Hello everyone. During corona I started writing my own fictional story for fun. So if anyone is interested here is the part 0.
Part 0 - The Revelation
Hurry up you bearded Bronz fool. If we are late it will cost us our beard. Dwarf yells while gripping his first
While running and huffing the dwarf in question responds: "I am terribly sorry I didn't expect his return so soon. I thought we will have more time before he makes his move. Throng when did you arrive?"
Relaxing his fist and quelling his anger Throng responds: I arrived this morning. Couldn't believe my dwarven ears when I heard he is back. This will change our plans immensely. Did you notify Silverin of the changes?
Bronz Responds: Yes, yes I did. He said we still move like we aimed to. The Moot is to assemble a year from now. Until then we have to secure enough votes for the election of the King. If we fail we are destined to meet the edge of the axe.
Throng nervously sweats hearing that and responds: Good. We must not waste any time otherwise he will take full advantage of that. When I heard he arrived I couldn't believe it. We thought he is busy fighting the Mukbar Jungle and that it will take him weeks until the comes. But for him to actually sign a peace deal with them in order to get here doesn't mean anything good for us.
Bronz while shocked asks: He signed a peace deal with the Mukbar Jungle? I wasn't aware of this! Dear Earth Mother does this mean his army is now ready to move?
Throng responds: His army is already here my friend. He invoked his right of heritage to get the hold of the royal capitol. He doesn't have the King's Hammer but he sure has its resting place.
Bronz with fear in his voice says: He is moving faster than we thought. He must be dealt with.
Throng with utter disbelief his ally said something so dumb says: You really wanna invoke the wrath of Fulgrim the Lava Drinker? You are a bigger fool than I thought. Now be silent we are entering the auditorium.
On the stage in his full war gear was Fulgrim the Lava Drinker. Son of the deceased King of Dwarfs. Unlike most Dwarfs he was a bit taller and to a regular dwarven citizen he seemed like a giant amongst them. Respected but Feared, Cruel but Just, Strong but Cautious. In the eyes of many he was the perfect option for the king. For others he was the last option to be a King. Such an imposing ruler would mean a tight grip over the Kingdom and many in the Dwarven Kingdom would prefer their intrigue and business to be out of the reach of court spies and court tax collectors. Now with his Father dead Fulgrim decides to address the nobles whether they are friend or a foe.
Standing on the center of the auditorium stage Fulgrim glances across the room with a look that would freeze any beast in its track. Not to scare this time but to establish who is the biggest player in the room currently. He speaks:
Fellow Dwarven Brethren. I don't address you as a grieving son because I am not one. I loved my father with all of my heart... But my father was a weak King.
Hums and chatter start as soon as those words are said but Fulgrim with the handle of his Hammer silences it with a quick slam to the floor and follow it by saying:
Please, save your girly chatter after you hear my words. I don't appreciate interruptions and lack of respect
Room goes silent and he continues:
My father believed this Kingdom is at its peak. That we have everything we need to live happily and proudly.
Under his rule we expanded borders to the Outback and that's it. That's all we expanded so far. To a measly pack of land filled with shit and swamps and few dwarven clans that don't even know what steel is. To him that was enough.
We went to a war with Mukbar for who knows which time and we got put into a stalemate for who knows which time. To him that was enough
He expanded roads in the Central Provinces and didn't bother to go beyond that. To him that was enough.
He reformed coinage but didn't bother to acquire new mines to cover for it. To him that was enough.
He signed peace with the 5 states and settled for peace on their terms. To him that was enough.
I now ask all of you:
Is that enough for you? Are you content with what we have? Do you feel proud when you make the offering to Earth Mother?
While talking his grip on his hammer tightens and his voice deepens
If you say yes then by all means you can leave this chamber and live a happy life. I wish you all the best and may Earth Mother bless you with a long life enough for you to realize your lack of ambition and lack or pride.
I am not satisfied. I will not sit back and watch this Kingdom decline more and more. I will show you all the full potential of what we can do. I am not your King but I am the Thane of my own Clan. I will use my right and I will show you true power. In one year time I, Fulgrim Lava Breaker, the Burned One, the Hammerer, the Rune Lord, The Slayer of Kairns and Tamer of Fire will conquer the Fort of Cloudpeak. And once I do what no one before me did I will return here and expect the Axe of the Kings to be placed into my arms. Until then I suggest you all to watch me. Those that do recognize me as the King follow me beyond the Vulkun Mountains through the gates of Cloudpeak. We will conquer the 5 states and take their riches and lands for us.
Many lords stayed in the chamber to discuss what they just heard. They couldn't believe the show off force they just witnessed. To some it felt like the Earth Mother blessed them with the King that will finally lead them beyond what they were lead before. To others this show of force just emboldened their resolve to never have a king like that. One Dwarf in particular was eager to leave the chamber fast...
Well these are utterly bad news. This wasn't just some bravado and an empty threat. He fully intends to invade us. Dammit. I must get this word to everyone and form a plan. First I need to get out of this Dwarven disguise. My fucking knees hurt from being this short and burly. Summoning portal is prepared so I must be fast here. The moment I cast the spell they will notice it. My shapeshifting is loosing power, I didn't consume any blood lately. Let's just keep it cool and make it to the chamber.
Hey Bronz! Wait a minute you bearded fool - Throng yells
Being caught off guard Bronz mumbles to his chin - Oh no, shit. Go away. I must hurry otherwise he will notice
Hey Bronz, I said wait. Bronz? Throng says confusingly
With no idea what to do in that moment the shapeshifter says - I need to use toilet i'll be - in that moment shapeshifting ability lost control for a bit and the voice broke - right back.
Shocked Trong yells - What? You there stop! Who are you?!? Guards! Guar - in the blink of an eye the dwarfs throat was slit by an ice dagger. Looking back at the attacker Dwarf saw a tall slender figure shape shifting.
Shapeshifter rushed to its chamber. They can hear guard running towards the scream their heard. Slamming the door shut they quickly start the summoning spell while putting on the clothes and weapons. Soon enough knocking on the door started and loud voices were heard behind it:
Hey open the gate! Open it now! You are under the arrest for the murder of Lord Throng. Open the gate now!
An uneasy feeling was felt by everyone like some beast was drawing close.
"Move you fools"
Lord Fullgrim?!? Guards exclaim surprisingly
With a fierce look in his eyes and bloodlust oozing from him Fulrgim says again:
I said move.
Shapeshifter hearing the voice of whos coming says:
Oh fuck
They quickly prepare for battle while checking for the portal to activate
Come on , just few more seconds until spell activates. Come on!
With a brutal strike of the hammer Fulgrim slammed the door of the chamber making a massive hole in the center. Dwarf Guard rushed the door only to be pierced by an Ice Shard through the hole in his helmet. Another shard was aimed at Fulgrim but he deflected it with his hammer taunting the Shapeshifter.
Is that everything Vampires can offer these days? Ice Shards and Shapeshifting? Go on , tell everyone of what was said here. It will make no difference. I will still conquer you all.
Shapeshifter after a moment of silence responds.
We will see about that you bearded idi...
Fullgrim with a suprised look on his face stops for a second only to realize he activated a trap. With breaking the door he also broke the Ice Seal that was put on it. Suddenly a block of ice burst from it creating a barrier.
Relieved but shaken the shapeshifter thinks to itself - That will do it. I should be safe now and focus o....
Massive strike shakes the room, followed by another strike. Such intense power caught shapeshifter off guard and threw them off balance. Looking back shapeshifter could see ice melting and bursting while enraged Fulgrim with Hammer encased in Fire breaking through it.
Shapeshifter saw the image of death itself in that moment.
With full swing behind him Fulgrim yells
Die you vampire scum!
With impeding death second away shapeshifter suddenly found themselves on the floor in front of a tall and pale figure.
Well well well sister. Looks like someone almost crapped their pants. - says the man while smirking
Relieved to be teleported before the killing blow Shapeshifter lays on her back lucky to be alive.
Ludwig... we are in deep shit. I must see the father right now. We should all talk. Tell him Fulgrim will throw all of his might at us.
I'm on it Eve... - Ludwig responds while helping her get up
Some time has passed and Eve went to her chamber to clean herself and prepare for the briefing.
Looking in the mirror Eve but couldn't shake the feeling of impending death she experienced. For someone that is hundreds of years old being near death shakes her to the core every single time. She think to herself - For someone that experienced several lifetimes I sure don't wanna die just yet.
After washing her face to get back into reality she makes her way to the gathering hall. Roaming through the halls of Drakenheim, her ancestral home, she can't but imagine will this ancient seat of power still stand if the worst comes. So much history are in the walls of Drakenheim countless books could be written from it. Lost in her thoughts she is suddenly greeted by her brother.
Wandering in thoughts again? Says Ludwig with a slight smile on his face.
One day not keeping your head straight will cost you your life.
Looking at Ludwig she just smiles slightly and says - I almost experienced those words few hours ago.
Ludwig while being a joker of the family always laughing saw the fear in the eyes of his sister. Even though they are older than the trees outside their home he will always consider her to be his little sister. He puts his arm on her shoulder and tells her: What happened happened, you are alive today , try to be alive tomorrow too.
Eve puts her arm on his and thanks him for those kinds words...
Did you notify father of my arrival? Eve asks feeling a bit more alive
Yes I did. I arrived several days ago myself and news aren't good on my side. Orcs are talking about a prophecy that will happen soon where they will be blessed by a new raid leader. I wanted to investigate further but their shamans started to suspect me. For a race dumb as a rock they are sure sensitive to magic. Combined with whatever your news will be this isn't good at all.
Did father say anything about what he plans to do? Eve asks curiously
No. Though if you ask me this situation is probably fight or flight. Knowing father he will probably choose fight first. Old man has a death wish that is for sure - Ludwig exhales while spinning his eyes
Entering the gathering hall the two are greeted by their family gathered there. Seeing the faces of all relatives both of them understood one thing. The situation they are in is dead serious. For something to gather everyone so quickly it must be important beyond anything they experienced.
Eve! Ludwig! It is so good to see you! - Person says behind them
Uncle Oleg! Both Eve and Ludwig say happily. We didn't see you in ages, how are you? How is it in the mountains of Vulkun?
Hot my dear - Oleg says while trying to hug both of them at the same time. Look at you two, you look more pale by the passing day - jokingly says Oleg.
Very funny uncle, you sure are lively for someone old as Fathers leg hair - On saying that Ludwig quickly glances the room to check if Father is there in order to be prepared for potential beat down.
HA HA HA look at him Eve, he sure talks big for someone that was scared of seagulls - Both Oleg and Eve start laughing while Ludwig's previous laughter turns silent.
After chatting with each other a bit the final player enters the room. Ivan Drakenheim, the Everlord of Vampires and the Lord of Drakenheim house of Vampires. Old as the rocks itself that built the castle he lives in he is considered as one of the greatest minds on the continent. Respected but feared, Just but Shrewd, Kind but Strong.
While still walking to his seat he says - Please everyone , have a seat. Time is of the essence and as much we would like to talk and enjoy this moment we must discuss something of great importance.
After everyone is seated he begins to tell the reason of his event but first he looks at his children. The look they saw wasn't the look of a man they knew, it is a look of a man that is backed into a corner. Ivan begins talking
As you all know we dispatched spies in major provinces we consider hostile. Intent was to gather information and act on events before they take place. This time I am afraid we don't have that luxury. Events that are going to happen cannot be avoided. My daughter Eve was dispatched to the Empire of Dwarfs. There, Fullgrim, son of the late King declared his intent to strike at us with his full might. We all know who Fullgrim is and because of it we know his words aren't just boasting to please the nobles. His words bear meaning far greater than than we can imagine. My son Ludwig was sent to the Land or Orcs, news from there aren't good either. Orcs are preparing for a prophecy that will bring a new raid leader to them. No doubt an army will be raised that will strike the continent with its full might. So we have Dwarfs from the East, Orcs from the south, an Ocean to the west. I am afraid to say North will be our enemy too. Lafayette can you join us please.
Entering the room wasn't a vampire, instead it was just a regular man. While not known to the most of the people in the room he was known to Eve, Ludwig and few other family members. Lafayette was their adoptive brother they rarely ever saw or talked to. His origin is unknown to them and as much their desire to meet their adoptive brother is big their curiosity is bigger.
Standing next to the Ivan Lafayette bows to everyone and greets them. Ivan proceeds to talk
Family, I would like you all to meet Lafayette. Some time ago on my travels I met his father, a low born hunter that barely supported his family but still was kind enough to offer me piece of his home and food to spend the night over when danger was lurking over me. His father knowing what I am treated me not like a vampire, but as a living being. I am old even for a vampire and the kindness of that man was something I will never forget. Only thing he asked in return is for me to take his son and give him a life where he doesn't need to scrape to make it tomorrow. I took Lafayette under my wing and gave him a home away from us. I didn't want him to live in this castle because I believed he deserved a life of a human , not the life of a vampire. I trained him in all arts I trained my children and he is part of this family just as my children are. I didn't hide him from you all out of fear you will dislike him or he will dislike you. Nor that I am ashamed of him or you all. I hid him because his time to join wasn't right. If you all have reservations about this voice them now.
No one in the room had reservations about Lafayette. They understood if someone like Ivan shows love and respect for someone then that person is worthy of their love and respect too. With relief in his voice he continues to talk but not before seeing a big smile on the faces of Eve and Ludwig. With no words being spoken he understood they are happy to have another relative.
Thank you everyone for understanding. Lafayette here was sent North to explore the Frozen Wastes. Lafayette if you will share with us your discoveries please.
Visibly nervous Lafayette looks at everyone and begins to explain the situation
First off I wanna thank everyone for welcoming me. It means a lot to be accepted into this family that provided so much to me and I hope I will be able to live up and repay you all the kindness you showed me. On my travels North we discovered a grave danger. All coastal villages we found were empty. No signs of fighting, no signs of any violence at all. Everything was if everyone disappeared in a blink of an eye. Food was still on tables, boats were docked, tools were left in the open. We began to explore nearby cave systems we explored before and what we found was death incarnate. Hidden underneath all of that ice and snow we found a life form unknown to us. They are taller than us and more burly. They are made out of rock like substances. Our weapons couldn't make a dent in them, only thing that worked is high impact magic, explosives and blows hard enough to shatter stone. Majority of my party got captured or was killed. We barely managed to escape the caves. Once we reached the boats we could hear a voice in our heads telling us - I can see you all , I can see where you are, I will come for you all too when your time comes. Some of the crew from the ship went mad hearing the voice and began running around and jumping of the ship. Who ever talked to us is dangerous and they will come for us for reasons unknown. I have no further information.
Silence drops on the room. Most of the individuals in the room have seen and heard a lot of things but a discovery of a new race hidden away was something rare even amongst them all. Ludwig swallowing his shock asks - What about... what about the villagers. Any sign of them?
Lafayette looks at Ivan , lovers his head and says - from what I saw while running they were turning villagers into one of their own...
If the situation wasn't as serious before. Everyone understood why everyone was summoned.
We are surrounded from all sides... we are doomed - Oleg says with fear in his voice.
After a brief silence, Ivan stands up and says
Not exactly... There is an idea... idea that we aren't surrounded. Not when West still is open...
Everyone look at Ivan in utter confusion.
Oleg asks - But to the West is nothing but sea?
Ivan looks at Oleg and says
My dear brother, you think that because no one here ever looked far enough to see if there is something other than the sea. That is why I have a plan. Plan to send 3 expeditions and find us a new home. Not only for us but for everyone on the continent. Please, if you will look to the map. I will further explain this.
Eve looks at Ludwig and quietly says - Did he go mad?
Ludwig responds - No , I just think he is desperate
Ivan opens the map of the known World and begins explaining the plan
When the 5 countries and us Vampires formed the alliance a plan was set in motion. We understood that our position is not a good one and while we might fight off Dwarves, Orcs, Pirates and any other foe we face our time will come. Our corner of the world is small and we don't have a room to expand anywhere. Soon enough we will deplete this land and our power will fade. That's why a plan was formed, we called it "Brave New World". Idea is that we send expeditions to the West in hopes of discovering new lands. We believe that since we can't reach Mukbar, Tellas and other nations from the East or South or North, we might as well try to reach them from the West. We have nothing to lose but everything to gain. Technology we currently posses will enable us to travel oceans. However to navigate them is an another problem. We have no knowledge how long the journey will take or what perils will we encounter. So in order to combat that we decided to form an expedition force comprised of not hundreds of soldiers but rather few highly qualified individuals. We need young but capable people on this that will use their ingenuity and youth to accomplish this. While the young explore we the Old Guard will stay here to prepare the defenses the best we can. We currently have 47 individuals to be asked to embark on this mission. It is unknown how many will accept. Well 50 individuals is better since Eve, Ludwig and Lafayette will lead the teams.
Eve sits quietly looking at Ludwig while glancing over Lafayette. Clearing her throat she says:
This plan... its hard to take in. It is a gamble with low odds for us. But I don't see any other way. I've seen the ferocity of dwarves and i am sure most of us felt it too during our countless battles. With Fulgrim leading them it became even more serious. And on top of that to have enemies in the North and South too is just too much. I accept this mission... I can only speak for myself
Without second of hesitation Ludwig responds:
I am in. Can't let you have all the fun.
Ludwig winks to his sister.
I will do my best. I owe all of you my life. It is only fair of me to give you all support you gave to me. Lafayette says with a clear burden on his shoulders
Ivan looks at them with a look only a proud father can have. He tells them:
You 3 are the pride of my life...
Now I am sure you 3 wanna catch up a bit but the time is of the essence here. We must move fast and organize everything. I will send ravens to the 5 countries to notify them of everything. They will track down individuals we need for the mission. However you 3 will also need to find certain people. We can't send a stranger, it must be someone those people know and can trust.
Ludwig - says Ivan
Yes father - responds Ludwig
I need you to track and find Vermilion. You know him and he will be more receptive of you than anyone here. Notify him of the plan and make your way with him to the city of Antiqua. That will be a rendezvous point for the expedition.
I am on it - Ludwig responds while immediately departing but not before stopping near Lafayette to greet him
I hope we will have time to catch up before the journey. If not the sea is vast anyway!
I hope the same! - Lafayette exclaims
Lafayette looks to Ivan
Lafayette your mission will be to bring Tamara. She is currently in Val'tir. Same as Ludwig, city of Antiqua.
Yes father. Lafayette bows and departs only to be stopped by Eve
It is good to finally meet you. When we get more time i expect us 3 to talk!
Lafayette overflowed with appreciation can't but put a big smile on his face and thank her.
Thank you, it means a lot to me to be accepted
Eve - Ivan says
You will go to Zara to a ball of the marquise Calante. There you will find Dante.
Hearing that name Eve looks at her father with disbelief.
Him?!?! He tried to kill us several times and I am pretty sure he still has a contract on my head!
Yes i am aware Eve, but he is currently in our employ so I doubt he will strike the hand that feeds him...
A bit relaxed Eve responds:
I still don't like it but okay. I will head there immediately.
With all 3 of them departing Ivan finally sits down. He is approached by Oleg that places his hand on Ivan's shoulder.
You raised them good, they are capable and they will accomplish this as long as they stick together. As for us, I wish I could say the same....
Ivan looks at Oleg and responds:
Yeah... I just hope they find a home for themselves. For us it is too late. We have a duty here we must fulfil. I will meet with 5 rulers to discuss strategy. We must give them as much time as we can. By my calculations we have around 2 years before the war starts with Dwarves. Unknown about Orcs and this new race.
Oleg seeing his brother vividly tired says:
It will be pointless for me to say anything about you resting.... I will head back to Vulkun Mountains and start preparing everything. Be strong brother.
Ivan taps the hand on his shoulder and nods
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Thanks to anyone that read it so far. I'll appreciate any criticism if you have it.
Also if you have any questions feel free to ask!
Part 0 - The Revelation
Hurry up you bearded Bronz fool. If we are late it will cost us our beard. Dwarf yells while gripping his first
While running and huffing the dwarf in question responds: "I am terribly sorry I didn't expect his return so soon. I thought we will have more time before he makes his move. Throng when did you arrive?"
Relaxing his fist and quelling his anger Throng responds: I arrived this morning. Couldn't believe my dwarven ears when I heard he is back. This will change our plans immensely. Did you notify Silverin of the changes?
Bronz Responds: Yes, yes I did. He said we still move like we aimed to. The Moot is to assemble a year from now. Until then we have to secure enough votes for the election of the King. If we fail we are destined to meet the edge of the axe.
Throng nervously sweats hearing that and responds: Good. We must not waste any time otherwise he will take full advantage of that. When I heard he arrived I couldn't believe it. We thought he is busy fighting the Mukbar Jungle and that it will take him weeks until the comes. But for him to actually sign a peace deal with them in order to get here doesn't mean anything good for us.
Bronz while shocked asks: He signed a peace deal with the Mukbar Jungle? I wasn't aware of this! Dear Earth Mother does this mean his army is now ready to move?
Throng responds: His army is already here my friend. He invoked his right of heritage to get the hold of the royal capitol. He doesn't have the King's Hammer but he sure has its resting place.
Bronz with fear in his voice says: He is moving faster than we thought. He must be dealt with.
Throng with utter disbelief his ally said something so dumb says: You really wanna invoke the wrath of Fulgrim the Lava Drinker? You are a bigger fool than I thought. Now be silent we are entering the auditorium.
On the stage in his full war gear was Fulgrim the Lava Drinker. Son of the deceased King of Dwarfs. Unlike most Dwarfs he was a bit taller and to a regular dwarven citizen he seemed like a giant amongst them. Respected but Feared, Cruel but Just, Strong but Cautious. In the eyes of many he was the perfect option for the king. For others he was the last option to be a King. Such an imposing ruler would mean a tight grip over the Kingdom and many in the Dwarven Kingdom would prefer their intrigue and business to be out of the reach of court spies and court tax collectors. Now with his Father dead Fulgrim decides to address the nobles whether they are friend or a foe.
Standing on the center of the auditorium stage Fulgrim glances across the room with a look that would freeze any beast in its track. Not to scare this time but to establish who is the biggest player in the room currently. He speaks:
Fellow Dwarven Brethren. I don't address you as a grieving son because I am not one. I loved my father with all of my heart... But my father was a weak King.
Hums and chatter start as soon as those words are said but Fulgrim with the handle of his Hammer silences it with a quick slam to the floor and follow it by saying:
Please, save your girly chatter after you hear my words. I don't appreciate interruptions and lack of respect
Room goes silent and he continues:
My father believed this Kingdom is at its peak. That we have everything we need to live happily and proudly.
Under his rule we expanded borders to the Outback and that's it. That's all we expanded so far. To a measly pack of land filled with shit and swamps and few dwarven clans that don't even know what steel is. To him that was enough.
We went to a war with Mukbar for who knows which time and we got put into a stalemate for who knows which time. To him that was enough
He expanded roads in the Central Provinces and didn't bother to go beyond that. To him that was enough.
He reformed coinage but didn't bother to acquire new mines to cover for it. To him that was enough.
He signed peace with the 5 states and settled for peace on their terms. To him that was enough.
I now ask all of you:
Is that enough for you? Are you content with what we have? Do you feel proud when you make the offering to Earth Mother?
While talking his grip on his hammer tightens and his voice deepens
If you say yes then by all means you can leave this chamber and live a happy life. I wish you all the best and may Earth Mother bless you with a long life enough for you to realize your lack of ambition and lack or pride.
I am not satisfied. I will not sit back and watch this Kingdom decline more and more. I will show you all the full potential of what we can do. I am not your King but I am the Thane of my own Clan. I will use my right and I will show you true power. In one year time I, Fulgrim Lava Breaker, the Burned One, the Hammerer, the Rune Lord, The Slayer of Kairns and Tamer of Fire will conquer the Fort of Cloudpeak. And once I do what no one before me did I will return here and expect the Axe of the Kings to be placed into my arms. Until then I suggest you all to watch me. Those that do recognize me as the King follow me beyond the Vulkun Mountains through the gates of Cloudpeak. We will conquer the 5 states and take their riches and lands for us.
Many lords stayed in the chamber to discuss what they just heard. They couldn't believe the show off force they just witnessed. To some it felt like the Earth Mother blessed them with the King that will finally lead them beyond what they were lead before. To others this show of force just emboldened their resolve to never have a king like that. One Dwarf in particular was eager to leave the chamber fast...
Well these are utterly bad news. This wasn't just some bravado and an empty threat. He fully intends to invade us. Dammit. I must get this word to everyone and form a plan. First I need to get out of this Dwarven disguise. My fucking knees hurt from being this short and burly. Summoning portal is prepared so I must be fast here. The moment I cast the spell they will notice it. My shapeshifting is loosing power, I didn't consume any blood lately. Let's just keep it cool and make it to the chamber.
Hey Bronz! Wait a minute you bearded fool - Throng yells
Being caught off guard Bronz mumbles to his chin - Oh no, shit. Go away. I must hurry otherwise he will notice
Hey Bronz, I said wait. Bronz? Throng says confusingly
With no idea what to do in that moment the shapeshifter says - I need to use toilet i'll be - in that moment shapeshifting ability lost control for a bit and the voice broke - right back.
Shocked Trong yells - What? You there stop! Who are you?!? Guards! Guar - in the blink of an eye the dwarfs throat was slit by an ice dagger. Looking back at the attacker Dwarf saw a tall slender figure shape shifting.
Shapeshifter rushed to its chamber. They can hear guard running towards the scream their heard. Slamming the door shut they quickly start the summoning spell while putting on the clothes and weapons. Soon enough knocking on the door started and loud voices were heard behind it:
Hey open the gate! Open it now! You are under the arrest for the murder of Lord Throng. Open the gate now!
An uneasy feeling was felt by everyone like some beast was drawing close.
"Move you fools"
Lord Fullgrim?!? Guards exclaim surprisingly
With a fierce look in his eyes and bloodlust oozing from him Fulrgim says again:
I said move.
Shapeshifter hearing the voice of whos coming says:
Oh fuck
They quickly prepare for battle while checking for the portal to activate
Come on , just few more seconds until spell activates. Come on!
With a brutal strike of the hammer Fulgrim slammed the door of the chamber making a massive hole in the center. Dwarf Guard rushed the door only to be pierced by an Ice Shard through the hole in his helmet. Another shard was aimed at Fulgrim but he deflected it with his hammer taunting the Shapeshifter.
Is that everything Vampires can offer these days? Ice Shards and Shapeshifting? Go on , tell everyone of what was said here. It will make no difference. I will still conquer you all.
Shapeshifter after a moment of silence responds.
We will see about that you bearded idi...
Fullgrim with a suprised look on his face stops for a second only to realize he activated a trap. With breaking the door he also broke the Ice Seal that was put on it. Suddenly a block of ice burst from it creating a barrier.
Relieved but shaken the shapeshifter thinks to itself - That will do it. I should be safe now and focus o....
Massive strike shakes the room, followed by another strike. Such intense power caught shapeshifter off guard and threw them off balance. Looking back shapeshifter could see ice melting and bursting while enraged Fulgrim with Hammer encased in Fire breaking through it.
Shapeshifter saw the image of death itself in that moment.
With full swing behind him Fulgrim yells
Die you vampire scum!
With impeding death second away shapeshifter suddenly found themselves on the floor in front of a tall and pale figure.
Well well well sister. Looks like someone almost crapped their pants. - says the man while smirking
Relieved to be teleported before the killing blow Shapeshifter lays on her back lucky to be alive.
Ludwig... we are in deep shit. I must see the father right now. We should all talk. Tell him Fulgrim will throw all of his might at us.
I'm on it Eve... - Ludwig responds while helping her get up
Some time has passed and Eve went to her chamber to clean herself and prepare for the briefing.
Looking in the mirror Eve but couldn't shake the feeling of impending death she experienced. For someone that is hundreds of years old being near death shakes her to the core every single time. She think to herself - For someone that experienced several lifetimes I sure don't wanna die just yet.
After washing her face to get back into reality she makes her way to the gathering hall. Roaming through the halls of Drakenheim, her ancestral home, she can't but imagine will this ancient seat of power still stand if the worst comes. So much history are in the walls of Drakenheim countless books could be written from it. Lost in her thoughts she is suddenly greeted by her brother.
Wandering in thoughts again? Says Ludwig with a slight smile on his face.
One day not keeping your head straight will cost you your life.
Looking at Ludwig she just smiles slightly and says - I almost experienced those words few hours ago.
Ludwig while being a joker of the family always laughing saw the fear in the eyes of his sister. Even though they are older than the trees outside their home he will always consider her to be his little sister. He puts his arm on her shoulder and tells her: What happened happened, you are alive today , try to be alive tomorrow too.
Eve puts her arm on his and thanks him for those kinds words...
Did you notify father of my arrival? Eve asks feeling a bit more alive
Yes I did. I arrived several days ago myself and news aren't good on my side. Orcs are talking about a prophecy that will happen soon where they will be blessed by a new raid leader. I wanted to investigate further but their shamans started to suspect me. For a race dumb as a rock they are sure sensitive to magic. Combined with whatever your news will be this isn't good at all.
Did father say anything about what he plans to do? Eve asks curiously
No. Though if you ask me this situation is probably fight or flight. Knowing father he will probably choose fight first. Old man has a death wish that is for sure - Ludwig exhales while spinning his eyes
Entering the gathering hall the two are greeted by their family gathered there. Seeing the faces of all relatives both of them understood one thing. The situation they are in is dead serious. For something to gather everyone so quickly it must be important beyond anything they experienced.
Eve! Ludwig! It is so good to see you! - Person says behind them
Uncle Oleg! Both Eve and Ludwig say happily. We didn't see you in ages, how are you? How is it in the mountains of Vulkun?
Hot my dear - Oleg says while trying to hug both of them at the same time. Look at you two, you look more pale by the passing day - jokingly says Oleg.
Very funny uncle, you sure are lively for someone old as Fathers leg hair - On saying that Ludwig quickly glances the room to check if Father is there in order to be prepared for potential beat down.
HA HA HA look at him Eve, he sure talks big for someone that was scared of seagulls - Both Oleg and Eve start laughing while Ludwig's previous laughter turns silent.
After chatting with each other a bit the final player enters the room. Ivan Drakenheim, the Everlord of Vampires and the Lord of Drakenheim house of Vampires. Old as the rocks itself that built the castle he lives in he is considered as one of the greatest minds on the continent. Respected but feared, Just but Shrewd, Kind but Strong.
While still walking to his seat he says - Please everyone , have a seat. Time is of the essence and as much we would like to talk and enjoy this moment we must discuss something of great importance.
After everyone is seated he begins to tell the reason of his event but first he looks at his children. The look they saw wasn't the look of a man they knew, it is a look of a man that is backed into a corner. Ivan begins talking
As you all know we dispatched spies in major provinces we consider hostile. Intent was to gather information and act on events before they take place. This time I am afraid we don't have that luxury. Events that are going to happen cannot be avoided. My daughter Eve was dispatched to the Empire of Dwarfs. There, Fullgrim, son of the late King declared his intent to strike at us with his full might. We all know who Fullgrim is and because of it we know his words aren't just boasting to please the nobles. His words bear meaning far greater than than we can imagine. My son Ludwig was sent to the Land or Orcs, news from there aren't good either. Orcs are preparing for a prophecy that will bring a new raid leader to them. No doubt an army will be raised that will strike the continent with its full might. So we have Dwarfs from the East, Orcs from the south, an Ocean to the west. I am afraid to say North will be our enemy too. Lafayette can you join us please.
Entering the room wasn't a vampire, instead it was just a regular man. While not known to the most of the people in the room he was known to Eve, Ludwig and few other family members. Lafayette was their adoptive brother they rarely ever saw or talked to. His origin is unknown to them and as much their desire to meet their adoptive brother is big their curiosity is bigger.
Standing next to the Ivan Lafayette bows to everyone and greets them. Ivan proceeds to talk
Family, I would like you all to meet Lafayette. Some time ago on my travels I met his father, a low born hunter that barely supported his family but still was kind enough to offer me piece of his home and food to spend the night over when danger was lurking over me. His father knowing what I am treated me not like a vampire, but as a living being. I am old even for a vampire and the kindness of that man was something I will never forget. Only thing he asked in return is for me to take his son and give him a life where he doesn't need to scrape to make it tomorrow. I took Lafayette under my wing and gave him a home away from us. I didn't want him to live in this castle because I believed he deserved a life of a human , not the life of a vampire. I trained him in all arts I trained my children and he is part of this family just as my children are. I didn't hide him from you all out of fear you will dislike him or he will dislike you. Nor that I am ashamed of him or you all. I hid him because his time to join wasn't right. If you all have reservations about this voice them now.
No one in the room had reservations about Lafayette. They understood if someone like Ivan shows love and respect for someone then that person is worthy of their love and respect too. With relief in his voice he continues to talk but not before seeing a big smile on the faces of Eve and Ludwig. With no words being spoken he understood they are happy to have another relative.
Thank you everyone for understanding. Lafayette here was sent North to explore the Frozen Wastes. Lafayette if you will share with us your discoveries please.
Visibly nervous Lafayette looks at everyone and begins to explain the situation
First off I wanna thank everyone for welcoming me. It means a lot to be accepted into this family that provided so much to me and I hope I will be able to live up and repay you all the kindness you showed me. On my travels North we discovered a grave danger. All coastal villages we found were empty. No signs of fighting, no signs of any violence at all. Everything was if everyone disappeared in a blink of an eye. Food was still on tables, boats were docked, tools were left in the open. We began to explore nearby cave systems we explored before and what we found was death incarnate. Hidden underneath all of that ice and snow we found a life form unknown to us. They are taller than us and more burly. They are made out of rock like substances. Our weapons couldn't make a dent in them, only thing that worked is high impact magic, explosives and blows hard enough to shatter stone. Majority of my party got captured or was killed. We barely managed to escape the caves. Once we reached the boats we could hear a voice in our heads telling us - I can see you all , I can see where you are, I will come for you all too when your time comes. Some of the crew from the ship went mad hearing the voice and began running around and jumping of the ship. Who ever talked to us is dangerous and they will come for us for reasons unknown. I have no further information.
Silence drops on the room. Most of the individuals in the room have seen and heard a lot of things but a discovery of a new race hidden away was something rare even amongst them all. Ludwig swallowing his shock asks - What about... what about the villagers. Any sign of them?
Lafayette looks at Ivan , lovers his head and says - from what I saw while running they were turning villagers into one of their own...
If the situation wasn't as serious before. Everyone understood why everyone was summoned.
We are surrounded from all sides... we are doomed - Oleg says with fear in his voice.
After a brief silence, Ivan stands up and says
Not exactly... There is an idea... idea that we aren't surrounded. Not when West still is open...
Everyone look at Ivan in utter confusion.
Oleg asks - But to the West is nothing but sea?
Ivan looks at Oleg and says
My dear brother, you think that because no one here ever looked far enough to see if there is something other than the sea. That is why I have a plan. Plan to send 3 expeditions and find us a new home. Not only for us but for everyone on the continent. Please, if you will look to the map. I will further explain this.
Eve looks at Ludwig and quietly says - Did he go mad?
Ludwig responds - No , I just think he is desperate
Ivan opens the map of the known World and begins explaining the plan
When the 5 countries and us Vampires formed the alliance a plan was set in motion. We understood that our position is not a good one and while we might fight off Dwarves, Orcs, Pirates and any other foe we face our time will come. Our corner of the world is small and we don't have a room to expand anywhere. Soon enough we will deplete this land and our power will fade. That's why a plan was formed, we called it "Brave New World". Idea is that we send expeditions to the West in hopes of discovering new lands. We believe that since we can't reach Mukbar, Tellas and other nations from the East or South or North, we might as well try to reach them from the West. We have nothing to lose but everything to gain. Technology we currently posses will enable us to travel oceans. However to navigate them is an another problem. We have no knowledge how long the journey will take or what perils will we encounter. So in order to combat that we decided to form an expedition force comprised of not hundreds of soldiers but rather few highly qualified individuals. We need young but capable people on this that will use their ingenuity and youth to accomplish this. While the young explore we the Old Guard will stay here to prepare the defenses the best we can. We currently have 47 individuals to be asked to embark on this mission. It is unknown how many will accept. Well 50 individuals is better since Eve, Ludwig and Lafayette will lead the teams.
Eve sits quietly looking at Ludwig while glancing over Lafayette. Clearing her throat she says:
This plan... its hard to take in. It is a gamble with low odds for us. But I don't see any other way. I've seen the ferocity of dwarves and i am sure most of us felt it too during our countless battles. With Fulgrim leading them it became even more serious. And on top of that to have enemies in the North and South too is just too much. I accept this mission... I can only speak for myself
Without second of hesitation Ludwig responds:
I am in. Can't let you have all the fun.
Ludwig winks to his sister.
I will do my best. I owe all of you my life. It is only fair of me to give you all support you gave to me. Lafayette says with a clear burden on his shoulders
Ivan looks at them with a look only a proud father can have. He tells them:
You 3 are the pride of my life...
Now I am sure you 3 wanna catch up a bit but the time is of the essence here. We must move fast and organize everything. I will send ravens to the 5 countries to notify them of everything. They will track down individuals we need for the mission. However you 3 will also need to find certain people. We can't send a stranger, it must be someone those people know and can trust.
Ludwig - says Ivan
Yes father - responds Ludwig
I need you to track and find Vermilion. You know him and he will be more receptive of you than anyone here. Notify him of the plan and make your way with him to the city of Antiqua. That will be a rendezvous point for the expedition.
I am on it - Ludwig responds while immediately departing but not before stopping near Lafayette to greet him
I hope we will have time to catch up before the journey. If not the sea is vast anyway!
I hope the same! - Lafayette exclaims
Lafayette looks to Ivan
Lafayette your mission will be to bring Tamara. She is currently in Val'tir. Same as Ludwig, city of Antiqua.
Yes father. Lafayette bows and departs only to be stopped by Eve
It is good to finally meet you. When we get more time i expect us 3 to talk!
Lafayette overflowed with appreciation can't but put a big smile on his face and thank her.
Thank you, it means a lot to me to be accepted
Eve - Ivan says
You will go to Zara to a ball of the marquise Calante. There you will find Dante.
Hearing that name Eve looks at her father with disbelief.
Him?!?! He tried to kill us several times and I am pretty sure he still has a contract on my head!
Yes i am aware Eve, but he is currently in our employ so I doubt he will strike the hand that feeds him...
A bit relaxed Eve responds:
I still don't like it but okay. I will head there immediately.
With all 3 of them departing Ivan finally sits down. He is approached by Oleg that places his hand on Ivan's shoulder.
You raised them good, they are capable and they will accomplish this as long as they stick together. As for us, I wish I could say the same....
Ivan looks at Oleg and responds:
Yeah... I just hope they find a home for themselves. For us it is too late. We have a duty here we must fulfil. I will meet with 5 rulers to discuss strategy. We must give them as much time as we can. By my calculations we have around 2 years before the war starts with Dwarves. Unknown about Orcs and this new race.
Oleg seeing his brother vividly tired says:
It will be pointless for me to say anything about you resting.... I will head back to Vulkun Mountains and start preparing everything. Be strong brother.
Ivan taps the hand on his shoulder and nods
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Thanks to anyone that read it so far. I'll appreciate any criticism if you have it.
Also if you have any questions feel free to ask!
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