So the shadows lifted their veil and a titanic monstrosity was released upon the earth. All that stood against the calamity were felled like black wheat before a scythe until just one brave soul remained. With blade singing the song of death as it crashed toward the head of the beast, the First One was destroyed by the weapon of Lord Benaga, forever to bear the Orc name Klangschwert!

 - History of Virenheim, Marguson Nelighan

Her brilliant blue eyes focused in upon the target as she lifted the long, narrow blade above her head and readied herself for attack. Sucking up all her strength and throwing away all fear, the young Deep Elf maiden grasped the Dregg Skin hilt tightly, feeling it crunch beneath her sore fingers as she lunged. With a roar from the pit of her stomach and a single swing of the great silver-blue blade that gave a sound like a shrieking cat, the enemy’s torso was severed cleanly from its legs in a gentle thud. The warrior stared down at her defeated foe with a tremble of exhaustion and frustration, biting back the fear and the wish to rejoice over such a glorious battle.

“Well done Lady Damara, you put enough strength in the swing to separate the body but in hindsight I’d recommend you don’t put everything into one blow. The enemy is hardly solitary and there is never a guarantee of a noble death when fighting Orcs.” Hardened hands of the soft blue-silver shade of a male clapped together and Damara lowered her bravado to a more subdued and perhaps even saddened expression as she turned toward her tutor and her fellow students. Her gaze crossed over the multitude of students, late teenagers, who had witnessed her ability and heard the famous sound of her family’s swords. Their eyes were beaming with excitement and joy for the young lady, after-all there was no one in the whole of the underground city of Virenheim who did not love Damara Benaga for some reason or another.

Still, despite their excitement at her obvious strength and ability, Damara stared at her long thin sword in displeasure as she contemplated the great name of her family and how high expectations were for her. Her sudden depression was obvious to her instructor and the black-haired individual laid a hand gently upon her lavender skinned shoulder. He looked her right in the eye and she found herself glowing with pleasure at his words.

“Having had the pleasure of witnessing Benaga abilities before you’re well on your way to becoming as powerful as your late father.” The tutor smiled, hoping to alleviate the great burden upon these young shoulders. Damara was pleased at the assumption but still breathed a heavy sigh of regret before looking up to her teacher and stating, rather innocently, where her true concerns lay.

“Thank you very much Sword-master Tyfuga, but I was wondering if you think my skills are equal in any way to Anouk.” Damara stated, feeling a great wave of fear and anxiety rocket through the onlookers and her teacher at the mention of someone known for ability and power. Tyfuga seemed to blanch at the remark, rubbing the back of his neck in discomfort before rolling phrases along his tongue. He understood the girl’s need for a comparison, but his experience of Anouk at such a youthful age had been in his own sword lessons.

“It’s not that easy to compare… you’ve got to remember that Anouk received her training from the age of three by Scaropan. She’s been prepared for battle long before anyone else her age could rehearse the Virenheim Oath!” Tyfuga grunted, rubbing the great long scar over the bridge of his nose that seemed to cut his narrow face in half. He looked very anxious over the matter as Damara suddenly dropped her posture to stare at the floor with the disappointment of a child. But despite himself, Tyfuga felt honour-bound to help the girl perk up. This was perhaps from his own reactions toward Anouk at such an age and how much he’d been cruel to her. “But if there’s one thing I do know… Anouk will be very proud to know her baby sister is already top of the class and fearless.”

“Really? Thank you!”

Damara was in a good mood now the lesson was over and her companions could see it clearly within her twinkling eyes and the sweet smile upon her face. Often boasted by the other noble families as the most beautiful of all the elf children born within the past hundred years, Damara was not one to care about her beauty too much. With her silver-grey hair trimmed short, her lavender skin mostly covered up in black dresses and her ample bosom being nothing more then problematic when running, Damara was content without vanity or pride in her appearance. She maintained the traditions of an unmarried noble to cover her hair, to keep her eyes dropped in public and to always be covered. All Damara wished for in life, above her deep longing for love and a family, was to be as brave as her father and elder sister and to be worthy of the sacrifices made for her.

She switched from the traditional tight-black trousers and billowing blouse of their training gear choosing instead a long black dress with pretty purple flowers before shifting through her sack of items for her books to return to the library and the shopping list. Damara had planned to surprise her big sister with a special meal tonight and, considering Anouk was stuck out on Long Patrol till darkness fell, Damara had a lot of time to sort through the root vegetables, spices and meats of the stalls to find something with a rich flavour that would not make Anouk sneer. Like her father and sister, Damara made no point of her status as a noble and expected no one to treat her in such a way, she liked fancy meals but in respectful quantities that meant making friendships amongst females in the lower elf classes was not so difficult.

“Slow up Mara!” The familiar call of assistance from Karani, Damara’s best friend, encouraged her to halt before she stepped out of the wide cave lit with magic-enthused crystals, one of many rooms within the tunnelled city with such lights. Her eyes fell over the tight looking red dress of the light-blue skinned Deep elf female that was not afraid to show off as much flesh as possible, despite tradition. With brilliant pink hair that was barely covered in a white scarf, Karani was considered very attractive and the cute little beauty spot upon her left cheek only increased this factor. She was not as devout to their schooling and training as Damara forced herself to be, but she was the one person to understand Damara completely.

“I can’t hang about below for too long Karani… I’ve got to get back to the household before dark and start on Anouk’s meal. She really could use some attention at the moment, especially when she’s been so frustrated by the council’s decision on Loteg.” Damara stated in her sweet manner, waiting for her companion to step to her side and pat at her back in a playful but slightly suspicious manner that caused Damara to blush automatically. The pair of them then strolled out of the caves and along the clear cut steps in stone downward to the main floor of the plaza and market place below. Here they mingled with a massive crowd of Deep Elves out in preparation for the evening activities.

It was quite clear though at some point, by the direction of Karani’s dark brown eyes and the way her long ears twitched with excitement that she was had noted someone of interest. Damara was unwilling to turn around and look just yet as they pawed through head scarves, she did not want to turn and see the person for she knew it was young Lord Jarl Kelvis, the one person Damara always seemed to blush around! But before she looked in that direction to double-check the assumption, Damara patted Karani’s forehead as if telling her off before turning on her heel and stepping calmly towards the direction of the great library of marble, followed swiftly by Karani.

“Wait up Mara! Can’t you just hear me out for a moment?” Karani bleated, trying to encourage her companion to turn and look at the scene of the nearly white-skinned lord with pitch-black hair and jet black eyes who stood with a terribly common looking female. Karani knew very well that Damara was up to date on all the gossip amongst the twenty noble families because of Anouk’s position as head of the household, and she wanted to know the truth to the rumours. With the Benaga or “Klangschwert” household being the next best thing to the king in rank throughout the kingdom, the Kelvis were the next household after and with no union having occurred between them, the assumptions should have been clear between Damara and Jarl’s futures.

It was the big news around Virenheim after-all, how the handsome and most eligible young lord had begged for an annulment to his pre-arranged engagement to Damara for the ability to marry a very common half-Deep, half-Light elf he met in the northern kingdom a year ago! It was something unheard of and impure to accept within any of the households, but Jarl had implored people of his great love. If the rumour was true then Anouk had consented and, with her position the next highest under King Otzell, none had dared to oppose her decision and it was even said that Anouk had paid for the girl’s dowry. Given the eldest Benaga’s current urge to disrespect everyone that came into contact with her, it was not hard to see her agreeing to such a thing; but Karani wanted to hear it from Damara herself.

She galloped after her friend down the long cleanly-cut stairwells and corridors within the painted stone caverns and tunnels of the city toward the marble building near the Above World Entrance. Although the library was older then the gatehouse of iron, the great structure seemed to have melded to its most eastern wall with ease and the guards on their post watched Damara scamper up the great marble steps into the building with interest. Karani huffed and puffed after her friend, desperate for an answer if only because she wondered if it was the root cause for Damara’s sudden case of self-doubt. Had she thought herself unworthy of such a man as Jarl because of Anouk’s agreement?

Karani had only just reached the top step when Damara emerged from the white building and she saw her chance. With a motion as swift as an eagle’s, Karani had swung her hand out and hooked her fingers around Damara’s left wrist, holding her in place without much difficulty. Damara froze, turning about nervously to look at Karani before breathing a heavy sigh as the dreaded question slipped from her friend’s pert black lips.

“Didn’t you tell Anouk how much you cared about Jarl?”

“She’d only have thought of it as an infatuation…” Damara growled gently and then anger flashed in her pretty eyes, causing Karani to release her arm and gulp heavily. The pair stared at each other in silence for a moment, as well as in realisation. If there was one rumour regarding Anouk that Damara could confirm… it was her utter disrespect to the traditions of marriage within Virenheim society. “…she said she met Jarl’s fiancée and believed there was true love between them and it was only fair they should have a chance.”

“Gosh… who’d have thought that ice-cold bitch would have belief in love!” Karani stated with a gentle smack to her forehead as if telling herself off for not knowing such a thing. Damara just shook her head gently, having long accepted that no one would ever compliment Anouk except for her power and ability to kill. It could not be helped; the Head Executioner for the King was rarely a beloved figure in society.

The two continued a conversation regarding the rules of marriage and love within their society and the options now present to Damara. With her betrothal severed and Anouk having no interest in progeny, the hope of the entire Klangschwert Warriors rested upon Damara… perhaps that was the reason. Perhaps Jarl was not suitable enough to produce a warrior heir; after-all Anouk had often referred to him as feminine and lacking in aggression and hatred, instead adhering to the religious obsessions of his father!

The conversations changed when they entered the busy market place on the third level thanks to the need to find the various articles upon the list that Damara had made. The majority of the Deep Elf food included root vegetables, rye and dark wheat bread as well as meat – the only elf group to eat such a hardy diet with mineral salts given in a special milk drink. This milk was one that everyone drank once a week or daily when sick to give them all the minerals they needed and the keen ability of their eyes. There were many things to consider when making a meal for a member of the noble household, tradition stated Damara would receive a beating and even risk being shaved bald if her food did not please her sister!

“Anouk’s not too difficult to find things for to eat, one of her favourite things is elk meat. In fact she likes to hunt it herself with the Dreggs at night when she can, but we don’t have any meat left so I will have to get her some here. We also need to find something she can eat with it, the bread is always good and any hot spices imported in are things she likes, not to mention yams and potatoes. Anouk also likes sweet things, so if we can make her butter bread she’d really love it!” Damara stated with a pleasant smile and her companion gave a gentle chuckle of amusement in return. Although Karani had every excuse to leave Damara here, she had been an orphan all her life and had not lived in a household, meaning any offer to visit the Klangschwert House was worth any risk of meeting danger beyond the second dam.

Karani and Damara had rushed around the bustling market stalls in search of the traders with the best quality meat and as much as Karani knew the best choices for the other items on the list, she had never really had elk meat before and had no idea what she was looking for. Stepping past the varied elf forms of the beings living within Virenheim they made a point to avoid the warriors of the Royal Core, fighters whose lives belonged only to their king, who eyed them lecherously through the red hoods they wore when amongst the market places. Damara felt her skin crawl at every set of eyes that roved over herself and her friend, the Royal Core were the only beings that respected no one but their general and their king, forcing others to obey the laws they did not and as crude and violent as the Orcs they were created to battle.

Damara ignored them as much as she could on her way around the meat stall; she knew that her position and rank were usually enough to deter anything more then cat calls. However Karani did not have such a defence and a few individuals were starting to step a little closer to them. Considering their positions and their current general, there had been a rise in recent violent crimes attributed to these so-called guards; but due to the increase in their death rate on patrol the council kept looking the other way. However, their interest in this incident was clear and Damara knew that her friend was at risk unless she did the one thing that brought fear into the hearts of everyone within the country.

“We should hurry up Karani, Anouk will go ballistic if she comes home and we’re not already settled. Do you remember what happened last time when we just spent too long chatting with Master Verison in the library? I can’t believe she dared to circumcise him right there and then!” Stating this whilst viewing a variety of bound meats seemed to do the trick and immediately made the two hooded figures freeze. Karani turned to her friend and gave a shuddering expression at the memory. Sadly, such a thing was not a lie and caused because Verison had previously assaulted one of their classmates that lived and worked as a maid in his household. Everyone had remarked on how lucky he had been to escape a full castration and, of course, the Head Healer had sensed Anouk’s rage and been quick to get on scene and neaten up the intentionally clumsy job!

Verison of course had lost position and power; in fact he was still serving jail time for his actions, so the story was terribly well known. It was also considered one of the classic examples of Anouk’s foolish manners and tendency to forget her status amongst the beings of Virenheim. Well… it was supposed to be beneath her to get involved in such petty gossip and home matters, but as the Head Executioner Anouk had decided to go on ahead without telling anyone anything. When Karani figured out the reason for such words, she shuffled closer to her friend and the pair of them sniggered over the amusement gained in the guard’s reactions.

Their laughter did not last long however as their purchase and stories of Anouk’s foul temper were cut short by a long bellowing sound that rattled the rocks. Sending a great pulse of excitement and terror through the neighbourhood, the stalls were quickly packed up and everyone on the street darted into the wide tunnels within the layered rocks of the wall for protection. The guards came out and surrounded the main square as Damara and Karani were ushered into the same tunnels, although they were trained enough to engage in battle if necessary. Damara and Karani were able to wiggle to the front of the crowd and they stood close to two familiar figures that would eagerly give them information if they asked, even if they had recently been promoted into the City Guard.

“Hey Droy, Martum… what’s going on? Has a Dregg-Eater slipped into the kennels or something?” Karani mused with a wide grin as she lounged over the shoulders of Martum, pushing her bosom into the back of his neck. The tall, bald elf with his more silvery shade found himself slumping forward and grasping his pike for stability. His companion, the more handsome Droy, chuckled gently before turning toward Damara with an excited glimmer in his eyes. He looked as if he was about to speak with his seductive voice and Damara’s ears flicked forward in excitement, until they all noted a terrifying figure strolling onto the open square with every member of the guard and even the Core trembling in fright.

“So who’s next?”

All eyes fell upon the terrifying form of a massive figure bound in thick black and dark blue fabrics, a great sword in one hand and an axe in another – but worse he wore a metal helmet upon his head that caused all blood to thicken and hearts to stop. Shaped into the grimacing form of some hideous Mountain Ogre, the great black helmet sat as a mask over the face of this stranger with two great horns jutting out to the side as if to emphasise his bestial links. The figure’s voice was deep, slightly gravelly but his foreign tone was easy to distinguish and as Damara recognised it for a Light Elf or Amber City dweller, she noted the armour style and prodded her companions although their eyes were transfixed upon the seven foot figure strolling into the centre of the market place.

“He’s dressed like the Zhjati Warriors of Kougen… but it doesn’t make sense, they’re not even elves let alone on this side of the Giroff Mountains. How did he get here except…” Suddenly it felt as though all other eyes were upon Damara as the rest of her sentence was left to hang in the air. Droy and Martum let the name slip onto their lips but they could not bare themselves to put breath to it… Orcreich… no one came through there but demons! As the fact sunk in to the people they pressed closer into the enclave and silence reigned as the face-less beast before them shook his blood-smothered sword and looked amongst the crowd for his next victim. Despite the fear they were all feeling, Damara could not help but recall what she had been told by her father of the Zhjati and their loyalty unto death for one lord or king. A noble air seemed to surround this figure and Damara could not help herself but step past the two guards and out into the open, no one daring to stop her.

Karani gave a shriek of realisation and tried to dart past her companions but they held her back, too afraid to make another step in case it might just become their last. Everyone who recognised Damara swallowed their tongues and their souls as they refused to step in to assist but regretted it immediately. Yet the stranger seemed to pause and watched the smaller figure of the female pad over to his side with a determined look on her face, as if she were carrying some vital message. When she stopped in front of him and then bowed low in respect, he gave a gentle chuckle of amusement before lowering his sword to tap her shoulders. The gesture made the crowds gasp in unison, as if the stranger might just decapitate the closest thing to a princess within their land, but it was soon obvious that the foreigner had no interest in fighting her.

“Respect… something I’ve known so little in my existence. Speak Little One; you are not worthy enough to battle me so you and the other weaklings of this city should not be afraid.” His voice was harsh and in many ways it was difficult to understand him, but everyone clued into the fact he sought a proper fight and so the guard relaxed. As long as no one stepped forward to challenge him there would be no need for death and the figure might wander off. But the crowd knew from the sudden clanging of the bells and horns that echoed suddenly amongst the caverns, the rest of the Core were already on their way and units on patrol would be called back into the city to defend the king.

The figure would get what he wanted; it would not be long before the King’s General, Higatso, would stroll down the great flight of stairs from the walled palace with all the swagger of a younger man and take up the challenge. Perhaps that had been the plan all along and the blood upon the sword and axe belonged only to those who had attempted to interrupt the stranger’s path. Damara assumed this herself, if only because it would prevent herself from being so completely terrified of this being and nervously she spoke to him, still keeping herself in a bowed position of respect as she recalled women of the Zhjati were ought to.

“Forgive me, but am I right in assuming that you wish to challenge General Higatso for his position? Only… I was informed that one of your warrior caste was considered nothing more then a wraith when he had no lord to command him.” She spoke anxiously but the words appeared to be understood and the being gave a grunt of acknowledgement that suddenly sent a ripple of excitement through the crowd. With Higatso being no more then a rambunctious drunk and womaniser, the removal of him might increase the discipline amongst the Core and the indication of someone strong enough to fight the general was exciting enough. Having witnessed the previous general’s defeat at Higatso’s blade, the public began to slip past the guards and out of the enclave, beckoning others out and to spread the word that a challenge had been issued. Damara though decided to find out the only thing that was missing from the situation… the figure’s name. “My name is Damara Benaga, daughter of the House of Benaga otherwise known as the Klangschwert – it would be an honour to introduce you to the general by your title, Sir.”

The moment Damara introduced herself there was a sensation of electricity around the stranger and a notion that eyes were viewing her with an unusual hunger. Damara felt suddenly very afraid and though she remained as steady as a rock her soul was now trembling with fear that she might just be hacked in half for revealing her title. It was a well-known name and the Klangschwert were legend amongst all those in the north of Organthra that battled with the Orcreich. But the very dark presence of this warrior seemed to burn away Damara’s courage and she slowly straightened herself to look into the eye-holes of the grimacing helmet for a chance to see some aspect of the creature within.

To Damara’s great fascination and perhaps even horror, a pair of citron coloured eyes twinkled back at her with an expression of affection. It was something she could not comprehend for the eyes seemed to sit surrounded by shadow and the figure’s voice in response to her question remained gruff and perhaps even bored. The eyes did not tell the truth of this figure, they seemed trapped as if they had been stolen from some helpless being and Damara stepped back with the growing anxiety that the being she was speaking to was definitely not human and possibly not even a human-type!

“I have only one name, Karayan and it would be my honour to have a child of the Klangschwert, introduce me in a fight to the death with this general. Your assumptions are right Little One; I have come here solely for the purpose to serve the one place where a warrior’s limits can be tested. Now, bring me your general.” The being’s words were thrown out over the crowd and the excitement mounted as the answer to their fears was removed with something altogether more tantalising. But the Karayan suddenly dropped his voice to a near whisper and his words made Damara’s strength fade and her face grimace with terror. “It would seem you would be a worthy opponent to me Little One. Had I not known that the Klangschwert loyalty belongs to this King alone, I would have pledged my loyalty to your household.”

That said, Damara swiftly bowed to him again and scuttled over to her friends who were now staring at her in awe and triumph. Her bravery was something they would make sure Anouk would hear of, but Damara feared something much worse. Higatso had never lost a challenge and apart from his predecessor, his earth magic mixed with his blade had felled every competitor since his triumph. Although Damara had every thought in her body telling her heart that Karayan would survive, she was almost regretful of introducing herself to him. After all, if he did not look to survive then she would have to rescue him for the sake of her pride and Anouk might just kill her for it!

A lazy hour passed by with the stranger pacing the market floor in great circles and Damara slouched against a stone bench, waiting. The people remained excited but now there was an edge of fear buzzing amongst them as the agitation on the stranger became palpable as he dragged the tip of his sword along the stone for the sake of making sparks. His frustration mixed with the manner in which he prowled the great open floor encouraged everyone to keep back and make prayers to the god Nabuto, the one true god of their people, in search of a break in the intensity of the room. Damara pressed her hands to her cheeks, her face scrunching up as she began to ponder to herself about what was about to happen. She recalled that the alarms would pull the scouts and patrols back toward the city and this would include Anouk. Damara could just imagine her sister appearing from nowhere to slaughter the stranger and give her a beating for causing trouble. She blanched as she sat down in the shadows of the underground city, her face grim and her eyes dropping to the ground. Her actions were noted by her companions who remained standing nearby and they stepped to her side, eager to pat her back and tell her that everything was going to be fine. As they comforted her she felt her confidence grow but she also noticed the way the Karayan remained staring toward her, possibly even sneering at them.

Before Damara could thank her friends for their comfort, she watched the great long legs covered in black cloth stride toward her. The sensation of the demon heading toward them encouraged the three beings to step behind the stone in preparation to gallop away from the advancing monster. Damara’s back stiffened and she stared upward at Karayan with a hideous gulp of terror as he stood over her and stared down. His strange eyes seemed almost to glitter at her with fascination and Damara lowered her head in shame.

“I’m sorry Karayan… Higatso is a belligerent monster with no care or interest in fighting anyone now that he thinks he’s at the top of the ranks. I might as well just point you in the direction of his barracks so you can cut his head off!” Damara groaned gently in frustration as she considered the situation. Desperate to try and encourage the monster to continue on his way and stop walking around like an agitated tiger in a cage, Damara pointed toward the great white staircase with eager long fingers. But the stranger stared out toward the staircase and shook his head gently before stretching out an arm toward Damara. She froze in terror as his great gloved hands dropped onto her head and practically clamped it. Her companions gasped and appeared ready to leap forward and attack to rescue their friend, but Damara was spewing cold sweat as she prepared to have her head popped. To their joint surprise Karayan simply patted her head and gave a throaty laugh.

“There’s no honour in that… I want a fair fight to gain his position and protect this place. You shouldn’t be worried about it Little One, if he doesn’t turn up I’ll just insist on serving your father.” Karayan stated with a gentle grunt but Damara’s eyes softened, tears even seemed to brim at the corner of them for his words. Her companions also seemed to look depressed and the stranger stared at them in confusion for a moment before the bald Martum cleared his throat and explained.

“I’m afraid Lord Benaga was killed in a terrible incident decades ago… the new Lord Klangschwert is his eldest daughter, Anouk. Damara here is the only other member of that family alive… expect for the Head Healer.” Martum muttered nervously, rubbing at his neck in frustration though he held his spear close in case he had to protect his friend all the more. But all of them noticed the shift in the being’s form as he released Damara’s head and stared down at her, pityingly. His strange eyes seemed to weaken and there was also the slightest hint of interest in the state of the household. For a brief moment, Droy was worried that his best friend had just given away too much information; he could easily see this being forcing Damara to marry him so he could take over the household and the second highest position to king in Virenheim!

“He was an honourable warrior…” The Karayan stated but it was then a great horn bellowed around the cavern to cut him off. With a gentle grunt the being straightened himself and stared out at the top of the stairs where a surprising figure met his gaze. Damara had been startled by the Karayan’s words but had assumed he was just referring to the rumours, but she too was forced to look upward and grimace. Even her companions looked like they might have collapsed in terror as a throng of beings stepped toward the largest flat point amongst the stairs where they stopped, another figure following behind this arrangement.

“The king is here…” Droy muttered as they looked at the situation with terror and hatred. They assumed it was the king as twenty black-robbed figures, the King’s Watchers, stood surrounding some figure that tradition stated was the king himself. The council had also appeared at the top of the stairs and they were all aware that this would legitimise the stranger’s position if he was able to beat the general. Although none of these figures showed their faces or permitted anyone to look between them at the face of their king, the sensation of extreme power encouraged every member of Virenheim present to bow down and pull themselves out of the way of the central market platform. This Karayan stepped out into, clearing his throat to encourage Damara to get up and follow after him. Damara was swift to follow after him with a gentle smile upon her face as if she had just forgotten all her previous concerns, after-all she trusted nothing bad would happen to her with the King around!

There was a surprising roar of amusement however as Higatso finally stepped down the flight of stairs. He was simply roaring and laughing, his stocky almost rotund form pinching within his thick brown armour as he padded down the stairs. His great large feet slapped against the bare white stone and he continued to chuckle with pleasure at the idea of a strange being, not even of their species, claiming to challenge him for his position. He even dared to spit in boredom, shocking everyone present who would have chided him had they not been so afraid of him. Higatso was soon half-way down the stairs, tugging gently at his neat black moustache with humour as he grinned with his slightly fanged teeth at the strange creature below.

“So… a foreigner stinking like a fetid Swamp Beast thinks he can take my title from me? What’s this with you? Well, it doesn’t get any more amusing – behold my king the youngest of the famous Klangschwert has come out to introduce the pretender.” Higatso bellowed out to the crowd, knowing it would cause them some excitement to hear his threats. But they did not seem to appreciate his provocation regarding the heroic clan of their kingdom; instead they looked toward Damara with pride and affection. She felt this curious warm feeling from their attention but as Higatso stepped straight to her side and placed a firm, threatening gloved hand to her shoulder, she went pale and rigid with terror. “You’re dishonouring your late father and even your stupid sister would be pissed right now.”

The phrasing hurt and Damara felt something like a knife stab into her chest at the realisation that she might have backed the wrong side. She turned her baleful eyes toward the aggressive golden glint within Higatso’s as he strolled around her and his enemy in a wide circle. His robes of rich red and silk bought from trade with elves that had never been underground seemed to glimmer with his expression and Damara just looked at them in frustration. As much as such things were pretty and she had to admit she loved them, she agreed with her sister Anouk that Higatso was so stuck up his own backside regarding rank that he dared to dress more richly then the king no matter the occasion. Damara shook her head suddenly as she felt anger rise and her tongue start to wake before Karayan patted her shoulder in return and glowered from his shadowy robes down at Higatso.

“The Klangschwert are known the world around for their loyalty to the king and this realm. Perhaps they sponsor me because they believe you are unfit for the role, Old Man.” The figure stated with a smile, gently pushing Damara behind him so that she could be protected from whatever harsh words this figure could come out with. However Higatso simply breathed a sigh of boredom and walked away from the both, tapping his chin with thought over what to say next. He remained striding about in a circle around the pair to try and dominate the space but Karayan just remained motionless and only Damara twisted about to keep an eye on him.

Higatso in truth was actually very unsure of this new challenger. It was true that he had beaten everyone imaginable since claiming his title but the air just did not feel right around this psychopath. He could feel his body trying to tremble against the bravado he tried to show and the only way to stop it showing was to keep walking. What could he say to try and diffuse the challenge and then softly he gave a chuckle and froze in front of the figure. He strained backward a little, stretching like he was waking up before rocking about on his heels and grinning inanely as he looked at the terrifying shadowed monster.

“Why so determined? I’m told you’re one of those warriors that need to have a master in order to have purpose. Why try and defeat me when you could easily step in as my apprentice and then move to a more appropriate position in time. Do you really need to kill me?” Higatso tried to make it sound like he was being benevolent and that he was the better figure involved, but no sooner had the words left his mouth then the eyes narrowed viciously. Higatso felt suddenly afraid of the Karayan and swiftly he dropped his grin and looked toward Damara. He tried to send her a scowl harsh enough to convey the message that she had really messed up in her sponsorship of this creature, but it was to no use. Damara had not really understood what she had been doing and she was already panicking about what her sister was going to say when she turned up.

But the Karayan felt surprisingly irritated by the words of the figure in front of him, pompous and fat as he was. The elf that was being hailed as the king’s greatest protector was nothing more then a laughable fat figure that if the Karayan kicked down a hill would probably keep on rolling when he hit the bottom. The stranger was very sure that he was being insulted and that Higatso was trying to make him sound like a worthless puppy looking for a mother because he was so helpless! It made Karayan’s fists tighten around the handle of his axe and he straightened himself properly, his shadow smothering the form of his foe as he breathed a harsh raspy breath.

“I came here because my former master wanted me to go where I would be useful, it was a promise I made on his deathbed and I honour all my promises. My loyalty and servitude is not to be passed onto a nameless figure that obviously cannot prevent himself from over-indulging. I have come to present my services to the Klangschwert… but I was informed their loyalty is only to their king. Therefore, my loyalty and service is to your king and no other creature in these tunnels.”

Karayan’s determined growls rippled through the crowd as they felt the blood pumping with the oath of loyalty and with the rage it would bring from Higatso. In all the challenges that their captain had faced in his time, none had ever dared to speak so boldly or make a case that would make them favourable to the king. In fact, although none could see what the king was doing or thinking at that time, the sense of the crowd was pleasing as they each agreed to the statement and the nobility of the figure. Deep inside they could all recognise the devotion to their king and they all stepped back fully to from a proper arena for the pair to fight. The Karayan remained still with his thoughts but Higatso’s rage was showing as he curled his lips and tried hard not to let his tongue loose. He could feel the interest in the crowd and was about to throw out an insult when there was movement nearby.

The people were eager to know what their king was doing or thinking as he seemed to shuffle and his cloud of advisors pulled themselves in around him. Gently they mumbled to the figure and were spoken to with such a light soft voice that practically everyone within the region started to lean in forward to try and find what was going on. But the Karayan just rolled his eyes and gave a soft snort before turning toward Higatso and noticing how petrified the figure seemed to be over this reaction. Finally though the mumbling stopped and one of the black clad figures of the council stepped toward them both and softly gave a cough. This encouraged total silence as the Speaker, Lord Yeruell, was about to proclaim the word of the king.

“Our beloved king has considered the proposal and come up with a decision that must be adhered to.” The lord’s voice was high, deep and noble as it rumbled through the caverns and lifted to echo in the silence. Chosen for this stupendous voice and for the fact he was tall and a dominating presence when disrobed, Yeruell turned toward the Karayan and bowed his head gently, encouraging everyone else present to drop to the floor again. “His majesty has stated that the loyalty you are willing to show is rare and to be praised… rewarded even and he believes that you would do well in his command. However, to gain such a position you must defeat Higatso and his majesty has clearly decided that it will be done through the sword. No magic and no other weapon unless it is your body…”

“I accept. His Majesty is most gracious and kind to consider my challenge and to have praised me.” The Karayan’s words seemed unusually humble for such a being that caused everyone’s skin to shiver with discomfort as he shifted his form about. The beast slowly removed his axe and placed it beside the bench where Damara had been waiting previously; he was watched with astonished eyes as from amongst his great thick garments daggers, throwing stars and other items unknown to the community were pulled out and placed aside. Damara’s eyes were wide almost with horror at the collection of deadly instruments and when she turned to look to Higatso she could have howled with laughter.

The figure looked as if he had just had his soul ripped from his body and possibly even soiled himself in the process. Amongst the finery he had spent buckets of money upon Higatso was visibly shaking and appearing like a mouse against a lion with the Karayan’s pile of weaponry. He could not boast such a collection or even claim to be an expert in any other kind of warfare then the use of his sword and his magic. With even this mighty power of his curbed by the decision of the king he knew it was suicide and even if this monster did not kill him, then the humiliation and loss of position would. But he had an image to maintain and people to remain afraid of him to justify his bullying methods; he also had to impress his men. Their eyes were upon his trembling form now with expressions of disgust or confusion at the thought of their glorious general being weaker then they were. Knowing of their danger alone, Higatso bowed his head humbly towards his king and towards the Karayan before slowly straightening himself and turning to Lord Yeruell to introduce him for the battle.

“Very well… pay attention everyone; the challenge and rules have been accepted. I present to you the King’s General Lord Nogroth Higatso the undefeated champion for fifty years. If he is defeated in combat then his position and property will be relinquished to his opponent… the King has chosen to remain present for this battle and all work is suspended.” The lord growled gently as he then stepped back into the throng of councillors as everyone present began to ponder and mutter in delight. They were surprised by the possibility of this elf loosing a battle if only because he had not been so far and yet he was not to use his magic. Every eye turned then toward Karayan and Damara as the stranger turned down toward the little female with a soft snort.

“I am Lady of Benaga, Damara sister to Lord Anouk and I am of the Klangschwert…. I present to you a warrior from the south under the name of Karayan, a student of the Zhjati Warriors of Kougen. He has passed through the Orcreich to reach us and pledges his powers to the King of Virenheim. He has come to challenge General Higatso for his title and has the sponsor of my household.” That said the look on Higatso’s face and the councillors seemed to change. She could practically hear a chuckle from the king himself at the warrior training and Higatso was obviously scared. For any being to have come as far as Karayan had and through such perilous lands, Damara knew that he would be given the greatest of respect no matter the results of this battle. But tenderly he tapped her forehead in thanks before ushering her aside so that the battle could commence.

As soon as Yeruell and Damara cleared back the centre square of all bodies, the council seemed to stretch outwards about the king as the figure appeared to shimmer behind their black robes. It was obvious a spell was being used to allow him to witness the battle, but not for the onlookers to view him, although no one was permitted to do so. Instead all eyes turned toward the two figures that cast their heavy feet about the cleared floor of the cavern in steady circles. Their eyes seemed to burn as they locked onto one another and the mood of excitement over the battle became chilled with a deadly hush as the pacing slowed and the bodies visibly tensed. It was only when the expression upon the stranger seemed to soften to boredom that the battle began and Higatso lunged forward.

Surprisingly swift despite his gained weight, the general was able to leap across the circle and straight toward Karayan, swinging out with his slightly curved sword. He kept his grip tight and prepared to bounce away from any strike thrown back at him but it did not come. Instead his blade slashed the air and whatever flesh lay beneath Karayan’s thick sleeves with a splatter of blood. Instinctively Higatso leapt to the side, pirouetting neatly to come around and prepare for retaliation. When his enemy appeared to be remaining still as if the damage had not yet registered, Higatso lunged again. This time he stabbed his sword straight into the body and howled in rage as he felt the majority of cloth cut from his jab and on the edge of soft tissue. However another jet of blood spurted onto his hands and he pulled aside quickly yet again, convinced that there should be a reaction from this second thrust, only to find he was not in trouble again.

Once more Higatso charged and this time he was much more direct and aggressive in his assault. Eyes boggled at the spray of blood and the general boredom of the strange figure as the blade of the general’s sword slashed across his mask and through the eyehole. The moment Higatso cut he froze and gave a hideous cackle of amusement as the gap became dark and the figure did not seem to move anymore. But within a flash the great grasping gloved hands of Karayan launched about the hilt. Though it rattled in the general’s hands as he felt the strength pulling him free from the third wound, the Karayan just gave a snort of amusement.

“You’re not fighting beast… what no interest now it’s clear I’ll take your head off?” Higatso dared to boast although he trembled at the strength that pushed him away. He was having great difficulty trying to comprehend what was happening here as his attacks were being ignored. He could see blood on his blade, blood upon the floor and yet there had been no sound or reaction from his enemy. Higatso did not know what to do, did not know how he was supposed to fight when his initial three attacks had done nothing to the confidence of his enemy. In previous fights he had won swiftly and only his very first fight had proven difficult; this opponent was confusing and though he wished to mock and goad him into a reaction he was suddenly terrified as the gravelly tone rumbled out to him.

“If I don’t know you can cut me… how can I tell the effort needed to win?” The stranger snorted gently, almost with a laugh at the idea of this fight actually being worth some real power. The general’s eyes seemed to bulge out of his rounded head with horror and disgust at the idea of being considered worthless when he had already wounded the figure. But from the side-lines Droy’s eyes were widened in thought and then he gave a wicked grin that Damara noticed and slowly she nudged at him for information. For a moment he looked to Martum to confirm his thoughts and the figure nodded his head before Droy bent to the two girls and whispered toward them.

“Anouk used to train that way with strangers… checking their range and their strength like it’s a game. It’s not good, you can get seriously hurt but I don’t think this creature even cares!” Droy growled softly in irritation as he watched Higatso continue to mock the stranger as it remained quiet, trying to stop himself from loosing face. The figure was becoming more and more afraid of the possibility of being killed and when he tried to think of something else to say on the matter, Karayan’s other hand suddenly leapt out with a closed fist and slammed straight into Higatso’s wide forehead. For a moment the skin on his head stretched as if the eyebrows were being pushed to the other side of his face as he collapsed onto the ground with a grunt.

“I’ve always been told that the warrior elves of Virenheim were something of a miracle in battle… fierce and powerful despite their slender frames and delicate features. I assumed that even in charge of the home guard, you might be a little different but not so different you’d be flat on your back from a fist to the face. I wonder how old your predecessor was for you to put him in his grave.” The Karayan sighed gently, strolling away from the figure sprawling on the floor to cover his bleeding muzzle from the witnesses. The comments were insulting to everyone present and they all pressed their hands to their hearts, bent their heads and muttered their humbleness towards the sun. The gesture startled the stranger and he spun on his heel to look around as even Damara was copying the odd thing.

Though Higatso should have also surrendered himself to humility at the same point as his people, he chose to use the distraction to his advantage. Doing something so heinous as to forget that the god Nabuto looked down onto everyone, would have caused a sensation but as the tubby creature threw himself into an aggressive swing he was spotted. The Karayan must have just sensed the air moving as he flicked up his blade to lock onto the guard’s and hold it in place. He held it there for a little while as Higatso ground his teeth together and almost swore aloud before he lifted a leg. Higatso gave a grunt as the heavy foot was swung round to knock the figure straight onto the floor again and the stranger gave a snort of frustration. But once again the grounded man pulled himself upward and swung at his tormentor with his sword, angry that he could not use his powers to defeat the creature easily!

The Karayan dodged this one easily, stepping away and watching Higatso fall forward and almost into the crowd. But the covered foreigner stretched his arm around to grasp the figure’s back armour and yank him backward. As he pulled the elf into a straighter position Higatso did choose to swear, though parents smothered the sharp ears of their children as the guard swung out his sword again. He had jerked it upward with only the slightest bit of strength but the moment the metal of the blade connected with the edge of the stranger’s mask, there was a sound. It was a horrendous sound like a scream that was echoed by the crowd as it rattled through their delicate ears and grasped their brains for moments of pure agony. From that moment the Karayan released the figure and stretched up his gloved fingers to stroke the mask until it went quiet. The action made Higatso’s stomach twist in disgust… just what was he facing here?

Swiftly Higatso used the next moment of distraction to try and hit the top of the mask and by some miracle his swing caught the tip of a horn. It fell swiftly to the floor and though it appeared miniscule and insignificant to the spectators, a dark aura seemed to swell from the stranger. With a speed Higatso could not imagine possible amongst the Deep Elves, the creature kicked out into the wide gut and before Higatso could fall onto his back an elbow came crashing down into his head. But with this sudden injection of aggression from his attacker, the guard spun his sword about again to slash at the Karayan’s arm and this time a darker… oilier blood spurt into Higatso’s face and made him grimace.

It’s not an elf, it’s not Imperial… by the Fallen Devils it’s a demon! I’m facing a demon!

When the Karayan let him drop to check the wound upon his arm, Higatso pulled himself straight back up and charged forward, his sword against his side as he rammed it into the thick robes of his enemy. But he knew he’d missed and had to twist away from the grasping hands, almost dropping his blade as he pulled it free of the fabric in a messy show. He tried hard to try and catch the approaching arm but whenever he twisted the sword to get past, the Karayan’s own blade continued to meet and match him. So once again Higatso aimed for Karayan’s face and with a few huffs and puffs of fear and concern he caught the horn again but knocked nothing from it. The beast gave a roar of irritation and Higatso tried once more, ducking to the left to avoid an attempt to stab him and in loosing balance caught the beast’s helmet. As he scrabbled to keep on his feet Higatso managed to flick the helmet loose and jerk it off as the Karayan dropped his sword to grab at his bleeding face.

When the helmet fell on the ground with a soft tunk sound, the crowd gasped in shock as they saw a human, an Imperial, head smothered in black shrouds as if he were a leper. The possibility of such a thing struck them all and Higatso grimaced in disgust as the figure turned around to face him. Higatso could have screamed and vomited for the blood to have hit his body but right now he was far too busy in the battle. He was swift to try and fight as he slashed at Karayan’s face, catching his high cheeked tan skin and drawing a line in blood. The figure gave a growling sound of pain at the action before shaking his head in frustration and turning about to slash at Higatso with his sword. The two engaged in proper sword play as they began to dart about the cleared space, the air now echoing with the sounds of their blades and the excitement of the crowd who were now undecided on which of the challengers they wished to see succeed. Even the council members shifted about the King with excitement as they imitated the dodging actions of both parties, eager to see a conclusion.

As Higatso slashed toward Karayan’s face again he dodged and lifted a foot to kick out, but Higatso swung himself back and pivoted to dodge the foot. He slashed at the limb and scored a groove through the fabric only to find more black blood spurting out onto the floor. Higatso swore at his enemy, threatening to remove his head but when he swung his sword at the figure’s head it ducked once more. With a growl Karayan punched forward with a fist but Higatso managed to dodge again, this time slashing the knuckles of his attacker with a screech of terror as he tried not to be killed as Karayan’s blade lifted up to slap at him.

Despite everything, the Karayan had not managed to score a serious hit with his blade to his enemy and it was clear to those watching that the figure did not really fight with his sword much. They considered the blood drying on the waiting axe and the pure strength of this monster, their minds perplexed by the idea the stranger used the sword for defence rather then to attack. They wondered too if the loss of the helmet was also making the figure more cautious as he continued to try and dodge more then attack. When he did attempt another strike with his blade, Higatso became suddenly confident and was able to dart past and grasp Karayan’s hilt. In sudden close quarters the stranger seemed startled as Higatso brought his sword down into the figure’s shoulder with a hard crunching sound as Higatso felt himself cutting deep into flesh.

The black blood screeched out past the blade and into the general’s eyes as he gave a scream from the sudden burning sensation it caused. Karayan then grasped the blade in his gloved hands and growled, making Higatso laugh as he pushed forward into the wound with his blade, not willing to withdraw whilst he still held his enemy’s sword. But then something very unusual happened as the Karayan stretched out his long fingers over Higatso’s knuckles and the moment he grabbed them bone shattering crunches filled the air alongside Higatso squeal. The grip on the sword was lost, the blade slid out of the stranger’s flesh and Higatso stepped back, still managing to hold onto his own sword despite the fact he knew a few of his fingers had been broken!

Finally the Karayan seemed to regain the confidence he’d walked into the situation with and Damara pondered if perhaps it had all been a show to try and get some joy from the fight. She knew that he was tired of the fight and when he straightened his form Damara winced as he watched him grab Higatso’s sword and yank it straight up into the air. Higatso was pulled up with it, squeaking in pain and then the blade was jerked from his hand and the general slammed into the ground. Karayan then grunted audibly as he swung Higatso’s blade about in the air and then slammed it straight into the stone, shattering it into pieces as the crowd screamed, jeered and clapped their hands in surprise.

That was it… the fight was over and the stranger had won!

Higatso lay crumbled up on the ground whimpering and wheezing as he feared the next action; he had lost and he would now be expected to kneel and accept the removal of his head. The councillors were all calling out to the stranger to take the final blow, to use his axe and the dark clad being agreed to it. He dropped his sword with frustration and the remaining hilt of Higatso’s as he grabbed the massive axe and strolled over to his enemy. Higatso began to weep as he pulled himself onto his knees, his dignity and pride gone as he realised that no one was going to save him, even if it did mean a foreigner would hold a high position for the first time in their history.

“You fought well when you assumed I had weaknesses… but you should have always fought at your best…” Karayan growled in frustration as he strolled to the side of the bent figure and grasped his axe. He looked at his own reflection in the blade for a moment, grimacing with disgust at himself for a while before turning back towards Higatso. The general had not even thought to be humble and deserved this death, but as Karayan began to angle himself for the blow, Higatso began to chuckle as he tried to dig his fingers into the ground. Karayan paused; confused to see the hard grey stone beneath the figure allow his fingers to dip inward. Before the stranger could figure out what was going on, Higatso gave a sudden violent growl and the stone suddenly became alive. A brown and green wave of energy rolled with the earth, slamming it into Karayan before punching him into the ground, which then collapsed beneath him as Higatso straightened.

“The law of Virenheim states that a being who is nameless to us, bloodless to us and a foreigner to boot can never take a position within the hierarchy!” Higatso screamed out as he clapped his hands together. Within the hole Karayan shook his head, attempted to pull himself upward but was suddenly smothered in the stone. The edges of the hole were snapped together to appear smooth and clear, as if nothing had happened and Higatso began to laugh. He could not believe that the King had permitted this fight to go so far or to allow the law to be broken by a stranger with no magic. As Higatso pulled himself onto his feet and breathed a sigh of relief, he strolled toward Damara, noticing her shock and the distaste of the crowd.

“YOU CHEAT! YOU… You… you weren’t allowed to use magic you jackass!” Damara screeched angrily as she stepped out of the crowd and stomped over to the tired, heaving figure that was laughing at her. Higatso knew she’d be angry with him and when he thought over the true extent of his victory against someone chosen by the Benaga, he could not stop himself from chortling. He was looking forward to holding it over Lord Anouk’s head and it even gave him an impressive idea.

“Enough… you’ve lost your honour and should remember to be humble and a fair looser, little Benaga. I look forward to the party your sister will have to host for me as well as the possibility of being owed by your family for my troubles. After-all, you’re no longer claimed so I could do it.” The crowd were insulted by the lack of humility within the winner as she slapped a heavy hand onto Damara’s shoulder as if the king were not present. The councillors about the king even began to shuffle in displeasure and would have begun to discuss the rules and the recklessness of this matter had not the king lifted his hand amongst them for silence. Damara noticed it; she also noticed a strange sensation within as if the magic of her body was being disturbed but once more she was irritated by Higatso’s boasting. “He’s buried now… I think we should put a plaque there to warn other foreigners against challenging a full blooded Deep Elf.”

“You are too arrogant Higatso… and for that the Dark One himself has come for you!” Damara hissed, unsure where the words had come from but automatically she lunged away towards the crowd once more. Even the councillors went quiet as something began to rumble beneath the ground and Higatso gave a gasp of confusion. Suddenly there was a creaking sound as if the stone of the caves was screaming and the ground of the plaza split in half! A great nasty crack began streaking across the grey stone to Higatso’s feet followed by an ungodly roar as a great clawed tan-coloured hand stretched out to grasp his head.

As everyone screamed in horror and milled to get out of the way, the black shining claws dug straight into Higatso’s face, making him groan from pain though he appeared unable to move. The giant black shrouded figure of the Karayan pulled himself straight up out of the ground with blood pouring from him alongside stone and rubble. It remained fully covered save for its long talon-edged hands that were now revealed to be almost human… the eyes shining with a demonic edge as Karayan growled. There was no hope for Higatso, the moment the second hand stabbed its claws into his shoulder and grabbed the head securely, he knew he was about to die for his arrogance. In a motion that was not natural through any power but that of a demon, the Karayan pulled Higatso’s head off cleanly and allowed the body to slump down onto the floor before he turned toward Damara.

“My name… how did you know what it meant….”

“I don’t… I just… what are you?” Damara’s question was an echo of the thoughts in the crowd, but at that moment the king stepped out from the circle. Everyone collapsed onto the ground without thought and kept their heads to the dirt. They did not see the greeting hand of the king strain out to stroke the Karayan’s shoulder and usher his bloodied form away. Instead the people could not move until the council had disappeared and only Lord Yeruell was left to speak of what had happened. Indeed he stepped straight to Martum and Droy, pointing a finger towards the departing figures and sending them to work as the assistants of the new general before he turned to Damara. The two males looked petrified for a moment before bowing their heads, grasping their spears up from the floor and galloped up the stairs after the throng of the King’s Watchers. Damara merely turned toward Yeruell with anxiety and upset as if he were about to scold her for what had happened.

“Your decision to sponsor him has dealt with a serious problem within our ranks. Perhaps your sister should learn to understand the importance of a strong hierarchy and its fragility as you have. It may not be normal for us to permit such a thing into our ranks… but the king has accepted him and cannot be questioned.” Damara gulped at the words before Yeruell placed a gentle hand upon her shoulder and produced a soft, pitying chuckle. “Though how you will explain what you’ve done to Anouk… well no one envies a task more deadly then this… Karayan.”

Next Chapter: Two