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2024-10-29 19:42:56"You know I have been thinking my king."
"What have you been thinking Lord Garthine Polion?" king Lauihnio asked."I am thinking, maybe your uncle has a hand in this - maybe king Brothlander invading this lands is another plan of his to usurp your throne, to strip you of your crown. Lord Garthine Polion put up a sad, look making him look extremely disturbed. "I doubt that possibility Garthine Polion, my uncle Lord Mordian is locked away in one of our most protected fortress in all of Bauthinia and guarded by our most trusted soldiers." king Lauihnio said with assurance. "however I wonder how my uncle is very good at winning the hearts of men, only Oridon knows how many men he must have won over before he was convicted of treason.""Five hundred men your majesty." Lord Garthine Polion said. king Lauihnio raised his eye brows in amazement. "five hundred men - I assume most of them are dead - however I doubt anyone would want my crown especially at this time.""Are you sure of that." Lord Garthine Polion put up a sad smile."I am certainly sure Garthine Polion" there was some silence among both men for a while as they decided to watch the skirmish drills of the soldiers."How about the revolt your majesty?" Lord Garthine Polion asked. King Lauihnio was prompted by the question as he quickly turned to Lord Garthine Polion. he heaved a sigh."I leave that job to you and your scouts. however do you think our military have been in anyway affected by the news of king Brothlander and his army?""I have heard nothing of such sought, anyway as you can see the soldiers here take their drill seriously which means that they aren't short of passion for their jobs." Lord Garthine Polion pointed towards the field were the soldiers were."Something tells me that eh our army is short of motivation, can you think of something I can do to at least spur them up, maybe a feast, coin even women?"Lord Garthine Polion laughed. "women your majesty? some of these men here are married, how do you think their wives would react when they receive news of their husbands finding pleasure in the bossoms of another woman by the order of the king." He looked straight at king Lauihnio and after about three heartbeats both of them started laughing."Another thing my king do you think that with this threat posed on us by king Brothlander you are sure of the safety of the dragon egg in our lands?""Shhhh." the king motioned for Lord Garthine Polion to keep quiet. "it is forbidden to speak of the dragons egg in the open, believe you me this walls have ears, this is a secret that should be known to me, you, king Rashur and the arch cytix priest." he whispered. "I only made mention of that to you because you are my closet friend, you are a man I trust. I swear in the name of Oridon no member of my family knows about the dragons egg, not even my wife." he continued."How long has it been in our possession, this egg?""I don't know, since my great grand father's reign, according to tales I heard he found it in the woods while he went hunting with his men - apart from that I know nothing else about the dragon egg." He whispered cautiously looking around to be sure no one overheard their conversation."Ok my king about the soldiers, I believe they would love to hear you speak - to be honest during the joint campaign you inspired us all with the ferocity you showed while we fought the Quanians, some of them thought you were were out of your senses when you decided to be in the Frontline during the battle of Harenia" Lord Garthine Polion said."Yes I had a pop that day - I was so eager to shed blood given the fact that we had lost some good men when were ambushed a few weeks before that battle as a result of some misinformation from the Mocinians." king Lauihnio said coldly."You sure must be grateful to Heykzan for giving you victory and also letting you live. hardly does any man survive the Frontline while in battle with those beasts of men.""but I survived - however I would not refer to them as warriors for they are not as deadly as they look.""And you tasted some human flesh.""Wait, who told you that!" king Lauihnio snapped."It was sometime at dusk while you were close to a river don't worry that secret is safe with me I assure you that." king looked suprised for a moment he wondered what kind of a man Lord Garthine Polion was. he was however disappointed that the secret of him turning into a cannibal as a result of the joint campaign was known by a second party which was the man standing next to him. "If words about that spread I would have your head." he said coldly."Not a word will come out my king." Lord Garthine Polion said."However I believe your soldiers here would love to hear you speak. I am also eager to hear what you would say about keeping calm concerning news of king Brothlander - do you wish to speak?"
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"I will speak." king Lauihnio replied. Lord Garthine Polion then leaned on the balcony and motioned for one of the drill guides to step forward. he said some words to him which made him nod continuously. when he was done whispering the drill guide moved towards the soldiers. "Halt! you bastards halt!" he bellowed "fifty men ten columns ten units at attention before your king!" the five hundred soldiers who were skirmishing held down their wooden swords and quickly arranged themselves in an orderly manner according to the instructions of the captain. Standing at attention chest out and chin up coupled with a confident look the soldiers appeared gallant eagerly awaiting for their king to speak. "The stage is yours my king." Lord Garthine Polion bowed and took some paces backwards to let king Lauihnio seize the moment. with all eyes on king Lauihnio he peered upon the soldiers admiring how gallant they looked on their bronze bracers and already wet subligaculum as a result of the enorm
STEEL AND FLESH THE VANQUISHED FOE
The roads were soaked and grasses wet as the rain drizzled with some civilians taking cover in order to prevent themselves from getting wet. However at the sight of king Lauihnio some citizens bowed towards his direction while a handful he noticed stared at him coldly. 'I really need this revolt to be dissolved before it gets out of hand.' he thought after noticing the unsubmissive attitude of some of the people that caught his gaze. "halt!" he called. he then motioned for one of the guards to draw closer. "You see that blonde man with a white toga, take another soldier with you and I want you to seize him and put him in the dungeon, I would like to have a word with him." he pointed to the man he was referring to."Okay your majesty." the soldier whispered to another soldier nearest to him and they started charging towards the blonde haired man. when the blonde haired man noticed that the soldiers were coming for him he turned around and took to his heels but the soldiers were not de
STEEL AND FLESH ROT IN PRISON OR PICK UP YOUR SWORD AND FIGHT
"What do you want Lauihnio you are disturbing my peace." Lord Mordian said feeling annoyed. King Lauihnio ignored Lord Mordian and continued his stare on the scrolls in his hands. after some time he heaved a sigh. "Okay enough of the facade, uncle I need your help." Lord Mordian looked shocked, he turned his eyes to Lord Garthine Polion then returned them back to King Lauihnio, he started laughing. "I am serious uncle." King Lauihnio said chin up. "Then I supposed you have come to the very wrong place." Lord Mordian muttered. "Uncle - uncle Bauthinia is in trouble, the Quanians plan to attack us we seriously need all the help we can get." King Lauihnio bent towards his uncle holding his right shoulder. Lord Mordian stared at him for a while then frowned, he grabbed king Lauihnio and pushed him against the wall, pining him to the wall he held a short knife at the king's throat. On seeing this Lord Garthine Polion quickly removed his xiphos sword from his scabbard and held it at Lord
STEEL AND FLESH FAMILY HISTORY AND THE CATALYST FOR A SUCCESSFUL DEFENCE
"Even though I am back amongst your caucus your barons would never accept me." Lord Mordian said wearily. King Lauihnio moved to stand in front of the table were Lord Mordian was writing his poetry. he held Lord Mordian's chin up to face him. "Look at me uncle, I am the king and whatever orders I give, the barons will have to obey." Staring at King Lauihnio's eyes he turned sober and burst into tears. "why? - why do you show me this kindness even when I tried to take your kingdom away from you, why do you give me this chance of redemption that I do not deserve." Tears rolled down king Lauihnio's cheeks. "Like I said before, it is because you are my favorite uncle, coming up you were more than an uncle to me, you took me like your own son - I know that despite what may have occurred in the past deep down you are a good man." Lord Mordian wiped his tears and sniffed. "You know Lauihnio, I never believed you would be a good king such as this. with your youthful days filled with lust
STEEL AND FLESH FAMILY OF CANNIBALS
"Um yes I can remember only a few - why do you think this men might be working for king Brothlander?""I have to investigate every suspect I can, I have ordered a thorough search of the residences of my noblemen including my barons." "Wow. this is serious." Lord Garthine Polion said. "yes it is uncle - and those men of yours, you uncle will find them and lead us to them, we will investigate them and see if they are guilty." "Okay I am fine with that but you have to let me handle this investigation myself if not you will not get a single word from them. that is if they are the spies you speak of." King Lauihnio stared at him for a while. "Okay you do it your own way but I want the whole process to go smoothly.""I give you my word it would go well." Lord Mordian assured him. "I so cannot wait for things to get back to normal again." King Lauihnio said trying to imagine the good years that the Bauthinians experienced before the news of king Brothlander, even before the joint campaig
STEEL AND FLESH PRIDE OF THE VETERAN
King Lauihnio read the jerk of one of his captains elbow as he made to thrust his wooden sword and quickly sidestepped dropping his right shoulder and leaving the captain stabbing the air. He blocked the effort of the other captain that swung his wooden sword vertically over his head in an attempt to strike it on his shoulder, noticing how he left his torso unguarded, he raised his right leg and gave the captain a powerful kick making the captain to grunt in pain holding his stomach. The first captain lunged towards King Lauihnio and swung his wooden sword towards King Lauihnio making him Dodge to the left. All efforts made by the captain to strike king Lauihnio was blocked. Tired and frustrated the first captain halted his effort at King Lauihnio. The second captain lunged forward in full menace behind king Lauihnio with the aim of striking his back but king Lauihnio turned quickly and blocked the effort, he used his strength to push the captain backwards freeing himself and buying
STEEL AND FLESH UNQUESTIONABLE PRESTIGE
King Lauihnio charged towards his uncle with the aim of striking him with his wooden sword. "I hate it when people say such things about my days as a gladiator - haaaa." Lord Mordian ducked at the effort making the already enraged King to strike thin air. King Lauihnio then turned to his uncle breathing heavily and staring balefully at his direction. "I have heard many people talk about my success at the arena as a result of favour given the fact that I was the crowned prince at time - I am sick of all of those lies." he said angrily. "I worked hard for every fight I partook in at the arena, I spent my flesh, my sweat, my breath and my blood in order to be crowned champion of Bauthinia three good times." Lord Mordian was still trying to recover from the shock of King Lauihnio's attempted attack on him. "But come to think of it Lauihnio you achieved such feet at the arena, yet you never killed a man at the arena, how can you explain that." Lord Mordian asked looking like he tried to
STEEL AND FLESH THE DRAGON EGG 1
"Why do you ask?" Lord Mordian turned to his nephew. "Well it is a question I have been pondering over for some time now." King Lauihnio replied. "What do you think?""Well I think the numbers would always have an advantage because you know - they are many." King Lauihnio shrugged. Lord Mordian grinned. "Well I think that the army that has the advantage is the army that has a capable and intelligent leader." "What?" king Lauihnio creased his eyebrows to the center looking confused given the unexpected answer his uncle gave him. "The decisions of a leader is what determines the success or failure of an army during a war." King Lauihnio shook his head in disbelief. "I always thought the numbers are the most significant factor to consider when at war.""Neither is a numerous army of skilled swordsmen an advantage - my years of fighting thought me something very important." "What?" king Lauihnio asked. "The wars I fought over the years taught me that an army of sheep led by a lion
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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
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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
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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
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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,
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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,
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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
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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,
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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
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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
