of fuel. Once fusion technology has been adequately developed, we can transfer to that.

Fusion is the solution to all of these problems. Fusion reactors take up very little room for the power they release, since one reactor would likely produce as much power as a medium sized wind or solar farm, but for only a fraction of the land. Fusion, unlike the others, is not dependent upon specific terrains, meteorological conditions, or even resources, so they can be built literarily anywhere. There will be no peak, since the solution to running out of land is to build up, which is impossible with biofuels, geothermal, wind or solar, since they all take up a necessary horizontal area, and stacking effectively eliminates whatever is below, since only the top panel would get the sun, higher wind turbines would get different amounts of wind, geothermal only has so much power per location, and biofuels need sun just as much as solar panels. In addition, fusion releases no CO₂, sulfur, or waste, since the product of smashing hydrogen together is helium. This makes hydrogen carbon neutral, a reducer of acid rain, and waste free. Since there is no waste, terrorism is not a threat, and we don’t need to worry about running out of mountains. And, since hydrogen, being the most abundant element in the universe, and effectively irreducible, is infinite, there will be no peak fuel either. In addition, since fusion is entirely safe, it can be built in cities, towns, or rural areas, meaning we could have a plant for every large town or city, to provide it with power. Since fusion would be spread out so completely, a handful of attacks or natural disasters has no overall impact on the grid as a whole. And since fusion is entirely self-contained, an asteroid or eruption blocking out the sun would just provide us with shade while we continue making massive amounts of clean energy.  Fusion perfectly solves electricity production, but you may be asking, “What about my car?” Well, there is always the option of going electric, which would be using fusion, or you can use fusion’s cousin, plain hydrogen fuel, which can power your car for the equivalent price of $2.50 per gallon gas. This means that hydrogen, through traditional fuel uses and fusion is capable of powering all of the U.S. without any negatives. Clearly hydrogen is the path the U.S. should take for a smart and sustainable energy policy.

For several reasons, U.S. hegemony can not be sustained based upon a fossil fuel economy. As supply diminishes, prices will skyrocket, which will either lead to massive over-budget spending by the DoD, or to a decrease in the overall effectiveness of the U.S. military. Since fossil fuel stores are located in only a few areas, many of which are global hotspots where we are militarily active, supply is always subject to disruption, and the U.S. also has to worry about attacking suppliers of its fuel, even though many of those suppliers heavily support counter-U.S. movements. Since fossil fuels are finite, they will eventually run out, forcing a switch-over anyway. Since the switch-over is inevitable, it would be in the best interests of the U.S. to switch to an alternative fuel while fossil fuel prices are still relatively low. Finally, since fossil fuels are limited to certain areas, mobility is hampered by the need for long supply chains that must be defended, as well as the need for carriers to constantly restock fuel reserves, since a jet without fuel is worthless.

A major advantage of hydrogen is how cheap it is. Once the initial technology is developed, it is relatively cheap to produce useable hydrogen, at least in relation to fossil fuels. Based upon the source I used, it costs $21.00/MMBtu (Million British Thermal Units), which leads to an energy equivalency of $2.50 gas. Since technology inevitably gets cheaper with time, this is likely to drop even further. In addition, hydrogen, being the most abundant element in the universe, and the basic building block of almost everything, is very abundant, eliminating the need for foreign sources. In addition, the waste product of burning hydrogen is pure water, thereby making this source of energy effectively infinite. The benefit of lower cost is obvious, since this lower cost will allow more money in the DoD’s budget to be spent on bombs, planes, tanks, guns, and training, all of which are vital to continued U.S. dominance. The benefit of abundance is that we will no longer be dependent upon foreign sources, which will allow us to strike all threats to our security without having to worry about supply disruptions. Since our main area of engagement also happens to be our main source of fuel, this aspect is vital to sustaining our power. An infinite amount of energy is also important, since the price of good is governed by supply and demand, and an infinite supply means that no matter what the demand is, the only way the price can go over the long term is down, and due to the abundance explained above, supply disruptions are also unlikely.

The second category of advantages is readiness. Since readiness is key to any military power, we need an equally ready energy infrastructure. Water makes up most of the earth’s surface, with most of it being salt, making it prohibitive to drink. Since the hydrogen is removed, the waste products, being the salt, bacteria, etc. that make it undrinkable will be left behind to be disposed of, leaving the hydrogen which can be burnt and will turn into clean water. This abundance of water will allow refineries to be set up within, or near, almost any long-term area of engagement.  Once the technology has been further refined and condensed, it may become possible to install plants on aircraft carriers, allowing for ships that are capable of refueling planes anywhere, even if there is no access to other fuel. Basically, this allows us to position a carrier offshore from the target area and launch raids until the threat is eliminated or its considerable food stores are depleted. This will make U.S. supply lines nearly immune to disruption, since restocking will have to occur only rarely.

“Vacation is the best time to get work done.”  

The five of them, Myrstaline, Valen, Valinor, Valrie, Valtorex, are walking down a barely existent road in the elven forests. As they are walking along the path, they talk about their plans. Myrstaline says, with a sigh, “It looks like I’m going to be stuck in court all summer. I hate entertaining guests.” Valtorex says, “I keep telling you, you can come with us.” Myrstaline replies, “And I keep telling you, if I don’t show, then my father won’t let me return to the Academy.” (Then stop complaining) (Bad Ian) They drop the subject and continue on in silence. After a few moments, Valen asks, “So, Valrie, how many kids will you guys be having?” (To RAT, to answer your question on the 1^st about Valrie) Valrie abruptly turns, her face red. (No Word! She doesn’t turn her face red! She turns and her face is red!) She punches Valen, and even his lightning reflexes aren’t good enough to prevent him from being staggered. He stumbles back, his hand cupping his jaw. Valtorex and Valinor laugh. Valrie turns back and heads on down the road. Valen, not wanting to get on Valrie’s bad side leaves it at that and follows. They keep walking until the sun goes down and they make camp. After dinner, Valtorex pulls out one of his spellbooks to study. Valrie walks over and grabs the book from his hands. She checks the cover, sees it is a book about combat spells, and tosses it back in his pack. She says, “We’re on break. Relax, have some fun for once. It doesn’t have to be all study.” (Crap, I have two chapters to do this month. Why does Valtorex get all the time off?) Valtorex sighs and says, “Alright, I’ll relax a bit. If we get killed, though, don’t blame me.” (No, blame Canada!) (Does Canada even exist in this world?) (Fun reference) Valtorex stands and goes over to the rest of the group. He sits down with them, Valrie sitting next to him, and they begin talking, joking,  and just having fun.  

They are abruptly interrupted by the arrow that lands in the ground right in the center of the group. Before the rest can even blink in surprise, Valtorex is up, his crossbows (Andrew, he has two crossbows) drawn, ready to shoot the attacker. He then sees there isn’t just one attacker; there’s a lot more. Around them are twenty elven bowmen, all with arrows knocked and bowstrings drawn. An elf dressed in gold armor walks out of the trees and Valtorex takes aim at him. (Yes Jeff, the elf doesn’t dress in gold armor. He already is wearing it.) (Hey hey, it was like two when I wrote that) Valen sees this and says, “Don’t bother. He’ll dodge anything you shoot at him.” Valtorex replies, “Sure, the bolts, but can he dodge Assassin’s Lightning? How about Phantasmal Killer? Maybe Wail of the Banshee. It’ll take ‘em all down.” The elf in gold says, “You will be dead with forty arrows in you before you hit the ground or a syllable leaves your mouth.” Myrstaline sighs and stands. She steps in front of Valtorex and says, “In the name of King Silanto doth lo Lün, stand down.” The elf, most likely a captain, retorts, “And who are you to use the name of our lord?” Myrstaline replies, her voice taught and somewhat annoyed, “I am Lady Myrstaline doth lo Lün, daughter of House Tria Lün. Stand down in the name of my father or face the consequences.” (She’s annoyed because she didn’t want to reveal who her father is to her friends. I’m annoyed because neither did I, but what’s done is done and I don’t feel like changing it) (Eh, I never see why royalty characters don’t ever want to reveal their status) (They don’t want it to influence the way people treat ‘em I guess) (“Eh” Andrew? Maybe you’re from Canadia) The elves quickly put away their arrows and hold their bows at their sides. The captain bows and says, “Pardon me, m’lady. I did not recognize you.” Myrstaline sighs and says, “It is to be expected. I’m rarely ever allowed out of the court.” The captain says, “My lady, you are back in elven territory. You may dismiss your guards and we will escort you back to the palace.” Valen jumps to his feet in protest, but Myrstaline cuts him off, her voice haughty and noble now. “They are  not my guards. They are friends of mine from the Draconic Academy. They are here on break, as am I. I expect you to show respect to them, especially my mentor in the Arcane.” She gestures to Valtorex. Valtorex bows eloquently before standing back up. His crossbows never leave the captain. The captain, obviously irritated at having to show respect to non-elves, says, “Very well, my lady. We will escort you and your ‘friends’ (I think he should make air quotes too and speak in a French accent) (I think not) to Tria Lün. We will make camp here to protect you.” That night, the two groups have a tense camp.  

As soon as Valtorex falls asleep, (He actually sleeps, I thought for sure he’d be standing guard or something.) (Yes, well, he didn’t think or something. I’m too lazy to write more dialogue for Myrstaline too) the elves get up and bind the four cabin mates with rope. Before they are finished binding him, Valtorex wakes up. One elf holds a finely crafted dagger to his throat. The fine elven craftsmanship (CRAFTSMANSHIP is one word!!!!! I’m surprised you missed that Andrew! Jaff, I’m not so surprised. Unless he holds a ship full of craftsmen at his throat?) (Be glad I spell-checked YOUR comment…Jaff?) (Inside joke Andrew…) (From Ch. 3) gives it a razor edge and amazing lightness. The fine dagger with all of its intricate designs and precious metals and gems melts like any other with a word from Valtorex. Valtorex kicks the elf binding his feet and pulls the Knife of the Ancestors free and cuts the rope around his chest. (How does he pull his dagger free if the rope is binding his chest, including his arms?) (His arms were next to his KNIFE) Valtorex jumps to his feet, throwing his knife at the nearest elf, piercing his gut and turning his green tunic brown with blood. (Red and green make a brownish color, I’m guessing. Art people, correct me) (Not in art, but you’re probably right. Besides, you have exclusive author powers-what you say goes.) (lol) (NOOO! Not text speak!! Tis my greatest enemy!!!) (A pretty silly enemy to have) The elf falls back, his hands grasping futilely at the hilt as his blood flows freely out. Valtorex draws his swords and attacks the other elves, cutting Valrie, Valinor, and Valen’s bindings as he reaches them. The other three enter the fray as Myrstaline is awakened. She screams when an elf falls at her feet, his skull cleaved open by Valinor’s greatsword. She tries to kick the brain matter off her shoes, but she can’t get it off. She now realizes why Valtorex always wears red. (And not because Valtorex loves the color redJ) (Just the author, just the author…) The camp falls into chaos, the captain trying to marshal his troops. When he realizes he’s lost half of his original group, he calls a ceasefire. (Sure, ceasefire came about once we had things that actually fired projectiles, but let’s just assume it’s about Valtorex’s flame magicJ)  

The captain and Valtorex meet in the center of the camp, their respective parties behind them, hands on weapons. Myrstaline hesitates in the center (,still kicking brain matter off her shoes,J ) before standing behind the captain. The captain says, “We’ll accept your surrender in exchange for a reduced sentence. You killed ten loyal members of the Elven Kingdoms. That is death for you and all in your party. If you surrender we may be able to reduce your three accomplices’ punishment to life in prison.” Valtorex replies, “Those ten were killed in self defense. I will neither apologize for my party defending itself nor surrender when we’re winning. Actually, I’d never surrender to dishonest scum like you.” The captain moves forward to strike him, but Myrstaline commands, “Wait! What’s this about ‘self defense’?” The captain yells, “Lies!” Valtorex replies, “They were binding us with rope to leave behind. Just look, you’ll find the rope cut by my swords near where we were sleeping.” Myrstaline does look and sees what he said. She also sees a rope in the hands of an elf with a knife in his gut. She comes back, carrying the rope. She demands, “Captain, explain this!” The captain replies, nervous now, “My lady, please understand. We could not allow the royal name, your name, be sullied by these barbarians!” (Maybe not a French accent, just make him speak french!) (Why? Are you calling the French cowards?) (Just words from your mouth) Valen interjects, “Hey! I’m from here!” The captain continues, “Imagine what the people would say! The only reason we tolerate the Draconics is by order of the Great King! A lady of your breeding should not be with foreigners!” Myrstaline, pissed now, yells, “I’ll marry a foreigner if I want! I dare you or any of the other isolationists to stop me!” The captain slaps her and she goes down. Realizing what he just did, but no longer caring, he picks her up and orders his troops to open fire if Valtorex and the others try to follow. He goes off, carrying Myrstaline. At Firstlight, the elves withdraw. Valtorex, knowing she will be safe, resigns himself to letting the elves escort Myrstaline to the city.  

The four of them continue on their way to Valen’s village. On the way, they talk about Myrstaline for awhile, but when the others realize there’s nothing they can do, they give up. The fall into an uncomfortable silence for about an hour before Valen asks, “So, what do you guys want to do once we get there?” Valtorex asks, “What is there to do? You never described your village.” (Or if he did, you guys didn’t hear it and I’m too lazy to describe it as if they are seeing it) Valen says, “Well, there’s an inn that has good wine, but not much else, a brook in the woods nearby that is good for training, plenty of animals to hunt, and ruins to explore. Not much else though. That’s kinda why I asked you guys to come along.” (Misery loves company) (When I first read that I thought it said Myrstaline loves company) (Well that too)They stop talking for awhile, not having much else to say. They keep walking and that night make camp. (Word! Night isn’t the one making camp! They are!) They fall into the routine they adopted earlier that year, marching all day, making camp, then waking up the next morning to march again. After a week of break, they finally reach Valen’s village. Valtorex then informs them he could have teleported them. Valrie is mad, Valinor is confused at the impracticality, but Valen understands why he did it. He defends Valtorex from Valrie. “Valrie, look at it this way. The longer it took us on the road, the longer it’ll take for us to get bored here and be at each other’s throats.” Valtorex then says, “Besides, we’re here. Let’s check in at Valen’s and go to the inn for something to drink.” Valen then grins sheepishly. Valtorex just looks at him in that, “what did you do?” (I know that look well) (The look I always give you during Halo) sort of way. Valen says, his nervousness clear, “Well, that’s the thing; my parents don’t really let me drink. They still think I’m too young.” (Lesson: Never drink and fire arrows) (J) Only Valrie is shocked. She says, incredulous, “But you’re sixteen! Look at us! Valtorex and Valinor have been drinking for the gods know how long and me, well it was my choice not to drink!” Valen counters, “Yes well, if I grew at the rate of the other elves, I would be learning how to spell my name right now.” Valtorex jokes, “So you’re behind?” Valrie and Valinor laugh, but Valen’s face just gets red. (Don’t worry RAT, I know you learned your name last year. J Sorry, couldn’t resist) Valen tries to cover it and says, “All joking aside, my parents aren’t likely to let me drink, and they know the bartender.” Valtorex says, “We’ll just have to talk to them about it.” Valen sighs before sarcastically saying, “Good luck with that.”  

They walk into the village and are quickly stopped by a pair of elven (I hate that whenever I see elven, I first read eleven!) (Dyslexic) (Jeff said he writes it that way too! And it’s dyslexic not dylexic) (non-uniqued: Same thing, litterally. You wrote the same word twice. And, BTY, Ian, I only said that to make you feel better) guards. One of them speaks in elven to the other. Valtorex gathers they are talking about Valen in an insulting manner. Valtorex says, in flawless elven, “Leave him alone, he could kill both of you without your knowledge.” Valen, surprised that Valtorex knows elven, says, in elven, “Thank you.” Valtorex replies, in common, “No problem.” One guard then says, “Very well, you may enter. But, boy, if you cause any more trouble. I’ll kick you out for good.” Valen nods, obviously uncomfortable. They follow Valen to his parent’s house. Unfortunately for Valinor and Valtorex, the house is, like most elven houses, in a tree. Valen practically jumps up the tree, barely using his hands. Valrie gets up, although with much more effort than Valen. Valtorex finally gives up and uses a levitation spell. Valinor, with no such advantage, uses his daggers to climb up. When Valinor finally crawls over the edge of the platform built into the tree, Valen knocks on the door. (When I first read this, I thought you said Valen knocked Valinor off the platform, heh) (Funny, I considered it) After a few moments, Valen’s ten year old looking sister opens the door. When she sees Valen, she slams the door shut. A light, delicate, female voice calls, “Dear, who is it?” Valen’s sister replies, “No one, mom! Just some beggars!” (This is what happens when you don’t wash your clothes for a whole school year) (lol) (Andrew! Look into work as a comedian!) (Thank you, I’m here until Jeff fires me) (Fire you, I’ll give you a 100% raise!) (To what?  I don’t get paid as it is) (2 times 0 is still zero!) (Jeff’s wallet cheers) Valen knocks on the door, this time calling, “Mom, it’s me, Valen! Tell Skithor to open the door!” Valen’s mother calls back, “You know your sister hates that name. Call her Skathera.” Valen sighs before saying, “Fine, tell Skathera to open the door!” Valen’s mother calls, “Skathera, please open the door for your brother.” Skathera asks, “What about the beggars with him?” Valen yells, “They’re not beggars, they’re my friends from the Academy!” Valen’s mother says, her exasperation showing, “Skathera, let him and his friends in.” Skathera sighs and opens the door. Valen walks in and the other three follow him. Valen leads them to the main room and they are met by a beautiful elven woman sitting in a chair, weaving. She says, “Hi honey. Who are your friends?” Valen says, “This is Valrie, Valtorex, and Valinor.” He motions to them as he names them. Valrie asks, “Hello, how are you?” Valinor says, “It’s a pleasure.” Valtorex says, “Greetings ma’am. (I gave up trying to spell it right) (There is no way to spell it) (I believe it’s m’am) (Wrong, ma’am) How are you?” Valen’s mother replies, “Very well. Thank you. So Valen, what brings your friends here?” Valen replies, “Well, I was, um, kind of wondering if they could spend the summer here. We, uh, have that spare guest room for Valrie and Valtorex and Valinor could stay in my room.” Valen’s mother says, “Sorry dear, but the guest room is taken by a nice young man. Your friend will have to stay at the inn.” Valen is about to protest when Valrie says, “That is fine. Thank you anyway.” Valtorex then says, “I wouldn’t want to impose. I’ll stay at the inn as well.” (If you’ve noticed the dialogue discrepancies with my characters, notice it is who they are speaking to. I tried to make it more realistic by changing their speaking habits based on company) Valinor quickly says he will do the same. Valen says, “I might as well stay with them.” (Crap, I keep following the beat of my iPod on my keyboard!)  

The four of them go to the inn and get two rooms. When they get their keys, (Andrew, I don’t use quotation when I am narrating) (That’s Ian who keeps quoting them) Valen takes both and tosses one to Valtorex. He says, “Valinor and I will take the one with the west facing window. I hate it when the sun wakes me up.” Valrie is shocked into silence. Valtorex asks, somehow sounding sincere, “How many times were you dropped on your head as a child?” When Valen just looks at him in confusion, Valrie says, “That puts Valtorex and I in the same room.” Valinor has already figured it out, but Valen still doesn’t see the problem. Valen asks, “What’s wrong with tha-“ Valtorex cuts him off by grabbing Valrie and pulling her to him. He kisses her quickly before letting her go. Valrie is stunned. Valtorex says, “That. Remember?” Valen finally gets the point. He says, “Wanna trade roommates?” Valtorex says, “Sure, me for Valinor.” (Two reasons for this, one, I want to allow some character development for Valen, and two, RAT, sorry, but I won’t even trust a fictional girl with a fictional character based on aspects of youJ) (Right, so you trust her with a fictional barbarian?) (Better than RATJ) (Sad, but true) Valtorex tosses his key to Valinor. The four of them go upstairs and get settled in. They return to Valen’s house and meet his father. The seven of them, Valen, Valinor, Valrie, Valtorex, Skathera, and Valen’s mother and father, eat dinner, and after talking for awhile, the four friends return to the inn.  

They wake up the next day and go to breakfast. For the first time since the start of the year, Valtorex makes breakfast for them. (I’m going to try something new. I’ll devote a day to character development on each of the three side-mains) That day, they go to the brook. (Why can’t I spell it ‘brooke’? I’m supposed to be British, right? I get to add letters wherever I wantJ) Valen decides to show them around. “He says, “This tree is where I first learned to snipe at people. I’ve hit my sister a good many times with a slingshot from up there.” They then go on, walking through the brook. Valen says, “Let’s explore the ruins a bit. I haven’t done that in awhile.” Valen leads them to a stone door almost hidden under all of the vines and overgrowth. Valen presses a panel, hidden under a thick layer of growth and caked mud. The door slides down into the ground, revealing a dark tunnel winding deep into the ground. Valtorex says, “Weapons out. I’ll cast light.” The four of them draw their weapons and Valtorex casts light on Valen’s longknife, Valinor’s greatsword, Valrie’s rapier, and his longswords. Valen, having been here before, leads them down the tunnel. He remembers the thrill he always felt at exploring this place. He becomes lost in the nostalgia and is greatly surprised when a skeletal figure emerges from the earthen wall.  

The skeleton is carrying an old elven shortsword. It swings at Valen and he barely blocks the attack. Valen ducks under the skeleton’s swinging arms and lunges in with his knife. Too late he realizes the skeleton has no stomach to puncture. He jumps back, narrowly dodging the skeleton’s still effective blade. Valtorex, Valinor, and Valrie back up to give him room to fight. Valen jumps forward and slashes, cutting into the skeleton’s spine. Its legs useless, the skeleton falls and starts stabbing at his feet. Valen jumps over it and throws his knife down. His aim flawless, the knife slides right between the vertebrate in the neck, killing the skeleton. (Wow, is Valen that fast, or is everyone else too lazy to help?) (Remember, only enough room for one person at a time) (Maybe you should have said that) (I F-ing did!) Valen pulls his knife free and picks up the elven shortsword. He says, “That was easy. I didn’t know that was there though. I guess things have changed a bit. Oh well, more to kill at least.” Valen now sees that the shortsword is made of some sort of magically enhanced silver and seems to be a Keen blade as well. He also notices it is far lighter than most shortswords. He places it on his belt and they move on, carefully watching every wall.  

They don’t notice the two skeletons that come up from the ground until they are swinging their swords. Both have rapiers that appear to be of the same material as Valen’s new short sword. Valen tosses his longknife into his left hand (That must have hurt, impaling his hand with his own knife! J) (Medicine, Ian?) (Never again) and grabs his shortsword in his right. Valen begins blocking and deflecting the skeletons’ assaults. The earthen walls, floor, and ceiling begin crumbling as the blades of the combatants are deflected into them. Valen finally severs the spine of one of the skeletons and pushes the other one back. He dispatches that skeleton with a kick to the gut, breaking the spine. (Valen: 3, Co.: 0) He picks up the rapier and tosses it to Valrie. She puts it at her belt. Valen puts away his longknife and picks up the other rapier. He switches hands with his weapons. Valtorex casts light on his rapier and shortsword. Valrie switches to the new rapier and Valtorex casts light on it.  

The four of them continue on, Valen still in the lead. They keep walking in the tunnel, going down hundreds of feet. Finally, they reach a large stone door. Valen is going forward to open it when a large minotaur skeleton rises from the earth. The skeleton is wielding a massive silver battleaxe. It swings the axe and Valen barely has room to dodge. Valinor, Valtorex, and Valrie back up to get out of Valen’s way. Valen keeps fighting, dodging the massive axe. The axe head embeds itself in the ground, throwing up a large cloud of dust that makes visibility impossible. Valen rolls away and then charges straight into the battle again. The minotaur pulls its axe free and swings. Valen jumps over the speeding mass of metal and yells, “Die! Die! Die! Hahahaha!” (Fits RAT to a T) (I know, I could just see him doing it)He stabs into the minotaur’s skull with his shortsword before severing the spine with his rapier. (Valen: 4, Co.: 0, How many kills do minotaurs count for anyway?) Valen picks up the axe, surprised at its relative lightness. It only seems to weigh about half as much as his 110 pounds. He gives it to Valinor who easily straps it to his back, over the greatsword.  

The four continue on, going through the stone door. They enter a large, dark room. (Developing pictures? J ) In the center is a large stone diaulos. Around the diaulos are men and women in black robes. On the diaulos, standing in the center, flanked by two demons, is Torment wearing black robes. She turns and sees the four. She says, “It looks like you have intruded upon my master again. Necrolytes, make their bodies dance for me!” The black robed men and women stand and turn to face them. On all of their lips are the words to killing curses. Knowing they can’t win, Valtorex collapses the entrance to the ruins. They turn and fight. The curses fly, but so do the arrows. The four of them manage to avoid being killed, Valtorex taking the brunt of the blows on shields and himself. Of the original twenty Necrolytes, only four are left at the end of a few seconds. Those four quickly fall under a hail of arrows from Valen. Valen advances on Torment, his swords out. Valtorex, Valrie, and Valinor watch Valen, ready to jump in if he needs it.  

Torment screams and rushes him. In a blur of metal, Torment goes down with a gurgle. Valen stands triumphantly over her corpse, his blades wet with demon blood. He says, his voice changed by bloodlust, “That oughtta teach the bitch.” (Valen: 25 kill-tacular) (Killing spree!) (I reiterate, fits RAT to a T!J )The four of them look around and find a secret door in the back of them room. They walk in and discover this is a ritual room. On the ground, they see the corpse of a young woman, about their age. Her body is twisted as if she died in agony and her blood is pooled around her and soaked into her gown. It appears she had just died moments ago. Valen feels the elation of the kill die as he looks into her vacant eyes. Valen looks at Valtorex and asks, his voice a barely audible whisper, “Why?” Valtorex bends down, his knees in the blood and touches her neck and looks over her wounds. He then examines the strange symbols etched into her skin and the floor around her. He says, “Kaedros is doing something big. He needed a virgin sacrifice. It appears she was drawn in by the cult. She was probably deeply depressed and wanted a family. Kaedros offered one and became her father. The worst part is, judging by the runes, the sacrifice had to be willing.” Valen asks, still in a whisper, “How did she die?” Valtorex shudders briefly and says, “Judging by the varying ages of the wound, she died from blood loss over the period of days. All of the wounds are shallow bites and clawing. Demons are brutal and I’m amazed she lasted even that long. He probably promised her life unending or some other hollow promise.”  

Just then they hear a seductive voice say, “Oh, but it wasn’t hollow. I gave Father everything. My life, my blood, my body. He gave me the place of his beloved Torment you just slew.” They turn and Valen nearly vomits when he sees the girl standing behind them. She is clad in the nearly shredded black robe of Torment. She appear much like her old self, the same straw blonde hair, the same height, size, everything, except the eyes. While her eyes had been a bright green, they are now sunken and black. Her skin is a bit paler now and she appears to be stronger ( “and she appears stronger.” ?!!! I’m ashamed!) (Fixed, you happy?). She looks into Valen’s eyes and sees the reflection of herself. She is terrified by what she sees. The anger, the fury, the pure malice on her face makes her twisted soul ache. Her eyes are what terrify her the most. Those dead orbs that used to be so full of life will haunt her memory for all eternity. She instantly hates those hazel orbs showing her all of this. (I know you can’t see that detailed of a reflection in some one’s eyes, but hey, who gives a crap? It makes for good plot at leastJ) She runs at Valen, a dagger now in her hand. Valen drops his swords and reaches out for her. She reaches him and stabs him, but he embraces her. She is shocked by this, not knowing who he is. As he loses consciousness, he lets out a ragged breath with one word, “Chisa…”  

Chistine, not having any memory of anything that happened before the ritual, feels a faint tug in her mind at the name. She looks into those eyes again and gasps. She staggers back, her mouth agape. She screams, her distress evident, “By the gods! What am I? Valen! Valen don’t die! I need you!”(Too late, he’s somewhere in Nevada) (lol) (Seriously Andrew! Think comedian!) (Okay, I’ll consider it) She tosses down the dagger and kneels next to her love. She tries casting a healing spell on him, but she finds she can’t anymore. She pleads, “Valen, I love you! Don’t die!” Valtorex, who was about to kill her sees what happened. He restrains Valinor and Valrie with a word and bends down with her. He finds the wound and casts a spell that will cauterize it. (Burn all your problems eh?) (It works, doesn’t it?) Valen, unconscious gasps as his flesh is seared. Valtorex stands and says, “That will stop the bleeding. I don’t think he will die, but I will need to stay and watch him. He turns to Chistine and asks, “Did the master of this place keep a store of ingredients?” Chistine nods and shows him to them. Valtorex sacks (sacks? did you mean racks? Cause I don’t think he has the authority to fire it. It might have a family!) (He means sacks as in ‘ransack’) (Exactly!) the cabinet of alchemical ingredients and returns to Valen. He says, “The passage is blocked off and we won’t be able to dig out. Obviously, there is some alternate route that allowed the necromancers to get here undetected. Chistine can lead you two there. I will stay here with Valen and try to help him recover. Valinor, you’re in charge.”  

Chistine leads Valinor and Valrie to a concealed tunnel under the diaulos. She then says, “I am sorry, but I must go. My Father calls me and I can not disobey.” Chistine disappears. Valrie and Valinor return to Valtorex. They tell him of the exit and he says, “Very well. Orders stay the same. Tomorrow, go down the tunnel and find an exit. Get help and return to Valen. Valinor, you’re still in charge.” The three of them make a cold camp in the ritual room, after Valtorex gives the body a proper burial in the ground and cleans away the blood. They take turns on watch and Valtorex applies an ointment he made to Valen’s wound. The next day, they set out.  

Valinor leads Valrie down the tunnel. They keep walking until their path is blocked by a group of zombies. Valinor draws his greatsword and rushes them, cutting them down left and right. Valrie stays back as there is only enough room in the tunnel for Valinor to swing his massive sword. The zombies keep falling, some missing limbs, some hacked in half, and others with their heads cleaved in two. Valinor, his blade drenched in blood and other liquids says, “Come on, we have to stop them.” He charges down the tunnel, barely stopping to cleave a zombie in two. Valinor reaches the bottom of the tunnel to find his path blocked by a large ogre zombie with a massive club. He replaces his greatsword and pulls out the axe. He charges the ogre, swinging his axe. The ogre smashes down with his club, crushing the skeleton of another ill-fated warrior. The ogre swings his club again, this time at Valinor. Valinor blocks with his axe, jarring his bones. He grits his teeth and keeps fighting. Valinor yells, “Valrie! Get out of here! Now!” Valrie ignores him and watches for threats. Valinor keeps fighting the ogre, occasionally cutting it. On a particularly lucky swing, his axe bites deep into the ogre, tearing open its stomach. A noxious smell permeates the air from the remains of the ogre’s last meal before it died. The ogre, no longer feeling pain, just keeps attacking. The fight goes back and forth, Valinor eventually cutting the ogre’s leg and breaking the bone. The ogre, no longer able to balance, falls and Valinor cleaves into its neck, severing the head. He replaces his blood axe and says, “Another foe defeated; another number closer to mine.”(Valinor: 1) He steps around the ogre carcass and opens the door. He walks through into a hail of spells. He draws his greatsword and rushes into the room, one much like the one before, and begins slaughtering the Necrolytes. Valrie races in after him and begins killing the cultists as well. (Crap, I lost count) (Oh wellL)  

Soon, all of the cultists lie dead. Valinor is locked in battle with Despair. With a scream, Despair feels Valinor’s blade sink into her flesh and hit her bone. She falls to the ground, her hand over her severed jugular. Valinor says, “She is dead. Just another soul to add to the list.” Valrie turns just in time to see Valinor blasted back to the entrance of the room by a powerful spell. She runs to him as Agony says, “Yes little girl. Run away. Run far away. I’ll catch you and I’ll drink your blood!” She reaches him and grabs Valinor. Valrie drags his unconscious form up the tunnel, running as fast as she can with the warrior that weighs over twice as much as her. Agony smiles evilly as she walks up the tunnel in pursuit. Valrie reaches the entrance to the tunnel and shoves Valinor out. As she is about to leave as well, the door slams into her, knocking her back. She winds up flat on her back staring up at the hem of Agony’s robe. Then, everything goes black.  

Valtorex hears the door and runs to the tunnel. He sees Valinor lying there and realizes Valrie is still down in the tunnel. He tries the door, but when he finds it is barred shut he curses bitterly. He moves Valinor back to the ritual room. He returns to the door and spends the rest of the day and all night using his potions on Valen and Valinor and using every spell he knows on the door. (Note: that’s quite a lot of spells too) (Yeah, I know. Pretty much everyone out there. Some of them may even be from D&DJ)  

Valrie wakes up hours later in an iron cage. She sits up, her head aching. She notices she is in the tight fitting black robe the succubae (Hah! I was right Jeff! It is succubi instead of succubae!) (non-uniqued: Once again, same two words) and Chistine were wearing. Then, Agony walks into the room, dragging a young woman by the hair. At her command, the door to the cage opens and Agony tosses the girl in. She tosses a sack in after her. Agony slams the door and leaves. The young woman struggles up, her brown hair covering up her face. Valrie helps her up. She says, “I’m Valrie, what’s your name?” The woman replies, “I’m called Sara, although in a few days, I’ll be Despair.” Valrie is shocked. She asks, “Do you know what the ritual entails?” Sara replies, “Yes, I do. I will be put in that summoning circle over there. The Father’s Sons will come and I will be with them. When I die, I will return as one of the Daughters. It is the greatest honor.” Just then, another girl is brought in. She is laid on the summoning circle by Agony. Agony turns to Sara and says, “Dear, you will not take the place of Despair. We have a special place for you. You, the most devoted of the Father’s children will become more than a Daughter. This girl will be the new Despair.”  

The new candidate for Despair has red hair and hazel eyes. Agony stands back next to the cage. Agony asks, “Jane, are you ready?” Jane replies, “Yes, mistress.” Agony says, “I am no longer your mistress. You may call me sister now.” The ritual begins and the demons appear. The ritual continues for days, Sara and Agony watching eagerly, Valrie becoming sick often. After four days, Kaedros appears and finishes the ritual himself. Jane dies with a sigh, surrounded by her own blood. Several minutes later, Jane walks through the door, now in the black robe of one of the Daughters. (This cult will reappear in the story often) She says, “Greetings sister. It feels wonderful to shed that living corpse.” Her hazel eyes have turned black and dead looking. Her skin has lost almost all coloration. She looks down at her corpse and kicks it. She laughs as the blood splatters a bit. Valrie vomits at the horrendous sight. Valrie yells, “What’s wrong with you? Why would you give up life to be that?” Jane replies, “I have a family now. Before I was alone, but now I have brothers and sisters, and… and a father! Yes, a father! Where is Father? I must see him!” Agony says, “Patience sister. He is enjoying Torment. You will be called to him soon enough. Just enjoy your new body, your new abilities, your new power. Go, see your power over mortals.” Despair giggles in glee and runs off. (…O.O, and the elves never noticed this how?) (They’re elves. Sweden didn’t know they were invaded till their babies came out German. To those of you who are Swedish, oh well. Have your army declare war on me. Lol)  

Agony turns to Valrie and asks, “Did you enjoy the show? Despair lasted a long time for a mortal. So, are you ready to join the Father yet? You have one day to decide. Tomorrow you will begin the ritual. If you are willing, you will become one of the Daughters. If you are unwilling, then you will suffer for days and be cast into the Abyss.”  

That night, Sara tries to convince Valrie to follow the Father. Valrie is nearly convinced that her friends have really abandoned her and she really is alone. The next morning, when agony drags her out of the cage, she is almost totally convinced that the entire cosmos is against her and the only one willing to give her a chance is Kaedros. When she is roughly tossed onto the still bloody ritual circle with Chistine, Jane, Agony, Kaedros, Sara, and a group of demons pressed into the room, she feels as if she finally has a family. Kaedros asks, “Are you ready to become my Daughter, Valrie?” Valrie, her mouth dry in anticipation and nervousness replies, “Yes, I am ready to submit. I am alone, but you are my family. I am devoted to you…Fath-“ Just then, a loud explosion jars her out of the fog that led her to this decision.  

Valtorex, feeling a horrible panic grip his heart, puts everything he has against the door in one final (FIN AL 2 words!!!!! Jaff, you can not be serious!) (Please don’t rant at every mistake…we’re human you know?) (Geez! No need to guilt trip me!) (It’s ok, he mispelled serious) effort. He feels Valrie’s turmoil and fear and pushes every fiber of his body to the limit, forcing every ounce of power in his body into one spell. The door, barred by the powers of the Abyss, shudders and splinters against Valtorex’s will. As Valrie speaks those fateful words, Valtorex feels his connection with her dying. He forces the door down and it shatters into tiny splinters that incinerate against his wrath. He charges down the tunnel, his swords at the ready. Valen and Valinor, now recovered, race in after him. Valtorex reaches the ceremony room to find it packed with Necrolytes. Valtorex, knowing he does not have much time, ignores all but those poor souls unfortunate enough to get in his way.  

Kaedros commands, “Start the ritual. She’s given herself. As long as we start it now, we can finish it anytime.” One demon moves forward, eager to take his part in the ritual. As he moves on top of Valrie, he is turned to ash and dust by a ferocious spell. Valtorex, flames dancing over his body, is standing in the doorway. His voice ominous and furious, he says, “She is not yours for the taking. Leave her now or be damned. Now you will face the wrath of the fires that scorch hell.” Valrie sits up, her heart leaping at the sight of Valtorex. She jumps to her feet and tries to run to him. Kaedros strikes her and yells, “Stay bitch! You’re mine now!” Valtorex, his rage fueling the fires around him, walks into the room, roaring, “That was a big mistake. I will make you wish you were never born.” The demons rush him, but they are incinerated as soon as they reach the aura of flame. (Flame is not 2 words either Jeff!) (Oh! Now I know why things I fixed didn’t make it to this version)  (Guys, I write fast and don’t proofread, get over it) Kaedros knows now is not the time to fight Valtorex and orders a retreat. He calls back his demons, succubae, and cultists and teleports away.  

The flames around Valtorex subside as Valen and Valinor walk into the room. Valrie is lying on the ground, drained from hunger, thirst, lack of sleep, and grief at what she nearly did. Valtorex walks over to her and she weakly apologizes. Valtorex jokes, his voice now back to normal, “Don’t talk, you’ll only dig yourself in deeper.” He then picks her up and carries her out of the room. They return to the blockage in the tunnel leading up to the surface. Valen dryly notes, “Even with all of that, we’re still stuck.” Valtorex says, “There is no way in the Abyss I’ll let a little dirt stop me.” He thinks for a moment before saying, “I saw a barrel of water in the main ceremonial room. Bring it up here.” He puts Valrie, now asleep, down and casts a spell. He teleports to the other side of the blockage. Satisfied by what he sees, he teleports back. He moves Valrie away from the blockage and Valen and Valinor come back up with the water. Valtorex takes the water and teleports back behind the blockage. He opens the barrel and drenches the dirt, turning to mud. He casts Mud to Stone (The D&D group can testify, this is an actual spell in the book) (Tis true) and the wall is quickly turned into a stone facade (I appreciate the accent, but it’s incorrect) (Word did it, not me) backed by dirt. He begins pushing on the stone, trying to use the weight to force the dirt down. He yells, “Start digging on that side!” Valen and Valinor begin digging and eventually the dirt gives way. Before the stone can tumble down and crush his friends, Valtorex casts Stone to Mud (Also, surprisingly, an actual spell from D&D) (That’s a truism!) and the heavy mass of stone becomes a wave of mud. Valen and Valinor are soon coated in mud. Valen asks, “Was that really necessary?” Valtorex replies, “Would you prefer me to have left it as a giant rock?” Valinor jokes, “A giant rock I could use Valen’s like a wedge to stop. Mud, well, I hate mud.” Valtorex goes over and picks up the still sleeping Valrie.  

The four of them return to the inn. Valtorex says, “Valinor, room with Valen tonight. Valrie and I have things to discuss.” Valinor nods and tosses him the room key. Valtorex then carries Valrie up to his room and lays her in bed. He covers her up and goes back down stairs. He goes up to the bartender and says, “I would like some bread, some cheese, apples, and some salted meat please. I would also like some water and a skin of wine.” The bartender refuses. He says, “I will not serve you until you pay your tab.” Valtorex sighs. “By the gods. Alright, how much do I owe?” The bartender says, “Twenty gold so far.” Valtorex sighs and reaches into his pack. He pulls out a drake and tosses it to him. The bartender takes one look at the coin and slams it on the bar. He says, “We don’t accept barbarian gold here.” Valtorex takes the drake back and counts out twenty gold. He asks, “What does everyone have against foreigners here?” The barkeeper, apparently pleased with the gold, replies, “You foreigners come here and bring nothing but ill-fortune. Since the Draconic Empire opened up trade relations, the frequency of bandit raids has doubled and piracy has quadrupled! More and more half breeds are being born because of you fiends, like that freak you are friends with. I’m sick of being walked over and so are the other elves!” Valtorex’s response is swift. He grabs the barkeeper and presses the point of his knife into his neck. Valtorex says, “After centuries of isolation, the elves are weak. As a nation, there are two options. You can be neutral and avoid the world, or you can go out and conquer. The Draconic Empire conquered and is now the strongest force on Archemos. The elves hid in the trees and are now walked over by everyone.” (Yes, the elves are the Sweden of the D&D world, and like the Swedes, they are known for beauty, music, and culture, but never seen as a threat. This is mostly because it’s true) The bartender replies, steel in his eyes, “One day, the elves will reclaim Archemos and drive ( “and drives you bastards…”? Really Andrew?) (Well at least you remembered to space) you bastards into the seas, just like we did with your ancestors.” (“Sir! Sir! The elves are invading!” “Very well, release the trained Chihuahuas.” “Isn’t that overkill, though?” You get the pictureJ) Valtorex replies, his voice cold, “Your ancestors have hid in the trees for all of recorded history. There has not been a single war that the elves fought outside of their forest since before the Draconic Empire formed thousands of years ago. “(Are you sure they’re Sweden and not France?) (Stop dissecting sentences with quotes!) (Ian, you just insulted France by calling them cowards. Yay! You’re an real American now!)

I suggest you serve me as you would serve any other guest or I will show you exactly what we can do. Our steel may not be as pretty, but it cuts just as deep.” The bartender serves Valtorex, giving him the requested items, and Valtorex goes upstairs. He sets the food and drink on a table and sits on Valrie’s bed to wait.  

Hours pass and Valtorex just sits there thinking. Every once in a while, Valrie whimpers in her sleep, most likely reliving what she has seen over the past few days. After sun down, Valtorex lights a lone lamp and sets it next to the bed. A few hours before Darkwatch, a nightmare finally causes Valrie to jolt up in bed with a cry of fear. Her heart is racing and she is in a cold sweat. She looks around, surprised to be in the inn. She then sees Valtorex sitting on the edge of her bed. Valtorex asks, “Hungry?” Valrie, realizing she hasn’t eaten in days, nods. Valtorex goes over and gets the food for her. Valtorex sees she is still shaking from the nightmare and asks, “Water or wine?” Valrie looks up, and realizing they are alone, says, “Water, just to be safe.” (Safe? What am I, a Health movie?) ( and I quote “Abstinence is the only way to prevent teen pregnancy and STDs) (Wine does not help abstinence) (No comment) Valtorex pours water for himself and Valrie and they eat together. Valtorex sees the dark circles under her eyes and realizes he must look just as bad. He says, “We should probably get some sleep. I haven’t slept in four days and you can boast much more sleep than I can.” Valrie shudders before saying, “I don’t think I can go back to sleep. Those images. That poor girl. I don’t think I’ll be able to sleep again.” Valtorex goes over and gets the wine. He pours her some and says, “This will help you sleep. I don’t recommend it as a permanent fix, but it’ll work in the short term.” Valrie drinks the cup of wine and quickly feels more sleepy. Her eyelids feel heavy and she lies back. Instead of hitting her mattress like she expected, she hits Valtorex. She forgot he was behind her. (And apparently she forgot he’s wearing very sharp, very hard armor, and apparently so did IJ) Valtorex holds her as she falls to sleep.  ( It was so hard not to change to sleep to asleep) (Grr, you’re killing the sentences!)  Once she is asleep, he finally relaxes a bit and realizes just how tired he is. Within moments, Valtorex is asleep too, Valrie in his arms. (Wow, this is so frickin’ PG) (Awww…) (Yes aww, no action for Valtorex.  Kidding!)  

The next day, Valtorex wakes up with the dawn. Valrie stays asleep and he just sits there, watching her peaceful face. Valtorex hears a knocking on the door and gently lies Valrie down on her bed. He goes to the door and opens it to find ( “and opens it to finds” this is getting annoying!) Valen standing there. Valen barges into the room, asking, “So, how did things go with Valrie?” Valtorex whacks him over the back of the head and whispers, “She’s sleeping.” Valen whispers back, “Sorry. So how’d it go?” Valtorex refuses to answer. Valen is a bit disappointed in him when he sees Valrie lying on top of her covers, no apparent change to her clothing (I re-reiterate, RAT to a T) . He then notices that Valtorex’s bed hasn’t been slept in and feels a bit of hope. (Valen trying to get Valtorex in bed with someone becomes a recurring theme later on) At about Highsun, (Although my times are absurdly obvious, I’ll still tell you this is noon) everyone is up and around. Valtorex makes lunch for everyone and they decide to hit the shops. Valtorex gives them all a drake and twenty gold. Valtorex spends most of the day at the Mage’s Shop and the Apothecary. He comes out with a few new spellbooks, a set of crystals, an enchanter’s kit, an ingredient pouch, and a portable alchemist’s lab. Valinor spends his time with an elven weapons master. Although Valinor does not gain any material, he does gain allot more skill and knowledge. Valen spends the day learning how to fletch and gets a fletcher’s kit. Valrie spends the day at the clothier and walks out with a cloth bundle full of clothes.  

They meet back at the inn and decide to put their stuff away first. Valtorex goes to Valen’s room and finds the door is locked. He knocks on it and Valen pops his head out. He says, “You’re rooming with Valrie, mate.” (No, he’s not British, I’m just calling RAT a WeasleyJ) Valtorex tries to get into the room, but Valen slams the door on him. Valtorex shakes his head and goes to Valrie’s room. He finds her leaning against the wall, a scowl on her face. He then realizes he still has the room key. He grins sheepishly and she slaps him playfully. He opens the door and ushers her in, acting very formal. She curtsies the best she can carrying the bundle of clothes. They begin laughing at each other. They walk in and Valrie says, “I need to change. This dress is a mess.” She goes behind the partition and yells, “If you look, I’ll gut ya!” Valtorex jokes, “Why would I spy on you? What’s there to see?” Valrie, not catching the sarcasm, is hurt. (Periods go at the end of the sentence!!!!) (Well yeah, duh she takes it seriously, she’s a girl! Oh crap! Jeff, your sexism is rubbing off) (It’s true as far as I know) Valtorex then says, “Joking.” Valrie, wanting revenge yells, “Hey, at least I have something to hide! I almost feel sorry for you!” Valtorex retorts, his pride a bit wounded, “Don’t make me prove you wrong, ‘cause I will.” He then realizes what he just said and is completely embarrassed. When Valrie begins laughing, he feels a bit relieved. He then says, “Well, I’ll experiment with alchemy for awhile.” Valrie replies, “You do that. I have a lot of clothes to try on.”  

Over the next few hours, Valtorex creates several potions with varying effects. Then, Valrie comes out from behind the partition wearing a black, form fitting dress (That left much to be desired description-wise) (Editors: Please elaborate here. I have the fashion sense of a gerbil so you guys need to help me out here) (Not quite, gerbils don’t wear clothes) (Hah hah. I need a fashion kid. Valrie bought a wardrobe and I suck at describing dresses) Valrie whistles to get Valtorex’s attention. Valtorex looks up from his alchemy and sees Valrie. Valtorex, his mouth agape, says, “Wow.” as he drops the vial in his hand. He is so enraptured by Valrie, he doesn’t even notice that he dropped the vial until, “Dekouw!” (Pronounced de-KUH. Draconic for sh*t when used in this context) He looks down to see smoke pouring out of the hole in his robe from the acid he just dropped. He jumps up, brushing at the acid and just manages to spread it more. Valtorex runs over to the water and cleans the acid off. Valrie laughs and says, “Looks like you need to go to the clothier tomorrow.” (And apparently the armor shop because the acid just burnt through his leather leggings too) (I think we all agree the price was worth it) Valtorex turns and looks at her. She is still laughing at her joke when Valtorex grabs her. She gasps in surprise, but her gasp is stifled by the kiss that follows. (Oh, how romantic…makes my stomach churn. I only write it because people seem to like it, and if that makes me a sell-out, so?) (This is becoming a recurring problem…) (What, me complaining about romance?) (Well there’s that )  

The door swings open and Valen strides in. (Mood-killer) Valtorex and Valrie jump away from each other, faces flushed. Valen says, “Oh, I’m sorry to interrupt. I’ll leave you two alone. Just do me a favor and name the first one after me.” (Unless it’s a boy right?) (lol. I’ll tell RAT you said that) Valrie lunges for him and Valtorex laughs. Valen narrowly escapes and an angry Valrie slams the door and turns, her cheeks even redder than before. Valtorex asks, “So, shall we continue?” Valrie just glares at him before stalking off to her bed. She flops down with a huff and rolls to her side. Valtorex sits down next to her and puts his hand on her shoulder. He says, “You know we need to have the talk we put off yesterday.” Valrie asks, irritated, but also fearful, “What talk?”(THE talk) (J, yes that one) Valtorex replies, being as patient as possible, “I know you nearly gave yourself to Kaedros. Why?” Valrie, wanting to avoid the uncomfortable question, tries to kiss him to distract him. Valtorex grabs her by the shoulders and shoves her down. He demands, “Why would you be so willing to give your soul to Kaedros? What was your reasoning?” Valrie struggles to get up. When she finds she can’t, she sighs and replies, “I was alone. I have no family. My father’s long dead and my mother doesn’t want anything to do with me. I have no siblings. I was alone in that horrible, dark cell with those maniacs for four days. I had seen horrendous things and was afraid. I was told I could give myself to him or be cast into the Abyss. I hate being alone. I want a family.” Valtorex laughs. He lets her up and keeps laughing. When a confused, hurt look comes across her face, Valtorex grabs her and holds her close. He finally stops laughing and they just sit there in each other’s arms. He begins rubbing her back, making her feel safe. He then says, “You have a family. You have had us for nearly a year. Valen, Valinor, and I are your family and we’ll stick by you no matter what. (Awww…J ) Kaedros’s twisted family will demand your life, body, and soul. All we want is you. Valrie, my sister, my love, (Symbolic, not incestual, for you gutter minds out thereJ) you will always have me. The four of us are a family no bastard demon can break. Just ask Valen and Valinor. We’re family, whether you like it or not.” (And she so wishes otherwise) (Very funny Krug)  

Valrie whispers, “Thank you.” Valtorex lets her go and helps her up. He sees the traces of tears and offers her his sleeve. (That is THE most romantic thing ever…J) (Sarcasm doesn’t befit you Andwuuu) (Give it time…) (rofl) She dries her face and they go downstairs. (WTF! Word, she does not drive her face!) Valen and Valinor are waiting for them when they arrive. Valen asks, “So, how did it go?” Valrie finds she is not as angry with Valen now as she would have been before. Valtorex makes dinner for them and he even manages to sneak Valen some wine. They have beef, stew, cheese, and bread. (Not like anyone cares what they eat) Once they are done and Valen, Valinor, and Valrie are good and drunk, they call it a night. (They just have to be drunk, don’t they?) (Ya, pretty much) Valen and Valinor stagger to their room and pass out on their beds. Valtorex leads Valrie upstairs and gets her into her bed. Valtorex lies down in his bed but finds he can not sleep due to a sense of unease and dread. After several minutes of that feeling, the red haired succubus from Kaedros’s cult appears at the foot of his bed. Valtorex reaches under his pillow and yanks out the Knife of the Ancestors. He holds it threateningly between himself and Jane. Jane giggles quietly before seductively saying, “Drop the knife so we can have some fun.” Valtorex replies, “Go back to the Abyss, demon.” Jane sidles up the bed to him and says, mock hurt in her voice, “That’s not very nice. Why don’t you like me? Every man likes me.” Valtorex replies, his voice cold and resolute, “I don’t like you because you are spawn of my enemy. (Actually, Kaedros is the spawn of Valtorex…Irony)  I don’t like you because you are an abomination.” (I would also point out that that’s been said of Valtorex too) Jane pouts, “Come on.  Don’t you want me? Your girl will never find out.” Valtorex, feeling incredibly tempted to do as she says, replies, “No…I can’t. My…loyalty is to Valrie. My honor…lies with her.” (Wow, his honor is very weak and nearly dies many times) (lol. Valrie can still kick your ass even if she doesn’t exist) Jane shrieks in fury and claws at him. She is rewarded with a long slash along her forearm. To Valtorex’s surprise, the wound closes and heals without a scar.   

He then hears a gasp and looks over to see Valrie sitting up in her bed, staring at them. Jane looks at her and says, “Don’t mind us, dear.  I’m just having some fun with your boyfriend.  I’ll get to you soon enough.” (And your little dog too) (Beastiality, Andrew? Didn’t think you thought like that) (Ewww… I just got that) (No dog in this story) (You said it)Valtorex slashes at her, cutting a deep gash across her torso.  Even as Valtorex is pulling back for a second strike, the wound closes up.  Jane laughs at him.  She says, “The Father is sovereign here now. He is like a god. His chosen sons and daughters can’t die. No matter what you do, we will win.” Valtorex replies, “That may be true. We may lose, but I guarantee that I will be a pain in the ass till my last breath. As long as I live, Kaedros will not be able to rest in peace.” Jane begins laughing with wild abandon. Valtorex can tell her sanity has started going the way of her soul. Jane is laughing so hard that she does not notice Valrie until the rapier has sliced deep into her neck, severing her spine. Jane keeps laughing, but with the airway severed, all that comes out is blood. Jane then grabs her head and rights it back on her shoulders, the wound healing. Valtorex dives out of bed and grabs his swords. He and Valrie cut and hack at Jane until she is nothing but ribbons of flesh and shattered bone on his bed. To their amazement and disgust, Jane reforms on the bed, covered in blood. (For decency) (Nice) Jane says, “Father calls.  I must go now.” (Yeah, that’s a good excuse) She teleports away, leaving Valtorex’s bed a bloody mess and Valrie nearly sick. Valrie reaches out to embrace Valtorex, but when she pulls back, her white night gown red with blood, she vomits.(That must have made him feel better.  Blood and vomit) Valtorex holds her hair out of her face and tries to comfort her. They can’t go back to sleep, and even if they could, Valtorex has no bed to sleep in. (Preempt: No already!) (Are you sure?) (Are you Andrew or RAT?) (I might just be filling in for him) The next morning, Valrie changes back into her battle dress and they go downstairs to meet Valen and Valinor.   

When Valen sees Valtorex, he yells, “Good job, mate! I could hear you from down the hall!” (Ok, so maybe Valen is of the Brit/Aussie line) (He really must be dense if he couldn’t tell the difference…) (no Aussie accent, just mate, which was common to the Brits for awhile) Valrie, not getting it yells, “And you didn’t help?” Valtorex rubs the bridge of his nose in half frustration, half amusement. Valen replies, a bit taken aback, “Um, as much as I like you and all, I uh, don’t do that.” (Are you really sure you don’t want him to burst into their room and help?) (Andrew, he hasn’t figured out they were fighting yet. He still thinks they were doing something else that starts with an ‘F’) (Jeff and I debated on, according to this comment, whether or not Andrew got that last part) (I got it, I was making a crack at Valen’s willingness to be included) (Andrew, stop fantasizing ’bout my characters) Valrie, still oblivious, retorts, “What? Help your friends when they’re attacked by one of Kaedros’s succubae?” Valen, finally realizing the error in communication, just stands there with a confounded look on his face. Valinor and Valtorex, who had been holding back this entire time, burst out laughing. Valrie then gets what he meant. Her face goes bright crimson, making Valen laugh. Over breakfast, they tell Valen and Valinor about the encounter with Jane. That day, Valinor goes back to the weapon’s master, Valen practices fletching and does chores at his house, and Valtorex and Valrie both go to the clothier. (They are attacked and yet they still go on as if they hadn’t been?) (When it happens this often, you stop caring) (They go through clothes like nobody’s business!) (Yep, or she has no where else to go in the village)  (Sure she does, but she’s a girl, and thus is attracted to expensive, bright colors. There Ian, this makes your last sexist comment not look that bad) (Yay!)

At the clothier, Valtorex buys two more sets of robes, one blood red like his old ones to wear to bed, and the other black for alchemy. Valrie buys more dresses and other articles of clothing, intent on having enough clothes to function as a diplomat. (No, she is not vain. She wants to go into espionage, and that requires a crap load of disguises) Valtorex, as a joke, (You guys can see where this is going) holds up a short, form-fitting, nearly indecently cut, black dress and asks Valrie, “How ‘bout this?” Valrie, annoyed and embarrassed, but wanting to beat Valtorex at his own game, replies, “Sure, why not? That dress looks expensive and it’s your money. Don’t know why you would want to wear that, though. Doesn’t even look like it’ll fit you.” Some girls in the corner giggle at her joke. Valtorex responds, “You’re right. It is my gold. I think I’ll get it.” Valrie, knowing she made a mistake in trying to beat Valtorex sighs and asks, “Alright, what will it take for you to not buy that?” Valtorex counters, with a grin, “Oh no, it’s not buying it that’s up for discussion. The question is, who will see it?”    

An hour later, they walk out of the clothier, Valtorex carrying another cloth bundle full of clothes, including the dress. Valrie hurries Valtorex to the inn and they go up to their room. Valrie puts away her clothes and Valtorex says, “I need to stop by the apothecary and pick up some items.  I’ll be back shortly.  Valtorex leaves and returns about twenty minutes later carrying a wooden crate.  He sets it on the desk he commandeered as a workbench and unpacks it. Valtorex looks at her and notes with concern the ever darkening rings under her eyes. He asks, “You thirsty?” Valrie replies, a hint of nervousness in her voice, “A bit. Why?” Valtorex responds by picking up a vial and tossing it to her. She catches it, and at his behest, drinks it. (There’s some OE for ya, Ian) (Haha, you said behest) She quickly feels tired and whispers, “You bast-“ (I can see where this is going…) (Wow, pervert) (I know, I try) before crawling into her bed and falling asleep. Valtorex works on his alchemy for several more hours, creating a few more useful potions. (Maybe not…) (You realize I’m deliberately being vague as to what he has because I am lazy on two counts. 1: Too lazy to come up with effects. 2: Too lazy to figure out what he will need in the future and plan for it) He takes out a piece of parchment and writes a short letter to Valrie. He leaves it on her bed, next to her head, and goes downstairs. Hours later, after Lastlight, (Figure it out) Valrie wakes up, feeling refreshed. She sees the note and (“ad remembers” ?!!!) (I swear you are reading a very old version of the story) remembers why she was asleep. She unfolds it and reads it. It says,   

“Valrie,   

Sorry about having to do that, but you were exhausted. I could see you were about to drop so I helped you along a bit. Besides, you probably feel better than you have in months. I’m not the only one that needs to relax. When you’re ready, come down, Valen, Valinor, and I have a surprise for you.   

With love,   

Valtorex”   

Valrie is still a bit angry at being drugged, but two things keep her from being furious. One, she is curious about the surprise, and two, she knows he is right. She smoothes out her sleep-wrinkled dress and goes downstairs. When she reaches the bottom of the stairs, her three friends yell, “Happy birthday!” Valrie asks, “How did you know?” Valtorex replies, “One day earlier this year, I visited your mother in East Port and she told me.” (Hint hint, gloss writer) (grumble…details…grumble) (Ha ha! Glossmeister!) Valrie is amazed that her friends did this for her. She asks, “How long have you guys planned this?” Valen replies, “Valinor and I have known about it since this morning. Valtorex has been planning for weeks.” Valrie looks at Valtorex, her gratitude evident in her eyes. Valtorex replies, “It’s the least I could do for you after all you’ve been through with me.” Valrie begins tearing up. (Are tear-ing and tearing really spelled the same?) (I hope not, because that would sound very painful) Valen, preempting tears, says, “Let’s eat!” They laugh at Valen’s obvious discomfiture before sitting down to eat. Valtorex has put together a dinner of beef steak, venison, salad, cheese, bread, and an odd concoction even he can not name. (There is nothing wrong with guys cooking, as long as it has something to do with meat, preferably steak) (Amen to that) They eat dinner, trying to figure out what the mystery food is. Valen guesses, “It’s horse meat stew, with some mandrake root, goblin tongue, and spider venom.” Valinor says, “It is warg flesh boiled in the blood of an ogre, mixed with basilisk egg yolk.” (W…T…F) Valrie just shrugs and says, “Whatever it is, it’s good.” Valtorex sighs, shaking his head. He looks at Valinor and says, “You missed the troll brain, crushed minotaur horn, and ent bark. Good guess though.” Valrie, incredulous, asks, “How did you collect all of that in one day?” Valinor and Valtorex begin laughing hysterically. Valinor, the first to stop, says, “He didn’t.” Valtorex then finishes, “It’s rabbit stew.” (No Word, ‘it’s’ as in ‘it is’, not the possessive. That requires a owner, which I did not include) Valen and Valrie have a good laugh at this.    

Valtorex then asks, “So, are you ready to open presents?” Valrie nods. Valinor gives her his first. She opens it and pulls out a disguise kit. Valinor says, “I know you’re into spying, so I figured you would need some makeup and stuff.” Valrie thanks him. Valtorex then says, “I got you two, one practical, one not. Here’s the practical one.” She takes it and opens the box. Inside is a crystal bladed dagger. Valtorex says, “The crystal won’t break and won’t dull. You can keep it under your pillow to defend yourself or bring it with you to use in ‘elimination’ missions. Most detect weapons spells only detect metal, so that will get through.” (Basically, it’s a CIA letter openerJ) Valrie says, “Thank you. I’ll make sure to keep it close.” Valen then hands her his gift and says, “There are two layers. The first is a gift to us all, the second a gift to Valtorex.” Valrie jokes, “Oh no. You have me worried now.” (Before you read on, try to guess what they are) (The dress?) (How would ‘they’ be ‘a’ dress?)

She opens it up and takes out a kit of various soaps, lotions, and other cleaning/cosmetic items. Valen says, his voice light with a joke, “Yep, now you can bathe. Thank the gods!” They laugh at that for a few moments before Valrie picks up Valtorex’s gift and asks, as sweetly as she can, “Mind if I practice my aim?” They laugh even harder, except Valen who eyes the dagger warily. Once they have settled down and Valrie has put the dagger away, Valen says, “Under the parchment is the present for Valtorex.” Valinor groans. “You didn’t did you?” Valen nods. Valinor holds his forehead, trying not to laugh. Valrie takes the parchment out of the box and tosses it aside. She peers in and her face goes crimson in embarrassment. Valtorex looks in and then looks up with a grin. “Thanks, I love ‘em.  I bet Valrie does too.” Valrie slaps him before pulling out the dagger and holding it threateningly at Valen. She yells, “You got me those? What in the Abyss were you thinking?” Her voice drops to a deadly whisper, “Why would you get me underwear, especially some like that?” Valen corrects her, “Not for you, for Valtorex. You just wear them.” (Sorry, it’s the meanest joke gift on the planet, especially if your boyfriend/girlfriend is there. I couldn’t resist, and knowing RAT, it would be an injustice for the character based on him to not do something like that) Valrie slashes at him, nearly cutting him. Valtorex grabs her arm and whispers in her ear, “Don’t be mad at him. He ran it by me first. Besides, they’ll go great with the dress.” Valrie hisses, “I will kill you in your sleep tonight.” Valtorex replies, joking, “You really think I would make a sleeping potion and not carry spares?” Valrie, no matter how hard she tries to avoid it, laughs. She says, “Alright, you guys had your fun. Can you let me go so I can open my last present?” Valtorex, against Valen’s plea, lets Valrie go. She puts away the dagger and Valen breathes a sigh of relief. Valrie opens her last present and gasps. She exclaims, “It’s beautiful!” She pulls out a necklace, made of sapphires and rubies linked together with platinum. She puts it around her neck, the gems gleaming brightly. Valtorex says, “That’s not all. Look in the bottom.” She does and pulls out a crystal potion bottle. He says, “Smell it.” She unstoppers it and rubs some of the liquid on her palm and sniffs. She says, “It smells good. What is it?” Valtorex replies, “It’s a secret mixture of flowers, nectars, and some less pretty ingredients.”  (Damn, I was wrong about the gift) (Edited for lack of content) (I never noticed this…but that was what I was going for anyways)

Valrie says, “Well, thank you very much. I love the gifts.” They continue to talk for awhile, but eventually call it a night. Before they go up, Valinor says, “Valen and I have one more gift for you two.” He hands Valtorex a bottle of elven wine and says, “Valen thinks that will ‘help things along’.” A crimson flush colors Valrie’s cheeks. Valen and Valinor both tell Valrie, “Happy birthday.” again and they all move upstairs. Valen and Valinor turns in, but Valrie and Valtorex decide to stay up. Valrie says, “I know what’s supposed to happen now, but I don’t know if I’m ready.” (Dun dun duh…J) (J) (Why do the good die young?) (WTF was that about, Krug?) (To answer Andrew, ’cause Billy Joel said so) Valtorex replies, “You’re not. I’m not going to push you. Just relax and have some fun. It’s my job to get the ulcers.” They share a laugh at his last comment before Valrie says, “Well, I guess I should go to bed.” She then looks at Valtorex’s bed and sees it is now a coagulated, bloody mess. She shudders and Valtorex notices this. With a word, the bed burns to ashes. Valtorex goes over to the corner and drags the bronze tub behind the partition. He casts a spell and the tub fills with water. He then magically heats it and suggests, “Maybe you should try the bath stuff Valen got you. Relax, slow down, take a breath. You never know when you will get another chance.” Valrie nods, going behind the partition and preparing her bath. She gets in the tub and Valtorex goes over to his alchemy bench. After several minutes, Valrie asks, “So when is your birthday?” Valtorex replies, “I don’t have one. I gave up my birthday when I gave up my life to pursue revenge. I haven’t celebrated it in six years. Actually, seven.” Valrie asks, “But when is it?” Valtorex, not wanting to fight with her, sighs, and says, “I was born on Midyear’s Solstice. (Middle of school year) It has already passed this year, so give it up.” Valrie murmurs thoughtfully.   

After awhile, Valtorex has failed to come up with any potion other than an extremely potent acid. Valrie gets out of her bath and changes into a white night gown. (With Valtorex just sitting there?!) (Behind the ‘F’ ing partition!) (Ian use your brain; Jeff, the explanation helps) She walks over to Valtorex and taps him on the shoulder. He looks up from his work and sees her smiling. He asks, “What’s made you happy all the sudden?” Valrie replies, “Nothing. I just realized that there’s only one bed in this room and we both need one. So…” Valtorex asks, “Are you suggesting we share?” Valrie nods. Valtorex says, “You’re still not ready.” Valrie responds, “I know, but sharing a bed doesn’t mean we have to…” Valtorex stands and scoops Valrie up. He says, “You have a seriously inadequate understanding of the term ‘sleeping together’.” Valrie smiles, a bit nervous, “Think of it as a test. Let’s see if that famous self control of yours applies to me too.” (Like waltzing on a razor’s edge) (And you would know this from experience?) (Lying in bed with someone that your attracted to and vice versa, if that ain’t a razor’s edge, what is?) (I meant walking on a razor’s edge) Valtorex jokes, “Self control? With you around, that’s not possible, but, I’ll do my best.” Valtorex walks over and gently deposits Valrie in bed. Valtorex stands there for several moments, looking into Valrie’s eyes. What he sees worries him. Admiration, love, total and complete trust. Those three things are what allow him to win his own internal struggle against temptation and lie down. (I know, some of you think this is too far, the others think they aren’t going fast enough. This is why I hate moderates. You try to please everyone and everyone gets pissed) (Ah so true, but you try and it’ll just have to be good enough) Valtorex and Valrie embrace. Valrie, still nervous, says, “I…lo…love…you.” (Aww… Her first words) (NWoC (Not worthy of comment)) (Wow, I didn’t know Ian’s brain could devolve more than it already has) Valtorex replies, silently swearing to himself he would die to protect her, “I love you too.” They spend the night in each other’s arms.   

The next morning, Valen opens their door and sees them, holding each other close, under the blanket. (Wow, maybe I do belong in kindergarten. I accidently wrote blankeyJ)(Somehow that doesn’t surprise me, seeing as you have a kid bro and all) (lol) Valen closes the door, content with a job well done. Soon after, Valtorex wakes up and sees Valrie in his arms. He has a brief moment of panic before he remembers he restrained himself. (To me, that proves his sexuality or nobleness, take your pick)  (Have you ever had a girlfriend? They get pissed if you push ‘em too far) (Single) He keeps holding her while she continues dreaming peacefully. At one point, she has a nightmare and quietly cries his name, her heartbeat increasing. He holds her tighter and whispers in her ear, “It’s ok, I’m here.” (No Word, nothing owns the ok!) This seems to calm her and her heart goes back to a regular rhythm. Around Highsun, she stirs from her sleep and looks up at him. Their eyes meet and they draw closer to kiss. Just then, Valen comes through the door, clapping. Valtorex doesn’t even look. He levitates one of his potion bottles and smashes it on the ground at Valen’s feet. A puddle of flaming oil spreads that forces him to run out of the room. The oil burns out quickly, leaving a black circle on the wooden floor. Valtorex slams the door and locks it magically. Valtorex pulls Valrie close and they kiss. (I’m nearly dead from all of this romance. I, and most likely my editors as well, am praying for a Kaedros) (But…but….you do realize you write this stuff up?) (Yes, but 1: I don’t think when I write and 2: I need to get them to a point where a Kaedros will make at least some sense) (Boo hoo Jaff. Stop complaining and keep writing!) (At least I write what I complain about! You have to take my stuff!) (Kaedros is busy, call back another time) They eventually stop kissing and change into their travel clothes. They go downstairs and meet Valen and Valinor. Valinor, having thoroughly ‘convinced’ all of the ill-timed jokes out of Valen, asks, “How did you guys sleep?” Valrie replies, her voice full of energy and enthusiasm, “I slept wonderfully.” Valtorex just shrugs in response.    

The four of them return to the ruins that day and find evidence another ritual has taken place, this one was far more bloody. (That’s the thing about all automated editors. They’re all the same. Word, gmail spell check, Ian, all robots are the same. They always look at letter instead of spirit. Sure, more bloody may not be correct, but it sounds a hell of a lot better than bloodier) (It had to be done, or Ian would moan about it forever) (Moooooaaaaan…) In the bottom room, Valtorex finds evidence of a new site. He shows Valen a rough map he found, and Valen says, “Hey, I know that place! Let’s go!” Valtorex says, “Let’s go to the magic shop first.” They do, and an hour later, they come out with backpacks of holding. They follow Valen to the location on the map. They find a freshly made clearing around a large marble diaulos. In the center of the diaulos is a crystal pedestal with a sword stuck, blade down, in it. Valtorex is walking forward, drawn by some unknown force to the sword. Valen grabs him and holds him back. He yells, “No! That’s the Sword of Eternal Damnation!”(Really?  Let me try!) Valtorex, snapping out of the mental fog, asks, “The what?” Valen replies, “The Sword of Eternal Damnation. Anyone who touches it is destroyed both bodily and in their mind, and their soul is enslaved. When I was growing up, a young girl got curious and touched it. They’ve seen her tortured soul roaming the woods ever since.” When Valen sees that calculating look in his friend’s eyes, he says, “Don’t bother. They’ve tried it with gloves, to the same result. It cannot be used as a weapon.” Valtorex sighs, accepting the truth. Just then, they hear a rustling in the brush. They duck for cover in a nearby pile of branches and leaves.  

Kaedros, Jane, Chistine, Sara, Agony, and a large contingent of demons and cultists walk out of the woods. At the head of the demons is a man that appears to be a half demon. He has flesh like a human, but he has the demonic armor plates over his body. Valen whispers, “Chisa…” Valtorex whispers, “That man in the lead of the demons must be one of Kaedros’s ‘Sons’.” Kaedros steps up to the sword and asks, “Is this it?” Agony drags forward a young elven maiden by the hair. The woman, face stained from crying pleads, “Yes! Yes! Please let me go!” Kaedros orders, “Tie her up, but don’t gag her. I want to hear her scream.” Kaedros then raises his hands and lets out a demonic roar. All around the diaulos ritual circles appear on the ground. There are twenty circles. Kaedros commands, “Begin the ritual!” (Dun dun duh…) Ten of his male followers and ten of his female ones walk forward. They each enter a ritual circle, alternating male and female. The demons march forward. The ritual with the female cultists is the same one they have seen before. The one with the males is a more combative one. The male cultists fight with the demons, taking countless wounds from the claws. The ritual continues and as the men fall, they are killed. The ritual draws on for three days, while Valtorex forces his friends to at least drink water, but they cannot hold down food. On the third day, all of the men are dead and the last woman dies before Darkwatch. The blood has soaked the ground and the twenty bodies are piled around the pedestal. All grows quiet until Firstlight when ten of the demon-man hybrids and ten succubae walk out of the woods, drenched in blood. Kaedros yells, the bloodlust evident in his manic voice, “My children! The time has come! Sons, each of you take a contingent of 100 of my demons and command them on to conquest and pillage! Daughters, go and convince others to join your Abyssal Father! Go from town to town and spread my family to every corner of Archemos!” (Basically, Kaedros is intent on taking over Archemos without a single battle) (A crazy genius!) (And they would get away with it if not for those meddling kids) The hybrids salute him and the succubae bow. The ten of each walk off, the Sons leading a contingent of demons and the succubae disappearing into the shadows.   

Kaedros then says to the remaining host with him, “I will now prove my might! The elf wench has admitted this is the Sword of Eternal Damnation! The sword that none can touch! I will now draw it from its rock to prove my supremacy!” He is reaching out to grasp the hilt, but Valtorex bursts forth (Jeff! He doesn’t come out 4th in line! Forth not fourth!) from concealment and rushes him. His three friends run out after him. Kaedros turns and motions to his demons. The demons run forward, compelled by their unholy master. Valen begins loosing arrows into the mass of unholy warriors. Demons begin falling, arrows puncturing their throats and chests. Valrie, Valinor, and Valtorex meet the demons head on. Valinor, having become much better from the secrets he learned under the tutelage of the weapons master, quickly out steps Valtorex for kills. In moments, the area has been reduced to a bloody, chaotic, slaughter. After several minutes, the last demon falls under Valinor’s axe and the three friends charge on, Valen keeping watch on the succubae. Kaedros orders, “Necrolytes, kill them!” The remaining cultists advance on the three, holding daggers out. Valinor feels a sadness at the grim necessity to kill the nearly defenseless opponents. Valrie nearly cries as she slides her rapier through the heart of a young woman about the age of herself. Valtorex feels nothing. No happiness, no satisfaction, no sadness, no pain. The cultists fall, blood flowing freely from the unarmored bodies. (Idiots…) (The dumbest form of kamikaze or suicide ever)  

The succubae laugh as they watch the mortals be slaughtered. Kaedros feels only the small discontent at losing so many possible shields. As the last cultist falls, mortally wounded, Valtorex looks up at Kaedros. Kaedros says, “It will end now. I won’t let you live this time. I will claim the power for myself!” Kaedros and his Sons and Daughters attack. Valen fills them with arrows, but to no avail. Sara, at Kaedros’s order, stays back. Jane and Valrie fight each other, Jane furious at Valrie for being the reason she failed to tempt Valtorex, Valrie wanting to rip her to shreds again and again for trying to take Valtorex. (Showdown timeJ) Valinor fights Agony, neither having a special interest in their fight. With tears in their eyes, Valen and Chistine fight, both trying to make it look like they’re trying while avoiding hurting one another. (A sad attempt if they are both crying) Kaedros yells, “Kor! Help me deal with this pest!” Kor, the hybrid from earlier, and Kaedros fight Valtorex. Kaedros’s forces are obviously outmatched, but their inability to die tips the scales. (How unfair) (Well they need it to even keep up) 

Valtorex yells, “Fall back!” Valen and Valinor disengage, but Valrie and Jane keep fighting. The succubae are now freed up move on Valrie. Kaedros, seeing an opportunity, orders Kor to attack Valrie. Valrie, unable to fight with four to one odds against immortal opponents, goes down. She is covered in cuts and scratches, her dress torn into loose rags hanging from her. Kaedros laughs and says, “Looks like your girl is gonna die! Order her to surrender and I’ll make her one of my daughters.” Valtorex sees Kor raising his clawed hand for the kill and yells in fury. Without thinking, he dives and grabs the hilt of the Sword of Eternal Damnation. He screams in pain as he draws it and rushes Kor. He reaches him with inhuman speed and slashes with one furious strike. The sword slices into Kor’s back, eliciting a scream of pure agony. Kor falls to his knees before falling forward, his body turning to dust before hitting the ground. Valtorex turns and runs Agony through, turning her to dust that falls to the ground in a cloud. He turns and runs at Kaedros. Before he can reach him, he collapses. (Now for the first Tribunal) 

Valtorex finds himself behind a oak podium. In front of him is a stone semicircular table. Behind the table are three people. One, on the left, is a beautiful female elf wearing dazzling white robes. He can only see her face as her hood covers everything else. (Silesta) On the right is a sickly looking man in robes of the deepest black with hollowed eyes and a generally gaunt appearance. (The Devon!) (NOOOO!!!!) In the center is a calm looking man in red robes. (Kilri) The man in red says, “You most likely know why you are here Valtorex.” Valtorex replies, “Esteemed personages, I do not. I must assume I am dead, however.” The woman comments, “He takes death a lot better than most his age.” The man in black replies(with a cough), “Yes, and he is not one of my followers.” The man in red says, “You used the Sword of Eternal Damnation. The guardians of the sword failed to punish you accordingly, so an emergency Tribunal has been called. (The equivalency of jury duty for gods) We will decide your fate. Silesta, do you have any questions?” Silesta, the god of life and healing, asks, “Valtorex, why did you take the sword?” Valtorex replies, “If I did not, then Valrie would be dead. I took up the sword to protect my love.” Silesta seems pleased with this. “Devon?” Devon, the god of death and decay, asks, “Did you know the consequences of your action?” Valtorex, knowing his very soul is on the line, replies, “Yes, as I do now. And as I do now, I did not care as long as I did what was right.” Devon seems displeased. Kilri asks, “Valtorex, why do you show no respect for gods?” Valtorex replies, every part of his being aware what his response will mean, “Because it is not deserved. I have seen thousands killed in my life. I have seen good men killed and have killed them myself. Abominations like Kaedros roam the land, spreading evil without pause. Mortals cannot survive on their own and all you gods do is sit in your own little planes, bickering over petty things and trying to make a bigger temple than the rest. Your complacence will lead to your downfall and total war. So, no, I will neither respect nor fear you.(It’s like Aroon with Google!) As soon as I find a god above petty squabbles and actually concerned with the people, then I will follow him into battle.” (Wow, sounds like a good Christian man!)  

Valtorex manages to offend both Silesta and Devon. Kilri says, “Well then. What have you done to fight Kaedros?” Valtorex laughs before replying, “I’m here aren’t I?” Kilri laughs, pleased with his answer. Silesta and Devon both agree to send him to the Abyss. Kilri says, “Think of it this way: Valtorex is upset because innocents are dying. Silesta, does that not sound like something you can agree with? He’s frustrated because he cannot see with his mortal eyes that we are working. Take pity on him.” Silesta decides to change her vote to allowing him to continue on to Celestia. When the vote comes, it is one to send him to the Abyss and two to send him to the Plane of Judgment. (Basically it’s where souls go to be evaluated as to whether they belong in Celestia or the Abyss) Silesta says, “You may have broken the rules, but you did it to preserve life and I cannot punish you for that.” Devon explains, “You broke the rules and slew my followers. I cannot allow you to go unpunished.” Kilri says, “I can see both sides of the argument. You did break the rules and attempt to use a divine weapon, but you did it for the right reasons. I think you should be judged on your life instead of one instance, so you will be sent to the Plane of Judgment. Any protest?” Valtorex protests, “If I go to the Plane of Judgment, I will be cast into the Abyss anyway. I have killed far too many for it to not be so. I ask that I be allowed to return to the Material Plane and face these guardians. If I win, I will be returned to life. If I lose, then I can be punished in any way you deem fit.”  

They agree and Valtorex appears in the clearing. (Like I haven’t heard that a million times J) (You are attacked by goblins…) Kaedros and his followers are gone and Valrie is weeping over the dust that was his body. Valtorex yells, “I’m here!” It appears as if Valrie can’t hear him. Valtorex then remembers he must win against the guardians first. Suddenly, two men appear, both in red robes. One man says, “Valtorex, you will face us in a fight to the end.” The other says, “We know you do not deserve to die, but we will not hold back.” They say in unison, “We are Honor, the fire of the people, and Glory, the lightning of the land.” They then show who they are by drawing their swords. Honor has a longsword that has a ruby hilt and a blade made of pure flame. Glory has a longsword with the same hilt, but a blade made of crackling lightning. Valtorex draws his swords and salutes them. The two guardians return the salute and the battle begins.  

Honor and Glory fight in perfect unison, but Valtorex blocks just as well as they attack. When Honor’s blade hits his blades, it cuts them a small bit. When Glory’s hits his swords, Valtorex is shocked. (Not surprisedJ) (What’s the mailbox for?) (Didn’t type it. Google added on conversion) After several minutes, Honor and Glory have thoroughly outclassed him and destroyed his swords. He is on his knees, ready to face judgment and about to be beheaded. Honor asks, “You have been an admirable foe. I commend you to the next life.” Glory asks, “Any last words, friend?” Valtorex, with Valrie in sight, finds that for the first time in seven years, he actually cares whether he lives or dies. Knowing it is too late for that, he says, his voice heavy with sorrow, the six words that have been the most influential in the history of the Age of Mortals, “Kai Zanaria… Kai Manäïen…Kai Kaeje.” (I thought he was going to say “Tell Valrie I love her”) (That’s only five Ian) (How would that affect the entire Age of Mortals?) Honor and Glory nod. They remove their swords from his neck and say, “You are loyal to the people. You deserve life, and you deserve help. Leave your broken blades and take ours. We will fight with you.” Valtorex stands and salutes them. They salute him in return before disappearing, leaving their swords on the ground. Valtorex picks them up and sheathes them, amazed they do not damage the sheathes. Honor’s voice says in his head, “The blades will only harm the enemies of the people. They will not damage anything you do not wish to be destroyed.” Valtorex then looks over and sees Valrie, tears in her eyes, reaching for the Sword of Eternal Damnation.  

Valtorex yells, “No! Don’t!” She looks up and sees him appear out of nowhere. With an exclamation of joy, she jumps to her feet and runs to him. (You see, I am most certainly not Shakespeare) (Yay!) She jumps into his arms and he catches her, holding her close. Valen and Valinor run over to meet him. They ask how he survived and he tells them everything. They return to the inn and go to sleep. They fall into a routine. Every day, Valinor trains with the weapons master, Valen hunts in the forests and trains with a master bowman, (Does he train with bowmen or a bowman, because you said with a master bowmen?) (I did this in less than ten days, ok) Valrie trains with a master of stealth while working on her wardrobe, and Valtorex practices alchemy and magic on his own, not able to find a teacher that can meet his level outside of the Academy and the Council of Arch Mages. Valtorex and Valrie continue sleeping in the same bed, but never go further.  

Then, on the night before Newyear’s Solstice, (New Year’s Eve) Valrie is out late with her stealth instructor, still training. Chistine, Jane, and Sara appear in his room, around his bed. Sara says, “You killed Agony. Father is pleased you have become so powerful. I am not happy you killed my Son, but Agony I can do without.” Jane giggles at Sara’s comment. Sara continues, her voice practically dripping seductiveness, “We have come to offer you an alliance. You join the Father and he will make you co-ruler of the Empire and master of Archemos. To seal the deal, Father has offered you any or all of us for your enjoyment. You will be a god to the rest of the mortals and can even become immortal through the ritual. You will be able to claim anyone, anything as yours. This is too good for you to pass up.” Valtorex, fighting an internal struggle against temptation, does not notice until it is too late that Jane has crawled into his bed. She pushes him down and tries to take off his robe. Chistine, obviously morbidly depressed, joins her. Sara joins her ‘Daughters’ and they all try to weaken Valtorex’s will into accepting their offer. They think it is working, Valtorex barely breathing, right up until Jane screams in agony. She jumps back, a dagger in her stomach. Valrie had forgotten and left the gift from Valtorex under her pillow.  

This shocks Chistine and Sara so much that Valtorex is able to jump out of bed and grab his swords. He yanks Honor and Glory from their sheathes and the two blades nearly sing in joy. Jane rips the bloody dagger from her stomach and laughs insanely, her mind nearly gone. She licks the blade and exclaims, “Mmm! I wonder what yours tastes like?” (Say hello to the men in white coats for me!) She advances on Valtorex, bloodlust overcoming her. Valtorex just flicks Honor through the air, slicing open her chest and burning the flesh. Jane screams when the wound doesn’t heal and staggers back, hitting the wall and sliding down. Sara, figuring out a possible trick, orders, “Chistine, teach your lover’s friend a lesson.” Chistine, tears streaming down her cheeks, walks forward, begging, “I can’t disobey! Please! Kill me! I can’t take it anymore!” Valtorex replies, “And I can’t kill you. I do have an idea though.” As she reaches him, he (no r on he) slaps her thigh with Glory. Chistine screams as the lighting shoots through her body, causing her to jump back. Sara commands her forward again, and Valtorex slaps her again. They keep this up for several minutes, Chistine covered in burns from the blade, but not seriously injured. Sara screams, “Attack him and don’t stop till he’s dead!” Chistine pleads, “Kill me! Please!” Valtorex shakes his head. With a wail of hopelessness, Chistine runs at him, the tears flying behind her. Valtorex slaps her across the chest, but continues forward, slamming her into the ground and pressing the flat of the blade down with all of his strength. The massive amount of electricity shooting through her body finally knocks her out. (KOed!) (Finish her!) (WTF! He’s trying not to hurt her!) Valtorex advances on Sara and says, “You I will gladly kill.” Sara disappears, (wimp!) taking the still moaning Jane and unconscious Chistine with her.  

Valtorex lies down and goes back to sleep, after cleaning off Valrie’s dagger and replacing it under her pillow. (Amazing how the inn keeper seems to not care that they have death matches every other night and Valtorex burnt a piece of furniture to ashes. Oh well, that’s lifeJ) (They have a death matches? Get your plurals right he, said to a bowmen!) (Ian, don’t make me come over there) The next morning, Valtorex wakes up around Firstlight, Valrie in his arms. Valrie begins to stir around Highsun. When she opens her eyes, Valtorex kisses her on the forehead and says, “Good morning, love.” (He’s not British, only his dialogue writerJ) Valrie smiles up at him and asks, “Isn’t today Newyear’s Solstice?” Valtorex replies, “Yes, I think so.  I could have overslept, though.” They get up and change into their day clothes. (To Ian: Valrie stands behind the ‘F’ing partition!J) (Mailbox again?) (Ian’s inbox must be overflowing) They go downstairs and meet Valen and Valinor for lunch. They eat and then go about their day, agreeing to meet back at the inn for dinner. At dinner, Valtorex cooks, and the four of them enjoy dinner, joking and talking. (No, Valtorex is not the only one who can cook, he’s just the only one who can make his own grill) After dinner, Valrie, Valen, and Valinor all yell, at the same time, “Happy birthday!” Valtorex responds, “One, it’s not my birthday, and two, I don’t have birthdays.” Valrie says, “We know, but we felt bad about missing your birthday and decided the half way point would be a good time to make it up.”  

Valtorex replies, dryly, “You still missed the point. I don’t celebrate my birthday. It’s not a good time for me.” Valrie asks, “Why? It’s supposed to be fun.” Valtorex responds, “When my mother was taken, it was one month after my birthday. I spent the next two years training ever day. Including my birthday. I decided that celebrating my birth was not as important as trying to save the one that did it. Once the demon returned and I fought him, I hunted him for two years, not stopping for birthdays. I spent my fifteenth birthday as cattle to a clan of vampires and my sixteenth I spent in an ancient temple fighting the undead.” Valrie counters, “There’s no one for you to save right now and I see no vampires or other undead. I’ll celebrate the day you were born, and you should too.” Valtorex sighs, acknowledging defeat. (Good thing too, it’s 2:00 A.M. and I’m running out of argumentsJ) He says, “Fine, I’ll celebrate.” His three friends jokingly cheer.  

Valen gives him a package and Valtorex opens it. Inside is a calligraphy set, chalk, and parchment. Valen says, “I know you like practical stuff and I know you write a lot of spells and shapes and stuff, so I figured you could use it.” Valtorex thanks him. Valinor then hands him a bundle wrapped in warg skin. Valtorex unwraps it and finds a set of rune stones. Valinor says, “I saw you got an enchanter’s kit, so I figured you could use these to enchant stuff.” Valtorex thanks him as well. Valrie says, “I took a page from your book and got you two things, one practical, one not.” She hands him a package and he opens it. Inside are alchemical tools. Valrie says, “You’ve been playing with that infuriating alchemy set so long that I assumed the tools were worn out. I found you a masterwork calcinator, alembic, retort, and mortar and pestle. There’s also some extra razors, vials, and a precision scale.” Valtorex says, “Thank you. Your assumption was right. My kit is nearly wiped out. Thanks.” Valrie nods and says, “One last present.” She hands him a neatly wrapped package. He opens it and finds a letter on top of a layer of tissue. He reads the letter. 

“Valtorex, 

Hope you don’t mind regifting. I could not think of anything I could give you except for one thing. I don’t think Valen will mind if I regift his present as a hint. My present is one I’ve debated on for weeks. Figure out the rest. 

Love, 

Valrie” 

Valtorex removes the tissue and looks into the box. (Yay! Jeff is learning! I didn’t have to put the letter in italics for him this time) (And you’re delearning! No ‘y’ in didn’t) He sees the dress he got Valrie and the second present Valen gave Valrie. He calmly replaces the lid and asks, “Are you sure?” Valrie nods. He leans forward and kisses her. Valen boos and jokes, “Get a room!”(They already have one) Valtorex, having already put away his other gifts, puts Valrie’s last gift in his pack and picks up Valrie. He says, “I already did. See you tomorrow.” He looks at Valrie and continues, “Or the next day.” He carries her up and sets her down in their room. Valrie asks for the package and Valtorex takes it out and gives it to her. She goes behind the partition to change. While she is changing, Valtorex asks, “What changed your mind?” Valrie, her voice slightly higher than usual, replies, “Three things. You passed my test of sleeping with me without sleeping with me. You gave your life to save me when you took that cursed sword to fight of Kaedros’s minions. Finally, you gave up the chance to effectively rule the continent and have any woman or women you want for me. Yes, I saw what happened last night. I got back and was coming through the window when I saw the succubae. I watched what happened. I want to thank you for being so loyal and caring towards me and my wishes.” (Sounds like she’s about to knight him for service to queen and country. I can’t write this stuffJ) (Why? Sir Valtorex sounds cool!) (He already is, remember?)

Soon after that, she steps out from behind the partition, wearing the dress Valtorex got for her. Valtorex’s jaw drops open and he stammers, “W…wow. You…you’re gorgeous.” Valrie asks, trying…and failing to sound seductive, “Shall we begin?” (Heh, a succubus can pull it off, but I just don’t see Valrie being the seductive sort) Valtorex restrains himself enough to not laugh. He says, “Two things. One, sexy, seductive does not work for you yet. Stick to sweet and caring, you know, the truth. Second, you might want to drink some of this.” He goes over and picks up the bottle of wine Valen and Valinor gave them earlier in the summer. She, mistaking this as a shot at her, demands, “Why? You don’t think I’ll be good enough sober?” Valtorex laughs before saying, “One, sobriety usually helps coordination, which is kinda key, and two, that’s not why I suggested it. The first time is not that pleasant (So I’ve been told) and I suggest something to dull your senses a bit.” Valrie takes his advice and drinks the glass of wine he pours. Valtorex, at Valrie’s request, even drinks a glass. After another glass, they embrace each other and kiss. After several minutes of kissing, they lie down in bed. Valtorex whispers, “I love you.” Valrie replies, her voice weak, “I love you too.”  

 (I know, I’m a bastard for getting you guys all excited then pulling that, but I want this to be R at the worst if made into a movie. Then again, Hollywood gets away with worse, but I digress. Basically, I can’t write that stuff even if I wanted to, so I won’t attempt. I’m sick of romance and want to get this over with. If you want more, flood me with emails and I’ll see if I or one of my editors can meet your twisted needs. Hah, flooded with emails. I wish) (No comment) (I think this still only brings it to PG 13 at best) (That’s just you Andrew…) The next morning, they wake up some time after Highsun. Valrie looks up at Valtorex and they stare into each other’s eyes, not wanting to get up. They stay in bed all day, talking sometimes, just enjoying being together the rest. As night falls, Valtorex says, “I love you Valrie. I did before last night and still do.” Valrie, not able to find words to respond, just snuggles closer to him. They fall asleep in each other’s arms. (Surprised there was no interruption) (By Valen?) 

The next morning they wake up and dress. They go downstairs and meet Valen and Valinor. Valinor, no matter how much ‘convincing’ he tried, could not stop Valen from capitalizing on this moment. He yells, “Good morning! You weren’t kidding when you said an entire day!” Valrie flushes in embarrassment, but Valtorex laughs. He says, “Have you seen Valrie? It was hard for me to get up today!” This makes her face grow even more crimson. She punches him lightly on the shoulder and he takes the hint. He wraps his arm around her and they sit down next to each other. The four of them eat breakfast before going off on their separate ways.

They continue in their routine for several weeks. Then, one day, the four of them are at the dinner table and Valen says, “My mother has invited us to dinner tomorrow. She wants us to meet the traveler that’s been staying at her house.” They agree to meet there for dinner the next day. They go to sleep, Valrie and Valtorex in each other’s arms, although they have not slept together since Newyear’s Solstice. The next day, Valtorex creates some new potions, Valrie practices stealth, Valen practices archery and hunting, and Valinor trains with the weapons master. That night, they meet at Valen’s house and his mother invites them in. They are shown to the dinner table and sit, Valen next to Skathera, Valinor sitting next to a vacant chair, Valen’s mother and father beside each other, and Valtorex next to Valrie. (Is it a square table, because the mother and father usually sit at the two ends?) (Yes, it’s a square) Valen’s mother says, “John should be along soon. He was visiting some friends today.”

Just then, the door opens. The guest walks in and walks to the dining room. Valtorex offhandedly looks over before jumping to his feet and drawing his swords. Kaedros is standing in the doorway, glaring at Valtorex. Kaedros strides forward, his sword drawn. Valen’s mother yells, “Put down your swords!” Valtorex, hatred burning in his heart, but respecting the owner of the house, slowly slides his swords back into his sheathes. Kaedros, deciding to torment them instead of killing them, and returns his sword to his side. Valtorex and Kaedros sit at the table. The dinner is spent in silence, Valtorex and Kaedros glaring at each other. Kaedros then says to Valen, “You must be Valen. Your mother has told me so much about you. I’m so glad to finally meet you.” (I can just imagine the venom dripping from his voice and burning hole in the table) (lol) This is Valen’s last straw. He slams his silverware down and warns, his voice cold and deadly, “If you ever get near my family, I will hunt you down and kill you and your whores!” Valen’s mother rebukes, “Valen! I did not raise you that way!” Kaedros replies, “It’s ok. He’s just jealous that his girlfriend likes me now.” Valen’s father rebukes, “Valen, what did I tell you about that Chistine? It was bound to fail. I knew that she would stop liking someone as wild as you.”(Ohh that son of a…) (Why can’t they just fight to the death already?)

Valen counters, “She only follows him because he turned her into a demon!” Valen’s father yells, “Valen! Out! You’re not welcome here!” Valen, his rage overpowering (Overpower is one word Jeff) (k) him, jumps to his feet and storms out of the room. He yells, “Kaedros! If you touch them, you will die! I don’t care if they hate me! I will not allow you to hurt them!” Valen then leaves and slams the door behind him. Kaedros laughs before saying, “Give him time. He’ll come around.” Valtorex, furious that Valen has been forced out of his own home, says, his voice cold, “Kaedros, you are an abomination and I cannot allow you to live. I will respect the wishes of Valen’s mother and abstain from bloodshed here, but if I ever see you outside, you will die.” Valinor, Valrie, and Valtorex leave, returning to the inn and meeting Valen. Valen’s mother asks, “Why did they call you Kaedros, John?” Kaedros, his face taking on a cruel sneer, replies, “Because that’s my name. Valen was right by the way. Valtorex may be willing to not spill blood here, but I have no such qualms. I will allow you to live as long as you keep those fools out of my business.”

They continue their routine, Valen no longer going back to his house. One night, Chistine walks through the door to the inn while they are eating dinner. (After they are eaten dinner?) (Less talking, more correcting) (Let him. It makes him feel good about himself) (So…) Valen jumps up and runs to her. He attempts to hug her, but she says, “No Valen, my life is over now. I made a major mistake and now it’s over.” Valen pleads, “It doesn’t have to be, Chisa! We’ll find a way to save you!” Chistine sighs and falls into his arms, tears streaming down her cheeks. She says, “I’ve been sent to tell you that Kaedros wants one last fight. He will wait at the brook tomorrow for you four to face him and his cult. He said to give you this. I have also been given the night off to do as I please, so I will spend it here.” Valtorex says, “That’s great. This means we can free you. (This mean we can free you…? Jeff be caveman now?) (Ian, don’t make me sick Krug on you) Come to my room tonight. Until  then, enjoy some time with Valen.” (Basically, Valtorex just turned the tables on both Valen and Kaedros) (?) (I don’t get it) (Valen’s been intent on getting Valtorex in bed with someone, and Kaedros has been using Chsitine against them. Now, Valtorex got Valen in bed with someone and they’re using Chistine against Kaedros)

Several hours later, near Darkwatch, Chistine knocks on the door to their room. Valrie lets her in, not wanting to distract Valtorex who is working frantically. Chistine watches him for several minutes until he suddenly stands up, gathering up the materials he had been working with. He goes over to Chistine and hands her a vial. He says, “Drink that. It will dispel any mental effects you have on you.” Chistine, seeing no reason to not trust him, drinks the fiery liquid in the vial. She coughs as the potion burns her throat. He then hands her two gold bracelets studded with gems. Valtorex says, “I can’t break Kaedros’s hold on you, but I can change it. Basically, it will add me as a controller so that I can order you to not obey him.” He produces a leather sack and hands it to her, along with a necklace with a silver vial on it. He says, “The sack contains crystals. Swallow one to counteract mental effects if you have to remove the bracelets. The silver vial contains a potion that will let you teleport away from danger. Now go. Be with Valen and don’t leave him till dawn.” Chisa, thanks in her eyes, nods and leaves to go to Valen’s room. Valtorex and Valrie go meet Valinor downstairs. Valinor tells them, “I need to prepare for battle. I have no one I need to be with, so I can focus on war. You two should be together tonight. Tomorrow night, one of you may be dead. I’ll see you at dawn.” Valtorex looks at Valrie, questioning in his eyes. Valrie nods. Valtorex picks her up and carries her back to their room.

The next morning, (Nice vagueness! J) (Lol, don’t wanna take away creativity) the five of them meet downstairs. Chisa and Valen holding hands, (holdings hands… Seroiusly, get your plurals straight!) (Ian, if you spent half as much time chasing after girls as you do my mistakes, you would be able to fill a day care (Come on, fix day care and make my day)) (I don’t appreciate that…) (Yes, well, anyone who knows you does, ‘specially A Hsu and me, go ahead, do it) (Thanks, made my dayJ) Valrie and Valtorex doing the same. The five of them eat breakfast before Chisa leaves to join her master. Valrie and Valtorex kiss before suiting up. The four of them march to the brook, Valtorex leading Valrie and Valinor, while Valen climbs into the tree he used to fire his slingshot from. Kaedros is on the opposite side of the brook, demons and hybrids arranged behind him.(Opposite side of the brook they are?) Kaedros yells, “You will not survive this one! I have some new weapons to kill you with!” With that, he raises his arms and two swords appear in his hands, the one in the right having an onyx hilt and a blade of pure darkness, the left with the same hilt and a blade of shadow. (Darkness and shadows, same thing) (No, shadow is lack of light, darkness is opposite of light, or at least when it comes to spells) Behind his army, three planar gates open. The right, judging by the demons marching out, is to the Abyss. The left, based on the devils, leads to the Infernus. The central gate seems to be a mass teleportation outlet. A large mass of cultists armed with swords and shields marches out. (Not as defenseless as before)

Kaedros roars, “Charge my children! Show those fools who their master is!” Kaedros’ horde moves out, marching through the brook. Valen opens fire, dropping demons, devils, and cultists. Knowing Valtorex is the only one that can kill them, Valen, Valinor, and Valrie do not fight the hybrids and succubae. Valtorex uses Honor and Glory to slay all hybrids that reach him. The hybrids fall, one by one, their limbs burnt off and their flesh cooked from lightning. Valinor slaughters demons, devils, and cultists. The demons’ acidic blood burns the grass and chars the ground. (and turns the brook a sickly yellow color, killing all the aquatic life in it) (Demons blood isn’t yellow) (But you don’t deny the killing of fish?) The devils’ blood fuels the flames caused by the demons’ blood. As Valinor slaughters the mortals that rush him, he faintly feels sorrow at having to kill so many, but the screams of the dying are drowned out by the roar of the living enemies. Valrie is mortified as she is forced to kill people the same age as her. The cultists, although some are adults, are for the most part misguided youths just looking for a family. She sees a young girl at her age with a face like hers, eyes like hers, and hair bluish-black like hers. Unlike her, she is not well trained. Valrie lets a tear fall from her eye as she slides the rapier through her ribcage. The girl gasps, (…the girls gasps…! Are you doing this on purpose?) the enre battle slowing to a crawl. Valrie sees the girl’s eyes fade as her heart slows. Thump thump.Thump thump..Thump thump…thump. And no more. The battle speeds back up to a normal speed and the girl falls back, her eyes wide and her mouth locked in a silent scream.

Valtorex sees the flux of battle turning against them as more and more of Kaedros’s army crosses the brook. Valen fires as fast as he can, but even his prolific speed can’t stem the tide. Then something that has not happened in ten years happens to him. Valen pulls back, his arms fatigued from the constant strain, and lets loose. The arrow flies and hits the ground beside a demon. (The Abyss must be freezing over!) Valen nearly falls out of the tree when he realizes what just happened. He curses at the miss, but resolves to not do it again. Valtorex, realizing that Valrie is too emotionally stressed to keep this up, orders her to run for help. She disengages and runs. Soon after, Chisa reaches Valtorex and says, “I’ve been ordered to kill you. If I don’t they’ll kill me.” Valtorex commands, “Go to Valen. Take him to the inn and be with him. He missed a shot and needs to be soothed.” (Valtorex, “Basically, you’re supposed to kill me or get killed. Go sleep with Valen instead”) Chisa, tears of gratitude for taking her out of the battle in her eyes, runs off to Valen. Valtorex and Valinor fight back to back, the last two on the battlefield. (Activate improbability drive J) (What’s improbable? Valen and Valrie were the only others with them) They keep fighting, slaying the demons, devils, and cultists. Honor and Glory practically sing in joy as they flash through the air, slaying their foes.

Kaedros roars in fury as Valtorex slays his Sons one by one and Valinor massacres his cult and army. Kaedros charges in himself, unheeding of the dangers and risks. He slashes through his own followers, intent on reaching Valtorex. (Nice guy…) (He’s just compounding the problem) Valtorex slays the last hybrid commander before seeing Kaedros. He yells, “Let’s end this! You and me, one on one!” Kaedros yells, “Men! Stop! Your Father shall slay the heretic!” The devils and cultists, and even the demons, pull away from the press on Valinor and stand back. Valinor steps away, giving Valtorex room to fight. Valtorex and Kaedros face each other down, circling slowly. Kaedros says, “I see you have Honor and Glory. I’d like to introduce you to their dark counterparts, Blood and Fear. Unfortunately, it appears Mercy and Grace can’t be here. How sad. Are you ready to die?” Valtorex replies, “Kai Zanaria! Kai Manäïen! Kai Kaeje!”

Kaedros’ face takes on an evil sneer as he rushes forward. Valtorex blocks his determined, hate filled, attacks. As they fight, Kaedros growls, “Why do you refuse my offers? I offer you land, women, power, anything you want, and you repay me by slicing open my concubines’ chests? She healed, of course, but she’s been moping since and I have to order her to bed! I have to order a drasked succubus to bed!” Valtorex replies, “I refused your offer because I am loyal to the Empire and Valrie.” They keep fighting, more interested in talking, however. Kaedros demands, “I offered you succubae and all the mortals you want! You could have two women for every mood! Why do you cling to that drasked bitch?” Valtorex, his masculine pride feeling attacked, retorts, “Because she’s the one that goes to bed willingly. No orders, no mental illnesses, no threats. She wants me and I want her. It’s called love. It’ll be your downfall, you son of a bitch abomination!” With that, Valtorex attacks with even more power. (Why isn’t the balrog helping?) (No need. Honor and Glory are more powerful than Blood and Fear. If he started losing, then the balrog would come out) Valrie arrives back at the battlefield to see the duel. She managed to rouse one guard member who quickly runs off to warn the others.

The duel continues on, going back and forth. It seems as if the blades have minds of their own as they dance back and forth, blocking each other. Kaedros and Valtorex continue their dialogue, Kaedros yelling, “Your bitch of a love isn’t even loyal to you! She has already devoted her soul to me and almost gave me her body!” Valtorex responds, “She never finished the oath and you never collected! And, she already gave herself, so you have no claim on her!” Valrie, surrounded at this point by elven guards she does not know, blushes a deep crimson. Kaedros yells, “How can you bear to share your bed with her? You could do so much better!” Valtorex yells back, “I love her, and that’s all that matters! I would die for her! Who will you die for?” Kaedros yells, “I am immortal! I cannot die! Even the gods fear my wrath!” Valtorex, intent on disproving him, doesn’t answer and focuses on the battle at hand. Valtorex and Kaedros fight for several hours, both reaching the point of exhaustion. Finally, Kaedros slips up and Valtorex cuts a long, wicked gash along his chest with Honor. Unfortunately, he can not capitalize on this as he falls back, completely drained. Valinor and Valrie run forward and face off against the succubae. Valtorex and Kaedros both get to their feet. Kaedros says, “I’m done for today.” Valtorex says, “Ceasefire.” (Union mandated breakJ)

Kaedros’ army falls back behind the brook, the elves holding a steady line to guard the crossing. An elven guard captain comes up to Valtorex, exhausted and supported by Valrie, and says, “You fight well for a human. From the conversation, I gather you know each other.” Valtorex replies, “Yes, he was created when my soul was possessed by a balrog.” The guard captain, ignoring the outlandish claim in light of the demons on the outskirts of the village, continues, “We sent a message to the capital asking for help. I included a description of you to see if that spurs them into action. My men can hold till tomorrow. Get some rest and hopefully the king will come through.”

Valtorex thanks him, and, with Valrie’s help, returns to the inn. He finds Chisa and Valen sitting at the table, both looking exhausted, but happy. Valen says, (in his aussie accent,) (like I said, no accent) “Thanks, mate.” Chisa thanks him as well, but for a different reason. (Valen for getting him in bed with Chisa; Chisa for getting her out of battle with Valen) Valtorex says, “I know you two are going to hate me, but I need to ask this of you. Valen, can you take one for the team?” Valen nods. Valtorex continues, “Chistine, can you reward Valen to the best of your ability?” Chisa nods, a bit taken aback. Valtorex finishes, “Valen, I’m asking you to stay with Chistine tomorrow. Chistine, I’m ordering you to be with Valen until I tell you it’s okay to stop.” Valen turns paler. Chisa nods, accepting her orders. Valtorex says, “I’m sorry, but it’s the only way to keep Chistine safe.” Valen nods and says, mock sadness in his voice, “Well, if it must be done to keep her safe, then I will do her…I mean it.” He smiles as Chisa slaps him playfully. (There is a reason for this. Chisa must follow any orders Kaedros or Valtorex give her. As long as Kaedros is kept away, she’s safe. The problem is, he has to order her to do something, and since she is a succubus and the best orders are the ones that are the most likely to be obeyed, well you get the picture. Besides, it gives her time with ValenJ) (Lol, just to protect her right?) (RightJ)

 They eat dinner, discussing plan of attack. Valen will stay in their brook facing room with his bow in case the demons get through. Valtorex stresses, “You are only to leave Chistine unattended if you have something to shoot.” Chisa jokes, “I’ll make sure he has no reason to leave bed whatsoever.” Valen turns red, but the rest laugh, even Valrie. “Valinor,” says Valtorex, “you are to stand with the guards. Make sure Kaedros’s forces don’t break through the lines. I will go for Kaedros and his ‘Family’. You should probably meet with the guards tonight and help set up defenses.” Valrie, thinking she has been left out, asks ,the hurt evident in her voice, “What do I do?” Valtorex replies, “Tonight, you give me something to fight for. Tomorrow, you make sure I stay alive long enough to do it.” Valrie nods, not quite realizing what he just said. The other three do, Valinor chuckling, but Valen and Chisa burst out in laughter. Valrie then realizes what he meant and goes crimson.(Ah, still so naive) Valrie says, trying to cover her miss, “I…I didn’t mean it like that.” Valtorex asks, “How else could you mean a nod? Besides, too late now. Good night everyone.” He then picks a weakly protesting Valrie up and heads towards the stairs to the laughter of their three friends. Valrie, giving up her half hearted struggle, waves over his shoulder and calls, “Well, I guess it’s good night!” He carries her up to their room and they begin laughing. He sets her on the bed and wraps his arm around her.

Valtorex says, “You know you don’t have to if you don’t want. I just wanted to boost morale (Morale not moral. I think they’re morals are long gone) (Agreed) (Amoral isn’t that bad, they still have honor, chivalry, and loyalty) (Right….) (who changed amoral to a moral?) with a few jokes.” Valrie jokes, “How will you boost my morale?” Valtorex kisses her and replies, “Like that.” They laugh for a few moments. Valtorex asks, “Seriously, you sure you want to?” Valrie responds, “Yes, but it’s just not fair.” (I’m going to boost your morale with some good jokes, or at least jokes that are so bad you laugh anywayJ) Valtorex asks, “What isn’t?” Valrie, a smile on her face, says, “Well, you get me on my back all night, and tomorrow, I’m stuck watching yours. Where’s the justice in that?” They laugh at her joke for a while. Valtorex then replies, “Well, you won’t bleed as much in your job. Mine will get me killed.” Valrie laughs at this, not knowing whether she should be insulted or not. Valrie asks, “So, are we going to do this, or joke about it all night?” (I support the latter, but my editors would have my head, so) (Eh hem!…) (To be honest, I don’t care if you do or don’t, I’m enjoying the jokes) (Ian, I could write ten pages of sex jokes. You wanna edit that?) (I would skip the pages…) (Point proved) Valtorex responds by kissing her. 

The next morning, Valtorex wakes up, Valrie in his arms. (I’m just suprised she’s not pregnant yet) (Give it time…) (Not gonna happen. They don’t sleep together again until like next year)(Do they even have contraception?) He smiles at her as she rouses. They get up and prepare for battle. Valtorex says, “Remember, stay away from his hybrids and succubae. I’ll take those. I want to take his ‘Family’ out of the battle quickly and crush the army’s leadership.” Valrie nods, strapping on her rapier. They leave the room. Valtorex goes over to Valen’s door and listens. Valrie does the same. Inside, they can hear an argument. Valen pleads, “No more! I’m spent!”(There are worse ways to be tortured) (True, true) (Agreed. Seriously, Ian’s right, comedian) Chisa replies, “Dear, I will do it with or without your consent. I can always tie you down again.” With a sly grin, Valtorex turns and goes downstairs. Valrie follows, glad Valtorex is nothing like Chistine. They find that Valinor is not there. They continue on to the brook and see Valinor digging trenches and putting up sharpened stake barricades. 

Valtorex and Valrie take position in the front. Kaedros raises his hand and then lets it fall. His horde marches forward, (The hordes go marching one by one…J) intent on wiping the elven village and its defenders out of existence. An elven captain yells, “Volley one!” In the same second, one thousand elven arrows rise into the sky, falling upon the enemy host. Before the initial victims have even hit the ground, the next volley is up. And so it continues, the enemy troops falling en masse under a barrage of deadly projectiles, and elven spearmen driving the front ranks away from the barricade. It appears they will hold the demons off long enough for the capital to send reinforcements. The slaughter lasts long into the night, the only concern being running out of arrows, but that won’t be an issue for days. Then, after the fighting has stopped, Kaedros brings up a large creature, roughly turtle-ish, that seems like it’ll be impossible to take down with arrows and hard to kill with spears. Kaedros sends the war turtle lumbering along. The behemoth monster ignores the arrows that are nothing more than needles to it. It reaches the elven lines and walks right through the barricade, scattering the spearmen. Kaedros sends a battalion of demons through the breach. Valtorex rushes to the hole and tries to seal it. He orders, “Archers, on the demons! Spearmen, take out that thing!” The elves, not hearing anyone else, follow his orders. The demons reach the breach and swarm Valrie and Valtorex. They fight a good fight, (Like in the Good Book) (Que? How does the Bible apply?) but are forced back by the sheer number of foes. Valinor then reaches them with his detachment of the town guards. The elves and three friends battle the demons, eventually driving them back. The spearmen finally take down the war turtle. Both the town guard and spearmen took heavy casualties in the assault. Valinor begins repairing the breach. To the dismay of the men, Kaedros brings up five more of the monsters. It appears, however, he is content to wait until morning.  

Valtorex spends all night working with his alchemy kit, only taking time to eat a quick meal at Valrie’s demand. He finally speaks, although what he says surprises Valrie to no end. “Do you know how to fire a slingshot?” Valrie answers no. Valtorex then goes to the captain in charge of the archers. He says, “Get your twenty best men skilled with slingshots and have them meet me at the inn.” The captain is too dumbstruck to disobey. An hour later, Valtorex, Valrie, the archery captain, and twenty elves are standing in the inn. Valtorex says, “I know you all are probably wondering why you’re here instead of out there and why I am requesting slingshoters. Those creatures that Kaedros has brought up are a danger to the front. I remembered my friend talking about attacking his sister with a slingshot and had an idea…” 

The next day, Kaedros lines up his five war turtles, each one with one battalion of demons and one battalion of devils behind it. At his signal, the lumbering giants begin their slow trek forward. The archer captain yells, “Fire first volley!” Valtorex yells, “Slingshoters, hold ready!” The twenty men of the slingshot brigade, as they jokingly call it, four on each turtle, pull back the elastic thong on their weapons. Each slingshot has a vial held tightly in its pouch. As the first volley lands and the second is fired, Valtorex yells, “Hold!” the turtles are now 500 feet away. Third volley. “Hold!” 250 feet away. Fourth volley. “Hold!” 50 feet away. Fifth volley, and with that volley, Valtorex yells, “Fire!” The twenty slingshotiers release their projectiles, the vials sailing through the air, and, for the most part, hitting their marks. The vials shatter, releasing the highly corrosive acid Valtorex discovered earlier that summer. The acid burns away the flesh of the turtles’ legs and the shells that protect them. By the third volley, four of the war turtles are dead or dying. The fifth turtle continues on, but with all fire now directed towards it, it falls just five feet shy of the barricade. From then on out, it becomes a slaughter. The slingshoters, still reveling in the glory of victory, continue using the acid to attack the demons and devils. The demons are mainly unaffected by the acid, but the devils burst into flames as their blood comes in contact with it. The archers destroy the battalions of Kaedros’s army, forcing a retreat.  

That night, an army of skeletons and zombies bursts forth from the ruins, marching across no man’s land to reach the elven lines. The elven archers quickly find the only way to fight these creatures is steel. The spearmen crumple, their stabbing weapons useless against these foes. The town guard and light infantry fill the breach while the spearmen change weapons. Valtorex, Valrie, and Valinor each take different points. Valinor takes the already weakened center, Valtorex takes the right flank, and Valrie takes left. Over the next few hours and through heavy losses, they drive the undead army back. That morning, to the surprise of the defenders, a large mass, about one thousand, of Kaedros’s cultists march out onto the battlefield. They (Again with the the’s instead of they’s) stand in the center of the no man’s land, letting the elves slaughter them, sometimes taking their own lives with daggers. Once they are dead to a man, Kaedros raises his hands and bellows out a mighty spell. The thousand corpses rise up as zombies and join the remaining undead army. (That’s actually a brilliant idea, but the implementation sucked.  He should’ve had them fight, instead letting them get slaughtered) (If they fight, they’ll be hacked into pieces, thus worthless to him. This way, they only have arrows or small puncture wounds)(I guess…)

As the zombies reach the barricade, the spearmen ready to fight. They are much better prepared, now carrying a halberd and a shortsword. The three friends keep the same positions as the night before. The center has been strengthened to match the flanks. Valrie, lacking the leadership experience of her comrades, falls first. Her position is overrun (I think overrun is one word) and the town guard rushes into the breach to help her reclaim it. Once the zombies have been driven back, the guard captain takes over, sending a shamefaced Valrie to Valtorex. Valtorex sees Valinor is having a tough time of it and sends her to help him. By midday, the beleaguered defenders have forced back the last of the zombies. That’s when the next group of one thousand walks into the center of the field and commits suicide.(Once again, a waste in men) As the new wave of zombies marches towards them, Valtorex realizes they cannot win. Kaedros will just keep sending troops until it is over and the village is conquered. Then he hears the most beautiful sound of the day. A clarion horn sounds in the forest to their right, signaling a cavalry charge. At first he is afraid that Kaedros is bringing wargs to bear, but then recognizes the shrill, lilting quality to be of elven make. The king came through. 

Moments later, a woman in dazzling white atop a white mare charges out of the woods, running down the zombie army. Behind her comes a battalion of elven lancers. The zombies are crushed by the surprise cavalry strike. After them come four full battalions of elven light infantry, and a full battalion of the Elven Palace Guard, the crack troops of the Elven Kingdoms. The defenders let up a mighty cheer, their hoarse voices still sounding victorious. Myrstaline directs her forces to join the defenders. She rides up to Valtorex and dismounts in one fluid motion. Valtorex is struck by the natural beauty and grace of her every move. Her dazzling white royal garb makes his bloody and sweat stained armor look barbaric. (As if it didn’t alreadyJ) They quickly discuss what has happened in the battle so far. Valtorex suggests, “We need to take out their portals. A cavalry charge on their flanks would allow me to take a battalion of light infantry and hit them hard in the rear. Once they are engaged on three sides, the town guard, spearmen, two battalions of light infantry, and the royal guard can strike the front. Our archers can cause chaos by peppering their center while they are slaughtered on four sides. Once they are thoroughly engaged, I will feign a retreat, falling back into the woods. Kaedros will either attempt a retreat or hunt me down and attempt to slay me. Either way, his men will move away from the three sides they’re still engaged in, and abandon the portals, allowing our mages to shut them. I will fall back to Valrie and Valinor, each of them leading one of the remaining light infantry battalions. The cavalry and infantry Kaedros leaves will then crush him against our units.” The commanders and his friends both accept his plan.  

 The time to put the plan into action occurs. The cavalry charge both flanks, Myrstaline leading left, her cavalry commander leading right. The cavalry attack works like a charm, drawing the defense of both front and back to the sides. Valtorex then springs from the woods in the rear, charging into Kaedros’s ranks. Kaedros’s men don’t bother to wait for orders and form a ‘U’ style defense, guarding the rear and sides. Then, the infantry charge from the trenches and rush across no man’s land. Kaedros organizes a hasty front to block the infantry charge, but his weak guard is nothing compared to the veteran Palace Guard. Kaedros’s army collapses into a jumble of units, each defending itself. Then, the defender’s archers open fire, showering Kaedros’s men with deadly projectiles. Kaedros notices Valtorex’s unit wavering and sees his chance to escape with his army still intact. Kaedros focuses all of his army on Valtorex, intent on crushing him. Soon, Valtorex’s unit breaks and runs, Valtorex running  after them yelling, “Come back you cowards! I’ll kill you myself!” Kaedros’s army needs no further instruction and rushes after them, leaving the defenders far behind. Finally, they see Valtorex has rallied his unit, although it looks like only half are still there. As his army approaches and engages, Kaedros’s sees Valtorex’s face. On it is not the look of grim resolution he would expect from an opponent fighting to the death, but instead, he sees a triumphant smile. From the brush comes the other half of Valtorex’s unit that had been crouching to avoid detection. With them comes Valrie’s and Valinor’s battalions, each full strength and eager to fight. Kaedros is about to order his army to fall back when he hears the clarion trumpet and turns. He is faced by a wave of cavalry, bloody lances angled down to skewer him and his men. Behind them, he knows will come the infantry. Acutely aware of Chistine’s absence, he calls Jane, Sara, and his hybrids to him. He and his ‘Family’ teleport far away, utterly defeated and humiliated. As the last of Kaedros’s men fall, the soldiers let out a cheer and return to the town. On the way, they see the portals being torn down.  

That night, after burying the dead, those still alive celebrate themselves and their comrades in the way soldiers have done for centuries past. Over a cold drink…or five. Valtorex, Myrstaline, Valrie, Valinor, Chisa, and a sick looking Valen sit around the table, talking about the battle. Chisa then tells them, “I no longer feel Kaedros’s hold. I think he has abandoned me. I’m going to return to the Academy this year, but I think I’ll stay with Valen. She nudges him in the rib. He falls out of his chair and lands with a groan. Chisa quickly helps him up. Valtorex laughs. Valen looks balefully at him before saying, “It’s not funny. I never want to sleep with anyone ever again.” Chisa nuzzles his neck and whispers, “You sure?” Valen replies, his voice back to its normal high pitched level, “Well, maybe once more…” The group laughs, especially Chisa. (Remember, this is a medieval esque time. Not being married by thirteen is rare, so this should not be surprising. Besides, at least it’s not as bad as reality) They eat dinner, Valtorex catching Myrstaline up on everything and finding out about what she did. (If you want to know what happens, bug Glossman Andrew) They finally break down and get a third room that Valinor and Myrstaline share. (No, not happening) (Ewww…) That night, Valen and Chisa celebrate victory by going to sleep early and in separate beds. Valtorex and Valrie sit in their room, Valrie drinking wine, Valtorex drinking a new and improved version of his mixture. The night ends with Valrie getting sick from drinking too much and Valtorex holding her hair whilst (Still liketh ye olde English, Ian?) (Yay and verily!) she vomits and finally tucking her into bed once she falls to sleep. Valtorex spends the rest of the night figuring out how he could have performed better in that battle.  

 The next morning, they all wake up late, except for Valtorex who never went to sleep. (Much like me) Myrstaline stays in town, deciding to return to the Academy with them. Valtorex and Myrstaline practice magic together during the days while Chisa practices (Seriously Jeff. Work on mastering your plurals) archery with Valen. Valrie and Valinor train in their solitary arts. They fall into the grove, Valtorex and Valrie still sharing a bed, but not sleeping together after the battle. On the last night before school, Valtorex and Valrie are alone in their room. (Uh… Duh!) Valtorex had been out gathering ingredients and returns to find Valrie in a red dress, similar to the black dress, but of a higher quality. He tosses his pack to the ground and walks forward. He embraces her and comments, “You’re wearing the perfume I got you.” She nods, leaning into him. They stand there for several moments, swaying back and forth. (To music that isn’t there…) (So? You calling them crazy?) (I don’t know… Is it not obvious?) (It’s obvious that they are way past crazy) Valtorex then kisses her. They kiss for several minutes, until Valrie pulls back and asks, “Shall we?” Valtorex, his knees about to buckle with the sheer power of the ‘Yes’ he wants to yell, replies, “No, let’s just have some fun, bond a little. Let’s play the Valrie gets drunk, Valtorex gets puked on game.” Valrie laughs, leaning against him for support. He begins rubbing her back, offhandedly, while thinking. Valtorex then says, ‘I have an idea. We can play a little game I learned when I was young. I can’t remember what it’s called, but it’s something like someone either has to answer a question truthfully or follow an order. Do you want to play?” Valrie nearly bursts out laughing. She asks, incredulous, “Truth or Dare? I haven’t played that in years!” (And yet, it’s still the best way to get to know someone) Finally, she gives in and they play. She soon finds that Valtorex’s dares are too brutal or too embarrassing for her to pick anything other than truth. Valtorex can usually pick dare because Valrie isn’t creative or twisted enough to come up with the imaginative torments that would stop him. They end up exhausted from each other’s insane dares and finally go to sleep in each other’s arms. The next morning, the group wakes up and Myrstaline and Valtorex teleport them to the Academy. 

“Rebellion can do wonders. It can also get you killed.”

Over the next month, Valtorex slowly recovers. He continues his meetings with Stemius and continues his habit of getting into fights. He and Valinor compete for the title of best student in Tyberus’s class. Valtorex, Valrie, Valen, and Valinor become more and more like a team. Arianna begins teaching Valtorex about the history of the Draconic Empire. Rōdenthall continues trying to kill either Valtorex or Myrstaline. Stemius makes progress on Valtorex and Valtorex slowly learns to join with nature. Lord Kemos helps Valtorex control his emotions.

The end of the month finds Valtorex and Myrstaline, who are now lab partners, in a dimly lit room in the Tower of the Arcane. They are sitting at a table with a metal pan in front of them. At the table next to theirs are the two dark robed mages. (From the last chapter)  Rōdenthall is in the front of the room teaching. He says, “We will be working with frogs today. I will give you a collection of frogs for you to experiment with. Your goal is to augment the abilities of your frogs. You will select your best result to compete against theirs. You have three hours before the competition. Begin!” Two boxes appear, one on each table. In the boxes are hundreds of frogs. Valtorex and Myrstaline look in the box. Valtorex is mildly interested by the sight of over a hundred frogs, apparently paralyzed, lying on top of one another. Myrstaline is nearly sick. Valtorex reaches in a pulls out a frog. He places it on the tray. He says, “First, we need to figure out how the frog works. We can’t improve it unless we know what systems it uses.” Myrstaline, already paler than normal, nods. Valtorex mutters some words and a sharp blade appears in his hand. He is lowering the blade to the frog when Myrstaline screams, “No! Don’t kill it!” Valtorex sighs. He has already become tired of her kind-hearted, ‘don’t kill anything’ ways. He asks, “So how do you suppose we win?” Myrstaline asks, “Couldn’t we improve it without cutting it open?” Valtorex is about to say no when an idea pops into his head. He says, “Well, there is one thing we know could use improving…the brain.” Myrstaline nods. They spend the next two hours working out a spell. They cast the spell on the frog and then unparalyze it. The frog turns over and looks at them. They are expecting the frog to hop away, but it surprises them by staying in place. The frog croaks loudly and hops onto Valtorex’s head.  Myrstaline laughs at the spectacle. Valtorex shakes his head and the frog is sent flying. To their amazement, the frog croaks and stops in midair. It rights itself and floats back to the table. The frog lands on the table and croaks. Valtorex leans close to Myrstaline and whispers, “I think we just won.” They spend the next hour training the frog with magic.

The time of competition arrives. Rōdenthall summons a table in the center of the room. The black robed mages carry a box over and place it on the table. Valtorex gently places their frog on the table. Rōdenthall commands, “Begin!” The black robes’ box begins shaking. After a few moments, a hideous beast, the size of a small dog, rips out. The creature is still green, but now it is scaly instead of having frog skin. It has a large maw with fangs dripping venom. An unnatural wrath glows in its eyes. The two mages each point and laugh at Valtorex and Myrstaline’s frog. Rōdenthall is considering laughing too, but he can tell Valtorex has something up his sleeve. The drooling beast lumbers forward. When it is about to sweep at Valtorex’s frog, it croaks and the beast stops moving, mid-swing. The two mages are shocked. The frog then croaks again. The beast’s eyes glaze over. The frog croaks a final time and the creature unfreezes. The beast turns and leaps off the table towards the two mages. The mages don’t know what’s happening until the beast bites into one of their arms. The mage screams as the burning poison spreads through his veins. The beast unlatches and jumps at the other mage. The mage looses a hissing blast of steam. The beast roars in agony as it flies through the steam. The beast bites the leg of the other mage and he too screams. Rōdenthall sends Silvanos off for the Nurse. Rōdenthall then says, “Well, it looks like Valtorex and Myrstaline win again. What should I do with the beast?” Valtorex’s frog croaks and a portal appears on the table. The frog croaks again and the beast along with all of the remaining frogs begin hopping onto the table and going through the portal. Valtorex’s frog turns to Valtorex and spits out a rolled up scroll. It then turns and hops through the portal. The portal closes behind it. Valtorex takes the scroll and unrolls it. It reads, “My name is Dumblefrog, thank you for creating me. I have decided to aid you in your journeys. Just use the spell below to summon me and I will come to help you. Until then, I will be in the swamps collecting an army of frogs and other creatures to eventually conquer the planet.” Valtorex memorizes the short and relatively simple spell. He then places the scroll in his pouch. Valtorex and Myrstaline leave the class.

Valtorex goes to Elite Training and meets up with Valrie, Valen, and Valinor. Lord Kemos walks out of the Hall of Trials. He says, “Alright, today we are going to test you with ranging. Meet me at the Archery Range.” Lord Kemos disappears. The four of them walk to the Archery Range and find him waiting with four bows. He says, “You will be using these bows with standard iron tipped arrows. You will start firing from the edge of the green,” About 250 feet away from the targets. “and will move out ten feet after every shot. You must get at least five hits to pass the test.” The four of them take the bows and the arrows. They stand at the edge of the grass and draw their bowstrings. Valen is the first to fire. He hits the center of the target and runs back ten feet. The rest begin. By the time they are on their third shot, Valen has already gotten twenty bull’s eyes, using all of his arrows. Valinor manages to get his fifth hit on his eighth shot, and Valrie takes ten. Valtorex uses his twentieth arrow and has not hit the target once. Lord Kemos begins yelling, “You call that shooting? I thought you could fight! Where’s that power you’re supposed to have? You can’t even make one shot! How pathetic!” The repetitive misses have frustrated Valtorex and this berating causes him to lose his calm. He yells, “So you want to see a direct hit? Fine! I’ll destroy all five of the targets to get my hits!” Valtorex drops the bow and raises his hands. Fire swirls around him and five flaming bolts fly fourth in a blazing arc. The bolts each find their marks and all five of the targets burst into flame. Lord Kemos begins laughing as the targets burn. He roars out, “That’s great! Just keep doing that and you won’t need to learn how to shoot!” His face quickly sobers and he says, “But you still fail.”

Valtorex is shocked. So are Valrie, Valen, and Valinor. Lord Kemos explains, “The task was to shoot the targets with arrows. You destroyed the targets, so there is no way of scoring your hits. Valen got a perfect score, Valrie was acceptable, and Valinor was decent. You, however, could not be scored, so I have to fail you.” Valtorex says, “Let me try again.” Lord Kemos just laughs at him before saying, “Alright, I’ll let you try again. You must get perfect or I will fail you twice. Are you ready?” Valtorex nods and picks up his bow. Lord Kemos gives him more arrows. He then murmurs a string of words and the targets reappear. Valtorex returns to the edge of the grass and takes careful aim. He breathes deeply and goes into a meditative state. He can feel the wind blowing and see the exact path his arrow will take. He slowly adjusts his aim until he sees that his arrow will hit the center. He looses the string and the arrow is sent flying down the field. It hits the target dead center. He repeats this eighteen more times. On his twentieth shot, he fires, but his arrow explodes in midflight. He opens his eyes to see Silvanos standing on the field.

Silvanos says, “Oh, looks like you fail. Too bad.” Lord Kemos hands Valtorex another arrow and says, “I’ll pass you if you hit the bastard.” Valtorex knocks the arrow and takes aim. He feels the air currents and sees every possible move of Silvanos’s. He finds a path that Silvanos can neither block nor dodge. He fires. The arrow flies straight and true. At first, Silvanos tries to block, but he finds the arrow is at an angle he can’t hit. Then he tries to dodge and jumps out of the way. He is too slow, and the arrow pierces his ankle. Silvanos hisses a harsh curse and Valtorex is blasted off his feet, his bow shattered. Valtorex lands on the ground five feet back. Silvanos tries to get up, but finds he is immobilized by his wound. He notices Valrie and Valinor knocking their arrows and casts a curse that disintegrates their arrows and shatters their bows. Valtorex gets up and walks over to Silvanos. Silvanos begins casting Finger of Death, but the spell is cut short by a harsh kick to the chest from Valtorex. Silvanos coughs weakly afterwards. Valtorex picks him up by his robe collar and drags him back to Lord Kemos. Valtorex drops him at Lord Kemos’s feet. Lord Kemos raises his heavy steel boot and is about to crush Silvanos’s head, when Rōdenthall appears. Rōdenthall mutters in Archon and both he and Silvanos disappear.  Lord Kemos shakes his head and curses under his breath.

Lord Kemos says, “Alright, now we will practice with artillery.” He leads them to the back of the range to the catapults. He says, “You see those three wooden structures back there? You have these three catapults to destroy them.” Valtorex says, “Alright, aim all three at the central one. I can get the two on the sides.” Valen, Valrie, and Valinor move the catapults and aim them at the central structure. Valtorex raises his hands and begins chanting. Valen, Valrie, and Valinor cut their boulders loose simultaneously. Valtorex finishes his spell and twin fireballs come into being. He fires one from each palm. The fireballs hurtle towards the structures to the right and the left as the three boulders soar towards the center one. The fireballs and boulder strike at the same time. A concussive blast ensues and the archery targets are knocked down by the shock wave. Gouts of flame erupt from the side structures and the central structure is reduced to a pile of rubble. Lord Kemos yells, “That is thinking outside of the box! Keep that up and you will go far. Not in the Orange Army, but still far (The Orange Army is the engineer/artillery division). Class dismissed.”

Valen, Valrie, and Valinor return to the cabin. Valtorex goes to Stemius’s grove for meditation. Stemius meets him and asks, “How is your connection with nature today?” Valtorex replies, “Very good. Nature actually helped me get a perfect score on my archery test and hit Silvanos.” Stemius gasps. “You used nature to harm?” Valtorex replies, “Yes, you could say that, but nature offered. I just tried to calm myself to make a better shot, but then I went into meditation and I could feel all of the air currents and predict exactly where my arrow would go.” Stemius sighs. He says, “Very well. Let’s just get to meditation. I want you to try to merge yourself with nature today. To help you, I’ve asked one of my best students to come here today. She doesn’t know why I asked her, if she did, she probably wouldn’t come.” Just then, the student he is speaking of walks into the clearing. She is wearing a light blue, elven dress. Valtorex shakes his head. She gasps before exclaiming, “Valtorex! What are you doing here?” Valtorex replies, “The Druid Master has been training me in meditation. I take it you are the prized student he was talking about?” Myrstaline blushes. Stemius is shocked and awed. (No U.S. military strikeJ) He asks, “You know each other?” Valtorex replies, “Of course. We’re partners in Rōdenthall’s class. Oh, and I’ve saved her life, what is it? Three times?” Myrstaline nods, a bit embarrassed. Stemius says, “Well, since you two like each other, this may go more smoothly. Myrstaline, you are to help Valtorex here meditate and find peace with nature. Valtorex, do as she says and try to avoid burning the forest down.” Stemius seems to think for a moment before saying, “Oh, yes, you need a place to go. I suggest the Glade of Tranquility.” Myrstaline nods. Stemius sits down and begins meditating. Myrstaline walks off into the forest and Valtorex follows. They arrive at the spring Valtorex had found at the beginning of the year. (No, the Glade won’t go away. It will even come back in later books. Muahahaha)

Myrstaline sits down on a log and says, “Sit down beside me.” (Remember that logJ) Valtorex sits down next to Myrstaline. Myrstaline says, “Well, it appears we can help each other. You help me survive Rōdenthall’s class and I’ll help you commune with nature. We both benefit.” Valtorex nods in agreement. Myrstaline says, with a sigh, “Well I guess I have to teach you now.” Valtorex looks at her and sees she is grinning. Valtorex laughs, and says, “I guess so.” Myrstaline says, “Alright, first, you have to clear your mind. Just let yourself drift free.” Valtorex says, “I know how to meditate, it’s the communing with nature that I have a problem with.” Myrstaline is confused. She voices this by asking, “How can you meditate and not become one with nature?” Valtorex replies, “Becoming one with nature means being equal to it. It case you haven’t noticed, I tend to dominate everything around me.” Myrstaline says, “But you can’t dominate nature…” Valtorex cuts her off by jumping to his feet and holding his hand out for her. She is taken off guard and takes his hand. He pulls her up and says, “Let me show you.” He gestures at the log and it changes and morphs. Over the course of a minute, it has become a bench. He says, “Go ahead; sit down.” Myrstaline sits down and Valtorex sits beside her. He says, “You see, you and Stemius, and the others all conform to nature. I force nature to conform to me.” Myrstaline is frightened by what he says and every alarm in her mind is triggered. She asks, “How do you exist? Nature is all powerful and yet you exist in opposition to it.” Valtorex laughs. He says, “As I just proved, nature is not all powerful. Actually, nature is quite weak. It has a lot of force and energy, but it has no direction. Nature relies on others to channel its power for it. I happen to do exactly that, just as druids do. The only difference is they ask for specific taps and I drill them myself.” Myrstaline jumps to her feet, affronted by the very thought of him dominating nature. Valtorex sees her fists clench and her jaw lock. He sees the fury and indignation and even hurt in her eyes. He decides now’s as good a time as any to start practicing. He closes his eyes and lets his mind drift. He allows his consciousness to drift throughout the Glade. He can see her life light, (The energy that life naturally gives off. Normally invisible, spells like Detect Life or deep meditation allow it to be seen.) he can also see the lights of thousands of organisms in the Glade. He can see the lights of fish swimming in the water and ants crawling along the ground. He can see a family of mice in their den and a snake creeping up on them. He sees grass as it grows and the trees as they stretch towards the sky. He sees all of this and realizes what it is that Myrstaline and Stemius are talking about.

He then sees the thin lines of light between all of the organisms and realizes what they are. He then looks at the creatures again. He realizes they are not part of nature. Nature is the force that links them together, but the creatures and plants are independent of it. He then looks at himself and sees he has no thread. He is worried and looks at Myrstaline. He sees that she does have threads, thousands of them, connecting her to all of the plants and animals in the Glade. Valtorex returns to his conscious mind. He opens his eyes to find Myrstaline still standing there, her face red in anger. She yells, “How dare you! You just close your eyes and ignore me? What in the Abyss was that?” Valtorex shakes his head before saying, “I was meditating. I tried to connect with nature, but I can not.” He then explains what he saw and how he had no connection with nature. Her face takes on a troubled look. She says, “Let me try. I will go into the Spring. Being in water always helps me meditate.” Myrstaline wades into the water and closes her eyes. Valtorex, feeling uneasy, returns the log to its original shape. Valtorex looks around at the fast approaching night. He hears Myrstaline gasp. He looks at her and sees fear in her eyes. She mouths, “We’re not alone.” Valtorex mouths back, “How many and where?” Myrstaline mouths, “Five, three behind you and two coming on me.” Valtorex nods and mouths, “Three…Two…One.” On one, Myrstaline turns and shoots twin spears of searing light, striking both assailants.

Valtorex turns to find three humans, two male, and one female. He then realizes they’re not quite human. He looks into their eyes and sees a burning lust. A lust for blood. He then recognizes the female. He whispers, “Trish…” (Trishtessa, see timeline) Trish smiles and says, “Hey, Valt (Pronounced Vault) how ya been?” Valtorex, overcoming the initial shock, replies, “I was doing great after I buried you and the other leeches.” Trish laughs and says, “I guess I deserved that. Can’t remember why though.” Valtorex replies, “Could it possibly be the six months I spent as cattle to your clan, the torture I endured at your hands, or maybe the fact that you’re a backstabbing bitch that only cared about my blood? I think the latter, but what do you think?” Trish fakes a hurt look. She says, “Yes, well, you did destroy my home and most of my clan. So I guess we’re even.” Valtorex’s response is to draw his swords and stab each male vampire with one. He then says, “Now we are even.” Trish chuckles. “Still a fiery, stab-happy, nut job I see.” Valtorex crosses his swords at her throat and says, “I decapitate too.” Trish shakes her head, cutting her neck a little and drawing a small amount of blood. She dares him, “You wouldn’t. You still have a soft spot for me.” Valtorex replies, “You’ll find that I have less softness left than one of your vamps.” Trish says, “Alright, then prove it. Decapitate your first and only love, right here, right now.” Valtorex is all too happy to oblige. (I find this is a great way to talk about Valtorex’s past. By the way, the next sentence should give you a hint as to where this is going.) Valtorex looks down and is mildly surprised to see the body fade and disappear. He realizes it was a very good duplicate. He also notices the four vampires weren’t.

He turns to see that Myrstaline saw and heard the entire thing. He says, “I would like to point out that she told me to.” Myrstaline is paler than normal and Valtorex is slightly worried. He walks out into the water and sees that Myrstaline isn’t moving and is barely breathing. He touches her neck and feels that her pulse is slow. He remembers the aura of fear that paralyzes the vampire’s victims. He picks her up and notices she is frigid. He carries her onto the ground and places her on the log. He gathers some dead wood and piles it in front of the log. He starts a fire and summons a blanket and pillow. He puts the pillow under her head and covers her in the blanket. Then he leans against the log and casts Alarm. He drifts off to sleep. The next morning, he awakes at dawn. He checks Myrstaline and finds she has returned to normal. She wakes up and looks around, surprised to not be in her cabin. She sits up on the log and makes room for Valtorex. Valtorex sits beside her and asks, “Fish?” Myrstaline looks at him, confused, and then catches on. She says, “Yes, please.” Valtorex nods and raises his hand. Two fish float out of the Spring and float towards them. (The type of fish is not important, is it?) Valtorex uses Telekinesis to snap their spines. He then floats them above the fire for a couple of minutes before using Telekinesis to remove all of the inedible parts. He tosses those parts into the water and floats the meat of one fish to Myrstaline. She catches it and eats. Valtorex finishes his fish and stands. He says, “Well, I have to be off. I’ll see you in third.” Myrstaline nods. Before he leaves, she says, “Thank you…for taking care of me. I just froze up with fear.” Valtorex replies, “Well, vampires are nothing to be afraid of. What you need to fear is what your cabinmates will say when they realize you spent the entire night out here…with me.” Myrstaline gasps, realizing that he’s exactly right. She looks at his face and realizes he’s not worried. She asks, “Why don’t you care what they say?” Valtorex replies “Look at yourself sometime. Everything they’ll say about me will be good.” (Ah, the rumor mill. The greatest device in the history of making up shi…I mean historyJ) Myrstaline puzzles this over as he walks away.

Valtorex arrives in Warrior Training to find Valinor waiting for him. Valinor seems relieved to see him. He asks, “Where were you last night?” Valtorex replies, with a smile, “Contrary to what will be popular belief by third, I was helping a disabled classmate.” Valinor is asking, “Wha-” when Tyberus walks up. Valtorex whispers, “Ask someone from Myrstaline’s cabin.” Tyberus asks what they are talking about and Valtorex quickly assures him nothing important. The other two students arrive. Silvanos glares at Valtorex. Valtorex returns the look. Tyberus notices this and says, “I can see that there is some unresolved tension between Silvanos and Valtorex. Very well, it will be Rogard Granite-Fist against Valinor and Silvanos against Valtorex. Now I expect a fair fight, meaning, no mercy.”

Silvanos and Valtorex face off. Valtorex bows to Silvanos and Silvanos replies with a magical blast. Valtorex is caught off guard and is sent sprawling back. Silvanos cackles evilly and moves in for the kill. He raises his hand and begins chanting the spell that will destroy Valtorex once and for all. Before the fatal spell can be cast, however, Valtorex is up and his swords are out. Silvanos fires the arc of deadly shadow energy, but Valtorex raises his blades and deflects the attack. Silvanos curses bitterly. Valtorex charges. Silvanos draws the rapier at his side and backs up slowly. Valtorex reaches him and begins swinging, trying to find a hole in his defense. Silvanos, aided by Haste, blocks every attack. Valtorex and Silvanos attack, parry, block and thrust for several minutes. They both jump back, panting. Silvanos casts a spell of rejuvenation on himself. Valtorex digs down in his well of anger. They charge each other again. They keep fighting until finally Tyberus breaks them up. He says, “Valtorex, you are the most gifted first year I have seen in quite a while. Silvanos, you are the sneakiest bastard I’ve ever taught, and you’re not even a student! You’re just here to kill Valtorex. Well, if you two are so intent on gutting each other, I won’t stop you. Actually, I’ll pair you two against each other in every match. Silvanos, I won’t train you, but I also won’t prevent you from using magic. Valtorex, I will train you like I would train any other student, but the no interference on magic rule applies to you as well, as long as you are fighting Silvanos. Now, the rest of the class will be spent on drills.” True to his word, Tyberus drills his three students for three and a half hours and Silvanos watches. Silvanos only speaks to jeer Valtorex during a particularly difficult exercise. Valtorex pauses, shoots a Flame Bolt at him, and turns back to the exercise. Silvanos easily blocks the attack, but the message is still conveyed clearly enough.

Class ends and Valtorex goes to the Glade (Great how I keep bringing it up, huh?) and meets Arianna. He realizes with a twinge of guilt that he never cleared the bodies. Arianna seems angry about something. It could be the bodies that are still lying on the ground, but Valtorex is pretty sure it’s the blanket clutched in her white knuckled grip. Arianna asks, her voice tense with anger, “Apprentice, this blanket is drenched in your magic, but it has the scent of a female on it, and as if that’s not enough, there are four dead vampires in my Glade! How do you explain yourself?” Valtorex is about to say a witty response when he thinks better of pissing off his superior even more. He begins, “Well, the explanation for both is linked…” He goes on to tell her of his meeting with Trish and Myrstaline’s affliction with the Aura of Fear. Arianna, after careful consideration, says, “Very well, apprentice, I believe you, but if I ever find out you are involved with anyone, I’ll castrate you personally. You’ll have plenty of time for love when you are old and married. Now you are young and need to be on the battlefield, not in the bedroom.” Valtorex cannot figure out whether she’s joking or not. Arianna moves on and says, “Well, I think it is time for you to learn what it means to be an apprentice.” She reaches into the pocket of her red robes and pulls out an amulet. She murmurs the words of a spell and the amulet disappears in a flash. Arianna says, “Okay, apprentice, your mission is to find that amulet. It is still in the Glade, but you will be given no further assistance. You have, oh, three and a half hours to find it before I fail you.”

Valtorex wastes no time. He casts a spell of magic detection. The entire Glade glows. He curses under his breath and goes to the edge of the Glade. He begins searching through the brush and grass. After about two hours, he has not found it and he has searched through the entire Glade. He decides to check the Spring and dives in. He casts a spell allowing him to breathe water; then he casts a spell allowing him to see in reduced light. He searches under every stone and through all of the silt. After another hour, he still has not found it. He can feel the time slipping away and knows he has no hope of finding it. He tries one last method. He closes his eyes, still under water so Arianna doesn’t know what he’s doing, and he begins to meditate. He manages to drift into that state where he could see all of the life. He looks through the Glade, but he doesn’t see anything not alive or part of the earth. With ten minutes left, he turns his gaze on Arianna. He concentrates and he can feel the tug of magic from her pouches. He tries something, a combination of magic and meditation, and he manages to look into her pouches. He sees the usual rings and components one would expect on a mage, but in one pouch, he sees the amulet. He immediately returns to his body and scrambles out of the water. He says, “I found the amulet.” Arianna raises an eyebrow. She asks, “And where is it?” Valtorex, out of breath, replies, “It’s in your back center pouch.” Arianna goes into a frenzy. She yells, “How dare you search the property of a superior! How dare you violate my privacy like that! The purpose of the test is to see if you will keep looking even if the search is hopeless. It is not to find the drasked (see LNS, I think, Valtorex’s rant to Stemius) amulet!” Valtorex, keeping his cool even though he fears the prospect of failure, responds, “If you wish me to fail, don’t assign me a task.” Arianna seems to be caught off guard by this. She was expecting him to grovel or beg for forgiveness. She is not used to a student being so confidant or willing to stand up to her. She smiles as she feels pride in him. She then says, “I see your point. I forgot you are in Elite Training. You don’t give up and will complete the mission no matter what. Kemos would be proud. Well, class is almost over.” She reaches behind her and pulls out the amulet. She tosses it to him and says, “That’s an Amulet of Mental Resistance. I don’t think you need any help in that department, but you can give it to that elf you seem to care about so much, but remember my warning.” Valtorex thanks her and leaves.

He arrives at the Tower of the Arcane and meets Myrstaline. He hands her the amulet and says, “It’s an amulet of Mental Resistance. As long as you have it on, you’ll be more able to combat mind affecting attacks.” Myrstaline thanks him. Valtorex then realizes what it will look like if they walk in together, after last night, and her wearing a gift from him. He says, “You might want to put that on under your clothes. Having it out won’t help your case.” Myrstaline nods. They walk into the Tower, careful not to be too close. Myrstaline out of fear of public embarrassment, Valtorex out of a combination of respect for Myrstaline and not wanting to deal with the annoying conversations bound to occur. They arrive at Rōdenthall’s fourth level class room. Although they were expecting it, they are surprised at the source of the first comment. Rōdenthall says, “And here come the love birds. So how was it?” Myrstaline flushes from the heat caused by embarrassment. Valtorex flushes from the heat caused by the fire that is suddenly swirling around him. In an ominous voice, he roars, “Nothing happened between the two of us. Remember that or you will regret it. If I catch any of you,” he looks at the two black robed mages, then Silvanos, then rests his gaze on Rōdenthall, “and I mean any, spreading rumors about Myrstaline and I, I will gut (Yes, Word, he will get them, but he will gut them too and that’s the most important verb) you and leave your organs out for the birds. Is this understood?” Rōdenthall is livid. He blasts Valtorex back with a powerful spell intended to stop his heart. Valtorex is smashed against the stone wall and has the breath knocked out of him. Valtorex slumps against the wall, too dazed to move. Rōdenthall is greatly surprised to hear Valtorex groan quietly.

Silvanos’s face is twisted into an evil smile as he stalks forward, hand raised. The words of a spell that will crush Valtorex’s skull are on his lips. Rōdenthall is surprised to see such hatred in his star apprentice for his star pupil. Rōdenthall decides to wait and see how it plays out. Silvanos continues walking forward, right arm raised to a 45°, downward facing position with his left arm in front of him to block attacks. Myrstaline rushes to get between the two. Rōdenthall commands, “Stop!” Myrstaline feels a tug on the back of her mind pulling her back. She feels warmth emanating from the amulet and the tug lessens. She keeps running and interposes herself between the possibly unconscious Valtorex and Silvanos. Silvanos uses his left arm to strike her across the cheek. Myrstaline goes down. Silvanos reaches Valtorex, who is now conscious, and lowers his right hand so the palm rests on Valtorex forehead. He says, “I just have to say one more word and you die. So, how does it feel?” Valtorex replies, “It feels kinda boring. I guess you’re just not very frightening.” Silvanos is infuriated. He barks the final word and Valtorex screams as his skull is slowly crushed by a massive amount of pressure. Silvanos says, malice dripping from his words, “I hope you weren’t counting on that freak ability of yours to save you. It only protects you from death spells. Any physical damage will still get you.” Valtorex’s vision goes red, then black. Myrstaline gets to her feet and sees Silvanos killing Valtorex. She rushes him and attempts a tackle. Silvanos turns and blasts her with a Windblast (And yes, I do make a lot of these up as I go, but I find the names descriptive enough for you to figure it out). Myrstaline is sent crashing into a wall with a sickening crunch. Silvanos promises, “I’ll get to your girlfriend as soon as your brain is reduced to pulp.” Valtorex hears a groan escape from Myrstaline. He feels his consciousness fading and knows he has only seconds to save Myrstaline. He begins rapidly chanting the words to a spell. (In that unknown language, of course) Silvanos backhands him, causing blood to leak out of his mouth. Valtorex keeps chanting. Silvanos uses his left hand and a powerful spell to burn five holes in Valtorex’s chest. Valtorex grits his teeth and keeps going. Starbursts flash in the darkness that has become his vision. He can barely concentrate and knows he will pass out soon. He struggles on, only having a few syllables left. Silvanos knows this and ups the power of his spell. The holes burn deeper into Valtorex, reaching his lungs and heart. Valtorex’s heart is burnt through as the last syllable leaves his lips. Silvanos has no idea what the spell does, but he soon figures out when he sees the holes on Valtorex’s chest healing. He does not see them heal entirely, because a massive pressure suddenly blacks out his vision. He feels the burning in his chest and in the last moments, he figures out what the spell is, and how to counter it. He dispels both of his effects and his vision returns.

He finds that he is too late, however. He begins to distinguish colors again, only to find himself staring into Valtorex’s palm as a powerful spell is about to be released. Rōdenthall commands, “Stop!” Valtorex shakes his head before saying, “No, this bastard deserves to die. I will do so whether you allow it or not.” Rōdenthall replies, “No, you won’t. You two will fight to the death at the end of your four years here. Right now, he would kill you. He is only using a fraction of his power against you. He was only playing with you and that spell you used caught him off guard. If you were dueling, you would have been dead in seconds.” Valtorex sighs before saying, “Very well, I will let him live, this time, but if he ever threatens Myrstaline, myself, or any of my cabinmates, I will not spare him.” Rōdenthall nods. Valtorex drops his hand. Rōdenthall then says, “Now of course, you still must be punished for threatening a teacher. I will assign you a detention to be served after fourth.” Valtorex says, “I can not serve then, I have meditation lessons after fourth. It is under the order of the Head Master. (If he didn’t know this in a previous story, he does now. I love one month long breaksJ) I would be more than happy to serve tonight, though.” Rōdenthall is obviously angry, but he cannot deny the Head Master. He says, very slowly, very angrily, “Alright, you will have a detention with the Head Mistress tonight, from Darkwatch to Firstlight. (Basically, midnight till dawn) She will not be happy and your punishment will be most severe. I do hope you survive.” He then teaches the class for the next hour. After that, he announces a competition, Valtorex and Myrstaline against the two dark robes, Silvanos, and Rōdenthall. Myrstaline is daunted by the challenge. Valtorex looks forward to fighting against the overwhelming odds. He tells Myrstaline, “Just cover yourself and be prepared to get the Nurse. I have a feeling there will be lots of blood.” When Myrstaline protests, Valtorex replies, “I need you alive. This will be a heavy battle. If I go down, I need to be able to rely on you to keep me alive.” Myrstaline nods.

The battle begins. Valtorex raises his arms and begins casting a spell. Rōdenthall and Silvanos stand back as the two black robes charge him, each with the words of a killing spell on their lips. Valtorex finishes his spell in time to be hit by two green blasts of energy (Finger of Death) that force him off his feet and onto the ground. Unfortunately for the two black robes, he did finish his spell. As the bolts hit him, a wave of fire bursts from his hands. The wave of fire sears across the room, burning the desks and striking the two mages. They are instantly made human torches. (Assuming they are humans, I haven’t decided yet) The two mages flail wildly as the fire consumes them. At a signal from Rōdenthall, Myrstaline runs out of the room to fetch the Nurse. Valtorex struggles to his feet as the two hit the ground. Rōdenthall says, “Well, brothers Dethos and Zethos are out. Looks like we’re up.” Silvanos and Rōdenthall come forward, each preparing a different spell. Valtorex goes into his at ready stance. He begins chanting the words to a particular spell he thinks will be useful. Silvanos and Rōdenthall finish their spells simultaneously. From Silvanos’s hands bursts forth a spear of bright green light. Rōdenthall launches a dark blue missile. (Just for reference, the green spear is Lance of Doom and the blue missile is Crippling Chill, both made up on the spot, of course) Valtorex finishes his spell and two magic mirrors appear. The mirrors are slanted to form a wedge pointed at Valtorex. He hopes he got the angle right; otherwise he’ll die from the spells smashing through the weak point. He breathes a sigh of relief seconds later when the spells hit at the perfect angle. The green spear is deflected towards Rōdenthall and the blue missile is sent spiraling towards Silvanos. Valtorex wastes no time in launching dual fireballs, one at each target. The fireballs smash through the mirrors and hurtle towards his opponents. Silvanos and Rōdenthall both manage to block the deflected spells. Rōdenthall manages to catch the fireball on his shield, but Silvanos is too slow. Silvanos is hit full on by the fireball and sent flying back. He smashes into the wall with a crunch and slides down, smoke trailing from his body. Silvanos tries to get up, but he falls over. (I know, Silvanos seems like a total wimp, but just wait till summer, you’ll all see that he’s really more like a fifty percent wimpJ)

Rōdenthall begins a powerful curse as the Nurse rushes into the room, trailed by Myrstaline. The Nurse and Myrstaline drag Dethos and Zethos to the corner to get them out of the way of combat. They go about healing the two. Once they are stabilized, the Nurse goes over and begins healing Silvanos. Myrstaline tries to stand beside Valtorex, but when his eyes flash in warning, she backs away and decides to watch. Rōdenthall returns to the curse and Valtorex prepares his defense. Rōdenthall hisses out the final word and twin beams of pure darkness lance out of his palms. Valtorex raises his shield, too late realizing it is a fruitless effort. The beams become serpents that twist and coil around the shields to strike Valtorex’s unprotected back. Valtorex goes down and his shield dissipates. The serpents wait, poised above him and ready to strike. Every time he tries to rise up, they strike again. After several minutes, Valtorex’s back is riddled with wounds, a trail of shadow drifting out of every one. Valtorex tries to rise up again, and this time, Rōdenthall tries to break him. The serpents drive into him, and Rōdenthall is intent on either crippling or killing him. Valtorex is forced to the ground and the shadow serpents force through his armor and into his flesh. Valtorex screams out as pure darkness drives into him, utterly destroying everything in their path. Myrstaline screams as she runs to him. She casts a shield spell inside the serpents. The shield of shining, pure light cuts the serpents in half and they disappear. Valtorex lies on the ground, shaking as death energy seeps out of the holes in his back. Myrstaline turns on Rōdenthall (She’s pissed now, just in case you couldn’t tellJ) and nearly hisses the words to the most powerful spell she knows. (It’s called Piercing Truth and is a divine spell) A shining javelin of light appears in each of her hands. She hurls both of the javelins at Rōdenthall. He brings up a shield of darkness, but the javelins tear right through them. He then summons a wall of iron in between him and the streaking missiles. The javelins strike the wall and rip through. As his last resort, he opens a gate to the Abyss. The first javelin strikes it and destroys the gate. The second continues through, unhindered. Myrstaline goes down and begins healing Valtorex. Rōdenthall is forced to teleport away. The second javelin flies through the simmering space he just occupied and hurtles on towards the wall. The javelin smashes into the wall, causing massive chunks of stone to explode outward and reducing the window to twinkling flakes of crystal. Rōdenthall returns to the room as Myrstaline finishes healing Valtorex.

Valtorex struggles to his feet. He sees Rōdenthall standing there. Rōdenthall has a furious scowl on his face. He begins snarling out the words of a killing curse. Valtorex realizes it can only have one target. As Rōdenthall finishes the spell and fires out a beam of purest darkness, (Called Drill of Despair, because alliteration is great) Valtorex shoves Myrstaline to the side and snap fires a fireball. The fireball strikes the oncoming beam and explodes. The beam continues through, although somewhat hindered. Valtorex prepares his spell that is similar to this, Flame Rail. The Drill of Despair is about to reach him when Myrstaline, now back on her feet, summons a wall of light. (Conveniently called, Wall of Light because I am too lazy to name every spell I come up with) The Drill smashes into the wall and it is Myrstaline’s will against Rōdenthall’s. The contest’s resolution is, of course, inevitable, and Myrstaline’s wall is destroyed. The Drill continues forward, but the wall provided the delay needed for Valtorex to finish his spell. He lets loose a raging torrent of flame that strikes the Drill. The Drill’s momentum is slowed, and then stopped entirely. Valtorex focuses all of his willpower behind the Flame Rail. Myrstaline focuses on healing him and restoring his energy. The two beams are locked in stalemate for several minutes, but eventually, Rōdenthall’s superior skill, training, and power give him the upper hand. Valtorex feels his strength ebbing and knows he’s done for when Myrstaline collapses, exhausted. He can tell that she gave her all to keep him in there. The Nurse rushes forward to help him, but he yells, “Attend to her! I can handle this!” As soon as the Nurse bends down to help Myrstaline, a surge of power from Rōdenthall smashes through the front created by the two spells. Rōdenthall takes advantage of this and focuses all of his immense power on the attack. The prolific surge of power created drives the Drill straight through the Rail and into Valtorex. Valtorex is blasted back into the wall, but Rōdenthall does not let up. The Drill keeps pounding into Valtorex and only the small buffer created by the Rail and maintained by his flagging strength keep him alive. Rōdenthall can tell he has won and decides to press it in. He pulls back from the attack, reducing the strength of the Drill to the point that it can only keep Valtorex’s attack trapped. He then focuses the rest of his power elsewhere. Valtorex feels a horrible pain in his legs and looks down to see a shadow slowly moving up his body, atrophying his legs from the bottom up. He collapses, his muscles too weak to support him. This, however, works to his advantage. His concentration allows him to maintain his spell and it shoots forward. Rōdenthall is too slow to stop it. The fire streaks across the room and hits him at Valtorex’s head level when he’s on his knees. (Meaning, basically, any children Rōdenthall has will be well accustomed to heat)(And pretty dark skinned)(Ian, that makes no sense. The cells aren’t directly contacted by the flame, so charring wouldn’t occur) Rōdenthall screams in torment as his robes catch ablaze. He douses them with a word and with another, breaks Valtorex’s arms. Valtorex falls to the ground, writhing in pain and unable to stand or even crawl.

The Nurse steps forward and commands, “Stop this! What has gotten into you? You put two first years against you and Silvanos, along with another two first years? Were you trying to kill them?” Rōdenthall’s answer chills her. He calmly, and seemingly without any conscience, says (Can you guess? The suspense must be killing you!) “Yes, of course I wanted to kill the little bastard and the elf wench. They’ve been a pain to me all year.” The Nurse begins yelling, “How dare you try to kill students! You know that is strictly forbidden! Wait until the Head Master hears of this!” Rōdenthall shrinks back a bit at the invocation of that name. After a moment’s thought, however, he puffs pout his chest and says, “No matter, he will be dead by tomorrow anyway.  I gave him an all night detention with the Head Mistress. He will not survive that.” Rōdenthall chuckles at the thought of what the Head Mistress will do to Valtorex. The Nurse is furious. She teleports Valtorex and Myrstaline to the Healer’s School. She carefully lays Valtorex down on a bed and begins healing him. After several minutes, the worst of Valtorex’s wounds are cured. He struggles to his feet and whispers, “Thank you.” He slides off the bed and staggers to the door. The Nurse yells, in her matronly voice, “Young man, get back in bed now! You are in no condition to move!” Valtorex replies, still a scratchy whisper, “Tell that to Kemos.” He then staggers out the door.

By the time he reaches the Hall of Trials, he is feeling better and only limping a bit. He instantly whishes he had taken the Nurse’s advice when he sees Valrie’s face. (I guess that old saying is true, ‘Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned’, especially one with a sword) Valrie storms towards him and he sees a look of apology on Valinor’s face and a look of abject terror, yet grim interest on Valen’s. Valrie slaps Valtorex as hard as she can which, after a month of elite training, is a considerable force. Valtorex winds up sprawled on the ground. Just then, Lord Kemos walks up. He laughs heartily at the stunned look on Valtorex’s face. Valrie yells, “You son of a-!” (Censored because I feel like it) Lord Kemos interjects, “Now there’s no call for insulting his mother. Stick to kicking his ass.” Valtorex tries to get up, but he collapses. Valrie still has fury in her eyes and she is about to kick him. Valen rushes her and Valinor charges. Valen, being lighter and in mobility training for a month, easily pulls ahead.  Valen tackles her and brings her down. Valrie knocks him back and yells, “Get off me you bastard!” Valrie is up again and draws her sword. When Valen nears her, she slashes at him. Valen is forced back. Valinor arrives and pulls Valtorex to safety.  Valen says, “Valrie, look at him. Does he look like he’s in any shape to fight you?” Valrie, for the first time, looks at him and realizes her slap isn’t what really hurt him. Her rage momentarily forgotten, Valrie casts down her sword and runs to him. Valen lets her by and Valinor backs away. Valrie bends down beside him and sees his labored breathing. He tries to get up, but she pushes him back down. She asks, “What happened?” Valtorex whispers quietly. She leans in closer to try to hear. He says, “Rōdenthall. The bastard put me and Myrstaline against him, his apprentice, and two other students.” Suddenly remembering why she was mad, she slaps him. Valtorex asks, annoyed, “What the hell did I do?” Valrie just looks at him, hurt. It suddenly clicks. Valtorex struggles to his feet and says, “Alright, I have some explaining to do.” Valtorex turns to Lord Kemos and asks, “May we have leave so we can discuss this?” Lord Kemos nods. Valtorex leads a still fuming Valrie away.

They reach the woods and walk in. As they are walking, Valtorex says, “Well, tell me what you’ve heard.” Valrie goes into a frenzied retelling of the rumor she heard. All Valtorex can catch are a few snippets like, “Elf tramp” or “Worthless bastard”. Once she is out of breath, Valtorex tries to explain himself. He says, “Okay, the reason I was in the Glade with Myrstaline is because she is training me in meditation. Just ask Stemius. The reason we spent the night there is because we were attacked by vampires, ask Arianna. Myrstaline was frozen by the aura of fear vampires emit to trap their prey. She was standing in the Glade at the time, and me, not wanting her to die, put a blanket on her and started a fire. I promise that nothing happened between us.” Valrie thinks this over for a few moments before deciding to question the instructors he named. They talk for awhile to catch up since they have not been able to see each other for more than a few moments since the year started, except for in Lord Kemo’s brutal training regime. They spend about thirty minutes covering everything that has happened in the past month. (While I used a couple of sentences) Once they are finished talking, they head back to the Hall of Trials.

They arrive to find Lord Kemos drilling Valinor and Valen mercilessly. Lord Kemos looks at them and sees they seem much closer together. He says, “It’s good to see you two getting along again. Now that all the bridges are mended, I want to see you two fight.” Valrie, although less likely to kill Valtorex than before, still doesn’t think she should fight him. She voices her opinion, but Lord Kemos just replies, “You can either fight or fail.” Valtorex says, “We need to fight to pass, besides, it will allow us to relieve some of the tension between us.”

Valrie gives in and they prepare to fight. Valrie draws her mithril rapier, the keen edge shining brightly in the sunlight. Valtorex draws his swords, the left crackling with lightning; the right glowing with fire. Valtorex salutes Valrie and she returns the salute. They begin circling each other, looking for an opportunity. Valrie sees hers and lunges at Valtorex with lightning speed. Valtorex blocks her with his flame sword and slaps her arm with the flat of his lightning one. She jumps as the electricity jolts through her body. She drops her rapier. Valtorex uses the blade of his sword to pick up her rapier by the hand guard. With a quick motion, it is flying through the air. She catches it with surprising reflexes. She rushes him, intent on making up for her previous disarming. She slashes through the air, the swish turning into a clash as her blade meets his. She pulls back and whips her sword through the air, only to be countered by him again. She keeps going, her superior speed from mobility leveling off with his dual wielding. They go at it for several minutes until Valtorex staggers back, panting and sweating, and Valrie falls to one knee, too tired to get back up. Valtorex sheathes his swords and reaches out a hand for her. She replaces her rapier in its scabbard and takes his hand. Valtorex helps Valrie to her feet. When he lets go, she loses her balance and begins to fall back. He reaches his arm around her waist and catches her. For a brief moment, they make eye contact. Valtorex feels the fires within him flare up, but not in anger. He quickly sets her upright and backs away, unaccustomed to this new feeling. Valrie is blushing. Lord Kemos, intent on embarrassing them as much as physically possible, whistles. Valinor seems a bit embarrassed for them and Valen whishes they were still fighting. Valtorex quickly recovers from the awkward moment. He turns to Lord Kemos and says, “So, are you just going to heckle, or can you put your steel well your mouth is?” Lord Kemos laughs before drawing his sword.

Lord Kemos reaches Valtorex is a flash and slashes at him. Valtorex blocks, but barely. Lord Kemos quickly pulls back and strikes his leg. The wicked gash along his leg quickly closes up. Valtorex slashes at Lord Kemos, but in a quick flash, he manages to block both swords separately. Lord Kemos goes in for a lunge, but Valtorex manages to jump back with only minor damage to his chest piece. Valtorex jumps forward, both swords coming in from opposite sides. Just to prove how fast he is, Lord Kemos blocks to the left, then the right, then stabs Valtorex in the chest before he even lands. Lord Kemos rips his blade free of Valtorex and lets him fall to the ground even as his wound heals. Valtorex rolls back and is quickly on his feet. Lord Kemos is forward in a flash. He slices through Valtorex’s neck, skirting the spine. Valtorex freezes for that brief moment that his brain goes without blood or oxygen, but then the wound heals and he breathes again. Valtorex jumps back and tries to block Lord Kemos’s continuous attacks. They go for thirty minutes more, Lord Kemos scoring wound after wound and Valtorex barely blocking anything. Valtorex realizes that he has no chance by just blocking. He decides to stop blocking and only attacks. Lord Kemos strikes him time and time again. Finally, Valtorex gets lucky and makes a deep cut in Lord Kemos’s thigh. The flame cauterizes it quickly and Lord Kemos keeps fighting. As he blocks Valtorex’s attacks he says, “And now you are fighting like an Elite!” Valtorex keeps slashing, stabbing, and lunging, doing his best to not get hit, but doing even better to not care if he does. After about an hour, Valtorex’s attacks have become too feeble to even be considered a threat, but he keeps going. Lord Kemos just keeps knocking his attacks aside with ease, occasionally scoring a hit when he becomes bored. He sees it in Valtorex’s eyes; Valtorex is on the verge of collapse. Minutes later, it happens. Valtorex falls to the ground. He struggles to get back up, but fails. Lord Kemos leans down and says, “Your pride will be your downfall. Do not make challenges you have no hope of succeeding in, or you are set for failure.” Lord Kemos begins slicing away merrily at Valtorex, enjoying the occasional gasps that Valtorex fails to stop.

Valrie, appalled by this, yells, “Stop it!” In reply, Lord Kemos stabs his blade right through Valtorex’s back, then pulls it out and goes back to cutting him. Valrie draws her rapier and charges. She slashes at Lord Kemos who blocks her with ease. Lord Kemos ignores Valtorex as he fights with Valrie. Valrie uses all of her speed, but only manages to block every other one of his attacks. Lord Kemos is brutal. He begins using combination moves. First, he cuts a deep gash in her stomach. When she doubles over, he stabs her through the back. He then rips his sword out and brings it down on her neck. The keen blade bites deep, severing her spine. The only thing preventing her head from coming off is his control. He pulls the sword back and she falls to the ground. He bends down and whispers in her ear, “That love of yours is the most foolish thing for a warrior. Dispose of it or die.” He stands and then mercilessly begins cutting into her. Valrie screams time and again as his rapier bites into her flesh.

Valinor, affronted by this display, pulls his greatsword from his back and charges. Lord Kemos only takes his attention from Valrie long enough to flick his blade through the air and into Valinor’s heart. Valinor, feeling his heart torn open by the cold steel, backs away, breathing shallowly. When he backs off the blade, his heart heals and begins to pump again. He brings up his greatsword and jumps at Lord Kemos, bringing his blade down with all of his strength. Lord Kemos looks up and dully notes Valinor and the giant piece of metal coming at him. Lord Kemos uses his blade to knock away Valinor’s greatsword. The force of the impact sends Valinor’s blade flying and leaves Valinor staggered, but Lord Kemos appears unaffected. Lord Kemos takes this opportunity to stab his blade into Valinor’s chest, once again piercing his heart. He says, “It is not wise to charge an opponent such as I without thought. Learn strategy or you are doomed.” He holds his blade in Valinor’s chest until he blacks out from lack of oxygen. Lord Kemos then whips his blade free and Valinor falls down. Lord Kemos goes back and forth between stabbing Valtorex and slicing into Valrie’s back.

Valen, angry at Lord Kemos’s treatment of his friends and itching for a fight, draws his longknife (Really, the name describes it all. It’s basically a shortsword with only one edge) and his knife (Your average four inch single edged blade). With his knife concealed in his left hand and his longknife held openly in his right, he slowly advances on Lord Kemos. Lord Kemos turns and says, “Have you not seen what I’ve done to them? They are either unconscious or writhing in pain at my feet, and I’m not trying. What chance do you think you have against me?” (This one’s for you, Ryan T.) Valen replies by charging him. Lord Kemos thinks this will be an easy battle, but when Valen is about ten feet away, he suddenly speeds up. Valen flies towards Lord Kemos and slashes with lightning speed. Lord Kemos blocks the longknife, only to realize two things. One, Valen is in 4^th level Mobility Training, meaning he is the fastest of the four, and two, his left hand is not empty. Valen stabs Lord Kemos in the gut with his knife before jumping back. Valen, still holding the bloody knife in his left hand, says, “That is for Valinor.” Lord Kemos nods before charging, ignoring the pain in his gut. Lord Kemos reaches Valen and swings with all of his strength this time. Valen’s blade is knocked from his hand and slides to a stop fifteen feet away. Valen, however, jumps and goes over Lord Kemos. As he is going over, he throws his longknife. The knife lands in Lord Kemos’s back, causing him to jump forward. Valen lands and draws his daggers. He turns to see Lord Kemos pulling the knife free from his back. Valen says, “That’s for Valrie.” Lord Kemos, almost dreading the payback for Valtorex, quickly cuts his stomach and back to heal them. Lord Kemos charges Valen, and, his daggers too short to block, let the blade tear through his chest. As Lord Kemos is bringing his blade back up to attack again, he is surprised to feel a sudden pain in his sides. He looks down and sees a dagger’s hilt protruding from each of his sides. The keen daggers designed to pierce armor dug deeply into the flesh and Lord Kemos can already tell they will be difficult to remove. He begins slashing at Valen brutally. As Valen falls to his knees under the onslaught, he says, almost gleefully, “That was for Valtorex, and this, this is for me.” From nowhere, he produces one of his arrows and stabs Lord Kemos in the leg with it. He says, a smile on his face, “I made sure to touch my bow with it, so it will poison you.”

Lord Kemos can already feel the poison working through his leg and coupled with the daggers in his sides, he knows he cannot go for much longer. He mutters the words of a spell and about three minutes later, the Nurse appears. The Nurse pulls the arrow and daggers free of the now collapsed Lord Kemos and removes the poison with a healing spell. Lord Kemos sits up, muttering under his breath. The Nurse then goes through waking up and restoring the energy of the other four. Valtorex stands up and the Nurse chides, “I warned you. Are you going to take my advice now?” Valtorex replies, “No, probably not. I have to go to my meditation training now, then I have a detention with whoever the Head Mistress is.” Lord Kemos’s eyes widen. The Nurse says, “Do you see why I wanted him to rest? Head Mistress Demere is the most brutal person on the staff. She makes Lord Kemos look nice.” Valtorex, who has started to walk towards the forest by now, says over his shoulder, “Then I look forward to meeting her.” (If only he knew)

Valtorex arrives at the Glade to find Myrstaline sitting on the ground, meditating. When he enters the Glade, she jumps up to greet him. Valtorex asks, “So, how was fourth with Stemius?” Myrstaline replies, “He spent like twenty minutes talking about how what I did was natural and normal. Then he spent the rest of the time trying to figure out if I was pregnant.” Valtorex laughs. Myrstaline asks, “How was your fourth?” Valtorex responds, “Lord Kemos was an ass, I had to fight Valrie, then we all fought him. He took me down and tortured me until Valrie attacked him, then he moved to torturing her. He stabbed Valinor in the heart twice before Valen stabbed him five times and poisoned him.” Myrstaline asks, “How did he attack you guys so much without killing you?” Valtorex answers, “Easy, he has this rapier blessed to heal any wounds it causes, so it is very difficult to kill someone with it. That way, he can torture us indefinitely.” For the first time, she notices his torn and nearly destroyed armor. She says, “Let me fix that.” She casts a few mending spells and soon his armor is completely repaired.

Valtorex and Myrstaline then sit down on the log. (And yes, I could be more vague. I could have said they sit on wood or organic matter) Myrstaline says, “I want you to try to focus on this.” She picks up a rock and shows it to Valtorex. She says, “This is how I learned to commune with nature. I want you to turn this rock into a statuette of whatever pops into your mind.” Valtorex nods and closes his eyes. Slowly, the rock begins shifting in her hand. Valtorex tries to come up with something else, but all he can think of is one thing. He hears Myrstaline’s gasp. He opens his eyes to see what he expected. (Can you guess?) In Myrstaline’s hand is a perfect miniature replica of himself, lying there with a sword in its chest. Or at least she thinks it is him. Valtorex can tell it is his evil copy, Kaedros of the Hellfire. Myrstaline exclaims, “The first thing that comes into your head is yourself dead? What type of person are you?” Valtorex says, “That’s not me. Do you remember a month ago when I went through that portal and fought those demons?” Myrstaline nods. Valtorex continues, “I met a copy of myself, formed by an Arch-Devil when my soul merged with a balrog. His name was Kaedros. Kaedros of the Hellfire. I was forced to fight him and I won. He’s not dead, but next time we meet, he will be.” Myrstaline has a spark of brilliance. She says, “That seems to be the main obstacle to your enlightenment and convergence with nature. All of the anger you harbor inside you is keeping you from finding peace. How about we talk about your past so you can get over those feelings?” Valtorex shakes his head. Myrstaline warns, “I am the teacher. You have to do what I say.” Valtorex shoots back, “Or what? Rōdenthall gave me an all night detention already. What can you do that I haven’t already gone through today?” Myrstaline whispers, “This.” She leans forward and kisses him on the cheek. (Aww, how sweet. I know, I know, ruining the moment) Valtorex feels his face go crimson. He says, “Now I’m definitely not telling you about my past. I couldn’t bear to be the one to rob you of sleep for the rest of your life.” Myrstaline counters, “I’m an elf, I meditate.” (Happy Ian?) (Yes) (Background: In a previous chapter, Ian got all uppity because I said one of the elves goes to ‘sleep’ instead of ‘mediates’. I know, I know, but we must be understanding of his OCDJ)

Valtorex shakes his head in defeat. He says, “Very well, I’ll tell you, but tell me when to stop.” Valtorex begins talking about his childhood and how happy he was growing up in his village. Then he reaches the first attack. Myrstaline realizes this must be why he is such a dark person. He goes on…and on…and on. By the time he has reached the battle on the plateau, Myrstaline is nearly shaking in fear of the world and pity for him. He then gets to the village massacre and, wanting to stop before Myrstaline finds out too much, goes into great detail about it. Myrstaline retches when he describes the burning bodies and the screams of the dying. When Myrstaline perseveres, Valtorex decides to go easy on her. He skims over some of the bloodier and gorier accounts and waters down the vital stuff. Then he reaches Trish. He just describes it as, “There was this girl, she turned out to be a vampire and captured me.” He then describes his ordeal with the vampires. After that, he talks about his later mercenary days. By the time he reaches the Academy, Myrstaline is on the verge of tears for him. He finishes by saying, “And that is my life. Good luck ever finding rest again. Myrstaline says, “I will meditate on how to help you through your problems, but it’s getting late and I don’t want to have to deal with my cabinmates.” Valtorex nods and they part ways.

Valtorex decides to hang around in the Glade for a while. (Don’t you love how I combine words so uncommon they’re almost Middle English with everyday slang?) At about four hours before Darkwatch (Some of you may have realized that they have school sixteen hours a day and thus, the amount of time they spend out of class is impossible, but this is a fantasy realm, so I fiat that the day is now 32 hoursJ) Valrie shows up to bathe. She is surprised to find Valtorex there. She asks, “What are you doing here this late?” Valtorex responds, “I have about four hours to kill before I get killed, so I decided I’d wait here for unsuspecting bathers for me to harass.” Valrie laughs at his attempt at humor. (Not the humor itself mind you) She says, “Well, you found one. So, do you want to talk?” Valtorex says, “Not really, I’d rather throw rocks at starving wolves right now.” Valrie, slightly offended, says, “Well, if you don’t want to talk, then can you leave?” Valtorex asks, “Why?” Valrie replies, tersely, “Because I intend on bathing, which requires the removal of clothes. I’m not going to do that with you here.” Valtorex says, “Fine I’ll talk for awhile. So, what’s been going on with you?” Valrie says, “That’s better.” She sits next to Valtorex on the log and replies, “Well, school’s going pretty well. I’m in the top of my class dueling. I can beat two other students at the same time. How’re your classes going?” Valtorex responds, “Well, Tyberus I’m doing fine with, Arianna seems to tolerate me pretty well, Rōdenthall and Silvanos still want me dead, and Lord Kemos, well you know how things with him are.” Valrie nods. They talk with each other for a while before Valrie stands up. She says, “Well, you should probably get going. I need to bathe and you have three hours left before your detention.” Valtorex stands and says, “Yes, that’s probably for the best.” They look into each other’s eyes. Valtorex feels the fire burning inside him flare up as he stares into her dark green eyes. As she looks into his fiery red eyes, she feels a safety and security that she is not used to. The next thing they know, they are embracing. (And the plot thickens) They back away from each other, both blushing, but covered by the shadows caused by the treetops. (It may be night, but there is at least one full moon every night) Before he turns to leave, he plants a quick kiss on Valrie’s cheek. (This may be my most romantic work ever. Kinda scary, huh?)

Valtorex decides to go to the library since it is close to the Main Hall where he’ll be serving his detention. (He knows this because I say so. If I cover everything they learn, then you guys will be reading an additional twenty pages and I’d get nothing else done) In the library, he sees a few lore students, teaches, or bards in secluded corners, nooks, and alcoves, each reading. Valtorex goes over to a section on magic and takes a book titled Advanced Arcane Spells of Fire. He takes the book and goes over to a table in the center of the room. He begins reading and quickly becomes engrossed in the complicated spells. After about two hours, he decides he needs the book. He goes to the librarian and asks if he can check out books. The librarian looks at him as if he is a barbarian. The librarian then realizes that Valtorex is a first year and says, “We don’t check out books at this Library. We sell copies of books to students and teachers. What book are you interested in?” Valtorex asks, “How much does it cost to copy a book? The librarian answers, “Depending on the material, 20 to 100 gold. Why?” After some quick math, Valtorex responds, “I would like to copy the entire section on arcane Spellcasting.” The librarian’s mouth drops open for a second before he calculates it out. He says, “It will cost 1 million gold for that.” Valtorex reaches into his pack and pulls out the chest of drakes. He hands the librarian 100 drakes and says, “This should cover it.” The librarian nods and asks, “Where do you want them delivered?” Valtorex then realizes his cabin has no room for them. He asks, “Can storage be arranged?” The librarian replies, “Well, for a purchase this large, we can provide a Book Carrier of Holding that can carry all of the books you have. I will have one made. Come by tomorrow morning to pick it up.” Valtorex nods and leaves to go to detention. (This entire thing was to get him access to a massive collection of spells. Later he will get other books. Next chapter, you’ll see why I did this)

Valtorex arrives at the Head Mistress’s office and knocks on the door. He is ushered in by two heavily armed guards. The Head Mistress says, “Ah yes, Valtorex, the boy sent to me by Rōdenthall. If I recall correctly, the letter said ‘Show no mercy to the little bastard’. Now, I don’t think you really deserve that, so just fess up and I may reduce your punishment.” The Head Mistress, expecting to hear some story about him disobeying Rōdenthall, is severely surprised when he recounts his story. She says, “Well, then. I guess you do deserve the punishment. Then we may begin.” (Remember the temporary Head Mistress from Harry Potter? This psycho makes her look like Mother Teresa) The punishment starts off simply enough, Valtorex has to write, “I will not threaten staff.” ten thousand times. When he finishes, Head Mistress Demere asks, “So, have you learned your lesson?” Valtorex, feeling a bit irritated, replies, “And what lesson am I supposed to be learning?” Demere screams, “(‘Scuse me?!) You’ve been writing it for two hours! How stupid are you?” Valtorex, taking the offensive, responds, “I must be pretty stupid to be here at this time of night.” Demere yells, “That’s it! You need to learn your lesson!” She has her guards restrain Valtorex and take his weapons. They strip off his leather armor and robe top. She proceeds to take a whip tipped with a metal ball crackling with electricity (A good old fashioned whipping combined with shock therapyJ) out of her desk. She goes behind him and hits him in the back. He screams as electricity shoots through his torso, shocking his heart and nearly stopping it. She keeps this up until he is barely breathing and his back is torn and bleeding. Her guards drop him in a chair and she says, “So, have you learned your lesson?” Valtorex, barely conscious, replies, “No amount…of pain will…break me…you sadistic bitch!” Demere slaps him before saying, “Oh but it will. I have been at this school for twenty years and there has not yet been a student I haven’t broken.”

Six hours later, a bloody, bruised, and unconscious Valtorex is unceremoniously dumped on the Training Ground with his armor and weapons piled next to him. Tyberus arrives to see him lying there. He runs over and checks his pulse. Relieved that Valtorex is still alive, he sends for the Nurse. The Nurse (Possibly the same one from Romeo and JulietJ) comes running. She sees Valtorex and mutters a curse under her breath. She then commences to heal Valtorex. Valtorex slowly regains consciousness. Rogard watches Valtorex, a bit detached. Valinor appears worried about him while he is being healed. Silvanos seems to take pleasure at the sight of the signs of Valtorex’s beating. Once the Nurse has finished, she backs up as Valtorex struggles to his feet. He sees the joy in Silvanos’s face as he grimaces from pain. Tyberus demands, “Who did that and how did they beat you?” Valtorex, still hurting when he breathes, replies, “It was the Head Mistress. She had her guards hold me down while she used some sort of electrified whip on me.” Tyberus seems angered at this. His face takes on a look of pity and he asks, “How long until she broke you?” Valtorex’s reply both amazes him and frightens him. He says, calmly and matter-of-factly, “She didn’t.” (Not something that happens very often) Tyberus stammers, “So…so…she tortured you…all night?” Valtorex nods. Silvanos nearly claps in joy. Valtorex turns and says, “Silvanos, would you like to fight?” Silvanos snorts in derision. He laughs, “You can’t beat me at your prime. You’ve been tortured all night. How in the Abyss do you think you can defeat me?” Valtorex responds, “Remember how when I’m angry, I get much stronger?” Silvanos nods, humoring him. Valtorex continues, “I’ve been beaten all night. I am pissed and would love nothing more than to snap your neck right now. So do you really want to fight?” Silvanos’s response is merely a paling of his face and a nervous look in his eyes. Valtorex says, “I thought so. Stay out of my way for the rest of today and you won’t lose any limbs.” Silvanos nods, seeing the truth in Valtorex’s eyes. (The eyes tell all. I tell you what the eyes tell) Tyberus trains his three students, with Silvanos sitting on the sidelines, careful not to anger Valtorex. (Valtorex needs to piss off Rōdenthall more oftenJ)

Class ends and Valtorex goes to the Glade and meets Arianna. She looks concerned about him. She says, “I heard you got a detention with the Head Mistress. What finally broke you?” Valtorex shakes his head and mutters a curse. He replies, “Why does everyone ask me that? She didn’t break me.” Arianna’s mouth gapes momentarily. She quickly catches herself and says, “That’s great. Worrying, but great. What did she use?” Valtorex responds, with a shudder, “First she just slapped me around, then she pulled out some electrified whip. When that didn’t work, she beat me to the brink of unconsciousness before shoving my face in a bucket of water to wake me up. I figure that when I stopped waking up, she dumped me on the Training Grounds.” Arianna nods, accustomed to hearing that. She says, “I would not be surprised if you get called back. The Head Mistress does not take well to rebellion, especially rebellion she can’t break.” (The Head Mistress is a controlling, brutal, well you know the rest. My goal is to make you guys hate her so much, that you will be begging for what happens in the Insurrection/Graduation chapters) Valtorex asks, “So, how do I beat her?” Arianna replies, “You don’t. She will torture you every night until you surrender. I’ve seen kids die at her hand for disobeying her. What you saw last night was just a warning. The real attack will probably come tonight. (If you have a weak stomach, I suggest you skip that section) If you truly want to beat her, then resist her till you die, although is it really worth it?” Valtorex replies, “Yes, of course. Kaeje ona Morte. I’ve sworn to live my life by it, so I shall.” Arianna nods in approval. She then says, “Very well, I will teach you how to resist torture. Normally it’s not something you learn until year four, but in your case, I think we can make an exception.” The rest of the class is spent with Arianna instructing Valtorex on how to lock away information in his brain. Valtorex thanks her and leaves.

Valtorex arrives at the Tower of the Arcane and goes to the now repaired fourth level class. Rōdenthall is waiting. He says, “I heard that the Head Mistress has yet to break you. I’ve been informed that the Head Mistress expects either a letter of apology or you to be in her office by Darkwatch tonight. It looks like she’s taken a special interest in you.” Valtorex asks, “I don’t suppose you know what I need to apologize for, do you?”  Rōdenthall chuckles before asking, “Does it matter? You’ll be apologizing for anything you can think of by the time she’s done with you.” Just then, Dethos, Zethos, and Silvanos walk into the room. Silvanos sees Valtorex and looks as if he is about to say something. When he thinks back to first, he thinks better of it. Class begins, but Myrstaline still has not arrived. Rōdenthall begins a lecture on how to properly articulate a spell for maximum effectiveness. Valtorex pulls out a quill, inkwell, and parchment. (I know, I know, but they need to invade China before they can get paper) Valtorex takes notes on Rōdenthall’s lecture, not for himself, but for Myrstaline. Halfway through class, a messenger arrives. He hands a scroll to Rōdenthall and leaves. Rōdenthall unrolls the parchments and reads out, “To Arch-Mage Rōdenthall, your student, Valtorex, has been issued a private detention with me this night and every night following until further notice. –Head Mistress Demere.” Rōdenthall goes back to lecturing. Class ends and Rōdenthall dismisses them. Valtorex, a bit concerned about Myrstaline, briefly considers blowing off Elite, but decides against it.

He arrives at the Hall of Trials and meets Lord Kemos. Lord Kemos (Yes there is a reason I haven’t dropped the title. Ask if you want to find out) asks, “How are you doing, lad?” Valtorex replies, “Okay, but I have another detention tonight, and apparently every night from now on. I hope she doesn’t intend on breaking me that easily.” Lord Kemos shakes his head before saying, “I don’t think you understand. Demere is brutal. She will stop at nothing to get what she wants. She was fresh out of the Academy when she got a job as a secretary to the then Head Mistress. Within one year, she had become the Enforcer for the Head Mistress. When the Head Mistress died in her sleep, Demere took over and has ruled the students with an iron fist ever since. She was Head Mistress when I came through here. I took the same stance you did, but by my second year, the blood loss and broken bones were affecting my performance and I was forced to submit. What I’m trying to say is this, if you mess with Demere, she will ensure you suffer far more than any annoyance you can cause her. It’s not worth it. Give her what she wants so you can actually learn.” Valtorex resists the powerful urge to slap his instructor. He says, through clenched teeth, “I will never submit. I believe in the oath I took and will follow it in any circumstance. Kaeje ona Morte. (Just so you know, pronounced kai-A-jhay-own-a-more-tay) No surrender. Ever. No matter what the situation, no matter who the foe, an Elite never gives up, never submits.” Lord Kemos realizes he’s right. Lord Kemos shakes his head and begins laughing. When Valtorex raises his eyebrows, Lord Kemos says, “Taught by my student. Never thought it would happen. Well, here comes the rest of the class.” Valrie, Valen, and Valinor walk up to them. Valrie asks, “How was the detention?” Valtorex recounts the story while Valrie listens with growing anger. She says, the anger in her voice barely contained, “I’m going to kill that bitch!” Valtorex quickly, almost fearfully, says, “No, don’t say that! If word reaches her, you’ll end up in her office being beaten for six hours like I was. I suggest you just let me deal with it.”

Lord Kemos claps his hands once, signaling the end of discussion. He says, “Today, I think we will be learning about the history of the Elites. I will start at the beginning.” They go inside and sit at a table. Lord Kemos sits at the head of the table and begins, “Many years ago, the Empire was at war with the Dark Land forces, and we were not doing very well. The Dark Landers were at the Great Southern Wall. Their generals and the Dark Lord were convening a meeting at a hastily constructed fort to plan out the siege. The Emperor realized that the Dark Army was far too powerful to be taken down with force alone. He decided to put together a strike deep into enemy territory to take out the Dark Lord and his generals. The mission was volunteer only, as it was given a low expectation of success. To the surprise of the Emperor and the generals, every captain volunteered and the soldiers almost to the man joined them. The Emperor handpicked the best of the best from the volunteers. To the amazement of the generals, the Emperor, and even the common soldiers, the Arch-General’s of the Blue, Green, and Black armies came forth to lead. It was decided that each Arch-General would lead one hundred volunteers of the fighting style they used. That afternoon, the soldiers prayed, meditated, or did whatever they did to find peace. That night, the soldiers quietly left the castle and silently crossed the battlefield. The mages used illusion magic to obscure the field, preventing them from being spotted. By the time the Dark Army’s sentries realized what was going on, the archers had already loosed the arrows that slid into their necks, destroying their vocal chords and preventing any alarms from being raised. The warriors charged out and into the enemy camp. The warriors slaughtered all of the enemies they encountered in a mad dash to the fort. The mages went along after, destroying siege engines, towers, and tents, ensuring the Dark Army would not quickly recover. The archers decimated the cavalry before it could mount up and continued slaying the wargs under the riders after the first charge started. By the time the wargs reached the archers, half were lying on the field, dead or dying. The archers quickly switched to swords, and although woefully ill equipped to fight cavalry, fought to the man and effectively destroyed the Dark Army’s mounted division. The warriors, through massive losses, cleared a path to the fort. The mages broke into the fort and rushed it, overwhelming the guards with spells. The few remaining warriors stood at the breach and held off the growing counter attack to give the mages time. Within minutes, the warriors had been wiped out and the enemy charged into the breach. In the end, the mages were all killed too, but not before killing all of the generals and severely wounding the Dark Lord. At dawn, the Draconic Armies marched out and met them in the field. With their generals gone and leader disabled, the Dark Army was routed and forced to flee. That was the last time the Dark Army entered Draconic land. After the war, the Emperor personally created the Red Army, the all-volunteer army of Elites sworn to protect the Empire at all costs. Since then, the Elites have been at the forefront of every conflict the Draconic Empire has participated in. If the Dark Army ever invades again, I can guarantee that the Red Army will be the first to meet it on the fields, and if the past holds true, the last.” He then goes on to talk about specific Elites from the Red Army’s history. (I don’t feel like writing out their entire history right now, maybe another time) He talks about various battles the Red Army fought in and great cities they conquered. (Once again, another time) At the end of class, he dismisses them and they go off. Valrie lets Valen and Valinor get ahead and she hangs back with Valtorex. She says, “I’ll come by at the same time tonight so we can talk.” She runs off to the cabin.

Valtorex goes to the Glade and meets Myrstaline. She is sitting on the log, her face buried in her hands as she sobs. He walks over to her, thinking she is just upset about some insult. He then sees the red on her dress and runs to her. She looks up and sees him. He can tell she has been crying for some time by the redness under her eyes and the tear stains on her cheeks. He asks, “What happened?” She replies with only one word, “Demere.” (And now the war begins) Valtorex demands, “What did she do?” Myrstaline declines to answer, but he then sees the cuts in Myrstaline’s dress and realizes exactly what she did. Demere must have a knife similar to Lord Kemos’s rapier. Valtorex sits down next to her and puts his arm around her. He tries to soothe her, but finds he can’t come up with the words. He settles for holding her until her sobbing subsides. He says, “I don’t think you’re up to teaching me today. You should go to your cabin and rest. I have to pick something up from the library anyway.” Myrstaline nods and stands. Valtorex stands. They face each other and before they leave, Valtorex swears, “I won’t let her get away with this.” Myrstaline nods, knowing it’s the truth. (I honestly don’t know whether I’ve done enough work for you guys to be glad Valtorex has started a vendetta against Demere or just feel sorry for her. Let me know so I can adjust her level of cruelty accordingly)

Valtorex goes to the library to pick up his Book Carrier of Holding. The librarian comments, “You were supposed to come by this morning. Why did you not?” Valtorex replies, “The Head Mistress tortured me until first period. I have not had time to come by until now.” The librarian although he lives in the library, he does know of the Head Mistress’s cruelty, nods and says, “That is acceptable. Here are your books. I hope to see you in here again.” Valtorex nods and thanks him. Valtorex returns to the Glade and spends the rest of the time until an hour before Darkwatch reading. At an hour before Darkwatch, Valrie arrives.

Valrie watches Valtorex as he pours over his books by the light of a shining coin. She watches him for a few moments before stepping into the pale light. Valtorex looks up, his concentration momentarily broken. He closes the book and says, “Hi. So, how have you been?” Valrie replies, “Okay. Are you ready for your detention tonight?” Valtorex nods. He then says, “I’m actually looking forward to it. Demere is in for a big surprise tonight. I found the most exquisite spell for dealing with her. I can describe its effects for you if you like.” Valrie quickly says, “No, no that’s ok. I’d rather not here about it.” Valtorex nods, expecting that answer. He moves the books off the log and replaces them in his book carrier. He motions to the space next to him and Valrie sits. Valtorex dispels the Light spell on the coin and replaces it. They talk for a while about their day, and then they move on to a more personal conversation. (Don’t worry, like all romance I have, it is PG if I bribe people to up the ratingJ) They start talking about their likes and dislikes, what foods they like, their favorite colors, and other miscellaneous things. It turns out Valrie’s favorite food is smoked fish and her favorite color is sea blue. She finds out that Valtorex’s favorite color is, not surprisingly, blood red. His favorite food is rare steak, preferably warg. (Does this surprise you?) They talk more about their interests. Valrie likes to swim, fish, and just relax sometimes. Valtorex’s hobbies are, fighting, training, spell-casting, and experimenting with various compounds. (Or this?)

Valrie, used to people’s hobbies not being something stressful, asks, “But what do you do to relax?” Valtorex, who was expecting this, responds, “I work harder. When I reach the point of complete dedication to an activity and I finish the activity, I am totally relaxed and at peace. In the heat of battle, when the rage and bloodlust takes over, then as soon as the battle ends, I go into a state of calm. When I have no more enemies trying to destroy me, I feel at peace. When there are no more pressing matters demanding my attention, I can reach a state of tranquility.” Valrie blurts, “But that can’t be healthy!” Valtorex replies, “Maybe not, but it must be done. I spent two years as a mercenary, before that, I spent two chasing a demon across the continent, before that, I spent two years training to fight that demon. When you’ve lived a life like I have, you are forced to put survival in front of any possible hobbies.” Valrie, after a moment of bafflement, stammers, “But…but…that’s insane! The stress will kill you before the enemies!” Valtorex shakes his head and sighs. He then says, “That’s the point. So far, that stress has bought me six years. Let’s see how much further I can make it before it takes me down.” Valrie challenges, “You don’t need that stress now. You aren’t hounded by enemies anymore. You can slow down and pick up a hobby or two. I’ll even help you.” Valtorex asks, “How?” Valrie replies, “Easy, I’ll teach you to fish.” Valtorex shrugs as if to say, “Why not?” Valrie says, “Good. I’ll bring two fishing rods tomorrow. Now, I need to bathe, so if you could…” Valtorex takes the hint and says, “Ok. I need to get going anyway. I only have three hours till Darkwatch and I think I need to study a bit more.” Valrie nods. Valtorex, taking the initiative, (That would be an initiative role of 34 please) moves forward and embraces her. After a moment of shock, she returns the embrace. They stay there for a couple of minutes. They back away, blushing like the night before, and also like the night before, the blush is hidden by the treetops. Valtorex leaves and Valrie bathes.

Valtorex arrives at the Main Hall with about two and a half hours left. He goes to the library and looks through the books until he finds one about mental resistance. He goes to the librarian and has a copy made for twenty gold. He then spends the rest of his time reading the book. When Darkwatch arrives, he goes to the Head Mistress’s office. She is sitting behind her desk and looks up at him. Her brown, slightly graying hair, covers her face. She says, sweetly, “Ah, you have arrived. So, have you brought the letter?” Valtorex replies by pulling an envelope out of his pack and tossing it on the desk. It reads:

Dear Head Mistress,

I know you desire an apology from me and wish my surrender. I have written this letter to inform you of my decision. After consulting with my instructors and fellow students, I have come to the conclusion that your request for an apology and surrender is total bullshit and you can kiss my ass.

Yours truly,

Valtorex

Demere is livid by the time she finishes the letter. She screams, (‘Scuse me?) “You little, arrogant bastard! I’ll have your head for this! You will have detention with me until the end of your days! I suggest you start begging now and you may just see tomorrow.” Valtorex replies, “Go to the Abyss.” (Go to hell loses its impact when translated to D&D terminology. Go to the Abyss sounds more like a crappy vacation commercial) Demere stands abruptly and slaps him as hard as she can. After being slapped by Valrie, he is tempted to laugh. He doesn’t particularly like her, so he does. Next thing he knows, Valtorex’s face is pressed against her desk and the two bodyguards who were standing in the corners are holding him down. (Now is the time to scroll down until you see green if you are weak stomached)

Demere has her guards strip his torso. She pulls the electrified whip out of her desk. She flicks her wrist and Valtorex screams as the metal tip bites into his flesh. The electricity tears through his body and strikes his heart. His heart lurches before slowing to a near stop. Right when his heart returns to normal, Demere strikes him again. Valtorex remembers back to the book he just read and begins chanting his mantra. “Kaeje ona Morte. Kaeje ona Morte. Kaeje ona Morte…” Demere’s eyes take on a cruel gleam. She continues whipping him until he is barely breathing. His back is a road map of cuts from the whip. Demere returns her whip to the desk and pulls out a knife. She goes back to Valtorex, still held down by the guards, and slices across his back. He screams as the blade turns crimson. The wound quickly heals, healing the cut it covered, too. She slices again and a few droplets of blood are sent flying. Once again, the wound heals. She continues slicing into his back with the blade until Valtorex has screamed himself hoarse and blood has splattered onto the table and floor.

She returns to her desk drawer and replaces the knife. She pulls out a hammer and goes back to Valtorex. She has her guards tie him down with his arms spread on the desk. She takes the hammer and smashes his left little finger. She moves on to the next finger and smashes that. She moves from finger to finger on that hand before moving to the next hand. Once she is done with his fingers, she smashes his hands, making sure to break all of the bones in his hands. She moves up his arms, breaking the ulna and then the radius until she reaches the shoulders. Valtorex, already hoarse, can only make moaning sounds as she destroys his skeleton systematically. Once she has crushed his shoulders, she goes down to his feet. She swings the hammer and smashes his ankles. She moves up and shatters his tibula and fibula. She then breaks his femur, but the bindings prevent him from falling. She laughs at his pitiful state.

She returns the hammer to her desk and pulls out a diamond bladed knife. She walks over to him and stabs him in the back to the heart. She leaves the blade in his back and casts a quick spell to keep him alive. She says, “I think you have learned your lesson.” She orders her guards, “Dump him at the Training Grounds. Make sure he survives long enough to serve as an example to the rest.” The guards untie Valtorex and drag him to the Training Ground. They drop him and laugh when they hear his piteous moan. They walk off, leaving him to live or die.

(Alright, you can start reading again. BTY, if you’ve been reading the past few paragraphs, I think you can agree Saw’s got nothing on me) (Just a note, Saw has the added advantage of images, so just try to mentalize what I described, otherwise Saw will win) Hours later, Tyberus arrives and sees a barely living Valtorex. He runs and retrieves the Nurse. The Nurse comes running and sees Valtorex. She quickly begins healing him. Once she has finished healing him, she pulls the knife out of his back and heals that wound. (For those of you who didn’t read: if you had read, you would know what I’m talking about. If you did read: bravo) The knife is stained crimson, permanently. Valtorex rolls over, groaning in pain. The Nurse places the knife in her pouch and goes about restoring Valtorex’s strength. Once he feels like he can move, he forces himself into a sitting position. The Nurse orders, “No straining yourself. You should take the week off.” Valtorex counters, “Will the school take a week off? I doubt it, so no, I won’t either.” Valtorex gets to his feet and staggers over to Tyberus. He says, “I am ready to be trained, sir.” Tyberus nods in approval…just before decking him. As his world goes black, Valtorex briefly wonders why it hurts so much.

Hours later, Valtorex wakes up in his cabin. In the cabin are Valen, Valinor, and Myrstaline. The first thing to come out of his mouth is, “Where’s Valrie?” Valinor replies, “She has a detention with Demere. No reason whatsoever. I think whatever you did last night really pissed her off. She said something about giving her the ‘full treatment’. After seeing what she did to you, I wanted to stop her, but she warned us her guards were ordered to kill any trespassers.” Valtorex gets out of bed and says, “I can’t ask any of you to come with me, but I am going to teach that bitch to stay away from my friends. At this point, I don’t care if I win; I just want her to suffer as much as possible.” Valen quickly says, “I’m in!” Valinor nods and says, “Aye.” Myrstaline says, “I guess you will need someone to heal the wounded.” Valtorex chuckles darkly before saying, “I don’t intend on leaving any wounded, but you’re welcome to join us even so.” The four companions gear up and leave the cabin. Shrouded by the night and illuminated by the moonlight, they march towards the Main Hall. They can hear the screams from over five hundred feet away. Valtorex feels the fire burning within him flare up. He sees two guards standing watch. He motions to Valen, and then the guards. Valen nods and knocks to arrows at once. He draws his bow and releases. The arrows fly directly towards their targets. Each sentry goes down soundlessly, and arrow through their necks. (I could have them throw battleaxes and kill the sentries soundlessly, but I think arrows are a bit more believable)

Valtorex motions the small party forward. They arrive at the Main Halls entrance and move past the dead sentries. Valtorex casts a spell and looks through the door. He sees two guards on the other side of the door. He casts another spell, one he recently learned, to cause one guard to have a heart attack. (I love making stuff up. So much more convenient than following rules) The other guard quickly bends down and checks his comrade. He yells, “Nurse! Healer! Man down!” Valtorex motions to Myrstaline, who wearing her white healer’s robes, opens the door and runs in. The guard quickly explains what happened. Myrstaline tells the guard to fetch the Nurse and the guard complies. As he runs out, he is slowed by a long piece of steel in front of his throat. Slowed, but not stopped. The headless guard falls to the ground and Valtorex steps over the corpse to enter. Valtorex casts a spell of life detection and determines there are only four other people in the building. Assuming one is Demere and one Valrie, he says, “There are only two more guards. There and there. Eliminate them and I’ll take on Demere. As soon as they are gone, get out of here. This is my fight.” They nod, knowing they can’t argue. Valen goes through one door, and Myrstaline and Valinor go through another. Valtorex hears a gasp of surprise from Valen’s room. Moments later, Valen comes out, his longknife dripping with blood.  From Valinor and Myrstaline’s room comes a flash, a sizzle, and a gurgle. Valinor comes out with a bloodied greatsword and Myrstaline looks as if she’s seen a ghost. Valtorex takes it they were successful. He motions them out the door and they run back to their cabins.

Valtorex then draws his swords and walks up to Demere’s office door. He kicks the door down and walks in. He finds Valrie tied to the desk, her back exposed and cut by the electric whip. Valtorex sees Demere come out with the hammer. He yells, “Drop it! Now!” Demere laughs before swinging the hammer down. Valtorex hears the audible crunch as the hammer crushes Valrie’s little finger. Valrie screams in renewed agony. Valtorex charges forward, swords raised and ready to kill. Demere shouts, “Now!” Valtorex feels his arms pulled back by some unbeatable force. He looks over and sees a ring of shadow around his right wrist. The same is on the left. He feels his legs lose movement and looks down to see the bands on his ankles. Demere cackles before saying, “Maybe seeing your sweetheart tortured will make you see reason!” She then performs the same technique she employed on Valtorex the night before. Valrie screams herself hoarse, but to no avail. The only one that can hear her is a helpless as she is.

Valtorex feels his ire rise, but no matter what he tries, the bonds are too strong. He goes through his mind, pouring over every spell. Finally it clicks. He remembers the short incantation Dumblefrog taught him. He says the incantation, and suddenly, a portal appears in front of him. From out of the portal pour frogs, spiders, rats, cats, and pretty much any other pest. They all congregate on Demere, forcing her down with biting and clawing. Finally, Dumblefrog hops out of the portal. He turns to Valtorex and says, “Hello, father. It has been awhile. Do you need help?” Valtorex nods before saying, “Yes.” Dumblefrog casts a spell and the bonds disappear. Valtorex picks up his swords and goes to Demere. Suddenly, a massive burst of magic sends Dumblefrog’s minions flying. Dumblefrog apologizes, “I’m sorry, father, but I can not waste my army on this fight. Good luck.” Then, Dumblefrog and his army retreat through the portal. Demere stands, seething. Valtorex rushes forward and slices Valrie’s bonds. When she stands to fight, Valtorex commands, “Get the hell out of here! I don’t want you to die needlessly!” Valrie retorts, “And what about you? You’ll die needlessly.” Valtorex’s reply is to cast a spell that teleports her to the cabin. Demere says, “So it is you against me. How sad.” Demere then casts a brutal arc of lightning at him. Valtorex tries to block, but the lightning goes around the shield. The lightning hits Valtorex, stunning him.

By the time he can move again, he is (I’m starting to think Mrs. Mitchell wrote the Word Spellcheck program, because it tried to change the “is” to “be”!) (Three cheers for Word! Hip hip hurray! Hip hip WTF! Delete repeated word? I’m praising you and you try to correct me?) once again in bonds. His torso has been stripped. Demere says, “This time, you will not forget who your master is. You will submit and you will always remember it.” She proceeds to brutally torture him, now with spells. By the end of the night, he is bleeding slowly form multiple wounds, his skin is burnt and blistered, his flesh is cooked, and his extremities are frozen. His nervous system is wracked by an incredibly painful, yet nonlethal poison. To enforce her dominance, Demere pulls a brand out of her desk and uses magic to heat it. She presses the brand into his flesh, burning a large ‘D’ on top of her personal seal, over his heart. Valtorex passes out and Demere leaves him at the Training Ground.

The next morning, Tyberus arrives and, once again, finds Valtorex. He is furious when he sees Demere’s symbol burned into his flesh. He is surprised when the Nurse comes along without being sent for. She goes over to Valtorex and begins healing him. She finds that she cannot remove the brand. Valtorex sits up halfway through treatment and screams in rage. Just then, Demere comes along, carrying a katana. (Any weapon goes, even Japanese ones) Demere orders, “Get up!” The brand on Valtorex’s chest shines with a hellish glow. He screams in pain as the brand burns his very heart. He gets to his feet and the pain subsides. Demere chuckles before saying, “Very effective. Maybe I will brand every student.” Valtorex yells, “Just try it. I dare you.” Demere orders, “Get on your knees before me.” The brand glows and the burning drives him to move forward and kneel before her. (This will come into play often) Demere says, “Good boy. Just obey me and you won’t feel the pain. Now surrender to me.” The brand burns his chest, but Valtorex draws his mental line. Tyberus steps forward, his anger bubbling over. Demere sees this and says to him, “Remember, I control whether you come back next year or not. I suggest you stay out of my way or your tenure just might end.” Demere then looks down at Valtorex, who is still struggling against the pain. She commands, “Surrender or die. That burning will destroy your heart if you do not submit.” Valtorex (Come on, guess what he says) replies, through clenched teeth, “Kaeje…ona…Morte.” Demere is furious. She yells, “So you want to be an Elite? Well then, you will die like an Elite!” Demere brings her sword to bear. The razor-edged katana slices through his chest, leaving a long, bloody gash. Valtorex grunts at the pain.

At about that time, Valinor shows up. He sees Demere’s attack on Valtorex and charges forward. As he sprints towards her, he draws his greatsword. Demere brings her katana to Valtorex’s throat and commands Valinor, “Stay back.” Valinor stops in mid run and backs up. Silvanos and Rogard arrive. Demere presses the katana into Valtorex’s flesh and says, “Surrender.” Valtorex laughs through the pain and the dizziness from blood loss. He says, “I’m going to die anyway. I might as well die with honor.” Demere yells, “I’m sick of you defying me! You will submit, just like all of the others! I demand it!” Valtorex takes advantage of her distraction and plunges the Knife of the Ancestors into her gut. Demere backs away, eyes wide in shock. The Nurse runs forward and Demere is reassured by the fact she won’t die. To her surprise, instead of healing Demere, the Nurse blasts Demere with a wave of magic and heals Valtorex. Demere feels the blade forced deeper into her as she is forced back through the air. Valtorex exhales a sigh of relief as the pain from the brand subsides and the gash on his chest is healed. Valinor interposes himself between Demere and Valtorex. Demere struggles to her feet and tries to yank the knife free. When she touches the hilt, a bright flash of light bursts forth from it and she screams in pain. When her vision returns, she sees that her hand is badly burned. Valtorex stands and not knowing why, motions to the knife. The knife flies out of Demere, cutting her even more, and soars straight into his open palm. Demere’s eyes flash in rage. She abruptly turns and stalks off, her hand over the wound in her gut. Valtorex returns the Knife of the Ancestors to his belt. Tyberus says, “Valtorex, if you keep this up, you won’t last through the year.” Valtorex replies, “If I keep this up, she won’t either.” Tyberus says, “Still, take the day off. I’ll write to the rest of your instructors. You’re of no use to the Empire dead.” (Who knows, I may write a book about Valtorex the Lich, but then he’d be a FredJ) Valtorex asks, “Is that an order?” Tyberus replies, “Only if it needs to be.” Valtorex shrugs and says, “Very well, sir. I will take the day off, but only because I am under orders.”

Valtorex turns to leave, and Silvanos taunts, “Oh, is the baby running away after a little whipping?” Valtorex turns and his eyes flare up. He asks, his voice full of steely resolve, “Permission to kick his ass, sir?” Tyberus, thinking it will do him good, responds, “Permission granted. Cripple, don’t kill.” Valtorex says, “Thank you.” Valtorex draws his swords and charges Silvanos. Silvanos draws his rapier quickly, but not quickly enough. Valtorex slaps Silvanos across the cheek with his lightning sword, causing Silvanos to jump back in shock. Valtorex presses the attack and burns Silvanos’s wrist, forcing him to drop his sword. Valtorex places the blazing edge of his sword at Silvanos’s throat and says, “Remember this. Even at my worst, I can beat you at your best.” Silvanos backs away, his hands in front of him, as if to ward off any blows.  Valtorex decides to bear with it and spends the class training with Rogard and Valinor.

At the end of the period, Valtorex goes to the Glade and meets Arianna. She says, “You are injured, apprentice. It was Demere, was it not?” Valtorex replies, “Yes, it was.” Arianna asks, “What did she do this time?” Valtorex replies by exposing his chest. Arianna’s eyes widen briefly as she sees the mark. She then says, “Ok. Well, you will be carrying that for the rest of your life. Now you need to move on.” Valtorex is pissed that she is dismissing this so easily, but out of respect, he says nothing. She continues, “For the next month, I will teach you how to fight.” They spend that period sparring and Valtorex leaves bruised and exhausted. (We’ll be moving a lot faster for the rest of the chapter)

Valtorex arrives at the Tower of the Arcane. He meets Myrstaline and they go in together. Rōdenthall is waiting for them. He says, “Today and every day for the next month, we will be learning about battle magic. Let’s begin.” They spend that class period discussing the various spells reliant upon electricity and their applications. After multiple demonstrations and a lot of charred furniture, the four students are dismissed to their fourth period classes. Valtorex and Myrstaline part, Myrstaline still ignorant of Valtorex’s wound.

Valtorex arrives at the Hall of Trials. He sees Lord Kemos waiting for him. Lord Kemos asks, “Is it true what they’re saying? That you, Valen, and Valinor launched a strike on the office to get Valrie?” Valtorex responds, “No, of course not. That would be against the rules. Everyone knows I am the only one that attacked, and therefore the punishment is mine alone. Feel free to pass that up the chain.” Lord Kemos says, “It is honorable for you to accept the blame for your entire team.” Valtorex replies, “I lead the raid, it is my responsibility.” Lord Kemos nods. He then asks, “So, how were you punished?” Valtorex answers by showing him the brand mark. Lord Kemos is astonished. He stammers out, “She…she…branded you? But…that…that’s been illegal for one-thousand years!” Valtorex asks, “Why? It wasn’t that painful.” Lord Kemos, his normal cool headedness returning replies,  “It’s not the branding that’s illegal; it’s the control it allows.” Valtorex nods in sudden understanding. By that time, Valinor, Valen, and Valrie have arrived. Lord Kemos says, “Well, for the rest of the year, you will be learning counter-siege techniques.” (Try to piece together what happens in the next, oh shall we say, three chapters) They spend the rest of the day learning about the weak points on various siege engines. When class is almost over, a messenger arrives informing Valtorex he has detention with Demere that night. Valtorex, having had almost no sleep in the past three days, decides he will spend a few hours meditating after he is done with Myrstaline.

He goes to the Glade and finds Myrstaline waiting. She says, out of the blue, “I don’t know how you can stand it. She only cut me for a while; the rest was just threats and some slapping. She tortures you for eight hours at a time. How do you not go insane or die?” (Valtorex replies, “We all need a better dialogue writer. Jeff can not handle more than three personalities at a time, including his own.”) (And Ian interjects, “Jeff, stop talking to yourself as Valtorex, unless you want to seem schizophrenic.”) (I’m not talking to myself, the red is. And I’m not schizo, just too lazy to be creative with personalities. BTY, 3^rd person, very schizo) Valtorex replies, “It’s because I hate her so much the pain doesn’t really get to me.”  Myrstaline says, “But I hate her too. It doesn’t make it hurt any less.” Valtorex just shrugs before saying, “No idea. Just so you know, I haven’t slept much in the past three days. Do you think we could take today off so I can rest?” Myrstaline says, “Fine by me. You need the rest. I just have one question. Why haven’t you surrendered yet? I mean, I surrendered within the first twenty minutes.”

Valtorex responds, after some thought, “Remember the Fear Stalkers earlier this year? Well, when we fought them, I swore to live my life to fight those who prey upon the fear of others. Demere is one of those, and thus I am sworn to fight her.” (Crusade timeJ) Myrstaline says, “That sounds like a noble cause. I think I want to join it.” Valtorex counters, “No you don’t. If you wanted to join it, you wouldn’t think, you would know. I don’t think you have the resolve to do it.” Myrstaline, hurt, yells, “Yes I do! I have more resolve than you’ll ever have!” Valtorex sternly challenges, “Prove it. Next time you end up with a detention from Demere, don’t quit just because it hurts. Fight till your last breath. Then you can consider yourself worthy of having a cause.” Myrstaline is on the verge of tears, but she stands straight and faces him directly. She says, “Fine, I accept your challenge. Make sure your resolve can last. Goodbye.” Myrstaline turns and leaves, letting the tears fall. Valtorex can feel her distress, but he holds back his instinctive drive to help. He realizes that her being angry with him is good. Those who like him get hurt.

He tries to meditate, but the look of pain on Myrstaline’s face drives away all peace he can find. He eventually gives up and devotes himself fully to study. Hours later, Valrie arrives. He senses her coming up and leaves before she can see him. He goes to the library and reads for four hours. At the strike of the clock, he goes to Demere’s office. She is waiting for him and says, “Valtorex, you have denied my power for too long. I’m tired of this game. From now on, you will obey me. I may not be able to break you, but I can cycle your friends through here until eventually one of them breaks. Once I get one, the others will be easier to take down. Now of course, if you just submit to my will, that won’t be necessary. So what will it be? Your friends suffering on your behalf for years, or you swallowing your pride?” Valtorex replies, “If you lay a hand on my friends, I will kill you in a very excruciating way. As for swallowing my pride, that’s not the problem. The problem is I’ve sworn to fight those who are too cowardly to fight fairly.” Demere summons the rings to hold him in place. In her fury, she does not notice the smile of triumph on Valtorex’s face as she pulls out the knife.

His schedule falls into a groove. His mornings are spent with Tyberus training at melee, and Arianna studying combat in general. His afternoons involve Battle magic with Rōdenthall and counter siege tactics with Lord Kemos. He continues meditation training with Myrstaline, but they are nowhere near as close as they once were. Every night, Demere tortures him, but he still does not break. He spends weeks avoiding Valrie at night, but eventually the unavoidable happens. Valrie confronts Valtorex one night. She starts off with, “Where in the Abyss have you been? I’ve only seen you in class for the past few weeks! I want the truth and I want it now!” Valtorex sighs, bracing himself for the long talk he knows is coming. He says, “I’ve been avoiding you because I don’t want you to get hurt. The closer you are to me, the more likely you are to be a target for Demere. If we keep seeing each other, we are bound to become very close, which is likely to make you very dead. I would like for you to leave me alone, and please tell the others to do the same. My war with Demere is mine alone.” Valrie is no longer hurt by Valtorex avoiding her. She’s furious. She demands, “Why didn’t you think to ask me first before deciding this? Don’t you think I should have a say in whether or not we stop seeing each other?” Valtorex replies, “I didn’t ask because, frankly, you have no business telling me what to do. Sure, we may have had something a few weeks ago, but now, I see I was foolish to think I could ever have a human relationship. I am a warrior. My life is a mad killing spree to the grave. The fewer people that like me, the fewer to grieve when the inevitable occurs.”

Valrie says, her voice soft and heavy with sadness, “I will still grieve, no matter what you do to try to stop me.” Valtorex laughs at the irony. He then says, “Amazing. Normally I’m the one who tells people they can’t stop me. You are so much like me it’s scary.” Valrie feels the shift back to normalcy and decides to join in to try to push her momentary advantage. She jokes, “Oh no! Me like you! That’s horrible to even think of!” Valtorex laughs, for the second time that month. The laughter is heartfelt, for the first time in six years. They talk for hours, just discussing what they’ve missed in each other’s lives. In the distance, the clock strikes Darkwatch. Valrie jumps up from the log they had occupied and exclaims, “You have to go! You’ll be late!” Valtorex gets up and pulls Valrie close. He says, “Screw her. You’re so much more important.” (I think I’m going to vomit. It may be trying to type on a moving car in the dark, but it’s probably the romance) They stand there in each other’s arms for several minutes. Finally, Valtorex realizes they have to break it off before Demere starts looking for him, so he pats her on the back and lets her go. He says, “Now I can go. I’ll see you tomorrow.” As he is turning to leave, she stops him and kisses him on the cheek. (Ah! My heart is starting to warm a bit! I need liquid nitrogen!) Valtorex kisses her on the cheek in return before running off. (No, I do not have the romantic knowledge of a kindergartener. It’s just that teens on (Insert name of planet, thank you very much) don’t have the reproductive drive of rabbits or at least have the self-control to wait until their parents arrange a marriage) (Curse you, you grammar obsessed psycho! I’s can sez whatever I wants and you ain’t gonna stop me! It isn’t on, it’s in! Muahahaha!)

Valtorex arrives at Demere’s office to find her fuming. She demands, “What in the Abyss took you so long?” Valtorex replies, no hint of emotion showing, “Just wanted to remind you I hold little stock in your authority, miss.” Demere practically roars, (‘Scuse me?”) “Miss! How dare you? I am the Head Mistress! I am to be respected and feared! You will bleed for your insolence!” Valtorex, emboldened by his time with Valrie, laughs in her face before returning, “Whatever you say, little missy. If you want to have a temper tantrum, don’t let me stop you.” (Ooh, looks like someone’s getting a timeout) Demere screams, “I’ll have your head you little conceited bastard!” Valtorex, knowing he’ll pay dearly, and yet, not caring, replies, “Shut up, you stupid, incompetent bitch of an administrator.”  (Even in the real world, a student world probably be decapitated for saying that) Demere is ruthless that night.

The next day, Valtorex goes to Valrie, and she tries to teach him how to fish. He quickly becomes frustrated and levitates some fish out of the water. Valrie shakes her head before saying, “It’s not about the fish. It’s about the wait. It gives you time to muse and just relax.” Valtorex counters, “What’s the point in sitting around doing nothing? Aren’t there enemies to fight or battle to win? I should be training, not trying to catch fish.” Valrie counters back, “But on the battlefield, you wouldn’t be able to be with me.” Valtorex smiles a bit and says, “True enough. Alright, I’ll give it a try.”

The strict regimen of training continues for another month. Valrie and Valtorex continue meeting at night, and Valtorex and Myrstaline even restore their friendship. One day, Myrstaline tries to kiss Valtorex again, but Valtorex stops her. When he sees the confusion in her eyes, he says, “I’m sorry, but I can’t. I love you, but as a friend and even a sister. My heart must go to Valrie, but I still care about you. I’m sorry, but we just can’t have a romantic relationship right now. I still want to be friends, but that’s it.” (And the choice is made) Myrstaline feels the tears coming forth, but she controls herself. Just then, Demere comes up flanked by two bodyguards. Demere says, “Myrs’line, you have detention. Now!” Myrstaline’s eyes widen in fear. Valtorex turns on Demere and says, “No, she doesn’t.” Demere shoots him a glare that would cause most to shrink back. He moves forward, his hands on his swords. Valtorex continues, “By the way, her name is Myrs-ta-line. Try to remember that.” Demere is livid. She yells, “You may defy me, but I will not have you undermining my rule over the other students! Guards! Seize him!” The two guards move forward, swords drawn. Valtorex says, challenge in his eyes, “You know those six guards that were killed in a student raid? Guess who did that.” The guards, like true soldiers of Draconia, continue their movement towards him, but they are more wary now. Demere screams, “Charge you idiots! Rush him and take him down!” The guards swallow hard, but follow orders. With a yell, they charge. Within seconds, they are both unconscious on the ground. Valtorex, breathing easily, says, “Leave her alone.” Demere smiles cruelly and says, “Subdue the elf.” Valtorex feels the brand burning hot. He struggles and fights with it for several minutes, and soon, he is on his knees and the leather over his chest has begun smoking. Demere demands, “Seize her now!” The burning is renewed in fury. Moments later, the brand has burnt through the leather and an acrid smell has filled the grove. Valtorex feels the pain overtaking his senses and slowly destroying him. In his last seconds of consciousness, and possibly life, he says one word that carries far more power than the most eloquent speech, “No.” He then falls face down as the brand’s fire overwhelms his nervous system.

Demere laughs evilly as she kicks Valtorex’s unconscious form. Demere then says, “You’re coming with me, elf. If you behave yourself, then you might return.” Myrstaline’s response is to blast her out of the Glade with a furious wave of light. Demere strikes a tree with a sickening crunch. She slumps to the ground and sits dazed for several moments. When her vision finally settles, she gets up. She notes that her arm is broken and one of her legs is wounded. She staggers back to her office. Myrstaline has already started healing Valtorex. That night, Valtorex is punished more severely than usual for his rebellion.

School marches on another month and midterms are fast approaching. Valtorex sets up a program where he, Myrstaline, Valrie, Valen, and Valinor meet in the library two hours after fourth period and study for six hours. They often do more messing around than training, but at least they become closer. (Sorry I’m going so fast, this is going to be an <ahem> 11 chapter book, and I’m on Ch.3, in year one of 5, so I have to skip ahead a bit) Valtorex and Valrie don’t have much time for the intimate moments they shared before, but they still build their friendship. Then one night, Valinor has to go and have his armor repaired, so he can’t show up for the study. Valen needs to buy more arrows, so he is at the armory. Myrstaline was called in by the Healer’s School to treat a mishap at the Tower of the Arcane that hospitalized nearly twenty students. This leaves Valrie and Valtorex alone. Valrie points out that they are alone. Valtorex points out they have nothing to study for. In moments, they are out the door and in the forest, heading towards the Glade. They arrive at the Glade and Valrie digs out their fishing rods. They sit together and cast out their lines. (Of course, it’s not about the fish, otherwise they might just think about using bait) They spend a few hours sitting there, talking and just enjoying being together. With about an hour left, Valtorex looks over and sees Valrie looking at him. He sees her lips part slightly and he leans forward. They spend several moments kissing, but then Valtorex feels a tug on his fishing rod. (Originally rod. I think you guys can guess why I changed it) Valtorex sees a fish biting on his line. He sighs and pulls back. He then yanks the fish out of the water and bludgeons it to death. This kills the mood for Valrie, (Can you blame her?) and they sink into an uncomfortable silence, thinking about the moment they just shared. (Don’t know whether to curse or praise that fishJ) Their time together ends and he goes to Demere. (He has three women in his life. One to get wounds for, one to inflict the wounds, and one to heal the wounds. You figure it out)

Midterms arrive and they begin cramming furiously. (Those of you who were put off by all that romantic crap, don’t worry, the next pages are chock full of magic and steel) The day of midterms is upon them, and they have one night left. They spend it practicing for their various classes against each other. On the day of midterms, Valtorex almost doesn’t wake up. Demere was dead set on killing him or at least hurting him so much he’d fail. She may have succeeded. Tyberus says, “Today, you will be fighting. You will be graded on a scale of one to ten. For every match you win, you will get a one-point bonus. First, it will be Valinor against Silvanos and Valtorex against Rogard. Two fourth year students judging. One will judge one match and one will judge the other. You will be allotted one hour for the first match.” They break off into pairs. Valtorex gets the student judge, who introduces himself as Garrow Dragonblood.

Rogard and Valtorex pair off. Garrow stands, ready to intervene if necessary. Rogard pulls his greataxe off his back and Valtorex draws his swords. They begin circling each other, looking for a weakness. Suddenly, Rogard charges, swinging his axe with all of might. His stocky dwarven frame allows the buildup of a massive amount of force. Valtorex blocks with both swords, but is staggered and nearly falls down. Valtorex quickly recovers and springs at him. Rogard blocks one sword, but the other sword gets through and cuts him. The lighting is barely noticed by the hardy dwarf. (Dwarven magic resistance. Fireball? What fireball?) Rogard swings his axe around above his head, driving Valtorex back. Valtorex knows he cannot lose and charges into the steel whirlwind of death. He uses his left sword to hit the axe in the haft. He is forced to drop his left sword, but he scores a solid hit with his right, the fire singing Rogard’s tunic. Rogard swings his axe whilst [Ah a remotely ME (Middle English) word warms my heart J] (Why the boxing? BTY, I’m almost tempted to change it to while, just for spite. Viva la comma!) jumping forward. Valtorex is forced back. Rogard takes the offensive and begins pushing Valtorex towards the edge of the ring. Valtorex feels his foot hit open air and knows he will go off if he retreats any more. He plants his feet defiantly and raises his swords. He tenses his legs as he prepares to spring. Rogard swings the axe and strikes Valtorex’s guard. Valtorex springs forward at the moment of impact, knocking Rogard off balance. Valtorex presses forward, driving Rogard back until he reaches the edge. He sees the desperate look in Rogard’s eyes and leaves himself open to attack. Rogard, too worried about winning to question his luck, takes the opening and lunges forward, his axe coming down from above his head. Valtorex dodges to the side and winds up behind Rogard. He places the tip of his sword at Rogard’s back and says, “That’s match.”

Garrow commands, “Once more.” Valtorex nods and withdraws the blade. Rogard and Valtorex face off again. They bow to each other and stand straight. Garrow nods his approval. Valtorex charges with a yell and Rogard follows suit. They meet with a clash of steel. Valtorex jumps back as Rogard’s superior strength comes into play. Valtorex circles around him, always countering Rogard’s attacks. Rogard soon grows fatigued and Valtorex strikes. Rogard gets his axe up in time to block, but he is forced to stumble back. Rogard loses his grip on his axe with one hand and it falls to his side. Valtorex recovers quickly and drives forward. Rogard cannot bring his axe up in time and quickly finds himself with Valtorex’s swords crossed at his neck.

Garrow says, “Alright, I will give Rogard a seven, aiming down. Valtorex gets a nine, aiming up. Let us wait until the next round.” The next round arrives. Valtorex finds he has a dark elf judge and he is fighting Valinor. The dark elf introduces herself as Zilandra. She says, “I expect a good, bloody fight. Begin.” Valinor draws his greatsword, the acid flying off in small droplets. (I’m assuming he has some sort of special harness or something) Valtorex draws his swords. They bow to each other. Zilandra makes a mental note to dock a point from each of them for it. They charge each other and steel meets steel. (BTY, a decent song) They stand there for several minutes, slashing at each other. Sparks and acid fly. Back and forth, they slash and stab. Their blades clang and clatter as they fight for supremacy. Valinor brings his sword down on Valtorex, but Valtorex raises his crossed blades to stop it. The acid drops down onto his face, causes him to grunt. His concentration nearly wavers, but he goes on. He forces Valinor back and they keep up the fight. Zilandra watches this, hoping someone will slip up and die. Valtorex loses his footing and goes off balance. Valinor presses the advantage, and after some weak blocks, Valtorex ends up with Valinor’s blade against his throat. Valtorex nods and backs away.

Zilandra demands, “Another.” They bow, and once again Zilandra notes to dock their points. They rise and charge. Valtorex jumps this time, deciding to go all out. Valinor brings his blade up, but he miscalculates and the tip scrapes the ground, slowing it. (No, that isn’t it) He does manage to get it up, but Valtorex’s attack causes him to stagger back. Valinor rushes forward after recovering. Valtorex jumps to the side and ends up behind him. Valinor turns abruptly and swings. Valtorex ducks below the slashing adamantium blade. Once the blade has passed over him, he jumps up. Valinor has already brought his blade back and strikes Valtorex in the chest. Valtorex, however, has crossed his swords at Valinor’s neck.

Zilandra yells, “Again!” Valtorex and Valinor back up. They face each other and bow. Zilandra is very annoyed at this point. If she followed a god, she would pray that they die. They stand up and charge. They meet and they slam their blades against each other. Sparks, flares, little lightning arc, and acid are sent flying. Both of them stagger back from the blow. Valtorex is the first to recover and jumps to the side, rolling and coming up behind him. Valinor turns in time to block Valtorex’s attack. Valinor pushes forward, forcing Valtorex back. Valtorex quickly finds himself at the edge of the ring. Valtorex is forced to make a desperate attack, but fate is with him and his attack forces Valinor back. Valtorex presses the attack, eventually pinning Valinor at the edge of the ring. He keeps Valinor pinned, waiting for his move. It comes when Valinor swings and over-extends himself. With one kick, Valtorex sends Valinor falling out of the ring.

Valtorex sheathes his swords and reaches down to Valinor. He lifts Valinor up and helps him onto the ring. Zilandra comes over and says, “I give Valtorex a 2 going down and Valinor a 1, going down.” Valinor’s eyes widen a bit, but he says nothing. Valtorex does not have that good sense. He challenges, “Why the low scores?” Zilandra retorts, “You are now 1 going down. The low scores were for the pompous actions, the inferior combat, the failure to kill your foes, and that insubordinate attitude.” Valtorex clenches his fists, but just then, Tyberus comes along and says, “It’s time for the last round. It will be Valinor against Rogard for the first half, then Valtorex against Silvanos.”

The first round of finals begins and Valinor draws his sword as Rogard hefts his axe. They salute each other before charging. Rogard jumps as he swings the axe up from below him. Valinor brings his sword down. The blades smash into each other, piercing the air with a sharp clash. They keep fighting both determined to win. They fight and fight, both taking minor wounds, but neither stopping. It ends when Tyberus commands, “Stop! We will now decide.” The two warriors stop and bow to each other before backing away. Garrow starts. He says, “8 going up for Valinor, 7 going up for Rogard.” Zilandra inputs, “3 going down for Valinor and 2 going down for Rogard.” Tyberus says, “I think I’ll abide by Garrow’s decision on this one.” Zilandra huffs and says, “Fine, go ahead.” Tyberus turns on her and threatens, “Learn some respect, girl, or you’ll find yourself a scullery maid in a week.” Zilandra bows and apologizes.

The next fight is Valtorex against Silvanos. Tyberus warns, “Don’t make a mockery of this fight. If you use magic, I will not restrict Valtorex.” Silvanos snidely remarks, “In a straight out magic fight, I would win anyway.” Valtorex counters, “History does not support you on that.” Silvanos’s face goes red before he yells, “Let’s just start the match.” Valtorex replies, “Fine by me.” Tyberus says, “Very well. Begin when you are ready.” Silvanos and Valtorex face off. Valtorex bows, and Silvanos rushes him. Silvanos flashes across the ring and kicks him in the jaw as he rises. Valtorex is sent falling back. Silvanos whips out his blade and presses it against Valtorex’s chest. Valtorex draws his sword. Silvanos presses the tip of his blade into Valtorex, piercing the leather. Valtorex continues drawing his sword and bashes the point away. Silvanos stabs in and the momentum from Valtorex’s blade cuts a gash in Valtorex’s chest. Valtorex rolls and gets up. Silvanos protests, “I won! You can’t get back up!” Tyberus yells, “You cheated. He has every right to kill you, bastard!” Valtorex presses the attack, only holding his flaming sword. Silvanos is forced back, startled by Valtorex’s fury. Their blades flash and clash, Valtorex’s momentum driving Silvanos back. Valtorex finally jumps back and draws his other sword. Silvanos presses forward to try to strike at Valtorex, but he is quickly forced back. Valtorex presses the attack, driving Silvanos towards the edge. Valtorex brings his left blade down on Silvanos, but Silvanos blocks. With a word, a massive pulse of energy from his blade causes Valtorex’s sword to fly out of his grasp. Silvanos then brings his sword back around and slashes into the momentarily stunned Valtorex’s chest.

Valtorex staggers back, clutching his chest. Silvanos jumps forward, steel flashing through the air. Valtorex brings his sword up, just to have it knocked aside. Valtorex is forced back, his sword being knocked to the side again and again. Each time, he brings it up in time to stop Silvanos’s attack. He feels his strength fleeing through his fingers with his blood. Valtorex casts a spell that cauterizes the wound and stops the blood flow. He then focuses fully on blocking. Silvanos’s momentum and superior speed give him an edge over Valtorex, and soon, Valtorex has reached the edge of the ring. Silvanos backs up, and with his blade angled out horizontal the ground in his right hand, and his left in front of and above his head. He begins chanting the words to a curse that will rip Valtorex’s torso to pieces from the inside out. Valtorex looks to Tyberus, who gives a nearly imperceptible nod. Valtorex looks at Silvanos and his face takes on the resoluteness of one prepared to die to win. He brings his sword up and bashes aside Silvanos’s. He continues his mad drive and slashes at Silvanos’s chest. Silvanos jumps back with a barely visible charring of his black robes. Valtorex presses on, battering aside Silvanos’s futile blocks. Silvanos, now on the defensive, lets the words of the spell slip out of his mind as he focuses on staying alive. Silvanos does not notice it, but Valtorex is muttering the words of a lethal spell he recently learned. Silvanos, not expecting any attack they haven’t been taught in class, is greatly surprised when he feels his internal organs begin burning painfully. He faintly recalls the spell and how Rōdenthall taught him to counter it. He keeps blocking, every movement taking considerable effort, and dispels the spell. (It’s lethal because if Silvanos hadn’t dispelled it, his organs would have kept burning till they cooked themselves) Valtorex keeps up his attack, not letting Silvanos regain his footing. Unfortunately, Silvanos does regain his ground and, with a word, paralyzes Valtorex. He then casts various enchantments to ensure the spell holds, to nullify Valtorex’s spellcasting ability, heighten his senses, and sap his strength. Valtorex feels his sword grow heavy in his hand, and he lets it fall. He nearly falls himself, but he finds his body is held up by some invisible force.

Silvanos then begins walking around him, lashing out and making shallow cuts. He begins talking, his voice cold and cruel. He says, “Finally, I can teach you some respect.” He slices into Valtorex’s back. Valtorex does not give him the pleasure of a scream. Silvanos continues, “You know, I actually thought you would make a good mage.” Another slash follows. “But when I saw how you protect the girl, I realized you are just another pathetic fool.” Another slice. “When Rōdenthall ordered me to do everything I could to hurt you, I was overjoyed.” Slice. “When I got to think about it, I realized it would be fun to test my skills against one such as myself.” Slash. “After all, you are the golden boy of this year.” Slash. “Everything just falls into your lap.” Slash, slash. “I wasn’t so lucky. I’ve had to work so hard and sacrifice so much just to get where I am.” Slash. His face takes on a scowl and his voice becomes more of an angry growl. Zilandra is caught up in bloodlust while Tyberus is furious, but too proud to interfere, and Garrow is ready to kill Silvanos himself but wants to give Valtorex a chance. “You know, I had a girl like that.” Slash. “I loved her so much I would die for her.” Slash. “Then I was told to kill her or fail.” Slash. “Within a day, I presented her bleeding heart to Rōdenthall.” Slash. “Since you won’t be able to, I think I’ll do the same thing to your girl, or should I say girls?” Slash, slash. “I kind of like the human though. Perhaps I’ll offer to spare her life in exchange for some, shall we say, favors. What do you think about that?” Slash, slash, slash. “That bleeding heart Myrstaline, I’ll have my fun with, but then I’ll dispose of her.” Slash. “The human I’ll keep for awhile.” Slash. “Then maybe I’ll move on to the barbarian and the archer.” Slash. “I bet the archer will jump high when I stick him.” Slash. “The barbarian won’t be too much fun. I’ll have to bleed him quick.” Slash, slash. “Of course, I could always present Myrstaline to Demere.” Slash. “I bet she would love a new toy to practice on.” Valtorex feels his consciousness slipping away from the loss of blood, but instead of dimming with his mind, his anger burns hotter. He feels his concentration break for the first time in months, and an ancient being full of rage, hatred, and fire emerges. Silvanos keeps cutting and asks, “So, how is the human? Oh, no answer? Oh well, I guess I’ll find out tonight. You don’t mind, do you?”

Silvanos’s heart skips a few beats when Valtorex replies, his voice full of demonic rage and immortal fury, “I think you should run as far away as you can, you drasked bastard! I will enjoy destroying you and seeing your soul burn in the Abyss! Now, join me in my fire!” (The balrog is back) The spells chaining him are now broken as he roars out his fury. His eyes are blazing with fury and his wounds are bleeding fire. In his hands, longswords made of pure flame appear. Silvanos backs away, eyes wide in fear, heart racing. He casts spell after spell at the balrog controlled Valtorex, but they all strike him and dissipate with no effect. As Valtorex is about to reach him, Silvanos teleports away. Valtorex roars and tosses down his swords. He reaches out a hand. He reaches through time and space, his fury enough to force through the currents of magic. His hand curls around Silvanos’s ankle and rips him back into the Material Plane. Valtorex tosses Silvanos down and hears a satisfying snap as his bones break. Valtorex raises his hands and the two swords appear. They merge into one and he swings down. An outside hand reaches out and pulls Silvanos back into the currents of magic, teleporting him far, far away. Valtorex, enraged even more by his prey escaping, slams his sword into the ground time and time again. The stone cracks and shatters. He grows hotter and hotter until the stone below him begins melting. He roars as he begins sinking into the molten rock. With a final roar and downward swing, a massive blast centering around him is released. The blast vaporizes the stone, leaving a crater where he stood. Before the dust even settles, Garrow, Valinor, Zilandra, Rogard, and Tyberus run forward to see the damage.

What they see amazes them. They see Valtorex, his armor burnt away, lying in the center of the crater. He lifts his head, and asks, “What happened?” Zilandra, a killer at heart, doesn’t look away as he gets to his feet. Valtorex notes his nakedness and says, “Damn, I lost my weapons. Good thing I took my pack off.” They are astonished as a portal opens behind Valtorex and a chest falls out. Valtorex turns and sees the chest. He kneels down and opens it. Inside are: four daggers, a knife a staff, two crossbows, and two hundred bolts, all of which look as if they are made of living flame. There is also a sanguine robe, a black hardened leather suit, legs, arm guards, boots, and cuirass, and a plate body that appears to be made of the same living flame as the weapons. He says, “A gift from the balrog.” before putting on the leather armor, then the robe, then the plate body. He puts the weapons on to replace the old ones, although he notices the lack of his special knife and his swords. As he is moving, his foot hits something in the dust. He bends down and finds the Knife of The Ancestors, completely unscathed. He replaces it, the climbs out of the crater with Valinor’s help. He goes over and retrieves his swords. The judging begins.

Garrow says, “Straight up ten. Going up, of course.” Tyberus says, “I’ll go nine, going up, too.” Zilandra says, her voice wavering a bit, “I have to say three, going down. He barely did anything but bleed everywhere and destroy part of the ring.” Valtorex says, “You gave me low scores in the last match too. Either you are incredibly hard to please, or you have a vendetta against Valinor and I.” Zilandra counters, “I just hold you to a higher standard. Is that wrong?” Tyberus says, “If I recall, you gave Silvanos a 10, going up.” She then says, “That is my ruling and I stand by it.” Tyberus is about to speak when Valtorex says, “Very well. If you are just holding me to a higher standard, then I must assume it is the standard you hold yourself to.” Zilandra nods and says, “That is right.” Valtorex then continues, “Then I challenge you to prove it.” Garrow interjects, “Valtorex, you don’t know her! I can’t beat her half the time! What chance do you have?” Zilandra glares at Garrow and says, “The challenge has been made. We do not have enough time now, but at a time Sir Tyberus deems appropriate, we will fight to the death.” Tyberus sighs before saying, “Very well.” Class ends. Valtorex goes to the Glade and meets Arianna. She says, “Welcome, apprentice. Your midterm exam will consist of an oral test about the Draconic Empire, and a practical test against me. First question, ‘What is the Draconic Knighthood’s battle-cry?’” Valtorex answers, “Kai Zanaria, Kai Manäïen, Kai Kaeje.” Arianna nods. She then asks, “And what is its purpose?” Valtorex replies, “To protect and serve the Empire and its people from threats both internal and external.” She then asks, “And who does a Draconic Knight answer to?” Valtorex replies, “No one but his direct superiors and the gate keeper of the Abyss.” Arianna asks him several more questions before she seems satisfied.

“Now for the practical test. Your task is to land a blow. I noticed your new armor and weapons. I hope they are as good as they look.” Arianna summons a shaft of blood-red light. She spins it around in her hands. It moves through the air like it doesn’t even have weight. Valtorex draws his staff and attacks. She knocks him back without effort. The staff may move like it’s insubstantial, but it doesn’t feel like it. Valtorex attacks again and again, each time he is forced back without landing a single blow. After several hours, Arianna commands, “Stop. Your time is up.”  Valtorex drops his staff, feeling the despair that can only come with failure. Arianna notices this and says, “Don’t worry, you passed.” Valtorex, drenched in sweat from nearly four hours straight of combat after the combat from before, looks up, surprised. Arianna clarifies, “The point of the test wasn’t to hit me. It was to try until time ran out. If that was a battle, sure you wouldn’t have won, but you would have just taken the enemy commander out of the battle for hours. It was a test of loyalty and dedication, and it is my belief you have both in abundance. I am glad to say you will continue on in this course.” (If you fail the midterm, you’re kicked out of the course and have to retake it the following year) Valtorex leaves and goes to third.

Valtorex arrives at the Tower of the Arcane to find Rōdenthall waiting for him. He is holding Myrstaline, bound, up by the hair. He says, “Ah, good, you have arrived. Dethos and Zethos should be here shortly.” As he speaks, the brothers walk up. They see Myrstaline and laugh. Rōdenthall says, “Ok, the midterm is to sacrifice a mortal to summon a demon. Valtorex will go first. The sacrifice will be this elf. You must remove her heart and place it on the pedestal in the Summoning Room. You will then chant the words of a spell I will give you.” Rōdenthall speaks in the incoherent language of Archon and they teleport to the Summoning Room. Myrstaline is on her knees, her arms in chains connected to the floor. Rōdenthall hands Valtorex a knife and says, “Do the job or you will fail the class.” (Just so you know, I shouldn’t be pigeonholed to the lawful guys. Later, I will write a series about a Chaotic or Neutral Evil character named Kelgor Dairee) Valtorex takes the knife and Myrstaline’s eyes widen in fear. He walks up to Myrstaline and casts a spell. When Rōdenthall questions him, he says, “To silence her. She can scream pretty loud, and I don’t want to lose concentration” (Don’t worry, it’ll be okay) Valtorex then bends down. He whispers in her ear, “I cast Brittle on the chains. When the moment is right, break free and help me fight.” He then makes a show of placing the tip against her chest, the point above her heart. He presses in, eliciting a gasp from her. He presses in just enough to draw a tear before pulling it back. He stands and says, “I can not do it. Fail me if you must, but I can’t slay her.” Rōdenthall laughs before saying triumphantly, “I thought so! I knew you didn’t have the guts to do what was needed!” Rōdenthall then hands a knife to Dethos, who moves forward, ready to perform the grisly task. He is rewarded by Valtorex’s knife in his gut. Dethos stumbles back, his hands on the hilt. Zethos casts a killing spell at Valtorex, but Myrstaline breaks free and raises a shield. The spell dissipates, and just then, the Head Master walks in. He says, “Stop for a moment, if you will.” Even Rōdenthall freezes in mid-spell. The Head Master says, “I would like to speak to Valtorex. The midterms will be canceled for this class. I think all four of you are adequately skilled to pass. Well, except maybe you.” He looks at Dethos who is leaning against the wall, his face ashen. The Head Master continues, “Myrstaline, be a dear and save him.” (The Head Master is just everyone’s favorite uncle) (Except Dethos) Myrstaline rushes to help him. The Head Master then says, “Valtorex, come with me. Myrstaline, after you are done here, come to my office.” The Head Master and Valtorex leave.

They arrive at the Head Master’s office. The Head Master gestures Valtorex in. The Head Master sits behind a large, oaken desk and gestures to a seat across from his. Valtorex sits. The Head Master says, “I assume you know why you are here.” Valtorex, honestly liking this man, replies, “No, sir, I do not. I have done multiple things that would warrant a visit here.” The Head Master laughs and says, “Fair enough, fair enough. I was like that at one point too. The reason you are here, however, is your blatant disregard of the Office of the Head Mistress. According to the reports, you have attacked eight of her guards and killed six. Somehow, you managed to use five different weapons, one of which you are not proficient in. Now I know your friends were in on the raid, but by all accounts, you are claiming full responsibility. Very noble, but very stupid. Also, you have outright insulted and overtly threatened Head Mistress Demere on multiple occasions, including pelting her with frogs. Although incredibly humorous, not smart if you want to remain a student. Now obviously there is some conflict between you and my Head Mistress. Of course, her word overrules yours, so what are you going to do from here on out to prevent you from being expelled? Remember, if any official word reaches me of acts you commit against her, then I will be forced to take disciplinary action.” He ends with a wink. Valtorex takes the hint and says, “I will ensure that no word of my actions against her reaches you, sir. If possible, I will ensure that I am in no way linked to any offenses against the Head Mistress.” The Head Master (Not Head Mistress as Jeff put it) (My name ain’t Jaff, Ian. Ian jumps on my typo, then misspells my frickin’ name!) says, “Very good. Now, off the record, give her hell. I’ve seen her hurt too many good students over the years, but I can’t stop her. Maybe you can, but remember my warning.” Just then, there is a knocking on the door. The Head Master says, “Come in.” Myrstaline comes in and the Head Master says, “Good. Now about you and Myrstaline…” They spend the next few hours talking about what really happened. The Head Master promises, “I will ensure Rōdenthall can not do anything underhanded like he did today to try to eliminate you. You will still have to work harder than any other students, but at least you have a shot.” They leave and Valtorex goes to his fourth period.

He arrives to find Lord Kemos drawing circles on the ground. Valtorex stands a few feet behind him and watches as Lord Kemos draws four summoning rings. Lord Kemos stands up and turns around. He blinks twice, but that is all that shows of his surprise. He asks, “How long have you been standing there?” Valtorex replies, “Long enough to see you drew four portals to the…” He cranes his neck and reads the symbols before continuing, “the Abyss.” Lord Kemos says, “So you can read. At least Rōdenthall has managed that.” Valtorex smiles slightly. Lord Kemos begins laughing, then Valtorex joins him. Once they are finished, they realize Valen, Valrie, and Valinor are all staring at them. Lord Kemos regains control and says, “Good. You have all arrived. We can begin the midterm. In a few minutes, I will open up four portals to the Abyss. You are expected to charge in. You will each be sent to a different area. Your mission is to take the fort controlling the area or die trying.” Lord Kemos then begins speaking in Archon and the portals open. Valtorex takes the lead and charges into his portal with a yell. Valinor charges into his with a mighty roar. Valen springs through his. With a brief moment of hesitation, Valrie draws her rapier and runs through.

Valtorex arrives in the Abyss to find himself surrounded by demons. (Alright guys, this is the highpoint of the story for us. After this, it becomes a chick story with some isolated fights) Valtorex draws his swords and the demons just laugh at him. They pull their wicked demonic blades from their belts and rush him. Valtorex readies himself for the fight. They have almost reached him. Valtorex takes a large breath and then breathes out. The demons have reached him. He begins parrying and cutting. He sinks into the tranquil state of peace, hacking and slashing, blood spraying from the wounds his flashing steel creates. The fire turns the blood to poisonous vapors and the lightning does the same. He keeps fighting, the air hot from the flame of the Abyss and acrid from the blood and sweat. As the fight rages on, more demons join the mass surrounding him. He stabs and blocks, thrusts and parries, but for every sword he blocks, another is there. He realizes he has to do something to escape or he will die. He digs down in his well of rage and summons a ball of flame. He launches the Fireball and it tears through the ranks in front of him. A trail of toxic vapor and charred limbs is left in its wake. Valtorex rushes the gap, rending the bodies of any who get in his way. The noxious gas creeps into his lungs, making him nauseous. His breathing becomes labored, but he presses on, killing and killing left and right. As he runs out of breath, he runs all the faster. His thoughts consist of “Kaeje ona Morte” and his actions consist of running and slashing. In moments, the breach has closed before him and he launches another Fireball. It rips through the ranks, but makes the air more toxic. Valtorex keeps running, mercilessly executing the foes jumping at him from both sides. His vision begins to fade and his feet become heavy. Then, he sees the end of his run. He reaches the gates of the fort to find them barred. With a sigh of resignation, he turns and raises his swords in a salute. He yells to the heavens, infinitely far away, “Kai Zanaria! Kai Manäïen! Kai Kaeje!” The demons press in, eager for a fight. Valtorex is more than happy to oblige. He cuts and stabs, slashes and hacks, his swords wet with blood, his back to the gate. Then, Valtorex falls back as the gates open.

Valtorex springs to his feet and turns to face a contingent of demonic guards. With a yell, he charges them, and begins cutting them down without mercy. The demons try to fight back, but Valtorex, so close to his goal, tears through the ranks and reaches the door to the citadel. He kicks the door to find it unlocked. He rushes in, followed by a large group of demons. He finds stairs and runs up to the next floor. He stops at the top of the stairs and remembers back to the burning stairs at his family’s manor the night it was burnt down. He decides this will make a fitting tribute as the first of the demons rush up. Valtorex casts Exploding Fireball, and a ball of fire similar to the two previous ones is launched forth. A knot of demons has already formed at the foot of the stairs. The fireball tears through the line of demons running up to meet him and smashes into the ground at the bottom of the stairs. The fireball explodes with a fierce blast, immolating the group of pursuing demons. He turns as a noxious wave attacks his nostrils and runs down the hall. Floor by floor, he fights his way through the fortress. Finally, he reaches the throne room. (To Ian, thrown room) (Grrr…) He kicks in the door after slicing through the throats of two demons that had been chasing him. As soon as the door is down, a contingent of demons runs up the hallway to meet him. He runs into the room and slays four door guards. (Guess they weren’t too good at their jobs, huh?) When he looks at the throne, he freezes. (Guess who) On the throne sits Kaedros, a bored look on his face. He looks at Valtorex and says, “King of a plane of the Abyss isn’t as fun as you would think. I already miss the kill. I think I’ll launch a little excursion soon, as soon as I’m done with you.” Kaedros stands and draws the swords at his sides. They are pure black and seemingly made of shadow. Valtorex feels an unholy wrongness emanating from the swords that he can’t quite describe. (Coincidentally, neither can I) Kaedros raises the swords in a mock salute and says, “I would like to introduce you to my two dear friends, Despair and Torment. I guess you could say they’re like daughters to me, except for they…Actually, I’ll show you.” Kaedros tosses the blades into the air.

They stop before hitting the ground and right themselves, blades facing down. Vague figures appear, centered on the swords. The figures become more definite and take on a rough humanoid shape. In moments, there are two beautiful dark haired women standing there, the only trace of the swords a dark jewel embedded into their chest on the collar bone. Valtorex feels his guard slip as he stares at the women. They both begin talking simultaneously. They say, “Greetings. You must be a guest of the master. We will be happy to serve you in any way.” Valtorex curses under his breath before asking out loud, “Succubae? Really? You actually think that will work?” Kaedros laughs evilly before saying, “Of course it will! I have all of your memories. I know your weakness for demons of the feminine persuasion. As I recall, you’ve only been captured twice, once by a vampiress and once by a succubus. Face it, you love the bad girls.” Valtorex curses again before saying, “Alright, I guess you know enough about me to set this trap. So what is your plan?” Kaedros snorts in derision before replying, “Do you really think I’m falling for that? You get me to start talking and while I’m distracted by bragging about my success, you figure something out and kill me. Well, like I said, I know your memories, so I won’t fall for your traps like that. That little ego trick you do may work every time, but it won’t work now-“ Valtorex cuts him off by dropping his swords, drawing his crossbows, firing the loaded bolts, replacing his crossbows, and picking his swords up again. The bolts fly forth and strike the succubae in the chest, piercing their dark twisted hearts. Valtorex says, “It just did.” Despair and Torment scream in pain and fall to their knees before slumping to the ground. They begin writhing on the floor, still shrieking and crying. Valtorex feels a sense of unease. Kaedros doesn’t seem too upset by the fate of his succubae, which adds to Valtorex’s unease. After a few moments, Kaedros says, “Alright girls, you can stop acting. Get back up.” Torment and Despair get to their feet and bow to Kaedros. Kaedros says, “Well Valtorex, it appears I have beaten you.” When Valtorex responds by hurling a dagger at him, Kaedros laughs. He raises his hand to destroy it, but to his surprise it continues spinning, unhindered. It strikes Kaedros in the chest and he feels an unholy rage strike at him. Kaedros sinks to his knees and Torment and Despair scream in fury. They both rush Valtorex, intent on ripping out his heart for his attack on their master. Valtorex readies himself, his swords up. Right before they reach him, he hears Kaedros laugh. Kaedros commands, “Girls, stop. I’m ok. Our guest just seems to be in a bad mood today. Maybe I’ll play catch with him and see if that helps.

Valtorex looks at Kaedros and sees him standing, unharmed. He is holding the dagger. Kaedros hurls the dagger at Valtorex. The dagger flies far faster than when Valtorex threw it and reaches him in less than a second. To the surprise of everyone in the room, it stops a foot away from him and floats slowly back to its harness on his thigh. Kaedros quickly recovers from his shock and says, “Fine. I guess this won’t be any fun at all. Girls, kill him, slowly.” Torment and Despair smile wickedly as they advance on Valtorex. Valtorex says, “I may not be able to kill you, but I can make it hurt like, well, your home. How many times do you think you can regrow your limbs? How about organs?” Torment says, “You look tasty. I think I’ll eat you when I’m done ripping you apart!” Despair says, “I call the heart!” They then leap at him, expecting him to jump back in surprise. Instead, he decapitates them with one fluid motion. The headless bodies fall to the ground at his feet; the heads wind up a few feet behind him. The jewels on their chests flash and the heads disappear and reappear on the body. Kaedros says, “You can’t kill them. By the way, that offer I made last time is still open. You can join me in conquering the Material Plane. I’ll even have my demons find you a pair like them. All you have to do is kneel before me.” (Alright, I know this is so predictable, but then again, with me, he could take the offer) Valtorex replies, “I would rather burn in the Abyss for all eternity than serve you for a second.” Kaedros shakes his head, appearing to be truly disappointed. He says, “I guess I expected that, but I still can’t help being disappointed. Alright, if that’s how you want to play, guards, kill him!”

Seemingly out of nowhere come hundreds of demons. They encircle him and begin attacking. Valtorex begins fighting and killing, his only thought to reach Kaedros. He presses forward, the demons falling to his blades in a massive frenzy of death. The bodies press so close that the demons sometimes kill their own with their wild swings. Valtorex takes hit after hit, the blood running from his wounds, but he presses on. He keeps killing, leaving a trail of demon corpses behind him. Finally, he reaches Kaedros. Valtorex faces Kaedros and says, over the roar of the bloodthirsty demons, “I may die this day, but you will die in the end. Whether by my hand or not, you will die. So I can be content with this.” Valtorex then plunges his swords into Kaedros, shoving the blades up to the hilt. Valtorex and Kaedros make eye contact. They stare into each other’s dimming eyes until Kaedros falls from the blades in his heart and lungs and Valtorex falls from his multiple wounds. As Valtorex’s vision fades into black, he thinks, “I hope all of the Abyss is like this.” (Valtorex’s dream vacation: a week on the beach with his friends and an army of enemies)

Valtorex wakes up in the infirmary, severely wounded. The Nurse (I’m just surprised that he and the Nurse aren’t on a first name basis yet!) (Who says she has a name? She could be Nursey the Nurse. She could also be Nurse Joy, although only parents in Pokémon are that cruelJ) is standing above him, casting healing spells to try to sustain his life. After several moments, the Nurse steps back and says, “I’ve done all I can. The wounds were pretty bad. I don’t know if he’ll make it.” Valtorex says, his voice more of a groan than anything else, “I wouldn’t give Demere the satisfaction. Anyway, I’m too hard to kill for some demons to get me.” The Nurse runs over to him and says, “This time, I want you to follow my instructions! I will not let you die because you’re an idiot!” Valtorex responds to her by sitting up with a moan and saying, “And let you have a day without being constantly busy with casualties of my day? Never!” (Students like Valtorex are why the Nurse has a job) The Nurse casts Paralyze on him and he falls back in his bed. He manages to articulate, “Not fair.” Valtorex then goes about breaking the spell, but finds that the Nurse is one of the most powerful magic users he has come across. (Rōdenthall is even afraid of her) There is a knocking on the door of the infirmary. The Nurse goes to the door and opens it. The Nurse gasps and says, “Come in, dear, come in! Lie down and I’ll heal you right away!” From outside, a female voice, weighted by pain and worry, replies, “I’m fine. I’m here to see a patient.” Valtorex feels the spell break and he jumps out of bed, undoing a lot of the Nurse’s work. He staggers over to the door and whispers, “Valrie.” before stumbling. Valrie pushes past the Nurse and goes to Valtorex. The Nurse yells, “What is wrong with this year! I’m going to have to hire an assistant just to keep up with all of you suicidal fools!” She then casts a quick spell to heal the large gash on Valrie’s back. She then shoves Valrie out of the way and begins healing Valtorex. She says, “I wish I could either cure blood loss or idiot. These fools always have both!” Valtorex groans and says, “Help Valrie. I’m fine.” The Nurse says, “No you’re not. You have massive internal bleeding I haven’t fixed yet and you’ve still lost so much blood I’m amazed you’re not dead.” Valtorex says, “I’ll always have blood to spill. Valrie needs help.” The Nurse looks over and sees he’s right. The gash on Valrie’s back was just the most noticeable wound. She is covered in cuts, bruises, and bloody tears. The Nurse runs over and begins healing her. While she is absorbed with this, Valtorex gets up and hobbles over to his armor and weapons. He puts them on and goes over to Valrie. By now the Nurse is done healing her and she looks up to see Valtorex, ashen faced, standing above her. Valrie has lost consciousness and the Nurse decides to keep her over night.

The Nurse says, “You should stay here too. You’re half dead and going to Demere won’t help.” Valtorex replies, “She won’t care that I’m injured. She’ll just come here and get me, and I don’t want to draw attention to Valrie. Just make sure she recovers. Thank you for healing us.” Valtorex then leaves and goes back to the Hall of Trials. He finds Lord Kemos cleaning up the remains of the Abyssal Portals. Lord Kemos looks up at him and says, “You should be dead. Keep it up and you will be. Go back to the infirmary; I’ll tell Demere that I sent you on some special task that is likely to get you killed. That should satisfy her and allow you some rest.” Valtorex says, “No, but thank you. I just wanted to know if I passed.” Lord Kemos chuckles to himself before saying, “Of course you did. All of you did. The test is running into certain death at the hands of demons. The fact that you succeeded only gets you extra points.” Valtorex is shocked. He asks, “Succeeded?” Lord Kemos responds, “Oh, yes, you didn’t know. You didn’t technically capture the fortress, but you did destroy that plane of the Abyss. Good job.” (Kaedros actually destroyed it himself, but they don’t need to know that)

Valtorex thanks him and goes to the Glade to relax for a while. He completely forgets about Myrstaline until he arrives to see her waiting on the log. (Once again, I could be more vague. (No! I will not say vaguer!) I could say she sits on something with cell walls) (I’m glad you didn’t say vaguer) She stands up when he walks in and says, “Late? Not a good way to start off your midterm.” She begins laughing at her joke, but she immediately stops when she sees the pain in Valtorex’s eyes and the pallor of his face. She runs over to him and asks, “What happened?” Valtorex replies by saying, “Let’s sit down. I’ll tell you then.” They sit down on the log. (Yes, “the”, an article used to say there is only one of the following object. But, they could be in a lumberyard and I’m just using “the” incorrectly to mess with you. The worst part is, none of you will ever knowJ) (What’s even more worse is that even if they were in a lumberyard, you could still say the, and you complaining about your vagueness is getting annoying!) (I’m not complaining, I’m tormenting. You know the saying, every time an Ian is annoyed, an angel gets its wings. BTY, it’s not more worse, it’s worse. I’d almost rather you say worser) Valtorex tells her what happened. At the end, Myrstaline says, “That’s horrible! You can’t go to Demere tonight!” Valtorex says, “I still will. I won’t let her have the pleasure of me hiding from her. Ever.” Myrstaline tries to talk him out of it, but in the end, she gives up.

Without Valrie coming to talk to him, Valtorex becomes pretty bored. He does something he hasn’t done in a awhile. He actually begins thinking about his life. He thinks of all of the things he’s missed that normal people experience and all of the things he’s experienced that normal people can’t imagine. He thinks about the fact he’s been to the Abyss more times in his short life than most people in their entire lives, including their afterlife. He thinks about his friends and how he has a balrog’s spirit living inside him that could cause him to hurt them at any time. He comes to the conclusion that he must master himself before he loses control completely. He spends the rest of the night meditating, trying to find himself out. Then, it is Darkwatch and he goes to face Demere, his newfound knowledge of himself bolstering him against the onslaught about to come.

He is tortured all night by Demere, but as always, he refuses to give up. The year continues on as before, he and Valinor training and competing to be the best warrior, Arianna teaching him how to fight and how to do so with honor, Rōdenthall coming up with insane tests to try to eliminate him and Myrstaline, and Lord Kemos pushing him and his cabinmates to their limits on a daily basis. As the year goes on, he finds those limits seem further and further away. He and Valrie continue their romance, (Ah! My eyes! It burns!) becoming closer every day. Valtorex and Myrstaline work together on meditation and magic, Valtorex becoming better at the former while Myrstaline becomes better at the latter. Valen, Valinor, Valrie, and Valtorex continue their nightly study sessions, all of them staying at the top of their classes. The year progresses quickly, (It’s about a paragraph long) and Finals approach far too quickly for the students’ likings. With a month to go, Demere doubles her efforts to break Valtorex, devising ever more cruel ways of torment. Valtorex continues trying to find control over himself. Every night, the cabinmates duel to prepare themselves. Finally, it is the day before Finals.

Valtorex and Myrstaline are sitting in the Glade, going through spellbooks to prepare for Rōdenthall’s test. Myrstaline breaks the silence that had built up by asking, “How do you counter Assassin’s Lightning again?” (Basically a Lightning Bolt spell that follows the target) Valtorex looks up from his book about killing spells and replies, “Two ways. One, you can bring up a lightning shield bent at an angle to deflect it away from you, or two, you can toss an enchanted steel ball with a piece of your hair tied around it to change the bolt’s target. Here, I have a spare.” He tosses her a small steel ball. (I would say pinball, but that would require pinball machines, and that creates a whole ‘nother mess) She catches the ball. She cringes a bit and plucks a hair from her head. She ties it around the ball, the long, gold thread barely visible against the silvery metal. (I couldn’t remember if I told you guys she’s blonde or not. Just making sure) They go back to studying, occasionally asking each other questions or practicing particularly difficult spells. At about five hours till Darkwatch, Valen, Valinor, and Valrie arrive.

Myrstaline gets up to go, but Valtorex invites her to stay and train. He says, “I’ve been needing someone to practice magic on.” He quickly corrects himself when he notices her look of fear. He says, “I meant to say with! Practice magic with.” Myrstaline, not reassured in the slightest, goes into her casting stance. For the next four hours they practice. The five of them wish each other luck on the Finals before splitting off. Valrie and Valtorex stay behind. Valrie and Valtorex talk for a while, just passing the time. After about thirty minutes, they begin to talk seriously about their future. Valrie says, “I’m just worried that over the summer you’ll stop liking me.” Valtorex replies, “That won’t happen. I can’t stop liking you; that would require me to like you now.” He says this with a smile, but Valrie still hits him. Valtorex says, “Ok, I’ll be serious.” He pauses for a few moments before going on. “Valrie, I won’t say you’re the first girl I’ve had a relationship with, but until proven otherwise, I can say you are the first girl I’ve had a relationship with that didn’t try to steal either my blood or soul. I’m not going to risk that. You don’t need to worry about me forgetting you. It will only be a few months and I’ll be doing mercenary work the entire time. I just need to be worried about you. By the way, what are you doing this summer?” Valrie replies, “I don’t know. I can’t get in touch with my mother, but I don’t want to hang around here. Maybe I’ll go with you.” She says that last sentence as more of an offer than a statement. Valtorex resolutely says, “No. You won’t. If you go with me, it will just put both of us in danger. I’ll worry about you and get myself killed and you’ll do the same. It’s best if you stay out of my career. It’s the type of job that doesn’t allow for any of the positive emotions like happiness and caring, and with, you, I feel nothing but.” They talk some more, Valrie deciding she’ll figure it out as she goes. At Darkwatch they stand up and embrace each other. Valtorex whispers, “Good luck.” before he kisses her. They kiss for several moments, still holding each other. When they break off, Valrie says, “You too.” (What no ‘Ow my eyes’ or something?) (Sorry, I forgot. Apparently I’ve desensitized myself thoroughly)

They part ways and Valtorex goes to Demere’s office. He arrives to find Demere waiting, her various instruments of torture on her desk. Demere says, “You’re late again. I think I may have to give that little tramp you spend your time with a few detentions.” Valtorex feels his ire rise and says, “First off, leave Valrie alone. Secondly, I only have two more days left before break, so I really can say, ‘screw the consequences’ because you truthfully cannot do a thing to stop me at this point. So, I would just like to inform you that I won’t be here tomorrow night. I will be celebrating with my friends. Also, you won’t be trying to break me tonight. I’m going to rest for Finals. I hope you don’t have any problems with this, but if you do, I don’t give a damn. Goodbye.” Valtorex turns and begins walking out the door. Demere yells, “Stop! You may only have two days left, but I can still tell you what to do for those two days! Now, stop or I will ensure that you and your friends fail!” Valtorex turns and says, his voice full of newfound authority and command, “Leave my friends and I alone or I will break you.” Demere freezes momentarily, terrified that he’s telling the truth and has the power to do it. She then musters all of the pompous arrogance she can muster and says, “You can’t tell me what to do! For that, you will have detention every day next year too! Now, I’m going to teach you why you don’t cross me!” Demere then summons the magic bonds she uses to hold him in place. With a word, Valtorex escapes the bonds. With another, she is bound. With a third, she is silenced. With a fourth, her memory of the last few hours is wiped. Valtorex leaves and goes to his cabin. He sleeps in his bunk for the first time in months.

The next morning, they wake up. Valinor and Valtorex go to Tyberus’s class, ready for the toughest fight of the year. They arrive to find Rogard and Silvanos already there. (No, Silvanos did not fall off the face of the earth after his fight with Valtorex) Tyberus says, “Today is the most important day of the year. The Final will be staying in the ring with me for an hour. Your fellow students will judge.” Silvanos goes up first. He fights Tyberus, but after several minutes, he is forced out of the ring. Rogard gives him a two, going down. Valinor gives him a three going down. Valtorex, to the amazement of all, give him a five, going up. Next up is Rogard. Rogard lasts a full forty-five minutes before he has to quit due to injuries. Silvanos give him a one going down, but Valinor and Valtorex each give him a nine going up. Next is Valinor. Valinor fights valiantly and actually lasts the entire hour. Rogard gives him a nine going up. Silvanos gives him a one going down, and Valtorex gives him a flat out ten going up. Finally comes Valtorex. Valtorex goes up to Tyberus and bows. Tyberus salutes him and Valtorex rises. (Yay for the fighting! No more romance for now. Yay!)

The fight begins and Tyberus rushes Valtorex with his greatsword. Valtorex, his speed having greatly improved, blocks the attack, and due to his increased strength, does so with one sword. The other sword he uses to scratch Tyberus’s armor. They go back and forth for about ten minutes, exchanging blows. Valtorex keeps up his blocking, but as he slowly becomes fatigued, he has to reduce his amount of attacks. Tyberus shows no signs of fatigue and twenty minutes in is still going strong. As the halfway point passes, Valtorex is losing ground, but he is determined to last the entire time. He keeps falling back, reaching the edge of the ring, and driving forward with a burst of strength. With ten minutes left, he knows he has no bursts left to use. He holds his ground, resolving to win or die trying. (Kaeje ona Morte. Don’t ya love it?J) He blocks and blocks, but it seems like Tyberus’s blade is everywhere at once. When Valtorex blocks low, the next second it’s coming in high. When he blocks to the left, it’s swinging in from the right in moments. Valtorex feels his strength failing and knows he won’t last more than a minute more. He decides to try a desperate strategy and hopes it buys him enough time. He lets the greatsword hit his cuirass and charges Tyberus. He swings his swords from opposite sides, forcing Tyberus to take a hit. His sword (HE SWORD!!!!!? Sometimes I wonder if you do this on purpose) (Maybe I do. If I didn’t, you wouldn’t have a job)  just scratches his armor, but Tyberus still acknowledges the hit. He then realizes Valtorex left his lower body open and goes for a cripple strike. The blade hits Valtorex’s leg, but instead of cutting in like Tyberus would expect, the blade stops. He then remembers the leather legs Valtorex wears. Valtorex takes advantage of this and swings both swords, hitting Tyberus in the shoulders. They back away and circle each other, waiting to strike. They then rush each other simultaneously.

Their swords clash, the song of steel ringing through the area. They slash and hack at each other, Tyberus drawing into his reserves of energy at last, Valtorex amazed he’s still on his feet. Tyberus keeps fighting, but every time their weapons strike, Valtorex feels a martial call to arms. He feels the peace of war overtake him and his heart slows, his breathing becomes more regular, and he begins noticing opportunities he would otherwise miss. Tyberus notices this and works all the harder to beat him. Valtorex is silently thankful he has spent so much time getting to know himself. He can now feel every fiber of his being heeding the call to war, every muscle and bone yearning for victory as much as he does. He feels a rush of energy he never has known before and his swords become a blur. Hit after hit, the scratches on Tyberus’s armor increase. Valtorex digs deeper and deeper, desiring to bring more of himself into the fray. As he digs deeper, more and more his body and mind devote themselves to victory. Then, he reaches a bastion of strength and energy at the center of his being. He enters the stronghold, and on a throne sits the balrog he shares his body with. He asks the balrog to join, but the balrog just laughs at him. This refusal destroys his momentum and Tyberus gets a blow in. Valtorex’s concentration snaps and he loses that state of peace. Tyberus places his blade to Valtorex’s throat and says, “Good job, boy.” Valtorex thanks him. Valinor gives him a ten going up, as does Rogard. Valtorex then finds out he spent an hour and forty-five minutes in the ring with Tyberus. When it is Silvanos’s time to announce his decision, he says, “Zero, going down.” Tyberus strides forward and punches him in the gut, causing him to fall to the ground, doubled over. Tyberus then says, “All of Silvanos’s judgments will be removed and replaced with the average of the other two judges for the round. You all pass with flying colors, except for him.” He kicks Silvanos, causing him to moan piteously. None of them pity him in the slightest. Tyberus then says, “I look forward to seeing the three of you next year. Try not to get killed before then.” The three students still able to walk leave and go to their next Final. Valtorex arrives at the Glade to find Arianna waiting. She sees that Valtorex is greatly fatigued and decides to change up the Final a bit.

Arianna says, “Apprentice, today is a great day for you. Today we will find out if you are truly worthy of being a Knight of Draconia. Although I have little doubt in my mind that you are more than capable of completing your duties, the Council of Lords requires all squires to be tested like this. You will be tested on five points essential to any knight. Just make yourself comfortable and we may begin.” Valtorex sits down and goes into his meditative pose. Arianna begins whispering words of magic and Valtorex feels his consciousness slip away. He falls into a deep slumber.

He wakes up on a beach, his armor replaced by a tunic and breeches and his weapons replaced by a small knife. He gets to his feet and a flash of light a few feet in front of him nearly blinds him. When he opens his eyes, he sees Arianna standing there in spectral from. She says, “Apprentice, the spell I cast put you in a dreamworld of sorts. You will be given minimal resources and put to five tests. You will not know when or what the tests are and may pass or fail them without even knowing of their existence. You are expected to conduct yourself in a knightly manor at all times. Good luck.” Arianna fades out of existence. Moments later, Valtorex hears the scream of a panicked woman. Valtorex runs down the beach in the direction of the cry and sees a beautiful woman accosted by two bandits. One of the bandits notices him and says, “A visitor? We’re about to get to know this wench a bit better. Wanta’ join in? There’s more ‘n enough a her to go ‘round.” The other bandit continues terrorizing her. Valtorex sees a look of sheer panic in her eyes as she realizes what the bandits intend to do. Valtorex says, “No. It is wrong for a man to take advantage of a woman. We’re supposed to protect women, not terrorize them. You curs have obviously failed in your duty to her, so I will protect her from you. Prepare to defend yourselves!” Valtorex then pulls his knife from his belt and charges them. The bandits laugh at him. The bandit that was talking draws his sword and runs at Valtorex. The other bandit keeps tormenting the woman. Valtorex reaches the first bandit, who swings his sword wildly, not expecting his opponent to be skilled. Valtorex easily dodges the swing and just as easily rams his knife to the handle into the bandit’s chest, just below the ribcage. The bandit sighs as the life is forced from his body. He drops the sword and Valtorex lets him drop. Valtorex bends down and picks up the sword. The other bandit sees this and realizes that Valtorex is much more dangerous than they originally thought. He pulls out the rapier he had at his side and advances slowly. Valtorex can tell this one is more skilled. He pulls his knife free of the dead bandit and stands ready with the longsword in his right hand, the knife in his left. The bandit suddenly rushes him and Valtorex has to exert some effort to block all of his attacks. Valtorex uses the longsword to block and locks their swords together. He then makes one motion with his left hand and a long, cruel gash is cut along the bandit’s stomach. The bandit stumbles back, his hand over his gut, the crimson liquid that is his life flowing unabated from the wound. Valtorex then decapitates him. He takes the sheathes from the bandits and takes the rapier. Valtorex puts on the sheathes, the longsword at his left hip, the rapier at his right. The lady says, “Thank you sir! I was afraid they would…” She shudders in revulsion. She continues, “You have my undying gratitude. I take it you are a knight.” Valtorex replies, “I am a knight in training.” The lady says, “Well then, squire…” Valtorex supplies, “Valtorex.” She continues, “What an odd name. Oh well. As I was saying, Squire Valtorex, I would like to thank you for your chivalrous treatment of me by asking you to escort me to my father’s castle. I am Princess Isamir.” (Don’t worry, Valrie has nothing to worry about, or at least not from her. Ian, it’s a secret, so don’t tell anyone) (Kay)

Isamir leads Valtorex to a nearby city. He escorts her through the streets to a massive castle. On the way, Valtorex sees at least five beggars or pickpockets killed on the spot by guards. At Princess Isamir’s insistence, Valtorex continues on, deciding to follow the laws of the land. They arrive at the palace. They enter and are greeted by a group of guards that immediately draw their swords and hold them threateningly towards Valtorex. Isamir says, “It’s alright. He saved me from bandits. He’s a squire.” The last sentence is what gets the guards to lower their weapons, but some still glare at him suspiciously. Moments later, a tall, strong man strides into the room, a greatsword at his side. He sees Valtorex and says, “Why is this rabble here, dear?” Isamir replies, “Father, he is a squire that delivered me from the hands of bandits.” The king seems to look at Valtorex in a new light, a calculating one. He seems to measure Valtorex up before saying, “Well, then, I welcome you to stay at my palace as a guest.” Valtorex replies, “Thank you, Lord…” The king supplies, “Derok, and you are?” Valtorex responds, “I am Valtorex. I thank you for your generous offer, Lord Derok.” Derok says, “I can tell by your accent you aren’t from around here. Feel free to look around my capital, although I suggest you stay away from the Southside and the Docks. The rabble there has gotten a bit uppity. Be back at dusk for dinner. Oh here, take this. It will keep the guards from arresting you.” Derok hands Valtorex a pendant on a steel chain. Valtorex thanks him and leaves.

Valtorex roams the streets, remembering Derok’s warning about the Southside and Docks. Inevitably, he ends up walking the back alleys of the Southside. He runs into a guard patrolling the area who has captured a young girl. The girl is on her knees pleading with the guard. The guard backhands her and the girl falls over. The guard kicks her and she curls into the fetal position and begins sobbing. Valtorex yells, “Hold! What offense has she committed?” The guard replies, “None of your business. Move on or-“ He then sees the pendant on Valtorex’s neck and says, “Pardon me milord. I didn’t know you were a knight. Your commoner’s clothing through me off.” Valtorex replies, “It is an understandable mistake. I can not wear clothing more befitting of my rank here because of the increased criminal activity.” The guard nods in understanding. Valtorex then asks, “So what was her crime?” The guard replies, “Begging milord. She was caught asking for bread for her family. She then tried to convince me to reduce her punishment to just fifty lashes.” (This town has a strict no beggar policy) Valtorex asks, “I’m not from this region, what is the current punishment for begging?” The guard responds, “Death of course. We have ‘em tied up in the square and whipped till they die. Very amusing and exactly where this ‘un is headed.” (Very strict) The girl is back on her knees and she realizes her best hope is Valtorex. She pleads, “Please milord, spare me! My brothers are starving and my father is crippled! I had to beg or my family would die! Please milord, reduce the punishment! I’ll do anything!” Valtorex can tell her pleas and tears are genuine. Valtorex says, “Very well. I will reduce your punishment.” The guard swears. Valtorex continues, “Your punishment will be thus. You will serve as my servant and will be paid a modest wage. You will not be whipped, unless I catch you doing anything dishonorable, then I will let him execute you. Remember, you will be expected to live by the code of a knight as long as you serve me. It is either that or the fifty lashes you asked for.” The girl sees her chance to save her family and bows her head. She says, “Yes, milord, I will be your servant.” Valtorex says, “Good, now rise. What is your name?” The girl says, “My name is Julie, milord.”

Valtorex says, “Very well then, Julie, go to your house and wait. I must speak to the king first, but then I will come and get you. Where do you live?” Julie tells him and leaves after bowing. The guard says, “Well if that don’t beat all. A knight taking pity on a beggar. That is a crime against the kingdom, you know. I have ta arrest you now.” Valtorex counters, “You think I’m taking pity on her? She will never beg again or she will be executed for dishonorable behavior and I’ll drive her like a slave master. If she survives, then I guarantee she’ll be the best servant in the kingdom.” The guard says, “I still have to arrest you. I’m sorry milord, but you committed treason.” The guard moves forward, confident that Valtorex will surrender. Valtorex says, “No, I won’t. Truth is, I’m not a knight. I’m just a squire. I’m not even a squire of this kingdom. I belong to the Draconic Empire. Now, you will back down or face the consequences.” The guard yells, “So a traitor and a spy! I will kill you on the spot!” The guard jumps forward, his sword out. In one quick motion, Valtorex blocks him with the longsword and slices him open with the rapier. Valtorex searches the guard and finds he had fifty gold pieces on him. He takes the gold and the guard’s shortsword. Valtorex equips the short sword to the back of his belt and leaves the alley, ensuring the scene looks like a random mugging.

Valtorex goes to the palace and meets the king at the banquet hall. He asks if he can take on a servant. The king, after finding out Valtorex will pay for it himself, agrees. Valtorex then asks him standard wage for a worker and is surprised to find it is one copper per day of work. Valtorex goes to a grocer and finds out a loaf of bread is also one copper. Valtorex goes to the girl’s house in the Docks. As he is (Please tell me you put “is” here on purpose.) (I did. I accidentally put we instead of he, so the verb was correct the noun wasn’t. Fixed now) walking through the neighborhood, he notices many people staring at him from the shadows. He is astonished by the level of neglect and poverty here that makes the worst parts of the Draconic Empire look like paradise. He reaches the girl’s house and knocks on the door. Julie answers the door and she bows to him before inviting him in. She leads him into the main room of the three-room hovel. (Word wants me to change hovel to hotel. I can barely write I’m laughing so hardJ) In the room is a rickety wooden table. At the table is a middle-aged, haggard looking woman, a worn, tired looking man whose leg is gone below the knee and is missing an arm, and three children, all of them look to be about the same age. The man looks up and says, “You must be my daughter’s employer. I thank you for helping our family like this. I also want to thank you for sparing her from Captain Bakarus. May I speak to you alone?” Valtorex replies, “Yes, of course, sir.” The woman and three boys leave and go into the other room, as does Julie. The man says, “I want to thank you for saving her. I’m sorry she was forced to beg. Since my injuries, I have been unable to support my family. I can’t thank you with anything other than this advice. Get out while you can. Retire as early as you can and find a safe job. I was a knight too. That’s how this happened. After my injury leading a battalion against a besieged city, I was kicked out of the knighthood without pay. There is no where I can work and my three boys are too young to get jobs.”

 Valtorex asks, “So you have no pension from the knighthood?” The man laughs bitterly before saying, “Pension? The pension is a joke! The only way you can get it is by serving till you can retire at fifty. Ever since Derok took over, the kingdom’s gone down the gutter fast!” He then realizes what he said and pleads, “Please sir! Forgive me! I’m just an old soldier full of bitterness! Please don’t punish my daughter!” Valtorex quickly assures him, “Sir, I have no intention of punishing any of you. I think not providing a pension for injured soldiers is abominable. You have no need to worry, but I do need to get to the palace soon. Now, we need to work out your daughter’s work schedule…” They eventually decide that Julie will stay with Valtorex every day, but will get holidays and prearranged dates off. Julie comes back into the room and so do her brothers and mother. The mother goes to the cupboard to get some food for dinner, but Valtorex sees it is empty. Valtorex says, “Julie, gather the belongings you will need and make ready to leave. I will be back in twenty minutes with your pay for tomorrow. He looks at her mother and asks, “Would you like me to pay in bread?” The mother says, “Yes, please, sir. That would be wonderful.” Valtorex can tell by her accent that she is fallen nobility, robbed of her status by poverty. This corroborates the father’s story and angers Valtorex even more. Valtorex nods to them and leaves the house, going to the nearest grocer, praying to the gods for a fight.

He reaches the grocer and buys five loaves of bread. He goes to the general store nearby and buys a pack for five copper. He puts the bread in the pack and puts the pack on. He then leaves and heads back to the house, still praying for a fight. His prayers are apparently answered as two thugs, each armed with a dagger and a club, walk out of an alley. One says, “Hand over any food and valuables and you won’t get hurt.” Valtorex replies, “Thank you, I’ve been itching for a fight.” He then draws his swords and rushes the closest thug. (Poor guy never stood a chance) Within seconds, both thugs lie dead and Valtorex has claimed two gold and two daggers. He returns to Julie’s house and knocks on the door. Julie lets him in, and he enters the main hall. The family is sitting at the table and Valtorex takes off his pack and sets it down. He takes out the bread and puts it on the table. He says, “I will be paying her five copper a day. I hope this is agreeable.” The family is stunned by this. They were expecting one copper a day at most. Five copper would be enough to pay a mercenary for a day. Valtorex then turns to Julie and asks, “Ready?” Julie bows and says, “Yes, milord.” She then picks up an old, beaten sack and cradles it in her arms. Valtorex nods and Julie says goodbye to her family.

They go to the palace and they are shown to Valtorex’s room. Valtorex instructs Julie to make herself at home and he leaves. He goes down to the banquet hall and meets the king. He asks Derok what the on-staff servants are provided for meals. Derok tells him they are rationed a loaf of bread and a strip of dried meet each day. Valtorex says, “Ok, that is what my servant and I will be eating. That sounds like my usual fare anyway.” Derok is confused by this, but agrees, eager to save whatever money he can.

Valtorex begins training Julie over the following months, teaching her about honor and the tenant of the Knighthood. He teaches her how to fight and gives her the daggers and shortsword. She has to do the cleaning for the suite Valtorex has been given, but he does give her a room to herself. Every day, Valtorex walks the streets and sees the guards brutally killing beggars, thieves, and other desperate citizens. The whippings and beheadings get to him, and he decides he would rather fail than allow this to continue. He gets his chance when the king offers him a position as a full-fledged knight on patrol in the Southside territory. He takes on Julie as his apprentice and increases her pay to one silver a day for the added danger. He deals mercilessly with the thieves, but he secretly helps the beggars. Using the money he is now getting, he substantially improves their armor, buying full plate for himself and a leather combat dress with steel plating for her. He buys her the most masterfully crafted shortswords in the city and buys himself longswords of the same quality. They are so effective in reducing crime in the Southside that his territory is expanded to the Docks, too. Julie begins visiting her family on break on the days that they are in the Docks and Valtorex figures out ways to help the beggars even more.

Two years after his arrival in the kingdom, they find out about a group of rebels. Julie, knowing the reward, is eager to capture them in hopes of restoring her family’s honor. Valtorex has other plans, however. He meets with the rebels and forms a pact with them. He and Julie go to Derok and make a proposition. Valtorex says, “My plan is to create a mercenary group to deal with the crime in the city. This will free up more guards and knights to serve in your armies and it will be much cheaper because we can pay the mercenaries with seized goods.” Derok, always eager to save money, agrees. The guards and knights leave the Southside and Docks and the mercenary unit, known as “The Citizen’s Guard” takes over. The rebels, Valtorex, and Julie comprise the leadership of it. The Guard is very successful at reducing crime, mainly because all of the criminals join it. It is so effective and so inexpensive that Derok gladly cedes control of half the city to it. Four years in, the Guard controls all but Noble’s Plaza and the Palace. Derok, blinded by the bottom line is all too happy to allow this, as long as the profits keep rolling in.

One night, after five years of Valtorex being here, Derok comes to him and says, “Valtorex, you know the queen passed away years ago. I have been very lonely. You servant, Julie, is it? has developed into a stunning young woman, and she is the daughter of a noble lady and one of my knights, so she is of fitting breeding to wed, so I was wondering if you would allow her to marry me.” Valtorex replies, “That is up to her and her father, although I doubt you will be successful. She is set on becoming a knight and her father is still bitter at his rank being stripped from him.” Derok responds, a evil gleam in his eye, “The former can be ignored, the latter can be fixed. Goodbye for now.”

Days later, Julie’s family is killed in a mugging. The first mugging in the Docks for four years. By the laws of the kingdom, Valtorex adopts Julie into his house and Derok makes the same offer. Valtorex asks Julie, but she flat out refuses. (No, Word, her does not flat out refuse, she does) Valtorex informs Derok and he goes into a rage. He has Julie seized and whipped brutally. Valtorex is held back and cannot help; having discovered years earlier his magic is blocked in this realm. She is quickly reduced to a sobbing wreck and dragged off to the dungeons. Valtorex petitions to have her released, but Derok refuses. He says, “As soon as you agree to give her to me, I will let her go.” Valtorex decides the day has come.

He leaves the Palace and goes to the Guard’s headquarters. He walks in, goes to the leader of the group and says, “It is time. Take the Plaza by storm and march on the Palace. I’ll secure the gate.” Valtorex leaves the Guard to its preparations. He returns to the Palace and goes to the gatehouse. He is relieved to find out the captain of the watch is one he knows to have no good feelings towards the king. He takes the captain to the side and says, “I know you bear ill will towards the king.” The captain becomes nervous and tries to deny it. Valtorex continues, “So do I. He has taken my apprentice hostage and refuses to let her go until I agree to let him marry her. Later tonight, some friends will be coming along to see me. I’ll wait here for them. Just make sure no one you like is on the Palace grounds at the time. Go, I’ll watch here.” The captain nods, obviously eager to see the king fall. He goes to his men and asks a few to go with him to check out a disturbance. He then puts Valtorex in charge of the gatehouse.

At Darkwatch, the sounds of battle erupt from the Plaza as the Guard fights with the guards to the cry of “Death to the False King!” Needless to say, nearly half of the guards desert (No Jeff, they do not eat dessert, they desert.) (Tell that to word! Every time I put desert, it tried to say I was wrong, so I gave up and changed it) and a full quarter join the coup. Within an hour, the Plaza is under the control of the rebels. The Guard leaves a detachment to deal with the private guards of the nobles’, but ninety percent march across the bridge to the Palace. A sergeant, fiercely loyal to the throne, asks, “Orders, milord?” Valtorex replies, “Stand down. It is time this land had a true monarch.” The sergeant yells, “Men! Seize the traitor!” Valtorex grabs the sergeant by the collar and tosses him off the gatehouse, sending him screaming to his death. The second in command cringes when Valtorex looks at him. Valtorex asks, “What are your orders, soldier?” The second in command replies by drawing his sword and charging Valtorex with a cry of, “For the King!” Valtorex shakes his head before saying, “The king will fall. How many of you must go with him?” He then draws his swords and slays the soldier. The rest on the gatehouse split down the middle, half fleeing and half fighting. Valtorex butchers them ruthlessly. When his men reach the gatehouse, he opens the gates and descends to meet them. His second in command, Sir Rufus, greets him. Valtorex orders, “Send three tenths of your men to secure the walls, one fifth to take the barracks, and the rest to seize the castle proper. I have business in the dungeons.” Sir Rufus salutes and implements his orders as Valtorex leaves to rescue Julie.

Valtorex rushes the guards at the dungeon and yells, “Death to the King! Join the fight for freedom!” Two fifths of the guards desert then and there, and the remainders stand ready. Valtorex slaughters the door guards and manages to get through the door before they can close it. He remembers that this installation has two hundred guards and readies himself for battle. A group of guards run up the stairs, five of them in all. The captain in charge asks, “Milord, what is the commotion we heard?” Valtorex replies, “The city is revolting. The Plaza and gates have fallen to the Citizen’s Guard. Now is your chance to fight against the king if you believe his rule is unjust. Spread the word, the coup has begun.” The captain is stunned, as are three of his men. The fourth charges Valtorex with a scream of, “Die traitorous cur!” Valtorex cuts him down without remorse. The rest decide this is too good for to be true and run out to see for themselves. The captain stays behind and asks, “Sir Valtorex, is what you say true? Do the streets really rise against the King?” Valtorex says, “See for yourself. By now, my forces should have secured the walls and barracks. The king has been a fool and will now suffer the consequences.” The captain says, “Very well then, I will spread the word to the men to evacuate as I assume you are here for your squire. Be warned, the king waits with your squire, along with his entire Royal Guard. They will fight to the man and will not betray their liege. Facing them will be certain death.” Valtorex replies, “Let them prove their worth through steel then.” The captain nods and runs down the stairs. Minutes later, a long line of troops runs by Valtorex, most to return home, but some to join the fight.

Valtorex draws his swords and runs down to face certain death. He kills the Royal Guard in his path to a man. He reaches the king and finds him surrounded by one hundred of his elites. Valtorex sees Derok having Julie, suspended from the ceiling by an iron chain, whipped brutally. Valtorex sees the horrible, bloody wounds Derok has had inflicted upon her. Derok turns and sees Valtorex. He says, “You have betrayed me. I will give you one last chance. Swear allegiance to me and I will spare you. Join me and become my top general. I’ll even make you my heir by giving you my daughter. Just stop the rebellion and swear your allegiance.” Valtorex replies, “I have not betrayed you. I never served you. Recall how I’ve always said King Derok or Lord Derok. I have never called you my king or my lord. I serve only one ruler and only one nation. I serve the Emperor of Draconia and the Empire of Fire and Steel. Your own people are rising against you. Surrender and you will be spared; fight and I will slay you.” Derok laughs. He says, “This is a fortress in itself. I can hold it for months. Plenty of time for my legions to reach me. My Royal Guard will fight to the man for me, isn’t that right, boys?” The Royal Guard roars its agreement. Valtorex responds, “And so they shall.” Valtorex lifts his bloody swords and rushes into the fray. Within an hour, they are all dead.

Derok falls to his knees and pleads, “Spare me! I will make you king! Just spare me!” Valtorex removes his head without remorse. He unchains Julie and helps her into her armor. He says, “I know it hurts, but you must put on a brave face for the people. Your people. Your subjects.” Julie is shocked. She stammers, “You m…mean… me?” Valtorex nods. Julie is established as queen of the country. That night, as Valtorex sleeps in his bed, he disappears. (Don’t forget this place)

Valtorex wakes up in the Glade. Arianna is waiting for him. She says, “You completed the test, and in only two hours. I am impressed.” When she sees Valtorex’s bewildered expression, she says, “Look up the spell in your own time. I only have two hours. I’ll break down the test though. You passed the chivalry point when you saved the princess. You passed honor when you saved the beggar girl. You passed cunning when you put together the rebellion. You passed courage when you single handedly charged the Royal Guard. Finally, you passed loyalty when you refused the king’s offer. And yes, I did watch the entire thing. All five years. You behaved like a knight the entire time, which quite honestly, I have never seen before. Congratulations and welcome to the Draconic Knighthood. I look forward to serving with you, Sir Valtorex. Farewell.” (This frees up a full class for next year) Valtorex goes to the Tower of the Arcane for his third Final. (Next is the final FinalJ)

He arrives at the Tower of the Arcane and meets Rōdenthall. Rōdenthall says, “You’re early. Wait here for the rest.” An hour and a half later, Dethos, Zethos, and Myrstaline arrive. Rōdenthall says, “Good let’s begin. We have limited time and a lot to cover. (Actually, it’s the 31^st and I have an hour and a half left until I run out of time) First, we will test your combat skill. You will kill a creature I assign you with nothing but magic.” Rōdenthall assigns them each a spot and summons the creatures. Dethos must kill a dust memphit, Zethos has to fight an imp, Myrstaline has to fight a basilisk and Valtorex has to fight a fell beast. (Thank you Tolkien)(Not a good idea Jeff and I mean remove it before you send it out!) (None of these notes will be in the final copy. Besides, what’s wrong with giving him credit?) The fights begin. The fell beast swoops down upon Valtorex, trying to claw him to death. Valtorex fires a barrage of flame bolts that dissipate against the fell beast’s thick hide. Valtorex then fires Finger of Death at it, intent on slaying the thing. The green bolt sizzles out against the skin of the fell beast and it comes down for another attack. As Valtorex is jumping out of the way, he fires Ray of Frost at it, just to annoy it. The beam of freezing air strikes it in the mouth, causing it to roar out. Valtorex then realizes it is vulnerable in any spot not covered by hide. Valtorex draws it after him, taunting it with spells until it dives at him, intent on eating him. When it opens its mouth to roar, Valtorex releases a killing curse from one of his spellbooks and watches as it disintegrates with a screech of pain. All that’s left is a small, black orb that lands at his feet. He picks it up and puts it in his pack. He looks around and sees that, as expected, Dethos and Zethos have won, but to his surprise, he sees Myrstaline panting from exertion and leaning against the statue of a basilisk to rest.

He walks over and Myrstaline says, “It was trying to spit acid at me, and I only had one shield spell left, a very weak one called Mirror Shield. I guess it looked at me, because it turned to stone.” Valtorex pats her on the back and says, “Good job.” Rōdenthall yells, “Don’t get too proud of yourselves quite yet. We still have two more tests. Next is a test of alchemy. Meet me in the alchemy lab.” (Yay chemistry!)

They arrive in the lab and find two stations set up. Rōdenthall is waiting and as soon as they are in, he casts a spell that releases a deadly poison into the room. They all choke as the poison enters their lungs. As the smoke clears, Rōdenthall says, “Oops, that was clumsy of me. Well at least I have five bottles of the antidote. One for me…” He drains the contents of a small vial. He then picks up the other four and makes a big show of ‘accidentally’ dropping them. He says, “Oops, I’m so clumsy today. Well, you have an hour to make the antidote before your organs liquidize. Fortunately, I have the recipes right here.” He goes over and hands a piece of paper to Dethos. He then drops the other and it floats into the fireplace. He says to Valtorex and Myrstaline, “Well, I guess you’d better start from scratch.”

Valtorex and Myrstaline begin working furiously. Valtorex’s skill with alchemy coupled with Myrstaline’s knowledge of herbs and other ingredients allows them to isolate all of the useful materials they’ve been provided with. With thirty minutes left to go, they have created two vials of three different antidotes. Valtorex tries one and feels less tired, but can tell it didn’t stop the poison. He tries the second and vomits uncontrollably. (Trial and error. Works every time, except for the times you die) Myrstaline grabs the third and drinks it. She instantly feels better. She forces Valtorex to drink it, but he vomits it out before it can take effect fully. She frantically tries to create another batch, only to find out they are out of the key ingredient. (Possibly Chemical X. For those of you that get the reference, no I’m not a freak. My sister went through a phase where she liked that show) (Were the others sugar, spice, and everything nice?) (See, I’m not that badJ) She looks over and sees Dethos and Zethos still have some. She doesn’t bother to ask, knowing they won’t help, and uses telekinesis to float it over. Dethos and Zethos prepare to attack her with killing spells, but she finishes the potion and gives it to Valtorex. When Valtorex stands up and looks over at them, the words of the spells instantly leave their lips and flee their minds.

Rōdenthall then says, “Ok, so you all survived, now for the last test. The test of willpower. I will be in the next room to test you individually. Dethos first, then Zethos, then Myrstaline, and then Valtorex.” Dethos and Zethos cycle through pretty quickly, then it is Myrstaline’s turn. Valtorex gives her a quick pep talk before sending her off. When Myrstaline arrives in the room, Rōdenthall casts a spell. A faint glow shows through the front of her dress. Rōdenthall says, “Remove the necklace. Cheating is not allowed.” Myrstaline, fearing what will happen, removes the necklace. Rōdenthall says, “Good, now put it on the table and have a seat…” An hour later, Myrstaline comes out of the room, tears streaming down her face. When Valtorex asks her what happened, she just cries harder. Valtorex sees the necklace dangling from her hand and casts Mental Probe on her. Sickened by what Rōdenthall forced her to do (Minds out of the gutter. If Rōdenthall did that, then Valtorex would kill him and I need him until Ch. 11) Valtorex enters the room. An hour later, Rōdenthall comes out, nearly in tears. When Valtorex follows him and taps him on the shoulder, Rōdenthall says, “Myrstaline, I changed my mind. You pass.” Myrstaline, who has stopped crying by now, almost thanks Rōdenthall, then she instead thanks Valtorex. As they are leaving, Rōdenthall yells to Valtorex, “You bastard! I will slay you for that! (No, Word, he will slay him, not say him!) (No Jeff, slay not “say” you) Valtorex and Myrstaline agree to meet at his cabin after fourth before parting ways.

Valtorex arrives at the Hall of Trials and Lord Kemos says, “Good, you’ve arrived. As soon as the rest- Oh here they are.” Valen, Valrie, and Valinor walk up. Lord Kemos says, “For your Final, we will be sieging a plane of the Abyss. All of us. This time, you will not be saved if you fail. Let’s go.” Lord Kemos opens a portal to the Abyss and they go through. Lord Kemos says, “Ok, Valen, take the lookout tower and give us cover fire. Valrie, take the gate and open it. Valinor, take the bridge. Valtorex, you take the barracks. I’ll take the throne room.” (Thrown room! Muahahaha!) (GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR…)

Valtorex rushes to the barracks and kicks down the door with a cry of, “Kai Zanaria! Kai Manäïen! Kai Kaeje!” The demons jump out of their beds and race for their swords. They don’t race fast enough. Valtorex quickly slays the demons that are unarmored and then engages in a long fight with the twenty demons that either had their equipment on, or manage to reach their equipment in time. The twenty drops to ten, then five in minutes. Valtorex spent all year training and he wants the demons to know it. He cuts down a lithe demon that was using a rapier; then he slices open a large demon with a scimitar. He skewers a demon with a mace before decapitating a demon that had a greatsword. That leaves him and the garrison commander, a large brute duel-wielding (Plasma riflesJ) bastard swords. Her fights the demon, the contest obviously down to strength versus speed. In the end, magic wins, as Valtorex shoots a magic missile straight through the demon’s chest.

Valtorex secures the barrack’s teleportation portal, making it one way, going out and runs to the throne room. He meets up with Valrie who had locked the gates and broken the control device, Valinor who had taken the bridge and causes it to collapse, and Valen who had collapsed the tower, destroying the fourth route into the keep. They reach the throne room to find Lord Kemos lying on the floor, bleeding, with Kaedros standing above him with a greatsword that’s blade appears to be made of solidified darkness. Kaedros says, “He was boring. I hope you provide a better challenge.” Lord Kemos then rolls away and pulls a vial out. He drinks it and his wounds are healed. He says, “This is serious. I’d say retreat, but we’re Elites, so my order is this. Charge! Slay the bastard and his three bitches! I will watch the rear and keep the demons off your back.” Lord Kemos moves to the back of the room and blocks the door against the demons using the best lock he has. Cold, unyielding steel.

Valtorex looks around and sees a new addition. While Torment and Despair were beautiful in a terrible sort of way, this third woman is gorgeous in a horrible one. Kaedros says, “Ah yes, my newest acquisition, Agony meet Valtorex. Valtorex, prepare to learn agony.” Agony says, “Master, he looks so delicious! Can I play with him before killing him?” Kaedros replies, “Of course, but make sure it doesn’t get too messy.” Agony pouts but bows to him. Valrie asks, “Play with?” then she realizes that Agony and the two others are succubae. She yells, “Stay the hell away from him! He’s mine and if you want him, you have to go through me!” (Ah, jealousy. Such a fun way to start fights) Agony smiles cruelly before saying, “You look delicious too. I’ll keep you both as pets for awhile!” Valrie draws her sword and charges Agony. Valinor shrugs and runs at Torment. Valen attacks Despair. Valtorex and Kaedros face off. They circle around each other before charging each other. As their swords strike, Valtorex feels the ring reverberate in his entire body and knows it is time. He goes into that state of peace and begins digging. He fights Kaedros, finally able to match his amazing, almost godlike skill. As Valtorex digs deeper, he grows stronger. They keep fighting, going back and forth, gaining and losing ground until Valtorex reaches the balrog’s stronghold. This time, when Valtorex enters, the balrog growls, “I will never submit to you, but I hate this abomination more. When you fight him, I and this fortress, your soul, will fight with him.” Valtorex feels the burst of raw strength he always feels when the balrog takes over, but without the all-consuming rage. He has the power from all of his body being directed towards the fight that he gains from his Peaceful War control technique, and the immortal fury of the balrog without losing his sanity to bloodlust.

He fights and fights, every blocked strike, every breath, every heartbeat, making him stronger. Kaedros quickly starts losing ground. The three sisters feel their power diminish as their master’s does. They keep fighting for hours, but eventually and inevitably, Kaedros is forced to retreat. With him go the jewels in the sister’s chests. The succubae are severely weakened and quickly brought down by unforgiving steel. The four of them regroup with Lord Kemos and they fight their way out of the keep. They finally reach the barracks, suffering minor wounds, and fight to the portal. Valtorex opens the portal and they teleport back to the Academy. Lord Kemos says, “Congratulations you four. You made it. You have passed year one of Elite Training. I will see you next year. Go and enjoy yourselves, you’ve earned it!”

The four of them go back to their cabin and clean up. Myrstaline arrives and they go to the tavern. They find it surprisingly empty considering it’s the last day of true school. The tavern, built to house five hundred, is only half full. They find a table and a barmaid, a student they have seen around the Academy, comes up and gets their orders. Valrie has ale, Valinor, Dwarven Spirits, Valen, Draconic Rum, Myrstaline Elven Wine, and Valtorex, water for his special mix. They spend the night talking and drinking, all of them becoming very drunk, except Valtorex (Someone has to be the designated fighter in case of attackJ) but especially Valinor and especially after Rogard came in and challenged him to a Spirit-Off, the noblest contest of the dwarves. (Who would not want to live in the Dwarven Kingdoms?) Valtorex leads them all back to the cabin. Valinor manages to stumble into his bunk, but Valtorex has to help Valen up to his. Valtorex puts the passed out Myrstaline into his bunk and tucks Valrie into hers. Valtorex then spends the rest of the night meditating and studying spells.

The next day, around sun-up, Valtorex wakes them up and forces them out of bed. He pushes and cajoles them into the Spring of Tranquility to bathe. They are woken up a bit by this, just enough to be pissed off. (Never get drunk around me. I’m merciless to hangover victimsJ) After several hours of vomiting and halfhearted attempts to kill Valtorex, they finally recover enough to talk. The discussion inevitably turns to deciding what they will do over the summer. Valrie says, “I still don’t know what I’m doing. I may hop a ship and serve in the Navy for a few months, but I’m not sure. Maybe I’ll try some mercenary work-” Valtorex cuts her off with a sharp, “No!” He then explains, “Either A, you go with me and get me killed like I told you before, or B, you wind up competing with me and driving me out of business. I won’t allow either.” They laugh at the last part, although Valrie seems ready to kill him once she remembers the first part. Valen says, “Well, I’m going back to my village in the Elven Kingdoms. It looks like it will be just another boring summer of babysitting my older sister and dealing with the other kids in town.” Valtorex raises his eyebrows and asks, “Babysitting your older sister?” Valen replies, “Yes, I was found by my parents and raised like one of their own. Unfortunately, they already had a daughter and I just happened to grow as fast as a human, so even though she’s twenty-four, she’s about ten in human aging. She’s also evil. Like Demere evil. Like Kaedros evil.” They laugh, thinking he’s absurd. (Oh, how wrong they are) They keep talking and Valinor says, “I guess I’ll hunt orcs up north. I need to keep in practice or I’ll lose my edge. Maybe I’ll be a mercenary. Don’t worry though; it would be in the Mercenary Empire, not down south where you and Valrie will be.” They talk some more, the four of them coming to the conclusion they will be very bored with their plans.

Valen then gets a spark of brilliance. (And like the guy he’s based on, this is a rare occurrence. Just kidding, RATJ) Valen says, “I know how we can solve all of our problems! You guys can spend the summer in my village! We have some extra rooms and my parents won’t mind. It will give you guys a way to hone your skills without winding up dead and it will give me some chaos to enjoy. It’s perfect!” Valrie, Valinor, and Valtorex agree. When they look at Myrstaline, she says, “I’m sorry, I can’t. I have to return to Tria Lün for court. My father needs me for some diplomatic reason. If I could, I would, but my father would be very angry and I would rather avoid that if I can. On the bright side, I can go with you guys until we have to part ways. I think Valen’s village is on the way to my father’s manor, so I’ll stay with you guys until then.” They talk some more and then decide to go pack.

Valtorex, Valrie, Valen, and Valinor arrive at their cabin and begin packing their belongings. Once they are done, they make ready to leave. On the way out, Valtorex notices a letter addressed to him on the table. He picks it up and reads it. It says,

“Valtorex,

I regret to inform you that your vacation has been canceled. You are expected to unpack your belongings if you have already packed. Please inform your friends of your change of plans and wait for me in your cabin. I have devised some new punishment methods I would like to try, and as you have outstanding offenses, you are the perfect candidate. Arch-Mage Rōdenthall has agreed to forgo his usual trip to the Darklands in order to instruct you. You are not to leave the Academy. To do so will violate Administrative Mandate and will be considered delinquency, punishable by expulsion. Your days will consist of detention with Rōdenthall for the four periods of the day. You will then have detention with me for the remainder of the day. You are expected to remove your armor and weapons and place them in the corner. You are also to wear the ring included in the envelope that you have received. The ring will prevent the use of magic. Violation of this Administrative Mandate will also result in expulsion. You should have a bucket of water ready in your cabin and a fire should be started by the time I arrive. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action. I would also like to inform you that a classmate of yours, by the name of Silvanos, says he is looking forward to spending the summer with you. I am sure you two will get along as well as you get along with everyone else.

Sincerely,

Head Mistress Demere”

Valtorex turns the letter over and writes a reply. He then puts on his pack and replaces the letter in the envelope. He takes the ring and puts it in his pack to dispose of later. Valrie, Valen, Valinor, and Valtorex walk out the door and go to Myrstaline’s cabin. They meet Myrstaline and talk for a while, planning out their trip. They decide they need to go or risk being stopped by Demere, so Valtorex and Myrstaline prepare the necessary spells to take them to their destination. The five of them teleport to the edge of the Great Forest, ready to start their vacations in earnest. They walk along a path, talking and joking, just enjoying the fact they don’t have to worry about tests, classes, or Demere anymore. They reach the forest and walk in. As they walk under the trees, the feeling of being surrounded by life makes Valtorex forget all about the hell he’ll face from Demere when he gets back. He just decides to enjoy his time off and deal with the consequences later. (Little does he know, he’s marching right into Hellfire’s jaws and the consequences to his actions will be much worse than he could ever imagine)

Hours later, Demere walks into the room and sees the envelope. She opens the envelope up and removes the letter. She scans her letter, once again approving of her work. She then sees ink through the back and turns it over. On the back, Valtorex wrote a letter in reply to hers. His letter, grounds for expulsion should the Head Master ever see it, reads, (Wow, almost done)

“Dearest Head Mistress Demere,

I regret to inform you I will not be able to stay at the Academy over the summer. I have already made plans with my friends and would much rather spend the summer with them than waste it with you, Rōdenthall, and that bastard Silvanos. Also, for all of your warnings of expulsion, they amount to nothing, and I will explain why later on. Furthermore, you cannot punish me for leaving the Academy as the school year is officially over and you have no authority over me. All of your talk is just bombastic bluster (I need another B!) and bullshit. (There it is!) You are nothing but a psychotic tyrant afraid that one day, a student will come along who challenges you and wins. Well, it is time to be afraid because that day has come. In response to your order to stay behind and wait for you so you can spend the summer torturing me, I have to say no. I know that you can’t back up any of your threats, so I can do whatever the hell I want and you can’t stop me. So, I’m going to enjoy my summer off and train. I will come back next year, better prepared and more skilled to deal with you and your little tricks. Now, I know you will spend the rest of the summer plotting and planning on how to get revenge and how to kill me, but I only have one thing to say to that. You will fail miserably every time you attack me because even the teachers hate you. The more you try to oppress us, the more of us that will rise against you. In the end, you will have a full-scale insurrection (Actually Insurrection because it’s a chapter name) that you won’t be able to handle. You can tell Rōdenthall to shove it and deal with the fact I am a far better mage than he will ever be. You can also tell Silvanos that I’m coming for him and if he ever lets his guard down again, I’ll be there to slaughter him. Finally, I will say this, your day has come and your number has been called. It is too late to make amends and it is too late to apologize. We are at war and I will win. By the end of my time here, I will be victorious and you will be dead or insane. Just remember this, you brought it upon yourself. Now to explain why I don’t need to worry about the Head Master seeing this. By now, the spell I cast should have started to take effect. When you smell smoke, don’t worry, it’s just your life going up in flames.

Kaeje ona Morte,

Valtorex”

The letter then bursts into flames, quickly being consumed by the blaze. The envelope burns away, being reduced to ashes quickly. The fire burns away all traces the letter ever existed, and thus, absolves Valtorex of any wrongdoing due to lack of evidence. Demere curses long and bitterly before sitting on a bunk, her head low in defeat. For the first time in years, she knows despair, she knows fear. That is when Kaedros appears…(What about the ring?) (Third sentence after Demere’s letter) 

Knowledge is like gold, the more you have, the more you need.

At the Academy, in the druid’s grove, the Head Master is meeting with the druid. The druid says, “Head Master, I am sorry I banished him, but I could not stand the abomination any longer.” The druid looks at the tree and shudders. The Head Master replies, “Yes, I understand you are sensitive to nature, but Valtorex is at a tipping point. You know the prophecy, ‘Darkness will sweep the land and the child of a forgotten race will rise and oppose it.’ I have strong reason to believe Valtorex is that child. Remember the warning, ‘The child will stand on the crossroads of destiny and he will either fight the darkness or fall forever.’ I think that tree is a good sign he’s losing the battle. I suggest you take him in for meditation training.” The druid is shocked. He objects, “Head Master! The last time he meditated that happened!” He gestures to the tree in disgust. The Head Master counters, “Exactly. Valtorex is powerful, but that power is unguided, untempered. Do you know the schools he joined?” The druid shakes his head. The Head Master continues, “He is in the Tower of the Arcane, the Guild of Warriors, the Order of Steel, and Elite Training. He will only become more powerful as the years progress. His discipline will increase, but he will be no more well guided. Consider it a favor from me that you teach him.” The druid bows and says, “Very well, if it is your wish, I shall teach him.” In the distance, a bell tolls. The Head Master says, “Oh, that’s the Dark Watch bell. Well, the learning never stops. Time for the students to become introduced to something they will come to know quite well.” The druid says, “So they are still doing the Fear Test? (A test traditionally done to root out the weak early) I thought the courts ruled it illegal.” The Head Master replies, “They did, but you should know by now, court decisions have little effect on the curriculum.”

At the cabins, the shadows are moving in on the students. Valtorex awakes with a start to see a figure in a robe of the blackest black hovering over him. The robed figure reaches out a shadowy arm and places it over Valtorex’s face. Valtorex’s eyes are frozen open as he looks into the infinite void of darkness that comprises this creature. Valtorex sinks into the oblivion and just drifts for awhile. Then he is yanked out of it suddenly and finds himself standing, armorless, facing a row of archers. The archers pull back their bow strings and sight their arrows. The simultaneously fire and Valtorex screams as twenty arrows pierce his flesh. Before he can even hit the ground, he is now facing a dark knight. Once again, Valtorex is without armor or weapon. The dark knight begins attacking Valtorex with a longsword. Valtorex tries to use magic, but he fails. That is what scares him the most. The dark knight hacks at him until he falls. Everything goes black, but then he is quickly back up and suspended over fire. Valtorex is dropped by whatever unseen force that was keeping him up and he falls into the fire. He burns in the fire and fear is causing his heart to race. Apparently, the creature isn’t satisfied though, so it begins digging into Valtorex’s mind to find his deepest fears. Valtorex finds himself on a plain facing the creature. The creature launches spiders at him, which confuses him a bit. Then a snake lunges at him and bites him. Valtorex knocks away the snake and finally realizes what’s happening. He says, “You’re a Fear-Stalker, (Bodiless creature that appears as a black robe with an almost solid blackness within. As the name suggests, it feeds upon fear it creates through hallucination) aren’t you? I remember hearing of a variation of the shade that preyed upon fear.” The Fear-Stalker delves further into his mind. Valtorex, feeling some pain at the intrusion says, “You’ll find lots of emotions in here, but not much of the one you’re after.” The Fear-Stalker finds the perfect thing.

Valtorex finds himself standing on the plateau, with the demon standing in front of him, holding his mother by her throat. He says, “Mortal, you are a fool to stand against me. Fall before me, fear me. It is all you can do.” Valtorex feels very afraid of the monster that’s going to kill his mother. He knows this is an illusion and that his mother is dead, but reason is beaten down by fear. One thing that is not beaten down, however, is anger. Valtorex stands straight and faces the creature. The Fear-Stalker is surprised by this, but it pursues what it craves still. The demon laughs and squeezes tighter on Valtorex’s mother’s neck. His mother gasps as the air is crushed from her throat. Valtorex tries to lash pout in anger, but once again his magic fails. Valtorex then charges the demon. The demon kills his mother and tosses her body off the plateau. Valtorex reaches the demon and swings at it. Valtorex lands a solid punch, but the demon just laughs it off before knocking Valtorex away. Valtorex gets up, but before he can stop it, the demon is on him. The demon begins mauling Valtorex. Valtorex screams as the demon tears into his back, and through it all, a voice in his head tells Valtorex, “Give into your fear. You are mortal. Embrace the fear that lives within you.” Valtorex’s response is swift and irrational. He stands up, carrying the demon with him, and runs towards the edge. The blood loss and the weight of the demon slow him down, and he is afraid he will collapse, but then he finds himself in freefall. He and the demon, still clawing him, fall through the air. Valtorex, through the burning pain, thinks back to the time he actually confronted this demon. He remembers falling through the air and wrestling the demon for a sword. He then remembers taking the sword and plunging it into the demon. He remembers nearly breaking his bones on the landing. He remembers standing up and staggering back to the goblin village. He then remembers the death, the burning, the screams of pain and fear. Then he hits the ground.

Valtorex awakes to find himself on a battlefield. All around him are demons, devils, humans, elves, dwarves, and almost every other race he knows and many he doesn’t. They are all fighting. Those he recognizes as evil are fighting the rest, except for the creatures he does not know, which are divided between the two sides. Valtorex stands and finds a sword at his side. Deciding he might as well do something useful, he draws the sword and is surprised to find it on fire. The odd thing is, the blade seems to glow white and spikes of shadow seem to emerge from the fire. He is confused by this and decides to just hack at the nearest demon. Which he does. The demon roars in agony before collapsing and burning away to nothing. Valtorex starts attacking all of the demons and devils around him. He kills and kills, the bodies always disappearing after dropping. Then he hears a great rumbling. Everyone around him, demons and mortals alike, are sent flying with an explosive force. Somehow, Valtorex is unaffected. What he sees emerging upon him paralyzes him. There is a hulking figure, in armor of the darkest black. It wields in one hand a greatsword nearly as large as a man and in the other, an axe that looks as if it can fell a large tree in a single blow. The monster is completely encased in plate, the plate Valtorex recognizes as that of a paladin. Then behind him, he hears people running towards him. He looks over his shoulder to see Valrie, Valen, Valinor, the elf he saved in East Port, the elf from the boat, a human male, a dwarf, a human female, an uruk, and a host of others running towards him. Bolstered by the sight of these people running to his aid, Valtorex raises his sword and yells a challenge at the beast. The monster roars out laughter and it seems as if the heavens themselves shake in fear. Valtorex becomes terrified by the creature as it advances. He sees that the armor, although originally dark black, is shiny and reddish now. The others are beside him now and Valinor says, “My brother, (Possibly in the brothers in arms mentality, possibly notJ) we stand with you.” Valtorex feels greatly reassured by this and although he does not know the meaning, he yells out, “Kai Zanaria! Kai Manäïen! Kai Kaeje!” The rest yell it also and the monster is given pause. Then it continues its advance. An arrow flies past his head, and Valtorex knows it is from Valen. The arrow strikes the beast and turns to dust. The beast laughs. Valtorex, not knowing why, charges at the monster. His allies charge after him. They meet the monster and Valtorex swings his sword with all his strength. The sword bounces off its armor. The monster raises its sword and slices through the uruk. The uruk falls to the ground in two pieces. The beast swings the axe and the male human falls. They fight it, but none of their hits do any damage and the monster doesn’t even bother to block. The monster spits the dwarf on its sword and flings him away. A swing of the axe and two of the others fall. The monster decapitates the elf from the ship with the axe. Then the beast bashes the elf Valtorex saved with the pommel of its sword. The elf falls down, her skull smashed open. Valtorex feels twinges of guilt but continues fighting. Then catastrophe strikes. The beast shoots a beam of darkness from its sword. Valtorex does not know where it went, but he guesses the answer when Valen cried out. He turns long enough to see Valen lying face down in the dirt, shadows emanating from him. He turns back and fights with more determination, but the fear of losing the other two eats at him. Then Valinor’s sword shatters against the monster’s axe. The axe continues through the blade and the skull behind it. Valinor falls down, unmoving, completely dead. Valtorex yells, “Valrie! Go!” Valrie only shakes her head and continues attacking. Valtorex sees the blow coming and jumps in front of it. The sword pierces right through him. All hope fades when he hears Valrie gasp. He cranes his neck and sees the blade went through him and enter Valrie’s chest. He knows it hit her heart. He screams in impotent rage. The beast just shakes him off the blade. Valtorex falls limply to the ground and Valrie falls next to him. The beast puts its weapons away and picks Valtorex up by the head. The beast moves Valtorex around so he can see the carnage, the death. Somehow, Valtorex feels responsible for it all. The beast then turns Valtorex and forces him to look into the helm. Valtorex sees a darkness so dark it seems as if light is nonexistent and hope is a fleeting dream. The monster sees the fear in Valtorex’s eyes as Valtorex directly faces not his mortality, but the immortality that follows and realizes that darkness is what he will fall to. The beast begins squeezing and Valtorex knows his skull will be crushed and he will fall to that darkness forever.

Then, he is suddenly yanked out of that state and finds himself lying in bed, looking at a darkness that now looks light. The Fear-Stalker says, “That’s right mortal, accept your fear, accept the pain. Valtorex is terrified by the vision he just had and wants to curl up into a ball and die. Valtorex is about to give up the fight when he hears a whimper from the bunk below him. He realizes it is Valrie. The Fear-Stalker whisper menacingly, “Yes, that is the girl. Right now, by brother is tormenting the pretty little thing. Something about a group of bandits.” Valtorex suddenly gets a boost of courage. He says, speaking into the darkness, “That…That was the wrong thing to say.” Valtorex now has a reason to live. He decides he will live to kill monsters like this. Monsters that feed off of fear and terror. He forces himself up and faces the Fear-Stalker. The Fear-Stalker says, with some humor in its voice, “Well, all good things come to an end. I was getting so much fear from you. I’ll just paralyze you so my brethren can finish feeding, then I’ll be off.” The Fear-Stalker raises its arm and a whisper of magic slithers out of its hood. Valtorex becomes paralyzed. The Fear-Stalker is about to leave when he turns and says, “Actually, I think I’ll join my brother in the feast. The girl is creating so much delicious fear, I can’t resist.” The Fear-Stalker drifts over to Valrie and places its arm alongside the other’s. Valrie shrieks as the Fear Stalkers work in tandem to torment her. Valtorex decides he doesn’t like that and jumps out of bed. He completely forgets the paralysis, and for some reason, it forgets him. The Fear Stalkers quickly realize that when he hits one in the back. It immediately turns on him and extends its arm. The other three paralyze their respective victims and then turn.

All four Fear Stalkers merge on him and raise their arms. They all touch him and he is on a plain, with one of them in each direction. One of them says, “Mortal, you have made a foolish decision. You shall experience a terror unknown to most. One of us leads to a culling. Two, only the strongest can survive. Your heart will burst from the fear you are about to receive. You will beg for mercy and your plea will be denied. You will go insane before dying.” Valtorex notices something is odd. He remembers back to the first incident where it was as if he was dreaming. He could think, but he couldn’t reason. He notices this is different. He isn’t guided by blind fear. He looks down to see if he has any weapons. Not surprisingly, he doesn’t. The four converge on him, intent on destroying the mortal who has resisted them. Valtorex, knowing he has no chance of killing them says, “I may die, but that will not matter. In a rebellion, it is not what is accomplished that matters, it is the act of rebellion in itself. I stand against fear, not to win, but to turn it on itself. I’m weak, but there are others who are not. What happens when they rebel too? You should be afraid of what will come. All creatures that prey upon fear will have that fear turned upon them. They will know what it means to be hunted, to fear for their very existence. So kill me now and let the chase begin.” By this point, the first Fear-Stalker has reached him. It reaches out an arm and touches Valtorex. It tries to conjure the most frightening image it can, but Valtorex is unfazed even as the vision flashes through his mind. Another arrives and touches him, adding an additional image. Valtorex flinches. Then the third comes along and Valtorex goes pale. The fourth grasps him and he begins shaking. They focus all of their skill and knowledge into this task and Valtorex nearly whimpers. Nearly. The Fear Stalkers become nervous at this point and decide to take a more drastic approach. They begin syncing their minds to try to coordinate more effectively.

This new approach causes Valtorex to shudder. They are pulling out all the stops. “The mortal still refuses to submit.” says one of them through the link. Another replies, “We’ve had others like this. He’s just discovering the Great Truth. We still have a chance to eliminate him before he overcomes his natural tendency towards fear.” A third says, “Yes, but we’ll have to act quickly. I suggest a merge.” The fourth assents. The four Fear Stalkers decide upon it and begin concentrating on the bond between them. They grow closer and closer together. After a few minutes, the merge is complete and the four Fear Stalkers have become a Fear Lord. (Unlike the Fear Stalkers, this has a body and resembles a large armored knight, in full black armor. Creates an aura of fear all around it) The Fear Lord throws all of its power into Valtorex, who screams in terror. Valtorex falls to his knees, and the Fear Lord, satisfied for now, backs away. Valtorex’s eyes are wide open, but they stare at nothing and have a glazed look. The Fear Lord chuckles before saying, “Mortal, fear is what you are. Mortals are merely vessels to contain resources. The gods use your spirits to grow stronger, vampires use your blood to placate their curse, the Abyssals use your desire to gain new recruits, the Infernals use your minds to play games, the earth uses your wars to fertilize fields and feed birds, and we, we just use your fear as food. Mortals are just cattle for the immortal. Embrace what you are; do not strive to be more, for you will just end up dead sooner.” Valtorex hears this, but it sounds distant and far away. The Fear Lord looks at him and sighs. “I guess I need to stop playing with my food and finish it.” The Fear Lord floats forward and places its hand on Valtorex’s forehead. Valtorex screams as a new wave of terror flashes through him. Valtorex feels himself falling even as his heart pounds, his pulse quickens, and his mind races. Finally, right before he reaches the breaking point, everything calms. He thinks about what the Fear Lord said, about mortals being cattle. He decides this is untrue. He decides that mortals can be much greater. He realizes fear is the only thing that stands in mankind’s path to greatness. He decides that fear will not rule him.

Valtorex’s face takes on a grim resoluteness. His heart calms, his pulse slows, and his mind falls into a sort of peacefulness. His eyes focus on the Fear Lord that is trying to kill him. The Fear Lord looks down when it feels this change and it sees those eyes. It sees something no immortal being wants to see. A mortal determined to change the order of the universe. The Fear Lord backs away in shock. It then realizes what it’s done and tries to get back in position to hold Valtorex down. It is too late. Valtorex is up on his feet and glares at the Fear Lord. The Fear Lord says, “Mortal, standing against me is foolish. Back down now and you will live. Continue to stand and forces greater than I will tear you to shreds and cast you into darkness.” Valtorex’s reply is, “Now I feel safer. When the enemy offers to let you live, then they know they are defeated and are merely grasping at their slipping power. As for these greater forces, bring them this message, ‘I am a mortal that is not afraid of them. I will fight them until I am dead and the order of things will change. Fear will no longer rule me. I fight for freedom now.’ Bring them this message and watch them tremble.” The Fear Lord thinks the mortal is bluffing. It looks into Valtorex’s eyes and does not see a lie. It sees a fire burning that will not be quenched until the hierarchy of the universe has been consumed. Then something that should not happen happens. A Fear Lord knows fear. It shrieks in immortal fury before dissolving to nothing. The fire in Valtorex’s eyes dim and he falls down.

Valtorex slowly comes to. He notices a female voice pleading quietly for him to wake up. He notices a soft but firm shaking at his shoulder. He opens his eyes to see Valrie above him. He tries to think back to what just happened, but he gets to his decision to fight fear before his memory fails. This is enough to get him up and to his swords. He gets his equipment on and says, “There are probably more of those things in the other cabins. Let’s do something they won’t expect. Let’s fight back.” The four of them leave the cabin and split up. They each go to a different cabin with the intention of fighting off the Fear Stalkers and getting more students to join. For the next few hours, they go from cabin to cabin, freeing more people and sending more Fear Stalkers away. Every so often, they find someone who is dead or insane from the fear. This gets more common as the night wears on. Finally, Valtorex reaches the last cabin and goes inside. He finds eight people in there. Seven of them are standing there, looking at the eighth, who is lying in bed. Valtorex sees that three of them are shaking and assumes these were the occupants. He recognizes the other four as people from other cabins that came here to help. Valtorex looks at the eighth and realizes it is the elf he saved at port. She moans and trembles more. Valtorex looks at them questioningly. One of the helpers says, “When we got here, there were only two left. Somehow, they both jumped into her. We figure she’s pretty much a lost cause.” Valtorex is about to nod his agreement when some force compels him to protect her.

He goes to her and places his hand on her forehead. He feels her body temperature is far below normal. He struggles to remember her name. (Just so you know, I am making these words and names up as I go. There is no actual elven or Draconic language I’m fluent in) It finally pops into his head, Myrstaline, Elven for maiden of calm water or Lake Myr. (A lake in the elven kingdoms, known for its pure water and the sense of tranquility brought upon anyone who drinks from it) He is once again thankful his mentor (A hermit in a cave he lived with for a year during his mercenary days) gave him a basic knowledge of the main languages and geography. He whispers, “Myrstaline, I know you are weak willed, but willpower is like a muscle, the more you use it, the stronger it becomes. Now is the time to use it.” He thinks she hears him, but is uncertain. When she seems to concentrate, he knows his message got through. He knows the Fear Stalkers were only toying with her when she cries out in panic. Valtorex whispers, “Myrstaline, willpower is at its strongest when you are calm. Try to be calm, think of the waters you are named for. Concentrate on that image. Let the fear flow away.” Her face takes on a look of placidity. Valtorex thinks it is working until Myrstaline screams, “No! The lake is dead!” Valtorex feels a sense of urgency. He has a feeling that if the Fear Stalkers aren’t defeated soon, then her mind will be lost if not her life. Valtorex says, “Myrstaline, I know you are in the school of Natural Magic. I will try to touch your mind and bolster your will. When you feel my mind, don’t be afraid and don’t fight. I don’t want to fight two battles simultaneously.” Valtorex closes his eyes and concentrates on Myrstaline. His breathing slows and his mind drifts. He finds himself on a plain, like the one he faced the Fear Lord on. Unlike that plain, which was gray and dead, this plain is full of life. Grass and trees are everywhere and a large lake is in the center. He sees Myrstaline standing on the shore in a light blue dress common in elven courts. On either side of her are Fear Stalkers. He can already see the damage they are doing. The lake, which should be a clear, crystalline blue, is instead grayish and dead looking. Also, there is a droop to the trees and plants he did not initially notice. The Fear Stalkers notice him and seem to confer with each other. One of them breaks off and moves towards Valtorex. The other throws its full attention towards torturing the crying elf. Myrstaline cries out and the plants take on a grayish hue and leaves begin falling from the trees. The Fear Stalker moving towards Valtorex says, “Mortal, you have made a mistake in coming here. We were planning on just feeding on her fear for a few days before leaving. Now you have forced our hand and we will be forced to kill both of you.” Valtorex just looks at it. The Fear Stalker says, “I see you have dealt with my kind before. I heard that one of the vessels actually fought four of us and one. I’m guessing that is you.” Valtorex nods. The Fear Stalker chuckles and then says, “Very well. I guess I will not be able to feed upon you. Fortunately, you can not stop us. When you fought before, it was in your own mind. Now you are in a mind that you have no control of, and better yet, you are an invader. Now, stay there while I finish with the elf.” Valtorex tries to move forward but finds he can’t.

He then says, “Oh well. I guess I can’t fight you directly, but you still will not harm her.” The Fear Stalker says, “Oh yes? Try to stop me.” The Fear Stalker reaches Myrstaline and resumes tormenting her. It relishes that such a strong mortal has such a weak mind. She can feed it and its brother for days, even weeks if they pace themselves. It toys with her weak mental defense for awhile, enjoying the feel of being able to crack it, chip it, or even break it at any time. Finally, he bores of this and begins conjuring horrifying images in her mind. She moans once before falling to the ground. The plants whither and the trees are nearly bare. Valtorex calls out to Myrstaline. He says, “Let me in. Allow me free movement in your mind so I can battle these creatures. I swear no harm will come to you under my watch.” Myrstaline hears this distantly and at first thinks it is a trick by the Fear Stalkers. Then some voice from deep inside her tells her otherwise. She decides to follow her gut and opens the gates of her mind to Valtorex. Immediately, Valtorex’s willpower begins bolstering her walls. The Fear Stalkers, who had been enjoying Myrstaline’s mental defense that amounted to wet clay, are sorely disappointed when that defense becomes wet clay backed by iron. Myrstaline feels reassured by the strong defense Valtorex provides and even regains some of her composure. On the plain, Valtorex finds that he is able to move once more. He runs towards Mrstaline and the Fear Stalkers turn to face him. With an angry roar, Valtorex draws his swords and continues his charge. The Fear Stalkers move forward, floating soundlessly over the dead vegetation. Valtorex doesn’t want Myrstaline’s mind to be polluted by the Fear Stalkers’ presence anymore, so he drags them into his mind. Somehow, Myrstaline comes along too. By this point, she has recovered enough to stand. She looks around to see that she is on a plain, full of dust, dirt, fire, and in some places, blood stains. She shudders and imagines this horrible place is the Abyss. Then she notices a familiar presence. With a horrible dawning, she realizes this is Valtorex’s mind. By now, Valtorex has reached the Fear Stalkers and has engaged them in combat.

The Fear Stalkers are greatly strengthened by the feast they have enjoyed for the past few hours, but still, they stand no chance. With fire in his eyes, Valtorex strikes down one, and then the other. They go, with a horrible wail, back to the Abyss they sprang from. Myrstaline is stunned by the horror of this place and the brutality she has just witnessed. Valtorex turns to look at her as he sheathes his swords. For a brief moment, she sees the fire burning in his eyes; then he makes eye contact with her.

Instantly, they are back in her mind. The field is recovering and the lake is returning to its normal color. The fire leaves his eyes as he stares into her calm, peaceful blue ones. Valtorex backs away before saying, “You are lucky you did not die. You must work on your willpower.” Myrstaline is indignant. She protests, “There were two of them. I’d like to see you face those odds.” Valtorex just chuckles at this. Then she realizes he did…and won. She gathers her courage before asking, “Will you teach me?” Valtorex replies, “No, you will be taught in the Arcane Tower, but I may be able to help you. Good bye.” Valtorex then disappears. Myrstaline wakes up and looks around. She finds that Valtorex has already left.

As Valtorex is walking through the night towards his cabin, he can’t help but think about two people. Valrie and Myrstaline. (At this point, he views them more as annoying little sisters than anything else) He thinks about how needy Myrstaline is and how odd Valrie is. He thinks about how much they seem to depend on him every time they get into some bad situation. He arrives at his cabin with the concluding thought of, “Well, for them to survive, it will take luck; for me to survive, it will take a miracle. Valtorex goes into the cabin and returns to his bunk. The other three are already asleep again, and Valtorex soon joins them. His sleep is, as always, interrupted by faces and eyes. The next morning, he awakes, ready to start his training. He goes to the training arena to find Tyberus waiting there. One student has already arrived, and over the next few minutes, the other two get there. Tyberus says, “Good, you all made it. Now, we are going to figure out what classes you belong in. Weapons ready!” Valtorex draws his swords, Valinor draws his greatsword, an elf draws a rapier, and a dwarf pulls out a greataxe. Tyberus says, “Good. Now, the way I will decide this is combat against me. How well you do will affect what class you get into. We will begin with you, elf.”

The elf bows to him before going into a traditional elven court stance. Tyberus laughs wildly. Tyberus says, “You fool! Royal courts are not for fighters. Still, I will give you a chance.” The elf rushes forward and slashes brutally at him. Tyberus raises his sword to block it, which he does successfully, but not before being knocked off guard. The elf jumps back and then to the side. The elf lunges forward, and his rapier moves nearly invisibly before striking Tyberus’s side. Tyberus staggers a bit from the blow before taking the offensive. It appears as if the elf will beat him, but Valtorex can see that Tyberus is holding back. Tyberus slashes at the elf with his greatsword. The elf, expecting to have ample time to block is surprised when the blow flashes through and stops less than an inch from his side. The elf backs away and bows. Tyberus says, “That was impressive. That will warrant you 3^rd level training. The elf bows again before backing away.

Tyberus points to the dwarf. The dwarf charges forward, swinging his greataxe. Tyberus blocks the bone crushing blow. The dwarf recovers surprisingly quickly. He swings his greatsword again, this time aiming at the legs. Tyberus blocks yet again. This continues on for a few moments, the dwarf attacking, Tyberus defending, until he grows bored and goes on the offensive. The dwarf is hard pressed to block Tyberus’s multitude of attacks, and inevitably, he fails once. Tyberus holds the sword to the dwarf’s neck. The dwarf backs away. Tyberus says, “That was decent, but you never landed a blow. 2^nd is as high as you can go right now.”

Tyberus holds his greatsword, tip down, to the ground. He looks between Valinor and Valtorex, sizing them up. He remembers his fight with Valtorex and nearly killing him. He decides to save that entertainment for last. He says, “You, with the greatsword, come fight me.” Valinor salutes him before walking forward, greatsword at the ready. Tyberus brings up his sword and goes into a defensive stance. He has a look of mild boredom on his face, until Valinor rushes him. Their swords meet in mid swing; sparks and droplets of acid are sent flying. The two combatants jump back and circle each other. Once again they jump forward, and once again, they force each other back. They continue like this for several minutes. Finally, they engage each other fully. Valinor swings high, going for Tyberus’s head. Tyberus blocks and forces the blade down and away. Tyberus makes a mid strike at Valinor, trying to catch him off guard. Valinor blocks and forces Tyberus back. They go at each other again. Exchanging blows and parries until Tyberus jumps back, slightly flushed, and says, “Very well. You have qualified for 4^th level.”

He looks at Valtorex and beckons him forward. Valtorex bows and snaps up with his swords crossed across his chest. Tyberus salutes him, thinking, “Well, at least he has respect. I wonder who taught him the military salute, though.” (That is the Draconic salute to a superior, also done with both arms crossed) Tyberus commands, “Begin!” Valtorex nods before rushing forward. Tyberus is about to go into the same routine when Valtorex suddenly stops. Tyberus is surprised by this, and waits to see what he will do. Valtorex suddenly rushes forward and raises his blades. Tyberus attempts to block, and would have been successful…if there was anything to block. He blinks quickly he sees Valtorex. Standing four feet away with his swords raised.

Tyberus is infuriated. He yells, “How dare you use a cheap trick! You are an insult to warriors everywhere!” Valtorex returns, “A good warrior uses his steel to fight. A great warrior uses every weapon in his arsenal.” Tyberus demands, “Do you know nothing of honor, boy? To fight like a coward and use magic? (Tyberus does not realize the elf was using a haste spell) Your mother and father should be ashamed of you!” Valinor sees a quick flash of pain across Valtorex’s face, before he returns to his usual calm expression. What Valtorex says next surprises everyone, including Tyberus. Valtorex calmly says, “Very well, I will fight you without magic. The fight will be until surrender or death. Is this agreeable?” Tyberus is taken off guard by this. He was expecting a mage to be more cowardly. He replies, “I accept your challenge, although I do not know why you included the bit about death. Everyone knows you will surrender after the first blow. We will meet after the fourth period to settle this.” He addresses the other three, “You are welcome to attend the shaming of this mage. I will invite my other classes as well. Maybe I’ll even invite one of my older students. Classed dismissed.”

As Valtorex and Valinor are leaving, Valinor asks, “Why did you make that stupid challenge? You’re going to lose. I know you won’t surrender, so you are going to die. I don’t get it, what point are you trying to prove?” Valtorex replies, “I do not know what brought me to challenge him. I wasn’t thinking, and frankly, I don’t think I have a shot at winning. I just get angry when anyone dares say mages fight without honor. We have our own code of honor, just as rangers do.” Valtorex and Valinor keep walking. Valtorex adds with a sigh, “Either way, though, I’ll prove my point. Even if I lose, I’ll show we aren’t afraid to fight for our honor.” They part ways and agree to meet at the Order of Steel’s keep in third.

Valtorex arrives at the Tower of the Arcane to find Rōdenthall (Good way to come up with names when writing: hit the key board, then add vowels and accents if neededJ) waiting for him. Rōdenthall says, “Well well, if it isn’t the barbarian. Are you here to see what a true mage looks like?” Valtorex, feeling a bit annoyed, makes a rash decision. He says, “I really am not interested in what you have to say. I’m sure you want to kill me, but it will have to wait until tomorrow, because I’ll be busy defending the honor of mages against Tyberus after fourth.” Rōdenthall glares at him. Valtorex just ignores this and continues on into the tower. He reaches the ritual chamber from the day before. Soon after, Rōdenthall stalks into the room with three students behind him. His voice slithers from his hood as he says, “The four of you are here to be tested for skill. You will each be partnered off and will face your partner. You may use anything at your disposal, although magic will be the most appreciated.” He glares at Valtorex before continuing, “After the first battle, the losers will face each other and the winners will do the same. Then there will be a third battle repeating the step. Whoever has the most wins will get into fourth level and so forth. Let’s see…” Rōdenthall picks the elf Valtorex remembers from last period to face a gnome. Valtorex is paired against a human.

The fights begin. Valtorex launches a Magic Missile strike against the human, but the bolts fizzle out before reaching him. Valtorex sees the glint of a ring on his right hand. Valtorex realizes he is protected from magic. The human begins preparing an intricate spell, knowing Valtorex can’t do a thing to stop him. Valtorex uses Burning Hands, but to no avail. The human finishes his spell. A bolt of lightning shoots forth from his palm towards Valtorex. Valtorex quickly draws the sword on his right side. The lightning strikes the blade and Valtorex’s gambit works. The lightning charged blade absorbs the bolt of lightning, causing no damage to Valtorex. Valtorex uses Ray of Frost, but, again, it disappears. Valtorex tries something radical. Valtorex summons three Mist Daggers and launches them at his foe. Valtorex expects this attack to work, but he still begins casting a more difficult spell. The human begins casting one of his highest level spells as the daggers race towards him.  The force dagger reaches the invisible barrier and dissipates. The second one reaches it soon after, and all that passes through is a puff of smoke. The final one hits and goes through, although severely weakened. The shaft of mist hits the human in the face. His concentration nearly breaks at the biting cold, but he pushes on with the spell. The both finish their spells and the human fires first. Cone of Cold bursts forth from his hands, spreading an icy chill throughout the room. Valtorex quickly remedies that with his spell, Fireball. The fireball flies through the wave of frozen water vapor and subzero temperature. The wave of ice from Cone of Cold passes by Valtorex, but the gap made by his fireball protects him. The fireball flies towards the human and smashes against the barrier. Valtorex runs forward, the words of a spell on his lips. The human is taken off guard by Valtorex’s attack and tries to prepare another spell. By the time it is ready, Valtorex has reached his shield. The human is yelling the final word when Valtorex reaches him and casts his spell, Shocking Grasp. The human screams as electricity flows through his body. The words of his spell flee his mind as his concentration breaks. The human pulls back and cries, “Enough! Enough! I give up!” Valtorex says, “That is for the best. You have two more rounds after this.”

Valtorex looks over to see the elf has won his match. The elf looks at him and nods. Valtorex nods back, and they prepare to fight. Valtorex goes into his spell casting stance, he’s turned so his side is facing the elf with his left hand in front of him, his right hand at his side. The elf goes into an elven spell casting pose that’s suited more to the court magician than a battle mage. The fight commences. The elf blasts a ball of light at him, but Valtorex easily avoids it. Valtorex returns with a salvo of Flame Bolts. Valtorex is tired from the last battle, but he’s determined to give his all. The elf waves with his left hand and the bolts follow the path into the wall. The elf gestures with his right hand and some invisible force knocks Valtorex off his feet. The elf begins casting a higher level spell as Valtorex struggles up. Valtorex is about to cast his next spell when the elf finishes his and sends a wave of dark energy hurtling towards him. Valtorex barely gets a shield up in time. The shield takes most of the damage before collapsing, but Valtorex is still hit by a decent blast. Valtorex doubles over as the shadow energy burns into his chest. The elf cackles in glee. Valtorex snaps up with a single Flame Bolt that tears across the room and blasts the elf in the cheek. The elf’s head snaps to the side and his hand shoots up to cover the burn. The elf returns the attack with a salvo of Shadow Bolts. Valtorex can’t bring up a shield, so he tries to dodge. Out of the ten fired, Valtorex dodges six. One hits him in each leg as he’s diving away, and the other two strike his back.

Valtorex lies there limply. The elf advances forward as Valtorex rows over. The elf reaches Valtorex and kicks him in the stomach. Valtorex retches before rolling away. The elf blasts him with another Shadow Bolt, just to watch him writhe. The elf is enjoying every second of Valtorex’s torment, intent on making him lose his fight against Tyberus. The elf decides to finishes with one of his favorite spells, Power Word Pain. The elf begins chanting the words. Rōdenthall sees what is happening and decides to enjoy the show. Valtorex struggles onto his hands and knees. He quickly goes back to the ground as the elf finishes his spell. Valtorex writhes and screams as every nerve ending burns with pain. The elf just stands back, laughing at his pain. Rōdenthall stands against the wall, the smile on his face masked by his hood. That smile vanishes when Valtorex crawls to his knees. It turns to a look of shock when he stands.

Valtorex turns and faces the elf. The elf immediately stops laughing. Whether it was from the shock at Valtorex standing, or the sharp blow to the gut, will never be known. The elf doubles over and Valtorex kicks him in the face. The elf staggers back, blood trickling from his mouth. The elf begins casting a spell, but Valtorex cuts him off with a trio of Flame Bolts. The flames strike the elf’s black robe and burn three holes in it. The elf howls in pain. Valtorex presses his advantage by punching the elf in the jaw and bringing him to the ground. Valtorex proceeds to kick the elf in the stomach, before walking around and blasting him in the back with another Flame Bolt. Valtorex turns to go to Rōdenthall, when he hears muttering behind him. He turns, just in time to see the elf, who had returned to his feet, cast his other favorite spell, Finger of Death. A green beam shoots forth from the elf’s index finger. Valtorex doesn’t even have time to raise a shield before he is blasted off his feet by the lethal spell. Valtorex flies through the air and lands on the stone floor, smoke drifting up from the hole in his armor. The human, having defeated the gnome, looks at Valtorex lying there. The gnome struggles up from the ground and sees him. Rōdenthall is in awe that the elf actually used a killing spell. The elf looks nervously at Rōdenthall. Rōdenthall notices this and walks over. He cheerily says, “Good job! You killed the barbarian. I guess that taught him what a real mage is like, huh?”

Everyone in the room is surprised when Valtorex says, “Don’t congratulate him too soon. He didn’t finish the job. Nice try though.” The elf turns with a look of shock upon his face to see Valtorex standing before him, smoke still drifting from the hole in his armor. Rōdenthall turns and glares. Valtorex says, “I have to concede you win, though. Oh well, second place isn’t bad.” He turns to the gnome and human and asks, “So who won over there?” The human stammers, “I…I did.” Valtorex happily says, “Good for you. Are you ready, gnome?” The gnome swallows hard. Rōdenthall announces, “It will be Silvanos against Darius and Kirato against the barbarian.” Silvanos’s eyes gleam evilly. Darius says, “I would like to concede the match, I’m happy with second level.” Rōdenthall gets the same evil gleam as Silvanos. He says, “Alright, it will be three on one. Silvanos against all of you, to the death.” Valtorex interjects, “That is not fare to Silvanos. Three on one, to the death? I won’t hesitate to use my swords to end it quick.” Silvanos laughs wickedly. Rōdenthall says with an air of finality, “That is my decision. There is two hours left of class, you have five minutes to figure out your strategy.

The three teammates huddle together. Valtorex asks, “Are either of you good at shield or healing spells?” Kirato answers, “I can do rudimentary healing, why?” Valtorex replies, “We need someone to treat the damage we take in the assault, someone to protect us from damage, and someone to kill the bastard. I can handle the killing.” Kirato says, “In that case, I’ll do the healing. I’ll stay at the back.” Darius says, “I have my ring and I can cast more shields. What do you need?” Valtorex answers, “We’ll need a general magic shield, a shield of light, and probably a shield of air.” Darius says, “I’ll get it done.” They form up into a line, Valtorex in front, closely followed by Darius, with Kirato in the rear. Rōdenthall commands, “Begin!”

The three of them charge forward. Darius casting first the light shield, then the wind shield. Silvanos fires a salvo of Shadow Bolts at them, but they are dissipated by the shield. Silvanos can’t build an effective strategy because the shield of light blocks his view. Valtorex makes it all the worse when he pulls out a coin and casts Flare on it. Valtorex tosses the coin in front of him, and Silvanos, thinking it is a strange spell, pulls up a shield. The coin hits the shield and passes through. The Flare effect is dispelled, but the coin continues through and hits him on the head before falling harmlessly to the floor. The group reaches him and Valtorex casts Flare on another coin. A ball of light, similar to the one before, flies out of the shield at Silvanos. Silvanos, thinking it is a ploy to get him to waste energy just casts Dispel on it. The Flare goes away to reveal Valtorex flying through the air with swords ready. Realization dawns across Silvanos’s face and he pulls up a shield of solid rock that Valtorex crashes into. The rock disappears and Silvanos tries to gas them out. He casts Noxious Cloud to try to poison them. Valtorex pulls back into the shield and they wait. When the cloud reaches them, it is sucked up into the Wind Wall, creating a wall of poisonous gas. With the new wall, they continue their march forward. Silvanos is slightly worried about the foresight and planning that appears to have gone into their strategy. He decides to take no chances and uses Finger of Death three times in quick succession. The three bolts of green death streak across the same path. The first hits the shield and dissipates. The second hits the shield and is weakened. It still hits Valtorex, eliciting a grunt of pain. The third one passes through unhindered and hits Valtorex right in the hole in his armor from the first shot. Valtorex drops his swords and stumbles forward. He falls to his knees at Silvanos’s feet. Silvanos commands, “Beg for mercy!” Valtorex responds by spitting on his boots. Silvanos places his index finger against Valtorex’s forehead and says, “I don’t know how you survived my attacks, but this one you will not. Point blank to the brain will kill, and if not, I do have more powerful attacks. Any last words?” Valtorex says, “Yes…actually I do. I am wondering…why you seem so obsessed…with magical attacks. I would have just stabbed…my opponent by now…Let me demonstrate.” With that, Valtorex pulls his knife free of his belt and stabs Silvanos in the stomach. The keen blade slices through the elf’s flesh like a keen blade through flesh. The elf smiles wickedly. He coughs out, “That was unexpected…I like it. You could make…a decent black robe…one day.” With that, he disappears and reappears next to Rōdenthall.

Rōdenthall says, “My apprentice is right, you would make a decent black robe, even if you use barbaric magic. You are welcome into my fourth level class.” Valtorex is about to say yes when an image flashes into his mind. He asks, “Have you had a female elf named Myrstaline yet?” Silvanos shakes his head when Rōdenthall doesn’t seem to have the answer. Valtorex says, “Well, when she comes through, put me in her class. She’s a talented mage, but she has no willpower whatsoever. I promised her I’d try to help.” Rōdenthall is aghast at the thought of Valtorex, the brutal killer, wanting to help someone for seemingly no profit. Silvanos, however, seems to understand, or at least thinks he does. Rōdenthall recovers and says, “Well, you will be getting postings tonight about what class and period you’re in. Along with the posting, there will be at least one spell book, more if you’re in higher classes. Class dismissed.” Valtorex leaves and goes to the Keep.

Valtorex arrives at the Keep to find no one there. A note is attached to the door with his name on it. It reads, “Hello, apprentice. The fight yesterday was so good that I decided to take you on. You are to meet me from now on at a spring in the forest. I will meet you there.” Valtorex goes to the spring he discovered on their first day to find Arianna. She is wearing the red robes of active neutrality, as she was the day before. She looks at him and her eyes focus on the hole in his armor. She comments, “You were hit by a powerful spell, repeatedly. I assume that bastard Rōdenthall had you students battle for positions in class.” Valtorex nods. Arianna says, “It is just like when I went through here. Who was it and what spell?” Valtorex replies, “Silvanos and Finger of Death, twice fully and once partially.” Arianna’s eyes widen momentarily before she returns to her calm state. She says, “So Rōdenthall has brought his prize student back in? I remember dueling him in my final year of Elite Training. I heard he became the apprentice of some dark wizard in the Dark Lands named Dorgoth. (Hint: If I give a name, I intend on using itJ) Oh well, that’s irrelevant. My question is, ‘How did you survive?’” Valtorex replies, “I do not know. He shot me, and I went down. I attacked, and he shot three times, on stopped by a shield, one partially stopped, the third hit fully. I kept going and stabbed him. Then he teleported away. The weird thing is, he’s also in the Warriors’ Guild.” Arianna says, “I would like to try something, but you have to trust me.” Valtorex nods.

Arianna begins speaking in Draconic. The harsh words flow about the area, creating their own rhythm and harmony. Suddenly, Valtorex is blasted off his feet by a force more powerful than he has ever felt before. His body is wracked by pain and he feels his armor burning on his flesh. He flies a good twenty feet before landing roughly on the ground. Arianna walks over and helps him up. His armor and clothes hang on him like rags. Arianna casts a very powerful form of Mending and Valtorex’s armor is repaired fully. Valtorex, still panting from the intense attacked, asks, “What…in the Abyss…was that?” Arianna replies, “Close, that spell was Infernal Fury. Normally, it drives someone insane with pain and consumes them in Hellfire. By all accounts, you should be dead. Now, there are a few more I would like to try…” She begins chanting another spell and soon, the glade erupts with the sound of horrible screeching. Valtorex covers his ears as they begin to bleed, but even this can’t cover the sound. Once it subsides, Arianna says, “That was Wail of the Banshee, which also should have killed you.” Valtorex tilts his head towards her. She casts a healing spell and repeats what she said. She then begins casting another spell. She finishes with a loud yell, and Valtorex feels a severe burning in his chest. Arianna is shocked. She exclaims, “That was the most powerful killing spell! (Taking God Spells and Epic Spells out of the equation) I used Power Word Kill on you!” They then try two more spells, Finger of Death and Phantasmal Killer. Other than ruining his newly repaired armor, they do nothing but hurt. After repairing his armor again, Arianna says, “This is all very strange, but that is not why we are here. That experiment took quite awhile. Now to begin teaching you.”

She asks him questions about his past, his family, his training, his weapons of choice, even his favorite food and drink. By the end of the hour, Arianna knows his entire story. She says, “Now I can better determine how to train you. Now, what to do for the next three hours?” Arianna seems to think for a few moments before saying, “Well, I could bring you to the stables to clean horse dung. Squires like that, right?” She says this with a smile. Valtorex replies, “I would, but my version of cleaning involves fire, and that may not be good for the horses.” Arianna seems to gain inspiration from that. She says, “Let’s talk about that, your obsession with fire. Why do you like fire so much?” Valtorex thinks for a moment before saying, “Really it’s my earliest memory that actually sticks. (He is referring back to the night his mother was kidnapped and his house was burnt down, with him in it) Plus, it is the only element that combines all of the best traits. It has the resistance of rock, the freedom and chaos of air, and the fluidity of water, while still maintaining its unique identity. It can be used to create or destroy, based upon its wielders intentions. It is the only element actually designed as a weapon; all the others have been adapted to fit the need of the wielder.” Arianna nods at his reasoning. She says, “From what I know of your nature, from my dealings with the other teachers and listening to you talk of your past, you like fire because you are fire. You fit all of the things you mentioned. Like fire, you can be used to create, but you have not been tempered. Without control, you can only destroy and will inevitably burn yourself out. Now, you will be getting a message next period informing you that you have been accepted into the Circle of the Earth. The Head Master convinced Stemius to accept you. Stemius will try to convince you become one with nature and don the brown robes. I want you to keep those red robes on at all costs. Passive neutrality will lead only to inaction, death, and destruction. Follow the path of active neutrality. Do what is right regardless of light or dark.” Valtorex replies, “I don’t think I have to worry about becoming one with nature. Have you seen my tree?” Arianna can’t tell whether he’s joking or not. She responds, “I have. That is precisely why you need to find your balance. The test for the Circle of Earth is to determine if your soul is compatible with nature. The state of the tree is the state of your soul. As your soul changes, so shall the tree. But on to other things. Do you know how to meditate?”

Valtorex nods. Arianna says, “Good. Begin.” Valtorex sits down and goes into a meditative pose. He lets his mind drift through the glade, feeling the energies and powers of his surroundings. He is curious and looks at Arianna. He sees her as a ball of heavily controlled and tempered, power. He is amazed at the amount of power she has compared to him. Arianna says, “Now that you have seen me, look upon yourself.” Valtorex looks inward and sees a twisted, deformed mass of raw power, full of chaos and a desire for destruction. Valtorex pulls back from his own self. Arianna asks, “Now do you see why you must learn? A great path has been set before you. To reach the end, you will need discipline, a strong soul, and a cause. You have the beginnings of the former, but you utterly lack the latter two. I can teach you discipline, but you will need your own cause and a strong spirit. I can help with the latter, along with Stemius, your friends, and those who are closes to you, but the cause you will need to find on your own.” Valtorex says, “I think I have the cause. I discovered it last night.” Arianna raises an eyebrow, “And what is it?” Valtorex steadily replies, “To hunt down those who prey upon fear and bring fear down upon them.” Arianna cautions, “That is a noble goal, however, it is fraught with danger. When you walk with shadows, you risk becoming one. Be careful that you do not become one of those who prey upon fear.” Valtorex nods at her advice. Arianna seems lost in thought for several moments, and Valtorex waits patiently for her to return to normal thought. Eventually, she says, “Well, it is almost time for class to end. Go to Elite Training. I will see you after fourth period for your fight with Tyberus, actually, most of the school will be. Until then, apprentice.”

Valtorex goes to the Hall of Trial to find Valen, Valrie, and Valinor waiting for him. He sees concern in the eyes of Valrie. He notes the somberness of Valinor and Valen, and asks, “Whose funeral?” Valrie replies, “Yours.” Valtorex nods; he says, “So you heard.” Valrie suddenly screams, “How could you be so damn stupid! You challenged one of the greatest living swordsmen to a duel! Do you want to die that badly?” Valtorex is stuck between trying to soothe her or yell at her. He decides instead to say, “I know I will die, so does he. This is about honor, not winning or losing. I am defending the honor of mages from his insults. My intention is to leave no doubt in anyone’s mind that mages have honor.” Valen throws in, “Valtorex, we know you have honor. Hell, everyone that knows you knows you have honor. Why are you going to get yourself killed over it?” Valtorex is about to answers when Valinor jumps to his defense by saying, “He is doing the same thing I would do if I were in his situation. His people were similar to mine. Honor comes before life, because honor is all that is left when life is gone. The honor of your family, your self, your entire life’s work. At the end of the day, you have to stand by your honor, because without it, life loses its meaning.” Valtorex caps it with, “Valinor is exactly right. That is why I am fighting. After I lost my entire family and my people, all I had left was my honor. It always stood by me when I was alone. I won’t abandon it just to stay alive.” Valrie retorts, “But that was when you had nothing left! Now you have something other than honor. You have this school, you have friends…you have me.” Valtorex looks into her eyes and sees the meaning in what she is saying. Valtorex thinks back through the past few weeks of his life. He thinks of the time spent with Valrie at night, training with Valinor, listening to Valen’s insane jokes. He thinks of Arianna, the one teacher he doesn’t want to duel to the death. Valtorex finally says, “You are right. I have more now than I’ve ever had before, but I can not give up my old self. My new beginning is great, but I must lay the past to rest before I can continue on. Today, I will fight for not only my honor, but for my future. I will not die to make a stand, I will win for my new life. Our teacher is here, let us talk of something else.”

Lord Kemos, however, has something different in mind. He walks right up and says, “Alright, which one of you is Valtorex? The Head Master instructed me to prepare you for your duel.” Valtorex says, “I am Valtorex, sir.” Lord Kemos gives him an appraising glance before saying, “Alright, not too bad. I can work with you at least.” Valtorex assures, “Yes, sir, I am capable of basic combat.” Lord Kemos is a bit thrown off by a student speaking without being addressed directly. He says, “If you are truly capable, then draw steel.” Valtorex replies, “Yes sir.” before drawing his swords. Lord Kemos draws a rapier from the scabbard at his side. Lord Kemos waves the weapon around, flaunting his god-like speed. Valtorex readies himself.

Before he can even blink, Lord Kemos has charged forward and impaled him on his sword. Valtorex coughs up blood. Lord Kemos pulls his sword free and looks down to see the wound has healed. Lord Kemos says, “That’s right. This blade heals the cuts it inflicts. My opponents feel the pain, but they don’t die so the game can keep going.” Valtorex nods and slashes at him. Somehow, Lord Kemos blocks both swords his amazing agility before slices right across Valtorex’s chest, opening up a huge gash. Valtorex staggers back as the wound quickly closes. Lord Kemos darts forward and slices into his arm. Lord Kemos spins around and cuts the other arm. Lord Kemos dances around Valtorex, cutting and stabbing, all the while Valtorex tries to mount some form of defense. Valrie can barely watch as the blood flies with every new wound. Valinor is silently cheering Valtorex for not surrendering while Valen is amazed at how Valtorex can’t even fight back. Kemos slices through Valtorex’s Achilles’ Tendons, causing him to fall. His ankles heal, but he is already down. Lord Kemos proceeds to brutally slice his back. Lord Kemos says, “Just say the word and I’ll stop.” Valtorex mutters something and Lord Kemos stops long enough for him to bend down and asks, “What was that?” Valtorex says louder, “I will die before I surrender.” Lord Kemos nods and goes back to cutting him. Valtorex falls down from the pain. He lies face down against the ground, but Lord Kemos continues cutting him. Valen notices a faint movement. Valinor sees the knife at his side. Valrie sees a murderous look in Valtorex’s eyes. None of them really get it until the knife is out of its sheathe and in a new one…a warm and bloody one. Lord Kemos doubles over and grabs at the knife protruding from his gut. Valtorex stands and says, “That will not heal on its own.” They are all surprised when Lord Kemos yanks the blade out of himself and hands it back to Valtorex. The blade is stained crimson. Valtorex cleans the blade before replacing it at his belt.

Lord Kemos grins broadly and pats him on the back. Valtorex notices the bleeding has already stopped. Lord Kemos says, “Congratulations, you didn’t give in and managed to pull a victory out of the ordeal. That’s keeping with the oath.” Just then, Lord Kemos realizes something. He says, “I never taught you the motto did I?” Valtorex shakes his head. Lord Kemos says, “That can not be allowed. You must know the motto; your honor depends upon it.” He addresses them all, “The motto of the Elites has been handed down for centuries. It is our creed, out battle cry, our lives. All of you must learn it and learn it well. The famous motto that has been on the lips of thousands of Elites as they charged into the jaws of certain death is this, ‘Kaeje ona Morte’. That literally translates to ‘Victory or Death’. This is the eternal ultimatum. Come home with your shield or upon it. The Elites do as they are ordered by the Emperor. They complete their missions or they die in the process. Failure is not an option, surrender is not an option. If you are ordered to kill someone, you kill them. If they are already dead, you follow them to the Abyss to make sure they stay that way. If you are ordered to storm a city held by an army of thousands, without reinforcement, you do it. You charge right to the gate and tear it down. You kill and kill, until they finally get you. In our history, one Elite has taken an entire city by himself. One Elite has destroyed a fully prepared mage’s tower, by himself. One Elite has gotten into the good graces of a king, and then assassinated him, his family, and his royal guard, by herself. We do not expect this of everybody; we only expect them to attempt it. Before any of you continue in this class, I want you all to think about that. Think hard, because once you have joined this class, you will not leave until you graduate…or die.” They all nod somberly, even Valen. After a few moments, Lord Kemos says, “But on another note, I look forward to your duel. I will be there.” Just then, a messenger runs up. He hands an envelope to Valtorex, bows, and runs away. Valtorex tears open the envelope and reads the letter inside. It reads, “1^st year student, you have been accepted into the Circle of the Earth. You are expected to attend class immediately.” Valtorex shows the letter to Lord Kemos who slaps him on the back and says, “Go boy. Don’t keep that old tree-hugger waiting.” Valtorex runs off towards the druid’s grove.

He arrives to find Stemius waiting. Stemius says, “Valtorex, know this, I do not want you here. It is only through the Head Master’s intervention that I even allow you to set foot in this sacred spot. I have been instructed to guide you. You walk a dark path of destruction and war. I intend to guide you back onto the path nature intended. There are robes on the log,” he gestures to a fallen tree at the periphery of the grove, “Change into them so the healing may begin.” (In case you haven’t noticed, the color of robe you wear is very important. Certain robes are like flag pins, others like Che shirts) Valtorex looks over at the robe and sees it is brown. Valtorex remembers back to Arianna’s warning. He says, “I am sorry, master druid, but I can not. I am a red robe and follow the path of active neutrality. To don the brown robes would be disobeying my knight, something I just can not do.” Stemius opens his eyes for the first time since Valtorex arrived. He says, with a deadly calm Valtorex would not expect from a pacifist, “So Arianna has already done her part to destroy your future. I command you, as your mentor and superior, to don those robes!” Valtorex focuses his fiery gaze upon him and says, “Druid, you can not order me to wear those robes. Passive neutrality leads to destruction through inaction. I must act when I see a crime. I must fight for what is righteous and honorable. I must destroy those who prey upon the fear of others. I must seek truth. Do not order me to abandon that just because I go against the flow of nature! What has nature done to stop the demons that sweep the land? How does peace save those being raped, tortured, and killed under the lash of evil? How does tranquility protect the innocent from darkness that wants to consume their souls? Tell me this! Tell me why I should sit by while these crimes occur! Tell me why nature wants me to let those people suffer!” Valtorex falls silent when the druid’s eyes glow with fury. The druid snaps to his feet and the trees twist, the grass writhes, and the wind howls. The druid demands, “How dare you question nature! How dare you question your role! How dare you assume you are the only one who cares! Nature grieves for what is lost, but what happens is natural. Death is natural, pain is natural, suffering is natural! How dare you question the order of things!” Valtorex is silently terrified by the fury of nature, but outwardly, he appears calm. He stares into the druid’s eyes as he says, deliberately and intentionally, “I dare because I am mortal. I dare because that is my role in this drasked (Draconic, similar to English’s F*#&, although only the swear, not the sexual meaning) world! I dare because I can not sit idly by and watch it happen! Now, I will listen to you, I will learn from you, but I will not follow your path.” Stemius seems to be stuck between anger and confusion. He finally breathes out slowly and suddenly looks very old. He says, with a hint of sadness, “Very well, I will teach you. I can feel nature screaming for your death, but I can feel my inner nature telling me you are somehow right. It is almost time for the period to end, and I have heard of your foolish fight. Go now. I will meet you here after fourth tomorrow. Until then, I will meditate upon what to do.” Valtorex bows before leaving.

Valtorex arrives at the Training Arena to find a large crowd of students and teachers assembled. He steps onto the field and sees a group of people in the front and center of the crowd. There is the Head Master, Arianna, Valrie, Valinor, Valen, and Myrstaline. Standing on the stone field is Tyberus, dressed in his adamantium armor with his adamantium greatsword strapped to his back. As Valtorex walks onto the ring, Tyberus says, “Good, you showed up. At least you’re not a total coward like most mages.” Valtorex just shakes his head in amusement. Tyberus says, “Now, mage, let us set up the rules of this match. I say no magic, including no enchanted weapons or armor. Is this agreeable?” Valtorex responds, “No it is not. I will willingly go without magic, but by removing my enchanted weapons, you remove all of them. Plus, your adamantium armor and weapon would allow you to destroy me without me even having a shot at fighting. I counter propose this, tunics as armor and identical weapons of your choice. Is that agreeable?” Tyberus says, a bit annoyed, “Yes. I pick greatswords.” Valtorex nods. Two servants run forward to divest them of their armor and weapons. Tyberus changes into a white tunic and Arianna brings Valtorex a blood red one. Valtorex puts on the tunic. The servants return with greatswords. Valtorex takes up his greatsword. Tyberus goes over to the side of the ring and takes out a metal orb. He places it in the center of the ring and it floats up. It stops ten feet from the ground and levitates in place. Tyberus says, “That orb is specially designed to detect magic. If any magic is used within this ring, the orb will discover and eliminate the source brutally.” Valtorex nods.

Tyberus and Valtorex stand under the orb, back to back. They each walk forward ten paces and turn. Tyberus raises his greatsword and Valtorex readies himself. Tyberus charges at him and Valtorex charges forward as well. They meet under the orb and their swords smash into each other. Sparks fly as the two warriors exchange blows, each matching the other perfectly. After several moments, Valtorex begins tiring. Finally, Tyberus gets a hit through. Valtorex screams as Tyberus’s greatsword smashes into his right side, cracking his ribs. Valtorex falls back, and when he finds it is hard to breathe and he starts hacking up blood, he realizes one of his lungs was punctured. As Valtorex is clutching his side and wheezing, Tyberus turns to the crowd and yells out, “Just as I predicted! He’s giving up after the first blow! What a coward!” Valtorex coughs out, “Giving up?…What makes you think…I’m giving up?” Tyberus seems mildly impressed by this. Tyberus charges forward and slams his sword down upon Valtorex. Valtorex barely manages to get his sword up to mount a feeble defense. Valtorex is forced to his knees and he drops his sword. Tyberus casually places his sword at Valtorex’s neck. Tyberus says, “All you have to do is beg for your life, mage. I’ll spare you if you admit you have no honor.” Valtorex’s response is to punch him in the gut and roll away with a small cut to his throat. Valtorex can barely breathe, but he finds enough energy to jump forward and grab his sword. Tyberus looks at him and says, “Looks like you still have some fight in you. Why don’t you give up?”

Valtorex, not knowing why, replies, “Kaeje ona Morte.” (This phrase works both as a statement of dedication to a cause and an oath to the enemy not to surrender and to expect no mercy) Tyberus nods. He says, “Very well, I will show no mercy. Kaeje ona Morte.” Tyberus raises his sword to fight, finally looking at Valtorex with respect. Almost the entire crowd has been won over by Valtorex’s display of honor. Valtorex, barely able tpo stand, raises his sword as high as he can, to about waist height. Valrie, seeing his pitiful state, gasps, “This is murder! He can’t fight like that!” The Head Master hears this and comments, “I would not worry. He chose this path. If he loses the fight, he has accomplished his goal. If he wins, he has still accomplished his goal. He will be happy either way. Besides, I think he still has some shot at winning.” His sentence is punctuated by the ring of steel on steel. Valtorex and Tyberus are fighting once again. Tyberus is attacking Valtorex brutally. Valtorex is barely able to block with even some effectiveness. Tyberus cleaves into Valtorex leg, causing him to fall. Valtorex falls back and lands hard. Tyberus advances on him, and before Valtorex can get up, he hacks at the other leg. Tyberus says, “You are honorable, but you are still a fool. This duel is to the death, and you have lost. I am sorry.” Tyberus raises his sword up, the blade pointed tip down at Valtorex’s chest. Tyberus plunges his blade down, but his eyes widen and he lets go of the sword. Valtorex has raises his blade one final time, and Tyberus’s downward strike caused him to skewer himself. Before Tyberus lets go of the sword, however, it has made contact with Valtorex and stabs through to the stone below. Valtorex gasps as his chest is forced open by the sword. Tyberus falls backwards, his hands over the bleeding wound from the sword.

Myrstaline jumps up and runs over to Valtorex, closely followed by Valen, Valinor, and Valrie. Myrstaline kneels beside Valtorex and tries to heal him. The orb begins crackling with lightning. Valtorex remembers Tyberus’s orb and whispers, “Go…away. The…orb will kill…” Valtorex faints. The Head Master rises to his feet and walks into the arena. With a casual wave of his hand, the orb explodes. The nurse runs forward and begins healing Tyberus. Valen, Valinor, Valrie, and Myrstaline crowd around Valtorex’s body. Valen says, “Come on, don’t die. There’s still so much for us to blow up!” Valinor adds, “Valtorex, do not let this little scratch kill you.” Valrie pleads, “Valtorex, don’t die! We need you!” Myrstaline begins praying to Silesta, the elven goddess of life and healing. Apparently, Silesta listens because Valtorex’s wounds begin to glow white. Soon, they close up and Valtorex opens his eyes. Valtorex sits up to a cheer from Valen, a slap on the shoulder from Valinor, a hug from Valrie, and praises to Silesta from Myrstaline. Valrie realizes what she is doing and backs away, blushing. Valtorex stands and goes over to where Tyberus is still lying. The nurse finishes healing him and backs away. Valtorex bends down and grabs Tyberus’s arm. Tyberus groans as Valtorex lifts him to his feet. Tyberus turns toward Valtorex and offers him his hand. Valtorex shakes his hand and Tyberus finally concedes, “You have honor, mage. You fought bravely even in the face of death. I would be honored to have you in my 4^th level class. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Everyone leaves and goes to their offices or cabins, depending on whether they are faculty or students respectively. As they are walking away, Valtorex says to Myrstaline, “Thanks for saving me. What class did you get into?” Myrstaline replies, “I don’t know. Rōdenthall said he would assign me without testing.” Valtorex is quietly nervous about that, but he says, “Alright, I guess I’ll see you tomorrow in class.” Myrstaline is completely confused by this, but before she can ask him what he means, he’s already gone. The four arrive at their cabin. They enter to find four envelopes on the table, each with a name on it. Valtorex goes over and picks up the envelopes. He tosses them to the people they are addressed to. Valtorex opens his and takes out the letter inside it. The letter reads, “Valtorex, you have been accepted into the 4^th level class in the Guild of Warriors, taught by Sergeant Tyberus, for 1^st period. You have been accepted into the Order of Steel; Lady Arianna will instruct you during 2^nd period. Arch-Mage Rōdenthall has accepted you into 4^th level training at the Tower of the Arcane during 3^rd period. 4^th period you have Elite Training under Lord Kemos. Do not be tardy for any of these classes and be prepared to bring any necessary supplies. Failure to comply will result in expulsion from the Draconic Academy.” There is also a set of books for his magic class.They talk about their classes. Valtorex finds out that Valrie is in 3^rd level Diplomacy, 4^th level Dueling, 3^rd level Mobility, and Elite Training. Valen has 4^th level Archery, 3^rd level Survival, 4^th level Mobility, and Elite Training. Valinor is in 4^th level Warrior, 3^rd level Survival, the Order of Steel, and Elite Training. They go to sleep.

The next morning, Valtorex packs the books in his pack. Valinor and Valtorex go to Warrior Training. Tyberus meets them and says, “Ah, my two brightest pupils of 1^st. I feel like watching a fight today. Draw steel and battle. Give it your all, but try not to kill each other too much. Tyberus turns to the other two students and says, “Watch how real warriors fight.” Valtorex and Valinor draw their steel and face each other off. Valinor rushes Valtorex with his greatsword, but Valtorex blocks with his longswords. Valinor sweeps up from the ground, but once again, Valtorex parries. Valtorex slices at Valinor, but Valinor swings forward into the blow. Valtorex’s sword is knocked tot eh side and Valinor presses the advantage. Valinor brings his sword down and Valtorex can only get one sword up in time to block. That sword is knocked down, but Valinor’s attack has been slowed enough for Valtorex to get the other sword up and block it. Valinor is forced back as Valtorex makes a series of thrusts and swings that he is hard pressed to block. Finally, Valinor reaches the edge of the ring and makes a final, desperate swing. This swing knocks Valtorex back and temporarily stops his advance. Valinor charges forward, ready to swing. Valtorex jumps to the side and lets Valinor run past him. Valtorex springs up and races after Valinor. Valinor suddenly turns with a swing, making Valtorex halt and block. Valinor begins attacking and Valtorex is forced back to the edge of the ring. Valinor brings his sword down with all of his considerable strength, but Valtorex crosses his swords and attempts to catch the deadly blade. Valinor’s sword smashes into the valley formed by Valtorex’s blades. Valtorex is forced to drop his swords and almost falls out of the ring.

Valtorex comes back with a kick. Valinor is not expecting this and fails to block. The kick lands solidly against Valinor stomach, causing him to stagger back and drop his sword. Valtorex tries to press his advantage, but Valinor comes back up with a punch. The punch lands under Valtorex chin, causing his head to shoot back. Valtorex returns with a punch of his own. The two exchange punches and kicks for twenty minutes or more. Both of them pulls back, panting and limping. They begin circling each other, trying to find a weakness. After about a minute, they both charge forward. Valinor swings his fist and connects solidly with Valtorex’s cheek. Valtorex jumps up and double kicks Valinor in the chest. Valtorex lands a few feet away and Valinor charges him. Valtorex jumps and sidekicks Valinor in the face. Valinor goes down. Valinor comes back up and punches Valtorex with all of his strength. His fist connects with Valtorex’s face and Valtorex goes down. Valtorex rolls away and forces himself up. They are about to go back to beating each other to a pulp when Tyberus commands, “Stop!”

Tyberus says to the other two students, “You see, that is how warriors fight. Valtorex lost his weapons, but instead of begging for mercy, he kicked. Valinor lost his weapon, but instead of calling it quits, he punched. They didn’t stop until I ordered it, and they would probably have kept the fight going for the rest of the period. Now, I want to see the two of you fight like they did.” The rest of the class period is spent with sparring matches between the four of them. Silvanos doesn’t use haste today, but he is still a formidable opponent. Tyberus instructs them on how to improve their techniques. Tyberus finally yells, “Class dismissed!”, and the students stagger off to their next period classes.

Valtorex nearly goes to the Tower of the Arcane, but remembers his period was switched and runs off to the spring. He arrives to find Arianna sitting on a log, meditating. She looks up, looking directly at Valtorex and asks, “Shouldn’t you be in second period?” Valtorex replies, “I am. Did they not tell you I was switched?” Arianna looks a bit embarrassed. She quickly says, “Oh, yes, they mentioned something about that. I wasn’t expecting you to show up.” Valtorex says, “Well, I am here, lady.” Arianna says, “Yes, well, I think you need more practice meditating. Try to meditate and I will try to distract you.” Valtorex nods and sit down. He closes his eyes and breathes deeply. Once he has begun meditating, Arianna yells. She sees a flutter to his eyes, but nothing more. She conjures two pans and begins banging them together. Valtorex’s face takes on a look of determination. Arianna continues banging the pans until Valtorex’s concentration breaks. He yells and the pans burst into flames. Arianna is forced to drop them and they clatter to the ground where they turn into a puddle of molten metal. Arianna, mouth agape, says, “You just melted iron. What spell was that?” Valtorex tensely replies, “That was the ‘they annoyed me’ spell. I use it on things that annoy me. It makes them stop.” Arianna dryly comments, “I bet, but you still failed the test.” From Valtorex’s reaction, it seems like she actually struck him. Then the look of anguish disappears and is replaced by an impassive face.

Arianna sighs before saying, “You know that will kill you, right?” Valtorex asks, “What? Failing in a winner takes all Academy or internalizing my emotions?” Arianna retorts, “This is not a winner takes all…” Then she realizes it is. She continues, “Alright, well, I was talking about internalizing your emotions.  We can cover the winner takes all mentality at another time.” Valtorex replies, “Very well. The conversation is going to go like this: ‘Why do you internalize?’ ‘Because some things are best left alone.’ ‘But internalization causes loss of control.’ ‘Yes, and talking about the past brings up bad memories.’ So why do we bother? You’re going to bring up how it will destroy my body, and I’ll counter that my past will destroy my mind. Neither of us will win and we’ll just waste time. Besides, the enemy blades will kill me long before my body gives out.” Arianna says, “Fine, if you won’t share your emotions, I’ll just see this haunting past for myself. Then maybe we can talk about it.” Valtorex replies, calmly and coolly, “It is your ability to sleep that is on the line. Don’t let me stop you.” Arianna chants the words to a spell and closes her eyes. Valtorex feels a jolt to his consciousness. He blacks out.

He finds himself starring at a manor he faintly remembers. Arianna is standing next to him. He sees a group of orcs led by a demon charge up to the house. The demon kicks down the door. Suddenly Valtorex remembers this and what will happen next. He says, “So you want to see my past? Follow me and you can experience it.” Valtorex walks through the door after the orcs and Arianna follows. They go through the door and find themselves in a parlor. Valtorex sees the maid trying to fight the orcs off with a fire poker. They laugh and jeer until she stabs one through the neck. One of them grabs the poker and rips it out of her hand. He then slaps her and says, “She mine. Me take her now.” He grabs her and throws her over his shoulder. He carries her, kicking and screaming, out of the house. The other orcs move throughout the house, taking everything of value. They seem to ignore their dying comrade as he writhes on the ground, gasping for air. The demon goes up the stairs to the second floor. Arianna and Valtorex follow. They arrive on the second floor to find a young woman, in her late twenties, early thirties, fighting the demon off. In the corner, there is a young boy, not even old enough to understand what is happening. The demon breaks the pole the woman is using to defend herself. He slaps her hard enough to knock her to the ground. As she tries to struggle to her feet, the demon bashes her over the head, knocking her unconscious. The demon turns on the boy. The boy stands up shakily, furious at what the demon just did, but completely incapable of action due to fear. The demon walks forward and punches the boy in the gut. The boy falls down, the air forced out of his lungs. The demon kicks the boy, eliciting a quiet scream. The demon kicks the boy again, and the boy coughs up some blood. The demon bends down and picks up the boy by the collar and begins slapping him back and forth. The woman begins stirring. The demon tosses the boy against a stone mantel and an audible crack is heard. Arianna’s instinct overwhelms her and she rushes forward to help the boy. She looks into his eyes and sees the bright blue fading. The boy’s blonde hair is matted with blood. The demon laughs as he drags the woman up by her hair. He roars out, “Look what I did to your boy! The little runt couldn’t even put up a decent fight! He deserved to die and you deserve to die for bringing the runt into the world. No matter, however, he’s dead and you’ll be dead soon.” The demon drags her out of the room and down the stairs. Arianna just looks at the boy, thinking this must be a brother Valtorex never talks about. She can understand why.

She hears a crash as a window is broken on the ground floor. She looks out the window to see the orcs and demon leaving the house. The demon turns back and roars out in Archon. The bottom floor bursts into flames. The flames creep up the sides of the house and the stairwell. Soon, the fire has spread to the room. The fire hits the furniture and advances on the boy. The fire reaches the boy and engulfs him. Arianna feels a tear come to her eye. Valtorex whispers, almost inaudibly over the blaze, “And so it begins.” Arianna gasps when the boy stirs. He rises to his knees and screams. At first, she thinks it is in pain, as would be expected, but then she realizes it is in anger. The boy stands up and the fire moves away from him, but it seems to mill about him, as if waiting for a command. Now that the fire is gone, she can see the boy’s blonde hair has been stained black from the soot. What astonishes her is the eyes. The bright blue has faded and gone. It has been replaced by a red that looks as if it was stolen from the fire itself. The boy, she now recognizes is Valtorex, storms across the room and goes down the burning stairs. The fire parts for him, backing away as if he was burning it. He goes out of view and everything goes dark.

They come back to find the boy, now older and stronger looking, standing at the edge of the village. About one hundred feet away is the demon, holding the boy’s mother by a chain attached to an iron collar around her neck. The boy yells, “Release my mother or I will personally rip you to shreds!” (I’m using boy because I don’t want to have to differentiate between the Valtorex watching and the Valtorex participating. Time travel is screwed up!J) The demon laughs and yanks on the chain, causing the woman to fall backwards. The boy’s hand goes to the longsword at his side. They watch the battle that follows and watch as the demon runs away. (I am not describing the scene in detail and I’m not describing thoughts because this page covers basically the entire first book. Don’t worry, I actually intend to cover the two years he spends in training)

Everything goes black again and they find themselves on the pivotal plateau. They watch the scene between Valtorex and the demon, the ensuing fight, and Valtorex going off the cliff. Then they see the village scene where Valtorex slays the entire village of orcs without mercy. Finally, they see Valtorex walk into Wayside Tavern and meet the robed stranger that changes his life. Valtorex takes his first job and leaves the inn. They see him facing a group of bandits and slaughtering them. They watch him work his way through mercenary jobs, killing and killing, without emotion, without mercy. Arianna is surprised to note that even she, a veteran knight, finds this level of combat and brutality stomach wrenching. Then they move on to Valtorex’s time with Trishtessa, the sorceress. (You know, a great way to find names when writing is to go to babynames.com. They have a great data base with searches by first letter and gender. No, I am not being paidL) They skip to where Valtorex follows Trish into a cave. Arianna, thinking she knows what happens, prepares to avert her gaze. Valtorex sees this and says, “What you think happens doesn’t. You are about to see the worst part of my life to date.” (Yes I am being vague on purpose, and yes, I know I’m an assJ) They go through the scene in the cave, then they flash through various parts of Valtorex’s captivity. They then flash to the show down between him and Trish. They see Valtorex stumbling out of the collapsed cave and wondering for days. They see him collapse at the mouth of a cave and a hermit come out. They flash through his training with the hermit and the continued mercenary work he does. They go through Valtorex’s most recent jobs, and his most dangerous. She sees the insane charges, the grievous wounds, and the look of sadness as he snuffs out life after life. They then go through the most recent events, the boat, East Port, and his first days in the Academy. Finally, they leave his mind and return to reality.

Arianna is stunned by how brutal his life has been. She remembers going through training similar to that and bearing pain like that, but not until her third or fourth year of training. She decides that Valtorex is exactly the soldier the Empire needs. She says, “Very well, Valtorex. It appears as if your past has been a bit rough, but it will only get harder. Class is almost over, but tomorrow, I expect you ready to fight for your life. I this understood?” Valtorex’s eyes flash before he says, “Definitely. Finally something I can do.” Valtorex is dismissed by Arianna and he leaves.

He arrives at the Tower of the Arcane. He finds two mages in black robes harassing an elven girl in white robes. An elf in red robes is sitting against the wall watching. Valtorex immediately recognizes Myrstaline. One of the black robed mages says, “You only got into 4^th level because of your boy friend!” The other one says, “Ya! This little wimp can’t even beat a rat! I’ll enjoy destroying her.” Myrstaline is cowering against a wall. Valtorex walks forward and cheerily says, with a smile on his face, “Hi, I’m Valtorex. I’m assuming you are talking about me. Just so you know, she’s not my girl friend; she’s only a friend that I promised to help. I hope you don’t mean destroy her literally, because I would have to remove your entrails and decorate a tree with them. Now, say you’re sorry or I’ll bash your brains out.” He says this as one would talk to a new neighbor. (This is to point out Valtorex is a complete psychoJ) The two mages turn, the looks of shock and fear hidden by their hoods. Valtorex just stares at them for awhile. When they make no move to get out of the way, he walks between them to where Myrstaline is. He pats her on the shoulder and says, “Myrstaline, it’s time for class. They say they can destroy you, but I think you should show them otherwise. Ah, here comes Silvanos.”

Silvanos walks up and says, “Ooh, isn’t that touching. The human and the elf. Think fast!” Silvanos fires Finger of Death in their direction. Valtorex is preparing to raise a shield when Myrstaline yells out in elven. A glowing, white shield appears around them and the green bolt dissipates against it. Silvanos curses and Rōdenthall shows up. He says, “Ah, my class is ready. Today, we will be practicing in the woods. I feel like getting close to nature.” He laughs without mirth. He leads the students into the forest. He goes to the very edge of the Academy. There is an ancient ring that looks as if it is made of crystal. Rōdenthall harshly spits out a word in a language none of them can understand, except for Valtorex, but he doesn’t know from where. A plane of light appears in the portal and he walks through. The students follow him. They find themselves in a dark forest. Rōdenthall says, “Ok, students, this is where we will be having class from now on. He produces five rings from his robe pocket. He hands one to each of them. He says, “The ring allows you to go through the portal. You must use the command word to open it and if you do not have your ring when you use the command word, then you will be teleported to the Abyss. Now, let’s practice the command word.” He teaches them the command word, then he asks, “So does anyone know what it means?”  Valtorex says, “It means ‘Open’.” Rōdenthall seems slightly impressed. He asks, “How did you know that?” Valtorex replies, “My previous teacher taught me the fundamentals of every main language. He focused on the Power Languages.” (Valtorex actually doesn’t know and just assumes it was his old teacher that told him) Rōdenthall asks, “And this teacher of yours, was he a mage?” Valtorex responds, “I do not know. All I know about him is he is a hermit that saved my life. I never got his name and since I left, I haven’t been able to find his cave again.” Rōdenthall seems thoughtful. Then he says, “Very well. That is quite interesting, but we have more important things. My assistant here is going to try to kill you…so will I. Your goal is to survive. This forest is so far from civilization that it does not even have a name anymore. The Ancients gave it a name, but it is not to be spoken because of the power it carries with it. Just suffice to call this place either the Dark Forest, or Treed Hell.” Ending with that, he disappears. Silvanos vanishes soon after. The elven mage sets off on his own, confident in his ability to defend himself. The two black robes go off on their own.

Valtorex and Myrstaline stay in place. Valtorex says, “We’ll need a light, a bright one. Can you cast Light?” Myrstaline nods. Valtorex says, “Good, how many times?” Myrstaline replies, “It’s a light spell. My natural magic can cover it.” Valtorex says, “Good. How many times can you cast it before you become fatigued?” Myrstaline shrugs. Valtorex shakes his head in annoyance. He says, “Alright. Cast it on…” He looks her over and notices she is wearing only the white robe and has no weapons. He curses under his breath and removes two daggers and their sheathes. He hands them to her and says, “Put these on somewhere. You need a weapon or two.” She puts them on around her waist. He says, “Alright, now we need some source of metal…” He takes out two gold pieces. He presses one piece against her sternum and mutters under his breath. The gold piece glows briefly before he removes his hand. The gold piece stays in place. Valtorex does the same to himself. He says, “Alright, cast light on yours first, then mine.” She does so and is not yet fatigued. He says, “Okay, now cast light on the blades of your daggers. If you’re still not fatigued, get my knife.” He pulls out the Knife of the Ancestors. She does this and is a bit flushed. Valtorex says, “Alright, that should do it. Remember, only draw your weapons if you see the threat. This will blind any creatures accustomed to dark we encounter and will also make it harder to avoid our attacks.” Myrstaline nods. They set off.

After about an hour of walking, “Myrstaline asks, “How much longer?” Valtorex replies, “We’ve been in class for about an hour and a half. We have about two and a half hours left. Or more. It all depends on whether or not they decide to let us out. Oh, I think our first test is here.” Valtorex points to a shadowy figure ahead of them. The figure quickly reveals himself as Silvanos as he runs into their light. He charges them with a dagger dripping some green liquid. Myrstaline freaks out and draws her daggers, blinding him with the new burst of light. Valtorex runs forward, drawing his swords, and slashes. He hears a gurgle as one of his swords slices through Silvanos’s neck. Valtorex commands, “Put your daggers away. He’s down.” Myrstaline sheathes her daggers. Valtorex looks down to see Silvanos’s body shimmering. He plunges a sword through the forehead. The body disappears. They continue on. After about another thirty minutes, they hear a rustling behind them. Valtorex whispers, “Keep moving.” They continue on. After about another thirty minutes, a creature suddenly bursts forth from the underbrush. Valtorex turns to face a large demon. Myrstaline turns and tries to draw her daggers. The demon looks upon her and she freezes. The light on their coins disappears. Myrstaline cries, “I can’t fight it!” Valtorex says, “That’s okay. We have left your bright and happy element. Now we are in mine. Darkness, conflict, pain, and fear. Those are four things you will come to know well if you insist on sticking with me. I suggest you pray to whatever gods you support, because this thing is intent upon taking and destroying both body and soul.” Valtorex draws his swords and yells, “Rōdenthall, you made a mistake! Sending me against a demon? Do you not know me at all?” The demon chuckles. It says, “Do you really think that fool sent me? I am a servant of this forest’s master, the Arch-Devil Mordoneus. I will enjoy feasting upon your souls.” Valtorex just says, “Bastard.” He then walks forward and stabs the demon. As the fire laps at the demon’s flesh and the lightning shoots through its blood, Valtorex says, “Rhetoric. All of your kind is obsessed with rhetoric. ‘Devour this soul’ ‘Cast darkness there’. It gets kind of annoying.” Valtorex wrenches his blades out of the demon and cleans them. He returns them to their sheathes as the artificial darkness is lifted. Their coins begin shining again.

Just then Silvanos appears. He seems ready to attack them, then he notices the demon. He sighs before saying, “Very well. I’ll let you go. Just turn around, the portal is about one hundred yards that way. Myrstaline turns and begins walking. Valtorex sees the gleam of murder in Silvanos’s eyes and says, “Myrstaline, wait.” Silvanos curses before releasing a massively powerful spell. Silvanos vanishes. Valtorex yells as a massive blast of energy tears through the trees towards them. Myrstaline isn’t going to turn in time and Valtorex is driven to protect her. He jumps in front of the blast. The wave smashes into him, causing him a level of pain he has never before experienced. He hears Myrstaline scream as the secondary wave hits her. Valtorex falls to the ground and feels his heart slowing to a crawl. He can hear Myrstaline’s labored breathing. His mind drifts as his heart fails. He looks down upon them, seeing the fire in his soul burning out. He then sees her soul. It is white, pure. He uses a word he has not used in a very long time. Beautiful. He knows he will survive the blast. He has enough energy to go into a meditative state until his heart heals, but he can’t bring himself to do it. He knows that she took a lesser blast, so he can possibly save her, but it will kill him. He decides the end of his twisted path for the continuation of hers is worth it. He channels all of his energy into her. He sees her heart beat increase and he hears her breathing ease as the damage to her body is repaired. He then sees a man in pure white armor appear before him. He says, “You last act has redeemed you. Come into Celestia. Live in peace.” Another man in armor of the darkest black appears from the shadows. He yells, “No! The mortal is mine! He has followed my path! On minor deviation at the end can not redeem him!” Finally, a man in blood red armor appears. He says, “Actually, the mortal is mine. I have decided he will yet live. He still has much more to do.” The three turn to him and ask, in unison, “What do you want? Peace, war, or life?” Valtorex replies, “With life, I get war. Peace will leave me nothing to do. I choose to live. Like he said, I have more to do.” The men say, “That was the right choice Valtorex. Very well, your life shall be restored, but for a price. You must join the Red Army and advance to Arch-General. You must defend this Empire at all costs. Be prepared to sacrifice all. If this Empire falls, then your soul shall be forfeit to Oblivion. Do you agree to these terms?” Valtorex replies, “I do, but with one condition. Let me finish my training.” All three nod their agreement then disappear. (Don’t be disappointed, you’ll see them again. And, you’ll even get their names then too. Plus, their back story and how they relate to Valtorex. Those of you who know me well enough to have the behind the scenes info. probably know them.)

Valtorex is ripped from the sky and forced back into his body. He sits up and looks around. Myrstaline is asleep beside him. He picks her up and heads in the direction Silvanos gave. He arrives to find Silvanos and Rōdenthall waiting. They congratulate him on succeeding. Then Silvanos asks, “Bit why are you carrying the dead one?” Valtorex replies, “Because you bastard, she’s not dead. Now, let me return to the Academy. I’ll be more than happy to come back and kick your asses when I know she’s safe, but until then, she’s my primary concern.” Rōdenthall says, “Fine. If you insist on being weak, I’ll open the portal. Next time you come here will be your last though. I can guarantee it.” Rōdenthall opens the portal and Valtorex goes through. They arrive at the Academy. Valtorex looks at the sun and determines there is one hour until the next class. Myrstaline stirs in his arms. He asks, “What class do you have next?” She mouths, “Natural.” Valtorex nods and takes her to the Druid’s Grove.

Stemius jumps up from a log and says, “You’re here early!” He sees Myrstaline and his eyes grow wide. He demands, “What did you do to her?” Valtorex replies, “I saved her life. Be angry at Silvanos, he’s the one that did this. Can you take care of her?” Stemius nods says, “Put her down and go. I’ll take care of her. Everything you touch dies.” Valtorex puts her down and leaves the Grove. As he is leaving, he poses the question over his shoulder, “Is not death part of life?” Valtorex goes to The Hall of Trials. He sees Lord Kemos training a group of four. He is shooting arrows at them and making them dodge. After about twenty minutes, he says, “Class dismissed.” Valtorex walks up to him as the students are leaving. Lord Kemos asks, “How much did you see?” Valtorex responds, “Only you shooting arrows at them.” Lord Kemos sighs in relief. Lord Kemos and Valtorex talk for awhile about longsword technique, Lord Kemos obviously wanting to avoid discussing today’s class. Valinor, Valrie, and Valen arrive about two minutes into their discussion. Lord Kemos says, “Alright, today we will be working on mobility and group work. How many of you are in Mobility Training?” Valrie and Valen raise their hands. Lord Kemos says, “Alright. Two of you. We can skip mobility then. We’ll focus on teamwork. I will summon a demon and the four of you will have to defeat it.” Lord Kemos pulls a scroll from his pocket and reads it.

A balrog (A large, flaming demon. See: Lord of the Rings movie trilogy) appears. Its first action is to shoot fire at Valrie. Valtorex raises a shield to protect her. Lord Kemos yells, “First, establish a leader!” Valtorex decides he will back whoever steps up. Valrie, Valinor, and Valen decide to back Valtorex. Valinor says, “Valtorex.” Valen and Valrie agree. Valtorex, once again assuming the role of leader, says, “Alright. Valen, get behind it and pepper it with arrows. Valinor, wait until its back is turned, then plunge your sword into its spine. Valrie, go for its ankles and try to cripple it. I’ll use my magic to attack the head.” Valen takes off in a sprint around the balrog ignores him and summons a flaming whip. He swings the whip and whips at Valrie. Valtorex knows the only shield that will protect her is his body. He jumps in front of her. For a moment, he thinks it odd that he’s saved two people today alone by sacrificing himself. Then he stops thinking when the flame hits. He falls to the ground. By now, Valen has reached the other side and has begun loosing arrows at it. The balrog turns as it feels the tiny pinpricks from the arrows. When it turns, Valrie runs forward with a yell. She avenges Valtorex by brutally slashing at the balrog’s legs. The balrog screams and tries to turn. Then Valinor runs forward and jumps. He draws his greatsword and stabs into the balrog’s lower back, severing the spine. The balrog turns and shakes them off. It turns as Valtorex stands. The balrog and Valtorex make eye contact. The balrog roars, but Valtorex just continues to stare into its eyes. The balrog begins lumbering forward, but Valtorex just looks deeper. Finally, something in his mind snaps. He says, “I understand now. You are consumed by the same fire I am. The burning need to destroy, the lust for conflict. I understand you, and thus, I know how to beat you.” Valtorex begins meditating. He lets his mind drift outward. He turns his gaze upon the balrog. He sees a twisted and tortured soul, consumed by fire, pain, and hatred. He is reminded of himself. He goes into the balrog, forcing his spirit into its body. As his fire merges with the fire of the balrog, it shrieks in eternal agony. Their souls merge and the balrog’s body begins to break up from the conflict caused. It becomes a contest between the two souls. Valtorex struggles against the balrog and begins to take control. Then, the balrog’s spirit flies out and towards Valtorex’s body. Valtorex races back to his body and narrowly beats the balrog. The balrog still makes it into his body. The balrog fights with his soul for control, but in the end, Valtorex’s fire out burns it and the balrog’s spirit falls into the background. (This balrog will come up often later. Those of you who read Unicorn Hunting probably can guess what I’m referring to)

Valtorex used all of his energy battling with the balrog and he collapses. Valrie, Valen, and Valinor rush to his aid. Valrie turns him over. His eyes flutter open and Valrie gasps. Valtorex’s fire red eyes have transformed. An actual inferno appears to be contained just below the surface. Lord Kemos walks towards them and looks into Valtorex’s eyes. He says, “They say the eyes are the window to the soul. What does this say about him?” Lord Kemos appears to be the only one who is not frightened or shocked. Lord Kemos says, “An interesting thing just happened. A mortal fought a very powerful demon soul and managed not to succumb to the Abyssal call. That is very rare. Unfortunately, once a demon is in you, it takes the act of a god to get it out. He’ll be battling with that demon for the rest of his life. Normally, he should be able to overcome it, but if he becomes emotional, the demon is likely to take over.” Valtorex asks, “Really? So I actually have a reason to suppress my emotions now?” Lord Kemos laughs before saying, “Yes, pretty much. But the key is feeling them, not expressing them. Even feeling emotion will lead to the balrog coming out, although only the powerful ones, like anger, hate, fear, or love. Feeling those will most likely throw you into a deadly rage that will make you nearly unbeatable. You will also attempt to kill everyone and everything around you. I would very much like to see one of those rages.” (Hint: He will by the end of this chapter) Lord Kemos trains them by sending a few more demons against them. The four of them dispatch the weak demons with relative ease. (Relative to a balrog, which is one step below a Demon Lord on the Abyssal food chain) Lord Kemos finally says, “Very well, class dismissed. Valen, Valrie, Valinor, go and get some sleep. Valtorex, I’ll accompany you to Stemius’s grove.

The companions part ways. Valtorex and Lord Kemos head to the grove. They arrive to find Stemius, still in his brown robes, waiting. He says, a bit unfriendly, “Ah, Kemos, I see you have come along.” Lord Kemos retorts, “Well, I just wanted to see the one tree even you’re afraid to hug.” Stemius flushes in anger. Stemius yells, “So you want to see that tree? Alright, I’ll show it to you, and I’ll show you what it’s done, as soon as I’ve finished teaching this abomination, or better yet, I’ll teach him in the shadow of his own twisted soul. Come this way, I moved the tree because it prevented my students from meditating.” They leave the grove, following Stemius. They go deeper and deeper into the woods. As they move further in, Valtorex begins to realize where they are going. They arrive at the portal he went through earlier that day. Stemius sees recognition in his eyes. Stemius says, “Don’t worry, this portal actually links all of the ancient forests. We’ll be going to a tranquil, peaceful forest that contains the Circle of the Earth, for which the druid’s school is named. The Circle of the Earth is a council formed by the spirits of all the sages who became one with nature. They direct the living druid masters and serve as a communication line with the planet.” Stemius closes his eyes and his face takes on a semi peaceful look. Then he says, “Something is wrong. I can’t get through to the Circle. It’s like that entire forest has been cut off from nature.” He abruptly turns on Valtorex and accuses, “This is your fault! If you hadn’t have come here, that tree wouldn’t exist and this wouldn’t have happened!” Lord Kemos interjects, “You don’t know it was him, and if it was, I wouldn’t be that threatening to someone who can take down a group of spirits dating back to the first uprising.” Stemius calms down and says, “Very well. I will not blame him yet. Let us see if the portal responds to him. If it does, we will know the answer.” Valtorex takes the hint and walks up to the portal. Nothing happens. Valtorex, not knowing whether to be relieved or disappointed, tries to step back. Instead, he feels a tug from the ring. He steps forward and touches the edge. Where he touches it, the crystal turns red, as if it was hollow and filling with blood. The red spreads through the ring. In moments, the entire ring is red. Valtorex feels a string of words fighting to be released. He mutters words he has never heard before, but sound similar to the language Rōdenthall used earlier. (BTY, that language is Ancient, the first power language) A plane of fiery light appears in the portal. Valtorex, feeling a call from some immortal essence, walks into the fire. Lord Kemos shrugs and goes through. Stemius, wary of this display and what it could mean about Valtorex, follows.

They find themselves in a deep forest. All of the trees are twisted and warped. A general scream of agony hangs in the air, as if coming from the earth itself. In the background, they can see a massive blaze, or at least the harsh light from it. Lord Kemos asks, “How far away is the fire?” Stemius replies, “I don’t know. I can’t commune with the earth.” Valtorex asks, “Where did you plant the tree?” Stemius responds, “About fifteen miles from here.” Valtorex says, “Then the fire’s origin is somewhere around there. That’s where I’m going.” Lord Kemos asks, “Why? Do you sense something?” Valtorex replies, “Yes. A desire for blood, death, and strife.” Lord Kemos says, “Well, that sounds like the best place to be.” Stemius is aghast. “So you are the root of this! I knew it!” Valtorex calmly says, “Yes, apparently I am, even though you are the one who planted the tree. I am going to fix this. What are you going to do?” Stemius slumps his shoulders and says, “Very well, I will join you. I should warn you about the elves though. A subspecies of Wood Elves lives in this forest. They haven’t left since the elf tribes spilt up thousands of years ago. According to the circle, they are the original elves. We must treat them with respect.” Valtorex nods and walks towards the blaze. They walk for about five miles until they reach the edge of the blaze. They find a village. There are platforms in the trees and doors at the base of the trunks. Stemius says, “This is one of the elf villages. It looks like the fire is being held back for now.” He points to a group of elves at the edge of the fire, using magic to prevent it from spreading further. Valtorex is about to go to help when he sees movement in the flame. At first he thinks it is just an illusion caused by the intense heat, but moments later, he finds out it is much worse.

A group of demons bursts forth from the flame and take the elves by surprise. Within moments, more than half of the men that were stopping the flame are dead. The demons press onward, leaving the remaining elves behind to perish in the flames or die as more of their brethren charge out of the fire. The fire begins moving slowly and the elves are forced back. The demons spread throughout the town as more demons pour out of the fire, killing even more elves. The demons kick in the doors and charge into the tree homes. In minutes, the demons have taken the platforms, easily slaying any men who weren’t fighting the flames. The demons stand on the platforms, waving their bloody weapons and roaring in bloodlust. They captured the women and children. They begin tossing the children off the platforms and tormenting the women. Valtorex knows what will happen once all of the children are dead and the women are sufficiently terrified. (If you can’t guess, you are either a complete moron or still in Elementary, in which case, shame on your parents or older siblings for letting you read this) Valtorex turns to Stemius and says, “Remember what I said before I went off to fight Tyberus?” (He’s referring to his rant about active neutrality) Stemius nods. Valtorex says, “I am about to prove I meant it.” Valtorex draws his swords and rushes the nearest house. He charges through the doorway and over the broken door. Lord Kemos draws his rapier and says a command word to remove the healing aspect of it. Valtorex meets the first demon and slashes through him and continues up the stairs before the demon even hits the ground. Lord Kemos follows him up. Stemius sees more demons headed that way and runs into the house. Stemius goes up the stairs to find Valtorex and Lord Kemos fighting back to back against the demons. About half the demons are attacking them while the other half seem content with tormenting the elves. Stemius yells, “More are on their way! That fire is unnatural! It’s like it’s from the Abyss itself!” Lord Kemos yells to Valtorex, “Go lad! You’re the only one who can get through the fire! Stemius and I can take care of the elves! Hurry, before we have an army to fight! That’s an order!” Valtorex nods and breaks off. He fights his way to the edge of the platform and jumps off. He casts a spell and floats down the two hundred feet from the tree top. He lands amongst a group of demons. He slays them all and runs towards the blaze. The fire is slowly creeping forward and has already begun to consume the bodies left from the first attack. The bodies of the rest of the elves will be reached within an hour. Valtorex does think it’s odd that the fire is moving mere inches a minute, but then he realizes it’s not just fire, it’s a portal to the Abyssal plane. Valtorex hesitates at the edge of the inferno, unsure of whether he should continue. He then hears the scream of a little girl being flung from the treetops. This cements his resolve to kill the demons. He says, “Whoever is behind this, I am coming and I will kill you. I will kill all of your bastard minions and all of your allies. Prepare yourself.” He then walks into the flame.

As he walks into the flame, something amazing happens. The fire parts for him. He remembers back to the attack on his house when he was ten. He remembers the demon that did it. Valtorex charges into the fire with a furious cry. The flames part to make a path for him as he runs. Demons keep springing out to attack him, more as he runs on, but he cuts them all down without slowing down. Valtorex keeps running and running, letting the flames that surround him (The flames have been closing up behind him) guide him. He is carried on by the fire, past the point of exhaustion, past the point when he should collapse and die. He keeps running and killing. He continues for over an hour. Finally, he reaches a clearing in the flame. He sees a tree in the center of the clearing, the one tree that is spared from the inferno, even though its branches are ablaze. That tree is his tree, his soul. He sees the tree twisting and writhing while still screaming out piteously. A creature steps out from behind the tree. It is a human, but with demon features and wearing the armor of a demon lord. The human smiles wickedly. It says, “Hello, brother. I am Kaedros of the Hellfire. I have been spawned from the union of your soul and that of the balrog. My master, the Arch-Devil Mordoneus directed my formation. As you can see, I am a half demon, but I have the power of the balrog, you, and the Arch-Devil that created me. I do have to complement the Infernal King on the taste of his followers. Yes, I did create this fire, and yes, I did order those demons from the Abyss. Now, you will submit to me or die. Follow me loyally, and you will be rewarded with a seat at my right hand. I will even grant you that human and the elf girl you like so much. Just kneel before me and join me in my conquest of this world!” Valtorex feels tempted to kneel and accept the offer, but the temptation to lop off the bastard’s head is greater. (Yes, I know I use bastard a lot, but this is the first time I’ve used it out of dialogue, and the one I’m referring to does meet the definition. Just sayingJ) Valtorex replies, “I will not submit to you. You are the type of creature I’ve sworn to destroy. You will not be allowed to feed on the fear of any more innocents. I will stop you.” Kaedros laughs mockingly. “You? Kill me? I have all of your power, the power of your balrog, and the power of an Arch-Devil! You can’t defeat me! I’ll see you burn in the Abyss by the time this day is done.”

Valtorex replies, full of conviction and barely contained anger, “I know you will win and I will burn for eternity, but I will take you with me!” Valtorex lets his anger break free and his eyes take on the hellfires of the Abyss. He roars and charges Kaedros. Kaedros raises a hand and Valtorex is stopped in mid run. Valtorex roars out his impotent rage. Kaedros turns to the tree and beckons to it. From the trunk an assortment of devils and demons comes forth. He turns back to Valtorex and says, “Ok, you may continue now.” Kaedros releases Valtorex who continues his insane charge. The demons and devils converge on him, but Valtorex smashes through any form of line they try to make. Kaedros sighs in boredom and raises his hands. Two portals form behind him, one on the left, one on the right. From them pour devils and demons. Valtorex slows down as more foes rush him. Finally, Valtorex charge is ground to a halt and he is forced to stop. While he is fighting, some form of rational thought returns to him. He realizes Kaedros is his soul, twisted and brought forth by an Arch-Devil. He realizes Kaedros overpowers him entirely because he has everything Valtorex has and then some. Then, it clicks in place. Kaedros doesn’t have everything Valtorex has. He has hate and anger, but there is one thing he does not have…love. Valtorex remembers his emotions are the most powerful weapons in his arsenal. He thinks of those he loves. Myrstaline, Valrie, Valen, Valinor. He thinks of his mother, his teacher, his three tutors from his village. He even thinks of Lord Kemos and Arianna, and even Tyberus to some extent. The fire in Valtorex’s eyes burn brighter than ever. He roars in new found strength and forces his way through the mass of enemies. His blades become a flurry of flames and lightning bolts, killing all in his path. He fights his way to Kaedros. Kaedros sees the fire in his eyes and realizes that Valtorex could very well beat him in this state.

Kaedros decides to summon two blades, both made of pure darkness. He meets Valtorex’s blades with his. They begin fighting furiously, their blades smashing and clashing, sending sparks, embers, and shadow flying. The devils and demons swarm around them, but Valtorex and Kaedros both strike them down off handedly. Kaedros’s superior power allows him to strike blow after blow, but Valtorex, knowing if he doesn’t stop Kaedros here, then he’ll just spread throughout the continent killing everything, won’t go down. (If any of you wonder where the Dark Lord comes from, keep wondering, because I’m not giving that awayJ) The fight continues for over half an hour. Valtorex is bleeding from several wounds but he won’t go down. Finaaly, Valtorex’s determination pays off and he strikes a mighty blow against Kaedros. The flaming blade slices into his shoulder and bites bone. Kaedros drops his swords and they disappear. He backs up against the tree and says, “Brother, you have won this round, but next time, I will return and I will be stronger. When we meet next time, you will die and your soul will go to Oblivion!” Then, Kaedros sinks into the tree and the tree disappears. Valtorex falls to the ground as the fire moves inward. The fire covers his body and he begins falling and falling.

Valtorex wakes up in bed to see Valinor in the chair next to him. Valen is leaning against the back wall. Valrie and Myrstaline are pacing back and forth, seeming very agitated. Valtorex asks, “What’s going on?” He then realizes he’s in the infirmary. Valrie and Myrstaline look over and see him sitting up. They both run over and hug him. As usual, Valrie backs up blushing. Myrstaline doesn’t seem to have that issue. Valinor stands up and Valen walks over. Myrstaline backs up and they fill him in on what happened. Myrstaline tells him that Stemius was severely injured and is in his grove, recovering. She says that lessons are postponed for a month. (Convenient huh?) The nurse comes in a few minutes later and informs him he can not leave for several days. When she leaves, Valtorex gets up. Myrstaline says, “But the nurse!” Valrie commands, “Valtorex, lie back down or I’ll make sure you can’t leave for a month.” Valtorex replies, “Valrie, you know you can’t take me, even if I am like this. Besides, school’s not taking a break, so why should I? The need for knowledge never stops, so neither should learning. Let’s go to back to the cabin and get ready for class, ok? I promise I’ll take it as easy as is absolutely necessary to be the best student in the Academy.” Valtorex then goes over to the desk that has his armor and weapons. He puts them on over his bed clothes and leaves. Valen says, “Now that’s the Valtorex I know. He just killed an army of demons and nearly died, and he just buckles on his weapons and goes out the door. That idiot’s going to get himself killed one day. I want to see it; it will be an awesome explosion.” Valinor nods and says, “Yes, he’s an idiot, but an honorable, determined one. I wish I could have been there. It would have been such a great fight.” They follow Valtorex out the door. Valrie shrugs but can’t hide the concern on her face or in her eyes. She follows them out. Myrstaline thinks of how much she cares about Valtorex and how much it would hurt her for hi m to die. She resolves to protect him and make sure he doesn’t get himself killed. She goes to her cabin and goes to sleep. The next morning, they all wake up and the cycle begins all over again.