AndrewCooper

Formaroth Part 2: Throne of Lies

The End of Formaroth

The blood moon hung high in the night sky. The battlefield was stained with the blood of his enemies. They had fallen and he had risen. Atop a mountain of their corpses sat Andris on his new throne made from their very bones. His flesh was almost completely stripped from his body, his eyes were as black as the night sky, his soul now a bottomless abyss, he was more dead than alive, but it didn’t matter. He had won. He had reclaimed his land. He became more than the king of Formaroth, he had become a god. With his new power he would shape the world in his image. A world without war, death and betrayal. It would be perfect. But what was the cost. His humanity, his soul? For his land, family, wife and son, he would forsake it all to save them. Then something stirred within him. Something that he had not felt in a long time. He clenched his hand on his chest where his heart would have been but he had lost it a long time ago. They had seen to that. Pain. A tear rolled down what was left of his cheek and as it hit the ground a scream of anguish could be heard across the world. In that moment Andris realised he was truly and forever alone.

Andris opened his eyes. Another dream. They become a lot more recent over the last few weeks. Andris looked out of the window to see the early rise of the sun. He knew there was no point to go back to sleep again. He turned to look at Frajera sleeping peacefully as she always did. He let her rest for a little longer, she had a long day like himself. He got out of bed and approached the crib where Afdul was asleep. Andris had not been able to spend as much time with him as he wished but he hoped that soon he could be the father that Afdul deserved. He reached out to touch his son but stopped to see his skeletal hand. He then thought about his dream. Was it a warning of events that could be averted or was it the ultimate destination of his destiny? As he raised his head to look at the rising sun Andris felt uneasy. Something was wrong and he was unable to stop what was to come.

A New Day in Deliverance

Andris entered the courtyard to see some of the newest additions to his army. The undead were an unnatural sight to behold. Many of them were familiar to Andris as they had been soldiers that had fallen during the siege of Deliverance. Parts of the flesh were mostly decomposed due to the bodies having to be dug back up. What was left of their eyes were devoid of life. But Zilak had done it. He was creating an army that almost indestructible. Andris had the proof as a few weeks ago he had a demonstration as one of his soldiers impaled one of the undead with his sword only for the undead to remove the sword and star wielding it. If it were not for Zilak controlling it the poor soldier wouldn’t have stood a chance. Andris was very impressed but he could tell that there was discomfort among some of the ranks. But he did not know how he could make them understand. His thoughts were interrupted when a courier approached him.
“A letter for you my lord.” Said the Courier.
Andris swiftly took the letter.
“Thank you.” Said Andris.
The courier quickly went on his way. Andris opened the envelope and read through the letter. Unfortunately it was not what he wanted read. The letter had been from one of his spies. They had been sent to Seikatsu and Beilokias in order to find any mercenaries that could be potential allies for the cause. But unfortunately, the letter described how most companies had already been hired by either the locals or the Imperium in their currently ongoing war. The letter finished with the spy saying how they would continue to investigate and send another letter if any sudden changes happened on the front. Andris was gravely disappointed but there was nothing that could be done. Andris hoped to build the numbers of his army quicker than what it was taking. However he was able to calm himself as he thought of Lady Neptuna and her ships patrolling the waters and raiding any ships bearing either the empires or Blackwell’s crest. But luckily it seemed that Empire saw little interest in retaliating. They must have not seen the Alliance as much of a threat now, but Andris knew that the snake would make his move against them soon enough. If the Alliance was to stand a chance against the empire that they would need to strike first.

It was close to midday and Andris and Marror Lanistark were walking through the halls of the castle discussing tactics of what would be the best approach in terms of returning to Formaroth and how they would work their way towards Nyhem. Andris could sense the optimism from Marror, he seemed to have gained some confidence now that Zilak’s undead forces had reinforced his army. But Andris knew that something was up.
“What’s wrong?” ask Andris.
Marror sighed “Today would have been her birthday. But every time I think about her all I can think is how I failed her.”
Andris knew how Marror felt. For a long time he felt that he could have saved Ramzi if he was stronger. But that was a long time ago now.
“Marror. There was nothing that you could have done.” Andris said “The only thing you can do is honour her memory. The good, the bad, all of it. Through that, you slowly move on without tainting their legacy. For so long I wish I could save my brother and if given the chance I probably would. But I came to realized that his death was the start of many things and not just the end. The same goes for you. You’ve become a far more driven and ambitious man since her death. You’ve led your army against the forces of Morian and now stand as my second in command. She would have been proud of you Marror. I promised our chance for revenge will soon be upon us”.
Marror took in the words and thought on them. He had changed. War had that effect on everyone, for better or worse.
He smiled “My thanks, my King. You’ve been a good friend to me, know I will fight at your side until my end.”
The two of them smiled as they shook hands in agreement. They soon concluded their meeting and headed to the barracks for their regular training. Little did they know that spiteful eyes were watching Andris as vultures stalk a dying animal. Ian and Dilys Mazeltof looked down from their quarters.
“Are the men ready?” Asked Ian.
“Yes, they wait for our word.” Answerd Dilys.
“How many?”
“About fifty.”
“Good that’s more than enough. It happens at dusk. Soon we will put an end to this tyranny. We will avenge our family and end this war for good.”

Final Betrayal

The day was coming close to its end. Andris had spent most of the afternoon in the throne room of the castle reviewing the latest reports of Neptuna fleet and listening to the various needs of Deliverance citizens. He had one last appointment with the Mazeltofs before he could retire. He didn’t know what they wanted though he made a guess it would be another plea to him to bring their sister to Deliverance. If so this meeting would be a waste of time. Suddenly he could hear a commotion in the hallway. He was unsure of what it could be.
“Guards!” ordered Andris.
A personal guard of his approached.
“Make your way to the barracks and gather as many men as you can."
“Yes sir.” Replied the guard as he quickly exited the throne room through the back.
“Make haste!” he then pointed at the other guard that had remained. “Ready yourself!”
“But my lord, what about you?” asked the guard who had noticed that Andris was unarmed.
“Don’t worry about me. Just be ready for what comes.” Said Andris as the door to hallway opened with a bloodied and injured Mandarass soldier stumbling into the throne room.
“My lord. We are betrayed it’s the…” the guard fell to the ground with an arrow lodged into his back.
Andris was shocked to see this. But then he saw a couple of his soldiers dead and covered in blood in the hallway. Who would dare betray him and slaughter his men. But he soon had his answer as Ian and Dilys entered the throne room with a small company of soldiers. Dilys was wielding her spear which was covered in the blood of Andris’ men while Ian had his bow with an arrow ready to fire at a moment’s notice.
“Ian, Dilys, what is the meaning of this?!” demanded Andris.
“Lord Mandarass we demand that you step down immediately.” Shouted Ian. “For too long you have led this alliance astray and on the brink of ruin. You bring that necromancer into our council and surround yourself with an army of monsters that were once your fellow soldiers.”
“Our father once told of your sense of honour but since we joined your alliance we have gained nothing and lost too much.” Added Dilys “Our family is gone and our sister is in danger. All because of your need to wear the crown.”
Deep down Andris knew they were right so many lives had been lost due to his desire to rule Formaroth. But he no longer wanted the crown he just wanted revenge and reclaim his homeland.
“I understand your anger.” Said Andris “The Mazeltofs have suffered more than most in the alliance. But killing me won’t solve anything.”
“We don’t want to kill you.” Said Dilys.
“But we will be forced to if you refuse to stand down.” Said Ian.
As this happened a good number of armed Lannistark and Mandarass men entered the throne room. “My Lord!” said the guard leading the men.
“Stay where you are!” ordered Andris. He turned his attention back to the Mazeltofs. “You know that I can’t do that. However if you take your men and leave Deliverance I will grant you mercy.”
“And if we refuse?” asked Ian.
“Then you will leave me no choice.” Said Andris. Whose heart had sunk into a dark abyss.
“Very well then. Then only your death will bring an end to this madness.” Said Dilys. As she did she drew her bow and fired an arrow at Andris. Luckily Andris was just able to dodge it, if she was any closer he would surely be dead.
“Protect our lord!” ordered the guard. A bloody fight ensued. Mazeltof, Lannistark and Mandarass soldiers were fighting tooth and nail to either protect their lords or gain ground in the throne room. The Mazeltofs had the advantage. Their knights were better trained and armed then his. His men were being cut down like blades of grass. He had only one choice. He had to summon the undead.

Zilak when showing the advantages of the undead soldiers told Andris that he had to power to command them through his skeletal arm. Andris swiftly raised his hand in the air. At first nothing had happened he started to think that Zilak was full of lies. Then suddenly he started to feel a tingling sensation in his arm. It was the first time he had felt anything in his fleshless arm. Then without hesitation a swarm of undead rushed into the throne room and straight towards the Mazeltof soldiers. Some had weapons and some did not, but it didn’t matter. Fear had taken over the Mazeltof soldiers and soon they were being either cut into pieces by dull blades or ripped apart with hands and teeth. One of the Mandarass soldiers vomited after seen a man’s intestines being pulled out of his stomach while still screaming in pain. The soldiers tried their hardest but even if they chopped an arm off or a leg the undead would still continue as if it was only an inconvenience. Andris couldn’t believe what he was seeing. The undead were even more effective than he imagined. Ian saw the sheer unrelenting horror that was unfolding in front of him. He knew he had to save his men. He looked at Andris looking over the carnage he knew he had to stop him. He unsheathed his dagger and worked his way through the men and undead and bolted straight toward him as he plunged the dagger in between Andris’ ribs.

The whole room stop both men and undead, the fight was over. Andris Mandarass was dead. That was what Ian had hoped but all he could do was step back. Andris, with the dagger still imbedded between his ribs, was still standing. Andris looked down at the dagger and with his skeletal arm slowly pulled the dagger out. Barely if any blood came out of the wound. He looked at Ian and started to approach him. Ian was frozen in fear. His stare pierced Ian’s very soul and his fear would not allow him to defend himself. Andris grasp Ian’s throat with his left arm as if he was about to choke him but he didn’t. He looked at the dagger the thought stabbing Ian with his own weapon seemed almost poetic but he resisted and dropped it.
“I gave you the chance to leave. I gave you a chance of mercy. And what do you do? You threw it away for some sense of hate against me when it should have aimed at the empire. They took your family and land not me! I respected your father and in that I respected you and your sister! But you’re nothing but a worm! Your father would be ashamed of what you’ve done with your family! I should throw the two of you and your men in the dungeon and let you rot! But that would be a waste. I know exactly what to do with you.”
Andris with his skeletal hand dug his fingers into Ian’s ribs. Ian’s screams were heard throughout the castle. The pain must have been indescribable. Andris continued to push and twist his fingers deeper in. Ian continued to scream even to the point that his voice wouldn’t let him. He deserved the pain, all traitors deserved to suffer.
“NO! Leave him alone!” cried out Dilys.
Without even looking at her Andris ordered “Seize her.” Nothing had happened. Andris’ rage started to build inside of him. “I SAID SEIZE HER!!!” Two of his men snapped out of what seemed like a hypnotic trance and grabbed Dilys’ arms so that she wouldn’t escape or do something she would later regret.
Andris then whispered in Ian’s ear. “Just so you know if I find your sister in Formaroth. I won’t give her the same offer as I gave to you. The minute I have her at my mercy I’ll send my undead on her like a pack of wild dogs and they won’t stop till there is nothing left.”
Ian seemed to be trying to plead for mercy. But his voice was completely inaudible at this point that Andris could barely make out any words.
“You deserve to suffer for what you’ve done. If anything you’ve taught me something. You were right I was once a man of honour and look where that brought me. So damn my honour I would sell my soul if it meant I could get my family back to my homeland. Let you and your sister be a warning for what happens if you cross my path or stand in my way.”
Andris continued to twist his fingers further into Ian’s side until blood started to spew from his mouth and soon Ian went limp with nothing but Andris keeping him up. Andris let the body slump to the floor. Dilys was in tears from the sight of her brother’s body.
“Take his body to Zilak’s lair for his return.” Ordered Andris “I have further use for him. Take the whore to the dungeon. We’ll deal with her later. Take these traitors to the courtyard and execute them and then take them to Zilak. It would be a waste of resources to keep them alive. After that leave me to my thoughts.”
It took a few minutes but soon the throne room was empty except for Andris and the blood of both sides that remained on the floor. So much blood and for what? This war needed to end and soon. But he could no longer contain his rage and he yelled in anger. The sound that came out almost sounded inhuman but he didn’t care, all the loss and pain was taking over him. But soon, soon it would be all over.

A few days had passed and it was as if the Mazeltof betrayal had never happened thought the signs we clearly visible. Soon the Mazeltof corpses would join his undead army and he had plans for Ian once he had been risen. If anything Ian’s fate may have been considered a slight mercy compared to the fate of his sister Dilys. Two days ago her bruised and bloodied self was force to walk and be paraded throughout the castle and the nearby town where ultimately she was ruthlessly executed in the town in front of a crowd of jeering crowd of peasants and soldiers calling her an Raldian whore and traitor. Her body was then crudely hacked into pieces and each part was taken to parts of Deliverance. Her legs to the docks, her torso in the town square and her head above the gate of the castle. Her body would be a warning of what would happen to those who further betrayed or stood against Andris Mandarass. Soon the entirety of Formaroth would know his wrath. Soon he would have his revenge. Soon he would kill them all.

Formaroth Part 2: Throne of Lies

The Uneasy Meeting

It only took a few minutes for the council to gather in Andris’s bedchambers. Everyone was now present. Maror, Ian, Dilys and Freya. Frajera was also there standing by Andris’ side.
“What is the nature of this meeting my lord?” questioned Ian.
“Yes I would like to know as well.” Said Freya.
“Was your meeting with this so called necromancer successful?” asked Dilys.”
Andris said nothing his mind was in thought in another place. He was questioning himself as to whether this meeting was a good idea. He then felt the soft and tender touch upon his shoulder.
“Andris?”
It was Fajera. He could see the worry in her face. He knew that she could tell something was off. He could feel the uncertainty in air.
“My apologies.” He said “Yes I indeed meet the man himself.”
“Is that all?” asked Ian with some annoyance. “Then why have you kept this hidden for so long, and why are we here instead of the throne room?”
“I understand your frustration Lord Mazeltof.” Said Andris, trying to calm him down “But please hear me out. I did indeed meet this man who calls himself a necromancer. He boasts a power that is beyond my understanding. He claims that the rumours are indeed true. He says that he can bring life back to an army of the dead.”
The others didn’t know what to say to this. Maror knew that he could trust Andris despite the ludicrous claims. The two of them had gone through many things to not trust him now. Freya was more unsure, while necromancers did exist she had only ever heard of them being able to resurrect a couple dozen at most.The Mazeltofs were the most sceptical but it was Ian who spoke up first.
“My lord. Are you sure that the day’s sun has not affected you?” he asked “How can you be sure that what you saw was indeed the truth. This man could be a simple trickster hoping for a chance to earn some easy coin.”
“Or an agent of the empire, waiting for the right moment to place a dagger in your back” Dilys added
“I understand your scepticism”. Said Andris trying to reassure all of them “But what I saw with my own eyes is proof that this man is who he says he is. But if that is not enough, then I have proof of this power with me.”
Everyone stood in shock to hear this. How was this possible? Andris took a few seconds. He knew that there was no turning back once he showed them the truth. He grabbed his cloak and then revealed his skeletal arm.

The whole room gasped in shock. Maror had his sword unsheathed to protect himself in case the sinister magic tried to claim him. Freya stood in sheer shock, Dilys almost screamed out of sheer fear weren’t it not that her brother was beside her. Ian himself was frozen to the spot. Frajera took a couple of steps away from her husband. Fear had overtaken the entire council.
“What kind of magic is this?!” Frajera barely asked. Andris turned to his wife to see the sheer terror in her eyes.
“A magic that can win us the war and reclaim not only our homeland but all of our allies as well.” Andris said trying to reassure them all. While Frajera, Maror and Freya were slowly coming to terms with the new addition to Andris’ person, the Mazeltofs were not convinced. Fear still ruled over Dilys while Ian could only look on in disgust.
“But at what price!?” shouted Ian. “Would you lead us to further ruin with this black magic”?! “You are corrupted, cursed with Hystix’s magic” Dilys added
“Hold you your tongue!” ordered Maror with his sword still in his hand ready to defend Andris’ honour.
“Stand down Maror.” With his left hand raised. He sought to calm the situation but he could see that the Mazeltofs were shaken. “I understand your fear Lord and Lady Mazeltof. Believe me this is still strange even for myself but with this magic we will take back your kingdom and I promise you will see your sisters once again.”
Andris could see that despite his words that they were still unnerved and disgusted. He sighed. “You are both free to take your leave.”

And with that the Mazeltofs swiftly left the chamber.
“Maror, Lady Neptuna I thank you. You may go as well.”
Freya simply nodded her head, her brow furrowed while Maror simply said “You’re welcome.” The two of them left Andris and Frajera in their chambers.
For a few seconds there was nothing but silence. Andris could feel the uneasiness between the two of them.
“Frajera I…” he tried to say before Frajera interrupted him.
“Show me your arm.” She ordered him.
He knew it was fruitless to disobey her. He raised his arm for her. She was hesitant at first but eventually she held the arm in her hands. She tried to be careful with it in case it caused her husband any pain. But he reassured her that she did not need to worry. She continued to examine the arm. She was astounded by the sight of it. Andris watched as she moved her hands up and down the arm. He was unable to feel the soft and tender feeling of her hands that he had come to know in their years together. Thinking back to better times nearly brought him to tears.
“Frajera.” He said while taking one of her hands in his human hand. “I know that you are afraid but I’m doing this for us, for Afdul and the girls. With this we’ll be able to go back home.”
Frajera looked into his eyes and saw the sincerity within them.
“Andris. You are my husband. No matter what happens. I will never leave your side. If you believe that this power will let us win then I believe in you.” She said her voice shaking as she spoke.
Out of instinct Andris reached out to touch Frajera’s face with his other hand, forgetting that it was now nothing more than a skeletal imitation of what he once had, causing Frejera to pull away. She looked at Andris, then at his arm before leaving the room.

Victory

The battlefield was covered with thousands of corpses, the sky was blood red and the moon was as black as night but still illuminating the distant sun. Among the corpses were people he recognised, Nizaar, Patrick, Isabel, Claus and the Blackwells. But also those he had never seen before, a red haired woman, a knight of the church, a young elven girl and two Seikatsu nobles . Nothing was alive except for Andris Mandarass and Alasdair De Reimer. Alasdair, the High King, the Snake, Conqueror, Coward. He had many names but they would matter little in a few moments. Andris walked towards Alasdair who was moving away only trip over a dead De Reimer soldier. The fear in his eyes was overwhelming it was amusing to Andris see him such a lowly and pitiful state.
“It’s been a long time coming De Reimer. You won’t believe how long I’ve waited for this moment.”
Alasdair tried to crawl away over the countless bodies of his allies but it was hopeless his body was failing him out of sheer fear. He turned to face Andris. Andris could clearly hear the fear in his voice. “You have claimed your victory Lord Mandarass. I’ll give you anything you desire.” Alasdair quickly grabbed the crown that was on his head and held it out for Andris to take.
“I’ll make you king. I can give you all the gold that Formaroth has to offer. I can give you anything that you desire, just spare me please!”
“Anything?” asked Andris.
“Yes anything!” pleading Alasdair.
“There’s only one thing I want from you Alasdair De Reimer.”
As he said this Andris knelt over Alasdair and then clasping his hand on Alasdair’s head. Alasdair knew his end was nigh but still hopelessly was begging for his life.
“I! WANT! YOUR! BLOOD!!!” shouted Andris in a demonic voice.
And as he said this he dug his thumbs into Alasdair’s eyes. Screams filled the battlefield. Andris knew that Alasdair was in immense pain but he didn’t care, he wanted the pain to last as long as possible. It was what the bastard deserved. Andris didn’t know how much time had passed but every second was filled with the screams of Alasdair. It was delicious and it was time to end it. With great ease he tore Alasdair’s head apart. The blood splattered across his face and then the rain came but in the form of droplets of blood. Andris stood to look over the battlefield. Only he stood triumphant. It was finally over. He had achieved victory. He looked up towards the moon with his hands raised mumbling the incantation that had made him a god amongst men. One by one the corpses raised up and bowed to their new king. No their new god. Giles, Eli, Patrick, the now headless body of Alasdair, they all now bowed to him. Andris lowered his head his eyes were now nothing but darkness. They were the blackest of black that could be ever conceived. He would now bring a new age of man. The age of Mandarass.

The Choice

Andris had awoken to a lightning storm. He was in a cold sweat. It was one of the few times in his life he had been completely overwhelmed with fear. He could see that Fajera was undisturbed. She could always sleep through near anything and for that he envied her. He then looked to his skeletal arm, a month had passed since the meeting with the war council but for Andris the time had gone swiftly. Andris now used garments and a glove to hide his new arm. Though thanks to the Mazeltofs most of the alliance know knew of Andris’ arm. Still he thought best to cover it up so as not to disturb his allies any further. But then he noticed something that was not on his arm before. Inscribed in the bone was a message. It only read.
“The time has come to make your choice.”
He knew what this meant, but before he could think about it the message had disappeared. He quietly got out of bed as not to disturb Fajera from her sleep. He grabbed a robe to cover himself up and quietly left the chamber. Andris wandered around the castle till he eventually reached the throne room. There was no one in sight. Then suddenly a voice called out.
“So have you made your decision Lord Andris?”
Andris turned to see the old man himself.
“I have but first I want to ask you something.”
“Let me guess, you wish to know my name. I would tell you but my name is lost to the sea of time. But to make it easier for you can call me… Zilak.
“Zilak? Very well then. As to your offer. I am welcome to an alliance between you and myself. But beware that if there is any trickery I will kill you myself. Once this war is over our alliance will come to an end.”
“I understand my lord. My services are at your full disposal but as I said my magic alone is not enough to ensure your victory. That is what I have to discuss with you.”
“Very well then out with it. What is it that you wish to discuss?”
“I am sure a man was well read as yourself is familiar with the legend of Adamar ‘The undead king of Beilokias’?”
“Adamar”? Andris replied “The arch sorcerer who turned on the imperium? According to the stories he was the most powerful necromancer who ever lived, able to raise over a thousand undead”. At this Zilak spat at the ground. His spit was blackened and bloody.
“He was nothing more than an amateur who at most could barely raise a hundred undead” Zilak said angrily “However through blood magic he was able to enhance his skills and fooled the world into thinking he was gifted” Zilak finished with a bitter laugh “Tell me what you know of blood gems”.
“I know nothing of what you say, I do not possess much knowledge when it comes to matters of the arcane” Andris replied.
“That is understandable. Blood gems are not well known even amongst the magic community. They are a source of great power and it was through one of these gems Adamar was able to increase his power and ingrain himself in legend. The first to create them were the elves, but after the incident with Adamar along with other side effects the gems had on elves they foolishly destroyed any that had been made along with any work on how to create them.
“And if you were to obtain one of these gems?” asked Andris.
“I could make you an army of unkillable soldiers in the tens of thousands. With that power you would be one step closer to your victory over your enemies”. Zilak said with a smile.
“Fascinating.” Andrew pondered think of the capabilities of such a power.
“Do you have an idea of where we could obtain some of these gems.?” asked Andris curiously “As you said the elves destroyed all of theirs”?
“I do my lord.” Answered Zilak “I have heard rumours that a high magister in Formaroth has made a breakthrough in the arcane arts. According to what I have heard they have developed a source of great magical power that resembles a red gem. However this is all just rumours for now, I know not of who this is nor where they might be.
“Perhaps I can get my spies to gather some information.” Said Andris.
“Then I leave it to you my lord.” Said Zilak in a voice of delight. “You look tired, it’s not a good thing for a king to be tired you know.”
Zilak started to walk across the throne room towards a window on the far side.
“Wait! How will I be able to summon you when the time comes?” Andris called
“You already have the tool to do so.” Said Zilak.
Andris didn’t understand at first but then he looked at his skeletal arm.
“When the time comes you will know how to summon me.” Zilak said as he opened the window and stepped out onto the ledge. Andris was about to ask what he was doing before Zilak jumped from the ledge. Andris rushed over to the window expecting to see the necromancers corpse splattered across the ground. Instead as he peered out into the darkness he saw nothing on the floor. As he looked out across the horizon his jaw dropped in shock. As a flash of lightning lit up the night sky Andris could Zilak riding what looked like some sort of giant zombified bird. Soon the the lighting passed and Zilak was gone.

Formaroth Part 2: Throne of Lies

The Delirious Journey

It had been at least a couple of hours since Andris had left the castle. He wore a hooded clock as to hide his identity and he had brought his sword in case the worse was to happen. Only Fajera and members of the war council knew of his whereabouts. It had been a few days ago that a meeting was held to discuss the so-called rumours about the old man in the mountains. Not much information was gained but the one thing they did know was that old man on the mountain has been a local story in Deliverance for the last hundred years. Everyone knew that this was impossible, however Andris considered the possible advantages if the rumours were indeed true. Much to everyone’s disagreement, he decided that he would journey to the mountains himself. The Mazeltof siblings were opposition. Ever since the meeting regarding their sister they had been far more abrasive and hostile to Andris’s decisions.

As Andris approached the mountain path he could see that some of the mountain tops disappeared into the clouds. He took a deep breath.
“If an old man can climb up and down this mountain then surely I can.” He thought to himself as he started his journey upwards.

Time had passed, but due the clouds obscuring the sun Andris had no idea how much. Was it minutes, hours, days, months or years? It was as if something supernatural was affecting the mountain and clouding his mind. Andris tried to make sense of things but it was hopeless. He felt suddenly tired as if his strength had quickly been drained from him. He had to rest. Andris then saw a medium sized rock that he could lean against. The weird thing was that he could have sworn that the rock was not there before. At this point Andris couldn’t care. He felt he was going to collapse any second. Andis sat down against the rock and before he could take in his surroundings his eyes felt heavy and fell asleep.

The King and the Necromancer

Andris suddenly woke up he looked around him and saw that it was dark with only the full moon to light his surroundings. Andris was shocked to discover that so much time had passed. He knew he had to return to the castle. As he got up he noticed an entrance to the cave located only a few meters away from him. The entrance had not been there before and between that and his sudden tiredness he knew some form of magic was taking place here. However, his sense of curiosity urged him to venture inside the cave. He drew his sword and slowly walked through the entrance. He had only walked a few steps in and then suddenly everything went completely dark. He turned around to see that the entrance had disappeared. Now the only way was forward as Andris ventured further into the cave. It was nearly impossible for him to walk without stumbling, the ground felt greatly uneven and it felt like it was shifting under his weight with every step. Then in the distance he could see a faint light. As he got closer the cave opened into a great chamber with a fire in the middle. To Andris’s horror he discovered why the ground felt so weird. The floor was covered with skeletons, men, women, children, animals and some that he couldn’t even identify.
“I see that you have found my sanctum!” a voice cried out.
Andris raised his sword. He looked around and besides from the area that the fire’s light revealed there was nothing but darkness.
“Fear not, I mean you no harm. Never have I had such an esteemed guest within these walls.” The voice said with a cruel laugh
“If you mean me no harm, then show yourself!” shouted Andris.
“As you wish.” The voice said.
As this happened an old man emerged from the shadows. Andris could not see him clearly. All he could make out was an extremely long brittle beard that almost reached the ground. The old man wore an old torn robe that covered all his body with a hood that obscured his face. However, Andris could swear that he could see a faint but unearthly light coming from the old man’s eyes.
“Who are you?” asked Andris.
“I am but a simple hermit. But I know who you are Andris Mandarass. Former King of Uzgob, Ruler of Deliverance and would be King of Formaroth.”
Andris was shocked to hear his and raised his sword. “How do you that?”
“Please. I know everything about your recent escapades. The petty war in Formaroth, your flimsy claim to the throne and now your current occupation of this country. But I’m not here to tell you what you already know. Ask what you wish to know.”
Andris took a second and then said “People in Deliverance talk about a man in the mountains who was rumoured to bring back the dead to life. Are you that man?”
“You already know that answer.” Said the man. “But deep down in yourself you have another question.”
Andris stood in silence as he thought to himself. “Would you consider an alliance? With your so-called abilities you could raise an army that could be unstoppable.”
“I would gladly give you what you desire.” Said the old man with a smirk on his face. “But I must warn you. My power is not some simple magic by any common mage. Unlike other forms of magic, necromancy requires puppets for me to control. If you want an army of the dead from me then an army of corpses you must deliver. Furthermore, there is another matter” The man continued “Even for a master prodigy such as myself, I can only summon a couple hundred undead warriors on my own. I however have a solution to this problem, something that I will share once I can guarantee your loyalty”.
Andris realised what this meant. The idea was unsettling for him, but the capabilities of this power would be something that all Formaroth would fear.
“I sense the turmoil within you.” Said the man. “That is understandable. I will give you a month to think about it. But before that time comes you must look into yourself and ask what you are willing to sacrifice to win your war and if you do win what you will do with that power.”
Andris was moved by these words and they even made him think about how his past decisions had cost him and his loved ones dearly. Now he would do anything to make amends. If he wanted to defeat Alasdair and Eli, he would have to put away his honour for now.
“As a gift of our new friendship, I will restore what has been lost to you.”
The old man closed his eyes and started to mutter inconsistent words as this happened the fire in the middle of the chamber started to glow a blue flame. Bones started to lift from the ground and Andris looked on in amazement. Suddenly the bones flew with inhuman speed towards his missing arm. An excruciating jolt of pain seared into his flesh as he cried out in pain and agony. What was merely seconds felt like minutes as he heard the bones crack and form into place. The pain stopped, and he looked to see that his missing arm was restored but not in the way he imagined. His new arm was nothing but a skeleton with no skin or muscle in the slightest. He tried moving the fingers and they moved like as if he had never lost his arm in the first place, but despite this he could feel nothing.
“Now go!” said the old man “Leave this place. You have one month to make your choice.”
“How will I find you?” questioned Andris.
“You won’t. I will find you.” The old man said he began to mutter again and with that the flames started to die down and darkness consumed the chamber.

Andris opened his eyes to find himself in the courtyard of the castle. He was back in Deliverance though he had no idea how.
“Andris?!” shouted a voice. Andris quickly covered up his new arm with his cloak. He then saw that it was Maror.
“You’re back we weren’t expecting you so soon you’ve only been gone for a few hours”
Andris was shocked to hear this, it felt as if it had been far longer
“Andris? Are you ok?” asked Maror.
“Ah yes. Yes, I’m fine.” Andris said feebly.
“Did you find what you were looking for?
“Yes, but I we must have a meeting with the council at once and in private. I have much to discuss and show.
The two men entered the castle. Andris knew that this meeting was not going to be easy.

Formaroth Part 2: Throne of Lies

Rebirth

Fajera’s screams of pain echoed throughout the castle. Andris paced nervously outside of their new bed chamber. Unlike their room back in Andromeda, this one was cold and harsh, it seemed that Morian cared little for furniture or homely comforts. The day had nearly passed but every hour felt like a day. He watched as the castle servants were dashing in and out with clean and bloody towels. There was nothing that he could do to help, he’d only be in the way. Then suddenly the screams had subsided. There was nothing but silence. Barely a minute had passed but for Andris, it felt like an eternity. He immediately feared the worst. Then the cries of a newly born babe could be heard.

Andris stopped pacing once one of the servants exited the bed chamber.
“Lord Mandarass. Would you like to see your wife and son?”
Andris was filled with both relief and happiness when he heard those words. He nodded and headed into the chamber to see Fajera in the bed asleep from sheer exhaustion. He saw his new born being cradled by another servant.
“Let me look at him.”
The servant approached him. It had not been the first baby that he had seen. He had seen each of his nieces a few days after each of them were born. But this time was different, this was own flesh and blood. He was so small with a little hair on his head and fast asleep. A few tears started to roll down Andris’ face. They were tears of both joy and sadness. He had a child that he could call his own. But due to to his missing arm, he could not even hold his own son his arms for fear that the baby would fall and he was born in a country that was his own.
“Andris?” a voice said faintly.
Andris looked to see that Fajera was awake.
“Fajera, are you alright?”
“I’m ok. But where’s our baby?”
“It’s okay, he’s absolutely fine.”
The servant passed the still sleeping baby to Fajera. She started to cradle him. The baby slowly opened it to reveal a deep blue eyes. Tears of happiness streamed down Fajera’s eyes.
“What should we call him?”
Andris had thought about this for weeks on the journey to Deliverance but his mind was made up.
“Afdul. Afdul Mandarass, first of his name and I promise you this my son. You will see your homeland soon.”

The New Equilibrium

The next morning. Andris was up and ready to meet the war council along with the local representatives of the island to give him a proper tour of the castle. Andris was so focused on getting his family settled that he left most of the responsibilities of managing the army to Maror and Freya. Andris had reached the courtyard and he could see members of his war party had gathered along with a couple of representatives who were dressed in their regal attire. Or at least regal by Deliverances standards. The courtyard was a wide open area that lay at the center of the castle. It was filled with dead trees and weed filled flower beds, it was clear Morian hadn’t been much of a gardener.
“Welcome my Lord!” said one of the representatives with a bow.
“My name is Hektor. I will be showing you around castle Mordrin. No doubt you will be here for a while to gather your forces.”
“It’s nice to meet you Hektor. Lead on.”

The rest of Castle Mordrin was similar to what Andris had already seen; cold and depressing. Back home his palace had been filled with colours and life, here the walls were made of the same black stone with no variation. While the walls of Andromeda’s palace had been covered in art and banners, here the only decoration were the occasional weapon or pieces of armour hung on the wall. The only light that entered the castle came from the small narrow windows that scattered the halls. This castle had been partially built to intimidate the locals, and this black colossus did that task perfectly. Just walking around it’s halls made Andris feel uneasy. As they ventured through the castle Andris asked Hektor many questions to which he answered enthusiastically. It was clear that Hektor was only interested in buying favour with his new king rather than out of any form of loyalty, however his information was detailed and useful. As they continued to walk Andris learned that due to the terrain of the island, Deliverance had multiple farms and silos filled with food to last for years should anything drastic happen. He had also learned that Island was capable of sheltering all of his soldiers and along with that his forces had been bolstered with over 26,000 militia; a much needed boost to his army after the battle of Telmarion.
They headed down to the lower parts of the castle.
“And here is the legendary vault of Deliverance.” Hektor said.
The door to the vault was huge and was the first room in this castle that had any life to it. It was covered with multiple gears that seemed to be the only way to open the door, with a small keyhole in the centre.
“It’s previous owner, as you know, was none other than the pirate king Morian, the most fearsome raider to sail the sea’s in over a century. He had this vault hand crafted by the finest locksmiths and craftsmen of the imperium. Once they had finished they claimed that no one other than the key holder could get into it. However Morian not wanting to take any risks decided to seal them inside the very vault they had created. I believe he said that they could admire their handiwork for the rest of their days” Hektor said with a shudder. Already he felt far safer with Andris as his new king then he did with Morian. “I had heard that the two of you had met on the battlefield.”
“You could say that our encounter was a little explosive.” Andris said with a faint smile on his face. “Where’s the key then?”
“The only key was under the possession of Morain himself. He’d never let it out of his sight.”
Andris let a sigh of disappoint.
“However when Morain went on his usual drunken stupors he would always sleep like a babe. The other nobles and I agreed that a copy should be made in case the worst was to happen.”
Hektor then revealed the copied key from his pocket and handed it over to Andris. He was glad to finally be rid of it, had Morian ever found it in his possession he would surely of been flayed alive.
“I’ll leave the honours to you my Lord.”
Andris walked towards the huge door and turned the key. With that the giant gears on the door began to creak and move. Slowly the giant door began to open. Andris looked astonished at the sight that now beheld him. The vault was filled with mountains of gold coins. Other items of incredible value were also in the vault. Goblets, crowns, sceptres, silks, full suits of armour, jewels and chests all escapades of the late Morian. With this he could easily fund a army, regardless, the contents of the vault would prove to be invaluable to the alliance. Suddenly, a Mandarassan soldier entered the room with a sheet of paper.
“Lord Mandarass. We’ve received encrypted a message.”
“Let’s have a look.” Andris instructed as he was handed the letter. The contents of the letter were indeed encrypted, written in a cipher that he could not understand. However he spotted the crest of a white eagle. It had been a while since he had seen it but he soon recognized it as the crest of Mazeltof. This puzzled him as he knew that all remaining members of the Mazeltof family that had not been imprisioned were now alongside him and under protection of the Alliance.
“Give this to Dilys Mazeltof.” Andris ordered to the soldier. “She may be able to decipher the encryption.” The soldier quickly rushed out of the room. “Now my friends, without any other interruptions, let us continue with the tour.”

The Spys of Raeldar

A few days had passed but the message was finally decrypted. The cipher had indeed been of Raldaian origin, developed during the civil war against Heylot. A small war meeting had gathered to discuss the new issue at hand. Only Freya, Maror, Ian and Dilys were called to the meeting. Andris entered the throne room where Lady Neptuna and the Mazeltof’s awaited him. Like the vault the throne room was one of the few rooms in the castle that possessed any form of life. Upon first entering it Andris had been taken aback by the sheer amount of jewels and trinkets that decorated the room. The throne itself stood out amongst the shining sea of treasures as by comparison it was made of solid iron decorated with skulls and bones of which Andris had long removed. Andris sat himself upon the throne.
“Well Lady Mazeltof. What news do you have for us.” Asked Andris.
“Well Lord Mandarass. After some effort my brother and I have decrypted the letter you gave us. With much joy I can reveal that our sister Alicja Mazeltof, who we thought dead, is alive and well” Dilys replied, barely able to contain her joy ”She is accompanied by a small group of surviving allies and have gathered in the forests of Raeldar. It seems they have set up some sort of base their and are welcoming in Alliance sympathizers every day”.
“That is indeed good news.” Andris replied. “I am happy for you my friends”
“We must send men to retrieve them immediately” Ian said, like Dilys he too was struggling to contain his happiness “if the concord or even the south discovered that there was some form of resistance forming they will send their forces to crush them”. However before he could continue Freya stood up
“If I may my Lord.” Freya interrupted. “Might I suggest that we use these allies to our advantage?”
“What did you have in mind?” asked Andris inquisitively while the Mazeltof siblings were slightly worried about Neptuna’s suggestion.
“Since we have left Formaroth, we have had little to no information of any events that transpire in Formaroth. The best we had hope for are rumours and stories told by any passing fishermen or traders, and we all know how reliable those are. I suggest that we use these allies to establish not only a base on the mainland, but also a spy network that can relay new information to us give us a tactical advantage should we ever need it. They will be of far more use to the alliances cause there then they will mooching around here.” Andris paused for a moment as he considered what had been proposed. He knew the Mazeltofs wouldn’t like it, but he couldn’t deny that Freya had a good point. Already Alicja had established a base on enemy soil and somehow remained undetected, if he brought her home now he would lose a huge tactical advantage.
“That is a good idea Lady Neptuna. That could prove to be invaluable to the alliance.”
“Forgive me Lord Andris.” Dilys interrupted bluntly. “But if you are to go through with this, we demand that our sister be brought safely to Deliverance.”
“We will try our best my lady.” Said Andris, sympathetic for her concern for her sister. “Lady Neptuna, once this meeting is adjourned make ready for a small company to head to Raeldar. Send your most experienced sailors, we can’t risk the southern fleet spotting them and discovering our new outpost. Once they help the allies establish the spy network they will act as a personal escort for the lady Alicja”.
“Begging your pardon lord Andris.” Ian asked “But knowing Alicja she won’t abandon her allies. She’s a Mazeltof, she’ll be too stubborn to leave. Perhaps if you gave her a direct command to come to Deliverance she may listen”. Andris’s heart wanted to side with the Mazeltof siblings, but he had already sacrificed to much on this war to feelings.
“We will try our best but if the lady Alicja will not heed us then she will have to stay. I will not command her otherwise. Perhaps she can be the head of the very network itself. She has clearly already proven to be very capable…”
“But my lord!” interrupted Dilys on the brink of shouting.
“I have made my decision!” shouted Andris. Silence fell upon the room. “I will not give up a tactical advantage for the sake of one person. We all have made sacrifices in this war and every one must do their part for the cause”. To this Dily simply scowelled at Andris, visibly angered at the decision that had been made, though she was able to hold her tongue. The same could not be said for Ian who had turned away from Andris.
“And some of us have sacrificed far more than others” He said coldly as he headed towards the door. Dilys tried to stop him by putting her hand in his shoulder, but in response he shrugged her hand away before opening the door and walking down the cold black hallway. A silence fell over the room. Andris was the first to break the silence as he noticed something strange.
“Where is Maror?” Andris asked Freya.
“I don’t know my Lord. Should I get the guards to look for him?”
“No. I’ll go look for him. This meeting is now adjourned.” He doubted they were going to get much more done after Ian’s outburst.

Mandarass vs Lanistark

An hour had passed but Andris had eventually been informed that Maror was in the courtyard training. Andris walked into the courtyard to see Maror practicing on a straw dummy that a servant had likely set up for him. But something was wrong. His form was wrong and he placing too much strength into his swings, sacrificing his stance. This was not training, but a pure display of rage.
Andris approached Maror as he decapitated the head of the dummy in a yell of rage.
“What did he do to piss you off so much?” said Andris with humour to lighten the mood of the courtyard.
Maror turn suddenly with his sword ready but quickly lowered it realizing that it was Andris.
“My lord. My apologies I didn’t realize you were here.” He replied gruffly, turning his face away from Andris
“Please Maror, I think we’ve spent enough time on the battlefield to drop the formalities”. Maror simply grunted in response
“Good, I was never much good at them anyway”
“Now what seems to be the trouble?”
“I was merely training my… I was just training.”
“Well the dummy won’t give you much of a challenge. How about I give it a go.”
“Are you sure that is wise?” Maror ask as he looked at Andris’s missing arm, he knew that Andris would not add much more of a challenge.
“I insist.” Andris said as he unsheathed his sword. “Just do what comes naturally.”
Maror nodded and raised his sword. A moment had passed before Maror started to charge right at him. As Maror begun to swing his sword, Andris quickly deflected the attack and then using his leg swept Maror of his feet, landing face first into the dirt.
“Anyone could tell that you’re angry. I know you Lannistarks use anger as a weapon, but only if you control it with you mind. Otherwise you’ll leave yourself open to mistakes like that one.Perhaps I can help. So tell me. What’s wrong?”
Maror picked himself off the ground and sat down as he spat out the dirt he had swallowed, behind the anger Andris could see the pain in Maror’s eyes. Though he tried to fight it, his eyes were starting to water.
“It’s Serala. I received word that her funeral had been held in Glarmion. I didn’t even know she was dead. We lost each other during the retreat of Telmarion”. As he said this a couple of tears started to roll down his face. “I should have gone to find her. If I tried she may have been here now. I keep thinking about it. Over and over again. She was my blood, my twin, we were born into the world together and we should have left it together on the battlefield”. He said rage once again rising inside him.
“You can’t blame yourself Maror.” Said Andris joining him on the floor. “For years I called myself a coward when I watched my brother executed right in front my eyes while hundreds of people cheered when his head his the floor. But I realized that if I did try to stop it I would have died too, and what good would that have done anyone? All I would have succeeded in doing would be ensuring my brothers death was in vain. I would never have been able to avenge him. Serala may be gone but you continue not only her legend but the legend of your entire bloodline. It is up to you to see justice done to those who have done this, but you can only do that with a clear head and a steady hand.”
Andris offered out his hand to Maror who seemed calmer than he had been a moment ago. Maror looked at Andris before taking his hand and gently placing his fist on Andris’s chest. It was Glamorian custom but one that Andris knew well, it was a sign of respect that Glamorian soldiers showed to their brothers and sisters in arms.

“Thank you Shield brother”. Said Maror with a faint smile. “Now I think it’s about time I drunk myself into a stupor, my sister will spit on me from the heavens if I don’t have at least ten drink on her.”
Andris returned a smile “Of course. Take care my friend”.
As Maror opened the door to the castle Andris could overhear a conversation between two guards. From the accent Andris could tell they were both Uzbobian.
“Have you heard about what the locals say about the nearby mountains?”
“That’s a bunch of bollocks. Who in their right mind would live up their? Let alone an old man.”
“But he isn’t just an old man. The legend says that he has the power to bring armies back from the dead.”
“Sounds like a bunch of horseshit. I swear the local swill they call beer down here is getting to that dim-witted head of yours”.

By @AndrewCooper with help from @TheDuncanMorgan

Formaroth Part 2: Throne of Lies

The Time of Preparation

The hours were quickly passing by and with the help of a fellow Uzgobian soldier he was equipping his armour. It had been adapted to better suit his new predicament but the design remained similar. There was once a time where he could have done it by himself but it felt like a lifetime ago. A sailor equipped wearing the Neptunian naval battle armour entered the cabin.
“Lord Mandarass, the war council is ready for your orders.”
“Tell them I’ll be there in a moment. I’m not as fast as I used to be.” Andris said.
The Neptunian soldier nodded his head and closed the door behind him. It was not long after that the last piece of armour was equipped.
“Thank you soldier.” Andris said “Now get to your battle station.”
“Yes Sir.”
Again Andris was alone. He had sent Fajera, the girls and the rest of the civilians on a couple of ships at the rear of the fleet, to get them away from the battle. He knew it wasn’t the smartest move but he wasn’t going to risk the casualties, he wasn’t going to lose his family again.

***

The council was waiting for orders, and they were all crowded around a map of the island of deliverance, the surrounding sea as well the estimated locations of the enemy fleet. Andris had just entered the room and joined them at the table.
“I know you would all like to hear that I have a plan that’ll help us win the battle.” Said Andris “But I’m not an expert of seas and the person I trusted the most on that subject gave his life to save mine. So I will hand over command to Lady Neptuna and Captain Nicol as they suggest their strategy.”
“Thank you Lord Mandarass.” Freya said “Some you might be aware of Morian Antherion’s reputation as a naval commander. His viciousness and his knowledge of naval warfare makes him a very formidable enemy.”
“From what we do know Morian has placed his ships here.” Nicol said as he pointed to the natural port of Deliverance. “Here, his navy will be limited in terms of movement but our own ships will be under fire from their artillery.”
“But it’s something that we’ll have to risk.” Freya added “But we can’t risk an open and prolonged battle, Morian knows these parts of the seas better than anyone.”
“That’s why we’ll use our remaining battle mages to bombard the enemy ships. Nicol said “The chaos within their ranks will create the opportunity that we need to overcome them.”
“And what then?” Asked Andris “What can we expect from the enemy then.”
“We can’t expect them to fight till the last man surrenders, it is not an option for them.”
“Out of Loyalty?” Andris questioned
“Fear.” Freya replied
The whole council took a minute to let that information sink in. They realised that this would be one of the Alliance’s hardest fights. But at this point the Alliance was on its last leg. They needed Deliverance if they wanted to survive.
“I think it’s safe to say to say that it’s the best plan we have.” Concluded Andris “I’m sure that Lady Neptuna and Captain Nicol will assign each and every one of us an important role for the battle. This will be a hard fight but if we all pull our strength together I am certain we can win, and if this is to be our end then it has been an honour to have fought alongside all of you.”

The Battle for Deliverance Part 1

A couple of hours had passed but the island nation of Deliverance was finally coming into view. The air felt wet and cold probably the coldest Andris had ever felt in his life. Deliverance was the complete opposite to Uzgob. It was wet, freezing and teeming with greenery. Then as they got closer to the island Andris could see the castle of the Antherions. It seemed to loom over the land like an ominous omen for any sailors approaching the island but Andris would not let a simple building intimidate him.

Each leader of the Alliance commanded their own group of ships, each with their own tasks to complete in the battle ahead. Andris commanded one of the War Holks which contained a crew of both Mandarassan and Neptunian soldiers. Andris stood by the helm to give any orders to the crew at a moment’s notice.
Then the enemy ships came into sight but something was wrong. They were nowhere near the port but it instead seemed that the entirety of the enemy fleet had sailed out of the port to engage with the Alliance. The enemy fleet consisted of Longships which were more manoeuvrable than the War Holk and all were filled with battle hardened pirates. Leading the fleet was the Sea Wolf, the flagship of the fleet and commanded by Morian Antherion himself. It was much more distinctive than the other ships, it was twice the size of any of the longships. The flag was pure red with the image of an orange phoenix with its wings spread as if it was about to take flight. But it was the front of the ship that caught Andris’s attention; Hundreds of skulls were tied to the front, to the point that the bow was completely hidden under the mass of skulls. Andris could easily make a guess as to who they once belong to and where he would end up if they were to lose the battle.

Both fleets were gaining speed towards each other, when suddenly the longships started to maneuver themselves away from the Holks at first Andris didn’t understand what they were doing but when he started to see Lady Neptuna’s ship change to the defensive position he understood.
“Defensive manoeuvres!” he shouted.
Within an instant, the order was barked at least a dozen times and the men were frantically raising the sails, the helmsman turning the helm as quick as he could. Andris could now see that the Longships made the maneuver to avoid the mages spells and siege equipment. Once again the longships repositioned themselves. They were now heading towards the Holks.

Suddenly fireballs and debris were in the air. They were able to hit a few of the longships before they got too close to make a collision but the overall speed of the longships was too much for the mages and the siege equipment to make any significant damage to the fleet. In the distance Andris saw one of the longships pound straight into the side hull of a distant Holk, soon the longships crew were jumping on board and overwhelming the Uzgobian crew on board. Andris looked around and saw nothing but chaos and then within the distance he could see the Sea Wolf quickly approaching his ship, the many skulls of Morian’s enemies gazing into Andris’s eyes. It was clear that they he was soon in for a fight. He unsheathed his sword.
“Brace for im…!”
But it was too late.

The Battle for Deliverance Part 2

Andris had bumped his head from the impact, he went to pick himself up but struggled to stand, what with his lack of an arm. Once he stood Andris could see that the front part of the ship was gone and that the Holk was already beginning to sink. Most of the men aboard were not sailors and hadn’t even seen the sea before let alone know how to swim. If his men fell into the water, then they would be as good as dead.. But luck was at hand. The Sea Wolf had yet to dislodge itself from the Holk. If they were quick, Andris and his crew could jump on-board and escape a watery tomb. If they were really lucky and defeated Morian, then it could severely drop the morale for the pirates.
There was little time to lose.
“Quickly men, we board the Sea Wolf!”
Despite their initial confusion, upon seeing their commander bravely leading the boarding party the whole crew cheered, unsheathing their swords and followed Andris onto the sea wolf. Surprising some of the enemy crew a battle on the Sea Wolf had begun. Andris, accompanied by two Mandarassan bodyguards were the first to board the ship. Andris looked around the ship he could see that most of his own soldiers were struggling against morian’s pirates. These were an enemy that they had never faced before, they were killers through and through who knew no other existence other than war. It was fortunate that Lady Neptuna had given him some of her sailors, without them Andris’s forces would have been crushed. They fought like it was a second nature to them. They glided across the deck and cutting their way through the enemy. While the soldiers of house Neptuna’s may have been lacking on the land, on the sea they were without rival.
“Mandarass!” cried out a voice.
Andris turned to see Morian himself approaching him with his rapier unsheathed. Andris knew he didn’t stand a chance against him, not now after the loss of his arm.
“Protect Lord Mandarss!” one of the bodyguards cried.
The both of them charged at Morian hoping that together they could overcome him.
“No wait!” Shouted Andris.
But it was too late, as the first bodyguard reached him, Morian dodged before quickly slashing the bodyguard’s chest three times, causing him to collapse on the deck in a pool of blood. When the second bodyguard reached him, Morian simply parried before thrusting his sword into the guards the throat. When he pulled the sword out, the guard collapsed and started slowly choking to death.

Nothing now stood in the way between Morian and Andris. He had no choice but to fight him even though he knew it would be a losing battle. Andris would have to be smart about this.
“I was expecting a good fight when I heard that the ‘great’ Andris Mandarass. The man who defied two kings, the man who bested Heylot and Beatrice Blackwell in single combat. The man who lead the forces of the northern kingdoms and the fool who dared to take Deliverance away from me. But this” Said Morian with a smirk on his face as, with his sword, he pointed to Andris’s missing arm “This is pathetic”.
“Well when we heard that we were fighting common pirates we knew that this would be an easy fight. If it’s a challenge you were looking for then you’ve found the right man.” Said Andris and he composed himself and his sword out and ready for a fight.
Morian burst out in laughter. “Very well Mandarass if it’s a quick death you’re looking for then don’t expect it from the likes of me.” Morians face quickly hardened “I will make you regret ever calling the pirates of deliverance ‘common’, before this day is done you will know our strength and will regret the day you ever sailed near our shores”.
“Very well then.” Said Andris “I’ve never fought a cyclops before but there’s a first time for anything.”
Andris could see the rage build up in Morian’s face. Then suddenly Morian let out an almighty roar of rage while unleashing a flurry of thrusts forwards, reveling in the violence as he used his anger to fuel himself. Andris was only able to deflect the thrust away but the strength in his left arm was already waning. It reminded him of his ‘fight’ against Giles Blackwell, Andris was not fighting a man he was fighting against pure rage. Morian then swung his sword towards Andris’s head. Andris barely deflected it but the strength behind the swing was too much. Andris’ sword flew out of his hand and straight into the sea. Defenceless, Andris ran to the helm away from Morian. Morian was shocked at first but then started to laugh a cruel cackle. He no longer saw this as a fight but more like a game.

Andris had reached the helm but Morian was quickly on him, cutting down several members of Andris’s crew as if they were nothing. Andris had to think of something. As he eyed the ships steering wheel an idea started to form.
“For a cyclops you’re pretty fast. I had always heard that they were big, lumbering creatures. But so far I’m not impressed. I once fought a man who could kill a fly in mid-flight like that.” Andris said as he snapped his fingers. “Come on then ‘cyclops’, show me that you’re faster. Come on!”
Again the raged built up in Morian’s face and with another yell of rage, he thrusted his sword towards Andris. Andris managed to just avoid it, gaining a nasty cut across his arm in the process. Morian’s rapier stabbed violently into the helm of the ship, getting stuck in the process. Andris took the opportunity and quickly turned the steering wheel disarming both Morian and swerving the ship making everyone topple to the floor, with some unfortunate people falling into the ocean. Morian managed to gain his footing and laughed.
“Impressive, but not good enough.” Morian said, then he pulled a hidden dagger from his boot. “Always be prepared. That’s my motto.”
Andris saw that he was in a sticky predicament he had nothing to defend himself with and Morian didn’t seem like a man who would be tricked like that for a second time. Could this really be the end for him? Then he suddenly heard something, as if something was flying through the air. He looked up to see a giant flame ball heading straight to where he was standing.
“Incoming!” Andris yelled to his soldiers. Morian, so caught up in his rage and bloodlust was too focused on Andris to know what was coming as he lept towards Andris with a murderous intent in his eyes. But in that time Andris had already lept out of the way with the force of the explosion knocking him off the ship. Everything went black.

The End and the Beginning

Andris had woken up to find himself on the deck of Lady Neptuna’s ship. He was bruised up, had a few cuts from the explosion but overall he was fine. Morian was not as lucky as Andris would later find out. Captain Nicol later told him that he had found Morian’s body floating in the sea with a large piece of shrapnel lodged in his chest. Andris enquired about the aftermath of the battle. Neptuna explained that the explosion from the Sea Wolf was the turning point of the battle. After that many of the deliverance militia who had been forced to fight lost their morale and surrendered to the overwhelmingly larger alliance fleet some surrendered but many fought to their deaths. However Morian’s pirates had fought to the last man refusing to surrender even after defeat was clear, intent on killing as many as they could before disappearing into the abyss. Andris recommended that every man was to be given a proper sea burial even Morian, out of respect to the traditions of Deliverance, and to a truly powerful, fearsome and terrifying opponent. But the Alliance had done it again, in their darkest hour they had been victorious, and most importantly hope had returned to its soldiers. They could now head towards Deliverance which was to become their home base until the time came for Alliance to return to Formaroth and win the war.

Formaroth Part 2: Throne of Lies

Regret

The harsh Uzogobian sun was hotter than ever and Andris was walking as straight of a line as was possible. Every step came with burning pain and it didn’t help that his right arm was pulsing with pain, he touched the stump of where his arm had been it was almost unbearable. He checked his hand to see blood on his fingertips. He was bleeding again. Andirs couldn’t go any further. He was famished and hadn’t had anything to drink for days, he was completely exhausted. Soon he legs gave way and fell face first on the hot sand.

“What a pitiful sight.” a voice said.

The voice sounded strangely familiar, he looked up to see his younger self. He must have been in his late teens and was wearing a distinguishable noble suit. Andris looked like a pauper compared to him.

“Your country is in ruins, your friends are either dead or have turned their back on you, your allies have little faith in you and you nearly got your family killed. Look have far you’ve fallen.”

Then suddenly, blood started to seep from the sand, soon the desert became a lake of blood. Then the cries of all his fallen allies and countrymen became louder and louder until it became deafening. Andris couldn’t stand it and then he started to realise that the blood was rising, soon Andris started to sink down into the sea of blood. Swimming was hopeless with only his one arm. Andris soon accepted his fate and then everything went black.

A New Beginning

Andris woke up abruptly.

“Another bad dream.” Andris said to himself quietly. He looked around the empty cabin, there was barely anything in it except for the bed, a chair and small window looking out to the sea. On the chair was a set of clothes. Andris was alone in the cabin but he could hear the sailors working hard on the ship outside. Andris slowly got out of the bed. He realised that the pain in his right arm had finally subsided. But it was strange, he could still feel his fingers of his right hand. It was a strange sensation but he knew it was one he would get used to. It took some time but eventually Andris had all his clothes on. It was immediately clear to him that these robes did not come from Uzgob. The shirt was a dark blue and on top of that was a light grey jacket both were customised to better suit what was left of his arm. The trousers were black and accompanied with a smart pair of black boots that perfectly fitted his feet. To go with the trousers were a brown belt with an empty scabbard attached to it. He thought he was finished until he saw a white frilly cravat. He picked it up and put it on. He wasn’t particularly fond of it and it was a bit tight around his throat but he knew he would get used to it as well. It had been a while since he had worn something so formal. He soon set off to the deck.

The sun gleamed straight into his eyes but it truly was a sight. The sailors hard at work and the soldiers were training the best they could on the War Holk. The War Holk was largest sea vessel capable of being built by Formarothian shipbuilders, it could easily hold up to 300 infantry soldiers along with a few dozen crew members and catapult crew which consisted of a massive catapult and well armed boarding infantry. The Holk was propelled by three massive sails. The hull was sufficiently reinforced meaning that they would be ready if a battle was imminent.

“Uncle Andris!” a voice cried.

Andris turned to see Kabeera and Hamsa running straight towards them. The sheer force of them colliding into him knocked him over, all three of them laughed. Andris was glad to see the two of them so happy after all that happened, so many faces they knew were gone now, Nizaar, Saahir and now Lady Grim. After Andris had paid her for her services, Lady Grim had taken what remained of her company back to Seikatsu to replenish her loses. But all that was in the past.

“All better now it seems.” Said Fajera who slowly approached.

With the help of Kabeera and Hamsa, Andris stood up.

“Yes. All the better for seeing you now.” Said Andris embracing his wife and giving her a kiss. “But what about you? You need your rest.”

“I’ll be fine and besides someone needs to look after these two.”

“I’ll take care of them you head back to the cabin and get some rest. The baby could arrive at any moment.”

“Don’t worry about us Auntie!” said Kabeera.

“You’ve done above and beyond.” Added Hamsa “Let Uncle Andris do some work for once. He needs all the practice he can get before the baby comes.”

“Oh alright, but don’t be too long.” Said Fajera.

“I’ll be back at soon as I can.” Andris replied.

Fajera soon headed back to the cabin. Andris concern for her grew she had been working so hard in his stead when she should have been resting. She would need all the strength she could muster for when the baby came. It was now his turn to look after the kids.

“Alright you two, how about you show me around the holk.”

“Sure thing Uncle.” Said Kabeera excitedly.

Hamsa led the way whilst Kabeera took Andris’ hand.

Time had passed, Andris enjoyed the time he was spending with Kabeera and Hamsa it had been so long since he had spent any time with his family, not since he had left for Telmarion. He then realised that he hadn’t seen Hishma anywhere.

“Kabeera? Hamsa? Do you know where Hishma is?” asked Andris.

“Hishma’s at the bow of the Holk.” Said Hamsa.

“It’s all she ever does, that and training herself.” Added Kabeera.

“Alright I’ll go and find her, you go back to the cabin and check on your Aunt and tell her I’ll be back soon.”

“Yes uncle.” Replied Hamsa.

“See you soon Uncle.” Kabeera said as both walked back to the cabin.

Andrew found his way to the bow of the ship. He found Hishma looking out to the sea and what remained of the Uzgobain fleet.

“Mind if I join you.” Andris asked.

“Of course.” Said Hishma.

Andris joined and the two of them stood looking out to the sea.

“Uncle, I’m sor…” Hishma tried to say.

“You don’t need to apologise. You were right you know. Nizaar as well”.
“What do you mean?”

“I was selfish and arrogant. I lead the continent into a civil war just so I could get the throne, all under the pretense of righteousness. I was so focused on getting the crown that I lost sight what what was best for the kingdom and lost what truly mattered”.

“And what are those?”

“Well my country for a start, and most importantly my family. I lost one and I almost lost all of you too. I fooled myself into believing that I was saving the people of Formaroth from another tyrant, but I realise I was just driven by my own spit for the De Reimers. I did was wrong, if anyone needs to apologise it’s me. The past is the past and I’m just glad that you’re all safe.”

“Regardless of that if it wasn’t for me you wouldn’t have lost your arm.” Hishma said

“You did what you thought was right and it was my own bravado that caused me to lose my arm. But it’s fair to say that my fighting days are over. I heard you’ve been training.”

“Yes, but it’s been hard without Nizaar here to teach me.”

“Yes, well it’s fair to say that we’ll all miss him in a way. But since he’s not here, I’ll be your instructor to the best of my abilities.”

“Are you sure?”

“Of course, we’ll start first thing tomorrow.”

To Andris’ shock, Hishma gave him a big hug. He did the same in return as best he could. For the first time in long while he finally felt he was at peace. However this was to be interrupted as one of the crew members of the Holk approached the two of them.

“Ah Lord Mandarass, there you are.”

“Yes, what is it?” ask Andris.

“The war council have gathered together on the Caravel. They await your arrival.”

“Tell them I’ll be there momentarily.” Replied Andris.

“Of course.” Said the crew member as he went off to make the council aware.

“Now you go on to your cabin Hishma.” Said Andris “Your aunt and sisters are waiting for you there. Tell them I’ll be back after I’ve sorted this meeting out.”

“I will. She replied as she headed to the cabin.

A New Plan

Andris had arrived on the Caravel. It was slightly smaller than the Holk and less reinforced but it still served as a fine flagship for the navy. The caravel had been crafted in the Imperium and was far more advanced than any ship that could be made in Formaroth. Andris soon headed to the cabin to where the meeting was being held. As Andris entered the cabin he could see Maror Lanistark, Hemala Humber, both Freya and Robert Neptuna and Ian and Dilys Mazeltof who seemed to have taken charge whilst Andris was recovering. The group were deep in argument. It was understandable, most of them had their lands taken by either the Concord or the Blackwells.

“I’m telling you its chaos back home!” Yelled Maror. “My idiot of a cousin Iago is actually welcoming the Blackwells and now rioting is happening throughout the land. If we don’t do something, I’ll lose everything.”

“We can only do our best Maror but we have more pressing matters.” Replied Dilys.

“Yes we do.” Added Andris as he entered the cabin.

The whole cabin quieted down they were shocked to see him so soon. Some were shocked to see the stump of where his arm used to be. Andris could feel all the eyes on him.

“Dilys is right, I’m sorry Maror but with the current state that we are in we are no position to fight an army like the Blackwells. The main concern is that we need to find some land to make a new stronghold for our forces, we can’t live on this fleet forever. We need a place which has food and is safe for our people. Do any of you have any suggestions?

“We could always try to the south of Formaroth and try to ally with the Southern Alliance, if we went to them they may take us in, bolster our numbers and strengthen both of our Alliances.” Suggested Hemela.

“We could.” Replied Andris “But knowing the south they will never accept us into their territory and even if they did, we only attract the attention of both the Blackwells and the Concord. I’m sorry Hemela but it’s too risky. Anyone else?”

“We could always try the land of Seikatsu. We could offer our services to one of the Waring lords and maybe in return they would help us.” Suggested Freya.

“I’m sorry Lady Neptuna.” Interrupted Andris “But that is out of the question. I will not offer our services to war torn land, we have our own problems to deal with and we’re better than the common mercenary troupe.”

“Then what would you suggest then Lord Mandarass.” Asked Maror.

Andris pondered as he looked at the world map that was laid out in front of him “Here.” Said Andris as he pointed to the map. His finger had landed on the island of Deliverance. It had plenty of farmland during the summer season and there was plenty of space for the entire navy to dock.

“It does have everything that we need.” Said Robert.

“Then are we all agreed that this is the best course of action?”

The council members looked at each other they were weren’t convinced at first but with a little persuasion they all eventually agreed to the plan. Andris knew they would have to get there soon before either Alasdair or Giles decided to come for them.

“That land is owned by the pirate king Morian, if we want Deliverance, we will need to go through him first."

Formaroth Part 2: Throne of Lies

House Mandarass and Uzgob

Family Name: House of Mandarass
Kingdom Location: Uzgob Desert
Crest: Orange background with a black bear

Mandarass Crest

Family Motto: Strength in Honour
Relations with other Kingdoms: Unsure
Family Reputation: Popular, Trustworthy, Wealthy and Respectful
Kingdom’s main export and goods: Exotic fruits and animals
Description of Kingdom: The Uzgob is the most North kingdoms in the land. It is also considered to have one of the hottest climates and to have the most barren land. However through the exotic fruits and trading with other kingdoms Uzgob has become one of the most prosperous kingdoms despite its location. Uzgob has a natural border of a mountain range which appeared due to a giant earthquake which happened thousands of years ago; this has proved useful when invading armies are concerned. However due to the state of the land many invading armies either ignore Uzgob or usually turn back due to the little food resources. Then further north there is River Gonzo which also acts as a natural border for the dead lands.
The biggest settlement of Uzgob is the city of Andromeda. Andromeda is located in the very centre of the Uzgob Desert. Its very existence was due to the founders of the city discovering a giant underground lake they later called Eden and through this the city grew. The building structures of Andromeda are designed to be similar to Damascus during the crusades. There is a little difference between the classes due to the fact that the people have to get along to survive the desert so the classes are treated equally. The Mandarass family live in the central castle in the very centre of the city. The middle and low class live equally in city which surrounds the castle. A coliseum lies within the city as well as there where they hold non-lethal gladiator battles and sport related games in which everyone even the Mandarass family even attend. The city is then surrounded by a wall which protects it from armies. The middle class is made up of inn keepers, shop keepers, merchants, doctors and politicians. The lower class have also have merchants, shop keepers and a few politicians. Other professions are craftsman, blacksmith and gladiators and sportsmen.
Fort Scarab is located at the point where the River Null meets the sea it’s heavily fortified and holds the majority of the kingdoms navy. The fort is large enough to hold all the sailors for the ships.
Family Background: Uzgob has been under the control of the Mandarass family for one hundred years. The Mandarass family came into power through being chosen as the next family to come into power as the previous house had no living heirs. Over the last fifty years there was a troubled relation between the Mandarass’s and the Remonnet’s this was mostly due to Helyot Remonnet’s paranoia towards the family. Eventually war broke out between the families due to Helyot’s assassination of last lord of the family Uwais Mandarass. His brother Andris quickly rose to power and led the Mandarass’s to victory and killed King Helyot Remonnet himself on the battlefield. News about the Mandarass’s victory spread across the land increasing the popularity of the family. Relations between the Mandarass’s and the Remonnet’s were restored with the new king John. John made a debt to Andris promising him that he would repay Andrew for the loss which the Mandarass’s suffered.
Due to the Mandarass’s popularity the family has become a popular choice of an ally with many of the houses however with any families which were loyal to Helyot the Mandarass’s have become a targeted but the family is very well protected.
Reason of claim to the throne: The Mandarass’s believe that it is time to collect their debt by making Andris the new King. Even though Andris is content with Uzgob he willing to pursue this debt. Andris’s aims are that if he can become king that he hopes to unite the kingdoms even though this will be very hard.

House Mandarass (Previously known as House Manshrew in part 1)

Family Members
King Andris Mandarass (Known as Andrew Manshrew in part 1)
Age: 35
Gender: Male
Position: Head of House Mandarass
Personality: Protective of family, ambitious, thoughtful of subjects, honourable, respective of culture
Appearance: Medium height, short dark brown hair, slightly muscular, tan skinned, right arm has been cut off from elbow

Andris Mandarass Picture

Skills: Expert Negotiator, Master Politician, Master Ruler, Expert Swordsman, Master Tactician, Master Strategist, Expert Economist
Weaknesses: Andris won't change his mind once its set towards a goal only Fajera, Nizaar and Saahir can change his mind. Andris is too trusting it doesn't take too much to earn his trust. Andrew is too idealistic his dream for Formaroth may in they way of better judgement. Andrew's code of honour may get in the way of victory.
Background: After his older brother Ramzi Mandarass was assassinated by order of King Helyot Remonnet Andris quickly rose to power. To prove himself as a capable leader to his fellow politicians Andris spent three days in the Uzgob Desert alone with barely any food and water to survive, many thought that Andris would not survive but on the eve of the third day Andris returned, till this day Andris has told no one how he survived. Once he was established as the Lord of House Mandarass Andreis declared war on the House of Remonnet. Eventually the war between the houses led to Helyot leading his army into the Uzgob Desert to confront Andris, this wasn’t the best idea. Andris waited for the army to be weak of starvation and thirst and then finally defeated the army with his own and killed King Helyot in single combat. After the war was over Andris focused of improving his own kingdom until one day he was invited to Nyhem by the new High King; John Remonnet. Andris accepted even though he did not know what to expect out of this new King. Fortunately Andris found John to be an honourable and decent man. Before departing to his Kingdom Andris was told by John that his family would be repaid after what they had been through.
Andris’s forces consist of his land army which he leads alongside with his military and political advisor Nizaar Azzam and then his navy which is lead by friend Saahir Mohiuddin. Andris also commands his own personal guard which are trained and sworn to protect the Mandarass family.
After loosing the 'battle of the throne', Andris has gone into self-imposed exile alongside his remaining supporters.

Grand Duchess Fajera Mandarass
Age: 34
Gender: Female
Position: Lady of House Mandarass
Personality: Loving towards family, respectful of Andris’s ambitions, formal
Appearance: medium height, long red hair, beautiful, elegant dresses
Skills: Expert ruler, Expert politician, Expert economist, Expert negotiator
Background: Fajera came from another political family in Andromeda. Once she reached 18 years old many political family members were asking for her hand in marriage. For an entire year she turned down every man. By that time the yearly masquerade ball was around, her parents forced her to go so she could find a suitor. After a few hours Diana was approached by a mysterious boy she didn’t know why but she had a quick fondness for him near the end the ball the couple retreated somewhere private where the boy revealed himself as Andris of House Mandarass. After a few more secret meetings Andris asked for Fajera’s hand and she accepted.
Andris and Fajera have been happy since but after the war with House Remonnet they have been trying to produce an heir but so far they haven’t had any luck but they still try. However when she is not helping Andris run the kingdom, she takes care of Ramzi’ three daughters.

Hamsa Mandarass
Age: 16
Gender: Female
Position: Heir to House Mandarass
Personality: Cunning, Driven, Loyal to family
Appearance: Small, Blonde hair
Skills: Adept ruler, Expert tactician, Adept politician, Adept Negotiator
Background: As the current heir of the House of Mandarass, Hamsa is learning to become the ruler of Uzgob. Even though she is being currently being taught best the best teachers in the country she prefers the company of her uncle and is always eager to listen to his stories.

Hishma Mandarass
Age: 14
Gender: Female
Position: Second in Line to House Mandarass
Personality: Militaristic, strong, Loyal to family
Appearance: Short dark hair, scar on left cheek
Skills: Expert Swordsman, Adept Tactician, Adept strategist
Background: Hishma started sword training when she was young she has taught by her uncle but her main teacher is Nizaar who is her main role model. She always pushes herself to the limit to improve her skills. Nizaar believes that one day she may surpass his and her uncle’s swords and may become the best swordsman in the country.

Kabeera Mandarass
Age: 11
Gender: Female
Position: Third in Line to House Mandarass
Personality: Friendly, adventurous, loyal to family
Appearance: Long blonde hair, skinny
Skills: Adept Naval Commander, Apprentice Tactician
Background: Being the youngest member of the Family of Mandarass, Kabeera is not expected to take on any responsibilities at this time. She spends time with Naval Commander Saahir Mohiuddin. When she was young she has always dreamed of sailing and exploring the world. At the current time she is learning from Saahir on Naval tactics. If she continues she may become one of the first female naval captains in Uzgob.

Nizaar Azzam
Age: 33
Gender: Male
Position: Political/Military advisor of House Mandarass
Personality: Loyal to Uzgob and honour-bound to it's people.
Appearance: Medium height, short dark hair, chin beard, missing right eye
Skills: Master Tactician, Master Strategist, Expert Swordsman, Master Negotiator
Background: Nizaar met Andris when they were very young. In a short time they became best friends. As time passed and Andris came into power Andrew appointed Nizaar as Political and Military advisor. This became a wise choice as together they were able to outwit the Remonnet army which ultimately led to their defeat. Andris and Nizaar work together constantly to perfect their battle plans.

During the battle for the throne Nizzar betrayed Andris and joined the concord; believing that Andris has become power hungry and corrupt, making him unfit to rule over Uzgob. Nizaar is currently the provisional ruler of Uzgob.

Saahir Mohiuddin
Age: 36 (deceased)
Gender: Male
Position: Naval Captain of House Mandarass
Personality: friends of Andris, adventurous
Appearance: tall, medium dark hair, short dark beard
Skills: Master Naval Commander, Master Tactician
Background: Saahir and Andris met in their early teens. Andris soon realised Saahir love for the navy and his skills as a naval captain. When the war between the Manshrew’s and the Remonnet’s began, Andris sought Saahir’s expertise in the navy and offered him a place as the captain of the navy. This became invaluable when the Remonnet navy began a surprise attack on Fort Scarab. Through Saahir’s leadership the navy was able to counterattack and were able to cripple the Remonnet navy which some believed had shorten the war by two years. After the war the people of Uzgob saw how important the navy was considering that the majority of the country is desert.

During the war for the throne Saahir was killed by Giles Blackwell while trying to bide time so that Andris and his followers could escape Formaroth.

Formaroth: Battle for the Throne

Hello everybody

Sorry my post took a while but it'll be worth it when you give it a read. I hope you enjoy the conclusion to my character's reign of Uzgob. Take care of Formaroth when I'm gone.

Formaroth: Battle for the Throne

An unwelcome return

Andris Mandarass (Andrew Manshrew)
Fajera Mandarass (Diana Mandarass)
Nizaar (Alun)
Saahir Mohiuddin (George LeWest)
Hamsa (Lucy)
Kabeera (Mary)
Hishma (Elizabeth)

Andromeda. It seemed a lifetime ago since Andris had last seen his home city but soon he would be back. It may not be the return he expected, but all that mattered to him was seeing Fajera and his nieces again. The remaining alliance army marched behind him, they were approaching the city gates, but something was wrong. Any other time the gates would have been opened by now. He stopped and raised his hand signalling the army to stop. As Andris approached the gate a lone Uzgobian Soldier came into view at the top of the gatehouse.

“Who goes there?” commanded the Soldier.

Andris shouted back “It is I, Lord Andris of House Mandarass. I demand you to open the gates”.

The Soldier seem shocked to hear this. “Lord Mandarass? We all thought you were dead”.

Andris was confused “Of course I’m not. Now open the gates”!

The Soldier was hesitant and showed no signs of obeying Andris’s command “I’m afraid I can’t my Lord.” He finally said, “The city is under martial law and we have strict orders to not let you in.”

Andris didn’t understand what was going on, he needed answers. “Under whose authority”?

“Under mine and more importantly the people of Uzgob.” Came another voice from atop the wall

Andris couldn’t tell who it was until Nizaar revealed himself standing alongside the Soldier.

“Nizaar?” said Andris “I don’t understand?”

Nizaar replied “While you were off in Telmarion, fighting your war. I had a meeting with the council and we agreed that for the sake of Uzgob and its people, that you are no longer fit to lead us”.

Andris couldn’t believe what he was hearing. It was even worse that it was coming from his best friend. His rage was building up inside him.

Nizaar carried on “Don’t worry about your family, they’re safe. I’ll take care of them as they were my own. Now, as acting Lord of Uzgob I demand that you and your army leave these lands, or I will be forced to make you”.

“Nizaar! You traitorous bastard! I won’t let you get away with this!” Andris shouted

“No doubt I will.” Replied Nizaar. Though he sounded sombre, his face was without emotion “But I do so knowing that I did it for the betterment of Uzgob. Archers!”

Suddenly a dozen soldiers with bows came into view all of them firing at once.
Andris immediately reacted “Shields!” he shouted whilst raising his shield to protect himself. The rest of the army did the same, though some in the front lines were too slow and were felled. Andris knew they were outmatched. “Fall back!” The army slowly moved away from the city, making sure their shields were raised at all times to protect them from the constant barrage of arrows, until they were out of range of the archers. Andris could not believe what had happened, his advisor, his closest friend, his mentor, had betrayed him.
***
As the hours passed Andris grew increasingly worried about his family. He had to get into the city, recue his family and then leave Uzgob before the Concord reached Andromeda. A seemingly impossible goal, but he had no choice, he would not abandon them. Andrew called to the soldier nearest to him who responded without hesitation
“Get me Maror and Lady Grim immediately, tell them I have a plan to get into Andromeda”

“At once my lord” the soldier said before quickly setting off to carry out his king’s order. Eventually both Lady Grim and Maror arrived to listen to what plan their leader had come up with.
***
“The main aim is to distract the army long enough for me and Lady Grim to enter the city, so I can get my family.” Said Andris as he gave them a final rundown of his plan. It had taken a while, but he had finally gotten his commanders to agree to his plan. Maror was reluctant to abandon Uzgob while Lady Grim was reluctant to undertake the insane strategy at all. However, Maror was eventually brought to see reason while the promise of more gold was enough to convince Grim.

“Maror you’ll lead the army. You’ll use Lady Grim’s mages to attack the walls, forcing the army to come out to face you then you use the rest of the army to confront them. All I need you to do is hold out against them for as long as you can then head to Fort Scarab. Saahir and Queen Freya will meet you there with the ships ready to sail.”

“It will be done.” Said Maror. I will ready the men.

“Lady Grim let’s get going.” Said Andris as he readied his weapons

“Just to let you know Lord Andris” Lady Grim said “If Maror is unable to hold the Andromeda host at bay I have ordered my men to retreat. I do not care how much money you offer me I will not risk my men’s lives for some suicidal folly” She finished sternly. Andris was silent for a while before he finally replied with
“Understood” He could only hope that Maror would succeed with holding back Nizaar’s forces, without Grim’s mages, the plan would be doomed to fail. With that Andris and Grim made their way towards the city.
***
More time had passed, and the battle was underway. Without mages of their own the Andromedian host was unable to defend against the Grim company mages, and as Andris predicted, they were forced to leave and engage Maror’s forces. Andris and Lady Grim continued to walk around the walls of the city while Andris ran his hand along certain parts of the wall.

“Are we close?” asked Lady Grim as she kept watch for guards. Fortunately, with most of the cities host at the gates, it was unlikely they would be spotted.

“We should be.” Replied Andris “I remember when my father showed me and my brother this entrance when we were young. With this we should be able to get into the castle without that much of a challenge”.

“Well you better find it soon otherwise the castle will be teeming with soldiers.” Lady Grim exclaimed as she was getting more agitated by the minute. Eventually Andris managed to find what he was looking for; a stone with one of the ancient banners of the founding families of Andromeda. Andris pushed the stone and the passage opened.

A family reunion

Soon Andris and Lady Grim found themselves in the castle library. The bookcases filled the room and were twice the height of a normal man. Luckily not a soul was in there, otherwise the mission would be short lived.

“Where do you think your family will be?” asked Lady Grim.

“If I know Fajera, she’ll be with the girls and keeping them safe” answered Andris. My best guess would be that they are in the girl’s bed chambers. It’s not too far from here but we need to be careful”.

Lady Grim nodded, Andris closed the passage way by placing a copy of ‘The Witch of the Grey Tower’ on the bookshelf in case any guards came in. After this the two of them headed out of the library, making sure they were out of sight. Fortunately, it was soon made clear that the castle was almost completely deserted asides from the occasional guard. All of whom they avoided with ease. Eventually Andris and Lady Grim arrived outside the bed chambers. However just as Andris reached for the door two of the royal guards turned the corner and spotted them. At the very least this confirmed Andris’s guess that his family was inside. What other reason would two of Uzgob’s finest have for being here instead of being on the battlefield. There was no way they were going to get pass them without a fight. As the guards drew their swords Andris drew his, readying himself. Lady Grim managed to stop him.

“Let me deal with them.” Lady Grim. Said as she extended her hands. Within an instant a wave of pure force erupted from her hands, hitting both men in the chests and sending them flying. Both hit the floor in a crumpled heap.

“They will be asleep for a few hours.” Lady Grim assured Andris “They might wake up with a headache but it’s no different from a weekly trip to the tavern.”

“Impressive” said Andris “But we must hurry, I am certain someone will have heard that”.

Andris opened the door with his swords ready for what could be on the other side. The first thing he saw was his heavily pregnant wife, along with Hamsa and Kabeera beside her. Andris immediately dropped his swords and approached Fajera. After being separated for so long Andris and Fajera embraced before kissing one another. Andris was relieved to see them safe.

“Thank the Gods your safe.” Said Fajera.

Andrew then gave both Hamsa and Kabeera a hug. “I am so glad you are as well.” Replied Andris his eyes starting to water. “I’m sorry I couldn’t be back sooner, but I’m back now and I will make sure to keep you safe”.

“Uncle, who is this?” asked Kabeera asked as she stared at pure red-haired woman that stood at the door.

“This is Lady Grim.” Said Andris as he pointed towards her. In response she merely rolled her eyes and gestured at Andris to hurry up. This man was wasting precious time and risking her life. “She’s a…friend of mine and she’s going to help us escape” At the word friend Lady Grim raised her eye brow.

“Why?” asked Hamsa. “What’s wrong?”

Andris looked over to Fajera. Fajera could tell what was wrong from his face. He looked at both of his nieces and took a breath. “We need to leave the city all of us”.

“What?!” exclaimed Hamsa.

“But why?!” said Kabeera.

“The concord’s army is on its way here and when they do they will attack and destroy the city, we need to leave before that happens”.

"What about the soldiers”? asked Fejera.

“I think they’re a bit preoccupied with the army outside”. Said Lady Grim as she turned to face Andrew “we need to go now” She exclaimed before turning around and heading towards the library. She wasn’t going to wait any longer.

“We need to get to the library and once we’re out we will head to Fort Scarab.” Andrew explained “Where’s Hishma?” he asked Fejera.

“She’s with Nizaar.” Said Fejera.

Said Andris froze as he realised what this meant “Very well. I’ll find her once we get you to the library.” As he said this he picked up his swords and led his family to safety, praying to the gods they wouldn’t be spotted.

The final lesson

Lady Grim was already at the entrance of the passage when Andris arrived. Despite the huge danger Andris had placed her in she wasn’t going to straight out abandon him; he had both paid and treated the grim company well and he deserved better than that. As Andris made his way towards the secret passage a voice called out behind him.

“Despite everything, it’s good to see you again Andris”.

Andris turned around to see Nizaar and Hishma with their swords drawn. “Hello Nizaar.” Said Andris “Hishma”
Hishma said nothing. Lady Grim prepared herself for a fight, electricity sparking from her hand. “No!” shouted Andrew “Get them out of here.”

“But what about you?” yelled Kabeera as tears filled her eyes. How could everything of gone so wrong so quickly; the war, Uzgob’s famine, Nizaars betrayal and now this.

“Don’t worry Kabeera.” Said Andris trying to reassure her. “I’ll be right behind you.”

Fejera quickly joined his side to give him a kiss.
“I love you” Andris said as he looked at her face for possibly the last time.

Fejera placed one of his hands on her stomach. She said “Come back alive for our baby’s sake.”

“I will”. Said Andris. He looked to Lady Grim. “Keep them safe.”

Lady Grim nodded as she quickly escorted Fejera and the girls through the passageway.
Andris then turned his attention to Nizaar and Hishma as he did he sheathed his swords. “So, this is what it’s come to?” Said Andris “Holding my niece against her will.”

“She’s here out of her own free will” Nizaar replied

“Is this true?” Andris asked Hishma.

He could see her hesitate, there was conflict within her, but she eventually said “Yes.” She looked over to Nizaar

“You know what you have to do” he said

Hishma readied her scimitar and charged at Andris. She took a swing but Andris was able to dodge them easily. Hishma kept swinging her sword and soon her emotions were getting the better of her.

“Why are you doing this Hishma?” Andris begged

“Nizaar said that if we stop you then we can stop this war and have peace!” Hishma replied tears streaming down her face “Did it ever occur to you that I all we wanted was just to have our Uncle back! I just wanted the family to be together. Instead you abandoned us, left us so you could pursue your own ambition of becoming king. You are no better than that snake that sits on the throne”!

She kept swinging her sword, but Andris proved to be too quick for her. “Why won’t you fight back”?! She yelled
She swung her sword towards Andris but then he grabbed it with his right hand. Soon blood was oozing from his hand and dripping off the sword. Hishma was shocked, even Nizaar was a bit surprised.

“Because a Mandarass doesn’t fight his family, but if you truly think this will bring peace do what you have to do”.

Hishma could feel Andris’s grip loosening. Soon the scimitar was free and Andris’s neck was exposed and open. He made no attempted to block or move out the way, he simply stood there waiting to see what his niece would do. The truth was she didn’t know what to do. Eventually her hand loosened and she dropped her sword.

She collapsed on the floor and began to cry. Andris lent down and gave her a hug to comfort her. “I’m sorry.” She sobbed.

“It’s okay now” said Andris. “Go find your aunt and sisters, I’ll be right behind you.”

Hishma wiped away her tears and nodded her head. She grabbed her sword and headed through the passageway. Andris drew his swords, blood still dripping from his hand.

“Now it’s just you and me” Said Andris.

“When was the last time we did this?” asked Nizaar sombrely as he examined his blade, the curved blade glimmered in the candlelight.

“What feels like a life time ago.” Andris replied as he walked towards Nizaar with fury in his eyes, in response Nizaar walked back. Both men walked until they were in a circular clearing that was the centre of the library; a space large enough for both men to fight unhindered.

“May the best man win”. Said Nizaar.

“The same to you”. Said Andris.

Both men charged at each other. Swinging their swords and deflecting the others blows. They were both a mirror of themselves when it came to the fighting style. They’re sword’s locked.

“That was a pretty impressive move there”. Remarked Nizaar, half praising half mocking.

Andris gave a bitter smirk “Thought that impressed you.”

The two of them swung swords again. Andris managed to cut Nizaar’s arm, but it was barely a flesh wound. Nizaar managed to thrust his sword into Andris’s left shoulder but his armour took most of the force.

The two of them were trying to catch their breath. “You’ve gotten better.” Said Nizaar.

“What can I say” panted Andris “That’s what fighting a war does to you. But why”?

“Why what?” Nizaar replied.

Why did you betray me, betray Uzgob.” Andris demanded as he lunged at Nizaar again.

Because Uzgob needs a leader who has her best interests at heart. I once thought you were that man, a man of honour, who would do anything for his kingdom. Maybe you were once, but now…” Nizaar paused as he ducked a swing from Andris “You led Uzgob into a war, you plunged Formaroth into chaos and for what? Just so you could become king” Nizaar struck at Andris missing him by an itch and hitting one of the books behind him, sending pages flying through the air “A title you had no claim to. I may not like the idea of being ruled by a De Reimer, but I would never lead my own people into bloodshed out of spite, the true reason you started this war”

Andris sighed deep down he knew that there was some wisdom in Nizaar’s words, but his stubbornness had gotten in the way. Had he truly been thinking of Uzgob’s best interests when he started this war? Would things have been better if he had just accepted the De Reimer’s rule? Suddenly they both heard a war horn from outside the window. Andris knew what that was Maror was signalling the retreat.

“Looks like your running out of time.” Said Nizaar, his eyes were much redder then they had been previously. Andris agreed with him.

“Then let’s finish this.”

The two men gripped their swords and both let out a might yell and charged as each other. Andris swung his sword down with his right hand and Nizaar swung his sword upwards with his right hand. Their swords found their marks. Andris’s sword cut deep into Nizaar’s face severely cutting through Nizaar’s right eye. However, it was nothing compared to the damage Nizaar’s sword did which found itself slicing into Andris’s right arm. Andris could feel the cold steel reach the bone. Both men recoiled in pain. The pool of blood on the sandstone could be mistake for a butcher’s floor.

Nizaar staggered back in pain, trying his best to stay standing, blinded by his own blood. Andris in contrast had dropped both his swords and was bleeding heavily from his arm. Even with only one eye, Nizaar still had a clear advantage. However, this was Andris’s chance to escape; Nizaar was distracted, and with that wound he wouldn’t be able to pursue Andris. With his remaining strength Andris bolted for the passageway, just before he left he took one last look at Nizaar, before replacing the book and disappearing down the passageway.

Suddenly a bunch of royal guards burst into the library. Seeing the carnage within the room they quickly turned to their attention to the closing passageway.

“Let him go.” Commanded Nizaar “He’s no longer a threat.”

“My lord are you ok.” Asked a guard.

“I’m fine, the magister will patch me up” Said Nizaar “Turn your attention to the city we must be ready for the Concord’s arrival”.

“At once my Lord.” Said the guard. The guards left the room except for one who was tending to Nizaar’s wounds until the magister arrived. Nizaar looked down at the floor before finally uttering “The student has become the master.”

Farewell Uzgob

Andris was making his way through the passageway, he was losing a lot of blood and every step now seem like he was carrying an elephant on his back. Finally, he saw the light. Once he reached the end he could see Fajara, Lady Grim and the girls. The last thing he saw was the sheer look of horror on their faces before everything went dark.

Andris woke up to the hot sun of Uzgob. He tried to look around to take in his surroundings, but he could barely move, he seemed to be tied down to maybe a cart as he was moving, he could only seem to move his head but from he could see was nothing but sand for miles and miles. He looked down to himself and that’s when he saw the bloody bandaged stump where his arm used to be.

“He’s awake!” shouted Maror. The cart slowly came to a stop.

“Thank the Gods” said Fajara.

The others rushed to his side. Andris could see that they were relieved to see that he was ok.
“What happened.” Asked Andris.

“You…” Fajara stammered as she struggled to find the words. Hishma decided to help her.

“You were losing a lot of blood” She said “The Grim company mages tried their best to seal the wound but…it wasn’t enough, the blade cut too deep for even magic to heal. We had to cut off your arm in case it went septic.” Said Hishma.

“They saved your life”. Said Lady Grim who pushed her way through to Andris we can’t have you dying yet, we still need to be paid”. She said with a smirk. Though her statement was true she was glad that Uzgobian lord had survived.

“We’re almost at Fort Scarab just try to rest”. Maror said as he started issuing orders to the rest of the army.
Andris closed his eyes and fell asleep. A couple of hours had passed and Andris woke up to the salty smell of the sea. Andris was able to sit up to better take in his surroundings. He was at the port of Fort Scarab. The port was a near impenetrable fortress and had defended Uzgob from naval assaults for centuries. In the distance he could hear the unmistakable sound of fighting. he could see many ships already heading out to sea. Each ship filled with what was left of his army.

“Hell of a day huh?” a voice asked.

Andris looked around to see Saahir standing behind him. Andris weakly mustered a smile in response “Yeah, hell of a day.” Andrew tried to stand up, but it only took a step or two before he started to fall, fortunately Saahir was able to catch him.

“Easy their friend.” Said Saahir.

“Where’s Fajara and the Girls?” asked Andris.

“There all on a ship and they’re waiting for you.” Said Saahir

As Saahir tried to lay Andris back down a soldier quickly approached the two of them. “Captain Mohiuddin, nearly all the ships are out to sea the last one is just waiting for you two. But we need to need to hurry the Blackwell army are almost though the gates.”

“Thank you Soldier. Let’s go.” Said Saahir.

Saahir helped Andris stand up and they slowly made their way to the ship. Soon the ship was in sight and they got ready to board. But before they could a deafening crashing sound came from the gates; the Blackwell army had broken through. Andris knew that the ship didn’t have a chance to escape unless someone stayed behind to distract them. Andris drew a sword from a nearby sheath and slowly walked to towards them.

He stopped to turn to Saahir. “Tell my family I love them.”

Andris continued to slowly walk towards the Blackwell army who were mascaraing the keeps garrison. Andris could barely stay awake but he knew he had to do this. A sharp pain struck the back of his head before everything went black. Andris awoke to find himself on a ship with Fajara by his side.

“What happened?” asked Andris.

“Saahir hit you on the head”. Said Fajara “He had you taken on board and stayed behind with his crew to hold off the Blackwell forces. He saved your life.”

Andris couldn’t believe what he was hearing. First his mentor betrayed him, then he lost him home and now his closest friend had sacrificed himself, so he could escape. These last few days had been among the darkest of his life. He was a dishonoured exile with his enemies now ruling over his home. He had lost so much. At the very least by some miracle his family was safe.

For the first time in his life Andrew had no idea what he was doing, or where he was going.

Formaroth: Battle for the Throne

The Manshrew Alliance was on the run and the morale of the soldiers was low. Dearon was dead and Serala hadn’t been seen since the Lanistarks charged into Patrick deceptive maneuver. Andrew was tired he had not slept properly for three days and as he turned to look at what was left of his ‘Alliance’, he could see that everyone was as tired as him. They needed sleep. Andrew stopped as did the rest, he slowly raised his hand with most of the strength that he had left.

He shouted “We rest here tonight!”

As he said this most of the soldiers collapsed to the ground with relief. But Andrew could not rest just yet he need to see what the path ahead was like, so he could prepare. But before he could he heard Maror calling for him. Andrew turned to see what he wanted.

“Andrew what are you doing?” said Maror.

Andrew could see that Maror’s was struggling to stand. “What do you mean Maror?”

“The enemy lies in the other direction. Why do we run from them? We should make our stand and die in glory.” Maror replied as he continued to walk to Andrew. As he did, his foot was caught be a rock. Maror who was so exhausted at this point began to fall. Andrew with what little strength he had managed to catch him. The two of them steadily sat on the ground to catch their breath.

Andrew who was struggling to catch some breath replied “Maror, I understand your need to fight, but with the numbers we have and the state that we are all in, we wouldn’t last two minutes against the Concord. That is why we are heading to Uzgob. I told Lady Neptuna to take her fleet and meet us at Fort Scarab. If we can get to Uzgob then we can hold the advantage.”

“And do what?” as Maror snapped back “To die in the desert all so you can get back to your castle.”
“If we have to!” Andrew shouted “It’s been weeks since I’ve heard from Alun. I left him in charge before I left to fight this damn war. If somethings happened to him, then Uzgob might be in danger. Also, if we get to the city we might have a chance to plan a counter attack against the Concord.”

Andrew started to see that Maror was starting to fall asleep. “Go, get some rest and we’ll talk about this later”.
Maror nodded and slowly got up and walked off back to his soldiers. Andrew sighed he knew that he was delaying the inevitable. The Alliance was over, and Andrew had lost the war. The only thing that he cared about now was getting home and seeing his family again. As he thought about Diana and seeing her beautiful face again he slowly began to fall asleep.

“Lord Andrew?” a voice whispered, but it was enough to wake Andrew up. He had no idea how long he had slept but the slowly rising sun soon answered his queries. He looked up to see Lady Grim standing over him.

“Lord Andrew? Are you awake?” asked Lady Grim.

“I am now” replied Andrew as he got up.

“Good” she said “I need to tell you that I am taking my company away from here before you meet the concord for the last time. I am sorry for your losses and I hope the best for you in the future.” Lady Grim started to walk away but Andrew quickly pursued her and grasped her shoulder.

“Wait!” yelled Andrew. “My men need your mages.”

“You have plenty of men in your army that are capable of tending to your injured.” Replied Lady Grim.

“Yes but the injured will never survive the journey through the desert” said Andrew.

Lady Grim turned to face him. Andrew continued “With your mages they stand a chance and that is why I need you. Once you help me get my men to Andromeda I will give you a year’s worth of pay in hand and then you and your company will be free to do as you wish.”

Lady Grim thought over this offer. That was too much money to turn down, she would have to be mad to reject it. She also respected Andrew’s admiration for his men even though most of the injured may not survive the journey even with the help of her mages. But the thought of a big bag of coins in her hand was too tempting to turn down.

“Very well.” Said Lady Grim “I will help you but as long as you hold your end of this deal.”

“I promise you Lady Grim, I never back down from a promise.” Said Andrew while holding out his hand. The two of them shook hands to confirm the deal. Lady Grim walked off to reconvene with her company. Andrew looked over his Alliance and as the sun rose he began to feel the warmth of it on his back he turned to look at the path ahead. It wasn’t going to be easy but soon Andrew would see his home and family once again.