Legends of Belariath

Vin Hellkar

A Knight's Honor

A Knight's Honor By Vin Hellkar

Shannon slashes her wooden practice sword angrily at Vin's chest, the knight easily deflected her sword and swings the wooden blade to her neck. Stopping close to her flesh, the knight smiled. "Never lose your head in anger," said Vin to the young woman. "You lose your head this way."

The blond woman gazes at Vin with an irritated look. "It's impossible to win with you," the young woman protested.

It was a fine day to practice outside the knight's cottage. Clear blue sky, the sun shining brightly, and the breeze of the wind keeping the two cool from all the activities. To the north of his land lay wooded forest and beyond that is the dense forest of the imperial preserve. West of his land lay the mountain ranges of Valencia, to the south is the grassland along with the river stream that splits his land into two.

"You two rest and take a break," Zhakar Xuru called out to them from the two story stone cottage's window. The elderly high mage shook his head. He knows that Sharon McHanna needs more training to be an effective warrior and though Vin Hellkar is a knight who mastered the art of soldiering; the knight is far from finish in learning.

A few weeks have passed since Shannon's aunt granted guardianship to the knight and since then she has been trained in the art of the sword either by the mage Shakar Xuru, the elven ranger Drakh Dye, the barbarian warrior Grekhor Longshaft, and by the knight himself. Shannon has taken her lessons well, learning and advancing from the basic form of sword fighting to the advance level. Though the young woman learns fast, she have a problem with her temper. Easily provoked, angered, or irritated, Shannon losses her sparring lessons in this manner.

The knight entered his two story stone cottage, the wooden sword cradled in his right arm. Wearing a dark olive shirt with matching trouser, along with his boots. Vin take a seat on one of the comfortable couches in the reception hall. Shannon, in her dark leather armor and brown trousers, with the boots bought from Thalis followed suit. Exhausted she plops on the next couch breathing rapidly. The elderly man brought them a tray with three chalices, a glass bottle of chilled red wine, a loaf of bread, a ball of cheese, and a couple of small plates of olive oil fried salmon roes. The mage placed the tray on the lowered table, pouring the chalices with chilled wine, and passing the drinking vessel to the knight and then to the young woman. Raising the chalice to his lips, the elderly snow haired and bearded man sips his drink and looked at the two.

"You have to be more focused and not let your temper flare, Shannon," instructed Zhakar. "If you are faced by a true swordsman and we are not there to help you, I'm afraid that we will only find your dead body. Or worse be enslaved."

"Vin have a lifetime advantage on me, Zhakar," she said as an excuse. "I've not lived my childhood as a page, or a squire, and never had dream of becoming a knight. His skills is beyond me."

The old wise mage chuckled, "Child you're quite silly. It is not his training that beats you, tis your temper."

Sipping his wine, Vin placed the chalice on the table, grabs a piece of bread, a ball of cheese, and spread the salmon roe on his bread. Taking a few bites, he washed down the food with red cool wine. He eyes the blond young woman and smiles. "You can be a great swords woman, Shannon. If you can overcome your temper.

"I'm trying," said Shannon grabbing a drink to cool her throat and quench her thirst. She reaches for the bread and salmon roe, mimicking Vin, the young woman eats her food and takes a bite of the cheese.

"That should be enough training lesson for the day Shannon," Zhakar finished his snack and his chalice of wine. "Read your book and copy the summary," the high mage hands her a thick leather bound book, a dozen sheet of paper, leather quill, and an ink well.

"All of this?" with widen eyes she asked her tutor.

"Only the first three chapters," replied the mage. "Remember, I will be checking on you."

Shannon sighs as she gets up from the couch with book and writing materials in hand along with the wooden long sword, then walked out of the reception hall. She make her way to the dining room where there is a table and chair for her to be comfortable, takes a seat, opens the leather book, and starts to read. Vin Hellkar with his party have promised to tutor and educate the young woman as best that he can. The aunt have agreed and if needed be, have volunteered to help with the expenses. With Shannon in the knight's home, the place became livelier and less lonesome. Though the knight treats her with full respect and see her as a younger sister, the mage suspects there is more. In rare occasions, the young woman have left an impression that she takes a liking for the knight.

The two men watched Shannon leave with her books and writing gear. Zhakar looked at the knight and nods his head. "Sooner or later you will be facing magical users on your own," he said to him. "You have to be ready for that day, Vin."

Swirling the wine in his chalice, the knight nods, admitting to his own weaknesses. "It is not just that Zhakar," said Vin. "If I'm faced by a seasoned warrior, surely I would have a difficult time dealing with that."

Sipping his wine and draining Zhakar's drink, the high mage smiled at the boyish knight. "My boy all you ought to do is train and train harder."

The knight nods. "Today will be a busy day," informed Vin. "I will have to deliver all those smoked meat to Nanthalion."

"Ah yes," the elderly man shakes his head. "You always have a keen sense in making an extra income."

"To pay for a good tutor such as you, Zhakar, I have to," said the knight. "Besides I have given my word to Shannon's aunt that she will be educated with the best."

"True and I may as well accompany you into town as I too must get home."

* * *

Clad in his mithril chain mail armor, Vin Hellkar drives his warhorse onward toward Nanthalion's buzzing market. His black warhose secured to a wagon filled with stored and treated meat. To the fron is the knight and beside him, the blond young woman. Zhakar, did not linger far on his gray mount. The elderly high mage manage to keep an eye on the two and often, haggles with the local nobles, and shop owners for Vin's smoked. This ensures that the boyish knight receive a fair price for the work he has done.

"Seems like the Inn and a few noble houses are interested with your product," Grekhor greeted from his butcher stall. The hulking towering barbarian warrior keeps his job in the town as an extra income. A job for a freelance warrior is not warranted most of the time, and yet when they are needed, the pay makes up for the long wait.

"If that is true my barbarian friend, then I should be finish selling off all these meat before sundown."

The knight reaches back and toss his large bulky friend a few pounds of smoked warthog bacon. "My compliments to you and your family, Grekhor."

"Thank you Vin," the barbarian bows courteously and respectfully to his friend.

Shannon along with Vin hops off the wagon and he secured his warhorse. The two walks into the bazaar among one of the rows of stalls. Zhakar can be seen waving for the two to keep up and hurry to one of the stalls alongside Grekhor's. Hurrying their pace, the two finally met up with the elderly man. To the knight's surprise, a noble lady greeted them there. Normally only the noble house's representative will be there to conduct business with the locals. This day he is given an honor to deal with a noble.

"Knight Vin Hellkar," said the Zhakar. "Meet the noble lady Ehlanya of the house Thuroz."

The knight bowed gracefully and Shannon McHanna mimicked his gesture.

"Please don't bow," giggled the brunette noble. "I do work for a living after all."

"Vin, I've mentioned to the noble lady that you love to hunt," the elderly man explained. "With those time you spent hunting, you have honed your skill in tracking, stealth, and craftiness. Also, you have a talent to prepare the meat of your hunted prey. The noble lady here will like to compensate you for all the meat you have manage to prepare."

"The noble lady wanted to buy all the meat in the wagon?"

"And why not?" asked the lady Ehlanya. "Zhakar here have brought me a sample of your smoked meat. It will be a fine addition to the Inn's menu."

"I'm only in shock my lady," said Vin. "Usually I sell the meat for the noble guards provision."

"Forget those nobles and just deal with me," the brunette woman handed Vin a medium bag filled with mehrial coins. From the look and weight of the bag, the noble woman is willing to buy his stock for 500 coins or maybe more.

The knight accepted and bows once more. "Where would you want me to deliver the meat products?"

Noble lady Ehlanya of the house Thuroz called for her head servant and instructed, a male wolven. She instructed the gray furred wolven to take the other servants and unload the wagon outside of the bazaar; and to bring the cargo to their own wagon for transport. "No need sir knight. However, your presence is needed in the inn," she informed Vin Hellkar. "Another noble requires your assistance."

"Assistance in what manner?"

"Your soldiering expertise of course," the brunette noble replied. "Many of the noble houses have heard of your exploits. You have not even stayed in this lands for a few months and manage to undertake good deeds."

"Lady Ehlanya, I assure you when I say that whatever I have done, I did it so I can provide for myself.

"What did I tell you Ehlanya," Zhakar smiled looking at the noble woman then at the knight. "Humble isn't he?"

"Boyish, a bit naïve, humble, and yet skilled in warfare," said the noble lady. "Such an interesting combination."

"I require my party to be present and that they are included in this matter, noble lady Ehlanya."

"Bring your party with you in the inn at sundown," she said and starts to walk out followed by her bodyguards and servants. "Zhakar is right, you are an intriguing boyish knight."

The knight watches her leave along with her retinue and when his gaze turned to Shannon, she shot him a jealous look.

"I will inform Grekhor of the meeting," the mage is the first to break the silence. "Drakh our elf friend has been notified already."

Before Vin can ask how he have managed to talk with Drakh so quickly, the high mage taps his temple. Signaling he did so with his messaging spell. The knight nods.

"Then we shall all meet in the inn by sundown."

* * *

The inn, packed with patrons of different races where people from near and far go to just to have a time of their lives. Drinking, playing games of chance, and listening to the bards and musicians that travel throughout the realm. An elven noble dressed in magi scarlet robes laugh heartily as he drinks from the golden goblet. The bard kept up with her comedic story while the audience applauds and laugh. A gust of cool wind enters the inn as the door swung open; a knight, an elven ranger, a barbarian warrior, a young blond woman, and an elderly high mage steps inside. Zhakar motions for the group to follow; snaking around the other booths till the mage finally stops.

"Good evening Noble Rah' Ehl," said the mage bowing in respect for the noble and dock master of Thalis.

The blue hue of the elven noble became more prominent as Vin and the rest of his party got closed enough to the man. He bows following Zhakar's example and so did the rest of his group.

"Forget all this formalities," said the elven noble. "Sit, drink, eat, and be merry."

The five took a seat and their goblets are filled with red wine by the inn servants. All the pleasantry is the courtesy of the noble Rah' Ehl. "This is the knight Vin Hellkar," pointed the elderly high mage as the knight nods his head and then sips his wine.

"Ah I finally get to meet the young knight," Rah' Ehl tore a piece of bread, dips it in butter sauce, and take the food in his mouth chewing. "I have some problems in Thalis. Zhakar here thinks you're the knight for the job."

"It is truly kind of you to offer this employment to me, oh noble sir," commented the knight. "But, are they not knights available within the port town's vicinity?"

"The whispers are right about you," the noble responded. "You are humble. Anyway, I've sent many knights and their retinue before and none have ever been heard from again."

"Well Rah' Ehl, lest you forget, there are some discovered remains of those knights and men at arms."

Vin could hardly believe what he is hearing from Zhakar. How would a man who is like a father to him freely volunteer himself and their group to something so dangerous. "Why would you think that my party and I are suitable for this job?"

"You have a lot more to learn about this realm then," said the mage. "Those who calls themselves knights are not what you think they are, Vin. Many are ill trained and dream of easy glory."

"I've forgotten that you are a foreigner in our realm," Rah' Ehl stated. "Those knights who have answered my call were not skilled enough to get the job done. Hence, I've traveled many leagues here to Nanthalion to seek a skilled knight."

"There is whisper in Thalis that an ancient cult have been resurrected. These fanatics have raided and captured many citizens around Thalis," explained the elven noble. "Captured and sacrificed."

"Why not send your personal army to crush the cult?"

"They melt within the populace," replied Rah' Ehl. "It is quite difficult to just send my personal legion and not knowing who they are."

"I see," Vin lifts up the goblet to his lips and takes a long drink.

"Since we are a small group, it will be less difficult for us to move around, search for these cult members, and finally stop their activities," said Drakh Dye, an elven ranger.

"Vin, I agree with Drakh," added Grekhor Longshaft, the knight's barbarian warrior friend.

"The work is in Thalis, this will give me the chance to visit my aunt again," comment Shannon McHanna.

The purple skinned noble took a look at each member of Vin's group and manages a smile. "Looks like your party is up to this job then."

"Seems like it," said the knight. "When do we leave?"

The noble Rha' Ehl raises his goblet to the group and drains the wine. "As soon as you can," replied the noble. "Don't worry about your traveling expenses, everything will be taken care of."

"In that case and if there are no objections, we can leave at dawn."

Vin Hellkar looked at each man and then to Shannon, none have objected. "We shall meet tomorrow in my home at Valencia," said the knight.

The five stood up and bows their respect to the elven noble of Thalis. "I will be heading back to Thalis via the river tomorrow evening. Perhaps you all can accompany me," Rha' Ehl offered.

"We shall meet you on the river docks then," Zhakar spoke for the group.

"Then I shall see you all tomorrow," the noble return the bow as the five headed to the inn's door.

* * *

Vin's two story stone cottage hugs the two parcels of land that the knight owns. In the middle is a stream with flowing water, cool, fresh, and clean. His land is filled with lush green grassland in one end and a wooded forest in the other. A large coral teeming with cattle covers a quarter of the grassland. Further north lies the two story stone cottage, next to is a stone barn where horses are kept, a large green house, and a huge smoke house is build parallel to the barn. The rising sun shines a golden ray inside Vin's main bed chamber; peering through the room's glass window, the ray of sun basked the sleeping knight's body. His eyes started to open as he sits up on the bed and rubs his eyes.

"Vin, the sun is up," Shannon knocks on the bed chamber's wooden oak door. "Time to get up and get ready."

"Alright, I hear you girl," replied the boyish knight as he lazily stands up, gathered his clothing in his drawer along with a towel, and then walked to the door.

"Good morning there sleepy head," greeted the young blond woman as the knight opened the door and stepped out. "You woke up a bit late this morning."

The knight smiled at Shannon and nods. "I guess was tired more than I've realized," he replied.

Vin headed down the flight of stairs and out of the cottage. Making his way to the large bath house, he opened the door and enters. Putting his fresh clothes and towel down, the knight bathed and clean himself. After his hygiene and clothing himself, Vin dons on his mithril chainmail armor, the gauntlets of mithril, and mithril greaves. With his riding boots on, he headed back inside the stone cottage. Closing the door, he noticed that his shield with his sheathed mithril long sword is placed by the door. Smiling, knowing that Shannon had a hand in with his preparation, the knight walks towards the kitchen.

"We are over here Vin," a familiar male voice called out. He hear the voice emitting from the dining room.

Reaching he dining room, the knight is surprised to see everyone there. Zhakar Xuru, Drakh Dye, Grekhor Longshaft, and Shannon McHanna kept the elven noble company as they waited for him. The scarlet skinned elven noble sips a chalice filled with fine red wine. His right hand wrapped around the glass vessel, he swirls the drink and takes another sip. It was good to know that Shannon at least have an idea of offering fine beverages to their noble guest. On the dining table, spread an assortment of food to break their fast.

"I like your taste in wine," said the elven noble Rha' Ehl. "And your taste in women," his eyes trained on Shannon.

An awkward silence followed. None of the men wanted to correct Rha' Ehl in regard of Shanon and Vin's relation to each other. They simply remained quiet, though the mage Zhakar have an idea of Shannon's feelings for the knight. He knows too that the knight has not yet set an eye on a woman that he can settle down with. The silence seems to last for eternity though only seconds have passed. It was the knight who finally broke the awkward situation. Vin steps near the sitting noble and offered his esteem guest a smile.

"Thank you for your compliment about the wine," bowed Vin. "However, the young woman is under my charge and I am her guardian."

"I apologized for my mistake, young knight." Said the noble. Rha' Ehl looked around and then set his eyes on the knight. "I've heard you only been in this parts for a few months. Yet you have accomplished a great feat in such a short amount of time. Truly you have a great place here in Valencia."

"Thank you noble Rha' Ehl," said Vin as he sits down. "Please all of you, eat up. You're my guest in my home."

Vin grabs a plate of olive oiled fried salmon roe and pass it around his guest. Shannon on the other hand took a newly baked garlic and cheese loaf of bread to pass around. It was the blond young woman and the knight that took the last serving.

"I have not seen a carriage or any mounts near the cottage. So how did you all manage to come here?""

"Simple young knight. I have used a dimensional door spell," replied the elven noble. "You have heard about this travel spell have you?"

Vin nods his head. Being a wide reader have its own advantages. It is through his thirst for knowledge that he have come upon to read a book about magic and enchantments. That is where he found out about that spell. What the spell does is allow the caster to open a portal that when entered will lead you to the next horizon, the place a caster's eyes can see. The portal can be used both by the caster and their companion. For Vin Hellkar, it all makes sense now. It is the reason why his guests didn't arrive with their mounts or a carriage.

"After this meal we should get going," said Zhakar the elderly high mage.

"I will help with the dishes," volunteered Drakh the elven ranger.

"So would I," added Grekhor the barbarian warrior.

* * *

Vin Hellkar along with his company boarded Rha' Ehl's luxury riverine yacht. Accompanied by his trusty black warhorse, Thunder, the knight secured the charger in one of the ship's horse stalls. It was not long before the boat went under way and traverse through the river heading towards the port city of Thalis. He left his warhorse in the stall and rejoined his companions by the bow of the boat. The cool breeze greets him and the breeze feels fresh on his skin. Looking at their noble employer, the knight cannot help but ask.

"If these cult members are giving you such a difficult time, why have you not asked for the imperial knights to come, and help you with this problem?"

The purple skinned elven noble laughed first at the question and then smiled. It is obvious to him that the knight is oblivious about how things are taken by the emperor. His house is given the charge for the port city and anything that occurs there is his responsibility. That includes dealing with fanatical ancient cults.

"You are aware that I am responsible for Thalis and the port city's surrounding area, correct?"

The knight nods as he knows that Thalis and over a hundred leagues of its territory is under the jurisdiction of the noble Rha' Ehl.

"Then you are aware that anything negative happens in our areas of responsibilities will have a negative impact on a noble house. Hence, the reason I needed your help. A knight who have no sworn allegiance to any noble house," explained the purpled skinned elven male noble.

It is basically telling Vin that if the noble asks for imperial knights, then it will make his noble house look weak. Which can lead to a challenge by another noble house and lead to a war. The noble house that took charge of the port city is rather small and a new house. It cannot afford to make an enemy out of the older larger noble houses and to ensure that things are quiet, knights like Vin Hellkar and his party is needed.

"I understand your need for a knight like myself," said Vin. "However, why choose me among the other knights?"

"Very simple young knight, you are highly recommended by someone I trust."

Rha' Ehl's response caught the knight by surprise. He did not know or have any knowledge about his reputation but from what he hears, it is a good one. Vin ponders how he can undertake this task and allow the noble to not lose face. One thing is certain, wherever those cult members maybe hiding, it will take time and work to identify them. Once identified, it may come to a fight against many odds. Looking at his party, Zhakar's magical abilities is one of the best in the empire, Grekhor's prowess as a barbarian warrior is well known, Drakh's reputation as an elven ranger even reaches the order of the imperial knight's ear; only Shannon's skills that are in question, yet the young woman have improved her swordsmanship and healing abilities since the elderly mage started tutoring her. Vin nods as each of his companions caught his eyes. With the group he have, the knight is certain that they will be able to succeed in this task.

"How long will it take for us to reach Thalis?"

The young blond woman's inquiry have shaken the knight from his thoughts. Vin looked at Shannon and then at the elven noble.

"We should arrive after mid day," replied Rha' Ehl. "Enjoy yourselves in my pleasure yacht."

Vin Hellkar lay on the deck with his hands behind his head. He enjoys the morning sun and the cool breeze as the yacht sails down the river. It did not take long before his eyes closed and sleep overcame him.

The knight felt a hand shaking his left shoulder as he has been rouse from his nap. Sitting up with a yawn, the first thing that greeted Vin is the smell of salt. As he look beyond the horizon, to the bow of the boat, he can see the port city and beyond is the open sea.

"So we're here," said the knight.

"Yes we are," replied the blond young woman as she smiles at him. "It won't be long till we reach the dock."

Vin nods and stands up. He makes his way to the horse stalls followed by Shannon. Reaching the place, his black warhorse greeted him with a sound. Zhakar, Drakh, and Grekhor was already saddling their horses when the knight joined them.

"Did you get a good nap?" asked Zhakar.

The knight grabs his saddle and placed it on Thunder's back. "I did actually," Vin replied as he secured his saddle. "I wonder where can we start and find some information about those cult."

Drakh Dye, the elven ranger looked at Vin and shakes his head. "You don't know much yet don't you Vin," the knight gave the elf a quizzical look. "Alright, fine let me explain something. The best place to hear gossips, stories, and rumors will be in the taverns and brothels. Loose mouth can be loosen even more when they have too much to drink."

Unlike the knight, Drakh Dye have been around for centuries. Though the empire is nearly a thousand years old, there are still people who have seen the birth and rise of this realm. Drakh as an elf is gifted with a long lifespan. Unlike most humans, whose life reached their zenith past seventy years. However, there are some humans who manage to live longer. Zhakar Xuru, the elderly high mage is among them. He have been but a teen when the realm only includes Nanthalion, which at the time is a settlement of disgruntled folks of all races.

"You should listen to our elven friend, Vin," said the high mage as he sits on the saddle of his white mount. "I will be researching about this cult in the city's hall of records and library. If the noble Rha' Ehl is correct, then this cult has an ancient origin. There should be a record about them writtent somewhere."

"I agree with Drakh," added Grekhor Longshaft. "The best place to start will be in a tavern. Thalis is a port city, therefore, there will be people from all over the realm that passes by. Some of them would have some information that can be useful to us."

Shannon looked at the men. "What about me?" she asked. "What should I do to help?"

Vin Hellkar sighs as he return his gaze to the young woman. He cannot have her put into harms way. It is not a male chauvinistic attitude that prevents him from exposing her to danger, but it is his care for her. He is her guardian and her aunt have placed trust in him to keep her safe and well educated. Giving Shannon one of his boyish charming smile he started to say something to her.

"Why won't you visit your aunt Shannon," the knight suggested. "Since your aunt is into the shipping business, she can have heard some stories or rumors about the ancient cult we are after. Certainly it is worth a try to find something out from your aunt. Besides, she is a Thalis resident. Your aunt will have at least heard of something."

Shannon McHanna was about to complain when Zhakar intercedes.

"I will take young woman to her aunt's home," the mage offered and then he turned his attention to Shannon. "Take this as a chance that you wanted to have, a chance to visit your aunt once more. Vin is right after all, your aunt should be helpful in regard of this matter. There are no one best suited to talk to her but you, Shannon."

The young woman thought about it and finally she nods her head. "Alright, I will visit my aunt and ask her. I just think that I can be a better help to you guys if I come along."

"You are, Shanon," said Vin as he mounted his black warhorse. "You are being a great help to us. Now, don't go venturing out on your own without Zhakar. I don't trust this place and this mysterious secret cult."

"By nightfall I will return to fetch Shannon from her aunt's place and we will head towards the Viceroy's Castle right outside of Thalis. We should all meet there by nightfall."

The Viceroy's Castle, home of the noble. It should be a safe haven for the group and a comfy place for them to stay in. Vin, Drakh, and Grekhor nods as the pleasure yacht finally docked on the city's port. Vin and his party thanked the noble Rha' Ehl for his hospitality and that they will be visiting his castle at sundown. With courteous bow, the five trots their mounts down the ramp, off the ship, to the docks of Thalis. From there, they split up into two groups. Vin, Drakh, and Grekhor headed to a well known tavern that the locals and visitors frequents; while Shannon is accompanied by the elderly mage Zhakar. The high mage accompanies Shannon to her aunt's place in a high end place of the city. Once she is safely in her kin's manor, the mage headed back into town and guiding his gray mount to the central library.

The tavern is a rowdy, loud, and crowded place to be in. Vin, Drakh, and Grekhor squeezed by some of the patrons as they make their way to the barkeep.

"What would you boys want?"

A winged Thorian male asked. The barkeep have seen foreigners come and go. For this winged man, the trio is nothing out of the ordinary. His gray feathered wings folded similar to a cloak around the barkeeper's shoulder. He patiently waited for the three visitor's response.

"Three tankards of ale," replied Vin. The knight looked around and sees there are other knights in the tavern. Most are employed by the Viceroy of Thalis himself. This makes the knight wonder, could it be that the noble house of Rha' Ehl have been infiltrated by this elusive ancient cult? It is a question that bothers him, but for now there is nothing he can do but gather some information and sift through the facts.

The Thorian fetched their drinks and demanded their pay upfront. Vin kindly oblige the barkeep and hand the winged man a few coins, enough for a few more drinks if needed be. Each of trio grabbed their tankard of ale and Drakh motioned with his head to a booth being vacated by three patrons.

"Well that is good timing," commented Grekhor the barbarian warrior. "Three leaves and there are the three of us in need of an empty booth."

The trio made their way towards the booth and each takes a seat. Drakh simply listened with an open ear to the conversation happening around the group. Conversations regarding women, business, bedding whores, family, exploits, and gossip. It is the gossip of news that Drakh is looking for, his elven ears keenly listens about the events of prior nights. A few young maidens was strolling the city's street late at night and vanished. One of the maidens was the daughter of a patron, she was out to fetch ale for her drunkard of a father when her shriek was heard. A carriage was seen speeding down towards the city's gate. Before the alarm can be sounded, the abducted maiden and her abductors have manage to escape outside the city's gate. The knights of Thalis rode out but failed to catch up with the carriage. There has been rumors that even within the noble house, there are supporters for the ancient cult.

"It is interesting to know that a carriage can easily slip by and avoid a mounted horseman," said Vin as Drakh informed the group of what he has heard. "A carriage is not fast at all and surely a group of mounted riders would have overtaken it."

"Two things that can allow this to happen," said Grekhor. "Magic or there is a traitor within the service of the noble."

Vin finished his tankard of ale and asked for a bar wench for his refill. The duo did the same as they ponder about the possibility of a traitor within Rha' Ehl's house.

"What are your plans, Vin?"

The knight looked at his elven ranger friend and sighs. "For now I think it be wise not alert Rha Ehl about this possibility. We must observe and see how his subordinates act and from there discern that possibility."

"If they are acquiring young maidens through the cover of night, maybe it be wise that we prowl the city streets during the night," said Drakh, "Perhaps we can catch ourself a prisoner, who maybe willing to be persuaded to talk."

"Persuaded through pain of death?" asked Grekhor.

"No, I have my way to persuade for the truth and so does our friend Zhakar," replied the knight.

The barbarian warrior and the elven ranger nods agreeing with Vin. It is a workable plan, however, they must be lucky to be at the vicinity of an abduction for the plan to be a success.

Drakh hears more about talk about the mysterious cult. Some said they offer human sacrifices, some are convince they use the maidens for sexual acts in their sinister rituals. But all agreed that the deity that they serve and dedicate their worship for is the old ancient dark god Ba'aroth. Few things are known about this ancient god; it has been centuries since the last of the god's known followers have worship the deity. What is agreed upon by most scholars, priest, and priestesses is that the dark god protects those that worship him; is the god of war, death, power, wealth, destruction, and prosperity. Takes the sacrifice of pure blood, the blood of a virgin maiden, but what is debated is that if the sacrifice involved the taking the lives of maidens or the taking of their purity.

"Let us enjoy our drink for now," said the knight. "We will return to the castle at sundown and later on go ahead and prowl the city streets."

Finishing their drink while listening and quietly conversing about what they have heard, the trio stands up, and make their way out of the tavern. As the northern barbarian, elven ranger, and knight walks to where they have left their mounts, a group of tall and hulking hooded figures followed. Earlier, there was no choice but to secure their mounts on a less traveled alley way. Reaching their mounts the hooded group of six individuals fan out blocking their only exit.

The knight turns around and draws his mithril long sword. "What is the meaning of this?" Demanded Vin.

The leader of the hooded group revealed himself. Taking off his hood, the orc smiled. "You have been asking too much question," said the leader as he draws his scimitar. "We know who you are, knight Vin Hellkar."

Drakh drew his twin blades and Grekhor grabs his battle axe slung across his back. The remaining six orcs brandish their wide curved swords and grins like a wolf pack about to devour their prey. Vin eyed the leader, his brown piercing eyes showing no fear. Live or die is in the hands of the Divine, his god and creator of Illysia, the world they live in, and all creatures of the air, land, and creatures that swim. The knight's eyes fixated on the orc's neck. A medallion of gold with jeweled stones etching a hexagon within a pentagram. He now understands that they were not the only ones with a keen ear. This group have found them, followed them since they arrived in Thalis, and now about to do something about them.

"You must be a follower of Ba'aroth," said the knight as he grab his shield from behind him. Vin always have his sword and shield slung across his back. Always prepared for such an incident like this. He stands with his shield at the ready around his left arm and his right hand gripping the sword. "I can show you the way to paradise with my blade. You filthy orc."

The orc let out war cry and rushed against the knight. As the follower of Ba'aroth strikes with his scimitar, Vin brought his shield up to bear. Blocking the blade, he found an opening, and drives his long sword's mithril blade through the orc's chest. Vin's blade slips through the orc's rib cage and punctures the creature's left lung. Pushing his sword further in, the knight skewered the orc's heart. As he withdrew his blade from the dead follower of Ba'aroth, he parries another scimitar's blow. Vin's blade deflecting the second orc's blade, he swung his shield at his assailant. The base of his heater shield smashes the orc's nose. With a quick slash of his long sword, the knight decapitated his second attacker.

Drakh Dye parried an orc's scimitar with his reverse hand grip of his twin blades, using one blade in his right hand to block and parry, the elf cuts open the orc's abdomen with his second blade. His reverse hand slash swift as the wind; the orc's eyes widened as he is disemboweled. Another orc steps in and swinging his scimitar blade downward at the agile elf. Drakh easily side steps and spin around the orc, slashing the creature from the back with his twin blades. The fight was quickly finished in a matter of seconds, as the elven ranger looks around for any threat to his life.

The northern barbarian warrior pommels his battle axe's head at the oncoming orc. Grekhor swings his axe embedding the weapon in the orc's abdomen. Retracting his axe, the hulking barbarian smashes his foe's head with an overhead strike. Hooking the dying orc's head, he flings his foe on the remaining orc. Shock by Grekhor's prowess, the last standing orc froze as the barbarian cleaved his left shoulder and hacks the orc's head with his battle axe.

Vin turned his head to Drakh and nods at the elf. The elven ranger returned the nod as he turn his attention to Grekhor. The barbarian cleaned his bloody axe with the fallen orc's cloak and slung it behind his back again. The knight sheaths his sword after cleaning the blade with a cloth and slung both sheathed mithril long sword and shield around his back. Drakh Dye, the elven ranger wipes his blade from the dead orc's cloak and sheathed his twin blades. It occurred to them that if they have been followed and confronted now, would Zhakar and Shannon be followed and ambushed as well? Quickly Vin mounted his black warhorse as his two companions followed suit.

"I'm worried about Shannon and Zhakar," said the knight. "We must check if they are alright."

"I will head to the library, while you two go find Shannon in her aunt's home," Drakh immediately bolted off mounted on his palfrey.

Quickly Vin and Grekhor galloped their mounts towards the home where Shannon's aunt resides. Reaching the place, they were halted a hooded guard. The knight keenly observed the guard, noticing the same medallion that the leader of the orcs was wearing. Leader of the group that confronted and attacked them. Drawing his long sword, the knight struck down the guard. Grekhor readied his battle axe and cleaved another hooded guard as the two fight their way to the brick manor of Shannon's kin.

"Where could she be?"

"Inside," replied the knight. "She must be inside the manor."

Dismounting from their horses, the two rushes towards the manor's door. Cautiously opening the oak door, the knight steps in, his shield and sword at a ready. Behind him, the barbarian supported his friend, battle axe in hand.

"Shannon!"

Vin listens after shouting the young blond's name. He became worried when no reply was heard.

"Shannon," the knight shouts once more as he walks cautiously from room to room. His ears sharp, listening intently for the young woman's voice.

"Over here."

Vin is over joyed to hear a female's voice. He ran towards the room where the voice originated from, Grekhor lag behind the knight. Entering the room he is greeted by a pair of scimitar wielding swordsmen. The slash of the blade caught Vin by surprise, the blade smashes through the back of his chain mail armor. Pain surges through the knight's back as he let out a yell.

"Vin!"

Grekhor saved his friend from the swordsman's killing blow as his axe smashes the hooded orc's neck. The head bounces across the floor before rolling to the other side of the room. Shannon rushes towards the second hooded swordsman, using her flash spell taught by Zhakar Xuru, the young woman drives her blade through the temporary blinded orc's abdomen. She kicked the creature off her blade and watched him cough up blood as she picks up the scimitar.

"Vin," she called out to knight as he slowly rises up from the floor. "Are you alright?"

The knight stands up and staggers forward; he balanced himself by leaning on a marble column. Vin gazes at Shannon, managing a weak smile.

Grekhor walked quickly to the young woman's side and inspects the scimitar. Curious, he compared it to the blade that cuts Vin's back.

"It is a poisoned blade," the barbarian fearfully said as he looked at the weakening knight.

Laughter filled the room as the orc coughs and laughed some more.

"Such a stupid knight," chuckled the swordsman of Ba'aroth. "Charging so eagerly without checking the room first."

Shannon kicked the orc's wound causing him to wail in pain.

"What poison is it?"

"It is a rare kind," laughed the orc. "Grey root of the mountains."

"Where is your aunt?" Grekhor asked Shannon.

A couple of orcs burst through the room. Bolts rapidly hit and killed both hooded orcs and a woman emerges from a hidden study. Her brown hair flowed down to the woman's back pass her shoulders. Her right hand clutches a repeating crossbow as her left hand loaded more bolts into the bolt holder of the weapon.

"These orcs stormed my home a few hours after my niece arrived. Killing my servants, rampaging around my property thinking that I will be a defenseless woman. They are wrong," Shannon's aunt said angered by the destruction of her property. She looked at the knight and immediately helped him with his niece and their barbarian friend.

"Let's take him to the couch in the solarium," the aunt recommended. "It be safe there, since there is only one way in and out of that place."

The three took Vin to the solarium and lay him down on the sofa.

"I'm sorry that I didn't arrive in time," said the knight with a weakening voice.

"Hush, don't talk Vin," Shannon aunt's replied. "You and your friend here came in time."

"Is there anyway to treat the poison?" asked Grekhor.

"A Flairian root, chopped, mixed with water, made into a paste," replied Shannon. "We have no Flarian root here though. They only grow on the mountains of Valencia and the nearest apothecary that can treat Vin is back in Nanthalion or the Imperial Capital. Or a healer can heal him. But the only healer who knows that can treat this type of poison is either in the Imperial Capital or Nanthalion."

"Will a healing patch work?"

"It will stabilize him, aunt. But he will be weak."

"It is better than nothing," said the northern barbarian warrior.

Shannon's aunt hurried out to fetch her healing pack. The woman quickly returned and applied the patch on Vin's back.

"Let's hope that Zhakar and Drakh get here soon," said Grekhor.

Shannon uses a message spell and contacted Zhakar. Letting the high mage know what happened to Vin and urging him and the elven ranger to hurry. She worriedly looks at Vin who's eyes slowly closing as sleep engulf the knight.

* * *

Zhakar requested the documents he is seeking from the front desk of the library. He thanked the young elven female for the books and papers he have been interested in reading before finding an empty desk with a lamp to occupy. Taking a seat and opening an ancient scroll's container, he manage to carefully extract the paper, and gently rolling the scroll open he began to read. The elderly high mage has been suspicious about the ancient cult of Ba'aroth. It did not take very long for him to satisfy his suspicion.

Long ago before the realm has been founded, a great empire stretches far and wide. An empire of lust, greed, and power. It is an empire inhabited by a collection of unscrupulous beings, from man, dark elves, orcs, trolls, goblins, wolvens, minotaurs, centaurs, fox like vulpines, and winged creatures such as thorians. Ruled by a priest-king, the empire of old worship Ba'aroth. Every full moon, the temples offer a sacrifice of virgins. For this offer of purity gives the ancient deity power, a holding, and most often, Ba'aroth possesses the champion of the empire. The empire's champion and his dark knights have terrorized its neighbors and the low born workers, farmers, and peasantry of the empire. One day a champion of light emerges, with the knight's mounted men at arms and companions, he manages to beat back the dark knights. A rebellion ensued and the neighboring ancient realms join the rebels in deposing the priest-king and his chaotic dark god and a long bloody and costly war followed.

That costly war triggered the decline of the empire. Within a hundred years the once mighty empire collapses and many smaller realms were formed. The Illysium is one of the former empire's territory and its heart is a few hours ride from the port city of Thalis.

The elderly high mage suddenly have a mental message from Shannon McHanna. "Please come to my aunt's residence soon. Vin has been hurt and we need you. Drakh is on his way to the library. Be cautious, we were ambushed by the acolytes of Ba'aroth." Shannon's image said to him in the elderly man's mind. Her blond hair flowing as if there is a light but strong breeze, and her blue crystal eyes, showing the concern she have for the young knight. Zhakar Xuru looks around, his green emerald pupils scanning the area near him. Has he been so careless that the followers of Ba'aroth have trailed him? Zhakar wondered.

Copying the scroll with his magic, he produced an identical scroll which he keeps. The elderly man stands up and make his way towards the exit, marking each step with his mage staff. As he opens the door and step out, Zhakar is greeted by a friendly elf. The ranger was on his way inside the library when the high mage exits.

"Come on Zhakar, we need your expertise," hurried the elven ranger. "Vin has been poisoned. A poison rare enough that even I don't know where to find the antidote."

"What is it?" asked the high mage as he hurriedly make his way down the steps catching up with the agile elf.

"A herb known as a Flarian root," replied the elf Drakh Dye.

"Where is the nearest mountain here?"

"A day's journey on foot and half a day's ride on horse back, to the east."

"We must get there quickly, Drakh," said the mage. "If we don't hurry and make that paste, Vin will be lost. He will have till two nights to live."

"Then what do we do?"

"Grekhor and Shannon can look after Vin. You, Drakh must come with me and help me fetch that herb."

The elven ranger nods his head as the silver haired elf along with the mage make haste towards ther mounts. Saddling up on their respected horses, the two gallops out of the city and towards the smal mountain tops to the east of the port city of Thalis. Unknown to the two, a group of five hooded riders trailed them on their gray mounts. The acolytes of Ba'aroth make haste to follow the two riders.

For a few hours the two riders, an elderly hooded man and a hooded elf gallops through the road heading to the mountains. Drakh started to look back with a suspicious look on his face. The mage noticed his companion's behavior and looks behind him.

"What does your elf eyes see?" asked Zhakar.

"We are being pursued," replied the elf. "Riders, five of them."

The high mage conjures a spell, summoning a hawk nearby. Zhakar's spell allowed for him to possess the bird's eyes and see what the bird sees in his mind. He focused on the five hooded mounted bodies on a light mount slowly but surely closing the distance between them. Zhakar instructed the hawk to dive down and try to identify those riders. Swooping at the group of acolytes, one of the hooded riders remove his hood. The high mage is shocked to find ogres chasing them and around their necks is a pendant. The pendant of Ba'aroth.

"We are being followed by five ogres, Drakh," Zhakar informed his companion. "Acolytes of Ba'aroth."

The elf looked his friend and the group's father figure. "If that's the case we need to dispatch them quickly. Or else they may cause us delay and doom Vin."

"I agree with you my elven friend," said the mage. "There is a sharp turn on the road ahead. To one side, it is covered with trees. Tis a good ground to ambush our pursuers"

Zhakar Xuru and Drakh Dye rides on towards where the road curves. Immediately the two dismounted and hid their horses among the trees. With a gust of wind spell, the high mage manage to hide their foot prints and hoof prints. Seemingly, to a pursuing foe, it will seem that the two magically disappear from the road. The elven ranger climbs up the tree branch where he can have the advantage of elevation as he draws his composite long bow that was slung across his shoulder. Fetching an arrow, Drakh readies himself. Zhakar remained on the ground and ponders what spells he would use while waiting for their pursuers to finally appear.

It did not take too long for the elf to see five mounted figures. Their hoods receded and their face made obvious that they are of orc kin. Drakh, draws the string of his composite long bow and aims at the lead rider. He shoots and watches the arrow streaked through the air towards his target. The orc staggers from the saddle before falling to the ground with an arrow through his neck. Again Drakh draws another arrow and pulls the string of his composite long bow. With a careful aim, he exhales and releases the arrow. Flying true and his aim precise, the second orc grunted as the arrow thuds through his skull. Dropping to the ground from the orc's mount, the remaining trio of orcs searches for the archer.

The elderly high mage started to utter his spell and sent a lightning bolt, energy bolt, and a molten fire bolt at each of the surviving orcs. The lightning bolt struck one of the orcs and fried the acolytes body. Another is struck with an energy bolt as the orc screams in agony before dropping to the ground withered and dried. The last of the trio prays, scream, and cursed as the fire bolt consumes the orc's body until only ashes remained.

"Nicely done," commented the elven ranger at his companion as he hops off from branch to branch lowering himself to the ground bellow.

"Let us make haste and find those herbs," said Zhakar as he fetch his horse and mounted the saddle.

As the two rides on towards the mountain, they were unhindered on their way. Halting at the base of the tall cliff of a mountain. Drakh looks up and whistles, now they have a mighty obstacle to tackle. Scaling a tall mountain cliff without a climbing gear will not only be difficult but near impossible to accomplish.

Turning to Zhakar the elf wryly smiles. "I suppose you have a climbing gear with you?"

The high mage shakes his head at his companion's sarcasm and dismounted. "Come, we have work to do."

The high elf dismounted as he was told yet confused, he would like to know what the elderly mage have in mind. Before he can say a word, Zhakar started to chant a spell. He pondered why the mountain's cliff is shrinking, and when he gaze down, he was grip with shock and fear. He and the mage are floating in air. Drakh do not want to say a word in fear of losing the mage's concentraion and in fear that if Zhakar does lose concentration, then they will fall to the ground bellow. From the look of it, they are quite high now, and a fall from that height will certainly lead to death.

The mage sent a message spell in the elf's mind. "This is what you must look for," the image of Flarian Flower is shown clearly as day to Drakh. "Assist me in gathering up to fifteen of these herbs for the sake of Vin's life."

Nodding as he look towards the elderly mage, Drakh scans the cliff around him. He sees a small grove what looks like the herbal plant they were searching for. "Over there to my right, just a bit bellow."

With sheer concentration, the high mage moved the elf to where the grove is. "Are they Flarian flowers?"

"Yes," replied the elf. "Yes, they are."

"Good, pick up each one and stow the herbs in your belt pouch," instructed Zhakar. "Be careful not to destroy the root. But you will need to extract the entire plant."

Understanding the what is at stake, the elven ranger draws his mitrhil dagger, and started to carefully remove the herbal plant, one a time. It was not an easy task to carefully keep the plant in tack while removing them from the cliff. Once pried from the mountain's side, Drakh placed each of the plants inside his belt pouch. He counted carefully how many he has extracted from the cliff. He looked back at Zhakar and shakes his head.

"It is not enough. I've manage to only gather eight of the herbs."

The white haired elderly bearded man looked around and spotted another grove. "There is another group of Flarian Flowers. Above you to the left," the mage move Drakh towards the grove with his levitation spell.

"Alright there are another eight herbs here," the elf informed Zhakar as he starts to gently pry each of the Flarian Flowers from the cliff. He brush the dirt from the root after each of the plant is extracted before setting the herbal plant inside the pouch.

Once sixteen of the herbs are collected, the mage set both the elf and himself down on the base of the mountain with their waiting mounts. Saddling up, the two started to their journey back to Thalis, back to Shannon's aunt and her residence, and back to the young knight Vin.

"Drakh, we must hurry back. The preparation for the antidote has not yet begun. If we are to make to antidote in time, then we must make haste."

The elven ranger nods his understanding as he and the mage push their mount to their limit. Galloping their way for hours till they have finally arrived within the city gates of the Thalis. Moving pedestrians and passerby away from their path, the elf, and the high mage made record time arriving to the residence of Shannon's aunt. Dismounting and securing their mounts in the barn along with the other horses belonging to their group, the two rushes inside the home and towards the bed room where Vin is taken to recover.

It was the aunt that rose from her seat first, then Shannon, and their barbarian warrior friend, Grekhor. They moved from the knight's side as the young blond woman's aunt greeted the duo.

"Have you found the herbs?" the aunt asked Drakh and then her eyes, blue as the sky just like her niece eyed Zhakar Xuru. "I'm Mellisa McHanna, the auntie of Shannon."

"I know who you Miss McHanna," bows the high mage. "I am Zhakar, Shannon and this lot are my pupils."

"Ah yes," said the middle aged woman. "My niece have written to me about you. Your lectures to her and lessons in academic and physical education is impressive."

Drakh looked at Mellisa and then to Zhakar, then back to Mellisa again before he speaks. "We have found the herbs," he stated answering the woman's inquiry. "Although preparation must be made to make the antidote."

"Truly it will not be easy," added the elderly high mage. "You see, the roots of the herbs should be dried by the sun. But we lack that time for the sun to dry these herbs. Hence magic must be involved. A simple mistake can ruin the process."

"I will help with anything that I can provide," said Mellisa. "My home is at your disposal, Zhakar."

"Good, in that case, Drakh and Grekhor, you two guard Vin," instructed the high mage. "Shannon and you too miss Melissa, assist me with making the antidote."

* * *

A few days have passed since Zhakar have applied the antidote to the knight. It was a few hours after midday that the knight opens his eyes. Stripped off of his armor, wearing only his trousers and socks, the raven haired boyish knight sits up on the bed. Vin's strong and callous hands rubs his temples as he woke up with a headache. A headache that usually accompanied him when he have slept far too long than what he is used to. He looks around, unfamiliar to the room, the knight tries to recollect the last events that he can remember. The sword slash and finally passing out after Shannon's aunt administer some herbal bandages on his wound. He reaches behind him and is surprised that the wound has healed, leaving only a gashing scar that will forever remind him of that orc that surprised his senses. Looking about, he noticed Shannon and her aunt asleep sitting on the couch. It reminded him how he first met the young blond woman. How he have taken care of her after finding her exhausted, dehydrated, and hungry within his lands.

"Welcome back to the land of the living," a familiar male's voice greeted the knight. "You should rest a bit though, Vin. You have yet to fully recover."

The knight turns and found the grinning white haired and bearded elderly high mage standing by the door. "Zhakar, how nice of you to greet me," Vin Hellkar smiled.

"You're awake!"

Shannon jumps out of the couch and ran to the knight. She threw her arms around him and kisses his cheek.

"We are so worried about you, Vin," she began to cry. "Don't let this happen again."

Vin Hellkar wipes the tears from Shannon's eyes. Smiling at the young woman he gazes into those teary eyes.

"Truly, I was far more worried about you," said the knight.

"Finally you're awake," Mellisa McHanna said as she stirred from the couch she is occupying. "You have scared us there sir knight."

Zhakar offered Vin a chalice of cool water which the knight accepted. Drinking the refreshing liquid slowly, he let his thirst be quenched before his mind raced and finally able to recall the reason for them being in the port city of Thalis.

"If you're wondering about the cult," the high mage beat him from speaking in regard of the topic. "Don't bother. I already know where their lair is and as far as they know, we are no longer a threat to them. It be wise to let that thought remain and for you to rest. Vin, I know how stubborn you can be, but this time heed my advice now. Regain your strength and upgrade your equipment. I am here and the rest of the group are here to assist you."

The knight nods his head and lays back down. Mellisa summoned a servant carrying a bowl of soup, a loaf of bread, and more drinks.

"Eat, so that your body will regain the strength that you've lost," said their host. "I have hired some guards that Zhakar have referred. We are safe and so are you."

"What about the noble Rha' Ehl, what is his take of these events?" the knight asked while he starts to eat. He took a spoon full of seafood chowder first, finding it tasty and delicious, he break a piece of the garlic bread, buttery and seasoned with herbs and spice as he taste it. Dipping some of the bread with the soup filled his empty stomach.

Zhakar took a seat by the bedside next to the knight and started to explain what has occurred in the last few days. "He understood what happened. For now he is holding up in his castle with only a handful of trusted retainers and men at arms. To be honest, Vin, the whole town is gripped with fear. That is why we need you back on top of your shape."

"I think I've rested enough," said the knight. "I will be fine."

"Oh no lad," chided the elderly man. "Today you rest. Tomorrow we will go to a place where we can upgrade your armor and blade."

"What is wrong with my armor and mithril long sword?"

"Perhaps dealing with the occasional hooligans, highway men, and bandits your weapons and armor is more than adequate," said the elderly high mage. "But now Vin you are dealing with a far more powerful threat than you have before. Grekhor's plate mail armor is enchanted, Drakh's half plate, and my own robe too are assisted with magical enchantments. Buy you lack that Vin, besides, your light mithril chain shirt will be ineffective against a horde of acolytes. It is time that you get rid of the old armor you have and don on a new one. The same with your sword."

For the first time in his life as a knight and a warrior, Vin felt weak, helpless, and disappointed. His hard work seems to have failed him, all those time training seems to have been wasted. That thought sinks on him as he drinks a chalice filled with diluted red wine. He looked at Mellisa McHanna first, then to Shannon, he sighs thinking he could no longer protect her against such foes. Then he turned his head and looked at his mentor, the group's father figure, the elderly high mage as if seeking for answers and comfort.

"You're thinking that your skills have failed you," smiled Zhakar Xuru. "I assured you lad, it has not. Your skills needs to be honed a bit more, and with better armor and weapons, you can be one of the best knights in the realm."

Sighing, the knight nods. "I surely hope you are right about that, my old friend. I cannot help it that I feel this way." He confided. To Vin Hellkar, a knight should be the one who is a protector, to be able to overcome all obstacles. But reality is, no man or woman or beings can be an island. Success is not just gained on your own, but success is gained with the right support from those who cares. For the knight, the group is his family, and the elderly mage is his surrogate father.

The next day, Zhakar, Grekhor, Drakh, and Vin headed out to the city's bazaar. Clad only in regular clothing and blue hooded cloaks, to the unwary passerby the group seems to be regular residents or visitors on a business errand. Riding their mounts through the busy streets, taking turn after turn, they finally reached their destination. Dismounting their horses, the four men secured their steeds on a stern pole, and proceeded within the loud and crowded bazaar.

Zhakar stops on one of the booths, ordering four cups of fresh tropical juice for the group. In silence, the elderly man paid for their refreshments, and after taking their drink, motion the rest to follow him. The mage led them in tight small pathways and alleyways of the bazaar, until they reach a lazy and cozy store. Tuck hidden from the main route of people, the knight assumes only a few select folks knows the location of this store or even have any idea what is sold within. The four men stopped in front of the store's entrance and waited for the high mage to enter.

Stepping in a bell rang above the door as Zhakar opens it. The rest of the four men entered, their eyes roam around the store. Stacks of weapons and armor neatly piled up organized in rows, Vin break away from the group as something caught his eye. The knight marvel at the mitrhil chain plate suit of armor complete with heuberk, hooded coif, vambraces, and gauntlets. Mithril chain mail legging runs from the legs to the foot giving complete protection for the wearer's lower abdomen. The front and back plates protects the chest, while vambraces attached from the shoulder to the forearms protects the arms, the gauntlets with padded chain mail of mithril made ensures that the hands and half of the forearm is covered. Next to the suit of armor is a shield and a sheathed sword within the inside of the protective shield. He grabs the shield and draws the sword, feeling the weight of the blade in his hand as he swings it and thrust the sword. Vin Hellkar, finally realize it is not any other sword, it is a mithril bastard sword. A blade to be admired and respected by both the wielder and the opponent.

"I see that the suit of armor and sword have called out to you, young knight."

All eyes fixated on an elderly bald man walking down the flight of stairs behind the counter. Zhakar Xuru smiles at the proprietor of the store.

"My friend Leodas," greeted the high mage. "It has been some time since we have seen each other."

"Zhakar?" the old proprietor squinted his eyes and when he recognizes his old comrade, he offer his hand. "Yes it has been awhile. What have you been doing all these years, you old dog?"

Clasping the old man's hand, the high mage replies. "I have opened up a shop in Nanthalion," he informed Leodas. "My son have become an imperial knight and have been dispatched to the eastern border. So I've been alone all these years."

The store owner eyed the knight, the elven ranger, and the barbarian warrior.

"Are they with you?" he asked his old friend. Leodas Longram has been a imperial blacksmith and armorer in the past. Serving the empire by producing high quality weapons and armor.

"Ah yes, they are my new charges," Zhakar introduced each one of the group to him. "We are seeking your help with your expertise. Armor, enchantments, and weapons is what we seek."

"Knowing you, Zhakar, you would not need any equipment from me. Your robe is the finest there is in the realm and your staff of power, is a rare item to acquire. I have known mages who would kill for what you have," the store owner stroke his chin with his right hand as he ponders. "Then that would mean, your charges here are in need of a fix."

Zhakar shook his head. "You are partly right," said the high mage. "The knight here needs an upgrade of his equipment."

Leodas eyed the knight and opens walks from the counter to where Vin is at. He motion for him to turn around and judges from what he sees.

"Boy you're not strong enough for this armor yet," sadly the store owner informed the knight. "You will need something a bit more lighter than a plate and mail. Come and follow me."

Vin sighs in dismay as he tries to hide the disappointment. He nods his head and walked with Leodass Longram to the end of a row of suit of armors. There tucked away from sight rested a suit of chain mail made of mithril, accompanied by a pair of mithril greaves, and mithril gauntlets. Next to the armor's stand is a shield similar to what he was playing with earlier. Within inside is a sheathed sword, a mithril bastard sword.

"Boy, I cannot promise you to be the most powerful knight in the field but you will be among the most well equipped," said the store owner. "This suit of armor, the shield, and the mithril bastard sword has been already enchanted. It will help you against physical and magical attacks. That does not mean you're invincible either. You must fight your battles with your mind and out wit your opponent."

Raising his right hand towards the armor, the knight touched the mithril chain mail suit of armor. Certainly it is a far better armor than what he is currently using. He takes the shield and draws the mitrhil blade, swinging it around and twirling with the bastard sword, he nods at its well balanced design and make.

"Vin, take your armor out and show leodas your old suit of armor," Zhakar instructed the knight.

The knight took off his backpack, fetching the armor, greaves, and gauntlet, he splayed them across the nearby table.

"I will tell you what lad," begin the old blacksmith and armorer. "I will buy back your old set of light mithril chain mail armor, the mithril greaves, mithril gauntlets, your shield, and that mithril long sword of yours. Then you can just pay me the remaining balance on this new suit of armor, shield, and mithril bastard sword."

Vin nods his head. "How much is the set of armor and how much are you willing to pay for mine?"

"Normally, I will sell this for 2500 coins," replied Leodas. "But since you are a friend of a friend. I am willing to charge you 500 for this. That includes the deduction for purchasing your old armor, shield, and sword."

The knight looked at Zhakar for his wisdom and advice. He only receives a nod from the elderly high mage. Sighing, the knight reaches within his pouch and produces the coins necessary to finish the transaction.

"Our knight friend will be needing a bow too," added Drakh with a smile.

"A bow," Leodas raised an eyebrow. "Ah there is one perfect for you right now. Come take that armor and leave your old one there on the table."

The elderly bald man led Vin across another aisle where ranged weapons are neatly stacked. Vin looked at a beautiful composite long bow and touched the weapon. Admiring the artwork done on the handle of the bow.

"I am sorry lad but you're still too weak to draw a long bow," said the old store owner. "You are still young and later on you will develop to a stronger knight and then you will be able to wear a plate and chain mail armor and draw a long bow."

The knight shakes his head and sighs. Seems to him that he is too young for using the good equipment. Then again, these wise elderly men are right. He is still young and there are plenty of time to develop as long that he stays alive. Vin followed Leodas to where a trio of short bow are kept.

"Pick one, draw the string, and have a feel with it."

Choosing the olive like short bow, he picked it up, and draws the string. Vin smiles, knowing that the short bow is of a composite made and design. Powerful, yet agile, small, and can be used on horse back. Few noble armies can field horse mounted archers, to finally be a knight who is also a mounted archer is truly unorthodox indeed.

"Yes lad, that is made of composite material," seemingly the old man knows what he was thinking about and the knight just nods. "Looks can be deceiving young knight. But with that bow, it can help you in times of need."

"How much for this and a quiver of arrows?"

"That is 152 coins including a quiver and a bundle of arrows," answered the store owner. "Let us go to the counter and have all your items checked."

Vin nods and walked back to the front of the store where the exit is. Setting the suit of armor down, the shield and sheathed mithril bastard sword, and the short bow with a quiver and bundle of arrows. He reached in his pouch and slides the right amount of coins to the store owner.

"Thank you young lad," Leodas collected the coins and stashed it under the counter. "I heard whispers there is a group hired by the local noble house tasked in eliminating the cult of Ba'aroth. I am guessing, you are that group of men."

"You listen to too much rumors my friend," said Zhakar walking to the counter and setting down a few scrolls of spell to purchase.

Grekhor brandish a pair of throwing axes enchanted with a telekinesis return spell while Drakh the elven ranger set down a pair of mithril short swords.

"Quite a nice selection of spell to buy my friend," grins Leodas. "Fire storm and lighting chain storm."

The high mage smiles. "I have been searching for those spells for quite sometime," explained Zhakar. "I never realized you would have them."

"That is fine if you gentlemen does not want to disclose to me the truth," Leodas Longram charges each member of the group for their items. He charges them with a discount and all four smiled. "Just a piece of information for you Zhakar. The cult of Ba'aroth's main temple is in the Isle of Mou'ur. In the middle of Lake Thorva. You know where that is don't you?"

"I do," replied the elderly mage. "That lake is halfway from Thalis and the Imperial City. The canal have a direct route there."

"You will need a ship and a ship captain that you can trust," said the store owner.

"Do you have one in mind?" asked Zhakar.

"You have heard of the sea devil named Phaing have you not?"

"The name sounds familiar," said the high mage. Phaing meant chaos in the dark elf's language.

"You can find her ship in port. Ask for her in berth 16," informed Leodas Longram

Drakh shook his head and groans. Another woman and a chaos to that. If Shannon is not enough, in order to get to the heart of the cult, they will need her ship, and her help. This task at hand is surely getting interesting by the day.

"We will look for her," Vin finally voiced his answer. "Since you know her and you are a trusted friend of our mentor. Then we will trust Phaing."

Finally, the three men thinks, their knight has regain his confidence back. Their leader and the charismatic, yet at times naïve young knight has come back to his senses. Perhaps it is the new armor and weapons that regains his confidence. But knowing Vin, it is his sense of duty, of those around him that believes in him that reawaken that leader in him.

Leodas nods and smiles. "To be young again and go off on an adventure. I wish you all luck and may the gods be with you."

The four exits Leodas's store and with their purchases hidden underneath their cloaks, they made their way back to their waiting mounts. Saddling up on their horses, Zhakar Xuru, Grekhor Longshaft, Drakh Dye, and Vin Hellkar rides back to Melissa's residence where Shannon and their host is waiting for them.

* * *

The knight, barbarian warrior, high mage, and elven ranger sneaked into the known temple of Ba'aroth located just outside of the city. With a mithril dagger in hand, Vin grab the guard, covering the orc's mouth with his hand as he slit the creature's throat. With Grekhor, the two hurriedly carried the dead orc's body and hid it among the bushes outside a side door. The four quickly enters and stays hidden in the shadows. Grekhor hurls his throwing axe at a sleeping guard, the orc fell from its chair as an axe embedded itself onto the orc's skull. Drakh and Zhakar, quickly took the body, and cover it underneath some trappings. Vin, Grekhor, Drakh, and Zhakar silently searches the temple for the high priest's chamber.

"Pssst," Drakh called out to the rest of the group and the four other armed men stops.

The elven ranger signaled a trio of acolytes coming their way. Each one prepared their weapons waiting for the three to pass around the corner. Drakh slit the throat of the first orc, Grekhor cleave the other's head, and Vin thrust his sword through the acolyte's mouth before the third orc can warn his friends. Hiding the trio's body, the four men continue on their search for the high priest.

It was Zhakar who have spotted the double doors with the engraved seal of Ba'aroth. Calling Vin, Drakh, and Grekhor over, the four planned how to storm the room. Everyone steps behind Zhakar as he extends his hand uses a lightning bolt spell to knock the double door down, the heavy oak door flung inside the room caught an acolyte. The man is hurled a dozen feet away along with the door.

"Now!"

Drakh Dye and Vin Hellkar draw their bows and arrow. Immediately shooting the nearest threats as Grekhor dispatched the third acolyte with his throwing axe. Zhakar uses one of his spell to restrain the important person those four guards were protecting. The high priest cowers and shiver in fear losing his bladder as his protectors were so easily killed. The knight and his elven ranger companion checked outside the room for any incoming acolytes. Grekhor entered the room with Zhakar and grabbed the cowering human high priest from his dais.

"We got company, Zhakar," Drakh shouted inside the room as he draws his arrow, pulls the string, and shoots at a rushing scimitar wielding acolyte. The arrow struck through his skull, dropping the orc on the floor.

"Do you have any spells that will help us get out of here?"

Vin Hellkar asked his high mage friend, mentor, and surrogate father as he shoots a glaive armed acolyte with his short bow. He draws another arrow as the acolyte of Ba'aroth goes down. Pulling the string of his ranged weapon, the knight sights another follower of the dark deity, and shoots. Striking the man between his eyes, the acolyte stammered back before falling to the ground.

Zhakar looked at the knight and the elven ranger as Grekhor started to bind the high priest's limbs. "All in due time my young friend. Have faith and trust," winked the high mage.

A couple of acolytes manage to rush fast enough that the knight have no other alternative but to draw his mithril bastard sword. Reaching up behind him, he gripped the handle of his blade, draws the sword and deflect an acolyte's scimitar strike. Vin Hellkar followed up with an upward slash as he have made an opening at the orc's defenseless body. The blade cut through the flesh and bone of his opponent, the knight kicked the body back to the second acolyte as he side steps and uses both his hands on the handle to deliver a downward slash. The second acolyte was cut in half by the sharp powerful mithril bastard sword, from the shoulder down to the waist, the man's final scream of agony can be heard throughout the temple.

"Faith and trust you say." said the knight after dispatching the two acolytes. "I have faith in my sword and armor. And I trust all of you with my life. Now what about that spell?"

Drakh Dye shoots another pair of Ba'aroth worshipers who are armed with scimitars and hand axes. His last two shots downed a couple of acolytes. "We better get going or else Vin and I won't be able to hold them for long."

Zhakar looked at Vin's position to the left outside the room as the knight knocks another acolyte with his shield. Then he saw him thrusting his mithril blade at the stomach of another man who is about to strike the the knight with a hand axe. The elderly high mage raises his hands and utter a spell. A glowing spinning ball of flame forms above Zhakar and then it bolted towards the wall, knocking it down completely showing the way outside the temple. Glancing at the elven ranger and the knight, he signals them to move it as the barbarian warrior carried their captive on his right shoulder.

"Vin, go and I will cover you."

The knight looked at his friend and nods. "You better be close behind me Drakh," he pats his friend's shoulder with a gauntlet clad right hand and swings his blade taking off the head of an acolyte. Then a couple of more took the acolyte's place as he inches back blocking the axe and scimitar strikes with his trusty shield. Finding an opening against his two foes, the knight sliced off the other man's left leg as he bring his sword upward and slashes a downward diagonal slice at the other acolyte's left shoulder. He finished off the man with a missing leg with a blade through the chest. Then the knight makes a hasty withdrawal into the room and out of the building through the demolished wall.

"Grekhor, take that filthy high priest to your mount," instructed the high mage. "I will make sure Vin and Drakh come out alive."

The tall barbarian warrior nodded his head and hurries towards where they left their mounts. On his shoulder is the squirming high priest, bound, and gagged. As Grekhor left, Zhakar turns back towards the temple and see the mihtril clad knight running towards him with his sword and shield in both hands. Drakh steps back and shoots a couple of arrows before sprinting forward again. Their elven ranger friend is clad in elven chainmail armor made of mithril similar to Vin but lighter than the knights armor. Zhakar conjure another spell as his eyes gaze around. The temple is crawling with activity, akin to a nest of ants that has been disturbed. They know by now that their high priest has been taken from there and the acolytes wanted blood for that act.

Thunderclouds formed around the temple grounds, lightning, and thunder can be heard heard loudly and seen. The knight and the high elf finally reaches Zhakar and stands behind the high mage. With a few swift words, the elderly mage summons a lightning storm that rained down on the acolytes and the temple. Fires erupted and the temple crumbled to the ground, acolytes litter the surrounding temple grounds crisp and dead from the lightning storm.

"Is this one of the spells you've purchased?"

Zhakar turn towards the knight and nods. "One of the few I've acquired dear boy," replied the mage. "Now let us go and head back to Mellisa's place before more acolytes can arrive."

* * *

The trek back was uneventful. Vin, Zhakar, Grekhor, and Drakh rested after securing the high priest and imprison him in one of the storage rooms deep under the residential manor. Shannon knocked on the door and after hearing no reply for some time, she opened the room. She pondered why Vin isn't in the room assigned to him by her aunt as she walks around the manor in search of the knight. Perhaps he has gotten hungry and needed food; the young blond woman headed towards the kitchen and asked the servants if they have seen the knight. She started to worry as the young woman is told that they have not seen him since he returned. Shannon started to think, where would Vin be, and why would he leave his room and the manor without saying anything to anyone.

Shanon McHanna headed to the courtyard, she found a small chapel built in the middle of the courtyard. Forgetting to check that place first, she felt embarrassed. For one, Shannon should have known that the knight would be giving prayers of thanks giving to the god he called the Divine. It is one of the things that Vin apart from other knights. Beside his total sense of purpose to do good and do no harm but to defend those who are in need. A true gentleman, but at times she wonders, is it only an act? A man who has not touched a woman or even attempt to do so is not just rare, even in the realm or the world itself. But who is he saving himself for? Those are the questions he have pondered. Though he have feelings for this knight that have become her guardian, she is still unsure if he feels the same for her. As Shannon approached the chapel's door she could hear Vin's voice. She breathed a sigh of relief as she quietly slips in the chapel. One other subject that she is curious about, why would Vin worship a largely unknown god than the other well known gods and goddesses of the realm, even of the world. She for one has lost faith in the gods and goddesses but, the knight's conviction and faith is something to admire about.

"Oh great Divine, I pray to thee and give thanks for the life you have given. Blessing me with friends that can be counted on, your protection from harm, and a safe return here. I pray to you oh Divine that you guide my sword, my shield, and my life as a knight. I pray to thee that you use my life in the name of goodness and though I am only a humble human, that I am not perfect, that you help me where I am lacking. Let me live a life as a good knight and ever if I fall...that I fall as a good knight. In thy name oh great Divine, amen."

Shannon watched him pray in silence. The knight kneeling with his sword pointing downward, using the cross and hilt of the sword as if it is an altar to his Divine. She thought about the words he have uttered before she stands up and make her way towards Vin.

Her hand reaches his mithril clad shoulder and the knight opens his eyes tilting his head to look at the young woman's eyes. "I hope you never fall Vin," she said to him. "I won't know what to do if you that happens."

Shannon wrap her arms around him and embraces the knight. Vin reluctantly hugs her. "It maybe for a long time that would happen, Shannon. We are humans after all and our life is short in comparison to elves and other beings of the world."

"I don't care, Vin," she replied. "I just don't want you to die in battle."

"It is not up to him really, Shannon. But if he does, he can be resurrected by healers," Zhakar intruded and smiles. "I am sorry to interrupt you two but the noble Rha' Ehl is here and he wants to talk to you Vin."

The knight stands up and sheathed his sword within the sheath tucked in the inside of his shield. Then he grabs the shield and sling it around his shoulder. "Well let us not keep the noble dark elf waiting then." Moriels, the dark elves has been known for their blue skin, red eyes, and silver white hairs. Mostly, they can be as sadistic as any other monstrous creature that can crawl out of the abyss. Though thus far, the noble mage has been good to them. Then again he does need his help along with his companions in keeping the cult of Ba'aroth under control without the assistance of the royal house. Hence saving face from the ruler of the realm.

Zhakar escorted Vin and Shannon to the reception hall where Mellisa is entertaining the moriel noble and his entourage. Drakh and Grekhor sitting adjacent to Rha' Ehl, have already turned over the high priest of Ba'aroth to the noble man's knights. Vin bowed courteously towards the moriel while Shannon and Zhakar did the same.

"Ah boyish knight," greeted the bluish purple skinned noble man. "I'm glad you have done well with this task. I understand you and your companions manage to destroy the cult's temple, correct?"

"Yes noble Rha' Ehl," replied Vin Hellkar and straighten himself up. "However, their main temple is located in an island in the middle of Lake Thorva. I believe it is known as the Isles of Mou'ur."

"Rha' Ehl, you will need approval from the royal court to launch an attack against that island," said Zhakar.

"Well that's not my concern but the royal house's. With the destruction of that temple, the cult will be willing to obey my authority here in Thalis and those who have betrayed me will be severely punished," replied the moriel. "I have your reward here for you. Each of you including the lovely Mellisa McHanna have a chest filled with riches as a pay for all you and your group have done for me."

The noble dark elf stands up and finishes his goblet of red wine. Tossing the drinking vessel to one of Mellisa's servant, he walked towards the knight. "I may need your services again, boyish knight," said Rha' Ehl with a smile. "In the meantime, all of you go home and enjoy your reward."

"Thank you kindly noble Rha' Ehl. I have given my word of honor while we first spoke in Nanthalion and I have carried out what I've said to the letter," Vin replied and watched the man exits the manor.

Zhakar nods as the moriel walks out of the place. Smiles can be seen at each of their companions, Mellisa have been given more than enough to repair her home, Shannon is bewildered not knowing what to do with her coins. Drakh and Grekhor smiles knowing now they have more than enough to take care of their own personal affairs. As for the knight, he smiled and ponder about enhancing and upgrading his lands.

"Vin, I have something for you," said Shannon's aunt as she reaches for a mithril coif and tosses the head gear to the knight. "A knight cannot be complete without something to protect his head."

Vin Hellkar caught the coif with his left hand and bows to the woman. "Thank you ma'am," he said. "I truly appreciate this gift."

"I would suggest that all of you rest for the day and spend the night here. Then make your journey back to your homes," Mellisa offered as she instructed her servants to prepare a banquet for Vin and his companions.

"I am grateful for you hospitality ma'am," Vin commented as he accepts her offer.

"Nonsense Vin, you are like a family to me after all," smiled the middle aged woman.

She ponders if her husband have survived, would she have had a son like Vin. To her the knight is an epitome to what is good in a man. She have often wondered if a son has been born to her, would she have raised a son to be the kind of man Vin Hellkar has become. Then again, she have not thought of Vin's life as an orphan. Being adapted by an order of honor bound knights at age of four, to be trained as one of the knights. Vin grew up only knowing to prepare himself as a warrior, a champion for what is good. Yet in the end, he was the only survivor of a battle that decimated the order of knights which he grew up with. Released from the order to seek his own path, the knight is admirable that he decided to continue on fighting for what is right and what is good.

After the banquet and a day of rest, Vin woke up early. He bathe in the bathroom and clean himself, his teeth, and put on a new pair of clothing. Then he puts on his mithril armor, the chainmail first, then the greaves, the gauntlet, and finally the coif. Sliding the hood mithril chain hood down to the back of his neck. He fetched his shield and sheathed mithril bastard sword and sling it across his shoulder and to his back. He steps out of his room and waited for the others in the dining room as he is served food to break his fast. Joined by the rest of his companions, they eat with their host for the last time before their next visit and she bid them good tidings. Seeing them off, Mellisa McHanna watched the five riding off out of the city and back to their homes.

Though the cult of Ba'aroth has been stopped in Thalis, Vin and the rest of his group have a feeling that this is not the end. He knows that the Isle of Mou'ur must be attacked to finally end the evil chaos that the cult brings. Even then, he still unsure if that would end Ba'aroth and his acolytes. Only the Divine knows his fate. But whatever it is, the knight is ready to face them. As long as his friends are there there with him to support and help the knight. He is sure that any obstacles in the future can be faced head on and that he will overcome.

The End

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