[IC] Knights of The Dawn Covenant: The Longest Winter

[TheDarkTemplar]

The Conclave Arrives

Starguard Castle

---

It had been many years since the last Conclave had been called, a time when the forces of darkness became a threat to all the world. Now another Conclave has been called and while the danger is present there are those who argue it's warranting of an assembly of this magnitude. Nevertheless the Council of Knight-Commanders would answer the call and along with two hundred chosen knights to bear witness to what could possibly be a pivotal moment in the history of the third era. In the northern hinterlands of Farendar, near the Valley of Kings, the ancient stronghold of Starguard awaits the arrival of three thousand Knights of The Dawn Covenant. The first home of The Order and central headquarters, this age old fortress sits atop Watcher's Mound ever vigilant over the village it neighbors as well as the world. 

Twas not long past noon when the final group of Templars reached the road to Starguard Keep. Lead by Knight-Commander Grathan, two hundred men and women marched along the kingsroad in unison with banners flying and the combined sound of two hundred ironclad feet sending a tremor through the earth. The road they traveled on was met on both sides by a forest, the pine trees grew high and the sheer number of them darkened the woods. The sky was darkened by the clouds which hinted on the coming of rain by nightfall and the air had a thin veil of mist about it. Twas an ominous atmosphere that put the troops further on edge. The kingsroad has always been preyed upon by highwaymen that was of no issue. It was the possibility of something more then a man lurking in the shadowed woods just out of their sight. Training your life to fight monsters does not remove the fact they are monsters. Whether it be the common troll or the terrifying Hydra, all monsters have an air of abnormality about them, an off-putting sense that these creatures are not meant to be. No matter how long one has been a knight of The Order, they will always experince that feeling.

Knight-Commander Grathan knew this fact and as he led his army from the front he surveyed he approaching road. The fog that covered the land made it impossible to see what was ahead until his army was practically on top of it. "Knight-Captain!", Grathan called out into the ranks behind him, there was silence as the army halted its advance. Suddenly a figure atop a white mare came galloping alongside the road before coming to halt beside the Knight-Commander. "You summoned me, sir?", Knight-Captain Evelyn asked upon calming her mount. Grathan did not speak until after he had given the order for his men to continue marching. "Tell me, why is it that off all the Knight-Captains under my command I chose you to accompany me to the Conclave?", the Knight-Commander was stoic with his question, as he always seemed to be. The answer did not come easily as Evelyn looked to her side into the misty woods and then to the men behind her before back to her commander with her answer, "I don't claim to know one's mind but I suppose you choose me for I am among those best to protect you?".

"Is that overconfidence I hear?", Grathan raised a brow at Evelyn who smirked for no longer than a second. "As I said I claim not to know your mind. The way I see it, whatever reason The Conclave has been called for is a serious threat and so you'd surround yourself with able bodied men to protect you on this journey. I claim not to be superior, only that it may be so in your eyes".

"While that is a valid reason, I did not choose you simply because you were a capable warrior. I received word from the other Knight-Commanders before leaving for Starguard, some believe The Conclave needless, they believe that whatever threat is to be discussed would have been more prevalent if it were truly worth such drastic action. I brought you with me to witness the meeting and to prove a point"

"What do you mean?"

"There are those in The Order whom I believe do not take their duties to heart. They believe whatever this new enemy may be will simply fade away if some show of force is made. I brought you along to show you to Conclave, to show to these tired old men what it means to be a Knight of The Dawn Covenant", Evelyn knew not what to say. While she was glad that she had been living the principles of The Order so well, a part of her felt strange. A feeling that her life, whoever she was meant to or could have been was no more and that The Order was all she'd know. She'd know only a life of hardship and bloodshed but also a life of service and honor. The thought of it brought a smile to the captain's face.

"But enough of that, how are the men?", Grathan's voice pulled Evelyn back to the present and with a quick clearing of her throat she answered, "Rations have held up for everyone, lack of fighting has kept our blades and armor in well enough condition however repairs are needed for some of the forward scouts' boots-".

"I asked how the men are doing, not their gear", Grathan cut off Evelyn before she could continue. Evelyn knew what he meant by this, with that she took a deep breath before starting over, "The men are well, a little on edge over this talk of a new enemy but other than that they are ready for anything. Our scouts reported signs of a Kest hive in the area, we should be out of their way not much longer but I sent a group of mages to clear it out"

"It should be safer for others traveling this road now...Tis a shame you lost your birthright, you would have made a good Wardeness"

"Twas The Order that made me who I am today, had I become Wardeness I fear I'd become my parents. I'd rather be a Knight than a highborn"

"Speaking of highborns, how is his majesty? If I remember correctly it's been a few years since he was stationed under your command? I'm surprised I haven't heard news of the two of you", Grathan glanced back hoping to spot the Prince but to no avail, surprisingly the fourth born blended in with the others. 

Evelyn's eyes widened at Grathan's question. For all the years she'd served under the Knight-Commander she rarely saw humor from him. "Forgive me sir but was that your attempt to mock me? I couldn't focus, unfortunately I was distracted by the fact that your belly has pushed your chestplate out. I pity your horse", the commander hurriedly felt his torso to confirm the comment. To his relief it was a lie but nevertheless Grathan's face turned bright red as he looked to his second. "Insulting a superior officer, I could have you flogged for that", he retorted as he fastened his armor just to be safe.

"You could but then you'd have to present a bloodied Knight-Captain to the Conclave", Evelyn laughed before removing her helmet and placing it under her arm. "In truth sir I'm not too certain of Prince Acaelus. He appears in good enough health and I've done what I could to stop the men from harassing him. We've spoken before but every time I'm reminded of what would have been. I'd prefer not to visit that part of my life. Despite that I've watched his progress, he fairs quite well with our cause", Evelyn looked back into the ranks but much like Grathan she could not see him. Perhaps he'd really gotten attuned to this life.

As for the Knight-Commander his gaze was locked forward as he felt his beard, "The boy has come a long way for a fourth born. Tis not an easier life but a more fulfilling one, surely. Either way it is good he's learned our ways. For what will come next will require us all at our best...we've arrived". Evelyn ceased her search for the prince and turned forward just in time to see the fog clear to reveal Starguard Keep. Seated upon Watcher's Mound the great stronghold seemed to dwarf the village below. What's more it seemed there was a housing issue as troop encampments had been placed outside the castle grounds. "Right, who's the bastard who brought more men? The keep could only hold a certain amount and now our men will have to sleep in tents!", Grathan's face again turned bright red. It looked as if his head would explode and Evelyn had to try desperately not to laugh.

Arriving at the castle gates a small group of Templars stood watch. One of them, the commanding officer of the gate group, spoke up. "Commander Grathan, we've been expecting you. There's been a housing issue as you can see so your men will have to set up camp outside the castle walls. However they are free to enter and exit the keep as they please", the guard captain saluted Grathan before returning to his other duties. "Alright men, seems we'll be camping for the next few nights. Go set up your tents then enter the keep for supper. Dismissed", the two hundred men scattered off to find their spots upon Grathan's word. "Come let's head inside, now that all the commanders are here I'm certain they will want to begin the Conclave soon". With that the commander and his captain dismounted their horses in the stables and made their way into the keep.

[RadioactiveRat]

Three sweat-drenched men wearing nothing by their shirts and underwear huddled together around a tree stump most suspiciously while the camp was getting set for a few night's stay in the background. Tents were being set, fire-pits and latrines dug and built, sentry guards with rotten luck posted around the perimeter. There was a rumor running around the camp about some Kest around the castle, which made most of the men giddy for a proper engagement, while the rest - the greenhorns - sick to their stomachs. Jeremiah didn't revel in the art of killing but some deeds had to be done, even if they were the act of taking a life.

Jeremiah approached the three men who didn't notice him until it was too late. The three's armor was scattered around the tree-trump in neat piles as if they were just prepared to be picked up by initiates at their third week of training. There was some commotion around the crew and Jeremiah could see why - his sergeant was losing his hand to their own newcomer, and the copper pellets, silver locket and nasty looking long knife on the trunk showed the high-stakes of the game.

"Hah, Royal Flush", the newcomer, Gipper, cried out with joy, "I win". He closed his arms around his winnings and pushed them towards his lap when Jeremiah coughed gently so his men could be alerted to his presence.

"That's the first time I've seen you lose, Sergeant", Jeremiah addressed Fenrin, his second-in-command. The once shoe-maker, turned deadly killing machine, frowned even as Jeremiah came into view. He knew what came next.

"I know, right?", the third man laughed - Cork, the man who usually organized such events, of which was the smallest he could muster. He was smaller than the others, but his wits compensated for his stature and filled his pockets.

"I know that there's no gambling allowed in camp-", he frowned at Cork and then continued, "-and that each man will take back what was his". Fenrin wasn't visibly glad he received his knife and locket back, which was a strange sight for Gipper. "I know that the camp is getting set while you three are lounging naked and playing games, which is why the winner of the game will stay guard over our equipment the whole time we're here...and I'll see the rest will see some sentry-duty soon enough. Get off your asses and pitch our tent before I think of an educational punishment". The three suddenly realized that the word "educational" actually meant giving away their money to charity, which was one of Jeremiah's most favorite forms of disciplining his men and rose up as one. They then quickly went to raise their tent, Fenrin wearing a pair of pants and walking off to speak with the quartermaster.

[Apoalo]

The day was a perfect mix of temperature with the clouds billowing in that promised rain during the night preventing the sun from warming the Earth keeping what would have been a hot day more of a cool and comfortable one. For Acaelus it just put him in more of a good mood than he already was. The Prince loved the outdoors and while most of the others grumbled about marching the day away, Acaelus found it much more enjoyable watching nature pass him by and keeping on alert for anything that looked out of the ordinary. The 17 year old took it as a personal mission as he did every time he was out in his armor, he was afraid of missing something and causing someone to get injured because he let himself slip and get complacent. The others around him just scoffed at the young lad shaking their heads and rolling their eyes at how serious Acaelus was. However there was no good natured ribbing like comrades would usually do, as no one wanted to risk upsetting a Prince of the very Kingdom they were defending. It just reminded Acaelus of how he still didn't really have a group of fellows that he could call friends. The pages and acolytes were younger than himself while most Templars were older. It was a difficult conundrum and it was made much more awkward when you put in that his commanding Officer was going to wed him in a betrothal.

With a sigh Acae just continued watching the tree line, alternating from one side to another. He had volunteered to go with the Magi that was sent out by the Knight-Captain but he was laughed at and sent back to the ranks. Cae sighed to himself again at the memory but sucked it back in when he saw the Cliff-top Castle standing watch over a simple village. As they walked through Cae smiled and waved at a few of the children tossing them a few coins, causing a man from another platoon to shake his head and whisper something to hid friend. Both men started laughing, shooting Cae glances and the boy felt his ears and face heating up a bit. He shook it off and instead continued to just try and blend in, in a village like this it wouldn't matter to much but in other cities or towns he would be recognized and everyone would bow. Cae HATED when people bowed to him, didn't they understand that while he was Prince he was a FOURTH born Prince, someone whose entire being was dedicated to defending his brothers rule. At times Acaelus enjoyed such a nice and easy destiny, defend the realm and you defended your brother, join the Order to defend the Realm, and all of a sudden you got a purpose in life. He knew that when he grew he would be called back to the Capital IF he was still alive to start command his brother's Armies but until then he would serve his best with the Order.

He was snapped out of his thoughts as the 200 men from his region arrived at the Castle and the Commander himself, along with his Knight-Captain rode up to the gate leaving the rest of the men to begin pitching tents and preparing for the night. Cae picked out a nice grassy area for himself and methodically began setting up his spot, working at it until a picture perfect Templar overnight tent was pitched, with his personal items, including mount stacked underneath a personal attachment of a sort of poncho that kept Snowfire dry. Cae had seen it done by some of the Knight's when he was Squiring and have to admit on rainy nights it kept his gear and Mount dry so every soldiers nightmare, rust, wouldn't set in. After he was finished the boy stood and began walking around the area trying to find an Officer to volunteer for sentry duty that night

As he went he was of course bowed to, both in full body and in simple head bows, each one was annoying. He finally gave up and figured he'd just volunteer when the Knight-Captain returned or a Lieutenant started handing out jobs. Cae didn't mind sentry duty, or really any kind of duty really just wanting to do his part in everything. He passed Jeremiah and he smiled happily at the man, smirking at the state of the Corporal's squad and shrugging. Jeremiah was one of his favorite Squad Leaders, a man who was always seeing and eliciting the best in his men, even if they did try and skirt the rules every now and then. He reported in to his own Corporal who bowed to him as he approached and face-palmed, it was a sad day when your Knight-Corporal bowed to you before you could salute in and state status. He made a mental note to talk to the man later and instead reported the location of his tent and suggested it to be a good area for a squad to settle.

The Corporal quickly agreed and frustrated Cae walked off back towards his tent arriving and pulling the flaps back settling himself down on the ground gently since he was in full armor. Sure his armor was specially made to not limit movement but Cae preferred to be careful just in case he did land on something and bed the otherwise flawless armor. He opened his pack and pulled out a book to begin reading 'Advanced Military Strategy: Cavalry and You.'

[Cuccoruler]

Cythlla had arrived ahead of the others. She had been riding Henry there as she usually did. She was only a templar in ranks but she was also one of the head researchers. She wasn't trusted to lead men and woman, which was understandable considering her track record. Cythlla was able to get herself a room ahead of the others, of course alot of the other templars complained against her, but she didn't care. She preferred to use some her magic when no one was looking after all. It didn't help that others were against her necromancy as well, though it was useful.

"Right then! Let's get this started!" Cythlla said to no one inparticular. She slammed the tip of her shovel into the stone floor, a magic circle appeared infront of her. After a bit of glowing and Cythlla's own eyes going white for a short while what seemed to be eyeballs with bat wings appeared from it. She set the flying eyeballs out to the edges of the camps and other such places so she could be alerted if anything tried to attack them.

Henry meanwhile just watched as Cythlla casted her spell, he was sitting next to the bed. "I'm surprised you haven't been burned for witch craft yet." Henry said to Cythlla as she finished her spell. "That's only cause they can't bring themselves to burn such a cute face." Cythlla said with a smile as she started to head outside to where the conclave was to be held. She hadn't actually been assigned to a Knight Commander as she was mostly a researcher. However she had a feeling that today would be the day that she was assigned one. Of course then they would have to try and deal with her, which wouldn't be easy.

[Ace of flames01]

Ruinil, as usual, decided that it was best that she kept her distance from the rest of the knights. There was a mutual feeling of hatred and tension between Ruinil and the troops that one could not simply ignore; and Ruinil feared that a fight would break out if she had stayed close. Thus, she took up the the task of scouting out the surrounding 30 foot periphery.

Ruinil was making her rounds when she noticed the young prince. She stopped for a moment and eyed him for a few minutes before finally scowling at him. Ruinil cared not if he saw for she feared not the prince nor the kings wrath. She held no respect for a cowardly king or an ignorant young lad.

She continued to stalk the dark shadows of the forest in search of a beast worthy of death.

[ChristaEinheart]

Maria, an Initiate into The Order, quietly sat on the ground in the garden. She was working on studying after her lessons and had her new book to read from. She was trying to work in peace, but the Gardeners were making a racket as they took care of the lovely place, chattering and such as they trimmed, weeded and such. Her eye was twitching and she was starting to wonder if maybe she should try and find somewhere else to study. Her room wouldn't work, as she needed ground and dirt to work o0n her practice, but there weren't many safe places in the city for her to train in.

Getting up and picking up her book, she put a small flower in the place she wanted to keep and closed it firmly but gently. She knew the Prince and many of the soldiers were going to be here, soon, so she wanted to find a peaceful place to read. Walking along, she made sure her staff was secured in it's holder on her back and she tried to sneak off the grounds to find some alcove or something of the like to work in.

Maria glanced up at the sky and tilted her head to the side, watching a cloudy day grow a little clearer and smiled. She knew that somewhere nearby there were a ton of warriors with all kinds of skills and powers and she was in no mood to deal with them, so she started trying to climb the buildings, searching in silence...

[OtomostheCrazy]

How many times? How many times had a knight of higher rank been assigned the dark elf to command and died? Surely, it had never been more than five...or had it? It wasn't as if Kaathe was keeping count. It was more of a thought that had drifted into his head. He had been in the Order as a Templar for quite some time, and saw his share of deaths. He had been placed under the command of several higher ranking knights, most of which ended up dead or injured to the point of never battling again.

He had to admit that he saw it coming every time. Most of them were in over their heads, thinking that they were ready for any monster that came their way. Yes, they were experienced enough to earn their ranks, strong enough to be capable warriors, and skilled enough to be considered powerful mages. However, experience meant nothing if they had no experience fighting the more uncommon monsters. Strength and skill are useless if you don't know how to apply it correctly against that which you are fighting. They were destined to go into those situations.

Kaathe sighed to allow the thoughts of such a subject to fade away. The dark elf took in his surroundings and found himself quite a ways from most of the other knights. He had heard that some of the more mentionable knights were among them and active this time around. Kaathe certainly heard a lot of rumors floating around about them. Interesting things here and there, but nothing he could really care about. He never did like being around the other knights anyway. They always gave off a confident aura that made it seem as if they thought that they would make it through the next battle.

Kaathe knew they wouldn't. It was simply the way fate works. There are always more dangerous monsters just waiting for a bunch of overconfident knights to show up. In any case, he'd rather not stick around a bunch like that for long. Let alone an entire encampment.

Kaathe found himself a nice, secluded spot away from them all. He would decide to rest in this spot for a while. Placing his spear on the ground beside him, he sat down and closed his eyes...After a while, he had heard some footsteps getting louder. He raised his head and opened his eyes to see who it was.

It was a fair maiden by the looks of it. Most others of Kaathe's gender would probably stare at her rather rudely, but Kaathe was one of those who knew better. Still, by the look of her, he could tell that she was part of the Order. An Initiate, from the first glance alone.

"Well, what have we here? An Initiate? What is one such as you doing, wandering about? Searching for a quiet spot?"

[Rotten]

Donovan cheerfully sorted through the contents that used to fill his pocket: candles, a tinder box, a small container, and a bag of poisonous herbs. Simpering the whole time, he placed a few herbs onto his tongue before closing his mouth and storing them in his cheeks; the Templar then inspected his other possessions, making sure his possessions were in good condition prior to returning them to his pocket. He then felt around for his weapons, as if they could have somehow disappeared, and to anyone watching the dark elf looked like he was hamboning while piggyback riding an obedient walking cadaver.

Realizing that others were watching, the man stopped his actions then looked over at his fellow mages, thankfully none of them seemed to have been watching. It was a good thing that they were so caught up in finding the Kest hive. However, Donovan already believed they thought of him as abnormal for riding on a dead man's corpse instead of a horse along with many other things, but he would still try to impress them when they find the beast's nest. In fact, the main reason the warrior used a zombie as a mount was to have a mean of transportation that would almost guarantee he sheds blood first. "Woah! Slow down!", Donovan said as the necromancer's mount eagerly dashed forward, going past his allies and prompting a few grimaces as well as chuckles among the men. Bouncing up and down on the corpse's shoulders, he removed the container of fuel from his pocket and took a big swig of it, letting it sit in his mouth along with the herbs. He hurriedly lit the candle with his tinderbox before the zombie simply threw his summoner off to the side, for it was feeding time.

The group picked up their pace and followed the excited undead. Immediately after being forced off his mount, Donovan stumbled before going after the lively corpse while protecting the lit candle.

They truly were hideous. The Kests were comparable to dog-sized centipedes with a more flesh-like look to its skin, and their exterior matched their insides, the zombie's ministrations made sure any onlookers saw that. Slightly ahead of the group, Donovan came into range of a Kest while raising the candle to the front of his face, and projected a combination of fuel and toxic herbs from his mouth into the direction of the monster. The candle ignited the mix and in saliva's place was fire. The creature burned fiercely, its body curling up and what almost sounded like a small scream being emitting from its body. The rest of the Templars appeared shortly after, swinging their swords, firing their arrows, and using their magic to slay the beasts.

They rode back with their heads held high, some of them smiling and making jests even, while one of the higher ups in the squad glowered at Donovan, but decided to say nothing to him. He responded by simply staring back with a smile. Before the firebreather could grow tired of the natural scenery, the small squad had found their way to the camp and dispersed.

[ShaggyDoo0]

Glodin walked into the encampment with the last battalion and saw that everyone had already started to make camp. Without hesitation he went to the outer perimeter of the camp and dropped his pack on the ground and started to set up his tent. He had been with the Knights of Dawn for almost a year now, and his tent was still the widest out of others of his rank while also being the shortest. Once he had his tent and sleeping arrangements set up, he went inside and started to remove his armor when he heard his superior shout out for roll call. His only response was to shout, "Oi! I'm changin' in my tent, hold onto yer beard!" He quickly set his armor down neatly before putting on his normal clothing and attempted to brush out his beard. He heard his superior reach the G's on his list and he quickly rushed out to the line with his brush still in his beard. "Oi I'm here, I'm here. My beard was caught in my armor."

[RadioactiveRat]

By nightfall the fortified camp had turned into a complete mess, like all camps of men coming together in the field to pitch a tent in full plate armor. However it was in a much better state than any camp made by a kingdom's army, since the disastrous amalgamation of household knights, levies, Mecenaries and camp followers brought any camp into complete and total chaos. That was not the case there - the perimeter was fortified and watched, and most importantly, there were no working women, booze or liquor to distract the men. At least there shouldn't have been. The only kind of camp followers allowed were professional craftsmen, working with their share of initiates-ready to fix banged up armor, fit new horseshoes, repair axle cart wheels and much more. Jeremiah was at one of those men right now, speaking with an experienced tailor about a set of torn clothes he had to fix.

Cork found Gipper's hidden talent and used him like a gold-laying goose, pitting him against all sorts of templars in card games. It was some aura of luck- or a clever ind hiding behind that dull face- that made Gipper into a natural winner, and a natural target for sore losers. It was a fight between himself and three elves, who protested the seizure of their holy talisman - which Jeremiah had no idea why they even bet on it in the first place - and attacked Gipper, who didn't even have the talisman at the time.Cork was nowhere to be seen, the loot spirited away and hidden well. Jeremiah was certain Fenrin would get a cut from the action, and he could work his way to Cork from his second-in-command.

"I need those fixed by tomorrow,my good man. I will pay you for your trouble". Jeremiah addressed the older tailor with hopes of a positive answer. He was not disappointed.

"I will have one of my initiates fix it quickly for you. No need to pay me, the order has me compensated well enough". He gave off a reassuring smile and watched as Jeremiah nodded his head and left. It was soon his turn to take the post and relieve Gipper from his position. He must have frozen ten-times over, all naked but a loincloth in his armor.

*

"Evening", Jeremiah greeted his man, who suddenly jumped from a prone position against a tree and tried to appear like he hadn't just dozed off. "Go and get some more sleep, Gipper. Let this be your last time it happens. Do you understand?". Gipper nodded thankfully and walked awkwardly off back to camp.Jeremiah scanned his surroundings when he noticed another man on watch, someone he recognized by his armor.

"My Prince", Jeremiah gave a small bow, as much as he could in his heavy armor, and awaited a response.

[TheDarkTemplar]

The Conclave Begins

Starguard Council Room

---

The sun was setting by the time the Knight-Commanders took their seats in the great hall. Light shined in through the windows bathing the room in golden light which also reflected off of the armor of everyone in attendance. The sounds of various ongoing conversations echoed through the large hall as the commanders awaited the arrival of the High Templar. Meanwhile Knight-Commander Grathan sat silently in his seat watching the others and listening in the conversations of those nearby. "Tis just as I said earlier, some doubt the urgency of the situation", Grathan spoke softly to Evelyn who stood beside her commander. As interesting as this meeting would be Evelyn was a bit on edge. The fact that her words were critical to determining the path The Order would take weighed heavily on her and she worried terribly what to say. "Do you know how many, exactly?", she asked hoping there wouldn't be too many and that peer pressure would overcome their opinions. Grathan glanced to his sides before answering, "Almost half, it appears"

"And you expect me to sway their views on the matter?! Inspiring troops is one thing but this is a council of seasoned Templars! I'm not so sure I can-"

"The High Templar will question you, answer from your heart and ignore all else. These men may be high in rank but they are Templars all the same. I trust you will succeed, you always have in the past"

"Fighting beasts and winning a council are two different things", Grathan chuckled at Evelyn's remark but quickly silenced himself as soon as he noticed the hall doors open. First entered the honor guard in their white armor with gold trim. Their forward march was perfectly synchronized and they moved with an almost inhuman rigidity. As soon as the honor guard took their positions around the hall a single man entered. The High Templar walked in silence down the center sun bathed hall in view of all his commanders who were stood up silently out of respect and admiration. It was only until the High Templar took his seat at his throne did the other Knight-Commanders sit. There was a silence before the Hight Templar addressed the court, "Today, the twenty-first day of Frostmere in the four hundred and seventy-ninth year of the Third Era, marks the Sixth Conclave of this era. I, William Orgarun, High Templar of The Knights of The Dawn Covenant, have gathered you here to convene on a matter than threatens all the realms of man and mer. Over the past few months there have been an incredible number of reports of disappearances in northern Farendar. Coincidentally there have also been reports of a newly formed cult seeking initiates in the same region-".

"Forgive my interruption, my lord, but northern Farendar is a dangerous place as it is. Who is to say these disappearances are not the work of an overpopulation of beasts we've yet to slay?", Knight-Commander Irvinth awaited for the approval of his peers but received no such thing. He sat back down in his seat with his head hung low. 

"The reason this is so suspicious, Commander Irvinth, is that among these missing peoples reports are the disappearances of recently buried bodies. One of our spies managed to send a report back to us, in it he states that the cultists were working on bringing back the one true god to this world. A cult alone is of no concern, a cult of necromancers stealing the living and the dead is a real and very dangerous threat. Of course I can only act with the support of council but if we choose to act I will invoke The Rite of Purity. Until then I ask, what say you?", there was a brief silence before the entire hall broke out in an uproar. Men were practically screaming at each other as Evelyn watched it all silently beside Grathan whose anger grew with each passing second. Finally Grathan got up from his seat and in one swift movement slammed his staff into the ground. An thunderous boom shot out through the hall followed by a voice just as loud and intimidating shouting, "SILENCE!". The entire council fell silent as even the High Templar stared in shock. "HAVE YOU NO SENSE?! OUR ENEMY GROWS AN ARMY AND YOU WISH TO DEBATE ON THE SEVERITY OF THE SITUATION?! HOW FAR WE HAVE FALLEN WHERE WE VALUE OUR LIVES MORE THAN THE LIVES WE SWORE TO PROTECT! GONE ARE THE DAYS OF HEROES AND BRAVE MEN, NOW IT IS LEFT TO OUR WOMEN TO FIGHT FOR US!", Grathan calmed himself before signaling to a wide eyed Evelyn to take the stage. With some hesitation she walked over to the center of the hall with one hand resting on the pommel of her sword and the other holding her helmet. Before she could speak a Knight-Commander cut her off, "Who is this you bring to us, Grathan? Who is she to-"

"My name is Knight-Captain Evelyn Sunderland, daughter of Lord Theran and Lady Irea of House Sunderland, and I am more than worthy to judge you all. I was born to be Wardeness of Southern Farendar, a right that was taken from me and so I became Templar of the Dawn. The moment I stepped foot in this same castle all those years ago my life as a Sunderland ended. The Order is all I am, and as long as I have served I've seen the evils of both man, mer, and beast. I've seen the pain such evil causes on the innocent and each time I remember the vows I took upon becoming a Templar. My life would be forfeited to the service of the realms, I will take no titles outside The Order, I will seek no fortune, and I will shed my blood to protect the blood of the innocent. Here I recite these vows to men who should know them better than I, yet you do not practice it. Knight-Commanders, it is our duty to remain vigilant over your territories. To allow such a threat to even gain standing is an insult to The Order. My Lord Templar, while our enemy should not go ignored, to invoke The Right of Purity breaks our vows as Templars. The innocent mages killed in the purge will stain our hands with their blood. I do not suggest we sit by and do nothing nor do I suggest we approach every obstacle as if it were a nail to be hammered. Careful planning must be involved if we are to be successful. In the meantime we will make efforts to suppress this cult's activities until a valid plan is forged".

There was silence throughout the hall as everyone present contemplated what they'd just heard. Some were insulted, others impressed, but all were in awe at the bravery of this woman to speak her mind in such a tone. Finally High Templar Orgarun spoke, "And what plan, if any, have you devised for us?". Her response was not immediate and to some it seemed as though Evelyn had been stumped. It wasn't until multiple commanders began to smirk did she speak, "You spoke of a spy already embedded in the cult, send more and have them find their main gathering areas. We cannot make it seem as though we know of their presence so we should maintain patrols as usual in the north. Once our spies have identified their main meeting place we will send troops to deal with them and hopefully put an end to what they are planning"

It seemed a valid plan to High Templar Organus who looked impressed with the young Knight-Captain. "Very well, we will gather more information on this cult before moving on their territory. Before we do anything however, a messenger must be sent to King Gregor to inform him of what transpires in his kingdom. Captain Sunderland, you will be our messenger. At dawn you will take three other Templars with you to the capitol, gods go with you", Evelyn bowed her head to the High Templar before returning to Grathan who wore an immense smile on his face. "You did well", he said softly so as to not to describe the continuing Conclave. "Unfortunately it earned me the task of messenger", Evelyn replied with annoyance in her voice. "The way you swayed the council, I see no one better to inform the King of what is to come", Grathan glanced out the window of the hall to see the light of the sun had vanished. "You should rest, you ride at dawn after all", Evelyn had to hold back her frustrations as she exited the hall and headed to the officer's wing of the castle. Once within her chamber she stripped herself of her armor before readying a bath. 

The Longest Winter

Night had fallen and most of Starguard's three thousand Templars were either asleep or sitting around the various fires tending to their weapons. Evelyn had been fast asleep in her bed chamber when a sudden flash of light rose her from her slumber. Sitting up in one swift movement she scanned the entire room for whatever created that light. At first she believed it to be the torches on the hall outside but looking towards the door it revealed the only light coming from beneath the door was not as bright as what had awoken her. No, someone had to have opened the door, someone was in the room with her. Evelyn eyed every inch of the room looking desperately for something resembling a body. Finally she convinced herself it was a guard checking on her she began to lay back in her bed. In the last possible second before her eyes closed Evelyn noticed the curtain move and she quickly shot a lightening bolt out towards it. The crackling sound of the lightening echoed and was magnified by the room leaving a ringing in her ears. Fortunately the light from the bolt revealed a robed figured with a knife in hand, but seeing her attacker came at the cost of her night vision which vanished the second the bolt disappeared. The robed figure lunged at Evelyn with their knife aimed to stab, to Evelyn's fortune the blade missed its mark allowing her to grab the assassins arm. The two fought and wrestled on the bed before Evelyn's attacker managed to get his hands on her neck. Squeezing as hard as he could the robed man pressed all his weight down hoping to put a quick end to the Knight-Captain. Evelyn refused to die in such a manner and so with her free hand she fired multiple bolts of lightening into her assailant's torso. The bolts blasted right through his torso causing blood and guts to spill out onto the bed. For a moment it seemed as though it didn't even phase the man as he kept on squeezing but in truth the clamping was a reaction to the blast. 

Evelyn threw the corpse off of her and cleaned as much of the blood off of her as possible before getting into her armor. The guards needed to be alerted of this but there would be no way she'd leave this room without protection. Once she was fully equipped Evelyn exited her chambers to find a couple of guards who lay dead further down the hall. "That they died so he could get to me...", was the first thing that came to mind as Evelyn ran past them to alert anyone who wasn't aready dead. That's when she saw the true status of things, up in reaching the walls of the upper stronghold Evelyn would be able to view the entiree battlfield. The enemy had been hidden within their own ranks and were now setting fire to the encampment. It didn't take long before fighting broke out, however as everyone wore the same armor it was near impossible to tell who was friend or foe. In the distance a massive source of light began to light up the main road leading to Starguard. An army of cultists, undead, demons, and all manner of evil advanced towards the ancient keep. Thousands of twisted blades could be heard clattering against blood stained shields, the sheer number of this force could be determined by the sound of their approach alone as every last invader howled over and over the words, "SAR'THAN GHOL! SAR'THAN GHOL! SAR'THAN GOL!".

"I have to find the commanders, the men must rally behind the castle walls!", she said to herself, a bit too loudly as another dagger weilding cultist came sprinting across the courtyard. Before he could even approach a massive beam of fire enveloped him until he was reduced to ash. Before she could properly register what had just happened a familiar voice called out to her, "ENTER THE HALL! NOW!". Evelyn did not hesitate, with haste she burst into the conclave hall to be greeted by the surviving Knight-Commanders. Grathan came forth from among the survivors, his right eye stabbed and poorly bandaged. "The extra men were wolves in sheep's clothing, how they managed to gain our uniforms is beyond me, this attack was planned., Grathan said as he approached his Cpatain wth a limp. Those words hit Evelyn hard, she had figured this was the case but to actually hear it struck hard at her heart, "Commander, we must rally the men to the upper levels of the keep! We can hold from there-!"

"Tis no use, all the other Knight-Captains aside from you were killed. Who you see here are all that remains of the Knight Commanders.

"And of the High Templar?"

"He is with the gods now...Evelyn, we cannot hold Starguard, not with our forces dispersed this way. All we can do now is slay as many as we can before we meet our end"

"Then it has been an honor, sir", Evelyn reached for her sword but her hand was halted by Grathan.

"No, not you"

"What? Why?!"

"You are the last Knight-Captain, well respected at that. You must bring word of what has happened here to the rest of The Order", Grathan's hand grew weak as he rested it on Evelyn's. The Knight-Captain stared in shock, fear, and frustration as she kew what this would mean. "I will not abandon you here!", she yelled but to the reception of silence throughout the hall.

"We are old men, Evelyn. Wounded as well we would only slow you down. The Order will need guidance and from what you've seen here you will be the most capable to lead"

"You cannot ask me to leave you all this way! I swore an oath-"

"An oath you will keep by ensuring our deaths mean something. Now go, escape the Keep and head to the eastern end of the village. Once you reach there fire a signal into the sky. Wait there until a well enough group has met you. The rest is up to you", Grathan saluted Evelyn with his fist to his heart before signalling for the other Knight-Commanders to follow. Evelyn stood alone in the Hall of The Conclave. The echoes of the thundering battle flowed through the large chamber, thumping like an ancient heart. It was not so much so that she did not know what to do, but the reality of what had just transpired is what scared her the most. In one night the entire leadership of The Order had been eliminated and she was left to lead what was left. The magnitude of such an event and she, along with all who would survive this, was at be epicenter of it all. The sudden shattering of the chamber's windows snapped Evelyn back to reality. Her commander's last order repeated over in her head: Escape the forest, rally a small group of survivors, and inform The Order.

With that in mind Evelyn sprinted out of the hall and through the keep to the lower battlements, the fighting had reached the main gate which she could see from her point of view. It would not be long before the enemy breached the portcullis, from there they'd overrun the keep. The gate offered no means of escape and the only other option was going over the wall. From this height however if she didn't die a broken leg was probably the best she could hope for. Evelyn climbed over the wall and hung from its edge before dropping to the ground below. Unfortunately from where she had dropped there were some rocks and so instead of landing on flat ground Evelyn hit the rocks causing her to break her ankle. The pain was as bad as one would expect but Evelyn refused to yell out for fear of alerting any enemies nearby. Her healing magic could heal this but it would take all her focus which at the moment was spent on carefully examining her surroundings. Placing her hand on her ankle in the joint space of her armor Evelyn focused all of her magicka reserves into her healing aura. Within a few moments her ankle had healed to where it only hurt as bad as a sore muscle. Of course while she had done this a cultist and her conjured demon had approached and were now casting fire spells at the Knight-Captain. Evelyn rolled out of the way before getting to her feet, her foot was still sore but she ignored it as she unsheated her sword and charged towards her attackers. The demon could be eliminated quickly with a shock cage which Evelyn casted immediately upon entering melee range of the cultist. While the demon was temporarily subdued Evelyn focused on killing the cultist, if she died the demon would be banished. This one was not like the others, unlike those before so simply ran madly with their knives stabbing the air, this one waited for Evelyn to strike before dodging or deflecting her blows. Evelyn could sense her spell on the demon was about to fade and so as she came in once more to strike Evelyn charged at full speed changing her weapons stance to confuse the cultist as to where she'd strike. It was not until she was practically on top of her did Evelyn change her stance from a two handed upward slash to a one handed downward stab. The cultist adjusted to this but completely ignored Evelyn's free had which charged up a lightening bolt, before anything could be done the spell had scorched its way through the skull of the cultist, leaving a smoking pile of gore in the grass.

Evelyn did not ven give herself time to breath, she bolted towards the other end of the village killing as many cultists as she could identify. Upon reaching the eastern end of the village Evelyn shot three massive blasts of lightening into the sky. Hopefully someone saw that as she could not do such a thing again, her magicka reserves at this point were completely depleted.

[Ace of flames01]

Fire. Blood. Death. Rage. Pain. Fury. Exhaustion. These sensations flooded Ruinil's mind and body as she cut down another enemy. How many has it been now? Dozens? Hundreds? She had lost count and hadn't planned on in the first place. Everything had happened so quickly in a blaze of righteous fury and blood.

Her blood red eyes were hollow, yet burning with a strong feeling of bloodlust, as her blood stained body did not hesitate and did not slow in taking another life. Her movements were quick and decisive, yet powerful, and truly gave her the appearance of a beast or a demon. Ruinil breathed heavily, as she was exhausted from the fight and from the injuries she had sustained prior.

Unlike her comrades, she did sought out the High Templar or the Comanders, she was out for blood and nothing more.

Ruinil had suddenly found herself up against 2 necromaners and their demonic slaves as they had charged towards her. Their speed was both commendable and terrifying; thus, putting Ruinil into a corner as the enemy closed in for the kill. In a fit of panic, Ruinil cast a fire spell, sending the surrounding area ablaze. However, she was too late and received a few gashes from the enemy, as the claws of their demons pierced her breast plate and shoulder plate. Blood splattered on the ground and ran down Ruinil's arm and dripped from her fingertips. She let out a scream of pain and agony; sounding similar to that of a dying animal.

Ruinil was already on the retreat when she had saw Evelyn's signal from the distance. She rushed over as quickly as her legs could allow, then stopped a good 10 feet away and hid to see if the signal had been that of friend or foe.

[ShaggyDoo0]

Near the outskirts of the battle came a very angry yelling paired with the siund of metal denting and crashing. Glodin raised his left hand to catch his hammer as he charged in on the next enemy with his heavy pick ready to swing. He threw his hammer at the cultist's leg hitting him square in the knee and shattered the bone causing the robed man to collapse. Glodin followed up with a strong swing of his pick into his enemy's skull. He reached out his hand to catch his hammer as it jumped up to shoulder height and after a few attempts he managed to remove his pick from the cultist's skull.

Glodin looked around for his next target, but instead found one of his superiors running to the forest alone. It wasn't until she shot lightning from her fingertips that he knew it was Knight-captain Evelyn and that she was in need of aid or calling a retreat. Glodin looked around at his fallen comrades, "I will avenge you friends, I promise on my grave that I shall one day avenge you." He said solemnly before running after his captain into the forest.

He ran as fast as his short stubby legs could carry, managing to kill a few cultists and their beasts along the way thanks to his trusty throwing hammer. As he reached the area where Captain Evelyn was waiting he quickly bowed to her then checked their surroundings. "Knight-Captain, what happened? How did they slip past our guard and defenses?"

[Cuccoruler]

Cythlla had been woken up by the attack starting. An assassin was in her room as well however before he could get close enough to Cythlla, Henry had crept up behind the assassin and mauled the man to death. "Get up!" Henry yelled out to Cythlla. Cythlla got up grogy and with a seriouse case of bed head. "Huh?" Cythlla said half awake looking around the room soon coming to see a dead body. "Oh.." Cythlla said standing up groggily getting dressed and trying to keep her hair under control.

She then turned towards the dead body. She grabbed her shovel and pointed it at the body. She quietly said a few words as the body changed and started to break apart. Soon it appeared that the bones had rearranged themselves into what looked to be a sort of fleshy centipede. At her command and headed out the door taking down whatever demons or undead were in it's way. The necromancers they had weren't exactly much compared to what she could do. She was a prodigy after all when it came to necromancy conjuring.

Cythlla jumped onto Henries back who followed after the fleshy centipede. Soon enough they were able to get out, though at this point Cythllas eyes were wide, most would think she looked traumatized the experience but in truth, she found it very exciting. Her twisted side was coming out now. "Calm down Cythlla, you don't want them thinking your one of the enemy." Henry said up to her in a calm voice. Oddly enough Henry was the one who seemed to control Cythlla the most, she was crazy yes, but the only reason she wasn't a mass murderer or one of the cultists is because of Henry.

Henry headed towards the edge of the village coming across what seemed to be a Knight Commander. "You guys alright?" Henry asked them heading towards them. To many seeing a bear talking was a bit strange. Especially when there was a girl riding on his back.

[TheDarkTemplar]

The town had been set ablaze at some point during the attack. What building a that hadn't already collapsed were enveloped in a roaring blaze. Townspeople scrambled to collect what little valuables they had and escape the ensuing battle. Some were not so lucky as their corpses lay on the dirt roads, trampled by villager and cultist alike. Evelyn lay against a mound of rubble as she awaited whoever would answer the call, at one point a couple of cultists had found her but she made quick work of them. Unfortunately one managed to cut her side just below her chestplate. A wound such as this could easily have been healed but with magicka reserves depleted she could only lay back and try to stop the bleeding.

Making sure another incident wouldn't occur, Evelyn looked around her just in time to see someone hid behind the remains of a wall corner. "Stay your blade, I'm a Templar", Evelyn may have been injured but she was still capable of fighting. If this person was a cultist she's wait till they were close enough for her blade to reach them, until then she'd keep up the illusion that she was vulnerable.

Just then a voice coming from a different direction spoke, on instinct Evelyn pulled out her sword and pointed in the direction of the unknown individual only to find that it was Glodin. Lowering her sword she signaled for Glodin to hush before pointing towards the corner where the one behind it hid. Evelyn made sure to keep her eyes on the corner before whispering to Glodin, "They were already among our ranks. Come nightfall they murdered most of the Knight-Commanders and most of the captains. I'm the only one left, before I came here Commander Grathan gave me orders to bring a group of us to inform the rest of The Order-AH!", the pain from her wound caused her to let out an abrupt shriek which she tried hard to stifle. "We cannot stay much longer, that army is about to control this area. Once we deal with whoever hides behind that wall tis probably best that we leave", Evelyn moved her hand from over the wound to see how bad it was, blood was spilt but she'd survive, she could sense her magicka reserves slowly replenishing.

Another individual joined the group, this time it was Cythlla, but instead of announcing her presence twas...her bear? Evelyn did not waste time trying to comprehend why, instead she got to her feet, using her sword as a brace. "Aside from this, I'm fine", Evelyn answered Henry thought the idea of speaking with a bear was still a bit strange. Enough was enough, it be determined who this person was now. Evelyn walked over to the corner where their mystery observer hid, with one hand on her wounded side and the other firmly grasping her blade she quickly turned the corner with her swordarm extended. Coming face to face with the unknown entity, holding her blade against their neck. She was an elf, however her eyes were unnatural for one of her kind. It was a possibility that she could be a cultist but Evelyn would let the elf woman speak. "Identify yourself: your name, battalion, commander, and captain. Now!"

[Ace of flames01]

Ruinil was surprised by the woman, whom had the courage to raise her blade to Ruinil's throat. She raised her head and looked down at her opponent, her crimson eyes seemingly glowing and her pupils were tiny slits. She smiled before replying, "Im thel alnatharbalch. Dan, Im dangweth ú pen, adaneth." ("I mean not to be beyond cruel. However, I answer not to anybody, mortal woman.") She then grabbed the blade of the woman's sword and pushed it away, drawing blood in the process.

Ruinil looked down at her hand and chuckled, "Im nallaedin magol. Edin hathel naer ar sogannen na iûr." ("I cry out for the sword. For the blade is dreadful and drunk with blood.") Her gaze then returned to her opponent, looking her dead in the eyes. Ruinil's attention swayed for a moment when she noticed the dwarf and the other mortal woman onto of a bear. "Gonhir na pen fíreb na graw?" ("A Master of Stone and one mortal and a bear?")

"Why must I tell you of my name, mortal woman? Though you may outnumber me; I do not fear you nor do I fear my fate." Ruinil finally spoke in the language of man, "I can see it in your eyes.... Death is coming for you, just as it is for myself. However you do not fear death either...." Ruinil's red eyes shimmered and seemed as if they themselves were glowing. She smirked before continuing, "That's good... Calm thyself, child. For my blade does not crave thy blood nor for thy companions' blood. I am a Templar of the former Dawn as well. I saw thy signal of retreat and fled as instructed."

[TheDarkTemplar]

She spoke elvish, of course she had to speak elvish. Evelyn barely knew enough elvish to get by and none of what she could make out helped her determine whether she was friend or foe. All Evelyn had was this elf's word which of course was not enough. Of course what Ruinil spoke in the common tongue did help to remove some suspicions despite her words being rather ominous. Looking down to her side, Evelyn could see the blood which had already dried on her armor. She felt weak suddenly and knew she was pushing her limits. Without hesitation she casted a healing spell to mend the wound. What little magicka she had in her managed to heal the torn flesh leaving only a scar across her side above the hip. "Death comes for us all on this night, but it will not have us. I am Knight-Captain Evelyn, second to Knight-Commander Grathan. I've been ordered to carry news of this attack to the rest of The Order and the four of us will make that journey together", while this was probably the amount of people Grathan had expected her to take with her, Evelyn wanted to save as many as she could. Looking over to where the castle stood she could hear the sounds of a losing battle. Pillars of smoke illuminated by the roaring fires below, the thundering boom from the castle's siege weapons firing and slamming firepots into the enemy ranks. For a moment Evelyn found hope The Order may have turned the tide of battle, that the commander rallied the armies and had begun to drive back the invaders. This hope would not last as a rush of wind passed over the land followed by a massive spewing of green fire upon the trebuchets. A terrible noise echoed across the land, the sound of a thousand bloodcurdling screams calling towards the heavens before one by one falling silent.

Then came a roar so sinister Evelyn had thought the end times had come. Looking up she could see the outline of a dragon in the night sky. Once again it spewed green fire upon the battlements creating another wave of screams before landing to the rear of the attacking army. It roared once more, sounding much like the collective screams of banshees. "Altaia, accept them into your embrace..", Evelyn prayed to the mother goddess that they four would not be the sole survivors of this battle. She prayed for Satarya's wisdom to know why such a thing would happen. Lastly she prayed to Cadeiere for the strength to later bring justice to these cultist and whatever false God they worshipped.

Suddenly, Evelyn grabbed Ruinil by the arm and pulled her down alongside her behind a nearby mound of rubble. Signalling for Cythlla and Glodin to hide as well she gestured for everyone to stay silent as a horde of cultists lead by some foul creature approached the area. Unable to see the Templars behind the pile of rubble ahead the cultists stood in position as their leader scanned the area. The monster was humanoid, in fact most of his body looked human aside from the fact his hands and feet had claws in place of human fingers. His face was nothing human however, a row of teeth like small daggers lined his mouth which skinned it's lips back every now and then. His four eyes glowed yellow with hate and malice as they surveyed the area. Little did the creature know he stood a mere five feet from where the Templars lay hidden and before he could approach any further one of the cultists behind spoke up. "Commander Krovah! Our time is wasted here, our army surrounded the camp before they could escape! We should return to the battle before-".

"I DO NOT REMEMBER GIVING YOU PERMISSION TO SPEAK!", the creature named Krovah barked as he rushed over to the insubordinate cultist. Grabbing them by the throat he lifted the unruly cultist up past his head with a single hand. "IF I WISHED FOR YOU TO VOICE YOUR OPINIONS I WOULD HAVE SAID!", Krovah did not hesitate to snap the cultist's neck before slitting open their stomach with his sword. Tossing the body to the side he snarled at the corpse before turning to the others, "SEARCH THE SOUTHERN END OF THE VILLAGE! CUT DOWN ANY STILL LIVING!". In a few moments Krovah and his cultists dispersed to the south, leaving the four Templars-and a bear-where they lay.

[RadioactiveRat]

By the end of Jeremiah's watch the world decided to spin, turn and spit back at the Templars stationed in and around the castle. It was a cruel joke, a twist of fate none besides the most cynical could have foreseen. They had all gathered there to discuss fighting something new, Jeremiah wasn't privy to what, exactly, was discussed, but it seemed to him that his curiosity was sated when the camp was attacked. A great many of the Templar forces gathered that night, and it was a perfect opportunity to wipe them all out, the devil's advocate would claim, and he wasn't wrong. By the time Jeremiah had abandoned his overrun post and ran back to the tent of his men the camp was rudely awakened by fire and devils. The armies were at a disarray, fighting broke out as each man took arms to defend themselves. Templar turned against templar in the confusion, and blood stained the dirt. Jeremiah could not bear to see it any longer. He aided men along the way, fighting their battles with them, and dragging them with him. He could not find Gipper, but Cork who was already dressed to replace Jeremiah at the watch was fighting nearby, and Fenrin was not took far off.

It was then that the skies were lit up with three lightning bolts, which was the only remote sign of good news the whole night. Jeremiah lead his men away, fighting through disguised cultists and infernal demons. Templars were killed while more took their place as the force cut its way to the lightning bolts. Jeremiah used his magic to unify and shield them from the horrors about them. He casted a powerful spell to cal their minds when a massive figure appeared in the sky, breathing green flames, revealing itself to be a dragon. He rallied his men and continued southwards, when he reached what seemed to be the location the sparks originated from. It was swarming with an army of cultists lead by a terrrifying demon, with no other Templars in sight.

Jeremiah rallied his men, casting another spell to lift their spirits and prepare them for the assault - the men stood together, shield by shield, and when Jeremiah's sword lit up in flames and spilled light all over the battlefield the group of Templars charged at the disorganized force as it wassearching the area.

"Fight for the man at your right", Jeremiah hollored at the men following him, "fight for the man at your left", they charged forward with their swords drawn, "and for your own lives, FIGHT!".

[Cuccoruler]

After taking Cover Cythlla looked at the others, Henry next to her tried to look small, but ultimately he was too big of a bear to hide. After realising this Cythlla stood up, especially after seeing someone else come in to attack. "We aren't leaving without a fight." Cythlla said with a smile. She jammed her shovel into the ground. A magic circle appeared around her. It started glow brighter and bright until she opened her eyes. Then the magic circle seemed to dull, then split into other magic circles to encircle the enemies in front of her. "Curse of the Sloth!" Cythlla yelled out, each of the magic circles lit up beneath the enemies.

"Get em!" Cythlla said with a smile as she slammed her shovel into the ground again, this time Cythlla took off her hat, out of it came what seemed to be a long centipede like creature with knives on the ends. It was small but sharp and fast. It ran at the cultists and their boss attacking them.

Henry stood behind Cythlla and eventually moved in front of her in an aggressive looking stance. Henry wasn't about to let Cythlla get hurt or attacked. Cythlla may not be the strongest, but she was certainly good in regards to being a tactician.

[TheDarkTemplar]

The first few cultists to be killed were slain before they could alert the others. It wasn't until one managed to block a blow with her shortsword did the others hear the clashing of their steel. The cultists rushed to meet their foe but their leader had no intention of taking part in this skirmish. One young Templar had other plans as he charged forth with his sword drawn and his shield up ready to face Krovah. The Defiler snarled as he pulled out his whip "Subjugation" and lashed it across the ground sending sparks every which way. The Templar did not waver as he continued forth releasing a battlecry as he approached. Krovah in return let out a menacing laugh before lashing his whip at the soldier once he was in range of the whip. The metal blades along the whip cut deep and shredded the Templar's shield till it was practically useless. Before the young man could even react another slash from the whip came and landed across his now exposed torso. Blood spewed forth from his mouth as he collapsed onto his back in the street. Krovah, smiling like a madman, stood over his opponent and rested a foot on his bloody chest. "Your death was as pathetic as your life", was the last thing the young warrior heard before he drew his final breath.

Upon his passing, Krovah stomped with all his might on the torso of his fresh kill, the force was strong a crater was left in place of the young man's torso. This matter was ended and so Krovah brought his focus back to the ensuing skirmish. "LEAVE NONE LEFT ALIVE, REND THEIR FLESH TILL THEY ARE NOTHING BUT BLOOD AND GALL!", he barked at his men who began to single out the weakest or solitary Templars. Krovah was so focused on the current conflict he did not notice the large centipede creature quickly approaching him. It lunged onto his back plunging it's blade-like mandibles into his back. The sound which exited Krovah's mouth was not a scream of pain but more of a snarl of rage. He grabbed the conjured abomination which was continuously stabbing him and ripped it apart with his razor clawed hands. The creature dissipated into nothingness before Krovah turned his attention to where it had originated. It was then that he knew, he knew that there were others hidden where his men first searched, and now they dared to challenge him. Krovah signaled to his men to push back the current templar group, the second would be dealt with soon. Upon being given their command, the cultists not immediately engaged in combat began summoning demons to their aid. A myriad of foul creatures entered the mortal realm and began to tear at flesh not meant to withstand such evil. The Templar ranks began to waver and it was clear the tide of the battle was turning.