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Forgotten Dreams
Prolog:

The Kingdom of Dorain has been divided by a great war. Kings of long past have feared this, for the prophecy says it will bring about the Dark Lord once more. The Kingdom has engaged in a civil war involving the entire kingdom and many of the outlining towns and provinces. During so many kings have fallen from battle or the stress of war wearing at there minds. This has lead the kingdom deeper into the darkness that now covers the entire country side. Many a soldier has been brutally slain in engagements of brother against brother, leaving bodies scattered across the vast fields, too many to count. All nearby rivers run red with the dark blood of their comrades and enimies. The land covered with the forgoten bodies of many a valient warrior who hath died protecting their kingdom.

At one time the Kingdom of Dorain was renowned for peace and prosperity, which it is now torn by the darkness. Where has all the good gone?

As the prophecy once said the Dark Lord has risen again after ages of waiting and begins to engulf the world in darkness once again. He was born long ago by a mage, in his wrath was taken over and fell to the darkness. He gains strength by the hatred and suffering of others. He feeds off the blood of the fallen warriors gaining even more power while he waits for the moment to rise and enslave all. That day draws close and he has prepared for it with all his hate from his rememberance of the two lone warriors who hath when the world was about to destroy itself, smitened the Dark Lord and brought peace back to the world.

The warriors, one a nephew of the Dark Lord, the other a mage who had mastered the might in the Scrolls of Arcaida, have been sealed away for they,at the last moment, only locked the Dark Lord away inturn were sealed away to wait for the two other chosen warriors to find them and release them in order to defeat the Master of Darkness.

But with the legendary warriors still sealed away and the chosen ones not to be found, he grows stonger and has raised an army in preparation to take over. His reign will be one of darkness and dispair, and all oposition will fall unless the warriors be found.

The spirits watch on and pray that the return of the legendary warriors bring back peace to the world and finally rid itself of the Master of Darkness.....



More chapters coming....

[Edited on 9-3-2005 by masterlink]

Chapter 1:The Coming of a New King.

As Xevious Dragonheart peers out a window, a fancy stagecoach approaches the gates. He turns from the window to his brother-in-arms, Evikun Lionheart.

“Hey brother, our ‘new’ king is finally here.”
Evikun turns, and walks to the window to look.
“Really? Took him long enough . . . ”

“Yes, I’m pretty sure that’s him. Who else would ride in such a nice coach?”

“Well I guess we had better be off to greet him hadn’t we? Don’t want to be late.” Evikun said moving away from the window and grabbing his sword “Oblivion”.
Xevious agreed and grabbed “Darkness Bane” from its resting place in the corner.
Xevious straps on his sword and steps over to Evikun.
“I hope this doesn’t last too long . . . We have to train some new recruits remember?”

“Damn I remember now . . . I hope they’re better than the last bunch we had. At least it’s only basic swordsmanship today.”

“Yes, Evikun basics . . . You remember basics?” Xevious said holding back a laugh.

“Um . . . Yeah hack and slash. Kinda barbaric from what we learned. But to get to where we are, they have to go through the basics of swordplay.”

A servant suddenly enters the room panting and out of breath. The servant was a rather short fellow with shaggy hair and almost no facial expression. After regaining color and composure, he addresses the warriors.
“Please follow me Sir Xevious and Sir Evikun.”

They shrug and follow him out the door. Evikun closes the door and rejoins them as they walk down a spiraling staircase.
Evikun pulls Xevious aside with his hand on Xevious’s shoulder.

“Hey I wonder who he will be? Hopefully he will be able to rule, with all the wars and stuff going on . . . ”

“Ah alas I have no clue. Too bad we can’t be king. We were found and adopted by dukes all they knew was our first names, and slapped their names on us. First their ‘Crest’ then Heart for royalty . . . only the king is allowed to keep his name when in nobility.” Xevious replied, rubbing his head, “All I know is that he better be a good fighter or he won’t last long in battle. By the way has the magus said anything about the dragon shaped scars on our hands?”

“Nope he hasn’t figured out anything except it means some kind of destiny that we must fulfill.”

The rest of the trip was made in complete silence except the sounds of their steps in the long empty hall.
They finally reach the main hall, which was filled with people, tables covered in all types of food, many guards, and lots of music with anxious talk of the new king. Then Xevious and Evikun moved to the two positions beside the throne and waited for the announcement of the new king.

“Xevious . . . Do we really have to stand here and wait for him . . . I mean in front of all these people . . .” Evikun said leaning toward Xevious with hints of despair.

“Yes we have to... I don’t want to be here either but it’s our job to protect him and make sure he stays safe...” He replied giving Evikun a stern look.

The Royal Eunuch walks out on the stage in front of the throne and unrolls a scroll. He then begins to read in a big booming voice.

“Good people of Dorain, thank you all for coming to witness the crowning of your new king!”
Applause is heard, drowning out the last few words that he had to say, but he waves his hand for silence.
“I have more for ye! May I present your new king, Sir Orric Thornpaw son of Lord Luther Thornpaw of Dorain!”
A man enters the room. He is tall with shoulder length blonde hair, medium build, and an air not that of a king, but of a warrior.
“By the power of this crown and this sword,” the eunuch holds up a golden crown, fitted with jewels and engravings, and a sword, with a golden hilt and scabbard. Then places then crown on Orric’s head and pats him on the shoulder with the sword, and continues,
“I now declare you King Orric of all Dorain!”
Cheers and applause is heard throughout the entire room. As everybody stands and bows, the King steps forward and presents a small speech.
“I thank you all for coming here. With this power, I will reunite the kingdom and bring peace back to Dorain!”
More cheers and applause are heard. The king then raises a hand and everyone falls silent.
“Now let the feast begin!” he yells raising both hands over his head, and more yells followed by bustling of people making their way to the tables of food. Xevious and Evikun continue to stand next to the King, but he tells them to go and eat, because he will be fine. They hurry to the nearest table and start eating.

There was a massive array of meats and exquisite dishes including, roast duck, rotisseried boar, and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.

Evikun and Xevious were leaning across the table talking to one another about when the King would choose a king when the King steps up behind them.
“I do trust that you two are having a good time?” he says with a smile.

“Yes your majesty, we are having a wondrous time.” Xevious replied quickly swallowing and almost choking on a piece of meat.
“Good! I was hoping you would.” the King said still smiling.
Evikun then turns to the King and shyly asks a question.
“My Lord what is the time being?”

“A few minutes after four, why?”

“Damn... Xevious we had better go to the armory to teach the new recruits. Only basic training remember...”
“I remember... Sire if you’d excuses, we have to get to the armory to train some new recruits for the army.” Xevious said finishing a roll. They stand up and leave the table.

Xevious and Evikun head into a corridor heading to the armory.
“Brother do you think that the ‘kids’ we know anything?” Evikun said tuning toward Xevious.

“I don’t know, but I have an idea that might help. We can have a small ‘skirmish’ to show them what they will have to learn.”

“Hm... that’s an idea. Better try not to scare them though.” Evikun replied, laughing. Xevious too laughs at it, and continues walking.

They finally arrive at the armory, filled with about twenty anxious boys, ready to learn sword skills. Every one having high hopes of becoming a spirit warrior like their mentors. As Evikun and Xevious enter the room, Evikun starts checking them over.

“Rough looking bunch, huh brother?” Evikun said moving back to Xevious.

“Yeah, and all ‘ready’ to learn. I bet at least half drop out the first week...” Xevious replied scanning over them.

“Well lets start. Class attention over here!” the group of boys move closer to Evikun and Xevious, “Now will you all please grab a sword and choose a partner!”
“Thank you brother Evikun. Now myself and Evikun will show you what will be expected of you!” Xevious said drawing his sword, Darkness Bane. While Evikun draws out his sword, Oblivion.

“Now watch carefully and learn quickly! For you might have to use these skills in a real combat situation.” Xevious said getting into stance.

Without warning, there was a flash of blades as Evikun and Xevious lunged at each other parrying and retaliating. Evikun then does a horizontal slash, which Xevious swipes aside and follows up with an upward slice. Evikun spins to the side, dodging he blow, and sweeps for Xevious’s feet. Xevious flips over it and regains his stance. Another instant and the warriors are on each other again. By now all of the recruits are staring in amazement, some gasping at every blow. One particular one leans over to another and whispers to the boy next to him.

“If that were me, I’d be a bloody pile on the floor by now...”

Suddenly both warriors stop and turn to the boy, making him jump at the sudden stop.

“Do you think so? Come here boy.” Xevious said sheathing his sword and stepping to him.

I...uh...me?” the boy said, his face turning to a flaming red.

“Yes, come hither. Just try and I will be the one to judge your skills.” Xevious said moving back to the front of the room.

The boy reaches the front, and unsheathes his sword, getting into position. Xevious doesn’t move, instead he just stands in a relaxed position.

“Uh... Aren’t you going to draw your sword?” The boy said, relaxing from his stance.

“Don’t lose focus, and get back into your stance! Now attack me!” Xevious replied with a stern voice.

Unexpectedly, the boy runs and hacks at Xevious. In response Xevious draws his sword with lightning speed and flips the boy’s sword out of his hand and sent it skidding across the floor with a loud metal-on-stone screech. Xevious sheathes his sword and picks up the boy’s and hands it to him.

“Don’t fear the blade. It is an extension of your body. Use that to your advantage, and you will never lose.” Xevious said backing to the front again. “Boy attack me again, and remember, it is an extension of yourself!”

Again the boy runs at Xevious, this time improvising by trying to slash him in the back. Xevious didn’t draw his sword this time, instead he grabs the hilt of the boy’s sword and twirls it around to rest against the boy’s neck. The boy stops suddenly and freezes without even a twitch. Xevious then remove the blade from his “victim’s”throat and returns it to him.


“Good! Improvisation! Tell me boy what be your name?”
Xevious said walking over to him and placing a hand on the boy’s shoulder.

“My...my...name is...Judas, Sir...” The boy replies stuttering.

“Judas you may make a fine warrior yet, but you have to remove your fear of the blade from your mind.”

“Yes master Xevious!” Judas said bowing at Xevious. Then returning to his place in the crowd.

“Now the rest of you please spread out with your partner and begin!” Xevious commanded, followed by a flourish of clashes and bangs of swords smacking each other.

The King enters unnoticed, and begins walking the edge of the room. Xevious and Evikun continue to walk around helping the trainees and giving them pointers.

“Here hold the sword like this. Remember you don’t want the enemy to knock your sword away, leaving you defenseless.” Xevious said helping someone with a wrong stance.

Evikun turns at the sound of scraping metal behind him, near the door. It turned out to be the King grabbing a sword off the table and swinging it around a couple of times.

“Your Majesty! I am honored by your presence. What brings you here Sire? If I may be so bold to ask.” He said bowing to the King. Then walking over to him.

“Arise sir....” The King starts and waves his hand for an answer.

“Evikun, Sire. Your royal Spirit Warrior.” Evikun said raising from his bow.

“Ah Sir Evikun. I see that you having a fun time with these recruits. As for why I’m here, I just came to see what compelled you to leave the party in the main ballroom.”

“As you can see Sire, we had to train these new recruits and try to teach them not to get killed.”

Xevious finally realizes they have an intruder and walks over to them, breaking through a few fights to get there.

“My King!” He says bowing, “I would be pleased to know why you have graced us with your presence?” Xevious said sheathing his sword and bowing.

“Arise. Now I am here to see what you were doing here. Or in other words, just checking up on you.” The King said hinting at a little humor. The King then picks up one of the swords and twirls it around in the air.
“May I ask to have a duel with one of you? I need to know what is protecting me.”

“Your Eminence, Sir Evikun will spar with you. I have to get back and help one with a problem with his stance.” Xevious said bowing again, then walking away, passing by Evikun.

“Thanks brother...” Evikun said as he passed. Xevious just kept walking, with a small smile.

“Please draw your sword Sir Evikun.” The King said walking away from the table with a sword. Evikun then draws his sword and moves opposite of the King.

The King suddenly slashes horizontally at Evikun. He easily parries and slashes for the Kings neckline. The King bends backward, dodging the swing, and sweeps for Evikun’s feet. Evikun jumps over it and comes down with a downward slash. He blocks and twists around with a powerful stroke. Evikun blocks, then turns his sword upside down in his hand and rushes for the King. Evikun then jumps and twists over the King, landing then slashing for the King’s back. The King whips his sword behind him and blocks the attack, then turns to meet his foe. The King then puts his sword back in its scabbard and bows slightly to Evikun.

“Wow Sire I had no idea you could fight that well.” Evikun said, bowing back.

“I was once a knight, then I was dragged into this position as King. I needed to test my abilities to make sure I wasn’t getting rusty.” The King replied putting the sword back on the table.

Xevious finishes with his pupil and walks over to Evikun and the King. He bows to the King, and puts his hand on Evikun’s shoulder.
“Did you have fun Brother? Did he beat you?” Xevious said with a grin.

“Ha ha ha... very funny. Why don’t you try?” Evikun stated with an air of challenge.

“Can’t, we have to get to conjurations, remember? Damn our schedules are tight.”

“Yeah, but we haven’t even finished here yet...”

The King interjects, “I can teach them for you. Both of you go on to your conjuration class. I’ll be fine here.”

“You sure your Highness? You don’t have to...” Xevious said.

“Don’t worry Xevious, the King has more than enough skill to teach them. Besides, we must not be late, or Master Oridan will be mad...And you don’t want that...” Evikun replied, heading for the door.

Evikun and Xevious leave the armory, and begin down the hall heading to the courtyard where magic is taught.

“So how was your fight? Did he give you any challenge?” Xevious said still smiling.

“Yeah, you should give it a try.” Evikun replied sarcastically.
They talked the rest of the way about what they might learn in conjurations.
They arrive in the courtyard, where they find noone except an empty yard with a few trees and thick grass.

“Huh...Xevious... Are we late?” Evikun asked looking around and looking confused.
A mans voice is heard behind them. They both turn and see noone.

“No you aren’t late, but if you waited any longer you would have.” The mysterious voice said.

“Where are you? Who are you?” Evikun said turning wildly then places a hand on his sword. Xevious just stood there hiding a smirk.
There is a bright flash, then about five people appear, seemingly from out of nowhere.

“Now do you know me?” The man said with a smile that would soften the hardest heart.

“Master Oridan! Let me guess, invisibility. Is this what we are learning?” Evikun asked, removing his hand from his sword.

“Yes you will be learning to become invisible. This can be handy for all sorts of thing, and you might need it in the future.” Oridan answered.
Oridan was a short old man, with a bald head, but a beard that reached midchest. His face had a soft look of wisdom and kindness.

They both bow and move into the middle of the courtyard. Xevious stops and turns back around.


“Have fun Evikun! I already know this one. Me and Master Oridan have already met on this one. This frees up my day, I think I will head back to the armory and finish up there.”

“Thanks for filling me brother. Well then go, and I will stay here... Well Master Oridan lets get on with this...” Evikun said sighing and following Oridan.

Xevious arrives back at the armory and finds that all of the recruits are still going, and the king is still there helping them out.

“Hello my Lord. May I continue? This is my job anyway.” Xevious said with a half bow. Then steps over to help the young swordsman.

“Ah, but I thought you went to conjurations.” He said putting the sword back up.

“Yes, but I already knew what we were learning, so I came back.”

“Well then good luck to you.” the King said leaving.

Xevious starts back on his teaching, while the King goes back to his throne. After about an hour later, a messenger rushes into the room. He was panting and covered in sweat. He leaned over onto his knees and, through pants and gasping for air yells his message.

“Sir Xevious your majesty requests you in the throne room IMMEDIATELY!”

Chapter 2: The Invasion

Xevious quickly sheathes his sword and runs to the throne room. On the way he meets up with Evikun.

“Evikun, what is going on? Why are we being summoned by his majesty in such a hurry?” Xevious asked, while running to the throne room.

“I don’t really know! Although I heard a loud boom on the northern wall!” Evikun replied Slamming a door open and ushering people out of the way.

“That means we are under attack! We must hurry and protect the King!”

They hurry along a long corridor, when suddenly a large boulder slams through the wall, blocking their path. They turn around and head down a narrower path, but finds it to blocked.

“Brother we have to find the way around! Wait the passageway by the grand ballroom! It leads straight to the Throne and its in the middle of the castle so it shouldn’t be blocked! Lets Go!” Evikun yelled as they took off again, and turn out of the closed path.

Xevious and Evikun streak past the ballroom at a fast pace, and almost ran over half the cooks, who were fleeing to the center of the castle. After a few more loud cracks and screams from running people, They finally make it to the throne room, where the King has just finished putting on some armor. Both of them draw there swords, and Evikun runs and basically “throws” the King behind the throne and tells him too stay down.
Suddenly, the large wooden door bursts open and five knights in black armor surge in. Following them is a man, who was particularly larger than the rest, enters behind them. He was adorned in heavy armor, all black, had a massive sword, and had a highly decorated helm, signifying him the leader. The knights line up and the leader steps forward.

“Bring me the boy named Judas! Or you will all die!” He said in a deep voice., that would make anyone tremble if not a trained knight.

Xevious steps forward and presents the point of his sword at the man.
“Why do you want him? And why are you here?”

“It is of no concern of yours! Just bring him Or DIE! If you don’t bring him I will destroy the entire castle to find him!”

Judas suddenly runs into the room. Everybody tuns to see him, he then spots the black knights and takes off.

“Get him you fools! Bring me that boy!” The man said singling a charge.

The black knights start chase, but are cut off by the two spirit warriors. They draw their swords at the two warriors.

“You will not touch him! You will leave now and not return if you value your lives!.” Evikun yelled getting ready.

The large man lunges at Xevious, which he then parries and swivels around the man.
“Get out of my way you insolent speck!” He said sweeping at Xevious. Xevious dodges and notices that, for being as big as he is, he has a good speed.

“I cannot let you proceed into this castle, and take any of its inhabitants!” Xevious yelled, turning and getting back his stance.

The man backs down, and has faith in his men. He stands and watches the whole fight wile becoming more disgusted as time went by.
Two of the five knights lunge at Evikun, while two more lunge at Xevious, the last standing to protect his leader.
Xevious blocks a double slash by both attackers, then whips around and slashes one of the knights arms off. The knight lies on the floor whimpering and holding his amputated arm. The other continues the onslaught.
Evikun spins around and avoids a vertical slash, then rolls on the ground and slices the black knights knees from behind, dropping him to the floor instantly. He then continues his fight with the other knight.
Xevious continues dodging and parrying while the knight keeps attacking. Xevious hits a table, then flips backwards over the table and lifts it up as a shield, blocking a horizontal stroke. He then slams the table back down, forcing one of the legs through his opponents chest, spilling blood everywhere. The other knight runs at Xevious and trips over the other ones amputated arm and lands on his partners sword, completely passing through his head.
Evikun parries off to the side, and flips his sword, causing his attacker’s own sword to decapitate himself.

The large man, seeing all his knights defeated, decides to retreat. The two surviving knights follow him, either struggling or crawling after their leader.

“Should we follow them Xevious?” Evikun said wiping his sword off and sheathing it.

“No, they have faced defeat, and lets hope they don’t come back.” Xevious replied cleaning his sword and placing it back in its scabbard.

“Hey! Look! You got a trophy!” Evikun said sarcastically, pointing at the twitching arm.

“Nah, I don’t want it. Where’s the King?”

“Uh...he was behind the throne...” Evikun replied, looking around.

The King then walks from behind the throne. And takes a look around. He then claps his hands, and a bunch of servants rush out to clean up the mess.

“Bravo, bravo... We will have a feast in your honor of protecting me!” The King said lightly clapping.

“Thank you your Majesty. By the way Xevious, who was that? And why was he after Judas?” Evikun asked stepping over a body, while walking to Xevious.

Before Xevious could answer, a voice is heard behind them. They all swivel around to find Judas with his head down.

“I...I was suppose to have become king of the resistance forces against the main castle of Dorain. I fled, because I saw how they betrayed my father, and murdered him...” Judas then looks up and sees the warrior with the table leg through him, and gasps then runs off again.

“Poor kid....Evikun don’t go after him, just let him be.” Xevious said, stopping Evikun. Xevious then walks through the broken door to look for other remaining enemies.

The King walks over to Evikun with a quizzical look.

“Sir Evikun... what were they after? What did they want?” He asked, almost stepping in a pool of blood.

Xevious cuts Evikun off before he could answer, “Sire the enemy has fled, I don’t think they shall return.”

“Well then, we have all had a trying day. Let us retire, for tomorrow is another day...” The King said, tuning back to head to his room.
Both of them sigh and start back to their respective room.

Yes tomorrow is another day...

Not bad keep up the good work sounds like i\'ve heard something similar before (probbably just my imagination) but anyways I recomend you start making stories Here

Wow...your the first to read it....
Oh well it\'s here for SOMEONE to enjoy

New chapter arriving in a couple o\' days.
ANY reader will have something toread:P.

Evikun and Xevious head back to their rooms in the castle, when Judas reappears in front of them.

“I...I am sorry for running... But you see...the warrior that had a table leg... through him...was my...he was...my brother...” Judas said in a meek and quavering voice. “I saw him and I couldn’t help but run... Hope you don’t think me a coward...”

Xevious walks to the boy and puts a hand on his shoulder. And speaks softly to him, “I am truly sorry, but I cannot do anything about what happened. He attacked me, and I defended myself. I had no idea that he was your brother, but if you let me know who...” Judas cut him off
“No don’t think about it any, it was my choice to defect, not his. In turn he was the enemy and thus became victim. I will not cry about it anymore so you don’t worry about it ok?” Judas interrupted, putting his hand up to silence Xevious.

They all unanimously agreed, and started to head back to their respective places. They walked by the courtyard and left Evikun to his conjuration studies, then Xevious and Judas headed toward the armory. Upon arrival, they both notice that all of the recruits have been totally oblivious to the attack, probably the clashing of their swords muffled the sounds of the crashes against the outer walls. As soon as Judas and Xevious got ready to resume, the lunch gong rang clear and crisp through the stone hallways. So all of the young boys replaced their swords on the table at the front of the room and started heading toward the ballroom for lunch. Most of them took note of how some halls were filled with dust and ruble. Others groaned about having to take a longer route to the ballroom. They catch up with the small group coming from the courtyard with master Oridan leading them to lunch. The two groups interlace and multiple conversations spark up about the attack, what is being taught, and other jib jab. Xevious finds Evikun and starts talking about recent events.

“So what is happening in your conjurations? Learning anything?” Xevious said with a smirk and a hint of laughter.

“Don’t get all smart about it....but I have finished the invisibility learning, now all I have to do is practice. By the way, tomorrow is basic healing, so I guess we don’t need to be there, considering we already know advanced healing spells.” Evikun replied, putting his hands behind his head and looking at the ceiling.
“Anyway, how are things going with the young recruits?”

“When we finally got there, there wasn’t any time to continue, so we just set off for lunch.”

“Ah... that’s why you were able to catch up to us. Hope it’s as good as that banquet yesterday. Because I am starving. Magic really takes it out of you...”

They finally arrive at the ballroom, where all the residents of the castle had arrived to eat. Upon entering the main chamber, the air was filled with smells of luscious, succulent, smells of meats, vegetables, and other mouth-watering dishes, that would make even the pickiest eater drool. The cooks just kept coming, carrying off empty platters, just to be replaced with more scrumptious food.
They stopped at the entrance, and looked around for a bit for a free table, one young boy from the conjuration class pointed to the far wall near the kings chair with an exited voice “there!”. As a group, they all moved toward the table, bustling past cooks, servants, and other people sitting at other tables. As they all took there seats, Xevious and Evikun closest to the King, cooks appeared, as if from nowhere, and served platters of food to them and places several empty plates to eat from in front of each person.
The King appears in front of Xevious and Evikun, and motions for them to come to his table, while he tells a servant to bring two chairs and some plates for them. The servant does as he was told and returned with two grand chairs and another servant with two golden plates, who set them in front of Xevious and Evikun. The servants bowed away and returned to serving people. The two sat down, but the King remained standing, and motioned for them to stand back up.
He clapped his hands, and everyone went silent and gave him their attention.

“My loyal subjects, I have an announcement! This morning a band of knights attacked and invaded the castle, but these two warriors flung themselves out in front of many a foe and vanquished them, saving my life and probably the lives of many others. For the brave and heroic deeds of Sir Xevious Dragonheart and Sir Evikun Lionheart, there will be a feast tonight followed by dancing and other festivities!” The King yelled out, pointing at Xevious and Evikun, respectively, “Now let us finish and get on with what we need to do, and please stay away from the grand ballroom for the rest of the day, we need to prepare for tonight!”

After this the King sat back down and the silence was filled with the incessant chatter that filled the room beforehand. Conversations erupted all around the room. People talked, ate and generally had a good time.
Xevious and Evikun, however, were sitting, and gazing into space. The King noticed their lack of enthusiasm, and leaned over to them.

“Well aren’t you going to eat? Hello you two awake?” the King asked with a small worried look.

“Huh what? Oh... sorry your majesty...” Evikun said phasing back into reality and reaching for a platter of food. He then looks over to Xevious, who was still dazed.
“Xevious... Xevious... wake up... your king is speaking to you...”

“Oh...huh? Sorry my lord... I was thinking...” Xevious trailed off then regained control and then grabbed some steaming meat. The events of the day were still fresh on there minds, thus distracting them from the present events. This made Xevious and Evikun almost miss their meal.

After the lunch, everyone returns to their respective places in the castle. Xevious nor Evikun talked during the time it took to return, except when Xevious said “bye” when they left Evikun at the courtyard. The rest of the day went by in a flash, and everyone returned to their dormitories in the castle.

“Well brother Xevious... we have a ball to get too, and we’re the main event.” Evikun said opening a closet, and looking inside.

“Oh yeah, that’s right... our ‘commemoration’ for saving the King. Well lets dress in our best, lets say... our gear?” Xevious said walking to the closet.

“Yeah, why not? Lets go in and be heros.” Evikun replied puffing his chest out.

“You and your big head.” Xevious laughed, “Yeah I guess that’s what we will be expected to be...” He finished reaching for his outfit.

Both Evikun and Xevious were suited in solid black body suit, with silver chest plates, back plate, thigh and shin guards, shoulder armor, extending down their upper arm, but still flexible, and fingerless leather gauntlets. The whole ensemble was finished by both of them strapping on their swords. Their choice was actually their full set of battle gear, which they were going to have to wear the next day anyway.

“Well brother, we’re ready. I wonder when he will be back...” Xevious sighed.

“Who? Oh wait... That man in black armor right? I hope he doesn’t come back, but forget about it for tonight, lets just have fun!” Evikun replied smiling at Xevious.


A servant appeared at the door with a dignified look.
“Master Xevious Dragonheart, and Master Evikun Lionheart, please come with me to the grand ballroom.”

Both get up and follow the servant out the door. Evikun checks the window right before they leave.

“What is it brother?” Xevious asks stopping and turning to him.

“Oh... nothing. Just making sure we wont be attacked.” Evikun said with a small smile and turned from the window and left.

They arrived, and like before, the smells of wondrous food can be smelled. They quickly ate and when everyone was finished, servants removed the tables for dancing.
The orchestra started and random couples stood up and began dancing.

“Would you care to dance, Xevious?” Evikun asked holding out his hand and smirking. He then sat down and chuckled to himself.

“Evikun, you need to find yourself a woman mate...” Xevious said laughing with him.

“So when are you gonna get with Marlene Hillmarn? I’ve seen how you look at each other.” Evikun stated with a suggestive smile.

“I don’t know... I... Wait there she is. Well Evikun... Lets see if it’s tonight, eh?” Xevious said, getting up and brushing back his hair.
Evikun just leaned back to watch.

Xevious walks across the room to a woman, who was sitting on a bench looking around.
She was a woman of slender build, and medium height. Her hair was a dark blonde, which accented her hazel eyes. She was wearing a floor length dress, made from scarlet silk. A true prize for any man.

“Uh... Marlene... Uh... Would you... care to dance?” Xevious stuttered but got it out.

Marlene stood up and took his hand then curtsied.
“Yes Sir Xevious. I’m glad you finally asked Xevious!” She said coming out of her curtsy and looking straight in his eyes.
He swallowed, then moved into the center with Marlene. They danced the entire length of the party. When it was over, Xevious escorted Marlene to her room.
He then never returned to his...

That is nothing like Xevious. I would know.

As before you will have to wait awhile for the next chapter.:P

nice

Chapter 4: A Days Rest...

The party lasted well into the night. Afterwards, the King had sent a messenger to invite both Evikun and Xevious to a royal breakfast. Xevious had asked and was granted the ability to bring Marlene along.

They all arrived at the main throne room, at about fifteen to nine in the morning. Xevious arrived, with Marlene and appeared in a really good mood. Evikun notices this, but remains silent. They are seated and a fanfare of trumpets signal the arrival of the King. The King walks to the table and sits down.

“Well, I see that all of you made it, and I see we also have an addition to our little meal.” He said motioning at Marlene, Marlene just blushed. “Now may our feasting begin.” He finished, and reached for a metal plate. After everyone gathered their food, the King started a conversation.
“Well I have heard of your accomplishments, I was even present, but I had to be hidden for my safety. So I ask, can you recount your past events for me?”

“Certainly your Majesty.” Xevious said standing. “First, as you know we were attacked. Then they cascaded into the main throne room. We had a battle and the leader had fled, vowing that he would return.” Xevious then described the battle in full detail. At times, when a particularly gruesome part came up, Marlene would shudder and hold Xevious’s arm tighter.

Xevious finished his tale, and the King just sat and laced his fingers together.

“And that’s all that happened hm... Well, I guess I am in your debt...” The king said with a hint of remorse.

“No your majesty, you don’t owe us anything. We were just doing our job. Now that the bloody tale is over, may we continue our meal?” Xevious said standing and bowing.

“Yes let us continue and talk of more pleasant things. Like this beautiful young lady of yours. Who is she?”

“My lord, this is Marlene. We have been... well...” Xevious stuttered and stopped.

“My Lord, we have been seeing each other for some time. We just haven’t often been together in public. I am pleased to meet your acquaintance.” Marlene finished for Xevious, while standing and gave a curtsey.

Evikun said nothing during all of this. He just sat there listening intently to the whole thing. Evikun then continued eating, but had a small smirk about Xevious’s just embarrassment. Xevious returned his look with a stern one that made Evikun straighten his expression.

They continued in silence for a couple of minutes, silently chewing their food. They all just returned gazes, then Evikun slammed down his knife.

“Damn this silence! It is as if we have died or something.” Evikun stood up at this. “Let us talk of something. Xevious, brother, have you something to say?” Evikun said leaning across the table.

“Yes, please sit down.” Xevious said, rising from his chair. “Alright we can talk about something. What would you like to talk about?” Xevious asked as they both sat back down. Silence. “Well then now, Marlene, do you have anything you wish to speak about? My Lord? No? Well then I guess we DO sit in silence.”

Again, they sat in silence, slowly eating. Servants then began to move the main dishes out and started bringing in sweeter things, like; pies, tarts, various sweet breads, puddings, and other small delectables.
There was a sudden shudder in the walls. A loud crash then resounded through the halls. Without warning, the main doors came crashing down, crushing the two servants that were standing there. A large man in black armor stepped in, followed by about twenty soldiers, also in black armor.

“THERE BACK! XEVIOUS GET READY!” Evikun yelled, jumping on the table and grabbing his sword and whipping it out in a flash. Xevious then did the same and stood at the ready. Xevious stood with ‘Darkness Bane’ in his hand, his knuckles white from him holding so hard. Likewise was Evikun with ‘Oblivion’ but with a small trickle of sweat rolling over his thumb.

“NOW BRING ME THE BOY, OR YOU WILL DIE!” The man in front said, drawing his sword and pointed it at them. The twenty-odd soldiers were now spreading around the room, killing every servant or cook that was in there way. Both Evikun and Xevious heard the screams of the lost souls, but stood, waiting for the first move.
The move was made. A soldier had worked his way around them and ran toward the table, where the King was sitting. Xevious turned suddenly and threw his knife from his boot with lightning quick speed and accuracy. Then all the soldiers converged on that central point of the room. All were met with a flurry of swinging blades, and a quick demise. During the fighting, more soldiers ran in to replenish the fallen ones.
Xevious slashed two soldiers down, then heard a loud high pitched scream. He turns in time to see Marlene get stabbed by one of the men. His heart is then filled with rage, and he runs to her, slashing about five men in half that were in his way. He arrives at her side and slays the killer, and lifts her head into his arms.

“No...Marlene...say something...” He said through light sobs.

“Xevious... I... love... you...” She says, then dies in his arms.

“Marlene! NO! Don’t leave me!” Xevious yells, pressing her body to his and holds her tight. He then looks at the man who lead the attack, his eyes filled with a deep rage. He slowly stands up, holding a small charm in his hands. Marlene had given him the charm when they first met, it was like a never ending bond between them. He picks up his sword from where he had dropped it next to Marlene. He started taking small steps toward the tall general.

“You... will... PAY!” Xevious yells and charges. Without noticing, Xevious uttered the words ‘Draconus Protectus’ and then was surrounded by a sphere of flames, fueled by rage. Evikun notices this and stands bewildered for a moment, but drifts back and continues his onslaught.
Xevious does a running slash at the man. The General quickly draws his sword to block the attack, then a loud ringing ‘crack’ is heard throughout the room. The General’s sword shatters into hundreds of shards, under the force of Xevious’s mighty blow. The man quickly recovers and picks up a sword from a slain warrior.
“You... will... DIE!” he yells, rushing at Xevious.

“Evikun! Protect the King! He is MINE!” Xevious yells, running at the man. Evikun obeyed and ran back to the table, where the King was sitting, guarding himself with a sword, picked from some poor souls body.

“Yes warrior, this is just how I like it! Just me and you. Two powerful warrior engaged in combat!” The General says, his face twisted with a mix of malice and some kind of joy. The man lunges at Xevious. Xevious quickly parries and flips over the man, slashing down his back.

“That’s for your earlier attack.” Xevious said regaining posture. The Dark General quickly swivels around to block, but he was to late. Xevious then ran his sword through the body of his adversary.
“And that was for Marlene!” He yells backing away.

The General stood for a moment, then fell to his knees, blood bubbling from his mouth. He then falls completely over, all life gone. Then the flaming aura around Xevious subsided, and he fell limp to the floor.


“Xevious!” Evikun yelled, finishing the last of the soldiers. He then ran over to him and began to look him over. The king then appears behind Evikun and places a hand on his shoulder.
“We must go, this room will soon collapse from the bombardments from outside. Behind the throne, there is a secret passage. Follow me!” the King yelled grabbing Xevious’s sword kicking the throne chair out of the way. He then lifts the carpet to reveal a door. Evikun sheaths his sword and picks up Xevious, and follows the King.

The King lifts a trapdoor in the floor, revealing a passage. An odor of stagnant air and wet mold rises from the passage. Trying to ignore the smell, they descend into the pit.
After Evikun descended, the door closed. The passage way was dark and damp, it also had a layer of slime that had grown onto the stone walls and floor. After many slips and falls, the come out at the edge of the castle. Still woozy from the smell and other things best left undescribed, they run into the edge of the forest. From there, the see the castle engulfed in a raging fire, hundreds of people running from it. Also they see hundreds of black soldiers surrounding the burning castle. They turn to the sound of a noise behind them, Evikun quickly draws ‘Oblivion’.

“They’re after me!” Judas yells, plowing through some brush into where they were standing.
A man runs into the small clearing, wielding a sword and slashing at Judas. Evikun quickly runs up and dispatches him. Then they all rush deep into the forest...

Then next chapter coming in a few days....
Later chapters will take a bit from new job...(Long hours....low pay...):(

I am going to stop posting if noone is reading this... Please PM me if you are against this or is ACTUALLY READING it....:(