LUTRUNCULI
Author: Victor Amos Regannez
last update Last Updated: 2023-08-16 13:05:21

It was the third day ever since the Arab Azarians alongside Danios set out for their journey to the Quanian camp at the Kidarnian valley. Meanwhile Lord Mordian was given a new task by his nephew king Lauihnio.

King Lauihnio had assigned him to take charge of the city gates. This however was Lord Mordian's request because, he personally wanted to welcome his son home when the time came for their squad to be back from their mission.

He imagined how celebrations would errupt in Vegia and more than that, he imagined how he would reconnect with his son, and tell him how proud he was of the man he had become.

This time he would say it from his heart unlike the previous time when he didn't. Though he had said that was a proud father the time before, his ego did not allow him to say it wholeheartedly.

Lord Mordian sat atop a sturdy wooden stool within the tower that overlooked the city gates. The room was lit by the soft glow of oil lamps, casting flickering shadows on the stone walls.

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  • STEEL AND FLESH   RESOLUTE DETERMINATION

    Captain Valerius heaved a sigh. "Yes. The news of King Brothlander's army registered intense panic among the inhabitants in Vegia.""Same in Laoia captain. The news of King Brothlander's threat caused great uncertainty and disunity there in Laoia. Thank the gods the problem was resolved pretty quickly before we plunged into civil war.""You speak about the rebellious faction. Those bastards deserved their fate, fear of an unseen enemy made them turn against the crown. Such cowardice, they did not deserve to be called Bauthinians." Captain Valerius dimmed his eyebrow while he said that with a very serious look.The thought of how news of King Brothlander caused great panic among the people of Bauthinia caused Lord Mordian to begin to wonder how the Quanian king really looked like. He began to think of King Brothlander as a malevolent looking maniac who did not need deep thought to carry out his duties as King. He imagined him as a man ruled by his instincts. "They call him the mad kin

  • STEEL AND FLESH   VEILED INTRIGUE

    Later that day as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting its warm and golden hues across the sky, the Bauthinian soldiers stood vigilant upon the battlements of the Vegian city gate. The fading light of dusk painted the world in a soft, ethereal glow, lending an air of quiet reverence to their watch. As they stood guard, the world around them seemed to transition into a realm of shadows and whispers, and with it came moments of camaraderie that offered a brief respite from the gravity of their impending conflict within which was in relation to king Brothlander's army.Whispers and laughter drifted among the soldiers, their voices carrying the lightness of a shared moment. One soldier, his eyes fixed on the horizon beyond the walls, leaned in to his comrade and began to share a tale with an amused grin. "Have you heard the stories, mate? They say that the women of Vegia are as enchanting as the dusk itself. So fair that they could make a warrior's heart falter even in the midst o

  • STEEL AND FLESH   THE MYSTERIOUS HORSEMEN

    "Where are they?" Lord Mordian asked anxiously while he scanned the horizon."There they are." The soldier that had informed him of the news pointed at some emerging figures that was originally difficult to make sense of.Lord Mordian had to dim his eyes before he captured the frames of the emerging horsemen."This was very quick, very quick, quicker than I could imagine." Captain Valerius smiled satisfactorily proving that he was cocksure that the emerging horsemen were their Arab Azarian allies.Who wouldn't, however slowly but surely the mood amongst the sentries on the battlements began to light up as they looked ready to celebrate. They began to sing victory songs, while others began to hum in rhythm to the song that was sung.As the steady gallops of the horses continued causing the horsemen to surge forward, a smile began to form across Lord Mordian's face. He knew what the death of Brothlander would mean to the Bauthinians, he was sure that a great feast would occur tonight on

  • STEEL AND FLESH   DESCENT INTO DARKNESS: A FATHER'S AGONY

    Lord Mordian stood on the ramparts, his heart pounding in his chest like a relentless drum. The words of the Quanian horseman echoed in his mind, each syllable a chilling reminder of the stakes at hand. His fingers tightened around the hilt of his sword, the once-cool metal now warm and slick beneath his grip.A cold sweat broke out across his forehead as he battled to quell the rising panic within him. His mind raced, thoughts swirling in a chaotic tempest. Could it be? Could my son...? The very notion sent a shockwave of dread coursing through his veins.His eyes remained fixated on the hooded figures below, their movements retreating into the distance. His chest tightened, and he could almost feel the weight of those severed heads upon his shoulders.As the soldiers around him looked utterly confused, restless and disheartened they were unaware of the storm raging within his mind, Lord Mordian's thoughts spiraled further into a maelstrom of anguish. His breath came in shallow

  • STEEL AND FLESH   TENSION: WHISPERS OF DARKNESS

    A surge of relief washed over Lord Mordian as he realized that his son's head was not among the macabre display before him. His shoulders sagged slightly, and a heavy breath escaped his lips, mingling with the cool night air. Yet, despite the initial wave of relief, a lingering tension remained, gnawing at the edges of his consciousness.His mind was a tempest of conflicting emotions, a torrent of thoughts that tugged at his heart and mind. As the soldiers stood by his side, their torches flickering in the night, Lord Mordian's gaze remained fixed on the severed heads."Were could Danios be?" he wondered, his voice a mere whisper against the backdrop of his racing thoughts. The question echoed in his mind, the uncertainty gnawing at his resolve.His eyes flicked to the horizon, as if searching for a sign, a glimpse of hope. The darkness that stretched beyond the fortress walls seemed to hold a multitude of secrets, each more chilling than the last."Did they kill him without severi

  • STEEL AND FLESH   WHISPERS OF BETRAYAL

    The Vegian courtroom was shrouded in an almost palpable atmosphere of gloom and tension. King Lauihnio, his regal demeanor now etched with lines of concern, sat upon his ornate throne, flanked by his trusted advisors and council members. Lord Garthine Polion exuded an air of stoic resolve as he sat nearby. Ahmed bin Abdullah, a figure of commanding presence, sat with a countenance twisted in a mixture of anger and disbelief. Other Bauthinian nobles of Vegian origin and high-ranking military officers took their places, their expressions a canvas of uncertainty as they contemplated the grim scene before them.Upon the floor lay the severed heads of the Arab Azarian assassins, a chilling tableau that cast a shadow over the entire chamber. The torchlight flickered against the cold stone walls, casting elongated shadows that seemed to mirror the unease that pervaded the room. The air was heavy with the weight of the situation, the very walls seemingly holding their breath in anticipat

  • STEEL AND FLESH   DEBATE AMIDST SUSPICION: INTRIGUE UNVEILED

    Amidst the heavy silence, a nobleman named Aidal rose from his seat, his expression a mix of curiosity and skepticism. His voice carried a note of challenge as he addressed Lord Mordian's earlier assertion. "Lord Mordian, are you certain that these deaths are a result of a spy within our midst? Is it not plausible that the Quanians simply detected suspicious behavior from the Arab Azarians that led to their demise?"Lord Mordian's gaze shifted towards Aidal, his brow furrowing slightly as he considered the nobleman's perspective. "Aidal, while your point is valid, we cannot disregard the possibility that the Quanians possess a highly skilled network of informants. It's not just a matter of suspicious behavior. Their ability to discern the presence of spies suggests a level of intelligence gathering beyond mere observation."Ahmed bin Mahdullah, his voice firm and unwavering, interjected with a hint of frustration. "Aidal, you underestimate the prowess of my assassins. I have worked w

  • STEEL AND FLESH   SACRED PLEDGE

    King Lauihnio turned his attention to Lord Meht, his gaze steady. "Lord Meht, can you lead us to the palace shrine."Lord Meht inclined his head in acknowledgment. "As you command, Your Majesty." His voice held a mixture of solemnity and determination.With purposeful strides, the four men made their way out of the courtroom, following Lord Meht through the corridors of the palace. The atmosphere was heavy with anticipation, the weight of their responsibilities pressing upon them as they walked.The palace shrine was a place of solace and reflection, a haven of peace amidst the turmoil of the outside world. Its ornate doors, intricately carved with symbols of faith and unity, stood before them as a symbol of hope.The Vegian palace shrine stood as a quiet sanctuary, a place where flickering candlelight cast soft shadows upon stone walls. The air held a faint scent of incense, a subtle reminder of devotion and reverence. The chamber was modest, its decorations understated yet meaningf

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  • 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