Huzzah! I actually finished this.... lol I hope it does not come across as too rushed. But regardless I am content with how it turned out.. enjoy
* *
The small caravan that had been seen two nights past, was now the entire city. Spanning the length of the road for almost a mile... the city had evacuated the morning after their arrival. The Druchii scouts had brought on a harsh reality. And everyone knew that the city of Ellis could not withstand a full scale invasion.
The city's reaver knights now patrolled along the flanks and rear of the spanning column, which extended almost a mile in length... maybe more. Its inhabitants, taking anything of value or cultural significance... shock written across their faces from the actuality of their situation. And hate. Word spread quickly of Caledor's betrayal.
Soon the entire kingdom would know.
Dethadrin had a bird's eye view on the procession, soaring high above in the sky and keeping a vigilant watch in the distance.
Though the clouds were low and hiding the sun, making it difficult to see as far as he wanted.
Teraskonarr circled just below the low clouds and turned towards the front of the column. To where Kendrik could be seen below, walking alongside his griffon with Lisiel and her family.
And there... in the distance ahead. A dull golden sheen could be seen on the horizon, undoubtedly the regiments of the Royal Company. In formation awaiting the refugees.
* *
It took some time for the end of the column to reach the regiments position, to which Dethadrin had joined Velnos in watching the procession. The Nagarathi was dressed in his usual dark scale armor and black cloak, his gray eyes... examining those passing by with suspicion.
“Caledor is only the beginning.” Velnos said rather quietly.
Dethadrin turned and looked at the dark haired warrior, then after a moment responded.
“I agree, there is much still left in the dark with the White Tower. Caledor truly has turned traitor... unbelievable.”
Velnos nodded in agreement and turned his gaze upon Kendrik further down the field. The red and gold armor contrasting with the dark blue cloak, his long white hair shifting in the wind. So like his father... yet so different.
He gave his head a quick shake to release him from the reverie of the past.
“No sign of the Druchii force... nor Caledor. They must be heading north to Tor Elyr.” Dethadrin continued and gazed upon the procession of travel weary Asur.
“If that is the case... then the siege of port Ellion will not come until the full Druchii force has passed through the mountains.” The Nagarathi paused for a moment before his eyes widened and his brow furrowed. “ If their priority is north... then Avelorn will come next.”
“They will overrun the Inner Kingdoms, even if Lothern holds.” Dethadrin added and started to shake his head as mind raced.
“Then we must evacuate Ellion.”
“And go where? We are not even sure who we can trust.” He questioned and adjusted his white and blue robes.
Velnos pondered on his words and began to nod in agreement.
“Perhaps we will receive news of Lothern before a decision is to be made.” The Nagarathi said and walked off towards Kendrik.
* *
Their travel to Port Ellion had been unusually quiet with no sign of a Druchii or Caledor pursuit. Dethadrin had been right, at least for the time being... their goal appeared to be in the North. Yet despite the lack of immediate danger, panic could be seen throughout the entire city. Even the hall of Olis Ellionost, a noble of Ellyrion and lord of the port; was full of confusion and conflict.
It had been a week or so since the evacuation of Ellis, and rumors of Lothern were uncertain and changing. Though hopefully Lucinia would be able to shed some light on the truth.
Kendrik watched the dark haired spy master disembark from the small sloop, her blue cloak wrapped tightly over her shoulders in an attempt to keep the morning wind at bay. Her ebony armor'd sword-master, followed shortly after... limping along from what appeared to be a wounded leg. Even Lucinia seemed to be cradling her left arm uncomfortably.
He started in their direction, eager to know what had happened.
“Where are the others...” Velnos queried as he followed in Kendriks wake.
She sent him a warm smile and a nod on her approach, finally stopping with a few feet of distance between them. His eyes seemed to give away his thoughts as she looked over to her wounded shoulder, then gave a light one sided shrug.
“We have had some trouble along the way...” She said plainly, hinting that they should talk in private.
The port was bustling with activity, much of it from his anchored fleet in the bay. Yet there were many other ships, as Ellion was one of the major ports along the Western coast of the inner sea. Making it a strategic position, one that would be needed by their enemies soon enough.
Their small group made their way along the docks, towards the far end where Arleni had claimed the 'Eagle class' moor as her own. The beautiful three masted vessel 'Tieris', named after a ship that carried a special place in all their hearts, from a time of uncertainty... much like they were experiencing now.
Arleni was standing next to the plank of the ship, her golden hair and armor shining in the morning light. The scarlet hue in her eyes were intoxicating, even after all these years she still caused a nervous warmth within him. If not for his duty as lord of his house and the political intrigue of court; it could have very well been her at his side.
She folded the parchments in her hands and sent them all a warm smile upon their approach.
“We need your captains quarters.” Velnos stated as he helped Denathy come to a slow and limping stop.
Her warm smile turned to concern as she noticed the slow healing injuries upon the maidens. With a quick nod, Arleni led them upon her ship.
Once inside, they quickly organized the room so that the captain could re-dress their wounds. Her healing talents, honed and crafted from a life at sea.
“Lucinia, what has happened?” Kendrik queried.
She looked in his direction, her bright blue eyes showing a hint of uncertainty.
“Tylsei and Itheil turned on us, they sought to keep us from reaching you.” She hesitated once more.
“Teclis was watching us, concerned over my delving into the matters of Eltharion... I even came by information over a secret meeting with Prince Imrik.”
“Then our worst fears have been realized...” Kendrik answered and paced about the captains quarters.
“Our high lore-master stands with a traitor!? But why? He would turn against his own brother?” He continued and came to a stop beside Velnos. The two of them sharing the same look of confusion.
“Upon Tylsei's last words... she said 'you were a problem', I have thought about this during our voyage... which experienced delays to say the least.” Lucinia stated in frustration with a shake of her head.
“The Royal Company represents the unity of Ulthuan, its members comprised of every kingdom... including the colonies. If they are seeking to divide us... then it would start with the famed battalions loyal to the Phoenix.” She stopped and gazed about the room with a look of puzzled confusion.
Then looked at Kendrik and said.” Where is the fleet? Why are we so few here?... Where is Althran?”
Kendrik sighed and ran his fingers through his white hair, then with a small shrug he said. “Defending Lothern, it is under siege... the Eagle Gate has fallen and now Imrik marches with the Druchii.”
Lucinia stood from her chair, to the annoyance of Arleni who had not finished with the fresh bandages.
“Then we are already divided.” She said woefully.
* *
Another week had passed, which only added to the indecision of the city. Reports of Druchii and Caledor regiments were on the rise, rumors that they had already reached Avelorn, others stating that Lothern had fallen. Whatever the case, things were not going well; and the original plan to join Prince Tyrion was faltering. The position of his forces were ever changing, clouded in secrecy and mis-information.
These thoughts had raced through his mind, tormenting him to come to a decision... Yet they could not set out blindly, with no word from Althran, nor Gidras... how could he make a choice?
They had been called to the city's hall, a ship had arrived, which was causing rumors of its own. Talk of a Druchii among the emissaries claiming to be from Lothern.
The chamber was grand, built with a high arc'd ceiling of white marble, tapestries of horses and Ellyrions famed Reaver Knights in battle; were depicted along its walls.
Olis sat upon his chair at the end of the chambers, with two groups split on either side of the long dark green carpet that divided the center of the room. The Asur were the city's influential nobles, military leaders and merchants; along with the leaders of the Royal Company.
All had been gathered to witness the message from the capital. Causing a great deal of chatter and theories to circulate throughout the hall.
A commotion could be heard outside the two silver double doors, which were opened soon after. A group of armored sentinels marched into the room, forming a tight box around a group within, coming to a stop before the high chair.
Its guardians parted at the front and allowed the emissaries to come forward.
Shouts and curses filled the room as those gathered realized who stood among the emissaries.
It was a Druchii!
“Silence!” Shouted an Asur garbed in a long white robe and stood beside the dark haired Druchii. He was garbed in silver armor... depicting the phoenix upon his chest plate! His pale skin marked with the black ink that was customary with their twisted kin.
The Druchii spoke.
“By order of the rightful ruler, your new phoenix king... who has now passed through the flames of Asuryan! His eminence Malekith-”
Shouting irrupted once more as blades were drawn in anger. Which was answered by lowered spear tips of the sentinels.
“The Phoenix commands your fealty! Asuryan has spoken! Follow in the steps of Prince Imrik... of your high lore-master Teclis... It will be sanctified through marriage with the Everqueen! It is the will of the creator!” The Druchii shouted in an attempt to rise over the commotion.
Kendrik stood silently at the spectacle before him... some shouted in anger, calling others traitors. Some calling for the Druchii's head or that they would not follow the 'Dark Phoenix' ... others standing in silent shock. Even Olis sat in silence and seemed lost for words.
“The might of the Phoenix prepares outside your city walls as we speak!” These words seemed to bring a harsh reality to the room, where much of the shouting stopped and turned to a cacophony of conversations.
“Swear your fealty now and join the true king or die traitors! You have been lied to, the reign of the false kings has ended!
Shouting filled the room once more as many tried to advance upon the surrounding sentinels, threatening an all out skirmish within the hall.
That is until Kendrik realized grey smoke filled the area beside him where Velnos had been, followed by a flash of smoke near the front of the formation. Then the Druchii was gone!
Only to reappear beside the high chair, with the Nagarathi gripping him by the neck. Velnos had a snarl upon his face, eyes as grey as the shadow magic he used... and a knife in his free hand.
“Here is our answer!” Velnos shouted and brought the knife up with a flash, thrusting it through the eye of the Druchii. He then released his grip and allowed the elf to tumble down the short flight of stairs and rest at the feet of the Sentinels.
The room was silent, with all eyes fixed upon the Nagarathi who now had a mighty white great-sword in a rested position pointing to the ground...gripped with both hands.
His long dark hair flowed past his face from his tiled head, combining with his dark armor and cloak to give a rather ominous look.
Slowly, Velnos raised his gaze from the dead Druchii, and looked upon those before him.
“Does anyone disagree!?” He queried with a growl.
* *
Sure enough, the Druchii had told the truth... an army was now outside the city walls, arriving only two days after the spectacle in the hall. Now, after a week of impending siege... though no actual attack. Its desired effects seemed to be setting in, already the city was divided... with each passing day more and more Asur seemed to go over to the new 'phoenix army' outside the walls.
Though the Royal Company seemed relatively in tact, the odd desertion was to be expected. Yet they were a large family, bonded through war... or at least the portion that had sailed with him. On a positive side of things... more of a silver lining to a dire situation. His fleet had gained two new warships, a barge, and a number of joiners throughout the city. This was more then likely from the latest gathering in the hall, to where Kendrik stated his plans.
He had finally received word from Gidras Brakist, his ally in Eataine who also wished to join Tyrion. They would meet near the northern isles of Eataine and make a push through the Lothern straight.. as its gates no longer controlling the pass.
With the armies of Malekith on the march and his fleets scouring the inner sea near Saphery, it seemed the only option to reach Cothique... where Prince Tyrion held his base of power and was currently mustering his forces.
And so, his fleet sailed out of the bay... leaving those undecided with Olis and taking anyone who would follow.
* *
Their rendezvous went as planned, meeting at an inlet bay on the north-western edge of Eataine, where they anchored the fleet and set up camp upon the shore. Their numbers now close to the original strength of the Royal Company.
It is here they waited and observed... through a network of scouts, they were able to watch the Lothern straight. Seeking the moment where the naval strength of Malekith would be needed elsewhere.
Kendrik let out a sigh and rubbed the sleep out of his eyes, he had lost count of the weeks. Or had it been over a month already?
“The report should have arrived by now.” Stated Gidras as he poured himself a glass of wine from the flagon on a nearby table.
He chose not to comment on the obvious fact, and instead let his eyes wander along the poles that supported the white pavilion above their heads. It rustled with the light winds and echoed the sounds of lapping waves nearby.
They both knew that the scouts were not always on time and the delay of one would ripple down the network.
“Though I did receive disturbing news from the North.” Continued Gidras and sat in a chair across from Kendrik.
“Oh?” Responded Kendrik as he gazed upon the brown hair'd Asur before him. Gidras wore a casual black robe with red outlines.
“Tyrion defeated Malekith on the Blighted Isle....”
Kendrik sat up and adjusted his chair with interest.
“Though this 'dark phoenix' still lives.”
“It is still a victory... how is this news disturbing?” Queried Kendrik and furrowed his brow.
“He has drawn the 'WidowMaker'....” Continued Gidras, to which they both sat in silence.
“That is... disturbing.” Echoed Dethadrin from the end of the pavilion. He turned his gaze from the maps on a table and adjusted his white and blue robes.
“He has forsaken us all then...” Kendrik added while placing his head in his hands.
The three of them were speechless, causing a tormenting and lingering silence to envelope the pavilion. That is until a voice from outside its flap doors, requested an audience.
Gidras quickly beckoned the sentinel inside, in which he was given a letter shortly after. It took him a few moments to read it, its contents giving him cause to rise from his chair.
“It is the report, the strength of Lothern sails North!” He said enthusiastically and handed the letter to Kendrik.
“Send the word, prepare to break camp.” Gidras then ordered to the sentinel, who gave a quick nod and left the pavilion.
“They go to reinforce Malekith...” Dethadrin pondered and returned his attention to the maps.
“Tyrion will surely follow... if he has the 'WidowMaker' then his mind is lost, and so will all those near enough to hear its siren song.”
Kendrik nodded in agreement to Dethadrins' words. The nightmare had just become worse.
* *
The fleet had set sail within the week and now headed East, taking their only foreseen opportunity to break out of the prison that was the 'inner sea'. The 'Sunblade' anchored the center of the fleet formation, flanked by their two Eagle class vessels: one being captain Arleni's vessel, the other being the flagship for Gidras. The remaining ships followed in their wake to make three long lines.
It was not until the third day with its morning light rising in the sky, did they see the force that would oppose them. They came upon the enemy fleet near the 'Golden Reef', a lonely island before the Lothern straight, know for its immense sand beaches. The combined Asur and Druchii fleet was rather larger then they had expected... or of which had been reported.
And as the two forces drew closer, some of the sails were unmistakable... the dark blue canvas of the Royal Company.
Kendrik stood upon the fore-deck of the 'Sunblade' with Soretu next to him, utilizing his spy-glass to observe the enemy fleet.
“Yep, she carries neutral colors, looks as though they wish to talk before this little party gets underway.” The commodore said with a chuckle and handed Kendrik the spy-glass.
The vessel he was referring to, was a small sloop that had broken off the enemy fleet, and headed towards the sand beaches of the isle to the west.
“Good, then I will go.” Kendrik stated and handed the looking glass back to Soretu.
“Alone?” Lisiel added from nearby, and looked very un-impressed.
“I must.” He answered and took her hands within his. “I must know if he is there, if Althran is in command... if he is alive... then I must speak with him.”
Her brown eyes filled with water, yet she gave him a kiss and a slow understanding nod.
He smiled warmly and then turned towards the mid deck, to where his griffon Khaine awaited.
* *
It took little time for Kendrik to reach the island, and he now awaited the approaching longboat that had been released from the sloop. Two Druchii corsairs pulled at the oars while two other figures stood on either end, staring in his direction.
One wore dark purple and black armor, with a high crested helm and a pair of swords at his waist. Clearly a Druchii dreadlord from some house of Naggaroth. The other, fully clad in shimmering golden armor, his helm held under his arm allowing his dark hair to flow in the wind.
It was as he feared...
His griffon paced uneasily a few paces behind him upon the approach of the two figures. The Druchii had now removed his helm, revealing high pale cheek bones with jet black eyes... the mark of an elder. An experienced and deadly adversary.
“Have you come to pledge your fealty to your new king?” The Druchii said with a hint of sarcasm, though his face seemed rather serious.
Kendrik smiled in response and gave a slight shake of his head. Then looked Althran in the eyes.
“Where is Dethadrin?” Asked his old friend... and mentor. He then looked up into the clouded sky, scanning for any signs of the dragon.
“Have you lost your mind Althran?!” Kendrik returned in a passionate bark, it had taken the Druchii but a few seconds to render his blood hot.
“Who are we to question the will of Asuryan? The Royal Company is loyal to the throne, it matters not who sits upon it.” Althran answered calmly, while his eyes still looked to the sky.
Kendrik started to chuckle, a maddening chuckle of disbelief.
“You told me once... that the Royal Company was built with the heart of Ulthuan. A unity of the kingdoms and colonies, a unified family. Just as Ulthuan would unite in times of darkness.” Kendrik spoke reminiscently and shifted his gaze upon the Druchii, who seemed to shuffle uneasily.
“Is this what you have fought for all these years? Alongside my father? You said he died to protect us all, keeping Ulthuan from becoming the darkness.”
Althran snapped his head back and gazed upon Kendrik with passionate eyes.
“Boy, the true darkness is in the north, marching from the gates of hell itself!” Althran shouted in defiance and took a step forward.
“It is not too late to swear your fealty...” The dreadlord added with a smile.
“Ah, that I cannot argue Althran, and yet this path before you... along side the Witch King-”
“He is the Phoenix King!” Interjected the Druchii.
Kendrik shook his head, “Whatever ever title you give him, he is still the same who has wrought destruction upon the Asur for thousands of years... taken so many of those close to us...”
“You need to let her go Kendrik!”
“You are lost Althran... I will never forget. Nor will I blacken my soul to follow Imrik the traitor, Teclis the schemer and Malekith the Witch King!”
Kendrik turned and began to walk away from the duo as he finished.
“It is you who are lost!” Althran shouted in defiance. “And you will die here!”
He sat upon the saddle and turned to them one last time.
“To face the darkness is one thing Althran, but how you meet it is what defines us. Your family stands on the brink of war, will you be the one to divide us?” Khaine screeched with passion as Kendrik finished.
Though the Druchii had reached for something within his dark cloak, and pulled out a hand held repeater crossbow. Which soon was pointed towards Kendrik.
“No!” Althran shouted and tried to lower the Druchii weapon, yet not before a bolt released. Striking Kendrik in the leg.
He shouted in pain as his griffon took to the air.
“You are a damned fool!” Came Althrans' voice from below, along with the release of yet another bolt, which streaked through the air and missed Khaine by mere inches.
* *
“Damned Druchii!” Arleni growled passionately while cleaning the wound.
“Did you see which vessel they boarded?” Kendrik queried and winced with pain.
“Aye, they are on the same ship that Althran left on in the first place. It is 'Moons'Ril', on the sea side of their formation.” Soretu answered confidently.
“Then he truly means to sail against us?” Lisiel asked in disbelief.
To which Velnos nodded and said, “it seems that way.”
“Soretu... tell me you have a plan, we seemed to be outnumbered.” Kendrik added and hoped the colonial had an answer.
“Ha!” The commodore gaff'd. “Of course I do, brief'd the captains of the fleet my self while you got yourself skewered.”
Kendrik stifled with laughter towards the smiling Soretu.
“Good, my only request is that you get us as close as possible to Althrans ship.” He added and looked off in the distance towards the enemy fleet.
“Oh I wouldn't worry about that....” Soretu said and joined his gaze. “The 'Sunblade' will carve half their ships to pieces... he will come to us. That! You can be sure of.”
* *
The groaning and cracking of timbers filled the air, as the dark sail'd mast came crashing down into the water. The ship itself, quickly taking on water... standing little chance against the mighty Ilthilmar blade upon the prow of the 'Sunblade'. Yet another victim to the skillful sailing of Soretu.
The Royal Company's vessels under Althrans command, had taken a center position within their fleet. And was exactly what Soretu decided to avoid, to which he had concentrated their fleet to the East, on the seaward side of their fleet. They had a South Westerly wind at their backs, causing their adversaries to be pushed towards the shores of the island. As such, many had already run aground... while the others fruitlessly attempted to tack into the wind and maneuver past their own ships.
It was madness.
Arrows and bolts flew through the air as ships exchanged broadsides of bolt thrower batteries. Others were rammed and boarded, giving way to bloody skirmishes.
Dethadrin had now joined the fray, streaking in like a hurricane once again. Though the dragon was terrifying upon the sea, able to pick up ships from their masts or douse them in flames of destruction. Not to mention Dethadrin himself, weaving the winds of magic and igniting corsair ships with brilliant white flames.
The 'Sunblade' was at the vanguard, clearing a path through the enemy vessels. Allowing their fleet to fend off the formations flanks and follow in its wake.
Yet despite their tactics, their ships were slowly becoming overwhelmed. The Druchii corsairs boarded at every opportunity, allowing their superior numbers to gain the advantage.
Kendrik stood upon the mid deck of the 'Sunblade', limping while shouting encouragement and being visible for those around him. His griffon, stalking his every move.
Soretu had predicted that Althran would come to find them, and it surprisingly did not take very long. His ship the 'Moons'Ril' came up on their starboard, just as another corsair ship did the same on their port. Grappling hooks followed from the Druchii, to which they quickly boarded.
Lisiel streaked past him with the black tipped spear at the ready, her quiver now empty. Following her closely, were golden armor'd Asur, charging to meet the boarding corsairs.
Lucinia and Velnos stood at Kendriks side, facing starboard... and to where Althran prepared to engage. Surrounded by golden armor'd warriors and Druchii alike.
Though his eyes set on Lucinia... his wife. The once determined passion to fulfill his duty, slowly fading from his features.
Then a fierce hatred filled his eyes, Kendrik could see it... as they were now shouting distance between them.
Althran raised his sword into the air and shouted towards where the three of them stood.
“KILL THE DRUCHII!” He roared with all his might, causing brief hesitation within his golden guardians. Until he struck down a corsair nearby, and proceeded to run his sword through another.
A full scale skirmish irrupted upon the deck of the 'Moons'Ril', to which Kendrik could not help but smile.
“TO YOUR BROTHERS!” Kendrik shouted to those gathered near him.
Lucinia ran forward, wielding death magic from her one good arm and leding a group of golden Asur over the side rail to reinforce Althran.
Then he felt pain, and caused him to reach over to his upper arm... feeling the cold steel of a Druchii bolt; which had pierced through a gap in the plate and passed through the golden scale discs.
“I knew Althran was soft!” Came the voice of the Dreadlord from behind them.
Kendrik turned to see Druchii flooding the deck, and fighting bitterly against the golden armor'd crew.
His griffon leaping back and forth among the corsairs.
The dreadlord had one of two swords drawn, and the hand-held crossbow in the other, smiling. Until a spear tip streaked towards him, forcing a parry from his sword.
“Oh and who is this pretty thing!” He shouted joyfully and released a bolt at close range. Striking Lisiels' shoulder beneath the silver plate, and causing her to drop the spear.
“Lisiel!” Kendrik shouted while taking a painful step forward, to which a hand grasped his shoulder. Then grey smoke disrupted his vision.
The Nagarathi was then in front of the Druchii, pushing him back with swipes of the white great-sword. Then disappearing within a flash of smoke, only to re-appear behind the dreadlord. Causing him to spin in panic with last minute deflections of the deadly strikes. The surrounding corsairs were randomly cut down during the onslaught of Velnos. His movements almost impossible to follow.
Kendrik had made his way towards Lisiel with the help of his griffon, whom lashed out at any corsair brave enough to advance.
Then he sensed something... a presence with the winds of magic. To which he looked down the deck, and there among the skirmishing of golden and ebony clad warriors... walked a sorceress. Yet she was no Druchii... but an Asur! Clad in a violet flowing gown, her white hair... sailing in the wind... and her eyes... pure white.
She was draining the winds!
Which halted Velnos in his tracks, allowing the Druchii to take a quick shot with his crossbow. Its bolt, striking just below the collar bone.
Kendrik quickly stretched out his hand and let the energy flow through him to grip the winds and pull them from her grasp. Pressure started to build, the energy running wild and pushing against them.
Velnos parried the Druchii sword with a wide swing and knocked the repeater crossbow from the dreadlords hand with a follow through of the sword hilt.
Yet his adversary was quick and countered with a thrust of his sword, which caused Velnos to shout out in pain, as it pierced through the right side of his stomach.
Kendrik lost a moment of concentration in watching the duel, to which the sorceress gained the upper hand. The energy began to push against him, tearing at him from the inside. Until a faint grunt came from behind him, and was followed by a spear that streaked through the air. The energy came into his full control, which puzzled him for a brief moment before realizing the sorceress had collapsed to her knees... from a spear through the center of her chest.
“Bitch.” Is all that came from Lisiel who was now standing next him, holding her wounded shoulder.
Then yet another shout of pain returned his attention to Velnos, however it was the Druchii who had stepped back... clutching his nose in pain.
The Nagarathi, standing like an immortal demon, holding the Druchii helm and ignoring the bolt through his shoulder or the sword embedded in his stomach. His white great-sword resting at his feet.
The dreadlord instinctively grabbed his second sword and skillfully lashed out as he unsheathed the blade. Yet it found only smoke.
As Velnos appeared behind him with Druchii blade in hand, and in one movement the sword pierced through the dreadlords back. The pain causing him to arch and raise his arms, allowing the Nagarathi to take the second sword.
He then slashed the Druchii's tendons behind the knee caps, causing the dreadlord to collapse upon his hands and knees.
Velnos calmly walked in front of the crippled foe and gripped his dark black hair, wrenching it back to gaze upon his face.
“Well aren't you a pretty thing.” He said cold and mockingly before thrusting the sword through the dreadlords gaping mouth.
The Druchii fell forward with the release of his hair, and limply landed on the deck.
* *
Much of the Royal Company rejoined with the timely decision of Althran, to which they destroyed much of the Druchii fleet and certain Asur ships that continued on with the attack.
The Lothern straight, which followed soon after... was a mere harrying of inadequately resourced defenses. The fortress battlements carved into the very cliffs of the straight, clearly did not have the required Asur, or Druchii to mount any sort of defense. To which their fleet passed through relatively unharmed.
Once clear, they had convened to decide their next course. Nagarythe had been agreed upon, knowing that they would never join the Druchii. It logically seemed like the reliable choice, and somewhere to which they could gain more information about Tyrion's forces... If the rumors were correct, then they had fallen further then the Druchii themselves.
The voyage seemed long, and slow moving as it became difficult to keep the fleet together. Being forced to abandon certain ships that had taken too much damage. But progress was made, and they healed their wounds in the process.
Velnos was by far the most entertaining to watch, as he was observed by Denathy and Arleni on a regular basis. Which was accompanied by a strong protestation of being 'fine'.
Though it was the day they came upon the edges of Tiranoc, near the sunken ruins of Tor Anrok, it was the day that changed everything.
Kendrik would never forget the sounds, the horrendous groaning of the mountains as they fell into the sea. The dark blast of energy that went miles into the air and brought enormous storm clouds... the great chasms that split the very island apart and brought Ulthuan beneath the sea.
They had watched... for what seemed an eternity, from the safety of their ships. They watched as the tales of old were brought to light, yet not the partial destruction like the 'Sundering' of old... this took everything.
He had been forced to watch his fellow Asur jump into the sea, garbed in full armor and overtaken by the madness they witnessed before them.
Yet most endured.
And also decided on something else... Kendrik had realized they represented Ulthuan now... A fleet comprised of the ten kingdoms and colonies. Those under Malekith would change... if any of them had survived... But they... they would carry on.
They would sail west, towards the 'Tower of the Rising Sun'.
He had been born on an island near there, it had been his home once. They would make it so once more.
They would rebuild and defend the culture... no the idea of what Ulthuan was... its spirit... its heart.
The End.