of part 1 for the 8th chapter

today commences the eighth chapter...

Chapter VIII: Matters of Ranging and Promiscuity

The shadow of Avernis lengthened, and while the Knights and the High Elves felt it, in the western regions of the Kingdom, peace still reigned, and the people were still complacent in their present state.
King Ashvin was preparing another pot of chicken-head curry when Lord Shen, the Chessmaster came to meet him. He was the leaders of the Rangers of Quel’Zarin, at the northern lands, and he came to Ossiros to deliver his plight.
“Hail the High King of Ossir. The Rangers now bring to you a very important message, which has something to do with the recent happenings across the region.”
“What is it, my Lord Shen?”
“Your pardon, but have you sensed something amiss recently?” asked Lord Shen.
“Nope,” but King Ashvin’s reply was immediately interrupted by Lord Shen, who replied, “You’re too complacent! The shadow of Avernis has lengthened, the tides of darkness are approaching. With each day past, the Dragon-lords suffered more and more losses. The Dark Lord of the Dragon has called for help in all regions.”
“This is a lie!” said Lord Jason, who entered the Hall together with Lady Kathleen and Lady Carrine. He then continued, much to the dislike of King Ashvin, “The Rangers are allied with the Knights, and they can’t be trusted. It’s probable that they desired to seize power of the Kingdom and put their leader on the throne!”
“You shut up!” shouted Lord Shen, “The entire Kingdom knows that the Archknight Master Shang has no interest in becoming the High King at all, nor do I have as well. Thus, I implore your Magi Order not to think too much, and don’t be too emotional.”
Lady Carrine now opened her mouth, saying, “Lord Shen, can you please not hurting him in a direct manner? His dignity should not be tarnished, though true are your statements. Your words must not be so offensive.”
“So I’m right once again,” said King Ashvin, “that the devotions of the Viscountess to the Viscount is true somehow. Probably a high-level relationship may born from the flames of meeting. Isn’t it not, Lord Shen?”
The Chessmaster sat down, and replied, “The Archknight felt the waning of the light. We have received news that the city of Angobar has fallen. The next target will probably be the city of Osgorain or Duras.”
By now they have already run out of time, and as Avernis strengthened, their powers weakened. Both Master Shang and King Ashvin were all aware of this, and they were devising ideas to boost the defense for the Kingdom’s sake. The time had come for them as trials.
“Your Majesty,” said Lord Jason, “how can you actually believe in these nonsensical theories?” He, as of the others who resided in the western regions who were still unable to feel the shadow lengthening, as well as great concerns towards wielding of power.
“Silence! All proof are evident, and how can you assure that we will like to deceive?” replied King Ashvin. He then put another piece of chicken head, and continued, “No wonder the Knights dare not trust you at all.”
Lord Shen then bade himself to leave, and King Ashvin consented.
“Your Majesty, what Lord Jason said, although not true, still bears truth to some degree. We haven’t feel any dark power coming forth,” said Lady Kathleen, but now Lord Jason was annoyed, and while Lady Carrine tried her best to restrain him, he shouted out, “What the fish? Now you trusted them more than us?”
“Begone from here!” demanded King Ashvin, whose anger can no longer be restrained, “Your weakling mastery of the arcane may be the cause of our downfall! By the way, Lady Carrine, the High Master Kang is coming here soon. Probably you’ll want to listen to him.”
In anger, Lord Jason stormed out of the Hall.
“What do you mean, that the High Master is coming?” asked Lady Kathleen.
“Good question,” replied King Ashvin, “The arrival of the Knights are actually unknown to all, as they always choose to come by undercover. Only in special occasion did they reveal themselves. I think that the Archknight telepathically contacted him, to bring us a message.” Lady Carrine, now excited, gave her remark, willing to await Master Kang’s presence.

as well i want to wish every reader here a very happy new year! the next post will come on the 31st january 2009...