The Fable of Hermoak
Act I. Scene I.
A battle rages on, soldiers are beating down on the sage's army. Large bolts of destructive magic are flung at the opposing forces. Enormous demons with bodies ablaze spring up from the ground slaughtering many soldiers of both opposing sides. Entwor stands with his master Phaem who is upon a horse. The other sage warriors stand in an awkward line. They listen while missiles and other projectiles crash all around them.
Phaem: Death is upon us, men! This is our time to prove to the imperials that we are not mere savages. Nay! We, the people of Hermoak, are sophisticated and civilized individuals with honorable rites that deserve conservation! We will not die to their blind ignorance! Let us chase these soldiers back to hell!
Men cheer as they charge, but while they do a cannon ball kills a large amount. Men stumble over corpses and fumble into battle where they are almost immediately slaughtered.
Phaem: Entwor, you are the last of the Kiloth tribe. Your family was a great clan, but I too have lost everything. The torn bodies of my clan lie in a ruin of their great hall. I can do nothing for them now. I'm only a mere sage such as yourself. We can only look toward the future.
Entwor: I understand, you wish for me to stay back for the final stand. We shall unite and drive back the opposition!
Phaem: No, Entwor. I pray for your survival. Hermes, our god, will aid you in this last quest I give you.
Entwor: Master, I wish to die with you!
Phaem: I know, but you must live. My desire is to breathe in the sweet air of the morning like your fellow soldiers dying in the field. We're all yarning for life and salvation, yet we've been condemned to our death! That is how it must be!
Entwor: But I do not understand!
Phaem: There are many things I have yet to teach you, so this shall be your next lesson. Go north of this position, find the great wizard Carod. He'll be your new teacher. Tell any soldier who remains to stand and fight for all of Hermoak. We shall hold Carod's position as long as we can!
Entwor: Then I shall, master.
Phaem: Entwor, I love you as if you were my own. May Hermes watch your feet.
Entwor: Yours as well.
Phaem: Sadly, I am no longer a humble traveler today. I go to Hades as a warrior tonight! Yah!
Phaem charges. While he gallops onto the battle flied, an arrow strikes him. He grabs onto the arrow but loses his balance and falls from his horse. His body lies stiffly dead.
Scene II.
Entwor runs to the north. He follows a war wrecked trail. Bodies of soldiers are scattered all over the trails with burnt down siege equipment standing limply. The soldiers' blood is still fresh. Entwor continues his race to Carod. He then arrives to the ruins of a small house where several wounded sages stand guarding the holy ground. Carod stands within the defensive perimeter.
Sage Soldier 1: Hail brother! Do you bring new insight from the front?
Entwor: I'm sorry, but all hope is lost. The imperial army has broken our lines. We're now like lambs without a shepherd awaiting the starving wolves to devour us. Before I fled, I witness the massacre of over a dozen very skilled sages.
Sage Soldier 2: Then what are our orders?
Entwor: Stand and fight.
Sage Soldier 1: Then let us fight!
All soldiers cheer besides the third soldier named Onad.
Sage Soldier 4: What is it, brother Onad?
Onad: Why must we die here of all places? This is not my home land. My father died protecting his homeland. Let me go back to mine!
Sage Soldier 2: This is our homeland, brother. All of Hermoak belongs to us.
Sage Soldier 1: This is not the time to converse! The present requires us to die. Do you remember all the brothers who died while we made our retreat? This is how we must pay those restless souls. This is the only way to ease their pain.
Onad: I shall stand and fight, but I shall not die.
Sage Soldier 4: Then I shall assure your survival, friend.
Sage Soldier 2: I vow to keep you alive as well.
Sage Soldier 1: And I swear to the great god Hermes to kill any soldier that aims toward your heel, comrade. If that requires the loss of both my heels, then so be it.
Sage Soldier 4: And if your heels are broken, brother. I will give you mine if it suffices.
Onad: You all are truly my brothers. Let us live together and swear on it.
Sage Soldiers and Onad: For life! For family! For Hermoak! For the new king of Hermoak, Carod!
Entwor: New king?
Onad: They're coming. Let us fight for the new kingdom!
Sage Soldier 1: That's the spirit! Hold your positions!
Entwor goes past the soldiers as they cast spells off into the distance. He rides up onto a hill with a long plateau. Carod stands there with a group of wounded mages all silently waiting.
Carod: Hail sage, what is your name?
Entwor: My name is Entwor.
Carod points to Entwor's clan mark, which can be plainly seen on Entwor's leather tabard.
Carod: Ah, I see you are a warrior of the Kiloth clan. Strange, I thought your clan lived within the mountains. Why are you here?
Entwor: I have been training with my master Phaem for the month. A few days ago, I've been informed that I am now the only existing warrior of Kiloth for Kiloth's great hall had crumbled under the weight of the imperialists' cannon ball hail. Our secret wisdom was destroyed with it. I'm sorry, your majesty.
Carod: No, I should be sorry. The old kingdom failed you and me, but we shall unite.
Entwor: I find that hard to believe for the wizards of the land never had interest in allying for any situation. Even now, our small clans and villages fell separately. They once rivaled each other with great champions. I was to be the successor for Enten, but he died leading a small defense against the large opposition.
Carod: Now you are the successor of Enten. What has happened to your master, Phaem?
Entwor: He was killed.
Carod: Ah, so we've lost the capital of Hermoak…
Onad enters.
Onad: My three brothers are dead, and the enemy has retreated!
Carod: Ah, Onad, lead this young one out of here. I shall join you momentarily.
Onad: I shall for the honor of my poor brothers.
Carod: Much of this probably doesn't make sense to you right now, Entwor; however, I'll make sure you'll understand soon. Onad, make sure Entwor survives. If he dies, then the hope of this new kingdom dies with him.
Onad: What do you mean, my lord?
Carod: Soon, things shall be clearer. For now, we must flee. I shall seek you soon.
Onad: Yes, sire.
Onad grabs Entwor's hand, and a lighting bolt cracks on their location. They disappear. Tobin appears on the scene. He's mounted on a brown horse.
Tobin: My lord!
Carod: Tobin, my page, come to me! What have you seen?
Tobin: In the mountains of Kiloth, I have found ten scrolls. Each is an account written by a sage from the old, old kingdom. He writes of a power hidden within the mountain. This unique power can make a connection to the god Hermes and open up hell if pleased. The beasts that awake from their earthly slumber are much stronger than the demons we can control with magic. Even our god Hermes could not control the beasts that were awakened thousands of years ago.
Carod: Ah, I knew all of this, but tell me, how do I gain this power?
Tobin: It is written that the champion of Kiloth has the wisdom. With his death, dies the knowledge.
Carod: Damn! Hurry, my page, flee to Kiloth. Remain hidden even during battle. Wait until you meet a young man named Entwor. Only then will you serve Hermes. Give Entwor this letter as well.
Carod hands Entwor a letter.
Tobin: You're wise and noble, King Carod. I shall do as you please.
Carod: Thank you, son. I love you.
Tobin: And I love you, father.
Tobin rides off into the distance. There is evidence of intense fighting below the mountain. Carod grabs his soldiers and aids the defenders.
City Hermes Notes
(North) Temple of Hermes: There is a small temple where a sheep is sheltered in a cage that is elegantly decorated (the sheep is known as the vessel). The priest that stands there offers healing to the injured and cursed. A philosopher also stands somewhere near the priest. A group of people stand around the philosopher. He preaches a new philosophy every night to revive the ideas of Hermoak. The people near him tell you his past story and other background stories about the village.
(West) Houses: A few scattered homes are built in the large city of Hermes. They are clearly old and have roots climbing all over them. Some people build tree houses around these houses. Some villagers roam here aimlessly discussing amongst each other.
(East) Market: There are two shops near a river that runs aside the city. One shop sells potions. The other shop sells scrolls and one mythology book.
Scene III.
Onad appears before Entwor is idly standing around.
Onad: King Carod arrived from the kingdom of Kiel. He's in the Temple of Hermes preparing to address the city. You should see.
Entwor: What tidings does he bring?
Onad: I've heard rumors of wars.
Entwor: I see. Thank you, Onad.
Onad: You're welcome, Entwor. Let's go together.
Entwor: Lead the way.
Onad leads Entwor to Carod. Carod is standing before a large group of villagers and sages. He begins his speech once Entwor enters the area.
Carod: Brethren who worship the kind god Hermes, I bring grave news! The powerful King Olaf has declared war upon our humble kingdom made of merely one city! We are to take drastic measures for he plans to drive through us all with swords and arrows!
Villager 1 (Male): What are we to do?!
Villager 2 (Male): Let us draw our swords and fight them at the entrance of our humble city!
Villager 3 (Female): No! That is suicide! We should flee by opening a rift within this world. I've heard that there's a sage within this city that knows the secret art of portal opening. Let's find a new home outside this realm and take the vessel of Hermes with us! Maybe he'll protect us!
Villager 1: What if the soldiers follow? Hermes has neglected us so far. How do you know he'd provide us safety somewhere else?
Villager 2: Then we'll fight the evil imperialist wherever Onad takes us! We shall kill them and hang their appendages upon our walls! Their heads shall be decorations for our evening tables!
Villager 3: You savage!
Villager 2: Damn civil morality! We shall recreate the ethics we now know. Our philosophy is just a corrupt outlook that the evil imperialists have plagued us with. They only wish to pull us back, so they can kill us!
Priest of Hermes: No brother, you are wrong. The principles we've followed have been inspired by Hermes. We, the priests of Hermes, would never allow outsiders to influence our teachings.
Villager 2: You are only a blind follower to a belief that is now dead. Hermes will not protect us. He has turned his head. We are on our own.
Priest of Hermes: Be patient! If you are imperturbable, the enemy will not triumph! Hermes shall save us!
Villager 4 (Male): Then you want us to stay here and die?!
Crowd argues further as Onad turns to Entwor. He is too upset.
Onad: See how our king just stands and listens? We are doomed unless a hero rises and saves this land, but who shall that be?
Entwor: Our king shall be perseverant. Watch, he's about to speak!
Carod: Enough! Even though this mighty king is obstinate about his decision to eradicate our people, he has agreed to see one man with an escort. Entwor, where are you?
Entwor: Here I am, my lord.
Carod: I've talked to the god Hermes before the war began. He told me that you are the key. I'm not sure what he means, but I now know you are hero of Hermoak. Please, go now with Onad and talk to King Olaf in his kingdom of Kiel. Prepare yourselves. He's a hungry wolf in royal robes, but I have my full confidence in you, lad.
Onad: Thank you, my lord.
Entwor: Thank you.
Carod: Now go. Return once you can.
Scene IV.
Entwor and Onad ride off into the distance. They take the back route. As they ride off into the distance, a raven flies above. It watches them protectively as they gallop towards the castle in the distance. It's a beautiful picture. The large walls protecting the castle are like mountains, and a glimpse of the enormous castle can be seen. Entwor and Onad ride to the entrance. It's morning of the second day.
Guard: Who goes there?
Entwor: I am Entwor. This is my escort Onad.
Guard: Please enter inside, Entwor. Your comrade will have to remain outside.
Entwor: Thank you.
Guard: Address me as sir, sage.
Entwor: Thank you, sir.
The guard casts a spell and the gate opens. Entwor dismounts and walks into the city. It is lifeless. No commoner walks the empty streets. Signs of life are few, and rats run amuck. Entwor walks rigidly. He is unnerved by the forlorn sight. A gale blows through the city, and the loud whistle of bare buildings is heard throughout the city. Entwor ascends up cement stairs that lead to the castle's main gate. The gate opens as Entwor approaches, and he walks into a dark camber. He reluctantly walks in and watches the gate close behind him. He smiles to himself. The fear in him was accelerating, yet he found humor in the situation.
Entwor: Hello?
Ghost: Are you here for King Olaf?
Entwor: Yes, where is he?
Ghost: He's been sent to Hades by the aid of a dagger.
Entwor: Oh, who has killed him?
Ghost: I did, of course. The weak man has been my puppet for thirty years, and now he lies in a pool of his own blood.
Entwor: Who are you?
Ghost: I am a ghost.
Entwor: Ghost, I demand that you leave this land! Your business no longer remains with the living!
Ghost: You are ignorant of many things, Entwor, yet you shall be familiar with them soon. Let this visitation be a warning to you. All the demons of the world have banded together to fight man. We've been ordered to kill you all within the next two days.
Entwor: Why two days?
Ghost: Within two days, the undead will rise up. They'll walk amongst King Olaf's evil men, and they'll hunt down every mortal who lives on earth. The only way to prevent the end of the world is through world war! You must go down and unleash the demons from hell. If you are powerful enough, you will cleanse the earth of the undead and vile humanity.
Entwor: Are you here to lead the undead to victory?
Ghost: No, I am here to provoke human chaos. You've all armed yourselves and are preparing for battle near the mountain of Kiloth. There, we've convinced the sages that there is incredible power by shaping history with our own hand, but in truth, the mountain is the portal to hell. King Olaf then killed himself. Within his dying days, he declared war on the wizard clans and sent thousands of his troops to Kiloth to defend the city. When your King Carod leads his army against the other soldiers, there will be a great battle that will shake the mountain. On the third day, King Carod will fall and the gateway to hell will be opened by you. The dead will then rise up again, and the whole world will be plunged into war!
Entwor: Who will win?
Ghost: If there is not intervention by the gods, the demons will rule this world. The souls in Hades will then mutate into demons, and the essence of humanity will disappear.
Entwor: Who will intervene?
Ghost: You shall!
Entwor: But how would I intervene?
Ghost: I can not tell you. Your intervention may cause much destruction, yet if you can control the demons you unleash, then you may be given the power to overcome your foes. Open the gates of hell, and you'll learn how to defeat all your greatest foes!
Entwor: I suppose this information will be sufficient.
Ghost: Good, now go, ally. You have little time left. The two human forces are preparing the battle. This is the beginning of the second day.
The gate opens as there is a mist of smoke that leaves the building. Entwor follows it out. He leaves the city and mounts his horse with Onad by his side. They gallop off toward Kiloth.
Onad: Oy, Entwor! Aren't we supposed to go to Hermes City?
Entwor: I'm sorry, Onad. We must run to Kiloth. Our world is in great danger!
Act II. Scene I.
Kiloth Notes
Kiloth is a small city that is captured by King Olaf's army. The general residing in one of the hundreds of tents is Lieko. He stands and talks amongst his advisers. They tell them that they have surrounded Hermes City.
Tobin hides beneath a bush. He has been there for two days. It is dusk now. It's obvious that he's exhausted from the lack of sleep as archers pass him frequently. He listens carefully to two archers passing by.
Archer 1: I've heard from a fellow archer from the front lines that the war will be over soon. The new rebel king Carod has been captured. He shall be executed tomorrow.
Archer 2: Ah, that is good news indeed. Soon, our world won't have to deal with such vile wizard folk. Their evil rituals will end, and the days of the living demons shall be over.
Archer 1: Praise the gods! Have you heard about the new prisoners?
Archer 2: No, I wasn't aware that wizards were still in this region.
Archer 1: Yes, they are. Entwor the gate opener! He attempted to get past our defenses, but he couldn't escape our arrows.
Archer 2: By the gods, did we kill the deluded man?
Archer 1: Nah, we just stunned him. His friend wasn't doing so hot, from what I hear.
Archer 2: Oh?
Archer 1: Yeah, he jumped in front of the arrows when Entwor fell. Entwor must be an important person. That's why I remember the name.
Archer 2: So you don't know his friend's name?
Archer 1: No, he was too weak to talk anyways. The poor guy is dying quite slowly.
Archer 2: Pity. Not even the wizards deserve such a death.
Archer 1: But do you know how many of our soldiers he has killed?
Archer 2: Well, I don't know!
Archer 1: Of course you don't! So don't let your guard down!
Tobin stands up and blasts the first archer into a tree with a powerful spell. The second one jumps and drops his bow. He stumbles for it, but Tobin ignites the bow aflame! The second archer looks up helplessly. Tobin stares at him.
Tobin: Stay where you are!
Archer 2: What do you want, wizard?
Tobin: I am a sage.
Archer 2: You're a fool.
Tobin: Enough. Tell me where Entwor is.
Archer 2: Is he your leader?
Tobin: Tell me where you take your prisoners.
Archer 2: We put them in the center of our camp. If you follow the path that my friend and I came from, you will see the encampment where your leader is.
Tobin: Well then…
Tobin raises his hand and violently flings the archer into a tree with a blinding spell. The sage then disappears with the use of an invisibility spell. He runs towards the camp. There he spots numerous soldiers. He quietly sneaks through the camp where he hears rumors.
Soldier 1: Did you hear that Carod is dead?
Soldier 2: No, he's mortally wounded!
Soldier 3: They got him at Hermes City! We won the war!
Solider 1: This damn war will never end. The wizards will not give up that easily.
Soldier 4: No, they'll run away from here. There will not stay to fight.
Solider 1: But they united to fight us! When did they ever do that in the past?
Soldier 2: Never from what I've heard!
Soldier 3: How can they fight without a leader? If they diverse, we won!
Tobin shutters and continues on his way towards the prison tent. When he spots two guards at the entrance of a large tent, he slowly sneaks closer to take a better look. Nothing indicates a prison besides the guards. Tobin gets impatient with the guard's watchful diligence. He looks about the camp. Then he wanders towards a tent near the prison tent. It's wide open. He walks in and finds military armor. Tobin turns around to check if anyone is watching. No one is around, so he turns visible again. He puts the armor on and walks out of the tent. Tobin walks past the prison guards who watch him carefully as he leaves, feigning oblivion. Tobin turns and looks for the nearest tent to the prison. He walks up to it and casts a small spell on the tent. It begins to go up in flames, and Tobin runs to the guards.
Tobin: Help! My tent is on fire!
Guard 1: What?! What happened?!
Tobin: A saw a man in a wizard tabard run off with my armor! He must've set my tent on fire to cause a distraction. He mustn't get away!
Guard 1: Here, I'll get him! You take my position as I get help.
Tobin grabs onto their chests. They look at him in surprise, but then they quickly fall onto the ground dead. Tobin runs inside the prison. There a guard stands up. He's a large man with a claymore. The guard approaches him. Tobin flings a spell that instantly kills him. Sweat begins to run down Tobin's face. Entwor stands up.
Entwor: Who are you?!
Tobin: It does not matter. I'm here to help you. Where do you desire to go?
Entwor: Could you take me to the Well of Mystics?
Tobin: I can certainly transport you there. Take my armor. You seem to fit it better than me.
Tobin takes off his helmet. Entwor realizes that Tobin is merely a young teenage boy. Entwor is a young man himself; he accepts the presents with quiet respect. Once Entwor puts on the armor, Tobin grabs Entwor's hand. He smiles as Entwor disappears slowly. As Entwor's face becomes fainter and fainter, Tobin's face grows pale. When Entwor is gone, Tobin faints. His magical energy drained, and with that, his life slowly slips away from him.
Tobin: My father, I have served my god Hermes. Let me rest with you in Hades.
Scene II.
Entwor finds himself in a natural spring. It is deep within the Kiloth Mountain. The rush of the water echoes throughout the cave. In his hand is a note that Tobin slipped into his hand, Entwor opens the letter and reads it out loud.
Entwor: Entwor, a ghost has warned me about the future. I shall die on the third day, which will end the war. He has also warned me that you'd attempt to open the gates of Hades on the same day causing massive destruction. Our people have been wiped out, and we've sacrificed our lives to get to where you are. Now, we expect you to lead us to victory. Please, open the gates within the Mystic Springs. When you do, you will unleash all our fury into the world! Do not heed any words spoken by any entities! Hermes no longer hears our prayers! We shall get our revenge through this plan!
Raven: Entwor! Entwor!
Entwor: Raven! What business do you have here?
Raven: Do you not know that you have been the tool of Loki? Loki has turned himself into a ghost to close your eyes and ears to my voice. I shall not let you pass me now.
Entwor: Raven or demon, let me pass. I must get to the spring and open the gate to the underworld. I can not listen to you now!
Raven: I am Hermes, the messenger god. Your master Phaem has prayed for my guidance, and I have now revealed myself. Your nation did not heed the word of the gods; thus, it fell on its own accord.
Entwor: When have the gods answered our call?
Raven: When has man stopped to listen to Hermes? Only now, a young man fearful of the future stops to listen to my warning! Dear, brave one. Cast down your ambition! You bare the torch of power, yet do not use it to destroy! Use it to guide your abandoned people. King Olaf and Carod have given themselves up to the devils of this world! You must not also!
Entwor: Where do I go?!
Raven: I shall take you to Kiel where your army awaits. Those few sages and villagers who heard my warning have gathered there. They wait for your leadership.
Entwor: But how can I trust you? I wish to see your face.
The raven lands at Entwor's feet. It then transforms into a man with winged boots; his head is dressed with a shiny helmet with wings extended from it. He holds a rod with two serpents coiled around it. Entwor is amazed, and he bows before Hermes.
Hermes: Now, I will take you to Kiel.
Hermes picks up Entwor and flies him out of the cave and to Kiel. There he sets Entwor down in a sloppily congregation of eccentrics from all walks of life. The few hundred men stand dressed in poor quality armor. The people watch Hermes carefully as the two descend.
Hermes: Hark, good people of Hermoak. I have your hero. He shall not misguide you like the evil King Olaf and King Carod. Trust him and you shall be victories in battle.
Villagers: Hail! What royal blood flows through him?
Hermes: Your new kind's blood is as royal as your blood.
Villagers: Hail! Then why shouldn't we be our own king?
Hermes: You will need a king who lives amongst the people. This is your king. Follow him, and he'll serve you.
Villagers: Hail! A king can not serve his people! His people serve him!
Hermes: You shall see! Now, hear him for I have sent him.
Entwor: Brothers, hark! I am no orator, so you may feel like my words are inadequate. But I am a strong warrior! I have fought with you during the past few bloody days, and I'm hungry for resolution! Let us march to Kiloth! There the undead waits with corrupted humanity! Let us end this blight and bring our swords down upon those who wish to destroy our world! Let us once again fight for Hermoak and not for King Carod or King Olaf! Let us be free as men after this disease is over! Because only now can we redeem mankind again, let us fight!
Villagers: You are our king!
Scene III.
Entwor stands before his army at the foot of the mountain of Kiloth. He is mounted on the only horse of the entire army. Though all were different, each soldier has grown in strength and zeal as they stand as one. Bloodlust had spread across the entire group of men, and they wished to sink their blades into the chests of their enemies. Entwor's commanders address him.
Vold: Sir, shall we lead the attack.
Hien: We shall lead your men to victory, my majesty.
Jordan: Your spell casters are prepared.
Entwor: Good. Vold, lead your men up the center. Jordan, split your men into halves. Put one of your officers in charge of the center half and have them aid Vold. Lead your second half on the right. Flank the enemy as you approach them. Hien, you give Jordan some muscle.
Hien: Yes, sire.
Vold: I will not fail you!
Jordan: May Hermes lead us to victory!
Lieko and three mounted commanders stand on top of Kiloth's peak. They watch as their men fight the enemy. Lieko's soldiers quickly retreat as a raven leads hundreds of soldiers into the fray. The soldiers endure the defenses and fortifications of Lieko's army. They also overcome the terror of undead warriors who quickly fall to Entwor's army.
Lieko: This army has overcome all obstacles. There is little that we can do now, men.
Commander 1: Then we must flee, my lord.
Commander 2: No, you coward! We fight!
Commander 3: I've seen my men retreat past us, and we did not stop them. Why shouldn't we go?
Lieko: Enough! Those who wish to die for honor, fall into the enemies' trap. Those who wish to live, flee for your lives. I shall run with them. The enemy has breached the line, and our army is slowly falling apart. Let us ride!
Lieko retreats. As this happens, Entwor and his commanders lead their army. Jordan casts spells and hides behind the shields of nearby warriors. They continue their climb until a rain of arrows catches Jordan and his spell casters off guard. Some dodge the projectiles, but Jordan stumbles. A nearby soldier cries for aid, and another soldier comes to him. They carry Jordan's limp body off the battlefield.
Jordan: Hermes, you have served my human race well. I hoped to have served you as well. Now, I sleep.
Jordan dies.
Hien: My men! We have witnessed the death of Jordan! Let us push onward and for the sake of Jordan! He shall not die in vain!
Hien grabs his sword and runs to the front lines. He begins to dice away at poorly armored soldiers who feebly try to stab Hien with their spears. Hien is stabbed in the shoulder, and he falls backwards. He is merely wounded, yet he mourns in agony.
Hien: Damn the scum who killed me!
Vold and Entwor meet each other at the frontlines. They climb as the enemy retreats. As they reach the top, the soldiers cheer and charge down the hill towards the soldiers who have retreated. They use their spears to run through the wounded mercilessly. At the foot, arches and spell casters pick off the soldiers crossing the lake.
Vold: We have won, my lord!
Entwor: No, the battle is merely over, but the journey is not over.
Vold: Lead us, my king! We shall stay with you until the end!
Entwor: My end will come, so will yours in time. Let us look toward the future and make things right. We shall no longer have kings like the old kingdoms before. Let us make councilors and let them rule over the people: for it's not one man's logic that controls the logic of many men, all men shall control the logic of one man. So a king's duty is to become stupid for God and man. He is a mere tool for them all.
Vold: Then let us fill out our minds for man and God, so we may fill our minds up with man and God.
Entwor: And hopefully, we will be able to do what is good through the thoughts of all men and God.
Vold: That is our prayer.
Act I. Scene I.
A battle rages on, soldiers are beating down on the sage's army. Large bolts of destructive magic are flung at the opposing forces. Enormous demons with bodies ablaze spring up from the ground slaughtering many soldiers of both opposing sides. Entwor stands with his master Phaem who is upon a horse. The other sage warriors stand in an awkward line. They listen while missiles and other projectiles crash all around them.
Phaem: Death is upon us, men! This is our time to prove to the imperials that we are not mere savages. Nay! We, the people of Hermoak, are sophisticated and civilized individuals with honorable rites that deserve conservation! We will not die to their blind ignorance! Let us chase these soldiers back to hell!
Men cheer as they charge, but while they do a cannon ball kills a large amount. Men stumble over corpses and fumble into battle where they are almost immediately slaughtered.
Phaem: Entwor, you are the last of the Kiloth tribe. Your family was a great clan, but I too have lost everything. The torn bodies of my clan lie in a ruin of their great hall. I can do nothing for them now. I'm only a mere sage such as yourself. We can only look toward the future.
Entwor: I understand, you wish for me to stay back for the final stand. We shall unite and drive back the opposition!
Phaem: No, Entwor. I pray for your survival. Hermes, our god, will aid you in this last quest I give you.
Entwor: Master, I wish to die with you!
Phaem: I know, but you must live. My desire is to breathe in the sweet air of the morning like your fellow soldiers dying in the field. We're all yarning for life and salvation, yet we've been condemned to our death! That is how it must be!
Entwor: But I do not understand!
Phaem: There are many things I have yet to teach you, so this shall be your next lesson. Go north of this position, find the great wizard Carod. He'll be your new teacher. Tell any soldier who remains to stand and fight for all of Hermoak. We shall hold Carod's position as long as we can!
Entwor: Then I shall, master.
Phaem: Entwor, I love you as if you were my own. May Hermes watch your feet.
Entwor: Yours as well.
Phaem: Sadly, I am no longer a humble traveler today. I go to Hades as a warrior tonight! Yah!
Phaem charges. While he gallops onto the battle flied, an arrow strikes him. He grabs onto the arrow but loses his balance and falls from his horse. His body lies stiffly dead.
Scene II.
Entwor runs to the north. He follows a war wrecked trail. Bodies of soldiers are scattered all over the trails with burnt down siege equipment standing limply. The soldiers' blood is still fresh. Entwor continues his race to Carod. He then arrives to the ruins of a small house where several wounded sages stand guarding the holy ground. Carod stands within the defensive perimeter.
Sage Soldier 1: Hail brother! Do you bring new insight from the front?
Entwor: I'm sorry, but all hope is lost. The imperial army has broken our lines. We're now like lambs without a shepherd awaiting the starving wolves to devour us. Before I fled, I witness the massacre of over a dozen very skilled sages.
Sage Soldier 2: Then what are our orders?
Entwor: Stand and fight.
Sage Soldier 1: Then let us fight!
All soldiers cheer besides the third soldier named Onad.
Sage Soldier 4: What is it, brother Onad?
Onad: Why must we die here of all places? This is not my home land. My father died protecting his homeland. Let me go back to mine!
Sage Soldier 2: This is our homeland, brother. All of Hermoak belongs to us.
Sage Soldier 1: This is not the time to converse! The present requires us to die. Do you remember all the brothers who died while we made our retreat? This is how we must pay those restless souls. This is the only way to ease their pain.
Onad: I shall stand and fight, but I shall not die.
Sage Soldier 4: Then I shall assure your survival, friend.
Sage Soldier 2: I vow to keep you alive as well.
Sage Soldier 1: And I swear to the great god Hermes to kill any soldier that aims toward your heel, comrade. If that requires the loss of both my heels, then so be it.
Sage Soldier 4: And if your heels are broken, brother. I will give you mine if it suffices.
Onad: You all are truly my brothers. Let us live together and swear on it.
Sage Soldiers and Onad: For life! For family! For Hermoak! For the new king of Hermoak, Carod!
Entwor: New king?
Onad: They're coming. Let us fight for the new kingdom!
Sage Soldier 1: That's the spirit! Hold your positions!
Entwor goes past the soldiers as they cast spells off into the distance. He rides up onto a hill with a long plateau. Carod stands there with a group of wounded mages all silently waiting.
Carod: Hail sage, what is your name?
Entwor: My name is Entwor.
Carod points to Entwor's clan mark, which can be plainly seen on Entwor's leather tabard.
Carod: Ah, I see you are a warrior of the Kiloth clan. Strange, I thought your clan lived within the mountains. Why are you here?
Entwor: I have been training with my master Phaem for the month. A few days ago, I've been informed that I am now the only existing warrior of Kiloth for Kiloth's great hall had crumbled under the weight of the imperialists' cannon ball hail. Our secret wisdom was destroyed with it. I'm sorry, your majesty.
Carod: No, I should be sorry. The old kingdom failed you and me, but we shall unite.
Entwor: I find that hard to believe for the wizards of the land never had interest in allying for any situation. Even now, our small clans and villages fell separately. They once rivaled each other with great champions. I was to be the successor for Enten, but he died leading a small defense against the large opposition.
Carod: Now you are the successor of Enten. What has happened to your master, Phaem?
Entwor: He was killed.
Carod: Ah, so we've lost the capital of Hermoak…
Onad enters.
Onad: My three brothers are dead, and the enemy has retreated!
Carod: Ah, Onad, lead this young one out of here. I shall join you momentarily.
Onad: I shall for the honor of my poor brothers.
Carod: Much of this probably doesn't make sense to you right now, Entwor; however, I'll make sure you'll understand soon. Onad, make sure Entwor survives. If he dies, then the hope of this new kingdom dies with him.
Onad: What do you mean, my lord?
Carod: Soon, things shall be clearer. For now, we must flee. I shall seek you soon.
Onad: Yes, sire.
Onad grabs Entwor's hand, and a lighting bolt cracks on their location. They disappear. Tobin appears on the scene. He's mounted on a brown horse.
Tobin: My lord!
Carod: Tobin, my page, come to me! What have you seen?
Tobin: In the mountains of Kiloth, I have found ten scrolls. Each is an account written by a sage from the old, old kingdom. He writes of a power hidden within the mountain. This unique power can make a connection to the god Hermes and open up hell if pleased. The beasts that awake from their earthly slumber are much stronger than the demons we can control with magic. Even our god Hermes could not control the beasts that were awakened thousands of years ago.
Carod: Ah, I knew all of this, but tell me, how do I gain this power?
Tobin: It is written that the champion of Kiloth has the wisdom. With his death, dies the knowledge.
Carod: Damn! Hurry, my page, flee to Kiloth. Remain hidden even during battle. Wait until you meet a young man named Entwor. Only then will you serve Hermes. Give Entwor this letter as well.
Carod hands Entwor a letter.
Tobin: You're wise and noble, King Carod. I shall do as you please.
Carod: Thank you, son. I love you.
Tobin: And I love you, father.
Tobin rides off into the distance. There is evidence of intense fighting below the mountain. Carod grabs his soldiers and aids the defenders.
City Hermes Notes
(North) Temple of Hermes: There is a small temple where a sheep is sheltered in a cage that is elegantly decorated (the sheep is known as the vessel). The priest that stands there offers healing to the injured and cursed. A philosopher also stands somewhere near the priest. A group of people stand around the philosopher. He preaches a new philosophy every night to revive the ideas of Hermoak. The people near him tell you his past story and other background stories about the village.
(West) Houses: A few scattered homes are built in the large city of Hermes. They are clearly old and have roots climbing all over them. Some people build tree houses around these houses. Some villagers roam here aimlessly discussing amongst each other.
(East) Market: There are two shops near a river that runs aside the city. One shop sells potions. The other shop sells scrolls and one mythology book.
Scene III.
Onad appears before Entwor is idly standing around.
Onad: King Carod arrived from the kingdom of Kiel. He's in the Temple of Hermes preparing to address the city. You should see.
Entwor: What tidings does he bring?
Onad: I've heard rumors of wars.
Entwor: I see. Thank you, Onad.
Onad: You're welcome, Entwor. Let's go together.
Entwor: Lead the way.
Onad leads Entwor to Carod. Carod is standing before a large group of villagers and sages. He begins his speech once Entwor enters the area.
Carod: Brethren who worship the kind god Hermes, I bring grave news! The powerful King Olaf has declared war upon our humble kingdom made of merely one city! We are to take drastic measures for he plans to drive through us all with swords and arrows!
Villager 1 (Male): What are we to do?!
Villager 2 (Male): Let us draw our swords and fight them at the entrance of our humble city!
Villager 3 (Female): No! That is suicide! We should flee by opening a rift within this world. I've heard that there's a sage within this city that knows the secret art of portal opening. Let's find a new home outside this realm and take the vessel of Hermes with us! Maybe he'll protect us!
Villager 1: What if the soldiers follow? Hermes has neglected us so far. How do you know he'd provide us safety somewhere else?
Villager 2: Then we'll fight the evil imperialist wherever Onad takes us! We shall kill them and hang their appendages upon our walls! Their heads shall be decorations for our evening tables!
Villager 3: You savage!
Villager 2: Damn civil morality! We shall recreate the ethics we now know. Our philosophy is just a corrupt outlook that the evil imperialists have plagued us with. They only wish to pull us back, so they can kill us!
Priest of Hermes: No brother, you are wrong. The principles we've followed have been inspired by Hermes. We, the priests of Hermes, would never allow outsiders to influence our teachings.
Villager 2: You are only a blind follower to a belief that is now dead. Hermes will not protect us. He has turned his head. We are on our own.
Priest of Hermes: Be patient! If you are imperturbable, the enemy will not triumph! Hermes shall save us!
Villager 4 (Male): Then you want us to stay here and die?!
Crowd argues further as Onad turns to Entwor. He is too upset.
Onad: See how our king just stands and listens? We are doomed unless a hero rises and saves this land, but who shall that be?
Entwor: Our king shall be perseverant. Watch, he's about to speak!
Carod: Enough! Even though this mighty king is obstinate about his decision to eradicate our people, he has agreed to see one man with an escort. Entwor, where are you?
Entwor: Here I am, my lord.
Carod: I've talked to the god Hermes before the war began. He told me that you are the key. I'm not sure what he means, but I now know you are hero of Hermoak. Please, go now with Onad and talk to King Olaf in his kingdom of Kiel. Prepare yourselves. He's a hungry wolf in royal robes, but I have my full confidence in you, lad.
Onad: Thank you, my lord.
Entwor: Thank you.
Carod: Now go. Return once you can.
Scene IV.
Entwor and Onad ride off into the distance. They take the back route. As they ride off into the distance, a raven flies above. It watches them protectively as they gallop towards the castle in the distance. It's a beautiful picture. The large walls protecting the castle are like mountains, and a glimpse of the enormous castle can be seen. Entwor and Onad ride to the entrance. It's morning of the second day.
Guard: Who goes there?
Entwor: I am Entwor. This is my escort Onad.
Guard: Please enter inside, Entwor. Your comrade will have to remain outside.
Entwor: Thank you.
Guard: Address me as sir, sage.
Entwor: Thank you, sir.
The guard casts a spell and the gate opens. Entwor dismounts and walks into the city. It is lifeless. No commoner walks the empty streets. Signs of life are few, and rats run amuck. Entwor walks rigidly. He is unnerved by the forlorn sight. A gale blows through the city, and the loud whistle of bare buildings is heard throughout the city. Entwor ascends up cement stairs that lead to the castle's main gate. The gate opens as Entwor approaches, and he walks into a dark camber. He reluctantly walks in and watches the gate close behind him. He smiles to himself. The fear in him was accelerating, yet he found humor in the situation.
Entwor: Hello?
Ghost: Are you here for King Olaf?
Entwor: Yes, where is he?
Ghost: He's been sent to Hades by the aid of a dagger.
Entwor: Oh, who has killed him?
Ghost: I did, of course. The weak man has been my puppet for thirty years, and now he lies in a pool of his own blood.
Entwor: Who are you?
Ghost: I am a ghost.
Entwor: Ghost, I demand that you leave this land! Your business no longer remains with the living!
Ghost: You are ignorant of many things, Entwor, yet you shall be familiar with them soon. Let this visitation be a warning to you. All the demons of the world have banded together to fight man. We've been ordered to kill you all within the next two days.
Entwor: Why two days?
Ghost: Within two days, the undead will rise up. They'll walk amongst King Olaf's evil men, and they'll hunt down every mortal who lives on earth. The only way to prevent the end of the world is through world war! You must go down and unleash the demons from hell. If you are powerful enough, you will cleanse the earth of the undead and vile humanity.
Entwor: Are you here to lead the undead to victory?
Ghost: No, I am here to provoke human chaos. You've all armed yourselves and are preparing for battle near the mountain of Kiloth. There, we've convinced the sages that there is incredible power by shaping history with our own hand, but in truth, the mountain is the portal to hell. King Olaf then killed himself. Within his dying days, he declared war on the wizard clans and sent thousands of his troops to Kiloth to defend the city. When your King Carod leads his army against the other soldiers, there will be a great battle that will shake the mountain. On the third day, King Carod will fall and the gateway to hell will be opened by you. The dead will then rise up again, and the whole world will be plunged into war!
Entwor: Who will win?
Ghost: If there is not intervention by the gods, the demons will rule this world. The souls in Hades will then mutate into demons, and the essence of humanity will disappear.
Entwor: Who will intervene?
Ghost: You shall!
Entwor: But how would I intervene?
Ghost: I can not tell you. Your intervention may cause much destruction, yet if you can control the demons you unleash, then you may be given the power to overcome your foes. Open the gates of hell, and you'll learn how to defeat all your greatest foes!
Entwor: I suppose this information will be sufficient.
Ghost: Good, now go, ally. You have little time left. The two human forces are preparing the battle. This is the beginning of the second day.
The gate opens as there is a mist of smoke that leaves the building. Entwor follows it out. He leaves the city and mounts his horse with Onad by his side. They gallop off toward Kiloth.
Onad: Oy, Entwor! Aren't we supposed to go to Hermes City?
Entwor: I'm sorry, Onad. We must run to Kiloth. Our world is in great danger!
Act II. Scene I.
Kiloth Notes
Kiloth is a small city that is captured by King Olaf's army. The general residing in one of the hundreds of tents is Lieko. He stands and talks amongst his advisers. They tell them that they have surrounded Hermes City.
Tobin hides beneath a bush. He has been there for two days. It is dusk now. It's obvious that he's exhausted from the lack of sleep as archers pass him frequently. He listens carefully to two archers passing by.
Archer 1: I've heard from a fellow archer from the front lines that the war will be over soon. The new rebel king Carod has been captured. He shall be executed tomorrow.
Archer 2: Ah, that is good news indeed. Soon, our world won't have to deal with such vile wizard folk. Their evil rituals will end, and the days of the living demons shall be over.
Archer 1: Praise the gods! Have you heard about the new prisoners?
Archer 2: No, I wasn't aware that wizards were still in this region.
Archer 1: Yes, they are. Entwor the gate opener! He attempted to get past our defenses, but he couldn't escape our arrows.
Archer 2: By the gods, did we kill the deluded man?
Archer 1: Nah, we just stunned him. His friend wasn't doing so hot, from what I hear.
Archer 2: Oh?
Archer 1: Yeah, he jumped in front of the arrows when Entwor fell. Entwor must be an important person. That's why I remember the name.
Archer 2: So you don't know his friend's name?
Archer 1: No, he was too weak to talk anyways. The poor guy is dying quite slowly.
Archer 2: Pity. Not even the wizards deserve such a death.
Archer 1: But do you know how many of our soldiers he has killed?
Archer 2: Well, I don't know!
Archer 1: Of course you don't! So don't let your guard down!
Tobin stands up and blasts the first archer into a tree with a powerful spell. The second one jumps and drops his bow. He stumbles for it, but Tobin ignites the bow aflame! The second archer looks up helplessly. Tobin stares at him.
Tobin: Stay where you are!
Archer 2: What do you want, wizard?
Tobin: I am a sage.
Archer 2: You're a fool.
Tobin: Enough. Tell me where Entwor is.
Archer 2: Is he your leader?
Tobin: Tell me where you take your prisoners.
Archer 2: We put them in the center of our camp. If you follow the path that my friend and I came from, you will see the encampment where your leader is.
Tobin: Well then…
Tobin raises his hand and violently flings the archer into a tree with a blinding spell. The sage then disappears with the use of an invisibility spell. He runs towards the camp. There he spots numerous soldiers. He quietly sneaks through the camp where he hears rumors.
Soldier 1: Did you hear that Carod is dead?
Soldier 2: No, he's mortally wounded!
Soldier 3: They got him at Hermes City! We won the war!
Solider 1: This damn war will never end. The wizards will not give up that easily.
Soldier 4: No, they'll run away from here. There will not stay to fight.
Solider 1: But they united to fight us! When did they ever do that in the past?
Soldier 2: Never from what I've heard!
Soldier 3: How can they fight without a leader? If they diverse, we won!
Tobin shutters and continues on his way towards the prison tent. When he spots two guards at the entrance of a large tent, he slowly sneaks closer to take a better look. Nothing indicates a prison besides the guards. Tobin gets impatient with the guard's watchful diligence. He looks about the camp. Then he wanders towards a tent near the prison tent. It's wide open. He walks in and finds military armor. Tobin turns around to check if anyone is watching. No one is around, so he turns visible again. He puts the armor on and walks out of the tent. Tobin walks past the prison guards who watch him carefully as he leaves, feigning oblivion. Tobin turns and looks for the nearest tent to the prison. He walks up to it and casts a small spell on the tent. It begins to go up in flames, and Tobin runs to the guards.
Tobin: Help! My tent is on fire!
Guard 1: What?! What happened?!
Tobin: A saw a man in a wizard tabard run off with my armor! He must've set my tent on fire to cause a distraction. He mustn't get away!
Guard 1: Here, I'll get him! You take my position as I get help.
Tobin grabs onto their chests. They look at him in surprise, but then they quickly fall onto the ground dead. Tobin runs inside the prison. There a guard stands up. He's a large man with a claymore. The guard approaches him. Tobin flings a spell that instantly kills him. Sweat begins to run down Tobin's face. Entwor stands up.
Entwor: Who are you?!
Tobin: It does not matter. I'm here to help you. Where do you desire to go?
Entwor: Could you take me to the Well of Mystics?
Tobin: I can certainly transport you there. Take my armor. You seem to fit it better than me.
Tobin takes off his helmet. Entwor realizes that Tobin is merely a young teenage boy. Entwor is a young man himself; he accepts the presents with quiet respect. Once Entwor puts on the armor, Tobin grabs Entwor's hand. He smiles as Entwor disappears slowly. As Entwor's face becomes fainter and fainter, Tobin's face grows pale. When Entwor is gone, Tobin faints. His magical energy drained, and with that, his life slowly slips away from him.
Tobin: My father, I have served my god Hermes. Let me rest with you in Hades.
Scene II.
Entwor finds himself in a natural spring. It is deep within the Kiloth Mountain. The rush of the water echoes throughout the cave. In his hand is a note that Tobin slipped into his hand, Entwor opens the letter and reads it out loud.
Entwor: Entwor, a ghost has warned me about the future. I shall die on the third day, which will end the war. He has also warned me that you'd attempt to open the gates of Hades on the same day causing massive destruction. Our people have been wiped out, and we've sacrificed our lives to get to where you are. Now, we expect you to lead us to victory. Please, open the gates within the Mystic Springs. When you do, you will unleash all our fury into the world! Do not heed any words spoken by any entities! Hermes no longer hears our prayers! We shall get our revenge through this plan!
Raven: Entwor! Entwor!
Entwor: Raven! What business do you have here?
Raven: Do you not know that you have been the tool of Loki? Loki has turned himself into a ghost to close your eyes and ears to my voice. I shall not let you pass me now.
Entwor: Raven or demon, let me pass. I must get to the spring and open the gate to the underworld. I can not listen to you now!
Raven: I am Hermes, the messenger god. Your master Phaem has prayed for my guidance, and I have now revealed myself. Your nation did not heed the word of the gods; thus, it fell on its own accord.
Entwor: When have the gods answered our call?
Raven: When has man stopped to listen to Hermes? Only now, a young man fearful of the future stops to listen to my warning! Dear, brave one. Cast down your ambition! You bare the torch of power, yet do not use it to destroy! Use it to guide your abandoned people. King Olaf and Carod have given themselves up to the devils of this world! You must not also!
Entwor: Where do I go?!
Raven: I shall take you to Kiel where your army awaits. Those few sages and villagers who heard my warning have gathered there. They wait for your leadership.
Entwor: But how can I trust you? I wish to see your face.
The raven lands at Entwor's feet. It then transforms into a man with winged boots; his head is dressed with a shiny helmet with wings extended from it. He holds a rod with two serpents coiled around it. Entwor is amazed, and he bows before Hermes.
Hermes: Now, I will take you to Kiel.
Hermes picks up Entwor and flies him out of the cave and to Kiel. There he sets Entwor down in a sloppily congregation of eccentrics from all walks of life. The few hundred men stand dressed in poor quality armor. The people watch Hermes carefully as the two descend.
Hermes: Hark, good people of Hermoak. I have your hero. He shall not misguide you like the evil King Olaf and King Carod. Trust him and you shall be victories in battle.
Villagers: Hail! What royal blood flows through him?
Hermes: Your new kind's blood is as royal as your blood.
Villagers: Hail! Then why shouldn't we be our own king?
Hermes: You will need a king who lives amongst the people. This is your king. Follow him, and he'll serve you.
Villagers: Hail! A king can not serve his people! His people serve him!
Hermes: You shall see! Now, hear him for I have sent him.
Entwor: Brothers, hark! I am no orator, so you may feel like my words are inadequate. But I am a strong warrior! I have fought with you during the past few bloody days, and I'm hungry for resolution! Let us march to Kiloth! There the undead waits with corrupted humanity! Let us end this blight and bring our swords down upon those who wish to destroy our world! Let us once again fight for Hermoak and not for King Carod or King Olaf! Let us be free as men after this disease is over! Because only now can we redeem mankind again, let us fight!
Villagers: You are our king!
Scene III.
Entwor stands before his army at the foot of the mountain of Kiloth. He is mounted on the only horse of the entire army. Though all were different, each soldier has grown in strength and zeal as they stand as one. Bloodlust had spread across the entire group of men, and they wished to sink their blades into the chests of their enemies. Entwor's commanders address him.
Vold: Sir, shall we lead the attack.
Hien: We shall lead your men to victory, my majesty.
Jordan: Your spell casters are prepared.
Entwor: Good. Vold, lead your men up the center. Jordan, split your men into halves. Put one of your officers in charge of the center half and have them aid Vold. Lead your second half on the right. Flank the enemy as you approach them. Hien, you give Jordan some muscle.
Hien: Yes, sire.
Vold: I will not fail you!
Jordan: May Hermes lead us to victory!
Lieko and three mounted commanders stand on top of Kiloth's peak. They watch as their men fight the enemy. Lieko's soldiers quickly retreat as a raven leads hundreds of soldiers into the fray. The soldiers endure the defenses and fortifications of Lieko's army. They also overcome the terror of undead warriors who quickly fall to Entwor's army.
Lieko: This army has overcome all obstacles. There is little that we can do now, men.
Commander 1: Then we must flee, my lord.
Commander 2: No, you coward! We fight!
Commander 3: I've seen my men retreat past us, and we did not stop them. Why shouldn't we go?
Lieko: Enough! Those who wish to die for honor, fall into the enemies' trap. Those who wish to live, flee for your lives. I shall run with them. The enemy has breached the line, and our army is slowly falling apart. Let us ride!
Lieko retreats. As this happens, Entwor and his commanders lead their army. Jordan casts spells and hides behind the shields of nearby warriors. They continue their climb until a rain of arrows catches Jordan and his spell casters off guard. Some dodge the projectiles, but Jordan stumbles. A nearby soldier cries for aid, and another soldier comes to him. They carry Jordan's limp body off the battlefield.
Jordan: Hermes, you have served my human race well. I hoped to have served you as well. Now, I sleep.
Jordan dies.
Hien: My men! We have witnessed the death of Jordan! Let us push onward and for the sake of Jordan! He shall not die in vain!
Hien grabs his sword and runs to the front lines. He begins to dice away at poorly armored soldiers who feebly try to stab Hien with their spears. Hien is stabbed in the shoulder, and he falls backwards. He is merely wounded, yet he mourns in agony.
Hien: Damn the scum who killed me!
Vold and Entwor meet each other at the frontlines. They climb as the enemy retreats. As they reach the top, the soldiers cheer and charge down the hill towards the soldiers who have retreated. They use their spears to run through the wounded mercilessly. At the foot, arches and spell casters pick off the soldiers crossing the lake.
Vold: We have won, my lord!
Entwor: No, the battle is merely over, but the journey is not over.
Vold: Lead us, my king! We shall stay with you until the end!
Entwor: My end will come, so will yours in time. Let us look toward the future and make things right. We shall no longer have kings like the old kingdoms before. Let us make councilors and let them rule over the people: for it's not one man's logic that controls the logic of many men, all men shall control the logic of one man. So a king's duty is to become stupid for God and man. He is a mere tool for them all.
Vold: Then let us fill out our minds for man and God, so we may fill our minds up with man and God.
Entwor: And hopefully, we will be able to do what is good through the thoughts of all men and God.
Vold: That is our prayer.
