THE TALES OF LESARANIA
By "Gamer Link"

I

A tale is heard, an uninvited guest, a quest received.

As Soran Kith entered the Inn of Sanctuary, he smelled that familiar smell that made these trips to Sortan so enjoyable. He sat down at a table by the fire and ordered a plate of venison and three slices of bread. He heard a man stand up on his chair. Using his excellent sense of hearing he listened intently.

"Well, my great-grandfather through marriage was the man himself! That’s right everyone, I am related to Jorslin Kith. And I know the true story," said the old man.

Voices shouted "…tell us…we want the truth" or even "sit down you liar…"

"Well, if you’ll all just settle down," continued the old man "I’ll tell you. It all began when Jorslin Kith was told to lead the army into battle with the Ulustrance. When the army got up to the clouds, Jorslin Kith betrayed his men and told the Ulus Magi where they were encamped. It was only a matter of time before the Ulus Magi completely devastated the army."

Soran’s blood began to boil. He clenched his fists and gave the table a hard slam.

"And…I say how rude! Who is bold enough to interrupt my fine story?" asked the old man.

"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Soran Kith. And I say that my father was a good man. What you hear is nothing more than the ramblings of an old man."

At this the old man’s eyes widened with fear. He was only worried that he would be exposed as a fraud to these people who had just began to respect him. His mouth fell open and he began to back away from the chair on which he had been standing only moments ago.

"My father," Soran continued "was a man who fought for the Coman. He did what he was told to do. He drove back the Ulus Magi from their attack on our land. If it happens that he disappeared shortly after that does not mean he was a traitor."

Soran began to inch his way closer and closer toward the old man who had insulted Soran’s lineage. The old man ran as fast as he could out of the Inn. With a triumphant look on his face, Soran sat back down at his table and ate his meal of venison then quietly walked up to his room.

By the mid-night time everyone would be in bed or at least in their homes. But there was a knock on the Inn’s door regardless. The innkeeper walked toward the door cursing beneath his breath at this intrusion upon his sleep. As he opened the door a crack, he saw the face of a man who looked like he had no place to go. Under normal circumstances the innkeeper would have told the man that there were no rooms available at the inn. However, this man looked so tired and hungry that he opened the door for him. It was too late for the innkeeper when he saw the wings open. With a few uttered words, this Ulus Magi put the innkeeper into a deep trance. He then began searching the inn for the man he sought.

It did not take long for him to find Soran Kith. He did not knock. He merely spoke a few words and the door opened for him. He took Soran by the collar of his robes and brought him close to his face.

"Hello there," Soran remarked coolly, "What’s your name my winged friend?"

"I am called Letarn. And don’t act so cool. In this position I can cause you great harm."

"Well, let’s get this over with then. I would like to get back to sleep…"

Letarn reinforced his last statement by jerking hard on the collar of Soran ’s robes causing Soran to choke.

"Alright!" Soran said in a choked voice, "I’ll be good. Just let me have some air."

Letarn loosened his grip allowing some air, but not keeping the collar from cutting into the side of Soran’s neck.

"My King Sadar has sent me to tell you that he wishes to speak with you in his chambers in our city. You will come with me to the city and I have orders to bring you no matter what. So if it comes to using my magic to get you to come, then you better believe I will not hesitate to do so".

"No need to use your magic. I do not fear your people. I will go peacefully," Soran answered.

The flight to the city was uneventful. As they landed in the Ulustrance city called Lesarania, Letarn informed Soran that he may have some slight problems breathing due to the high elevation. But, because he is a surface dweller, he won’t die from the elevation. The audience hall in King Sadar’s palace was very beautiful. It contained tapestries covering the walls that looked like they were very old. They showed portrayals of the face of the god of the Ulustrance Zishru. As well sitting on the southern wall was the throne, which King Sadar sat on with pride. The throne carved of a single piece of huge onyx had on its back the symbol of the sun. Coming from the back of the sun were two Onyx wings. Above the spot were King Sadar’s back rested was an inscription. The inscription was in an ancient language long since forgotten by all but the Ulustrance and a few Coman scholars. When read they were a spell of magic resistance. Floating above the inscription was an orb that belonged to Sadar'.

King Sadar made his entrance. All the Ulustrance in the room bowed down. Soran however did not. Letarn knocked Soran in the backs of his knees and sent him plummeting into a bowing position. Satisfied, Letarn stood and walked head down toward his King. He kneeled and stated:

"My Lord Sadar, I bring you Soran Kith, Arch-Magus from Sortan."

Soran stood and walked toward Sadar, his eyes never straying from the king’s eyes in a look of hidden defiance. He did not kneel but he merely stated:

"You wished to see me?"

"Yes I did," responded King Sadar with a sly smile. "I called upon your service because I know that you are the most powerful mage alive. I need to employ your services. I need –"

"No thank you. I do not work for pay," Soran stated.

"I do not offer pay. I merely allow you to keep your life," answered the king coolly.

Soran stared down for a second. He tossed this over and over in his head. After a few seconds, he came to the conclusion that if he does not like the deal he could back out by threatening the king with his magic. Soran would soon find out how wrong he was.

"Alright." Soran answered, "tell me what I have to do."

"There, I knew you would see it my way. There is a renegade Ulus Magi who used his magic to make himself appear old. He hides his wings with his magic as well and poses as a Coman. I want you to seek him out and destroy him. If you do that, you will be allowed to return to your life. If not, you will be thrown into a dungeon and you will disappear from your former life. The choice my young friend is yours".

Soran knew he had no choice but to go along with Sadar’s plan. He had no wish to kill a man but if it came between killing a man or losing his life, he knew what he must do.

"Alright," Soran said firmly. "I’ll do it."

When Soran awoke the next morning he found that he was in his bed back at the inn. He awoke and thanked himself that it had just been a dream. He quickly slipped into his robes and walked toward the mirror to make sure everything was just right. It was then that he saw the red lines that Letarn had left when he choked him.

Soran walked slowly away from the mirror and remembered every detail of his meeting with the king. He remembered being told of the renegade. He remembered that it was now kill or be killed. And how would he find this old man anyway! There must be hundreds of old men on Sortan alone!

As Soran continued his slow steps away from the mirror, he noticed something out of the corner of his eye. Slowly, he turned his head only to see a box surrounded by a mystical blue fire, hovering in mid-air. Soran reached out with his hand to touch the box. But the blue fire would not let his hand through. A voice boomed in his head.

Well I see you have found the box I have left for you. The voice was that of Letarn’s. I surrounded it in this blue fire so no one but you could open the box. But now it is time to open the box. Flames, Be gone!

With those spoken words the flames were extinguished. Soran walked up to the box and opened it. Within it he found a dagger. The dagger was made of steel, with various sharp points. It had wings on its hilt as well as a blue crystal on its pummel.

The voice returned.

Soran sat down. He had a weapon now. He had a weapon that he could kill himself with. But it could also be used to end his troubles. Soran sat down on his bed to decide what to make of the events that had just occurred as well as the ones that had transpired the night before.

Suddenly, Soran heard a sound.

"Soran? Soran!" called Liza. "Soran where are you? Did you forget about me?"

"Who is it? Who is there? Liza is that you?" Soran asked.

"Well of course its me! You were gonna teach me how to handle a staff today! Did you forget?"

"No, of course not! I would never forget you Liza!"

"Well then get down here and teach me already! I’ll be waiting in the plaza."

"Fine, I’ll be there shortly."

The truth was Soran had forgotten. With all that had happened, he had forgotten he had a friend that he gave lessons to. Liza is a young girl with bright red hair. Her age was only fourteen years but she already knew she wanted to be a warrior. She needed Soran to teach her about fighting using a staff. She would need it in case she ever lost her sword. Or so she said. Deep inside, Soran knew that Liza could never become a warrior. Her hands were too small to handle a sword.

Guerrand Ilance swam to the Council Hall. The council was in a large room in the Ilance city. It consisted like most buildings in Ilance of a domed room with the air filters that allowed the Ilance people to breathe air that had been touched by water. This was a need unique to the Ilance race. Since it was not possible to talk underwater, they fulfilled there needs by creating the filters that brought them the air touched by water.

He was a respected member of the Council. They needed him. He was the only one who ever had a good idea. Most of them voted on where to store the excess food, and on how to decide when a child is old enough to get married. Guerrand knew that it was important that they vote on when and how to attack the Coman and how to defend against attacks from the Ulustrance.

The council would always tell him that his ideas were good but in this time of peace, as long as they left the Ulustrance alone then the Ulustrance would not attack. And there was no need to attack the Coman. They were both peaceful races. Guerrand did not agree.

"How could you possibly trust the Ulustrance?" asked Guerrand. "They would never honor a treaty with us just as they didn’t honor their treaty with the Coman. Maybe if we band together with the Coman we could finish them off once and for all!"

"Calm yourself Council Member Guerrand!" answered the head of the council, Lebrac.

Lebrac was an aged Ilance. He was born into the Council. His father had served, his Father’s Father had served and so on. However Lebrac did not have an heir. There was much dispute and controversy as to who would gain the rank of Head of the Council.

"If we don’t act now, it will be too late."

"That doesn’t matter. As Head of the Council, my first duties are to the people of the Ilance. They are not to cater to your insecurities. We will not act on your speculations of an attack and that is that."

Guerrand’s head began to pound. Someday soon Lebrac would regret having said that. And that was that.

III

Guerrand Ilance swam to the home of the famous mage Mordack. He casually knocked on Mordack’s door. Before long, Mordack answered and asked him to come in.

"Mordack," said Guerrand "I need your help. I need you to develop a spell that will allow me to breathe air for a period of time. And I need you to gather a group of your best students so we can wage war against our enemies the Coman and the Ulustrance."

"The spell I already have. It is called White Breath. So named because our ancestors believed the air was white. However, I doubt I will be allowed to help you attack without the permission of the Council. It just is not correct. If you had permission, form Lebrac, I would gladly do it. But since you don’t…"

Guerrand did not need to hear the end of the sentence to know what Mordack’s answer was. The enraged Guerrand sat down and tried to calm his mind.

"What do you mean you can’t help?" asked Guerrand shaking his finger at Mordack. "If you have any dedication to the Ilance people you would do something to help!"

"I have a great dedication to my people. However my loyalties lie with the Council. If they had given you permission I would have gladly helped…"

"Forget I asked just get to work on the spell."

Mordack began to practice the recitation of the words for the spell White Breath that would allow Guerrand to breathe air.

Tahg Ilance swam as fast as he could to the council chambers. He knocked frantically on the door and the usher allowed him in. As fast as he could, he rushed into the room where the council held its meetings. The guards tried to stop him but he ran in before they could catch him.

"Who is this man who just runs in here and disturbs our meeting?" asked Council head, Lebrac.

"We tried to stop him," answered the guard. "He was too fast."

"I am sorry," Tahg apologized. "It was urgent. The council must act. I overheard Council Member Guerrand conspiring against the will of the council with the mage Mordack!"

"Calm yourself. Guerrand Ilance is a respected member of the council! I refuse to believe that he is conspiring against us. You must have been mistaken," answered council member Tulas with a shake of his balding head.

"I was not mistaken. It was Guerrand, and it was the mage Mordack. If the council does not act then they are refusing to uphold the justice system that they themselves created," said Tahg.

"We cannot just act. We must investigate. Lebar! Tilnis! Come forward. The two of you are to go to the house of Guerrand and to the house of Mordack. Find as much evidence for or against them as you can. When sufficient proof is compiled we, The Council, will act." Said Council Leader Lebrac.

The two Ilance men nodded in response and went off on their journeys. The council sat for the next two hours discussing why any Ilance would consort with the mage Mordack. After all, he was cast out from the Ilance after he defied the council and began working on a spell that would make anyone able to breathe air. He continued to do so and the council was forced to banish him to the outskirts of Ilusandrias. For anyone to conspire with him was outright treason. But, Lebrac realized that if these accusations were true he would enjoy kicking Guerrand off the council.

To himself Lebrac chuckled.

Guerrand stood in the center of a circle of candles. He waited as Mordack meditated to gain the strength necessary for him to cast the spell. Guerrand was starting to have second thoughts. Mordack rose. Guerrand game to the realization that now there was no turning back.

As if still in his meditative trance, Mordack wandered until he came to the gold triangle that stood in front of the circle of candles. And then he began the chant.

"Tikan Toras Likerina/Zel Nag Lipoodianti!"

The magic began to flow through Mordack’s fingers. Suddenly as if hit by a bolt of lightning Guerrand keeled over in pain and collapsed to the floor. Mordack did so as well. However Mordack rose having no memory of what had happened. All he knew was that he had cast the spell. And when he saw that Guerrand was on the floor he knew that the spell had been successful. Had it not been Guerrand would not have felt a thing. Since he was on the floor right now, meant that the spell had worked.

Guerrand rose.

"Hmmm…I don’t feel any different…how do I know it worked?" Asked Guerrand

"We shall go to the shore. If it did not work then when you go on land, you will grasp at your neck in pain. I will then come to your rescue. Remember the spell of White Breath will only last until you enter the water again. Once you return to the water, the spell is broken."

"How will you be able to rescue me?" asked Guerrand.

"Well do you see this ring on my finger?"

Mordack pointed to a ring with a crystal in the center.

"This one right hear. When I first developed the spell of White Breath, I embedded a permanent version of the spell within this ring."

"Could you do that for me?" asked Guerrand.

"Sadly no. I do not have the purest crystal that can only be found in Ulustrance Mountains. Sorry."

With a pitiful look of disappointment Guerrand began to walk toward the ocean.

"Oh don’t look so pitiful. Let’s go".

The two began to walk toward the water. Neither of them admitted it to the other, but they both were having second thoughts about what they were doing. Mordack wondered whether he should have cast the spell or reported this renegade to the Council. Guerrand wandered what good it would do him to go by himself. He was never good at convincing people to side with him. And it was rare that the Coman and Ilance were at peace. He did not want to ruin that. Neither of them would have much time to consider either of these to points for two long…

…Two guards were waiting for them at the gate to the beach. While one chained them up the other searched them for some piece of evidence to be used against them. He found in Mordack’s pocket the book with the White Breath spell in it. They took it and put it away as evidence.

It did not take long for them to get to the Palace of the Council.

"Enter and be seated" Said Council Leader Lebrac. "Until either of you is proven guilty as the law dictates you are our royal guests."

"We begin sire by presenting you with this book. This book contains the spell of White Breath. There is no doubt in my mind that Mordack continued his research on the spell even after banishment. That also explains why they were so close to the gate." said the guard.

"One piece of evidence against the two of you. Can you refute this?" Asked Council Leader Lebrac.

"No." said Guerrand. "However there is something I have been meaning to tell the Council. It has come to my attention that two of the members of this council are conspiring against it. They are trying to steal the leadership away from you Lebrac".

"That may be. And it will be discussed on another day. But right now, We are dealing with this problem." Said Lebrac. "If you have no way to refute this then we shall except the next piece if evidence."

"The next piece," Said the guard "is this letter. It is from Guerrand to Mordack. It reads: The spell must be complete. Why are you taking so long? I will come there and force you to cast the spell on me if I must. —That is how the message ends. I have a second letter here that comes back from Mordack to Guerrand. It reads: No need to use force. It is just a very hard spell to prepare for. I am sorry for the delay. – The sender signs both at the bottom. My lord this should be sufficient enough proof that these two men are guilty."

"Liar! I never wrote that letter! It has no bearing here. It is forged." yelled Guerrand.

"Have you any proof to that statement?"

"Well no but…"

Well this is indeed interesting," said Lebrac. "The Council will reconvene here tomorrow. In the mean time, throw these two in the dungeon. We shall get them tomorrow."

The next morning the two criminals were awakened. They began to remember the events that had transpired over the course of the previous night. They remembered all the evidence brought against them. They knew that they would be sentenced today. There was no doubt in their minds what the sentence would be.

Two guards came to their cell to escort them to the Council chambers. Both had spears in hand. The two guards chained up the two prisoners and took them away.

The two entered the Council hall.

"Well we have decided on your fates," said Lebrac. "On the charge of Treason we find both Mordack and Guerrand guilty. On the charge of disobedience of the Council’s will we find Mordack Guilty. Your sentences are as follows. Mordack since you were banished already we have no choice but to increase your sentence to death.

"Guerrand since you were a member of the council your sentence is to be a trifle less then what it should be. Instead of watching you being tortured to death, you will simply be put to death. Tomorrow on Terac Eve, the both of you will be thrown into the pit of Eternal Falling. The pit is bottomless and you will, if you are lucky, die of fright not to long after you have been dropped".

"I can’t believe we are to be put to death. This is outrageous!" yelled Guerrand.

"Believe it," responded Mordack.

"Can’t you magic us out of here? You are a Magus. Work some magic!"

"It’s not that easy. This palace is protected against magic. I have no power in here."

"We have to get out! I don’t know how but we can’t die!"

"I have an idea…"

"Guard! Guard!" called Guerrand. "It’s my friend here I think he is sick. He looks like he might vomit."

"Alright hold it," called the guard. "Let me see…"

The guard unlocked the door and at that moment Mordack knocked him over the head with a clay-feeding dish. The guard fell into a pile of dirty clothing. They quickly hid the body under the clothes and then made their escape from the palace heading straight for the beach. Now they had time to ponder their original thoughts.

"It is important to parry your opponents move correctly," Soran said to Liza. "One good blow with the staff to the back of the head and you could render a man - regardless of his size - unconscious."

"So I follow up his moves with a dodge and then I parry it back?" Asked Liza.

"Yes. Dodge, and then parry. Dodge, Parry."

"I’ll have to remember that." Liza said.

Liza began to mutter beneath her breathe the words parry, and dodge. Suddenly they both heard a sound from the Gate of Peace. The Gate of Peace was built when the very first treaty between Ilance and Coman was signed. When the treaty was broken, the gate was sealed. But now it sounded like someone had opened it.

"You’d better get home Liza. Your mom will be worried," Said Soran.

"Yeah I think your right," Liza responded.

Liza broke into a run and headed for her home in Sortan. They always practiced on the beach. It was so quiet and beautiful there. But now Soran could hear someone fumbling with the gate. He began slowly reciting protective spells over himself. As the gate burst open Soran decided that no matter what it was it could not be allowed into the city.

Guerrand swam as fast as he could to the shoreline. As he walked up to the gate, he told Mordack to do what he could to open it. Guerrand could not believe it. He was able to breathe normal air. He watched as Mordack hurled a fireball at the gate causing it to collapse.

As Guerrand looked passed the gate he saw a man standing there. It was definitely a Coman. He walked up to it. Looking at it from all angles, he finally stared intently at this Coman’s neck.

"Where are your gills?" Shouted Guerrand.

"I have none worthless Ilance!" Answered the Coman. "For we Coman do not breathe water. Which brings me to my question. How are you out of the water?"

"My mage over here," he pointed at Mordack, "has cast a spell on me that allows me to comfortably breathe air. Now stand aside. I must talk with your king."

"I will not. Your kind has never been allowed in here. And I will not let you pass or my name isn’t Soran Kith!"

"Kith…Kith…the name sounds so familiar…Ah of course! Your father was Jorslin Kith. He served with my father during the war against the Ulus Magi. He was a great man. I am forced in my father’s honor to bow to you. You are the son of a great man."

"There is no need for that," said Soran. "What is it that you need to speak with the king for?"

"I must tell him of the imminent doom. If he does not act, The Ulustrance will attack us! We the two nations must forge an alliance once more to attack and finally do away with the Ulustrance," Said Guerrand.

"I doubt that my King would listen. He is a very stubborn man. But maybe I could convince your king—"

"Council. Ilance has a Council," interrupted Guerrand.

"…Maybe I could convince the Council to join with us. Do you think that would do?"

"No. The council is even more stubborn. And besides I can’t go back there. I am a wanted man. I escaped with Mordack. Perhaps you and I could band together and make our own army. Recruit the everyday man, and destroy the Ulustrance. Sort of a militia."

"Its an idea but right now I have my own problems."

Soran began to tell over the whole story of what had happened those nights ago. When he finished Guerrand paced back and forth. Apparently he was trying to come up with an idea.

"If we were to attack and win, the king would be forced to cancel the deal! And then you would no longer have to kill that man," said Guerrand decidedly.

"Are you sure we will win?" asked Soran.

"I am positive," answered Guerrand.

"Well then let’s start gathering those who are strong enough to fight."

The Old Man wandered from place to place. He was never able to find where he belonged. He couldn’t go back to Lesarania, but he could hide in Sortan. He had been successful this long. He would keep it up until the war that had been prophesized about. And then just as the prophecy said, he would betray his people. And then he would be allowed to stay in Sortan. His banishment would be ended. He could finally see the son that had been taken from him so long ago.

To this day he regretted betraying his army. It was necessary. They had his wife. She was pregnant. They were going to kill her. He had to act. Or else his son would never be born. And so he betrayed his army. And then disappeared disguising himself as a Lesaranian he hid among them. But soon he became disgusted by there savage ways. He fled them. They called him a traitor. Now he

had no where. He would be accepted again.

Soran and his new companion Guerrand walked as fast as they could to the Inn of Sanctuary. There they would begin work on perfecting their plans. Already they had ideas for how they would recruit discreetly. Soon they would have the military power they needed. Soon they would attack Lesarania.

As they neared the inn, Soran cautioned Guerrand not to mention the fact that he was an Ilance.

"Just let me do the talking," Soran said.

They entered the inn and Soran paid for another room for Guerrand to sleep in. Then they both walked upstairs. As they approached Soran’s door they glanced around for signs of approaching people. When they found none, they entered. They began to concoct their speech to the good people. A plea to save the people of Sortan from those of Lesarania. They knew their plan would work.

"Hmmm…" Guerrand said.

"What?"

"I was just wondering where Mordack disappeared to…I haven’t seen him in a good long time. Since I first saw you in fact…Oh well."

The Old Man entered the inn. He sat down to eat. All he could think about was that speech that he had heard in Sortan Square. He wanted so much to join that group. But that would only complicate matters. He needed to sort things out. He walked up the stairs of the inn to his room. Unfortunately, because he was so lost in his thoughts, he stumbled into the wrong room.

"Oh! Forgive me. I was so lost in my thoughts that…"

The Old Man let his voice trail off. His eyes met with those of the man who had spoken in the Square today. The two looked at each other. Guerrand walked backward a few steps. Soran walked up close to the hooded old man. The Old Man stepped back. Soran remembered the description Sadar had given him. This old man fit that description.

Soran reached into his sleeve and felt the dagger. The man looked away. Soran grabbed The Old Man’s sleeve and shoved him against the wall.

"So you are the cause of all my troubles! Well I’ll show you what it means to bother Soran Kith!" screamed Soran.

Soran began to draw the dagger. Guerrand called out to Soran.

"Soran! Think of what you are doing! You can’t kill this man. He is innocent! You don’t even know that he is the right one! Don’t do this."

Soran looked at the man. He plunged the dagger back into his sleeve.

Suddenly a flash of light was seen in the room. Out of this light stepped Mordack.

"Mordack!" Guerrand sneered. "You abandoned me. Why do you return?"

"I return," said Mordack, "Because Soran did not fulfil my wishes."

Both men looked at Mordack in shock.

"That’s right. I have been causing all the events that have transpired just so that I could get rid of this one man!" said Mordack. "When we came unto the beach I found Soran. He had gotten orders from my Lord King Sadar. I figured he was perfect to get rid of this man with."

The Old Man spoke up.

"It would have been ironic had you killed me Soran."

"Quiet!" screamed Mordack.

"No my old friend," said The Old Man. "I will not be quiet! It is inevitable that we must battle here on this floor. And only one of us may survive the battle that must now transpire. Soran! Guerrand! Stay where you are. Do not interfere."

The battle began. Fireballs and the like were being thrown around the room as these to Magi battled out whatever it was they were battling about. It took quite a while of unsuccessful spells and massive destruction of the small inn room, for the two to realize that they were evenly matched.

Guerrand and Soran each grabbed one of the two magi. Much to the poor old former innkeepers’ happiness, they restrained their hands so that no magic could be used against them.

"Tell us what is going on," said Soran.

"It is of no concern to you two. I was wrong to use you Soran. You are far to inquisitive for my purposes," said Mordack.

"If you will not tell them old friend then I shall," said the old man. "Firstly it will interest you to know Soran that I know who your father is. But before I tell you, I feel you should here the story of this "Mordack". Or as he really should be called Raife".

Mordack cringed at the name that was just used. He waved his hand and the magic died. Mordack’s gills were gone and wings sprouted from his back.

"Letarn!" Soran said with a cringe.

"No you must be mistaken," said the old man. "This is Raife."

"Actually both of you are correct," said Raife. "My name is Raife. However, In Ulustrance I am known as Letarn, which means Warrior king. I am Sadar’s son. Heir to the kingdom of Lesarania".

"Well since he revealed himself I have no choice but to reveal myself," said The Old Man. "I am called Lukarian. And the story of this battle between me and Raife goes as follows…

Three mighty Gods created the world of Zabraxia. Their names were Gilrak, Zishru, and Dezra. These three Gods each used a part of themselves to make the land what it was. Gilrak, God of Earth. With his mighty hands he cultivated the land and made it livable. He created the plants and vegetables that were necessary for surface dwellers to survive. He named those he created the Coman. Dezra, Goddess of Water. With her power she granted those whom she created the power to breathe water. They in turn could survive under the sea. Later on this became a disadvantage because Dezra had not thought of how these people should communicate. Since they were only able to breathe air that had touched water, she made their cities so that there were filters that filtered out the air that was in the water. In this way, they could communicate. She named her race the Ilance. Zishru, God of the Sky. With his power he created a race of sky dwelling people. These Sky dwellers had the ability to breathe both air and water. Zishru named his race the Ulustrance.

The three Gods then came together and used there powers to create a Temple suspended in the air for all three races to worship. It had stairs that the Coman could climb to get there, a tunnel filled with water for the Ilance and a door in the ceiling for the Ulustrance. They would gather here to worship the three Gods.

The layout of the Temple was such that there were three rooms. In the first room only reachable by the doors above the stairs was the room where the Coman went to worship Gilrak. Within this chamber lay a stone platform where the worshipper would stand upon to say prayers to his god Gilrak. It was lit with many torches and to braziers floating in mid-air above the stone platform.

Within the second room, which is only accessible through the water filled tunnel, lay a platform carved of a mysterious blue metal. Again the worshipper would stand atop this platform and recite prayers to his Goddess Dezra. The room was lit with torches in the corners of the room.

The third room, only accessible through the door in the ceiling, had within it a platform of Onyx. Again the worshipper would stand upon the platform and recite prayers to his God Zishru. Three torches hovering in mid-air above the floor lit the room.

Soon like all other worshippers these people began to get skeptical of whether their God’s really existed. It was because of this that the people of the three races stopped going to the temple. Soon the God’s became angry. However they did not abandon their children they merely waited to see what would happen.

The three races began getting jealous of one another and began to fight. It was at this time that the God’s descended from their heavenly domain. They bestowed the knowledge of how to cast Magical spells upon one man from each race swearing him to secrecy. They thought that by doing this these three men would band together to create a new set of races. Their mistake was to not realize that all men eventually give in to temptation. The men tried as hard as they could to keep their secrets, but to no avail. The men bestowed the knowledge to other men in their race and eventually a whole new rank was added into the armies of the races. That of Magus.

When the secret was revealed the Gods became even angrier. Now they decided to abandon this world and start over. Before they disappeared they left a sample of their power within three orbs. Gilrak left his power within the Orb of Fire. Dezra left her power within the Orb of Water. And Zishru left his power within the Orb of Air. They then left these Orbs upon there respective platforms and disappeared from Zabraxia. They left an inscription upon a plaque in each race’s dwelling place. The plaque read:

Soon three men from each race got together and passed the trials. They received the power of the Gods and got the orbs. They became the Lords of their races. When they received the power they were each granted one wish. Sadar Lord of the Ulustrance wished for long life. He has lived ever since. Eron Lord of the Coman wished for power. He and his descendants have had the strongest army of all the three races. Elbanon Lord of the Ilance wished for wisdom. He had his wish granted.

The three Lords after receiving their powers abandoned each other. Once again the three races became enemies. Sadar began a rein of terror and turned the Ulustrance into a savage race. He still controls his Orb of Air to this day. Eron died but bestowed the Orb of Fire to his son and his son in turn to his own son. Elbanon eventually died and he too bequeathed his Orb to his sons. However his sons did not wish for one of them to rule. They founded the Council. It still holds its Orb.

Now it came to pass that a treaty between the council and the King of the Coman, Tracan was established. It was at this time that the gate of peace was erected between the ocean and the shoreline. During this treaty the Coman sent a Magi named Jorslin Kith, and the Ilance sent a Mage named Mordack to attack the Ulustrance. The mage Mordack turned on Jorslin and went to seek an alliance with the Ulustrance king Sadar. Sadar Killed Mordack and had his son Raife take Mordack’s form. He has lived like that ever since. He destroyed the army that Jorslin brought with him. Jorslin was driven back to Coman territory and Raife in the form of Mordack returned to the water.

Jorslin new that if he returned to Coman territory with the news that he had been beaten he would be outcast from his rank as Magus. He went into hiding under the name of Lukarian (which means Hidden One). He had a child whom he named Soran Kith. This man grew to become a Coman Magus himself. Unfortunately Lukarian was forced to give the boy up to his brother Killran. His brother raised the boy until Killran’s death. After that the boy grew up on the streets until he discovered his lineage at the age of 14. He then began to train as a Mage.

"So now you see Soran that I am your father," said Lukarian. "And that my fight with Raife here is to avenge Mordack’s death."

Raife suddenly spoke up.

"Well I need to get back to my father. He needs me you know. I’ll be seeing you."

Suddenly Raife began to fade from view and then disappeared entirely from Soran’s grasp.

"Damn!" Jorslin swore. "I lost him again. Oh well at least I was able to reveal to you who I truly am. But there is still more I must tell you. I need you and Guerrand to get the orbs for me. I need you Soran to get the one from our king and I need Guerrand to get the one from your council.

They both nodded in response.

"Good. Once we have all the orbs I can use my magic to summon the Gods and get them to take the power away from the three who now hold it. For they use it to further there own needs not that of their people. I will attempt to get Sadar’s Orb. It will be difficult, but I am confident that we can do it."

The three parted their separate ways. Guerrand and Soran each wondering how they could possibly trust this man.

"Can we really trust this Jorslin guy?" asked Guerrand. "I mean should we believe what he says about being your father Soran? And should we risk our lives for him and gather the orbs? Jorslin probably wants the orbs for himself!"

"I just don’t know. Maybe we should recover the orbs and then if he turns out to be a fake, then we can keep them for ourselves." Soran said.

"Fine," Guerrand responded. "Lets do that. There are two ways we can go about this. We can both go together to get the orbs or we can go on our own to our respective races land’s and get them ourselves."

"Lets get them ourselves. I think that would be smarter. Saves time too."

"Yes it would save time," Guerrand said with a nod of his head, "and I just remembered you don’t have gills with which to breathe water. You wouldn’t survive down there anyway…"

"Good point. Let’s go".

Guerrand walked as fast as he could to the Gate of Peace. He couldn’t wait to feel the water cross his gills. The feel of the water washing over his body. The rush of swimming in the crowded ocean. He would be returning home.

The next thought crashed into him like a load of bricks. He was a fugitive. How could he go home? He would not be welcome. The Council would kill him on sight. Guerrand looked back to see if Soran was still there. He was not. Guerrand collapsed on the ground. There was nothing he could do.

How can I recover the orb? Guerrand thought. I am a failure. I’ll just have to go back and tell Soran that I failed.

Guerrand sat in silence for quite sometime.

"No! I can’t give up. I must keep going. My people need me. I will get the orb. It will be difficult but I will do it."

Guerrand opened the Gate of Peace and made a fast dive into the ocean. It was like he thought it would be. The feeling was great. He felt the water swerve past his gills. The sweet taste of the air that had touched water. Guerrand was home.

Guerrand swam as fast as he could with his head down so as not to get caught. He was swimming straight to the Council Hall. Soon he would enter and take the Orb of Water from the greedy Council. Soon he would be able to take the power of the god’s away from the Council. He would consider that his revenge against Lebrac.

Finally Guerrand could see the Hall in the distance. As he got closer Guerrand almost fainted. The council hall had a big hole in the side of it. Sitting beneath the ruins was a young Ilance boy. Guerrand leaned near the boy and asked if he knew what had happened.

"Its so sad," the boy sobbed, "Mordack came back and killed everyone in the council! And then he destroyed the city. Most of us were able to get away to the Secret Place before Mordack destroyed the city. My Mom and Dad though were not survivors…" The boy’s sobs became uncontrollable now.

Guerrand walked into the ruins of the Hall. There he saw the table that the council sat at covered in blood. The bodies of many of the council members strewed about on it. The thought that it served them right crossed Guerrand’s mind. But that thought was interrupted by a sound coming from the ceiling. The sound was that of rope creaking against a metal clasp. Guerrand slowly moved his head up. There on the ceiling he saw the burned and mutilated bloody body of Lebrac.

He had wanted revenge but this was to an extreme! It looked as if Raife had hurled a good amount of fireballs at Lebrac as well as bludgeoned him with a blunt object and then putting iron boots on his feet. He then hanged him and left him to die. Guerrand’s mind filled with rage. That rage was only heightened when he saw the pedestal, where the Orb of Water had been laid to rest, empty.

Guerrand walked slowly outside of the ruins. There on the steps waiting for him was Raife.

"Raife!" Guerrand sneered "Why did you do this? You destroyed innocent lives! Why? It was my home."

"Spare me the sob story," Raife hissed. "I don’t care about you home. I suppose you are looking for this?"

As Raife spoke those words he pulled out of his shirt the Orb of Water.

"It is mine now. You can not have it. Soon I will control all three orbs. I then will have the power to rule the world."

Raife ended the statement with a deep maniacal laugh. He suddenly began to fade away, and then was gone. Guerrand looked around searching for any sign of Raife. He would have to find him and get back that orb. Otherwise he would truly fail.

Jorslin looked around as he prepared to use his magic to get up to Lesarania. He spoke the words he would need to levitate in his mind. He also removed from his pocket the necessary components to complete the casting. Out of a small pouch he removed a feather of an eagle, a coin of gold, and bit of bat guano. He put these ingredients together and spoke the words of the spell aloud.

"Rokah Tia, Alma Disaca!"

Suddenly Jorslin’s feet began to rise off the ground. He slowly rose up until he was in the city in the clouds called Lesarania. He had positioned himself so that he would be on the outskirts of the city. He then used his magic to change his facial features.

He walked up to the front gates. Slowly two winged guards came out from to opposite ends of the gate.

"Halt! Who goes there?"

"I am but a lonely man who seeks to enter your great kingdom!"

"Oh no wingless one! No visitors have been allowed here since the time that the Orb of Air was laid to rest. King Sadar is to afraid to let anyone in."

"I was hoping I wouldn’t have to do this."

Suddenly two missiles of pure magic flew from the fingers of Jorslin. They both hit their targets. Both guards fell to the ground. Jorslin opened the door and entered the city.

The Palace of Air was located in the very center of town. Jorslin walked toward the center of the great town with his head down. If he were seen he would be killed. He realized that he would not be permitted to enter the palace in the day. He would have to wait until nightfall.

Jorslin walked the town that day ducking in and out of alleys listening for any useful information. When night fell, he made haste toward the palace. As he neared it he began to devise the plan how he would get the orb. He would sneak in while King Sadar was asleep. He would then grab the Orb of Air and escape.

"A very basic plan," Jorslin thought, "but still one that should work."

As he entered the Palace he walked as near as he could to the wall staying hidden in the shadows. He listened for any approaching footsteps. When he heard none he walked directly into the center of the room. Immediately two guards came from either side of the room and put swords to his back. He heard a laugh. A familiar laugh.

"It was a mistake coming here, my old friend. Trying to get the orb away from me are you? Well you should know by now that I know all that goes on in Lesarania. Just like last time you have been captured," said King Sadar.

"And just like last time I will escape," remarked Jorslin.

"No. Not this time. This time I am ready for you. I have had my Magi prepare an anti-magic shell about your prison cell. You will not be using magic to escape."

Sadar punctuated this sad ending with a maniacal laugh.

Soran walked slowly away from where he had been talking to Guerrand just moments ago. He slowly walked toward Castle Coman. King Locar grandson of Eron lived there. This would not be easy. If Jorslin were to be believed, then Locar would have a huge army. He would have to be careful and stay in the shadows.

As he neared the castle two guards barred the way.

"Hey! You can’t go in there. The king wants no visitors. Turn back!"

Soran acted quickly. Using his magic he morphed his face into that of King Locar’s. He had only seen the king once so he had to improvise some features of his face.

"My loyal guards. I am the king. Let me pass."

The two guards were dumbfounded and gave one another looks of disbelief ultimately ending in curiosity.

"My lord? When did you leave? I don’t remember seeing you go…"

"I went through the back door!" Soran quickly interrupted.

"The back door…hmmm…alright pass my lord," said the guard with a look of disbelief.

"Thank you. You will be rewarded."

As Soran walked toward the door one of the guards presumably the captain called one of his men aside.

"Watch him," he said "I have a feeling we are in for a big surprise…"

The other guard obliged and followed Soran in at a slightly slower pace.

Soran walked slowly up the stairs to the doors. He opened them and ended the magic that morphed his features. He knew where the Orb of Fire was kept. It was in the throne room. Where exactly in the throne room he was not sure. He knew that he would have to enter the throne room to get it. He thought fast. Opening the door he called to one of the guards.

"Can I help you—"

The guard was cut off as a vase descended upon his head. Quickly Soran slipped into the guard’s clothes and walked into the throne room. There he waited for the proper time.

"You! Puny guard! Get over here."

This was perfect! Locar was calling him over. It was amazing how Locar himself was giving him everything he needed to pilfer the orb. He walked toward King Locar’s throne. As he walked toward he had a better view of what it looked like. The throne was carved entirely out of stone. Its back was round in the shape of the sun. It looked much the same as Sadar’s except for the color. Instead of black obsidian the stone was painted gold to give it the appearance of a solid gold throne.

"How many times do we have to tell you guys? Suck in your gut and look straight ahead! Not next to you, not on the side of you, straight ahead!" Locar screamed.

Instantly everyone in the room fell into a deep peaceful sleep except for the king.

"Fool! Magic does not work on me as long as I wear the orb!"

King Locar reached beneath his shirt and pulled out an amulet. The orb was encrusted in the amulet. How would he get it? He had no idea.

"Your Grace. I challenge you to a duel of magic. The winner keeps the orb," spoke Soran.

"Ha! You must think I am mad! I am not a Magi! I have no talent for the Art. It would be as if I was giving you the orb! In fact the orb would protect me from all your spells, where is the honor in murdering a person?"

"Well then I challenge you to a duel with swords. The winner keeps the orb."

"You are so confident that you would challenge me to a duel? I am the leading swordsman in the kingdom. Very well I accept. Choose your weapon. I already have mine."

Soran reached into his sleeve and took out a sword that he had bought as well as the dagger given to him by Letarn.

"I am ready."

"As am I!"

Locar lunged at Soran catching him off guard. Soran dodged out of the way just in time. Soran shot out straight toward Locar. Locar easily parried the blow. The duel went on like this for quite awhile. Finally Soran caught Locar off guard. The blow sliced right into Locar’s left arm. Blood splattered on Soran’s armor. Locar screamed. He dropped his dagger and lunged straight toward Soran. Just then the door opened. In walked Raife.

Locar stared in awe at this great winged being. He dropped his weapon and cowered away toward the corner. But at the same time Soran had lunged toward him. The blow went straight into Locar’s chest. Locar stared at Soran teary eyed.

"How could you?" he said with his dying breath.

Locar collapsed dead on the ground. Soran a bit disheartened by what he had just done grabbed the orb. He put it around his neck just as Raife walked toward him.

"You made a mistake giving me this dagger," Soran said. "I have a weapon that can kill even you Raife."

Soran held the dagger pointed toward Raife. Raife stopped moving. He backed away slowly.

"Mark my words Soran. I will return for that orb. And when I do, Nothing will stop me."

It was said that maniacal laughter could be heard all through Sortan that day.

Jorslin sat in the cell that had become his home. Here he waited for the call that would mean his execution. He wondered in his mind how he could have been so careless. How could Sadar have caught him? He had outwitted him before why was he caught so easily this time?

He did not have time to ponder this question more as a guard descended into the dungeon area of the palace and opened the cell immediately binding his wrists. Slowly he took him up to the throne room.

"Guard! Guard!" Jorslin heard Sadar scream, "Where is Letarn? I want him here to watch this!"

"He went out earlier. I have not seen him since," the guard responded.

"The execution must be delayed. I want Letarn here."

"My Lord," Jorslin said, "I feel I should tell you. Letarn is using you."

Sadar paused a minute then moved up close to Jorslin and slapped clear across the face.

"How dare you speak my son in that awful manner! I should run you through right now. How dare you insult my own son that way and in front of me!" Screamed Sadar.

"I speak the truth. Letarn is in Ilance now getting the orb of water for himself. Soon he will travel to Coman and then back here where he will use the orbs against you!"

"He is not even in Ilance and I will prove it. Guard!" called Sadar, "Where did Letarn say he was going?"

"He mentioned something about going to Ilance. I don’t know why he would go there…the thought of even seeing that worthless sea dwelling people…"

The guard’s voice trailed off as he watched King Sadar walk uneasily to his throne.

"…Are you all right m’lord? You look ill. Shall I fetch the doctor?"

"No. That will be all right. I just feel a little dizzy that’s all. Bring the prisoner to my private chambers."

"But sir I hardly think that that is a good idea—".

"Now!" Sadar screamed still with his head down.

"As you wish," replied the guard.

As the guards entered Sadar’s chambers they shoved Jorslin in. Jorslin’s eyes moved taking in every detail of the room. On the right wall were various pictures and tapestries dating back to before the Great War, some even depicting particular battle scenes from the Great War. They were very old, and very valuable. On the left wall the closest wall to him was Sadar’s bed. It was very neatly kept with silk bed sheets. On the wall with the door was a sign he could not make out. Upon closer inspection he realized that it was written in magical Runes. It was an enchantment that kept you out of the room unless Sadar invited you in. On the far wall he noticed Sadar’s chair. It too had runes on it however they were more difficult to make out as Sadar was sitting on it now. Floating in mid-air above it was the very thing that Jorslin came here for. The Orb of Air. Jorslin just wanted to reach out and grab it. However before he could Sadar spoke.

"The magical wards on this chair will prevent you from getting the Orb old friend. It is protected by magic far superior to yours."

Soran looked shocked. He hadn’t even made a move and Sadar knew already what he was trying to do! If he were to get the Orb he would have to devise a way to do it later.

"If what you say is true Jorslin than my son is trying to usurp the throne out from underneath me? Why? Why would he do something like that? And bare in mind the only reason I do not kill you for saying such a thing is because you and I are old friends even if we are no enemies."

"Because you have almost eternal life. That’s why," said a voice from the back of the room.

"Letarn. Where have you been? Explain your actions."

"The only explanation I can give you is that I realized that you have had many children that you have promised the throne to however they died before you. I merely want to get you off the throne."

"That is no explanation! That is enough. Letarn of Lesarania, I hereby strip you of your title. Your sentence is to for ever live life in the dungeons of this palace baring the name of Raife Iltrand," said Sadar.

Soran thought about this. The word Iltrand in Ulus meant the shamed. That is a huge dishonor. He knew Raife would not stand for it.

"I think not," said Raife.

As he spoke these words he held up the orb of water ending all the enchantments in the room. The throne enchantment ended and the Orb fell to the ground. At once father and son jumped to get the orb. At that time Jorslin saw his opening. He jumped in recovering the Orb for himself. Jorslin raised the Orb in the air. He spoke the words to activate its power and teleported himself out of the Palace.

For the moment he was free but he knew he had only to wait for endless amounts of guards to chase him.

Soran, now wearing the Orb of Fire around his neck, (the orbs have two states. One is a form about the size of a marble. This is known as the neck form because the three kings wore them as pendants on necklaces. The other form is called the large form. At that time it is larger and weighs more) strutted along in triumph. Raife could not touch him because of the dagger and with the orb he could rule Sortan! Even all of Coman if he wanted!

Just then he heard a noise.

"Soran? What’s that around your neck?" asked Liza

"Liza?! What are you doing so far into town? Your mother will be worried!" said Soran.

"I had a fight with my mom, I’ll go back later. She won’t care. She’s probably happier when I’m not there." Liza said.

"I’m taking you home now Liza. I don’t care what you say."

Just then they found themselves in front of Liza’s house. Soran wondered if this was some power that the orb had. The ability to teleport you to any place you think of. He vowed to learn more about it. However now was not the time.

Liza stared in shock. They were there in front of Liza’s house. Only the house wasn’t there. It was on the ground in ruins. Soran wondered what had happened.

"Who would do something like this?" Liza asked practically in tears.

Under his breath Soran uttered one word:

"Raife".

"Who is Raife?" Liza asked.

Soran thought. If the orb had the ability to teleport people places maybe it had the ability to summon people as well. Soran wished that Raife were in front of him. It worked. Raife appeared standing before him with a look of shock on his face.

"What am I doing here?" Raife asked.

Suddenly he realized where he was. The house that he had burned stood in front of him. Then he saw Soran. Then he saw Liza. Wasn’t she an inhabitant of the house? Never trust an air demon to do jobs for you he thought. Removing the Orb of Water from around his neck he pointed it at Soran.

At the same time Soran ripped the orb from his neck. Liza backed away still shocked at the fact that her house and her mother and father were burned inside it. She did not want anymore killing to take place she begged that Soran stopped but to her disbelief he merely ignored her.

The battle began. Water and fire clashed. Neither of them were the winners as they were both evenly matched. However soon Soran’s magic failed. He could no longer control the Orb. Raife was quick to notice this and he went in for the kill.

Liza watching in horror remembered the dagger she kept in her belt. With a quick motion she drew the dagger and at the same time jabbed it into Raife’s shoulder. Raife shouted in pain.

"This isn’t over yet," he said as he disappeared.

"Damn!" Raife said.

Then looking at Liza he said:

"That was very brave of you. Be strong. We will get through this."

"Shut up!" She shouted. "I only did that because I thought you were going to kill. I didn’t want anymore killing to take place near me! I begged you to stop but you ignored me!"

"Liza, you have to understand," Soran explained. "What I do is for the good of the people. Raife is a menace to all races here on Zabraxia. We must defeat him at all costs."

"Really? I thought he was just one of your friends who you challenged to a duel. Well you needn’t worry anyway. Jabbing that dagger into Raife’s shoulder was enough to make me feel much better. Besides if I am to be a warrior I must learn to deal with death. I’ll be okay Soran. Don’t worry."

"Alright," he said. "I want you to travel with me. On the way you will learn valuable lessons. Watch and take notes."

The two of them walked away from the ruins of Liza’s house. They had much work to do. Silently Soran wondered what was taking Guerrand so long.

Guerrand silently contemplated how he could possibly get the Orb from one as powerful as Raife. Raife was in control of one of the Orbs! His Orb! The one Guerrand himself was supposed to get.

Maybe I should just go back and tell Soran that I am a failure thought Guerrand.

"NO! I will not admit defeat yet," Guerrand said with a shake of his head.

He stood up on shaky legs and jumped then began swimming toward the Secret City of the Ilance. The Secret City was actually the ruins of the Old City of Legend. The Old City of Legend was the original Ilance city. It was destroyed in the Great War.

The Great War was a war between all three of the races. The Ulustrance took their army under water and destroyed the city leaving only ruins and killing thousands. The Ilance moved to the new city and left the ruins as a refuge in case of war. Now with Raife hot on the trail of the Orbs, the Ilance fled to the Old Ruins to escape the destruction caused by Raife.

Now Guerrand Ilance swam as fast as he could to a place with people who would not welcome him at all. But he would save them anyway. He would help them as much as possible to escape from Raife’s evil. Regardless of their ill intentions toward them he would come to their aid.

As Guerrand neared the Old City he was met by the guards. They did not look particularly happy to see him. With a sharp look and a shake of their heads the guards said:

"Guerrand. It has been a while has it not?" the guard asked with a twinkle in his eye, "You do realize we should drag you straight to the Council. But in the chaos of Lebrac’s murder and the theft of the Orb of water, there was no new leader appointed. So I guess I can overlook it this time".

Surprised that he got off so easy and thinking it was his masterful wits that got him away with it he strode into town. Failing to notice the shadow that was slowly creeping over him.

"You must listen to me!" Guerrand was screaming while shaking his hands in all the assembled faces. He new he looked like a madman but this was the only way. "For the good of yourselves and the good of the entire Ilance nation. Flee immediately. Raife knows we are here! Flee!"

One young boy walked up to Guerrand and with a glance at his father he spat in Guerrand’s face. The boy’s father looked at Guerrand and said:

"That’s the treatment that fugitives get here in Ilance. Get out before we throw you out. And I can’t guaranty your safety if you chose the latter."

Guerrand wiped his face and shook his head as he began to walk toward a wall in the shadows.

"I can’t just sit and watch them die. There must be something I can do to make them listen."

"There is nothing you can do," said an all to familiar voice behind Guerrand.

"Raife!"

"In the flesh. I came to finish what I started. Guerrand Ilance, you are not destined to live past this point in time."

Guerrand’s blood became chilled at this. He shook the feeling off.

"Says who?" Guerrand countered.

"Says me," Raife said. With a swipe of his hand he took out the Orb of Water. "He who holds the power of the Gods is generally the ultimate authority."

Guerrand began to slowly back away from Raife. He soon came to the realization that he had nothing with which to defend himself with. He broke into a run.

"Don’t run from me!" Raife screamed as he began to chase Guerrand.

Guerrand finally made it to the council hall. He knew there was a ceremonial sword on the wall. He reached for it with shaky hands and took it as his own.

"My Lord! This thing is huge!" Guerrand said as he realized the weight of this giant sword.

"You won’t last long using that sword Guerrand," spoke Raife.

"I would rather die fighting then submit to your will."

"So be it," Raife said coldly.

The battle began. Guerrand lifted the sword and slashed. Raife easily dodged the blow. He counter-attacked by holding the Orb above his head and pointing at Guerrand. In an instant shards of ice flew at Guerrand. Guerrand had no doubt in his mind that they were very sharp.

Guerrand rolled out of the way. On his way up he felt a sharp pain in his side. He looked up to see Raife standing over him with dagger in his hand. Guerrand feared the worst and his fears were justified. As he looked at his side he found the dagger’s point plunged in. Raife took it and twisted it so it ripped the flesh even more than it already had.

Guerrand was screaming like a woman. The pain was unbearable. But Raife was not yet finished with him. Raife pulled the knife out and stabbed it far into Guerrand’s gut. He then began scorching Guerrand’s body with fireball after fireball, mercilessly burning Guerrand’s flesh.

Finally Raife was satisfied and he left Guerrand to suffer in agony, writhing on the floor. Suddenly Guerrand felt something. It was a terrible feeling. Guerrand Ilance finally came to the realization that he was dying. As he lay there, his mind fading, he thought of all the things he was leaving unfinished. He remembered his friends, his people and how Raife would probably destroy them.

He remembered the Orb he was supposed to get. Suddenly another thought dawned on him. He remembered the words of Raife when he cast White Breath on Guerrand while Raife was still posing as Mordack.

"If you ever return to the water, the magic will die and you will no longer breathe air".

Guerrand realized finally that no matter what he had done, he would have died. As that realization came, so did the peacefulness of eternal sleep. With his dying breath Guerrand spoke his last words:

"Soran, I am sorry".

And Guerrand Ilance died.

As Raife neared the Old City, he smelled the smell of the Ilance people. As he walked through the gates killing the two guards in the process he raised the Orb above his head and watched as the Ilance people fled the area. He did not doubt that there were more Ilance elsewhere, but this would serve for the time being.

Raife slowly left the city again and stood just outside. He pointed to the area that he wanted destroyed. Suddenly as if by Magic, which it was, the entire Old City became frozen in a block of ice.

"Well that wasn’t quite how I wanted it to work but I guess it will do."

Raife left the frozen Ruins and swam toward the shore. There was work to be done.