Last Updated:
2023-05-25 13:37:59
Previous Chapter
Related Chapters
STEEL AND FLESH TRUST
"Every feature, and character that Aynam possesses is from you."King Lauihnio scowled at his uncle. "Are you trying to say that I am arrogant - that I do not possess the qualities of a good king?""I did not say that you do not possess the qualities of a good king." Lord Mordian snorted. "But you are arrogant, and you do not think or listen to your elders before you pass judgements. You always prefer what seems right to you.""If I was the type that was always eager to listen to advice, you would be dead by now. Hope you know that?" Lord Mordian curled his lips, and remained silent."I love Aynam the way a father would love his first son, but I feel he needs to learn. The only problem is that he does not look like he is ready to learn." King Lauihnio began to look concerned.Lord Mordian laughed. "If my memory serves me right, you were not much of an easy going student." He said.Lord Mordian then sat on the empty seat beside him where the captain had occupied earlier and continued
STEEL AND FLESH THE REBELS 1
Lord Garthine Polion was at his villa together with Lord Mordian. The time was nigh for both men to do their part, in putting an end to the uprising that threatened the peace and unity of the Bauthinian people.King Lauihnio had supplied them with coin, men, and equipments that were needed to successfully put an end to the rebellion, which was including weapons, shields and horses.Both men were inside a chamber there at the villa, together with Lord Cyprion and captain Bonio who were to accompany them in their quest to put an end to the rebellion.They sat round a table with was made from wood derived from an oak tree to discuss their plans or course of action, for the mission they were to commence today."From the information I have gathered Lord Mordian, some of the rebels have crept into Vegia despite the lockdown." Said Lord Cyprion. "This means that these people are more serious than we thought."Lord Garthine Polion frowned. "How is that possible? The king ordered an intense se
STEEL AND FLESH THE REBELS 2
"I have heard of your many exploits, and to be honest, I envy your status as a warrior and as a mercenary." Lord Garthine Polion said.Lord Mordian smiled. "Trust me Lord Garthine Polion, if I had a chance to change my past, I certainly would have preferred a quiet life, filled with love, joy, and extreme peace." He said."You are joking right?" The Bauthinian commander scoffed."Why would I possibly joke?" Lord Mordian retorted. "Do you think I enjoyed all the killing, maiming, wars and the chaos I was part of? If you think I was, I was not.""But you seem to me like someone who actually enjoys taking lives, you know murdering people in cold blood.""Garthine Polion, can we focus on the task at hand please?" He requested, pushing open the main door of the building.Lord Garthine Polion paused and began to stare at Lord Mordian's eyes. Lord Cyprion, and captain Banio ignored them and made for their horses."Lord Mordian, I promise you that I will get to know who you really are." He sa
STEEL AND FLESH THE REBELS 3
Lord Mordian and the soldiers that accompanied him moved cautiously along the wide corridor upstairs, they were on alert, while holding the shaft of their swords.Lord Mordian understood that this was a critical condition, with time also of the essence because he believed that Robin Lano was already on the course of an escape, now that his residence was surrounded.Lord Mordian knew that letting Robin Lano escape would be very detrimental to their goal of putting an end to the rebellion, because the rebels would now be fully aware of the king's plan of being offensive, and it was very likely the bloody civilians would also resort to violence upon the arrest of one of their kingpin.Fully aware of the situation, Lord Mordian decided to make the use of magic.He recited some spells and at once, his vision became very clear to an extent he was able to see through the walls. He scanned the whole area and finally, he caught sight of them.He motioned for the soldiers to halt and they obey
STEEL AND FLESH INTERCEPTION AT THE BORDER
Lord Mordian, stood before a large map spread across a table. Two hundred cavalry soldiers clad in armor, armed with swords and spears, awaited his orders. It was two days ever since Robin Lano was captured, and after much torture, he and his accomplices were compelled to provide useful information concerning the whereabouts, and the next move of Vetti, who was one of the rebel leaders.However the room is filled with an air of anticipation."Gather around, men!" He bellowed. "Tonight, we intercept Vetti and his rebel scum. They aim to escape through the treacherous Laoian border. But we shall not let them succeed! The fate of the unity of our kingdom hangs in the balance now that those scoundrels are out large at the moment." He said, with a voice booming with authority.The soldiers formed a tight circle around Lord Mordian, their faces determined and eager."From the information we have gathered, the rebels are headed through the dense forest to throw us off their trail. They unde
STEEL AND FLESH THE CALL FOR CALM
The sound of thundering hooves were heard from afar as the Bauthinian military on horses, with sheathed swords, rode into the city center. The citizens of Bauthinia specifically in Laoia, had been left in a state of shock and uncertainty after the hostility that ensued between the rebellious faction, and the Bauthinian military.They feared that great chaos was nigh, and the thought of a possible civil war began to register in their minds.However, some of the Laoian population began to question king Lauihnio's leadership, even looking at him at a tyrant, due to the ugly and bloody scenerios they had witnessed which included the killing, maiming and torture of members of the rebellious faction, especially those that refused to lay down their arms in surrender to the king's authority.However the dominant and friendly presence of the military soon gave them hope for security and stability, because they had earlier harboured fears that the brutality that was brought upon the rebels wo
STEEL AND FLESH TRIAL 1
Lord Mordian stood before a heavily guarded dungeon cell. Inside, the rebel leaders, Vetti, Robin Lano, Kannio, Torros Venu and their cohorts, awaited transport to the King's court for their judgment. Mordian motioned to the guards, and they unlocked the cell door, revealing the restrained rebels."Your time has come. You will face the King and answer for your crimes against the realm." Lord Mordian said to the rebels with a commanding tone.The rebels exchanged defiant glances but remained silent, aware that their fate rested in the hands of Lord Mordian and the justice of the King.A horse-drawn wagon awaited in the courtyard, guarded by a contingent of armed soldiers. Lord Mordian approached the wagon, where the rebels were securely bound and placed under close watch."Ensure that their restraints are secure. We cannot afford any attempt at escape." Lord Mordian directed the soldiers.The soldiers nodded, their gazes unwavering as they checked the restraints on the rebel leaders.
STEEL AND FLESH TRIAL 2
King Lauihnio's face tightened, his grip on the throne's armrests visibly tightening. His barons exchanged uneasy glances."Your words may be sharp, but they hold no truth. My reign as the king of Bauthinia is not, and has never been characterized as that of weakness, but of resilience and strength." He declared in a firm voice."Resilience? Strength? We see none of that in you, King Lauihnio. You cower behind your council, your barons, and your self-proclaimed honor, while the people suffer under your reign." Vetti interrupted, showing firm resolution, his voice dripping with contempt."Your incompetence was noticed very early, at the preamble stage of your reign by your uncle Lord Mordian who sought to take your throne." Said Kannio with much enthusiasm. "I bet he would have been a better ruler than you ever imagined in your wildest thoughts.""But what happened next. Not only did you imprison him, but you indoctrinated him and successfully got him to your side, all because of his b
Latest Chapter
- STEEL AND FLESH
EPILOGUE
Epilogue:Days had passed since Lord Mordian's successful but perilous attempt to harness the arcane forces and restore the fallen soldiers. The initial triumph had given way to a relentless and sinister consequence that now gripped him with an iron hold.Lord Mordian's once vibrant complexion had faded to a sickly pallor, his skin appearing almost translucent under the harsh daylight. Dark circles etched themselves beneath his eyes, marking the toll of sleepless nights and restless vigils.His once steady hands now trembled, the faint quiver betraying the constant strain he was under. His arms and legs felt as if they were aflame, an unrelenting burn that surged through his veins like molten lava. The physical torment was unceasing, a constant reminder of the power he had dared to command.The palms of his hands bore the brunt of the adverse effect. Sections of skin peeled away, leaving behind raw, tender patches that stung with every touch. Lord Mordian's fingertips were bliste
- STEEL AND FLESH
SHADOWS OF DOUBT: BENEVOLENCE IN QUESTION
"In times of war, there must be consequences for actions taken," Bongan Rodbar's voice carried an air of authority as he addressed the captive commander. "You are responsible for the pain and suffering this invasion has brought upon these lands. And now, you must face the consequences.""I was carrying out my orders!" The chief commander replied coldly, with a malevolent look at Bongan Rodbar.Bongan Rodbar turned to Lord Mordian and Lord Barthine Loust, his eyes steady. "Gentlemen, as a symbol of justice and retribution, one of you may choose to deliver the final blow. The choice is yours."A heavy silence hung in the air as Lord Barthine Loust exchanged a contemplative look with Lord Mordian. Then, in a surprising turn of events, Lord Barthine Loust unfastened his own sword from his side and stepped forward, his eyes locked on Lord Mordian."Lord Mordian," he began, his voice carrying a weight of sincerity, "it is you who deserves this chance. For all you have done, and for what yo
- STEEL AND FLESH
UNEXPECTED IDENTITY
As the dust began to settle on the battlefield, Lord Mordian and Lord Barthine Loust exchanged weary yet triumphant glances. The unexpected intervention of the Elerian warriors had turned the tide of battle in their favor, saving Prodloust from the clutches of Quanian annexation.Amidst the aftermath of the chaotic struggle, a presence drew their attention. Among the Elerian horsemen, a mounted soldier stood out, his demeanor exuding an air of command and authority. Even from a distance, it was clear that he was the leader of this formidable force, and his presence was a beacon of hope and strength.As the Bauthinian soldiers continued to regroup, Lord Mordian and Lord Barthine Loust's eyes were drawn to the mounted leader. His attire spoke of his status and prowess. He wore intricately designed chain mail that gleamed even in the dim moonlight, each link a testament to the craftsmanship that had gone into its creation. His helmet was a work of art in itself, adorned with elegant
- STEEL AND FLESH
RENEWED VALOR TRIUMPH
With a fierce determination, Lord Barthine Loust carefully lowered Lord Mordian to the ground, his movements deliberate and calculated. His grip tightened around the hilt of his sword, the cold metal a comforting weight in his hand. As the two Quanian soldiers charged towards him, he took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest.Ducking beneath the first swing of a Quanian blade, Lord Barthine Loust's movements were fluid and precise. He sidestepped another strike, the air whistling as the enemy's weapon sliced through the space where he had been. His mind raced, analyzing every movement of his opponents, seeking out their vulnerabilities.With a swift motion, Lord Barthine Loust parried a blow and countered with a calculated strike of his own. His sword met the Quanian soldier's weapon with a resounding clash, the force of the impact reverberating through his arms. He lunged forward, his blade finding its mark and carving a deep gash across the soldier's chest.However,
- STEEL AND FLESH
THE SIEGE OF PRODLOUST 7
Amidst the chaos, the spectral warriors led by Lord Barthine Loust and Gorloth charged into the heart of the Quanian forces with an otherworldly ferocity. Their armor gleamed with an ethereal radiance as they clashed with the enemy, cutting through the Quanian soldiers with unmatched skill and precision. The Bauthinian foot soldiers, who had been struggling earlier, were awestruck and filled with renewed hope as they witnessed the terrifying warriors with their haunting helmets fighting on their side.Amidst the clash of steel and the cries of battle, the Bauthinian soldiers couldn't believe their eyes. "Who are these warriors and why do they wear such haunting helmets?" one soldier exclaimed in disbelief. Another shouted, "We're not alone! They should be mercenaries hired by Lord Barthine Loust to help us defend our city!" The sight of these fearsome warriors turned the tide of morale, igniting a newfound fire within the Bauthinian ranks.Gorloth, with his long sword and battleaxe,
- STEEL AND FLESH
THE SIEGE OF PRODLOUST 6
Amidst the sea of chaos and carnage, Lord Mordian's focus was unyielding, his sword an extension of his indomitable will. Every strike he made was a tribute to the countless lives he aimed to protect. As a Quanian soldier's shield smashed into his face, a blinding flash of pain erupted, and he staggered backward, his vision momentarily blurred.But even in the midst of this disorienting blow, his training and instincts took over. The burly Quanian soldier lunged at him, his swift movements designed to exploit the momentary weakness. Hammering blows rained down upon Lord Mordian, testing his defenses. Steel met steel as Mordian parried and blocked the onslaught, his muscles straining against the powerful attacks.With each parry, he calculated his opponent's movements, his mind racing even as the world spun around him. His resolve was unshaken, his determination unwavering. In a lightning-quick motion, he sidestepped an incoming strike, his body moving with a grace that belied the
- STEEL AND FLESH
THE SIEGE OF PRODLOUST 5
As the evening wore on, the relentless exchange of missiles between Bauthinia and Quania showed no sign of abating. The darkening sky became a canvas for streaks of fire and trails of smoke as projectiles cut through the air with deadly precision. The grim toll of casualties mounted on both sides, with soldiers falling amidst the chaos, their battle cries drowned out by the cacophony of war.The Quanian siege towers, though battered by the unyielding Bauthinian artillery, continued their slow advance with an unwavering determination. The massive wheels of the towers rumbled over the rugged terrain, inching ever closer to the towering walls of Prodloust. The defenders of Bauthinia were caught in a cruel dilemma, torn between diverting their attention to the menacing siege towers and retaliating against the unrelenting Quanian artillery.The relentless onslaught from both sides created a maelstrom of confusion and chaos on the battlefield. The Bauthinian soldiers worked tirelessly,
- STEEL AND FLESH
THE SIEGE OF PRODLOUST 4
As the battle raged on, the defenders of Bauthinia swiftly set their plan into motion. On the ramparts, soldiers bustled around three massive cauldrons perched above an open flames, the air thick with the acrid scent of boiling oil.With practiced precision, they worked to ensure the oil reached a searing temperature, its surface shimmering with the intense heat.Lord Mordian's voice carried across the ramparts, his tone firm and resolute. "Prepare to release the oil on my command!"Soldiers lined up along the ramparts, ready to execute the order. Their faces were grim, hearts pounding with a mix of anticipation and dread as they awaited the moment when they would unleash the scalding oil upon the Quanian forces.Down below, the Quanian soldiers continued their determined advance, their synchronized march pushing and pounding the massive battle ram onto the gates. The ground trembled beneath their feet, each step and effort to ram the gates weakened the locks more and more, thus brin
- STEEL AND FLESH
THE SIEGE OF PRODLOUST 3
The cacophony of battle reached a crescendo as the exchange of arrows between the Bauthinian and Quanian forces continued with unyielding determination. The sky was painted with the arcs of deadly projectiles, each arrow a messenger of death and defiance.The defenders of Bauthinia, knowing the importance of maintaining their archers' position, worked tirelessly to reinforce their fortifications. They scrambled to bring more bricks, stones, and timber, building makeshift barriers to shield the archers from the incoming arrows.Across the field, the Quanian archers adjusted their strategy, seeking to find gaps in the Bauthinian defense. They aimed for the weak points in the battlements, targeting the areas with fewer defenders and where the makeshift cover was not as effective.As the sun hung low on the horizon, casting an eerie glow over the battlefield, the archers on both sides continued to pour arrows into the air. The sky was a storm of wooden shafts, each one carrying the ho