Ok =)

Just to warn you though, its really long lol


Chapter 2
Hunting Party

The mayor's house, or mansion, was massive. It was a huge wooden mansion more than three stories high, and even larger than both of Ranple's inns. Smoke poured out of the chimney towards the air above. Several windows dotted the manor, each of which boarded in a golden frame. They mayor's hole family lived in it, and each had their own job to keep the mansion clean and running. The roof jetted up to a triangular point, each inch of it made in a tarry roof substance.
The door fit nice and snug into the frame, its large steel knob shimmered in the day light. The door itself was dyed a deep brown, almost black color. It took great skill to craft a manor so exquisitely designed. The mayor was by far the richest person in the village, and flaunted it out there with his great mansions. During Actol he always hires several bards and other entertainers to perform in his mansion.
Zane walked up to the door, and thumped several times on its surface. After few minutes, the door slammed open, and a wide man wearing a black shirt walked out. He had a long narrow mustache, and had several chins that hung down from his head. He had to almost turn sideways to make it out the door. Holding his hand to his chins to flatten his lower mouth out he said, "Hello Zane. Is the mayor expecting you?" the fat butler asked.
"No, but I have something of importance to tell him."
"Ah yes, what is it Master Zane?"
"I need to form a hunting party, but there are other matters or importance I must speak to the mayor with."
Rubbing his belly, the butler examined him and replied, "Then you may come in sir. What of those three? Will they enter as well?"
"No, Devon, Chris, Noah, stay out here and wait for me and the mayor."
Before any could argue, Zane walked through the door, and closed it behind himself and the butler. After a few minutes, Devon reached for the knob to enter the building, but found it locked behind the two men. He turned around to the other two, and noticed a wide smirk on Chris' face.
"What?" Devon demanded.
"Are you two also interested in what they are talking about? If it can't involve us, it must be something important." Chris asked.
"What? Chris, we could get in a lot of trouble for spying! What if we get caught." demanded Noah.
"If we get caught Noah. Don't you two trust me? I can get in or at least here their conversation with ease. And without breaking into the mansion."
"It's still stupid Chris. If we get caught,"
"Devon, will you at least come?" Chris asked, cutting Noah off.
"Of course, I will." Devon replied. He wouldn't miss a chance to see what was going on here. Besides, how much trouble would they get in, and he was sure they wouldn't get caught. Chris spied on people all the time, and had never been caught. On the other hand, Devon know why Noah thought it was a bad idea, but he didn't care, he had to hear what the two were talking about in there.
"Noah, think about it. We could finally have a small idea of what's going on here in Ranple."
"Whatever happened to thinking nothing would ever happen here?" Noah demanded.
"I don't think Flagair has anything to do with this, but I'm sure something is happening."
Chris leaned back impatiently against the wall of the mansion tapping his foot at the two, "Well, are we going to argue all day, or go find out what they're talking about?"
Noah sighed and stared at the two, "Fine, I'll go."
The three looked around to see no one was watching, and Chris led them off behind the mansion. Large balconies overlooked the village, some holding hanging plants from their ledges. Small dogs were seen running around on the balconies than darting outside, but thankfully, no people walked out of the doors. Devon looked around to make sure they were not being followed by anyone. He thought he could hear someone in the distance, but ignored it. He just noticed Noah and Chris turning towards the mansion and walking under a balcony hidden by the shade of a tree.
Chris motioned for the two to be quiet, and led them up to a trap door in the side of the mansion. It was nearly impossible to see besides a slight crease in the wall. Devon wondered why it was there. Why would someone want a trapdoor in a wall to their house, even if it were well secluded? Devon, Noah, and Chris stood right in front of it, the three yanked on it, and it slammed open, Devon barely had time to stop it from slamming into the wall. He gave a low grin, he had never had this much adventure for a while, even if it were just sneaking into a mansion to listen to the mayor and his father.
"Whatever happened to not breaking in Chris?" asked Noah.
"I'm not Noah, this was here before Be'sen and the last mayor lived here. He doesn't even know of it. It was made and forgotten for hundreds of years." Chris explained. In Ranple, the mayor of the village ruled for life, like most of the surrounding city states, their leader ruled from election, to death. Some were hieratical in choosing rulers.
"How do you know that?" Noah demanded, interested.
"Long story. It was forgotten in the village archives. When I went for sentry training, they allow us to look at them. I found an old room with several ancient documents. It's no surprise these ones were forgotten, they were covered by layers of dust, and several other books. Not to mention they were in a chest hidden from the main room."
"And they let you keep it? Wouldn't they want to keep those documents and read them over if they haven't been seen for years?" Devon asked him. He grew interested in what Ranple's ancient history was, but he doubted Chris was able to get many of the documents.
"They didn't know I had them. We are allowed to take some of the archives with us to read. We're supposed to return them after our first few watches. It used to be our first one, but that one always has supervision of another sentry. So, they are going to wait to take them back until my first one without supervision, which should be my fifth one. I'm sure they'll want to see them, and I can't really hide them, so I'm going to have to return them eventually." Chris replied, somewhat disappointed.
"How are we going to open it?" Noah demanded shortly, there was a lock on the door, though pure copper, the whole metal lock had rusted through, barely managing to hold on.
Chris examined the lock and grabbed it and ripped it off, the rusty lock collapsed in his hand. He pulled open the door and motioned to them, "And that is how it opens Noah. It's weak, just as I thought. It hasn't been touched for centuries perhaps."
The three were about to enter, when someone ran towards them, Devon whipped around, just in time to see Mariah jumped up to them. Devon never noticed just how beautiful she was when she was angry. Slight fear rolled over him when he noticed her rage. He wondered just why she was so mad about, then when looking behind him, he realized it was probably due to them trying to get into the mayor's house, but that couldn't be all. She just saw them trying to get in a few seconds ago. He looked around, and saw just how mischievous they looked, trying to sneak into the mayor's house.
"What are you three doing? Trying to break into the mayor's mansion! Do you know how much trouble you'll get into? Chris, I expect you to be dense enough to do something like this, but you Devon, never. And Noah is this what your plans were to escape doing chores?" Mariah demanded, glaring at them.
Chris stepped back from her look and looked at the trap door he had just opened, "Uh... you see Mariah, we weren't trying to break in, just investigating an old forgotten part of the mansion."
"And you expect me to believe that Chris? Come on, I know you're stupid Chris, but not that stupid."
"Mariah," said Devon, "we aren't trying to steal anything. My dad and the mayor are discussing something, and we want to know what it is." Mariah glared at him, putting her hands on her hips. He could tell that didn't please her so he replied, "We were supposed to go on a hunting party. We wouldn't go if we weren't supposed to go on a hunting party. But we are wondering why he wouldn't let us in it must be something more than that."
"Devon, what makes you think we should go in there? It may be interesting, but you could all risk a lot of trouble for going in." Mariah replied.
"Oh come on Mariah, you need to have some fun too, instead of complaining all day long." Noah teasingly told his sister.
"Look, what you think it is something important? Besides, if it's between the village council we shouldn't interfere. Just come, no need to go in there." Mariah replied, trying to convince them to listen to her.
"We won't get caught Mariah, I'm sure of it. Come on, I know you are interested." Chris told her.
"I am, Chris, but you know how much trouble we could get in?"
"Yes, but I don't care, I just want to find out what they're talking about. Now come on, are you coming or not?" he asked her, holding out his hand to her.
She looked around at them, slightly annoyed, but relaxed, "Fine, I'll come. I do admit, it sound interesting, but if I get in trouble because of you."
"Don't worry Mariah, the mayor sees you as his second daughter." Noah said.
"Fine, I'll lead the way though." Mariah said, climbing through the trapdoor past Chris.
Devon exchanged glances with both Chris and Noah, and followed in after her. He was glad she decided to come if they were caught he knew she would have a high chance of getting them out of trouble, at least from the mayor, but with Zane, that was a whole other story. He crawled down on his hands and knees to follow the other into a narrow passage that led through the walls of the mansion. Devon finally realized why the walls were so thick, for the secret passage. But why have the passage in the first place? There had to be another reason to have them, other than to crawl around in the inside of the walls.
It seemed they were crawling for several minutes, until Mariah finally stopped, forcing the three behind her to crash. Devon just stopped before crashing fully into Noah. The passage was black, which forced them to crawl ever slower. Oddly, most of the passage was stone, only side facing the inside of the mansion was wooden.
"I think it goes around the whole mansion." Noah said.
"Shhhhh, I can hear them, be quite." Mariah demanded in a soft whisper.
All four of them leaned their heads up against the wooden side of the passage. The voices were quite, but they could just make them out beyond the walls.
"... No, that will never work. If any more soldiers from Flagair arrive we will just have to agree with their demands. You know just how large that whole kingdom is!" the mayor shouted.
"Be'sen, don't be a fool, we cannot agree, you are the mayor, you should want the sovereignty of Ranple more than anyone else in this village!"
There were a few moments of quite, but Devon swore he heard a grunt from Be'sen, "I do, but I'm not fool enough to think if we cannot keep hold of it! Now, enough of that, we aren't here to discuss foreign affairs. About the attack on your farm, you wanted to form a hunting party for those wolves correct? Are you sure it's worth it, they may not return."
"It's not that, I want justice done for what they've stolen. The wolves here should return to their nations in the north just like the rest of them." Zane demanded.
Devon heard shuffling in front of them, and just made out Mariah turning back towards them slightly, "Its looks like they're done with the important stuff. Now, let's get out of here before they finish talking about the hunting party and then wonder where we are."
Devon did not need to be told twice. His body was started to cramp due to the confinement of the passage. Part of him wanted to continue on, but he knew his father and the mayor would wonder where they had been. He had to crawl backwards which proved even more difficult, but fortunately, there was only one way back out of the passageway. What he did hear, surprised him, though he hoped to hear more, he knew what they did hear meant something. What could possibly threaten our sovereignty? We've been a city state for hundreds of years. Surely nothing bad could happen. He wondered if it did have anything to do with Flagair. He wasn't sure who he agreed with, he doubted that was why the soldier came, but who know? It very well could have been. He couldn't think of much to solve this, war and other problems, Ranple has escaped it for so long, he doubted anything would threaten the calmness and serenity.
So deep into thought, Devon barely even noticed backing out and standing up once they left the trap door. The other three came out behind him, and he stretched to get the cramps out of his body. He looked back at the trap door, wondering just where it led to. Surely it couldn't just be a passageway that led through the walls of the mansion.
As they walked back around to the front side, Devon wondered more about what they heard, it wouldn't be safe talking about it much out here, but he dared asked, "What do you think they meant? Ranple has always been free."
"I don't know... perhaps a threat from Flagair? But what would they want that deals with us?" Mariah replied.
"I don't know, and why keep that privet? Also, before they told me to find Noah and Chris, the trader, Eork, mentioned something about the countries called North and South Ardonia."
"It could," Noah started, but silenced himself as the door to the mayor's manor opened.
The mayor stepped outside of his mansion, followed by Zane, the two were discussing a topic, but when they were outside they were silenced. The mayor was a short somewhat stout man. He bore expensive clothing, and fine leather boots. His hair was deep gray, and his face was heavily wrinkled with age. The age of eighty four, he was the second oldest man in the village, the oldest being Old Man Bill who was near the age of one hundred.
"As, these three young men must be the ones who you mentioned were going on the hunting party Zane." the mayor commented, "Ah Mariah, what brings you here? Come to visit Mera or Dean?" Mera and Dean were his grandchildren, but they lived with him in the mansion.
"No, I just came looking for these three. My brother was supposed to do some work, but left." Mariah replied to him.
"I see, causing your sister some trouble Noah? Anyway, are you sure about this Zane? Do you even know how large the wolf pack could be?" Be'sen asked.
"It may just be a single wolf or two, nothing hard for us to handle. They don't live in the wolf nations if they are this far south, so they must be free roamers." Zane replied talking as if it were an average conversation. "That's what I suspect, but ever so there could be a pack, not a large one, wolves wouldn't gather in great numbers away from their nations." Zane replied, "But yes, Devon, Noah, and Chris will be coming with me to find this wolf, or wolves which it could be."
The mayor examined all of them and nodded, "Well, good luck to all of you. Be careful though. Now, what about proper weapons for these three?"
"I'm going to get them some. Devon can have my sword, and Chris has his two short swords he was given for becoming a sentry. As for Noah... we'll have to get you one from the armory." Zane told them.
Mariah groaned, and they all looked at her. She hated hunting parties on wolves she didn't share the same prejudice as the rest of the village. Ranple, along with much of the continent, hated wolves. She thought they were just not understood. After all, they mostly stayed in their own nations in the far north, why would they even want to mettle in the affairs of humans? She did fear them yes, but hate them no. Oddly enough, though she didn't like hunting, she was an expert archer. "Zane, I don't understand why it's necessary," she stated, "they only took two chickens, and Torn wasn't too badly injured. We starve the wolf nations, so why not let them take some of our food?"
The mayor turned around and stared as if he couldn't believe a word she had said, "What do you mean Mariah? They could attack and kill us all here in Ranple. One lose wolf if definitely a thing to be frightened of."
"Even with our sentries? I'm sure our sentries could handle a wolf, armed or unarmed. We won't have to worry about an army coming in. It's only a few chickens they take anyway, it's not like out entire chickens farms or sheep flocks."
"Why did your parents leave where ever they came from then? I bet wolves are the reason, your just denying it!" Chris demanded.
Mariah glared sharply at him, she stepped closer, making him step back, "As for you to know, wolves are not why we left. And I don't know why my parents would say that when it isn't the reason."
"Oh really, then what is?"
Mariah hesitated, and looked at Noah. He shook his head at her, and she remained silent, "It doesn't matter why we left, but that is not the reason."
"Or you just don't want to admit that it was." Chris replied.
"That's enough you two!" Zane cut in, "Mariah, this is a larger situation than you think, and Chris, as for why left, they just don't want to say, and don't force it out of her or Noah. But no, wolves are not the reason for them leaving."
Chris shrugged, but glared at them, though remained silent. The mayor looked around at all of them and stepped back to the door, "Well, I'm glad we got that settled Zane. Now, if you all could excuse me, I must get more things ready for Actrol." he closed the door behind him.
Zane motioned for the four to follow him, and they left away from the mayor's house. Devon was partially excited for the hunt and not, he was ready for his first try, but wasn't too excited of hunting wolves. He's head several stories that happened to people when they hunted wolves, some never returned, and many of the ones that did came back mutilated. Hunting wolves was a series event in Ranple, though not done often, when the wolf was hunted and killed, its pelt was usually hung in front of the village.
Mariah walked by him, and she smiled at him, it was almost as if she forgot to be mad at him. He blushed slightly, hoping she didn't notice him. She gave a soft smile and said, "Devon, what do you think about it?"
Devon knew what she meant without saying, what they heard while spying on the mayor and his father. He himself wasn't quite sure, but he wondered if she knew more about it than they did. She always had a way of knowing events way before the rest of the village did.
"I don't know, it could mean anything, but, shouldn't we talk about this later." Devon replied, motioning to Zane.
"I suppose your right Devon. Well, I won't have any part of your slaughter, so, I'll see you all later." she said kindly and left them, as they walked towards Devon's farm.
Once they were a few yards away Noah hung his head and replied to Zane, "I'm sorry she's like that sir, she just hates killing, even if its wolves." Noah replied.
As they walked, Zane looked back at him and gave a low smile, "Don't apologize Noah, it's good that she's like that. People should stand up for what they believe in, even if most disagree with them, people should stand up for what they think is right. I respect Mariah for that, though I do not share the same opinion, I respect her for openly going against popular opinion."
His words surprised Devon, he knew his father was smart, but he had never talked so philosophically. Devon wondered just how many people thought Mariah odd for it, he and his friends would poke fun at her, but still, he never thought how hard people might be on her for it. She never said why, but she always said she had a feeling, as if it were blood deep that wolves were not as evil as most everyone else claimed. How could that be though? Wolves ate people back when they lived in humans countries, everyone says that. At least that was tradition in Ranple to know, he wondered if other city states, or perhaps nations, which he only knew a few of, had other opinions. Perhaps they aren't like that. I'm sure the wolves would have a different opinion about themselves. Who knows? They may even think we're monsters. Great! Now Mariah's gotten me thinking about it. Devon laughed at himself of the thought. Mariah always found ways to rub off on people.
Just noticing they left Ranple and were heading towards their farm, Noah said out loud to Zane, "Sir, what about my weapon? Didn't you say you were going to go to the armory?"
Zane continued on to the farm, dried up leaves cracking as they walked over them. A large wind ruffled them under their feet, "No, I have a spare sword or spear you can use Noah. If that's fine with you then again, it's about time you claim your own weapon. I suppose I'll take you to the armory instead. They'll let you use it, but you'll have to pay for it to keep it. We will leave once we have the weapons in order. We probably won't find the wolves today, but we have tracking to do. Besides Rebecca will be cooking a meal for us before we go we may end up eating when we return. Devon, you, Chris, and I should be careful, you know your mother's not happy when we take off our turn for cooking." he replied, him and the other three gave a small chuckle.
"She may be glad of it father, it was Chris' turn, and he can barely cook stew." Devon told him.
Chris grimaced, but said nothing he stared off into the woods, a strange look going over his face. He gripped something in his coat, Devon wondered if it were the ancient documents he had found. He stared off, and back at the ground. A small tear fell from his eyes and landed against the dirt below. His face changed back to its usual hard appearance, which made Devon wonder if it were there at all.
"You're thinking about them aren't you? It's almost that day isn't it?" Zane said to Chris, not unkindly.
Chris nodded and said lowly, "I know I shouldn't have released those fireworks, but... I'll never forgive him."
Zane stepped back and put his hand on Chris' shoulder, "Chris, I know you miss them, I do too, your mother and father were my greatest friends. I miss them deeply, I know they would be proud of you son. But remember, they wouldn't want you to have revenge on their behalf. They love you Chris, and they wouldn't want you to punish him, even though it was Eork's fault."
Chris shrugged and remained silent, "I just... I just want to make him pay. Justice needs to be done. I know it can't be proven, but deep down, I know he did it."
"I know he did too Chris, I know he did, but there is nothing we can do. But don't worry, some day, justice will be served." Zane replied.
Back when they died, Chris was lucky to be out he was at Zane's farm, helping him, Rebecca, and Devon with chores. He left, and when he returned to his house, saw a cloaked plump figure leave the wreckage. It darted off, and Chris was soon to follow. He lost it in the woods, but when he went by Eork's trading booth he saw a cloak that matched the one who fled his parent's death seen perfectly.
Devon listened to their conversation, but he noticed something out in the distant forest. As when he was leaving his farm and headed towards Ranple, he noticed the same feeling, as if something evil was watching them, waiting for them to walk right into its menacing grasps. A small shiver ran though his body, not related to the cold, no one else appeared to have noticed his shiver. He walked a few more steps, and crashed into Noah, nearly knocking him over onto the ground. Regaining his balance, Noah pulled Devon up onto his feet.
"Sorry." grunted Devon.
"Did you feel it too?" he whispered.
"Feel what?" Devon asked, confused, though already guessing the words Noah was about to say.
"That something... never mind, its stupid." he replied, slightly embarrassed.
"Something odd? Evil, like its waiting for us to come out there?" Devon asked knowingly.
"Yes... I think we are the only ones though... what could it be?"
"I have no idea. I could feel it as we left the farm to head toward Ranple. It is odd, as if something is calling out to me. Wanting me to come into the forest, though at the same times, its presence is frightening, as if daring to come out."
"I don't know about calling me, but I feel the dark presence. I wonder why no one else does. Should we tell them?" Noah asked quietly, sounding as if he'd rather not ask.
"No, don't ask. We don't want a reason for anyone to worry, besides, it's probably nothing."
Noah was about to reply when Chris shouted back, "You two! Quit whispering and hurry up!"
The two ran up to Chris and Zane, not speaking of their conversation and what they just felt. Devon was glad to be away from the forest and back in the shelter of their farm. He didn't know why, but it felt as if the farm protected them from the strange eeriness of the forest. Most of their crops were picked already, the ones that weren't were still hardy. Oddly, they lasted even past the first frost of fall. They usually died with the first large snowfall. His first years of life he asked his parents why the crops grew so well and the animals were so strong. They only replied that the soil and air here was excellent for growing and rising, and that Ranple was blessed for its great fertility. No one seemed to be able to explain why Ranple's crops grew so well, and why its animals were so strong, but it was just a fact excepted in the village. When they did have visitors, they never told them acting as if it was just natural everything grew and lived so well.
The five or so chickens that weren't stolen in the wolf attack, or sometimes called raid, had been safely caged and penned inside their enclosures. The few pigs and sheep were too safely caged, and Torn just wandered, eating what grass and fallen leaves he could. He already looked better from the few herbs that were already given to him. Devon looked at the shaggy buffalo and groaned, he had twigs and dirt all over his facial and back fur, and it was Devon's turn to groom the shaggy bison.
At the farm, Rebecca stood out waiting for them. She already had Zane's bow and sword out. Her hands were a bit wet, from having to prepare meals for them. She herself would have joined the hunting party, but the sickness she had started to get worse again, making it harder for her to work. Days after Devon was born, Rebecca fell deathly ill. The healers from the village managed to heal her. Though they put the illness at bay, it would again return, it did years ago, but it wasn't until the past few days it was starting to affect her terribly again. She grew weaker, and her appearance aged faster than a healthy woman. Though sick, she was still a strong woman, it wasn't affecting her enough to make her physically weak, she was strong inside and out, and that alone put the disease at bay years longer than the healers had thought it would have.
Their house was small and made of wood it had three bedrooms, but only one room for both the living courters, and the kitchen. There was a small bathroom next to it, but it was not much. A barn was next to it where Torn would normally be tied up in, along with a young colt, less than three years old he neighed loudly when the humans came by, and bucked his head around. Its fur was a deep black, and it was tall, and it held its head up high. The horse was muscular and was full of energy. Eagerness flared in its eyes as it saw them. At one time there was a cow in the barn, but it wandered away one day and did not return, Devon wondered if wolves took it.
"About time you all returned, I was starting to worry if you were lost. How was it Zane? Did he allow the hunting party?" Rebecca asked, though by the sound of her voice, she too meant something else other than the hunt.
Zane walked up and give his wife a hug, "Yes, he did Rebecca. Ah, thanks for my bow and sword. I never thought I'd use this, used to the sword, but still, it is time Devon used how to wield a sword."
The bow was made of pine wood, and its string was from a yew tree. It was a large long bow, and over three feet tall itself. It was difficult to pull the string all the way back, but the bow had never failed them before, it's killed all its targets it hit. The arrow shafts were made of oak wood, and the tips were pure steel, sharpened razor sharp. It took a strong arm to pull the bow, and all three, Zane, Devon, and Chris could pull it, though Zane was the best with it. At one time, Rebecca could have pulled the string back, but do to her strength was fading the task was much more difficult for her.
The sword was massive its blade made of steel, the hilt was pure black leather, with an odd insignia etched into the hilt and base of the blade. Zane said he made it himself when he was a boy. His father was a blacksmith, and taught him how to make the blade. Devon had never met his grandfather he vanished years ago, just several weeks after Devon was born. Zane claimed the symbol was of an ancient empire, which was long gone.
At seeing both weapons, surprise swept through Devon, he knew he would eventually, but holding the sword his father had made was a great surprise to him, and a great honor. He had deep respect for both of his parents, even more so when they offered to adopt Chris into their family when his parents had died.
"Yes, it is, though why not make him start with the bow? Isn't it safer?" Rebecca asked.
"It is, but Devon can't live with protection all his life, he'll have to use the sword. With the four of us hunting, it shouldn't be hard at all to kill one wolf and escape injury."
"I hope your right Zane. I don't want to have to rush you all to the healers. Though seeing you Chris wouldn't be a big surprise to her," Rebecca said with a laugh, "I take it that does mean I will have to cook then? Alright, Noah, will you be eating with us once you're all done?"
Noah shrugged replying, "If you don't mind. I suppose I will. I don't think we'll find the wolf or wolves in the first day." he admitted.
"You may, they couldn't have gone too far from the farm. I hope you are all going to be alright, I wish I could go, to make sure you didn't get into trouble. Alright, well, see you all later." Rebecca said, giving Zane the weapons, and hugging all of them.
Devon hugged his mother, and took the sword from his father. Taking the smooth deep red sheath, he slipped it through his belt, and sheathed the sword. Zane put the bow and quiver of arrows on his back and turned to the three, "Now, when we get back to Ranple, Chris go get your sword from the sentry's armory, and Devon, come with Noah and I to the village armory."
Ranple had two armories, one solely for the sentries, the other for the rest of the village militia, though roughly a few hundred people in it, they were each strong and skilled fighters, though some boys as young as thirteen joined, and men as old at seventy joined to protect their village from invasion. It was an odd custom of Ranple to have one armory alone for sentries, but that was so it could be easier for them to reach, since they were supposed to be Ranple's most well trained and disciplined soldiers, though at times, it was quite the opposite.
A few white tailed deer bounded through the woods in front of them, and darted off when they noticed the humans had weapons. The deer around Ranple weren't shy when it came to humans, but if they saw one with a weapon, as much as a knife they would instantly dart off. Some could even smell metal from miles away. As the approached the village, Chris separated from them and went straight towards the sentry armory. Though both were at the center, he had to show the guard his paper that proved he could have its weapons.
They passed by several people who had already bought some goods from Eork and the other traders that had arrived. Some of them wore the material they bought, while others quickly stored it in their homes, to keep potential thieves away. Up ahead the sight of the armies towered above most of the houses and other buildings. They were long, wide, and tall. Their roves were not made of wood, but the tarry substance. The metal poles had just been shined, and glimmered in the lights of the sun, ready to pierce anyone who ran up to close and clumsily towards them. The larger one was the militia's armory, the smaller but still large one was for the sentries.
Only two levels of the armory were used for weapon storage, the top two, and only a certain section of each one. Where there weren't weapons, were storage areas for food, training arenas, and prison cells. Not many prisoners were in Ranple, but the inmates that were held were generally rehabilitated to go back into social living in the village. Only the prisoners in the back of the armory, where there for life, and they were convicted of the most violent crimes. Few of Ranple's inmates were convicted of such crimes
A large courtyard in-between the armories were used for archery training, stationary targets were in place, and a few were also on the outskirts of the village for a more difficult challenge. They even managed a crude pulley system for having slow, but still moving targets. A few archers were out in the yard practicing, shorter ranged bows. Most of the sword, axe, mace, and spear training were in the armories, though spear throwing did take place on the outside.
Zane marched them towards the armory, and they went single filed to the door. There were no guards on the outside of the armory, but on the inside several militia men usually sat on duty, playing dice, cards, or some other activity. The inside was well kept, cleaned each day it was too free of both rodents and insects. Two guards sat at a table, only a few feet away from the door. Ranple had some armor, but mostly leather, there was only one set of iron plate armor, none more. The two guards didn't wear any they just wore their proper guard's clothes. At their sides was a long steel sword, though slightly aged, the blades were ever as deadly as when they were new.
"Zane, what can we do for you?" one asked. He was the younger of the two, and had a small beard growing. His hair was brown, but not as deep as Devon's.
"Nothing for me, just getting Noah a weapon. He, Devon, and I are going on a hunting party, to get that wolf that took our chickens." Zane replied.
The guard looked towards Noah, and a strange show of dislike showed on his face, though Devon could not tell why, that guard generally liked everyone, "What can I get for you?" the guard said gruffly.
"Watch your tongue Sachen! No need to talk that way. Just get him a weapon." the elder guard commanded.
Sachen grimaced, but did as ordered, glaring at Noah he demanded, "What do you want?"
"A spear would be fine, I trained with one before." Noah told him. Half way through Noah's sentence, Sachen left his posts, went upstairs, and returned carrying a single heavy looking spear.
"Not as well at throwing as a javelin, but more likely to stay intact if it hits the ground or an enemy. Take it now, hurry on." he ordered to Noah.
The spear was thicker than usual, and had a great tip on the top, perfect for piercing the thickest of armors. It was over eight feet long, the shaft made of pure oak wood. Noah took it in his hands to him it wasn't too heavy, though he was used to the throwing verity. This one could still be thrown, but it wouldn't go as far, though it would still do more damage than a common javelin, though they were more reliable for flight.
"Thanks." Noah said, but the guard already left him and was talking to Zane. The guard seemed to ignore Devon, and now Noah that he had his weapon.
"No, he's not causing trouble. Now, keep your foolish prejudice to yourself guard, and act more proper! You weren't hired by the village council to lie around and discriminating against our non born citizens!" Zane said angrily to Sachen. The other guard too joined in. Sachen had an enraged looked at both of them, though remained silent, and sat on his chair, glaring angrily at all of them.
Devon and Noah eyed each other with confused expressions, but remained silent as the three men argued. Devon didn't understand why Sachen didn't like Noah, just because he was foreign born, most everyone considered him, Mariah, and the rest of his family as their own village family. Not to mention Mariah was one of the most liked people in the village, she also had several guys wanting to dance with her, though the only ones she would dance with were Devon and Chris, and occasionally the mayor's grandson who was just a year or two younger than them.
Sachen glared at them all, and cursed angrily under his breath until he stood up, threw down his sword, and stormed out of the armory. Devon and Noah both glanced oddly at him, which made the remaining guard's face turn ever redder. He stood up, and picked up the fallen sword, and faced the three, "I'm sorry about him he's my responsibility Zane, being my subordinate so it's not totally his fault." The older guard, Sam, told him. "And Noah, please forgive me of what he said, he is stupid at times, but I never expected him to act like that."
Noah, who was still surprised and shocked, just noticed the guard was talking to him, "Its fine, don't worry about it." To change the conversation he replied, "What about this spear, I'm used to throwing spears."
"We're running low on them, so I can't blame him for that. Besides, it's thick, and sturdy, and by a strong enough arm, it can still be thrown far and well."
"That's good to here. We're going to need it against a wolf pack, though we think it's a single one. Anyway, how have things in the armory been lately? This is the first time I've been here for some time." asked Zane.
"Relatively well, other than that fool who just stormed out, we have had mostly descent guards here. Not much to say about the new sentries though. Only Chris seems able and confident, most of it's probably his trouble making in the village though."
"At least he's doing well. I partially trained him myself before he even went for training to be a sentry." Zane told Sam, with some pride in his voice.
"You must be proud of him. How long has he been living with you and Rebecca?"
"A few years now. He was the one who released those fireworks a few hours ago."
The guard let out a loud laugh and sat back down, "Ah, that did cheer me up I was having a bad day up till then. Couldn't say I expected more from him though, Chris' is always doing stuff like that. I'm surprised he hasn't gotten himself in trouble at sentry duty. I suppose he won't though, he's still a good lad."
Zane nodded in agreement, he told Devon and Noah to get their weapons ready and he replied to Sam, "That he is especially after his parents were murdered. Well, we have some wolves to attend to, so good luck Sam."
They each said their leavings as they left the armory. As they left, Sachen came storming back in and didn't even glance at them as they walked by. Noah shrugged when Devon looked at him, he continued past them, forcing Devon to catch up. The second armory had its guard standing outside the door, and he was wearing Ranple's only full suite of iron armor.
Chris was there, talking with the guard waiting for Devon, Noah, and Zane to arrive. Strapped to his sides were Chris' two short swords. They were shorter than Devon's, and slightly thinner, but could be swung faster than his. The blades of each sword were surprisingly steel, and hilt made of cow leather. The swords could easily fit between ribs or crack them if couldn't. Both swords were as one in Chris' hands.
Chris went over to them when he passed by. He had a joyful look on his face and blurted out when he reached them, "They're letting me keep the sword! They said because I'm the best recruit, I may keep them." he said happily.
"That's good Chris, now we just need to find you a place to put them in the house. It shouldn't be hard though, we have a lot of empty space." Zane told him. "Anyway," Zane said as they left the armories, "Since we have our weapons we can get heading out. I only plan on looking for them for a few hours today, so there isn't any need to bring much supplies, just a water skin and some food to tide us over." Zane explained as they walked towards the edge of the woods. Devon still had the odd sense of foreboding when he stared out into the trees they were about to enter. Their shadows seemed strangely linked to each other, it was almost unnatural. Devon had the sense they were stretching out for them. He looked over at both Chris and Noah, he wondered if they too could see the strange pattern of the shadows.
The sun was getting lower in the sky, but they would still have a few hours until nightfall, when they would have to return to Ranple. They would go far past the aged road that ran by Ranple. Devon had often asked his mother and father what the road was for, and their only reply was it was the main road of an ancient civilization long gone. Devon found it odd to believe that there were no signs if it were true the more he thought of it, before Ranple was made it would have been just a road running through woods. Just a boring stretch until it reached Vral'tar to the north, which was hundreds of years older than Ranple.
Other than Vral'tar and the soldier from Flagair, Devon has seen no other foreigners, unless Noah, Mariah, their family, and the traders and bards that came with every Actol were counted. Only Eork came from beyond the city states, and he was just from one of the border countries, not too far west. The rest, though some were doubtful, claimed to have been from the cities states of the 'middle region.' The 'middle region' was the area between the unknown, at least for Ranple, west, and Flagair to the east. They were also called the forgotten area because very little people crossed them to go east to west. Though because of the road, Devon wondered if at one time it was different, because it curved to the west, then the north east.
Once in awhile bits of rocks would be found, arranged as if they once made something. A half collapsed temple was found only twenty miles away from Ranple, but it was soon destroyed from stone quarries. It had been forgotten by most of Ranple's population, and the ones that did remember didn't bother learning any information about the ruins, or the distant past of their village. Most were interested, but very few actually went to learn and discover, saying Ranple was isolated from the rest of the world, so outside problems would not affect them.
Zane led the group into the trees, each gripped their weapons as they walked into the menacing woods, it seemed to swallow them up as they entered. It shouldn't be this dark yet. It's only three in the afternoon. Devon glanced up, but the sun was positioned in the sky just as he thought it was, but the forest seemed darker than normal. It was an eerie darkness, as if something was waiting to strike as they walked into is looming depths.
Wind rustled the leaves of the trees as the four men tracked the wolves. Pure wild wolves had gone extinct thousands of years ago, the ones left were just like humans in intelligence, so tracking them was just as hard as tracking a four legged swift illusive human. Devon had seen no maps, not many existed in Ranple, though the mayor had one is his mansion. Devon did know though, to the far north, were the wolf nations, a land comprised of no humans, only wolves. It was said to be savage and barbaric. When he was younger Devon asked his parents to tell him stories about the so called Wolf Nations, now he was older, and he doubted their existence. Though wolves were as intelligent as humans, they were not smart enough, at least in his opinion, to from independent countries.
Devon kept a steady hand on his sword and looked around on the ground, searching for any wolf prints in the dirt, or snapped or bent tree limbs. No results came through, though squirrel and fox tracks darted the dirt. The only sound from the air was the caw of the crows, which resounded through the trees. Chris left to set up a trap incase the wolf should wander by and not notice them. He didn't make anything complicated, just a simple trap so when the wolf went over, a sharpened chunk of wood would impale in the chest.
After near two hours, Devon started to give up hope, he doubted the wolf of wolves that stole the chickens were anywhere near. They probably ran off after the raid. They did catch a rabbit on one of Chris' traps. They set the rabbit up in the open, hoping to track any nearby hungry wolves. Devon, along with his father and two friends knew wolves would steal any food they could get their paws on.
After a few minutes of planning, they decided to separate for a few minutes to cover more ground and to find tracks or clues. Devon wandered off, and examined a broken branch. It was clearly snapped off the tree, but it couldn't be a wolf. They didn't have hands to tear of the branch, Devon wondered if it were meant for part of a trap. It wasn't his, Chris', Noah's, or his fathers. Turning away, he heard a twig snap behind him.
"Whose there?" he demanded, gripping his sword. He looked behind him, but saw nothing, just the sun stetting behind him. Unsheathing his sword, Devon stepped towards the direction of the snapping twig. Could have just been an animal. It sounded too heavy though. As far as he knew, know large animals other than deer and moose lived in the surrounding woods, and it didn't sound like a hoof snapping the twig. He walked towards the sound's direction, and saw a boot mark in the soil, he knew someone else was here, but paid no mind, people were out here all the time.
Examining the impression by the boot, it was then Devon noticed something, a large chunk of fur on a nearby young spruce tree. Taking the fur in his cold fingers, Devon examined it it wasn't cat or deer fur. He could tell after a few seconds, it had to be wolf fur. Not many dogs went out this far, and he doubted it was coyote fur. He took the warm clump of fur in his hands, and hurried to the meeting place where they would go after a half hour, or if they found anything. Upon arrival, Devon was the only one back he sat against a tree, and nibbled on some jerky they brought for a snack if they were hungry.
Clouds begun to roll in from the east, they didn't appear to be storm clouds, but they covered most of the sky. As they crept closer, Devon decided that in fact they were storm clouds. He knew they would have to give up the chase once his father, Noah, and Chris returned. The appearance of the clouds dramatically dropped the air temperature, and it had already begun to drizzle lightly. Shivering, Devon put on a slightly heavier jacket he brought for the chance they were hunting into the night. He sheathed his sword to protect it from the rain.
Finally after what he thought was fifteen minutes, he heard voices and people walking towards him. Two figure walked by, both carrying nothing but what they had when they split off. Noah and Zane went over to Devon, and he stood up to greet him.
"Did you find anything?" he asked.
"No, I found some human boot prints, but nothing else. I wonder who else is out here. We went a different direction than each other, so it isn't any of us." Noah replied. He put on his heavier jacket as well from the rain. It had become a bit worse than earlier, but still was not too bad.
"I'm afraid I have not either. We may have to leave once Chris arrives. We don't want to be out here in a storm. What about you Devon? You seem to be fidgeting with something in your hands?" Zane asked.
Devon opened his hand to show them the wolf fur. Both Zane and Noah stared at it, and Zane took it from Devon's hand, "I found it near a boot print in the dirt. I don't know if the wolf was traveling with the human, but I found the fur nearby." Devon explained.
"Interesting, I doubt they would travel with each other, no human would be dense enough to trust a wolf next to them. Try to remember where you found it Devon we will continue the search tomorrow." Zane told both of them. He looked behind him to see if Chris was approaching. "Did any of you happen to see Chris? He is late."
"No, I haven't," Noah replied shaking his head, "I did hear something, but it was too far away to be Chris. It sounded like a fire of some sort. If it was, it must have been a camp fire." Noah sounded slightly alarmed, not afraid, but more curious as to what was out here.
The three were caught in thought someone crashed through the trees. They jumped towards the sound, and whipped out their weapons, but it was only Chris. He was panting heavily, and both his sword were drawn, and each was red with blood. Sweat dripped down his face, and he stopped to regain his breath. His hands tightened on his sword hilts and he stared at the three.
"Chris! What is it lad, are you alright?" Zane demanded.
"I'm... I'm fine sir. I was attacked, and I found an injured man out in the woods. I think I killed or frightened off his attacks, but there could be more." Chris replied hurriedly. He rain at turned into a downpour so he had to speak loudly for them to hear him.
"What are you waiting for then!" Zane demanded, "If there's an injured person, take us to him."
Chris nodded, and turned around, beckoning for the three to follow him. Devon ran slightly ahead to speak with his friend. The rain had made his hair damp, and the ground slick. It was hard to believe not more than a half hour ago the sky was blue.
"What happened out there? Do you know who the attackers were?" Devon asked while they ran.
"No, I don't even think they were human. I don't know what they were." Chris admitted mysteriously. He remained silent when Devon questioned him further, saying he didn't know what it was. All he did say was that he sure it wasn't human, or wolf.
The trees whipped by them, as Chris hastily led them back to where he saw the injured person. The ground had become muddy and slick with rain. Thunder clapped in the distance, raising birds from the trees. Devon thought he could hear something in the distance, like low grunting of some sort. Lightening flared in the sky lightening up the menacing woods.
Devon halted to a dead stop, the lightening brightened up a strange figure, just ten yards from them. It was inhuman, but at the same time, seemed oddly human. It stood taller than a man, and had large muscular arms. Its two legs were huge was muscle, but that's where it similarities with humans ended. Its body was colored with a deep brown fur, and like a buffalo, had a massive hump on its back. Its face was just like a buffalo's, with a large snout which air flared out of. Massive horns sprouted out from each side of its head, and a long dark tail with a tuff at the end came from it. Its hands were large, and had strange claws on them, not seen in buffalo's or humans. In its hand, was a massive sword, that would have been used two handed by a human, but it could swing the sword easily with one hand.
The creature snorted warningly at them but only turned its back. On the ground, nor far from it was a man, badly burned. His face was charred, and large burps pocketed the rest of his body. His hair on his head was mostly charred off, and his clothes badly scorched. He moved slightly, as if trying to escape the monstrosity in front of him.
"Hold on! Don't move!" Zane shouted. He grabbed his bow, and ordered Devon, Chris, and Noah to go help the man. They darted forward, and Zane fired an arrow at the creature. It bellowed out as the bolt struck its chest. It ripped the arrow from its chest and snapped it between its large hairy fingers. The claws on the ends were over six inches long. It swung its sword through the air and roared out angrily and charged towards Zane.
Zane jumped aside as it plowed right where he just was. Noah gripped his massive spear, and aimed it at the creature. It turned around and snarled, and the spear flew from Noah's arm. The spear lodged deeply into the creature's side, so fast it pierced through the other end. It roared out, but Devon had already come upon it, and sliced through its back and sides. It managed to pull the spear out of itself, but a second arrow struck its head. It gave a harsh breath, and collapsed to the ground, screaming loudly, and steam flaring out of its nostrils.
"What was that?" Devon demanded, cleaning his sword off on the grass. He had to quickly dry it with a rag before he sheathed it.
Zane walked up to the creature and examined it, making sure it was dead. Its massive sword lay uselessly on the ground. Zane picked up the sword and discarded it and walked over to the man.
"Is is a Feyon. They are ancient creatures, but I could have sworn they went extinct years ago."
"What do you mean? I thought they were just a myth?" Chris asked, confused.
Zane cursed lightly to himself, and muttered under his breath he shouldn't have said that. He pulled a cloth out of his pocket and ordered, "Noah, Devon, get the first aid kit. See if we can help him. Sir, what is your name? Can you hear me?"
Devon wondered about his dad's reaction. Why would he not want them to know what a Feyon is? Did it matter that much if they were real? He went to the supply bag, and pulled out what little medical equipment they brought, they hadn't expected to run into a badly burned man.
The man coughed when Zane spoke to him. He wore an irritated look on his face, but it was most likely do to almost being killed by a Feyon, or whatever had burnt him so badly. He stared up at them, his face badly scarred, his facial expression unreadable. He stared up at Zane and replied, coughing slightly, "I'm fine I thought I could handle more than I actually could. My name is Kazygen."
"I'm Zane, and these are Devon, Noah, and Chris. What happened? Why did the Feyon attack you?"
Kazygen remained silent at first, and twitched slightly from the pain of rain pelting on injured flesh, "I stumbled upon it a few minutes ago. I went to investigate why it would be out here in the middle of nowhere. I was over confident and was stupid enough to let it attack me."
"In any case, we need to get you out of here. Can you stand up?" Zane asked.
Kazygen stared out at the clouds as a great bolt of lightning flickered across the sky, "Yes... leave me, I'll be fine."
"Are you crazy! You can't survive look at how burned you are!" Devon demanded.
The man glared at Devon and replied swiftly, "I will be fine. Trust me, I am waiting, these burns... they are nothing I am not used to. Leave me."
Devon opened his mouth to shout at him, but his father cut him off, "Look at yourself. You may not want out help, but you'll die out here."
Kazygen smirked and replied, "Fine, take me to your village."
Kazygen staggered up, and they managed to wrap him up. He could walk, but barely, he had to be convinced to be a stretcher. Though make shift, it worked out well for their brief walk back to Ranple. Devon eyed the man oddly, something seemed weird with him. How could he have so many burns, but want to remain behind? Kazygen had an evil, almost maniacal look to his face. He seemed to Devon like an escaped prisoner, but it couldn't be. His clothes, though torn, were too expensive.
Icy rain pelted them as they hurried back to Ranple. Each had forgotten about finding the wolf, and focused on getting everyone to the safety and warmth of Ranple. The rain felt like icy needles against Devon's exposed skin. Shaking his head to get the rain out of his hair, he tried to make sure his sword stayed as dry as possible. The encounter with Kazygen and the Feyon surprised him. Several questions darted in his head. He wanted to ask Zane, but he knew to wait for a better time to ask his father.
Strange images in the clouds flickered on an off as they hurried on. The lightning bolts made their way clearer to see, but it was alarming just how near the bolts were. He saw the head of a wolf, howling into the sky. Another flicker of lightning he saw what seemed to be an image of a ruined city in the clouds a large sphere tipped staff hovered above the city. Another flash, a raptor laid dead, arrows sprouting from its body. The images in the clouds begun to drive Devon crazy none made sense, but he knew images didn't normally appear in clouds from flashes of lightning. What's happening! Am I going mad!?! He demanded to himself. He leaned over asking Chris if he too saw the images in the sky, but his voice was drowned out by thunder.
Strange figures darted through the trees, none daring to fully show themselves. Devon could not make them out, but he thought he saw a set of horns to rival the ones on the Feyon they killed. He could hear several creatures darting around the trees. Lightning crackled close enough by to actually hear the bolt strike the ground. Fire sprang up around them, sparked by the bolt of lightning. More creatures seemed to dart around them, just out of view. None came close to them, at least close enough to attack. A few seemed to move closer towards them, but it was passed as a trick of the flickering light.
Damp mud slouched as they darted swiftly across the forest floor. Small streams of water pour down small hills and slops. The tops of the threes whipped through the air, cracking as they bolted back to place. Oddly enough, Kazygen seemed to be taking the weather well. He stared up at the sky in his stretcher as the rain and small hail pieces plummeted from the sky. Several trees had already crashed down, forcing the group to climb over them. Animals darted around, trying to find safety from the storm.
The scent of charred flesh and wood drifted from the threes as fires burned both animals and trees. Oddly enough the smell of wet pine struck Devon out of the confusing of burning debris. Faint outlines of trees and even a few traps were visible as they neared Ranple. Devon was relieved not to see smoke or flames coming from the village or the direction of his home.
Horses brayed in the distance as they pulled from rope or darted around stables trying to escape the noise. Several people were out standing guard with bails of water in case of fire would erupt in the village not put out by the flames. They stood crowded in shelters which stood above the village's two wells. They wells were always full of water, and were made of stones quarried from a sight only a few miles away. Once the storm ended, water -if possible- would be collected and placed inside. Generally the water came from nearby streams of small lakes.
"Do you think mom is ok?" Devon asked his father.
Zane looked in the direction of the farm and nodded, "I'm sure she is. She's probably worrying about us for being out when this storm hit. We have more important priorities though. We have to get Kazygen to the medics."
Kazygen stared up at them from his stretcher. A strange grin was on his face, as if they were doing just as he wanted. Oddly enough his countless burns did not seem to be doing him any harm though it would have crippled a normal man. His breath was perfectly stable and had no heaving of the chest though the whole area was burned severely.
"Ah... so this is Ranple." Kazygen said, with a strange tone in his voice, as if he had wished to find the village.
"It is. Were you planning on coming here?" Noah asked.
"Yes, I have. Your little village has interest me so much lately." the burnt man replied with the longing tone in his voice.
"Ha. I doubt that, nothing to see here, we aren't special." Chris spat sourly. The cold had irritated him which often showed his ruder side.
"Chris! Don't have that tone. Show more respect to people." Zane demanded.
"I just meant that there wasn't anything to see. What would there be here in Ranple to attract outsiders!" Chris asked.
Before Zane could reply, Kazygen broke in. His quite cool voice drifting around them, "Oh, you don't understand do you? There is much to see in your village, yes, much to see."
He's gone senile. Devon thought. Devon glanced at the man in the stretcher; there was something odd about him. Why was he out here in the forest alone? Why were there Feyon around him? If he was with others, what happened to them? Would he really have made it so far until he was that injured by the Feyon? There were so many questions that didn't add up. Knowing Feyons were out their made his skin crawl. What if they attacked the village? There couldn't be too many, so it wasn't a big deal, but what if more came? Not knowing what they were made him fear them even more. He had been told they were just a legend, or had gone extinct years ago. Half men half buffalo were just stories to stop children from getting into trouble. What else could be out there they didn't know about? And why had Zane not wanted him, or anyone else in the village to know about the Feyon?
Chris stared at the ground, still puzzled from what he couldn't make out. He always stared down or away when thinking hard. Devon could understand, why would anyone want to come to Ranple? Noah, Mariah, and their parents had a reason, even if they wouldn't speak of it, but why Kazygen? "Why do you think the Feyon are here?" Chris asked. "What are they anyway?"
Zane stared firmly back at him. Devon could tell he was getting ready a lecture just by the look on his face, "Chris, there are certain things the village does not need to know about. Feyon are one of them. It will just frighten the villagers knowing creatures they thought a myth were real and so close. They probably won't be much of a threat."
To their surprise, Noah stared at him, disbelief streaming across his face. Both Chris and Devon were shocked and surprised. Noah did not question authority, it was unheard of. "Why? We shouldn't be kept ignorant of this. What if they harm the village? They are out around Ranple. What if someone is killed by them? The village militia should be brought up and hunt them down." Noah was seemingly surprised of his own words for he quickly closed his mouth afterwards.
Zane was taken back by Noah's words from him speaking out against him, or what he had said. Just as fast, Zane recovered from the surprise, "Noah, this is village council business, not any of yours. Now, you three promise me you won't be spreading rumors on about this."
"But-" started Chris.
"No buts Chris. I have to take this to the village council first, but if you wish to speak of it with me you may in privet. Now, do I have your word?" he asked. They all had forgotten of Kazygen, lying in the stretcher carried by Zane and Devon.
It came to a shock to Devon that his father was willing to talk with them about this, even if it must be privet, he thought his father would refuse to even speak of it. He wanted to tell others of the news, especially his mother and Mariah, but he knew his father wouldn't allow it. Zane would likely tell Rebecca himself though. Devon noticed Kazygen react to what had gone on between the others around him. He smirked, but otherwise remained in the same position.
"Yes." Devon, Chris, and Noah replied to Zane.
"Good, now we must head to Madame Healer's house first and drop of Kazygen."
"I do not need healing, just let me go." he demanded.
"Yes you do need help, look at yourself! All those burns, now quit complaining." Zane commanded.
Kazygen grunted, but remained silent. Something was odd with that man? Just who was he. Devon was determined to find out, but first they had to take him to get healed. In Ranple it was tradition for a woman in the mayor's family to be the healer. The whole village respected her greatly. Though not officially of the village council, she was an informal member with just as much influence as the mayor himself. The healer was always called Madame Healer her real name was only used by her friends, family, and village council.
Upon entering Ranple, three of the water carriers ran towards them. Each had a large bucket of water in their hands. Their clothes were drench, water was pouring off of them. The trickle of water was impossible to hear as whipping wind, thunder claps, and the screams of terrified horses made that and several other sounds impossible. Rain hammered down worse than ever on all of them. The sky was completely black from clouds other than the flickering of lightning.
One of the water carriers was a woman, the other two men. The woman talked first, she was older than Devon by about five years. She was pretty with bright blue eyes and long brown hair. Her cheekbones were slightly higher than people from Ranple she came from one of the city states out west. Devon recognized her as one of the trader's daughters named Alisa, "I'm so glad to see you four are safe. We heard you went on a hunting party a few hours ago, and worried you were injured in the storm." It was then she noticed the stretcher and her eyes widened, "What happened?!" she asked concerned, "Who is he?"
"His name is Kazygen. Chris found him and injured at took us to him. We don't know how it happened, but we found him badly burned. It's a miracle he's still alive." Zane explained to her and the other two.
Alisa looked at Kazygen's injuries and grimaced, "It is. How long have you been in the storm?"
"Not too long, perhaps a half hour. How is it in Ranple? No fires started I hope?"
One of the men -a tall man with dark hair and perhaps twice as old as Alisa-replied, "Fortunately no we did see several fires in the forest though. Your farm should be safe though, only one in that direction, but not close enough to it."
"Hard to believe a storm this severe would come from the blue sky earlier. Oh well, as long as no damage was done. I doubt the crops were burned by fire. Even if they were, they would recover shortly knowing Ranple's damned good luck. They always do." the third man replied. He was shorter than the second man, but twice as wide, though his body was rippled with muscle, not fat. He was a trader from Vral'tar, the powerful city state to the north and Ranple's close ally. They bought most of the crops Ranple didn't need and would even sometimes sell them to the city states -or lucky countries- out west.
"Hopefully there are no damages though Breten. Is Vral'tar still going through that famine what struck this summer?" asked Zane.
"We've recovered somewhat thankfully. Though Guinsten will not be happy of not getting as much crops as they normally do."
"How are things out west? We don't hear much of that here?" Devon asked, though earning a stern look from Zane, though part of Zane's face said it would be good for Devon to know.
"Not bad, at least in Iridal. We weren't hit by the famine which swept though Vral'tar thankfully. Though news of war had reached us from further out west. It appears it hasn't here in Ranple?" Alisa replied.
The tall man's face wore an expression of shock and disbelief, "War? What do you mean?"
"You got to be kidding me Wil! Haven't heard of war out here?" Breten replied accusingly.
"We just heard of it today Breten, at least the village council has," Zane said in an annoyed voice, "Now, if you three would excuse me, we really must be going."
Shrugging, Wil replied, "Alright, stay safe though Zane if you plan on returning to your farm."
Zane led them away from the entrance of Ranple as the water carriers returned to their posts. Seemingly impossible, the rain worsened so badly that it seemed to be raining diagonally and was hard to see have feet in front of you. Devon could barely make out his father in front of him carrying the other end of Kazygen's stretcher. Oddly it seemed as a the rain was running away from Kazygen as if an invisible shield was right over the man. Devon's teeth begun to chatter as water dripped down his coat and the wind slammed against them. It had to have dropped at least fifteen degrees from before the storm. He could hear Chris and Noah's teeth chattering nearby.
"Will you three be alright? I told you to bring heavier coats just in case it rained or we had to go deep into the night." Zane asked, concerned.
"We'll be fine." Chris assured him. Chris hated to admit he was cold or wasn't alright, even if it were obvious. He had not even put on a coat and probably would have now if it wasn't soaking wet. He was by far shivering the worse, but refused to admit he was.
Other than the water carriers no one was outside. They were either in tents, houses, or the two inns. From houses nice warms fires flickered from inside. Devon wished he could be in there with them. In the nice warm cozy house out of the freezing downpour was really all he wanted right then. At least the healer's house would be warmer. A small blessing for the short time they would be out of the rain.
Mud sloshed under their feet as they darted through the city. They wanted to reach the healer's as fast as possible. Zane was the only one not too concerned by the freezing rain. He was wearing a heavier coat than they were, and it was also water proof.
"Devon, you shouldn't have said that about the war." Zane told him as they headed for the healers.
"Why?" Devon exclaimed, "Doesn't everyone have the right to know if a war is coming? Even if it isn't, that there is war and strange creatures called Feyon out there?"
"Devon... there are some things that do not need to be told. But, I suppose I'll tell you three since I promised. We can speak tomorrow once the storm dies down, but do not tell anyone what I will tell you."
Noah looked back at where they came from, wanting badly to at least get out of the cold and rain, but he didn't complain. He knew it was important to get to the healers, "Is there a reason why all this is kept secret?" he asked.
"That you will be told tomorrow Noah. Now let us be off. We are almost at Madame Healer's house."
As they arrived, Noah went ahead of them and knocked on the door. He gave a sigh of relief as he went below the roof which overlooked the door. He stepped back as the door swung open, nearly hitting him in the face. The grouchy old woman stepped and examined them. She glared at them deeply, though more concerned than furious. She studied them for a moment. Once she realized why they were great sorrow and pity rose in her face.
"Zane, Devon, Chris... I'm so sorry." The healer said, sorrow filled her eyes as she watched them, "Ah, Noah, nice to see you as well."
Zane gave her a worried look and his hands clenched firmly on the stretcher. "What is it Madame Healer? Is it about Rebecca?" he asked.
Nodded, she glanced at Kazygen who lay still in the stretcher. She motioned for them to come in side, "Come in you four. Get out of the rain and I'll have a look at this injured man you brought me. What is his name, what happened? I'll tell you my news later once this is done." she said in a low sad voice.
They four walked into the house, thankful for the shelter against the downpour outside. The house was a large two story building. The main floor was split between a living room, a kitchen, bathroom, and two spare rooms. The upstairs had four rooms to hold patients in. The weakest people stayed near on the lower story if possible. Plants of various types dotted the house. A large plant with massive red peddles hung by the entrance. A single cat lay stretched out on a sofa. The cat's fur was as black as the nighttime sky it licked its paw, not paying any attention to the humans.
A pleasant aroma swept through the house. Pies dotted the table with apples, grapes, along with rabbit. The table was fine oak, and gleamed in the light from fresh polishing. A few feet away a rocking chair sat in front of a fire place. The warmth was comforting from the cold outside. A large brown dog lay curled up close to the fireplace. Its head lied in its front paws. Gray dotted the elderly dogs face.
"Here, take him into that room. And be careful! The Lord knows how he survived this many burns." the healer snapped.
Devon and Zane sat Kazygen's stretcher on the bed and instantly the healer begun looking at his wounds and mumbling under her breath. Kazygen seemed put off by her doing so, but said nothing, only had a maniacal look to his face. Devon stepped back from his look. He seemed ready to kill him. Maybe it was just the way his face war burned, maybe.
Zane began to explain to her how they left on a hunting party and what happened since then. She muttered under her breath about their foolishness and how they could have been hurt and of the pudding spoiling for supper. She tended his wounds and when Kazygen tried to move she glared at him and forced him back down.
"It's a miracle you managed to survive. Looks at these burns! It's not right." she complained.
"You!" the healer said, snapping at Noah. "Go fetch Isabel. She's upstairs."
"Yes ma'am." Noah replied quickly and hurried upstairs. After a minute or two, he returned downstairs with a confused look on his face. "Madame Healer, she's not up there." Noah told her hesitantly.
She glared back at him than shook her head, "You must not have looked hard enough then. She hasn't left the house. You!" she pointed to Devon, "Go with him and help look for her." she gave a loud impatient sigh, "Now if you two don't find her something's wrong." she said and said more kindly to Zane and Chris, "Now, will you two help me clean and treat his wounds?"
Devon glanced at Noah and the two shrugged. Turning around the two walked up the wooded stairs. As they left the remaining three started to treat Kazygen's wounds. He glared at them hatefully, but nothing more. None of them noticed, but it seemed he merely tolerated what they were doing. Devon still could not understand what was wrong with the man. He was burned severely, but didn't seem to notice it. If anyone else had those wound, they would be dead by now. He didn't understand it, but there was much he didn't understand. Why did his father and the village council hide so much from them? He knew Zane would tell him, Noah, and Chris tomorrow, but it still didn't make sense.
The upstairs was even cleaner than the lower lever. Two paintings hung on the walls, one of a skinny smiling man with light hair. The background was off the very house they walked in with the sun shining. It was a magnificent paining. Ranple's artists were among the best in the world. It was crystal clear and seemed as if the now dead man could just step right out of the paining. Unlike much of Ranple, Devon had little skill in art. Though not born in Ranple, Noah had great artistic abilities. When younger Noah had tried to teach Devon, but to no avail. Not even Mariah could teach him much and she made her brother's artwork appear rough and badly painted.
The second painting was what caught Devon's eye the most. It was of a strange cat like creature. Its body was narrow and the cat was colored orange with black spots on it. It was much larger than a domestic cat and had long legs those and the rest of its body was made for speed. It was running in a landscape unknown to him. Long chutes of grass were everywhere, not many trees dotted the area the creature was in.
"She must be crazy. Isabel is not up here. I suppose we should keep looking longer so Madame Healer doesn't get more annoyed." Noah said, walking out of one of the rooms. He walked towards Devon with a bored look on his face. "Did you even look Devon?"
"What? Oh, sorry Noah. I was just looking at the painting. What is it?"
Noah sighed as if it should be obvious of what the creature was. He always seemed to think everyone should know as much as he did. He was arrogant or cocky at all, but often forgot not everyone knew as much as he did. What the cat was though, was not something the village council tried hiding from people. It amazed Devon how much information Noah learned.
"It's a cheetah Devon." Noah said as if reminding him what day of the week it was. Noah sighed again at Devon's blank stare, "They live in the west. Far to the west not anywhere near Ranple. From what I know they can run incredibly fast."
"Looks like it. I wonder how the healer came upon this painting." Devon wondered turning away from the painting of the cheetah.
"What are you two doing up here?" Devon and Noah jumped as the voice came seemingly from nowhere. A slender young woman, just a few years older than Devon and Noah, walked towards them. She was tall, the only woman in the village taller than Mariah, able to star Devon in the eye.
"Where'd you come from?" demanded Noah. He looked at the woman, Isabel, and said in a gentler tone, "Sorry, I wasn't expecting you to appear like that. Where were you? Madame Healer wanted you to help her."
"Oh, sorry," she said quietly. She nervously glanced at the two and replied in a quiet voice, "I came from the hidden room. You know, where the really sick patients are kept so their illness doesn't spread." she said sadly, glancing to Devon with watery eyes.
Her tears surprised Devon greatly, Isabel was a strong woman, and she wasn't one to cry. Whatever the cause of her tears, it must be terrible. Normally she would have laughed at his and Noah's jump. Without another word to them, she gave one sad glance at Devon, and walked downstairs.
"I hope she's ok." Noah said quietly looking at the direction she had come from. "I should have known to check the hidden room. I forgot about it when I first checked." Walking toward a seam in the wall Noah grabbed it as if it were a door. He began to open it, but stepped away.
"I wonder who's in there." Devon asked.
"Whoever it is, we shouldn't bother them. The person must be really sick. That's probably what upset Isabel." Noah told him and led Devon to the stairs.
The hidden room was known to the whole village, but disguised as a wall to tell people no to enter it as they would other rooms. It was for patients who carried an infectious disease or so sick they could only be seen by loved ones. It wasn't used often, but when it was the whole village knew about it within days. Followers and get well letters would flow into the room, and money, food, and flowers would be given to the sick person's family.
The two headed back downstairs to see everyone but Kazygen huddled in a circle. Kazygen was on a bed, apparently sleeping. The Healer must have given him a drug that would instantly put him to sleep. From what Devon could tell, Kazygen wasn't a man who would do ask people asked. The man's wounds were bandaged up, and likely had cream on them which would help heal burns. Devon wondered if they had to drug Kazygen just to put the cream and bandages on him.
The healer led Chris, Zane, and Isabel to the table for them to sit down on. A sad look was on Devon's father's face. This was the closest Devon had seen his father to tears. Chris too appeared sad as he stared down at the table. Upon seeing Devon and Noah walked down, the healer grabbed two more chairs for the two. She sat down opposite of the two and watched them for a moment.
"Devon, I'm sorry." she said with a sad voice.
Her tone surprised Devon he had never heard her worry such before. The healer was not one to show worry. Even when patients were on their deathbeds she was full of hope. "Devon, I'm sorry. Your mother is dying."
"What?" Devon said his voice cracking.
"Devon, your mother was very sick, you know that. Her illness has returned much stronger than when I last healed it. I knew it would return, but it still kills me to see a patient suffer. Especially someone I grew up to know so well."
"Can we, can we see her?" Devon asked.
Isabel nodded, "That's where I was Devon. I was checking on your mothers. She's ill, badly ill, but I think we caught it just when it was returning."
Zane nodded roughly. He looked up to where the hidden room was and replied, "You're mother will be fine Devon. Do not fear. Madame Healer was kind enough to let us stay here for the night to be with her. That includes you as well Chris. Noah, you may stay if you wish. I wouldn't want to risk you getting injured in the storm."
Chris gave a small nod in reply. It was hard to tell emotion on him even if it was obvious what he fell, he could seem like he had no caring. He rubbed his hands impatiently against the smooth wooden surface of the table which was the only sign he was in some distress.
"Come, you can see her. I gave her some medicine not to long before you came in here." Madame Healer said, rising up motioning for the others to follow, "She should be fine." She led them upstairs and towards the wall which the hidden room lay in. "Since I just caught the disease returning, this should put it back in recession, but I regret it won't be for as long as this time."
She held the door open for them to each go inside before her. It was near impossible to tell a door was there if you hadn't known so already. It blended in perfectly with the wall other than a small flaw. It surprised Devon at how clean the room was. Nothing was out of place not from the plant on the small wooden table in the room's middle to the large book case on the opposite side of the room the bed was. The bed was larger than most and was layered with blankets. Rebecca lied in it, just sleeping. She was not one to show pain or weakness even when terribly sick.
Isabel and the healer walked over to her, followed by the other four. Isabel quickly checked the sick woman's pulse and gave a small sigh of relief, "She's still alive, and a normal heartbeat." Isabel said, "She should be awake in a few hours. We gave her some herbs to help her sleep."
After replacing the damp rag on Rebecca's forehead the healer said, "Feel free to stay here if you like. Isabel and I will be downstairs if you need us."
The two women left the room leaving Devon, Zane, Noah, and Chris to go around Rebecca's bed. She breathed in and out quietly but her faced seemed more aged. As if she had just reached her sixtieth birthday.
Zane went up to her and took one of her hand and patted it slightly, "I'm sure she'll be fine. She always recovers fast."
Devon looked at his mother to his father, a tear came from his eye, but he knew his father was right. His mother was strong and if Madame Healer said Rebecca would recover, then she would. Noah was off to the edge slightly, nervous that he was interrupting them. He didn't want to take the chance of bothering Devon, Zane, and Chris.
"Noah, why are you back so far?" Chris asked bluntly.
"Oh... I."
"You are just as much part of this family as I am. Besides its awkward that you are back there." Chris said trying not to sound sad.
Noah shrugged and moved up closer to the bed. He grabbed the piece of bread he brought from the lower room and ate the rest of it. Taking his spear he leaned it against the wall where the others had put their weapons. Devon knew his friend was distressed. Noah was always quiet when worried or feeling out of place. He looked towards the wall and said, "Someone's downstairs. I heard the door open and movement." he said.
"What? Noah, it's just the rain." Devon replied.
"No, someone's-"
The door slammed open and Mariah came in soaking wet. Water poured down from her hair and clothes. Devon stared at her in surprise, not expecting her to show up. Behind her the other two women glared at her having just yelled at her for entering than just walking upstairs, but she would have nothing to do with the two.
"You! Why did you come up here? Don't you see we have a patient here young lady! Now, you come right back out here or I'll put you to work tomorrow. Be lucky I don't tell the village council about this." Madame Healer said angrily.
Mariah turned around and her face reddened slightly. Devon wasn't sure if it was from embarrassment or anger at being caught and told she couldn't just come in. "Sorry Madame Healer, but I came looking from them and couldn't find them and assumed they were here."
"That doesn't matter. What matter is-"
"It's alright Madame Healer." Zane said, cutting her off, "I was expecting Mariah here, but she still should have known not to just come barging in." the healer began to talk again, but Zane cut in, "Just leave her here. She'll be fine."
Shrugging, the healer gave in. Glaring from Mariah to Zane she closed the door, saying she would be downstairs if anything was wrong. And if they didn't come back down she wished them a good night. Once she was gone, Mariah sat down on a chair and stared at the four waiting for them to talk.
"You're lucky I got you out of that Mariah. You would have been in serious trouble if I didn't help you. Now, what are you doing here?" Zane asked her.
"I just came to check up all of you. I helped Rebecca get here part of the way. I assumed you would be here after the hunt, if you were back, part of me worried one of you was hurt." Devon could tell by part of her voice she also hopped they hadn't killed anything.
"Thank you Mariah, but everything is alright. I suppose you can stay, I wouldn't want to risk you getting hurt out in that storm. Besides, it would be better in here." Devon said.
Mariah smiled and replied, "That would be fine. I didn't look forward in having to walk back to my house." she said more gently, "Is she ok?"
"She's fine. Madame Healer said she should recover in a few days. Just like the crops, the people of Ranple are tough and hardy." Zane said.
It was true, not many people in Ranple died of disease. Few did and they were terrible sick and had been so a few days before they went to be healed. No one knew why Ranple's people were cured so well. Some assumed it was the skill of the healers, but Ranple still had a high amount of survivors from deadly diseases even with poor healers.
"Well, Devon, Noah, Chris, since we will be in here at until tomorrow, I think I will tell you what we discussed in the forest." Zane announced.
"What is it? Can I hear too?" Mariah asked hopeful.
"No Mariah, you weren't there and saw what we say." Chris told her which didn't please Mariah at all.
"If you know why can't I? Sir, can I hear too?" Mariah said trying not to sound as if she were pleading.
"Mariah, its information only the village council should know. I'm only telling these three about it because they saw something we tried to keep hidden for the sack of the village. Though I do regret having to keep it hidden from the people." Chris gave a small smirk, but it left his face when Zane replied, "However, I suppose I can let you know since I am telling these three. Besides, I know as soon as I'm out of earshot Devon or Noah would tell you."
Mariah grinned, "Thank you sir." she replied.
Zane stood up, and motioned for Devon, Chris, and Noah to take the remaining three chairs. Zane left downstairs and came up caring another from himself which he placed in front of the group of four.

Here's the third chapter. Its long, but not as long as the second.

Chapter 3
Night of Frozen Embers

"A Feyon? But I thought they went extinct hundreds of years ago!" Mariah gasped once Devon, Zane, Noah, and Chris explained to her what happened while they were out hunting. Zane nodded, expecting the answer Mariah gave. In fact, even the village council thought Feyon went extinct years ago. Not that they had any proof of course, but Ranple and Vral'tar hadn't seen any for generations. Devon supposed Feyon could be further north than Vral'tar or the east in Flagair. He doubted the south just about fifty miles south of Ranple were the Chain Mountain Range and the Intarchol Ocean. Or even to the west, beyond the other cities states in the unknown lands of the west.
"We did as well Mariah. Some doubted they were extinct, but they hadn't been seen for such a long time. What they could be doing here is a mystery. Why come to Ranple? We haven't done anything to draw attention." Zane replied.
"They could have come here by chance." Chris said hopefully. He -like the rest of them- hopped so. Chris wouldn't admit of being afraid. Still, he paid great attention to what Zane told them. He wanted to know about these strange creatures, and because of his sentry duties, had to be prepared for if they attacked.
"I doubt that Chris. There are too many of them to be here by mere chance. Not to mention Ranple is so secluded, there isn't much around to show a village being here. Where ever they came from I doubt the north. Vral'tar wouldn't want them to come south and attack us." Zane told him. He sat back against his chair and waited for the next to ask a question. He wasn't annoyed by them, he knew each would have several questions for him.
"What... what exactly are they?" asked Devon, "Where did they come from."
"I don't know." Zane admitted, "Some say they always existed, books hidden in the mayor's house say they arrived here four thousand years ago. Other sources of information say they are a creation of dark magic. I doubt that is true though. No magic is strong enough to creature a creature so smart and full."
"They're smart?" Devon asked, surprised. He assumed they were dumb brutes for just attacking like the one they met did.
"Of course. They are as skilled as fighting as humans, can speak and strategize well. Compared to human's they are quite dense, but for what they are they are intelligent."
"Are they from the west?" Noah asked. He was more interested than his sister about the west. He wanted to know more about the lands they were born in. But Devon doubted the city state they came from was much different than Ranple. Then again, there was a chance he came from further west than the city states. Noah listened carefully, curious of what Zane would say about the lands he had come from.
"They could be Noah. Chances are yes, or from further up north. They could have circled around Vral'tar. Where ever they are, it isn't the east. The last time we had word about them in Flagair was several decades ago. As far as we know Flagair killed all Feyon within their lands. As for where they originated, Feyon's came from up north, in the lands beyond the wolf nations."
"The wolf nations aren't real? Are they?" Chris demanded in a curious voice.
"Or course they are Chris. They aren't imaginary. Wolves for the most part live far to the north away from humans. The Lord knows why they aren't down here terrorizing humans in larger numbers." Mariah gave Zane a dirty look and he sighed replying, "Mariah, you know what wolves do to us and what they steal. You should be glad they aren't south. More lives would be lost and more livestock killed. Yes, I know no one has been killed in Ranple in living memory, but up farther north? It would be foolish not to assume there have been several deaths by wolves."
"But we don't know do we?" Mariah muttered, she then replied in a louder voice, "What are they like? These wolf nations."
"We don't know much about them. We won't let any wolf near Ranple for the village's sake. Not many rumors that can be counted as accurate come from them. It is said the wolves don't often leave their nations, but that can't be true. The must terrorize the north, but the ones who do live from the attacks are likely to afraid to speak of it." Zane replied. Mariah rolled her eyes at him when he wasn't looking. It was obvious she didn't believe him.
There was a small moment when no one spoke, Zane waiting for the next one to ask a question, the other four pondering what they had just heard and their brains buzzing around for more questions and possible answers to them. For about a minute they listened to the rhythmic beating of rain on the roof top. Their shadows flickered from the light of the candles and gas lamps.
"What about that soldier from Flagair? Why did he come?" Noah said, his voice cracking the silence between them all. Devon could tell by his father's agitated look this was the question he hoped none of them asked. Sticking to his word though, he answered Noah's question. It shocked Devon at first he had thought he was right in assuming there was no main reason for the soldier coming to Ranple.
Zane sat back for a second, than leaned forward to speak in a whisper though it would have been near impossible for anyone else to hear his words than the ones who were in the room, "Noah, what you ask is top secret in the village council. There are reasons, just like the others of why we keep it hidden. These, among others, would frighten the village. They have known peace for so long. No one wants war on this soil, not even the rumors or war."
"What does this have to do with Flagair?" Chris demanded. Zane's look made him lower his head and apologize for his rudeness, "Sir." Chris added at the end.
"Everything Chris. In the west war has erupted between several countries. The city states remain untouched so far, but there are rumors of possible war erupting between the city states. Iridal is moving their army against Tarsnaw. As for why, we do not know. Nothing has happened yet, but Tarsnaw has readied their army to defend against the Iridalens. Can you understand why we keep this hidden? We don't want to risk Ranple getting involved. Not to mention there are... events which would break and horrify the hardest warrior in Ranple." Zane glanced over all of them, but held his gaze a second longer on his son. A look of remorse went on his father's face, but vanished instantly.
"Why keep the village ignorant though? Wouldn't it be worse to think something doesn't exist or doesn't affect you then later have the events happen? That would horrify people more than knowing the events beforehand. What would happen if we were attacked and no one thought attack was near?" Devon demanded in a voice louder than he normally would use.
"I agree with you one hundred percent Devon." Zane replied in a leveled tone. The reply shocked Devon so much he nearly fell out of his seat.
"You do?" he gasped, "I thought you would be angry."
"No. I agree with what you say. I use the same argument against the village council, but they refuse to believe the people should be educated on what they don't know. It's about power, the village council wants to keep control of the village and let them think the council has everything under control."
"No! But, they wouldn't do that." Mariah said her face pure shock.
"They aren't doing it for power as in to control. After all, the village elects its council members. No, they want power to remain in office. They don't want the village to fear. It's still wrong, but they are doing what they consider best for the people. Some they do let known, but the more serious facts they keep to themselves."
"What about this? The Feyon, they could threaten the security of the whole village."
"That is different Mariah. The council always lets the village know of events that will affect them as long as the danger is a day or so from them. The Feyon are in the forest around the village, but it may be too late. Once told the village will be shocked and worried about these Feyon. If they knew Feyon existed still, they wouldn't be as concerned. But because of their ignorance, it will be harder to put the village into order to defend. The rest of the village council refuses to see that. They will tell the people of the Feyon, which is the right thing, but it will spread chaos among us. So close to Actol and an attack by creatures we were told were whipped out."
Noah watched them talk impatiently. He knew Zane was stalling the answering of his question. Noah was determined to not let his question go unanswered especially when Devon, Chris, and Mariah thought he was making too much of something that was no threat. He was unsettled in his chair, moving slightly, anxious to get his question answered. "Is there anything else that could threaten the village?" Chris asked before Noah could ask Zane again.
"That comes up with the answer to Noah's question Chris," Zane replied, noticing Noah's impatient look, "Flagair poses a threat to us here in Ranple. The soldier who arrived several weeks ago demanded Ranple becomes part of Flagair."
Chris nearly fell out of his chair in shock. He slammed his head against the head of his chair. Devon's eyes widened and he stared at them all, even more so Noah. So Noah was right? Flagair did in fact mean to return to Ranple. Who hadn't he thought of it earlier? Of course it made since now that he thought of it. Why else would the commander of Flagair's army and navy come to a village for anything else other than to request it join them.
Mariah gave a small gasp, but she remained silent. She didn't react much like the rest of them. She watched them all carefully with some worry in her eyes. Devon knew how much she hated hunting, but she despised people killing each other for nothing. Devon wished he could have been closer to her. She wasn't afraid, Mariah wasn't one to be afraid easily, but she was worried. She and Devon had been friends since they were young. Several in the village thought the two would eventually marry. He would have liked to, but he couldn't find it in himself to ask her. He wasn't as good as it came to girls as Noah and Chris were. Still, he and Mariah were close friends. Noah who sat next to his sister had a concerned look on his own face.
Devon wondered what else could be going on out in the west, but the news of Flagiar's aggression shocked him. Ranple had done nothing to them. Why would they attack? He knew his father would continue with the story, but none of it would be the whole deal. Flagair has always been a large presence, but why want to come here? The massive kingdom was as far as he knew was peaceful, but he had gone nowhere near the country to the east. Wonder and a sense of worry filled him. Hoping no one would notice he kept his face as firm as possible. People coming from distant countries were one thing, but the Feyon had to be more important, after all, they were within marching distance of Ranple. But what if... no, it was impossible, it couldn't be anyway. I'm starting to worry as much as Mariah. Devon said to himself, shaking his head.
Watching the shadows of fire flicker from the candle light, Devon stood up and walked to the door. He knew they were out there, waiting to attack. Not understanding why, he turned to the others. The creatures were coming, he knew it, he could almost sense them coming nearer. A shiver crept through his body, for why he was unsure. It wasn't fear, he would never admit being afraid, he hated it. Something though was coming, the same dark presence he sensed earlier. Complaining to himself of how he was a fool to be worried by no more than ten Feyon -he hopped that was all, they only saw about ten in the forest, which was stranger in itself on why they wouldn't attack them- he sat back in his chair still pondering his thoughts.
"What's wrong Devon?" asked Noah. Devon gave a startled shake. He had forgot they were in the room for a second, or at least staring at him as he stood up, went to his door, and came back.
Not looking at Noah, he replied, "Why are they coming father? Do you or the village council know?" He refused to bring up the thought he had, it was too unnatural. He wasn't sure if he was trying to convince himself of that or if it was just what he hopped.
Zane shrugged, he remained calm and steady, but Devon could tell by the look in his father's eyes he was uneasy, "We don't know why. They are interested in why our crops grow so well and why people recover so fast from diseases that would cripple and kill most others."
Chris jumped up before he could continue, rage filled his eyes which was common for him when others threatened the safety of Ranple, even more so now he was a sentry, "Why? If they wanted crops just ask! We're always happy to trade ours. We usually have more in a year than any one person needs in three!"
"Chris calm down!" Zane demanded, getting slightly more irritated. Though having great patients, Zane grew irritated easily if people asked questions he didn't know the full answer to. Even more so when people were rude.
"Sorry sir." Chris replied quieter, but still had the angry spark in his eye.
"Anyway," Zane went on as if he wasn't interrupted, "they are a much larger nation than any I know of. Even from the countries the village council knows of, Flagair is the largest. Even all of our crops wouldn't feed all of Flagair. Even so, it would help them tremendously. That's why that soldier came. The king and queen of Flagair demanded Ranple join them."
A pit grew in the depths of Devon's stomach. Something was odd about this. What it was he could not understand it all, but he knew something was. Why would Flagair suddenly be interested in them? They knew about Ranple's great luck with crops for years. He never understood why the crops and Ranple grew as they did, or why people healed so well, but it was taken by him along with the rest as just because. It has always been like that in Ranple, and he was determined nothing would change that. Even if the massive kingdom invaded the small town the people of Ranple would fight back. Nothing could challenge their way of life. A strange fury rose up in Devon he never expected to come in him. It was a great anger at anyone who dared attempt to take over Ranple. It socked him, he didn't know he could have this much anger in him, "We'll make them regret it if they ever attack us. We will fight them back to Flagair." he said determined.
Mariah looked at him oddly. He wished she wouldn't, that look always made him blush. Then again, most looks she gave him made him blush. It amazed him just how calm she could be at times like this. It was a strange switch for her when she was demanded to get through the door to see if they were ok, than ones they were, she grew all calm. "Devon, you can't obviously think we'll beat them. We are just a small city state, more of a town that controls itself."
Growing a deeper red, Devon knew she was right. The anger stayed in him though, not of her of course, he doubted he could ever be angry with her, but at Flagair. He wasn't even too sure why he was angry he had never met someone from Flagair. "I know Mariah," he replied to her. His anger vanished and was replaced by worry, "What will we do? If Ranple falls?"
Devon glanced around at his friends. Noah was worried, but at the same time cool and thinking. Noah was always the one getting them out of trouble, or at least not wanting to get in as much trouble as the rest. Though he found it hard not getting in trouble with his sister for the fact he hated doing chores. Devon envied Noah for that, he always managed to find a way out of trouble. He was fast at acting, but always thought out the problem. Having been in trouble with the village council multiple time -usually Chris' fault and idea, but he had a way of dragging Devon in to the blame as well- for doing something without thinking and running right into it. At least he made less trouble than Chris did.
Chris on the other hand was a strange mixture of fear, worry, readiness, and calm. Just like his personality at times, his facial expression contradicted itself. Having on hand in a fist on his leg, he leaned on his elbow listening. Chris did that mostly when he was tired, or anxious. His eyes did not betray him, they were set and ready for anything to come, but still had the typical air of trouble making in them.
"How much do you know about Flagair?" Devon asked. He doubted very much. It didn't seem as if the council would know much of the kingdom. Know some yes, but Devon doubted much due to Ranple's isolation.
"All we know is they are a threat to us. The main worry is if we should tell the people or not. I for one think we should, but the rest of the council wants to keep them ignorant until Flagair is a day of less from us. I say tell them now, but the council thinks it's the people's best interest not to know." Zane replied. Worry and determination was etched onto his face. He was a strong man, and wouldn't give up what he believed even if he was vastly outnumbered.
"What about their government? Or their army? Couldn't we get Vral'tar to aid us? They've been our ally for ages." Mariah asked.
Zane gave a small chuckle and said to her, "You are starting to sound like some of the council members. Though I have to say, you speak a lot more since than any of them. When you get older Mariah you will easily be in the council."
Devon almost laughed as Mariah's face reddened. Several people have told her that because of her intelligence and determination. She shook her head slightly, her face bright red. Devon could not understand how that made her so embarrassed, but he didn't comment on it, "Thank you sir, but I have no intentions on becoming a council member." Mariah replied.
Zane gave a smile, and seriousness went into his words. He was either going into a lecture, or telling them something they did wrong. Due to the circumstances, Devon know it was the former, "Well, not everyone wants it Mariah. Besides, the people who don't want a possession of authority are sometimes the best suited for it. Anyway, to answer your question, I doubt the council will agree to call on Vral'tar for help. They are out ally, but even they have weaknesses. Their army is larger, but know where near as large as Flagair's. Not to mention Vral'tar's economy was badly hit by the famine this summer. It wouldn't be wise for them to send many troops to assist us."
When his father finished speaking, Devon listened to the beating of rain on the roof. He was surprised to see it had increased since when he last paid attention to it. It was unbelievable to think it could have down poured even more, but downpour it did. He didn't mind rain when he was inside, but he hated it outside especially when it was cold. The beating of rain continued on as he began to doze off. He assumed to conversation was over and closed his eyes. Once the storm was over he would go out to the forest. He decided to see where the Feyon were, and where they had come from.
Thinking of Actol he leaned over in his chair. He was tired, so very tired. He wasn't sure why, he had slept well the night before. Even so, the conversation had started to bore him. It had now turned to just Noah and Zane talking, and Chris trying to get up a good conversation with Mariah. Normally he would have stayed up to talk to them, but not tonight. He needed sleep.
"Devon, where're you going?" Chris asked seeing him open the door.
"To get some sleep." he said lazily.
"Tired are you Devon? Well, it isn't surprising after what we went through out there. Besides, it's early in the morning. You all should sleep anyway, yes Chris that includes you. You all look exhausted, and I need to go downstairs anyway." Zane told them standing up. Lifting up to chair, he carried it to the door to take back down.
"Why? You can take that down tomorrow?" Devon said oddly irritated.
"I have other reasons to Devon. Council reasons. You four stay up here for the night. I'll be back later." Zane replied and walked out the door and closed it behind them.
Turning around, Devon gave his friends a confused look. Half asleep, it looked groggier than anything. He searched his brain to find out why his father would leave so early in the morning. Zane had never done this before, he usually left council business to the morning.
"I wonder what that's about." Noah said. Devon had no idea how Noah could not sound remotely tired.
Saying good night to Noah, Chris, and Mariah he pulled out some blankets that were strewn across the room. He looked at his mother who still seemed to be sleeping. Hoping she'd get better, Devon returned to his chair and lied next to it. He ignored the others confused expressions on why he was going to sleep and closed his eyes. Part of him wanted to join them talking about they had heard and of what Zane could possibly be doing, but sleep overtook Devon. A strange, deep, sleep overtook him seconds after he closed his eyes.

Hordes of creatures that looked like Feyon gathered in one area. Snarling, snorting, and swinging weapons they moved onwards grunting strange sounds only they could understand. They horde was huge, larger than any number he had ever seen. Flailing their arms up they screamed and hollered a cheer, the sound was alien, a mixture of buffalo and human. Lightning flashed in the air and the horde charged forward. Where he could not tell, it was nowhere near Ranple. All around the creatures was only flat land as far as the eye could see. In the far distance, the hazy outline of a massive city was visible.
Devon tossed and turned as the Feyon charged. His angle was above them, it was odd seeing the horde charge forward. He felt like he was with them, rushing above them. Towards theirs, his enemy charging with the Feyon and other creatures he did not recognize, but oddly he knew what they were, this strange dream made everything seem so familiar. Humans were in the army as well, several thousands were with them.
A Feyon rose its head up and cheered, steam coming from its snout as it snorted loudly, "Burn them! Destroy! Kill, burn, murder, pillage! Take what you want. Ravage the city, capture who you want. Leave no trace of this city behind!" it shouted. No, not a Feyon, but something beyond it, he could not see anything, but a strange outline of... something. Whatever it was it quickly vanished and the led Feyon snorted again, and charged forward with the rest of the army, and Devon. He was one of them now. He was on the ground, but oddly he couldn't see his arms, or legs. What ever happened, he rushed forward. A cacophony of noise followed as metal struck metal, flesh, and bones. He couldn't see the fighting ahead he must be in the far lines of the army. Lightning crackled in the air a strange red lightning it seemed. Yells, screams, grunts, and snarls overwhelmed him. Then, everything vanished. It all went dark.
Devon opened his eyes, wondering if he was awake. It he was, that was the strangest way he had ever come out of a dream. He tried moving, but found he could not. He lunged and trashed in his chair, but couldn't escape, he was paralyzed. A strange mist filled the dark stale air. Eyes whipping in his head, he looked around, unable to say where he was. This had to be a dream but... why aren't I awake? He demanded to himself. It had to be, he was dreaming, but you woke up once you knew you were dreaming didn't you? Moving his hands he tried to release himself from the inviolable bonds. A sour putrid sent flooded his nose which nearly made him gag. Where am I? he said to himself. He knew he was sleeping, he had to be.
"Devon... let me say it is nice to finally meet you."
"Who are you!" Devon demanded. He searched around the blackness, hoping to at least see an outline of who ever talked to him. His eyes bulged as he tried to see who owned the voice. Nothing, but the strange mist that floated around.
"You don't know? How very ignorant you are. Nash! Came in here. It is time we told Devon about who rests in the lower floor of the house he is in. Sorry Devon, but I cannot speak to you much longer. I cannot journey through dreams as well as Nash can. I will linger on for a bit. But I will speak to you later. You will know what I mean once Nash speaks with you." whoever the voice belonged to it was cold, dark, and authorities. Devon knew who ever spoke would except even a king to bow down to him.
Somewhere a door opened, and Devon nearly screamed out. A man walked in, but he could hardly be a man. His skin was an odd greenish grey. His nails were long and yellow and the skin on his face pulled back, as if nearing the final stages of decomposition. The man's eyes were dry looking and sunken back, a strange yellow to his eyes as if they had glazed over. The man's hair had a dry course look and was a strange red color. As he entered what seemed like a gust of putrid flesh smashed into Devon's nose. It amazed him he could still smell the man even before he entered the room.
The light from the outside room illuminated the room for a brief second. It was empty except the cold steel chair Devon sat on. The room itself was stone top to bottom. A strange black mist still hovered in the room, even with the brief entrance of light. The man -Nash- quickly closed the door as he entered.
He could almost feel Nash approach him. The smell of rancid flesh increased as he stepped closer to Devon. Holding back a frightened gasp, Devon stared in his direction, still wondering what the strange black mist above him was. Whoever this Nash was, this was the worst nightmare Devon ever had. Gritting his teeth at the scent, he tried to get farther back in his chair.
"What do you want with me!" Devon demanded. He glared at the man angrily, though more afraid than angry.
"You will understand soon enough Devon." Nash said slowly as if Devon were dumb brute, "Come north Devon. Far to the north and I will tell you."
"Why should I. What do you want? This is just a dream! It has to be." he blurted out, Nash laughed, he could tell Devon was frightened.
"My master whishes to speak with you Devon. He can't communicate much in dreams. He is that black mist Devon. You heard him earlier, but my master wants to speak to you in person."
"Who is your master? Why does he want to speak with me. And way," Devon stopped, it would be rude if he said what he was going to, but still, he had to know, "why does it smell so bad."
Nash's voice was a loud bark for a laugh. He was only amused at Devon's question, "My master is a great king you see. He rules the lands to the north."
"What do you mean? I thought the wolf nations ruled the far north." Devon questioned.
"No Devon, further north than those savage lands. He rules lands north of that. Far to the north I am his most trusted officer, that is why I am here to speak on his be hath. My master had other things to attend to now, as you can tell." Devon was startled when he no longer saw the black mist.
"Can anyone learn to speak in dreams?" he asked.
"Of course," Nash replied, back to his ways of speaking to Devon like he was dumb. Devon knew he hated this man. Still, it surprised him of why a king would want to speak to him. "But you need training first. It is hard, very hard. As for why my master wishes to speak with you he has heard of your village. We have a friend there you know. He is one of our diplomats."
"Kazygen?" Devon asked, surprised.
"You get on faster than I thought." Nash said arrogantly, "I thought I would have to spit it out for you. Yes, Kazygen came to Ranple on be hath of my master. When you wake up, you should speak to him, he will tell you more, much more."
"But why?" before Devon could add more, Nash cut him off with a sharp sneer.
"You will see! As for that smell, it is always like this in the world of dreams." Nash said impatiently. He made to go out the door, but turned around and faced Devon, "It seems are time here is interrupted Devon. We will speak again later."
The dream became fuzzy, and everything started to fade away, "Remember Devon go to the north. Beyond the savage wolf nations." Nash's voice echoed in his ears.

"Devon! Devon wake up!" he bolted upright as he heard Noah shout into his ear. Mariah's hand shoved him back to the ground as he gave a startled twitch. Mariah, Chris, and Noah were all gathered around him, giving him confused worried looks. He was glad to see them, and the bed is mother lay in behind them. Wondering just what that nightmare was he let his friends help him into a chair. A small table had been brought in with a tray off food for them. A second table with a tray stood next to his mother's bed. Isabel was helping her eat her food. Rebecca was too weak to eat on her own now.
"What happened? Why are you yelling at me?" he demanded to Noah. "Sorry," he replied quickly to his rudeness, "I was having a bad dream."
"At least that was it." Noah replied in a concerned voice. "We woke up an hour ago to you thrashing around. We thought you were having a seizure."
"What'd you mean?" Devon remembered himself thrashing in his dream, but that was only the dream, besides it was early on in it. He hopped he would never have a dream like that again. It was to odd. Several things didn't make since about it. He talked to people in his dreams before, but what that man named Nash said. Devon knew he had to do something about it, but what? He couldn't trust the man, he knew that. Why did he want him to go north and meet his master?
Isabel turned around from Rebecca and walked towards the ground of four. Her eyes were full of worry, but she was back to her normal happy strong self, "Your legs and arms were thrashing around. You were muttering under your sleep, but we couldn't make out what you said. You were flailing your limbs so wildly, we didn't know what was happening or if you were ok."
Not looking at her, he looked towards Rebecca. It was then he noticed the rain had finally stopped. What Isabel said confused him, his dream hadn't been too violent. He wasn't even in it much when the fighting started. He knew it wasn't real, no dreams were, but it did seem so real. He couldn't wake up no matter how much he told himself it were only a dream. To change the subject he asked, "Will she be ok Isabel?"
"I think she will be given some time. She won't be well enough for Actol, but she will recover and the disease again will be in transmission. Though I doubt it will be away as long as it was last time." This was much worse than her last attack. Thankfully we were able to catch it on the first day of its return."
Chris stood up and walked towards the door. He made to open it, but Isabel jumped up and ran towards him, "No! Chris, don't open it." she demanded.
Turning back he stared at her in confusion. His hand still rested on the door knob, but he didn't move it. "Why? Is something wrong?"
"Zane told me to stay here and not let you leave until he returned." Isabel replied. Chris stared at her expecting her to elaborate and tell why Zane ordered that, but she didn't reply to his look. Chris made to open the door again when Isabel glared at him, "What? You never told me why I couldn't go or where he left for." he stated.
Before Isabel replied, Mariah walked toward him and glared at him so hard he stepped back, "Maybe she can't tell us Chris. Did that ever occur to you?" she demanded.
Devon glanced at Noah who said quietly to him, "She's been in a bad mood all morning. Best not to disturb her." Noah replied.
"You should have told Chris that." Devon replied with a grin. Both he and Noah gave a slight laugh to the comment.
Chris glared angrily at Mariah, but didn't reply to her. He looked back at the door and muttered a few words under his breath. He stalked back to a chair and grumpily sat down. With a strained voice he asked, "How's Kazygen?"
Isabel looked back at him and said with a lowered voice, but just as strong, "That's why Zane left, at least part of it. Kazygen vanished in the middle of the night."
"What?!" Devon shouted, shocked. The others stared at him, but he didn't care. They didn't have the strange dream he had. Those people had mentioned Kazygen. He assumed it was just a dream, a simple nightmare until he heard Isabel talk about him, he remembered Nash talking about Kazygen. If it was real, no, it can't be. I just dreamt it and Kazygen being mentioned in it was just coincidence. He told himself that again in again, but deep down, he knew it couldn't be. It seemed too real. He decided to ignore it, it had to be just a dream, he was making too much over it. Just because those people mentioned Kazygen didn't make it real. Then why did Nash mention dream walking? If it were only a dream. He shook his head there was no point in worrying over it.
"Did my father not want us to know where he went or what he's doing then?" he asked.
Nodding, Isabel looked over towards Rebecca, she groaned slightly and Isabel went right over to her. Feeling the sick woman's pulse, Isabel smiled, "She's recovering, faster than I thought, but she'll still be sick for days, maybe even weeks."
Devon, Chris, Noah, and Mariah went over to her, "Mother, can you hear me?" Devon asked.
"Devon? Is that you? It is, I'm glad to be you." Rebecca paused and coughed harshly, "Don't worry dear, I'll be alright. They caught it early, I should recover. Do you know where your father is?"
"He left about an hour ago ma'am." Isabel replied "Our patient downstairs vanished so Zane went to find him." Devon could tell by her voice that wasn't the whole reason. His father wouldn't walk off just to find someone and not want them to know. There had to be another reason.
"I hope is alright. There is something odd going around in Ranple." Rebecca said weakly.
"I'm sure he is mother but what do you mean?"
Rebecca grinned at her son and replied weakly, "I know you must have seen something odd Devon. The Feyon? Rumors of wolves and other monstrosities, Flagair's sudden aggression they are all starts."
Rebecca coughed and moved around in her blankets. She did look like an older woman, but she still looked strong, even with her sickness. At least she's getting better. I wonder where father is. Devon said to himself. Looking at him, Noah, Chris, and Mariah, she grinned deeper. Despite her blankets she looked cold and had not a drop of sweat on her. She directed her attention to the door and said surprisingly cheerfully, "Now, go you four. I know your father wanted you in here, but that was because he thought you would follow him. Go, tonight is the night of Frozen Embers. You shouldn't be cooped up in here."
"Will you be alright ma'am?" asked Mariah. She stepped back from the bed and a strange look went to her eyes. She seemed determined, but for what Devon had no idea. He had long given up trying to understand her, Mariah had such a strange personality.
"I'll be fine girl. Isabel and Madame Healer will make sure of it. Now go." Even with a cough Rebecca gave a warm demanding voice. "But, before you go, Devon and Chris I have something important you must know. Whatever you do, do not go by the mayor's house. Noah, Mariah, I can count on you to keep these two from causing trouble correct?"
"Yes ma'am." the four replied. Why can't we go there? Is there something he's trying to hide? Perhaps he knows we went into his house to spy on him? I should never have let Chris convince me to go in. Devon hardly noticed closing the door behind his friends as they left the healers house. He wished he knew more, it seemed as if everyone was trying to keep them ignorant of the events. Even with the information his father told them, Devon knew there was at least two other parts for everything his father told them.
Devon knew Chris would intend to head for the mayor's house after Rebecca told them not to, but he wouldn't. He had know wish to get in trouble, especially during the Night of Frozen Embers, the day before Actol. He always enjoyed Actol, the dances, feasts, and festivities that went around with it. He remembered last year's Actol quite well. A woman just a year older than him asked him to dance. He said yes, and Mariah just about had a fit. She punched the other woman in the face and he had to break up the fight. Oddly enough, Mariah had not wanted to dance a few days earlier when he asked. Half smirking to himself he glanced at her. She wouldn't appreciate it if he brought that up.
The official beginning of the Night of Frozen Embers was unclear and shrouded in mystery. Some claimed in the ancient past a great fire raged through the region, and only halted on a cold winter night. It was so cold whole lakes froze solid crushing the fist, trees begun to collapse under weight of ice and snow. The extreme freeze was the only way to halt the blazing inferno. It was said the fire was tens of miles, perhaps even hundreds of miles wide and long, and had been burning for years, scorching dirt, and burning still. It was only that frigid winter the flames stopped. No going out like normal fires, but freezing to a still, halting in place with the same wispy flaming look to them, though frozen in shimmering ice. The rumor says on that very day, the Chain Mountains rose over those planes where the Frozen Flames had lied. With the night of Frozen Embers, a great civilization ended, giving rise to humans. As what happened to the flames? The ones not destroyed by the mountains melted with spring. From the Chain Mountain Range, to Ranple, and east to the Great Rift the flames were said to have once been.
No one believed the tails, but like all children, Devon did when he was a child. He had sworn once how he would find the sacred frozen fire. He only laughed about it now, thinking such a thing was possible was foolish. Still, it was an interesting story, and bards and troubadours played out the story and sang songs for it every year. It was always played the night before Actol, the bards said the songs were ancient, of a civilization long lost, like the frozen fire itself. Devon was always interested in it, he knew it didn't exist, but still, he drew his attention every time he heard the tail. The legends of the frozen flame weren't told often, celebrated yes, but Devon had only heard the tail once in his life.
The air outside was nice and crisp the smell of fresh grass right after a heavy rain was prevalent throughout Ranple. Raindrops still trickled off the branches of the soaked trees. It was eerily silent out, the type of silence associated after a storm which claimed several lives. No one was lost last night, by the silence boomed through their ears. No one seemed to be out either which roused Devon's curiosity even more. Where was everyone? Shouldn't they be celebrating? Getting ready for the Night of Frozen Embers and Actol? Chris walked ahead, gripping his two short swords. He seemed irritated, but by what Devon wasn't sure.
"They're at the east side. I can hear faint talking. I hope nothing's wrong." Chris muttered quietly. Not looking back at them, he pulled out his swords and rushed towards the east of Ranple.
"He seems to be taking his sentry job really seriously." Noah commented. His eyes stared right towards Chris who held his swords. Noah himself was generally calm and patient but Chris being serious wasn't something normal. He had to be up to something.
"In that's bad? It's about time he stops messing around." Mariah replied sternly, "Anyway, we should follow him. Something is obviously wrong here. I hope everyone's ok."
"It's probably nothing. We worry too much. For all we know they could just be discussing the rainstorm." Noah suggested, Devon highly doubted that.
The stillness in the air deafened him, he knew something was wrong. Not even the birds were chirping, not even the wind blew through to rustle the leaves. The decorations up in Ranple from the days before were soaked, no one bothered to try and dry them, they were all left to dry naturally. Staring at the soaking buildings and decorations, Devon frowned. It was not normal, never before had the attitude of the village been as such. Rainstorms had happened before, much worse than the one last night of Ranple was still in high spirits.
Gripping the hilt of his sword, he noticed the bow and quiver of arrows strapped to Mariah's back. She had been an expert at archery, shooting targets further away than almost every man in Ranple save Devon's own father. Devon still didn't expect Mariah to use Zane's bow. He probably left it there for her, but why? Did Zane think Mariah might need it? If he did, for what? Devon doubted they would get attacked, and as far as he knew Mariah wasn't in this Actol's archery competition. Even if she was, why would she be caring it on Night of Frozen Embers? She was so strange at times, but it was best not to ask her she probably just meant to give it to Zane.
Ahead, Devon could hear morning near the village perimeter. Most of Ranple had gathered around something, or someone. Every man woman, even children had their heads bowed down sadly. Devon felt a pit in his stomach something had gone wrong last night, but what? It was a surprise to see Chris ahead of them for once he didn't have his trouble looking face on. He looked sad, staring down at what everyone was looking at. No one spoke, but a low murmur of a single man speaking. When Devon came closer he heard that speaking of a priestess over a body.
Everyone, even the traders wore dark clothes, each seemed to have a nervous and sad look to their face. Quietly moving closer Devon saw who the group was gathered over. Feeling as if he wanted to throw up, he turned away from the scene. A young child no younger than four lay dead in the center of the crowd. The child's face was covered by a thin light sheet. The sheet was still stained with blood, but none wanted to remove it to show the child's mangled face. The young boy was carefully lifted into a coffin and the wooden top closed over him. Next to the coffin, the child's weeping mother was held by his father. The father's eyes were glazed with tears as the two watched their son being buried. Devon could hardly believe it. Who would kill a child so young, so innocent? Not just who, but why?
Noah and Mariah stared at the coffin with sad looks on their faces. Noah's eyes flared with anger, but he only stared as the coffin was buried in the ground. Noah eyed the coffin and looked around as if expecting to see the killer our and around, "Who could have done this?" he asked quietly, not expecting an answer.
To Devon's, and perhaps even to Noah's surprise a man near the back of the crowd turned towards them, "The man you brought to the healers do this He snuck out early this morning and this young boy stopped him." The man couldn't finish what he was going to say, but Devon understood Kazygen killed him. But how? The man was badly burned. Devon always knew something was odd with him though. He seemed to be faking it, if that was possible. But it was, just buried under the ground was the proof. How could a person do this to a child? And where was the murderer? Devon wanted answers, but he knew he would get none.
After several more minutes people begun to file past the small grave to leave the child's family to mourn without being interfered by others. Everyone wore worried sad looks on their faces. The dark clothes on each were alike, symbolizing a death. The child's parents staid near the grave, their young daughter stared wide eyed at the ground, tears pooling in her eyes as she stared down at her little brother's grave. The grass around them all was damp, from both tears and rain. Devon was about to turn around when he saw his father walk up to the three. Zane spoke with them to comfort them. Everything has seemed to be going crazy these past few days. A strange cold wind blew through Ranple, the leaves that remained on the trees rustled in the air.
Turning around, Zane noticed Devon, Chris, Noah, and Mariah watched him. Walking over to the four he said quietly, "Come, we should leave them to mourn for their son and brother."
The four followed Zane as he left the area. He carried no weapons with him, but didn't pay any attention to the bow which Mariah held onto. It was apparent he wanted her to keep it. He led them to the center of the village and the four watched him. Something was bothering Zane, but what Devon did not know. His father seemed oddly perturbed lately. Most likely about Kazygen, Devon himself wondered about the man. He had appeared in the forest supposedly injured. There was a reason for it, Devon would find out. He would find the man and demand to know what he was up to. No, it would be too risky, he couldn't do it alone. He'd bring Noah and Chris with him, maybe Mariah as well. Thinking about it, Devon knew the Feyon must be with Kazygen. They had to be, though he knew no one would believe him about that. Why is everyone so interested in Ranple all of a sudden? He asked himself.
The decorations of Actol, even the Night of Frozen Embers still lay damp and soaked from the rainstorm. It would take hours to dry them out. Perhaps they would, to get their minds off of the death that occurred, "Father, what happened?" Devon wondered.
Zane turned around to face them all. He looked oddly stressed and even more odd tired. Something was bothering him, but Devon knew his father would never say what was bothering him, though it was easy for Devon to guess, "Kazygen escaped from the healers last night. I went downstairs to check on him and Madame Healer, to see her injured and Kazygen escaped. Isabel was told to make sure you all were ok and I went off to find Kazygen. That was when I found the boy murdered. Kazygen's a Pyromancer."
"A what?" Chris demanded.
"Someone who is trained in fire and water magic. They can control both elements. They fight with fire and water." Zane replied.
"So that explains his fake burns. How did he knew you were close though?" asked Mariah.
"He didn't know we were, but he knew people hunted out here and knew they would take him into the village. Listen you four, I have to go. I'll talk later. You should go around Ranple you shouldn't be worrying about this. You should be enjoying the Night of Frozen Embers." Zane said and before any cold reply he left.
"Oh yeah, enjoying this will be a breeze." Chris muttered sarcastically. The mood of the whole village was misery, and everything still damp. It would be a miracle just for the ceremonies to begin. Chris shrugged and led the four to help prepare everything and dry to decorations.
Devon followed them deep in thought. Not paying attention as the others talked he stared at the people in Ranple. They seemed sad, worried, ad nervous as if they knew something lurked just outside their borders. Ranple had always been a small city state, but Devon was sure nothing would ever threaten it. Why would anyone be interested in such a small city state? Devon knew Ranple had only one close ally, but no other land had ever acted aggressive to Ranple. All of Ranple was proud of it having its own sovereignty and never thought of joining other city states or countries.
As the hours went by Ranple slowly recovered and started to prepare everything for the Night of Frozen Embers. The celebrations didn't start till at least eight at night so they would have plenty of time to dry out everything. It wasn't just the storm that dampened people's moods, larger storms had accrued around this time in the past. It was the murder of a child and the news of an escaped Pyromancer loose near their homes. Devon had no trust for Pyromancers, as far as he knew or cared they all served the Dark Lord. With Kazygen's appearance, his mood towards them became worse. For years he thought Pyromancers were just legends, made up by people trying to have a good laugh. But after the news of Kazygen, Devon knew they were real. He was sure they all served the Dark Lord. A'zareya was greatly feared in Ranple, some thought him a myth also, but all knew him, and that he had terrorized the world thousands of years ago. Most assumed he was long gone since he never made another appearance, but still, the news of his servants around frightened them even more. Devon understood it all, he himself was nervous, but while preparing for the festival, he and his friends keep an eye out for Kazygen and any Feyon, and possible soldiers from Flagair.
Finally at the stroke of eight the ceremony began. Large torches were set up throughout Ranple which were lit by fire. Each torch had a special chemical that made the flame glow a different color. Small stands were set up which sold candy, clothes, jewelry, weapons, toys, ornaments, and several other types of goods. Each of the stands had candles around them which were made to smell of mountain air. The trick to do so was guarded by the trader who knew the art. It was rumored she was skilled in some form of magic.
Young children ran around in costumes of creatures from legends and monsters from myth. It was hard to believe the village had just hours ago been morning the loss of one of their members. The whole village was happy and excited for the celebrations, but not the normal euphoric attitude normally seen on the Night of Frozen Embers. In the middle of Ranple a troubadour set up his performance. He would be the one to tell the tale of this night. His clothes were embroiled with bright colors. A large brown hat sat on his grey trimmed hair. Eyes laden with age he stared at his set up. A large chair made of maple wood fit well for the old man. He had told this story many times, but for his viewers sake didn't grow bored of it.

Kazygen waited outside Ranple, five miles away to not attract attention. Fools, to busy with their beloved festival to realize the true threat. He thought to himself, keeping an eye out for wolves or humans that were arriving late. Unlike these fools he did not fear wolves. They were his and his master's enemy. He still found it a surprise that some wolves lived this far south of their nations. No wolf could make a living in human lands, they had to live on the fringes of society and eat scarps or steal livestock. Their situation amused him, the wolves and these humans spent too much time worrying about the other than the true threat. Around him near four hundred Feyon waited. Each obeyed him as ordered by their master, they would not betray him. He was less certain of the Flagairn soldiers. They were nervous around them, as for why he had no idea. They each held the same goal in their hands.
Looking up at the moon he waited. When it was high in the sky marking a new day he would make his attack. Ranple would fall, and he would find what his master was after. It surprised him the village cheered up that quickly after mourning that brat. What should a life, even a child's matter to him or Lord A'zareya?

Devon, Chris, Noah, and Mariah hurried to get a front row spot of the tail. Each had enjoyed their own share of the celebration. Several fireworks were already released, more than normal due to Chris. He and Devon were about to release a whole can of fireworks until Mariah stopped them. Reminding himself of that moment made Devon laugh. Mariah herself had actually been on some of their mischief for once, but she said releasing one whole can at once was going too far. It surprised both him and Mariah when Chris gave in so easily, "I want to be on her good side for once." Chris whispered to him when they were walking back. Both laughed at that.
The four sat next to each other to watch the troubadour perform. For an old man he was quite flexible. He could do back flips, summersaults, juggle five balls at once, and do several magic tricks even Chris could not have dreamt of. Of course the troubadour -known as Arison- knew no magic so it was a true surprise to see him do several acts, leaving the audience to wonder just how he did so. As time went by the crowd swelled in size until nearly every person in Ranple was there.
Arison looked at the crowed and gave a wide smile. Waving his hand in front of a piece of paper it vanished and he stood up, spreading his arms so the whole crowed as if to take them all in. Pushing his chair away with his foot he begun the tail, "People of Ranple and those who come from the city states of the west today we begin a tail which you have each heard before, and you will hear again. But why be told lies I say when you all deserve the truth. Your Night of Frozen Embers was real back then. Beyond the times any country existed today, back during the time the savage wolves roamed our lands. Now listen well for this tail will come again, but at the same time it shall not. For it tells the story of the fall of a great civilization, the collapse of a land loved by its people, the fall of a once glorious kingdom. Like all lands if has feel, but as there must be birth to be death, there must be a beginning for there to be an end."
Arison paused for moment for the crowd to take in what he had said. Devon stared at the troubadour in amazement, they have heard the tail before, but the way he said it was different. This was Arison's first time of telling the tail, but he added more, said events different than others they've heard the same tail from. The troubadour waited just a second more before continuing, "This is the tail of Avilon, a tail of a land long gone, swept away by the streaming sands of time. Avilon had begun modestly enough, starting in the village of Avilon, bordering the Chain Mountain Range near the base of a large volcano. As of the country the village is no more. From the eruption the Avilonian civilization was born, they would rise out of fire. From the ashes of their village the survivors met, three men and four women and a lone child. The child came from nowhere the land of his birth is long lost no one knew he was in the village until the eruption. He was no native of the village of Avilon.
"The small group lived for several years on the ashes trying desperately to rebuild their old home alas it was not to be. The mighty volcano rumbled again forcing them to flee, but something odd happened that day. The child ignited at once into a flame, but the boy was unharmed, he ran in the fire at first frightened, but once he saw the flame could not harm him he laughed in enjoyment. The remaining villages stared in enjoyment as ash fell from the volcano. Instantly readying to leave the told the child to come. He returned to his normal self, but something odd was with the ash. It was rare, nothing is known but the ash was a strange crystal like substance. How it was is a mystery, but yet even more mystifying was what become of them next. Each but the boy, fell unconscious, but when they woke up they lied in the ruins of their village, but all were unarmed by the ash. Oddly the volcanoes of the Chain Mountains died that day, never to be active again.
"The seven plus the boy make eight, and that is the number of provinces would be in Avilon. What happened after the eruption is unknown lost to the black hole that is time. All that remains is that after the eruption the armies of Avilon were called the Army of Fire. The eight afterwards went to a nerby city, which soon they found themselves in lead of. Their city was countless attacked, being far richer than the ones around it, but like a festering plague the armies of fire conquered. The ash affected the cities and villages far out, but only the ones one hundred miles up wind were affected. From those first cities and villages Avilon was crafted, and from that they carved out their kingdom. For many years they lived in peace, for many years the defended their land. Avilon and its so called Army of Fire was there to stay, but alas, like all lands before, and all lands to come it would come to an end. As they were born Avilon would fall. From fire Avilon was born and by fire the great kingdom would meet its end.
"Thousands of years after they begun a fire spread just south of this village. How it begun is lost, how it lasted so long and began so large is a question we have been asking for years, and will be asked for years to come. The fires swept north burning all in their way scorching everything that lay in their path even the armies of fire were no match to such power. The fire then swept east and south from winds that acted strangely that year. For the whole the winds blew in a circle around Avilon, and would continue until the flames were no more.
Taking a moment of pause, Arison watched the expressions of the crowd. He took them all in and nodded, everyone held a curious wondering look to their eyes, "A great freeze came from the Chain Mountains, much smaller than they were today save a few volcanoes, yet even they were not spared from the great fire. The freeze begun some claim from the Lord, fighting against the evil that caused the fire, but what it was is forever debated. Avilon was burning till that day. The chill was so great it froze the fire in its place. The flickering flames were froze and the next day melted away. It is said some remain, that frozen fire exists deep in the mountains, deeper than anyone man dare enter. If those events happened or not is unknown, but what is known is afterwards Avilon died. Its cities burned and charred most of its people dead or without a home they vanished. The Armies of Fire ended, no longer to patrol the land, the people of Avilon were lost, its crest fallen to conquers and flame."
The crowed went silent, just as the troubadour wanted. He eyed them all with sad eyes as if Avilon was their own fallen land. Devon felt a strange pain in his heart, he mourned for the people of Avilon, either burned or starved. It was strange, Avilon had been gone for thousands of years and yet he still mourned for them.
Looking at them with sad eyes but hope in Arison's eyes. He seemed to look at each individual member of the crowd one by one, "All lands end just as they began. Nothing can have an ending without a beginning. Like Avilon and other lands they had a golden age, but like all they ended. If Avilon still lived how the world would be different one wonders. Would there be this much evil in the world if the Army of Fire still walked the world? No one can no or guess the answer, perhaps more perhaps less none can say, but who can really guess a future that never would have been? A legend found long ago, a prophecy told by an ancient sage who states the Armies of Fire will walk again. That is all, none more is known but it is stated the Avilon will rise again? But how could it be a land long gone, a land long forgotten would rise up from how it died. A great land that perished the same way it hard formed. And that is why this day is named Night of Frozen Embers. To remember the day Avilon fell, to remember the cold winter night when the fires of destruction were halted no longer able to torment the land. That is the day that is your Night of Frozen Embers." With that Arison bowed to the stunned crowed. Without waiting for them to applause he picked up his chair and walked away.
Devon, Chris, Noah and Mariah stared at each other in awe. They had never heard the tail that way, never heard it said with such mystery and tone. They had always wondered what it meant, but never thought any of the rumors were true. Devon doubted most of it, but he believed Avilon was once a land. It must have been long before Ranple was even an idea. Avilon, and the Armies of Fire something seemed familiar about that name, and not just that he had heard a tail about it just minutes ago. Thinking of only that, he Chris, and Zane returned to the healer's house. They would be sleeping there until Rebecca recovered. Noah and Mariah went to their home, Zane told Mariah to keep the bow.
Devon and Chris walked in silent, reflecting on what they just heard. It can't be true. It's just a legend. Devon kept telling himself, but deep inside he wondered if in fact it were real. He kept thoughts of Avilon off his mind, he would have to get a good sleep for the next day, for Actol lasted dusk till dawn and into the day after. He wouldn't miss any part for just a few hours of sleep. Even thought of Kazygen, Flagair, and the Feyon left his head as he went to sleep closing the door to the healers house he heard one clear chime of a bell. Actol had officially begun the day of Actol was here. At six they would wake up for the great celebration.

I've planned to read it as well, I've got it in word, just have yet to commit the act.

Thanks Astra Yeah, it was. I suppose I'll post another chapter then. This may be my last one though.

Chapter 4
The Slaughter of Actol

Early the next morning Devon woke up with a jolt. Tossing in his bed he felt hands try to pull him out of bed. Angrily he shoved the hands away and jerked himself upright, "I'm trying to sleep!" he growled angrily. Rubbing his eyes, he stared in shock. Noah was in front of him with his massive spear in his right hand. He and Chris watched him, and Mariah was at his bedside pulling him awake. The four had worried looks on and Mariah pulled at him franticly, "What's wrong?" he asked tiredly, the anger out of his eyes replaced with worry.
Mariah gripped her bow and put a finger to her mouth for him to be more quite. Glancing back at the other two she said softly, "Devon, your father wanted us all up. Ranple's under attack."
"What?!" he exclaimed loudly jerking up and staring around for his sword. His mother slept on the other side of the room, undisturbed by their noise. Rebecca was becoming healthier, but was still very sick. Sweat drenched her face, but even with the several layers of blankets still shivered. Isabel was nowhere to be seen, same as for Madame Healer.
Chris glared at him impatiently and replied rather roughly, "We're under attack, does it really have to be said twice?" Devon, Noah, and Mariah glared at him Chris was irritable when danger was near. Shrugging he finally replied, "What are you all doing? We can't just stay in here we have to-" A loud scream echoed into the room, cutting off Chris' words. The door was hung wide open, obviously someone had just entered of left.
Mariah pulled Devon onto his feet and the four gripped their weapons, starring outside the doorframe. Footsteps could be heard coming up the stairs. Without thinking Devon walked towards the doorway. His heart was racing, they were here, the feyon had attacked Ranple. He knew Kazygen was with them, it had to be him who called the feyon to Ranple. How they had arrived he found no point in worrying about, only how to get them out and to save as many lives as possible was a concern to him. Noah stepped right behind him the spear pointed just in-between Devon and Chris. By the faint shaking of the spear Devon could tell Noah was slightly frightened. Mariah stood behind the three, knocking an arrow into her bow.
Gripping his sword Devon waited as the footsteps came closer and rough low breathing came in front of the figure. The massive shadow of a feyon came next. Its head just scraped the roof and is made its way closer. Grunting softly it inhaled, smelling the humans just feet in front of it. Behind Devon, Noah gave a surprised gasp as the creature spoke, "Come here humans, I can smell you there. Let me kill you, let me crush your bones." it growled. Its voice was harsh and heavy but had a strange air of intelligence to it. Devon knew the creature wasn't that far below a human.
To its words Chris snarled angrily, he wasn't one to surrender, nor take insults to him or anyone he knew. Jumping out of the doorframe he slashed his short swords at the Feyon. It stepped back and blocked his strikes with its massive axe. The blade glistened with blood as it met Chris' swords. Devon felt a pit form his stomach. So it has already killed. But who? Please, let the person just be injured. He hoped to himself. Not saying anything he jumped out at the creature, Noah beside him.
Mariah only stepped out of the doorframe. Gripping the bow she aimed up at the feyon's head. It paid attention to the three it was fighting, sweat glistened off her arms and face, she prayed it did not notice her or kill the others. Releasing the string the feyon's eyes bulged, just noticing Mariah when the arrow struck between its large buffalo like eyes. Gasping, the Feyon collapsed backwards, smashing against the floor. Its fall made the whole house tremble.
The four paused for a moment, listening incase more were in the house. Devon was sure nothing else was there, the house was completely quite. He would have jumped had a mouse squeaked, same with the others beside him. To break the silence Noah walked over to the massive corpse. Looking down at it he examined its features. Noah always looked at the whole scene, even if it wasn't necessary. Devon never understood that about him, the Feyon was struck in-between its eyes, it was good enough evidence for him it was dead but still, Noah checked for signs of life from it.
Looking to the stairs Noah muttered, "Should we go check what's down there?" All were hesitant to see the feyon's victim. Chris was the first to take action, closing the door to Rebecca's room and leading them to the stairs.
Hesitantly walking down the stairs, Devon kept an ear out for noise and the sounds of breath. Checking for both an intruder and signs of life from the victim, a gasp and a weep from Mariah -who was in front of him- said the news was terrible. Reaching the bottom floor, the pit in Devon's stomach swelled. Grief filled his eyes as he saw the two destroyed bodies. Both Isabel and Madame Healer lay dead. Their bodies sprawled out on the floor, hacked to death by the feyon's axe. It seemed Isabel had tried to defend herself a bloody knife lay clutched in her frozen hand.
The carnage nearly made Devon sick he wanted to throw up, to get away from the disturbing scene, but he knew he couldn't, he had to avenge them, make sure both Isabel and Madame Healer were remembered. How anyone could kill them was almost as repulsive of killing a child. The two were so kind and caring. Both cared deeply for the lives of others. Memories of being sick and sent here for a cure from Madame Healer flashed through his eyes. Devon wanted to weep but couldn't, they had more important things to attend to.
"We should go... I don't want to look at their bodies like this." Noah said quietly. Chris nodded a short reply. Not one to show emotion, he didn't speak in fear of his voice cracking from sorrow.
Mariah went towards the table and removed the bloodstained cloth. She covered the two mangled bodies and said a small prayer to ensure their souls went on to the afterlife. In Ranple, if the bodies weren't eminently cared for and have a burial and ceremony, the only way to insure the passage of a soul to the afterlife was to offer a small prayer for the person so the Lord would accept them into his home. Once passage was found, the person's soul either went to eternity or died, going into a state of nonexistence, seeing just darkness for all eternity. The same happened to a soul that did not get passage. Devon and Noah as well uttered a small prayer Chris was already out the door when the others met him.
Thinking of Isabel and Madame Healer was hard. Devon couldn't believe they were gone, slain by that feyon. Grumbling he tried to think of other matters. He couldn't, it was too difficult, seeing their bodies just seconds ago was bad enough. The images kept flashing back into his head. Devon wanted to puke even more, but he couldn't. He had to keep strong.
Outside was shear devastation. Buildings were burning and people were screaming as both human soldiers and Feyon were rampaging through the village. The sentry and other trained fighters were fighting against the invaders. The soldiers wore plate armor head to toe. On their breastplates and shields was a large bear claw making a slash. At the rear of the enemy ranks was a banner. It was dark green with a bear claw. Around the claw were fifteen black stars. It was the banner of Flagair and as promised they marched into Ranple. The fighters and sentries put up a good fight, but they were no matched to the soldiers of Flagair.
From the roofs archers shot down arrows, but Flagair came equipped with their own archers and spear throwers. Through the air a massive chunk of burning rock struck a house archers fought from. The house exploded into flames launching the men off the roof of the house. The sound of dying men, women, and most disturbing off all children flooded Devon's ears. Most frightening was seeing fire bend from one house to another, or water flying through the air drowning people. There was only one explanation for the shifting fire and water a Pyromancer, Kazygen. So he had returned! That murderous monster was back! It was strange anger flooded him when he thought of Kazygen. It was frightening, unable to explain why, he suppressed the thoughts. It was madness that was all, just all the confusion going around.
The festivities of Actol were burned or knocked aside. Before it even begun the fighting broke out halting the ceremonies beginning with the wails of death, and the clash of metal. Dogs lunged at Feyon but were easily knocked aside. A few war hounds managed a fair fight, even killing a few Feyon, but unable to kill armed men. To Devon's shock a buffalo rampaged around, Torn, he had either escaped the farm, or Zane brought him hear when he was gone. A soldier attempted to kill the rampaging buffalo, but the animal's head struck the man in the chest, and Torn flipped the man over his back with his head. Everything was going crazy out there. Why would anyone attack Ranple? Devon looked around in worry and anger. So many lives lost in this foolishness. For what he didn't even know. He wanted to do something, but there wasn't much. He knew he wasn't that skilled of a fighter. He meant to get sword lessons from his father, but that never happened. Sure he had some training, but he knew it wasn't enough to fight trained soldiers, even feyon. Feeling hopefully, he almost jumped when he heard Chris speak.
"No! It can't be... I have to go." Chris shouted. Chris begun to run, but Mariah grabbed his arm forcing him back.
"You can't run off! You'll get yourself killed Chris!" she shouted at him, angry and concerned.
Chris ripped his arm from her grasp and stared at her with surprised, "I'll be fine, you know me I won't get hurt. I have to help my fellow sentries."
Before Mariah could reply a loud voice said from their far left, "And you'll do that by not getting yourself killed Chris!" Zane walked up with a sword in his hands. He must have grabbed it from the armory. The sword was bloodstained, but Zane seemed unharmed.
Turning towards him Chris' eyes met Zane's defiantly, "But sir, it's my duty to protect the village with my fellow sentries. Besides, it's Actol. We should be celebrating!"
Glaring at him Zane demanded, "You will stay here Chris. All of you! I know it's your duty Chris, but you're a new recruit you aren't supposed to fight enemies yet."
"I'm more skilled than several of them are!" Chris retorted "Besides, none of them have fought Feyon or enemy soldiers before either!"
Before Zane could reply an explosion sounded in the distance. Taking that as if a summoning, Chris darted off before Zane could make a reply. Devon watched his friend go, he knew Chris felt duty, but it was foolish to run off like that. He prayed for his friend's safety.
"Oh that boy. I'll deal with him later. Devon, Noah, Mariah, come with me." Zane ordered. From the look in his face and eyes Devon knew it would be foolish to defy his father's wishes.

Chris looked back as he darted away and he stared away sorrowfully. He hated defying Zane or Rebecca, especially after they took him in after that scum Eork killed his parents. Gripping his short swords he first headed for the fighting, but changed course for the armories. Both armories would be empty of weapons, but they were far enough in Ranple to have escaped being damaged in the fighting. True, it was his duty to aid his fellow sentries, but he also felt obligated to protect the village archives. He found them to be important, especially the ones he found. Long forgotten by past sentries, he hid them in the sentries sleeping courters. During the Night of Frozen Embers he stored them at the sentry's armory because he was supposed to be on sentry duty on Actol's night. He would read the documents he had found while watching for wolves. The documents were huge, and they had described the pathway through the mayor's house. That was how he found it. There had to be more to it. He wanted to know why the way was there. He was sure those forgotten documents held the key. He had to find them, he wasn't sure why, but he knew they were important.
This deep into Ranple was abandoned. Decorations and trading stands set up for Actol lay abandoned. Most of the buildings were empty but Chris was sure civilians were nervously in their houses waiting for the fighting to be over. Though knowing the people of Ranple, all the citizens but children and women were fighting. Even a few of the women fought, other than Mariah. It was odd hearing the battle behind him, but in front of him was silence. It suited him, it was easier to sneak around and get somewhere without having to worry of being found or attacked. Still, it didn't give him the same feeling of sneaking around when others weren't aware of his doing so. With no one by, there was no one to avoid being detected by.
Without a second glance he walked towards the armory and opened the door. As expected no one was on guard and all the weapons had been cleared. It was small than the main armory, but still held an upper floor. Upstairs was the storage room, each sentry had his own locker, and for the recruits a drawer. Taking out a small brass key he walked to the furthest drawer in the room. Only twenty drawers were in the room, with several hundreds of lockers. Not all the drawers and lockers were used, but at other times there were more sentries than there were this time. There were a few women sentries, but no one ever expected the village to be attacked. Everyone thought their only problem was wolves. Chris cursed the village council under his breath. It was their fault keeping the people ignorant. He knew they wanted to protect them, but at the same time it kept them unprepared for if they were attacked. The sentries should have been informed at least, but even they were not. This whole thing could have been avoided if the council would have told them feyon were near and Flagair threatened them. Perhaps they could have gone to Vral'tar, Ranple's long time ally. The two city states were so close, and past mayors had wanted to form a confederacy between the two, but it never happened. The two city states only remained allies.
Chris gave a surprised gasp and glared angrily at his drawer, his documents were removed. In fact he didn't even have to unlock his drawer, the handle was broken, which disturbed him most off all. Why would someone want those documents? He demanded answers and he would personally find the sentry in charge of this and drag him to the village prison himself and demand answers. If the man really wanted to look at the documents he should have just asked him! Chris glared angrily, but his expression switched to surprise when he saw his coins were still in his drawer. Why wouldn't he take the gold as well? Unless... it wasn't a sentry who stole the documents but then who? It made no sense everything he saw told him it a sentry that stole them, but the gold remaining, why would a thief be more interested in aged paper than gold? And why not just ask him for the documents? It would be much easier than stealing them.
Confused and wondering, Chris quickly checked the other lockers and drawers. To his surprise, but as he expected more than his drawer had been broken into. Several other drawers and even lockers and their locks broken off them but even more strange none of them had anything stolen from them. Checking both the upper and lower room from blood or signs of a struggle he found none. Only the broken locks upstairs were signs of an intruder. It made sense, but he supposed it wouldn't be hard to get in the armory. Once the weapons were removed the sentries found no need to keep the armory locked. Not that it would have made any difference to the intruder but still seeing how easily he broke the locks up stairs even so, Chris felt it should be locked it was only right.
Returning outside and making sure he made sure to lock the armory doors behind him -they really should be locked. Honestly, everyone knows that- he looked for signs of where the thief could have gone. There were no distinct prints on the ground and he grumbled to himself. This would be more difficult than he thought. Searching for any type of clue at all he wondered through the near vicinity of the armory, even thinking of going into the second armory to look for clues. There was none to be found, that worsened his temper even more. He had to find those blasted documents!
Angrily heading back towards the fighting, he heard movement behind him. Halting, he slowly turned around. A Flagairn soldier stared at him, the documents clutched in his hands. The man had several scars on his face and his dirty blond hair was messy. His green eyes were large but one was rather hazy as if he was partially blind in that eye. Why the soldier had been headed back towards the armory was beyond him, perhaps to steal more. Chris knew the man must have received orders to go find the documents, why else go deep into Ranple and steal nothing but the documents?
Gripping his short swords Chris glared at the soldiers, "Give those to me if you want to live." How he would kill a trained soldier was beyond him, but he'd get to that when the time came.
"So, these are yours I take it?" the man replied in a rough voice. He eyed Chris and put a hand on his own sword. He put the rolled up documents in his sleeve, he wore no armor, which was a puzzle to Chris, but he could tell the man was Flagairn by his sword.
"Yes, they're mine. Why are they so important? They are only our village's archive." Chris demanded.
The soldier smirked at him and turned around, "The king of Flagair demands your village. The soldiers will kill anyone to get these precise documents. It was a surprise to find them in the armory."
Before the man could say more Chris spat, "And you'll hand them over! Why would you run ahead? In case they were burned?"
Not replying the man only laughed at Chris. Turning back towards he stepped forward, Chris instinctively pulled out his short swords, "You aren't one to show much respect are you, sentry of Ranple. I like that in a person. You will do what you want if you see it as right. Tell me, do you know who I am?" the man asked.
"A soldier of Flagair that's pretty obvious."
"No, you have me mistaken. I am no longer in the king's service." The man said with a sad grin. His eyes were full of defiance. He sheathed his sword and said to Chris, "My name if Fran. Who are you? And do you really think you could kill a trained soldier?"
"I am Chris. And no, I doubt I could, but nothing would stop me from trying. If you aren't with Flagair then why did you arrive with them?" Chris demanded, doubt running down his face. This man had to be lying, Chris new it. Whoever he was he had just snuck ahead of the enemy lines and removed his armor to try and blend in.
Giving a dark laugh Fran replied, "I mealy came to retrieve what my enemies should not touch. I merely hid near them, far enough away to not be noticed, but close enough to follow them."
"I see, then will you give me the documents?" Chris said, more of a demand.
"You seem intelligent Chris you must know your village can not hold much longer against well over two thousand soldiers from Flagair plus hundreds of feyon." Chris was about to retort but Fran silenced him, "We need to get everyone out of the village that can go. Plus any supplies that we may need."
"You're going to help us?" Chris asked, amazed. He hadn't expected that out of the strange shadowy man. His eyes seemed honest, but it was hard to tell when they glared at you like giant spiders about to pounce.
"That wasn't my original plan, but sense you stumbled upon me, I suppose it would be in mine and your best interest to. Now hurry, we don't have much time." Fran said and walked off without waiting for Chris to catch up.
Chris quickly followed the man, what had he managed to get himself into? He didn't trust Fran, but he had the documents, and he claimed they were important. Whatever they were, he knew it was best to keep them away from Flagair. Now, he just had to find the others and get out of here.

Devon followed his father to the edge of Ranple. The fighting had grown distant, but even here were some bodies of dead men and feyon. It surprised Devon that they were leaving his father never left people to die without trying to help them. Perhaps he would go back once he and his friends were safe. Noah and Mariah each exchanged worried looks with each other and Devon. Finally he could tell where they were headed back to the farm. But why? Surely there were more safe places to hide than a farm.
He never had a chance to ask his father, but gave a surprise gasp when he suddenly stopped. Zane unsheathed his sword, and motioned to Devon, Noah, and Mariah to ready their weapons. Whatever was out there wasn't making itself seen to them. Were they being ambushed? Devon doubted it, his father was smarter than that, he would be able to sense an ambush for miles away. He knew they would be alright, but he worried for Chris. Chris was headstrong and often thought what he did was more important than what others thought.
"What is it?" Devon asked.
"The horse has been taken. Light hoof tracks are on the ground." Taking a pause he looked around and cursed, "The thieves are near, be on guard."
It was a surprise to Devon. Why would anyone steal the horse? Sure it was strong, but why would anyone go near the farm? It was obvious no one was currently there and yet... it was puzzling. In the distance behind him he could make out smoke rising from Ranple. Knowing someone was near he kept an eye out. His gaze bolted to where he heard a horse coming from. Who ever took the horse must have been a soldier. The colt had armor on and bags were dangling at his side. Taking out his sword Devon readied for the man on horseback to attack them.
"Put down your weapons!" the man ordered. He was in Flagairn armor and his face was full of a stony seriousness. Taking the colt's reigns he turned the horse sideways to them.
"Why should we? That's our horse you've stolen." Zane demanded. A calm yet angry expression formed on his face. The man on the horse chuckled.
"Not any longer. Flagair now controls this land! You are now the king's subjects and I suggest you bow down or die. Besides, this horse is strong and energetic, perfect for a war horse. Being a peasant driver is a shame to him."
Mariah glared at him and still had her bow pointed at him. She wasn't one to give in easily and glared impatiently at him, "You are outnumbered. You may be a soldier, but we have you outnumbered. And Ribbon isn't even trained as a war horse." she said defiantly, not lowering her glare.
The soldiers glare turned into a creepy smile as he turned his gaze towards Mariah. Just standing by her Devon could see her shiver as the man looked at her lustfully, "You will learn your place wench. You are quite pretty you'd make a good slave girl for the king. Or perhaps a slave for a noble. I myself would be happy enough to have you." Mariah gave an appalled look. Fear rolled down her face, but it disappeared instantly.
"I'd like to see you try!" Devon spat at the soldier. Mariah tried to hold him back, but he shook off her arm and pointed the sword at the soldier. "I don't care if you are the best trained soldier in all of Flagair. No one threatens my friends with slavery."
The man pulled at Ribbon's reigns and the horse neighed slightly giving a slight prance. Devon knew the colt just wanted to run around and waist energy, but the soldier would not allow it. He hated this soldier the man's very demeanor was arrogant. His blue eyes glared at them as if they were flies in his ear. And the way the soldier looked at Mariah appalled him even more. Mariah was perfectly capable at defending herself if the soldier should attempt anything, actually she would be more likely to escape an attack and rescue them, but still he wanted to protect her from this man. Looking over he saw Noah glaring at the man with hatred. Noah seemed to recognize the man, but from how Devon could not say.
"You peasants will learn your place. Now! Do as your lord tells you and surrender your weapons!"
"I'd like to see you try and order us around!" Noah spat. He glared at the man and aimed his massive spear at him. A look of hatred ran down Noah's face only beaten than Mariah's look of pure hatred towards the man, "I know who you are, the commander of Flagair's army and navy."
"You are correct I am quite thrilled you remembered me." He said sarcastically "I am Moridar, commander of the King's Royal Army and Queen's Royal Navy. Now, I humbly give you one last chance to surrender and bow down to me." Moridar demanded arrogantly.
"How much do we have to tell you? We won't surrender!" Noah spat. He threw his spear at Moridar, straight at his chest. The man jerked Ribbon's reigns and the horse sidestepped. The shaft went right past Moridar. An arrow flew from Mariah's bow towards him, but he quickly put on a shield, and the arrow struck its middle, quivering as it struck.
"You filthy peasants! You dare attack your master! You will all learn respect." Moridar roared. He reared Ribbon forward, and the horse galloped towards Mariah. She jumped out of the way, but Moridar put his arm out to grab her. She slipped away, but he knocked her face first into the ground.
Devon grabbed his sword and charged the horse. He didn't want to harm Ribbon, but he may have to if he wanted to get Moridar off him. Not thinking of common sense that he was fighting a trained soldier he rushed towards the man. It didn't worry him he would kill anyone before he submitted to the rule of a king he never knew. Still, he never killed a human even killing a feyon was bad enough. Part of him didn't want to strike this man, but he knew he would have to. Or at least try to kill him, Devon knew it was unlikely he could kill Moridar.
Charging the terrified once farm horse forward, Devon jumped to the side, and barely had time to block Moridar's blade the blow was so hard Devon almost let go of his own sword. Moridar made a quick turn on Ribbon and sliced at Devon, he struck Devon's hand and he yelped in pain. His sword dropped out of his hands on smashed into the ground.
"You will have that hand removed for that peasant. Now be a good boy and step away." Moridar said cockily.
Devon looked up at him definitely he'd soon learn the people of Ranple wouldn't give in easily. Clutching his injured hand he staggered back. Slowly picking up his sword he waited for the soldier to attack. Moridar only sneered. He looked at Devon and the rest as if they were less than rats.
Out of the corner of his eye he saw Noah pick up his spear. It wasn't damaged, but as he prepared to throw it, Moridar noticed. As he threw it the soldier bent to the left and the spear struck a young tree. Picking up his sword, Devon readied to attack him again. He heard Mariah nock another arrow. Moridar looked only amused.
"You peasants are nothing. You think your little games are enough for me?" he turned Ribbon this time towards Noah and charged at him. Noah was oblivious to what was happening until Zane pulled him out of the way of the charging horse. Zane grabbed his sword and face the man who glared at them from Ribbon.
"You three leave! Go back to the village and get everyone you can and run! There is no chance for victory."
"No, we won't leave you behind father." Devon said, looking at his father. He wouldn't leave him to fight this man. They had a hard enough time fighting him four on one. Zane would lose one on one.
"Do as I say boy! I want let any of you die here." Zane demanded, fending off Moridar.
"Sir, we won't leave you." Mariah said, tears coming from her eyes. "We won't let you get captured or killed." she said sadly. Her knees shook slightly as she watched him fight. Even Zane was struggling against him. She quickly knocked another arrow, and fired it, but it missed the man by inches.
"Mariah! Don't waste more arrows. You'll need as much as you can. Noah, take them, I trust you to do it. Find Chris and take them away." Zane said as close to a pleading voice as ever.
Noah watched him, his eyes filled with tears, but he turned towards the others. He hated leaving Zane, but he knew he would have to, "Sir, let us stay. We all can kill him."
"No! Noah, he's too well trained, you three will get slaughtered even if I fought with you. Go! No arguing! Just go." he said.
Noah tore his spear out of the tree and looked at Devon sadly. Devon nodded and said, "Alright. Father... please live."
"Devon, tell your mother and Chris I will miss them. Now go my son. I don't want you to die here."
Moridar slashed again at Zane. Zane blocked, but the soldier turned his blade and struck Zane in the side. Zane fell to the ground, but rolled away before Ribbon trampled him. Looking at the three he said, "Go... for me go. You must live. Devon... I'm sorry." he said. Zane cut himself off to stand up, and defend against Moridar. He didn't look at the three as he fought, not wanting to show his weakness.
"Father..." Devon said quietly. Mariah took his arm and looked at him. Noah went up to the two and patted Devon's shoulder.
"I'm sorry Devon, but we have to go." Looking at Zane's fight he whipped a tear from his eye, "Your father wants us to live Devon."
"I know." he looked at Noah than Mariah. She only looked at him with tears in her eyes. I was a surprise to see her cry, it was the first time he could remember her shedding tears.
The three ran towards Ranple, but when they were far enough away from the fight, Mariah stopped running. Devon and Noah stared at her, "What is it Mariah?" Devon asked sadly.
"We should go back. Hide behind trees and bushes though. We may be able to help Zane." she said.
"Are you crazy? We can't do that. We'll be killed." Noah said, "Besides, he wanted us to go."
"Noah, stop being selfish. He's Devon's father. We have to go back." Mariah said with a determined voice.
"I know but..." Noah stared. He looked at Mariah and Devon and to the trees. A glint of hope went on his face and he said, "Alright, let's go."
Mariah led them into the forest where they slowly made their way back to the fight. Devon worried for his father, and mother. Zane wouldn't survive long against that man and Rebecca was sick. He worried if his mother was dead or not. When they passed the healer's house it was untouched and yet, he wasn't sure. How could any of this happen? Ranple attacked on the very day of Actol? It was crazy, why would anyone threaten Ranple?
Trying not to think of the fate of his mother and father he followed Mariah. Noah was next to him and gave him a concerned look. Noah and Mariah worried about Zane just as much as he. He hopped everything would be ok, they just had to be. Without thinking of anything else Devon followed Mariah. He already had a plan of where to go after they escaped, or if they escaped. He didn't want to think of the chance of them getting captured or killed, it was better to think where to flee.
Vral'tar seemed the obvious destination to him. It was the closest city state and had long been Ranple's ally. Devon knew little of the city state though. Only that it was large and well defended. It would work if Flagair attacked, Vral'tar would be able to defend itself. He knew they'd be fine, they would make it to the city state and after that, he wasn't sure. Not paying attention Devon nearly ran into Mariah.
Mariah looked back at him and her brother with a worried look on her face. She directed them towards a bush where the three hid behind. She aimed her bow, but Noah stopped her. Devon looked at Noah and Noah back. The three rose up slightly to watch Moridar's fight with Zane. The Flagairn had the upper ground. Moridar deflected a final sword swipe from Zane, and before he could react, the blade sunk into his chest. Zane stared up at Moridar and gasped, blood pouring out of his mouth.
Devon let out a yell of sorrow as he saw his father fall. An arrow flew through the air and he ran towards Moridar. The Flagairn snatched the arrow from the air and only laughed as Devon charged towards him. He couldn't believe it, his father killed? It couldn't be it just couldn't. Zane was so powerful, who could defeat him. Anger swelled up in Devon, he glared towards the Flagairn, wanting nothing but revenge.
Moridar jumped off Ribbon, and was ready to finish off Zane who barely clung to life. Devon leaped at the Flagairn but he blocked Devon's on coming sword. A dark smirk formed on his face as both Noah and Mariah ran towards him. Mariah pointed his bow, and Noah readied his spear.
"You see now don't you peasants? You are no match for me. Now, put down your weapons if you wish to live. You will all be happy it's not hard to make filth happy. As for you," he pointed towards Mariah, "you will be my slave. You are pretty enough besides what else am I to do with captives?"
"You won't be able to Flagairn! Not with you dead!" Noah roared. He threw his spear at Moridar who knocked it away with his sword. Mariah let fire an arrow and he staggered back as the shaft struck his shoulder.
Roaring in anger Moridar jumped at her. Devon blocked him with fury and stabbed at him. Their swords clashed but Moridar forced them into a sword lock. Grabbing Devon's hand he nearly snapped Devon's wrist than punched him in the mouth. He staggered back and collapsed to the ground. Blood stained his shirt from his nose and lips.
Moridar turned from Devon to Mariah. He jumped towards her and grabbed her arm before she could fire another arrow. He forced her in front of him to avoid being struck by Noah's spear. Moridar put his sword to her throat and smirked at Noah, "Now, put down your spear or both of them die."
Noah's eyes flickered from Mariah to Devon to Zane who lay dying on the ground. Shaking in rage and worry he lowered his spear. He looked at the blade that was at his sister's throat. A tear came from his eye but he lowered his spear and dropped it on the ground. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Devon stagger up. What are you doing Devon? Take your sword, kill him. Noah pleaded to himself. Why wasn't the fool doing it? This wasn't time be foolish. Stab the man! Moving his head to the left slightly he saw Devon's sword wasn't by him. Looking back at the Flagairn, he saw Moridar standing on Devon's sword. Noah moaned in worry.
"Good, now stay there as I take her to the camp. If I don't see you here still her and your friend will..." his words were cut off as he saw Devon was gone. He grabbed Mariah and forced her to turn in Ribbon's direction, but Devon was already on the horse. Glaring at Moridar he jumped the horse forward. Tears from pain and worry stained his face. He wouldn't let him, his father, Noah or Mariah die. He wouldn't let her be taken by this madman.
At the last second Moridar jumped away, slamming into the ground Mariah escaped his grasp. She rolled against the ground badly bruised and shaken. Taking her bow, she swore, the string was snapped. Devon halted Ribbon in front of her and Noah, "Get on!" he said.
Moridar stood up and glared at them, Noah pointed his spear at the man, "You peasants will learn your place. When I return after the battle I will see each of you receive lashings." Noah threw his spear at him, but he put up his shield and knocked the spear away.
Waiting a few minutes for the man to be far enough away, Devon quickly dismounted Ribbon and went towards his father. Mariah and Noah followed, all three kneeling next to Zane. His eyes already started to glaze over, but his chest still rose and fell, slower and slower each time. Devon stared at his father. This couldn't be happening, Zane couldn't die. No, he just couldn't. He felt both Noah and Mariah put their hands on his shoulders.
"Father..." Devon said sadly. He looked down at the man who was his father.
"Devon... Noah... Mariah...? Thank the Lord you three are safe. Why'd you come back? I told you to go." Zane said weakly, unable to see them and barely able to hear them.
"We wanted to help you sir. We couldn't let that man kill you." Noah replied with a quiet voice.
"You fools, you should just have left. He could have easily killed you three if Devon didn't get on the horse. Devon, I won't live please, don't take revenge against Flagair."
Tears streamed from Devon's face as he watched his father die. He wanted to kill Moridar, to destroy him, the emotion was odd, he was angry before, but he just seemed vicious, wanting to rip Moridar to shreds, he assumed it was only grief for his father. Trying to hold back tears he watched his father die. Mariah put her hand on his and he looked at her and managed a smile.
"Devon..." Zane's voice was so quite Devon barely heard his father speak. "Devon... I must tell you something. Something I should have told you years ago. I..." he started, but fell back he stared up at them and muttered almost inaudibly, "Go, to Vral'tar... you will find answers. Go my son."
"What? But what? Father, you're going to live. Don't act like that. Please..." Devon pleaded.
"No Devon, I won't make it. Please, flee to Vral'tar." After that Zane begun to thrash, as if suffering from shock, muttering to himself he said, "I wish it was true, if only you were my son." he said. He gazed at the three again and laid back, his eyes closing to never open again.
Devon stared at his father, tears streaming out of his eyes. He shook his father slightly, hoping he would wake up, praying he would, but nothing happened. Zane just lay there, dead, away from this world and into the one beyond. He said a small prayer for his father they would be unable to bury him. He wanted to stay, he wanted to avenge his father, but he couldn't. He would fulfill his father's wishes and flee to Vral'tar with anyone else who managed to escape. He wanted to stay and cry, but he couldn't, he felt Mariah take his arm and help him up. She hugged him and he hugged her back. He was glad they were alright at least.
"I'm sorry Devon. I'm so sorry." she said, tears coming from her eyes.
Noah and Mariah also said a prayer for Zane and Noah went over to Zane's body and muttered a few words of sorrow under his breath. Looking back at Devon he said with a sad voice, "I'm sorry Devon."
"Its... it's alright. Let's go, he wanted us to flee to Vral'tar. We should go find Chris." Devon replied, not looking at his father's corpse.
Mariah grabbed Ribbon's reigns and walked the colt up to Devon and handed the reins to him, "You were the only one injured. You should ride him." she told him.
"You don't have a weapon." he protested weakly.
"And you can't fight with an wrist Devon even if it isn't totally broken. Stay on Ribbon, we need to return to Ranple."Noah replied sternly.
Devon nodded, and climbed up on the colt, Noah and Mariah wrapped his hand up with what little they had wand walked towards Ranple. He knew Moridar would be back eventually, he hopped they were long gone from Ranple when that monster showed himself. What disturbed Devon the most was what his father muttered in the seconds before he died. 'I wish it was true, if only you were my true son.' What had Zane meant by it? Of course Devon was his true son! He had been born to Rebecca seventeen years ago! Zane was his father, he knew it. Then why had Zane said that? Devon shook his head violently he had to have just been muttering to himself. Of course it wasn't true. Why would his parents lie to him about who his father was? Still, it sent a disturbing thought throughout his mind. If Zane wasn't his real father than who was? And why would Zane and Rebecca keep it secret from him?
"It can't be true." he told himself with a hopeful voice.
"Of course it's not true Devon." Noah replied kindly.
"What?"
Noah looked at his friends sadly but remained quiet for a moment. He looked back in the direction of Zane's body, "We heard what he said Devon. I don't think it's true though."
Devon grunted and glared at Noah. He nearly jumped off Ribbon to glare at him. He knew what Noah meant, but he didn't want to talk about it. Couldn't they just leave him to mourn? Looking in the directions of Ranple his heart stopped. Even more smoke was rising out of the village. How much of it was left now? He hopped there were still at least some people alive or not captured when they arrived.
Flagair and Kazygen, the country and the Pyromancer kept coming into his head. What cause did they have to invade Ranple? Even if they did manage to elude being captured, they would have a long journey ahead of them to Vral'tar. Vral'tar wasn't too far away, perhaps a few days ride away, but he knew it would seem much longer after this. He hopped Chris was alive, that fool always ran off getting himself into trouble. No, he'll be fine. He always is, it's us I have to worry about. He glared around, noticing both Noah and Mariah staring at him.
Why did the world have to be like this? Confusing him and taking away his father? Zane was his father, he knew it. Why would he lie to him? Why would Zane keep it a secret this long if it were true? He knew it wasn't real, Zane was of course his father, anyone would agree with that. Something though inside his head kept biting at him. He glared at himself, not able to take the doubt out of his head. Shaking his head, he reigned Ribbon to go faster towards Ranple.
"Of course it isn't true Noah!" Devon spat at him. He glared at Noah, but regret and sadness filled his face, "Sorry Noah, I just... I don't know what to think right now."
Noah gave a sympathetically look to Devon and looked towards Ranple. He tried to keep the worry out of his eyes and replace it with determination, which was not working as well as he hoped, "No Devon, I'm sorry. Try not to let it bother you. We know it wasn't true. You were of course his son."
Mariah walked closer to Ribbon, and put her hand on Devon's knee. The two exchanged eye contact and Mariah smiled. She herself appeared slightly frightened, but that was small compared to the worry, determination, and mourning, "Its true Devon. Please, don't let it bother you, please? You have enough to deal with." she said with a sad voice.
Devon glanced at Noah, then looked down at Mariah, "I'll try, thank you. I just... why do you think he said it then?"
Mariah thought for a moment than replied calmly, "He was weak Devon, very weak. That much blood lose and shock, he probably didn't understand what he was saying at the end." A trace of doubt was in her words, but Devon did not catch it. Mariah gripped Devon's hand, smiled at him, let go, and patted Ribbon's side. Her eyes stared at him apologetically. Devon didn't understand why, none of it was her fault, but he couldn't help feeling happy at her words.
Staring in Ranple's direction he hurried Ribbon faster towards the village. The horse nickered quietly as Devon kicked him harder than he meant in the withers. Noah and Mariah sped up next to him, all three staring in Ranple's direction. Time seemed to soar by as they rushed towards the village. Devon kept Ribbon slow enough for the others to keep pace with, but as they reached the outskirts of Ranple Noah and Mariah was panting. The time seemed to rush by as Devon watched Ranple come closer, wondering what horrors awaited them at their home.

Chris hastily poured a bucket of water onto the fire, the house was scorched enough, but whatever water they could pour on it helped. Around him twenty more people helped him, none were out fighting, most were women or young boys. After his last bucket Chris saw Fran running out the door. The Flagairn came out carrying gold, a charred corpse, and a young child.
"I got in too late to save her, but the infant is fine. You!" he pointed to a woman about ten years older than Chris, "Take the child. And the gold, you look like you need it." The woman he gave both the infant and gold to wasn't wearing much, only old clothes that were badly warn. No one in Ranple was homeless, but there were a few poor people, the village council did their best to make sure poor people were helped out.
Everyone stared at Fran and he only glared back. Chris thought he was a strange person, Flagairn, but not with the army, and he seemed to be aggressive in his actions. Not aggressive as in violent, but in his words and manner, "Well what are you all waiting for! Go, follow me and get out of here." He demanded. The villagers quickly scrambled to follow him. Only Chris, Fran, and a few others carried weapons. Fran led the group with his sword in his hands. He peered around, looking for soldiers or Feyon that were headed for them.
Watching the procession, Chris followed Fran. Whoever this man was would have to wait. Why did he want to help Ranple? Well, Chris knew he didn't intend to help Ranple, it just turned out that way when Fran tried to steal the documents so Flagair wouldn't grab them. Most of the fighting had died down, there was scattered resistance in Ranple, but most was gone, the survivors were being herded to the center of Ranple. Chris knew that was the reason why their group stayed in the edge of the village. No feyon or Flagairn would pay attention to a group now on the edge of the village.
It amazed Chris to see the healer's house undamaged. Perhaps because it was so far away from the main part of Ranple even so, a feyon did get in, the one that he, Devon, Noah, and Mariah killed. Those three better be safe, if they managed to get themselves into trouble he would have to rescue them. He didn't understand why they thought his so called 'trouble making' was a bad thing. He was only bored and could find nothing else to do. He shook his head at them, it was a good way to learn about different events going on, and helped if they ever needed to be sneaky. He supposed it wasn't necessary to be sneaky, well maybe now, but he always liked to be.
"Three people coming from the forest! I see three people and one with a horse!" a man behind them shouted, his face full of fright. He was one of the few men in their group that was fleeing Ranple. Chris was sure there were others trying to make an escape, but their group was by far the largest. Please let those three be ok. Chris prayed to himself, they had to be ok, where ever they were Zane would make sure of it.
"Be quite!" Fran snapped harshly but not too loudly, "Every soldier and feyon in Ranple must have heard that! I can see them too, archers, ready your bows." The few archers in their group pointed their bows as the three approaching people, one of which was on a black horse but they were too far away for Chris to make out.
Chris pulled out his swords as the three came closer. One was a women, he wondered where they came from. He didn't see any women soldiers in Flagair's army. He waited longer than his eyes widened in joy. Devon, Noah, and Mariah were alive, each of them, and so was Ribbon, "Don't shoot!" Chris said loudly, but only loud enough to get a stern look from Fran, "I know them, they're my friends. Let me speak to them." Chris said.
Fran glared at him than to the three. Looking back at the archers he muttered roughly, "Lower your bows fools didn't you hear what he said." They quickly lowered their bows and he smirked, his eyes like a hawks ready to pounce on a rabbit if any disobeyed him. With a grimace he said to Chris, "You sure you recognize them?"
"Yeah, they were with me when this first started. I left them to go to the armory."
"Then what are you waiting for? Go." Fran snapped.
Chris hurried off towards the three. Each had now stopped, staring at the group in front of them. They must have recognized him or else they wouldn't have just stood there. Perhaps they were nervous, he could understand why, with a Flagairn soldier leading them. Chris froze in his feet when he saw Devon was injured, he was bleeding from his face, and his left wrist was at an awkward angle. Mariah seemed to be clutching her arm slightly, and to Chris surprise her bow string was snapped.
"What happened to you three?" he gasped. At least they were alright, but what had they managed to get themselves into. "Where's Zane?" he asked, just now noticing he wasn't there.
Devon glared at him so hard it made Chris step back. Something was disturbing him. Devon never glared at anyone unless he was really hurt, not physical pain. Devon's eyes softened and he looked at Chris than glanced down at Mariah who had her hand on Ribbon. Why did Mariah like Devon so much better than him! Chris had always liked Mariah, but she always saw him as a friend. Why couldn't he have her for once? He shook those thoughts out of his head there were better and more important things to think of now.
Devon looked at the people in front of them and said with a low voice, "I'm sorry Chris but... father... Zane died." he said quietly. Both Mariah and Noah gave sad looks as he spoke. Chris' mouth fell open, and tears came to his eyes. No, he wouldn't cry, he couldn't show weakness.
He begun to tremble slightly, but he wouldn't break down, he just wouldn't! Zane dead? No, it couldn't be, not after his parents died. He stared at the ground, trying not to let a single tear drop from his eyes. Loosing Zane was just like losing his father again. Zane and Rebecca were just like his parents now, having one of them die was terrible. Not to mention Rebecca being terrible sick. He felt the tears try to burst from his eyes but he looked at them with a sad face. Rebecca? She had to be dead, she was still in the healer's house, but maybe she was alive.
"What happened?" he asked mournfully.
"We were attacked. A soldier named Moridar found us." Devon explained.
Fran walked up to them impatiently, he heard what Devon said, but only gave him the briefest look of sympathy. He stared at the three impatiently. He did examine Ribbon for a moment, he gave a quick nod and told them, "I'm sorrow to interrupt but we must get going or the feyon and soldiers will find us and cut us down."
Mariah of all people glared at him -well, Chris supposed he shouldn't be surprised, Mariah after all did have a fiery temper at times- she looked at Fran and said with a demanding but nervous and somehow calm voice, "Who are you? Why would a soldier of Flagair help us?"
Fran looked at her and back at everyone else impatiently, "My name is Fran, and I am no longer a soldier of Flagair." the last part he said with a snap. "I will explain more later but we really should be going." he said and walked in front of them and ordered them to hurry up.

Devon watched as the man called Fran walked in front of them. Trying to keep his mind off Zane he thought of just who the man was. Devon wondered why Fran was here. If he really was an ex soldier why would he be with the army? There was a chance the man came on his own accord, but coincidentally with the Flagairn army? He doubted that, but still it was possible. Why did this day have to keep getting stranger and stranger? And where had Chris been? At least he hadn't gotten himself into trouble like they had.
Devon followed the Flagairn on Ribbon. The horse nickered slightly, but was pleased to be walking. The energetic horse loved going on long walks, and Devon knew this would be a very long ride. He wanted to tell Chris what had happened, but he should wait until Fran was away. Even if the man was an ex soldier, he might not be pleased with them discussing one of his old comrades. However Chris stumbled upon him would have to wait to, though that tugged sharply at Devon's mind. At least he had other things to think of that his parents now. Mariah still walked next to him and he put his hand on her shoulder, more for his own comfort than for hers.
He looked back towards Ranple and could still see smoke in the distance when suddenly a thought went into his head. His mother wasn't dead! She had to be alive, the healer's house wasn't burning and even if soldiers or feyon went in there they wouldn't find the door that led to her room. "My mother is out there still! She's in the healer's house." he shouted. Fran looked at him with an agitated look on his face though Devon had to impression he wanted him to continue, "On the upper floor about halfway down the hall's there's a hidden door. A small lip will be there where the door is. A feyon's body is near the door. She can't get out herself, she's sick."
Fran swore angrily and pointed at Devon, "You're on horseback! Lead them north I can track you once I head back. Just go north I'll lead you the right way to Vral'tar. Ask no question, just go." he demanded and ran back towards the village muttering curses under his breath.
With an odd worried look Devon led the group northwards away from Ranple. Vral'tar, the city state to their north, the most powerful city state that Devon knew of anyway. Vral'tar would protect them, he was sure of it, they had been Ranple's long time ally. What would he do though? He didn't want his mother to die Rebecca would be safe enough in Vral'tar, but what of himself? He knew he would, but he felt like he should do something else. His father had died at the hands of Kazygen, which led to the dark lord. He would have to find out later, he had too much on his mind right now. He kept trying to force the thought from his head, but no matter how hard he tried, it always came back. What if Zane wasn't his father? He knew for a fact Zane was his father, but still, he had to speak to Rebecca. What if she wasn't his mother? No, of course she was his mother, but Zane not his father? It couldn't be, it just couldn't.
Devon led the group northwards, not listening to the few words spoken from the mostly silent procession. Looking back at everyone behind him it seemed only fifty people made it out of Ranple. Only a few had horses, but none were as fit as Ribbon. Several of the horses were aged, and many overweight. Still, it was a surprise to see some managed to escape with their owners. A lone dog traveled with the group but it has a limp on its front right leg. Over all the procession was weary and frightened. Several people had burst into tears for having to leave Ranple and the lost of loved ones. Looking down at Ribbon's sleek black fur Devon knew how they felt. Their fear was made worse with them never knowing these threats since the village council kept them secret.
After minutes he began to get lost in his own thoughts. Not even paying attention as the landscape went by. The forest gave way to fields of grass with trees scattered around randomly. He followed the deserted roadway that led northwards. He was sure the aged abandoned rode would take him to Vral'tar. It made Devon wonder thinking of the ancient pathway. Why was it here and so long? He knew he had better things to think about, but it would keep his mind off what had happened.
The road they walked on was full of weeds and grass, some places were impossible to tell there had been a road there at one point. The only sign of evidence was a slightly change in the land where the road was once lain, and the continuation of the road up further north. Only the areas of the road closer to Vral'tar were rebuilt same with the area directly near Ranple, no one wanted to reconnect the two cities. Herds of grazing cattle and horses were visible in the distance.
There were other roads that ran between them, but none were as long as the abandoned road. Most people traveled over grass to get to Vral'tar. Very few people left Ranple, before the attack. The ones that did leave didn't come back perhaps wanting to be in a world that didn't hide information from its people still, very few ever left Ranple in the first place.
"Someone's coming up behind us?" a man shouted. Devon looked back and sure enough behind the procession, a lone man was running towards him. When he came closer Devon could see it was Fran. He was carrying Rebecca she was still too weak to walk on her own. Fran hurried over to the lead where Devon was. He only seemed to be breaking a small sweat, even with having of run all the way from Ranple.
"Get off the horse. She can't support herself." Fran said. Devon instantly obeyed and climbed off of Ribbon. He helped Fran strap his mother into the horse's saddle. Rebecca did look better, but only just. Her face was still pale and she appeared clammy. It was hard to tell if she was conscious, she was awake, but only barely. Still, Devon knew she was doing better. She would be awake soon, Rebecca always slept late, and the sickness made it even worse.
Fran watched Rebecca carefully and turned towards Devon, Noah, Chris, and Mariah. Devon couldn't tell for sure, but it seemed they were making a good pace on their way to Vral'tar. Above them a flock of geese flew south, their flock was large, perhaps over fifty birds. Fran watched them impatiently, as if expecting them to speak first. Finally he growled, "So what exactly happened out there? I'm sure you didn't just show up injured with a horse," he said looking at Devon, "and you with a snapped bow string." he finished gesturing to Mariah.
Devon looked at Fran he wasn't sure what to think. He didn't want to talk of what happened, he didn't want to mention his father dying. Just thinking of that brought a fresh wave of sorrow over him, even more so from what Zane said on his final breath. He didn't even want to think how he would explain it to his mother, especially when she was this sick. Rebecca was a strong woman, but Devon knew that Zane's death would upset her terribly. And how could he ask her who his real father was? Finally, Mariah relieved him of the awkward moment of having to answer Fran's question.
"We were attacked on our way to his farm." Mariah began. She told them of Chris running off to help the sentries. Fran nodded at that part and smirked at Chris. Chris explained what happened to him. But when they asked Fran for the archives or what he was planning on doing with them he told Mariah to continue. She went on to explain how Moridar had Ribbon and he attacked them. She told the whole story and even up to when Zane was killed. Devon was thankful she didn't mention what Zane said at the end. Fran listened to their tale he even muttered a name under his breath when she talked.
"Moridar, I always despised him. Should've killed him when I had the chance. Ah well, no use crying over it now." Fran said roughly. An angry glare formed in his eyes when he mentioned Moridar's name.
"You knew him?" asked Noah.
Fran gave a mad bark of a laugh and patted Ribbon's side hard, "Of course I knew him! I used to serve Flagair's army I know I told you that so stop asking questions you already know. I know you aren't that dense. Anyway, he was my general when I served Flagair. He was a great general, but a horrible man. Be lucky you escaped him," Fran said mainly to Mariah, "he probably would have kept you to himself. He was always to weird sort."
"Yeah... I know what you mean." Mariah said, rubbing her arm.
"Why did you leave Flagair's army? Why would you help Ranple if it was an enemy of your home land?" Noah asked with a curious look.
"Now, that's a question worth asking." Fran told him. Fran first looked ahead of them to see if anyone was coming. He was an odd man Devon thought. He seemed to be wild, as if once he was on the run for some reason. Then again, Devon guessed he was after he left Flagair's army whoever he was, Devon was sure Fran would be a dangerous enemy. Thankfully he's on our side. He really wished Ranple was alright. After all, they had left and the village was being burned and the people still alive, forced to the center of Ranple. "As for why I left? I just felt like it, things weren't as good as I thought they once were. Didn't add up to what I thought it would." Noah was about to ask a question but Fran silence him, "As for what I mean I'll keep that to myself. I don't need to and won't tell you everything about me. Besides, it was I who saved many of you from getting killed or captured. Now, your second question. I helped Ranple because it was the right thing to do. The Lord would demand I did so, also it hurt my enemies by adding you."
That surprised Devon he didn't expect Fran to be a religious man. It didn't bother him, but he thought it was strange. Everything the past few days was so confusing. How could the whole world change like this so much? Whoever Fran truly was would have to wait. Devon knew he wouldn't release any more information about himself. Why was everything turning around on itself? He hopped they would be safe at Vral'tar for a time. What he would do he wasn't sure. He would have to do something, he knew that much.
"How long as Moridar been the commanding of Flagair's navy and army?" Devon asked, wanting to get more information about Flagair.
"Pretty much since he started serving for Flagair. He's noble born they always get high military rank. Ha! As if being a good for nothing noble gives you military skill. Though I suppose he is a good chose. If you're an enemy army you never want to fight him. He's a military genius."
"Why is he so... weird?" Mariah asked.
Fran gave a harsh shrug and said with much contempt in his voice, "Because he's your typical arrogant noble who thinks he deserves anything even if that person doesn't want it. Did he try to capture you or something? I wouldn't worry about it, he never goes after anyone a second time once he fails the first time."
Mariah blushed slightly and backed away. She always did when she felt awkward. Devon could understand her, even he felt awkward at that moment. Mariah was a strong person, even now she didn't show any weakness, "Who trained him?" Devon asked.
"The greatest swords master in all of Flagair. He started to teach Moridar when he was only five. Hard to believe a five year old could have been that skilled though. Moridar did it though. As for how I know? He tells the story to as many recruits as he can. When he was fifteen he was more skilled than his master surprisingly. He killed him, he asked him if he would join the army and he refused. Moridar killed him afterwards."
"And he got away with that?" Chris said amazed. He always wanted justice, most of the time anyway. If he thought it was right he'd do it, but only if he thought it was. Surprisingly, Chris agreed with most people about what was right, except when he was bored.
With a serious voice he replied, "No one refuses the commander of the King's Royal Army and Queen's Royal Navy. If you do the penalty's death."
"That's insane! Why?" Chris demanded. His eye brows went up in shock and at being appalled.
""I'd be damned if I knew. A noble's laws it must be. Always think they're above common folk. Now hold your temper boy, I'm not your enemy no matter how much I look like him." Fran said with a laugh.
"Why did you quite the army?" Devon asked curiously.
Fran only shrugged, "Felt like it. Now, if you all would stop asking questions we must hurry as fast as we can to Vral'tar. Unfortunately Moridar is not stupid. He will know soon that some of you have escaped."

Moridar surveyed the captured peasants. Worthless, all of them, just cowering in fear in front of them, he would have to wipe them into shape. He had been unable to find those three who had humiliated him and escape, but that would be something no one would know about, but once he found them again, he would have revenge, sweet revenge. He sat on a large white stallion it was the only other suitable horse for a man or his stature. Around him several feyon stumbled around stupidly, not used to be in the presence of prisoners they couldn't kill. Most of Ranple had been burned, not to the ground, but there were few buildings without damage.
Two soldiers returned from the armory, carrying arm folds of paper and other items. Moridar knew the documents he needed were likely to be in the armory. Protected by what these peasants thought suitable protection. While searching his soldiers found a hidden long abandoned room, but that was empty when they went in. It must have been emptied long before the room was forgotten. Each bowed down in respect as they approached their general, "Supreme Commander Moridar," he liked that name, it fit him well. He swelled in pride at hearing the title. It fit the man who was the general of the King's Royal Army and admiral of the Queen's Royal Navy. "We bring the archives of the village. One of the drawers was broken into. We think some may have been stolen by retreating Ranplers."
Moridar gave a growl of annoyance, but was pleased at the soldiers work. Very few feyon were killed, and even fewer of his soldiers. With the treasury looted, Ranple's archives were the last remaining treasure of the village, "Does it have the archives we are after? Out with it! I need to go, else we give chase."
The other soldier bowed down with a sad smile, "We regret we do not know Supreme Commander. We will have to search through all of them to find out." At Moridar's impatient he replied hastily, "We'll get straight onto it sir." The soldiers sprinted off, to read the archives to see if it was what their king and queen needed.
Moridar watched as the peasants were led away by his soldiers or feyon. They were all trash to him, only nobility mattered, the peasants were just what he considered the massive 'excess population'. He straightened up as a man approached him, Kazygen. Without his fake burns, Kazygen resembled any other human. His features were dark, black except his skin. His skin was pure white, so white it seemed it was even whiter than snow. The oddly white skin was what made him seem un-human.
Moridar knelt down it was proper respect to anyone who served the dark lord A'zareya, "General Kazygen, it is my upmost pleasure to serve you and the Great Dark Lord." Moridar was loyal to him, almost as loyal as he was to his king and queen, perhaps even more. It didn't truly matter though Flagair had sworn itself to the dark lord.
"Rise fool, I am not the dark lord." Kazygen spat, Moridar quickly rose up. "You have done well Moridar, though anyone could have conquered this city state of fools. You do know our objective do you not?"
"Yes sir, to find the lost shrine."
"You are a smart one. Perhaps Flagair was right in making you commander of their armed forces. Now, as you know a few have escaped not many, but enough to tell the lands of the west of our attack on Ranple. You are to lead a search party for them. Find the one called Devon, the dark lord doesn't wish him dead."
"As you command." Moridar replied, "I will prove my worth to you." He said spitefully. Though he served A'zareya loyally, he hated being treated like a peasant. He was the command of Flagair's armies! A man entitled to respect! He deserved to lead more than a mere hunting party, but if the dark lord commanded it, he would obey. At times though he wished he was back on his estate at Flagair. Still, being with the army was natural for him. He enjoyed it just as much as he enjoyed ruling the peasants under his jurisdiction. "If I may ask, why does the dark lord want this Devon alive?"
Kazygen gave a wide toothy smile, "You are a fool Moridar, do you really think the dark lord will reveal his plans to all? What he wants is what he gets." Moridar knew he was lying at least part of Kazygen was lying. Kazygen always liked to keep information hidden from others to make himself sound important. Moridar despised people who did that, mostly because he did that himself.
Grimacing, Moridar glared at Kazygen. He didn't trust him, he was sure the Pyromancer wanted to control Ranple, when the village had already been guaranteed to him by the king and queen still, it wasn't wise to displease one of the dark lord's most trusted, "Do you have any idea where they are going?"
"North, to Vral'tar. It is a powerful city state, do not be arrogant and march through it like you did with Ranple. It may be a city state, but Vral'tar has an army that's skill rivals that of Aquarr, maybe even the Maladian Empire. Vral'tar is a long ally of Ranple, chances are they will be all but willing to help their defeated ally."
Moridar smirked but remained silent. The fool man, even for a Pyromancer he knew nothing. Vral'tar would fall easily, Moridar was sure of it. Still, he had no plans on invading the city state. It was foolish to defy a direct order of A'zareya. It would be easier to not bring any soldiers he could enter Vral'tar easily enough.
Glaring as a young boy ran by them Moridar spat, "Why not just kill him? Surely the dark lord doesn't to deal with a simple peasant."
Glaring, Kazygen blasted a jet of water from his hand striking the Flagairn in the chest. Moridar stumbled back but was unharmed. He almost drew his sword but didn't, his hand twitching on the hilt. It was foolish to provoke a Pyromancer, almost suicidal, "It is the dark lord's business fool!" Kazygen snarled, glaring at Moridar. He eyed the Flagairn with contempt, Kazygen wasn't a pleasant man, and despised most others besides the Dark Lord and a select few. "I will not break my covenant with the dark lord just to fulfill your foolish questions! And you shouldn't ask either, he would have told you if he wanted someone as low as yourself to know."
"Fine," Moridar snarled, he really hated the man, but he had to serve him. Still, he would do whatever he could to smite the fool. How dare he treat someone of his status like this? Moridar would show the fool Pyromancer. The fool mission would be completed, even if it was something for a peasant to do.
Kazygen gave a big taunting grin. He pointed around at the peasants around the two, "Before you go, take care of this mess. If you are to rule Ranple teach these vermin how to be civilized and to stop moping around."
Moridar glared but stomped off away from the blasted man. He would teach these peasants just how to act with a proper noble ruling them. Striding arrogantly towards the crowd he stopped in front of them until he had all of their attention. Fools, that was what they were nothing but foolish lower-class scum. He walked up to a man and grabbed him by his shirt and threw him to the ground. To make them obey him he knew he would have to drive fear into their minds. With a mad laugh he begun to order the villagers to work, and if they refused, he would whip them. It should be easy enough to install fear into them, they acted cowardly enough when his forces invaded.