by Eden Redd
Edric turned his head and admired the sun as the final rays touched them with celestial light. Heart beating in his chest and stomach filling with butterflies, he clenched his jaw as he tried to wish the nervousness away.
Claudia stepped forward, hands on the balcony edge, “Thank you citizens of Elora for joining us on this special night! We know all have wondered about the future of our city and we wish to address it to you wonderful citizens. We do not wish to hide from the people who make this city great. You are the beating heart and we wish to ensure your safety and prosperity from now into the far future of our kingdom!”
The crowd lifted up hands and fists in solidarity. Some chanted “Pearl” over and over again, smiles blooming.
“That’s really good,” Edric leaned over and whispered to Faye.
The wood elf nodded, “She told me she was practicing all day with Thalia’s help.”
Edric smiled before he stepped forward to the edge, next to Claudia.
“We know you have seen the trolls within our city walls,” Edric began.
Some citizens booed or groaned. Edric knew this would be the hard part but carried on.
“We want to assure everyone that Elora is independent and the trolls respect our wishes. There will be no troll occupation! They will be housed outside our city walls to the fields to the east. There will be no trolls in the city after dark and their diplomat will be among several trolls to reside in Gray Haven Keep to maintain peaceful relations.”
The crowd grew quiet and somber.
Edric cleared his throat before he continued. “Know this, if any enemy comes to our gates, we will give them the point of our blades. If they climb our walls, we will burn them to cinders. If any army marches on Elora, we will drive them back with the power of our combined might. People of Elora, know that we shall always be by your side and we will not cow down to any forces attempting to destroy us! We are Elora and let all of Lukken know; we will not bend to tyrants or the monsters in the night!”
The somber mood shifted and many began chanting “Temple! Temple! Temple!” Many looked to the summoner, eyes filling with confident might.
Edric smiled until Rayna jumped up on the wide balcony edge, lute in hand.
“Citizens of Elora! Let’s sing, dance and show all the enemies across Lukken that we are fucking bad ass and we will not be silenced!” The bard shouted at the top of her lungs and ran her fingers down the lute strings hard.
The vibration blast was that of an electric guitar. The very air rippled as it came down and touched the crowd. Screams and shouts rose up as the people cheered. Hands reached up, tears in some citizen’s eyes as Rayna played an impossible rift on her lute, eyes closed and jabbing out her hips.
Edric and Claudia laughed, their chuckles lost to the lute and the crowd chanting “Rayna! Rayna! Rayna! Rayna!” Many jumped in place, pumping their fists in the air and screaming at the top of their digital lungs. The area vibrated with energy as the bard played on, whipping the people into frenzy.
Faye let a small smile slip as she moved to the balcony edge next to Rayna. The bard continued to play as the monk focused her chi into her throat and parted her lips.
“Elora, let the celebration begin!” Faye’s voice boomed over the lute.
Rayna’s balance shifted. Edric and Claudia grabbed the bard before she could fall and pulled her down to them. The three rulers looked to Faye. The wood elf smiled as the entire city shouted “Faye! Faye! Faye! Faye!”
Faye turned to her fellow rulers with a small smile. The last rays of sunlight disappeared behind the horizon and the evening air exploded in magical light. Mages fired harmless spells into the air, sending majestic explosions to the adoring crowd. Citizens cheered and marveled at the spectacle. The lord and ladies looked on as the city seemed to flow with the positive energy rising up to a thunderous applause.
“I can get used to this,” Rayna smiled as she looked over.
Edric could not deny the warmth filling his heart. The people believed in them and it felt like the beginning to something magical. The summoner basked in the moment with his fellow rulers until he looked up to see the air above the keep beginning to wrinkle.
Edric’s smile faded as he stared. Claudia turned to see Edric’s shocked expression and looked up. Rayna and Faye did the same as a light glowed above them. Shock and awe cascaded down to the crowd as they watched a red line appear above the keep.
Eyes widening, Edric had seen this before. The vertical line cut through the fabric of space, glowing brighter than the explosions and widening at the middle. The people cheered, thinking it was part of the show but the four companions knew it was something more.
The line opened along the middle, waves of energy pouring out. The very air trembled and it seemed to vibrate faster. Cheers sang but Edric was rooted to the spot. Leeta stepped out and looked up, realization filling her mind. The rip above the keep pulsed brighter until the waves reached their zenith. A “BOOOOOOOMMMMMM” filled the kingdom as something red flashed from the tear. Eyes turned with the booming red comet as it blazed over the city and past the wall. It streaked to the west and as Edric gripped the balcony edge, the red comet smashed into the western forest and exploded.
The city and the keep rumbled as the shockwaves hit them. People rejoiced to the spectacle but darkness curled around Edric’s heart. The images of the shadow in his room washed over his mind as he replayed it over and over.
The player stood, staring as the light died in the distance and the shroud of night fell across the lands once again.
Sixteen
Fingers clutched at the marble edge of the balcony. Edric’s mind and heart raced as the glow in the distance faded to nothing. The summoner let go of the edge and stood straight up. Faye, Claudia and Rayna stood, their eyes soaking in what just happened. They all looked to the summoner as he turned around, eyes filling with knowing determination.
“We have to go,” Edric stated simply.
Leeta stood by the rulers, hand resting on the pommel of her mace. The wood elf eyed the summoner as Rayna and Claudia glanced at each other.
Edric could see the swirl of confusion in their eyes, unsure what it all meant. “I never had a chance to tell you what the shadow showed me. It showed me the red comet, forming between its fingers and blasting out to my heart. It didn’t hurt me but it was obviously trying to tell me something.”
Edric looked up, “It was telling me that was going to happen.”
“We don’t know what it wants. It could be luring us out so some other force can take the kingdom,” Claudia said.
“It could be that succubus you told us about. Maybe it’s sending us to a trap,” Rayna added.
The summoner looked down with dark eyes. “I need to go. I need to know why the shadow has been haunting me since we arrived. It…may need my help.”
Faye nodded and looked to Thalia, “Get four horses ready and have them waiting at the western gate.”
The lamia bowed her head, “As you will,” turned and slithered off.
The wood elf turned to Edric, “We go together.”
Claudia stood straighter, “Together.”
Rayna stuck out her chin, “Hell yea.”
Edric smiled, “Thank you.”
The door to the balcony opened and Ralis swept in with a troll bodyguard. All eyes turned to the troll as he approached them with a pleasant smile on his face.
“That was a marvelous speech. I did have some notes concerning what you said. I agree that Elora is her own kingdom but next time I would say….” Edric cut him off.
“Ralis, stay in the keep and keep your bodyguards close.” Edric said before glancing away, “Elora.”
Elora appeared in her white robe, “Yes Lord Temple.”
“When Thalia returns, inform her to double the guard in the keep and ensure the prisoners are secure.”
“Your will be done,” Elora said and faded from sight.
“Lord Temple, I thought tonight was
for celebration?” Ralis said with a confused tone.
“It is. The rulers and I have to step out for a moment. We just want to make sure all is okay, for your protection.”
Ralis bowed his head, “I understand but is it necessary for me to be a prisoner while the city rejoices in our agreement?”
Edric smiled. “For your protection, yes. Stay put and don’t leave the keep until morning.”
“This is highly irregular,” Ralis said as he looked to the other rulers.
Edric ignored him, taking lead and his companions following behind. Leaving the balcony chamber, they made their way down to the ground floor. 2D screens appeared as each player went through their inventory.
Edric was glad that he bought some supplies when he purchased his new whip. He had no idea what to expect but in his heart he knew it was important. Hand digging into his satchel, he pulled out Leeta’s lock stone. The ogre saw the stone in her master’s hand.
Edric turned to the ogre as they walked, “It will be faster this way.”
The ogre nodded. Energy spiraled out of the stone and touched the feminine ogre. Leeta’s form warped slightly and flashed to the stone. Edric placed the stone back in his satchel and marched on.
The group emerged into the cheering crowd. Music played and fireworks burst high above. The city was elated as many danced and some kissed. Edric wanted to enjoy it with his new people but the pull to the west seemed to grow with each step. Faye brushed past and led the way, Edric following. Rayna was behind the summoner while Claudia took up the rear. They moved single-file through the crowd. Many reached over, patted and touched the four rulers. Edric tried to smile but the goal to leave the city overwhelmed him.
Stepping onto Discord Street, the companions made their way through the heavily populated area. Many raised full mugs of ale and drunkenly sang to the rulers as they pressed on. Rayna eyed many as she passed and some seem to understand what she meant without saying a word. The people in the street parted, making way for them as they pressed on. After long moments, the group reached the edge of the city.
Thalia was there with several guards and four horses. The lamia bowed as Edric approached and took a rein from her scaly hand.
“Thank you Thalia,” Edric said in a soft tone.
“It’s my pleasure.”
“Make sure Gray Haven Keep is well guarded and ensure Ralis stays inside. We have to leave but we don’t want anyone taking advantage of the situation. Let the city celebrate but be vigilant.”
Thalia bowed her head, “I will not disappoint you Lord Temple.”
Edric put his boot into the stirrup and hauled himself up onto the horse. Faye, Claudia and Rayna were already mounted and ready.
Thalia looked up at the lord and ladies, red eyes drinking them in.
The summoner looked down to the beautiful lamia, “If we are not back by sunrise, send out a search party.”
Edric drove his heels into the horse and it bolted into a charge. Faye, Claudia and Rayna followed suit, chasing the summoner as he led the way. Thalia watched them go, their bodies and horses swallowed up by the dark countryside, eyes wide and hopeful of their safe return.
The wind whipped at Edric as he led the charge. Hooves tore up grassy earth as they pushed on. The light at their backs faded as mist flowed from the horse’s nostrils. The dark of night filled the countryside with a deep chill. Edric kept his gaze true as they pushed on. Patches of trees blurred past, the dark forest rising up closer with each passing moment.
Hollow Song forest loomed before the party. Inky shadows writhed into a hypnotic trance. Trees swayed in the breeze, branches touching the sky. Edric pulled at the reins just as they reached the edge. Horses neighed as they skidded to a halt, breathing heavy. The whistling moan of the swaying trees sent a chill down the summoner’s spine.
Edric dismounted, boots hitting the ground. Reaching into his satchel, he pulled out Leeta’s lock stone. Faye dismounted and watched as energy swirled in Edric’s hand and spiraled out to form an arcane circle on the ground. Leeta rose up, mace in hand and alert yellow eyes.
Faye walked to Edric’s side, “The forest is too thick to ride effectively. We will have to leave the horses behind.”
Edric nodded. “Do we have everything we need with us?”
Claudia stepped forward, a spear appearing in her hand. A 2D screen appeared before her and she tapped at an armor set. Edric and Faye looked to the lancer as her clothes turned into a leather-like armor. Metal curved over her shoulders and a sculpted plate adhered to the top of her head. Bracers appeared on her forearms with sharp blades attached. Slits ran down the leather as alabaster legs moved freely, a hint of the arcane symbols on her thighs.
“I had it made the other day. Lightweight and flexible with several protection enchantments,” the lancer said with a shy smile.
Rayna looked the lancer over, “I need to see your tailor.”
The bard secured her lute to her back. Hands flexed before she checked her gear. “I’m ready.”
Edric looked to the wood elf.
“I’m always ready,” Faye said in a cool and collected tone.
The summoner checked his stats.
Edric Temple
Summoner
Hit Points- 70/70
Mana- 130/130
Armor- 5
Strength-14(+1)
Intelligence- 20(+3)
Wisdom- 17(+2)
Dexterity- 16(+2)
Stamina- 20(+3)
Charisma- 21(+3)
Spell Abilities
Charm- 28
Snare- 26
Channel- (+STR/HP/DEX)
Lock Stones (1)
Leeta (Ogre)- HP-220/220
Spells
Summoning Spell- 10 Mana
Summon Demon Spell- 2o Mana
Light Spell- 5 Mana
Primary Skills
Spell Casting- 33
Spell Craft- 12
Gem Craft- 17
Rune Craft- 12
Enchantment- 12
Melee- 14
Wilderness Lore- 13
Equipment
Lightning Whip- 10 to 15 damage/Gem Slot-Lightning damage 10% Stun
Dark Green Robe- 5 Armor
Healing Potions (10)- Heal 50 HP
Edric set his stats to the corner of his vision to glance at it when he needed too. Without another word, he began stepping toward the forest edge. Faye followed with Claudia, Rayna behind them and Leeta to the rear.
The group entered the forest and the chill bit deeper with each step. Faye tapped the summoner on the shoulder before moving ahead of him. Edric let out a relieved exhale. He had forgotten that they were entering a dangerous area. As much as he liked to think he was strong, it would take one overpowered monster to shatter him to light.
The forest moaned with the wind as the group penetrated its shadows. Faye moved silently, senses alive and taking in everything for miles. A scent of burning wood carried on the wind while woodland animals snoozed in their burrows. The monk closed her eyes, her feet stepping over roots and slipping past trees. The forest was alive behind her eyelids as she stepped carefully along. Whispers caressed her inner pointed ears.
The monk stopped and the rest of the group halted.
“I hear kobolds….and dark elves,” Faye whispered.
“Together? They’re never together,” Claudia whispered back.
“Is there anything else,” Edric asked in a low voice.
“They’re moving…something,” Faye whispered and opened her eyes.
The monk began to walk again, carefully through the dark forest. Movement was slow going as eyes adjusted to the dark. Edric’s foot tripped over a large root but before he hit the ground, Faye stopped his fall with a single hand to the chest. The summoner thanked her with a nod as she pushed him back to his feet.
Leeta cursed as her head hit low hanging branches. The ogre was having difficulty moving her large form through the forest. Edric was going to
call her back to her lock stone when a light shimmered in the distance.
The group moved silently through the forest, toward the light. The orange glow beckoned to them. When they reached the outer edge of the glow, eyes drank in the sight before them. A large swath of land lay bare like an open scar. Trees were splintered along the scar and small fires burned along its edges.
The group stepped into the burnt path, taking it in. They followed it, trees to either side of them broken or burning with small flames. The earth parted as they walked along and when they reached the end, a large crater bloomed out. The group stepped into the crater looking for what could have caused such devastation.
Faye stepped ahead, almond shaped eyes on the ground. Despite the dim glow of the fires and the night sky, her racial ability showed outlines of feet and boots. Kneeling to the ground, senses flared with knowledge. Edric moved to her side and looked down, not seeing what she was seeing.
“There were kobolds and dark elves. They picked something up and carried it away in that direction,” Faye pointed south.
“How can you tell?” Edric asked.
“Their tracks sink in deeper. I think what they were carrying was humanoid. The kobolds and dark elves moved as one so they are working together. I can still hear them moving.”
Claudia eyed a tall tree. Bending her legs, she silently made an impossible leap into the air. Hand and leg out, she gently took hold of the tree top and swayed with it. The rising moons basked the forest in ghostly light. The lancer gazed down, seeing the light touch stone in a clearing, less than a mile away. Shadowy figures emerged next to the standing stones, carrying something before disappearing into the shadows.
Claudia let go and jumped. The lancer landed silently back in the crater, the rest of the party looking to her.
“There are ruins less than a mile south from here. I saw at least two dozen shapes and some of them were carrying something. They disappeared into the ruins.”