Jay009

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

Barracker was surprised to see the caretakers up and about. Funny that the ladies had took it upon themselves to clean the Temple from top to bottom in the early morning hours, before any of the children were awake. Barracker made his way outside, his first stop, Golden Tree Park to wait for Gildor’s smithy to open up. It was soothing listening to the birds and seeing the sunrise illuminate the golden leaves of the trees. It felt quite tranquil to be sat around while the wild life made itself known with chirps and tweets, here and there. It brought sadness to his heart as he thought about GreenGlow Woods and what had happened to the place. All gone, he thought to himself. So many memories of his childhood in those woods. He ended up staying in the park until he saw the sun was approaching the highest point from the east, surely the shop would be open now, he thought. He rose to his feet, yawned a little from feeling tired from the last night as he did not sleep well and for the most part and was up all night, going through the thoughts of yesterday. The Paladin went for a walk towards the blacksmith now, ready to hand in the fragments of his claymore. Once there, he told Gildor Hammerfist that whatever the cost was, he would provide the fee. Orichalcum was usually used in alloys with iron as the extremely strong ore was quite rare so alloys made the ore go farther, but this Claymore was pure Orichalcum so he knew he would be paying quite a sum. He exchanged some talk with the famed blacksmith, getting told to come back anytime after tomorrow. Being a Paladin would mean his sword would get priority service. After all was said and done, the vampire bid him farewell.

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

Barracker walked through the night. The skies still lit with the glowing fire from the flames crashing off the barrier. This will be a long siege, the Paladin thought. The cold air was nice to his touch, there was a slight breeze patrolling the spaces of the buildings. Through the crookes and spaces , down the paths and streets. Barracker felt it would have been a good time to share information of what he knew about the Witchqueen and the politics that took place in Mytheria, but he lacked the knowledge of the royal background she claimed in her message to the group and even more so lacked knowledge about her banishment from the Mytheria. Someone must know more about all this, the Witchqueen’s place in all this, this apparent summoning ritual spell to bring forth heroes from another world. Politics wasn’t his thing but Evelyne would possibly have some understanding about some part of this all, seeing as she was well placed in the church and Capitol City. Maybe? Judging by the correspondence between himself and her, she was definitely on course for a good career in the church, already having received a promotion at the ‘Basilica Magna Decoris,’ the highest Church in the land. She was intelligent and well-spoken and her high birth didn’t hurt, seeing as her father had connections. Barracker would have liked her insight right now on what was going on inside Capitol city walls and what the church was thinking. As for the power representing the church in the war room meeting that took place, Areleth would want the best for the city and for Second Chance. He kept the alarm receiver inside his satchel, ready to be called at any time.

War wore heavy on his mind still, but the Temple of the Quinity was just coming up on his left, some buildings after crossing the bridge. He took a breath, trying to compose himself, pushing his negativity aside before entering the temple. He had rented a room at ‘The Mended Drum’ so he could stay with his party, but as long as this enemy army threatened Valhiem, he would stay as close to the orphans and Mother Anne as he could. As soon as Barracker entered through the doors he could hear the muttering of civilians. He popped his head round the doorway from the first room in which he heard the noise from. There he found some of the orphanage workers along with Anne sat around a table talking. “Mother. My ladies.” Barracker knew all their names but kept it formal as he always did.

“Barracker”.

“Barracker”.

“Barracker”.

They all said near in synchronicity. He looked around and saw that not nearly all workers were there but knew that some would be asleep, others making hot drinks and finishing daily tasks and some keeping an eye on the kids sleeping. The ladies excused themselves and made way for Barracker and Anne to speak, explaining there were still tasks to be done. As he went over to Anne, he gently embraced her, a bigger hug than normal. She could tell through her wise years of being alive, he was worried, she embraced back, squeezing with all her might of a elderly person of her age could. They talked for a while about current events and Barracker made his promise to keep Valhiem safe at all costs. He discussed many topics, including each one of his friends from Second Chance and that he was thankful for Areleth’s intuition to put him in the service of the group in the first place. He was no longer in the service of them, now he was their friend and would not have it any other way.

After a while Anne said, “Now go get some sleep. You’re still a growing young man.”

Barracker smiled, wondering if it was her old age or her elven race that made her think a man of his age still was ‘a growing lad.’ But he gladly gave in to her making him promise to go to his dorm for some rest, although he laughed and reminded her about his partial insomnia and said he would probably be up all night anyway, but he would indeed rest as best he could. Departing from the room, a few doors down, he found the dorm where the children and orphanage workers were accommodated. Going over to Isabella, he made sure to tuck her favourite teddy in her arms next to her as it had gotten loose, making sure not to wake her, before departing to his own room.

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

Barracker gathered that his words were felt in the war room. He acknowledged the appreciation from his friends and the kind words from Mayor Joseph Pendlebury. After the meeting concluded, his attention was met by fellow friend, High Septum Areleth with a guiding hand to the side, where the two could speak. “So this was your intent behind me joining Second Chance.”

Areleth sighed a breath. “I honestly did not anticipate it ending up like this. I only sought to follow my instincts.”

“Well, your instincts saved them all from a certain death.” Barracker retrieved the letter that he promised Hommas village elder he would deliver.

Areleth was intrigued, not just by the letter too, but Barracker’s words.. “What’s this?”

“From Hommas. I was charged with its delivery to you.” Then he expanded on the mission. “The mission they took for their first venture was Gold Ranked. Nasty business. But then a powerful agent of The Witch Queen showed up too.” He thought of Zell and this Baphomet business, but decided not to say anything. “The path they walk is fraught with danger.”

Areleth’s face was grim. He thought for a second and then took Barracker’s hand. “Thank you, my son. They may be the key to saving the world. You have done a great service to our cause.”

Barracker gave a salute, “The things I have seen from these people, it feels like the mythic age is upon us. If they are only given time and protection to grow, there is a possibility of surpassing even the council of heroes.”

The High Septum took a moment to absorb those words, stroking his chin in thought. Then he asked. “What will you do now?”

The concern on Barracker’s face was noticeable, “The orphanage…”

Areleth interrupted with a raised hand. “Everyone is safe in the Temple.”

Barracker smiled. “You have my thanks. I am in your debt.”

“It was the least I could do for you,” he replied with a smile. “I have arranged beds for all in the dormitory neighbouring your own.”

Everyone began to leave the war-room, bringing their conversation to an end. The priest and Paladin said their goodbyes, “I am glad things turned out this way, my thanks again,” and Barracker departed with Second Chance.

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Less than an hour later inside the confines of the Adventurer’s Guild, Barracker was there to receive the source com message with everyone else. His brain was frazzled in confusion and a flicker of anger in the mix. She was the cause of his vampirism. She was possibly royalty, according to the message. She seemed sure of this Summoning that Areleth suspected. This just made things in his head bring on heavy confusion, bringing on a headache. What came through the block of anger and confusion though, in his logic part, a stamp of injustice he had felt for his friends. It was not honourable or pious to take his friends from their loved ones and world. Just to make them fight someone else’s war. His feelings were cold towards this notion of The Witch Queen, this perpetrator meaning right by the group. She could have been lying about almost everything and using bits of the truth to make it sound plausible.

He had full faith in James as a leader and friend, even the rest of the party for that matter, their values and morales had shined through. Their intentions were for the greater good from what he had learned from being around them and what Zell had told them from along their journey. But then it hit, his anger again. She is the reason behind my affliction, behind that day on the plains, The vampires in her army had followed her plans, and now she is behind Valhiems siege too. So many lives lost across Mytheria. I am a vampire because of you. Barracker found it difficult to order his thoughts.

But the realisation hit him again as he looked around the room at the faces of his friends. They were stuck here. Some of them had died. They had lost their world and loved ones.

This is not about you, right now.

Barracker stuck around for a moment, to be there for his friends in their time of need. He went to his captain and clasped forearms in a warrior's embrace. “I will retire for the night,” he said, and then added a few quite words in his ear. “This may not be my place to say, captain, but their is a web of lies and truths surrounding you and our friends.” he looked James in the eye and said. “Be careful.”

Then he was off down the stairs. Before he left the guild house, he stopped by Fenna and Zell at the bar and placed a gold piece down on the counter. “ A round on me,” Barracker gave them a rub on the shoulder simultaneously, then left.

As he hit th air from outside, he sighed heavily with pity for his friend's circumstance. He would be there for them until the very end.

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

Once arrived at the Citadel, the party was met by Lucy Botrill. She would take on the job of escorting the party to the war room, where the meeting would take place. Once inside the war room, heads turned towards their arrival and eyes stayed locked on them. It was the first time Barracker had been inside this glorious room, the size was incredibly big. There were two flags hanging on the wall prominently. One for Valhiem. The other for The Empire. There also stood a marvellous portrait of the first empress of the free peoples empire, Ileandra young. Barracker recognized some of the faces in the room, but had not had the privilege of speaking to most of them on a one on one basis. One who he knew well was the High Septum Areleth, who greeted Second Chance in a professional manner, not showing any extra special familiarity to the Paladin. He understood the importance of professionalism. Barracker also knew of Commander Thorn because of his years in military service, although as a simple soldier, Commander Thorn was way above Barracker's station in the chain of command, so they'd never spoken. He'd briefly been addressed by Inquisitor McGarren who was Head of Paladin's Respite. The Inquisitor was kind enough to allow Barracker to serve even after contracting Vampirism, although Barracker a great influence of Areleth to make this happen. Usually Barracker reported to lower-down Inquisitors though.

James explained the story of Second Chance’s arrival to Mytheria and over the course of the meeting, Barracker started to understand the High Septum’s motives behind putting him with the adventurers so suddenly, and the general nature of Areleth's interest in them. Of course, BArracker had learned firsthand the amazing capabilities and backgrounds of Second Chance but Areleth's intuition had seemed to grasp at the concept of some sort of high level Mythic Age magical ritual that was the reason for all of this.

Adam gave background on the mysterious cube, something that Barracker did not know really anything about but now, judging by the academic officials reactions, realised the importance of the artefact.

Barracker chose not to say anything until there were inquiries about the nature of the quick, abnormal ascension’s of the adventurers.

“I have witnessed first hand, the remarkable speed with which these people learn the world around them and ascend with minimal experience. When I first met these individuals, I was clearly much more powerful than all of them, perhaps two levels of ascension higher. After a single mission. One single mission. The difficulty of which should have been beyond their reach, they have surpassed me in source power. Only by a hair, mind you, but this is taken into account that I also ascended during this mission.” The Paladin paused to let the officials take in the gravity of his words. The potential of Second Chance was limitless. And at this rate of ascension, they could easily reach a level comparable to Diamond Tier Adventurers before the Great War was concluded. “I also want to add on the record. With my Paladin reputation at stake. That I, Barracker Kassel, vouch whole heartedly for there noble character and integrity of all of my comrades. Each of them, is just as mystified as you all, to be here and yet they take everything in their stride, including upholding the values and responsibility of what it means to be blessed with the gift of the source crystal. No matter if they have been summoned or not, or by who, they are on the side of the greater good.”

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

@TeyaoWow, I have just noticed the message about the hidden text, now that everyone is talking about it. That is awesome and well done, cool touch.

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

Barracker had thought about his conversation with Zell and how his reaction to the Paladin’s words seemed and came across as genuine and honest as it goes. Barracker would have to take the swordsman's words at face value as he had believed the man's answers but felt he would have to think more on the matter as his friend's sword was likely cursed, and if so then this could have bad consequences on the man’s life.

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Sneaking into Valhiem was tense and stressful as the Paladin’s mind was on what would he find, going on, inside the city walls. Anne. Eren. Isabelle. Tyrion. Areleth. As well as that the vampire's sword was broken and he'd lost his shield, unable to protect himself or anyone in his party. Thinking about the vulnerable state he was in. He reminded himself of the importance of keeping his cool and at least he had acquired that knife from his captain which came in handy if required. The Paladin felt appreciative to be part of Second Chance and to have the help of the group. He would have to buy a round for everyone’s choice of drink.

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Barracker got speaking to one of the crew from Silver Arrow. An older gentleman, Tiefling, ex-military with a stern look. He was Ranger Class, named Gordon Watson. Barracker spoke to him about the state of the city and was surprised to find out it was running as usual. Also from in depth talking, he came from it with knowledge about the man’s home, Capitol City. It reminded the Paladin of Evelyne and he asked about the current state of Capitol City but Gordon hadn't been home in a long while.

After hearing undermining from the gnome Druid to Adam, he noticed Adam did not rise to defend himself. It felt like bullying, which was something that had never sat well with Barracker since being a small child. Barracker exchanged a look with his fellow frontline Swordsman Zell, tilted his head at what was going on and then moved closer to the gnome.

“You know, they say that gnome blood is the worst tasting. But I say never disparage something until you have tried it.” The vampire put a hand on the gnome’s shoulder. “Especially if it means that someone who does not understand the meaning of politeness, might learn a lesson or two”.

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At the hospital, after everyone was healed. He approached Clive. “A fine steed you have my friend.” He said clasping forearms with the man in a warriors greeting. “Good job getting word out about Valhiem. I don’t think anyone could of done that any faster.” He folded his arms as he thought. "It should give them enough time to organize a retreat to safer lands if the situation if anything were to go wrong here."

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

@TeyaoI hope you recover fast and well friend.

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

Barracker felt happy about the outcome of the party’s decision. James had shown once again why he was put in charge and led the party. He was decisive and cunning in the face of Danger and really had a way with words. With hard times arriving at Valhiem’s door, under the vampire’s stone faced expression and body language, the Paladin did feel like a rack of nerves, but it was until his leader spoke up that his tensions eased. Not fully disappeared but eased off, soothing the Paladins concerns. They will not be abandoned. Mother Anne. The children. The orphanage. James cared. 'We, Second Chance just have to examine the situation first,' was the leaders answer. His captain didn’t show his care so loudly as others, but he really did have so much about the welfare of his team in his mind, that was clear.

Then there was Zell. He’d given a concerned, friendly pat on the Paladin’s shoulder upon first viewing the city. That was enough between fighters to have the understanding and show concern. The swordsman suggested that they head to a hill-top overlooking the city. It was a smart idea, conserving some energy, overlooking the battlefield and in a position to move swiftly when ready. It was quite clever. He and James were very alike in how they thought.

Adam spoke up next, about getting a letter inside the city’s walls with the help of Sil, Fenna’s companion and friend to Second Chance. He had also brought up a clever use of his magic, that impressed Barracker by growing bushes and grasslands environment to cover them from danger, eyes kept off from being seen by the enemy forces. The Paladin nodded in agreement. The use of his bear as a last distraction was a good idea, and such ferocious power when fighting Zigmund, he would have to ask him about it sometime.

Fenna agreed to use the help of Sil, her connection with the Falcon was uncanny. Unreal. They seemed so in sync with how each of them were feeling, it was cool to witness such things. He had only heard about highly skilled specialized rangers being one with an animal. Now he was witnessing it everyday.

Clive the mysterious arrival of the man had been a great entrance to helping Second Chance. A friend of the group, and another chosen one from another world, fighting on the side for his loved ones. His tenacity to protect others had struck a chord with Barracker. This was the reason why he had become a Paladin. His tactics were to bring reinforcements to the battle of Valhiem, a great addition. We could do with the extra fighting power.

Then there was lastly, MacKensie. The pure soul of the group, always checking up on everyone, being considerate of feelings and putting a smile on everyone's face. Gladly needed through these rough times. A beacon of virtue and honour. She truly cared for others and showed mercy and kindness like mother Iris. She was the heart of Second Chance.

These were his comrades and it had been an honour to fight alongside them. His brothers and sisters in arms.

They arrived at the edge of the Mazy Hillocks, this was going to be a long day. All he could think about was his family, how scared they might be, how he wasn’t there to promise them he would protect them. He helped set up camp, put down bed rolls for those needing rest for their injuries. But he couldn’t stay still, pacing around the outskirts of the camp in his own world. Mother. Isabella. Eren. Tyrion. Areleth. Often he would climb the nearby tree to see what was happening around the city more clearly. From what he could tell it was just a constant bombardment of catapults. After a couple of hours he managed to settle a little, at least for a short period. That's when his mind came back to the word ‘Baphomet’ and he realised there was no better time than now. He waited for a moment to act when Zell was on the edge of the camp alone and approached him.

“It has been a long day,” he said as he came to stand beside the swordsman. The Paladin looked around making sure that the two of them were alone, then gazed into the distance at Valhiem. “I have come to the conclusion you like, well… more than like. You are possibly in love with MacKensie. You also care for Second Chance, and doing good by them, which I applaud.” The Paladin listened to Zell’s response, then continued to press the urgent matter of why he was having this talk. “These are great things to hold dear to your heart, being righteous and doing good by others. So I don’t understand…” He turned to look him in the eye. “Please tell me, why Baphomet was mentioned outside the temple of Hades. I heard you say it just before the end of the battle with Zigmund.” The Paladin gave the cornered accused time to speak his defence, then wheeled off some short history behind the name. “He is one of the most powerful devils in hell. A prince of the oblivion plane. In this world, his name holds enormous weight in our history and folklore, and I could not wish the fate of my worst enemy to fall in his grasp. He has tricked strong warriors, more righteous than most down a dark path, just for a flicker of his strength. In the mythic age, a group of fully ascended warriors could not handle a full frontal attack against the devil. His ways into this world are from the dark domain and evil. He is as smart as he is powerful, immortal and wise, ruthless and destructive. That is why I urge you to tell me why Baphomet has come from your mouth.” he waited for Zell's reaction and beckoned him to spill the details. “I urge you to leave nothing out and tell me, every detail is important. If you truly wish the best for yourself, your love and your friends.”

He pressed as hard as he could, staying close to Zell, unwilling to back down. This was the Paladin coming out of him, He had a duty and moral obligation to The Quinity and The Empire, that ran alongside his duties to his new friends and party. Baphomet could never be allowed to roam free in this world. Even as just a name.

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

Barracker’s thoughts were filled with alarm bells ringing out, bodies with a sword, plunged into them with shrieks coming from the citizens who worked the orphanage. His mind rushing with scenarios as he heard the words, Valhiem is under siege. The Witchqueen is making her move, he knew this would happen one day but today, right now? His head was banging with stress attacking his brain and body, his heart rushing into a frenzy, but some how he stayed, looking cool and calm on the outside. His demeanor not budging yet, as he joined his leader James at the top of the wagon, ignoring the driver.

“Sir James, I have pledged my loyalty to you. I have vowed to follow your orders in all things.” Barracker placed a firm hand on James’ forearm and looked him dead in the eye. “Everything I hold dear is in within those walls. We must… must get inside the city.”

Barracker didn’t even think to ask James about his recent discovery of sharing a mind with Zigmund, his memories. He would only be occupied by telling James his need to get back into the city.

When Vahliem came into view, Barracker saw it. Farms coming into view on the far distance, being burnt to a crisp. In the distance, high up, the sky barrier was deflecting fire from catapults probably. He could tell from the positioning of the barrier that The Witch queens army had come from the northeast. It hurt to know that they were probably trampling through ‘Greenglow Woods’ but that was the last of his worries right now.

Anne, Eren, Tyrion, Isabella and Areleth. Do not worry, I am coming to save you. The vampires fists clenched tight.

THE WAR FOR MYTHERIA - Isekai Adventure

To be honest I thought film production wise, I would have loved to of picked option 5 because of Lord of the rings, Two towers moment, at the end of the film where Gandalf shows up with the Rohirim and comes to save the day. But even if everyone agreed with this, Barracker would no way be leaving his hometown under siege. So the option what a lot of yous have picked would fit in with Barracker.